Something I feel strongly about is the role of councillors in holding Council accountable.

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Council's CEO, directors and management are responsible for running the day to day operations of the organisation. These people are appointed to their positions, not elected by the community.

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As ratepayers, you don't get to vote on who runs the organisation. Instead, you elect councillors to represent you and make sure the organisation is being run in your best interests.

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That doesn't mean councillors and management can't have a good working relationship. We need to work together while maintaining our independence and being prepared to question things, consider alternatives and challenge the way things have always been done. This shouldn't be seen as creating problems.  

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Above all, I believe councillors should have an enormous respect for the ratepayer's dollar. It's not our money, and if we ever lose sight of that, we need to seriously question whether we're still doing the job we were elected to do.

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Following completion in 2022, all-tide access at Molongle Creek suffered significant damage from subsequent flooding and severe weather.

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Contributed by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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Futureproofing access to more than 200 holiday huts at Cape Upstart remains at the fore following recent discussions between stakeholders and Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.

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Following completion in 2022, all-tide access at Molongle Creek suffered significant damage from subsequent flooding and severe weather with stakeholders now actively working to progress interim repairs as well as long term plans for the facility.

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Mr Last said a recent meeting with Molongle Creek Boat Club members had been a proactive

opportunity to not only continue advocacy for improving boating access to Cape Upstart but to allow for future planning and safety improvements.

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“It’s disappointing for members of the community who rely on Molongle Creek and have been left with the consequences of this mess by the former government. This should have been a project the community was still reaping the benefits of four years down the track.”

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“What we don’t want to see is millions of dollars spent on a project that doesn’t take into account the views and advice provided by locals or requires significant ongoing work at the expense of the taxpayer.”

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“At the heart of this remains the safety of our boating public and the safety of those property owners on Cape Upstart. We know Molongle Creek provides the nearest access to respond in times of emergency which is why I have ensured this matter has continued to receive attention by all levels of government.”

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Mr Last said the recent meeting made clear that while there remained advocacy for some interim dredging to occur, consideration needed to be given to the time of year in order to effectively undertake the access repairs.

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“Ultimately any work on Molongle Creek needs the support of all levels of government to ensure the necessary approvals are in place.”

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The works included the installation of a new electrical switch room, replacement cabling, updated control and monitoring systems, and new safety measures to mitigate electrical hazards for site workers. Photo supplied

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A major upgrade to Sunwater's Elliot Pump Station south of Clare is now complete, replacing original equipment that had been in service for nearly four decades.

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The Sunwater facility, located on the Burdekin River about 10 kilometres south of Clare, plays a central role in delivering water to Lower Burdekin irrigators.

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The works included the installation of a new electrical switch room, replacement cabling, updated control and monitoring systems, and new safety measures to mitigate electrical hazards for site workers.

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Despite extensive works, crews managed to keep water flowing to regional farms without interruption throughout the entire project.

Sunwater Burdekin Whitsundays Operations Manager Aaron Elphinstone said the modernised facility reinforces long-term reliability for local agriculture.

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“The original pumps have been in operation since the late 1980’s, providing a reliable water supply for the past four decades before reaching end of life,” he said.

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“With the capability to support a long design life, the upgrade provides a safe and resilient asset that will continue to deliver reliable water.”

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The project relied on regional trades and suppliers, with Townsville-based Minelec serving as principal contractor alongside CivilPlus Constructions. Fabrication and construction support were provided by Powerhouse Switchrooms, Crisp Power and Control, and Woodfield Engineering.

(L-R) Bev Ruth, Rhondda Ware, Jenny Donald, Lynn Hutchings, Nola Nendick (President) and Barb Early Photos supplied

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Ten bags filled with essential items and small comforts will help women and children leaving homes affected by domestic and family violence, thanks to a donation from the Home Hill-Ayr Lions Club and its ladies craft group.

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The group recently donated 10 complete bag sets to the Burdekin Community Association (BCA), which will distribute them to people in need as situations arise.

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The sets contain three bags each, with toiletries and personal care items in white bags, toys, books and pencils in black bags, and clothing, toiletries and comfort items, including a teddy bear, in coloured bags.

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The Lions craft group spent many Thursday sessions assembling the sets, attaching Lions logos and making toys for the black bags.

The Lions Club purchased the contents of the white bags, spending more than $300 on supplies, while the Alannah & Madeline Foundation donated the coloured bags and their contents. The Lions Club donated $500 to the foundation in recognition of its work supporting children across Australia.

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BCA chief executive Debra Cochran thanked the Lions for their contribution.

“BCA is very grateful,” Ms Cochran said.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort called the decision a “win” for the Burdekin. Photo: Jacob Casha

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Months of calls to ‘dump the deal’ have convinced the Federal Government to bin a proposal that threatened to leave North Queensland communities facing millions of dollars in additional disaster recovery costs. Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort called the decision a “win” for the Burdekin.

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SIGH OF RELIEF FOR BURDEKIN AFTER DISASTER FUNDING REVERSAL

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The Federal Government has backflipped on a proposal to slash its share of disaster recovery funding after unified pushback from regional North Queensland communities, including the Burdekin.

The Commonwealth last Friday confirmed it would retain its contribution of up to 75 per cent of eligible disaster recovery costs, abandoning a proposed 50-50 State-Commonwealth funding split that could have left the Burdekin shouldering millions in additional disaster recovery costs.

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“[This decision] is the direct result of strong advocacy from councils and Queensland federal Labor colleagues,” Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.

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“When disaster strikes, we will be there with the funding to help people get back on their feet, and that’s what these changes are all about.”

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort called the decision a “win” for the Burdekin.

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“I don’t know why [the Government] even considered the proposal or where it came from,” she said.

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“We [regional councils] had to get the message loud and clear —we suffer more than other places … It’s a great outcome.”

Council CEO Matthew Magin said the proposed 50-50 split would have placed a substantial burden on the Burdekin and its ratepayers.

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Under the proposed reforms, the Burdekin’s $22 million disaster recovery claim from January-February 2025 would have received $11 million in federal funding, down from $16.5 million. Mr Magin said covering half the remaining $11 million locally would have meant a 17.46 per cent rate rise.

“Our ratepayers would have copped a real blow—or we wouldn’t have been able to fund the recovery work, which would make the Burdekin community look like a disaster in itself,” Ms Dalle Cort said.

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Ms Dalle Cort was among the panellists at the Local Government Association of Queensland’s (LGAQ) Coastal Leaders Forum in the Whitsundays in July, where councils discussed the DRFA changes proposed by the Federal Government a month earlier.

The forum was part of a broader, months-long LGAQ campaign, which included a protest by six Queensland mayors in Melbourne, a unanimous Townsville City Council motion calling on the Prime Minister to reconsider the changes, and a statewide campaign backed by all 77 Queensland mayors.

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Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, argued the proposed reforms were designed to shift disaster management towards risk reduction and faster response, describing the model as “simpler and fairer for all Australians.”

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Following consultation with councils around Australia, as well as recommendations from the Independent Review of Commonwealth Disaster Funding, the Government ultimately scrapped the proposal.

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The decision means councils also retain their ability to claim costs for counter disaster operations, with funding activation thresholds to be revised.

Biosecurity Queensland has reported recent detections of JEV in commercial pigs in Queensland.

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Burdekin residents and livestock owners are being urged to take precautions against Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) as mosquito activity increases across North Queensland.

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Biosecurity Queensland has reported recent detections of JEV in commercial pigs in Queensland, following earlier detections in a person and commercial pigs in May and a feral pig in June.

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JEV is spread by infected mosquitoes and naturally circulates between mosquitoes, birds and pigs. It cannot be transmitted directly from infected animals to people or from person to person.

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Residents are being encouraged to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing outdoors and remove standing water around homes and properties where mosquitoes can breed.

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Livestock producers, horse owners and others involved in animal care are also being urged to maintain strong biosecurity practices and monitor animals for signs of illness.

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In pigs, JEV can cause reproductive losses, while infected horses can develop neurological symptoms including incoordination, difficulty swallowing and impaired vision.

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JEV is a reportable disease in Queensland, with suspected cases required to be reported within 24 hours.

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Anyone who suspects JEV in an animal should contact their veterinarian or Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

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More than a quarter of the material being put into Burdekin recycling bins cannot be recycled through the kerbside service, according to a recent audit. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council

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More than a quarter of the material being put into Burdekin recycling bins cannot be recycled through the kerbside service, according to a recent audit.

The audit found 28 per cent contamination across the region’s yellow-lid bins, with bagged recyclables, soft plastics and non-recyclable plastic items among the most common contaminants.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the result showed residents needed to take more care when sorting their household waste.

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“The Burdekin is fortunate to have a three-bin waste collection system, with separate services for general waste, recycling and green waste. This provides households with more opportunities to divert material away from landfill and recover valuable resources,” she said.

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“By placing recyclable items loose in the yellow-lid bin, keeping plastic bags and soft plastics out of the recycling stream, and taking a moment to check which bin an item belongs in, residents can make a significant difference to the quality of recycling collected across our community.”

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Council said incorrect items can contaminate recyclable material, increasing processing costs and reducing the amount of material that can be recovered and reused.

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Residents are reminded to place recyclable household packaging and containers loose in yellow-lid bins, including paper and cardboard, glass bottles and jars, aluminium and steel cans, and plastic bottles and containers.

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Plastic bags and soft plastics should not be placed in recycling bins.

Households that regularly fill their recycling bin can also apply to upgrade to a larger 360-litre recycling bin.

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Residents unsure where an item belongs can use the Recycle Mate app for recycling advice.

Contributed by Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr

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Coffee and something freshly baked on the side? That sounds like a pretty good way to start the day.

Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr Drive Thru has welcomed two delicious new pastries to their Freshly Baked range, giving locals even more reasons to make a stop on the morning commute, school run or next afternoon coffee break.

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If you’re in the mood for something a little indulgent, say hello to the Portuguese Tart. With a silky caramelised custard centre nestled inside a sweet, flaky pastry shell and finished with a beautifully caramelised top, it’s crisp, creamy and made for pairing with your favourite coffee.

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More of an apple and cinnamon fan? The Apple Cinnamon Twist might be calling your name. Sweet apple and gently spiced cinnamon come together in a golden lattice pastry, finished with a light dusting of icing sugar. Warm, comforting and just the thing when you’re craving a little treat. Of course, the hardest part might be choosing which one to try first!

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So next time you’re passing through, swing by Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr Drive Thru, grab your go-to coffee and add something freshly baked on the side. The team will be ready to welcome you with a friendly smile.

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Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr, located at 125 Edwards Street. Open from 5am – 8pm daily.

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Burdekin Grower and Queensland Canegrowers Chair Owen Menkens is the industry-preferred candidate for the upcoming STL G-Class Director position.  Photo credit: QCGO.

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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The upcoming Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) Grower/G‑Class Director election, to be decided at the company’s Annual General Meeting on 21st October 2026, has unexpectedly become one of the most closely watched governance moments in Queensland’s sugar industry recent history.  

With major shareholder Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) announcing its support for CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens, the contest has highlighted deeper questions about grower representation, terminal strategy, and the future direction of one of the industry’s most important infrastructure owners.

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STL oversees Queensland’s bulk sugar terminal network which is a system of storage and loading facilities that underpins the state’s export driven sugar sector. For growers, the terminals are not just physical assets but are a critical choke point: the backbone of the industry’s logistics chain. Decisions made at the STL board table can influence marketing efficiency, shipping schedules, and long‑term investment in infrastructure.

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QSL—itself a major player in sugar marketing and, up until 1st July this year, the operator of the terminals—has made it clear that they believe, along with the vast majority of growers and some milling companies, that Queensland CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens brings with him extensive knowledge of Queensland’s sugar industry and the vital role the bulk sugar terminal network plays within it. As Chair of Qld CANEGROWERS, also president of the World Beet and Sugar Association and a Burdekin cane farmer, Menkens has long been regarded as one of the industry’s most experienced grower leaders. Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri already serves as a Grower Director on the STL Board, and Menkens’ election would place another seasoned grower voice in a key governance role.

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Most of the industry believes that this year’s election carries unusual weight. STL is navigating a period of significant challenge, including rising maintenance costs, evolving export requirements, and ongoing debate about the future configuration of the terminal network. Growers have expressed concern that decisions made now will shape the competitiveness of Queensland sugar for decades.

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Against this backdrop, the decision by the CEO of Tully Mill to nominate for the Grower Director position in competition with Menkens has drawn attention and disappointment from some grower groups. While the CEO has not released detailed reasoning, the move has been interpreted by many as a sign of growing tension between some milling companies and certain growing sectors of the industry.

It could be argued that the G‑Class Director role exists specifically to ensure grower perspectives are not overshadowed by mill interests. Growers rely on STL to protect the integrity of the terminal network, so when a respected grower leader puts his hand up, it’ssurprising to see a mill CEO try to oppose that.

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Disagreement is not unusual in an industry where marketing, logistics, and governance responsibilities are shared across multiple organisations with differing commercial priorities. The Tully Mill CEO’s action in nominating for a grower role may be considered to reflect broader debates about how STL should evolve and who should guide that evolution.

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Despite the controversy, the election has prompted renewed discussion about the importance of strong grower representation. Many growers argue that having experienced industry leaders on the STL Board helps ensure decisions remain grounded in the realities of farming, harvesting, and delivering cane into a complex supply chain.

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I would encourage all G‑Class shareholders to support Owen Menkens as this election is shaping up as a defining moment for STL governance. As the AGM approaches, growers and the broader public will be watching closely. The decisions made on 21st October will influence not only who sits at the board table, but how the industry navigates the challenges ahead.

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Photo source: Shutterstock

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Sugar Research Australia has launched new research into Fusarium wilt after repeated reports of crop decline across other cane-growing regions; with researchers now working to establish what the disease means for districts including the Burdekin.

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SRA Manager Biosecurity and Disease Screening Dr Shamsul Bhuiyan said Fusarium wilt was not currently considered a significant issue in the Burdekin, but one local field had shown symptoms consistent with the disease.

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“No further investigations have confirmed the extent of the disease in the region,” Dr Bhuiyan said.

“Consequently, there is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether Fusarium wilt poses a significant risk to Burdekin growers.”

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The uncertainty is one reason SRA's new research project is examining the disease across Australia's sugarcane-growing regions. Fusarium wilt is caused by fungi including Fusarium sacchari and can affect the health and longevity of sugarcane. Symptoms can include yellowing leaves, patchy or poor growth, reduced ratooning, stunted plants, root decline and unexplained areas of crop deterioration.

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Dr Bhuiyan said these symptoms could easily be mistaken for other issues including soil compaction, nutrient deficiencies, soil toxicity, Pachymetra root rot or nematodes.

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The research was prompted by increasing reports of poor germination, crop establishment failures, reduced ratooning, crop decline and stool mortality, particularly in Central Queensland and New South Wales. SRA investigations of affected crops had repeatedly identified Fusarium species over the past five to six years, with pathogenicity testing confirming the fungi can cause disease in sugarcane.

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A major focus of the new project will be determining how widespread the disease is and identifying which Australian sugarcane varieties may be more resistant or susceptible.

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“There is limited information on the susceptibility or resistance of Australian commercial sugarcane varieties to Fusarium wilt,” Dr Bhuiyan said.

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There are currently no plans for field screening trials in the Burdekin, although SRA may establish local trials if future investigations indicate the disease is becoming more prevalent. For now, Dr Bhuiyan said vigilance was the most important tool for Burdekin growers.

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“Early reporting will help researchers better understand the distribution and impact of the disease and ensure that any emerging issues are identified as quickly as possible.”

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Growers noticing unexplained crop decline are encouraged to contact SRA for further investigation. SRA will also provide an industry update during Fusarium Wilt: Australian Industry Update, an online session on Tuesday, October 13 from 11am to 11:30am. The session is open to Australian sugarcane growers, millers and industry participants, with registration required.

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Burdekin residents have until 7th December to nominate a local person, group or event for recognition at next year’s Australia Day Awards. Photo: Melanie Napier Memories & Photography

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Burdekin residents have until 7th December to nominate a local person, group or event for recognition at next year’s Australia Day Awards.

Burdekin Shire Council has opened nominations across 10 categories, covering community service, volunteering, sport, culture and the environment.

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The awards include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Lifetime Service Award, Volunteer of the Year and Community Event of the Year, along with senior and junior awards for sport and culture and an Environment Award.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort encouraged residents to nominate someone they believe has made a significant contribution to the community.

“Often the people most deserving of recognition are the ones who are quietly making a difference behind the scenes, which is why community nominations are so important,” she said.

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“If someone has inspired you, supported your community or gone above and beyond for others, I encourage you to nominate them for a 2027 Australia Day Award.”

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Winners will be announced at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony at the Burdekin Theatre on Tuesday 26th January.

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Nominations can be submitted through the Burdekin Shire Council website, with assistance available from Council’s Community Development team on 4783 9800.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the funding would help provide “certainty” in the region. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council

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The Burdekin’s battle against illegal dumpers has received a $270,000 boost, helping the region double down on enforcement and prevention efforts while saving ratepayers “thousands of dollars” in clean-up costs.

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The funding boost, secured through the Queensland Government's Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program, will support Burdekin Shire Council initiatives aimed at reducing illegal dumping, including support for its dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the funding would help provide “certainty” in the region.

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“This three-year funding commitment will support the continuation of Council's dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer role, ensuring Council can maintain a strong focus on investigating offences, educating the community and responding quickly to reports of illegal dumping," Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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“Illegal dumping is not only unsightly, it can damage our natural environment, create public health risks and result in significant clean-up costs for Council and the community.

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Council has previously identified illegal dumping hotspots across the Burdekin, including the river, bushland, roadsides and footpaths.

In 2025, it said several offenders had been fined more than $2,500 each, with Council estimating illegal dumping costs local businesses and residents thousands of dollars in clean-up and waste management each year.

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“Every illegally dumped trailer load, mattress, appliance or pile of green waste costs the community. These clean-up costs are ultimately borne by ratepayers and divert resources away from other important services,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said empowering Burdekin Shire Council to take proactive action on illegal dumping was a crucial step towards providing cleaner community spaces that everyone can enjoy.

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“The new Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer will have the tools at their hands to properly investigate incidents and hold those offenders to account,” Mr Last said.

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“It’s no secret the Burdekin is renowned for the lifestyle it provides especially when it comes to our beaches, creeks and river systems. By doing our part to mitigate illegal dumping we ensure our favourite spots to get outdoors with our family remain pristine for generations to come.”

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I hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend and had the chance to spend some time with family and friends. With the children now back at school, I am sure it will not be long before they start counting down to the Christmas holidays, which will be here before we know it.

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The Burdekin is proudly known as the sugar capital of Australia, and over the coming weeks there will be plenty happening to celebrate the industry that has shaped our region and continues to play such an important role in our community.

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This week I bought a copy of Big Drama Cane Farmer, the follow-up to No Drama Cane Farmer. The young ones in my family absolutely love these books. I always write a little story inside for them, reminding them of their great-grandfathers, where they came from and the proud farming history that is part of their family.

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There are some wonderful events on the horizon. On 25 October, the community can enjoy a free screening of Just a Farmer at the Burdekin Theatre, with tickets available online at https://bit.ly/JustaFarmer_Tix. The Home Hill Harvest Festival Parade will bring the streets of Home Hill to life on 7 November, while excitement is already building for the 2027 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival. Festival dates will be shared soon, along with the release of the very first Sweet Days, Hot Farmers Calendar for 2027.

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I have mentioned Snap Send Solve before, but I still come across many residents who have not heard of it. I encourage everyone to download the app and see for themselves just how useful it can be.

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If you notice an issue around the Burdekin whether it is illegal dumping, a damaged road, graffiti or another local concern, Snap Send Solve is a quick and easy way to let Council know. Simply take a photo, add a brief description and send the report directly to Burdekin Shire Council from your smartphone.

The free app can be used anytime, anywhere, and is available from the App Store and Google Play Store. It is a simple and practical way for residents to work alongside Council and help us look after the Burdekin. Remember, if you can see it, you can Snap it, Send it and Solve it.

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As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss any Council matters, please contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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How excited am I for the proposed “Meet Ya on Eighth” event in Home Hill?!  If, like me you grew up in Home Hill, you will remember the days of thriving businesses, the Italian men sitting on the seat outside Rodney Prescott’s Corner Pharmacy, the busyness of Musumeci’s shop and their incredible fish and chips… There were no vacant, run-down shops. I say, bring it back! Congratulations to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce for their pro-activeness in attempting to revitalize the main street. If you are interested in sponsoring this fantastic event or would like to simply be a part of it, go see Candace at Salted Roots in Home Hill. “Meet Ya on Eighth” takes place on Saturday 5^th December, 4pm-9pm on Eighth Avenue Home Hill.  

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Looking to clear out, make some extra cash, or score a bargain? The Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale returns to the Ayr Showgrounds Hall on Saturday 7th and Saturday 14th November 2026, from 8am to 1pm. Take a wander around up to 50 stalls or have your own and make a few bucks before Christmas.  For more information visit: burdekin.qld.gov.au or give the Council a call on 4783 9800.

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With Sweet Days Hot Nights returning to the Home Hill Showgrounds in May, the search is on for the Burdekin’s hottest personalities with the introduction of the first ever Sweet Days, Hot Farmers Calendar. It’s about more than just good looks though! We’re looking for the people who make our region what it is. Seasoned farmers, contractors, next-generation growers and local legends who help keep Australia sweet.  DON’T BE SHY!  To enter:Send your (or your nominee’s) name, phone number and a photo to sweetdays@burdekin.qld.gov.au by Sunday 18th October.

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Since my last Councillor Column, the Burdekin has lost some much-loved residents.  My sincerest condolences to their families and loved ones and may they Rest peacefully forever in the arms of God.  God Bless.

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Police reported extensive damage to both vehicles. Photo: Jacob Casha

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A Burdekin intersection notorious for collisions and near misses was the site of another crash on Thursday, 1st October, when two vehicles collided, leaving one on its side.

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The incident occurred at about 3pm at the intersection of the Bruce Highway and Giddy Road.

Initial investigations indicate the driver of a vehicle entering the Bruce Highway from Giddy Road and intending to travel south failed to give way.

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The vehicle collided with another vehicle travelling north along the highway.

Police reported extensive damage to both vehicles, with one driver sustaining minor injuries.

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The crash follows a period of extensive surveillance at the intersection, with a mobile CCTV trailer monitoring the site during three separate periods since the beginning of last year.

A Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) spokesperson said investigations into the intersection remained ongoing.

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“All speed limit changes on the state-controlled road network go through a formal review and endorsement process by the local Speed Management Committee,” the spokesperson said.

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The regional committee comprises representatives from TMR, Queensland Police and Burdekin Shire Council.

Investigations have identified driver behaviour as the primary safety issue, particularly gap acceptance, where a driver misjudges whether a gap in traffic is large enough to safely turn or merge, as well as failing to give way when entering the highway.

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The spokesperson said data from the most recent footage will “contribute to the development of a range of treatments to improve safety at this intersection and its approaches.”

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“As the review is still underway, TMR is not in a position to comment on potential outcomes,” the spokesperson added.