The vast majority of assaults reported to Ayr Police are between parties known to each other.  Many occur in private residences between family members which may constitute domestic violence or friends and acquaintances.    

Other assaults occur in the street or licenced premises, where, once again, the involved parties are usually known to each other.

It is a not uncommon occurrence to see news reports where people are assaulted, fall back, hit their head and die.  One punch can kill.

“It’s Okay to Walk Away” – that’s the message Ayr police want to send to reduce the number of assaults both when people go out but also in the home.    

A split-second decision could change your life forever and have an impact on many people, including your family and friends.  

Remember - One punch can kill is a shocking reality that simple acts of violence can have tragic consequences.  The consequences of assault don’t stop at injury or death.

▪ A single punch is all it takes to seriously assault someone and in some circumstances may cause death. The consequences of such acts devastate the lives of so many people and leads to a lifetime of regret and unfulfilled dreams.

▪ Assaults can steal your future, and your actions could result in negative impacts on your family; your employment; overseas travel, the guilt of taking another person’s life and could possibly result in a criminal record.

▪ Victims of assault don’t always walk away with just a bruise. Permanent disability, ongoing care by family and friends, employment and future prospects can be jeopardised from one senseless act.

From a perspective of personal safety, be aware of your surroundings and alert to what is going on around you.  Go out with friends and stay with your group.  If you are going to be drinking, just make sure someone in the group is not going to drink and can look after his or her mates and steer them clear of trouble and walk away from violence.  Unfortunately too many “good nights out” end poorly due to being assaulted, losing belongings, etc.

Police would like to remind people that “It’s okay to walk away” and “One punch can kill”.

Snr Sgt Steve Barton

OIC Ayr

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As Queensland enters a potentially volatile season, the importance of disaster preparedness looms large. With the bushfire season already upon us and summer rainfall and cyclones on the horizon, authorities are calling on primary producers to take proactive steps in safeguarding their families, employees, and livestock.

This year's warmer winter weather has heightened the risk of bushfires, underlining the need for comprehensive preparation. Disaster guides are now readily available, offering invaluable information to empower Queenslanders in the face of these impending natural challenges.

By taking steps now, producers can reduce the risk of disaster damage and financial loss.

The Queensland Government has disaster guides to help primary producers get ready for disaster season.

Tips include photographing assets in their pre-disaster condition and ensuring everyone on the property is familiar with the evacuation plan in the event of a natural disaster.

Producers should also ensure livestock have access to higher ground or are moved to safer ground or shelter with access to food and water ahead of an event.

Make sure you’ve got a financial plan including having adequate insurance cover, reviewing how you will manage orders, refunds and cancellations, and keeping financial reserves and emergency cash.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that a high fire danger is likely to impact Queensland over the coming months.

“As a primary producer it’s critical you have plans to help support your business during a bushfire, as well as cyclones and floods,” Mr Furner said.

He urged pet owners not to forget about family pets in household or farm emergency plans.

“Keep emergency phone numbers handy for your local council, veterinarian, animal welfare agency and pet and advisory services and make sure your pets can be properly identified if they escape,” he added.

“If moving pets to safety, make sure you take plenty of food and clean water, bowls and toilet litter or old newspapers.

“If they are to be left at home, secure them in an appropriate confined space, preferably inside, elevated and under cover, and provide access to ample food and water.”

For more information on flood and cyclone preparations, such as local evacuation routes and public shelter arrangements, contact your local council.

Information on disasters for small business including primary producers is available at business.qld.gov.au/disaster-hub.

Primary producers who have been impacted by a natural disaster can report the impacts in the Queensland DAF Agriculture Disaster Impact Survey.

The survey helps DAF to contribute quickly to applications for assistance under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Assistance Arrangements.

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A record high of $12.51 billion in exports have been delivered by Queensland’s agriculture sector.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has announced that this is now the second consecutive year of increased exports, with the $12.51 billion a 16.8 per cent increase when compared to the previous 2021/2022 financial year.

This 16.8 per cent represents an increase of $1.79 billion.

The ABS data highlights the surge from the Queensland agricultural sector, which has growth by 25.16 per cent over the last five years.

This massive increase is underpinned by a surge in export volumes, an increase of 18.26 per cent to reach 7.87 million tonnes.

Over the last financial year, live cattle exports have increased 53.94 per cent, to $147.96 million, as well as an increased 9.83 per cent of export volume.

Beef export increased to 11.05 per cent, to $6.28 billion, with a 7.38 per cent increase in volume, to 598,765 tonnes.

In terms of markets, Chinese imports from Queensland agriculture increased 53.5 per cent in value, with Indonesia shortly behind with an increase of 40.1 per cent in imports.

The Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Queensland’s global reputation for clean, green and great-tasting produce is serving the state well, and this reputation is backed up by Queensland farmers every single day.”

“In Queensland that means good jobs for more than 360,000 people and a real driving force behind the state’s economic performance,” Mr Furner said.

“The Queensland Government will continue to back our farmers, and I’m certain our agricultural industries will continue to go from strength to strength.”

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A new chapter in local journalism has unfolded with the launch of Burdekin Life newspaper. This publication stands as a testament to the resounding support received from local businesses and the unwavering unity of the community, both within and beyond the Burdekin boundaries.

Locals and businesses alike have extended a warm embrace to the Burdekin Life team from the very outset, underscoring its significant role as a platform for shared stories and local voices. It is more than just a newspaper; it represents a collective commitment to community-driven storytelling, accessible to all.

The inception of Burdekin Life was made possible through the vision and determination of Neil Williams, who took the initiative to contact a nearby Mackay and Whitsundays community newspaper, turning an idea into a tangible reality.

He, along with the Burdekin Economic Development Group’s dedication to providing the Burdekin with a platform to express its unique voice, has been met with appreciation and gratitude throughout the region.

Owner of Core Publishing, Bec Douthwaite, shared insights into the journey behind Burdekin Life's creation.

"When the Burdekin Economic Development Group first approached us with the idea of launching a newspaper in the region, our response was clear: 'We can do this, but it requires wholehearted community support.'”

The launch of Burdekin Life also celebrates the active participation of local businesses, vital contributors to community vitality. These Founding Advertising Partners (pictured on the cover) have come together to commemorate the newspaper's launch, recognising the importance of community involvement and the value of a united voice.

"We can do this, but we need the community to be invested in it, and for them to understand that without their support it just won’t work.

“We need the support of local businesses to advertise and our readers to support those advertisers by spending their money with them,” Ms Douthwaite said.

Her message about community support to turn the newspaper into a reality was met with enthusiasm from Burdekin businesses.

"The response has been fantastic. What an amazing community this is and we are both grateful and humbled to receive such a special welcome," she said.

"We can see how important the local newspaper is and we are excited to bring your paper back, but more than that, we are excited to give the community a FREE voice in print.

"We would like to thank all the businesses who have supported the paper so far, with special mention to the Founding Advertising Partners.  

"We would also like to welcome all our readers and ask that you reinvest in your own community to ensure the longevity of the newspaper - you can do this by supporting our advertisers and mentioning their ads when you make purchase."

Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, highlighted the significance of a local newspaper in keeping residents informed and engaged. He stated, “It’s so important for our community that people are afforded the opportunity to be heard. It means that we can learn from each other, help each other, and work together to make our community an even better place to live.

“A local newspaper means that people are informed about the issues that affect them and the events that may be of interest to them.

“The value of a local newspaper to our community is best illustrated by how businesses and groups have united to support Burdekin Life.  On behalf of the community, I would like to thank those businesses and groups for ensuring that our community can share their stories.”

As the pages of Burdekin Life unfold, they carry with them the stories, news, and aspirations of a community eager to share its voice with the world. This newspaper signifies more than print; it is a symbol of community solidarity and the promise of community-driven news.

GET YOUR FREE COPY HERE:

LOCAL STANDS:

Home Hill:

Cornetts IGA

United Service Station

Complete Health Pharmacy

Ayr:

Woolworths

Coles

Tosh’s Convenience Store

Shell Service Station

Ayr Medical Group

Farmhouse Ayr Coffee & Cafe

Dal Santo’s Deli

Woods Newsagencies

Brandon:

Hotel Brandon

JC’s Cafe

There are also an additional 50 distribution points, check your local café, service stations, doctor’s surgeries and other local services. If you wish to stock the newspaper please call Crissy on 0429 035 046.

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Burdekin Life Founding Advertising Partners

Cr Boccalatte, Deputy Mayor Cr Perry, Burdekin Life Journalist Sam, Cr Musumeci, Cr Furnell. Absent Mayor Cr McLaughlin, Cr Bonanno, Cr Detenon

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Hello readers and welcome to the very first edition of Burdekin Life!

My name is Sam and I’m the journalist, the man on the ground, and one of the Burdekin’s newest residents. I recently moved to Home Hill from Mackay and have been warmly welcomed by everyone I’ve come across so far, so I thank you for that.

I grew up in a town not too much bigger than Home Hill - southeast Queensland’s Millmerran – so when I was asked if I’d like to relocate to the Burdekin as the newspaper expanded, I almost immediately said yes. I moved from Millmerran to Brisbane when I finished school for further study and, at the start of 2022, moved from Brisbane to Mackay, a move that was drastic and spontaneous at the time, but one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I needed to escape the rat race and routine of the big city and my move to tropical north Queensland certainly achieved that. Since then, I’ve fallen back in love with life in the regions, where the spirit of community is clear at every turn. I already sense this in the Burdekin and look forward to immersing myself further over coming months.

Sport and music are my two biggest passions, so as I settle into my new home, you’ll find me having a hit of tennis, rolling the arm over at Home Hill Cricket Association, and maybe even playing some of my favourite tunes on Sweet FM. I love the outdoors and already have a list of things to do while I’m here including climbing Mount Inkerman, watching a cane fire and diving the SS Yongala – let me know what else I should add to the list!

I can’t wait to learn more about the region and would love your help. If you’ve got a story, a recommendation, a suggestion for somewhere new to explore, please reach out – you’ll find my contact details to the left. Enjoy our first edition and make sure to say g’day if you see me out and about!

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Dedicated and passionate, that’s how you would describe the remarkable team behind Meals on Wheels Ayr and Home Hill.

With about 80 clients currently on the books, and with many more consistently being added to the roster, the team are busier than ever.

Business Manager Gail Minehan said that with the 100 volunteers, Meals on Wheels is a hive of activity.

“We’ve seen a growth of clients accessing our meals, which is fantastic to see,” she said.

The 100 volunteers are fantastic, with the kitchen team assembling at 6.15am daily to begin to prepare the meals for the day, before the four teams of two delivery volunteers arrive at 10am to begin their delivery rounds.

Functional and professional, the team works like a well-oiled machine.

“We have a four-week menu, with a massive variety of hot meals to choose from, as well as different sides, salads, and sandwiches, for those who don’t want a hot meal.

“There’s also a different desert daily, and we offer frozen meals for clients that we can’t visit daily or who want to stock up on meals,” Gail explained.

Gail’s 100 volunteers are made up of a wide variety of individuals, each stepping forward to help the seniors in their community.

“We have retirees, community service individuals, people with intellectual disabilities with their carers, and even Ayr State High School hospital students.”

To learn more about Meals on Wheels, or to sign up to volunteer, contact Gail on 4783 2659.

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Pictured L-R: Sue Anderson, volunteer, Robyn Barbagallo, Financial officer, Gail Minehan, Business Manager, Terry Chandler, Chairman and Gillan Stanbrook, volunteer. Photo supplied

Six new contracts have been awarded as works progress to improve and raise Burdekin Falls Dam.

The Burdekin Falls Dam Raising Project, managed by Sunwater, proposes to raise the existing dam by two metres to increase water supply and support future water demand in the Burdekin and surrounding regions.

The project received a commitment of a further $440 million downpayment, on top of the $100 million already committed, from the Queensland Government’s 2023-24 Budget.

The contracts will support 80 jobs, with 50 of these in the local region, and are worth a combined $1.7 million.

These involve geotechnical investigations, quarry material sourcing, cultural heritage and native title work and the establishment of a 17-person temporary camp.

Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher said the Government’s funding commitment is being put to good use, ensuring important planning and investigation activities can get underway.

“Raising Burdekin Falls Dam by two metres will significantly boost the amount of water available for future demand, whether that comes from industry, agriculture or urban water supply,” he said.

Sunwater CEO Glenn Stockton said the works are key to supporting important survey, approval and planning work for Burdekin Falls Dam.

“This work will ensure we can make vital project decisions, including where to source clay, rock and other aggregate materials and will support ongoing engagement with Traditional Owners to ensure Aboriginal cultural heritage is appropriately identified, protected and managed during project activities,” he said.

“Planning is progressing well for the improvement and raising projects and we expect to submit a draft of the EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) to the Queensland Coordinator-General this year.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP isn’t holding his breath, saying he will treat the Government’s announcement with “a grain of salt” until he sees construction underway.

“As far back as 2016 we were told that a business case was the next step,” he said.

“Seven years later this announcement is centred on planning and investigations so, in reality, we have seen very little in terms of progress.

“Time and time again we have been told the Burdekin Falls Dam was being raised but, almost 30 years after it was built, nothing has changed.”

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Burdekin Falls Dam. Photo supplied: Sunwater

A spike in youth crime has driven the community to take action on a scourge a car robberies many believe are the result of unsupervised children who are allowed to roam the street at night.

A local Home Hill business owner had his Ute stolen in July this year and when he discussed the issue with the community he discovered that it was widespread, with many others coming forward to describe similar incidences.

“It’s becoming common, and it seems to be a similar group of young people each time,” said Karl Vass.

“The police found my Ute dumped - they’d burnt the clutch out, so I think perhaps they didn’t know how to drive a manual!”

The crime was reported to the police, but Mr Vass believes that because many young criminals are let off with just a warning, they behave like they are above the law.

He said that he is confident that the crime was committed by four youth aged 13 to 16.

“I know they’ve been involved with stealing cars before,” he explained.

“The system clears the slate for them when they turn 18 so they just don’t care.

“The community are frustrated as there are no consequences.”

A local police spokesperson said that measures are taken to “conduct bail checks on persons on curfew.”

“We also work with PCYC with their youth programs like Blue Edge, Active Mates and we visit schools on request and officers are heavily engaged with youth both at work and through Burdekin Area Youth watch.”

Mr Vass and other interested parties conducted a special meeting where 200 people gathered at the Home Hill Memorial Gardens to discuss how they could help.

“It was a good turnout but not really, as it was a sign of how many people had been effected,” said Mr Vass.

“95 per cent of the population are good, honest hardworking people – it is just a small percentage that are not.”

“I think there needs to be a lot more emphasis on the parents – perhaps they need to get charged – they definitely need to take more responsibility.”

Mr Vass says the community action group have decided to offer a positive response to the issue.

“A lot of these young people have no home life, they have nothing to do, and we are just trying to communicate with them,” he explained.

“We want to reward those that show good behaviour, incentivise them by taking them on water-skiing trips that sort of thing.

“We want to do things that make them feel part of the community.”

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Karl Vass is allegedly a victim of youth crime, but says he wants to help perpetrators become better people. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Construction has begun on the Burdekin Macro-Algal Treatment Facility, a world first project, which is an innovative partnership set to put Burdekin on the map for environmental sustainability and conservation.

The bioremediation wastewater treatment facility is a joint partnership between Burdekin Shire Council and Pacific Biotechnologies Australia and will use native green algae to treat waste water, remove nutrients that are harmful to waterways, and isolate carbon dioxide.

The entire facility is situated on a six-hectare earth pad, at the Ayr Waste Water Treatment Plant, and will use innovative RegenAqua technologies, which has been specially formulated by Pacific Bio, for use in treatment facilities, aquaculture farms, and in industrial settings.

Pacific Bio and Council have signed two agreements, with the operation and maintenance of the plant secured for 13 years.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the partnership with RegenAqua represents a significant collaboration that underscores Council’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.

“Burdekin Shire Council and RegenAqua have dedicated over five years to the planning of this project which is one of the two legacy initiatives Council has focused on developing, and we are excited to have finally hit this milestone,” said Mayor McLaughlin.

“Through cutting edge technology and sustainable practices, the partnership is forging a path towards cleaner and safe waterways whilst reducing the environmental impact.

“I would like to acknowledge the State Government for their support, as funding provided by both the State Government and Burdekin Shire Council has been instrumental in propelling the project to come to fruition.”

The facility will employ an initial count of 12 tertiary treatment ponds, with the potential expansion to 16 ponds for future needs.

The ponds not only serve as a fundamental part of the facility but provides the ideal environment for the algae to thrive and best perform their roles in treating the waste water.

“We are excited about this partnership, showcasing innovation and environmental responsibility through a world leading circular, carbon neutral solution,” said Mayor McLaughlin.

“This project will not only create economic opportunities for our community, but it will also help reduce our carbon footprint and protect the environment.”

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From left to right; Cr Max Musumeci, Deputy Mayor Cr Sue Perry, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, Pacific Bio Chairman Graham Wood, Cr John Furnell, Cr Kaylee Boccalatte and Cr Michael Detenon. Absent was Cr John Bonanno. Photo supplied

Support for a new $2.86 million CT scanner for Ayr Hospital is gaining momentum with continued efforts from the Community Advisory Network (CAN), advocacy from State Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP, and also a recent petition with overwhelming backing from local residents.

A new CT scanner would allow patients experiencing a mixture of ailments such as symptoms of a stroke or a sporting injury to be assessed quickly and easily in their local hospital rather than travelling to Townsville for treatment.

For the past three years, locals have been actively campaigning for this piece of equipment which would prevent a five-hour round trip for an ambulance and paramedics.

“Up to 15 patients are taken to Townsville each week for CT scans,” said Dale Last MP.

“The lack of a CT Scanner at the Ayr Hospital definitely adds to the stress of a medical emergency and it’s quite possible that delays could result in patients not achieving the best outcomes, or even cost lives.”

“In addition, having equipment here in Ayr means hospital staff can be in the hospital helping patients rather than in the back of an Ambulance.”

Councillor Kaylee Boccalatte, who is the Chair of the Community Advisory Network said that no additional employment costs would be required.

“We already have a full-time radiographer and two others trained in how to operate a CT scanner,” she explained.

“Ayr Hospital is the largest level three facility in Queensland without a CT scanner and by being able to provide one for the community we can give everyone equity of access and help overcome barriers to health care.”

Mr Last said he is pleased to see such extensive local support and he believes people power will see the project supported by the Health Minister.

“On behalf of the community, I would like to thank everyone who signed the petition for sending a clear message to the current state government that we deserve the same quality health services as any other area in Queensland,” he said.

“If the Minister’s response is positive, we will welcome it and work cooperatively to get the CT Scanner up and running as soon as possible.  

“But if the Minister says no and thinks we will give up, I think she is in for a rude shock because I have no intention of giving up and neither does the community.”

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A CT scanner at Ayr Hospital will mean that up to 15 people per week can receive a scan locally. Image: Shutterstock

Parents who send their children to one of the smaller local schools can breathe a sigh of relief this week following news that the several schools earmarked for closure, are in fact expected to stay open.

A recent Regional Queensland Summit predicted and named several schools in the state that were expected to close by 2027, one of those was Millaroo.

Access to education was raised as a major issue at the summit and claims were made that some local schools could be temporarily mothballed or closed due to declining enrolments.

Millaroo State School has just seven students, but it is far from the smallest student population in the Burdekin, with Maidavale having just one pupil.

Meanwhile, Airville has just 10 students and Osborne only 13.

Millaroo’s Small Schools Manager Anna Hoare said that despite speculation, enrolments are growing at the school.

“We run a very successful playgroup and already have two kindy enrolments for next year,” she explained.

“Our school has an increase in numbers this year.

“The school is really important in this area and the benefit has a flow-on effect, it is one of the only places where the people socialise and it is a big part of our community.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last agreed, saying that he believes the local schooling system is working well and he is determined to defend it.

In fact, within the past week, our local member has managed to secure a guarantee that all schools in the region are safe.

“Several schools in the Burdekin were included in a list of ‘at risk’ schools in media reports,” Mr Last said.  

“Those closures would have a huge impact on families whose children attend so, as soon as the rumours came to light, I took the issue up with the Education Minister.

“The Minister has confirmed, via a response to a question in Parliament, that there are no plans to close any schools in the Burdekin. That is reassuring for families and staff.”

Mr Last said that the role of the smaller schools in the district extended further than a ‘standard education’, a factor that staff and the school communities should be extremely proud of.

“As demographics have changed and student numbers have declined, several of those schools have made changes to teaching methods and facilities to cater to students who have struggled in larger schools,” he said.

“It’s a huge credit to the staff at those schools that they have identified ways to ensure that all students are engaged and can reach their full potential.  

“In larger centres, you would have schools assigned to those roles but here in the Burdekin, the staff and school communities have taken it upon themselves to ensure a brighter future for students.

“Like other government services, all we have ever asked for when it comes to education is for the same opportunities as people in cities and larger centres.  Now that we have the assurance from the Minister, those schools can confidently get on with what they do best; educating our future generations.”

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, with the Millaroo School Teacher, Sydney Gane and students. Photo supplied

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Since 2008, Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr has injected more than a million dollars back into the community it serves, with $278,000 of this total donated to 27 different local organisations at a special event in June.

Hundreds of people attended the Grants Night which was held at the Burdekin Theatre and the grateful recipients have since used the money to benefit the community in a multitude of ways.

Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr are dedicated to the betterment of the community especially in the areas of youth service, sporting facilities, mental health and wellbeing support, community and cultural facilities, environment, and employment.

The following groups received financial support at the event in June: Ayr Community Kindergarten Assoc, Ayr Golf Club, Ayr Swimming Club, Ayr Tennis Assoc, Bowen Netball, Bowen Seagulls Junior Football Club, Burdekin Amateur Basketball, Burdekin Brass Band, Burdekin Chaplaincy, Burdekin Community Assoc, Burdekin Football, Burdekin Junior Rugby League, Burdekin Men’s Shed, Burdekin Netball Assoc, Burdekin Potters,  CORES, Home Hill Boat Club, Home Hill Choral Society, Home Hill Cricket Assoc, Home Hill Golf Club, Home Hill Tennis Assoc, Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Assoc, Lower Burdekin Landcare, NQ Employment, ST Stephens Ladies Guild of Home Hill & Ayr, Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin, Zonta Burdekin.  

These groups are a strong representation of the areas the bank is committed to supporting.

“Community is at the heart of our business, with the Community Bank model guiding our philosophy as we strive to fulfil our vision to be Australia’s bank of choice,” said Chris Delaney, Customer Relationship Officer.

“The Community Bank  model was created to provide banking services to our communities, to  generate profits that are then distributed back into those communities, often in the form of sponsorships and grants to provide ongoing support and backing for local projects and initiatives.”

At the Grants Night, board member Darren West said that he appreciated every loyal customer, both new and old, who has helped generate this amazing result.

“We paid our first dividend of five cents in 2010 to those 312 community minded people who provided the capital to help start our banking operations,” he said.

“We would like to thank them all for taking the chance and coming along on this journey with us and for having  belief in the steering committee that we could make this work.

“We have over the years, since those humble beginnings, paid dividends nine times to those shareholders and we have after tonight, injected back into our community a total of $1,005,110.00 in Community Grants, Sponsorships and Dividends since 2008.

“This has only been made possible by the support from our Home Hill, Ayr and Bowen communities and those people and organisations that have decided to do their banking with us.”

The funding for the community grants comes from the profits derived from banking operations.

“The total amount to be granted is $278,052.00 and these funds will be utilised for the betterment of your community and your organisations,” said Darren on the Grants Night.

“I would like to give everyone something to think about. If everyone in this foyer and  your friends and colleagues all banked with our Community Bank, just imagine the volume that it could create and how much extra potential funding we could provide to the community going forward.”

Your banking makes good things happen.

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Board Member, Darren West, speaking on Grants Night

Zonta Club Burdekin received $11,000

Bendigo Banks is at the heart of community

Burdekin Basketball were thrilled to receive funding

Home Hill Tennis Association were ecstatic to receive over $27,500

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Deputy Mayor Sue Perry

Welcome to the Councillor Column for the inaugural Burdekin Life publication.

As Deputy Mayor, I am grateful to be able to pen this piece to congratulate those responsible for the production.

From numerous conversations, I know our community will embrace this free, weekly newspaper and support it through readership, contributions, and advertising.

As one of the largest employers in the community, Burdekin Shire Council is a hive of activity at all times, and this local newspaper is the perfect medium to keep residents informed.

Communication is key to understanding your community, be it major projects, strategic plans, the budget, road maintenance, events, and activities.

There are some exciting projects currently underway – the new Industrial Estate, the Macro-Algae Treatment facility, Jerona Causeway rebuild and further development of the Anzac Park Precinct with the water park and new kiosk already being well utilised and enjoyed.

Future editions of Burdekin Life will update residents about these projects as well as inform you of upcoming events.

Advocating for the Burdekin is easy because we have a vast range of facilities and services available within our rural community.  

In my role as a real estate agent, I speak with many new residents who now call the Burdekin home, and they are always complimentary of the variety of activities, events, cultural and recreational pursuits that are provided locally. Our location, only an hour to a major city, two hours to the Whitsundays and just over an hour’s cruise to the amazing reef, is second to none.

We are blessed with some of the best beaches, estuaries, and reef fishing available and are within easy reach to Cape Upstart.

Our community also welcomes the annual pilgrimage of many southern visitors who enjoy our wonderful winter weather.

This time of the year is delightful to enjoy the amazing sunsets, cane fires and cooler nights.

With the progressive development of Plantation Park welcoming both residents and visitors alike, it is tremendous to see the amount of activity generated in that space.

The recent improvements in Watson’s Green and Memorial Park have also led to increased and more diverse usage as well.

Strategic planning which aligns with Council’s Corporate Plan has been a priority during this term, these plans are all accessible on Council’s website.

Once again, congratulations to Burdekin Life newspaper team and I look forward to reading many future editions.

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With Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Did you know that Council has partnered with Burdekin Life Newspaper as a Founding Advertising Partner?

Burdekin Life Newspaper is set to deliver important local news and stories, marking a significant milestone for the Burdekin.

Council's collaboration will ensure that the community remains well-informed about local events, services, and initiatives, while fostering unity and support within the region.

The partnership with Burdekin Life Newspaper will be instrumental in supporting and boosting community engagement.

As a founding advertising partner, Council not only provides advertising support but will also share crucial community updates and information.

Looking ahead, Council will provide valuable content each week, including a comprehensive page advertisement, a dedicated ‘Councillor Column’ and a ‘Did You Know?’ column.  

I am confident that Burdekin Life Newspaper will thrive, introducing a fresh and distinctive perspective to the Burdekin community.

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Congratulations Burdekin Life on your first ever issue! It’s fantastic to see there’s still an appetite for local, community driven news.

As a Bowen boy, and your Federal Member for Dawson, I have always enjoyed getting out and about in the Burdekin.

Whenever I’m in town or sometimes passing through, I make sure to stop in at 97.1 Sweet FM to have a chat with Charlie to let everyone know what issues I’m fighting for that affect the people of the Burdekin.

I hold a close working relationship with your Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, and all the Councillors to ensure we are fighting for the issues affecting your community.

I also enjoy visiting local farmers and the various industry bodies in the area. Farming and agriculture are an essential industry, providing all the food and fibre for the country, and as the biggest cane growing area, the name Bountiful Burdekin rings true!

It is my job to fight for the needs of the Burdekin community, and I take my job very seriously.

I want to see the Labor government reverse their decision on the ban of commercial gillnets, which is going to have some serious negative consequences for our beautiful region.

I want to see a Headspace facility open, and I am working hard to gain 24-hour access to the CT machine in the Burdekin, so no one has to travel to Townsville and lose time for important lifesaving services.

I also want to know what issues are important to you, so please, visit my website and complete Dawson’s Biggest Survey.

Visit my website at www.andrewwillcox.com.au/biggest-survey

Your Federal Member

Andrew Willcox

Opinion Piece

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