Ayr Golf Club has marked another successful Mona Coburn & Di Oats Day, with 23 players taking to the course for the much-loved annual event.

Held on Wednesday, the day was a celebration of both competition and community, honouring the lasting contributions of two important figures in the club’s history. The event was made even more special thanks to the continued sponsorship and support from the families of Mona Coburn and Di Oats.

Club members were pleased to once again welcome Bruce Coburn and Sandy Oats, who attended the day and presented prizes to the winners on behalf of their families.

Ayr Golf Club said it was an honour to have them present, acknowledging the ongoing role both families play in supporting the event and preserving its significance within the club.

The annual day serves as a reminder of the strong sense of tradition within the club, with many family members continuing to stay involved and contribute to its success.

Club representatives said they were grateful to have such dedicated support, noting that events like these highlight the important legacy left by past members and the community spirit that continues to thrive today.

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Congratulations were extended to all prize winners, with the club also offering a heartfelt thank you to Bruce Coburn, Sandy Oats and their families for their ongoing and generous support.

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CAPTION: The annual event continued to honour club legends while bringing members together on the course. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club

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Small businesses and community organisations across the Burdekin Shire are being urged to take advantage of increased disaster recovery support, with grants of up to $50,000 now available.

The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) has doubled the maximum funding available under its Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, reflecting the severity of recent weather events, including the Queensland Monsoon Trough and Cyclones Koji and Narelle.

Eligible small businesses can access the grants to assist with clean-up and recovery costs, including repairing damaged infrastructure, replacing equipment, disposing of stock, and covering additional labour expenses. Not-for-profit organisations are also now able to apply for the same level of support.

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Businesses within the Burdekin Shire among the activated local government areas, meaning local operators impacted by recent disasters are eligible to apply, with Burdekin Chamber Secretary Kari Ravizza urging business owners to take full advantage of the support available.

“Our small businesses play such an important role in our community, and it’s vital they have the support to get back on their feet quickly,” said Mrs Ravizza.

“This funding is there to help, and I encourage all eligible operators to apply and make the most of it.”

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QRIDA are offering personalised support through its “QRIDA Connect” sessions, allowing applicants to receive one-on-one assistance online or over the phone.  

Authorities are encouraging those affected to document damage when safe, complete the Disaster Impact Survey, and prepare key documents such as photos, financial records and insurance details.

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QRIDA has also reminded applicants that mental health support services are available.

Local businesses and organisations are encouraged to act quickly, with the increased funding providing a timely boost to support recovery.

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CAPTION: Burdekin businesses and community groups can now access up to $50,000 in disaster recovery funding to support clean-up and rebuilding efforts. Photo credit: Burdekin Drones

On Thursday, 2 April, concerned local resident Matthew Russell came across an unexpected visitor paddling through Nelsons Lagoon on Adelaide Street, Ayr.

In a post shared online, Mr Russell alerted locals to the presence of a small freshwater crocodile, with many community members remarking on how unusual it was to spot a crocodile in the park, particularly so far from larger waterways.  

Unlike saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocodiles are smaller, shy and slender-snouted, typically feeding on fish, frogs and insects. They are not considered a significant threat to humans. Nonetheless, Mr Russell followed Queensland Government regulations, taking the initiative to report the sighting to the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) via the QWildlife app. Sightings can also be reported through DETSI’s online portal or by calling 1300 130 372.

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“We encourage you to report any crocodile you have concerns about – even if it’s deceased,” a DETSI spokesperson said.

“If you are not concerned about a crocodile you have seen, you can still report it. This information can help us keep track of the movements and behaviour of crocodiles in the area.”

No waterway in Northern Queensland can ever be considered crocodile free. DETSI reminds residents who come across crocs in the wild to keep a safe distance, stay away from the water’s edge, report the sighting immediatelyand remain croc-wise at all times.

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CAPTION: Mr Russell spotted the croc last week and immediately took action. Photo credit: Matthew Russell

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Ayr State High School will be under round-the-clock security surveillance these school holidays following a recent spike in vandalism.

In a public notice shared with the community, SRW Security Services confirmed a 24/7 presence at the school, with two security officers rostered on every shift to monitor the site.

“Due to a significant amount of damage caused in recent weeks, SRW Security Services will now have a 24/7 security presence at Ayr State High School for the duration of the school holidays,” the post read.

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The increased security aims to protect public assets and deter further incidents, with a clear message directed at potential offenders.

“This is about protecting community assets and putting a stop to ongoing vandalism. If anyone is considering trespassing or causing further damage — don’t. You will be dealt with accordingly by QPS.”

The move comes amid growing concern from locals about damage to public facilities, particularly during school holiday periods when sites are more vulnerable.

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Authorities are also reminding residents of the importance of community vigilance through the School Watch program, which encourages locals to report suspicious after-hours activity at schools.

Empty schools can become targets for unlawful entry, arson, theft, graffiti and property damage, particularly during holidays, impacting not just repair costs, but the wider community.

The program, a partnership between the Department of Education and the Queensland Police Service, provides a direct way for the public to report concerns, even if they seem minor. On average, more than 700 calls are made to School Watch each year.

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Residents are urged to “Look, Listen, Report” by calling School Watch on 13 17 88, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

SRW Security Services said the update was also shared in response to community questions about the visible security presence at the school.

“We appreciate the community’s support,” the post continued, encouraging residents to share the message and help protect local infrastructure.

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The added security is expected to remain in place throughout the holiday period as efforts continue to prevent further damage and maintain safety at the site.

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CAPTION: Additional 24/7 security has been put in place at Ayr State High School. Photo source: SRW Security Services

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A major road safety operation is underway across Queensland, with authorities ramping up enforcement as school holiday travel begins.

Operation Easter Break has been launched by the Government and the Queensland Police Service (QPS), targeting unsafe and fatigued drivers during one of the busiest periods on the state’s roads. The initiative will see a high-visibility police presence statewide, with a particular focus on the “Fatal Five” risk factors known to contribute to serious crashes.

The campaign comes amid ongoing concerns about road trauma, with 20 lives lost on Queensland roads during the 2025 Easter period alone.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the operation aimed to address dangerous driving behaviours and improve safety outcomes.

“Too many Queenslanders are being impacted by trauma on our roads and waterways, and the trend has been going in the wrong direction for a long time - that’s why we’re focused on stronger enforcement and safer behaviour this Easter,” Minister Mickelberg said.

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“These campaigns send a strong message that dangerous behaviour, whether on the road or on the water, will not be tolerated - I urge everyone travelling this Easter to drive to the conditions, never speed or drink and drive, and if you’re heading out on the water, slow down and wear a lifejacket.”

QPS Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said officers would be out in force, particularly targeting fatigued drivers.

“We’re doing our part to make Queensland safer, but we all must also take responsibility - slow down, rest when tired, and make safe choices to protect themselves and others this Easter.”

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Authorities are urging all Queenslanders to plan ahead, take regular breaks, and prioritise safety both on the road and on the water this holiday season.

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CAPTION: High-visibility patrols will be conducted on highways, regional roads, and major travel routes over the coming weeks. Photo source: QPS

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Small businesses across the Burdekin Shire are set to benefit from a statewide push to strengthen regional economies with the return of Queensland Small Business Month this May.

Just last week, several Event Delivery Grants were awarded to Chambers of Commerce, industry groups and councils across 28 shires, aimed at helping small and family businesses build resilience and embrace new opportunities. While no funding was allocated locally, Burdekin Chamber Secretary Kari Ravizza said it was encouraging to see the government prioritising small businesses in regional and remote communities.

“Initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month are extremely important in regional areas like ours, especially as they help to bridge the gap between regions and cities, and bring skills, resources and expertise into regions that don’t normally have easy access,” she said.

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Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, said the initiative plays a vital role across the state, particularly in regional communities.

“Queensland Small Business Month is an opportunity to remind Queenslanders of the importance of small business and to thank the people who, quite often, put everything on the line to provide services and employ locals,” he said.

Mrs Ravizza said local businesses continue to face a unique set of challenges, including rising freight and logistics costs, increasing insurance premiums, workforce shortages and ongoing skills gaps in areas like digital marketing.

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“In regions like the Burdekin, there’s also a heavy reliance on agricultural cycles — when farmers are doing it tough, flow-on effects are felt right across the local business community,” she said.

Mr Last said reducing barriers for small business remained a key focus for the government, highlighting the establishment of the Small and Family Business Ministerial Reference Group, which brings together representatives from a range of industries and regions across Queensland to directly inform policy and provide advice to the Minister.

“Having run a small business myself, I know that one of the biggest obstacles is red tape, and that’s why I am proud to be part of a government that is actively reducing unnecessary barriers for small businesses.”

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He said the government was also supporting small businesses through initiatives targeting cybercrime, grants to improve safety, and measures to make it easier to employ apprentices, alongside tailored training and increased opportunities to secure government work throughout the year.

Mrs Ravizza added that while initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month are valuable, there is a need for more targeted, practical support.

“More funding for local workshops, digital tools, staff training, as well as support around freight and insurance, would make a real difference for small businesses in our region,” she said.

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Queensland Small Business Month is a dedicated, state-wide initiative held annually to celebrate, support and connect more than 508,000 small and family-owned businesses across the state.

CAPTION: Burdekin businesses are calling for greater support, highlighting rising costs and skill gaps as major challenges amid statewide push. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Burdekin Shire residents are being advised that bi-annual water supply meter readings will commence from Monday, 13 April 2026.

The readings will be carried out in stages across the region over several weeks, with timelines dependent on weather conditions.

Meter reading is expected to begin in Home Hill and surrounding areas, including Rossiters Hill, Mt Kelly and Alva Beach, from 13 April through to late April. Crews will then move to the outskirts of Ayr, Sutcliffe Estate, Brandon, Giruand nearby areas from late April to early May.

The final stage, scheduled from early to mid-May, will cover Parkside, East Ayr, Ayr CBD and South Ayr.

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Council has advised that meter readings may also take place on weekends where required.

To assist meter readers, residents are asked to ensure water meters are easily accessible by clearing away any obstructions, restraining or isolating dogs, and unlocking gates where necessary.

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Residents requiring specific access arrangements or further information are encouraged to contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, or visit the Council website.

Council has thanked residents in advance for their cooperation during the meter reading period.

CAPTION: Burdekin residents are urged to ensure water meters are accessible as bi-annual readings begin across the region from 13 April. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

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Burdekin Shire Council will undertake flying-fox dispersal activities at Arch Dunn Memorial Park in Home Hill later this month, as part of preparations for Anzac Day and to minimise impacts on park facilities.

The works are scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 22 April to Friday, 24 April 2026, with operations occurring between 4am and 7am each day, as required.

Residents in the area are advised they may notice increased activity during these times, including loud noise and bright lights. Dispersal methods will involve the use of pyrotechnics, shotgun simulators, pool noodles, LED torchesand flashing lights to encourage flying-foxes to move on from the site.

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Council has urged residents to take precautions during the operational period, including securing pets to ensure their safety.

Private landowners are also reminded they can discourage flying-foxes from roosting on their properties using low-impact, non-destructive methods such as smoke, water sprinklers, visual deterrents and noise devices. Information regarding appropriate methods and any permit requirements is available through the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.

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Residents are strongly advised not to touch flying-foxes under any circumstances. Anyone who is scratched or bitten should seek medical attention immediately.

For further information about the dispersal activities, or to report daytime roosting of more than 100 flying-foxes, residents can contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4783 9800.

CAPTION: Flying-fox dispersal activities will take place at Arch Dunn Memorial Park in Home Hill from 22–24 April, with residents advised to expect early morning noise and activity. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Registrations are now open for the Home Hill State High School P&C’s annual Fishing Competition, a much-loved community event that continues to grow into a valued local tradition.

Running from 6pm Friday 22 May through to Sunday morning, the competition brings together students, families, local anglers and supporters for a weekend celebrating everything the Burdekin is known for; the outdoors, community connection and a shared love of fishing. In recent years, the event has even attracted participants from as far as Brisbane.

More than just a competition, the weekend plays an important role in supporting students. Funds raised go directly towards reducing the cost of school camps, excursions and extracurricular activities, helping ensure all students can take part regardless of financial circumstances. Previous events have supported opportunities including camps, Optiminds, and student representation at sporting, cultural and leadership events.

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The competition caters to all ages and skill levels, with categories including Lucky Angler draws for juniors and seniors, longest and mystery length barramundi, and a range of heaviest species prizes such as grunter, whiting, mud crab, mangrove jack and flathead. A colour-in competition gives younger participants a chance to get involved, while the interschool competition will again see local schools vying for bragging rights.

Fishing will take place across the Burdekin district, with a strong focus on responsible and sustainable practices. Barramundi entries will follow a catch, photograph and release format using official brag mats to help protect breeding fish.

The weekend will wrap up with a relaxed, family-friendly event at the Home Hill State High School multi-purpose shelter. From 10am Sunday, the community is invited to attend the weigh-in, enjoy live music, a casting competition, food and refreshments, and a raffle, with presentations expected around 1pm.

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The event’s success is driven by strong community support. About Town Bait & Tackle returns as major sponsor, providing the majority of prizes and assisting with registrations, alongside other local businesses contributing additional support. The Burdekin District Sportfishing Club will again oversee the official weigh-in.

Students remain at the heart of the event. Originally established in 2023 by a Year 12 cohort and staff, the competition is now coordinated by the school’s P&C, with students continuing to play an active role. Year 11 Sport and Recreation students assist through their Aquatic Recreation unit, while others contribute to event setup, registrations, weigh-ins and supporting participants throughout the weekend—gaining valuable experience in teamwork, leadership and event management.

With great prizes, a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of purpose, the Home Hill State High School P&C Fishing Competition continues to bring the community together while creating meaningful opportunities for students.

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For more information, contact PandC@homehillshs.eq.edu.au.

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What: Home Hill State High School P&C’s Annual Fishing Competition

When: Friday 22 May to Sunday 24 May

Where: Burdekin Shire

What: Home Hill State High School Family Friendly Event

When: 10am Sunday 24 May

Where: Home Hill State High School

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If your walls could talk, what would they say? Emily O’Brien recently took to social media asking residents to answer that very question, inviting locals to share their memories, photographs and personal histories tied to an iconic Queenslander home. Emily hopes to document the lived experiences inside these homes through a self-published book, focusing on the everyday moments that often go unrecorded.

Emily’s passion for preserving Queenslander stories was sparked when she discovered a house for removal in the small locality of Massie in the Southern Downs. After meeting the descendants of the man who built it and hearing how he constructed the home by dismantling two others and transporting them by bullock dray, she realised just how easily these histories could be lost, and how important it is to capture them before they disappear.

At its heart, her project will work to preserve voices that might otherwise be lost to time.

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“It feels like it has become a duty to safeguard the stories, so they aren’t lost to the passage of time and to give the houses and families a legacy,” said Emily.

“There would be so many houses and families out there whose stories have already been lost, and I’d love to make a difference.”

Rather than focusing on architectural perfection, Emily’s interested in the emotional connection people have with their homes, whether they’re “a weathered diamond-in-the-rough, or a polished gem”, she wants to hear every story.  

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“I haven’t had any two stories that are the same, and while there’s no type of story I’m after, it’s definitely the more intimate memories I’m trying to capture, rather than another history textbook,” she added.

“Perhaps what people remember growing up in the house, or their relative may have built the home back in the day by milling the timber themselves. Many people have even bought one of these old homes and have restored it and are therefore carrying on that legacy for years to come. It could be stories of what life looked like inside the home and how it changes throughout the generations.”

Emily’s project will largely focus on regional and remote communities where Queenslander homes have long been part of the cultural and social fabric.  

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“I’m focusing on the regional and remote areas in particular, because these houses are generally situated so far away that people may not know they exist to begin with,” Emily explained.

“The challenge with these homes isn’t just preserving their stories but finding them in the first place.”

With an intentionally inclusive approach, Emily warmly encourages anyone with a story to tell, or even those who know someone else whose story deserves to be shared, to reach out to her via emailing trumby03@gmail.com.

“I'm hoping to find stories of the everyday Australians who are our unsung heroes. They're the stories that matter most. They're the ones we need to know about.”

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CAPTION: Emily has already received waves of positive support regarding her project, hearing stories from inside the four walls of a Queenslander home from across the state. Photo credit: Emily O’Brien

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A major new partnership is set to position North Queensland’s sugar industry at the forefront of Australia’s energy future, with plans to convert sugarcane into low-carbon fuels through the BioNQ Project.

Energy Estate and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) have formalised a strategic collaboration to fast-track the project, aimed at boosting fuel security while delivering jobs and economic growth across the region.

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The initiative comes amid growing global uncertainty, with recent conflict in the Middle East highlighting vulnerabilities in Australia’s fuel supply chains. The BioNQ Project aims to reduce reliance on imported fuels by producing sustainable alternatives locally.

Leveraging existing infrastructure at Abbot Point, the project will convert sugarcane and other agricultural feedstocks into sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and green methanol. These fuels are expected to support key industries including aviation, agriculture and shipping.

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Energy Estate Chief Projects Officer Simon Currie said the partnership reflected a shared vision for regional development and national energy resilience.

“By working together, we can unlock additional feedstocks, invest in enabling infrastructure, and ensure Queensland’s agricultural industries play a leading role in Australia’s energy future – in real terms enhancing energy security for Australia and helping drive regional economic development.”

QCAR Chairman Russell Hall said the project would create new opportunities for cane growers.

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“This gives North Queensland sugarcane farmers the chance to be active participants in Australia’s energy security… In a volatile world, domestic production isn’t just an option – it’s how countries survive and thrive,” he said.

The BioNQ Project aligns with state and federal strategies to strengthen energy independence while supporting regional communities.

CAPTION: New BioNQ partnership aims to cut fuel reliance, create regional jobs and unlock new value for sugarcane growers. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Government has announced a suite of measures aimed at supporting Australia’s farmers, fishers and producers as global conflict continues to place pressure on supply chains and costs.

In response to disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East, the Government is working to maintain export flows, stabilise input costs and strengthen the nation’s food production system.

A key measure includes deferring the phased transition to full cost recovery for export regulatory services by 12 months, now set to commence on 1 July 2027. The move is designed to provide greater certainty for farmers and producers already facing rising input costs.

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The Government is also establishing a new Fertiliser Supply Working Group, bringing together key agencies and industry representatives including Fertilizer Australia and the National Farmers Federation. The group will build on existing efforts to improve fertiliser availability, including monitoring supply chains and engaging alternative suppliers.

Additional support is being delivered through financial assistance programs, with more than $1.29 billion invested in rural support and resilience funding since July 2022. This includes the rollout of a new Drought Hardship Loan and expanded access to the Rural Financial Counselling Service.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the Government remained focused on supporting the sector through ongoing challenges.

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“We are working day and night with our farmers, fishers and producers to help manage this impact of the conflict in the Middle East,” Ms Collins said.

“Our farmers and producers feed millions of people both here and abroad, but events like the conflict in the Middle East reaffirm why we cannot be complacent.

“That’s why we’ve taken immediate action to help safeguard Australia’s food production system, and to support our farmers and producers – including to help get fuel and fertiliser into our regions.

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“We recognise the disruption the conflict in the Middle East has had on our farmers and producers, which is why we are deferring the commencement of the phased transition to full cost recovery for export regulatory services for one year.

“Our Government will never leave farmers behind who are facing hardship.”

CAPTION: New support measures aim to provide certainty for farmers and producers, helping safeguard Australia’s food supply and export strength during ongoing global disruptions. Photo source: Shutterstock

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I hope everyone had a safe and restful Easter break. Whether you spent the long weekend fishing down the river, hosting a big family lunch, or simply enjoying a few quiet days at home, there’s a certain stillness that settles over the Burdekin during the holidays that reminds us how lucky we are to call this district home.

I want to extend a massive congratulations to the organisers, players, and volunteers behind the Canefield Ashes in Home Hill at the end of March.

Once again, the event proved why it is a standout on our local calendar. Seeing the community come together at the Home Hill Cricket Club with that unique backdrop of our sugar industry is always a highlight. The atmosphere was fantastic, the cricket was as competitive (and entertaining) as ever, and the economic boost to our local businesses is a great win for the community. It’s events like these that stitch our community together, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s toss.

As we move past the Easter break, Council is back into full swing. We are currently in the middle of budget discussions and there is plenty of road works happening around town as the sun is finally shining.

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I hope everyone enjoyed a safe and relaxing Easter, whether you stayed close to home or travelled further afield. The Easter period is always a valuable opportunity to slow down, spend time with family and friends, and recharge before settling back into routine.

I am getting ahead of time to remind the community that the 2026 Census will take place this August. Census staff will be seeking local volunteers, and I encourage anyone interested to get involved.

Completing the Census is vital for the Burdekin. The information collected directly influences how government funding is distributed to our region. Every response counts and helps ensure we receive our fair share for essential services such as transport, schools, health care, and community infrastructure.

There will be multiple ways to complete the Census, and assistance will be available for anyone who needs help. I strongly encourage all residents to take part, no matter their circumstances. A few minutes of your time can make a lasting difference to the future of 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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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has thrown its support behind a new roadmap aimed at unlocking bioenergy investment across regional Queensland, following the release of recommendations from the Queensland Parliament’s Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities.

The company says the report outlines a practical pathway to drive new jobs, investment and energy capability across the state’s sugar regions.

“The Committee, regional communities and industry have delivered a strong and practical roadmap to unlock the sugar industry’s bioenergy potential, and support new investment and jobs in regional Queensland,” said Head of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, Shayne Rutherford.

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“The next step is for the Queensland and Australia Governments to act and deliver the policy settings needed to make it a reality.”

The recommendations align with several proposals put forward by Wilmar, including government co-funding for feasibility studies, investment in shovel-ready projects, and stronger support for biofuels such as ethanol.

“This is a comprehensive plan to secure the future of Australia’s sugar industry, which supports around 20,000 jobs, while strengthening the nation’s fuel and energy security now and into the future,” Mr Rutherford said.

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Wilmar has highlighted opportunities to expand bioenergy production through increased cogeneration, producing black pellets from bagasse as a coal alternative, and boosting ethanol output for transport and aviation fuel.

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“Biofuels will be an important part of that transition, particularly where Australia already has the capability to produce them at scale,” Mr Rutherford said.

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He said Australia already had the capacity to produce more low-carbon fuels, but policy changes were needed to unlock that potential.

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“Sugar factories have anchored regional economies for generations and remain a critical economic asset across regional Queensland,” he said.

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“With the right policy settings, the industry can build on its existing factory assets… strengthening its long-term viability.”

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Wilmar says it will continue working with industry and government to turn the recommendations into tangible outcomes for regional communities.

CAPTION: Photo source: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables

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