Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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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
One of the first things I noticed when I moved here about 10 months ago was this town’s sense of togetherness, shown in the abundance of community and volunteer groups across the region.
After learning more about what they do, how they operate, and the ways they support the community, it became clear to me that without these groups, towns like our beloved one simply wouldn’t function.
While volunteering in the Burdekin remains relatively strong, I’ve come to learn that a trend has emerged—or rather, one has dissipated.
Many of the groups I visit share stories from their younger volunteering years. Of how fun, social and rewarding they were. At the same time, they all raise a common, current concern in the lack of youth involvement in community and volunteer groups.
Why has it become a dying art?
Is it “those bloody phones?”
Who are we gonna pass the torch to? What would this town look like without these cogs helping it to function?
Who knows?
I’ve decided to find out. I’ve got an article in the works with several sources, aiming to get to the bottom of it.
After all, would I even be doing my job if I wasn’t bringing these issues to light?
Stay tuned.
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