Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
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"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
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Burdekin Catholic High School is celebrating a standout year in 2025, marked by academic growth, student leadership and remarkable sporting achievements that have strengthened pride across the school community.
One of the most significant highlights of the year was the school’s excellent performance in NAPLAN, with a particular focus on student growth between Year 7 and Year 9. BCHS recorded impressive progress in its Year 9 cohort, with percentage growth data demonstrating a commitment to learning. This improvement reflects the dedication of students and staff alike, and stands as a strong indicator of the high-quality teaching and learning taking place in classrooms every day. Principal Lorraine Wolffe said the results demonstrate the school’s commitment to helping every student achieve their personal best.
Another standout moment this year was the Stand Up Sleep Out initiative, a powerful community event conceptualised and led by the Year 12 School Leaders. The students researched local needs, partnered with community organisations and rallied both peers and local businesses to support those experiencing homelessness in the Burdekin region. Their event not only raised significant funds for the Burdekin Community Association, but also heightened awareness and empathy among participants, showcasing leadership, compassion and a vision for positive change.
The school’s sporting program also expanded and thrived throughout 2025, achieving some of its strongest results to date. BCHS representative teams in Basketball, Netball and Rugby League enjoyed outstanding seasons, competing with determination and pride. Increased participation, strengthened training pathways and the dedication of coaching staff all contributed to a year of remarkable success. The sporting achievements underscored the school’s holistic approach to education, supporting students to grow in confidence, teamwork and resilience.
Creativity and the arts were also celebrated in spectacular fashion with the 2025 School Musical, Moana Jr. Students from across year levels came together to deliver a vibrant and heartfelt performance that captivated audiences across multiple shows. The production showcased extraordinary talent both on stage and behind the scenes, highlighting the collaborative spirit and artistic energy within the BCHS community.
With excellence demonstrated in academics, leadership, sport and the arts, Burdekin Catholic High School concludes 2025 with immense pride, celebrating a year that truly reflects the strength, spirit and heart of the school community.
Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Catholic High School Principal Lorraine Wolffe
Home Hill Community Kindergarten director Sue Amore has stepped down after 20 years of guiding and inspiring young minds across the Burdekin, drawing to a close a remarkable stint at the helm.
“It’s hard to believe 20 years have gone by,” said Amore. “I have many very precious moments I will remember forever. I just think it’s time to take a step back and let somebody else take the reins.”
Assistant Jodie MacDonald, who worked alongside Amore for the past 10 years, said her departure marked the end of a decades-long era of care and kindness.
“She’s brought a very calming influence. All the kids seemed to flock to her because she’s so gentle and kind,” MacDonald said. “The kids love her, and I think everyone’s going to miss her a lot. They’re very big shoes for the next person to fill.”
Amore’s journey into early childhood education in the Burdekin took shape over time. Originally from Melbourne, she and her husband first visited the region in 1987 while travelling around Australia. After falling in love with the area, they returned in 1993, settled permanently and raised four daughters.
“We just found that this was a beautiful community to raise a family,” she said.
Amore said it was motherhood that ultimately inspired her to pursue teaching.
“Growing up, I never thought I would go into teaching,” she said. “But after having children myself and seeing them growing and learning, I thought, ‘this is what I want to do.’”
After completing her teaching degree, she began her career with relief teaching at Home Hill Community Kindergarten and, when the previous director retired, was encouraged to apply for the role. By the beginning of 2006, it was hers.
“I did think I would be teaching in a school, but the opportunity [at Home Hill Community kindergarten] came up and I just loved it so much,” Amore said. “It suited my style of teaching, and this is where I wanted to stay.”
Seeing children grow, and being part of that journey, remained a highlight throughout her career.
“It’s nice to see the children starting their lifelong journey of learning,” she said. “You can see such an impact from the start of the year to the end as they move on and venture into school.”
Now stepping away from the kindergarten herself, Amore is looking forward to the next chapter, which includes spending more time with her grandchildren in Townsville. She also plans to remain connected to teaching by mentoring the incoming Home Hill Community Kindergarten director and undertaking relief teaching across the Burdekin where needed.
Amore hopes to be remembered as "a teacher who inspired kindness and a passion for learning."
“I hope that I’ve been caring to every child and family, and I'm thankful to have made so many special connections,” she said.
Home Hill Community Kindergarten director Sue Amore has stepped down after 20 years of guiding and inspiring young minds across the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Hi everyone. How’s it going? I just wanted to share some thoughts with you about connection. As humans we are wired to be connected. It doesn’t matter what we look like or who we are, we all need connection. There are so many parts of our lives that offer connection. Connection helps keep us safe.
Obviously our loved ones are right at the top of the list when it comes to connection but we can be connected to many different things. You can be connected to a song, a prayer a place in nature, a sports team, your community etc. These connections are part of our identity, they also help us develop our values & morals, teach us respect, understanding, gratitude amongst other things. Connection is key to all our relationships.
Relationships are one of the foundations of every human’s life. Again, all different areas where we have relationships. Without a doubt there are certain people right throughout your life where you put huge effort into those relationships because they mean the world to you. At different times, all relationships are hard work and that’s okay, they are supposed to be hard at times. That’s part of how we learn and grow just the same as when the good times come along within our relationships, we will learn and grow.
The relationship we have with ourselves is the toughest but it can also be the most rewarding. It’s tough because we can’t tell it to leave us alone for a while but it is also the most rewarding because when we are taking better care of ourselves, it can help you deal with things that create stress. But, the bit we tend to forget is that when the good stuff comes along and you deserve it, you can live in that moment and really take it in.
A big part of that is how we talk to ourselves. The last time someone gave you a compliment, was the first thing that came out of your mouth 'thank you', or did you deflect it? Saying thank you first is not just showing respect for the person who gave you the compliment, but more importantly, you are offering that same respect to yourself. People don’t give compliments for nothing, there is always a reason. We are always trying to find a balance with all of this, sometimes we get that right and sometimes wrong, again that’s okay.
This time of the year is always a chance for us to reflect on the year that’s coming to a close as well as looking to the year ahead. Connection will be a big part of our reflections as well as our planning.
Last time we connected through this paper, I highlighted the fact that you are one in over 8 billion. That hasn’t changed & never will. YOU ARE SO WORTH IT.
Have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Stay safe, connect & Take Care.
Contributed with thanks to Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland
Burdekin Shire Council are continuing to urge residents to take pride in their region and help tackle a rise in illegal dumping across the Shire.
Recent investigations have uncovered household rubbish, white goods, building materials, and green waste dumped on private properties, in bushland, along roadsides, at the Burdekin River entrance, and even directly into the river.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said illegal dumping is costly, harmful to the environment, and will not be tolerated.
“Illegal dumping is environmental vandalism. It damages our landscape, risks public safety, and leaves ratepayers to cover the clean-up costs,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“We have a beautiful region and we need everyone to take pride in keeping it that way. Council has surveillance cameras in operation and we investigate every report. We will find you, and we will fine you.”
Council employs a dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DETSI), who leads targeted investigations and monitors dumping hotspots.
In September, a man was fined $2,670 for dumping a trailer load of household waste in Beerburrum State Forest after DETSI officers investigated the incident. Maximum fines for illegal dumping can reach $66,760 for individuals and $333,800 for corporations for waste under 2,500 litres – with higher penalties for larger volumes.
“Council provides multiple waste facilities across the region, with many domestic waste items accepted free of charge. There is simply no excuse for illegal dumping – it’s cheaper to drive to the dump than risk a fine,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Residents are urged to report illegal dumping to Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 or visit burdekin.qld.gov.au. DETSI also offers an online reporting system for illegal dumping and littering across Queensland.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with some of the illegally dumped items found within the region earlier this year (Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council)
If you’ve wondered when you last spotted a Christmas beetle, you’re not alone. Many Australians have noticed fewer of these iconic, shiny insects in recent years. But there’s hope: researchers are calling on the community to help track their return through the annual Christmas Beetle Count.
Since the 1st of October, iNaturalist reports there have already been 226 sightings this season. The project, run by Invertebrates Australia, aims to understand the population trends of Christmas beetles and investigate why numbers may be declining.
Participants are encouraged to count and photograph any beetles they see, contributing to a national database that helps researchers solve the mystery of the Christmas beetle’s changing numbers. The sightings collected also help track species diversity, seasonal patterns, and distribution.
The project covers beetles from the genera Anoplognathus, Calloodes, and Repsimus, and sightings are recorded across Australia. So far, over 20,000 observations have been logged, with popular species including the Washerwoman (Anoplognathus porosus), Duck Billed Beetle (Anoplognathus montanus), and Emerald Tip Beetle (Anoplognathus brunnipennis).
To take part, locals can visit www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count to submit observations. For those unsure how to identify the beetles, the Australian Museum’s Xmas Beetle ID Guide app is available on both iOS and Android.
By joining the Christmas Beetle Count, residents not only get a chance to enjoy a festive outdoor activity but also contribute valuable data to help protect these native insects for generations to come!
Spot a Christmas beetle in your backyard? Join the festive count and help track these iconic Aussie insects this season (Photo Supplied)
By Chelsea Ravizza
The community flocked to the Ayr Golf Course on Friday, the 12th of December, to be part of one of the shire’s most anticipated and well-supported charity sporting events.
The 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic was a resounding success, attracting nearly 300 golfers and raising $37,150 for Burdekin based CORES Queensland programs and initiatives.
The event aims each year to bring the community together to celebrate mateship while highlighting the vital work CORES Queensland does across the state. The organisation delivers suicide prevention and early intervention training, helping communities recognise risk, have safe conversations, and connect people with appropriate support, while strengthening mental health awareness.
Over the past several years, the End of Harvest Golf Classic has raised more than $100,000 for local charities, including CORES Queensland, a milestone organisers Kelsey Shand and Ben Smith are immensely proud of.
“We were thrilled to welcome 290 golfers to the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic,” Kelsey and Ben said.
“The turnout speaks volumes about the strength of our community and the generosity of everyone who continues to support this event year after year.”
In an emotional final year of organising the event after almost a decade, Kelsey and Ben have decided to step down from their roles in the new year, thanking everyone who has supported them and the End of Harvest Golf Classic.
“Events like this give us an opportunity to come together, enjoy the game, and reflect on the importance of checking in on friends, family, and neighbours. Through CORES, the End of Harvest Golf Classic helps turn that care into meaningful action,” they said.
“It’s not all about the money raised, it’s about connecting and having a good time with each other, and making sure that when your mates are down, you go grab them,” added Ben.
The event also featured a heartfelt address from Ross Romeo, CORES Queensland Coordinator for the region, who praised the community for coming together.
“We can measure the donations, but one thing we can’t measure is community connection,” Ross said.
“We hope that today you’ve run into people that you haven’t seen in a while, made some new mates, had some chats, and connected with one another.”
With the community’s generosity and spirit on full display, the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic not only raised vital funds for CORES Queensland but also reinforced the importance of connection, mateship, and looking out for one another.
Find the social pics here:
Rodney Williams & Bob Clarke
Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team.
The pair have travelled to Tolga on the Atherton Tablelands to compete in the U12A Northern Hub Championships, taking on the top under-12 cricketers from Central Queensland, Mackay/Whitsunday, and Far North Queensland. Their team will face each region in a 40-over round-robin competition, testing their skills against the best in the north.
The experience, from the trials and North Queensland training through to this week’s carnival of high-quality competition, is expected to not only improve Ben and Marshall’s cricket skills but also help them build friendships with young players from across Northern Queensland.
Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team. Photo credit: Scott Heidke
Home Hill Cricket enjoyed a weekend to remember with both their Second and Third Grade sides securing impressive victories.
At the Nutrien Ag Solutions fields, Home Hill’s Second Grade side clinched a thrilling win with overs to spare. Bowling first, the Home Hill bowlers were in fine form. Jack Gimson starred with 3/12 off 4.3 overs, including the key wicket of Michael Morris (54), who had threatened to take the game away. Josiah Ballin was clinical, taking 2/16 in his 6-over spell, while Alex Stillhard and Al Wilkins each bagged two wickets to maintain pressure and bowl Northern Beaches all out for 117.
In reply, Home Hill posted 4/118 in just 33 overs, opting for patience over power to take the win. Zakk Myles (31 off 59) and Lee Watts (21 off 79) anchored the innings before Mark Coventry injected momentum with a brisk 32 off 21, including a six and four fours. Greg Flanagan and Darcy Walters closed the innings unbeaten to secure the victory.
Meanwhile, the Third Grade side secured a hard-fought 21-run win over Wests at Mick Downey Oval, defending a modest total of 116 with a composed bowling display and sharp fielding. Home Hill posted 8/116 from the allotted 30 overs, with contributions across the top and middle order. Luke Mottin anchored the innings with a patient 24 off 63 balls, while Dan Olditch injected momentum with a brisk 22 off 24 balls, striking three boundaries before being dismissed. Ryan Rickards (18* from 16), Darren O’Keeffe (14 off 13) and Steven Zabala (16 from 37) ensured Home Hill reached a defendable total.
Home Hill’s bowlers responded with discipline and variety, restricting Wests to 8/95. Dan Olditch led the attack with 2-7 from 4 overs, matched by Leo Olditch who claimed 2-15 from 6 overs. Brad Parravicini (1-12 from 5) and Ryan Rickards (1-11 from 3) were also in the mix, while run outs from Steven Zabala and Darren O’Keeffe demonstrated strong fielding work.
It was a weekend of strong performances and team effort for Home Hill cricket, with both grades showing skill and composure to take home wins.
A potentially life-threatening situation unfolded at the mouth of the Burdekin River on the afternoon of Tuesday, 2 December when a woman and five very young children were stranded on a sandbar during a rapidly rising high tide. Water Police, who initially responded to the call, described the situation as extremely dangerous, with the tide swiftly reaching 3.3 metres.
The task was passed to the Rita Island SES, who were on scene within minutes to help complete the rescue after self recovery efforts were already underway.
The woman involved, a Burdekin local, broke down in tears when recalling the terrifying experience and expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue, says Local Controller for the Burdekin SES Warren Francis.
Francis gave a special congratulations go to Deb Calligaro, who used her local knowledge to organise resources quickly and efficiently, as well as SES members Glenn Searle, Ben Barb, Chris Hodder and Russell Young, who worked alongside general duties police to bring the family to safety.
"I was very proud of our team's efforts," said Francis. "It should instil a lot of confidence in our community that we have such an organised group of volunteers who commit their time and effort into making their community safer."
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals.
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals. Photo supplied
An Ayr cleaner has been fined after using a client’s bank card to make nearly $1,000 in online purchases.
The court heard the woman, who was working in a client’s home, accessed a debit card and used it to place a $974.30 order through Big W. Police described the fraud as “not sophisticated,” noting the purchases were billed to her own business and included her personal phone number, making detection almost certain.
A police spokesperson said that when items from the order were later found during a home search, the cleaner initially denied using the card but ultimately pleaded guilty to the charge.
Her lawyer explained that she was a single parent trying to make ends meet while operating her cleaning business, though Magistrate Susan Warrington described the incident as a “significant breach of trust” and noted that the way the order was billed made it inevitable that it would be discovered.
The cleaner has reportedly already repaid part of the amount to the client and was fined a further $800, with an order to repay the remaining balance.
Five people and a dog were rescued from a sinking vessel off the Cape Bowling Green area early on Thursday morning, 4 December.
Around 6.30am, Queensland Government Air (QGAir) Rescue 521 was tasked to investigate a beacon activation reported off the coast near Ayr. Upon arrival, the crew located a seven-metre vessel partially submerged and its occupants in the water.
The rescued included two 45-year-old women, a 28-year-old woman, a 50-year-old man, a 41-year-old man, and a blue heeler puppy. The QGAir crew quickly brought all five people and the dog to safety around 7.30am.
All were transported back to Townsville and reported to be in good health following the incident.
Marine Rescue and Queensland Police Service are investigating the circumstances that led to the vessel sinking. Authorities have not released details regarding the vessel’s ownership or what caused it to take on water.
The quick response from QGAir and coordinated efforts of rescue services ensured a safe outcome for everyone involved. Officials reminded recreational boaters to always carry safety equipment, register trips, and ensure communication devices are operational before heading out on the water.
Five people and a dog were rescued from a sinking vessel off the Cape Bowling Green area early on Thursday morning, 4 December. Photo source: QPS Media
In its first iteration earlier this year, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre's Community Cuppa, then called the End Loneliness Morning Tea, saw just one person show up. A name change, word of mouth, and a couple of months later, the organisation last week played host to a full house of over 50 attendees, all bonding over the simplicity of friendly, lighthearted conversation.
From 10am on Thursday, 4 December, the BNC invited members from the Burdekin community, as well as visitors from Townsville who made the trip specifically for the event, to gather over food, conversation and good company for its Christmas-themed Community Cuppa.
For hours, attendees found themselves engrossed in conversation with faces familiar and foreign, sparking not only chatter, but new friendships. This, for BNC Community Development Officer Maddy Darley, is the exact essence of the monthly gathering—a platform for locals and visitors alike to unwind and connect.
“We don’t have an agenda. There’s not a topic. It’s just come and join in,” she said. “There was vibrant conversation on every table, and every one was so different.”
Darley was thrilled to see diversity among the crowd of attendees, with people living alone, residents brought in from the aged care home, and those simply looking for connection all sharing the morning together.
“Everyone can come along, share a recipe, share a story, bring a plate if you want, although that's not a requirement. You can just bring yourself and conversation,” Darley said.
Attendance has risen each month since its inception, with the BNC receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community about its Community Cuppa initiative.
If you're interested in attending next month's Community Cuppa, please contact the BNC on (07) 4783 4243. No attendee has to tick any boxes. Just show up, eat, disagree over whether jam or cream goes first, and leave knowing at least one person listened.
It was around 2am last Saturday when I was tossing and turning in that half-asleep, half-awake trance where dreams are so vivid that they virtually feel real. Anywho...
My dream was abruptly cut short by what seemed to be a real-life nightmare.
Tap... tap on my front glass door.
My immediate verbal response was something I probably can't repeat in a community paper.
I sprung up.
"Did a demon claw just tap on my window?"
"Was Wolf Creek set in the Burdekin?"
This is the part of living alone that no one really prepares you for. A younger me would've bolted down the hallway to my parents' room and wedged myself between them. Unfortunately, that safety net had expired. Time to grow a pair.
By the time I heard another few taps, I was almost at the door, roller blinds blocking my view. I had no idea what kind of physical specimen I was about to confront. What I did know, though, was that no one drops by at 2am to deliver chocolates.
I peeked through a gap. No one there.
I wasn't sure if that was better or significantly worse.
I turned to retreat back to bed when I heard it again.
Tap... firmer this time.
Now brimming with adrenaline, I stormed toward the door, feeling like whatever was there, I'd knock out clean anyway (I have no combat experience, by the way).
I yanked the blinds away and stood there, waiting. Nothing. No one.
I began to wonder if I'd ever left that vivid dream. Then, just as I was about to turn away and call it a night... there it was.
A cane beetle.
Desperately convinced that if it hurled itself at my glass with enough force, it could achieve quantum entry and reach the lounge room light I’d foolishly left on.
I hung my head in shame.
I guess it could've been worse.
Councillor Amanda Hall
This is my last Councillor Column for 2025 and next year will be my third year representing the people of the Burdekin. I’d like to think I have handled your queries and issues promptly, to the best of my ability and have at least provided you with a semblance of confidence and satisfaction. Unfortunately, things aren’t always black and white and you’re often that sole vote. Major concerns such as drainage and roads need to be considered within budgetary constraints and others are as simple as having manpower available.
We have a wonderful, vibrant community filled for the most part, with involved and dedicated people who love their towns. It’s easy to be a keyboard warrior and complain about everything but the action is in the doing. Don’t be a knocker – get involved and help out; donate to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. I always maintain it is better to give than to receive.
I would love to see our towns enveloped in the spirit of Christmas with more decorations and music and I’m sure that can be budgeted for next year. It doesn’t need to cost a fortune but businesses can also do their part to keep the town centre tidy and welcoming. Ultimately, Christmas comes from within.
The Burdekin Community Christmas Carols are almost here! Join us Sunday 14th December beside the PCYC Wickham Street, Ayr from 5:30pm. Pack a picnic rug, gather your loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of Christmas with our community.
Don’t forget the Burdekin Chamber’s Christmas Party on Thursday 18th December from 5:00pm in Queen Street. Spend $30 at participating stores to earn an entry into the major prize draw of $10,000 in vouchers! (You must be present to claim first prize.)
I’d like to take a moment to remember those we have lost in our community this past year. May God hold them close and bless their families and friends who will be feeling their loss today and every day. As we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ this Christmas season, may you find reasons to laugh, time to be grateful and the strength to close the door on hate.
With love and gratitude from my family to the Burdekin community, may the gifts of peace, love and happiness be yours at Christmas and throughout the coming year. God Bless.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort
What a week it’s been - Christmas parties, school graduations, and plenty of delicious food! I think I’ll need a few extra morning walks to work off the festive treats… I am sure I’m not the only one in that boat!
I had the pleasure of meeting the Pirrone Brothers last week and discovered their latest creation - a Zucchini Flower Vodka brew. What an incredible example of Burdekin innovation and vision. I am certain their Nonno would be proud.
On a more serious note, I am saddened to report major vandalism at Coutts Park and the Alva Beach public conveniences. It is a senseless act of stupidity that costs our community time and money - resources we could be using elsewhere. If you know anything, please reach out to me confidentially or contact the local police.
Don’t forget our Bendigo Community Bank Christmas Carols are on in Ayr this Sunday! It is one of the highlights of the festive season, bringing families, friends, and neighbours together for an evening of music, laughter, and Christmas cheer. There is plenty of room for everyone, so grab a picnic rug or a chair and come along for a night not to be missed. Enjoy performances from local talent, sing along to your favourite carols, and soak up the magical atmosphere under the stars.
And finally, last week I mentioned dialling #464646 from any Telstra phone to speak to Santa. Well, I gave it a go - an elf answered and put me through to Santa. He asked for my name, I cheerfully responded… and then he hung up!! I guess I am on the naughty list. Ha!!
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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