The skies are once again filled with black snow. While I do enjoy skiing down snowy slopes, unfortunately, this isn’t the kind of snow we can ski on. Many grumble at the sight of it, but it has long been part of life here in the Burdekin. It's a sign that the hard work of the crushing season is underway, bringing economic benefits that flow right across the district.

Of course, we all know the golden rule, don’t hang the washing out too early, and make sure it’s in before the afternoon falls. As time moves forward, we hope that one day alternatives will be found, and these fires will no longer be needed, with the leftover trash put to better use.

The Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival has now wrapped up for another year and was a huge success, with record crowds through the gates. Burdekin’s Sweetest School was a fantastic competition showcasing the talents of our local students. You never know where it may lead; we may be seeing the future sugar industry experts in action. The Events Team are already hard at work with fresh ideas for 2027, and if you’ve never been, it’s certainly one to add to your calendar.

I also had the pleasure of attending the Biggest Morning Tea, organised once again by the wonderful Shirley Gilmore and her dedicated team. Shirley has given so much to our community over the years and continues to be there for anyone who might need advice or support. Cancer touches all of us in some way, whether through personal experience, a family member, friend, neighbour, or someone we simply know. What makes the Burdekin special is that we are a true community, everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. In the city, many wouldn’t even know their neighbour's name.

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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Gumlu held its 11th AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA at the Molongle Beach Caravan Park shelter by the seaside on Sunday 8th June, on a magnificent north Qld winter’s morning, enjoying the filtering in of the warm sunshine. The total raised was $1363 with a crowd of 50 people. Many travelled from Bowen and the Burdekin regions to enjoy the annual gathering.

We always try to invite guest speakers from CCQ or people whose personal lives have been affected by cancer. This year we had the privilege of listening to Jayne Henry from Kingscliff, NSW. She was visiting her brother and niece in Gumlu. She gave a heartfelt briefing of the affliction of cancer in her own personal life. From as young as 30, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, followed by bowel cancer ten years later. Then breast cancer presented. She is now seven years clear post breast cancer. Many in her family have battled cancer. Her own mum was afflicted when Jayne was very young, but has survived and lives on at the age of 83. Jayne developed a passion for music when young and is now a professional solo singer, singing all genres including pop rock country. She gave us an ‘a cappella’ rendition of Mercedes Benz, which had the whole group clapping in time. We were all touched by her resilience, after surviving these traumas. We thanked her for her passion to inspire and deliver positive messages.

The morning continued as usual with a large array of sweets, teas and coffee. Almost 100 prizes were for grabs in the Cent Sale and major Raffle draws. Major prizes included a Yeti Hopper Flip 8 cooler and a large dart board. Winners could go to the tables and choose their prize. Also everyone was guaranteed to go home with something. There was also the guessing of lollies and teabags in jars, as well as a 50s board. Gumlu’s local State School Principal, Thomas Harrington was the MC and ensured all ran smoothly. A round of trivia once again proved an interesting hit while socializing.

Big thanks to all for attending and contributing to a worthy cause and to the people who helped to set up and run the morning. Special thanks to the following who contributed to the major raffle: Gumlu State School, Thomas Harrington, Gumlu Tavern, Molongle Sandbar Cafè, Complete Pharmacy (Home Hill), Perries IGA (Bowen), Vicki Quirk, Anna Hinchliffe, Cathy Ford, Maria Totorica and Cameron Pugh for the mudcrabs.

We reflect on the reason why we gather. We trust that each of us do make a very valuable contribution, even if small, to the efforts of committed people in the medical and health profession working towards a vision of a cancer-free world. Special blessings to those who have chosen these vocations in life, for the betterment of humanity.

Contributed with thanks to Regina Lequerica (host)

The 11th Gumlu Biggest Morning Tea
Gumlu State School Principal and MC Thomas Harrington with helper Tony Battiston
Helpers Savannah, Bonnie and Ella
Guest Speaker Jayne Henry with helping niece Amy Pfingst

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Dear Community Members,

We hope this article finds you well – it has been a minute since we have contributed an article to the paper! As we all know, food security is a pressing issue that affects us on multiple levels—families, individuals, and our community as a whole. Ensuring that everyone has consistent access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food is crucial for our health, well-being, and personal growth. Together, we can brainstorm innovative strategies to enhance food security for everyone.

We are reaching out to invite you to contribute your ideas on how we can work collectively to tackle this challenge. To get the brain working - here are a few questions to consider:

1. Local Food Production: What community gardens, urban farms, or cooperative farming initiatives could we establish or support to increase locally produced food?
2. Food Distribution: How can we improve access to food for those who may be facing transportation issues? Are there existing programs or services we should collaborate with or enhance?
3. Education and Awareness: What kinds of workshops or initiatives could we launch to educate community members about healthy eating, cooking, and sustainable practices?
4. Support for Local Farmers: How can we better support local farmers and food producers, ensuring that they have a market for their goods while also providing fresh produce to our community?
5. Sharing Resources: What systems can we put in place, like food sharing or surplus programs, to reduce waste and support those in need?

Your insights and experiences are invaluable, and we encourage each of you to share your thoughts. We know there is some amazing work being done in our community in this area. It is not about us trying to reinvent the wheel. It is about knowing what is out there already in the community and how we can, as a community value, add to things for all of our benefit. Together, let’s create a more food-secure future for our community!

Until next time

The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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The Home Hill Choral Society delivered an afternoon of laughs, music and heartfelt community spirit during their Winter Concert last Sunday at The Vault.

The event featured a unique blend of performances, with young talent from the recent Eisteddfod taking centre stage alongside the Society’s trademark comic skits and choral songs. Children performed songs, poetry, and Highland dancing—much to the delight of an audience of around 55 people, plus proud parents and guests.

In between the children's acts, the Society entertained with a series of light-hearted skits and musical numbers that had the crowd in stitches. Musical highlights included the tongue-in-cheek Not So Boring Minuet and the uplifting Everywhere I Go, the Lord is With Me, offering a mix of humour and heart.

As always, the afternoon included raffles, lucky door prizes, and a generous spread of food, served with smiles by Society members. “It felt like we were doing something important for community and mental health,” said Society member Rob Antionazzi.

With more concerts on the horizon—including an Italian-themed performance and a collaboration with world-renowned tenor Paul Tabone—the Society continues to grow in profile and impact. As one attendee put it: “This was the best afternoon I’ve had in a long time.”

By Jacob Casha

The American Theatre Wing’s renowned Tony Awards—held annually in New York City—celebrated its 78th edition on Monday morning AEST, recognising excellence in Broadway theatre with that characteristic Broadway grandeur.

And amidst the whirlwind of flashy dresses and ostentatious, fake-pocketed suits was the proud, grounded presence of Burdekin-born-and-raised Neil Gooding—whose works were recognised with four Tonys and a further six nominations at the event.

His projects Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical and Sunset Blvd. helped actors Jak Malone (Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical) and Pop icon-turned-stage powerhouse Nicole Scherzinger (Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical) take home Tonys for their acting performances, while Sunset Blvd. also secured Best Lighting Design of a Musical and Best Revival of a Musical.

Operation Mincemeat was also nominated for Best Musical, while Gooding’s third nominated musical, Gypsy, was in the running for Best Revival of a Musical, alongside Sunset Blvd.

The former Ayr State High student is no stranger to seeing his work garner widespread acclaim, with previous efforts earning him nominations for Best Direction of a Musical at both the Helpmann Awards and the Green Room Awards for Gutenberg! The Musical!, as well as a Sydney Theatre Award nomination for Dogfight.

Now based in the concrete jungle that is New York City—a wild paradox to his roots in Ayr—Gooding doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon, proudly waving the Burdekin flag on the world’s biggest theatre stage.

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It was as I plunked myself down beneath the awning, catching my breath after being given the runaround in a Cane Country Cup match on the weekend that, just above the sound of my own wheezing, I heard my good friend, Linda Gooding, chatting to someone about how her son, Neil, was in the running for a "Tony Award" in New York City.

Naturally curious, I asked Linda and her Husband John about it, and came to find that it’s basically the Oscars of live Broadway theatre! For further clarity, think: the AACTA Awards, but much bigger.

And not only did Neil, a Burdekin local, have works in the running for an award—his productions were nominated for 10 different Tonys—four of which they ended up winning. You can read more about the awards later in this issue.

This got me thinking: How many of us Burdekinites have made it onto the big stage before?

This thought—coupled with suggestions from you guys about a column honouring Burdekin sports legends/Australian representatives—helped me to form the idea behind “Burdekin to Big Time”—a new segment which aims to shed light on the Burdekin legends—past and present—of sports, entertainment, and everything in between (set to start in next week's issue).

Because although we might not be the biggest community, or the most prolific producers of global talent, every now and then, someone like Neil Gooding comes along, proving that special can be born anywhere.

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By Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

It’s great to see the 2025 production season off to an early start, with crushing under way in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions, and the Herbert commencing this week. The weather continues to cooperate, and we hope that remains the case so all regions can get sugar into the sheds.

The #11 sugar contract continues to trend lower, with little change in the global surplus production forecast. The recent UNICA report for the first half of May 2025 showed Brazilian harvest progress catching up, though it remains 20% behind the same period last year.

Cane tonnes and sugar mix have increased, but Total Recoverable Sugar (CCS) remains low. The report aligned with market expectations. However, a 5.6% drop in gasoline prices by Petrobras halted a rally, as ethanol parity fell below 15 USc/lb.

We are forecasting a small global surplus for the 2025–26 season, mainly due to another large Brazilian crop expected. Indian production also looks strong, supported by an early monsoon, with forecasts of 32.5 million tonnes for 2025–26, up from 26 million in 2024–25. In Thailand, weak cassava prices are likely to result in another bumper crop, reinforcing export competition.

Our 2025 Season Commencement of Crush Pool reports were released last week. Notably, the Allocation Account forecast is significantly lower than last year due to a drop in physical premiums. This reflects increased Thai production impacting our sales into traditional Asian markets.

Additionally, the US Quota estimate has been reduced for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with import tariffs now factored in. It’s still early in the season, but growers should be aware that the strong physical premiums of recent years are under threat.

Across the regions, we’ve been connecting with growers at events such as the inaugural Link2Country Expo in Ingham, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in the Burdekin.

Our Burdekin Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, presented the Under 35 Category awards at the Cane Cutting Championships, proudly sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

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Wilmar’s Grower Marketing Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, right, presenting the awards for the Under
35 Category at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. Keith Gilbert won first place, Stuart
Gilbert second place and Angus Gilbert third place. Photo supplied

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CANEGROWERS has welcomed the renewed momentum in Australia-EU free trade negotiations, urging both sides to work towards a deal that delivers meaningful outcomes for Australian agriculture.

“We’re pleased to see talks are getting back on track,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said. “But success will depend on whether an agreement provides commercially realistic access for agricultural sectors like sugar.”

Negotiations stalled in late 2023 after proposed market access for key commodities – including sugar – fell well short of industry expectations.

CANEGROWERS was among the peak agricultural bodies that supported the government’s decision to pause discussions.

Mr Galligan was in Japan for the final round of talks in late 2023, where they urged Trade Minister Don Farrell not to sign a deal that would lock in poor outcomes for agriculture for decades to come.

We advised the Minister directly that no deal was better than a bad deal – and to his credit, the government listened,” Mr Galligan said. “It was a strong stance, and the right one.”

“The sugar industry is open to trade and wants a deal that works for both sides. But any agreement must recognise the value and competitiveness of Australian farm exports. We’re not looking for special treatment – just fair, practical, and commercially meaningful terms.”

Mr Galligan pointed to the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement as a credible benchmark for what a modern deal can look like.

“With the right approach, an Australia-EU agreement can deliver long-term benefits for both our economies. We look forward to working with the government to help get it there.”

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It’s been a big week in cane country. Harvesters are up and running in the Tableland and Bundaberg districts, marking the start of the 2025 crush.

For growers, there’s nothing quite like seeing the first cane bins filling up – it signals a new season, a fresh start, and hope for better days after a challenging run last year.

Across the rest of Queensland, farms are almost ready. Growers are fine-tuning gear, checking fields, and waiting for their local mills to fire up.

No matter where you are, there’s a shared sense of anticipation and relief to be getting on with it.

Last season was one of the most difficult in recent memory. Wild weather, breakdowns, and industrial action delayed the harvest so long that some districts were still cutting in January.

By the time it was over, about a million tonnes of cane had been left in the paddock – not for lack of effort, but because the system simply didn’t hold up.

But cane farmers are a resilient bunch. We’ve done what we always do – rolled up our sleeves and got back to work. We've replanted, repaired and prepared. And now we’re ready to go again.

The forecast for this year is about 28.5 million tonnes of cane across 13 growing regions.

That’s a little lower than last year, mostly due to the recent widespread flooding across North Queensland – especially around the Herbert River district – which destroyed large areas of cane.

Even so, the mood among growers is cautiously optimistic. We’ve done our bit. Now we’re relying on the mills, the weather, and the supply chain to help turn that hard work into returns.

That won’t be easy. Labour shortages are still hitting hard. Skilled workers – from harvester drivers and haulout operators to mill staff – are in short supply.

And it’s not just sugarcane – agriculture right across the board is feeling the pinch.

That’s why CANEGROWERS is working with our local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address the shortage. Because no matter how good the crop looks, it doesn’t mean much if we don’t have the people to move it.

Last week also gave us the chance to keep up our pressure on the government in another critical area – disaster support.

Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, visited Ingham for the Link2Country Expo and a Community Cabinet meeting. While there, he met with growers still dealing with the impacts of the summer floods.

We made our position clear – disaster support needs to reflect the way farming works in 2025.

Right now, some growers are being ruled out of disaster funding because they earn part of their income from agricultural support services – things like planting or harvesting for other farms. But that’s still farming. And it’s often what helps keep smaller operations afloat.

After the floods, this issue hit home hard. Some farmers were denied help simply because their income didn’t fit the current rules.

That’s why CANEGROWERS, alongside the QFF, is fighting to modernise the rules under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The system needs to catch up with the reality on the ground and make sure no grower is left behind when disaster strikes.

We’re grateful the Minister took the time to visit and listen. But now we need more than goodwill – we need action.

As crushing ramps up across the state, we’re keeping our eyes on more than just the crop.

We’re focused on securing the long-term future of this industry – one where growers are backed by fair systems, strong support, and a shared belief in the value of what they do.

Here’s to a smoother season ahead and a fairer go for every grower who puts in the hard yards.

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The competition that combines artistic fun with serious safety messages is now open to all Queensland primary school children from Prep to Year 6.

Twelve different pieces of artwork from Queensland primary students will be chosen to feature in the calendar, with a different safety theme for each month.

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie said the competition is about creative young minds promoting the importance of farm safety.

“Raising awareness among primary school students and their communities about common safety hazards on farms and in rural settings is an ongoing campaign.

“Tragically, serious injuries and fatalities occur on farms and rural settings each year, the calendar serves as a creative and visual reminder covering overhead powerlines, being safe with electrical equipment, animal safety and the importance of washing hands after contact with animals.

"Tragically, in the last year alone 26 Queenslanders lost their lives simply going to work. These aren’t just numbers—they’re 26 families left without a chance to say goodbye. The rural sector alone accounted for 10 of those lives.

“Our government backs our agricultural sector to continue to grow the economic output and that also means supporting safe and productive farming workplaces as well.

“We know many rural communities and schools have the calendar prominently displayed in the home throughout the year, educating Queenslanders of all ages to work and play safely on farm properties

Member for Condamine Pat Weir said that the focus on rural safety around farms should never be forgotten.

“As someone who has been injured themselves from a farm accident, I know all too well the importance of the issue to local farming families,” Mr Weir said.

“It’s great that the focus is also about educating our next generation of farmers as well throughout primary schools in Queensland.”

Central Queensland’s Gogango State School’s teacher, Ms Wendy Thornton said the farm safety competition is a fantastic addition to our unit of work about farms.

“The students enjoy the challenge of illustrating farm safety aspects which are extremely important for each student to remember as they go about their daily lives in rural settings,” Ms Thornton said.

Cooloola Christian College’s Principal Mr Ross Watisbuhl said as a regional area in Gympie, farm safety is so important to our community.

“We are thrilled that the calendar is distributed around the state featuring the work of students,” Mr Watisbuhl said.

More than 40,000 copies of the calendar will be printed for statewide distribution. The competition is open until 27 June. The 12 winning entrants receive a $250 gift card and $500 for their school.

For information on how to enter and to download resources, go to WorkSafe.qld.gov.au.

The competition opens until Friday 27 June (school term two) with winners announced in October, as part of Safe Work Month. The competition is open to all Queensland primary school students (Prep to Year 6).
The competition template can be found on the WorkSafe website.
The competition aligns to the Australian Curriculum General capability: Literacy and the Health and Physical Education learning area

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FROM WHERE I SIT

At midnight on 26 April, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr. The driver, a 26yr old Burdekin woman, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for drink driving, .146 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At about 12.40am on Friday 2 May, a single vehicle traffic crash occurred on Bruce Highway, McDesme. As a result of investigations, Ayr Police located a 30yr old Townsville man nearby. He was later issued with a NTA for drink driving, .086 and repeat unlicenced driving and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At 6.30pm on Friday 2 May, a two vehicle traffic crash occurred on Norham Road, Ayr. The driver of one of the vehicles, a 27yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .062 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At 2.40pm on Tuesday 13 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Cox Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 54yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 11.20am on Thursday 15 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Graham Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 54yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 6.50pm on Friday 16 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Drysdale Street, Ayr. The driver, a 67yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

At 11.30pm on Friday 16 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Chippendale Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 62yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .126 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At 1.40pm on Saturday 17 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on MacKenzie Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 32yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 5.30pm on Saturday 17 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Eighth Avenue, Home Hill. As a result the driver, a 32yr old Burdekin woman, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 10.45am on Sunday 18 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 40yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .103 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 9 June.

At 4.55pm on Sunday 18 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Margaret Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 24yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 8.05pm on Sunday 18 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 38yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 2.20pm on Wednesday 21 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Beach Road, Ayr. The driver, a 47yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

SOCIAL MEDIA

As technology continues to improve, so does our ability to share memories and stay in touch with friends. Social media platforms provide an invaluable opportunity to connect, have questions answered and offer assistance.

The information available on social media has been successfully used by Ayr Police on more than one occasion to locate stolen property or missing children. An information tool that we embrace, when used for the right reasons.

This opportunity though is sometimes marred by people in our community that use it to settle vendettas and harass. Some people seem too comfortable in constantly providing perceived problems, but no solutions. It seems to offer a certain amount of anonymity and separation that attracts ‘key board warriors’.

It is not uncommon for Police to receive complaints from members of our community about bullying, harassing and threatening comments via social media.

A quick type in anger may constitute an offence against state and commonwealth laws that have been put in place to prevent this exact behaviour. Some offences can attract terms of imprisonment, a reflection on how serious these offences are viewed through the justice system.

Before you type: think about the possible ramifications, consider if it may be threatening or harassing, think about if it is fact and contemplate what you are actually trying to achieve.

Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it

If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000. The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.

Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.

You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys

Car keys – treat them like cash

Did you know??

Stopping at STOP Signs and STOP lines

If you are faces with a STOP sign or STOP line, you must stop before reaching that line or, if there is no line, the intersection.

A driver must come to a complete stop and cannot ‘crawl’ through the intersection at low speed, even if turning left.

Once stopped you must give way to other road users including cyclists.

Home Security Audits

The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm

Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight. Locking your house and car &

securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.

If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.

Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.

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A morning held in celebration of some of the region’s most important and inspirational people will grace Ayr State High School’s BBQ Area this June and the entire community has been warmly invited to attend.

The Burdekin Local Chaplaincy Committee will hold an informal Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast to honour, recognise and commend the work of our local school chaplains whilst raising valuable funds to support the youth of our community.

School chaplains play an integral role in supporting the wellbeing of young people within the community and provide students with emotional guidance through a range of issues including loss, peer pressure and bullying, isolation, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and other complex feelings.

In 2024, The Burdekin Local Chaplaincy Committee’s Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast was one of the most heartwarming and touching events on the calendars of all who attended, and one guest speaker in particular, Chappy Jennie, brought a tear to the eye of many.

“As a School Chaplain, I focus on prevention and support and I aim to provide a non-judgmental, accessible, listening ear and a caring presence for not only for our kids in crisis, but also for those who just need a friend,” shared Chappy Jennie at last year’s fundraising breakfast.

“So today I want to thank you for your support of School Chaplaincy - I want to thank you because if it wasn’t for people like you, we wouldn’t have the opportunities that we have to support young people who often feel unseen, undervalued, misunderstood and powerless to change the life that they have been dealt with.”

Whilst government funding only covers the placement of a chaplain for one and half days per week, the ongoing support of the Burdekin Shire has ensured the majority of chaplains within the region are able to be in our schools four, and sometimes even five days a week, delivering essential support to those who need it most.

2025’s event will be held on Thursday, the 19th of June from 7am to 8:15am at Ayr State High School, and The Burdekin Local Chaplaincy Committee kindly asks attendees to RSVP by emailing admin@ayrshs.eq.edu.au. Complimentary bacon and egg burgers, fruit, tea and coffee will be supplied, as well as buckets of inspirational stories from your local chaplains on how they’re continuing to bring hope to some our youth.

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A group of six enthusiastic Year 9 students from Home Hill State High School recently represented their school with pride at the Y Lead Altitude Day Young Leaders’ Symposium in Townsville, taking part in a fantastic day dedicated to growth, inspiration and leadership.

Held on the 23rd of May at Brothers Leagues Club, the event brought together students from across North Queensland, including representatives from The Cathedral School, Pimlico, Town High, Kirwan, and Bowen to help shape the next generation of leaders.

The students were accompanied by Mr Gall and Mrs Falco, who were proud to see their students immerse themselves in the full-day program of activities, motivational speakers and leadership exercises.

The event, themed “Reaching New Heights,” encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones, network with like-minded peers, and reflect on their own values and leadership potential.

The aim of Altitude Day, according to organisers, is to help young people find their passion, gain courage, and “action plan their biggest dreams.”

“Today, we get to celebrate and cultivate your students’ leadership development as they embark on a journey to step into courage, action plan their biggest dreams and discover their untapped potential,” said Y Lead’s Zoe Meridith-Brown.

The day made a lasting impression on students Medea Burr, Angelina Curro, Alex Kirkwood, Ashlyn Poli, Lachlan Saxby and Cooper Webster, all of whom embraced the spirit of the event by actively participating and even addressing the crowd.

Adding to the experience was a reunion with Sharni Smerdon, a past student leader and graduate of the Y Lead program, who now volunteers with the organisation and played a role in facilitating the event.

The Altitude Day symposium continues to be a valuable opportunity for local youth to develop leadership skills and confidence in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

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Six Home Hill High School Students attended the Y Lead Altitude Day in Townsville (Photo Supplied)

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SKY Renewables’ push to sign up Burdekin growers to sell tops and trash for extra cash has been extended to June 30, with growers having until the end of financial year to make a call on enriching their revenue streams.

Since a well-attended town hall on 7 May, growers representing close to 1,000,000 tons of the Burdekin cane crop have signed on with SKY Renewables to turbocharge the transformational Project Lion proposal.

SKY Renewables CEO Simon Yim says he is thrilled with the uptake from Burdekin growers who have signed agreements to provide tops and trash for the project.

“Burdekin growers are increasingly realising that partnering with SKY Renewables is a zero-risk proposition for them”, Mr Yim said; “but the unity they are representing by signing up creates a formidable voice of unity and purpose.”

“In light of the great momentum SKY Renewables is gathering, we are extending the deadline as there are a fair number of growers who are either not yet aware of this proposed deal or need that bit of extra time to process the signing.”

Project Lion involves harvesting the tops and trash of cane – currently burned – and turning them into briquettes, which will eventually be turned into bio-methane for export to renewable gas-hungry markets such as Singapore.

“If the project proceeds, there are only upsides for growers. We are partnering with them to turn green into gold. Our project is all about increasing the sustainability of the Burdekin’s sugar industry at all stages of the supply chain.

Canegrowers Queensland Chairman and Burdekin canegrower Owen Menkens said he had signed up.

“I hope everyone would take advantage of this opportunity”, Mr Menkens said.

Glenn Betteridge, the newly-elected Chairman of Canegrowers Burdekin has also signed an agreement with SKY Renewables.

“I signed up. I believe in Simon and in our project”, Mr Betteridge said.

“SKY Renewables presents an opportunity for growers to earn additional income from tops and trash net of all additional costs. I have signed up and hope all of you take advantage of it”, said third-generation Burdekin canegrower Christian Lago.

“It’s time we took control of our industry to its full potential for the benefit of the whole community”, said Ricky Mio of Mio Ag & Co, based near Clare.

Mr Yim will be available in the QSL office in Ayr after mid-June to meet with growers wanting to sign up.

Interested growers wanting to sign up with SKY Renewables should email Mr Yim at simon.yim@skyrenewables.com.

The equity offer for growers will no longer be available after the EOFY deadline.

“I would much prefer growers to be partners than mere suppliers”, Mr Yim said.

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Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is proud to celebrate 28 years of providing exceptional eye care and exquisite eyewear to the Burdekin community. Known for their commitment to the highest levels of customer service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has become a trusted name in the region, offering both expert vision care and a wide selection of stylish eyewear.

Helene and her dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that every patient receives personalized attention, catering to individual eye care needs with the latest in diagnostic technology and eyewear trends.

To mark this incredible milestone, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is holding a special Sunglasses Sale throughout the month of June. Customers can enjoy 20% off all sunglasses in-store, making it the perfect time to refresh your eyewear collection. Whether you're looking for trendy frames or classic designs, their extensive range ensures there’s something for everyone, including a cute selection of children's sunglasses.

"We are incredibly grateful to all our loyal patients and we look forward to continuing to serve the eye care needs of new and existing patients well into the future," said Helene Holmes, owner and optometrist. “This sale is just a small way for us to say thank you to our community for their ongoing support.”

Don’t miss out on this fantastic chance to save on a new pair of sunglasses from well-known brands such as Oroton, Carolina Herrera, Mako and Bill Bass.

Everyone is welcome to visit Helene Holmes Optique Eyes at 150 Queen Street, Ayr and join in the celebrations!

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