While many were busy egg-hunting over the Easter Weekend, the Home Hill Choral Society were singing their hearts out at this years North Queensland Eisteddfod in Townsville—and earning silverware in the process.

The Eisteddfod, which runs from Good Friday to Easter Sunday each year, invites both small and big choirs from Mackay all the way through to Cairns to compete across a wide range of vocal categories.

The Home Hill Choral Society—a team of 14 this year—competed in the Small Choir category, performing A Celtic Song of Thanks and An Irish Blessing in the Sacred Works section on Friday—performances which saw them bring home the winners trophy.

“We are very proud to have attended the Eisteddfod and represent our district,” says Music Director of the group, Cheryl Platt.

As well as competing at events like the NQ Eisteddfod, the Home Hill Choral Society rehearse twice a week, and often perform at various local events over the calendar year.

“We do shows around the year, and they’re usually theatre-restaurant shows. We do a variety of choral pieces as well as unison pieces and some fun pieces, and then we do some little skits,” says Platt.

“We also do a lot of community work—we sung at Anzac Day at the cemetery this year, and  sometimes we do the Dawn Service.”

The group has also performed at many premier venues across Australia throughout its rich history, including the world-famous Sydney Opera House.

Now in its 94th year, the Home Hill Choral Society continues to proudly represent the Burdekin, serving as a true cornerstone of the local arts scene.

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While many were busy egg-hunting over the Easter Weekend, the Home Hill Choral Society were singing their hearts out at this years North Queensland Eisteddfod. Photo supplied

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If you’re on the hunt for bargains, looking to lighten your load at home, or simply keen to enjoy a relaxed morning out, mark your calendar for Saturday, the 14th of June for the beloved Arts on the Avenue Car Boot Sale!

Held on the second Saturday of each month, weather permitting, the event will once again transform the Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark into a lively community marketplace from 8am to 12pm. Shoppers can expect a mix of pre-loved clothing, second-hand treasures, handmade crafts, plants, and more.

More than just a place to shop, the Car Boot Sale champions sustainable living as by buying second-hand and giving unwanted items a new life, locals are helping to reduce landfill, lower consumption, and minimise waste, one purchase at a time.

Hosted by the Burdekin Artisan Community Association, the sale not only supports the environment but also contributes to the local arts community. With sites priced at just $10, it’s a low-cost way for stallholders to participate, whether you’re a creative looking to share your wares, or just decluttering your garage.

To book a site or find out more, call 0497 356 355.

Bring your reusable bags, sip on a coffee, and join in the friendly atmosphere this June!

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What: Car Boot Sale
When: Saturday the 14th of June
Where: Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark, Home Hill

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Burdekin Catholic High School warmly invites prospective students and their families to our Open Twilight Evening on Monday, May 26, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. This special event offers a valuable opportunity to explore the heart of our vibrant school community, meet our passionate staff, and experience first-hand what sets BCHS apart.

The Open Twilight Evening is more than just a tour — it's a window into your child’s future. Families will have the chance to see our modern learning environments, explore subject displays, and talk to current students about their experiences. Staff will be available to answer questions about curriculum, student wellbeing, extracurricular opportunities, and the school’s strong Catholic values that guide everyday life at BCHS.

Choosing the right secondary school is a significant decision. Attending this evening gives families the information and confidence needed to make that choice with clarity. BCHS prides itself on nurturing students academically, spiritually, and socially, preparing them to thrive in an ever-changing world.

We encourage all prospective families to come along and discover the welcoming atmosphere and quality education that Burdekin Catholic High School has to offer.

All are welcome — please register at https://www.bchs.catholic.edu.au/quicklinks/twilight-open-evening/

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Ayr State High School’s Sophie Robertson has been selected to attend the esteemed 44th Professor Harry Messel International Science School, to be held at the University of Sydney from the 7th to the 18th of July later this year.

Chosen from a highly competitive pool of over 450 applicants nationwide, Sophie is one of just 44 students across Australia to receive a coveted scholarship to the program. Sophie was also only one of five Year 11-12 students selected across Queensland and her place is fully funded by the University of Sydney’s Physics Foundation.

The International Science School offers high-achieving science students the chance to immerse themselves in two weeks of cutting-edge learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Sophie will join like-minded peers from around the globe, including China, India, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.

Throughout the program, students will tour state-of-the-art laboratories, take part in hands-on experiments, and have the rare opportunity to meet Nobel Prize laureates. Beyond the science, participants will enjoy a dynamic social calendar including a dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour, designed to build friendships and networks across continents.

Ayr State High School could not be prouder of Sophie’s remarkable achievement and wishes her all the best as she embarks on what is sure to be an unforgettable and inspiring scientific journey.

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Ayr State High School student, Sophie Robertson will soon travel to attend the 44th Professor Harry Messel International Science School (Photo Supplied)

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Nationally recognised award-winning cattle dog handler, Steven Elliott, will return to the region once again to host a comprehensive Working Dog School at the Ayr Showgrounds next month.

Hailing from Winton, 177 kilometers northwest of Longreach, Steven was left paralysed from the chest down after falling from a saddle bronc on New Year's Eve in 2003. However, despite a dislocated C6 and C7 vertebrae, Steven transformed his love for training and riding horses into an accomplished career training working cattle dogs. Steven’s work has been celebrated at multiple competitions over the years, and his talents have been broadcast across the country in 2024’s season of Muster Dogs Australia.

Steven now regularly travels the nation, running educational schools to share his wealth of dog training knowledge and methods with others, a passion he has been honing over the past 13 years. His love for the industry continues to grow, and Steven finds great fulfillment in seeing young dogs reach their full potential through each of his workshops.

“When you get a little pup who has so much desire for the herding instinct, watching them learn the skills is the most rewarding part of the trade,” shared Steven.

Having revisited the region after five years to make his Burdekin Show debut in June of 2024, Steven will journey back to Ayr once again to run lessons suitable for those of both beginner and experienced ability levels on the 21st and the 22nd of June.

Enrollment fees to the class are $550 each which includes lunches, smoko and an invitation to a wonderful BBQ on Saturday evening and all reservations can be made by phoning Richard on 0439 826 886.

What: Steven Elliot Working Dog School
When: 21st & 22nd of June
Where: Ayr Showgrounds

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Steven Elliot's Working Dog School will be coming to the Burdekin this June (Photo Supplied)

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As the pricing nomination date for the 2025 season passes there are a couple of notable trends emerging
in the ways growers are approaching their GEI sugar price management.

Firstly, we are seeing a drift away from growers managing the price risk themselves and going back to
the pools.

Interestingly we have seen our first drop-off in growers choosing to manage their GEI pricing exposure
with the popular GMPRS product. In the same vein, we have a significant increase in the tonnage
committed to our Production Risk Pool.

A contributing factor to this trend is the continuing volatility in prices. This is creating pricing fatigue
amongst growers whereby the challenge of setting price levels creates doubt in their minds. No doubt the
consistent outperformance of our Production Risk Pool would also be influencing growers, but this may
not always be the case.

The other notable and linked observation is the level of forward coverage growers have for this season
and beyond. Broadly speaking, for growers who chose to use the Target pricing mechanism, around 30
per cent is locked in for the 2025 season. This is well down on previous seasons.

One factor influencing this outcome would be the late finish to the 2024 crush and extreme wet season,
leading growers to be cautious about expected production this year. Our recently released crop estimate
validates grower caution on production expectations.

The other factor is the absolute price level which has been under pressure most of the year. Coming out
of a period of relatively high sugar prices, growers may have to adjust down their expectations for the
balance of their price exposure.

Given this drift away from independently managing price risk, we have opened our Managed Pool Plus
early for 2026 season nominations. We will be accepting commitments from now through to 30 June
2025. This allows us to manage the price exposure over a longer time frame to take advantage of price
opportunities.

We recently completed a detailed review of the 2025 Season Managed Pool Plus and so far, the pool is
performing well above benchmark pricing, which is a good outcome for our growers.

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The performance of the Production Risk Pool over the past three years is a significant factor when
growers choose how to price their GEI Sugar exposure

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Ayr Bowling Club has been a hive of activity this week, with members turning out in strong numbers for a packed schedule of social games and championship matches. The lively atmosphere on the greens reflected both the camaraderie of the club and the competitive spirit of the championship season, now in full swing. Spectators and players alike were treated to an impressive display of talent, skill, and sportsmanship throughout the week.

Tuesday – Ladies’ Social Bowls
An enjoyable afternoon of friendly competition saw the team of Karen Shepherd, Ron Soper, and Mary Poli claim victory over Katharina Stuckler, Beryl Cornford, and Dot Cutting. Runners-up were Meryl Smith, Donna Soper, Sandra Stidston, and Irene Wilson, who edged out Isabel Cislowski, Linda Giumelli, Merle Nixon, and Heather Jorgensen in a well-fought match.

Wednesday – Men’s Social Bowls
Three games of triples were played, with the winning team consisting of Barry Hewson, John Pironne, and Ron Soper.

Wednesday Night – Social Bowls
Two games of triples were played under lights. Winners were Lyn Cecil, Rob Jorgensen, and Sam Caltabiano in one game, while the other match was won by Bertilla Piazetta, Margaret McLaughlin, and Ross McLaughlin.

Friday – Fun Night
Friday Fun Night was a fantastic success, with a great turnout for an evening of sausage sizzles and social bowls. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere saw many newcomers trying their hand at bowls for the first time. Generously sponsored by Harvey Norman, Ayr, the night was filled with laughter and friendly competition. The winning team was Johnny Grabbi, Arthur Gauvin, and Joe Grabbi. In second place were Colin, Helen, and Nathan. The Sportsman’s Prize went to Mason, Elissa, and Laura for their spirited play and positive attitude.

Saturday – George Nixon’s 90th Birthday Celebration
Saturday was a special day as members gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of life member George Nixon. In true generous spirit, George sponsored the day’s event, which was filled with good cheer, competitive bowls, and a strong sense of community.
Taking top honours were Angela Williams, Dino Poli, and Hugh Montgomery. Second place went to Shane, Lorraine, and Ron, with Barry, John, and Anthony finishing in third. It was a joy to welcome new members and visitors for such a memorable occasion.

Championship Results
In the Men’s A Singles, Ron Soper defeated Barry Shepherd 27–15.
In the A Grade Pairs, Joe Grabbi and Lew Stidston beat Anthony Bull and Maurie Power.
The Mixed Pairs also commenced this week, with Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull recording a strong 34–9 win over Karen Shepherd and Barry Shepherd. All winning teams progress to the next round.

Upcoming Competitions
The draw for the Ladies’ Pairs has been completed and matches will be played as players become available. For the Triples, three teams will play a round robin format — the draw is now up on the board. Good luck to all competitors.

Get Involved – Friday Roll Ups
If you’re interested in giving bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a great way to start. Held every Friday from 3:00–5:30pm, these casual sessions offer a chance to sharpen your skills, enjoy a few drinks, and have a laugh with fellow members. Whether you're learning the ropes or just looking to relax, come down and join the fun.

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A farmer dies by suicide in Australia every 10 days—a heartbreaking statistic that highlights the urgent need for targeted support in rural and agricultural communities.

Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) stands in solidarity with the many organisations working to change this reality, including Cores Queensland, a grassroots initiative making a powerful difference across the state.

Cores Queensland offers suicide prevention training and mental health support in regional centres such as the Burdekin, Hinchinbrook, Innisfail, Palm Island, Mackay, the Whitsundays, Wide Bay and the Sunshine Coast. These programs are designed to equip community members with the tools to recognise warning signs, offer support, and foster stronger local networks.

As part of this vital work, the Burdekin Cores Team is inviting locals to a free Self Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop on Thursday 22nd May 2025 from 5:30pm to 8:00pm. This evening session offers practical strategies for managing mental health and creating safer, more supportive rural communities.

QCAR encourages growers, families and rural workers to prioritise their wellbeing and take part. Interested participants can book via the Cores Queensland Facebook page, email admin@thebnc.org.au, or call (07) 4783 4243.

Together, through open conversations and community-led action, we can ensure no one in the bush feels alone.

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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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