Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
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My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
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If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
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Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
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The Lower Burdekin will see a significant boost in environmental protection efforts, with the Crisafulli Government announcing a suite of locally delivered projects worth more than $10 million to combat invasive weeds, feral animals and wildfire risks across the region. The investment forms part of the government’s $117.8 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, billed as a statewide effort to restore land health and support on-country stewardship.
The funding will flow directly to NQ Dry Tropics and is expected to deliver targeted, practical work across coastal zones, grazing country and vulnerable wetlands that support agricultural production, biodiversity and regional resilience.
The program prioritises “boots-on-the-ground action to restore Queensland’s landscapes” and will focus on threat reduction, ecological repair and fire mitigation. The investment includes $3.7 million to improve the condition of 1,450 hectares of grazing land, native vegetation and wetlands across the Lower Burdekin, as well as $4.4 million to reduce landscape pressure from weeds, pests, fire and community disturbance across more than 120 hectares of land and 30 kilometres of waterways. A further $1.9 million will go toward landholder support in the Townsville Offshore and Lower Burdekin catchments through weed control, feral animal management, low-intensity burning, and coordinated fire planning across 2,000 hectares.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said this level of investment was designed to support both the region’s environment and local employment.
“This region is especially important to me, and it gives me great pride to deliver for the local community and our natural assets,” Minister Last said.
He also made clear that the new approach marks a departure from previous government policy.
“During Labor’s decade of decline, Queensland’s Natural Resource Management groups were left high and dry without the meaningful funding they need to support the great work they do across our state. Through our $117.8 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, the Crisafulli Government is putting local knowledge to work to deliver real results on the ground. These NRM organisations are leading the way in safeguarding our natural resources and that’s why we’re proud to support them and invest in Queensland’s future.”
NQ Dry Tropics CEO Dr Scott Crawford welcomed the commitment, noting the scale of both the opportunity and the responsibility in a region that covers eight per cent of Queensland.
"This investment demonstrates strong government backing for NQ Dry Tropics and its sister natural resource management (NRM) groups across Queensland," Dr Crawford said.
He emphasised that environmental challenges cannot be managed by any one body alone.
"Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility, and the projects we deliver in the region under this funding will be practical, science-based, and founded on strong community partnerships.”
Dr Crawford highlighted three cornerstone initiatives set to accelerate on-ground outcomes.
"For example, the Fighting Invasive Species Together project will strengthen collaboration between graziers and Traditional Owners to better manage the threat of feral animals and invasive weeds.
"The Climate-Ready Coastlines project will repair high-priority coastal habitats and help protect communities from the impact of flood and fire, and the Climate-Ready Rangelands project will support landholders to improve land condition, productivity and biodiversity on grazing properties."
The investment signals a major, multi-year effort to not only stabilise at-risk landscapes but equip the region’s land managers with the tools needed to respond to escalating climate and biosecurity pressures.
The funding will flow directly to NQ Dry Tropics and is expected to deliver targeted, practical work across coastal zones, grazing country and vulnerable wetlands. Photo supplied
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says the Whitsundays is now facing an unprecedented double threat: a proposed wind farm pushed into the heart of rural communities, and growing fears about asbestos contamination that are eroding public trust in government safeguards and environmental protections.
Mr Willcox said residents in Crystal Brook and Kelsey Creek are already living with enormous stress as the Mt Challenger Wind Farm proposal aims to push industrial-scale infrastructure far too close to their homes and farms. Turbines planned less than two kilometres from family bedrooms, backyards and children’s play areas would bring constant noise, shadow flicker, and heavy-vehicle movements on narrow rural roads never designed for hundreds of oversized loads.
“These are small, tight-knit communities that have cared for their land for generations,” Mr
Willcox said.
“They’re not anti-renewables. They’re not activists. They simply expect the same basic protections and planning standards that people in the cities take for granted. Instead, they’re being treated like collateral damage.”
Mr Willcox said the timing of the project also raises serious concerns, given the heightened anxiety across Queensland about asbestos contamination and the government’s failure to control hazardous materials entering supply chains.
“Recent discoveries of asbestos in wind turbine lift brake pads at multiple Australian wind farms, including Clarke Creek in Central Queensland, show that banned hazardous materials are still making their way into critical infrastructure,” he said.
“When people are already questioning whether the government can keep them safe from asbestos turning up in everyday products, it’s no wonder they have zero confidence in a project of this scale being dumped on their doorstep,” he said.
“If the government can’t guarantee safety in what it allows to be imported, how can families trust the safety, quality and environmental impact of hundreds of imported turbine components and thousands of tonnes of materials being brought into the Whitsundays?”
Residents have also raised fears for local wildlife, health risks and the cultural and environmental values of Mt Challenger and the surrounding district; concerns they say have been brushed aside in the push to rush development for political climate target agendas rather than community needs.
Mr Willcox said he will continue to stand with residents every step of the way, ensuring their voices are taken to Canberra, and their concerns are impossible to ignore.
“There is nothing safe, fair or responsible about placing this project in the middle of a rural
community,” he said.
“The location is wrong. The risks are real. The majority of the community is united. And I will not
allow these families to be steamrolled.”
He said regional Australians deserve transparency, proper assessment, real consultation and genuine respect; not to be forced to carry the burden of poor planning and political convenience.
“People in Crystal Brook and Kelsey Creek are telling me clearly: they feel unheard, they feel unprotected, and they feel abandoned,” Mr Willcox said.
“I’m not letting that stand.”
Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
Standing at the peaceful Lake Proserpine, Andrew Willcox says this is exactly what’s at stake in the Whitsundays; the serenity locals cherish being disrupted by a wind farm proposal placed far too close to homes, farms and families. Photo supplied
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has lambasted a federal announcement which sees farmers left as collateral damage in the latest Labor-Greens deal.
Mr Last said last week’s overreach by the Federal Government will see farmers, already meeting world-leading environmental regulations, strangled with more red tape.
“Once again our farmers are being painted as environmental vandals by Labor, except
this time it’s on a federal level,” Mr Last said.
“The passing of the Commonwealth Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025 last week signals another Labor-induced sledging on an industry that feeds our nation for the sake of inner-city Green votes.”
“Unlike Labor, the LNP have always backed our farmers because we have seen firsthand the effort they put in to ensure they meet best management practices.”
Mr Last said Queenslanders wouldn’t be taken as fools by Labor’s anti-farming agenda which risked jobs and presented economic uncertainty for communities that relied on agriculture.
“I will always stand shoulder to shoulder with primary producers because regional Queensland has had an absolute gutful of being a scapegoat for Labor’s green agendas.”
“The Labor-Greens deal specifically punishes the sectors that underpin Queensland’s economy and strips Queensland of its ability to manage our own future, risking jobs and economic uncertainty across our regions,” Minister Last said.
“The Greens don’t understand agriculture or mining, and Labor is too weak to say no to them - and regional Queenslanders have been left to pay the price."
Contributed with thanks to the office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
On Friday, 5 December, Burdekin Community Association Inc. celebrated International Volunteer Day with our volunteers.
We enjoyed a Volunteer Brunch at the BCA Support Centre. The refreshments were great, and we had Lucky Door prizes and games. BCA is very grateful to all of our exceptional volunteers and thanks them for everything they do for our organisation and the community.
This year, under the inspiring theme “Every Contribution Matters”, International Volunteer Day 2025 takes on historic significance as it marks the official global launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026). This milestone follows a UN General Assembly Resolution calling for a worldwide movement to recognise and amplify the vital role of volunteers in accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
For more information on the Burdekin Community Association, visit the BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, phone 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au.
Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
On Friday the 5th of December Burdekin Community Association Inc celebrated International Volunteer Day with our Volunteers. Photos supplied
Ayr art lovers are in for a treat as Tracey Jane returns to the region with her much-anticipated exhibition, It’s a Circular Thing. The show will be on display on 16th and 17th December, from 10 am to 4 pm, opposite the old movie theatre on Queen Street.
Originally scheduled for Charters Towers in June at the World Theatre, the exhibition was unfortunately cancelled when a storm damaged the venue’s roof. Now, Tracey Jane brings her work closer to home, offering locals a chance to experience her unique artistic vision.
It’s a Circular Thing explores the circle as a central theme—a shape that holds significance not only in art but in geometry, symbolism, and life itself. Visitors can expect to be both visually captivated and intellectually engaged, as Tracey Jane’s pieces invite reflection on the beauty and meaning of this simple yet profound form.
The exhibition is open to all, making it a perfect seasonal outing for art enthusiasts and the curious alike. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Tracey Jane’s work in person.
The Rotary Club of Home Hill celebrated what was a successful 2025 for the club by doing what it does best: giving back.
The club marked its final meeting of the year by donating a total of $3,500 to three Burdekin-based organisations, selected by both the Rotary Club and it's Home Hill Harvest Festival queen, Eden Betteridge, on the basis of their roles in supporting the community.
Among recipients was CORES Queensland, the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal, and the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy, which each received $2,000, $1,000, and $500 respectively.
"It's just about giving," said Rotary Club President Alfio Musumeci. "We chose to donate locally because we see the need in the area."
The meeting played host to a sizeable crowd, and included a wide variety of food options for both dinner and dessert. Beyond the formalities, guests lingered to enjoy the company and jovial chatter.
The occasion rounded off a positive year for the club, which saw them raise $7,000 from this year's Harvest Festival alone. It remains hopeful of continued growth, with a number of prospective members
expressing interest.
If you're interested in joining the Rotary Club of Home Hill, contact the club on 0408 441 055 or at homehillrotary@gmail.com.
CORES Queensland receiving their $2,000 grant. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal representative accepting their $1,000 grant. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy being presented with their $500 grant. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin community will gather in festive spirit on the grounds beside PCYC this Sunday, 14 December, for the Bendigo Community Bank – Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols.
From 5:30pm, families can expect an evening of festive music and fun, beginning with a performance by the Burdekin Brass Band to welcome attendees. Local stage production coordinator Monica Licciardello will lead a programme of favourite carols—with a few surprises—while Santa Claus will make a special appearance to delight the young and young at heart. The event will conclude with a fireworks display lighting up the Home Hill sky.
Young visitors can enjoy free children’s stickers and colouring-in sheets, courtesy of the CWL, as well as face painting, while the Burdekin Chaplains will have glow products available for purchase. Food and drink stalls will offer something for everyone throughout the evening.
Event organisers thank naming rights sponsor Bendigo Community Bank – Home Hill and Ayr, and major sponsor Triple M, which will broadcast the carols live and provide giveaways for attendees.
Bring a blanket, grab a chair, and join your neighbours for a night of music, laughter, and Burdekin community spirit as the festive season officially kicks off.
Easily accessible via both MacMillan and Wickham streets, the PCYC grounds are ready to welcome families and friends for a fun-filled evening of Christmas cheer.
Ayr is gearing up for one of its biggest community events of the year, with the annual Christmas Street Party set to light up the town on Thursday night, 18th December.
This year’s event brings extra excitement, with a massive $25,000 worth of vouchers to be given away to lucky locals. The major prize draw will take place at 8:00pm in front of the BCA building, and residents are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot.
The Street Party aims to inspire the community to shop locally this Christmas, showing support for small businesses and helping keep local dollars in the Burdekin.
Families can look forward to a night packed with entertainment, including delicious food trucks, market stalls, live music, and plenty for the kids. Santa will make a special appearance for photos and festive fun.
Organisers say the Street Party has become a much-loved local tradition, bringing people together and providing a welcome boost for local traders during the busy Christmas season.
Everyone is invited to come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and be part of the celebrations — and most importantly, to be there for the $25,000 prize draw.
Queensland’s agricultural sector is calling for stronger consultation and clearer regulations as the Federal Government undertakes a major overhaul of Australia’s environmental laws.
The reforms to the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act were the focus of Environment Minister Murray Watt’s recent National Press Club address. In response, AgForce General President Shane McCarthy said producers are prepared to engage immediately to ensure the new laws protect the environment without compromising the productivity of one of the nation’s most critical industries.
The EPBC reform bills have been referred to a five-month Senate inquiry, which Mr McCarthy says presents a valuable opportunity for meaningful dialogue with Queensland farmers—who manage the largest portion of Australia’s agricultural land.
There is concern within the sector that Queensland agricultural stakeholders have had limited engagement so far, despite the significance of the reforms. With agriculture contributing more than 5.7 per cent of Australia’s GDP, Mr McCarthy said it is essential that farmers’ insights help shape the revised legislation.
He highlighted several areas of confusion within the current EPBC Act, including duplication with state consent provisions, which can leave producers unintentionally breaching federal law even when they meet Queensland’s regulatory requirements.
“AgForce seeks clarity and certainty for Queensland producers in navigating increasingly complex and sometimes contradictory regulations across different government departments and levels,” he said.
“We are the stewards of much of Queensland’s vast landscapes and feel a deep sense of personal responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations and ensuring the food security and prosperity of this nation. We deserve to have a say in how Australia’s land and water is managed.
“The agricultural opportunity in Queensland is immense, and it is producers who hold the practical knowledge and capacity to deliver the balance between production, sustainability, and food security that the federal government is seeking.
“Farmers and regional communities must be genuinely included and consulted on matters that impact agricultural stability and innovation.”
AgForce continues to call for clearer consultation processes and greater certainty for producers navigating future reforms.
AgForce is Queensland’s peak representative body for rural producers.
Queensland graziers and growers want certainty under new EPBC laws, calling for clearer rules that support both sustainability and food security (Photo Credit: Sandie Peters)
With Christmas just around the corner, Ruralquip is embracing the season of giving with the return of its highly anticipated Milwaukee Powered Up One Day Event™ — rolling out major deals, exciting giveaways, and even firing up the barbecue on Thursday, 11th December.
Now in its fifth year hosted by Ruralquip, the One Day Event has become a staple for local tradies, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone chasing reliable gear or last-minute Christmas gifts. This year is expected to be the biggest yet, with a wide range of additional Milwaukee stock specifically for the event, bonus offers available, and each purchase also granting entry into a Milwaukee Giveaway.
As you arrive at Ruralquip, you’ll be greeted by tents and display tables brimming with new and familiar products. Milwaukee experts will be on hand to run demonstrations and offer product advice, while the barbecue will keep going all day—bacon and egg burgers to fuel your morning, and steak burgers to satisfy your lunch hunger.
Ruralquip General Manager Shannon Musumeci says the day is as much about cultivating a positive social atmosphere as it is about showcasing the wide range of cutting-edge tools and deals on offer.
"It gets everybody together, it's very social, and it lets us touch base with our customers," she said.
Under the leadership of Wayne McDougall for the past three years, the retail team has grown into a well-oiled unit, combining their diverse skill sets to cover all bases of the store.
"We’ve got a very good, diverse range of skills in the team. Most customers have a favourite salesman that they find easiest to work with," said Wayne.
Beyond the know-how, Wayne says what helps the team to thrive is its sense of family, and making customers feel like part of it.
"We always try to greet everyone that walks through the door. We have a good rapport with customers... and they keep coming back, so we must be doing something right!" he laughed.
The team is always happy to share a laugh with customers, and are looking forward to sharing a few with the large crowd expected at the upcoming Milwaukee 'Powered Up' Event™.
In June this year, Burdekin mum Andrea Wood became the first Uber Eats driver in Ayr after a flyer in the mail piqued her interest. Just about every day since, she's been whizzing around in her famous blue hatchback, delivering far more than just food.
A Queensland Country Bank employee by day, by night, Andrea becomes the "Uber Lady," delivering not only combos and late-night cravings, but meaningful connections and moments of joy that have left their mark on the town.
It was in her first week that Andrea delivered to an elderly woman who had just learned how to use the app. "It's so good because I haven't had takeaway in six years, since they took my licence off me," the woman told her.
A week later, Andrea returned to the same address. "Oh no, darling. I didn't order it," the woman said, only to learn that her daughter in Brisbane had placed the order for her birthday. "I delivered her favourite Chinese on her birthday," Andrea recalls. "People said I was probably the only person she spoke to on her birthday apart from someone on the phone... [which] felt so nice."
It's providing this accessibility, for both convenient meals and human interaction, that Andrea says makes the job so personally rewarding.
"I work in a bank—this is a choice for me," she says. "I think it's a service the community can really benefit from in so many ways."
"Most people in the Burdekin are just trying to do the right thing—they don’t want to drink and drive, or they’re young kids without a licence, or older people who can’t drive... That’s really who I want to help."
From street to street, door to door, Andrea’s nightly rounds have become part of the rhythm of the Burdekin, not just for convenience, but for the small ways they connect the community.
A Queensland Country Bank employee by day, by night, Andrea becomes the "Uber Lady," delivering not only combos and late-night cravings, but meaningful connections and moments of joy that have left their mark on the town. Photo supplied
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Coming to the Burdekin always has a sense of coming home, and every time I visit it is wonderful to see the welcoming smile of familiar faces, people in the community that I’ve now known for more than two years.
The Burdekin Shire Council Industry Breakfast is an event I love attending. Not only do you get a hot cooked breakfast, you also instantly get a true taste of local life as everyone greets each other and settles in for a morning of networking.
Last week, I was excited to introduce our new dedicated Burdekin Sales Manager, Jack Bridgett, who many of you will have now seen as he introduces himself around.
Jack comes with long-term sales experience and is adept at building strong relationships with his clients, something I know he is looking forward to doing as he slowly works around the community and gets to know you all.
If you see him, please say hello and make him feel welcome.
We will run an article about him in the coming weeks, and I am sure Jacob will do a fine job in sharing Jack’s unique story with you.
And yes, we do indeed now have two ‘J’s’ serving the region – if you get confused then aim for either Jacob, Jack or even Jake and they will likely respond! (as I have discovered!)
Talking of your friendly neighbourhood journalist Jacob, I would like to commend him on his brilliantly written cover story this week about locally-raised world-champion golfer Karrie Webb.
Jacob has been perfecting this story for weeks, and I was about ready to demand he run it this week when he finally declared it was ‘good to go’.
Have a read – I am sure you will agree that his passion-piece is exceptionally well-written and worth the countless hours of reviewing and fine-tuning!
You did it, Jacob – congrats! And thank you as well for all your dedication to serving the Burdekin region.
Rach
Quote of the Week: "Have no fear of perfection, you shall never reach it" (Salvador Dali)
Ayr-based disability support organisation Flexi Queensland is celebrating a major funding boost after being awarded $14,000 through the 2025 ANZ Seeds of Renewal program. The grant will support the organisation’s Sustainable SILS project, which will enhance Supported Independent Living homes through the installation of solar panels - reducing energy costs and improving long-term sustainability for residents living with a disability.
The Seeds of Renewal program—now in its 23rd year—is a partnership between ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), aimed at strengthening the resilience and prosperity of regional communities. This year, $250,000 in grants has been distributed to 19 community-based organisations across the country.
ANZ Associate Director, Agribusiness Research, Alanna Barrett, said: “For more than two decades, Seeds of Renewal has supported rural and regional communities to build resilience and create sustainable futures. These grants enable local organisations to turn ideas into action – delivering initiatives that make a tangible difference for people, businesses and the communities they call home.”
FRRR Head of Granting, Jill Karena, said: “The Seeds of Renewal program recognises that even a modest grant can unlock significant impact by amplifying the efforts of local volunteers. We prioritise projects that are deeply rooted in their communities: locally designed, locally driven, and with the potential to grow and create vibrant, resilient and sustainable places to live and work.”
A decade-long connection has resulted in one of the largest single contributions to date for Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission, with the Neilson Foundation confirming a $250,000 donation to support research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).
Burdekin-born Pedersen first encountered representatives from Kerr Neilson’s investment network roughly ten years ago, when he was invited to speak at a business forum at The Ville. “Around ten years ago, I was asked to address a business forum at The Ville to enlighten attendees about my mission,” he said. At the event, he was seated alongside Julian McCormack of Platinum Investments, “one of Australias most esteemed financial organisations.”
A shared link to a family who had recently lost a child to DIPG led to further conversations. “Essentially, Julian and I became close mates and he suggested I enlighten Mr Neilson on the gravitas of my mission.”
Pedersen said his first direct appeal to Neilson was unsuccessful. “When I first met Kerr he was very weary… He originally rebuked my request,” he said.
The turning point came when Neilson agreed to visit the Children’s Cancer Institute’s DIPG laboratory. According to Pedersen, the experience left a lasting impression. “For an internationally famous, eminent corporate citizen to physically enter science's most challenging coalface, would have been quite daunting for Mr Neilson,” he said. During the tour, Neilson observed “‘live’ brain cancer cells (that were extracted from deceased DIPG children)” and questioned researchers extensively about emerging findings.
Pedersen recalls asking Neilson if he had ever witnessed anything similar. “He replied, ‘No’. We shook hands and two fathers looked each other in the eyes.”
Several months later, Neilson informed Pedersen of the Neilson Foundation’s decision to contribute a quarter of a million dollars. “Not a form was filled out. No ceremony or fanfare,” Pedersen said. “Two men of honour have pledged to deliver life saving options for local brain cancer children…”
Pedersen said the funding will have an immediate impact. “It saves time. In one hit, we can expedite crucial research. These funds are delivered directly into the hands of researchers like Prof. David Zeigler and A/Prof Maria Tsoli.”
With the project now approaching the $500,000 mark, Pedersen says the donation serves as a challenge to others. “I consider this donation as a ‘Call to Arms’ for local businesses!”
A decade-long connection has resulted in one of the largest single contributions to date for Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission, with the Neilson Foundation confirming a $250,000 donation to support research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Photo supplied
The turning point came when Neilson agreed to visit the Children’s Cancer Institute’s DIPG laboratory. Photo supplied
Last week’s Burdekin Industry Breakfast once again proved a valuable connection point, linking local businesses, organisations and industry stakeholders to emerging opportunities and key information ahead of disaster season.
From 7:00am to 8:30am, operators from across the region gathered in the Burdekin Theatre foyer for breakfast and a program of updates, networking and discussions with some of North Queensland’s leading businesses and institutions.
Matt Heley from CQUniversity outlined how the university had been working with local employers to address regional skill shortages through targeted training pathways in agriculture, health, engineering and education. He said CQU’s flexible delivery options and industry-engaged research were already opening the door to stronger collaboration with Burdekin businesses.
Telstra’s Regional General Manager for Northern Queensland, Rachel Cliffe, discussed business resiliency and connectivity literacy, explaining how organisations could better anticipate and adapt to disruptions such as natural disasters and cyber threats. Her presentation highlighted new opportunities for Burdekin operators to partner with Telstra to strengthen their digital capability and continuity planning.
To close the morning, Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster Management Team delivered a concise rundown of tips, tools and key information as local businesses and residents prepare for the upcoming disaster season.
The event continued its role as a practical forum for local industries to exchange ideas, explore support options and build relationships that benefit the wider community.
Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Matt Heley from CQ University, Councillor John Furnell, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Councillor Fina Vasta
Kari Ravizza and staff member from McCathies Furniture Court
Josie Pickering, Alex Maddison, Melissa Kearney and Rachel Cliffe from Telstra
Eileen Davescovi and Jenny Cummings from Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management Team
Eusebio Aguirre and Lyn McLaughlin
Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Shannon Musumeci, Chantel Michielin, Raelene Agius and Chris Delaney
Clancie, Latoya, John, Paula, Steph and Candice from Nutrien Harcourts McCathies
John Clarke and David Jackson from Home Hill Chamber of Commerce
Eliza Lovell and Faith Swindley from Burdekin Shire Council
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