The Queensland Government earlier this year placed a record $1.1 million on the line to support fishing in Queensland's stocked impoundments, a 16 per cent increase on the 2021-22 financial year.

The Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) provides a sustainable freshwater fishing option for recreational fishers, who are required to purchase a permit before line fishing in any of the 63 SIPS impoundments.

Revenue from the sale of permits is used to maintain and improve the impoundments via the stocking of native fish fingerlings and other approved activities that improve fishing.

The scheme is important to regional communities because it helps support tourism and opportunities for recreational fishing, which contributes $333 million to Queensland’s economy every year.

Preliminary data indicates this increase is largely due to the success of the Fish ‘n’ SIP$ tagged fishing competition, which was announced in December last year.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said that Permit sales have increased more than 15 per cent since the Fish 'n' SIP$ competition started in December 2022.

The restocking efforts across the scheme has led to the release of approximately 3.2 million fingerlings by community stocking groups.

"As part of the competition, anglers had the chance to win up to $50,000 by purchasing a SIPS permit and catching a tagged fish at prescribed stocked impoundments, with $12,000 still on the line,” Minister Furner said.

"It’s also an important part of the Queensland Government's Sustainable Fishing Strategy, providing fishers with the opportunity to catch popular species sustainably.”

There were also increased stocking efforts due to an additional flood recovery grant program of $200,000 last financial year for south-west, Murray Darling and some Wide Bay Burnett stocking groups.

Burdekin Dam (Lake Dalrymple) is stocked by the Burdekin Fish Restocking Association Inc. In 2017/18, 19,000 barramundi were stocked from SIPS permit sales.

For more information on SIPS and to obtain one of our trail guides head to https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/boating-fishing/rec-fishing/dams

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Burdekin Fish Restocking. Source: Facebook

Women are integral to the Burdekin’s agricultural and farming enterprises, contributing significantly to the growth and prosperity of rural industries. They play diverse and pivotal roles, challenging stereotypes that have persisted for too long.

Despite more than 40 per cent of the global agricultural workforce being women, the outdated "farmer's wife" stereotype lingers, undermining the substantial contributions of rural women in agriculture. Their impact is far-reaching, and their influence is essential for the growth and innovation of rural and regional communities.

Our women in agriculture feature in this edition highlights some of the achievements of local women who have made their bread and butter from working the land.

One example is the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Eileen List and Jenny Cook from Burdekin Growers Services. Their 30-year journey exemplifies the resilience and dedication required in this challenging and often undervalued industry.

Lisa MacDonald, Honeycombes’ Senior Service Advisor, plays a vital role in keeping farming machinery running smoothly, providing unwavering support to farmers during critical times.  And Brooke Tudehope from Dwyer Aviation Services has redefined the role of women in agriculture. She has become a qualified Agricultural Drone Pilot and actively participates in aerial agriculture.

These women and so many more represent a broader community of strong, capable, and innovative individuals who continue to shape the future of the agriculture industry. It is high time to acknowledge and celebrate the pivotal roles women play in agriculture and empower them to achieve even greater success.

Read about the incredible achievements of local women in agriculture on pages 15-21

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I’m looking forward to welcoming my wonderful parents to the Burdekin for the first time since moving here this weekend.

Although not intentional, they’ve chosen to come at the perfect time with Home Hill Harvest Festival in full swing, and I look forward to experiencing the excitement of the parade and street party, as well as all the other amazing events, next weekend alongside them.

I hope to show them the wonderful locations I’ve navigated so far, like Mount Inkerman, Groper Creek and Alva Beach, and I hope to use their visit to explore some more undiscovered wonders.

I’m sure we’ll patronise a few pubs and cafes – I know they’ll love the brewery in Brandon and they must taste a delicious Home Hill pie.

I want to give them the authentic Burdekin experience so if you have any other recommendations for me and my parents while they’re up here, feel free to let me know!

I’ve been learning a lot about the agriculture industry this week as we’ve been working on our massive Rural Women’s Day feature, which you’ll find on pages 15-21.

It’s been great to hear from these women and learn about their inspiring journeys and their roles in the industry, the variety truly proving there is a role in agriculture for everyone.

Our region is dependent on agriculture and, like all industries, diversity and inclusion is key to its future.

It is heartening to hear how rewarding working in the agriculture industry is.

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It was love at first sight for Lorraine Strathdee when she came across Sofie on Facebook.

Sofie, the cutest black and white fluff ball, available on the Burdekin Pet Rescue Facebook page, was lovable and cuddly, but without her forever home.

However, a few weeks later, when Lorraine saw Sofie in the pages of Burdekin Life Newspaper, she fell in love and decided it was time to bring Sofie home.

Unable to get in touch with Burdekin Pet Rescue, Lorraine rang our head office, and we gave Lorraine’s number to our contact.

From there, the rest is history.

On the first meet and greet, Lorraine said that Sofie was so anxious she didn’t want anything to do with Lorraine.

But now, over a week since Lorraine brought Sofie home, she has been nothing but a bundle of love.

“It took a second for her to settle, and she would hide underneath the bed, but now, she follows me around, meows, loves to knock over photo frames, and she’s discovered she can fit behind the TV cabinet and gets covered in cobwebs.

“She was slow to settle but I was patient, and now I can pick her up and cuddle her.”

Although she did consider changing Sofie’s name, Lorraine decided against this with how nervous Sofie was, but now her nickname is ‘Baby’, which brings a smile to everyone’s face.

“Sofie was just the perfect package.”

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Sofie has made herself right at home in Lorraine Strathdee’s home. Photo supplied

In “Game-Changing” CopperString 2032 Project

Businesses from around the region met at the Burdekin Theatre on Tuesday morning to hear from organisations involved in the delivery of the CopperString 2032 Project and learn about how they can get involved.

It comes after the Queensland Government announced a $1.3 billion package to progress work on the 840km transmission line which will run from outside Ayr to Mount Isa.

“CopperString 2032 is the largest ever economic development project in North Queensland, and the largest expansion to the power grid in Australia,” said Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

The funding is a vital step towards construction commencing in mid-2024 and will enable publicly owned energy cooperation Powerlink, alongside construction partners UGL and CPB, to undertake detailed design and engineering and environmental assessments.

“CopperString 2032 essentially connects the north and northwest, the North West Minerals Province and a whole lot of potential renewable energy development to the national electricity market,” said Powerlink Queensland Manager Stakeholders and Communities Nicole Maguire.

“There are a lot of advantages for the region and it’s a game-changing project for the area in terms of the regional development it’ll bring, the jobs and the contracting and supplier opportunities.

“It’s probably a once in a generation project for the north of the state and we’re excited to be delivering it.”

The Department of State Development along with Powerlink, CPB and UGL presented to businesses in Ayr and other regions inviting contractors or suppliers to express an interest in being a part of the project.

“There are 50 works packages that people can express an interest in being a part of and start the conversation with us about what their capability is and what they can deliver as part of the project,” Ms Maguire said.

“It’s extremely important that we get local suppliers involved in this project; it’s a north Queensland project and we want north Queenslanders a part of it.”

The packages cover a range of activities and services including engineering, construction, environmental management, logistics, camp construction, haulage and communications.

Visit www.powerlink.com.au/projects/copperstring-2032 to learn more and register your business.

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Regional Development Australia NNWQ CEO Wayde Chiesa, Powerlink CopperString2032 Director - Project Delivery Steve Pepper, Powerlink CopperString2032 Manager Stakeholders and Communities Nicole Maguire, UGL Procurement Manager Greg Edmonds, Powerlink CopperString2032 Project Engagement Susannah Greenleaf and DSDILGP Manager Economic Development North Queensland Amy Savage. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Launching a campaign to raise awareness for the need of a CT scanner in the Burdekin, Burdekin Community Advisory Network (CAN) hosted a movie night at Galaxy Cinema last Thursday, October 26.

The screening ‘About My Father’ saw at least 45 people and was an opportunity to gather the community to launch the campaign and raise funds for the Brighter Lives Foundation.

Councillor and Chair of CAN Kaylee Boccalatte explained the campaign aims to reiterate the importance of a CT scanner in the region.

“What we’re asking people to do more than anything is to communicate with their friends, family and colleagues and pass on the message that we don’t have a CT scanner and this is why it’s important that we do get one,” Ms Boccalatte said.

The night also raised funds for Brighter Lives, the official charity partner of Townsville Hospital and Health Service, with all money raised in the Burdekin to be dedicated to the Ayr and Home Hill hospital services.

CAN has printed corflutes and flyers to place around the region to continue the awareness campaign.

“We’re hoping that most shops and businesses in the community will allow us to place them in their windows or on their front counter so that every time people walk past these flyers they’re going to be reminded of the need for a CT scanner,” Ms Boccalatte said.

“Grassroots advocacy can be the most powerful form of change, so we’re hoping that the more people we can make aware of the need, the reasons behind it and what it would mean for our community, the more support we’re going to garner.”

Scan the QR code to find an information sheet with statistics and further information.

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Kaylee Boccalatte and Joanne Barbagallo

Tracey Gabiola, Fiona Tomarchio, Madolyn Gabiola

Charlie Scuderi and Wesley Boccalatte

Photos supplied

Held annually on the last Friday of October, Day for Daniel honours the memory of Daniel Morcombe, asking all Australians to wear red on the special day.

Daniel Morcombe was a 13-year-old boy from Queensland who was abducted and was labelled as a ‘missing person’ for eight years before police were eventually able to track down his killer in 2003.

Burdekin Special Education School, Burdekin Christian College and Burdekin Family Day care all took part in the Day for Daniel event, with a sea of red flooding the Burdekin in support of the day.

Parents, carers, and educators were encouraged to start a conversation with children and young people about personal safety, with schools and early learning centres to conduct child safety education activities.

Day for Daniel is the Daniel Morcombe Foundation’s biggest fundraiser each year. With support through fundraising, the foundation continues to develop free resources and programs for parents, carers, and educators to teach children how to stay safe. Funds also contribute to supporting young victims of crime.

You can utilise the Daniel Morcombe Foundation’s ‘Keeping Kids Safe’ resources and lesson plans to help educate your children about safety.

Keeping kids safe is vital – Recognise, React and Report!

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Burdekin Family Day Care

Burdekin Christian College

With over 70 Justice of the Peace (JP) and Commissioners for Declarations (Cdec) located in the Burdekin area, there are plenty of community-minded individuals who are happy to help others with officiating a range of documents.

While there are dozens of qualified people, however, there are sometimes only a favoured few used, largely because others are not necessarily known by the wider community.

Thankfully, a newly upgraded website will now allow locals to see the full range of JP’s and Cdec’s in the area so they can find the service closest to them for easy access that spreads the load across the region.

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has welcomed the upgrade saying the role played by JP’s and Cdec’s extends far beyond what is known by those who are aware of their services.

Mr Last hopes what he describes as an overdue update will not only demystify these important roles but improve service to the community.

“We have a great service on Tuesdays at the Ayr Library and the community members who provide that service should be applauded,” Mr Last said.  

“Unfortunately, not everyone can access that service and this update ensures access for those people and for urgent matters.”

“A lot of JP’s and Cdec’s perform their duties as part of their job with the support of their employer.  By having a reliable and easy-to-use search facility, we're not burdening a few people with all the work and increasing the options for the people who need their services.

“The old system made finding a JP or a Cdec difficult for a lot of people and, in some cases, the information was out of date.  I am glad to see that the concerns raised by the community have been addressed with the upgrade.”

Mr Last said that the importance of JP’s and Cdec’s was often misunderstood and encouraged people to consider the roles as a way to ‘give back’ to the community.

“JP’s and Cdec’s aren’t just essential members of the community, they are an essential part of the justice system,” he said.  

“From assisting members of the community to assisting Police and even playing a part in court proceedings; they are certainly roles that we should all value.”

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Local JP, Sandra Stidston, receiving her award for 40 years of service from Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin. Photo supplied

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Kickoff The Conversation, hosted by Burdekin Shore Council, was a raving success, with the drawcard of Aussie rugby league legend Wally Lewis encouraging locals to open up about their mental health.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the event was a dedicated effort to raise awareness, combat the stigma associated with mental health issues and equip attendees with invaluable tools and resources for self-care and support.

“Over 170 attendees enjoyed a night of inspiring stories, insights and tips from national and local speakers covering persistence, resilience, determination, reaching out and self-help,” Mayor McLaughlin said.

“The highlight of the evening was guest speaker and rugby league legend Wally Lewis, who shared his struggles with epilepsy, divorce and parenting a deaf child. His anecdotes from his footy career entertained the crowd and he generously gave away signed memorabilia and books.”

Speaking alongside Wally was the Unbreakable Farmer Warren Davies, Channel 9 presenter and author Steve Hadden and locals Janai Giddy, Andrea Piotto, Kate Gaze, and Lawrence Polga, who spoke on a range of topics including battling drought, debt, depression, alcoholism, and overcoming mental health issues.

CORES’ Ross Romeo and Sean Winning, a Clinical Nurse Consultant with Tackling Regional Adversity through Connecting Communities (TRACC) also shared professional advice on how and when to seek help.

“I extend my gratitude to Queensland Health for their generous contribution through the Mental Health Initiatives Funding, and to the speakers for openly sharing their experiences,” Mayor McLaughlin said.

“Without your support and valuable insights, this event would not have had the same profound impact,”

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‘The King’ Wally Lewis joined a cast of locals to discuss mental health awareness. Photo credit: Saskia Photography

It’s time to reflect on the year that was and highlight those who make our region great as Burdekin Shire Council has announced the commencement of nominations for the 2024 Australia Day Awards.

The awards symbolise acknowledgement and celebration of the extraordinary contributions and accomplishments of individuals and groups within the dynamic Burdekin community.

Award categories range from sporting, cultural and environmental achievements to stand-out community events, dedication to volunteering and the principal titles of Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the Australia Day Awards recognise members of the community who have made an outstanding contribution to the Burdekin and stands as a moment to pay tribute to their selfless endeavours.

“I encourage the community to actively participate by nominating individuals or groups whom you believe deserve recognition for their outstanding efforts,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“The Burdekin is fortunate to be home to many individuals and this is an opportunity to express our gratitude for their invaluable contributions that often go unnoticed.

“Nominations are open to the public and forms can be found on Council’s website.”

Nominations for Burdekin Shire Council’s 2024 Australia Day Awards are now open and will close on Wednesday, 6 December at 5:00pm.

Download a nomination form at bit.ly/AusDayBDK or for more information, phone Burdekin Shire Council on 4783 9800.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin with 2023 Burdekin Australia Day Award recipients Gerald Henaway (Citizen of the Year), Zavier Wood (Young Citizen of the Year), Brent Dingle (Young Citizen of the Year Achievement Award) and Australia Day Ambassador Selina Tomasich. Photo supplied: Burdekin Shire Council

Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch recently charged a 24-year-old male with 22 break and enter and fraud offences.  It is alleged the male was stealing large quantities of copper wire and diesel from business premises and farming properties in the Ayr, Clare, and Giru areas over the past months.  The fraud offences relate to the male selling the stolen copper to scrap metal dealers claiming he was the lawful owner of the property.

Townsville Property Crime Unit charged the same male with a further 10 offences relating to the theft of copper wire in the Townsville District.  This included the theft of $40,000 of copper from a business premise at Rollingstone on the 19th of October, resulting in the disconnection of power to the entire Rollingstone community for several hours.  

Police opposed the man’s bail and he was subsequently held in custody.

Police wish to thank members of the community who provided information regarding suspicious persons and vehicles during this time.  Although this particular person has been arrested, investigators believe there were multiple persons operating in the area over this time.  Police encourage the community to remain vigilant with property security and call 000 or Policelink on 131 444 if suspicious activity is observed.  

Lock It Or Lose It

There are often typical circumstances which occur prior to a home being unlawfully entered. An offender will usually act on easy or tempting opportunities, especially when it is evident no one is home or the risk of being caught is low.

Queensland Police encourage you to conduct regular audits of your home security.

Check out the following:

• Security doors in good working order with triple locks and finger guards installed.

• Main doors are solid and patio bolts installed on sliding doors.

• Windows have key operated locks.

• Home is well-lit with sensor lighting installed to deter intruders from entering the home.

• Keep an up-to-date inventory list recording serial numbers, makes, models and descriptions of your property.

• Wheelie bins secured in a location which prevents an intruder using them to climb into your home.

• Valuable items outside the home secured in a garage or shed.

Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it

If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.

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Massive delays to road projects across the country as a result of a 90-day review of all infrastructure projects is causing safety concerns locally as flood season approaches and risks to flood prone areas increases.

The review was announced in May and due to take three months, but 170 days later there is no news as to when it will be completed.

There are several local projects affected by this, namely the proposed project for the new bridge and the highway alignment.

These two projects are long-term developments that have not yet begun, but their funding sits within the government’s list of infrastructure projects, progress of which is halted.

In addition, the Burdekin Deviation has now been brought to a stop and Member for Burdekin Dale Last, says he is concerned about how flooding will be managed this storm season.

“Key projects for North Queensland that are currently in limbo due to the so-called review,” said Mr Last.

“The Burdekin Deviation aims to address road closures due to flooding and those closures impact the entire north of the state.

“Currently we have a proposed corridor reserved for the Burdekin Deviation and funding to secure that corridor is just one example of what’s at risk the longer this review drags out.

“It will be a multi-billion-dollar project that could go right back to square one if the federal government continues to dither.

“In May we were told the review would take 90 days but here we are, 170 days later, and the federal government won’t even say when the results will be made public.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is also concerned about the delays which he says are halting “life-saving road projects”.

“Crucial infrastructure projects have stalled under Labor and it’s just not good enough. The Australian people deserve answers, the people in our electorate of Dawson deserves answers.

“Families living in rural and regional areas deserve to be able to travel to and from work and to access crucial services safely.

“This was a question about roads and infrastructure, but it seems all roads lead back to The Voice for the Prime Minister,” said Mr Willcox.

Caption: Currently traffic must be stopped at The Burdekin River Bridge when a wide load needs to pass. Photo: Supplied

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In hindsight, I must confess that I used to take our local newspaper for granted. But not anymore. The new Burdekin Life Newspaper exemplifies the significance of supporting local businesses.

Take a moment to explore this remarkable FREE newspaper. The businesses that advertise within its pages are the ones who make it possible. Many of these businesses are also visible on sports club fences and team uniforms throughout the Burdekin. They consistently step up to support our community time and time again.

It's all too common these days to hear about people opting for out-of-town and online shopping. From clothing to automobiles with products from all over Australia and the world being just a click away. The sheer variety available to consumers is impressive, but it comes at the cost of increased exposure to online threats and scams. Personally, I take comfort in walking into a local business, knowing the people behind it. If I have an issue with a product, I can easily return it and receive assistance.

Consider the jobs they provide, the apprenticeships they offer, and the after-school employment and work experience opportunities that benefit our children. I understand the importance of saving money and putting food on the table as every cent counts, however if you genuinely compare Burdekin businesses, they can compete with anyone when it comes to quality products and services.

I was born and raised in a local family-owned business that thrived for 60 years. I witnessed firsthand the advantages and significance of the circular economy created by supporting local businesses.

So, I urge you to do a favour for all of us and show your appreciation to the businesses featured in this newspaper and all of the businesses in the Burdekin. They provide so much for our town, and it's time to give back.

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In the local community, Council’s Works Department plays a vital role in keeping our roads safe and accessible.

Did you know that Council maintains an extensive network of roads?

Council takes care of an impressive 1,146 kilometres of roads. That's like driving from Sydney to Melbourne. Out of this extensive road network, a significant 738 kilometres are sealed, which equates to 64.4% of the total road length. While sealed roads make up the majority, there are 408 kilometres of unsealed roads in our region.

In the 2023/24 Budget Council committed to $3 million towards road maintenance. Maintaining such a vast network of roads is no small feat. Council employees undertake regular defect inspections and prioritise work to ensure that our roads are safe to drive on. Road safety is a top priority, with regular inspections and upgrades to road signage, traffic signals and pedestrian crossings.

To help maintain and improve our road network, you can report any road issues you encounter. It's important to keep in mind that a designated officer will assess and evaluate each request according to intervention criteria.

If you notice potholes, damaged signs, or other concerns, phone Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4783 9800 or visit Burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Four Catholic parishes from the Burdekin region came together as one last Tuesday, October 31 to ritualise the formation of Burdekin Catholic Parish.

After many hours of consultation with parishes and their communities, recommendations were made by Catholic Bishop of Townsville Bishop Tim Harris to combine the parishes of Ayr, Giru, Home Hill and Burdekin Valley into one.

“We prepared each of these separate parishes and we said to them all, ‘There’s strength in numbers and coming together’,” Bishop Harris said.

“As we know, the church isn’t growing; there are challenges not only for the church, but for local communities.

“What we want to say in all of that is that the church is alive and we’re trying to reconfigure how we do things and try some new ways for new times.”

Although the four parishes have combined to pool resources and personnel, the former parishes will remain operational and masses will continue.

A new Mission Council has formed to lead parish operations, led by Father Manoj Mathew and Chairperson of the Parish Leadership Team Bev Lando.

“I truly believe that this is going to give a lot more hope to the people here, there’s going to be more life in the community, more vibrancy of people working together,” Father Mathew said.

“I’ve always been about the collective group of peoples in the Burdekin,” added Ms Lando.

“The church is a broad combination of people who are going to walk together.”

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Bishop Tim Harris and Father Manoj Mathew