Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
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"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
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Five years ago, two local brothers joined forces and combined their respective 25 years’ experience in the industry to become one of the Burdekin’s most trusted, professional, and skilled concreters.
Matt and Luke Fallon operate Fallon Constructions and also Fallon Constructions NQ, servicing areas from Ingham to Bowen and everywhere in between.
“We produce high quality concreting work in a range of finishes,” they said.
“From commercial to residential, encompassing all your residential and commercial shed slabs, pathways, driveways, carparks, stairs and more.”
Priding themselves on the perfect pour, the brothers understand how to provide the most appropriate type of concrete for you at your home or workplace.
Their fully licenced and experienced team are local specialists in plain, exposed, decorative stamped and coloured concrete.
“Whether you want to upgrade your driveway, build that shed you’ve always wanted, add pathways around your house/business or add car parking areas to your office, Fallon Constructions NQ is the team for you.”
While they are proud of every job they deliver, the Fallon Brothers said their most recent meaningful project was the Burdekin Aquatic Centre.
This local project stands as a testament to their commitment to the community and their dedication to delivering top-notch construction services.
“We constructed the concrete stairs and slab for the new kiosk - it was awesome to be part of this local project,” they said.
At the heart of the business is community and a love of supporting other local businesses.
Locally owned and operated business here in the Burdekin, Fallon Constructions NQ sources products and materials from other local businesses, locals supporting locals.
What sets Fallon Constructions NQ apart is their unwavering commitment to quality. Their time-efficient approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to tailor concreting options to meet clients' specific needs make them stand out in the field.
The work culture at Fallon Constructions NQ reflects their upbringing—professional, friendly, and hardworking. This culture has been cultivated over the years, shaping the business into a reliable and customer-focused enterprise.
L-R: Matt and Luke Fallon from Fallon Constructions NQ. Photo supplied
Over 70 guests joined Brandon State School on Friday, December 1 to celebrate the graduation of the Year 6 students for 2023.
Laughter, tears and memories were shared with families, students, staff and P&C.
“We farewelled our magnificent seven students, whom have achieved in all areas of schooling whilst at Brandon SS,” said Brandon State School Principal Rowan Coffey.
“We wish them the greatest of futures.”
On Wednesday, December 6, the school also hosted its Awards Night and Christmas Concert.
2023 Award Recipients
Contribution Award: Evie Cranston and Charlie McCarthy
Principal’s Award: Koa James
Encouragement Award: Emily Jarvis
All Rounder: Charlie McCarthy
Sportsperson of the Year: Sarina Chinfat
School Dux: Alexis Lindley
Graduating year 6 students Lillie Bradley Cliff, Charlie McCarthy, Sarina Chinfat, Emily Jarvis, Ms Margie O’Rourke, Koa James, Evie Cranston and Alexis Lindley
Evie Cranston , Lillie Bradley Cliff, Charlie McCarthy, Alexis Lindley, Koa James, Emily Jarvis, Sarina Chinfat cutting the cake
Photos supplied
Millaroo State School held a Community Day last Wednesday, December 6 to celebrate the end of the school year with students, special guests and parents.
“We invite everyone from the community, from Millaroo, Dalbeg and Clare, into our school to play games, have fun with the students and have a look at how good our school is,” said Principal Annette Wellington.
Students took part in games and cricket drills all morning thanks to Queensland Cricket before a visit from Santa had them enchanted.
Fruit was donated by Woolworths while the school’s P&C donated drinks, the sausage sizzle and presents.
Millaroo State School ranges from kindergarten to year 6 and offers playgroup every Friday.
The school had eight enrolments in 2023 and is taking nine students into 2024.
“We have lots of facilities here and cater for all students and all needs,” Ms Wellington said.
“We have a very supportive P&C.
“The kids usually get their tuck shop and food paid for, we give each of the students a healthy snack every day from Woolworths, all excursions and camps are paid for, the school supplies stationery so very little has to be paid for by the parents.
“It’s a small town and a small school, so there’s great one-on-one learning.”
Jacob Hoare, Carter Vardy, Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Harris Petersen, Lincoln Hoare , Chace Pyott, Delta Burrell, Myer Wyburg, Darcy, Morgan Burrell, Gillian Harris and Ty Pyott. Sitting L-R: Kim Christensen, Willoe Burrell, Clara, Santa, Chelsea Cavanagh, Remi Naughton, Lewis Naughton and Annette Wellington
Standing L-R: Annette Wellington and Anna Hoare. Sitting L-R: Gillian Harris, Santa and Kim Christensen
Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Departing year 6 student Chace Pyott has continued a long tradition of Year 6 Projects by painting a mural on the back of the cubbyhouse at Millaroo State School.
“Every year, the year 6 students will leave something behind, and this is Chace’s tribute to the school for this year,” said Millaroo State School Principal Annette Wellington.
The painting depicts Chace and his friends on an adventure on which they went spear hunting, saw and followed wallaby and turkey tracks before retiring to their meeting place to sit around the fire.
“And the one on the top is all the Millaroo kids playing red rover at lunch,” he added.
Chace said he’s sad to be leaving the school, his Year 6 Project displaying his love for the school and the community.
“It’s really good here,” he said.
“Everyone’s friends and we do so much fun stuff like community days and excursions.”
The annual tradition provides year 6 students the opportunity to leave their mark as a tribute to the school.
“There’s lots around our school,” Ms Wellington
“Students can come back in the future and see how the school and the projects are growing, what has happened in our year six projects and who’s left what behind.
“It’s also really good for the new one’s coming in to see what they can do when they leave.”
Other year 6 projects include paintings, sculptures and mosaics, symbols left from students who cherished their time at this small school.
Millaroo State School Departing year 6 student Chace Pyott and Principal Annette Wellington
Jarvisfield State School's presentation day took place on Monday, December 4, incorporating the year 6 graduation, end of year awards and Christmas Concert.
Alfredo Vasta graduated from year 6 after starting prep at the school in 2017, the same year as the current school principal, Lisa Bello.
“Alfredo is a kind, caring and well liked student,” said Ms Bello.
“No matter where he goes, someone always has something nice to say about.
“Even though he will be the only year 6 child going into high school this year, he has many friends joining him at Ayr High.
“Small schools do a great job of ensuring strong friendships are fostered across schools prior to their transition into high school.”
Many awards were also presented to students for attendance, encouragement, sport, improvement and academic efforts.
In addition, the Super J award was awarded to Riley Trindle and Aaliyah Trembath for outstanding behaviour this year.
For the first time ever, the Shiradean George Cultural Award was presented to the most outstanding indigenous student across all areas of school.
Shiradean George was honoured to personally present this year's perpetual award to Kasey Trindle for outstanding academic performance, being a great sportsman, outstanding behaviour and good attendance.
Jarvisfield State School Principal Lisa Bello, Alfredo Vasta and Burdekin Shire Councillor Kayley Boccalatte
Riley Trindle and Aaliyah Trembath
Kasey Trindle and Shiradean George
Encouragement Award recipient Wil Bovenkirk
Academic Award recipient Clayton Crisp
Encouragement Award recipient Remmie Shultz
Academic Award recipients Kailey Rowe and Jorja Vasta
Improvement Award recipient Tane Sollitt
Gold Attendance Award recipients Jorja Vasta, Mika Bello, Holly McIntosh, Lachlan W, Harper Trembath, Logan Norris and Clayton Crisp
Photos supplied
The value of Australian agriculture production is forecast to fall as increasing global supply and drier conditions impact farmers.
Acting Executive Director of Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) David Galeano said the forecast for total agricultural production values in 2023–24 is $78 billion.
This is $16 billion lower than estimated production values for 2022–23 but would still be the third highest result on record.
“The gross value of production is forecast to fall in 2023–24 as drier conditions impact record-high crop production levels seen in 2022–23,” Mr Galeano said.
“In total, Australian crop production values are expected to fall by $12 billion in 2023–24. Livestock production values are also forecast to decline reflecting recent price falls.
“Falling production values and incomes are also linked to declining global prices that are reflective of higher global supply.
“The past 3 years agriculture has seen record-breaking crop production because of higher rainfall.
“As we enter the El Niño period, we expect to see the national crop production fall from these record highs.
“Crop prospects for winter crops over spring have been mixed, and planting of summer crops in 2023–24 is expected to fall, reflecting below-average rainfall and low soil moisture levels during the early planting window.
“Drier conditions and lower prices mean average broadacre farm cash incomes are forecast to fall strongly in 2023–24.
“However, the past 3 years of high incomes have allowed broadacre farms to build up liquid assets, which should help cushion the forecast downturn.”
The Agricultural Commodities Report contains ABARES forecasts for the value, volume and price of Australia's agricultural production and exports. Underpinning the forecasts contained in the Agricultural Commodities Report are ABARES outlook for global commodity prices, demand and supply.
300,000 doses of a vaccine against the serious cattle virus that causes lumpy skin disease (LSD) have been secured in an agreement that will help Australia prepare for potential future outbreaks.
LSD, which also affects buffalo, has been reported in Indonesia but Australia remains free of this devastating disease.
However, if the disease got a foothold here, quick access to and effective rollout of these vaccines will help keep Australian cattle and buffalo safe.
For now, the doses of the vaccine will be kept safe in a secure overseas location. They will also be made available for producers in our closest neighbours, Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea, if required.
More information on what the government is doing to prepare, and what will happen if there is an outbreak, is available on the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s website.
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Farmers and growers of the Burdekin received a visit from Water Minister Glenn Butcher last week, with Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables’ (QCAR) water committee securing time with the visiting Minister.
Mr Butcher, the Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Minister for Water, met with the QCAR Burdekin Irrigators last Wednesday, December 6 to discuss the issue of rising groundwater as well as issues surrounding the supply and pricing of water in the region.
“It was a really good meeting,” said QCAR Manager Melissa Boulter.
“We discussed everything to do with Gladys Lagoon, the rising ground water, Sunwater, and basically all things water in the Burdekin River Irrigation Area.
“The Minister was very open and engaged with us.”
Mr Butcher said he is committed to visiting the Burdekin again before the end of the year to meet local irrigators and hear their rising groundwater concerns.
“I’m a big believer in getting out on the ground to see things firsthand and hear from local irrigators on their properties,” he said.
“It was great to talk with local irrigators and hear their concerns; and also their views on solutions moving forward.
“The visit was a good opportunity to see Sunwater’s Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater Mitigation Project underway, thanks to $12.5 million funding from both the Australian and Queensland Governments.
“This is one of our state’s most important agriculture regions, so we need to work together to tackle this problem.
“Clearly, there needs to be off-farm and on-farm activities in place to tackle this challenge and I’m happy to work with irrigators and other stakeholders to advocate for further support for these works.
“I’m grateful for the generosity of growers who met with me to share their views on this important issue.”
QCAR Burdekin Irrigators is a branch of QCAR’s Board and associated grower support services, advocating for its members throughout Queensland.
The committee is headed by Chair Cy Kovacich alongside members Dean Sgroi and Peter Hall while Ms Boulter supports the committee.
It consists of experienced growers who have, at one point or another, been a Director of an organisation within the sugar and irrigators industries in the local area.
They bring with them a plethora of knowledge and support for our growers.
“We make sure our growers are getting the right services and support,” said Ms Boulter.
A major issue facing the growers of the Burdekin is the rising groundwater in parts of the Burdekin Haughton Water Supply Scheme, threatening the productivity and sustainability of agriculture in the Lower Burdekin region.
Sunwater is delivering the Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater Mitigation Project alongside government, industry, customers and community to respond to rising groundwater in the Lower Burdekin.
Since 1932, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum has been passionately servicing the agriculture sector of the Burdekin and beyond. The business has always been locally owned and operated, with Robert, Joe and Rosetta Tama of Home Hill currently at the helm. Having lived in the Burdekin for almost half a century, the Tama family are no strangers to the region, its land and its people. With experience and interests in sugar cane, small crops, heavy produce, mangoes, broad acre crops and forestry, the Tama's have been aware of the benefits of lime and gypsum products and have used them extensively over the years. Developing a love for the product, the family took over the business and hope to share this same experience with their customers new and old.
Harvesting is over. The best way to maintain or increase productivity is to ensure your soil is of optimum health for ratooning and planting. Unless your soil is in good health, the full benefits of fertilisers will not be achieved.
Gypsum and lime have been used for more than 200 years as a soil amendment and fertilizer and, for various reasons, can substantially increase crop yields anywhere from 10 to 50 percent. Gypsum is a natural source of calcium sulfate and provides two of the most essential elements of plant life: calcium and sulfur. Regular use of gypsum is essential to the sustainability of most irrigated soils and has numerous advantages and benefits to the soil, the crop and the farmer.
Because of these benefits, it pays, not costs to use Inkerman Lime & Gypsum.
Inkerman Lime & Gypsum are suppliers and spreaders of Natural Earth Lime & Silica, Natural Winton Gypsum, Pulverised Lime, Natural Rock Phosphate and Dolomite. Using their decades of agricultural experience, the team can customise blends to suit your individual needs. They are now sourcing natural gypsum from a different mine site at Winton and, by virtue of it’s physical characteristics, it is much more soluble and readily available to soil and plants.
Inkerman Lime & Gypsum also provide a variety of spreading services with computerised direct drop augers, spinners, orchard spreader applicators and variable rate spreaders, all fitted with GPS navigational systems for a more accurate application. All vehicles have been fitted with the latest state-of-the-art computer technology for a perfect spread every time. They can deliver the product directly to you, frequently delivering to Proserpine, Bowen, Dalbeg, Millaroo, Giru, Townsville, Gumlu, Burdekin, Ayr and Home Hill.
Understanding the unpredictable nature of agriculture, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum has partnered with agPAY Crop Finance and DelayPay to provide its customers with flexible payment plans allowing you to purchase your inputs now and pay for them later or post-harvest.
Building on the varied benefits of natural gypsum, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum is proud to introduce a game-changing synthetic alternative, Top End Gypsum. Available exclusively through Inkerman Lime & Gypsum, Top End Gypsum is gypsum in its purest form and has been proven by leading labs to be much cleaner, faster and more readily available to plant growth than natural gypsum. Because of its very high analysis, less of the product is required for the same response, accelerating your plant growth, increasing productivity, saving you money and increasing your profits. Contact Robert and the team today to learn more about Top End Gypsum, secure your order and unlock your soil’s full potential.
When Home Hill celebrated its centenary in 2013, Inkerman Lime & Gypsum were recognised for their long term commitment to the Burdekin, highlighting the business’s role and positive work in the region. Money spent with Inkerman Lime & Gypsum stays in the Burdekin and, each year, the business injects millions of dollars into the local economy for goods and services and provides employment for many members of the community.
Inkerman Lime & Gypsum would like to wish the Burdekin a merry Christmas and looks forward to continuing this ground-breaking work in 2024!
37 Advantages To Using Gypsum
1. Gypsum improves soil structure
2. Gypsum helps reclaim sodic soils
3. Gypsum prevents crusting of soils and aids seed emergence
4. Gypsum improves low-solute irrigation water
5. Gypsum improves compacted soil
6. Gypsum makes slightly wet soils easier to till
7. Gypsum stops water runoff and erosion
8. Gypsum decreases pH of sodic soils
9. Gypsum increases the pH of acidic soils
10. Gypsum improves swelling clays
11. Gypsum prevents waterlogging of soil
12. Gypsum can help remove excess boron from sodic soil
13. Gypsum increases the stability of soil organic matter
14. Gypsum makes water-soluble polymer soil conditioners more effective
15. Gypsum makes excess magnesium non-toxic
16. Gypsum corrects subsoil acidity
17. Gypsum can enhance the values of liming
18. Gypsum improves water-use efficiency
19. Gypsum creates favourable soil EC
20. Gypsum makes it possible to efficiently use low quality irrigation water
21. Gypsum decreases dust erosion
22. Gypsum helps plants absorb plant nutrients
23. Gypsum decreases heavy-metal toxicity
24. Gypsum increases value of organics
25. Gypsum improves fruit quality & prevents some plant diseases
26. Gypsum is a source of sulfur
27. Gypsum helps prepare soil for no-till management
28. Gypsum decreases bulk density of soil
29. Gypsum decreases the toxic effect of NaCl salinity
30. Gypsum multiplies the value of other inputs
31. Gypsum can decrease pH of rhizosphere
32. Gypsum keeps clay off tuber and root crops
33. Gypsum decreases loss of fertiliser nitrogen in the air
34. Gypsum can be a source of oxygen for plants
35. Gypsum helps earthworms to flourish
36. Gypsum can increase water retention in soil
37. Gypsum can increase crop yields
Five long-term teachers at Ayr State High School will soon teach their last class before retiring at the end of the school year.
Teresa Gemellaro, Judy McCallister, Kerry Flynn, Mary Piras-Flynn and Emily Shannon have all decided to end their careers at Ayr State High School after teaching generations of Burdekin students.
“It’s not often as a community we get to celebrate career long achievements of a number of people at the same time,” said Ayr SHS Principal Craig Whittred.
“We are as proud to celebrate their achievements as we are sad to be losing their experience and professionalism.
“Each of these people made important individual contributions not only to the fabric of Ayr High, but to the individuals they worked with, both students and staff.
Five of Ayr SHS’s most respected teachers have hung up the whiteboard markers as they enter retirement at the end of the school year.
Deputy Principal Kerry Flynn said teaching wasn’t his initial direction after leaving school but found his passions in maths and physics at university.
Starting at Ayr SHS in 1990, he said he found a school that made him feel welcome and he never saw the need to leave.
Originally from Charters Towers, Mr Flynn worked as a senior maths/physics teacher and Maths & Science Head of Department before becoming Deputy Principal.
“There are so many wonderful young people in the Burdekin who do amazing things and this has been the case for the 34 years I have taught here,” he said.
“Being involved with these students every day and being part of this great school has been a privilege.”
Science teacher Teresa Gemellaro also explored different career options before deciding on teaching, saying she was drawn to it after helping a fellow classmate who had sustained brain damage at her small two-teacher school.
A chemistry specialist, Ms Gemellaro taught a range of maths and science subjects throughout her 40-year career across Burdekin Catholic High School and Home Hill SHS and before sticking with Ayr SHS since 1997.
“I love seeing the happy expression on students’ faces when they understand something they were struggling with,” she said.
“I also love hearing about the many different pathways students follow after leaving school, whether that be higher study and a professional career, or achieving in the workforce in other ways, and becoming great parents.
“It is quite amazing over the years to have taught the children of many former students, and even a few grandchildren are arriving at the school these days since I began teaching in 1980.”
Mary Piras-Flynn also wasn’t sure which path to follow after school, ultimately taking the suggestion of a guidance officer to pursue teaching and has since taught commerce, Italian, computing and maths.
Ms Piras-Flynn accepted a role in Ayr due to its similarity to her hometown of Ingham, saying she ended up staying for 34 years because of the staff and the students.
“This school is a close-knit community where everyone from teachers, ancillary staff and students get on well together,” she said.
“The best thing about teaching in a country school is you get to know the students as well as the families.
“The thing I will miss the most is getting to know a new set of students each year.”
Originally a vet, Emily Shannon became a teacher after moving to the Burdekin when she married her husband, Evan.
She started in the Maths and Science Department at Home Hill SHS in 1988 before commencing at Ayr SHS in 2001.
“It has been a privilege, and mostly rewarding, to work in education,” Ms Shannon said.
“To me, education is about the love of learning.
“It’s great when students achieve qualifications that lead to employment, but it is about more than that.”
Lastly, Judy McAllister developed a passion for working with people with diverse needs in a role with the Endeavour Foundation before starting as a Teacher Aide with Ayr SHS’s Special Education Program in 2005.
“I feel privileged to have been a part of so many young people’s lives over the years,” she said.
“I have been blessed in my career choice.”
Upon retiring, Ms McAllister and her husband will relocate to acreage at Mount Fox, near Ingham, while the other four will remain in the Burdekin.
“Generations of young people in the Burdekin have been supported through the tireless efforts and professionalism of these special people, and I certainly wish them the very best as they step into the next phase of life,” added Principal Craig Whittred.
Retiring Ayr SHS Teachers Teresa Gemellaro, Judy McCallister, Kerry Flynn, Mary Piras-Flynn and Emily Shannon. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
L-R Kerry Flynn, Teresa Gemellaro, Judy McCallister, Mary Piras-Flynn and Emily Shannon. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Craig Hosie’s 32-year policing journey has led him across north Queensland, from stints in the Gulf of Carpentaria to the regional metropolitan centres of Townsville and Cairns.
He transferred to the Burdekin, where he was born and raised, in 2004 and, nearly two decades later, he’s made the decision to leave his hometown to embrace fresh challenges and new adventures in Mackay.
Born and raised in Home Hill, Craig’s roots run deep in the Burdekin.
In a heartfelt reflection on his journey, he admitted to the challenges of policing in his hometown.
“It’s emotionally challenging to police in a community you’ve grown up in but, by the same token, you use that knowledge and those connections you have with people to build relationships,” he said.
“It has been hard, at times; I’ve seen things, been to fatalities where there’s been people I know involved.
“Seeing people subjected to rough times is hard and that emotion does have a place but when you’ve got to do a policing job, it’s not the case of just switching that emotion off but stemming it to a point where you can do your job but still employ a certain amount of it to be able to show people you care.”
With those lows come unprecedented highs, Craig's tenure seeing him engage actively with the community and relishing moments like leading the Water Festival parades and extending support to those in need.
“Some people have had connections here for years and being able to assist them in their times of need is a privilege,” he said.
“There’s a lot of times when you see people at their worst, but on the flip side of that, we’re able to help those people climb out of the rough they’re in and get them back to a point where they’re improving their lives.”
With a deep connection to the Burdekin and its people, Craig said he will miss the camaraderie he’s built across the station and the region but is excited by the change in scenery as he enters the final five years of his policing career.
“I’ve worked with some really great people here,” he said.
“I think Ayr is very lucky to have these people servicing the region.
“There are a lot of people in the Burdekin I will miss, but, after 19 years, I just felt I needed to have that change and give somewhere else a go.
“I’m excited to get to know everyone (in Mackay) and their expertise, what they’re good at, how I can help them to further their careers, so that’s all exciting.”
Craig worked his last day at Ayr Police Station last Friday, December 1 and was farewelled at a dinner the following Sunday as he prepares to start in his new Shift Supervisor role in Mackay on December 18.
Craig Hosie worked his final day at Ayr Police Station last Friday
While I’m disappointed to be missing the Christmas Carols and all the other exciting events happening in the Burdekin this weekend, I’m excited to be travelling to Brisbane to see probably my favourite band ever.
I first discovered The War On Drugs in 2014; I still remember helping Dad in the shed one weekend where I would often hijack his ancient wireless to listen to triple j, the choice radio station at the time.
A song called ‘Red Eyes’ came on; with a driving beat, floating synths and an epic guitar riff, I was entranced.
I continued to dig into The War On Drugs; the 2014 album for which ‘Red Eyes’ was the lead single, ‘Lost In The Dream’, became a favourite, filled with mesmerising guitar work, atmospheric synthesisers and beautifully written rock songs.
Then came 2017’s ‘A Deeper Understanding’, an album that I probably enjoyed more than it’s 2014 predecessor, although I consider both perfect records.
It was upon the release of ‘A Deeper Understanding’ that I got my first opportunity to see The War On Drugs live – they headlined Laneway Festival in 2017, sitting atop a stacked lineup that convinced me and my friends to buy tickets almost immediately.
It remains one of my favourite live music experiences and still gives me goosebumps to this day.
The songs that I’d grown to love so dearly were so perfectly recreated on the stage where lead singer and guitarist Adam Granduciel’s talents with the guitar were well and truly on display.
The band announced an Australian tour in May, their first since 2018, and I could barely believe it.
The opportunity to see one of the best bands in the world (my opinion) at the Riverstage with some of the best friends a bloke could ask for (fact) doesn’t come by every day, so I farewell the Burdekin for the weekend and hope to return with stories of an epic evening of live music.
A group of local Burdekin women ‘packed a little joy’ when they made a donation to Hope In A Suitcase Australia last week.
The Ayr Branch of the Catholic Women's League collected items throughout the month of October before donating the items to Hope In A Suitcase, a non-profit organisation providing suitcases for children going into foster care or out-of-home care throughout north Queensland.
“It was wonderful to meet some of the ladies from the Ayr branch of the Catholic Women's League when they dropped off all the beautiful donations they had collected over the last month or so for us,” Hope in a suitcase Australia - North Qld region said on social media.
“We are so grateful for their generosity and thank you to their kind friend who drove it over for us in his ute!”
“Many of these items we were almost completely out of so it was perfect timing!
“They also raised some money which will enable us to purchase suitcases and items as needed - what a huge impact their generosity will have!”
Congratulations to all involved in this thoughtful donation which is sure to make a massive impact!
The Ayr Branch of the Catholic Women's League donated items to Hope In A Suitcase North Queensland. Photo supplied
A new AVGAS fuel facility has been installed at the Ayr Aerodrome and is now available for 24/7 use.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said that the Council was committed to supporting the airport facility and ensuring its commercial viability.
“We are delighted to have secured this new fuel installation for users of the Ayr Aerodrome, which will benefit the local aviation community and fly-in visitors,” Ms McLaughlin said.
Council was notified in August this year that the former supplier was removing their services from the Ayr Aerodrome.
Ms McLaughlin said Council immediately launched a tender process to find a new provider to ensure minimal downtime.
Woodham Petroleum Services was selected as the successful tender and completed the installation in November 2023.
The new facility, supplied and serviced by Woodham Petroleum Services, will accept Visa/Mastercard, Eftpos and Woodham Petroleum network E Tags for account holders.
An E-Tag is available for use in the Club aircraft VH RTY.
For account/E-Tag inquiries, please contact Woodham Petroleum Services on 02/68281356 or State Operations Manager on 0499 281 356.
A proud Juru man, Rick Dallachy represents his people throughout north Queensland through advocacy, land and sea management and community support.
In his role as CEO of Juru Enterprises Ltd, Rick leads the commercial arm of the Juru people, often collaborating with the Native Title board based in Townsville.
“Juru is our native people,” Rick said.
“We’re a part of the Birri Gubba nation which runs from Townsville halfway out to Charters Towers down to nearly Mackay, taking in all that area.”
Retiring after almost 40 years in the electrical industry, Rick found himself representing his ancestors on the board of Juru Enterprises Ltd before taking on the CEO role after a restructure in 2017.
“Now we’ve got a staff of between 14 and 19 and our sole purpose is on our native title land between Bowen and Home Hill,” he said.
“We do land management on most of the state owned land.
“When people hear an indigenous group like ours have native title to parcels of land, they automatically think we’re coming to take their land, but native title doesn’t work like that.
“Native title is all about unused state land that’s been proven that our ancestors used to live off that land.
“We get exclusive native title rights to that land and part of the sea as well.”
Rick prides himself on offering opportunities to all but will hire fellow Juru people when he can to care for their land.
“If you go back through history, our people have been backburning and managing land all the time,” he said.
“It’s hard yakka but it’s very rewarding; our Juru descendants love working on their ancestors' land, and they really take pride in their work.”
Aside from the native title side of the business, Juru Enterprises Ltd started a pilot program six years ago aiming to drive attendance at Bowen State School by providing breakfast for all students.
The program has a huge success, growing to provide students with breakfast, morning tea, lunch and snacks five days a week, and has since been implemented at Home Hill State High School.
“The kids love it … and attendance is through the roof,” Rick said.
“The teachers are reporting that misdemeanours in the classroom are dropping, and grades are going in the right direction.
Rick also volunteers with children at PCYC Burdekin and used to be heavily involved in junior rugby league and boxing.
“That’s my passion, I just love working with kids,” he said.
“I want to see kids achieve and while I’m healthy enough and able to, I’ll do everything in my power to see kids succeed.”
Supported by North Queensland Bulk Ports, Engage Marine and FOGS Queensland, Rick hopes to see the great work of Juru Enterprises Ltd continue into the future as he plans to step aside in the new year.
While transitioning into retirement, Rick will remain involved as a consultant during the changeover period and continue his role as a valued leader of the Juru people and the Burdekin community.
Rick Dallachy presenting Home Hill State High School student Blaize Palmer with an Indigenous Pride Award. Photo supplied
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