James Cook University scientists have found stonefish toxins could be used to fight parasitic worm infections suffered by nearly a quarter of the world’s population.

JCU PhD candidate Danica Lennox-Bulow led the study. She said parasitic gastrointestinal worms (helminths) are a massive problem around the globe - and it looks to be getting worse.

“It’s estimated that over two billion people, or a little over 24% of the global population, are currently infected with helminths. They can cause intestinal issues, organ damage, skin conditions, malnutrition and impaired growth and physical development,” said Ms Lennox-Bulow.

To make matters worse, existing drugs are becoming increasingly ineffective against the worms.

“It’s well-established that resistance has developed against all major classes of drugs used against helminth species that infect livestock.

“Within the last decade, cases of drug resistance have also emerged for helminth species that infect pets and humans. As such, new drugs with novel mechanisms of action are urgently needed,” said Ms Lennox-Bulow.

The scientists tested skin toxins from Queensland’s Estuarine Stonefish and Reef Stonefish against the infective (skin burrowing) larval stage of the Rodent Hookworm.

“While skin toxins from both stonefish species were found to be toxic to rodent hookworm larvae, those from the Estuarine Stonefish displayed the most favourable characteristics for therapeutic application.

“Specifically, the small size of the active components and their limited toxicity to mammalian cells in vitro are highly encouraging,” said Ms Lennox-Bulow.

She said components within the skin toxins from the Estuarine Stonefish show promise for therapeutic development.

“There’s still a lot of work to do before stonefish skin toxins are as effective against parasites as established drugs are. We need to drill down to find exactly what the active components are and we need to test these against a wider range of parasite species and taxa. But we’ve definitely found something here worth a closer look.”

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The Queensland Government is working with primary producers across the State to design a plan to deliver a prosperous future for the sector.

Consultation throughout regional Queensland has started on the 25-year blueprint, “Primary Industries Prosper 2050”, which is the largest strategic collaboration between the Government and industry in at least a decade.

Following the forum in Brisbane on 26 February, the draft blueprint is now touring the State and available online.

Farmers, graziers, fishers, forestry workers, truck drivers and anyone connected to primary industries can contribute to the plan at a series of consultation events held across Queensland or online.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering A Fresh Start for Queensland’s primary industries and is committed to boosting the State’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.

Speaking at the Gympie information session, the Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the blueprint will drive future investment, create jobs, and unlock opportunities for agribusiness.

“This blueprint is our map to a better future for Queensland’s primary industries,” Minister Perrett said.

“I’m calling on all representatives from across our industry sectors, including research, community, investors and government, to make sure their voices are heard so we can co-deliver a future where our primary industries thrive and prosper.

“We want every industry to have their say and I can’t think of a better place to launch the consultation than the Gympie region which supports one of the most diverse primary industries offering in the State encompassing livestock, horticulture, fisheries and forestry.

"For a decade under Labor, Queensland’s primary industries sector was left to wither on the vine through the failure to invest and adapt to changing technologies.

“We need to work with the industry to return the sector to full profitability after decades of neglect under various Labor governments that took advantage of our food, fibre and foliage industries.”

Help shape the future of Queensland’s primary industries by joining the conversation on a draft blueprint online at https://dpi.engagementhub.com.au/primary-industries-blueprint.

The public consultation closes on 9 June, 2025.

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Community members and producers from across the region contribute to the Primary Industries Prosper 2050 blueprint. Photo source: Tony Perrett MP (Facebook)

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One of the major attractions at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day on Saturday, 10 May, will be the Walkers Engine No.1 Diesel Engine and Alternator Set.

Built around 1930 by Walkers Ltd in Maryborough, this impressive engine is based on a Mirrlees design. Rated at 220 horsepower at 300 rpm, it weighs 25 tonnes and drove a 150kW alternator. It features an air-blast start system and air-blast fuel injection — a method based on Rudolf Diesel’s original 1897 engine design. Several European companies, including Mirrlees, acquired rights to Diesel’s early designs.

By 1910, liquid fuel solid injection had been successfully developed, rendering air-blast fuel injection largely obsolete. As a result, the Walkers No.1 was already about 20 years out of date when it was built.

The Burdekin Machinery Preservationists believe only two operational air-blast injection diesel engines remain in Australia today.

During its working life at the Kalamia Sugar Mill, the Walkers No.1 Engine provided critical backup power when the mill’s steam alternators were offline or when the Townsville Regional Electricity Board (TREB) system was down. Its last operational use came during Cyclone Althea in 1971, when it helped power the mill during the emergency.

In 2015, Wilmar Sugar Mills generously donated the engine and alternator set to the Club. Work to remove the engine from the Kalamia Mill began soon after, and in March 2019, the engine was successfully fired up again at Brandon. The Club extends its thanks to Wilmar Sugar Mills for their ongoing support of this important community project.

In further good news, preparations for the Open Day are on track. "Main Man" Peter reports that the Austral will be up and running in time. Plumbing work was completed last Wednesday, engine testing began on Monday, and if the temperamental governor behaves, the Austral will be operating smoothly and on display in its full working glory.

Visitors are invited to experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of historic steam and diesel engines in action at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day, held from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday, 10 May, at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

For more information, or to join the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists, contact Lex on 0488 366 443 or email burdekinmp@outlook.com.

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On April 26, the Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted its biannual Garage Sale to help raise funds for its ongoing activities and community contributions.

“What we sell at the garage sale is our main funding for the year,” said President Rob Ritchie. “We might have one or two a year, and we also sell stuff on Facebook.”

From 8am to 11:30am, customers were spoilt for choice, with a range of modern and antique household items, artworks, tools, gadgets and a host of other items available for purchase at bargain prices. Most of these items are donated, says Ritchie:

“People have stuff from a deceased estate, or they’re downsizing their house, or they’re having a garage sale of their own and the stuff doesn’t sell, and we go and pick it up.”

But beyond taking on these unwanted items, the Men’s Shed members apply their craftsmanship in order to restore, repair, or repurpose them, before offering them up at affordable prices, or simply giving them away to those that need them more.

“If we find there’s someone in town needing something and they’re finding it hard, we’ll give them something, if they can use it,” says Ritchie.

Any unsold items from the garage sale are still available for purchase during the Men’s Shed’s regular operating hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:00am to 11:30am.

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The Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted its biannual Garage Sale to help raise funds for its ongoing activities and community contributions. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Further details of the Crisafulli government’s action on a scourge of society was introduced to Parliament to coincide with the start of domestic and family violence prevention month in a move that illustrates the importance of the issue according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

The Legislation will now be examined by the Parliamentary Education, Arts and Communities Committee who will seek stakeholder input and conduct public consultation.

“The Crisafulli government has drawn a clear line in the sand when it comes to domestic and family violence,” Mr Last said.  “There is never an excuse for that type of behaviour and this government will back victims 100% and we will hold perpetrators to account.”

“The introduction of Police Protection Directions will empower Police to intervene quickly and effectively to provide real protections to victims.  Those Directions will put on-the-spot constraints on offenders and, if breached, the offender faces up to 3 years imprisonment.”

“For too long governments have tinkered around the edges when it comes to sending a clear message.  A change must be made because the number of victims of these crimes has escalated and the demand on Police resources has skyrocketed.”

“Many of the conditions that are currently applied in circumstances of domestic and family violence will still be available to Police.  The difference is that those conditions can be applied for a longer period than they currently can, without the need for a court case.”

Mr Last said consultation with stakeholders and the public would provide the opportunity to refine the Legislation and that significant work had gone into determining when the Directions could be used and how they could be reviewed.

“The options available to Police vary depending on the individual circumstances such as a history of offending or threats to use weapons,” he said.

“There are also specific conditions that apply when a child is the victim as well as the ability for both Police and the Courts to review Police Protection Directions.”

“We make no apologies for focusing on the rights of the victim but we also respect the rule of law so there are safeguards built into the Legislation to ensure the objective of protecting victims is what is actually achieved. For example, allowing body-cam footage to be used for evidence reduces trauma for victims but also allows magistrates the chance to see exactly what Police see at the scene of an incident.”

“And when it comes to high-risk perpetrators, GPS monitoring will provide an additional layer of protection for victims when deemed necessary by a court. That element of the Legislation will begin as a pilot in certain areas to allow for any challenges to be addressed before implementation statewide.”

“Given the lifelong impact that domestic and family violence can have on victims and witnesses, it is essential that we put in place the best protections possible. That’s why I encourage people who have been touched by domestic and family violence to share their experiences and raise any concerns they have when consultation opens because that input could, literally, save a life.”

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Burdekin Shire Council is delighted by the strong interest shown following the release of land in Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Precinct.

Nutrien Harcourt McCathies have received numerous enquiries since the release with negotiations underway for a number of lots.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Ayr Industrial Precinct presents an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations in North Queensland.

“The strong response to the Stage 1 land release highlights the confidence businesses have in the future of the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“Land within the Ayr Industrial Precinct is competitively priced, starting from $50 per square metre plus GST, with pricing varying depending on the size and location within the precinct.

“Council has worked to ensure the Ayr Industrial Precinct is not only well-located and fully serviced, but also priced to attract a diverse range of businesses.

“Whether you are looking for a smaller site or a larger parcel, there are flexible options available to suit a variety of business needs.

“Council is committed to supporting economic growth and creating new opportunities for our community by delivering strategic projects like the Ayr Industrial Precinct, which lay the foundations for a stronger, more resilient local economy for current and future generations.”

To learn more about the opportunities available within the Ayr Industrial Precinct, download a copy of the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au. For all sales enquiries contact Nutrien Harcourt McCathies on 4783 1911 or for any other enquiries, contact Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800.

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Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Directors Paula and John Mottin with Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina DalleCort. Photo supplied

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Thank you for trusting me to be your representative for another three years. As the re- elected Member for Dawson, I will repay your faith by continuing to work hard and fight for our region’s fair share.

Saturday night was bittersweet. I celebrated our local team’s increased vote with family and supporters, while also mourning the missed opportunity for the Coalition to form government.

Labor has made many promises in retaining government, and I intend to hold them to account for our region. I’ll continue to fight for upgrades to the Bruce Highway and other vital infrastructure, demand real action on the cost of living, pursue greater investment in our local economies, and remind the government that regional Australians need access to affordable GPs and medical services.

To me, one of the most important attributes a member of parliament should have, is the ability to listen. Listening helps me represent all constituents in the best way possible. My team and I are here for everyone, and I welcome any feedback that helps enhance our region.

To my dedicated campaign team and volunteers — thank you. Your tireless efforts, long hours, and commitment played a major role in my re-election.

To my small but mighty electoral office team, your hard work and positive community engagement make my job so much easier — thank you.

Raylene, Jack, Shannon and Tom — you keep me grounded, humbled and grateful. Family is everything. You make the challenges lighter, the successes sweeter, and life better.

To everyone who voted for me — thank you. And to those who didn’t, thank you in advance for the opportunity to earn your support. I’m proud to be on Team Dawson and will continue working hard for all Dawson residents to build a stronger future.

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Having refined his retail and customer service skillset over the course of his already extensive career, Gary’s philosophy is simple: understand your customers, empower your team, and never settle for “good enough.”

“We're very customer-centric, and customers need and want that. There's no reason why our customers should have anything less than the best that could be offered,” says Roser.

With a background spanning fast food, telecommunications, and the travel industry, Gary’s path to Harvey Norman wasn’t quite linear. From facilitating the opening of multiple McDonald’s stores to launching a Telstra branch, Gary brings with him a proactive, people-first approach to his role as a proprietor at Harvey Norman, Ayr.

“Our sales and service experience is different to our competitors,” says Roser. "You go into (other stores), you pick your thing, and you go to the checkout and you buy your thing… whereas in Harvey Norman, you're talked to three or four times throughout the process, and the thing that you're looking for is explained properly.”

Spending most of his lifetime in Airlie Beach, Gary has long called North Queensland home. He and his team use this local familiarity to their advantage.

“We are very lucky that we know the area quite well,” says Roser. “We know what the town likes, we know what the people like, so it’s easier for us to help our customers, because we understand that our customers here are different to some in the bigger cities.”

A firm believer in the ‘work hard, play hard ’notion, when Gary’s not overseeing the floor or serving customers, you’ll likely find him glued to a football match, out with mates, or enjoying quality time with his eight-year-old daughter.

“An amazing part of my role is to help my team develop throughout their journey, both in their Harvey Norman career and personal goals, says Gary.

“After all, a full-time employee only spends 22% of their week at work. I encourage my team to do their best at work but then also go and have as much fun as possible with their family and friends. Go and enjoy the amazing lifestyle living in the Burdekin offers”

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WOW! What a busy few long weekends!

Starting with another memorable, sombre ANZAC Day, my morning started with the Dawn Service in Home Hill, Home Hill Cemetery participating with the Home Hill Choral Society, Brandon Service followed by the main Service in Giru.

Well done to the pipers and drummers who entertained at the ANZAC club afterwards. Thank you to all who participated in the day’s services. For me it was a time to especially remember my dad and uncle WWII and grandad WWI.

‘Canefield Ashes’ was held over the last weekend in April and according to Deputy Max a great time was had by all. Cowboys had another good win, slow first half but came home with a wet sail in the second over the Titans. Magic Round just completed in Brisbane was another milestone event on the Rugby League calendar.

‘Takes Two’ Saturday 26th was a roaring success with over nine thousand raised for CORES. The couples were very entertaining, and the evening was well held together by the tremendous talents of Bronwyn Nucifora and Jasmin Delle Baite. Sunday morning was an early start with the Burdekin’s premiere running event ‘Sugar Rush’, with nearly 300 participants in the beautiful Burdekin pounding the streets.

Weekend just gone has seen the incredible ‘Sugar Bowl’ tennis. From Saturday to Monday and over forty teams participating across courts in Giru, Ayr and Home Hill. Competition was fierce and a great time was had by all.

It would be hard to find a Shire that has as many events going on and it’s a great tribute to the many volunteers that make them happen.

Health and happiness to you all
Councillor John

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If anyone ever tells you there’s nothing to do in the Burdekin — tell them they’re not looking hard enough!

It’s event season in the Burdekin, and this weekend marks the first Debutante Ball of the year — a special tradition that brings families and our community together to celebrate and support our local young women.

Our tennis community was buzzing over the weekend, with visitors from near and far taking part in competitions and the official opening of the new amenities block at the Home Hill Tennis Courts.

It was wonderful to see Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, officially unveil the facility alongside the passionate Mrs Caswell, a dedicated volunteer with the Home Hill Tennis Association.

Her speech highlighted the power of local sponsorship, community support, and how everything from funding to the build was kept local. This is exactly how our community continues to thrive: by backing our own.

The Home Hill Tennis Association is also embracing the fast-growing sport of Pickleball. If you haven’t come across it yet, now’s the perfect time to give it a go, you might just discover your next favourite sport.

With the string of short weeks behind us, it’s great to see our local farmers hard at work preparing the fields. The sugar cane season is just around the corner, and it’s a reminder of how connected we are to the land and the hands that work it.

And speaking of things to do, don’t miss the Burdekin Machinery Field Day this Saturday. It’s always a highlight on the calendar and a great chance to explore, connect, and support local industry.

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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For every year since its inception in 1981, the Sugar Bowl has served up a weekend full of all-round entertainment and good quality tennis. This year's edition was no different.

However, unlike any year in the past, this year’s event saw the opening of a brand-new, wheelchair-accessible amenities block. Players and spectators alike gathered early on Saturday morning to witness the official opening of the facility, at which Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort were both present.

“The design makes a statement—it’s no longer just a rudimentary toilet block, but a functional, welcoming, and classical structure that enhances our club’s identity,” said Home Hill Tennis Association (HHTA) Secretary, Kate Casswell.

The opening of the amenities marked the commencement of the tournament, with hundreds of players battling it out for ultimate glory across a range of skill and age-based divisions.

A SMASH HIT!

Sugar Bowl 2025 Results:

A Grade Men
1st: Tea Bags – 264 pts
2nd: Tommy Haas Beens – 226 pts
3rd (tie): Casswell & Debondi – 187 pts

A Grade Ladies
1st: M & Ms – 189 pts
2nd: Macwhittown Pals – 170 pts

A2 Men
1st: Bad Hatters 2 – 235 pts
2nd: Energizers – 222 pts
3rd: Calen Crew – 205 pts

A2 Ladies
1st: Post Card Lifers – 236 pts
2nd: The Odd Bunch – 215 pts
3rd: Tam – 198 pts

B Men (average games)
1st: Here 4 Beer – 48.4
2nd: Northern All Stars – 45.4
3rd: Redemption – 44.6
4th: Shoeys – 44.5

Woods Team Spirit Trophy
Winner: Teaspoons

Raffle Prizes
1st: Kerry Formilan – Split system air conditioner
2nd: Justin Vidler – Nutrien pack

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(Left to right) - Club Secretary Kate Casswell, Hon Dale Last MP, Tennis Development Officer Tennis Queensland Ryan Coffey, Club Patron Jill Barbagallo, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Councillor John Furnell.
1: A Grade Ladies winners
2: A Grade Men, the Teabags
3: A2 Ladies Post Card Lifers
4: A2 Men, Bad Hatters 2
5: B Grade Ladies 2025 Charters Towers
6: B Grade Men Here 4 Beer

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With degrees in Teaching and Multimedia & Information Technology—and years of experience working in the field of IT—Adrian’s transition into a proprietor role at Harvey Norman was seamless.

Before stepping into a proprietor role at Harvey Norman—where he’s spent more than 13 years—Adrian had built a diverse résumé that includes stints at EB Games, KFC, a tech startup, and even web development for Australian Mining Link.

He says that the technology and sales knowledge accrued throughout his career has helped him to thrive in his new role at Harvey Norman, Ayr.

“It definitely helps that I understand the technology,” says Adrian. “I was actually able to get a complete solution better than some colleagues that have been doing it for ages, just because they just didn't understand the technology.”

“My teaching experience has also helped as a proprietor, a trainer, and also as a sales person,” added Adrian.

Born and raised in Mackay, Adrian has travelled all across Australia as a Harvey Norman proprietor, eventually landing in the Ayr store six months ago—a place with which he has quickly fallen in love.

“The community has been extremely welcoming. I've already made some very good friends… just from being here, helping them multiple times and having chats and similar interests,” says Durelli.

Adrian says his way of giving back to the community is by offering the best possible services to customers: “The ultimate goal is always to have the best service. We can't do everything for the customer, but we try to do the most that we can so that they don't leave unhappy—so that they get a full solution.”

The ability to help people in this way is one of the main things that drew Adrian to becoming a proprietor. “I fell in love with helping people,” says Durelli. “You're your own boss, you get to go out, help the community, help people in your store… and then you get to also get to help your staff. I’ve been able to help them grow to a point where they now have a career.”

Much like Gary, Adrian is an avid football fan, and currently plays for the Burdekin FC Panthers. Beyond work and sport, he enjoys going out with mates and making connections in the community.

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Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist David Robertson outlines in his latest economic update why growth and jobs will be the key drivers for the RBA’s cash rate decisions through 2025 in light of the latest inflation figures.

Global turbulence stems local inflation
The uncertain global backdrop and lower growth expectations have served to limit upside risks to inflation, with the RBA’s preferred measure of underlying inflation falling to 2.9% in the March quarter.

“Fortunately, unlike the US which faces stagflation due to its tariffs, our inflation outlook appears much more benign than previously forecast,” Mr Robertson said.

“The trimmed mean - the Reserve Bank’s preferred measure of underlying inflation - is expected to settle between 2.5% and 2.75% and to stay there.”

So after three years of having a laser sharp focus on inflation, the primary focus for the RBA is now rapidly shifting, Mr Robertson said.

“The RBA has been dealing with global inflation shock for three years but its concerns are quickly moving from price stability and inflation to protecting growth and jobs.”

All eyes on May for next cash rate cut – but by how much?
May looks set for the next cash rate cut, but questions remain over just how deep the cut will be.

“The next cut is almost certain for May 20, but of what magnitude?” Mr Robertson said.

“We have four more cuts, including May, in our forecasts taking the rate down to around 3.1%, a drop of 25 basis points per quarter.

“Meanwhile, the markets are now factoring in five rate cuts to around a 2.8% level by year end. It’s a deeper path than previously expected.”

The RBA can ease rates quickly if global conditions suddenly worsen, Mr Robertson noted, but this is an unlikely course of action for the moment.

“A larger 50 basis point cut in May is most unlikely unless markets become dislocated like in the GFC, which isn’t currently visible, but a 35 basis point cut from the RBA in May would round out the cash rate to more convenient fractions.”

Financial markets face extreme volatility
Volatility on financial markets remains extreme, despite the latest exemptions and deferrals of the US Government’s tariffs, Mr Robertson said.

“Equity markets have been clawing back some of their losses but there are still difficult times ahead.

“Tariffs are generally bad for everyone but especially problematic for the country imposing them. So with the escalation between the US and China - the world’s two largest economies - it’s a question of just how much slower these economies will be growing this year and next.”

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) now forecasts US growth will reduce by a third to 1.8% this year, and China’s GDP growth is projected at 4% (down from 4.6%).

Mr Robertson notes these forecasts may be a ‘best-case scenario’ given how challenging any negotiations are likely to be.

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David Robertson - Chief Economist Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.

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Regis Aged Care Home Hill will soon host a beautiful Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser on the 10th of May in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and in an exciting 2025 debut, the organisation has extended a warm invitation to the entire Burdekin community to attend.

An afternoon of socialisation, refreshments and plenty of prizes, attendees are encouraged to pop on over to Home Hill’s Tenth Avenue from 1pm onwards on the 10th of May to browse the wonderful selection of prizes before the Cent Sale begins at 1:30pm.

Over the past couple of months, Regis Aged Care kindly asked the businesses of the community to donate prizes of any kind towards the Cent Sale Fundraiser, and in true Burdekin fashion, Regis has been beyond overwhelmed with the region’s support.

“The response to our upcoming event has been truly heart-warming, with an amazing array of prizes already donated,” shared Regis Home Hill’s Office Manager, Megan Tye.

Gift hampers, vouchers, and uniquely handcrafted items are among the plethora of prizes on offer with Megan noting, that this is simply the beginning.

“We're still reaching out to more businesses, and the prize pool continues to grow, and this wonderful show of community spirit demonstrates just how special our local business community is,” added Megan.

Attendees are asked to present a $5 entry fee (children are free) which includes afternoon tea, and a ticket into the door prize competition all whilst supporting NBCF.

“Our upcoming fundraiser combines the charm of a classic afternoon tea with an exciting cent sale, bringing families and community together for a cause that touches us all – the Breast Cancer Foundation,” said Megan.

“This initiative holds deep personal significance for our team, particularly as many of us have been affected by breast cancer, and what makes this event even more special is the active involvement of our residents, who are helping with wrapping prizes to creating beautiful display for the day.”

The excitement across the Aged Care community has continued to build in anticipation of May’s event, and Megan, along with the rest of the staff, find the lead up to each of these occasions a spectacle in itself.

“You can feel the excitement building days before, as residents pick out their favourite outfits and share memories of social gatherings from their younger years as our morning and afternoon tea socials aren't just about refreshments – they're about creating moments that matter,” noted Megan.

“These gatherings serve as perfect occasions for our residents to step out of their daily routines and into something extraordinary and we believe that by uniting our community, we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against breast cancer.”

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What: Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser
When: 10th of May from 1pm
Where: Regis Aged Care Home Hill

Regis Aged Care Home Hill invite the community to attend May's Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser. Photo: Illustration only

With an incredible dream and the support of the entire community, Macy Dabelstein will embark on a lifechanging journey to Nepal this October to provide free medical care to thousands of men, women and children in rural communities.

Earlier this year, both Macy and her college, Josephine Long, decided to participate in World Youth International’s Nurses in Action initiative – a program enabling nurses and allied health professionals to deliver primary healthcare services to those living in remote areas within Kenya and Nepal.

“Since nursing together this year, Josephine and I have expressed a shared interest in taking the next step in our careers to gain more experience and help others,” explained Macy.

“Nursing overseas will be a once in a lifetime opportunity and will provide us with a new perspective on healthcare for those less fortunate and allow us to witness the daily struggles faced by individuals in Nepal dealing with chronic and acute illnesses.”

Macy and Josephine will engage in vital medical projects focusing on improving health services whilst offering healthcare to communities living in extreme poverty for just under a month, impacting the lives of almost 300 people every day.

“We aim to return with new nursing knowledge that we can apply in our careers as rural and remote nurses, along with a greater appreciation for our resources,” Macy added.

“This experience in a resource limited setting will enhance our clinical skills and cultural competence, empowering us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need and strengthening our role as advocates for accessible healthcare in our communities.”

In 2023, Macy graduated from James Cook University with a Bachelor of Nursing and has been a Registered Nurse (RN) at Cloncurry Hospital in North West Queensland for just under three months after completing a graduate program at the Ayr Hospital.

“Working as an RN in a rural setting presents unique challenges, particularly due to limited resources, however, I thrive on the excitement of the unknown where I’m never quite sure what will walk through the Emergency Department doors,” said Macy.

“Cloncurry has a tight-knit community, and establishing therapeutic relationships with our locals allows us to provide compassionate care tailored to their needs and we’re dedicated to making a positive impact in our community and enjoy caring for the residents.”

As part of the program, the pair were to raise $3,700 to fund the work of World Youth International (WYI) across the globe and after reaching out to dear friends, family and the wider Burdekin, Cloncurry, Brisbane and Goondiwindi communities, Macy and Josephine have raised almost $5,000 for the organisation.

“We are overwhelmed by the incredible support we've received since sharing our upcoming trip on social media and thanks to everyone’s generosity, we reached our fundraising goal within 20 hours,” Macy enthused.

“We will continue fundraising in our community, as any additional funds will allow us to contribute to a select project at one of the WYI project sites while volunteering in Nepal.”

To donate to Macy and Josphine’s account with WYI visit https://worldyouth.org.au/volunteers/macy-dabelstein.

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Josephine Long and Macy Dabelstein will travel to Nepal this October as part of the World Youth International’s Nurses in Action initiative (Photo Supplied)

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