Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
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My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
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If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
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Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
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When Ross Romeo lost a close friend to suicide in 2005, he went searching for answers, ultimately leading him to his role with Community Response to Eliminating Suicide (CORES).
“At the time, you just go into survival mode, do what you can and get through as best you can and later on, when things settled down, the questions started coming along so I went looking for some answers,” Mr Romeo said.
CORES is a community-based program relying on volunteers to educate members of the community on how to intervene when they encounter a person they believe may be suicidal.
Originating in regional Tasmania, the program held its first training session in the Burdekin in 2008 thanks to Peter Shadforth.
“I went along and found it quite easy to understand and practical,” Mr Romeo said.
“While it didn’t change what had happened, it definitely helped me understand it better.”
A cane farmer of over 30 years, Mr Romeo trained to become a facilitator which led him to his role as Queensland Coordinator and Counsellor.
He now leads the program that provides suicide prevention training and free counselling to the Burdekin and surrounding regions.
“We give people some basic skills to know what to look out for and, more importantly, what to say, what to do and where to go for help,” Mr Romeo said.
“The rural communities are open to it and want to take ownership, so the training gives them some skills to help them recognise that they can’t fix anything for anyone - in the end change has got to come from the individual - our job as a friend or community member is to create the environment for that and help people unlock the tools.”
Up until two years ago, the program was reliant on fundraising and community donations, for which Mr Romeo thanked the Burdekin community.
“While the money raised here stays here, it has helped lift our profile which then gets people wanting more information from different communities and that’s how we’ve been able to spread,” he said.
“What was started here in the Burdekin has reached a long way, so people don’t know what good they’ve done not just for this community but a lot of other communities.”
Being a community-led organisation, CORES relies on volunteers to facilitate its training sessions.
“The volunteers are everything to us,” Mr Romeo said.
“I really admire them; they give up their time simply because they want to give something back and stand in a room and talk to people about such a heavy subject.
“It’s a big job, but we’ve got a lot of terrific facilitators here in the Burdekin and other communities.”
CORES will be holding a training session in the Burdekin before the end of the year.
To learn more, visit cores.org.au/queensland or email coresqld@kentishrc.com.au.
If this story raises any issues, please visit your regular GP, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, contact CORES on 0427 455 313 or, in a crisis, present to an emergency department.
CORES Queensland Coordinator Ross Romeo
It’s become an annual tradition that has the whole region talking, and the Halloween House is back in 2023.
Held on the corner of Edwards and Darwin Streets in Ayr, the annual Halloween Party is hosted by Leon McCormack and Jeff Lunn who have been decorating their house for Halloween for six years and for Christmas since 2007.
“Each year we do a big Christmas display, so people suggested we do Halloween as well,” said Leon.
“One year we did it and we were just astounded with the number of people who turned up.
“Before we were doing the party thing, we’d be running the lights and we’d come out and people would be here, so we’d be chatting to them and hand out candy canes, so then we thought we’d do popcorn and snow cones, and it grew from there.”
“It just gets bigger every year,” added Jeff.
“Normally we get about 200 people turn up.”
Leon and Jeff started setting up the lights display at the start of October and will run it for the week leading up to October 31.
They said they enjoy bringing the Halloween spirit to the region, particularly appreciating the effort and creativity of costumes.
“Some of the families who come with their kids, it’s amazing to see how much effort they put in,” said Jeff.
The family friendly event will feature a sausage sizzle provided by the Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club as well as free popcorn, fairy floss and snow cones.
WHAT: Halloween Party
WHEN: Tuesday, October 31 from 6:30pm
WHERE: ‘The Halloween House’, on the corner of Edwards and Darwin Streets, Ayr
Do you enjoy creating beautiful and useful items from timber? Would you like to learn how?
Perhaps Burdekin Woodcrafts is the place for you. They are a mixed group of people who enjoy working with their hands to produce something they can admire and find useful, from cutting boards, to jewellery boxes, to items of furniture.
They offer a warm welcome to all and have a mixed membership of all ages from twelve to early eighties, and they are an active club. Rather than sitting around talking, they are usually busily at work, cutting, planning, sanding, etc. to produce their projects, but are also very quick to offer guidance to new members in a genuine spirit of fellowship.
Their well-stocked workshop has a full range of tools from scroll saws to produce fine and delicate work, through to a “Wood Wizz” for levelling large slabs for table tops. All are available for members’ use at a moderate charge to cover running expenses.
Part of their work is providing services for community needs, creating tables, cupboards, benches, or whatever. They will also help in restoring cherished possessions where economically feasible.
Their workshop is at 30 Little Drysdale Street just before the tennis courts. Call in and see them on Wednesday or Saturday mornings from 8:00am to 12:00pm, phone them on 0409 615 559 or 0409 834 156, or find them on Facebook.
Contributed by Burdekin Woodcraft Association
Sandy Smith cutting timber
Lance harness at the scroll saw
The Burdekin region has a rich Indigenous history and has been home to the Bindal and Juru Aboriginal people for centuries.
This week, 10 Townsville-based trainees visited the region to learn about the history and culture of its Traditional Owners as part of a traineeship with the Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation.
The traineeship, funded through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work Program, is a full-time, paid traineeship opportunity for First Nations participants aged between 17 and 21.
“We are training young First Nations people around land and sea management activities and exposing them to opportunities in the workplace around becoming land and sea rangers,” said Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation Project Manager Leah Saltner.
While in the Burdekin, the trainees interacted with Gudjuda Reference Group’s rangers across a number of projects on country.
They were also guided through the Juru Walk where Bindal Traditional Owner and Gudjuda Reference Group Ranger Eddie Smallwood guided them on a cultural tour of the native plant life.
“I just assist in teaching the younger fellas about bush tucker and what the medicines are for,” Mr Smallwood said.
“Our people have been using medicines for thousands of years so it’s good to see these young people learning about our culture.”
As the trainees learn about trees and vegetation, they’ll move onto reading the landscape and controlling cultural burning.
In the next two weeks, the trainees will then learn about turtle nesting where they will get the opportunity to camp with the rangers at Wunjunga, watch turtles come to the beach to lay their eggs and assist rangers to relocate the eggs away from predators.
They will also complete training and certification in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, scuba diving, cultural fire burning, boat and drone operation and seagrass monitoring throughout the program.
“It’s giving them work experience but it’s also creating a culturally safe space where they can learn and see whether this type of ranger work suits them or not,” said Ms Saltner.
“We’re also giving them opportunities to talk to other employers to see what fits, what they like, what they don’t like, and supporting them in whatever that career choice is going to be.”
“We want to get them career ready, so if they want to look after country, there might be opportunities for ranger jobs as not only Indigenous rangers but non-Indigenous rangers, so we’re looking at trying to skill them up to give them better opportunity in the workforce,” added Mr Smallwood.
“Our elders passed on a lot of stuff to me so it’s important for me to pass it on to our younger generation.”
Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation was established in 1999 to support Traditional Owner groups, becoming a not-for-profit Indigenous social enterprise with a focus on education, employment and training.
The Reference Group run a number of education and land and sea management programs, and Mr Smallwood urges everyone to get involved.
“You don’t have to be a traditional owner to learn all this, you can be a non-Indigenous person too, to work together and learn about what’s out there, what the bush tucker means to us as Indigenous people and what sorts of medicines it is for our people,” he said.
“Try and have a listen and go and have a look around your own backyard.
“Everything’s got a purpose and everything’s got something to say, so just listen to the trees.”
A group of 10 First Nations Trainees visited the Burdekin this week
Eddie Smallwood of Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation guided a ‘Bush Tukka Tour’ at Juru Walk. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
At 3.25pm on Monday 16 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Jones Street, Ayr. The driver, a 48yr old Sunshine Coast man, was issued a NTA driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 December.
At 6.50pm on Monday 16 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, McDesme. The driver, a 41yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and unlicenced driving. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 December.
At about 6.50pm on Tuesday 17 October, Ayr Police attended Sutcliffe Estate, Ayr in relation to an altercation between two persons. As a result, a 73yr old Burdekin man was charged with one count of common assault and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 November.
In an exciting development for rugby league enthusiasts, the Burdekin Roosters have kicked off preparations for the 2024 season by unveiling their coaching team across all four grades set to compete in the RLTD.
Dan Beazley, a former captain of the Townsville Blackhawks and former Roosters player, is making a return to the club as the A Grade coach. Beazley, who decided to hang up his boots after a career that led him to France, is ready to take the helm after touring Australia in a van. Roosters president Mick Brombal had been pursuing his signature as coach since his return, and now that goal has been achieved. Beazley's wealth of experience will be invaluable for the predominantly young A Grade team.
Working alongside Beazley will be Kieran Dawes, who has already gained coaching experience this year.
The Reserve Grade will continue under the guidance of Chris Perry, who is both a long-term player and a coach. Perry's coaching prowess shone when he led the reserves to the Grand Final in 2022. Though he thought he had retired, the persistent calls from players led to his return to the coaching arena. Perry made a comeback earlier this year when he took over the Hens, proving his dedication to the Roosters.
Joining the coaching lineup is Peter Horan, a former player who once captained the A Grade in the TDRL. Horan relocated to Townsville but returned to the Burdekin this year to guide his son, coached by Ross Olsen, in the under-17 team. His passion for coaching led him to apply for the under-19 position, which he secured. Horan's experience will be a great asset to the Roosters.
The Hens will be under the tutelage of the well-known Townsville Touch coach Anita Hagarty. Hagarty brings a wealth of experience and coaching expertise to the team. She has a strong connection to the Burdekin, with her father being the former Home Hill winger and Burdekin Referee Joe Cantarella. Her son, Ethan Hagarty, was named Ayr Anzac Memorial Club A Grade Player of the Year.
To kick off the season's preparations, a meet and greet session is expected to be arranged soon, with pre-season training schedules to be finalised.
The club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 12, at 3:00 p.m. at the Ayr Anzac Club.
Daniel Beasley. Photo credit: Mendi Blackhawks
The senior community gathered at the Ayr Showgrounds on Monday for the Seniors Health and Wellbeing Expo and Luncheon.
A day of insights, connections and inspiration, the event was aimed at promoting a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle with the assistance of local businesses and the Burdekin Shire Youth Council.
“This event provides a platform for seniors to access valuable resources and connect with essential services, ensuring their wellbeing remains a priority in our community,” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said.
Photos supplied: Burdekin Regional Council
Hello Burdekin
It’s wonderful to see a local paper back, congrats to all involved and welcome Sam to the bountiful Burdekin.
My name is John Furnell and I have been a Councillor since being elected in 2020. Having grown up in Sydney where I pursued a teaching degree after completing school, it was a visit to South Molle Island in 1984 with two friends from college that ultimately prompted my relocation to North Queensland. Two years of island life changed in 1986 with a transition to the Burdekin with Lisa Perry and our first business venture “LJs Pizza”. From there Lisa went on to another business venture with sister-in-law Kay Perry in “Fabrics n Décor”.
My journey turned back to the health field by completing my Enrolled Nursing at Ayr Hospital, Registered Nurse training at the old Townsville General Hospital and into the Queensland Ambulance Service for the next twenty years at Ayr Station. During this time I was able to complete a Nursing Degree and Masters in Health Science (majoring in Health Promotion). It was also a chance to return to the Army Reserve achieving the Rank of Captain.
A medical challenge in 2013 led to three years of rehabilitation and workplace testing before being medically discharged from Queensland Ambulance Service and a reassessment of my future. I was fortunate to be able to return to nursing at Ayr Hospital and continue involvement with our current business, ‘Burdekin Swim School’ led by Lisa Furnell, now nudging 30 years teaching Burdekin children to swim. Lisa is one of the hardest workers I’ve come across, next to my mother Val who raised five children on her own after the death of my father Douglas when I was eight and Lisa’s parents Norm and Maureen Perry.
We have three adult children, Ryan, Sarah and Joshua who all lived away but have now moved back to the Burdekin. Along with their partners, Jamie, Matt and Brittany they have bought houses and set down roots in the Burdekin. We are now blessed with five grandchildren, Ali 2, Milla 2, Olly 1, Abby 1 and newborn Summer.
This has given me a greater impetus to work towards making Burdekin the best it can be and work towards a liveability we can all be proud of. I find Council a positive way to contribute to the betterment of the Burdekin. My Council areas are the Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group, Community and Cultural Development Advisory Group, Local Authority Waste Management Advisory Committee, North Queensland Resource Recovery Group and Townsville Area Palliative Care Group. Along with my personal interest organisations Ayr SLSC, Burdekin Men’s Shed, Burdekin Youth Council, Friends of the Theatre and the Home Hill Choral Society to name a few, I have the opportunity to interact with many ‘Burdekinites’ of all ages.
Council's Library facilities in Ayr and Home Hill are vibrant hubs for learning and engagement.
The libraries go beyond being places to read books; they offer diverse programs for all ages and interests, focusing on breaking down barriers to access.
The libraries in the Burdekin offer a range of programs to enhance digital literacy and provide crucial computer skills to navigate the digital world effectively.
The First Five Forever program dedicated to children, focuses on early literacy and utilises interactive storytelling, creative play and age-appropriate resources to instil a love for reading and learning in young minds, building a strong foundation for their educational journey.
The Burdekin Library offers robotics and coding courses suitable for all age groups to equip residents with essential skills needed in today's digital era, allowing them to engage with technology in a meaningful and productive manner.
Not forgetting the seniors in the community, the libraries have tailored programs to ensure they remain connected, engaged, and empowered in their later years. The senior programs cater to their unique needs and provide opportunities for continued learning and social interaction.
In the past year, the library facilities have welcomed over 1,500 guests and visitors and have delivered hundreds of sessions, from book launches to board games, school holiday programs and more.
Discover what your library has to offer today — beyond books lie hubs of learning and growth.
It’s been 10 whole months since I’ve embarked on my biggest life adventure of moving to Brisbane, and since leaving the Burdekin I’ve been faced with more challenges and opportunities than I expected.
For generations, my family has been lucky enough to call Burdekin home, and it truly makes me happy to represent the region in all that I do, even if that is 1,200km away. Since finishing up my traineeship at the Burdekin Library and concluding my role as Youth Mayor I have commenced my first year of studies in Media and Communications at Queensland University of Technology. Within my first semester, I successfully secured a four-month internship with community radio station 4ZZZ and an employment position with QUT as a Student Ambassador, both positions which heavily utilised my experience in youth council and love for the community. Most recently, I have been selected to volunteer at the Brisbane International Film Festival which I’m thrilled to experience in the coming days as well as gaining work experience with Burdekin Life.
Amongst my studies at QUT, I have been offered several opportunities through assignments to showcase entrepreneurial skills, pitching business ideas to Brisbane based businesses, ranging from social media campaigns, and business solutions to marketing proposals all opportunities that have allowed me to successfully network in the industry.
Since completing my internship at 4ZZZ I have become a casual volunteer on air, mainly working graveyard shifts – 2:00am to 6:00am - as well as creating my own online digital radio show, which is currently in the works.
As the year progresses and my first year comes to a close, I am beyond ecstatic to see what 2024 has to offer. With the opportunities I have secured I hope to inspire others within our region who are hesitant to embark on such a big change.
Gracie at QUT Kelvin Grove. Photo supplied
Whether you are a homeowner looking for a reliable electrician or a large commercial premises looking for dependable maintenance, NQ Electrical can offer you great service, that will also get you on-track for an energy efficient future.
“We’ve noticed that energy efficiency is slowly becoming a big part of people’s lives,” said NQ Electrical owner, Michael Saunders.
“I’m big on sustainability and helping people reduce their carbon footprint – they also save a lot of money for a small outlay.”
Having opened its doors 10 years ago, NQ Electrical has grown and expanded over the decade to now incorporate a team of 14 qualified staff who provide a flexible workforce that travel between Townsville and Mackay.
With a reliable and timely service, NQ Electrical are always professional and ready to deliver high standards of service, no matter your needs.
“We understand the importance of getting your electrical work done on time, and our team is committed to meeting all deadlines,” said Michael.
“Whether you need installation, repair, or maintenance services, we have the expertise to get the job done efficiently and effectively.
“Our focus on timely service delivery sets us apart in the industry, and we take pride in exceeding our commitment to on-time service delivery.”
With his invaluable team at the heart of the business, NQ Electricals’ core values are centred around people and customer service.
A professional initial phone call will establish your needs, and this will be backed up with a timely quote and efficient delivery.
This level of service has garnered a sterling reputation and created many long-term relationships where NQ Electrical is considered the contractor of choice for many national companies.
Bring this five-star service to your door in the Burdekin by giving Michael and the team a call today.
Top Tips
For A Sustainable Future
• Go Electric – remove all gas including hot water and hot plates.
• Install Solar – solar panels will soon generate a return in investment.
• LED Lighting – upgrade all your lighting to energy efficient LED lightbulbs.
• Clean Fuel – buy and electric car and completely remove your fuel bill.
The future direction of Burdekin TAFE was a central point of discussion this week when interested parties met to open a conversation about a 10-year TAFE infrastructure Strategy.
Topics of conversation included the challenges currently existing within the campus facilities, opportunities for improvement, how the facilities meet the needs of local industry and what impact TAFE has on the local community.
The meeting, however, was only attended by two local business representatives and neither of the Chamber of Commerce were invited, a situation that frustrated Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.
“The government has tasked a Brisbane-based consultancy firm with identifying the community’s priorities when it comes to TAFE, but the community hasn’t been invited,” he said.
“The invite list was provided by a Minister’s office and that should have alarm bells ringing in the community.”
Mr Last asserts that the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce has been calling for better utilisation of the facility for the benefit of students and the community.
“The fact that the local Chamber of Commerce wasn’t invited is an absolute insult,” he said.
“The meeting was on Wednesday and it was only Monday afternoon that I got the chance to nominate some additional attendees. I was told that any additional invitees would have to be approved by the Minister’s office, making it virtually impossible.”
Mr Last said the restricted invite list and short notice meant the opportunities to revitalise the facility would almost undoubtedly be missed despite the best efforts of attendees.
“I know that the people who do attend will do their best, but you can’t honestly expect such a small group of representatives to do this alone,” he said.
“What you need is a broad range of input from businesses, representative groups, teachers, past students, and potential students.
“I’m calling on the Minister to schedule additional face to face consultation and to allow people and groups to nominate to attend so that we get the best outcome.
“If the Minister refuses to do that we know that the decisions have already been made and that the consultation process is nothing but a smoke screen.”
Burdekin TAFE offers a range of engineering courses specialising in mechanical trades, fitting and turning, boiler-making, and metal fabrication. Photo supplied
Small business is the heart of the Burdekin region, keeping our town centres thriving, our engines running and our bellies full, among other things. The small businesses of the Burdekin are also the reason you hold this publication, Burdekin Life, in your hands. Without the support of the Burdekin people, Burdekin Life wouldn’t be the publication it is today. Work experience student Gracie Hosie visited a couple of these great local businesses to share a bit of their story. Make sure to head downtown and support the businesses who support your locally owned, community minded newspaper.
Marissa Zanella with staff Sharon and Fiona. Photo credit: Gracie Hosie
Since 2000, Selections has been thriving as a houseware, kitchenware, and gift store, owned and managed by Marissa Zanella. The little store located next door to Woolworths on Queen Street has more to offer than you may think.
Selections was a family business for more than fifty years, specialising in Italian porcelain gift lines, formally known as Amore’s Gift Inn. Since taking it on as her own she has added her own touch to the store as well as expanding to houseware, kitchenware, baking goods, and equipment as well as gifts for a range of ages.
Mrs Zanella has a strong passion for what she does, which is evident throughout her work, and she also takes great pride in carrying on her parent’s legacy.
For Marissa, this shop represents more than just a gift store; it's her gift to the Burdekin community, and she and her staff would love to extend this experience to all of you.
David’s son, Daniel Huckett, working on a customer's car. Photo credit: Gracie Hosie
Prostart Automotive is an auto electrical repair workshop covering repairs for trailers, cars, motorhomes, harvesters, and everything in between. David Huckett, Prostart’s current owner, has been along for the ride since 2005.
Mr Huckett has maintained a successful business within the Burdekin, providing the utmost professional service to all who walk through his door.
“I hold not only myself but the service the business provides to a high standard…ensuring we have a good attention to detail, doing the job well the first time to keep our customers coming back,” Mr Huckett stated when reflecting on his business.
David works closely with his son Daniel, and the both of them enjoy witnessing the business grow and succeed in their local community.
To know more about the services David offers and the work he does, head to his Facebook page or visit the workshop at 10 Ross Street in Ayr.
On an evening of transformation, innovation and new beginnings, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) launched their new brand at the Queens Hotel last Thursday, October 19.
QCAR CEO Paniko Spyrou welcomed members of the sugar cane and agriculture industries before leading a panel discussion with AgForce Cane Limited President Russell Hall, QCAR Chair Charles Quagliata and Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA) Chair Don Murday on the future of the business and the industry.
“The decision to rebrand from Burdekin Cane Agriculture Organisation to Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables signifies our broader strategic vision and expanded focus that aligns with evolving industry dynamics and a need for sustainable development,” Mr Spyrou said.
“Shifting from a regional identity to a statewide one reflects a desire to encompass Queensland’s coastal cane and agricultural landscape.
“This widens the organisation’s reach and allows us to address issues and opportunities at a much larger scale.
“QCAR’s emphasis on renewables aligns with a global shift towards sustainable energy sources, enabling growers and communities to be part of a greener and more resilient future.”
Mr Spyrou also announced the addition of a new role, introducing Michael Kern as QCAR's incoming Chief Strategy Officer.
“There clearly are amazing opportunities for the industry lying ahead,” Mr Kern said.
“I think it (QCAR) has the real potential to provide a platform to go forward and really change the industry … and I’m grateful that the board has the confidence to ask me to help in that regard.”
AgForce Cane Limited President Russell Hall, QCAR CEO Paniko Spyrou, QCAR Chair Charles Quagliata, QCAR CSO Michael Kern and ACFA Chair Don Murday
Laraine Sgroi, Bernadette Rehbein and Melissa Boulter
Michael Roncato, Chris Punzell, Meg Wilson and Barb Colls
John Grasso, Kayleen Walsh and Peter Papadimitriou
Loretta Hall and Cathy Patroni
John Quagliata and Pardeep Kumar
Michael Kern, Casie Scott and Renee Gardner
Mark Vass, Laurence Dal Santo and Russell Campbell
Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
For some, the end of October excitement is around the Halloween celebration. For others it signals the
end of Year 12 with exams and the completion of their school education. For us at Wilmar Marketing it is
the closing of the nomination period for GEI Sugar marketing nominations.
In short, October 31 is the last chance for all cane growers to choose which marketer they will use to
price their GEI Sugar exposure for the 2024 season.
Depending on your pricing circumstances, and even if you have previously nominated a marketer, you
can change your nomination right up until midnight October 31.
Even if you have previously signed up for three years, you can change your 2024 nomination.
Even if you have previously nominated and priced some of your 2024 season GEI Sugar exposure, you
can split your nomination.
For any growers who are exclusive Harvest Pool users, you can still choose to price your GEI Sugar
through the Wilmar Production Risk Pool for 2024 season right up until October 31.
We dedicate significant resources towards maximising returns in our Production Risk Pool. When you
look at the comparative outcomes (see graph), we think the results speak for themselves. While pool
performance is not guaranteed, the accompanying chart may help with your decision making.
Instead of being spooked into making a decision around ghosts and ghouls, we encourage you to
channel your rational self and make an informed decision around what is best for your business.
Remember, you have a choice of marketers, or you can split your nomination. And you have until
midnight on Tuesday, 31 October.
To find out more, please contact our Grower Marketing consultants Meghan Wilson on 0437 669 118 or
Fiona Villis on 0437 297 978.
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