Your Friendly Neighbourhood Delivery Driver

In June this year, Burdekin mum Andrea Wood became the first Uber Eats driver in Ayr after a flyer in the mail piqued her interest. Just about every day since, she's been whizzing around in her famous blue hatchback, delivering far more than just food.

A Queensland Country Bank employee by day, by night, Andrea becomes the "Uber Lady," delivering not only combos and late-night cravings, but meaningful connections and moments of joy that have left their mark on the town.

It was in her first week that Andrea delivered to an elderly woman who had just learned how to use the app. "It's so good because I haven't had takeaway in six years, since they took my licence off me," the woman told her.

A week later, Andrea returned to the same address. "Oh no, darling. I didn't order it," the woman said, only to learn that her daughter in Brisbane had placed the order for her birthday. "I delivered her favourite Chinese on her birthday," Andrea recalls. "People said I was probably the only person she spoke to on her birthday apart from someone on the phone... [which] felt so nice."

It's providing this accessibility, for both convenient meals and human interaction, that Andrea says makes the job so personally rewarding.

"I work in a bank—this is a choice for me," she says. "I think it's a service the community can really benefit from in so many ways."

"Most people in the Burdekin are just trying to do the right thing—they don’t want to drink and drive, or they’re young kids without a licence, or older people who can’t drive... That’s really who I want to help."

From street to street, door to door, Andrea’s nightly rounds have become part of the rhythm of the Burdekin, not just for convenience, but for the small ways they connect the community.

A Queensland Country Bank employee by day, by night, Andrea becomes the "Uber Lady," delivering not only combos and late-night cravings, but meaningful connections and moments of joy that have left their mark on the town. Photo supplied

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Coming to the Burdekin always has a sense of coming home, and every time I visit it is wonderful to see the welcoming smile of familiar faces, people in the community that I’ve now known for more than two years.

The Burdekin Shire Council Industry Breakfast is an event I love attending. Not only do you get a hot cooked breakfast, you also instantly get a true taste of local life as everyone greets each other and settles in for a morning of networking.

Last week, I was excited to introduce our new dedicated Burdekin Sales Manager, Jack Bridgett, who many of you will have now seen as he introduces himself around.

Jack comes with long-term sales experience and is adept at building strong relationships with his clients, something I know he is looking forward to doing as he slowly works around the community and gets to know you all.

If you see him, please say hello and make him feel welcome.

We will run an article about him in the coming weeks, and I am sure Jacob will do a fine job in sharing Jack’s unique story with you.

And yes, we do indeed now have two ‘J’s’ serving the region – if you get confused then aim for either Jacob, Jack or even Jake and they will likely respond! (as I have discovered!)

Talking of your friendly neighbourhood journalist Jacob, I would like to commend him on his brilliantly written cover story this week about locally-raised world-champion golfer Karrie Webb.

Jacob has been perfecting this story for weeks, and I was about ready to demand he run it this week when he finally declared it was ‘good to go’.

Have a read – I am sure you will agree that his passion-piece is exceptionally well-written and worth the countless hours of reviewing and fine-tuning!

You did it, Jacob – congrats! And thank you as well for all your dedication to serving the Burdekin region.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Have no fear of perfection, you shall never reach it" (Salvador Dali)

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Ayr-based disability support organisation Flexi Queensland is celebrating a major funding boost after being awarded $14,000 through the 2025 ANZ Seeds of Renewal program. The grant will support the organisation’s Sustainable SILS project, which will enhance Supported Independent Living homes through the installation of solar panels - reducing energy costs and improving long-term sustainability for residents living with a disability.

The Seeds of Renewal program—now in its 23rd year—is a partnership between ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), aimed at strengthening the resilience and prosperity of regional communities. This year, $250,000 in grants has been distributed to 19 community-based organisations across the country.

ANZ Associate Director, Agribusiness Research, Alanna Barrett, said: “For more than two decades, Seeds of Renewal has supported rural and regional communities to build resilience and create sustainable futures. These grants enable local organisations to turn ideas into action – delivering initiatives that make a tangible difference for people, businesses and the communities they call home.”

FRRR Head of Granting, Jill Karena, said: “The Seeds of Renewal program recognises that even a modest grant can unlock significant impact by amplifying the efforts of local volunteers. We prioritise projects that are deeply rooted in their communities: locally designed, locally driven, and with the potential to grow and create vibrant, resilient and sustainable places to live and work.”

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A decade-long connection has resulted in one of the largest single contributions to date for Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission, with the Neilson Foundation confirming a $250,000 donation to support research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).

Burdekin-born Pedersen first encountered representatives from Kerr Neilson’s investment network roughly ten years ago, when he was invited to speak at a business forum at The Ville. “Around ten years ago, I was asked to address a business forum at The Ville to enlighten attendees about my mission,” he said. At the event, he was seated alongside Julian McCormack of Platinum Investments, “one of Australias most esteemed financial organisations.”

A shared link to a family who had recently lost a child to DIPG led to further conversations. “Essentially, Julian and I became close mates and he suggested I enlighten Mr Neilson on the gravitas of my mission.”

Pedersen said his first direct appeal to Neilson was unsuccessful. “When I first met Kerr he was very weary… He originally rebuked my request,” he said.

The turning point came when Neilson agreed to visit the Children’s Cancer Institute’s DIPG laboratory. According to Pedersen, the experience left a lasting impression. “For an internationally famous, eminent corporate citizen to physically enter science's most challenging coalface, would have been quite daunting for Mr Neilson,” he said. During the tour, Neilson observed “‘live’ brain cancer cells (that were extracted from deceased DIPG children)” and questioned researchers extensively about emerging findings.

Pedersen recalls asking Neilson if he had ever witnessed anything similar. “He replied, ‘No’. We shook hands and two fathers looked each other in the eyes.”

Several months later, Neilson informed Pedersen of the Neilson Foundation’s decision to contribute a quarter of a million dollars. “Not a form was filled out. No ceremony or fanfare,” Pedersen said. “Two men of honour have pledged to deliver life saving options for local brain cancer children…”

Pedersen said the funding will have an immediate impact. “It saves time. In one hit, we can expedite crucial research. These funds are delivered directly into the hands of researchers like Prof. David Zeigler and A/Prof Maria Tsoli.”

With the project now approaching the $500,000 mark, Pedersen says the donation serves as a challenge to others. “I consider this donation as a ‘Call to Arms’ for local businesses!”

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A decade-long connection has resulted in one of the largest single contributions to date for Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission, with the Neilson Foundation confirming a $250,000 donation to support research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Photo supplied
The turning point came when Neilson agreed to visit the Children’s Cancer Institute’s DIPG laboratory. Photo supplied

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Last week’s Burdekin Industry Breakfast once again proved a valuable connection point, linking local businesses, organisations and industry stakeholders to emerging opportunities and key information ahead of disaster season.

From 7:00am to 8:30am, operators from across the region gathered in the Burdekin Theatre foyer for breakfast and a program of updates, networking and discussions with some of North Queensland’s leading businesses and institutions.

Matt Heley from CQUniversity outlined how the university had been working with local employers to address regional skill shortages through targeted training pathways in agriculture, health, engineering and education. He said CQU’s flexible delivery options and industry-engaged research were already opening the door to stronger collaboration with Burdekin businesses.

Telstra’s Regional General Manager for Northern Queensland, Rachel Cliffe, discussed business resiliency and connectivity literacy, explaining how organisations could better anticipate and adapt to disruptions such as natural disasters and cyber threats. Her presentation highlighted new opportunities for Burdekin operators to partner with Telstra to strengthen their digital capability and continuity planning.

To close the morning, Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster Management Team delivered a concise rundown of tips, tools and key information as local businesses and residents prepare for the upcoming disaster season.

The event continued its role as a practical forum for local industries to exchange ideas, explore support options and build relationships that benefit the wider community.

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Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Matt Heley from CQ University, Councillor John Furnell, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Councillor Fina Vasta

Kari Ravizza and staff member from McCathies Furniture Court

Josie Pickering, Alex Maddison, Melissa Kearney and Rachel Cliffe from Telstra

Eileen Davescovi and Jenny Cummings from Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management Team  

Eusebio Aguirre and Lyn McLaughlin

Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Shannon Musumeci, Chantel Michielin, Raelene Agius and Chris Delaney

Clancie, Latoya, John, Paula, Steph and Candice from Nutrien Harcourts McCathies

John Clarke and David Jackson from Home Hill Chamber of Commerce

Eliza Lovell and Faith Swindley from Burdekin Shire Council

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Opinion Piece bu Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

The latest round of the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program is a major disappointment for
the Dawson electorate, with the Albanese Labor Government failing to provide meaningful
investment in one of Australia’s largest and most critical regional highways.

Of the $9 billion announced for the Bruce Highway, $7.2 billion from the Federal Government
and the rest from the State, only $500 million is allocated to these projects, and the works in
Dawson are limited to pavement strengthening. There is no significant investment in long-term
safety, reliability, or future-proofing the corridor.

The latest Dawson-specific projects include:
South of Glendaragh Road (Mackay – Proserpine)
Marian Hampden Road to Hudsons Road (Mackay – Proserpine)
Greta Creek to Emu Creek (Proserpine – Bowen)
South of Goodbye Creek (Bowen – Ayr)
Various sections between Bowen – Ayr
Various sections between Ayr – Townsville

“These works are simply patching the surface of a highway that desperately needs real
investment,” said Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson.

“The Bruce Highway is the lifeline of regional Queensland, connecting communities across
enormous distances. It’s disappointing to see the Albanese Government delivering crumbs
instead of a comprehensive plan for safety and reliability.

“Pavement strengthening alone is not enough. Our communities need major upgrades; bridges,
overtaking lanes, flood mitigation, and long-term planning to ensure the Bruce is safe and
resilient for decades to come.

Dawson is a large electorate to travel. The Bruce isn’t just a road here, it’s our critical link to
jobs, services, and regional economies. Token projects like these simply won’t cut it.

“Queenslanders have waited far too long for meaningful action. The Albanese Labor
Government needs to stop announcing programs that look good on paper and start delivering
projects that make a real difference on the ground.

“These small-scale works are a start, but they fall far short of what is required to protect lives
and support regional communities. The people of Dawson deserve more than crumbs, they
deserve a Bruce Highway that is safe, reliable, and future-ready.”

Mr Willcox is calling on the Albanese Government to commit to major, long-term investment in
the Bruce Highway in Dawson and across regional Queensland, rather than relying on minimal,
token projects that fail to address the scale of the problem.

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Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, is calling for long-term investment into the Bruce Highway, to improve safety, reliability and resilience for regional communities. Photo supplied

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16 Days of Activism Event Shines a Light in the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt

The Burdekin community came together in solidarity on Tuesday, 25 November 2025 marking the start of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign. The event, held at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt in Ayr, saw passionate participation from a range of local organisations, students, and residents, all united under a single aim: to raise awareness and take action to end gender-based violence.

The evening was a joint effort, coordinated by the Burdekin Shire Council (BSC), the Burdekin Community Association (BCA), the Ayr Police, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC), and the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. Each group played a vital role in organising the event, fostering a spirit of collaboration that is the hallmark of the Burdekin region.

The event was capably emceed by Mrs Rachel Cornelius, Vice President of the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. Her warm presence helped guide the evening’s proceedings. The Zonta Club’s involvement, as highlighted by Mrs Cornelius, reinforced the club’s longstanding commitment to advocating for gender equality and supporting the community’s efforts to end violence.

Attendees heard from guest speaker, Sergeant Daniel Dew from the Ayr Police Station, one of the Station Supervisors and the Domestic Violence Liaison Officer. Sergeant Dew shared local DV statistics, his experiences, insights and offered support to people within the community experiencing gender-based violence. Gender-based violence affects people of all genders, ages and backgrounds. It often happens in silence.

Sergeant Dew’s address was followed by a Candle Lighting Ceremony where a candle was lit for each woman and child who have lost their lives in 2025 because of domestic violence. Each flame represented, hope for those still struggling; strength for survivors; remembrance for lives lost; commitment to ending violence and unity as a community refusing to look away. Ms Aimee Cursio, BCA, read the names, ages, and locations of those who had lost their lives.

A memorial display of shoes featured on the Forecourt stage featuring Red shoes for women (62), White sneakers for children (23) and Blue sneakers for men. Unfortunately, we were unable to source the names of men who have also lost their lives.

The atmosphere was one of hope, resilience, and determination to create real change within the community.

A special thank you goes out to the local business owners who helped bring the message to the community’s heart. In a simple yet powerful display, businesses placed candles in their shopfront windows, as a symbol of support for those affected by gender-based violence. This visual gesture served as a reminder that the fight against violence is a collective effort, requiring the involvement of the entire community.

As the 16 Days of Activism continue, community members are encouraged to get involved, learn more, and support local initiatives aimed at preventing gender-based violence. Every action counts in building a safer and more respectful Burdekin for all.

The organisers would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, contributed, and showed their support during this important campaign. Together, Burdekin stands strong in its commitment to end gender-based violence and support survivors every day of the year.

Contributed by Members of Burdekin Domestic & Family Abuse Prevention Network (BDFAPN)

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The Burdekin community came together in solidarity on Tuesday, 25 November 2025 marking the start of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign. Photo supplied

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Wow, isn’t it hot! I hope everyone is staying hydrated and checking in on one another -especially our elderly residents.

Here we are in December already, with Christmas just around the corner. Our community is sparkling with Christmas lights and decorations, creating a wonderful festive atmosphere. It’s a great family outing, especially for those with young children who are always excited by the lights.

Another treat is to stop by any Telstra phone box and dial #46 46 46 to have a chat with Santa! I might even give him a call myself and drop a hint about what I’d like for Christmas.

I’d also like to remind everyone about the Mayoral Christmas Appeal. Your donations can make a real difference to those in need during this special time of year.

Finally, I had the great pleasure of attending the primary school swimming carnival recently. It was fantastic to see so many enthusiastic children proudly representing their schools. A highlight for me was catching up with Max Tavasci - a true swimming legend who represented Australia at the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, winning a silver medal in the 1500m freestyle. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see another champion emerge from our community!

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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We’re getting closer to that special time of year. I can feel the excitement building, decorations are going up and that certain Christmas spirit coming forth.

The Burdekin Craft Spectacular held at the Burdekin Memorial Hall Saturday attracted attendees and stallholders from far and wide. If you haven’t attended one, put it on your calendar for next year, especially if you have an interest in craft. The on-site workshops proved popular with attendees.

Home Hill Choral Society wrapped up the year with their final show which showcased songs from shows throughout the year finishing off with some Christmas classics. They’re not finished yet as you may see them singing Christmas Carols around the Shire.

Burdekin Community Association held a sold out Christmas lunch for clients and volunteers at the ANZAC club on Monday. All enjoyed the lunch, chats, tunes with Riley and prizes.

Morning Melodies was a resounding success yesterday with many Burdekinites & visitors sharing the festive spirit with “Home For Christmas” at the Burdekin Memorial Hall. Songs and laughter were the order of the day.

I have it on good authority Santa’s helpers have been seen locally bringing good cheer to young and more mature. It’s a wonderful time to say a huge thank you to the hundreds of volunteers throughout the Shire that contribute to many wonderful organisations. Big shout out to you all !!!

Despite all the festive cheer, some among us find it challenging for one reason or another, reach out to someone.

Wishing you a Merry, safe and enjoyable Christmas 2025

Ho Ho Ho Councillor John

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As the wet season once again builds on North Queensland's horizon Member for
Burdekin Dale Last has held steadfast on the Crisafulli Government's commitment to
'build back better' including the need to improve a crucial flood-prone link on the
Bruce Highway.

In February this year, significant rainfall and flooding across the region saw the Bruce
Highway cut at Plantation Creek causing chaos for local industries and stranding
interstate travellers, something Mr Last says needs a permanent solution.

"February's closure of the Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek not only saw interstate
travel grind to a halt; it cut the Burdekin Shire in half, impacting local trades, residents
and business owners," Mr Last said.

"I joined Queensland Premier David Crisafulli during this year's flooding event to
demonstrate firsthand how flooding at this locality impacts traveler's and the local
community.

"Not only has the project remained a priority for our government, we are ensuring we
put our words into actions with the Minister confirming his department is working
through detailed designs for areas of the Bruce Highway including Plantation Creek."

Mr Last said with the Bruce Highway claiming national importance, the responsibility of
securing improved flood immunity at Plantation Creek also lied with the Federal Labor
Government.

"As per the Bruce Highway funding agreement, the federal government is required to
make a contribution to this project. The Premier’s visit in February this year, and my
continued advocacy, has resulted in an application being made to the federal
government to jointly fund the betterment project."

"As our track record shows, the Crisafulli government has secured record funding for
improvements to the Bruce Highway because Queensland deserves its fair share.

"We look forward to the federal government doing the right thing and coming to the
table to deliver this project.”

Contributed with thanks to the office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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A truck drives through the flooded Bruce Highway near Plantation Park. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones

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As 2025 approaches, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with powerful community moments — each one a reminder of how local partnerships can create real change.

Among the standout highlights was the strong support shown for Burdekin Catholic High School’s Stand Up Sleep Out, an initiative driven by a passionate group of student leaders determined to shine a light on homelessness in the region.

Although homelessness is often seen as a “big city” issue, school captain Drea Piotto and her peers wanted the Burdekin community to understand that it affects regional towns too.

“Our goal was to open people’s eyes, raise awareness, and generate vital support,” Drea explained. “Homelessness is rarely a choice, and breaking that destructive belief was a driving force behind our event.”

Throughout the lead-up, students heard personal stories from people whose lives had been turned upside down, many right here in the Burdekin. For the young leaders, those conversations became a catalyst for action and empathy.

The event brought together local businesses, organisations and community leaders — including the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr team — all working towards the same goal. CEOs and leaders were invited to participate with a $100 entry donation, with many stepping forward to demonstrate that leadership in regional communities extends well beyond the boardroom.

Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr played a key role in ensuring the funds raised stayed local, with their contribution helping to maximise support for the Burdekin Community Association, the event’s chosen beneficiary.

Acting Branch Manager Jade Bywaters said supporting youth-led initiatives like this is something the bank is extremely proud of.

“Seeing young people lead conversations about real social issues is inspiring,” Jade said. “As a community bank, we’re proud to stand beside organisations and

students who want to make a difference. Supporting events like the Stand Up Sleep Out is exactly what community banking is all about — keeping funds local and helping create lasting change.”

As the Community Bank looks back on the year, the Stand Up Sleep Out is one of many examples demonstrating the strength of the Burdekin spirit: where young people, businesses and the wider community come together to support one another.

And while the year may be wrapping up, the commitment remains the same — continuing to invest in people, projects and ideas that make the Burdekin a stronger, more connected place to call home.

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Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As we near the end of the year, it has been an important time to reconnect with Burdekin growers and hear how the season has unfolded. Next week, we will be hosting market update sessions at Inkerman Mill and the Clare Club – both on Thursday 11 December.

These sessions are a valuable chance to sit down with growers, talk through the current price environment, and discuss the range of tools available to help manage risk and protect farm income.
They also give us the opportunity to answer questions directly, and to hear what support growers may need as they look ahead. Growers wishing to attend can RSVP through their local Relationship Manager.
In response to the significant fall in sugar prices this year, and the impact this has had on monthly advance payments, we know many growers are navigating tighter cash flow heading into Christmas. To help ease some of that pressure, we have opened the 2026 Pre-Season Payment earlier than usual.

From 1 December 2025, eligible growers can access a $5 per tonne payment on their 2026 nominated cane with Wilmar Grower Marketing. Repayments will not begin until the 2026 crush starts, and the current interest rate is 5.00%. This early access option is designed to provide additional flexibility at a time when growers are managing input costs, planning for the new year, and juggling the financial demands that come with the Christmas period.

The end of season finalisation is now under way for Burdekin growers. For those who market with Wilmar, our team will be in touch to outline your final position and answer any questions you may have. This process often provides a timely checkpoint to reassess your pricing for 2025 and beyond. With continued volatility in global sugar markets, understanding your position now can help guide forward pricing decisions and strengthen your risk management settings for the seasons ahead.
As we wrap up another year, we want to acknowledge the resilience and hard work of Burdekin growers through a challenging season.

On behalf of the Grower Marketing team, we wish all growers and their families a safe and Merry Christmas. We hope you are able to enjoy some well-deserved time with loved ones, and we look forward to working with you again in 2026.

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Market update sessions are a valuable opportunity to connect with growers and share insights on how the global market is tracking. Owen Richards, Burdekin Business Development Manager presenting to growers at the Clare Club in April this year. Photo supplied

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CANEGROWERS has welcomed the appointment of Peter Trimble as the new Chair of Sugar Terminals Limited (STL), calling it an important opportunity to restore confidence and unity across the sugar industry following a period of division.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said growers are hopeful the new leadership will bring renewed stability, transparency and genuine engagement to STL.

“Queensland’s sugar terminals are industry-owned assets. Growers paid two-thirds of the original construction costs, and today we continue to pay the bulk of storage and handling charges,” Mr Menkens said. “Growers deserve respect and transparency in return – and in recent years, they’ve felt neither.”

Mr Menkens said many growers remain disappointed with the handling of the 2023 insourcing decision and the conflict that followed.

“The process associated with the insourcing decision damaged confidence and continues to cast a long shadow across the industry.” he said.

He said Mr Trimble’s appointment provides an opportunity to rebuild relationships and restore confidence at a crucial time for the sector.

“The appointment of Mr Trimble as Chair is a chance to reset, rebuild trust and restore constructive relationships. We want to see open communication, real accountability and a commitment to working with growers to ensure the success of the whole industry.

“Peter knows this industry, and we hope he brings a steady hand and a willingness to listen. The opportunity is there – now it needs to be taken.”

Mr Menkens also acknowledged outgoing Chair Mark Gray, offering firm but measured reflections on his tenure.

“We wish Mr Gray better success in his future endeavours. Hopefully he has learned some valuable lessons from the divisions left in the wake of his approach to stakeholders, and the impact of some of the decisions made during his time as Chair. Our industry deserves better, and this is a chance to get back on track.”

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Queensland’s much-loved giant mud crab populations are thriving, with a major new study reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class and sustainable fisheries industry.

A recently completed study led by Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and co-funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has confirmed that there is no current threat to the sustainability of the species. The research highlights the effectiveness of existing regulations, including the male-only harvest policy and the 15-centimetre legal minimum size limit.

The extensive project analysed approximately 20,000 giant mud crabs collected from across the state, using cutting-edge genetic techniques and satellite tagging to examine stock structure, monitor population health, and deepen the understanding of mud crab biology—particularly the spawning migration patterns of females.

DPI Principal Fisheries Scientist and lead researcher Dr Julie Robins said the findings provide strong scientific reassurance that Queensland’s management frameworks are successfully supporting healthy populations.

“Giant mud crabs are an iconic species and a vital part of Queensland’s fisheries, with our state accounting for 64% of Australia’s commercial harvest,” Dr Robins said.

“A significant success was the robust genetic analysis of the mud crab populations along the east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Queensland’s male minimum legal-size limit ensures a proportion of mature males are available to reproduce and over 90% of females sampled were mated and getting ready to spawn. This means there’s no shortage of mature crabs to produce the next lot of offspring.”

Dr Robins said the research not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided crucial biological reference points for future management.

“This study has added tremendous value to our collective knowledge and laid the groundwork for future discussions about mud crab management in Queensland,” she said.

"The collaborative nature of this project, working side-by-side with the commercial fishers, was invaluable. Their local knowledge was key to successfully gathering data on this iconic species."

As giant mud crabs remain a Queensland favourite—both commercially and recreationally—the study’s findings offer welcome confirmation that current sustainability measures are working, ensuring the species continues to flourish for generations to come.

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Dr Julie Robins with one of the 20,000 giant mud crabs measured during the study (Photo Supplied)

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Queensland agrifood innovators are being encouraged to step forward, with applications now open to join Team Queensland at evokeAG 2026, Australia’s premier agrifood technology and innovation event.

Primary producers, Queensland-based businesses, social enterprises, startups and AgTech ecosystem leaders are invited to apply for the opportunity to represent the state at the international event, which will be held in Melbourne on 17 and 18 February 2026.

Department of Primary Industries Acting Deputy Director-General Ashley Bacon said evokeAG offered an exceptional opportunity for innovators to showcase their work on a global stage.

“This is a chance for innovators to raise their profile, grow their networks, attract investment to Queensland and represent the very best our state has to offer,” Mr Bacon said.

“Team Queensland represents the innovation, talent and real-world solutions being developed and in use across our diverse landscapes to boost profitability, productivity and sustainability as we drive toward boosting primary production output to $30 billion by 2030.

“Now in its fourth year, the Team Queensland delegation continues to strengthen the state’s reputation as a national leader in AgTech innovation, sustainability and productivity.”

Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Deputy Director-General of Innovation Jasmine Vreugdenburg reinforced the government’s commitment to supporting Queensland’s innovation ecosystem.

“We are committed to empowering Queensland’s brightest AgTech entrepreneurs and fostering an ecosystem that drives growth and resilience in the state’s primary industries,” she said.

“Events like evokeAG help to connect our Queensland-based innovators with global opportunities, enabling them to seek investment, scale up their solutions and contribute to the state’s economic future.”

A total of 15 delegates will be selected by a cross-agency and industry panel. Successful applicants will receive a full-rate registration ticket valued at $1,750, granting access to the full program and welcome event.

Team Queensland is jointly led by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI). The initiative forms part of the Queensland Government’s broader commitment to elevating AgTech capability, supporting primary producers, and driving economic growth across the state.

About the Program
The Innovation Event Delegations initiative supports Queensland-based innovators by providing delegate or exhibitor tickets to key innovation festivals and events. Applicants must submit compelling business cases demonstrating how attendance will support their growth, industry contributions, and broader innovation capability development.

Eligible applicants include startups, scaleups, social enterprises, entrepreneurs and innovation ecosystem enablers headquartered in Queensland. Successful recipients may receive event tickets for Queensland-based events or be selected to join a Team Queensland delegation interstate.

The 2026 evokeAG theme, Invest. Innovate. Impact., highlights bold ideas, collaboration, and the commercialisation of agrifood solutions that drive sustainable growth and open new markets.

Delegates will also have access to a Hospitality Suite, providing opportunities to meet stakeholders and display information. Travel and associated costs remain the responsibility of applicants.

Key Dates
Applications close: 12pm, Wednesday 10 December 2025
Notification of outcomes: Friday 19 December 2025

To apply, organisations must:

• Be headquartered in Queensland
• Hold an active ABN
• Employ fewer than 100 full-time-equivalent employees
• Submit only one application per ABN
• Demonstrate innovation focus and alignment with Queensland’s innovation ecosystem goals

For more information or assistance, contact 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or visit advance.qld.gov.au/grants-and-programs/jan/innovation-event-delegations.

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