Abandoned and homeless pets across the Burdekin have received a much-needed helping hand following a significant donation to the pet rescue charity servicing the region.

Life Publishing Group met with Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue at Foxtail Boarding Kennels in Ayr last week, where Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith presented a cheque for $8,000 to the charity.

The moment marked a significant milestone for Life Publishing Group, the independently owned umbrella company of Life Newspapers, including our local Burdekin Life Newspaper.

Stephanie Thomas from Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue with Editor in Chief for Life Publishing Group, Rachael Smith at the Foxtail Boarding Kennels last week. Photo credit: Trish Jandt

Charity Boost Helps Rescue Pets Find Forever Families

Ms Smith explained that the money was raised through kind donations from local businesses and individuals who attended the company’s inaugural charity event, held in October last year.

The Enchanted Garden event raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities — Trudy Crowley Foundation, My Hospital Foundation (formerly known as Mackay Hospital Foundation), Orange Sky, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and the Townsville Spinal Unit.

“At Life Publishing Group, we are here to serve the community in every way we can. For almost 15 years, this has been through our free publications, both magazines and newspapers, and we hope they have brought joy to many,” Ms Smith said.

“Raising this money for these worthwhile charities represents a significant moment for us, a moment where we use the platform we have built over the years to give back to those who need it most.

“It has been an incredible few weeks with our team delivering cheques to the different charities, and the gratitude from all the recipients has been wonderful to witness.

“A huge thank you to all the local businesses and individuals who donated on the night, and to everyone in our team who contributed to the success of our first charity event.”

Stephanie Thomas from Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue was in Ayr on the day to receive the cheque and expressed her gratitude to the local businesses and individuals who donated at the charity event.

“Thank you to everyone who donated,” she said.

“Every cent helps us work towards our main goal of getting animals out of the pound and into loving homes, giving them a second chance at life.”

Ms Thomas added that the funds will directly support the charity’s private foster carers, who look after the animals while they wait for permanent homes.

“The money goes towards buying food for the animals, vet care, vaccinations, microchipping and desexing,” she said.

Ms Thomas also provided insight into the adoption process, explaining that it is much simpler than many people realise.

The process includes an initial phone call, a short adoption questionnaire, an adoption contract and payment of an adoption fee, and then you can welcome your new pet home.

Alternatively, community members can become a foster carer, with full details available on the Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page.

Imagine the joy of seeing a scared, lonely animal transform into a happy, healthy companion all because you offered a temporary place in your home and heart.

Why Foster?

• Save Lives: The charity does not have a physical shelter and relies entirely on foster carers. Your home can be the safe haven a pet needs to thrive.
• Comprehensive Support: Foster carers receive all necessary supplies, veterinary care and guidance from the team.
• Make a Difference: Experience the joy of helping a pet find its forever home.

Imagine the joy of seeing a scared, lonely animal transform into a happy, healthy companion all because you offered a temporary place in your home and heart.

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Police are seeking urgent public assistance to locate a 14-year-old boy reported missing from Home Hill since Tuesday, 24 February.

The boy was last seen about 8pm at a Fifth Avenue address and has not been seen or heard from since.

Police and family hold concerns for the boy’s welfare due to his young age.

The boy is described as First Nations, approximately 160cm tall, with a slim build, brown eyes and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black singlet, a black hoodie and Raiders-branded shorts.

Investigators believe he may be in the Ayr region or travelling towards Townsville.

Police are appealing directly to the boy, or to anyone who may have information about his whereabouts, to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Policelink on 131 444 and quote reference number QP2600397256.

If the boy is sighted or if anyone is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

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Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony.

The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life.

Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears.

Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain.

The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year.

Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied

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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen.

The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations.

Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia.

The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation.

Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent.

Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”.

eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate.

Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours.

The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act.

eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users.

The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront.

For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike.

The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock

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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek.

The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users.

Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover.

“The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge.

Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure.

A Facility Built by Volunteers

The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery.

Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work.

MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable.

Election Promise and Handover

In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club.

As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million.

In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland.

Design Concerns and Infill Issues

According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows.

Those concerns, they say, were ignored.

“Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said.

“The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.”

Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since.

As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days.

“All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.”

Safety Concerns Escalate

The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges.

Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available.

“Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge.

In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out.

After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route.

A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety.

“The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said.

“The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.”

Calls for Practical Solutions

The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years.

Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised.

“There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge.

“We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.”

Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government.

“The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said.

“I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.”

He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored.

“Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.”

Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy.

“There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said.

“Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access.

“The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.”

Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location.

“The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.”

He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed.

“During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.”

“In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open. Such a project would require a long-term engineering solution rather than relying on temporary measures.”

Mr Willcox said while boating infrastructure was primarily a State responsibility, there was scope for federal involvement once preliminary work was completed.

“While boating infrastructure is primarily a State Government responsibility, there is an opportunity for federal advocacy once the preliminary work is completed.”

“Once the State Government has finalised a design and secured the necessary Council and State approvals, I am prepared to facilitate discussions with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) which falls under federal jurisdiction to expedite the permits and approvals that are required to undertake the work.”

He said he would pursue federal funding once a design and costings were finalised.

“Once a design and a plan have been costed, I will investigate all available federal funding opportunities to support the upgrades. My priority is to ensure that this facility remains a safe and reliable marine access point for everyone in our region.”

Mr Willcox also acknowledged the advocacy efforts of the Molongle Creek Boat Club.

“The Molongle Creek Boat Club is a proactive organisation and I am committed to assisting it in achieving a long-term solution.”

Local State Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, was contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.

MSQ Acknowledge Challenges

A spokesperson for Maritime Safety Queensland confirmed the channel continues to be impacted by natural processes.

“The Molongle Creek access channel continues to experience sand shoaling from natural flood flows,” the spokesperson said.

“Maritime Safety Queensland is developing long-term management options in consultation with stakeholders.”

Community Patience Wearing Thin

Members of the Molongle Creek Boat Club, the broader Cape Upstart community as well as residents within the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires understand the issues surrounding the channel have evolved to no longer be focused on future planning, but about honouring the promises already made.

After more than six decades of volunteer stewardship and a multi-million-dollar asset handover, locals say they are simply asking for what was agreed to; a safe, reliable all-tide access channel.

As one member of MCBC put it, “We carried this facility for decades. Now we’re asking the government to carry out its commitment.”

1. Community members say repeated sediment build-up has left the Molongle Creek channel unusable at low tide. Photo credit: Epic Pics
2. Sediment infill is visible in the Molongle Creek access channel as illustrated in drone footage captured on 3 February. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club
3. Drone footage captured on 3 February illustrates the significantly reduced tidal access. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club
4. “Disappointing to say the least,” says Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge, about the channel’s current condition. Photo credit: Epic Pics
5. Molongle Creek Boat Ramp is located approximately 30-35 kilometres southeast of Ayr. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club

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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025.

The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg.

Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen.

“We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said.

“I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.”

The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began.

Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet.

Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen.

Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen.

“Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.”

Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Brandon’s Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP) are inviting locals and visitors to their Open Day at the Brandon Heritage Precinct on Saturday, 9th May 2026, running from 9 am to 3 pm.

Visitors will have the chance to observe an impressive collection of historic machinery, including a steam traction engine and the rare 1911 Marshall Colonial tractor, the only one of its kind remaining in Australia. The Tait Steam Gallery will operate from 9 am to 1 pm, with engine alternator sets from Kalamia and Inkerman Mills running at 10 am, 11 am, noon, 1 pm, and 2 pm.

The precinct also features the Alf Shand Blacksmith Shop, the Fielding Engine Shed, and the Old Brandon Church, giving visitors a full glimpse into the region’s industrial heritage. Machinery enthusiasts can enjoy a sausage sizzle and drinks, and car and motorcycle clubs are encouraged to bring their vehicles for display.

The Iron Works Brewery, located on-site, will open for lunch from 1 pm, and visitors can view the historic blast furnace and Gardner engine from 3 pm. The event also welcomes visiting machinery clubs from Townsville and Mackay.

BMP President Bruce Munro encourages anyone with an interest in machinery or local history to attend. The club also offers guided tours on Mondays (except December), Wednesdays, and Saturdays (April–September), with entry by gold coin donation.

For enquiries, call 0488 366 443, email burdekinmp@outlook.com, or visit burdekinmp.com.au.

Visitors will have the chance to observe an impressive collection of historic machinery, including the rare 1911 Marshall Colonial tractor, the only one of its kind remaining in Australia. Photo supplied

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Home Hill is set to benefit from statewide improvements to Queensland’s health system, with new data showing ambulance ramping has fallen to its lowest level in five years and planning underway for future hospital upgrades in regional communities.

New quarterly health data shows ambulance ramping across Queensland dropped to 37.3 per cent in the December 2025 quarter — the lowest rate recorded since December 2020. While the figures are statewide, they have important implications for regional towns like Home Hill, where timely access to emergency and hospital care remains a priority.

As part of the Government’s fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, Home Hill has been included in the next stage of the Building Rural and Remote Hospital Program. Business cases have been approved to progress planning for hospital projects in selected rural centres, aimed at strengthening local healthcare capacity.

Premier David Crisafulli said the data showed Queensland’s health system was beginning to turn a corner.

“Queenslanders deserve a world class health system, and that’s why we are building the health infrastructure our growing state needs to help overturn a decade of delayed ambulances and soaring elective surgery waitlists,” he said.

“We are delivering easier access to health services for all Queenslanders, no matter where they live.”

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said regional communities like Home Hill were a key focus moving forward, with continued investment needed to deliver stronger, more reliable local healthcare.

Home Hill Hospital will benefit from the Government’s fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Practical, on-ground weed management is playing a key role in protecting the long-term success of earlier environmental restoration works across several local sites.

Crews from Narburra Water Services and Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation recently carried out targeted weed control across three locations, focusing on reducing pressure on native vegetation and improving ecosystem health.

The works included cutting invasive rubber vine and lantana close to the root system, as well as removing dead plant material that was smothering young trees and restricting canopy growth. Rapidly spreading weeds such as prickly acacia and chinee apple were also controlled to protect surrounding native species.

At Molongle Creek, dense gamba grass was brush-cut to improve visibility and safety for crews working on site. The cut material was then reused as mulch, helping to stabilise soil and address areas affected by land degradation.

Weed control methods were carefully selected to suit site conditions while minimising disturbance. At Tabletop and Molongle Creek, Narburra Water Services used basal barking to manage chinee apple and prickly acacia. This low-disturbance and time-efficient method prevents regrowth and seedling emergence and was applied using a backpack sprayer with an oil-soluble herbicide and oil-based carrier at correct ratios.

Meanwhile, at Majors Creek, Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation employed a cut-stump treatment, applying Vigilant II Herbicide to freshly cut stumps to prevent regrowth.

Beyond improving site conditions, the works also strengthened crew skills in plant identification and practical weed management. Together, these efforts are helping to protect ecosystem health, stabilise erosion-prone areas and ensure earlier restoration investments continue to deliver lasting environmental benefits for the community.

Photos supplied by NQ Dry Tropics NRM.

Burdekin growers and industry representatives are invited to attend a Weed Research Management Update next week, bringing the latest research, trials and regulatory updates to the region.

The half-day session will be held from 8am to 12pm on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at the CANEGROWERS Hall, 68 Tenth Street, Home Hill.

The update will feature Sugar Research Australia weed scientist Emilie Fillols, who will present research findings on significant weeds in the Burdekin. Topics will include pot trial results, effective pre- and post-emergent herbicide applications, current herbicide regulations for vine management, and an update on the paraquat review.

Also presenting will be Department of Primary Industries Extension Officer Jack Robertson, covering drone spraying practices, chemical selection and restrictions, strategies to minimise spray drift from drones and ground rigs, and recent herbicide trial updates.

The event is delivered by Sugar Research Australia in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries, with special thanks to Burdekin CANEGROWERS for providing the venue.

More information is available online at: https://lnkd.in/d_nX4Wtn.

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By CANEGROWERS Australia Chairman, Owen Menkens

There’s a slow shift happening in the global sugar market – and Queensland cane growers are right in the thick of it.

Around the world, major buyers are no longer just looking at price and quality. Increasingly, they want proof. Proof that the sugar they’re buying has been produced responsibly, with strong environmental practices and credible verification behind it. That pressure is coming from consumers, investors and governments alike, and it’s reshaping how commodities are traded.

We’re seeing that demand clearly in markets like Japan and the UK, where sustainably sourced ingredients are fast becoming the baseline rather than the bonus. For Australian sugar, that means sustainability credentials are no longer a “nice to have” – they’re becoming essential for maintaining and growing market access.

This is where Smartcane BMP comes into its own.

Developed by growers for growers and delivered by CANEGROWERS, Smartcane BMP is a practical, on-farm system that helps growers demonstrate best practice across soil health, nutrient management, water use, biodiversity and more. Importantly, it’s independently verified – giving confidence not just within the industry, but right along the supply chain.

What’s really encouraging is how strongly growers have embraced it. Almost half of Queensland’s cane is now grown under Smartcane BMP accreditation. That represents over 800 farming businesses, covering 175,000 hectares of cane land, who have voluntarily stepped up, invested time and effort, and backed their practices with evidence.

Those efforts are starting to pay off. Recent exports of sustainably verified Queensland sugar to Japan show how farm-level BMP accreditation can translate into real-world outcomes. While growers might not see the full value immediately, these shipments send a powerful signal to global markets that Australian sugar can meet the highest sustainability expectations.

This isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about future-proofing an industry that underpins regional Queensland – and keeping Queensland sugar competitive not just today, but for the next generation of growers.

Markets will keep tightening their requirements, and buyers will keep asking tougher questions. Thanks to Smartcane BMP, Queensland cane growers are in a strong position to answer them – confidently, credibly and on their own terms.

Almost half of Queensland’s cane is now grown under Smartcane BMP accreditation. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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Burdekin families are being encouraged to help shape the future of local maternity services, with residents invited to attend community forums hosted by the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.

The Pregnancy Care Community Forums will be held at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 9 March, giving parents and families the chance to share their experiences and ideas for improving maternity care in the region.

The sessions aim to capture what the community values most about local pregnancy and postnatal services, as well as identify areas for improvement.

Ayr maternity co-design principal project officer Lauren Lambert said the forums were vital to ensuring services met the needs of rural families.

“We want to hear directly from the people who use or have used these services,” Ms Lambert said.

“The forum will bring together women, families, and maternity staff to engage in open discussion and co-design activities aimed at shaping the future of maternity care in our community.”

Ms Lambert said feedback gathered during the sessions would directly inform the co-design process for maternity services across the district.

“This is about more than just a conversation; it’s about giving our local parents a seat at the table to help us decide what the next chapter of maternity care looks like in the Burdekin,” she said.

For more information or to RSVP, residents can email lauren.lambert@health.qld.gov.au or phone 0413 726 156.

Lauren Lambert is encouraging Burdekin families to share their experiences and help shape the future of local maternity services. Photo supplied

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After a year guiding Burdekin’s youth through a busy calendar of community projects, Burdekin Shire Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has officially called her final meeting, stepping down from the role with a string of achievements behind her.

The Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year in 2025, who spent a year on the Youth Council before being elected Mayor in February 2025, oversaw several successful events across the year—achievements she says she is particularly proud of.

“My council and I have achieved so much throughout my term as Youth Mayor,” said Cervoni.

She highlighted helping organise the Fast Track Talent Showcase, supporting the Youth Week Sounds Wave Pool Party, and participating in the Stand Up Sleep Out – Youth Against Homelessness event in the community as key milestones.

Cervoni recently relocated to Townsville to study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at James Cook University. She said that while her time with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has ended, she will carry forward valuable lessons.

"I learnt so much as Youth Mayor, made so many connections and made countless memories,” she said.

"As I embark on this new adventure, I will take with me the public speaking skills I have learnt through delivering speeches and chairing meetings," she said.

Her time as Mayor also offered the Millaroo native a deeper perspective on the Burdekin community.

“I was fortunate enough to interact with so many other community organisations and volunteers, which allowed me to see just how much work people are doing in our shire and view how fortunate I am to have grown up in such a kind and giving community,” she said.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort praised Cervoni’s dedication and growth during her term.

“Nicole took on her role as Youth Mayor with such passion and dedication,” Dalle Cort said.

“She is a very passionate young lady and always went above and beyond in her role. She volunteered at almost every event she could, wasn’t shy to have her say and raise ideas, as well as listen to others.”

“She ensured a very inclusive Youth Council during her time as Youth Mayor and although she was working as a trainee, she continued her involvement and dedication to the young people in the Community.”

Cervoni said she hopes her successor will benefit from the role as much as she did.

“Advice I would give to the next youth mayor would be to just enjoy every minute of it and take every opportunity,” she said.

The next Burdekin Shire Youth Council Mayor will be elected at the council’s next meeting on March 16.

After a year guiding Burdekin’s youth through a busy calendar of community projects, Burdekin Shire Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has officially called her final meeting, stepping down from the role with a string of achievements behind her. Photo supplied

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A day out on the tranquil sands of Horseshoe Bay turned into a harrowing emergency for an Ayr family, when their nine-year-old granddaughter Olivia was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish.

Chris Richardson, Olivia’s grandmother, is now sharing the family’s story to raise awareness about the dangers of Irukandji stings.

On Monday 2nd February, the family spent their morning teaching Olivia to fish in the shallows – even though, as Chris jokes, the seagulls got 90% of the bait. At lunchtime, Olivia suddenly stated her skin felt really itchy, all over her body.

Thinking it was just sea lice, Chris sent Olivia for a shower, but when she returned feeling worse, she decided to take her home to see a doctor.

But quickly, the symptoms progressed, with Olivia complaining of pain, her skin now hurting all over.

Chris admits she initially wondered if Olivia was exaggerating, joking that her granddaughter has a flair for dramatics and will request a bandage for the lightest scratch.

But then, Chris asked Olivia to pinpoint the pain, and Olivia said, “it feels like it's in my chest and it's going around my back.”

Straight away, alarm bells sounded.

A former nurse, Chris recognised the symptom as an indication of heart distress, which presents this way in women — very different from the crushing chest pressure more commonly described by men.

Instead of driving home to Ayr, Chris and Olivia’s Grandfather, Bob, made a decision that likely saved Olivia’s life, choosing to head straight to Bowen Hospital’s emergency department.

According to the treating doctor, had they attempted the longer drive home, Olivia may have gone into cardiac arrest in the car.

On arrival at the emergency department, Olivia had begun going into cardiac fibrillation. Staff moved quickly, administering antivenom and magnesium — a treatment used to reduce pain and protect the heart from dangerous rhythm disturbances associated with Irukandji syndrome.

Seeing Olivia in such pain was incredibly difficult for Chris and Bob, with Bob also treated for shock.

Chris credits the staff at Bowen Hospital for their exceptional service, keeping calm, and treating her granddaughter with an astounding level of care — from the receptionist at the front desk to the emergency nurses and the attending doctor.

Praising Doctor Luke, she said, “He’s got three daughters himself, which helped him relate to Olivia. He spoke to her very gently and held her arm while she was crying, explaining everything they were going to do and why.”

Later, Chris joked to her husband, “If I ever get sick, you bring me down to Bowen Hospital.”

Olivia was kept in hospital for two days on an intravenous drip before being discharged. While the physical side effects — tingling skin and fatigue — eased within days, the emotional impact has lingered, with Olivia going through occasional bouts of tears as she processes what she experienced.

“She kept crying out, “I’m not going to die. Nanny, don’t let them make me die”,” Chris explained.

Thankfully, Olivia has now made a full recovery. The family hope the experience won’t keep her from enjoying the ocean — now equipped with a new understanding of Irukandji risks and safety precautions.

If you suspect an Irukandji sting, call 000 immediately. When in doubt, treat it as Irukandji and seek urgent medical attention.

1. 9 Year Old Olivia overcame a nasty Irukandji sting. Photo supplied
2. The brave girl spent 2 days in Bowen Hospital, receiving exceptional care. Photo supplied.

A Watch and Act warning for Burdekin Falls Dam remains active after Sunwater confirmed the catchment had begun spilling significant quantities of excess water into the Burdekin River since Sunday, 22 February.

Over the past month, Burdekin Falls Dam capacity levels have continued to rise, and with plenty more heavy rainfall forecast to hit the region in the coming weeks, Sunwater are urging the community to stay informed and alert to the possibility of localised flooding.

Officially known as the largest water storage asset across the state, capacity levels of the Burdekin Falls Dam has been increasing rapidly since Sunday, 15 February, with data indicating the catchment jumped from 107.29 per cent capacity to 145.55 per cent capacity in just seven days.

Sunwater recorded the highest spike in the Burdekin Falls Dam capacity level just a few hours before confirming the catchment had begun spilling excess water, highlighting the catchment increased by 12.19 per cent overnight from Saturday, 21 February to Sunday, 22 February.

As of the morning of Tuesday, 24 February, Burdekin Falls Dam was sitting at 158.73 per cent capacity and still spilling concerning levels of water into the Burdekin River as widespread rainfall continued to impact catchments across the region. Sunwater confirmed current overflows at Burdekin Falls Dam are approximately 655,000 megalitres a day, and it’s expected the dam will continue to spill for a number of weeks.

Several surrounding dams have also begun spilling, including Eungella Dam and Julius Dam, while Kinchant Dam commenced planned releases of excess water last week.

“Sunwater’s thoughts are with any communities in Queensland who may be experiencing flooding due to extreme weather,” said a Sunwater spokesperson.

“Due to recent rainfall across North and Central Queensland, several Sunwater dams are spilling or close to capacity. Sunwater is closely monitoring conditions across dam catchments and liaising with Local Disaster Management Groups as necessary.

“We will continue to provide updates regarding individual dams as per Emergency Action Plan requirements. We would urge the community to remain vigilant near rising water courses and listen to advice from councils and emergency services - and if it’s flooded, forget it.”

In accordance with information released via the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard, the Burdekin River at the Burdekin Bridge had reached 7.25 meters, exceeding the minor flood level of 7 meters, and was rising rapidly as of 8am on Tuesday, 24 February.

As of Monday, 23 February, several roads and access points have been impacted, with the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) warning residents of Rita Island to prepare for possible isolation, and to prepare essential supplies like food, drinking water, medications and pet food, to last over five days.

In response to the current river levels, dam releases and forecast conditions, Burdekin LDMG moved to lean forward earlier this week, assuring the community that agencies are continuing to closely monitor conditions.

“We are urging residents to remain alert, monitor conditions closely, and be prepared should conditions change,” advised Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort.

“The Burdekin LDMG is monitoring this closely and will continue to provide updates to the community. Please avoid floodwater, obey road closures, and rely on official sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology and Council’s Disaster Dashboard for the latest updates.”

Multiple unplanned power outages were also confirmed over the past few days, including the loss of supply to three customers in Giru, and the loss of supply to almost 100 customers in Home Hill due to severe damage and fallen power lines. Residents are advised to refer to Ergon Energy’s Outage Finder website via www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder for updates.

Authorities warned the increased flows of the Burdekin River and forecast surges may contribute to flooding over the coming weeks and predicted the river would exceed the minor flood level this week. Sunwater urges the community to monitor the levels of the Burdekin Falls Dam via bit.ly/BurdekinFallsStorageLevels, tune into ABC North Queensland 630 AM, and check local updates, road closures and evacuation information via the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard via disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

1. Excess water began spilling into the Burdekin River from the Burdekin Falls Dam over the weekend. Photo credit: Rellie May Photography
2. The view of the Burdekin River flowing beneath the Burdekin Bridge as seen from Macrossan Bridge. Photo credit: Di Zee Photography
3. The Burdekin River reached a height of 7.25 meters at the Burdekin Bridge on Tuesday morning. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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