Well… we’re back!

And that ‘break’ felt no longer than two seconds.

I hope you all had an enjoyable and rejuvenating festive period. As much as I love the Burdekin, it was great to return to Sydney to reconnect with friends and family.

Although I was back home for the last two-plus weeks, I’ve been keeping tabs on you up here. I thought my weather app was glitching when it displayed non-stop rain, but after scrolling through Facebook—which was flooded (no pun intended) with images of the torrential downpour—I realised it was not.

I’ve heard a lot about this period in the Burdekin, and… well, I guess I’m both intrigued and cautious about stepping into my first-ever Burdekin disaster season. In preparation, I've made sure all my expensive belongings are on the highest shelf, and have a canoe on standby in my carport.

Despite the dire state of the weather, I’m thrilled to be back in the region and continuing my role. After eight months of settling in, I’m eager to hit the ground running this year, with some exciting new ideas set to be introduced soon.

I’m looking forward to a year of continued growth, learning, and connection with you all.

And as always, if you have any story ideas, please get in touch!

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Behind every community event run by Northern Queensland Legacy is a dedicated group of volunteers giving their time to ensure veterans’ families feel supported, connected and valued.

Across the North, volunteers play a vital role in organising gatherings that bring widows and children of veterans together, particularly those living in small towns or remote communities where isolation can be a daily challenge. These events offer more than a shared meal or a social outing - they create space for understanding, companionship and reassurance that no one has been forgotten.

In the Burdekin, local volunteers recently came together to host a Community Christmas Lunch in Ayr, welcoming families for an afternoon of conversation and connection. From planning and set-up to simply sitting and listening, volunteers were at the heart of the day, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and included.

Beyond events, volunteers are often the first point of contact for families in need. They assist with regular check-ins, home visits, phone calls and practical support, helping connect people with services, financial assistance and advocacy when required. This hands-on involvement can make a life-changing difference, particularly for those experiencing loneliness or navigating difficult circumstances alone.

Northern Queensland Legacy continues to expand its reach, now supporting a broader group of veterans’ families than ever before. As demand grows, so does the need for compassionate, community-minded volunteers.

Those who choose to volunteer with Legacy aren’t just giving their time - they’re offering connection, dignity and hope. Anyone interested in making a meaningful difference in their local community is encouraged to get in touch and consider becoming part of the Legacy volunteer family. Contact the Northern Queensland Legacy office via email admin@nqlegacy.com.au today!

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Burdekin Residents Urged to Stay Informed as Dam Spills and Rain Continues

Residents and visitors across the Burdekin Shire are being urged to remain vigilant as wet season conditions continue to impact the region, with ongoing rainfall, increased river flows and multiple weather and safety alerts issued over recent days.

The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has advised communities, particularly in Giru and surrounding areas, to stay informed as heavy showers and thunderstorms continue along the tropical east coast between Port Douglas and Ayr. With catchments already saturated, any further heavy rainfall could quickly lead to localised flash flooding, with a Flood Watch expected to remain in place as another burst of monsoonal rain develops this week.

Burdekin Falls Dam Spill and Closures
Burdekin Falls Dam began spilling excess water into the Burdekin River over the weekend, with Sunwater confirming that increased river flows are expected to continue. At this stage, flows are expected to remain within the river’s beds and banks, however authorities have stressed that conditions can change rapidly.

As part of standard safety procedures, the section of Burdekin Falls Dam Road directly below the spillway was closed from 4pm on Friday, the 2nd of January, and remains closed while the dam continues to spill. In addition, the Burdekin Falls Dam boat ramp was closed at 9:30am on Saturday, the 4th of January.

Residents are encouraged to monitor dam levels through the free Sunwater App, which provides real-time updates and alerts for spills, releases and local closures.

Road Safety and Travel Conditions
Widespread rainfall has caused damage to roads across the region, with flooding, debris and changing conditions making travel hazardous. Drivers are reminded not to rely on past experiences, as roads can deteriorate quickly.

The Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Dashboard (disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au) remains the first point of call for emergency news, road conditions, weather warnings and power outages. Those travelling outside the shire should check QldTraffic for up-to-date and reliable road information.

Authorities continue to remind motorists: if it’s flooded, forget it.

SES Responds to Rising Demand
The State Emergency Service (SES) has experienced a significant increase in call-outs since Christmas Day. Warren Francis, Burdekin SES Local Controller and Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management Officer, confirmed crews have responded to more than 35 calls for service, with 31 relating to leaking roofs.

While some jobs were resolved quickly, the Mr. Francis said roof repairs can take between three and five hours per job, and in some cases cannot be completed due to roof obstructions or unsafe conditions.

“We encourage people to maintain their roofs and clean their gutters and downpipes coming into the wet season,” Mr. Francis said.

Residents requiring assistance with storm or flood damage can contact the SES on 132 500, or call Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening situations.

Power Outage Preparedness
Ergon Energy Network has also urged residents to prepare for potential power outages during severe weather. Community members are reminded to stay well clear of fallen powerlines and report life-threatening situations immediately. Power outages can be tracked using Ergon’s Outage Finder (www.ergon.com.au/outages/outage-finder), and residents are encouraged to report outages if their property is affected while neighbouring homes have power.

Staying Informed and Prepared
Emergency services are urging the community to stay connected through official channels, including the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard, local radio stations such as Sweet FM 97.1, and the Bureau of Meteorology for weather warnings and river height updates.
Residents are also encouraged to visit getready.qld.gov.au to create or review their household emergency plan, including evacuation routes, emergency supplies and arrangements for pets.

With wet season conditions expected to continue, authorities are reminding the community that preparation and staying informed are key to keeping families, properties and emergency responders safe.

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2025's flooding has residents on edge for what's to come this wet season. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones

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Next week will mark one month since 15 innocent Australians lost their lives at one of our nation’s most iconic spots. Bondi will now forever be synonymous with the worst terror attack on Australian soil. It devastated families, shattered communities, and scarred a nation. It should never have happened.

Since December 14, many words have been spoken, yet nothing of substance has changed. The government’s response has been worse than weak. A country in mourning deserves answers, accountability, and action. Instead, Australians have been served excuses and deflection.

First, the Prime Minister blamed the guns. Then he told us events like this are “hard to legislate against.” After days of backlash came talk of tougher hate laws, yet, despite the Coalition standing ready to act, Parliament at the time of writing has not been recalled (I hope it has by the time you are reading this).

The Prime Minister’s last attempt to quiet public backlash was the announcement of a government appointed review, largely focused on security agencies. This review does not strike at the heart of the problem and it is a watered-down substitute for transparency.

The Coalition, Jewish community leaders, national figures, and sporting greats have all called for a Royal Commission. Most importantly, the families of the victims have demanded one. Even a public letter from grieving families has not moved the Prime Minister.

A Royal Commission matters because it is independent, public, and thorough. Hearings are led by judges and senior officials. Ministers, including the Prime Minister can be questioned. That level of scrutiny is essential, and it is precisely why this government is resisting it.

The government offers two excuses for not announcing a Royal Commission: concern about re-traumatising families, and time.

Well, families of the victims are asking for it, and this government has enthusiastically supported multiple Royal Commissions involving victims in the recent past.

Time, however, is the real reason. Although not because action would be delayed, because a Royal Commission does not prevent urgent laws being passed. Action can and must happen concurrently. But because a Royal Commission would keep the government’s failures in the public eye for longer.

Typically running 15 to 18 months, a Royal Commission established now would likely deliver its findings just months before the next federal election. That means sustained scrutiny of the government’s failure right up until the very moment voters are paying the closest attention. That is what Labor wants to avoid and this is the real reason the government is resisting.

The Bondi attack did not occur in isolation. For more than two years, Australians have witnessed escalating extremism, intimidation, and radicalisation. Warning signs were ignored. Hate was allowed to fester. The Prime Minister was silent as hate filled protests erupted, extremist rhetoric spread openly, and national symbols were attacked. Bondi is the consequence of that silence and inaction.

A Royal Commission will not bring back those we lost. But it could save lives in the future. A Royal Commission would tell the world Australia will not tolerate hate. It would not only explain what happened but identify holes in the current systems. It would give victims dignity not dismissal. And it would a deliver a tangible roadmap for preventing similar events.

Prime Minister, be accountable and take responsibility. Announce a Royal Commission now. Better late than never.

Australia must remember Bondi, not just today, but always.

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Mourners at Bondi Pavilion. Photo supplied

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Sporting clubs, community groups and P&C’s across the Burdekin have received a share in more than
$1million in funding as Member for Burdekin Dale Last commends the welcome boost to the new year.

Mr Last said the super round of the Crisafulli Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund had
seen critical projects aimed at benefitting club members and their surrounding communities receive
much needed funding for shovel ready projects.

“From equipment purchases at Men’s Sheds to upgrades at the Burdekin Bocce Club and improvements of facilities in our local schools, we see the benefits of these projects right through the wider community,” Mr Last said.

“Without access to the Gambling Community Benefit Fund program many of the recipients would have been otherwise unable to complete these vital projects so I am proud to see these groups receive real support from the Crisafulli Government.”

“Our volunteers are the backbones of our community, dedicating their time to improving the lives of
others around them so ensuring their facilities and equipment meet their needs is crucial to an
organisation’s longevity.”

As the new year begins Mr Last said it was a fantastic time for other community groups, sporting
organisations and not-for-profits to consider what projects could be eligible for grant funding in 2026.

“The next round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund will offer grants of up to $35,000 and are
due to open shortly so if your organisation or sporting team is looking for additional support I would encourage you to consider applying,” Mr Last said.

“As the Member for Burdekin, backing my local volunteer organisations in securing support they need
for the betterment of our community is something I strive to do, so if your not-for-profit is seeking
assistance please contact my office.”

The Gambling Community Benefit Fund is Queensland’s largest one-off funding program and
distributes approximately $60 million each year to strengthen communities and respond to local
needs.

The next Gambling Community Benefit Fund (Round 126) will offer grants of up to $35,000 and is set
to open mid-January and close 28 February 2026.

Contributed with thanks to the office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last says the Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund will support critical local projects like the Burdekin Water Festival. Photo supplied

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Residents of Giru and surrounding communities are being urged by the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group to stay alert as heavy showers and thunderstorms continue to affect Queensland’s tropical east coast, raising the risk of localised flash flooding.

Authorities warn that conditions could worsen later this week as a fresh burst of monsoonal rain develops across far north Queensland. Catchments remain saturated, meaning even short, intense bursts of rain could trigger flooding, and a Flood Watch is likely to remain in effect.

Bridges and low-lying roads are expected to be impacted, and some areas could become isolated until waters recede.

The Burdekin region is no stranger to significant flooding, with persistent heavy rains early last year forcing multiple road closures and disruptions in communities including Giru, Rita Island, Ayr, and Home Hill.

Authorities advise residents to monitor conditions closely, consider alternate arrangements for work, school, or travel, and drive carefully where roads are affected by mud, debris, or standing water. Residents should obey all road closure signs and instructions from emergency services, and check on neighbours if needed.

For emergency assistance, the Queensland SES can be contacted on 132 500 or via the SES Assistance QLD App, while life-threatening emergencies should be reported to Triple Zero (000). The latest updates on weather, river levels, and road closures are available via the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard, local radio station Sweet FM 97.1, the Bureau of Meteorology Queensland website, and QLD Traffic.

Authorities are urging vigilance this week, reminding residents that past events show how quickly heavy rainfall can turn dangerous in the Burdekin region.

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Giru's Ironbark Creek has been inundated with floodwaters since New Year's Day. Photo credit: Jayden Simmons-Little

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Sophie Robertson graduated from Ayr State High School as the cohort’s 2025 Valedictorian, an honour she found to be both equally gratifying and a reflection of her invaluable support system.

Sophie achieved an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 98.65 and was awarded a Premier’s QCE Academic Commendation after achieving A’s in all six of her selected subjects; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematical Methods, English and Legal Studies; where she was awarded a Subject Achievement Commendation for receiving the highest state result.

“Graduating as Valedictorian is a rewarding feeling; it's nice to have my hard work pay off, and it makes all the hours of studying worth it - however, it truly feels like a community effort, because I've had invaluable support from my teachers and family throughout this whole journey,” said Sophie.

Once Year 12 commenced, Sophie began studying for her end of year external examinations. Cycling through practice questions and crafting palm cards quickly became second nature to Sophie, and as Term 3 rolled around, Sophie placed her attention on the syllabus of each subject, revising notes and dot points to draw a comprehensive concept map.

“Concept maps were my best friend; they were a great way to summarise information and connect concepts, which was very important, because most A-standard questions linked different ideas together.”

Planning ahead was also integral to Sophie’s success. In anticipation for programs like the International Science School, Sophie would adjust her studying schedule accordingly, allowing her to balance her schoolwork with extra-curricular activities like taekwondo and cadets with ease.

Managing academic burnout also became a talent of Sophie’s, leading her put aside 15 to 30 minutes every day to pop out for an evening run and to use the resources around her to lighten her workload.

“I planned to finish my assignments one to three days earlier than they were due, but the best advice I can give is to use the resources around you,” said Sophie.

“There are countless exams to practice from; I even bought HSC (NSW) and VCE (VIC) practice papers, because more often than not, the content between the states overlaps - however, your most useful resource is inside the classroom; the teachers are more than willing to help, so don't be afraid to ask questions if you're not understanding the content or need some extra guidance.”

Sophie’s commitment to her academics never wavered, even throughout school holiday periods which she would spend studying or working on upcoming assignments.

“Maintaining motivation will be one of your biggest challenges,” she added.

“In the end, no matter what support others give, only you can motivate yourself, so make sure that you set an end goal (like a specific ATAR that you want to achieve), because that will drive you to the finish line.”

On the 19th of January, Sophie will travel to Canberra to commence a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering (Honours) at the Australian Defence Force Academy and in the future, she hopes to be working within the Defence Space Command.

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Sophie Robertson was congratulated as Ayr State High School's 2025 Valedictorian. Photo source: Ayr State High School

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In 2026, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club will celebrate a remarkable milestone - 100 years of service, dedication and community spirit.

Centenary celebrations will take place across a full weekend from Friday the 29th of May to Sunday, the 31st of May 2026, offering something for everyone connected to the club.

Festivities will begin on Friday with a relaxed Meet and Greet and Book Launch at the Kalamia Hotel from 6pm. The evening will bring together past and present members, friends, family and supporters for the launch of a commemorative book written by author Martin Grandelis, capturing the stories and legacy of the club’s first century.

On Saturday, the 30th of May, the celebrations will culminate in a Centenary Gala Dinner at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, commencing at 6pm. The formal evening will provide an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, reflect on shared memories and honour the people who have shaped the club across generations.

The weekend will conclude on Sunday, the 31st of May with a Community Fun Day at the Ayr Surf Life Saving Clubhouse from 10am. Designed as a relaxed, family-friendly event, the day will invite the wider community to celebrate at the place the club proudly calls home.

As it marks 100 years, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through community, commitment and care - a legacy born from compassion and carried forward by generations of Burdekin locals. Additional details, including Gala Dinner ticket sales are yet to be announced.

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Do you spot any familiar faces from these 2000s Ayr SLSC photos? Photo source: Ayr SLSC

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Crocwise Safety During the North Queensland Wet Season

With widespread rain and flooding currently affecting parts of North Queensland, local authorities are reminding residents to remain especially vigilant around waterways and to practise Crocwise behaviours at all times.

Recent heavy rainfall has seen the Burdekin Falls Dam exceed 120% capacity, and Peter Faust Dam reach 77.98%, sending increased flows through surrounding river systems (current statics as of 05/01/2025). While this is a welcome sight for water security, flooding conditions significantly increase the risk of crocodile encounters.

Saltwater (estuarine) crocodile habitat stretches from the Boyne River near Gladstone north to the Torres Strait, including Cape York and the Gulf Country. Crocodiles can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, including rivers, creeks, lagoons, swamps, beaches and coastal waters — sometimes hundreds of kilometres inland. During flooding, crocodiles become highly mobile and may move into new or unexpected areas as waterways expand and currents increase.

Crocodiles are apex predators that rely on stealth and camouflage. Even large animals can remain completely unseen in shallow, fast-moving or murky floodwaters. If a crocodile is hunting, there is no warning.

In 2025, 115 crocodile sightings were reported across North Queensland, highlighting the importance of staying alert, particularly during wet weather and flood events.

The Crocwise message is simple and especially important right now: keep out of the water, stay at least five metres back from the water’s edge, and keep a sturdy object between yourself and the water. Extra care should be taken at dawn, dusk and at night, when crocodiles are most active and visibility is reduced.

Residents are urged to closely supervise children, keep pets on a lead and well away from waterways, and avoid fishing, swimming or wading in flooded areas. Food scraps, bait and fish waste should never be left near water, as they attract crocodiles.

If you see a crocodile, report it immediately via the QWildlife app, online, or by calling 1300 130 372. Prompt reporting helps authorities track crocodile movement and keep communities safe.

No natural waterway in crocodile habitat is ever risk-free — and during flooding, the risks are even higher. Staying Crocwise helps protect you, your family and your community.

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Crocodile warning signs are in place for a reason, alerting crocodiles can be present even when they’re not visible. Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza

A recent photo from a North Queensland flood zone. Photo supplied

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Welcome back, and Happy New Year to everyone across our community.

As we step into 2026, it’s a great time to reset, refocus, and look ahead to the opportunities a new year brings. Whether you spent the holidays travelling, relaxing at home, or celebrating with loved ones, I hope the break was refreshing and filled with good memories.

A new year gives us the chance to set fresh priorities. Whether that means learning, connecting, slowing down, or trying something completely new, I hope everyone finds opportunities that inspire purpose and happiness in the months ahead.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to a safe and vibrant festive season. As we settle into the year ahead, I’m looking forward to what 2026 will bring for our region - new projects, new opportunities, and continued community spirit.

Here’s to a positive, productive, and successful year for all. Together, I’m confident we can make 2026 a great one.

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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Happy New Year everyone!! I hope everyone had a happy and safe festive season. It has been nice to see businesses taking a well earned break and the farmers getting to switch off the pumps for a while.

While the rain and drop in temperatures is welcome, it is a good time to stock up on a few essentials for the old cyclone kit. We all know the rush at the supermarket to get things when and if a warning goes out.

Don’t leave it till the last minute to get non perishable items especially and run the risk of missing out.

Keep an eye on the weather and the Council’s Disaster Dashboard for updates and warnings. Remember that if it is flooded forget it. Stay safe.

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Queensland Health is urging residents to stay home if unwell and maintain good hygiene amid an unexpected rise in flu cases over the festive season.

The latest data from Queensland Health shows that, as of 14 December 2025, more than 95,000 flu cases have been recorded across the state—21 per cent higher than at the same time last year. Hospital admissions are also up, with nearly 70 public hospital beds occupied daily by flu patients, compared with just 11 beds at this time in 2024.

Dr Heidi Carroll, Executive Director of the Communicable Diseases Branch at Queensland Health, said flu cases and hospitalisations remain above expected rates for this time of year.

“While flu case numbers and hospitalisations remain well below the winter peak, the recent summertime increase in cases is unusual,” Dr Carroll said.

She explained that travel and social gatherings, combined with high Influenza A cases in the northern hemisphere, were likely contributing factors.

“This increase may be driven by more people travelling and attending social gatherings. Additionally, the northern hemisphere is currently seeing high case numbers of the Influenza A strain, and this is contributing to global spread, including within Australia.”

Dr Carroll warned that the surge is putting extra pressure on hospitals and healthcare services.

“The reality is that the flu can cause serious illness resulting in hospitalisation, and we’re currently seeing a much higher number of hospitalisations than we normally would at this time of year,” she said.

She encouraged Queenslanders to continue practicing respiratory hygiene, including washing hands regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick. “It’s important to prioritise good hygiene… and stay home when you are sick to stop the spread of respiratory illnesses,” Dr Carroll said.

Queenslanders who have not yet received their influenza vaccination are urged to do so to protect themselves and the wider community. Vaccinations are available through general practices, community pharmacies, immunisation clinics, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services. Those planning overseas travel are advised to consult their healthcare providers about additional protection.

This year’s influenza season has been marked by a prolonged peak and a slower decline in cases compared with the sharper rise and fall seen in previous years. Queensland Health data shows that 82 per cent of confirmed cases in 2025 were among unvaccinated individuals. Of the more than 95,000 cases, 10,087 were children under five years, while 16,176 were aged 65 years and older. Hospitalisations totalled 9,187, with nearly half of these patients aged 65 or older. The state has also recorded 289 flu-related deaths to date, up from 198 over the same period in 2024.

Dr Carroll said year-to-year variability in influenza is expected and can be influenced by circulating virus strains, environmental and behavioural factors, and population immunity shaped by prior infections and vaccine uptake.

“The unseasonal increase in flu cases shows the importance of continued vigilance against respiratory illness, even outside the traditional flu season,” she said.

Queenslanders are reminded that even during summer, the flu remains a serious threat, and taking precautions protects both individual and community health.

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Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated against influenza to protect themselves and vulnerable loved ones. Photo source: Unsplash

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Stepping into 2026, there’s plenty to be quietly optimistic about, especially for Queensland’s iconic sugarcane industry. 2026 marks a major milestone: 100 years since the formation of CANEGROWERS.

For a century, CANEGROWERS has been woven into the fabric of regional Queensland. The organisation has been shaped by farming families, small towns, and communities built around cane fields and sugar mills. Its story mirrors the development of many parts of the state, highlighting the enduring connection between growers and the communities they support.

Centenary celebrations are planned across Queensland, with local CANEGROWERS districts organising events for their regions. If sugarcane is part of your area’s story, there’s likely to be a celebration close to home.

Two major state-level events are also on the calendar. The first will be held in Mackay in March, in partnership with the local CANEGROWERS office. Mackay holds special significance as the location where growers first met in 1926 to unite their voices and strengthen the industry.

Later in the year, the celebrations will move to Brisbane, with an event at Brisbane City Hall and a public industry display in King George Square. This will be a chance to share the industry’s story with the wider community and celebrate its achievements.

A highlight of the centenary will be the recognition of the “Legends of Cane Country” – individuals from across Queensland who have helped shape the sugarcane industry over the past 100 years. Growers and the public are encouraged to nominate a Legend from their district to ensure these important contributions are honoured.

Throughout the year, CANEGROWERS will also roll out a range of print, digital, photographic, and video projects that showcase the industry’s history, communities, and the families behind the cane fields. These stories will be shared through the organisation’s website and social media channels.

As Queensland celebrates this centenary, it’s a chance to reflect on the resilience, dedication, and innovation of the sugarcane industry. Here’s to a year of pride, progress, and recognition for those who have made it what it is today.

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CANEGROWERS are set to celebrate a century of cane and community in 2026. Photo supplied

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Burdekin sugarcane growers are playing a key role in major new research aimed at securing effective and sustainable canegrub control for the future, as current chemical options face possible restrictions.

Canegrubs are one of the most costly pests affecting sugarcane, with moderate infestations reducing yields by 10–20 per cent and severe outbreaks cutting production by more than 40 per cent — the equivalent of around 30 tonnes of cane per hectare. Across the industry, unchecked canegrub damage is estimated to cost up to $60 million annually.

At present, neonicotinoid insecticides such as imidacloprid are the primary control option. However, these products are under review by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, with strong indications their use could be restricted or phased out by 2028–29.

In response, Sugar Research Australia (SRA) is leading a major project to identify alternative insecticides. Following laboratory screening of 23 products, up to 10 promising options have now progressed to large-scale field trials — including trial sites located in the Burdekin.

Chemical applications were completed in November across 12 trial sites statewide, with treatments applied to both plant cane and first ratoon crops. Over the next year, the Burdekin trials will be closely monitored to assess effectiveness, yield protection, soil persistence and water mobility, ensuring any future recommendations meet environmental standards.

SRA’s lead entomologist, Dr Kevin Powell, said the trials were critical to ensuring growers have viable control options available before current products are withdrawn. Preliminary field results are expected by the end of 2026, with full datasets ready by 2028.

The research is expected to deliver new tools that protect Burdekin yields, reduce long-term costs, and support sustainable cane farming into the next decade.

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The research project ‘Beyond imidacloprid’ now has many sites treated across Queensland. Photo source: SRA
Different chemical treatments were applied to plant cane and first ratoon cane as part of the trials. Photo source: SRA

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The Queensland Government is investing $3 million in the next phase of the Burdekin Major Integrated Project (MIP), continuing efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef by improving water quality across the region. The project, known as Landholders Driving Change, works closely with graziers, other land managers, and the local community to reduce sediment run-off and develop a better understanding of land management practices that support both agriculture and reef health.

The Burdekin MIP builds on earlier successes from 2017–2021, when place-based initiatives engaged 93 per cent of large grazing properties across more than 1 million hectares in the Bowen-Broken-Bogie catchment. These projects remediated 24 gullies covering 1,600 hectares, prevented around 10,600 tonnes of sediment annually from entering waterways, and supported 78 grazing land management projects. Community engagement was also central, with 150 education, training, and knowledge-sharing events and a robust water quality monitoring program.

A three-year Gully Maintenance and Monitoring program, funded with $500,000, has provided valuable insights into effective gully remediation techniques, ensuring future projects are guided by evidence and experience.

The Burdekin MIP highlights the importance of local involvement in environmental management, showing how landholders can play a leading role in protecting reef water quality while maintaining productive and sustainable grazing operations.

For landholders or community members interested in participating or learning more about the project, contact the Office of the Great Barrier Reef at OfficeoftheGBR@des.qld.gov.au.

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The irrigation innovation making waves for farmers and the Great Barrier Reef. Photo source: GBR Foundation

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