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The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has recorded its strongest Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea yet, raising more than $2,300 for the Cancer Council.
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has recorded its strongest Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea yet, raising more than $2,300 for the Cancer Council and smashing previous fundraising totals in a show of local generosity that surprised even organisers.
Held on Thursday, 21 May from 10am to 12pm, the annual event drew more than 70 community members to the centre, with organisers saying this year’s turnout and donations marked a clear step up in both engagement and giving.
The morning featured a generous spread of morning tea options alongside a Lucky Door Prize, Mega Raffle and Special Raffle, with most prizes kindly donated by local businesses and community members.
Attendees shared conversations while MC Councillor John Furnell facilitated the event that featured "plenty of laughter and community spirit” throughout.
said the strong turnout and fundraising result reflected the growing support behind the annual event and its purpose.
"The main purpose of the event was to bring the Burdekin community together to raise vital funds and awareness for people affected by cancer through the work of the Cancer Council, while encouraging community connection and fundraising by providing a welcoming space, raffles, and food for attendees to enjoy together,” Ms Darley said.
She said the overwhelming support continued a pattern of overwhelming community generosity that the BNC sees each year.
“The BNC is absolutely astonished each year by the generosity shown by the community, local businesses, and everyone attending our morning tea event—whether in person or through online donations—to help support anyone affected by cancer," she said.
“We hope attendees took away a sense of community connection, compassion, and support, while knowing that their attendance, donations, and participation helped make a meaningful difference to people affected by cancer.”
The BNC extended its thanks to all local businesses and community members who supported the event, including those who contributed food, vouchers, raffle prizes, and other assistance in any form.
The organisation encourages any businesses interested in being involved in the 2027 event to contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on
Journalist Jacob Casha was awarded Best Young Journalist of the year at the Queensland Country Press Awards
Burdekin Life’s young journalism duo took home gold and silver at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on the Sunshine Coast.
Burdekin Life’s young journalism duo has come away from the Sunshine Coast with gold and silver honours after a strong performance at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on Friday, 22 May.
Jacob Casha was announced as Best Young Journalist of the year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist, while Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.
Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith said the awards are a strong result for the young journalists and the organisation.
“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Ms Smith.
“Our journalists learn the ropes fast, attending community events, forming connections and networks, writing and reporting on every aspect of news from sports to events – it is a big job that sets the tone for a dynamic career.
“To think that two members of our team took out the two top spots in this category is incredibly humbling – and an example of the calibre of writing all our journalists are striving towards.
“This was capped off by Jacob receiving a silver award for Best Single Story — it’s fantastic to see him recognised in his first year alongside seasoned journalists who have spent years refining their craft.”
The editorial achievements rounded off one of Life Publishing Group’s most successful years at the QCPA event, where it also won a further three advertising awards on the night.
A highlight was receiving gold for Best Print Community Advertising Promotion for the Life Publishing Group Enchanted Garden Charity Event which raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities.
A second gold was awarded for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement of the year and was followed by silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign of the year.
“It makes life easy when you know you have a great team to back you up,” said Hinchinbrook Life Sales Manager Sherie Hensler Adams.
“At Life Publishing Group, our incredible creative team designs each ad from scratch, working closely with our clients to bring out the best in their business.
“We truly care about every client, and you can see this clearly in the love that goes into the design of all the ads and all the pages in every paper.”
There are more than 60 independent news media publishers registered with Queensland Country Press Association.
“In 2024 we were thrilled to bring home Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for our sister publication Mackay and Whitsunday Life,” shared Rachael Smith.
“This was a huge honour, and one we are looking forward to achieving again as we grow our other publications, especially here in Hinchinbrook.
“2026 represents a year where we have solidified our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.
“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”
Director of Infrastructure Planning & Environmental Services, James Stewart, provided an overview of the Burdekin Shire Council’s push for a slice of the $55 million Residential Activation Fund (RAF). Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Major infrastructure projects designed to unlock residential land and secure water access took centre stage at the Burdekin Industry Breakfast last Wednesday.
The event, held at the Burdekin Theatre on 20 May, brought together developers, landowners, and agricultural stakeholders to discuss investments shaping the region's economic future.
Topping the agenda was the Burdekin Shire Council’s push for a slice of the $55 million Residential Activation Fund (RAF). The council has officially applied for Round 2 funding to construct crucial trunk infrastructure, aiming to open up fresh housing developments across the Ayr township, specifically targeting the Beach Road, Chippendale, and Craig Street areas.
Council had already secured Round 1 funding to complete the detailed design work for the infrastructure, positioning the project for immediate progression if the secondary funding application is successful.
Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown also provided an update on the $700 million Bowen Pipeline Project, a privately funded 182-kilometre water pipeline running from the Burdekin River to Bowen along the Bruce Highway corridor.
Designed to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water to a region historically reliant on unpredictable summer rainfall, the project hit a major milestone just days before the breakfast, with water sales officially commencing on 18 May.
Local agricultural prospects are also set for a further boost via the North Queensland Food Futures Precinct Project in Ayr.
Spearheaded by the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) using Regional Economies Future Fund grants secured in 2024, BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery said the pilot food processing facility will focus on converting the 30 per cent of fruit and vegetables that fail tomeet market standards into shelf-stable products.
The breakfast also detailed how the new facility will serve as an innovation space, giving local growers access to specialised commercial processing equipment to value-add their produce.
It was a privilege to attend the Regional SES Awards Ceremony and 50th Anniversary Celebration over the weekend, recognising the dedication of our SES volunteers. It was great to see members of our Burdekin unit alongside crews from Townsville, Hinchinbrookand Magnetic Island, all coming together to support award recipients.
The SES plays a vital role in keeping our community safe, particularly during severe weather events, and they are always looking for new recruits. I encourage anyone interested to get involved, it’s a meaningful way to give back while learning valuable skills.
Another milestone event this weekend is the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club’s 100th anniversary. This club is defined by its people. While I was not a member, many of my family were, as have generations of Burdekin families. From Nippers and competitions to patrolling Alva Beach, the club has long upheld the values of surf lifesaving.
As Mayor, I see the impact this club has on our region. It builds responsibility, teamwork and courage, brings families together, and keeps our coastline safe. To everyone who has contributed over the past century, this milestone is yours. Here’s to 100 years of service, and to the next 100.
Council continues to deliver important infrastructure works. Upgrades have commenced at Wunjunga Road and Beachmount Road, along with a new cattle grid installation. Construction of a concrete floodway on Bahr Road is also underway to improve resilience during severe weather.
I encourage young people and their families to attend the Pathways and Possibilities event on Wednesday 3 June at the Burdekin Theatre Foyer from 5pm. This event will be a great opportunity to hear from local industry speakers, explore real career pathways, and connect directly with employers, training providers and support services.
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.
Community helping Community creates great outcomes.
I had the privilege of attending two events recently where it was an honour to see the spirit of giving to others. The first was when I was MC for ‘Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea 2026’, Burdekin style, organised by the ‘Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’ to support the work of the ‘Cancer Council’, Australia’s leading cancer charity. Around 150,000 Australian’s are diagnosed with cancer every year, if you or others need advice call 13 11 25. I counted thirty four local businesses as well as private citizens who donated prizes, thank you to them all. This is why it’s important to support our local businesses, who are often asked for donations, that support community events.
Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall was toe tapping and dancing to ‘Rock The Decades’ by Attori on Saturday night. Rick Romeo and friends donated their time and talent for Burdekin School, whose P&C were raising funds for the school community. Once again Burdekin community members building a better Burdekin.
This weekend sees Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club celebrating 100 years, a milestone of another tremendous voluntary organisation locally and throughout Australia. The weekend kicks off Friday with a Meet n Greet and book launch at the Kalamia Hotel, Gala Dinner Saturday at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, concluding with a Community Fun Day at the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club. The weekend will see past and present members, friends and community come together for celebration and sharing of stories.
The Cowboys had another fine win over the Bunnies without two of their best, Tom Dearden and Reuben Cotter. The game has rallied together after one of South’s best, Jai Arrow, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. The Community Raffle raised over fifty thousand dollars to help Jai and his family with his battle.
Wishing you all health & happiness
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that would expand repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.
Released last Thursday, the discussion paper proposes extending Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, alongside improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.
The current scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice.
According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had contributed to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.
Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce delays during critical planting and harvest periods.
The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms would give farmers more choice and support regional repair businesses.
“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most,” Ms Collins said.
The consultation period is open until Friday, July 3, 2026.
New Burdekin apprentices, from left Jack Power (electrical), Nicholas Ellis (electrical), Connor Onaindia (electrical), Caileb Jerkic (diesel fitting), Riley Smith (fitting and turning), Benjamin Forman (electrical), Jayden Lehmann (boiler making), and Dylan Thorley (electrical). Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has welcomed 18 first-year apprentices across its operations this year, with the new recruits already settling into roles spanning electrical, fitting and turning, boilermaking and diesel fitting trades.
The apprentices officially commenced in February and are now working across the company’s Sugar and Renewables division as part of one of Queensland’s largest apprenticeship programs.
Group Manager Mechanical Engineering Tienie van Blerk said the new apprentices had adapted well to their roles and embraced the company’s workplace values.
“They've integrated really well into the business and are demonstrating the values of teamwork and passion in their day-to-day work,” Mr van Blerk said.
“I'm really impressed by how keen they are to learn from our experienced trades and become the best they can be.”
Group Manager Electrical Instrumentation and Control Chris Pickering said apprentices at Wilmar benefited from exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies and industrial systems.
“The sugar industry is known for turning out really well-rounded apprentices and our factories have some of the most advanced technological platforms available,” Mr Pickering said.
“Our electrical trades are working with advanced automation and control systems, modern power generation and distribution systems, and smart instrumentation. Most electrical apprentices only get exposure to a narrow range of equipment. Ours are trained across a large range of industrial plant.”
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said the apprenticeship program played an important role in the company’s long-term workforce development and retention strategy.
“We have one of the largest and most successful apprenticeship programs in Queensland,” Mr Torok said.
“Not only do we have a very high completion rate, but we have a high retention rate among our newly qualified tradespeople. These first-year apprentices will become the highly-skilled tradespeople we rely upon to keep our factories, locos and mobile fleet running efficiently. They'll also become mentors for future generations of apprentices at our sites.”
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables currently employs around 120 apprentices across the business.
Applications for the company’s 2027 apprenticeship intake will open on 9 June.
If you would like to be part of continuing this important support and helping chaplaincy remain strong in our schools, you are warmly invited to join a local Chaplaincy Support Team. Photo supplied
As Chaplaincy Week approaches from May 31 to June 7, the Burdekin community is being encouraged to celebrate and support the local school chaplains helping students, staff, and families across the region.
For almost two decades, the Burdekin community has benefited from the vital work of dedicated school chaplains.
The Burdekin currently has seven school chaplains supporting the holistic wellbeing of 10 of our school communities. Through one-on-one support, running small groups, and connecting with staff, students, and families, our Chappies make a much-needed impact.
School chaplains provide social, emotional, and pastoral support to school communities. They are in the prevention and support business, helping students find better ways to deal with issues such as peer relationships, mental health challenges including anxiety and depression, bullying, educational support needs, and family breakdown.
They provide a listening ear and a caring presence for children and young people in crisis, as well as those who simply need a friend. They also provide support for staff and parents within school communities. Chaplains also run evidence-based programs including social and emotional support, mentoring, educational support, and community development.
Our Chappies are funded in part by the government and their schools, but the shortfall is required to be made up through the fundraising efforts of local Chaplaincy Support Teams.
We would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank the Burdekin community for the ongoing support shown towards school chaplaincy over many years. Through donations, fundraising efforts, volunteering, sponsorship, and attendance at community events, local individuals, businesses, churches, and organisations continue to play a vital role in ensuring chaplains can remain present in our schools.
If you would like to be part of continuing this important support and helping chaplaincy remain strong in our schools, you are warmly invited to join a local Chaplaincy Support Team. Throughout the year, there will also be several opportunities for our community to support chaplaincy, beginning with the Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast during Chaplaincy Week, followed by the Water Festival and Harvest Festival.
Your support is greatly appreciated in helping maintain the wide reach of chaplaincy in Burdekin schools.
Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team
Home Hill’s Pioneer Avenue has been given a fresh lease on life, with Burdekin Shire Council completing restoration works on the memorial plaques that honour the district’s founding families. Photo supplied
Home Hill’s Pioneer Avenue has been given a fresh lease on life, with Burdekin Shire Council completing restoration works on the memorial plaques that honour the district’s founding families.
The project has seen all plaques along the avenue carefully refurbished and reinstalled in their original locations, preserving a feature that has stood since 1998, with additions made in 2011. The upgrade replaces deteriorated timber posts with durable recycled plastic supports, ensuring the display can withstand time and weather while maintaining its appearance and accessibility.
Burdekin Shire Council said the works were about more than maintenance, describing the project as an effort to safeguard a tangible link to the region’s early settlers and their contribution to the community’s development.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Pioneer Avenue remains an important part of the Burdekin’s shared identity.
“Pioneer Avenue holds a special place in the Burdekin’s history, recognising the families who helped shape our region into what it is today. This restoration ensures their stories continue to be honoured for generations to come,” she said.
She said the use of more durable materials would help protect the site into the future while keeping it safe and presentable for residents and visitors.
The restored avenue also forms part of Home Hill’s broader appeal as a place where local history is visible and accessible, with Council noting its value to both tourism and community pride.
Council has thanked residents for their patience during the works and encouraged locals and visitors alike to take a walk along Pioneer Avenue to view the refreshed plaques and reflect on the town’s pioneering legacy.
Stepping into the role of Acting Branch Manager at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is a proud moment for local Burdekin woman Sally Smith, whose journey with the community bank has been built on passion, dedication and a genuine love for helping people. Photo supplied
The Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr pride’s itself on local connections and a recent appointment has reinforced this philosophy.
Stepping into the role of Acting Branch Manager at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is a proud moment for local Burdekin woman Sally Smith, whose journey with the community bank has been built on passion, dedication and a genuine love for helping people.
Having grown up in the Burdekin and now raising her own family in the region, Sally says the opportunity to lead the branch for the next six months is both exciting and deeply meaningful.
“My journey with Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr began nearly seven years ago,” Sally explained.
“I started as a Customer Service Officer with no prior banking experience, but I had a strong desire to learn and a real passion for giving back to the local community.”
Since then, Sally has progressed through several roles including Senior Customer Service Officer and Personal Banker, with each position strengthening her connection to local customers and community organisations.
Now, as Acting Branch Manager, she is focused on continuing the branch’s strong community-first approach while supporting staff and customers alike.
“Community is the heartbeat of this branch,” Sally said.
“I’m looking forward to building new connections, supporting our team and ensuring we continue to provide exceptional service to the people and businesses that make our region thrive.”
Sally says one of the most rewarding parts of working with the community bank is seeing firsthand the impact local banking can have across the Burdekin.
“Over the years, I’ve seen the difference the community bank makes through sponsorships, donations and support for local clubs, events and organisations,”she said.
“Whether it’s supporting local sporting groups, community events or charities, knowing we’re helping strengthen our region is incredibly rewarding.”
She also acknowledged the leadership and support of outgoing Branch Manager Chantel Michielin, saying she feels privileged to continue the work that has been built over recent years.
“I’m incredibly grateful for Chantel’s guidance and support throughout my journey with the bank,” Sally said.
“I look forward to continuing the amazing work she has done while also developing my own leadership skills under the example she has set.”
Outside of work, Sally remains actively involved in local clubs and volunteer activities, something she says keeps her grounded and connected to the community she proudly calls home.
“What makes the Burdekin so special is its people,” she said.
“We have such a strong and generous community spirit here, and I’m proud to be part of an organisation that gives back to the place we all love.”
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins OAM. Supplied
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has labelled the Australian Government’s budgetary decision to cap the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) allied health services to an annual limit of $5000 “a profound betrayal of the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation.”
The Australian Government stated that the cap was instated to support a larger investment in Veteran health, pledging $169.7 million over five years from 2025–26 (and $58.8 million per year ongoing), to increase allied health provider fees for Veteran Card holders from 1st July 2027.
They call it “the largest investment in veteran allied health provider fees in more than 20 years,” which “will improve choice and availability of services for veterans and families of veterans.”
According to the DVA, the cap will redistribute funds, whilst aiming to target overservicing from providers.
“Under this arrangement, Veteran Card holders will continue to access the treatment they need, while ensuring they are not taken advantage of by providers looking to increase profits through overservicing,” the DVA published.
“DVA is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and recognises that health care needs are individual and can change over time. That is why this measure includes flexibility for DVA to fund allied health services above $5,000 amount where there is a valid clinical need, ensuring veterans receive the care they require.”
Mr Willcox has spoken out about the change, calling the cap a “cruel cost-shifting measure.”
“Getting regular help from an exercise physiologist or a psychologist is a massive part of preventing veteran suicide,” he said.
“It gets men and women sorted before they hit rock bottom. Keeping veterans well on the frontline saves lives, and it stops them needing much more expensive medical treatment down the track."
“To see this critical funding degraded is deeply disappointing.”
The vital role small businesses play in the Burdekin’s economy has been celebrated during Small Business Month with businesses able to seize opportunities amidst global uncertainty.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said Small Business Month had been a chance for residents to show support for the best florists, cafes and pubs as well as industries at the backbone of our region.
“Small business month in Queensland has been a chance to offer a pat on the back to those people willing to take the risk and offer a service benefitting their local community,” Mr Last said.
“While we know our district is largely built on our sugar industry, our small businesses in trades such as manufacturing, retail, mechanical and construction provide the support our major sector needs to keep machinery operational and foster innovation.”
“No matter what corner of the state our small businesses operate in, accessing the tools, knowledge and support they need to grow and adapt means they have the confidence to invest in our communities.”
As a former small business owner, Mr Last said he recognised the unique challenges faced by business owners in the current climate of rising costs and shortage of skilled workers.
“Small Business Month may be over for 2026 however there is always opportunities to support our small businesses in town by shopping local where you can. After all it is many of these small businesses who we look to when our local sporting teams or community groups need sponsorship.”
“At a time when fuel security and the costs of doing business are increasing, supporting our small businesses through grants targeted at industries, business security and innovation demonstrates our support as a state government,”
“There are still plenty of grant opportunities available including the Secure Communities Partnership Grant which offers small businesses grants to improve surveillance and security infrastructure at their premises.”
Fore more information on what support is available visit https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/support-services/financial/grants/secure-communities
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right) with survivors following the tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. Photo: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin community has rallied to support survivors following last Thursday’s tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. While emergency services managed the confronting crash site, local residents, council staff, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort coordinated immediate relief, providing accommodation, meals, and medical aid to the shaken passengers.
A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14 May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side.
The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.
Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentina and Italy national, died at the scene.
Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment.
One passenger who survived the crash told Burdekin Life they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover.
“I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times.
The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt.
They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin.
Following the crash, passengers were accommodated in Ayr overnight before being cared for at the Burdekin Theatre loft the following day, where they were provided meals prior to continuing their journey south on another bus.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community.
The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.
The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives.
Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response.
“This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said.
“Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].”
Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital.
He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway.
“It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.”
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC). Photo supplied
The Bowen Pipeline Company will launch its critical water sales program this week, marking the final major milestone before seeking federal funding for a $750 million generational water infrastructure project.
Opening on 20 May and running until 24 June, the program will serve as the commercial validation required to secure a 50 per cent federal government construction grant.
The privately funded project would involve the construction of a 182-kilometre underground pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen, running primarily along the Bruce Highway corridor.
Once operational, the pipeline is anticipated to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water annually, securing a reliable supply for Australia’s largest winter vegetable-growing region.
Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown said the water sales program was the culmination of nearly a decade of local advocacy.
"This is essentially the final hurdle to be jumped prior to the lodging of our Federal Government construction grant application,” Mr Brown said.
"For the Project to be considered by the Federals as a worthy recipient of funding, the region needs to demonstrate both large water demand volumes and significant numbers of water users."
The company has set a minimum water volume of 20 megalitres, which can be shared between adjoining properties.
"In effect, water users will be paying 2025 prices for water that will be delivered in 2030," Mr Brown said.
The project is tracking towards ‘shovel-ready’ status by September 2026, ahead of a federal funding application. The company aims to secure a funding commitment in the May 2027 Federal Budget, with construction slated to begin in September 2027.
Boasting a benefit-cost ratio of 1.27, the pipeline is projected to create 200 jobs during construction and 1,200 permanent roles upon completion. It is expected to drive a $300 million annual economic gain for agriculture and unlock up to $1 billion in additional investment throughlocal green energy initiatives, such as sustainable aviation fuel and green ammonia.
The infrastructure features several industry firsts, including Indigenous project equity and ownership, and a net-zero footprint supported by 30-megawatt solar farms utilising Australian-made Tindo Solar panels.
Mr Brown credited local communities and political leaders, including Premier David Crisafulli, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, and local MPs and mayors, for progressing the project.
"After 9 years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push," Mr Brown said.
"This project is being built on the shoulders of the people who not only live in the region but all those who came before us."
Public information and water sales presentations will commence at 4:30 pm at the DPI in Bowen on 20 and 28 May, and at the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club on 21 and 27 May.
Able Seaman Maritime Logistics Chef Thomas Wiseman stands in the galley of HMAS Toowoomba as the ship sails through the Sulu Sea. Photo supplied
Growing up in Ayr, Queensland, Able Seaman Thomas Wiseman was torn between two paths: following in his father’s footsteps or pursuing a passion inspired by his mother.
“I was going to join the Army because my dad was Army and my grandfather was Army. But my mum is a pastry chef by trade, and my real love of cooking I got from her,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
Luckily, he not only went to his parents for advice, but actually listened to them.
“Dad suggested I join the Navy. He said in the Navy, chefs cook every day at sea and travel the world,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
As chef on board HMAS Toowoomba, over the past five months, he’s visited six of Australia’s regional partners and engaged in multiple exercises, activities and operations with allied nations, all while being trained to become a fully qualified chef.
“I went straight from school to enlisting and it was the best decision I have ever made by far. In just two years in the Navy, I’ve visited six countries and done several deployments. I love it,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
While learning his trade through Navy, he doesn’t have to worry about the competitive, seasonal nature of the hospitality industry and the lack of job security that can sometimes go with it.
“The pay is so much better. In the civilian world, I would be on an apprentice wage. In the Navy, you get paid more and you learn more skills,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
There’s also the additional duties that allow him to develop the skills and knowledge required to live a well-rounded, adult life.
“On top of being a chef, we have all of our external roles as well. I am a member of the ship’s emergency medical team, so if there’s a medical incident, I could be one of the members to go and respond. It is a great responsibility,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
Every day, Toowoomba’s chefs produce four meals for the about 200-strong crew, ensuring all watches on board are fuelled to carry out their duties protecting Australia and its interests.
“Without the stokers, the ship doesn’t go anywhere, without the watchkeepers keeping us safe, we can’t do much, so while us chefs are also important in keeping the ship going, the entire crew is one big team,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
His biggest thanks remain for his parents, whose wise words set him up for life.
“I reckon if my mum saw this in the paper, she’d absolutely love it, frame it and hang it up on the wall,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.
“They’re still up there in Ayr, so Dad, if you’re reading this, I took all the advice you’d given me, I am so glad you convinced me to go Navy, it was the best advice I ever had.”
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