It is crazy to think we are about to say goodbye to March and the first quarter of 2025 is coming to an end. We have already seen some good rain and the wet season is not done with yet as the forecast for the next couple of weeks is still very wet. Let’s hope we see the back of the wet season before Easter, so everyone has the chance to get outdoors and enjoy this great country we call home.If you haven’t got anything planned for the weekend, NQ Fastrack is happening at the Burdekin Theatre and the crew who put it all together have even managed to bring Hugh Sheridan to town for the event. Fast Track showcases up and coming talent from all over the region so don’t miss out on witnessing a future star. The heats run from 10am throughout the day before the Finals begin at 7pm. Good luck to all the contestants and I hope everyone has a great weekend.

Last weekend, we had the privilege of hosting a BBQ to thank the incredible volunteers who stepped up during the recent flood event. It was fantastic to see over 50 people come together to recognise the tireless efforts of those who worked around the clock to support our community. We were also joined by our local representatives, Hon Dale Last MP (Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development and Member for Burdekin) and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who showed their support for the Burdekin and the dedicated individuals who make a real difference in times of need.

Volunteers are the backbone of our community, and I can’t stress enough how important they are. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, I encourage you to check out local groups and see where you can lend a hand. You’ll not only be giving back but also meeting wonderful people and learning skills you never knew you had.

This Saturday, I’m looking forward to supporting NQ FastTrack Talent Showcase, a fantastic event that gives our young local performers a chance to shine. Showcasing youth talent is so important, and I can’t wait to see the next generation of stars take the stage.

Meanwhile, our Councillors are deep in budget discussions, ensuring we continue investing in the Burdekin’s future. It’s a busy time, but one that’s crucial for delivering the services and infrastructure our community relies on.

Have a great week, and as always, thank you to everyone who helps make the Burdekin such a wonderful place to live.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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A month after the waters have receded and roads have reopened, the response to the recent severe weather event has stepped up a gear with increased support for primary producers and businesses and a focus on preparing for future events for households.

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said the changes delivered on the state government’s promise to community members and representative groups.

“In my role as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, I signed off on the boost to grants for primary producers and small business last week,” Mr Last said.  “That addressed concerns raised with our government by representatives and follows the inclusion of re-planting (sugar cane) as an activity eligible for government support.”

“Authorising those changes was bitter-sweet because it meant one of our key industries had been severely impacted.  At the same time, ensuring the funding was available meant that those industries would receive the support they need.”

“I’m not interested in making a song and dance of support for people affected by severe weather.  I’d rather just make sure the support is actually available because those industries need results, not sideshows.”

“The weather event has also had a major effect on several areas in our river systems and work is underway now to identify the best response.  I would encourage landholders to work with groups like the River Trust in an effort to ensure the betterment strategy is implemented when it comes to our rivers.”

Mr Last said that additional assistance for households in flood-prone areas would assist those who had suffered damage while also focussing on preventing future damage.

“There are areas in our region that are exposed to flooding quite frequently and the government is committed to include those people as we push towards betterment,” Mr Last said.  “Relatively minor works can make a huge difference for those people when it comes to any future events.”

“Rather than replacing the same infrastructure and items over and over again, the Stronger Homes Grants allow homeowners to rebuild with confidence and break the cycle of repeated recovery costs.  For example, raising the height of a switchboard or relocating appliances now means that when the next event occurs, the recovery is quicker and there is less of a financial impact.”

“The state government is 100% committed to betterment for homes, for primary industry, for small business and for infrastructure.  The reason for that is simple; when we build back stronger, we not only focus on saving lives, but we also focus on saving livelihoods and key industries.”

“I signed off on the grants and loans because I believe, and the state government believes, our communities and our industries deserve the opportunity to not just survive, but to thrive.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Local manufacturers will have the opportunity to engage directly with the Queensland Government as the Hon. Dale Last, Minister for Manufacturing, participates in a roundtable discussion on the industry's challenges and future opportunities.

The roundtable, hosted by Burdekin Shire Council, will take place on Friday 28 March 2025, from 12:30pm to 2:00pm at the Ayr SES Building, 4 McCathie Street, Ayr. A virtual option will also be available for those unable to attend in person via Microsoft Teams.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort encourages local manufacturers to take advantage of this unique opportunity to share their experiences directly with the Minister and learn more about the State Government’s initiatives to support the sector.

"Manufacturing is a critical industry for the Burdekin and broader North Queensland region, providing jobs and driving economic growth," Mayor Dalle Cort said.

"This roundtable is a chance for our local businesses to have their voices heard at a State level and contribute to shaping policies that support industry growth."

Participants will have the opportunity to share their challenges and experiences with the Minister and gain insight into the Queensland Government’s plans to support the manufacturing sector.

A light lunch will be provided for attendees. Registrations are essential and must be completed by Wednesday, 26 March 2025, via www.trybooking.com/CZYGI.

For more information, please contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Economic Development Team on (07) 4783 9800

WHAT: Local Manufacturers Roundtable
WHERE: Ayr SES Building
WHEN: Friday 28th March
TIME: 12.30pm-2pm

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An anonymous family of six recently asked the Burdekin community for support whilst starting over after living without a home for quite some time, sharing their story of homelessness on a local social media page.

With three children and a newborn under their care, the couple kindly asked if anyone in the community had any household furniture or appliances available for giveaway or at a low price, and the response was overwhelming.

In true Burdekin community fashion, the post received almost 100 comments where locals were offering up items of all shapes and sizes, from clothing to dining tables to help the struggling family find their footing.

Mattresses, dining suites, lounges, bedside tables, bedroom suites, slow cookers, plates, cutlery, linen, toys, children’s clothes, kettles, toasters, washing machines, and miscellaneous household items flooded the comments, along with plenty of advice from locals who had previously found themselves in similar situations.

Although in the instance of an unfortunate circumstance, many were touched to see the lengths the community would go to in support of one another, further highlighting what it means to live in such a wonderful community like the Burdekin.

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Stock image, illustration only

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On Saturday, Council hosted a special BBQ lunch to thank volunteers and staff involved in the recent flood event. Over 50 people attended, including local and state representatives, police officials, and Councillors. The event provided a meaningful opportunity to recognise the dedication of those who supported the community’s response and recovery efforts. Acknowledging the hard work of volunteers, especially those who travelled to assist, was a key focus. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the vital role volunteers play in times of crisis and encouraged others to get involved, emphasising the personal rewards and connections gained through volunteering.

Emergency Services, Volunteers & Front-Line Workers Thanked

Over the weekend, Council brought everyone together for a BBQ lunch in recognition of the volunteers and staff who supported the community during the recent flood event.

The occasion was fantastic, with over 50 people in attendance, and provided a heartfelt opportunity to express gratitude to those who worked tirelessly to support the community’s response and assist in the recovery process.

If ever there was a moment to feel proud of the Council team, the many volunteers, and the government agencies that mobilised without delay, this was it.

Local State Member Dale Last (also representing the Premier), Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Assistant Commissioner Virginia Nelson (QPS), Inspector Roger Whyte (QPS), along with the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Councillor John Furnell, all attended the event.

As with everyone, people appreciate being acknowledged for a job well done, and times of disaster should be no exception—especially when so many volunteers and support staff from out of town step in to assist and then return immediately to their regular duties.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort explained the importance of volunteers during stressful times:

"Volunteers are the backbone of our community, and I can’t stress enough how important they are. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, I encourage you to check out local groups and see where you can lend a hand."

"You’ll not only be giving back but also meeting wonderful people and learning skills you never knew you had."

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Member for Burdekin Dale Last attended a special BBQ in honour of the emergency services, volunteers and frontline workers who helped during the recent flooding. Photo credit: Mel Napier Memories & Photography

The special BBQ saw a fantastic turnout of over 50 people
The SES played a crucial role in the flood recovery efforts. Photo credit: Mel Napier Memories & Photography

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The Burdekin’s proud aviation cadet history will be celebrated as part of the Diamond Jubilee of No.1 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), marking 75 years since its formation. Generations of cadets who trained in Ayr and across North Queensland have gone on to serve in the Air Force, aviation, and other industries, with the milestone set to be honoured at a special event in May.

The Diamond Jubilee will be celebrated with a Cocktail Party on Saturday 17th May, 2025, at the Townsville RAAF Base.

Current and former staff of the AAFC, previously known as the Air Training Corps (ATC) and later abbreviated to AIRTC (to save confusion with Air Traffic Control) are encouraged to attend and share in the celebration.

No1 Wing began with the formation of No1 Flight in Townsville, which held its first parade on May 4th 1950. This was soon followed by the formation of No.2 Flight at the Townsville Technical College. In the following years, Flights (now termed Squadrons) were formed at Ingham, Mackay, Cairns, Mareeba, Innisfail, Ayr, Charters Towers, Bowen and Mt. Isa.

A recent snapshot of the Wing indicated a cadet enrolment of over 440 and an adult staff of more than 60 across the 10 Squadrons, and the Wing’s Headquarters.

Current and former staff can obtain further details and purchase tickets for the Cocktail Party by contacting aafc1wg@cadetnet.gov.au.

Commemorative ‘patches’ and coins have been approved and produced to mark the anniversary and will be available for purchase as a memento of the event.

A Wing activity is in the planning phase. In September this year, all currently enrolled cadets and staff will have the opportunity to participate.

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Air Force Cadets gather in front of a C-130 Hercules, showcasing their dedication to aviation and leadership. Photo supplied

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Clare State School recently celebrated the induction of its 2025 student leaders at a special Induction Parade held in the school library. The event brought together invited guests and members of the Clare community to witness the next generation of young leaders take on their new roles.

Students from Years 4 to 6 proudly presented their leadership pledges before hearing an inspiring address from Councillor Amanda Hall, who spoke about the importance of leadership and responsibility. Senior Constable Stephen Booy from Clare Police was also in attendance to officially present the Student Leaders with their leadership badges.

Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti, expressed his enthusiasm for the newly inducted leaders.

“The students have a wonderful opportunity to take some ownership of what happens at our school and have a positive impact on the school experience that all children have at Clare State School.”

With their badges proudly pinned, Clare’s young leaders are ready to make a meaningful difference in their school and community.

Clare State School’s 2025 Student Leaders are Letti Williams and Jackson Humphreys.

Clare State School’s 2025 Student Council members are Letti Williams, Jackson Humphreys, Alyssa Booth, Kenny Booth and Corbin Humphreys.

Contributed with thanks to Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti.

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Back Row: Clare State School Principal Troy Patti, Senior Constable Stephen Booy, Councillor Amanda Hall. Middle Row: Jackson Humphreys and Letti Williams. Front Row: Kenny Booth, Alyssa Booth and Corbin Humphreys (Photo Supplied).

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Over the weekend, many members of the community refreshed and revitalised their closets with Elli Pirrone’s magical Eleven Second-Hand Clothes Market!

Hosted at Eleven Body + Mind, Elli filled her Young Street studio from wall to wall with about 14 stallholders all reselling preloved items ranging from $2 upwards in the areas of accessories, shoes, bags and clothes. A hit within the community, Elli’s market creates a wonderful environment where locals come together to discover hidden treasures, vintage gems and trending pieces at affordable prices whilst practicing the art of recycling gently used clothing.

“I held the market twice in 2024 with a great response,” shared Elli.

“We always have a lineup outside the door at 9am and sell all the way until midday.”

In the interest of opening her space to cater for the wider community, last weekend’s market saw stallholders bring along ladies, men’s and children’s items to rehome, and with Cat’s Coffee fuelling the sustainable shopping spree, the event was another smashing success!

“It’s just a great way for locals to buy second-hand clothes without having to go to all the trouble of listing induvial items online,” added Elli.

“And we know this town has incredible style!”

To learn more about Elli’s plans for future markets you can reach her through emailing elliboatfield@gmail.com or checking out Eleven Body + Mind on Facebook.

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Elli's market makes shopping sustainably simple! (Photo Supplied)

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A weekend of fabulous family fun will ignite the Burdekin this April when the Ayr Family Carnival rolls into town for a non-stop showcase of adrenaline, sweet treats, and carnival nostalgia!

On both Saturday the 5th and Sunday the 6th of April, a magical world will come alive at the Ayr Showgrounds from 5:30pm right until 9pm for the entire family to enjoy. Attendees can enjoy unlimited ride armbands for the whole evening as well as FREE entry and a delicious selection of food vans serving up both showtime classics and soft serve delights including fairy floss, slushies, and premium ice cream.

As well as rides for all ages, the Carnival will host plenty of side show alley games where a range of awesome prizes will be up for grabs to keep the fun going well and truly into the moonlight!

The ticket box will be open and operational from 5pm onwards on both Saturday and Sunday to ensure the entire community can join in on the action.

Come one, come all! Gather your family and friends together for a weekend to remember!

WHAT: Ayr Family Carnival
WHERE: Ayr Showgrounds
WHEN: 5-6 April

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A weekend of classic carnival fun will roll into town this April! (Photo Supplied)

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As the ground dries out and activity picks up on farm, so does the activity of our Grower Marketing team. We are in the process of organising our popular shed meetings where we come on farm and update growers on our recent results, the global sugar market and new products or services we can offer.

This will be followed up in June with a regional tour by our Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham to deliver an in-depth analysis of global production and consumption forecasts and consequent price expectations. If you’re interested in attending one of these events near you, please reach out to your local consultant to
register your interest.

While talking with growers, consultants have also been setting up the pricing mechanisms for the 2025 season and checking that GEI nomination estimates line up with initial crop estimates. For growers who want to control their pricing more closely we recommend using the Grower Managed
Production Risk Scheme (GMPRS) for the last third of your 2025 season crop over the Production Risk Pool.

While the Production Risk Pool has been performing well over the past few years there is no guarantee of gaining a higher return versus pricing yourself and we have seen many growers achieve above average returns. Those growers who don’t market with Wilmar are unfortunately missing out even further, with our Production Risk Pool currently forecast to pay more than $23 a tonne higher than QSL’s Harvest Pool for the 2024 Season.

A quick reminder for growers that all Call, Target and GMPRS pricing for the 2024 season needs to be completed by 18 of April. On a similar timeline, the set-up of Call and Target pricing for the 2025 season needs to complete by the end of April, so the GMPRS nominations can be opened at the beginning of
May. We are also getting plenty of enquiries about the opening of nominations for the 2026 season Managed Pool Plus, so stay tuned for further announcements on that opportunity.

When not helping growers with pricing and pooling information, the Grower Marketing consultants are out and about in the local communities. We are proud to have extended our sponsorship budget this year to include a range of sporting teams and community activities through the regions.

Recently several Wilmar Sugar and Renewables staff including our Burdekin Business Development Manager, Owen Richards, participated in an International Women’s Day Fun Run organised by Mater Chicks in Pink. The Sugar and Renewables team raised more than $1,200 for breast cancer research.

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Ayr State High School proudly participated in this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations, with eight students and staff attending a special brunch hosted by Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. Zonta, a global organisation, is dedicated to building a better world for women and girls.

The school congratulates Year 11 students Caitlyn Cheyne and Tiana Cameron, who were honoured with STEM acknowledgement awards at the event. This recognition encourages and supports young women pursuing careers that make a difference in the world.

Guest speakers included Sarah Chapman, CEO of STEM Changemakers, and Dr Tracey Ahern, a nursing and women’s health advocate—both distinguished Ayr State High School alumni. Their inspiring stories provided valuable insights and motivation for the next generation of young women.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr State High School.

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Tiana Cameron, and Caitlyn Cheyne were presented with STEM acknowledgement awards by Mrs Claire Brock (Photo Supplied)

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Just three months on from Austin Dewar, Campbell Johnston and Brayden Rawlins’ mammoth fundraising efforts totalling just under $14,000 for men’s mental health, the boys have laced up their running shoes to continue spreading an important message.

Austin, Campbell and Brayden have each witnessed friends and family members experience the toll negative mental health can have, and hope to continue breaking down the stigmas surrounding men’s mental health, sharing the vital message, “It Ain’t Weak To Speak”.

In November of last year, the trio well and truly did just that, and successfully spread waves of awareness both locally within the Burdekin and across the state when they set out to run 180 kilometres each – one for each life tragically lost every month to suicide.

“After we raised $1,000 for men’s mental health and suicide prevention, all three of us knew the sky was the limit, and we wanted to see how far we could take this,” shared Campbell.

The trio knocked over hundreds of kilometres and put in the work from sunrise to sunset across the entire month and were beyond grateful when over 100 members of the Burdekin community joined them to tick off some of their final k’s at a Queen Street fundraising event last November.

“At the run we did in the Burdekin, all three of us were not expecting there to be more than 100 people there - I don’t think we even expected there to be even 50 people there,” explained Brayden.

“After the run, everyone got around and were talking to each other and to us, congratulating us on what we’re doing, and people were telling us that we’re doing a great job of spreading awareness and fundraising which for us was a real eye opener.”

Keeping the momentum, Austin, Campbell and Brayden shared a video which has since gone viral, explaining they’re not holding out until this November to jog on and instead are challenging themselves to complete 100 kilometres each this March to continue spreading their mission and encouraging conversations.

“The Shaka Project announced they’re running 100 kilometres in March for Run for Our Mates so all of us boys sat down and realised we want to push our message to show people that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes,” noted Campbell.

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Campbell, Brayden and Austin will run 100 kilometers each this March (Photo Supplied)

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Members of the Burdekin community are warmly encouraged to take part in an upcoming FREE Suicide Intervention Training session hosted by CORES Queensland at the Burdekin PCYC on Friday the 28th of March.

Suicide Intervention Training aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to identify early warning signs, offer support, and connect at-risk individuals with available services.

The upcoming workshop will cover essential topics including:
• Recognising the early warning signs of suicide
• Learning how to support someone in crisis
• Encouraging help-seeking behaviour before a crisis occurs
• Developing self-care strategies for those offering support

Held on occasion, each of the CORES Queensland Suicide Intervention Training sessions are completely FREE and open to all members of the local community, and RSVP’s can be made online at https://bit.ly/4gIL6bD.

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By Amanda Wright

Tears of relief replaced weeks of frustration for North Queensland’s flood-affected farmers as the Federal and Queensland governments approved an increase in disaster funding, boosting grants for primary producers to $75,000.

The announcement, delivered by Senator Nita Green and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter on March 12, comes after weeks of intense advocacy from industry leaders, local politicians, and the farming community. The decision also increases funding for small businesses and not-for-profits to $50,000.

The announcement was made at the farm of CANEGROWERS members Michael and Zenan Reinaudo, whose family property suffered severe flood damage. Their experience mirrors that of many other farmers across the region.

Bob Katter, who has been at the forefront of the push for Category D funding, credited the win to relentless efforts from agricultural organisations and local representatives.

“This funding wasn’t handed down from the heavens—it was won by the fighters on the ground who never backed down,” Mr Katter said.

He singled out CANEGROWERS’ Leah Russo, AgForce Queensland’s Shane McCarthy, and QCAR’s Lawrence Di Bella for their unwavering efforts.

“Yes, we thank the PM and the Minister, but it’s because of this group of people with a tiger in their tank that the grants have finally been activated,” he said.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the increased support, emphasising that the original $25,000 grant was nowhere near enough to help growers rebuild.

“This increase reflects the rising costs of recovery for growers who have been hit hard by recent flooding,” Mr Galligan said.

“We’ve been clear from the beginning that the original amount was simply inadequate. This boost will make a real difference for those struggling to rebuild.”

QCAR General Manager Lawrence Di Bella described the funding boost as a step in the right direction, though challenges remain.

“This is a really positive step—it will rebuild our industry. Some of the damage is greater than $75,000, so we’ll still be looking for additional funding, but this is a great start,” Mr Di Bella said.

“The money that a farmer produces goes around our community multiple times. This is about rebuilding our entire community, not just individual farms.”

Mr Di Bella spoke of the sheer devastation farmers have faced.

“There were craters the size of swimming pools, tonnes of trash dumped on newly planted sugarcane, headlands washed away, trees uprooted, new creeks carved through fields, dead calves littering paddocks—the list goes on,” he said.

“Now there will be tears of relief with the release of Category D grants.”

AgForce Queensland General President Shane McCarthy agreed, calling the announcement a lifeline.

“This goes a long way to getting farmers back up and producing, which is what they need to do,” Mr McCarthy said.

“It’s not just this flood—it’s the accumulation of a few tough seasons. We need to get our producers back up and doing what they do best.”

Despite the funding win, industry leaders stress that further work is needed to ensure all farmers receive fair support.

QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan noted that current eligibility rules could leave some struggling farmers behind.

“We must now make sure the funding is fair and reaches those who need it,” Mr Ryan said.

Senator Nita Green reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting North Queensland’s recovery.

“This is all part of a bigger disaster recovery response from our two governments,” Senator Green said.

“We will continue to work with people on the ground to identify areas where funding or criteria can be improved.”

For Burdekin farmers, the funding boost brings hope after weeks of uncertainty. However, as industry leaders continue to advocate for further changes, the focus remains on ensuring all affected growers receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.

“This isn’t just about fixing damage—it’s about restoring livelihoods,” Mr Galligan said.

“Our growers have fought hard for this, and we’ll keep fighting to ensure they get the support they deserve.”

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QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella, Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter, Cane farmer Robert Lyon, Director of CANEGROWERS Herbert River Leah Russo, Senator Nita Green, AgForce North Queensland Regional Director Michael Penny, Director Herbert River District Canegrowers Paul Marbelli, and Cane farmer Michael Reinaudo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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