Roads, Rucks And Recovery

Norm Bethel has lived enough lives for a dozen men. Now in his eighties and calling the Burdekin home, the esteemed New Zealander’s journey has taken him from coaching rugby legends, to long-haul trucking, to miraculously surviving a horror crash that nearly took it all away.

Born across the ditch, Norm grew up between New Zealand’s North and South Islands in a country where “rugby is a passion, not a pastime.” He wasn’t just a fan of the game—he shaped it, mentoring young players who’d go on to become All Blacks. Among them was the late, great Jonah Lomu, a global superstar of the sport. “He used to stay at my house,” Norm says. “I coached him as a teenager. He was something special.”

At 20, in 1967, Norm packed up and crossed the Tasman for one simple reason: “Money. More opportunity.” He started in Darwin, hauling freight down dirt roads all the way to Melbourne. “Three-week round trips. Slept on the roof of the truck. That’s how it was,” he recalls. “Got ripped off early. Learnt quick.”

Norm then moved into meat-works—a job that took him all over the country—working hard by day, partying just as hard by night. “Every night. Wherever you were,” he laughs. “You had to have fun.”

A born entrepreneur, Norm eventually started running his own businesses—transport, construction, development—splitting time between Australia and New Zealand. But in the mid-80s, a health scare nearly ended it all. Two days before a marathon, he went to the doctor for flu meds. “I never left the surgery. Ambulance took me straight out. My heart was about to explode.”

Norm became the first person in the southern hemisphere to receive a plastic aorta. Three months later, he ran another marathon. “Three hours, ten minutes. I was fit.”

After returning to Australia, Norm took on major contracts—including at Abbot Point near Bowen. He fell in love with the area and stuck around, becoming president of the local bowls club. But tragedy struck again. On his way to a meeting, Norm fell asleep at the wheel and crashed at full speed, his car launching off the Bruce Highway and under a bridge.

“I woke up in Townsville Hospital. Broken back. Everything broken. They said I’d never walk again.”

But Norm fought his way back. From full-body casts to walkers, to recovery. “Worked my way through it,” he says. He retired at 75.

These days, you’ll find him at the Home Hill Bowls Club, flipping sausages and laughing with the regulars. “No tension. No egos. Just a good place to be,” he says. He’s come to love the Burdekin’s community spirit. “People say g’day. Shops are busy. They support each other here. It’s a proper town.”

After a lifetime of near-misses, milestones, and marathons, Norm Bethel is still standing—a valuable member of the Burdekin community he now calls home.

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After a lifetime of near-misses, milestones, and marathons, Norm Bethel is still standing—a valuable member of the Burdekin community he now calls home. Photo source: Jacob Casha

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is urging the local agricultural sector to have their say on the future of the sector either in person or at an upcoming information session or online.

A key part of the Crisafulli government’s target to increase the state’s primary industries production to $30 Billion by 2030, the consultation process is focussed on ensuring primary industries thrive and prosper.

“What we have seen over the past 10 years is immense changes forced upon primary industry but very little consultation,” Mr Last said.  “The opportunities available for primary industry are almost endless but, in order to make those opportunities a reality, we need to take advantage of the knowledge and experience that our primary producers have.”

“By working with industry, we not only return the sector to full profitability, we also create benefits across regional Queensland.  In addition to creating jobs, we want to drive future investment in primary industries and unlock opportunities for agribusiness.”

“Very few areas understand the flow-on effects of a successful primary industries sector better than the Burdekin.  That is what makes this consultation and the goal of boosting production so important.”

“The consultation process is the key step in ensuring we have a practical plan to achieve our targets.  Unlike previous governments who tried to tell industry what to do, we are taking advantage of the collective knowledge of the people who live, work and breathe primary industries.”

Mr Last said that the goal of increasing production was one step towards a far more ambitious, long-term plan for the sector that he described as the backbone for much of regional Queensland.

“This process is the largest collaboration between government and industry for at least a decade and there is a very good reason for that,” he said.  “For too long we have seen Queensland’s primary industries portrayed negatively but the reality is we have an industry to be proud of and an industry that is vital when it comes to feeding and clothing people throughout Australia and around the world.”

“By the end of this process we will have an informed and reliable plan to achieve the 5-year goal and to drive primary industries for the next 25 years through until 2050.  We will have a plan to tackle biosecurity and other challenges while we also embrace and adapt to technologies that provide better outcomes for producers, for communities and for the state as a whole.”

“Groups like AgForce, Timber Queensland and the Queensland Seafood Industry Association, among others, have welcomed the consultation and the commitment to both short and long-term plans but those plans mean little if the people who actually produce the food, fibre and foliage are left out of the process.”

“We want primary industries across the state to flourish so we are seeking consultation from Weipa in the North to Mount Isa in the west and all the way to the Queensland NSW border, including in Townsville on May 26th.  We also recognise that not everyone will be able to attend a face-to-face session so there’s also the option to provide feedback online.”

“From farmers to graziers, fisherman and truck drivers, everyone is welcome to have their say.  All of the details are available via the DRI engagement hub and consultation closes on June 9th.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Bendigo Bank today announced a new partnership with not-for-profit Thriving Communities Australia (TCA) to help the most vulnerable members in our community gain improved access to key financial services.

With a focus on improving access to essential services for all Australians, TCA facilitates learning and collaboration among partner organisations with the aim of creating a unified approach to assisting customers experiencing vulnerability. As a partner of TCA, Australia’s most trusted bank will have access to a valuable network focused on delivering improved customer outcomes.

Chief Customer Officer Consumer, Taso Corolis, said the Bank was proud to partner with TCA to continue improving support available for those experiencing vulnerability including customers, staff, suppliers and the wider community.

“This is another step in the Bank’s journey to better serve customers experiencing hardship, to strengthen support networks and remove barriers to essential services,” Mr Corolis said.

“Our partnership with TCA will help us continue to drive positive change through collaboration and community-led initiatives and create lasting impact for individuals and communities facing vulnerability,” he said.

“We all have a part to play in assisting vulnerable members of our community and Bendigo Bank is committed to ensuring everyone feels safe and empowered when banking.”

The partnership with TCA follows the launch of the Bank’s foundational Financial Inclusion Action Plan in 2023, which outlines actions, initiatives and commitments aiming to provide greater financial resilience and control for the Bank’s 2.7 million customers, staff and the broader communities to realise their respective financial goals.

Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to be part of the Bendigo Bank supporting regions, giving back to communities who support the us.

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A woman has died and two others were hospitalised following a head-on collision on the Flinders Highway near Charters Towers last week.

Emergency services were called to the scene at Breddan, just west of Macrossan Bridge, shortly after 4pm on May 14, following reports of a two-vehicle crash.

Initial investigations suggest a Holden Epica and a Hyundai Kona were travelling in opposite directions when they collided head-on.

A woman in her 50s, who was a passenger in the Kona, died at the scene.

The driver of the Epica, a woman in her 40s, suffered critical injuries and was rushed to Townsville Hospital.

The Kona's driver, a man in his 50s, was also taken to Townsville Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the incident and has appealed for anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage to come forward.

Investigations are ongoing.

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Grab a snag and support a worthy cause this Saturday, the 31st of May, as Flexi Queensland fires up a community sausage sizzle outside Home Timber and Hardware, Ayr from 8:30am.

Sausages will be served hot and tasty for just $3 each, with all proceeds going towards supporting Flexi Queensland’s vital services. 2025 marks 30 years of Flexi Queensland delivering a range of services to help individuals live independently, connect with their community, and achieve personal goals through tailored support and programs.

The organisation asks the community to mark your calendars for the 18th July, where Flexi Queensland will host a special fundraising event from 4pm to 7pm. The afternoon will feature a free sausage sizzle, thanks to the generous support of Woolworths Ayr, as well as face painting by Townsville Angel Faces, and live entertainment by Let’s Groove and the Burdekin Brass Band.

The day will also include the official renaming of the Therapy and Activity Centre (TAC) in honour of one of Flexi Queensland’s founding Board Members as a heartfelt tribute in celebration of the organisation’s three decades of community service.

Whether you're out shopping yourself or just passing by, be sure to stop in for a tasty snack and a friendly chat this weekend, all while backing a meaningful local initiative.

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Prepare for bubbles, beakers, and brainy fun because Maidavale State School will soon ignite young minds with their annual Under 8’s Day!

Set to take place on Thursday, the 29th of May from 9am to 11am at the school grounds on 233 Maidavale Road, this year’s theme “Unleashing Scientific Thinking Through Play,” promises to deliver a morning packed with hands-on science activities, exciting experiments, and discovery-driven fun tailored to children under eight years of age.

The event will feature a playful take on science with child-friendly activities that encourage curiosity and creativity from fizzy volcanoes and floating rockets to colourful potions and petri-dish painting. It’s an opportunity for little learners to explore the wonders of science in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment.

Parents, carers, and members of the wider community are warmly invited to join in the festivities and with the school’s motto “Strive for the Best” guiding the day’s activities, the event aims to foster a love of learning and build foundational thinking skills through joyful, hands-on experiences.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, educator, or science enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy so pack your hats, water bottles and sense of curiosity to celebrate the power of young minds!

Email principal@maidavaless.eq.edu.au or call 0472 831 078 for more information!

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What: Maidavale State School Under 8's Day
When: Thursday, the 29th of May, 9am to 11am
Where: Maidavale State School, 233 Maidavale Road

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Maidavale State School's 2024 Under 8's Day was a wonderful success! (Photo Credit: Maidavale State School)

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Local kids got hands-on with nature during another fun-filled Junior Landcare event hosted by the Burdekin Landcare Association Inc.

Participants rolled up their sleeves and embraced the challenge of building their very own native bee and insect houses, attracting future visits from pollinators like bees, ladybugs, and other beneficial bugs. The creativity and effort on display were impressive, with every young participant proudly taking home a handmade habitat to support local biodiversity.

As well as learning about the importance of insect conservation, the children also enjoyed the satisfying task of harvesting fresh produce from their very own veggie garden beds, all grown from seed during earlier workshops! From leafy greens to crunchy legumes, the joy of picking their homegrown produce was a highlight for many.

Burdekin Landcare Association Inc. continues to inspire the next generation to connect with the environment through hands-on activities that make learning about sustainability fun and engaging. To learn more about upcoming Junior Landcare events, email Secretary@LowerBurdekinLandcare.org.au or call 07 3543 0477.

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The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association regularly hosts Junior Landcare events for young gardeners (Photo Supplied)
Organisers were impressed once again with the talents of some of the region's youngest gardeners (Photo Supplied)

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Nominate community champions in celebration of Queensland Day

Queensland is a state built on mateship, resilience, and community spirit and every town and suburb has someone who quietly embodies those values. As Queensland Day approaches, now is the perfect time to give those people the recognition they truly deserve with the newly launched Queensland Day Local Legend Awards!

The initiative has been designed to spotlight the everyday heroes among us, the volunteers, neighbours, and community champions who lend a hand without ever asking for thanks.

“The Local Legends are the ones who don’t ask for credit – they just get in and get the job done – and embody the Queensland spirit,” Premier David Crisafulli said.

These are the people who man the barbecues at local fundraisers, patrol our beaches on hot summer days, mow the local sporting fields before game day, and check in on those doing it tough as their kindness and service are the threads that hold our communities together.

Every Queenslander is encouraged to nominate someone who makes a difference, no matter how big or small the act.

“Every Queensland town or city has someone who makes that community a better place, and this is about giving those people the recognition they deserve,” added Premier Crisafulli.

Award recipients will be announced on the 6th of June, during Queensland Day celebrations at the Dolphins v St George Illawarra Dragons NRL game at Suncorp Stadium. Winners will receive a certificate presented by the Premier himself, along with a pack of limited-edition Bundaberg Brewed Drinks ‘Local Legend’ ginger beer.

This initiative follows the government’s “All the Best” campaign launched earlier last week, inviting Queenslanders to celebrate their favourite places, produce and local icons from the best meat pie to the most-loved beach or pub.

Nominations close at 11.59pm on Sunday the 1st of June, and can be submitted online at www.qld.gov.au/qldday.

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Traffic flow along the Bruce Highway was severely impacted on Saturday, the 17th of May, following a single-vehicle traffic crash at Barratta Creek, near Jerona Road.

A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed emergency services were called to the West Barratta Creek Bridge at approximately 1:15pm, after reports that a bronze Landcruiser Defender, towing a trailer with a white Nissan Patrol, had crashed.

The vehicle was travelling southbound when the incident occurred, causing significant disruptions to traffic along the busy stretch of highway.

The driver, a 17-year-old man from Oak Valley, and two passengers, a 17-year-old Ross River man and an 18-year-old Oak Valley man, were assessed at the scene and found to have escaped injury.

Fortunately, no other vehicles were involved in the crash.

Authorities remained on scene throughout the afternoon to manage traffic and begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident with official investigations ongoing.

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Drivers experienced lengthy delays on Saturday as a result of the incident (Photo Credit: Luke Bozzetto)

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Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has lashed out at Labor’s proposed superannuation tax, warning it will “rip the guts out of middle Australia” and devastate the farming and small business sectors.

The policy, which proposes taxing unrealised capital gains in superannuation accounts, has drawn heavy criticism from financial and agricultural groups who say it targets everyday Australians rather than the wealthy elite.

“Unrealised capital gains” refer to increases in an asset’s value that haven’t yet been sold. Mr Katter said it was ludicrous to tax “theoretical, paper money,” particularly for rural landholders.

“This policy will have a catastrophic effect on anyone that has a farm, house or similar asset held by a super fund,” Mr Katter said. “If the market value increases, you will get a huge tax bill… you will have to sell the asset to pay this crushing tax bill.”

He warned that farmers and landowners would be hit hard.

“Land appreciation doesn't mean you're rich in cash,” he said. “It means your rates go up, your insurance goes up, and now… your tax goes up too.”

Mr Katter said the policy unfairly punishes those investing in Australia’s future.

“This isn’t going to hurt the big corporates… this is going to break the back of middle Australia.”

Calling for the policy to be scrapped, he said it would worsen the decline in farming numbers and force more people off the land.

“If the government really wanted to do something helpful, it should legislate to require a large portion of super investment in Australian manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, mining and other economy-generating projects.”

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Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter delivers a fiery spray over Labor’s proposed super tax, warning it will cripple farmers and rural investors. Photo supplied

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has launched a new monthly Values Recognition Program—and Burdekin-based employees were front and centre in the inaugural round of winners.

Four of the six staff recognised in the first intake are from the Burdekin region, showcasing the strength of local leadership, innovation and teamwork across Kalamia, Pioneer, Invicta and Inkerman mills.

The newly established program is designed to celebrate employees who consistently demonstrate Wilmar’s core values of integrity, excellence, passion, innovation, teamwork and safety in their day-to-day work. It’s part of a broader push to embed a values-led culture throughout the business.

Among the first recipients was Deb Calligaro from Kalamia Mill, who was applauded for her dedication and integrity. Cameron Suski from Pioneer Mill was recognised for innovation and a passion for problem-solving, while Natarsha Little from Invicta Mill stood out for her commitment to safety and teamwork. At Inkerman Mill, Bevan Orenshaw was acknowledged for consistently demonstrating excellence in his work and supporting others to do the same.

The remaining two awardees were Scott Gofton from Victoria Mill and Aimee Barratt from Wilmar’s Townsville office, rounding out a diverse group of team members from across the organisation.

“We know people across our business are doing great work every day, and this program is an opportunity for them to be acknowledged and applauded,” a Wilmar spokesperson said.

The company received dozens of nominations in the program’s debut and will continue to run the awards monthly to ensure outstanding contributions don’t go unnoticed.

Congratulations to all the winners—and especially to those helping put the Burdekin mills at the forefront of Wilmar’s values in action.

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Deb Calligaro – Kalamia Mill
Deb was recognised for her unwavering integrity and dedication to supporting her team. Her commitment to doing things the right way, every time, sets a strong example for those around her.

Scott Gofton – Victoria Mill
Scott earned praise for his consistent pursuit of excellence and willingness to go above and beyond to deliver high standards in everything he does.

Aimee Barratt – Townsville Office
Aimee was celebrated for her passion and innovative thinking, particularly in how she supports Wilmar’s broader operational goals from behind the scenes.

Cameron Suski – Pioneer Mill
Cameron stood out for his practical innovation and proactive approach to problem-solving, helping improve safety and efficiency on site.

Natarsha Little – Invicta Mill
Natarsha’s dedication to safety and teamwork earned her this recognition, with colleagues commending her collaborative spirit and care for others.

Bevan Orenshaw – Inkerman Mill
Bevan was recognised for his reliable performance and willingness to support his team with excellence and professionalism.

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The State Government has taken the first step in planning for Queensland’s future timber supply, with the inaugural Timber Supply Chain Ministerial Roundtable bringing together growers, processors, and industry leaders to help shape a long-term timber action plan.

With growing demand for home construction and infrastructure across the state, particularly in regional areas, the Queensland Future Timber Plan (QFTP) aims to ensure we have a strong, sustainable supply of local timber to meet the target of one million homes by 2044.

The Roundtable includes key representatives from Timber Queensland, AgForce, the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Housing Industry Association, Forestry Australia, HQPlantations, the Australian Forest Contractors Association, and some of the state’s leading timber businesses.

Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the Queensland Government was committed to working alongside industry to reinvigorate the timber sector.

"We’re serious about securing Queensland’s timber future, and that starts by working directly with the people who grow, harvest and process our timber,” Minister Perrett said.

“This is about protecting jobs, building regional economies, and making sure we have the materials needed for the homes and infrastructure of tomorrow.

“The Roundtable will provide practical advice on how we can meet growing construction demand while supporting innovation and sustainability across the supply chain.

“This is a landmark opportunity to rebuild future of one of Queensland’s most important and environmentally sustainable industries starting with the people who know it best.”

Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens welcomed the establishment of the Roundtable and said the QFTP represented a major opportunity to unlock the full potential of the sector.

“The timber industry already plays a key role in ensuring we have local sustainable materials for housing and construction,” Mr Stephens said.

“Through this plan, we aim to unlock the barriers and opportunities to further increase the supply of timber to help meet the Government’s target of one million new homes over the next two decades.”

The Roundtable will meet over the next 12 months to guide the development of the plan, which also aligns with the State’s 25-year blueprint for primary industries — a strategy that aims to lift Queensland’s production output to $30 billion by 2030.

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The Bowen Pipeline Project is edging closer to becoming a reality, with state approval expected in 2025 and construction forecast to begin within the next 12 months.

Bowen Pipeline Company spokesperson Sean Brown recently confirmed the project remains on schedule, with the public advertising phase of its Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application underway since the 4th of April. The application, lodged in December of 2024 and confirmed in March earlier this year, is progressing through the State and Commonwealth approvals process.

The 182-kilometre underground pipeline will transport water from the Burdekin River near Home Hill south to Bowen, supplying water to the Bowen township, Gumlu and Guthalungra.

The project will deliver secure water access to a region responsible for producing one-fifth of Australia’s vegetables and is tipped to boost local agricultural income by $300 million annually, supporting emerging green energy industries, including ammonia, fertiliser, methanol and sustainable aviation fuel, with the potential to generate $1 billion in additional economic activity.

Approximately 200 jobs will be created during construction, with up to 1,200 ongoing full-time roles once operational.

“This is a long-term investment in regional growth,” Mr Brown said.

“The support from the community and stakeholders has been vital, and we are proud to be delivering economic and environmental outcomes for North Queensland.”

Queensland’s first Net Zero pipeline, the project will use world-leading Australian HDPE pipe technology to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. The construction will also use green hydrogen from Townsville and Australian-made solar panels.

Backed by 40 grower and community investors from the Bowen and Burdekin regions, the project has raised over $4 million in private funds and secured a $5 million Commonwealth grant. Significantly, the Juru and Bindal Peoples are equity partners, marking a national first in Indigenous participation in agricultural infrastructure.

With support from Burdekin Shire Council, Whitsunday Regional Council and agreements in place with all affected landowners, the Bowen Pipeline is poised to deliver lasting economic, agricultural and environmental benefits to the region.

For more information, visit www.bowenpipeline.com.au.

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The Bowen Pipeline Project will unlock major agricultural growth, create hundreds of local jobs, and drive long-term economic benefits for North Queensland (Photo Supplied)

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Sunwater recently welcomed four Year 11 students from Ayr State High School to their Clare depot as part of the school’s annual work experience program.

In support of the next generation of water industry professionals, each of the students gained valuable insights into different aspects of Sunwater’s operations under the guidance and supervision of experienced experts.

Jack, Callie and Lucas explored and worked alongside the maintenance and projects teams to assist with pump station maintenance, fabrication, mechanical checks, observe pump repairs and assist with field measurements whilst Ben toured the Burdekin Haughton Water Supply Scheme.

“The experience is helping shape their future careers while fostering a deeper understanding of the essential work we do at Sunwater,” shared a Sunwater spokesperson.

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Four Ayr State High School students carried out work experience at Sunwater's Clare depot (Photos Supplied)

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A woman has died and two others have been hospitalised following a head-on collision on the Flinders Highway near Charters Towers on yesterday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the scene at Breddan, just west of Macrossan Bridge, shortly after 4pm on May 14, following reports of a two-vehicle crash.

Initial investigations suggest a Holden Epica and a Hyundai Kona were travelling in opposite directions when they collided head-on.

A woman in her 50s, who was a passenger in the Kona, died at the scene.

The driver of the Epica, a woman in her 40s, suffered critical injuries and was rushed to Townsville Hospital.

The Kona's driver, a man in his 50s, was also taken to Townsville Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the incident and has appealed for anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage to come forward.

Investigations are ongoing.

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