Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Three Burdekin hospital workers have clocked up 120 years of combined service to the Ayr and Home Hill communities. Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Rosemary began at Ayr Hospital in 1985 in the front office before moving into medical records, accounts payable, assets and finance. Janine started in the Home Hill Hospital kitchen and has since worked across kitchen, cleaning and laundry roles at both Ayr and Home Hill. She later became an orderly before moving into her current role as an assistant in nursing at Home Hill. Annemaree began her career at The Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane, working as an enrolled nurse for four years before completing her registered nurse training in Townsville. She returned to the Burdekin after the birth of her first child and now works across the dialysis unit and emergency department at Ayr. The three staff members said their connection to the community, colleagues and variety of work had kept them in the health system for four decades. “Your work colleagues and the friendships you make along the way keep you in the role,” Rosemary said. For Janine, working in her own community and caring for patients has been a key part of her career. “We’ve had some funny moments; just the other night one patient was disco dancing in the hallway with me,” she said. Annemaree said working across different areas had kept her career varied. “I work in dialysis, sometimes in the emergency department, and sometimes on the ward, and because I have always worked across multiple areas, I’ve never felt stuck in one place,” she said. The breadth of responsibilities is a common feature of working in rural hospitals, Ms Wone said. “You need to know lots of different things when you work in a rural or remote hospital setting, so we are very busy,” she said. “But even with how much we have all achieved, I can’t believe it’s been 40 years; it feels like it happened overnight.” CAPTION: Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Photo supplied
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Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Photo: David CooperBurdekin community members, local dignitaries, and police gathered at Ayr's Burdekin Community Church on 29th September to commemorate National Police Remembrance Day. The solemn service honoured officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, featuring a wreath-laying ceremony and a reading of the Roll of Honour.Read more here: www.burdekinlife.com/article/burdekin-honours-fallen-officers-on-remembrance-day
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Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered on Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. “Someone has to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Someone has to step into the disorder and work to restore order—and that is one of the responsibilities entrusted to our police,” he said. “Today, we honour those who stood. Some stood in circumstances that ultimately cost them their lives, and this day each year ensures that their courage will never be forgotten.” A Police Commissioner’s Address was delivered by Acting Inspector Megan Benson before local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty. Officers then lit memorial candles, before community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths. Among dignitaries were Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last, who called it a “privilege” to join local police in their commemorations. “As a former police officer, National Police Remembrance Day is an incredibly important opportunity to remember those officers who lost their lives while serving their community and to show our support to those who continue to keep our communities safe today,” Mr Last said. “Small regional towns like the Burdekin mean our police officers become involved in a variety of facets in our community and it is part of what makes these roles in our small communities so unique.” “It also means that chances to stand with our men and women in blue should not be overlooked.” A morning tea was held in the church hall following the service. CAPTIONS: 1—Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. 2—Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. 3—Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. 4—Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci laid a wreath on behalf of Burdekin Shire Council 5—Among dignitaries was Member for Burdekin Dale Last 6—Local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty 7—Liaison Officers light memorial candles 8—Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields addresses the audience 9—Community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths Photos: Jacob Casha
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Congratulations to the Pirrone Brothers — what an incredible achievement for a local Burdekin family. Their hard work and innovation have paid off, with their zucchini flower vodka taking out Gold at the World Drinks Awards and being named Australia’s Best Botanical Vodka for 2026. It’s fantastic to see a product grown right here in the Burdekin gaining international recognition and putting our region on the map.
Closer to home, it’s great to see the 2026 Road Reseal Program progressing well, with numerous roads currently being resealed across the Burdekin. Letter drops have been delivered to residents who may be affected, and I encourage the community to view the full works schedule on Council’s website.
It’s also been wonderful to see the Arch Dunn Playground upgrade now complete and already being enjoyed by local families. Council is committed to maintaining safe and modern spaces for our community, and this is a great example of that in action. If you haven’t been down yet, I encourage you to take the kids along and have a look.
Looking ahead, I encourage parents and carers to attend the upcoming Pathways & Possibilities information evening. This free event will be held on Wednesday, 3 June from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at the Burdekin Theatre. Delivered in collaboration with Burdekin Shire Council, Jobs Townsville North Queensland, the Department of Education and Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland, the session is designed to support families in guiding young people through future career and study decisions.
Supporting our young people into training, study and local employment opportunities is something I am very passionate about, and this session will help families better understand the pathways available.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
The time certainly does fly and no doubt it’s because there is so much happening each and every week in the Burdekin. The weekend just gone saw the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club celebrate 100 years. That is a remarkable milestone and congratulations to everyone involved. Thank you for keeping the water safe and thanks to all those who have volunteered their time over the years.
The Home Hill Golf club hosted the women’s and men’s opens. 150 players took part. The ladies played Saturday so they could have Mother’s Day off on Sunday (hopefully there was no crossover for the Dad’s). Chloe Armstrong from Townsville won the ladies and local legend Scott Sibson won the men’s. Thanks to the volunteers who keep this club going. Growers race day this weekend. I’ve been to the Everest and I’ve been to the Melbourne Cup, so I can tell you this Race Day rivals them for its organisation, fashion and pure fun.
Have a great weekend everyone and stay safe.
Recent Queensland Government fuel security initiatives are being welcomed as Burdekin businesses face rising fuel costs and ongoing energy uncertainty. Photo supplied
Amid growing concerns over rising fuel costs and ongoing energy uncertainty impacting regional businesses across the Burdekin Shire, the Queensland Government has continued rolling out a series of fuel security initiatives aimed at strengthening the State’s long-term fuel supply and storage capacity.
Building on recent announcements including the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, the Queensland Fuel Security Plan and a $25 million investment into renewable diesel production at Ampol’s Lytton refinery, on Saturday 9th May the State Government announced plans to fast-track BP’s lease extension at its Bulwer Island facility in Brisbane.
The move is expected to unlock up to $100 million in additional fuel storage investment, forming part of broader efforts to improve fuel security, stabilise supply chains and reduce pressure on transport and freight-reliant industries across regional Queensland.
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Secretary Kari Ravizza said rising fuel prices were placing significant strain on businesses throughout the region, particularly within retail, agriculture and freight-dependent industries.
She explained that regional communities often faced fewer transport alternatives and less pricing competition than metropolitan areas, while many suppliers had introduced fuel surcharges and more frequent price adjustments, making already tight business margins increasingly unpredictable.
“Across regional areas, rising fuel costs aren’t just an inconvenience—they’re compounding pressure across every part of operations,” explained Mrs Ravizza.
“Businesses are facing a tough choice: absorb the cost or pass it on, both of which have consequences in smaller communities where customers are already cost-conscious.”
Member for Burdekin and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said BP’s latest announcement demonstrated what could be achieved when governments were genuinely committed to strengthening Australia’s fuel sovereignty and long-term energy resilience.
“We’re the only state taking fuel security seriously and making the decisions that will return energy sovereignty to our state,” said Mr Last.
“Never again do we want to be at the end of a supply chain that sees Queenslanders suffer because they can’t get the fuel they need to do their job.”
Mrs Ravizza said rising fuel prices were also beginning to impact tourism and consumer confidence across the wider North Queensland region.
“Our members [Burdekin Chamber of Commerce] have observed reduced visitor numbers during periods of high fuel costs, softer retail trade, lower hospitality turnover, and increased uncertainty when planning events or seasonal campaigns,” she said.
“Operationally, businesses are adapting where they can—consolidating deliveries, limiting travel, and tightening budgets—but there are limits to how much efficiency can offset rising costs.”
As conversations continue around renewable fuels and regional energy resilience, attention has also turned towards the potential role of locally produced ethanol through Queensland’s sugar industry.
Mrs Ravizza said the Chamber believed ethanol production could form part of a longer-term solution for regions like the Burdekin Shire, particularly if locally produced fuel solutions are linked to the sugar industry.
“In a region like the Burdekin, where sugar production is a key economic driver, ethanol presents an opportunity to add value to an existing industry, support regional jobs and investment, and potentially provide more stable and locally influenced fuel pricing over time,” she said.
“While there are challenges—including infrastructure, investment, and policy considerations—this is the type of forward-thinking solution that aligns with regional strengths.”
As regional businesses continue navigating rising operating costs and ongoing fuel uncertainty, many across the Burdekin Shire are hopeful that greater investment in fuel security, local infrastructure and renewable fuel opportunities could help strengthen long-term economic resilience for both industry and the wider community.
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, is encouraging visual artists from across North Queensland to apply for the Australian Parliament House Artist-in-Residence program. Photo supplied
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, is encouraging visual artists from across North Queensland to apply for the Australian Parliament House Artist-in-Residence program.
The initiative, delivered by the Department of Parliamentary Services, offers a unique opportunity for artists at any stage of their career to go behind the scenes at the national heart of democracy.
Mr Willcox said the program provides a rare vantage point where politics, history, architecture, and art meet.
"This is a fantastic initiative to highlight the work of a selected artist and give them the opportunity to see the inner workings of Parliament House," Mr Willcox said.
"It is important that we support the arts. This program provides a rare opportunity for Australian artists to grow their practice and showcase our democracy through their own creative lens.”
The architects of Parliament House, Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp, intended art to be integral to the architecture and function of the building. The artwork within the building enlivens the working environment and reflects the diversity of Australia’s identity, culture, character, and landscape.
The successful artist will receive an artist fee for the Research Stage of $10,000; an additional Commission Fee for new work of up to $30,000; a travel and accommodation allowance of up to $15,000; and access to a workspace within the Parliamentary Library.
"I would love to see a talented artist from our region take up this residency," Mr Willcox said.
"Dawson has a rich cultural identity; this is the perfect platform to present a fresh, regional perspective on one of our nation's most iconic environments.”
Applications for the program are now open and will close at 11:00 am on 16 June 2026.
For further information and to apply, please visit the official website:
https://www.aph.gov.au/Visit_Parliament/Art/Parliament_House_Artist-in-Residence
Contributed with thanks to Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox’s office
Burdekin’s peak agricultural industry is being assured by Member for Burdekin Dale Last they have not been forgotten by the Crisafulli Government as concerns remain around fuel security during a critical time of the year.
From immediate relief to securing supply and long-term certainty, the Crisafulli Government’s release of its Queensland Fuel Security Plan outlined actions to make a real impact, especially with the approach of sugarcane crushing season.
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s five-point plan was about providing short, medium and long term surety so Queenslanders, its industries and small businesses are never again at the mercy of global supply chains.
“Our sugar industry is the backbone of our economy here in the Burdekin and without the fuel it needs to keep harvesters, haul outs and machinery going, we risk the sector being brought to a grinding halt,” Mr Last said.
“We know when our agriculture sector is able to thrive, the benefits flow right through to the communities that surround them, which is why the Crisafulli Government is taking steps to make sure the fuel our farmers need is affordable and available when it’s time to fuel up.”
“Striking oil at the Taroom Trough is just one piece of the puzzle with expressions of interest now open for the industry to bring forward fuel refining or storage proposals on Government owned sites and ports across Queensland including Abbot Point.”
“We're not stopping there, the Crisafulli Government has also announced we are removing state taxes on fuel price rises, delivering the savings families and our farmers need right now.”
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s active steps to drill, refine and store fuel in Queensland meant our farmers and the industries that support them could have the confidence to prosper for years to come.
“We are living in uncertain times and recent events show just how susceptible we are to impacts of overseas conflicts. It is up to governments of all levels to show leadership and do what is needed to provide the certainty Queenslanders need, no matter whether you are fuelling a tractor or the family car,” Mr Last said.
“We’re playing our part by unlocking the land these facilities will be built on as well as providing the fastest pathway possible to getting them going – now we’re asking the Federal Government to play their part.”
A young Burdekin woman has been praised for doing the right thing after accidently damaging a car in the Woolies’ car park. Photo source: Shutterstock
A simple act of honesty in a Burdekin supermarket car park has sparked an outpouring of praise online, after a young local woman took responsibility for accidentally damaging another person’s car and stayed behind to make things right.
The story was shared to the Burdekin Community Hub Facebook page by local resident Jennie Fabbro on behalf of the car owner, quickly attracting more than 400 reactions and dozens of supportive comments from the community.
According to the post, the young woman accidentally hit a parked car at the Woolworths car park and rather than driving away, immediately reported the incident to the Woolworths service desk.
“The young ones of today are often frowned upon, but I’d like to share a story of a very caring, genuine young lady,” the post read.
After a public announcement failed to locate the car owner, the young woman reportedly waited beside the damaged vehicle until they returned from shopping.
“She didn’t just drive off – she reported it to Woolworths Service Counter,” the post stated.
The writer explained the young woman was visibly shaken and, despite not having insurance, still offered to pay for the repairs.
“I am very happy to say that she arrived at our doorstep, as promised, and presented us with the payment,” the post continued.
“We are so VERY grateful for your honesty and willingness to help make this right. Please stay the lovely, caring person that you are.”
The heartfelt story resonated strongly with locals, many praising the young woman’s integrity and the values she had clearly been taught.
“Lovely to hear a good news story about young people,” one commenter wrote, while another described the act as “refreshing” and “rare and genuine.”
Others commended the young woman for taking responsibility and showing maturity beyond her years, with many saying the story restored their faith in the younger generation.
Deep tyre tracks have left three local sports fields unplayable and caused an estimated $5,000 in damage. Photo credit: Luke Bozzetto
Deep tyre tracks have left three local sports fields unplayable and caused an estimated $5,000 in damage, leaving the Burdekin Touch Football Association to face a months-long recovery effort.
The extensive vandalism to the Wickham Street grounds in Ayr was discovered early Wednesday morning, sparking a police investigation into whether a recently stolen vehicle was involved.
‘The worst I've seen it’
Burdekin Touch Football Association President Peter Knapton was notified of the destruction at 6am on Wednesday.
“I thought, 'not again!’" Mr Knapton said.
“It’s happened before, but this is the worst I’ve seen it.”
Groundskeepers estimate repairs will exceed $5,000, with deep ruts and possible sprinkler damage expected to take months to restore.
Mr Knapton expressed deep frustration over the disrespect shown to the club's volunteers, who spend countless hours maintaining the facility.
“I know the amount of hours that our groundskeepers put into this field,” Mr Knapton said.
“When we developed field five, they spent days and hours pulling out every bullhead, every bindi, every weed… it’s so disappointing, not just for me, but for all of us.
“People don’t have respect for other people’s property anymore. It’s sad that you have to accept that these things are going to happen, and you’ve got to put in such extensive measures to mitigate and repair any damage to your property.”
The Wickham Street complex is a popular community hub, hosting touch football, junior rugby league training, junior touch and organised fitness training each week. Mr Knapton described its fields as “the best in North Queensland.”
He noted that the facility's open accessibility makes it a social pillar for the community, but leaves it susceptible to incidents like Wednesday’s.
He said the club had explored remedies to prevent illegal vehicle access, with most involving costs the club could not afford.
Ayr Police have launched an investigation into the vandalism, with officers looking into whether a utility vehicle, stolen from an Ayr address on the same morning, was involved in the incident.
Sergeant Lisa Shields, Officer in Charge of Ayr Police, condemned the damage, calling the incident "extremely disappointing" given its widespread impact on the local community.
“Police are appealing for public assistance in identifying the persons responsible for this careless act,” Sgt Shields said.
“I urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or may have relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Ayr Police Station, Policelink, or Crime Stoppers.
Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that refurbishment works at the Burdekin Theatre have now been completed, with the venue officially back in operation.
Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that refurbishment works at the Burdekin Theatre have now been completed, with the venue officially back in operation.
The recently completed upgrades included a full refurbishment of the theatre stage and a complete upgrade of the dressing rooms, delivering modern, functional backstage facilities for performers and production crews.
Both the stage and dressing rooms were original to the theatre and had not been refurbished since the venue was constructed in 1982, making these improvements a significant milestone for the facility.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the completion of the works marked an exciting new chapter for the Burdekin Theatre.
“These upgrades ensure the Burdekin Theatre can continue to support local performers and visiting productions for many years to come,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.
“With modernised backstage facilities and a newly refurbished stage, performers will benefit from a safer, more functional environment that reflects the high standard of talent we see in our community.”
The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, which commenced on Tuesday 5 May, will be the first major event to utilise the upgraded facilities, with hundreds of local and visiting competitors taking to the stage in the coming weeks.
Council is proud to support the strong performing arts culture in the Burdekin and looks forward to seeing the refreshed theatre continue to host a wide range of performances, events and community activities.
Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Shire Council
Ringo is a young American Bulldog with presence, personality, and just enough cheek to keep life interesting.
At first meeting, he can come on strong with big energy, big enthusiasm, and a clear belief that everyone is already his best friend. Give him a few minutes (and ideally a treat or two) and he quickly softens into a loyal, affectionate companion.
His foster carer lovingly describes him as “a bit of a boof” when excitement kicks in. For this reason, Ringo is not suited to homes with small children, even though his intentions are always gentle.
On the lead, Ringo is generally steady and willing, but he shows his best self in quieter environments where he isn’t overwhelmed by noise and movement. Busy streets and high stimulation can distract him, so continued training and calm exposure will help him build confidence and focus.
He is highly food motivated, which makes him a quick learner during training sessions. However, this also means portion control and supervision around food will be important.
Ringo is currently working on his manners, including waiting patiently for meals and taking treats more gently. With consistency and guidance, he is improving every day.
What Ringo needs now is a patient, kind and committed owner willing to continue his training and help him grow into his best self.
In return, he offers loyalty, charm, and a whole lot of personality packed into one wagging, hopeful package.
Ringo’s adoption fee is $600 and includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatment, and heartworm prevention (or ProHeart).
Contact Angel Paws Inc. on 07 4420 3276 for further information.
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FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr offers services that can save you time and support your health, often without needing to see a doctor at all. Photo supplied
When most people think of their pharmacy, they think of prescriptions and cold and flu remedies. But your local FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr offers much more than that, including services that can save you time and support your health, often without needing to see a doctor at all.
Here are three services you may not know are available right here in Ayr.
FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr can now assess and treat eligible patients for uncomplicated UTIs directly, thanks to expanded pharmacy prescribing services in Queensland. Our trained pharmacist will assess whether this service is appropriate for you and, where eligible, can supply the required treatment on the spot. Fast, confidential and convenient.
FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr can provide certificates for sick leave and carer's leave for eligible patients, recognised under the Fair Work Act. A practical alternative when a GP appointment is not immediately available. Speak with our pharmacist to find out if a certificate is right for your situation.
FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr is a registered NDSS access point, giving you access to subsidised testing strips, lancets, insulin pump consumables and other diabetes management products right here in your community. Our pharmacist can also help you register for the scheme and connect you with further support.
Pop in and see us. No appointment necessary for most services.
Contributed with thanks to FriendlyCare Pharmacy
Burdekin local Bree Fagg (centre) spearheaded the push for the group, approaching Ross Romeo of CORES (left) and BNC coordinator Natalie Saroglia (right) to help bring it to fruition. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Local hands have introduced a new grief support group in the Burdekin, answering the community’s call for a dedicated space to talk about grief and find support close to home.
Hosted by the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC), the group will give locals access to coping strategies and “a community of compassion and understanding.”
The initiative was spearheaded by local resident Bree Fagg, who identified a gap in local support services following the loss of two family members.
“I felt like the community needed more support for families—not just for suicide loss, but for general grief, general loss,” Ms Fagg said.
“I felt alone in it. Now, I want to help make sure there’s a place for families to gather and have that support.”
Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland will facilitate the meetings, focusing on maintaining a safe environment that respects individual experiences.
“The idea is to create a safe space where people can come together while acknowledging that they’re all different in what they’re going through,” said Mr Romeo.
“Once you’ve lost somebody, there’s still a connection to that person. It’s just about getting used to that new norm, and being with people who are going through the same sort of issues is helpful.”
BNC coordinator Natalie Saroglia said the group is open to anyone navigating loss.
“We’re never going to get away from experiencing grief; whether it’s the loss of a relationship, loss of a job, loss of a person, grief is in our lives,” Ms Saroglia said.
“People don’t need services, they need people. This group is about people coming together around a common thing.”
The group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30pm. For more information, contact BNC on 4783 4243 or at admin@thebnc.org.au.
Residents have shared mixed views on how much control councils should have over private property, sparking widespread discussion in the Burdekin community. Photo credit: Callan Lund
Council have provided their perspective after a question posted to a local online community group sparked lively discussion, with residents divided over how much control councils should have over private property.
The Burdekin Community Hub post asked, “Should councils be allowed to control what you do on your property?” prompting nearly 200 interactions from residents sharing a range of perspectives.
Many noted that there are situations where council oversight may be necessary, particularly in relation to health, safety, and neighbourhood standards.
Others expressed strong support for individual property rights, arguing that councils should have limited authority over private land, and sharing concerns about rates; some suggesting that any oversight should only apply where actions significantly impactneighbours.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Council can lawfully regulate how private property is used only where specific legislative powers apply; particularly when activities affect neighbours, community health and safety, environmental standards, or local amenity.
“Council may become involved where there are genuine health, safety or amenity concerns for example, matters that pose a risk to neighbours, the environment, or public safety,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.
“This can include issues like unsafe structures, serious overgrowth attracting pests, unmanaged waste, or activities that could create pollution or fire risk. Even then, Council’s approach is proportionate and guided by legislation.”
She emphasised that Council’s role on private land is limited and clearly defined, with no general authority to intervene simply because an issue occurs on private property. Instead, Council can act only where legislation provides explicit powers, such as under local laws, environmental regulations, or public health and safety frameworks. In most cases, its involvement is focused on ensuring minimum standards are met to protect the broader community, rather than directing how individuals use their land.
“Respecting individual property rights is extremely important, and Council takes that responsibility seriously,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.
“At the same time, Council also has a duty to maintain community standards that protect health, safety and amenity for everyone. Our role is to carefully balance those responsibilities, applying common sense and fairness in each situation.
“Council always aim to work with residents, not against them, and to resolve issues in a way that is reasonable, lawful and proportionate.”
As the discussion continues, the issue highlights a broader question facing many regional communities; where to draw the line between personal freedom and maintaining standards that protect the wider neighbourhood.
Nominations for the 2027 Season Managed Pool Plus are now open, providing growers with an opportunity to take a proactive and structured approach to managing sugar price risk in what remains a volatile and uncertain global market. Photo supplied
Nominations for the 2027 Season Managed Pool Plus are now open, providing growers with an opportunity to take a proactive and structured approach to managing sugar price risk in what remains a volatile and uncertain global market.
With ongoing pressure from large global supply forecasts, shifting macroeconomic conditions and currency volatility, pricing decisions are becoming increasingly complex. The Managed Pool Plus has been designed to help address these challenges by offering a disciplined, longer-term approach to managing GEI exposure, while also incorporating MEI exposure within a single, actively managed pool.
A key strength of the Managed Pool Plus is its two-year pricing window, which allows for a more flexible and considered response to market movements. Rather than relying on short-term timing, the pool is actively traded across both futures and currency markets, with the aim of capturing value as opportunities arise over time. This approach is supported by Wilmar’s sugar trading team, whose experience and market access underpin the pool’s strategy and execution.
Importantly, the pool brings growers and the mill together in navigating market conditions, with both parties exposed to the outcomes of pricing decisions. This alignment supports a consistent and disciplined approach to risk management, focused on delivering improved pricing outcomes over the longer term.
For growers, the Managed Pool Plus can reduce the pressure of trying to pick the market and the time required to actively monitor price movements. It offers a practical option for those looking to complement their existing pricing strategies or take a more hands-off approach, while still maintainingexposure to potential market upside.
Another important consideration for growers is flexibility. The Managed Pool Plus allows you to nominate a portion of your GEI exposure, meaning it can sit alongside other pricing mechanisms as part of a broader, diversified strategy. This gives growers the ability to spread risk across different approaches, rather than relying on a single pricing decision. By combining active pool management with individual pricing choices, growers can build a more resilient pricing strategy.
The Managed Pool Plus is open to anyone marketing with Wilmar for the 2027 Season. Simply nominate a percentage of your exposure before 30 June via the Pricing portal in GrowerWeb.
Growers are encouraged to speak with their local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager to determine how the Managed Pool Plus can fit within their overall pricing strategy.
The Fund aligns with Primary Industries Prosper 2050, Queensland’s 25-year blueprint to build a better future for primary industries, and its goal to boost primary production output to $30 billion by 2030. Photo source: QIC
The Government has unveiled a $30 million fund aimed at accelerating agricultural innovation across Queensland, as part of a broader push to grow the State’s primary industries sector to $30 billion by 2030.
The Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund will support agri-innovators developing cutting-edge technology for on-farm use, with a focus on boosting productivity, profitability and sustainability. Delivered in partnership with the Queensland Investment Corporation, the fund is expected to fast-track new technologies from concept to application while attracting private investment.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader economic agenda, positioning innovation as a key driver of long-term competitiveness, while also being framed against claims the sector experienced declining support over the past decade.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said innovation would be critical to the future of farming.
"Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund is a game changer for the future of farming because it will deliver the next generation of AgTech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability,” he said.
“We’ve heard loud and clear from industry there’s no shortage of innovation in Queensland, but what’s needed is stronger commercialisation pathways, and greater investment in practical technologies and this election commitment delivers that."
Treasurer David Janetzki said the fund would strengthen value chains and support long-term growth.
“These targeted investments will not only strengthen Queensland’s primary industry value chains but also position our State's long-term success including global recognition for its practical innovation,” he said.
Industry groups have welcomed the move, with Queensland Farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard stressing the importance of getting innovation onto farms quickly.
“It’s critical that we move practical innovations out of the lab and into the paddock, where they can deliver real productivity gains for Queensland producers,” Ms Sheppard said.
Businesses can submit expressions of interest through the Queensland Investment Corporation website, https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds.
I hope everyone enjoyed the recent long weekend celebrating Labour Day, an important opportunity to recognise the contribution of workers across our communities.
May also marks the official launch of Queensland Small Business Month 2026, and here in the Burdekin we are proud to celebrate the more than 508,000 small and family businesses across Queensland that form the backbone of our local and regional economies.
Small and family businesses are not just found in our central business areas — they operate right across our towns, rural communities and districts. Council acknowledges that the current economic environment is challenging for many operators, and Small Business Month is focused on providing free, practical advice and support to help businesses build resilience and identify new opportunities for the future.
I encourage local business owners to connect with their local Chambers of Commerce throughout May to learn more about the events, resources and support available.
Council also continues to invest in the safety and amenity of our town centres, with new security cameras recently installed along Queen Street, supporting community safety and crime prevention efforts.
In other positive news, I am pleased to acknowledge the completion of works at the Burdekin Theatre, which have been delivered on time and on budget. These upgrades ensure the theatre is ready to continue hosting performances, events and community activities into the future, and Council thanks all involved in delivering this project to a high standard.
Finally, I would like to wish all mothers, grandmothers and mother figures in our community a very Happy Mother’s Day. I hope you are able to enjoy the day surrounded by family, loved ones and appreciation for all that you do.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
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