Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Last Sunday, I attended the Breaking Barriers Event at the Memorial Hall. It was a wonderful afternoon, featuring inspirational speakers who shared powerful messages with an engaged audience. Each speaker drew on personal experience, covering topics including domestic violence, suicide, menopause, grief and dying, and mental health. Congratulations to everyone involved in organising the event, and I hope to see more opportunities like this in the future. The Burdekin Domestic and Family Violence group will hold a DV Walk on 31 May at Plantation Park. Attendees are asked to arrive at 8:15am for a 9:00am start. The walk will proceed to Rossiter’s Hill and return, with the aim of raising public awareness of domestic violence and the importance of community action to prevent violence in the home and broader community. BCA, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Zonta, Police, and Burdekin Shire Council will support the morning’s activities, including kids’ arts and crafts and a free BBQ breakfast. Community members are encouraged to attend and wear purple to show support. If you haven’t heard of it, here’s a great local initiative worth a mention: the Burdekin Men’s Shed. It’s all about supporting men’s health and wellbeing—physically, socially and emotionally—by helping blokes stay connected and supported right here in the Burdekin. The Burdekin Men’s Shed is a not-for-profit group that started in June 2011, and it was officially opened in November 2012. The Shed is located at 155–157 Young Street, Ayr. It’s a friendly place where men of all ages can pop in for a yarn and a cuppa, make new mates, share skills, learn something new, and feel part of the community. The Shed also helps connect members with men’s health information and local support services, and plays an important role in reducing isolation, loneliness and depression. There’s plenty on offer at the Shed. Members have access to a large meeting and recreation room with a modern kitchen, storeroom, meeting area, TV/DVD lounge, book and magazine library, laptop and desktop computers, and a games area. There are also three workshops—woodcraft (Workshop 1), metalwork and welding (Workshop 2), and office and mechanical repairs (Workshop 3). They hold garage sales every two months from the large storage and showroom at the front of the building. Out the back, the veggie garden has seven raised beds that provide fresh produce for members. “New members are always welcome”
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The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating following a fatal traffic crash in Barratta, north of Ayr, on the evening of 28 April. Initial investigations indicate that at approximately 8.20pm, a motorcycle travelling north on the Bruce Highway collided with an Isuzu light truck. The rider of the motorcycle, a 36-year-old Gayndah man, sustained critical injuries and was declared deceased at the scene. The driver of the Isuzu, a 48-year-old Balnagowan man, was not physically injured and is assisting police with their inquiries. Tuesday's crash marks the second fatal motorcycle crash in the Ayr area this year, following a collision in February involving a motorcycle and a Kia Sorento on Rutherford Street. Both incidents come amid a rise in road fatalities across Queensland. As of 19 April, 95 people have died on Queensland roads in 2026, a 17.3 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the Barratta crash, or who has relevant CCTV or dashcam footage, to contact investigators. Information can be provided to Policelink on 131 444 or via www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
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A proposal to establish a Burdekin Liberal National Party (LNP) Women’s branch has garnered strong community interest following an information meeting held last weekend at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. If formed, the branch would connect local women with the wider LNP Women’s network and provide a platform for discussing regional issues with party representatives and policymakers. Queensland Senator Susan McDonald, who attended the meeting as a guest speaker, said the initiative would ensure local voices are better represented. “This is a chance to speak with a voice that is practical and grounded in the Burdekin community,” she said. The meeting, led by Burdekin Shire councillor Amanda Hall, also featured addresses from former Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens, former Burdekin Shire Youth Council mayor Nicole Cervoni, and Northern Regional Chair of LNP Women Jean McCubben, who is leading the push for the branch. Ms McCubben, a Home Hill local, said the branch aims to increase the region's influence on state and federal levels. “People in smaller country towns don’t realise the power they’ve got. Just because they’re small, doesn’t mean they have to be quiet,” she said. “This branch is to tell locals that they belong, and they have just as much say as someone who lives in Brisbane.” The Burdekin is part of a broader expansion of women’s branches across North Queensland that has already seen the formation of a branch in Mackay. Ms McCubben said the branch would give local women a direct pathway to influence policy, with issues raised at branch level progressing to party conventions, where they are debated and voted on before being put to government representatives. She said the branch will also create a pathway for women to step into leadership roles within the party. “The women are the workers, they’re the engine, they’re the grunt work,” she said. “You look at Rosemary [Menkens], and at people like Susan [McDonald]—she’s from Cloncurry, and now she’s in the senate in Canberra. We want more of them.” Organisers will now submit an application to the state executive for formal approval. Ms McCubben said that pending approval from the state executive, an inaugural AGM would be held to appoint office bearers and formally establish the branch. She said the group would then engage with the local community to identify key issues and set its priorities moving forward. CAPTIONS: 1—Former Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens, Queensland Senator Susan McDonald, Burdekin Shire councillor Amanda Hall, and Northern Regional Chair of LNP Women Jean McCubben. 2—A proposal to establish a Burdekin Liberal National Party (LNP) Women’s branch has garnered strong community interest following an information meeting held last weekend at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed a $30 million boost to on-farm technology under the launch of the Crisafulli Government’s Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund. Commercially viable innovation with the aim of improving productivity, resilience and profitability across Queensland’s primary industries will be supported under the new fund as the Crisafulli Government works towards the ambitious target of increasing the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030. Mr Last said the fund provided an opportunity for Burdekin’s agricultural sector to bring their innovative ideas to life. “The Burdekin’s agriculture sector has been at the forefront of innovation particularly in our sugar cane and horticulture industry and the benefits of that innovation flow into communities like Ayr and Home Hill,” Mr Last said. “We know when our agricultural sector is operating efficiently and productively, we see that investment flow right through to our small businesses and community groups which is why the Crisafulli Government is backing our farmers to not grow, not just now but into the future.” “By investing in innovation in this state we are able to strengthen commercialisation pathways and build platforms for practical technologies that make a real difference at the farm gate and ultimately the Queensland economy.” Mr Last said the Sowing the Seeds of Farming was a game changer for the future of farming in its ability to drive and deliver the next generation of Ag Tech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability. “Whether it is improving the efficiency of on farm practices, providing safer workplaces or embracing technology, our farmers have a global reputation for remaining at the cutting edge of production and exports,” Mr Last said. “I’m proud to back the Crisafulli Government’s initiative to improve productivity, resilience and profitability across Queensland’s primary industries, while helping to attract additional private investment. Businesses interested in exploring how the fund can support its growth can provide information via the QIC website for review: https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds ENDS Media
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The Coalition has launched the Australian Values Migration Plan, a decisive package aimed at restoring integrity to a migration system it claims has been left in "chaos" under the Albanese Government.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the plan is designed to ensure those seeking to call Australia home share the nation's core values, laws, and freedoms.
“Since Labor took office, the migration program has lacked direction: numbers have soared while standards have plummeted,” Mr Willcox said.
“The Coalition’s plan will restore integrity and ensure our migration system serves the national interest. Living in Australia is a privilege, not a right: those who come here must respect our laws, share our values, and contribute to our nation.”
The first stage of the plan includes three key pillars:
Compliance with the Australian Values Statement will become a universal, binding visa condition. This allows for visas to be refused or cancelled where individuals fail to uphold these values. Breaches will be codified as grounds for failing the Character Test under the Migration Act 1958, leading to removal.
To deter unfounded claims, a "Safe Country List" will be introduced to fast-track refusals from places deemed safe. The Coalition also intends to restore Temporary Protection Visas and provide additional funding to deport the 65,000 unlawful non-citizens currently in Australia.
Vetting will be strengthened through a new Enhanced Screening Coordination Centre, making social media screening a standard feature. Real-time, risk-based vetting will aim to identify and block individuals who pose a security threat.
Mr Willcox said Australia has the right to be selective.
“If you share our values and want to strengthen our nation, you are welcome; however, if you reject the rule of law, parliamentary democracy, or individual freedoms like freedom of speech and religion, you will be happier elsewhere,” he said.
“To protect our way of life and restore Australians’ standard of living, we must reduce immigration numbers and lift migration standards.”
Contributed with thanks to the office of Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
Rod, Joe, Phil and Raman pitched in to install the new signing at Groper Creek Caravan Park. Photo source: Groper Creek Caravan Park
The Home Hill Boat Club has taken another step towards cementing Groper Creek Caravan Park’s reputation as “the best place to visit, fish, relax and make lasting memories,” with the recent installation of new directional signage.
In the wake of last year’s flood event, the club took the opportunity to reassess the park and its facilities, concluding that a refresh and a series of improvements were needed to maintain its appeal for both loyal visitors and new travellers.
“Groper Creek isn’t just a stopover,” said Home Hill Boat Club Secretary Sue Malaponte.
“It’s a place where locals gather for family outings, fishing, camping, and school holiday fun. With that in mind, the committee set out to create a more welcoming, vibrant and enjoyable environment for everyone who uses the park.”
A range of upgrades is set to roll out over the coming years, with Ms Malaponte confirming the committee has been actively pursuing funding and grants to support the projects, particularly following a period of limited improvements.
“Fresh ideas are always being explored, and one long-term vision is the development of a dedicated clubhouse for the Home Hill Boat Club and its members,” she said.
With a history spanning more than eight decades, the club has long been a valued part of the Burdekin Shire community, despite never having a clubhouse of its own. Many believe a purpose-built facility would strengthen the club’s long-term sustainability while enhancing the experience for caravan park visitors.
“While the clubhouse remains a future goal, several shorter-term projects are already underway, helping to steadily improve the park and create a more welcoming environment for everyone,” Ms Malaponte added.
Over the years, the club has been supported by a strong base of dedicated members. The committee recently acknowledged the passing of Life Member and long-serving Treasurer Alf Shand, whose contribution was deeply valued, while long-time Commodore, Life Member and patron John Fahey remains an active and supportive presence.
Ms Malaponte said the club continues to benefit from the commitment of both long-standing and newer members, along with strong local support.
“Members like Rod, Joe, Phil and Raman have played a key role in recent improvements,” she said.
“Without their time, skills and willingness to pitch in, many of these projects simply wouldn’t have been possible.”
Their efforts, alongside many others, continue to drive improvements across the park, ensuring Groper Creek remains a welcoming and enjoyable destination for residents, visitors and caravan guests alike, offering a relaxed coastal setting with opportunities for fishing, crabbing and boating.
Over the Easter break and school holidays, the park was buzzing with activity, with children enjoying the Easter egg hunt, families gathering along the jetty, and visitors chatting, laughing and heading out for a fish.
Feedback on the recent upgrades has been overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors commenting on how well the park is looking, the clarity of the new signage, and how much easier it is to navigate the caravan sites.
“The Home Hill Boat Club and Groper Creek Caravan Park look forward to welcoming many familiar caravanner faces, along with plenty of new visitors, throughout the coming season and well into the future,” Ms Malaponte said.
“Visitors will be welcomed by Gail and Raman, the Caravan Park Managers, along with the Home Hill Boat Club committee and members.”
The inaugural Next Gen Cane Forum has wrapped up after two energetic days across the Herbert and Burdekin regions, bringing growers and industry together to explore the future of cane farming.
Day one in Ingham delivered a strong turnout, with participants engaging in discussions around innovation, productivity and sustainability. The program featured cutting-edge technology including drones, the use of AI in agriculture, GPS tractor technologies, alongside valuable networking opportunities.
The forum then moved to the Burdekin for day two, with a start at the Burdekin Theatre. Attendees experienced live demonstrations at Mulgowie Farms, showcasing automated machinery and irrigation in real paddock conditions, before touring the iconic Burdekin Rum Distillery.
The event concluded with a forum dinner at the Queens Hotel, rounding out a packed program of learning and connection.
Organised by Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis, the forum highlighted emerging technologies, funding opportunities and the importance of collaboration across the industry.
With strong attendance and plenty of ideas shared, organisers say the success of the first Next Gen Cane Forum has set a solid foundation for future events.
See more photos from the day here: https://www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/next-gen-cane-forum-wraps-up-across-herbert-and-burdekin
For many years, access between Ayr and Home Hill during flood events has been a significant concern for our community.
I am pleased to share that the Department of Transport and Main Roads has commenced a geotechnical investigation of State-controlled infrastructure on the Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek. This important work will inform future connectivity planning, not only between Ayr and Home Hill, but for North and Far North Queensland and western regions. These investigations are funded through the Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and is proposed to be constructed after the 2027 wet season.
As we approach Anzac Day, the Burdekin is preparing for ceremonies across the Shire to pause, remember and honour those who have served our nation. In light of world events unfolding in 2026, this year’s commemoration carries even greater significance. It is a reminder of how fragile peace can be, how vital unity is, and why it is so important to honour those whose service has allowed us to enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted.
To reduce impacts on park amenities, and in preparation for Anzac Day commemorations in Home Hill, Council will be undertaking flyingfox dispersal activities at Arch Dunn Memorial Park to ensure ceremonies can proceed respectfully and safely for all attendees.
Work is also progressing on the upgrade of memorial plaques and posts along Pioneer Avenue in Home Hill, with the project now reaching the halfway mark. All 50 memorial plaques have been carefully restored to their original condition and are being relocated back to their original sites on new recycled plastic posts, ensuring these tributes are preserved for future generations.
Following recent weather events, both Council crews and contractors have recommenced unsealed road grading works under the Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements, jointly subsidised by the Federal and State Governments. Crews are currently working on Brewster Road and Jerona Road in the Barratta area, as well as Pyott Road in Airdmillan.
Council crews have also commenced footpath renewal works at the corner of Parker Street and Wilmington Street in Ayr, adjacent to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. These works involve the removal and replacement of damaged footpaths that have been assessed as requiring renewal due to their condition, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians.
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.
As Councillor Furnell mentioned in his column last week, Council is currently forming its budget for the coming year. I want to assure you that as Councillors, I think for once we are all on the same page with regards to working within our means and delivering the absolute necessities to keep the Shire running smoothly. Farmers, contractors, businesses and ratepayers will be tightening their belts in the current economy and Council is no different.
The recent vandalism at Charlie’s Hill WW2 Site is particularly distressing ahead of Anzac Day. Honestly, what is wrong with people that they think it’s okay to destroy something commemorating our soldiers who fought and died so that we may live our lives in freedom? Or any vandalism for that matter!
Social media. I have a love/hate relationship with it. I don’t have a Councillor Facebook page and I don’t believe the other Councillors do either. We were elected because people trusted us to represent them. We wade through endless reports and information, attend Council, budget and many other meetings, attend on-site issues at rate-payers requests and take those phone calls (which are always important and welcomed). That is our job. My mobile is 0427827386 if you have any feedback, queries or issues and I am available anytime. In addition, we all have our own jobs and businesses to run which leaves little time for self-promotion. The Burdekin Shire Council Facebook page or web site is where information is provided to you and which you may share as you wish. If something needs clarification, please ring the Council or a Councillor. Don’t rely on random Facebook posts.
Recently Council added a “Fuel Supplies” tab on the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Dashboard web page. When you click on the Fuel Supplies tab you are taken to a map indicating fuel availability, with green, orange and red indicating full, partial and no availability respectively. The fuel supply information is currently in a trial phase, is irregular and approximate only and should not be relied upon as the sole source for decision-making.
The Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business (CDSB) service team will be visiting the Burdekin region to provide information and hands-on training on how to access Queensland Government services online. The following services and support are available at each session: Queensland Government Grant Finder, Disaster Preparedness, Queensland Digital Licence, Apply Online and Online Payments.
The scheduled community assistance sessions are as follows and bookings are not required:
The Ayr Library recently hosted 3D design and printing workshops as part of their school holiday programs, featuring sessions for ages 9-15 years. The 3D printer is available for public use and anyone who has an interest in learning about or using this technology just needs to contact the Library. Why not give it a go? We’re never too old to learn new tricks.
Finally, please pay your respects and attend one of the many Anzac Day Services on Saturday 25th April if you are able. In honour of our fallen, those who have served and those who continue to serve, LEST WE FORGET.
Burdekin Shire Council is preparing for potential fuel supply disruptions linked to instability in the Middle East, with officials taking early steps to protect essential services across the region. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Burdekin Shire Council is preparing for potential fuel supply disruptions linked to instability in the Middle East, with officials taking early steps to protect essential services across the region.
The council’s Crisis Management Team has met to assess risks and ensure the organisation is ready to respond if conditions worsen. At this stage, all council services are operating as normal.
Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin said fuel was critical to maintaining everyday operations and key community services, including waste collection, water and sewerage, road maintenance and public facilities.
“Council is taking a measured and proactive approach to ensure we can continue delivering essential services responsibly,” he said.
Measures already underway include careful monitoring of fuel use and forward planning for possible short-term supply constraints. Mr Magin said this planning would help council remain both operationally and financially stable if fuel availability tightened.
To keep residents informed, council has introduced a new Fuel Supplies section on the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard. The online hub provides up-to-date, verified information on fuel availability and pricing, reducing the need for residents to search multiple sources.
Council is urging residents to check the dashboard regularly to stay informed as the situation develops.
Mr Magin said council would continue monitoring international developments and liaising with relevant agencies. Any changes affecting services or the broader community would be communicated promptly through official channels.
He said the early preparation was designed to ensure the Burdekin community remained supported and informed, even if global conditions began to impact local fuel supplies.
Home Hill’s focal point commemorating servicemen and women will receive further enhancement under the inaugural round of the Honouring our Veterans program. Photo supplied
Home Hill’s focal point commemorating servicemen and women will receive further enhancement under the inaugural round of the Honouring our Veterans program.
As Anzac Day approaches, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed a Crisafulli Government announcement of funding to support a new memorial garden at Home Hill.
“Our war memorials stand as a physical symbol, not just for today but for generations that follow, of our pride and eternal gratitude for our current and past servicemen and women,” Mr Last said.
“The Crisafulli Government is proud to support our community’s commemorative initiatives with a cenotaph garden enhancement project at Memorial Park Home Hill.”
“We’re honouring heroes who put their lives on the line for our nation – this is our way to give back.”
Grants are awarded for major projects such as building improvements, creating or refurbishing war memorials, avenues of honour and memorial gardens, and purchasing new equipment.
They can also be received for supporting special events, activities and initiatives commemorating our veterans.
The support has been funded in a record Veterans budget that is also delivering Queensland’s first Veterans and Veterans’ Families Strategy, a boost to commemorative initiatives and initiatives to support the wellbeing of veterans and their families.
“I was proud to see the work undertaken by the Home Hill Sub-Branch in 2018 which has seen the new location of Memorial Park become a focal point during our Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services,” Mr Last said.
“The addition of a memorial gardens only builds on the great work our local RSL have done so generations of Queenslanders can recognise the great sacrifices our servicemen and women have made.”
For more information, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/veterans/grants-and-commemoration/honouring-our-veterans-grants-program.
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last’s Office
NQ Wildlife Care urges the community to report struggling animals to 0414 717 374. Photo source: NQ Wildlife Care
A quick response from local volunteers has given four struggling birds a second chance after they were found in distress in a cluster of thick mangroves.
North Queensland Wildlife Care (NQ Wildlife Care) responded early on 17 April following reports of sick birds in the area. Upon arrival, rescuers located three ibis and one cattle egret, all grounded and unable to stand or fly.
One of the birds was in particularly poor condition.
“One was so weak he couldn’t even hold his head up, although he was very much still alive,” the organisation said.
A rescuer attended promptly, safely containing the birds before transporting them for urgent veterinary assessment.
The organisation has since urged the community to remain vigilant, particularly around waterways where wildlife may be at risk. Residents are encouraged to report any unusual behaviour in birds or sightings of injured or deceased wildlife to help ensure a timely response.
“If you notice birds behaving unusually, or come across any deceased birds, please call us on 0414 717 374 or send us a message on Facebook,” NQ Wildlife Care said.
The rescue highlights the vital role local volunteers play in protecting native wildlife, with community awareness continuing to be key in ensuring animals in distress receive the help they need.
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“I chose Tec-NQ for the opportunities after school,” said Donzel. Photo supplied
Donzel began his Tec-NQ House journey in Semester 2, 2025, bringing fresh energy to the boarding community. As a year 10 student, preparing for year 11 in 2026, he already has his future mapped out: a career in the automotive industry.
“I chose Tec-NQ for the opportunities after school,” said Donzel.
“I heard about this school from family members.”
It’s the strength of Tec-NQ’s vocational pathway options that attracted him, and he is keen to take every chance to learn.
“So far, it’s been good,” he added with a smile.
Head of Boarding, Dominic Stower, says Donzel’s attitude is a great fit for Tec-NQ House.
“When new students arrive with a clear goal, it sets them up to make the most of the opportunities here,” Dominic said.
“Donzel has come in focused on automotive, and we’re already seeing his commitment.”
Life outside of the classroom keeps Donzel busy. At home on Warraber Island in the Torres Strait, he spends spare time fishing with family and friends. In Townsville, he’s quick to make use of the boarding house facilities, enjoying games of pool and keeping up with basketball. A loyal Chicago Bulls supporter, his favourite number is 23, a tribute to Michael Jordan. On the rugby league field, he follows the Roosters.
For Dominic, this balance of vocational focus, sport and recreation is exactly what Tec-NQ House was designed to provide.
“Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” he explained.
“We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and then we support them with structure and routine. That’s where they thrive.”
Tec-NQ House itself is a purpose-built boys-only residence located in Rosslea. Opened in 2022, it provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.
The facility blends structure with comfort. Students have air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, communal lounges with streaming services and computer access, and a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities and a basketball court. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals every day, fuelling the boys for school, sport and work placements.
Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus, and staff also drive students to and from workplaces when required. This removes barriers and lets students focus on their learning, hobbies and friendships. After-hours, the boys enjoy organised sport, social activities and excursions, all designed to build a sense of community.
Dominic says that for students like Donzel, these routines help them settle quickly.
“First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” he said.
“They learn to manage their time, connect with mates and build confidence. Those skills will serve them in school, in apprenticeships and in life.”
With his career pathway in mind, his hobbies from home, and a willingness to get involved in boarding life, Donzel is making a strong start. We look forward to seeing his journey continue into year 11 and 12.
Contributed with thanks to Tec-NQ
$215 for a tank of diesel …… how life can change quickly.
We are all feeling the pinch as a result of the current world circumstances.
In Council we are undergoing budget deliberations and rising prices are impacting many of Council’s areas, as it is in the family and business budgets. We all need to think of ways to make that dollar stretch, whether that’s not being so heavy on the pedal or looking at upcoming priorities.
It’s to be hoped the world leaders can find a lasting peace that will see prices fall back to some normalcy. Perhaps each can look inside themselves and find the essence of each religion they espouse. I’m sure they would find more in common with their fellow man than the differences which has inflamed parts the world.
We can’t control the bigger picture, but we can act locally to help the Burdekin community and its citizens. We as a Council have a responsibility to you, the community, to be respectful of your trust in us to make the best decisions based on facts and expert advice. As we know decisions today can have a ripple effect on the Burdekin community. Personally, if you can look to help a fellow person in these challenging times please do it.
Bookings are open for ‘Breaking Barriers: Real Conversations’ Sunday 26th April 2pm to 4pm. Jessica Rowe, Dave Kramer and Sam Thaiday will be at the Burdekin Memorial Hall. From masculinity to grief, menopause, identity and resilience, this event reminds us that breaking barriers starts with conversation.
The Cowboys have been giving us some joy lately, so we’ll see how we go tonight against the area I was born and bred in, Manly.
Health, happiness & may peace prevail
Cr John
Recent vandalism at Charlie’s Hill has understandably caused concern in our community, particularly given the site’s cultural and historical significance and its proximity to Anzac Day. Charlie’s Hill holds meaning for many residents, and any damage to public spaces that honour our history and shared identity is disappointing.
What makes this especially frustrating is that the new signage at Charlie’s Hill was only installed recently, following community advocacy and Council efforts to ensure the site is properly recognised and interpreted. Acts of vandalism undermine that work and diminish spaces intended for reflection, respect and learning.
While it is not possible to install security cameras at every public location across the Burdekin, Council relies on the community to help protect shared assets. Vandalism should always be reported so it can be formally recorded and addressed. Just as importantly, we all have a role to play in educating our children and young people about why these places matter and the responsibility we share in caring for them.
On a brighter note, if you haven’t visited the Ayr or Home Hill Visitor Information Centres recently, I encourage you to drop in and experience the S.S. Yongala Dive Virtual Reality experience. This exciting attraction allows visitors of all ages to explore one of the world’s most famous shipwrecks without getting wet — a fantastic experience right here in our own backyard.
And finally, a quick update on Coutts Park, Ayr. Construction of the new vehicular entrance from Lando Street to the BBQ shelter and public amenities is nearing completion. Asphalt surfacing was completed last week, with the concrete driveway crossover scheduled to be poured shortly. Once line marking is finalised, the project will be complete. This new entrance will significantly improve access to park facilities, particularly for older residents and community members living with disability.
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.
Burdekin residents will soon have the opportunity to receive hands-on support accessing Queensland Government services online. Photo source: iStock
Burdekin residents will soon have the opportunity to receive hands-on support accessing Queensland Government services online, with a series of community sessions scheduled across the region in April.
The Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business (CDSB) will visit Giru, Ayr and Home Hill as part of its ongoing commitment to improving access to government services both online and in person within local communities.
The sessions aim to help residents navigate key digital services, including grant applications, online payments, and the Queensland Digital Licence.
A CDSB customer service team will be available to provide practical guidance and demonstrations on how to access and use a range of government platforms, including the Queensland Government Grant Finder, disaster preparedness information, and the central www.qld.gov.au portal.
Sessions will be held on Monday, 20 April at the Giru CWA Hall from 3:00pm to 5:00pm; Tuesday, 21 April at the Burdekin Library in Ayr from 9:00am to 4:00pm; and Wednesday, 22 April at the Burdekin Memorial Hall (Tom Jackson Meeting Room) in Home Hill from 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Services available at each session include support with setting up a Queensland Digital Licence, accessing government information online, making payments, and finding available grants and assistance programs. Information on disaster preparedness will also be provided.
No bookings are required, with all sessions operating on a walk-in basis during advertised times.
Choosing the right high school is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. It is about more than just a classroom; it is about finding a community where a young person feels known, valued, and challenged to reach their full potential. At Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), we take this responsibility to heart, and we are excited to officially announce that enrolments for the 2027 school year are now open.
As a pillar of the Burdekin community, BCHS is proud of our reputation for combining academic excellence with a deep sense of pastoral care. Whether through our diverse vocational pathways, our rigorous ATAR-focused curriculum, or our vibrant sporting and cultural programs, we ensure every student has the opportunity to shine. Following our strong senior results and regional sporting successes last year, we are eager to showcase what makes our school the "warm heart" of regional education.
To help families experience our unique culture firsthand, we invite you to join us for our upcoming discovery events:
Our community is growing, and interest in 2027 placements is already high. To ensure your child has the best start to their secondary journey, please note that enrolment applications are due by June 22.
We look forward to meeting the next generation of BCHS students and working in partnership with Burdekin families to shape a bright, successful future. For more information or to download an enrolment pack, please visit our website or contact the school office on (07) 4783 2366.
The group departed via Townsville Airport ahead of the event, which will be held at Baden-Powell Park and is set to feature a packed program of activities designed to be adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive. Photo supplied
Three members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group are on their way to Samford Village to take part in a major four-day Cuboree camp, joining around 1,200 Cub Scouts from across Queensland.
The group departed via Townsville Airport ahead of the event, which will be held at Baden-Powell Park and is set to feature a packed program of activities designed to be adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive.
Today marks the start of on-site preparations, with subcamps taking shape as participants arrive. Tents are being set up and bags unpacked, ahead of tonight’s opening ceremony, which will officially launch the four-day program.
Organisers say the Cuboree is an important highlight on the Scouting calendar and a strong way to kick off Queensland Youth Week, which formally begins on April 11. A total of 804 Cub Scouts are expected to take part in the event, which will showcase a range of outdoor and team-based activities.
For the Lower Burdekin participants, the camp represents an opportunity to connect with Scouts from across the state while taking part in large-scale, structured activities not available at regular weekly meetings.
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets each Thursday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at 12th Avenue, Home Hill, and continues to welcome new members interested in joining the program.
The Cuboree will run over four days, with organisers promising a busy and memorable experience for all involved as thousands of young Scouts come together at one of Queensland’s premier Scouting events.
A selection of proud Grade 5 and 6 students displaying their competition certificates, with achievements ranging from Participation through to Distinction.
Ayr State School is celebrating a standout academic achievement, with its Grade 5 and 6 students placing in the top 100 nationally in a prestigious mathematics competition—an exceptional result that highlights the school’s strong focus on excellence.
In an impressive showing, 54% of participating students achieved a Distinction, demonstrating advanced problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of mathematics.
Principal Nikki Schell said the results reflect the high expectations and quality teaching embedded across the school.
“Our students continue to rise to every challenge. Achieving at this level on a national stage is something they should be incredibly proud of,” she said.
Students tackled complex, multi-step problems as part of the competition, applying persistence and creativity to reach solutions.
“It was challenging, but really exciting. It made us realise how much we’re capable of,” said one Year 6 student.
Families have also praised the strong academic culture.
“The learning environment is so positive and focused. These results show just how much students are achieving,” a parent shared.
Alongside academic success, students are also benefiting from high-quality learning and play environments. Newly upgraded facilities, including a modern basketball court, are supporting both wellbeing and engagement across the school.
At Ayr State School, the focus is clear—empowering every student to achieve their personal best while providing opportunities to excel at the highest level.
With enrolments now open, families are invited to experience a school where achievement, opportunity, and student success go hand in hand.
Contributed with thanks to Ayr State School
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