The industrial engine room of North Queensland has secured a direct line to the heart of the Opposition’s economic strategy following the re-appointment of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, to the Shadow Ministry.

As part of the new-look Coalition frontbench announced yesterday by Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, Mr Willcox returns to his role as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. He will work in close partnership with the Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Hastie, to drive a national agenda focused on domestic production and economic resilience.

The reshuffle follows a historic period of renewal for the Coalition: marked by a newly codified agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room and ensures regional voices are protected in the decision-making process.

Mr Willcox said he is eager to build on his existing work in the portfolio alongside Mr Hastie.

“I am honoured to continue my work in this space as part of the refreshed team led by Angus Taylor,” Mr Willcox said.

“Andrew Hastie and I are a determined duo: he understands the global strategic threats to our nation, and I understand the industrial muscle required here at home to meet them. Together, we are focused on a common goal: ensuring Australia is a nation that makes things again.”

Mr Willcox added that Paget, in the electorate of Dawson, is critical to both manufacturing and sovereign capability in our nation.

“It is where the engineering and maintenance expertise for the Bowen Basin is born; however, our local manufacturers are being pushed to the brink by the 13th interest rate rise under Labor and energy costs that are simply unsustainable.

“My return to this role is about standing up for those workshops and ensuring they have the competitive environment they need to thrive.”

Mr Willcox said he is excited by the new energy within the Coalition.

“The bond between the Liberal and National parties has never been more robust.

“We have moved past a period of internal challenge to emerge with a formal, written agreement that puts regional Australians in the driver’s seat.

“We have a more cohesive structure in place that ensures our policies are formed with common sense and a clear understanding of the challenges facing the people of regional Australia.”

Mr Willcox added that under the leadership of Angus Taylor, the Coalition is unified and ready to lead.

“We are tackling the cost-of-living crisis head-on and developing the practical, evidence-based policies required to move Australia forward.

“We aren’t just an opposition; we are a government-in-waiting that is ready to manufacture a stronger, more secure future for all Australians.”

Mr Willcox confirmed that a key priority for the coming months will be his planned  manufacturing roundtable in Mackay: providing a direct platform for local industry leaders to brief the Shadow Ministry on the challenges of foreign dumping and escalating production costs.

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is proud to be re-appointed as Shadow

Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. Following the announcement of the new-look Coalition shadow ministry by Angus Taylor, Andrew is back in the portfolio and focused on backing the industries that build our nation. Photo supplied

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One of Queensland’s most destructive pest animals are being targeted under a new management action plan and more boots on the ground with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming news that Burdekin farmers and landholders will also benefit.

Mr Last said the release of the draft Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026 –2031 was a chance for landholders, stakeholders and industry to have their say on the state’s coordinated approach to tackling feral pigs.

“In the space of one year it was estimated feral pigs caused $95 million of production losses and direct control costs and among those losses is the destruction of sugarcane yields and damage to on-farm irrigation infrastructure,” Mr Last said.

“The damage these animals and risk to human health can cause cannot be understated which is why it is crucial we have a feral pig management plan that recognises the individual needs of each region, including the Burdekin.”

“Feral pigs do not just damage crops, they have been known to degrade waterways, carry infectious diseases and kill lambs and native fauna.”

Mr Last said the draft plan had been developed through regional workshops, consultation and stakeholder input but now was the chance for local landholders and industry groups to also have their say.

“Having a management plan is about delivering real solutions with the funding needed to take meaningful action on the population of feral pigs across Queensland and in the Burdekin,” Mr Last said.

“Already the Crisafulli Government is delivering an additional 100 biosecurity officers added to the front line and investing in innovative techniques and control tools within six priority regions.”

“The better the engagement now, the better the outcome for everyone so it’s important every stakeholder takes the time to have their say. By working with landholders, regional groups and industry we ensure this plan actually works effectively on the ground.”

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last

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Rain, rain, go away…

In my first eight months up here, we had barely enough to fill a mug.

Now I guess the heavens are levelling the scores.

It makes for perfect pink noise at night. By day, though, the region turns into an outdoor sauna.

But as the Burdekin Dam continues to overflow and river levels rise, flood events like the one currently upon us can carry implications far more serious than mere muggy conditions.

Rural roads become unreliable, and local businesses feel the strain. Emergency services and volunteers are stretched thin, responding to call-outs and monitoring conditions all while managing the impacts on their own homes and families.

So if you haven’t already heard it from every authority in North Queensland, try your best to remain safe and vigilant during these times.

One thing I’ve learnt about this community is that when things get tough, so does our bond. So let's continue to stick together as we, in the most literal sense, weather this storm.

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Recently, several residents of the Burdekin Shire have rallied together in support of a GoFundMe campaign for a woman many describe as the definition of community spirit.

The fundraiser has been launched to help Betina, a 60-year-old local on a Disability Support Pension, raise funds for urgent roof repairs to her home after storm damage in December 2024. Despite holding insurance, Betina has been left without cover, and the cost of repairs — quoted at $40,000 — is well beyond her means.

For years, Betina has quietly supported others without asking for anything in return.

During the January–February 2025 floods, when truck drivers were stranded in Ayr, she helped feed them and provided support wherever she could. She has also made Christmas hampers for those experiencing homelessness or loneliness, opened her home to people in need, cared for animals during flood events, and regularly helps neighbours with transport, food and practical support.

Living with chronic pain caused by compressed discs in her neck and back, Betina now finds herself needing the same kindness she has always shown others. A government resilience grant may cover part of the repairs, but a $15,000 funding gap remains.

Locals are now hoping the community can return the favour. Every donation or shared post brings Betina one step closer to a safe, secure home once again. To make a donation or learn more, visit; https://gofund.me/ee9f8128e.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

February feels as though it has come and gone in a blur — done and dusted. Already, Council has commenced discussions on the 2026/2027 Budget. Every request and every need raised is important, however we must balance those needs with what is achievable and ensure we prioritise responsibly for the benefit of the whole community.

The weather certainly continues to keep us on our toes. While many people are understandably weary of the continued rainfall, our farming community is seeing the benefits. I was jokingly told the other day that Ergon might be heading for liquidation — our farmers would certainly be pleased with their power bills at the moment. It has been quite remarkable to see so much water lying around the district this year.

That said, we are not out of the woods yet, with more rain forecast. I encourage everyone, particularly those in our outer areas, to remain prepared, monitor conditions closely and ensure you have essential supplies on hand in case access is impacted. Please continue to keep up to date through Council’s Disaster Management channels.

This month also marks an important milestone with the Centenary celebrations of Canegrowers Burdekin Ltd. Our community has been built on sugarcane, and it remains at the heart of who we are — the Burdekin truly is the sugar capital of Australia. My grandparents were cane farmers, as was my father, and even today I still feel a sense of excitement watching the cane fires.

When we reflect on how far the industry has come — from the days of manual planting and hand-cutting to the advanced machinery we see now — it is a testament to the strength and innovation of our farming community. I still remember spending school holidays with my family, stripping cane to help with planting — something families don’t do anymore, but memories that speak to the strong connection between our people and the land.

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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Councillor Michael Detenon

As your local Councillor, I spend a lot of time talking about roads, rates, and rubbish. But this week, I want to swap the tie for some sun-safe gear and talk about something close to my heart—and the hearts of many fishers in our district.

This Sunday, the Burdekin Fish Restocking Group will be out at the Burdekin Falls Dam for our latest release of barramundi fingerlings.

To some, it might just look like releasing a few thousand tiny fish into a massive body of water. But for the Burdekin, it represents so much more.

I am incredibly proud to serve as the President of the Fish Restocking Group. It is a volunteer-run effort that relies on the passion of locals who want to see our natural assets thrive. It’s a reminder of the "can-do" spirit that defines our Shire—if we want a world-class fishery, we don't wait for someone else to do it; we roll up our sleeves and get the job done ourselves.

There’s also a practical side to this. Healthy populations of native Barra help keep our waterways balanced. They are a natural way to manage pest species and ensure that the Burdekin Dam and River remains a healthy, vibrant environment for generations to come.

If you’re interested, head out to the Dam this Sunday morning (the fish are expected to arrive sometime between 10 and 11am), come throw a few baby barra in the water and grab a snag on bread afterwards. It’s a great day out for the family and a chance to see firsthand how we are working to keep the Burdekin the best place in the North to live, work, and—most importantly—fish.

See you at the Dam!

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Burdekin State Emergency Service volunteers were called into action earlier this month to help Ergon Energy reach a flooded work site at Mt Surround after road access was cut.

Burdekin SES was contacted after floodwaters blocked access to one of Ergon’s transmission towers.

“With all the rain we had earlier, the dam had overflowed and the road they normally use was flooded,” Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis said.

“The only way they could access the tower was by boat.”

Mr Francis visited the site on Friday, February 6, to assess conditions and determine whether assistance was possible. After deeming the area safe, SES flood boat crews were deployed on Tuesday, February 10, and Thursday, February 12, to transport Ergon personnel and their equipment to the tower site.

The team ferried workers to the site, where essential maintenance was carried out over two days with the support of a helicopter.

“It’s critical infrastructure,” Mr Francis said.

“It supplies the mill at Giru and all residents, and goes back up as far as Townsville.

“The community needs to be really grateful for the work Ergon puts in. We’re very grateful that they’re in our community to be able to maintain our lifestyle with electricity.”

Despite challenging conditions, including extreme heat and humidity, the operation was completed successfully.

Mr Francis praised the dedication of his volunteer crew.

“It was extremely hot, extremely humid. It was just reassuring to see the quality of what the SES guys put in. It makes you proud to be part of this community,” he said.

Ergon Energy expressed its sincere gratitude to the SES for their timely support, which enabled the project to be completed efficiently and without unnecessary delay.

Burdekin State Emergency Service volunteers were called into action earlier this month to help Ergon Energy reach a flooded work site at Mt Surround after road access was cut. Photo supplied

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More than 6,200 homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to full fibre via nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

Upgrading to full fibre can enable access to a faster, more reliable nbn broadband service, delivering a range of benefits, including smoother, higher-resolution video calls, enhanced streaming, faster downloads, and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously.

“Households are consuming more data than ever for the things they love, like streaming 4K on multiple devices, online education, next-level gaming, conference calls, and uploading and downloading large files for work,” said Head of nbn Local Qld, Kylie Lindsay.

“Australians deserve access to fast, effective broadband, regardless of whether they live in a major city or a country town.”

With the recent introduction of speed boosts for higher-tier plans and multi-gigabit speed plans available, there’s never been a better time to consider upgrading to nbn fibre.

In Australia, data demand and usage have doubled in the last five years, with the average household consuming 443 gigabytes per month across 22 internet-connected devices, which is a significant increase from 40 gigabytes of monthly data use across approximately seven internet-connected devices, on average, 10 years ago.

To find out more about the benefits of nbn full fibre and to check your eligibility for other nbn services and preferred retail service providers, visit www.nbn.com.au/CheckRegional.

More than 6,200 homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to full fibre via nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP). Photo supplied

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Students at Burdekin Christian College swapped uniforms for pyjamas last week as the school held its annual Pancake and Pyjama Day. From onesies to slippers, the relaxed dress code set the tone for a morning of community and breakfast fun.

Pancakes were served to students of all ages, providing a chance for them to enjoy a meal together in a casual setting. Teachers and the Student Representative Council assisted throughout the morning, helping the event run smoothly.

“Days like this remind us that school is not just about learning—it’s about connection, community and creating memories that make everyone excited to be here,” said a BCC spokesperson.

“An enormous thank you goes out to our incredible SRC members and awesome teachers that helped out all morning.”

The event proved a hit, with students enjoying the chance to relax, share a laugh, and start the day on a sweet note.

A strong turnout of Burdekin business owners marked the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce’s first networking meeting of 2026 last Wednesday night.

The meeting, hosted by the Home Hill Community Sports Club, saw business people from both Home Hill and Ayr congregate for what was an evening of storytelling, local updates, and conversation.

Most notably, the event saw guest speakers Matthew Oar of Leadsafe Plus and Casie Scott of NBN address the crowd. Oar gave a personal insight into the importance of safety in business and everyday life, while Scott announced that homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to faster, more reliable NBN broadband service.

Home Hill Chamber President Uli Liessmann said he was pleased with the turnout for the meeting, hoping it sets the tone for future meetings.

“It always makes it more interesting the more people that are there,” said Liessmann.

“It all revolves around people. If we don’t have enough people, it’s gonna fall flat on its a**.”

Liessmann said guest speakers would become a regular fixture of future meetings, creating a more engaging and insightful experience for members.

“When you’re in business, you always think it’s just you going through certain things. I think we all like to hear what someone else is doing,” he said.

The Chamber looks forward to a year of connection, collaboration, and community growth.

1—Matthew Oar gave a personal insight into the importance of safety in business and everyday life

2—Casie Scott announced that homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to faster, more reliable NBN broadband service.

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group has appointed a new Leader, with Shantelle officially making her Scout Promise last Thursday.

Based in Ayr, Shantelle balances her role as a business owner, a mother of five, and a member of the local school P&C. She is now training as a Scout Leader and participating in the group’s adventurous activities.

The Lower Burdekin Scouts welcome volunteers aged 18 to 88, with roles ranging from Youth Leaders to Adult Helpers. Leaders typically commit around three hours a week, plus occasional weekend activities, while Adult Support and Helpers contribute less time.

Volunteering at Scouts provides opportunities to mentor young people, develop skills, and build strong community connections. Adults involved help guide Youth Members in setting goals, learning new skills, and fostering teamwork.

Adults can support the local Scout group in many ways, from maintenance, fundraising and equipment management to roles such as treasurer, secretary and Coffee & Chat coordinator. Volunteers can also help with transport, camping, badgework and activities, or take on a larger role by becoming a Leader and mentoring local youth.

The group meets Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at 57–59 Twelfth Avenue, Home Hill, behind the swimming pool. For more information about volunteering, contact Rikki on 0419 104 035.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group has appointed a new Leader, with Shantelle officially making her Scout Promise last Thursday.

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Ayr Police are investigating a spate of counterfeit currency offences across the Burdekin, with several suspects wanted as part of an ongoing operation targeting fake banknotes in the region.

Police have recorded at least six completed offences since October 2025, involving counterfeit $50 and $100 notes being passed at businesses in Ayr and Home Hill. Several suspects have been identified and are currently wanted, while one person has already been charged.

Police are also progressing an attempted incident from January, with a suspect expected to be charged.

The incidents have left the local business community on high alert, highlighting the ongoing risk of counterfeit notes in circulation.

Ayr Police Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields said police are working closely with local retailers and community groups to keep Burdekin businesses safe.

“Officers have been speaking with local business staff to educate them on how to identify counterfeit notes, what action to take and how to report matters to police,” said Sergeant Shields.

Police have also delivered presentations to Burdekin Shire Council and the local Chamber of Commerce in recent weeks, says Sergeant Shields.

Police are urging businesses and residents to check notes carefully. Counterfeit notes can look genuine at a quick glance, but closer inspection may reveal issues such as poor print quality, illegible text, unusual markings like “props,” or a smoother feel that doesn’t spring back when scrunched, with a full detection guide available on the Reserve Bank of Australia’s website.

Anyone who suspects they have received counterfeit currency should handle the note as little as possible, record any relevant transaction details, and report the matter immediately via Policelink (131 444) or anonymously through Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000).

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A Watch and Act warning remains in place after SunWater confirmed Burdekin Falls Dam began spilling significant volumes of water into the Burdekin River on Sunday, 22 February, as catchment levels surged following widespread rainfall across the region.

As of Monday morning, 23 February, the dam was sitting at 148.42 per cent capacity and continuing to spill, with authorities warning increased river flows may contribute to localised flooding in the days ahead.

According to the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard, the Burdekin River at the Burdekin Bridge reached 6.05 metres and was rising slowly. Forecasts indicated the river may reach around 7.50 metres on Monday, exceeding the minor flood level of 7 metres, with further rises possible depending on rainfall.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Council is urging residents to remain vigilant as flood warnings continue across the region.

“While river levels in some locations have eased slightly, a Minor Flood Warning remains current for the Burdekin LGA, and further rainfall is forecast over the coming days,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“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.”

The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has advised residents of Rita Island to prepare for possible isolation, urging households to ensure they have essential supplies — including food, drinking water, medications and pet food — to last more than five days.

Over the past week, Burdekin Falls Dam has experienced a rapid and dramatic rise. Since Sunday, 15 February, storage levels jumped from 107.29 per cent to 145.55 per cent in just seven days. SunWater recorded the largest single increase overnight, with capacity climbing 12.19 per cent between Saturday, 21 February and Sunday, 22 February, just hours before the dam began spilling.

Several surrounding dams have also been affected, with Eungella Dam and Julius Dam spilling, while Kinchant Dam commenced planned releases last week before returning to normal operations on Sunday.

Floodwaters have already impacted multiple roads across the Burdekin region. As confirmed on Monday morning, affected roads include:

• Ayr Ravenswood Road / Deighton Street / McMullen Road (TMR closure)

• Woodstock Giru Road (TMR closure)

• Five Ways Road, Airville

• Kilrie Road and Rita Island Road, Jarvisfield

• Clevale Road and Kelly Road, Brandon

• Kirknie Road to Home Hill–Kirknie Road, Osborne

• Ayr Dalbeg Road, Airville

• Chippendale Street and Adelaide Street, Ayr

• Coppo Road and Groper Creek Road to Mount Alma Road, Inkerman

• Sexton Road, Barratta

• Waterview Road, Airville and Mount Kelly

• Jerona Road, Jerona

• Allen Road, Barratta

• Davidson Road, Clare

• Barratta Road, Upper Haughton

Unplanned power outages were also reported on Monday morning, with supply lost to three customers in Giru and nearly 100 customers in Home Hill due to damaged and fallen power lines. Residents are advised to monitor updates via Ergon Energy’s Outage Finder; www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder.

Authorities are urging the community to remain alert, monitor conditions closely and stay informed through official channels. Updates are available via SunWater’s dam level tracker; bit.ly/BurdekinFallsStorageLevels, ABC North Queensland 630 AM, and the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard; disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that North Queensland families are being pushed to a financial breaking point following today’s decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates to 3.85 per cent.

The 25-basis-point hike is the first in over two years and signals a deepening cost-of-living crisis that is being directly fuelled by the Albanese Government’s inability to control its own spending.

Mr Willcox said the rate rise is a devastating blow for mortgage holders who have already seen an extra $21,000 stripped from their pockets since Labor took office. He noted that while the Prime Minister promised Australians that "life would be cheaper" under a Labor government, the reality in Dawson is an unsettling erosion of the family budget.

For many families, the "Australian Dream" is being replaced by an economic nightmare, a daily struggle to balance the books as inflation continues to act as a silent thief. The pressure is particularly acute for those who have young families, navigating the Christmas credit card and "back-to-school" expenses.

Recent data shows that education costs have surged by 5.4 per cent, while childcare fees have exploded by an incredible 11.2 per cent.

“It is a disgrace that in a country as prosperous as ours, a childcare place can now cost as much as a year at an elite private boarding school,” Mr Willcox said.

“These are barriers preventing parents from returning to work, making this cost-of-living nightmare even harder on families.”

Mr Willcox argued that these rising costs, combined with higher mortgage repayments and a saturated rental market, are making it nearly impossible for working parents to get ahead.

“This economic pain is not an accident, but a direct result of Labor’s record-breaking spending,” Mr Willcox said.

New budget data has revealed an unbelievable $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months; a rate of more than $200 million per day.

“While families are being forced to make hard decisions and cut back on essentials, this Labor Government continues to pour fuel on the inflationary fire with taxpayer money,” he added.

The Member for Dawson has supported Senator Matt Canavan in calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Senator Canavan initiated the call in the Senate today, following revelations of a staggering $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months, a rate of more than $200 million per day.

“I am standing with Senator Canavan in saying enough is enough. “Jim Chalmers has overseen the biggest spending blowout in Australian history, and it is hard-working families who are settling the bill,” Mr Willcox said.

Senator Canavan noted that if a CEO in the private sector presided over a $100 billion blowout, they would be sacked on the spot.

“We should expect the same standard of accountability for the person holding the nation’s chequebook,” Mr Willcox said.

“This crazy level of spending is exactly why interest rates went up today. You cannot pour $200 million of taxpayer money onto the fire every single day and not expect inflation to burn.”

Mr Willcox warned that the rate hike would not only hurt mortgage holders but would also place even more pressure on an already suffocating rental market.

“It’s never easy under Albanese.

“Every time the Treasurer spends, the families in Mackay, the growers in Bowen, the tourism operators in the Whitsundays, the soldiers in Townsville and the workers in the Burdekin pay the price.

“My team and I will continue to fight to hold this Government to account for every dollar they waste and every promise they break.”

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Meet Pupperoni

Pupperoni is a beautiful boy with a kind heart and lots of love to share. He loves his toys and wants to share all of the fun with you. He loves to be your little shadow and is 100% invested in everything you do. Pup is very intelligent, already knowing how to sit, shake, drop, roll over, spin and wait. He is great with other dogs and would love a home where he could share it with someone who matches his energetic nature, but would also adjust well to being an only dog (he loves being the centre of attention). Pup is toilet trained, learning to walk nicely on a lead and is not destructive—just make sure he has a toy nearby. He is super affectionate and loyal, come and meet him and it will be love at first sight!

Pupperoni is a male Cane Corso mix, born 14/08/2025, who is kid-friendly, good with other dogs, untested with cats, toilet trained, and learning to walk nicely on a lead; he would thrive in a home with a 6ft fence, and comes desexed, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations, treated for fleas, ticks and worms, and protected with ProHeart—all included in his $495 adoption fee.

If you’re interested in meeting Pupperoni, complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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Hello from Mexico! Much to my family’s concern, and after a very quick visit back to the BDK, I’ve set off overseas again — this time to Latin America!

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been jumping around the country and have now made my way down to Puerto Escondido to continue chasing the sun and surf along the southwest coastline. I’m absolutely loving my travels so far, Mexico’s UNREAL, and I’m eyeing off crossing over into Guatemala within the next few weeks.

Oh, and although proof-of-life photos have been sent and phone calls have been dialled, a quick “she’s fine” for my mum and grandma when you see them would be greatly appreciated!

Recently, I’ve been chatting with several members from the Molongle Creek Boat Club to put together a story covering tidal access issues in the Molongle Creek channel. Although the situation has such a deep and complex history, I’m very pleased with how my piece has come together so far, so keep your eyes peeled for that one in publishments to come!

If you have any information to share regarding the issue, or any story you believe should be told, please feel free to shoot an email over to me at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com!

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