Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
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"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
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Burdekin Boars and Barras made its highly anticipated return to Clare on Friday, 6th February, with three days of fierce competition culminating in a well-attended final weigh-in on Sunday.
The biennial event, running since 2014, saw competitors battle it out over a range of hunting categories, with Sunday’s weigh-in drawing hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of music, activities and the final awards presentation.
Event coordinator Sarah Hollywood said the impressive turnout made this year’s iteration of the event was one to remember.
“We were very, very happy with all the community support,” said Hollywood.
“We are very fortunate to have such a supportive community in Clare, the wider Burdekin, and even outside of the Burdekin supporting the event.”
Read more on page 25
Tribute to Jaiden Booth Highlights Big Weekend
Continued from cover
This year, the Senior Heaviest Barra award was dedicated to the late Jaiden Booth, a long-time participant in the competition who is remembered for his passion, resilience and the joy he brought to fishing and the wider community.
Hollywood said the tribute was especially meaningful for the club and Jaiden’s family.
“It meant a lot, not just for his whole family, but for the community as well,” said Hollywood.
“Hopefully, it's something we can keep going, because Jaiden loved the event—he was a big part of it.”
The winner of the award, Nick Malone, graciously opted to donate the $1,000 prize money back into the club.
The Clare Sports & Recreation Club’s hallmark fundraiser, the event was vital in bringing the community together and supporting the club’s ongoing operations, said Hollywood.
“The Clare Club is majority volunteer-run. Whatever we make with the club goes straight back into the club,” she said.
“Without events like this, and without the volunteers that we are very fortunate to have, we wouldn't have a community club.”
Results:
Senior Categories: Heaviest Barra—$1,000 & $416 COSTA Sunglasses—Nick Malone (15.86kg)
Secret Weight Barra—$500—Brayden Jaques (6kg)
Heaviest Mangrove Jack—$250—Brodyn Cosalegno (2kg)
Biggest Catfish—$250—Ashley Hiscox
Junior Categories:
Heaviest Barra—$500—Dani Broadhead (11.64kg)
Secret Weight Barra—$250—Matt Laidlow (2.28kg)
Heaviest Mangrove Jack—$150—Keaton Jarvis (1.06kg)
Biggest Catfish—$150—Lexi Widderick (4.36kg)
Open Categories:
Heaviest Boar—$1000—Joshua Russell (101kg)
Heaviest Sow—$700—Cooper Lennox (88.7kg)
Heaviest Crab—$250—Zac Begg (1.43kg)
Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Cover—The Senior Heaviest Barra award was dedicated to the late Jaiden Booth, a long-time participant in the competition. Winner of the award, Nick Malone, graciously opted to donate the $1,000 prize money back into the club. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
1—Junior Heaviest Barra winner Dani Broadhead
2—Junior Biggest Catfish winner Lexi Widderick
3—The biennial event, running since 2014, saw competitors battle it out over a range of hunting categories, with Sunday’s weigh-in drawing hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of music, activities and the final awards presentation
4—Attendees watch on in anticipation as the crab race kicks off
5—Crab race bidding was a huge hit!
6—Senior Secret Weight Barra winner Brayden Jaques
7—Junior Heaviest Mangrove Jack winner Keaton Jarvis
8—Senior Heaviest Mangrove Jack winner Brodyn Cosalegno
9—Junior Secret Weight Barra winner Matt Laidlow
10—Open Heaviest Boar winner Joshua Russell
11—Open Heaviest Sow winner Cooper Lennox
12—Senior Biggest Catfish winner Ashley Hiscox
13—Open Heaviest Crab winner Zac Begg
14 – Brody Ferguson placed a bid in the crab auction
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Up to 100 plants have been stolen or damaged from planter boxes in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon in recent months, prompting Burdekin Shire Council to call on the community to help stop ongoing vandalism in CBD areas.
Council’s Parks team, which installs and maintains the planter boxes to beautify local shopping districts, has faced a growing number of incidents—in some cases occurring daily.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the behaviour was disappointing and placed unnecessary pressure on staff and resources.
“Council’s Parks team takes great pride in maintaining our CBD planter boxes, and it is disheartening for staff to see their efforts repeatedly undone,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Within the last two months, officers have estimated up to 100 plants have needed replacement. Replacing these plants and repairing the damage caused is not only costly for Council – it also takes time away from the many other important tasks carried out across the Shire.
“Residents looking to enhance their own gardens are encouraged to visit the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association, where a wide range of locally suited plants are available for purchase.”
Council is urging residents, business owners and visitors to stay alert and report suspicious activity around planter boxes and public landscaping.
Incidents can be reported to Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800 or to Queensland Police via Policelink on 131 444.
By Chelsea Ravizza
Whether you’re an ardent lover of gardening or are simply searching for a new hobby, members of the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. warmly invite and encourage locals to come along to experience the serenity of this passionate community group!
Since October of 1958, the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. has been growing and blossoming within the Burdekin Shire. Riding the wave of the highly successful Orchid and Foliage Show at the inaugural Burdekin Water Festival in April of 1958, 24 interested members of the community came together to host a meeting on 16 October to officially form the organisation and elect office bearers, and the society’s first President, Mr H. Williams.
Now, almost seven decades later, the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. exists as a tenacious community-based group focused on the cultivation, education and enjoyment of orchids and related plants.
“We welcome enthusiasts of all skill levels, from beginners to experts,” explained Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. Treasurer, Josephine Ganderton.
Collectively, the group works to provide a supportive environment for growing orchids within the local climate and gathers regularly to offer networking opportunities where attendees can share knowledge with one another on the diverse range of cosmopolitan plants.
In the past, the membership base of the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. has continued to shift, with a historic high of 80 members. Currently, the group regularly welcomes around 30 members to attend meetings and events held at Howie’s Hall at 118 – 120 MacMillan Street in Ayr.
Jo hopes 2026 will see an influx of new members, welcoming locals of any age to attend the group’s monthly meetings held at the hall on the first Sunday of every month from 2pm onwards, with the next meeting set for 1 March.
“We encourage anyone to come along, young or old, and if you love gardening – we have members who are experts on growing orchids in the Burdekin,” said Jo.
“We would love to see some young people attend the meetings!”
Members often bring along any orchids they have in flower for others to admire, providing attendees with the perfect opportunity to learn new tips and tricks from one another! Within the Burdekin Shire specifically, the warm climate has proven ideal for growing Cattleya orchids, which are often referred to as the queen orchid flowers, however, members often find gratification in growing the plants, and quickly develop a small collection of blossoming beauties.
“Once you start growing orchids, you need to have more than one,” added Jo.
“I love seeing all the beautiful flowers that members bring each month for display!”
To find out more information on the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. email Jo, jo.donaldson@bigpond.com or call President Conway Ganderton on 0425 325 040.
Several members gathered to celebrate a successful year at the society’s 2025 Christmas Dinner. Photo source: Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc.
Monthly, members bring along orchids for display. Photo source: Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc.
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Hello,
One of the main reasons for running for Council was to help make the Burdekin a safer place. I am happy to say that with the help of some special staff at the Burdekin Shire Council and Police working together I have accomplished that goal.
The Council was successful in applying for funding with the Secure Communities Partnership Program. The funding provides security camera in the CBD areas of Ayr and Home Hill.
This will be a big step in assisting with crime prevention and help to keep the residents of the Burdekin Safe.
But there are things you can do at home to help reduce your own risk of break and entry.
Here are some points to assist you:
· Ensure doors are always locked with a key even when you are home.
· Ensure that all external doors, including your garage, are solid and fitted with
quality deadlocks.
· Always ensure car keys and house keys, together with mobile phones, handbags and wallets, are stored out of sight.
· Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow visibility to your property and your house number is clearly visible.
· Lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders.
· Always keep your garage or shed door closed and locked with a key.
· Consider installing perimeter security lighting including sensor lights.
I will certainly support any further opportunities of funding that comes our way at the Burdekin Shire Council to further support security.
Project work at a local health service will be given a clear pathway forward under the Crisafulli Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming the announcement.
Left as underfunded and with no clear plan under the former Labor Government, the Home Hill Hospital will now be the subject of a detailed business case ensuring development at the facility is fit for purpose and meets patient demand.
Mr Last said the commitment from the Crisafulli Government ensured patients in Home Hill continued to receive access to health care they deserve close to home.
“The Home Hill Hospital provides an invaluable service to its community, ensuring aged care, rehabilitation and renal dialysis patients are able to access the health care they need without travelling 100km down the highway,” Mr Last said.
“Over the years the community have backed the Home Hill Hospital and advocated to continue the services they need so I am proud to see our government backing that campaigning with the infrastructure to support it.”
“Having the proper planning will enable the Minister to consider proper budgeting, resourcing and most importantly, make sure the community can have confidence in the facilities that are constructed.”
Mr Last said the funding would be delivered under the Hospital Rescue Plan which saw Home Hill listed among 20 hospital and health service projects in rural and remote Queensland signed off by the Health Minister this week.
“Under the former Labor government, projects including Home Hill Hospital were announced without completed business cases, leaving costs wildly underestimated and communities without certainty,” Mr Last said.
“The Crisafulli Government is taking real action to ensure no matter where you are you can access health care when you need it most, whether it’s progressing the delivery of a CT scanner in Ayr or creating a clear plan for the future of the Home Hill Hospital.”
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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has today welcomed the decision to re-form the Coalition between the Liberal and National parties, describing it as a vital step in providing Australia with the strong, credible opposition it deserves.
The re-formation of the Coalition follows a period of principled stand-taking by the National Party after the Albanese Government attempted to rush the complex Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026 through Parliament with only hours of scrutiny.
"I have always stood by my convictions, and my priority has never wavered: I am here to do what is best for the people of Dawson," Mr Willcox said.
"This wasn't an easy period, but it was a necessary one.”
Mr Willcox said that the deal to re-form the Coalition between the Nationals and Liberals wasn’t just a handshake, it’s a fundamental reset of how the Coalition functions.
“We have replaced unwritten conventions with a formal, written agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room. This means that from now on, the National Party’s voice is locked into the decision-making process at the earliest stage, ensuring that regional concerns are addressed before a final Coalition position is reached.
"By taking this stand, the National Party has secured a more transparent and accountable partnership, one that is built on codified rules and mutual respect for our separate party rooms.
“We have used this time to strengthen our internal processes, and we are returning to this partnership stronger, more united, and more determined than ever."
Mr Willcox noted that the Coalition is the most enduring and successful partnership in Australian political history, and that its reunion is a clear win for regional Australians who have been hit hardest by Labor’s economic failures.
"Every moment spent on internal party issues is a free pass to a weak and divisive Prime Minister," Mr Willcox said.
"While the media was focused on the split, I remained focused on the families, the growers, the workers, our retirees and the students who are struggling under the weight of rising inflation and a reckless 'renewables-only' energy agenda that is driving up the cost of everything.
"Australia deserves a government that bridges the gap between the city and the country, rather than one that throws away taxpayer money while families are forced to make heart-breaking cuts to their own budgets."
As part of the reformed Coalition arrangements, Mr Willcox will return to his role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability on 1 March 2026.
"I am eager to get back to work in this portfolio," he said.
"Our manufacturing sector is the backbone of our sovereign self-reliance, yet it is currently battling unrealistic climbs in energy costs and bureaucratic red tape.
“I will continue to be a fierce advocate for 'making things in Australia' and ensuring our industries have the affordable, reliable power they need to remain competitive on the world stage."
Mr Willcox remains unyielding in his commitment to the people of Dawson; he will always stand up for the common-sense values of his electorate, regardless of the political noise in the capital.
"Debate is a sign of a healthy democracy, and the Coalition is undoubtedly stronger together.
“We are squarely focused on the future, and we will spend every single day holding this failing Albanese Labor Government to account."
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, at Parliament House following the announcement that the Coalition has officially re-formed. Photo supplied
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The Burdekin Singers’ performance of We Will Rock You was absolutely sensational. If you haven’t had the opportunity to attend yet, there are still shows on this weekend and I can assure you, you will not be disappointed.
We have visitors travelling from surrounding areas, and they consistently tell me how fortunate we are to have such a beautiful venue and such dedicated people who work together to deliver productions of this calibre. Many of us spend considerable money attending large shows in capital cities, yet here in the Burdekin we are experiencing performances that stand proudly among them.
With the school year now underway, parents are settling back into routine. For some, the first day of pre-school brings a few tears, or perhaps tears of joy, as their little ones take their first big step. They grow up so quickly, and life certainly changes in the blink of an eye.
This week I heard a concerning statistic on the news: approximately 100 cars are stolen each month in Townsville. It was a surprising figure, and one that makes us reflect when we see abandoned vehicles on our own roads. Unfortunately, we have our own challenges with crime, and it is important that we do not become complacent.
Our community has always been built on small acts of care - looking out for one another, being vigilant with our property, and taking pride in the safety and wellbeing of our neighbours. It is this collective effort that sets the Burdekin apart.
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.
Saturday 14/2 (1-5pm) Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivian
Sunday 15/2 (9am-5pm) Group E - John Moloney PC, Anne Moloney PC, Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan and Jarrod Rossato
Wednesday night saw a roll-up of 30 players for barefoot bowls and the sausage sizzle—a great turnout. Thursday afternoon social bowls attracted 20 players on a sultry afternoon. Congratulations to Paul Vass on his 80th birthday on the 3rd.
Rink results:
• Rink 4: Paul Vass and Wayne Newton def. Scotty and Alex Bojack.
• Rink 5: Judy Elton, Nev Webb and Hugh Montgomery had a close game with Yogi Bunn, Cisco and Mick McClosky.
• Rink 6: Betty Webb, Des Chapman and Bruce McCallum (pictured, today’s winners) edged Laura Webber, Ron Smith and Mick Olsen/Bob Young.
• Rink 7: Margaret Chapman and Glen Bones Berryman accounted for Les Hoey and Gary Nosworthy.
Fittingly, the raffle’s seafood tray was won by Paul Vass, and Mick Olsen took home the bottle of wine.
Saturday afternoon was very hot, but 24 players turned up to play four games of triples.
• Rink 3: Paul Vass, Margaret Chapman and Joe Linton won a close game over Scotty Taylor, Merryn Smith and Mick McClosky.
• Rink 4: Laura Webber, Vince Beatea and Jeff Phillips defeated Joclyn DeFranciscus, Michael Young and Harold Rummeny.
• Rink 5: Bob Young, Judy Elton and Wayne Newton just edged Jane Arthur, Katrina and Des Chapman.
• Rink 6: Bernice, Yogi Bunn and Robb Dare won over Bob Pickard, Elaine Young—who almost single-handedly kept her team in the game—and Alex Bojack.
Welcome to Vince Beatea from Brandon Bowls.
Weekly events continue: Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers with Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group, evening barefoot bowls with Ron the King of BBQs’ sausage sizzle, Thursday morning BINGO, Thursday and Saturday afternoon social bowls, Wednesday night darts, and Friday night pool comp (see Scott Taylor for more information).
Until next week, good bowling!
Photo and report by Stephen Doig.
NQ Dry Tropics marked World Wetlands Day last week with the launch of a major new project aimed at improving the health and resilience of coastal wetlands across the Lower Burdekin.
The three-year, $4.4 million Climate-Ready Coastlines in the Lower Burdekin project will target key wetland systems including Wongaloo, Merryplain Creek and the Barrattas, with a strong focus on removing invasive aquatic weeds such as water hyacinth and para grass. The project is funded through the Queensland Government’s $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program (NRMEP).
These fast-growing weeds can choke waterways, restrict water flow and increase flood risk during the wet season, placing pressure on bridges, culverts and nearby properties. Their removal will help water move more freely through creek systems, reducing risks to people, infrastructure and the environment.
Queensland’s freshwater and estuarine wetlands play a critical role in supporting native and migratory birds, providing fish nurseries, improving water quality and protecting communities from storms and erosion. They also contribute significantly to the state’s economy through agriculture, fishing, tourism and recreation.
Delivered by NQ Dry Tropics, the project will protect coastal ecosystems and communities in the Lower Burdekin and on Magnetic Island from the impacts of weeds, pests, floods and erosion. Works will improve the condition of around 60 hectares of wetlands, 58 hectares of native beach scrub vegetation, 4.8 hectares of coastal dunes and 20 kilometres of streambank vegetation. Fish connectivity will also be improved across 10 kilometres of creeks, helping juvenile species such as barramundi and mangrove jack migrate upstream to mature.
Activities including weed control and revegetation will target sites such as Lynch’s Beach, Wongaloo Wetlands, Merryplain Creek, the Barrattas Creek system and Magnetic Island, including areas adjacent to the internationally recognised Bowling Green Bay Wetlands.
NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader Scott Fry said protecting natural assets was essential for both biodiversity and community safety.
“Protecting these beautiful, highly biodiverse waterways and coastal areas supports activities like fishing, birdwatching and boating, but the benefits go beyond that,” Mr Fry said.
Mr Fry explained creeks choked with aquatic weeds like water hyacinth or parsgrass are more likely to flood higher and for longer, furthermore increasing the risk of damage to surrounding infrastructure due to water banking up, and weeds getting caught on bridges and culverts.
“Healthy dune systems and beach scrubs provide an important buffer that can help protect coastal communities from storm surges. Proactively protecting these assets will not only benefit biodiversity but will help mitigate the need for costly disaster recovery efforts,” he added.
“NQ Dry Tropics has been working in these systems for nearly two decades with great success, but there is always more to be done. We are excited to partner with organisations including Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Burdekin Shire Council, Lower Burdekin Water, and Whitsunday Regional Council, to deliver this project.”
Mr Fry said launching the project to coincide with World Wetlands Day last week was an ideal opportunity to highlight the vital role wetlands play in Queensland’s way of life.
Plantation Creek before weed control work began. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
Plantation Creek after NQ Dry Tropics carried out weed control work. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader, Scott Fry, left, pictured with Burdekin Shire Council Pest Management Officer Daron Bauer. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
Motorists travelling along the Bruce Highway between Townsville and Ayr are being advised to plan ahead, with roadworks set to impact traffic conditions for several months.
Commencing earlier this month, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) began undertaking underground services relocation works at the intersection of the Bruce Highway and Cape Cleveland Road near Mount Elliot.
Expected to be continued through to late August, The works form part of early preparations for future highway upgrades and will include earthworks, surveying, drilling, maintenance and repair activities in the area.
Construction is scheduled to take place weekly, Monday to Saturday between 6am and 6pm, weather and site conditions permitting.
During the works, motorists can expect reduced speed limits, stop-and-go traffic control, and partial lane closures, with traffic controllers on site to assist the safe movement of vehicles through the work zone. Construction noise, including drilling and heavy machinery, will also be present.
TMR has advised that access to nearby properties will be maintained at all times, however delays are expected, particularly during peak travel periods.
Drivers are urged to allow extra travel time, remain alert, and follow all signage and directions from traffic controllers while travelling through the area.
For further information or enquiries, motorists can contact TMR Northern District on 1800 625 648.
Works at the intersection of the Bruce Highway and Cape Cleveland Road near Mount Elliot have commenced. Photo supplied
Burdekin Shire Council is calling for nominations from young people interested in joining the 2026 Burdekin Shire Youth Council, with applications now officially open.
The Youth Council offers young people aged 12 to 21 — including secondary students, tertiary students and working youth living in the Burdekin — the opportunity to actively participate in youth-related matters, contribute ideas and help shape future opportunities for young people across the region.
The first meeting of the 2026 Youth Council is scheduled to take place on Monday, 23 February 2026.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Youth Council provides an important platform for local young people to develop leadership skills, work alongside key decision-makers and advocate for issues affecting youth in the Burdekin.
“Being part of the Youth Council is a chance to make a meaningful difference,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Members help organise youth events and projects, participate in community and Council initiatives, and build real world skills in leadership, teamwork and communication.”
Participation in the Youth Council also offers a valuable volunteer opportunity, providing professional development pathways and the chance for young people to connect with like-minded peers while contributing positively to the local community.
Young people interested in nominating or seeking further information are encouraged to contact Council by emailing commdev@burdekin.qld.gov.au or phoning the Community Development Team on (07) 4783 9832.
Nominate for the Burdekin Shire Youth Council today and make adifference within the community! Photo source: Burdekin Shire YouthCouncil
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The Burdekin community is once again showing its big heart, with key local landmarks lighting up red this week in support of children and families affected by childhood-onset heart disease.
From 9 to 14 February, the Queen Street Water Fountain and the lights at Lloyd Mann Park will glow red as part of the national Sweethearts Campaign for HeartKids. The campaign aims to raise awareness and vital support for children, young people and adults living with congenital and childhood-acquired heart conditions.
Burdekin Shire Council proudly joined communities across Australia in backing the initiative, helping to shine a light on a cause that touches thousands of families nationwide.
HeartKids is the only national charity dedicated to supporting Australians impacted by childhood-onset heart disease. For nearly 50 years, the organisation has stood beside families during some of their most challenging moments — from hospital stays and diagnoses through to lifelong care and advocacy.
Council’s show of support reflects the Burdekin’s long-standing reputation for community spirit and compassion. By turning local landmarks red, the message is simple but powerful: families living with childhood-onset heart disease are not alone.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the Sweethearts Campaign or HeartKids, and how they can support the cause, by visiting www.heartkids.org.au.
Queen Street’s Water Fountain has turned red for HeartKids! Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Queenslanders will have easier access to flu vaccinations this winter, with the Crisafulli Government delivering a new and expanded free influenza vaccination program for 2026.
From 1 March 2026, every Queenslander aged six months and over will be eligible for a free flu vaccine under what is being described as Australia’s largest statewide influenza program. For the first time, a needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine will also be available for eligible children aged two to five years.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the introduction of the nasal spray option was expected to boost vaccination rates among young children.
“This nasal spray vaccination is expected to improve vaccine uptake amongst young kids by removing potential distress about needle vaccinations,” Mr Nicholls said.
“After a decade of decline under Labor, this is just another way we are delivering easier access to health services, protecting everyday life for Queensland families, and keeping people well.”
Legislative changes will also expand the scope of practice for trained health practitioners, allowing registered nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners to vaccinate more age groups in more locations.
“This change will allow these qualified health practitioners to vaccinate more age groups in a wider range of convenient locations,” Mr Nicholls said.
Chief Health Officer Dr Marianne Gale encouraged Queenslanders to take advantage of the free program.
“No one wants to be stuck in bed, or in hospital, missing work, school, family events or holidays, and that’s why prevention matters,” Dr Gale said.
President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch Chris Owen welcomed the expanded program.
“This expanded program will see community pharmacists play a bigger role in vaccinating Queenslanders,” Mr Owen said.
Flu vaccines will be available throughout March and early April at GP clinics, community pharmacies and other approved providers, with residents encouraged to check which vaccine is best for them.
Burdekin Christian College proudly marked an important milestone last week, hosting its Leadership Induction Ceremony to formally welcome the College’s Junior and Senior Student Leaders for the year ahead.
The ceremony celebrated students who have stepped forward to take on leadership roles within the school community, recognising their willingness to serve, represent their peers and contribute positively to College life.
College staff commended the inducted leaders for accepting the responsibility that comes with leadership, noting that the roles require integrity, compassion and a strong sense of purpose. The newly appointed leaders will play an active role in supporting fellow students, assisting staff, and helping foster a positive and inclusive school environment throughout the year.
Families, staff and members of the wider community were invited to attend the ceremony, with the College extending its thanks to all who joined the celebration and continue to encourage and support student leadership development.
The induction marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the students, as they grow in confidence, responsibility and service while representing Burdekin Christian College.
The College looks forward to seeing the positive impact these young leaders will make across the school community in the months ahead and congratulates all students inducted into leadership positions for the year.
Photos supplied
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