Escaped Cow Sightings Becoming a Rising Concern

Motorists within the Burdekin Shire are being warned to take extra precautions and practice vigilance following an increase in escaped cattle seen wandering the streets and grazing along busy roadsides.

Residents have shared concerns online, outlining the increase in sightings as a grave safety concern, especially during the school holiday period.

In the past few weeks, three separate sightings involving several cows have been reported on the corner of the Bruce Highway and Piralko Road, Iona Road (Home Hill Golf Course), and near Cape Creek. Passing motorists have noted sighting ajar gates on fenced cattle properties around the area, indicating the safety concerns of escaped cattle venturing along rural and residential roads with high-speed limits.

All drivers are encouraged to remain aware of how to share the road safely with wildlife, livestock and domestic animals, with the Queensland Government referring motorists to visit www.qld.gov.au/transport/saftey/rules to stay up to date with official guidelines, regulations and protocol to avoid traffic hazards.

Motorists are advised to pay attention to road signs indicating areas where animals are more likely to be active and always scan ahead for potential dangers. If evasive action is required to avoid an animal on the road, it’s the driver’s responsibility to assess the situation and take appropriate action that avoids or prevents risk to themselves and other road users.

If you hit an animal or witness an animal in danger or distress, contact the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) to report the incident.

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Motorists encouraged to stay vigilant as escaped cow sightings increase. Photo source: Unsplash

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Rural Aid is calling on primary producers in Northwest Queensland impacted by ongoing flooding to register for assistance, as widespread rain continues to disrupt farms, livestock operations, and rural communities across the region.

Flooding has caused significant challenges for farmers, with properties inundated, livestock affected, road access cut, and daily operations brought to a halt. Rural Aid says it is actively mobilising to ensure support reaches those in need as soon as conditions allow.

“Flooding in the region is creating serious pressures for farmers, with properties and livestock impacted, roads cut, and daily operations disrupted,” said Rural Aid CEO John Warlters.

“We were there to support farmers during the severe 2019 floods, and we remain committed to standing by our communities now and into the future. We understand how quickly these events can affect both businesses and families, and we’re here to help every step of the way.”

As part of its flood response, Rural Aid is preparing to deliver hay and other essential supplies to affected farms once it is safe to do so and road access is restored. The organisation says these efforts reflect its broader commitment to providing practical support and reassurance to farming families during difficult times.

Rural Aid offers a wide range of free services to primary producers impacted by flooding, including hay and water deliveries for livestock in isolated areas, financial assistance for urgent farm needs, counselling and mental health support, and practical recovery assistance such as fencing, equipment, and infrastructure repairs. Community programs are also available to help maintain connections and provide peer support.

“Registering with Rural Aid is simple, confidential, and free,” Mr Warlters added.

“It ensures that farmers can access the right support when they need it, helping protect livestock, livelihoods, and wellbeing during this flood event.”

Primary producers affected by flooding in Northwest Queensland are encouraged to register for assistance at faa.ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624.

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Flood affected primary producers in North Queensland are encouraged to register for assistance. Photo supplied

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Residents of the Burdekin Shire are being reminded to act quickly and responsibly if they encounter sick, injured or orphaned native wildlife, with expert help available through dedicated wildlife rescue services.

Native animals can become injured or unwell for many reasons, including vehicle strikes, disease, attacks by other animals, or becoming trapped in fencing or netting. Sadly, these incidents often leave young animals orphaned and vulnerable, requiring urgent and specialised care.

If you come across a sick, injured or orphaned wild animal (excluding marine animal strandings), the first step is to call NQ Wildlife Care on 0414 717 374 or 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) immediately. The 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) service operates from 7am to 7pm, 365 days a year, providing specialist advice on the safest way to respond and ensuring the animal has the best possible chance of survival. After hours, assistance is still available through the RSPCA Hotline, which can help connect callers with their nearest wildlife rescue organisation.

Even when an animal appears to have only minor injuries, experts warn that serious internal trauma may still be present. This also applies if a dog or cat has interacted with wildlife, as even small scratches or contact with saliva can transmit harmful bacteria that require professional treatment.

For marine animal strandings, including sick, injured or deceased turtles, dolphins, dugongs or whales, the public should call 1300 130 372.

The Queensland Government appreciates the community's compassion for native animals, noting that by taking these actions, residents will be directly contributing wildlife conservation efforts accross the state.

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A little rock wallaby spotted at Mount Inkerman. Photo source: @peter_boero via IG
Guests often spot plenty of feathered friends at the Alva Beach Tourist Park. Photo source: Visit Burdekin

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Following the heavy rainfall and flooding caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji earlier this week, health authorities are urging North Queensland communities to remain alert to the risk of melioidosis, a rare but potentially deadly tropical disease found in soil and water.

Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which lives naturally in deep soil and muddy water across northern Australia. After significant rain events and flooding — such as those experienced across the region on Sunday - the bacteria can be brought closer to the surface and spread more easily, increasing the risk of exposure.

Cases of melioidosis are most commonly reported during the wet season, particularly following cyclones, monsoonal rain or flooding. While the illness is uncommon in healthy adults and children, it can cause severe disease if the bacteria enters the body through cuts or sores, is inhaled in contaminated dust or water droplets, or is ingested via untreated water.

Symptoms can develop anywhere from one day to three weeks after exposure and may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, skin ulcers or wounds that fail to heal. In severe cases, the infection can spread through the bloodstream, leading to sepsis and, if left untreated, can be fatal.

There is no vaccine for melioidosis, making prevention especially important as floodwaters recede and clean-up activities begin. Health authorities are encouraging residents to take the following precautions:

• Avoid contact with muddy soil or floodwater where possible
• Wear waterproof footwear and gloves when gardening, cleaning up or working outdoors
• Cover cuts, scratches and sores with waterproof dressings
• Wash skin thoroughly after contact with soil or muddy water
• Take extra care with foot and wound hygiene, particularly for people with diabetes
• Consider wearing a mask when using high-pressure hoses around soil or bore water

Melioidosis does not usually spread from person to person or from animals, but exposure can result in illness days, weeks, months or even years later.

Health officials remind the community that while most people exposed to the bacteria do not become sick, melioidosis can be life-threatening for those who do. Awareness, early symptom recognition and preventative measures are critical, particularly in the days and weeks following significant rainfall and flooding.

Anyone who feels unwell after potential exposure to muddy water or soil is urged to seek medical advice promptly. For health advice, contact a local doctor or health centre, or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

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Water and mud can pose serious health risks, including exposure to rare tropical diseases like Melioidosis. Photo credit: Jenya Smyk

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By Jacob Casha

Young potters of the Burdekin congregated at the Burdekin Potters' headquarters on Tuesday, the 6th, and Wednesday the 7th of January, for two hands-on school holiday clay workshops.

Tuesday’s class saw children aged six to 10 crafting food-themed trinket trays and pinch-pot animals, while Wednesday’s 10-years-plus class walked students through the creation of planters and vases.

A long-time Burdekin Potters initiative, the classes serve as an avenue for children to enjoy and express themselves, according to instructor and group member Kylee-Renai.

“It’s good for the kids to be able to play and create,” Kylee-Renai said.

“Everyone has the same instructions, but they all add their own touch, and each creation ends up coming out unique.”

She said the benefits of the classes were twofold.

“I think pottery is creative, but it’s also a very sensory thing. You’re feeling the clay, moulding it with your hands, and using your senses, which can be quite meditative.”

Each student’s creation is set to be bisque-fired and glazed, ready for collection at a later date.

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Several young potters crafted wonderful pieces last week as part of the Burdekin Potters School Holiday Program. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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As the new school year begins, Burdekin Catholic High School is reaffirming its strong commitment to student wellbeing through a comprehensive and deeply values-driven pastoral care approach.

At the heart of the school’s philosophy is the belief that education extends beyond academic achievement. Pastoral care at Burdekin Catholic High School is about caring for the whole person—supporting students’ emotional, social, spiritual and personal development within the context of family, school, parish and the wider community.

This approach ensures that every student is known, understood and supported. Staff work collaboratively to be aware of each student’s individual needs, feelings and circumstances, while providing safe and appropriate opportunities for students to share concerns and seek guidance.

Guided by Gospel values of justice, compassion, community, inclusion, hope, liberation and reconciliation, these principles underpin all decision-making across the school. They are lived daily in classrooms, playgrounds and relationships, shaping a culture where dignity and respect are paramount.

Burdekin Catholic High School aligns its practices with the Townsville Catholic Education Guideline for Positive Behaviour in Schools, which is committed to providing safe, supportive and nurturing learning environments. This framework promotes positive behaviours through clear expectations, teaching productive behaviours for learning, and responding thoughtfully to behaviours that may hinder learning or wellbeing.

“Our goal is for students to make respectful choices and for everyone in our community—students, staff and families—to feel truly ‘known and loved’,” Mr Leighton Gallagher, Assistant to the Principal – Pastoral Care, said.

To achieve this, the school prioritises fairness through equity rather than equality, considers individual context and circumstances, reflects on the impact of actions on the wider community, offers opportunities for reconciliation, seeks redemption and growth for each individual, and always respects the dignity of those involved.

Pastoral strategies at Burdekin Catholic High School fall under four key areas: preventative, supportive, corrective and restorative. Preventative and supportive measures form the foundation, ensuring students feel safe, connected and valued. Corrective and restorative responses are grounded in restorative justice, focusing on healing, learning and rebuilding relationships rather than punishment alone.

Restorative justice, the school explains, is about addressing conflict and wrongdoing in a way that maintains belonging and significance for all involved. Each incident is viewed as a vital teaching opportunity—one that encourages understanding, accountability and personal growth. Importantly, behaviour is distinguished from the individual’s humanity, affirming the inherent worth of every student.

As Burdekin Catholic High School embarks on another year, its pastoral focus remains clear: to nurture young people, stand with them in moments of challenge, and help them grow into compassionate, hopeful and responsible members of the community.

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What Parents Can Expect When Their Child Starts School

Starting school is a big step — for children and parents alike. For many families, the lead-up to Prep comes with excitement, nerves, and plenty of questions. It’s completely normal to wonder how your child will settle, how they’ll cope with routines, and what school life will really be like.

One of the most reassuring things for parents to hear is that school readiness isn’t about how much a child knows. Children don’t need to read, write, or count before they start Prep. What matters most is that they feel safe, supported, and ready to try new things.

What your child is learning in the early weeks

In the first weeks of Prep, children are learning how school works. They practise routines, learn where things go, make new friends, and get used to listening to a teacher. These early days are about settling in, building trust, and feeling comfortable in their new environment.

What parents often notice at home

Many parents are surprised by how tired their child can be at the end of the school day. Starting school uses a lot of energy — emotionally and socially. Children may need quiet time, early nights, and plenty of reassurance as they adjust. This is all part of the process and usually settles as confidence grows.

Helping your child (and yourself) feel ready

Simple things make a big difference. Practising independence skills like opening lunchboxes, packing bags, and saying goodbye calmly can help children feel more confident. Just as importantly, parents benefit from knowing it’s okay to feel emotional too. Starting school is a big milestone for families, not just children.

Finding the right school fit

Every family is different, and choosing the right school matters. For some children, smaller school settings can help ease the transition into Prep by allowing more one-on-one support, familiar faces, and strong relationships between staff, students, and families.

At Osborne State School, we understand that starting school is a shared journey. We work closely with families to support both children and parents through those early weeks, helping everyone feel welcomed, informed, and confident.

When children feel known and parents feel supported, the start to school becomes a positive and rewarding experience for the whole family.

Families preparing for Prep in 2025 or beyond are welcome to visit, ask questions, and see school life firsthand.

For more information, contact the school on (07) 4782 6254 or 0411 850 509, find us on Facebook, or visit osborness.eq.edu.au.

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A Timeline of Events Across the Burdekin

Saturday the 10th of January
Over the course of Saturday morning, severe weather continued to develop across the Burdekin Shire, prompting the release of an initial Watch and Act warning for residents at 10am, and an official movement from the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) to Stand Up.

Burdekin LDMG Chair, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the decision ensured the group could respond quickly to any potential impacts.

“The safety of our community is our highest priority. Moving to Stand Up means we are fully activated and ready to coordinate resources and support as this system approaches,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

The Burdekin LDMG issued a Watch and Act warning at 2:15pm via the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information dashboard for the Burdekin Shire, advising residents to prepare to take shelter amid the possibility of destructive wind gusts exceeding 130 kilometres per hour.

Residents of Groper Creek and Rita Island were advised to monitor conditions at 4pm as rising river levels threatened the possibility of isolation, building on the previously advised warning released on Thursday, the 8th of January to stay informed.

Just before 8pm on Saturday evening, the BOM confirmed Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, a category two system, had formed in the Coral Sea offshore of the North Tropical Coast. Tracking the system's movements, the BOM forecast Koji would cross the coast on Sunday morning between Townsville and Bowen and eventually weaken after tracking westwards.

Coinciding with the news from the BOM, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) issued an emergency alert for the Burdekin LDMG advising the region may be directly affected by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. QPS advised destructive winds were expected to strengthen overnight, strongly warning the community to take shelter immediately, remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

At 8pm, Burdekin Life spoke directly with Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort to develop the following statement to update and reassure the community.

“Stay home and stay safe until we make it through the crust of this being a category two Tropical Cyclone because anything could happen between midnight and the early hours of the morning - at this stage, it looks to be heavy torrential rain, so please stay off the roads, and stay home,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.

“If anyone’s concerned about being home alone, call a friend, relative or loved one to stay connected – you are not alone, and support is here if you need it.”

Mayor Dalle Cort encouraged the community to continue monitoring the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information dashboard for regular updates and visit https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/ for more information.

Sunday the 11th of January
At approximately 5am on Sunday morning, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji downgraded from category two to a category one weather system, coinciding with the cancellation of the emergency alert for Townsville and the confirmation of a new warning zone extending from Ayr to Mackay. The BOM recorded wind gusts reaching 120 kilometres per hour as the system continued to move south at 18 kilometres per hour before making landfall and crossing the coast between Ayr and Bowen at approximately 8am on Sunday.

Roughly three hours after Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji made landfall, the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information dashboard advised the community the system had weakened below tropical cyclone intensity, confirming the threat of the event had reduced. Issued at 11am, the report outlined the BOM’s confirmation of heavy rainfall between Ayr and Mackay and the possibility of flash flooding along coastal areas between Ayr and St Lawrence.

Also at 11am, the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information dashboard issued a Watch and Act warning for residents of the Jerona Township, advising the community to monitor conditions following the recent flooding that affected access to Jerona Road.

Monday the 12th of January
In the wake of the weekend’s wild weather events, the Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information dashboard issued several Watch and Act warnings, advising residents of the Groper Creek and Rita Island regions to monitor conditions. The Burdekin LDMG advised the Burdekin River at Inkerman Bridge was currently sitting at 4.8 meters as of 11am on Monday, noting the level was expected to rise overnight to over 7 meters, exceeding the minor flood level with further rises possible.

Just after 1pm on Monday, the Burdekin LDMG moved to Lean Forward status following on from an official meeting, with Mayor Dalle Cort advising the group will continue to closely monitor weather conditions and river levels to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

“Jerona community currently remains isolated, and the Burdekin LDMG is continuing to monitor weather conditions and rising river levels,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“Moving to Lean Forward enables the LDMG to remain ready to respond quickly if conditions change.”

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The Burdekin’s Shire was spared last weekend, with the area experiencing only minor damage and disruption as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, previously a category two system, skirted the region late on Saturday, the 10th of January, and into the early hours of Sunday, the 11th of January.

Although the Burdekin experienced periods of strong winds and heavy rainfall, locals described the system as “more like a storm.” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Dalle Cort said the community had been lucky to fare better than its neighbours to the south during the event.

"While we were fortunate not to see the same level of impact as some southern communities, there were reports of fallen trees, minor property damage, flash flooding and some localised power outages [in the Burdekin]," said Mayor Dalle Cort.

"Council crews are currently clearing debris from public spaces and assessing roads, drainage infrastructure..., [and] any damage across the Shire..., [while] the Local Disaster Management Group will continue monitoring weather conditions and river heights."

Fierce winds, Heavy Rainfall, Minor Flooding
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) recorded 101.4 mm of rain in Ayr between 3pm on Saturday, the 10th of January, and 4pm on Sunday, the 11th of January, with intermittent heavy downpours and strong winds as the system moved south of the region.

Among flooded areas was parts of Ayr's Plantation Park, Nelson's Lagoon Park, and parklands either side of Chippendale Street, with the Burdekin River rising as high as 4.8m on Monday - below the minor flood level threshold.

The Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Dashboard reported that Barratta Road in Upper Haughton, Allen and Jerona Roads in Barratta, and Woodstock Giru Road between Shirbourne and Woodstock were closed to traffic, with flooding also forcing closures along Ayr Ravenswood Road, Deighton Street, and McMullen Road, while the Bruce Highway near Merinda, north of Bowen, was also closed due to floodwaters. Once again, Giru's infamous Majors Creek broke its banks, cutting access for motorists to cross as since New Year's Day.

Flooding was accompanied by strong winds, which brought down trees along both the Bruce Highway and Beach Road without disrupting traffic.

An Ergon representative reported that harsh conditions also left 600 customers across the region without power over a two-hour period from 4 to 6am on Sunday.

The Local View
Community members across the region reported no significant damage, with debris and fallen trees cited as the most visible impacts of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

Longtime Home Hill resident Uli Liessmann said the system was mild compared to previous weather events in the area.

“Normally we get a real lot of rain, but we didn’t get that either. It was a big fizzler - which is good. I’m glad we missed out,” Liessmann said.

A Giru resident said the town was also largely unaffected, reporting no noteworthy damage in the immediate area.

Business as Usual
Despite the cyclone scare, Burdekin businesses reported minimal disruption, said Burdekin Chamber Secretary Kari Ravizza.

“We are grateful the Burdekin did not sustain any major damage from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, and we’re pleased to reassure the community that local businesses have not reported any significant impacts, with doors open and business operating as usual,” said Kari.

“While some businesses chose to adjust trading hours and close over the weekend as a precaution ahead of the wild weather, normal hours have now resumed and our business community is here, open and ready to support locals.”

Burdekin Stands Together
Mayor Dalle Cort applauded the Burdekin region for its togetherness after Cyclone Koji put the region on alert.

"The way our community came together during this event shows the strength and resilience of the Burdekin," said Mayor Dalle Cort.

"Neighbours checked on each other, and people followed advice to stay safe... and this connectedness is what makes the Burdekin strong in times of challenge."

She said the success of the region's response was thanks to a combination of preparedness, compliance, and teamwork.

"Our community responded exceptionally well," Mayor Dalle Cort added.

"Residents took early warnings seriously, secured their properties, and stayed off the roads during the height of the system... while the Local Disaster Management Group worked closely with emergency services to ensure timely communication and support, which helped keep everyone safe."

Burdekin SES Rises to the Challenge
Burdekin State Emergency Services (SES) Local Controller Warren Francis said Cyclone Koji capped off a busy period for the service, which responded to 72 callouts from Christmas Day through Cyclone Koji amid two periods of heavy rainfall.

“A big thank you to Burdekin SES who came and tarped my roof today – one inch of rain fell while they worked – what an awesome group of people – they were all completely drenched at the end of the job,” expressed local resident, Betina Wilks.

“These volunteers are often the change in many of our community members’ lives. Thank you for continuing to commit endless hours to helping others,” added Romana Galbraith.

Francis said the first request for assistance came just after 6am on Christmas Day, with the final job completed on Monday, the 12th of January, noting the workload was spread evenly across the weather event.

Francis said SES tasks throughout the event included roof tarping, sandbagging, clearing fallen trees, and checking on vulnerable residents. In one instance, he recalled attending to an 83-year-old resident whose awning had come loose in the early hours of Sunday morning.

To help manage the surge, six SES teams from southeast Queensland and Rockhampton were deployed to the Burdekin, supplementing local volunteers.

“It was really appreciated by our guys,” Francis said.

“The support from visiting teams, the Regional Office in Townsville, and the Burdekin Shire Council was tremendous.”

The SES also pre-deployed members to areas like Giru in anticipation of possible flooding, which ultimately did not eventuate.

Francis praised the team and the community for their preparedness and cooperation.

“We wouldn’t be as good as we are without the council, the mayor, our Local Disaster Management Group, and all our members,” he said.

"We talk to all the visiting SES groups, and they are envious of us and the way we're treated by our local council."

Council Urges Ongoing Vigilance
While the system passed without major damage, authorities say the wet season is far from over.

With the BOM forecasting further rainfall in the coming days, Burdekin Shire Council has reminded residents to remain vigilant as recovery efforts continue and weather conditions are monitored.

“We encourage residents to regularly check the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard, which provides the most current and up-to-date information on weather conditions, road closures, and recovery efforts,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“Staying informed helps keep our community safe and connected.”

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The Burdekin community will come together on Monday, the 26th of January, to celebrate Australia Day and recognise the people and achievements that make the region so special.

The 2026 Australia Day Awards Ceremony will be held at Home Hill's Memorial Hall, commencing at 4pm, and will feature an Australian Citizenship Ceremony alongside the presentation of the annual Australia Day Awards. The event offers a meaningful opportunity to acknowledge outstanding local contributions while warmly welcoming new Australian citizens into the community.

Presented by Burdekin Shire Council, the Australia Day Awards honour individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership and service across a wide range of areas during the 2025 year. Award categories span community service, volunteering, sport, culture, environmental contribution and lifetime service, reflecting the diverse ways locals contribute to the wellbeing and spirit of the Burdekin.

Award recipients for 2026 will be announced during the ceremony, with all nominees recognised for their efforts. Recipients will receive framed certificates, while all nominees will be acknowledged with certificates of recognition in appreciation of their dedication and impact.

The ceremony will be followed by light refreshments, including traditional Australia Day cake, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect, reflect and celebrate together in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

The Australia Day Awards have been a long-standing tradition in the Burdekin, with recipient history dating back to 1981. Over the decades, the awards have highlighted the generosity, resilience and community pride that continue to define the region.

Residents are encouraged to attend and be part of this special occasion as the Burdekin celebrates its people, its achievements and the values that unite the community on Australia Day. Tickets to the event are free, however bookings are essential.

What: Australia Day Awards Ceremony
When: Monday, the 26th of January
Where: Memorial Hall, Home Hill

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The nominees for the 2025 Australia Day Awards were recognised for their outstanding contributions and achievements within the community. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

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Burdekin Falls Dam Exceeds 130% Capacity

By Chelsea Ravizza

Residents and visitors across the Burdekin Shire are being urged to remain vigilant as wet season conditions continue, bringing ongoing rainfall, increased river flows and multiple weather warnings. The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group has advised communities, particularly around Giru, to stay informed as saturated catchments increase the risk of flash flooding, with a Flood Watch expected to remain in place.

Burdekin Falls Dam is currently spilling, with sections of Burdekin Falls Dam Road and the boat ramp closed as a safety precaution. Roads across the region remain hazardous, and motorists are reminded to avoid floodwaters. The SES has seen a surge in call-outs, mainly for leaking roofs, as authorities urge residents to prepare, stay informed and put safety first.

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The Burdekin Falls Dam has exceeded 120% capacity following the recent rainfall. Photo source: Townsville Enterprise

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Well… we’re back!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mourners at Bondi Pavilion. Photo supplied

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