Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Burdekin region faces a potential financial headache as a vital federal funding stream, which has bankrolled major local upgrades from the Ayr Swimming Pool to the Burdekin Memorial Hall, is set to expire on June 30th. The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP), which has injected millions into projects across the state, will cease at the end of the financial year unless the Federal Government announces an extension in the upcoming May Budget. Burdekin Shire Council has joined the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) in an urgent advocacy campaign, warning that regional communities stand to lose the most if the program is not replaced. “Burdekin Shire Council supports LGAQ’s call for ongoing infrastructure funding that recognises the scale and importance of what councils deliver, particularly in regional areas,” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Dalle Cort said. “This is about ensuring regional Queenslanders have access to the same opportunities, infrastructure and services as those living in metropolitan areas.” Burdekin Stands Up As Federal Funding Faces Cliff-Edge The Burdekin Shire Council is joining a statewide push for the Federal Government to extend a crucial infrastructure program due to expire on June 30th, warning that local councils face a significant funding gap without a new commitment in the upcoming May Budget. Locally, the original LRCIP funding—in effect since 2020—has been instrumental in delivering practical community assets. Significant projects supported by the program include the refurbishment of the Burdekin Memorial Hall entrance and the installation of a compliant disabled access ramp, upgrades to the Burdekin Water Park at the Ayr Swimming Pool complex, and the revitalisation of Spiller Street’s Brandon Park, which included new playground equipment and amenities. Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Shire relies on predictable funding to maintain the essential infrastructure residents use every day. “Councils across Queensland are responsible for infrastructure that communities rely on every day – from local roads and footpaths to sporting facilities and shared community spaces,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “Programs like LRCIP have allowed councils to deliver practical, community-driven projects that improve safety, connectivity and liveability while also supporting local jobs.” The LGAQ estimates the program has contributed roughly $668 million to the Queensland economy, supporting nearly 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs. Peak body leadership warns that without a replacement, the loss of this funding will create a "financial black hole" for local governments. LGAQ President Mayor Matt Burnett stated that regional equity is at the heart of the issue. “People living in regional Queensland should be able to access the same employment, infrastructure and service opportunities as those living in the cities,” Mayor Burnett said. “This program has been used to build roads, sporting grounds and other vital community facilities, and it’s our smallest communities who stand to lose most if funding isn't continued.” For the Burdekin, the uncertainty makes long-term planning difficult, says Mayor Dalle Cort, who emphasised that local councils are now facing “difficult decisions” that could impact the standard of services provided to residents. The LGAQ is pushing for a commitment in the May Budget that goes beyond the LRCIP, calling for an increase in untied Financial Assistance Grant funding to at least 1 per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue to improve long-term financial sustainability. Residents can learn more about the campaign at www.lgaq.asn.au.
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Communities across the Burdekin Shire will come together this ANZAC Day to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans, with a full program of dawn services, marches and commemorative ceremonies planned throughout the region. Early risers will have several opportunities to pay their respects, with dawn services commencing at 5:25am at the Memorial Hall in Home Hill, followed closely by 5:30am services at Brolga Park in Giru and ANZAC Park in Ayr. As the morning continues, smaller community services will take place across the district, including an 8am gathering at the Spiller Street Cenotaph in Brandon, before returning to Giru for a 9:30am service at Brolga Park. In Ayr, the annual ANZAC Day parade will step off at 9am, leading into the main service at ANZAC Park at 9:20am, while in Home Hill, the parade will begin at 10:45am, followed by a commemorative service at Memorial Park at 11:20am. The day’s events provide an opportunity for residents of all ages to reflect on the legacy of those who have served, while also reinforcing the strong sense of community across the Burdekin. Locals and visitors are encouraged to attend a service or parade, stand in silence, and take a moment to remember the sacrifices made in the name of peace and freedom.
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Little Leaves Nursery is set to enter an exciting new chapter, with owners Kirsten Loader and Chris Mann announcing they will take over Hotel Brandon, bringing the two much-loved businesses together in one dynamic space designed to create new opportunities for the community, rain, hail or shine. The pair said they had been searching for some time for a larger venue that could offer indoor seating, particularly during the peak heat of summer and periods of wet weather. “We have been looking to address this issue for a while and we’ve always wanted to provide a full breakfast and lunch – but unfortunately our little food van gets far too hot in summer,” Kirsten explained. The idea to purchase Hotel Brandon was first floated by the venue’s former manager; something Kirsten and Chris initially saw as a little far-fetched. Over time, however, the concept began to take root, eventually prompting the couple to take the leap. “We were very fortunate the owner wanted to keep the hotel in local hands, and so here we are,” she said. With plans still taking shape, the pair say they are keen to settle in and get a feel for the venue before making any major changes. In the short term, locals can expect a handful of updates, including the bottle shop transitioning from Star Liquor to Liquor Legends, along with the introduction of a fresh new menu. Looking ahead, Kirsten and Chris hope to undertake renovations to give the hotel a facelift and create a more family-friendly space; a vision shaped by Brandon’s shifting demographics, and they’re also exploring the possibility of a drive-through coffee and hot food service, catering to early risers in search of a quick bite on the go. “We are still working through how we can incorporate Little Leaves Nursery into the hotel without it losing the relaxed atmosphere we have worked so hard to create,” Kirsten said. “Since we opened Little Leaves Nursery, we have watched Brandon’s demographic start to change. We have noticed a lot of young couples and families starting to move into the area, and I think there’s a gap in the market to provide takeaway meals as well as a great in-house menu and kids’ play areas.” Little Leaves Nursey and Hotel Brandon will continue to operate as usual for now, with Kirsten and Chris buzzing with excitement for what’s to come. “We are grateful for the support of the staff who have remained with us at the venue, and we have a lot to learn from them, and from the locals before we make any big changes,” Kirsten said. “There are definitely big plans, and we think the hotel has a lot of potential and look forward to exploring that in the future!” CAPTION: Kirsten Loader and Chris Mann officially became the owners of Hotel Brandon on Monday, 18 April, opening a fresh new chapter for the popular establishment. Photo source: Little Leaves Nursery
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Police are urging Burdekin motorists to slow down and stay alert as students return to school this week, with increased patrols targeting dangerous driving across the region. The warning comes as the Queensland Police Service enters the final stretch of its statewide Easter road safety operation, with officers maintaining a visible presence on local roads during the busy back-to-school period. Drivers can expect a stronger focus on school zones, with police reminding motorists to obey reduced speed limits and watch for children, cyclists and pedestrians during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Statewide figures from the holiday crackdown, recorded 3 and 16 April, highlight ongoing concerns, with more than 10,600 traffic infringement notices issued, including about 4,000 for speeding. Police also conducted more than 75,000 roadside breath tests and 1,800 drug tests, detecting over 1,200 impaired drivers. In the Northern Queensland region, which includes the Burdekin, a total of 512 traffic infringements were recorded—the lowest of any region—with 212 related to speeding. Police conducted more than 5,000 roadside breath tests, detecting 59 drink driving offences, along with 29 drug driving offences from 62 roadside drug tests. Emergency Response and Coordination Command Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman said increased enforcement was critical in reducing risky behaviour on the roads. “Every decision made behind the wheel matters,” he said. “With more children back in school zones this week, we’re asking drivers to slow down, stay focused and drive to the conditions.” Police say patrols will continue throughout the week, with road safety a shared responsibility for all motorists. CAPTION: Police are urging Burdekin motorists to slow down and stay alert as students return to school this week, with increased patrols targeting dangerous driving across the region. Photo source: QPS
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While the Burdekin has not seen a dramatic increase in housing construction, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, believes a recently announced government initiative offers numerous advantages for the construction industry across the state and closer to home.
An election commitment, the Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program will deliver wage subsidies to small businesses in the construction sector that employ apprentices.
“A reduction in tradespeople in the construction industry is both a major challenge in addressing housing issues and for families and rental property managers,” Mr Last said. “Regardless of whether it’s a minor repair or a major project, we all know that usually you have to join the queue when it comes to getting a quote, let alone getting work underway.”
“Trades in the construction industry are rewarding careers and, as a government, we want to make it as easy as possible for local small businesses to hire apprentices. Not only does that address current issues, but local apprentices are more likely to stay in the area and provide services for years to come.”
“We recognise that taking on an apprentice represents a financial commitment for small business, especially when the apprentice is participating in off-site training like TAFE. Just over $10,000 per apprentice is available for construction businesses employing apprentices aged under 21 and, for apprentices over 21, the subsidy is almost $14,000.”
Mr Last said the range of trades that were eligible for the subsidy was comprehensive but stressed that support was limited to the first 2,000 eligible registered apprentices employed by businesses with fewer than 20 employees.
“The commitment made by a small business that hires an apprentice is far larger in proportion than it is for a large construction company.”
“The message is that if you are an apprentice, or employ an apprentice, in the construction, plumbing, engineering or electrical fields you need to apply for this funding as soon as possible. Regardless of whether the apprenticeship is full-time, part-time or school-based, if the apprentice commenced after July 1st in a construction related trade, they are eligible.”
“Fixing the housing shortage will take a multi-faceted approach in order to get the right results. That’s why we have taken steps to assist with making land available, provided financial assistance for headworks and why we are now helping to boost apprentice numbers.”
“We can’t just make the construction of new dwellings the sole focus. If people aren’t happy in their current home, or can’t live there due to needing repairs, you end up with more people waiting on new homes.”
“Just as it has with other issues, the government’s focus is on finding practical ways to address what has become a statewide issue."
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill crushed out on the weekend, making it the first
sugar factory in Australia to finish the 2025 season.
The last bins of cane were tipped at Kalamia Mill in the Burdekin just after 1am Saturday (25
October) and the last batch of raw sugar went up the belt in the early hours of Sunday
morning.
General Manager Operations James Wallace said it was great to see one of Wilmar’s
factories take line honours for the 2025 season.
“The start and finish of the annual sugar production season are important milestones for all
of the cane-growing communities in Queensland and New South Wales,” he said.
“It’s not often you get to be first past the post, so we’re really pleased that one of our eight
factories was the first in the industry to crush out for 2025.”
Mr Wallace said two more of Wilmar’s factories – Invicta Mill in the Burdekin and Proserpine
Mill in the Whitsundays – were on track to finish in the next few days.
“We’re in a much better position than we were last year, due to improved factory
performance and fewer rain disruptions,” Mr Wallace said.
“Based on our current crop estimates and no significant downtime from unplanned factory
stops or wet weather, we’re expecting all of our sites to be finished the season by the end of
November.”
Mr Wallace said the key focus was on safely wrapping up the final weeks of the season.
There are currently 21 operational sugar mills in Queensland and New South Wales. Wilmar
Sugar and Renewables owns eight of these factories, located in Ingham, the Burdekin,
Proserpine and Sarina.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill was the first in the Australian industry to crush out for
2025.
Kalamia Mill Operations Coordinator Mark Nicolaides watches the last bins go through the tippler for the 2025 season.
Home Hill marathoner Karin Thorburn has added another remarkable milestone to her already record-breaking career, taking out the Sporting Excellence Award at the 2025 North Queensland Sportstar Awards in Townsville on Saturday night.
The accolade recognised Thorburn’s extraordinary feat as the first Australian to complete more than 500 official marathons, alongside her tireless efforts to grow the sport across North Queensland.
“I couldn’t believe it [when i heard my name called]... I was in complete shock,” she laughed. “When you’re surrounded by so many fantastic athletes, you don’t expect to win. I’m just a runner doing what I love to do.”
For more than 26 years, Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running. She started at age 33, after raising her three children, looking for something that was truly her own. Since then, her passion has taken her around the world, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the official title of Six Star Finisher.
Along the way, she has continued to push boundaries, setting personal milestones and inspiring new runners with her dedication, all while balancing her work at Regis Aged Care Centre in Home Hill, where her residents remain some of her biggest supporters.
“I think when they see this, they’ll be so chuffed and proud,” she said.
Originally from Sydney, Thorburn and her husband Tim settled in the Burdekin just over a year ago, embracing the region’s slower pace and strong community spirit. They’re regulars at Plantation Parkrun in Ayr and also help to organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville—an event that’s attracted runners from across the world and even earned a Guinness World Record.
As she prepares to fly out this week for the New York Marathon, Thorburn remains focused on the simple motivation that started it all.
“It just comes back to passion,” she said. “While I’m healthy and able, I’ll keep running marathons around the world, and helping others start their own journey.”
The sun had barely risen on Saturday, October 25, when a group of determined locals gathered at the base of Mount Inkerman for this year’s King and Queen of the Hill event. Starting at 6am, runners and walkers of all ages — along with a couple of enthusiastic dogs — took on the steady climb up the mountain road before making their way back down the goat track to the finish.
The event drew a good turnout despite the early start, with a few supporters cheering from the side as participants tackled the course. Feed Me Food was on hand providing much-needed coffee and breakfast for runners and spectators alike. Helping to keep the event running smoothly were this year’s Harvest Festival Queens — Ellie Woods, Aaliyah Gibson, and Eden Betteridge — who took on the important role of timekeepers for each category.
This year’s results saw some excellent efforts across all age groups.
Under 12 Girls 1st – Taylor Chapman (23:22) 2nd – Keely Watson (23:28) 3rd – Katie Bapty (28:55)
Under 12 Boys 1st – Jardie Russell (21:11) 2nd – Connor Linton (26:10) 3rd – Brycene (26:29)
13–16 Girls 1st – Alexis Howell (21:23)
13–16 Boys 1st – Sonny O’Rourke (18:21) 2nd – Harley Woodwood (19:35) 3rd – Angus Watson (20:56)
17–35 Ladies 1st – Jennifer Fotinos (20:58) 2nd – Kathi Vass (23:58) 3rd – Carly Kies (24:34)
17–35 Men 1st – Aaron Bathis (14:46) 2nd – Brendon Maltby (16:03) 3rd – Toby Wilson (17:15)
35+ Ladies 1st – Vicki O’Brien (26:50) 2nd – Rebecca Watson (27:32) 3rd – Carolyn Rossgregor (30:01)
35+ Men 1st – Robert Tanner (17:48) 2nd – Jason Maltby (20:19) 3rd – Wal Archibald (21:21)
The fastest male on the day was Aaron Bathis with a remarkable time of 14 minutes and 46 seconds, while the fastest female was Jennifer Fotinos, finishing in 20 minutes and 58 seconds. Both times improved on last year’s records of 16:00 for the men and 22:15 for the women.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival committee thanked everyone who took part, noting the strong community spirit and sportsmanship on display. With stunning views, good company, and plenty of determination, the early morning event once again proved to be a highlight of the festival calendar.
A big thank you goes out to all our sponsors for their ongoing support, and especially to Mark Watson from Alliance Pharmacy in Home Hill, who has been an avid supporter of the King and Queen of the Hill for many years.
Article by Carlene Muilwyk
Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories & Photography
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Over the past week I had the pleasure of attending the Local Government Annual Conference with Cr John Furnell, Cr Fina Vasta and CEO Matthew Magin, where Matthew and I presented on Council’s innovative Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility. The presentation attracted strong interest from other councils, many of whom are eager to understand how they could replicate this sustainable initiative within their own communities.
I’m also proud to share that Council received a Risk Excellence Award, recognising our commitment to proactive and responsible governance.
On Saturday, I attended a milestone event for our local volunteers - Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Burdekin officially transitioned to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ). It was wonderful to celebrate this achievement and acknowledge the dedicated volunteers who have contributed so much over the past 54 years.
Earlier this week, we welcomed Regional Development Australia (RDA) to the Council Chambers. Their visit included a tour of the Macroalgae Facility and the Ayr Industrial Estate, highlighting opportunities for future regional collaboration and growth.
And finally, today marks an event I always look forward to - the Seniors Expo and Luncheon. This event is a celebration of our vibrant senior community, bringing people together to connect, share stories, and enjoy a day of entertainment and appreciation.
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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My how the year has flown. It has been almost two years since I was elected Councillor and believe it or not, there is more to the Burdekin than just Ayr. Without Divisions, some areas do not receive fair and equal representation and I consider it my job to represent the whole of the Burdekin Shire. Despite this, there are still those who think I advocate more for Clare, Millaroo and Dalbeg (as I live in Clare) and who have verbalised this to others. Let me assure you that this is not the case as I am vocal about the condition of our roads right across the Shire as well as numerous other issues. If you have any concerns don’t hesitate to reach out to me. My contact details are on Council’s website.
The Brandon Bowls Club recently celebrated their 70 Year anniversary. I was fortunate enough to attend their celebrations and witness firsthand the jovial competitiveness of the members. Having attempted to play bowls many years ago, let me tell you, it’s not as easy as it looks. There is definitely a high level of skill and fitness involved. Congratulations to the organisers for a fun-filled afternoon.
Congratulations also to the Burdekin Unit SES who celebrate their 50-year milestone this year. As we once again move towards our disaster season, please remember to thank the men and women involved in this incredible organization for the tireless work they continue to do for the Burdekin during disaster events and all throughout the year. Your efforts are appreciated more than you know.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival events are in full swing and will culminate with the Grand Parade and Street Party on November 8. This is always a wonderful, family friendly afternoon with lots of entertainment and food thanks to the dedicated committee and organisers who volunteer their services. The Sweet FM markets will also be on the morning of the 8th, from 8am – 1pm on the front lawn of the old Courthouse in Home Hill. Tell your friends and head along.
More congratulations, this time to Alf Musumeci, President Home Hill Rotary and Mrs Nola Nendick, President Ayr-Home Hill Lions who were both presented with Honorary Memberships to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce recently. Their longstanding commitment to the Burdekin Shire has not gone unnoticed.
The Burdekin is home to a wonderful community and in recent times, we have lost some of the people within our community. I’d like to offer my thoughts and prayers to their families; may God Bless you and comfort you all.
Stay safe and enjoy all that our Shire has to offer.
Burdekin residents and families living interstate or overseas will now have easier access to cemetery information following upgrades to the Shire Council’s cemetery management system, OpusXenta.
The enhancements allow users to access cemetery records directly from smartphones and include digital maps, interactive search functions, and progressively uploaded images of headstones. This means relatives can view memorials remotely, offering comfort and connection even from afar.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the improvements will provide meaningful benefits to the community.
“Council’s cemetery management system already provides interactive maps and a user-friendly search function, helping residents locate precise burial sites,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “These new enhancements mean people can now access the system directly from their smartphones, making it more convenient than ever to find information on the go."
The system also continues to support council staff by streamlining cemetery administration, aiding long-term planning, and extending the life of cemetery facilities.
For further information, residents can contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 or visit burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Families can now access Burdekin Shire’s upgraded cemetery management system, OpusXenta, on smartphones, with interactive maps and headstone images helping loved ones connect from near or far. Photo source: Visit Burdekin
It’s been quite a while since the Centre has contributed an article for the paper, and we have to say, we’ve really missed it! We're truly grateful for the chance to connect with everyone in this way.
What started three months ago as an initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness has blossomed into a lively gathering filled with stories and connections. Maddy Darley, the Centre’s Community Development Officer, has been instrumental in holding space for a monthly Community Cuppa morning. These gatherings are relaxed and informal, with no specific agenda other than simply enjoying each other’s company.
Maddy shares, “I’m so proud to be part of this community effort. It’s incredible to see how a simple idea has evolved into something truly special, nurtured by everyone’s stories and contributions. Each person adds their unique touch, and it’s developing in such a positive direction!”
During each Cuppa morning, participants have uncovered deeper connections than they initially expected. We've discovered mutual ties, shared interests, and even found out that some grew up just around the corner from one another. The stories exchanged have been incredibly enriching, and it’s exciting to think about what surprises await us next time!
As a Neighbourhood Centre rooted in community development, these Cuppa mornings have become a fantastic opportunity to listen to community members about what matters most to them.
Be sure to check out the Centre’s Facebook page or stop by to see when the next session is scheduled. There are no pressures to attend every time; if you can make it, we’d love to welcome you!
Until next time,
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
What started three months ago as an initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness has blossomed into a lively gathering filled with stories and connections.
Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
Recently, we released the first edition of this season’s comparative analysis for growers. This year’s analysis takes a slightly different focus, offering valuable insights into the strategies growers use to manage their GEI price exposure.
Typically, growers who choose to market with Wilmar Grower Marketing use the Target Price and GMPRS pricing mechanisms, which give them maximum control over their final price outcomes. This year’s report analyses the variation in the weighted GEI Sugar price by examining how different proportions are allocated across these mechanisms. With the revamped Managed Pool Plus (MPP), growers now have an additional choice within the committed cane category. As at the end of September, the analysis indicates that the greater the GEI Sugar exposure allocated to the MPP, the higher the weighted price overall.
The report also compares pricing mechanisms between marketers. As at 29 September, there was a clear benefit in marketing your GEI sugar tonnes through Wilmar across most pricing strategies employed. It’s important to note that it is still early in the season, and as pools are only partially hedged, the outright price and marketer differentials could shift significantly as the pricing period progresses.
Growers have a range of options to manage their GEI sugar pricing. Wilmar Grower Marketing offers a suite of products that allows you to take control of your own pricing or have Wilmar manage your exposure. You can lock in prices up to three years forward to gain income certainty or commit to pools that allow your GEI price to move with the market over time.
This flexibility enables you to tailor a pricing strategy that suits your individual circumstances and risk appetite. The Wilmar Grower Marketing team can help you understand how each mechanism works and provide general guidance on price risk management principles.
With the 2026 season nomination deadline fast approaching, this is the final opportunity for growers to choose Wilmar Grower Marketing.
It is important to note that you can make or change your nomination up until this date. Any proportion of your GEI sugar that isn’t priced can be moved – you aren’t locked in.
Nominations close on 31 October, so now is the time to review your options and decide on the marketing partner that best aligns with your business goals.
View all of the results in the latest Pool Performance and Comparative Analysis report for the 2025 season.
Combined Rotary Clubs of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr are doing it again!
BUSINESSES from across Queensland are already making plans to be part of the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day on 29-30 May 2026.
With a change of venue to the Townsville Show Grounds and more suitable dates than the previous event, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is gearing up to be a cracker event.
With a few new faces on the 2026 Committee, combined with some seasoned committee members, these volunteers are working with exhibitors and stakeholders to ensure that the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be a successful event showcasing the best of North Queensland. One on the calendar not to miss.
All proceeds from this event are farmed back into the communities of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr.
We are happy to announce that Ian Gough from Gough Plastics and Justin Minuti from TRACPOWER have shown their support to the community, once again, by partnering with Rotary for this event.
The Battle Family from Nortrans have thrown their support behind the event as well, coming on board as a major sponsor.
From the latest in farming technology to time-honoured traditions, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be about sharing knowledge, strengthening connections, and honouring the hardworking hands that shape our fields and our future.
There will be a broader range of exhibitors, including but not limited to technology, lifestyle interests, machinery for the farm and the everyday household.
Other exhibitors at the event will include government agencies, health services, financial services, community support organisations, job training and secondary and tertiary education providers from across North Queensland.
Interested exhibitors can secure their site on the website nqfieldday.com.au
Online ticket purchases will once again be available, and there will be regular prize draws for those who have pre-purchased tickets. Mark it on your calendar; book your exhibitor's site and/or pre-purchase your tickets and follow our updates on Facebook.
“Let’s Dig In, Gear Up and Grow Together.”
A new initiative is urging Queensland businesses to take biosecurity as seriously as other critical risks, with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and Biosecurity Queensland leading the charge.
Biosecurity in the Boardroom highlights the growing threat of biosecurity incursions across all sectors of the economy, not just agriculture. With risks forecast to quadruple over the next decade, organisers say businesses of all kinds need to act now to protect supply chains, reputations, and long-term viability.
QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said biosecurity has traditionally been seen as a farm-based issue, but it is increasingly a concern for all industries.
“Biosecurity impacts Queensland’s cultural, environmental, social, and economic values,” Ms Sheppard said.
“Business leaders must treat biosecurity as a core risk, just like workplace health and safety, to safeguard continuity and avoid reputational and financial damage.”
The initiative provides resources for company boards and senior executives, prompting businesses to consider biosecurity in their strategic planning, corporate culture, and day-to-day operations. From tourism to transport, education to energy, every sector has a role to play in protecting Queensland’s biosecurity system.
The launch event, held at Customs House in Brisbane, featured leaders from multiple industries and was opened by Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon MP, who highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration.
“Partnerships like Biosecurity in the Boardroom bring together the expertise we need across business, industry, and government to strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity system,” Mr Dillon said.
Keynote speaker Dr Rachel Chay, Queensland’s Chief Biosecurity Officer, warned that biosecurity risks are not confined to farms or regional areas.
“Addressing these risks requires a united effort—from boardrooms to paddocks,” she said.
With strong attendance from a wide range of industries, QFF says the initiative reinforces that biosecurity is a whole-of-economy issue. Whether moving goods, managing supply chains, or hosting visitors, all sectors are vulnerable—and all have a role to play.
For more information and resources, businesses can visit www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/risk/biosecurity.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, has raised serious concerns regarding the
Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) new website, following overwhelming feedback from constituents, local farmers, and weather professionals.
“My office has received numerous complaints from residents who rely on the Bureau for timely and accurate weather information,” said Mr Willcox.
“The new website has been described as confusing, difficult to navigate, and missing essential
information.”
A Dawson local who contacted Andrew shared, “The new website is basically unreadable and the information that was on the old website is no longer displayed. It’s supposed to be part of the working tools of industry and the general public… and as it stands, it may as well be a blank
page.”
With cyclone season fast approaching, Mr Willcox warns that the timing could not be worse.
“Farmers, transport operators, and everyday Queenslanders rely on fast access to radar,
forecasts, and warnings,” he said.
“The last thing our community needs is a confusing maze of menus when every second counts.”
Mr Willcox has formally written to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Senator the Hon Murray Watt, urging the Bureau to reconsider the new website layout and consult with local landowners, agricultural representatives, and regional weather forecasters to ensure the platform is practical, accessible, and user-friendly.
“While the new design may look modern, it cannot come at the expense of functionality,” said
Mr Willcox.
“Australians deserve a Bureau that prioritises accessibility and reliability over aesthetics, especially when it comes to safety and critical information.”
Mr Willcox called for urgent action to either reinstate the previous format or implement immediate improvements, ensuring all Queenslanders can confidently access the weather information they need.
Andrew Willcox raises alarm over BOM’s confusing new website, warning regional Queenslanders could be left at risk this cyclone season. Photo supplied
October is Random Acts of Kindness Month, and Maidavale State School is playing its part this year by making sure the Burdekin's givers become receivers of delicious treats baked right at the school.
The initiative is part of the school's longstanding Community Connect program, which encourages students to bake goods—from biscuits to muffins and cupcakes—and deliver them as a ‘thank you’ to organisations and services across the Burdekin.
"The point is to thank people for their service to our community, to appreciate others, and to put smiles on their faces," said Teaching Principal Erin Alloway. "We want to make sure [our students] grow up to make the world a better place—being courteous, kind, considerate, tolerant, and showing all the positive character strengths that involve thinking of others."
Through the program, the school has already visited Centrelink Services Australia, the Burdekin Community Association, and more, with plans to visit a couple more organisations before the year's end. Alloway says the students themselves spearhead the project, teaching them vital life lessons along the way.
"The kids love it; they suggest where we should go, like the fire station or the police, and they have input on what we bake. They enjoy seeing people smile, taking photos, and sharing the experience," she said. "It teaches children that life isn’t all about them—it’s about building good character, virtue, and making the world a better place."
When asked what they enjoy most about participating in the program, Year 5 student Ryder said "seeing people surprised and happy," while Year 1 student Ociean said "being kind." Year 4 student Anna said she's learnt that "sharing is caring," while Year 3 student Elijah said he "learnt how to follow a recipe."
Maidavale State School says thanks to the BCA by giving them home-made cup cakes
After more than 50 years of service, the Endeavour Foundation’s Ayr social enterprise has closed its doors for the final time. The disability employment provider, which has operated locally since 1972, announced in June that financial pressures under the NDIS made continuing the service unsustainable.
Acting Executive General Manager of Work, Greg McCluand, said the decision was a difficult one. “We have continued to work with the community to meet our commitments, support our employees, and explore other opportunities,” he said.
Of the seven local employees, two are taking a break, while three will join the Foundation’s ongoing Learning and Lifestyle community program. Mr McCluand said staff member Ashleigh is finalising a hospitality role, and long-serving Kevin, who has been with the organisation for 40 years, is aiming for a courier driving position while remaining connected to the Learning and Lifestyle hub.
Kevin reflected fondly on his time at the Ayr site. “After working here for 41 years, I’ve done everything from picking vegetables, planting cane, nursery work, working with timber, building trailers, to cutting and producing bags of rags. It’s sad to see it end, but I’m proud of the skills I’ve gained,” he said.
Ashleigh, the youngest team member at 21, added, “It’s been a pleasure meeting everyone here, making new friends, and working with this amazing team. I still have many years of work ahead, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter.”
The Ayr work team recently celebrated their achievements with family, friends, former employees, and community members at the Kalamia Hotel. Certificates of service were awarded to Kevin (40 years), John (36), Ian (19), Nicole (16), Daniel (14), Fraser (13), and Ashleigh (2).
“It’s definitely a sad time; it’s the end of an era,” Mr McCluand said. “But it’s wonderful to see our team moving forward with positivity and embracing the opportunities that await them.”
Ayr team L2R Daniel, John, Nicolle, Melissa, Ashleigh, Dan, Kevin, Fraser, Ian, Amanda, Tony. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Netball Association’s $3.5 million redevelopment is one step closer to reality with the recent appointment of a local project manager to oversee the project.
Announced in September 2024, the revamp follows five years of planning by the association, aimed at modernising facilities for players across the region. The project will see the demolition of the existing four hard courts, replaced with eight brand-new courts—two of which will be undercover. Plans for the clubhouse include renovations or a complete rebuild, depending on the remaining budget.
The newly appointed project manager will work closely with the Project Control Group (PCG), comprised of four Burdekin Netball committee members, to ensure the redevelopment progresses smoothly.
“It’ll be great to work with another local on such a major redevelopment,” Burdekin Netball President Cara Trindle said. “It’ll be a massive improvement and something that the whole of the Burdekin can look forward to.”
The $3.5 million funding, secured with support from the LNP, was described as a lifeline for grassroots netball in the region. The upgrades will not only modernise facilities but also address long-standing safety concerns, securing the future of the sport in the Burdekin.
The association expects work to begin soon, marking an exciting new chapter for Burdekin netball and its growing community of players and supporters.
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