
Three Burdekin hospital workers have clocked up 120 years of combined service to the Ayr and Home Hill communities. Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Rosemary began at Ayr Hospital in 1985 in the front office before moving into medical records, accounts payable, assets and finance. Janine started in the Home Hill Hospital kitchen and has since worked across kitchen, cleaning and laundry roles at both Ayr and Home Hill. She later became an orderly before moving into her current role as an assistant in nursing at Home Hill. Annemaree began her career at The Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane, working as an enrolled nurse for four years before completing her registered nurse training in Townsville. She returned to the Burdekin after the birth of her first child and now works across the dialysis unit and emergency department at Ayr. The three staff members said their connection to the community, colleagues and variety of work had kept them in the health system for four decades. “Your work colleagues and the friendships you make along the way keep you in the role,” Rosemary said. For Janine, working in her own community and caring for patients has been a key part of her career. “We’ve had some funny moments; just the other night one patient was disco dancing in the hallway with me,” she said. Annemaree said working across different areas had kept her career varied. “I work in dialysis, sometimes in the emergency department, and sometimes on the ward, and because I have always worked across multiple areas, I’ve never felt stuck in one place,” she said. The breadth of responsibilities is a common feature of working in rural hospitals, Ms Wone said. “You need to know lots of different things when you work in a rural or remote hospital setting, so we are very busy,” she said. “But even with how much we have all achieved, I can’t believe it’s been 40 years; it feels like it happened overnight.” CAPTION: Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Photo supplied
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Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Photo: David CooperBurdekin community members, local dignitaries, and police gathered at Ayr's Burdekin Community Church on 29th September to commemorate National Police Remembrance Day. The solemn service honoured officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, featuring a wreath-laying ceremony and a reading of the Roll of Honour.Read more here: www.burdekinlife.com/article/burdekin-honours-fallen-officers-on-remembrance-day
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Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered on Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. “Someone has to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Someone has to step into the disorder and work to restore order—and that is one of the responsibilities entrusted to our police,” he said. “Today, we honour those who stood. Some stood in circumstances that ultimately cost them their lives, and this day each year ensures that their courage will never be forgotten.” A Police Commissioner’s Address was delivered by Acting Inspector Megan Benson before local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty. Officers then lit memorial candles, before community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths. Among dignitaries were Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last, who called it a “privilege” to join local police in their commemorations. “As a former police officer, National Police Remembrance Day is an incredibly important opportunity to remember those officers who lost their lives while serving their community and to show our support to those who continue to keep our communities safe today,” Mr Last said. “Small regional towns like the Burdekin mean our police officers become involved in a variety of facets in our community and it is part of what makes these roles in our small communities so unique.” “It also means that chances to stand with our men and women in blue should not be overlooked.” A morning tea was held in the church hall following the service. CAPTIONS: 1—Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. 2—Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. 3—Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. 4—Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci laid a wreath on behalf of Burdekin Shire Council 5—Among dignitaries was Member for Burdekin Dale Last 6—Local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty 7—Liaison Officers light memorial candles 8—Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields addresses the audience 9—Community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths Photos: Jacob Casha
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Ayr Police and Ayr CIB, with assistance from Home Hill, Giru and Clare police, have recently been targeting drug offences, with a number of people charged or diverted over the past fortnight.
11th September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]Police executed a search warrant at a residence in Conlan Street, Ayr, where methylamphetamine, cannabis and drug utensils were located.
The 35-year-old male resident was charged with possession of dangerous drugs exceeding schedule, possessing utensils and possessing a weapon.
He was released on bail to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19th October.
7th September — Wunjunga[Text Wrapping Break]A 38-year-old Townsville man was charged with drug driving after being intercepted by police at Wunjunga. The man tested positive to methamphetamine.
6th September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr, and located drugs during a search.
A 50-year-old Home Hill man was drug diverted in relation to the matter.
5th-7th September — Ayr/Townsville[Text Wrapping Break]A house on Edwards Street, Ayr, was broken into on 5th September and a vehicle was stolen.
On 7th September, two youths were located in possession of the stolen vehicle in Townsville.
A 14-year-old girl was charged with burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, fraud, unlicensed driving and three counts of breach of bail.
A 15-year-old boy was charged with burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, fraud and one count of breach of bail.
Police opposed the youths' bail and both have been remanded in custody.
5th-6th September — Home Hill[Text Wrapping Break]A Home Hill business was broken into late on 5th September and items were stolen.
Police identified the suspects and, on 6th September, charged a 14-year-old Home Hill girl and a 12-year-old Ayr girl with entering premises and committing an indictable offence.
Both youths are now on strict bail conditions pending their upcoming court appearance.
3rd September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]Police observed a 26-year-old man doing a burnout on Queen Street, Ayr. He was subsequently intercepted and charged with drink driving and wilfully making unnecessary noise.
3rd September — Home Hill[Text Wrapping Break]Police intercepted a vehicle on Fourteenth Street, Home Hill. The 42-year-old male driver was charged with drink driving.
2nd September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]A 32-year-old Ayr woman was charged with 13 counts of supplying a dangerous drug, methylamphetamine. The alleged offending occurred between 19th July and 23rd August.
The woman is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19th October.
2nd September — Brandon[Text Wrapping Break]Police intercepted a vehicle at Brandon and subsequently located drug paraphernalia during a search.
A 36-year-old woman was issued with a Notice to Appear in Court for possessing drug utensils and unlicensed driving.
1st September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]A couple reported the stealing of a bag containing personal property and $9000 in cash.
Police inquiries immediately identified possible suspects, resulting in an emergent search of a residence in Brisbane Street, Ayr, where the stolen property was located.
Two 45-year-old Ayr women were issued with Notices to Appear in Court for possessing stolen property and possessing a drug utensil.
A 31-year-old Townsville man and a 15-year-old Ayr youth were also located in possession of drug paraphernalia and accepted a drug diversion for possessing a utensil.
1st September — Alva Beach
Police executed a search warrant at an address in Alva Beach and located drugs and utensils.
A 32-year-old man was charged with five drug offences.
1st September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]A 57-year-old Sunshine Coast man was charged with drink driving after being intercepted for an RBT on Edwards Street, Ayr.

The Queensland Fire Department reported the roof and second floor of the pub had collapsed. Photo: Jacob Casha.
An Ayr Fire and Rescue crew responded to a blaze that left an unoccupied, heritage-listed Townsville pub partially collapsed last Friday.
The 125-year-old Great Northern Hotel—which had been closed since 2015—went up in flames at roughly 6am, with firefighters bringing the blaze under control by the afternoon.
The Queensland Fire Department reported the pub’s roof and second floor had collapsed, while Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed two people were taken to hospital in stable conditions.
Queensland Police Service is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, with Townsville District Detective Inspector David Barron not ruling out suspicious circumstances.
An Ayr Fire and Rescue spokesperson said the station had sent a single fire appliance as part of a “third-alarm response”.
A fire appliance from Ingham also attended the scene.
The spokesperson said off-duty permanent staff backfilled the Ayr station while the crew was in Townsville, later responding to a double-truck rollover in Guthalungra at approximately 2.20pm, where they cleaned up and mitigated a 200-litre diesel spill.
No injuries were reported in the Guthalungra incident.

Burdekin Shire Council will receive $270,000 through the Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program to strengthen local compliance, surveillance and enforcement. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.
Contributed by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP
Illegal dumpers in the Burdekin are being put on notice, with the Crisafulli Government funding a dedicated officer to help Burdekin Shire Council catch offenders and clean up the local community.
Burdekin Shire Council will receive $270,000 through the Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program to strengthen local compliance, surveillance and enforcement.
The funding will support a dedicated Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer focused on identifying illegal dumping, investigating incidents and building cases against offenders.
The three-year tenured position will provide a focused effort of preventing waste materials entering waterways in three main areas along the Burdekin River and Anabranch as well as the northern and southern boundaries.
It is part of a $13.7 million investment over three years by the government to support 52 Queensland councils in the fight against illegal dumping.
Across Queensland, councils cleaned up more than 13,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste last year—equivalent to more than 1,200 garbage truck loads.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said illegal dumping was a scourge on local communities across Queensland.
“Illegal dumping is a scourge on communities like the Burdekin. It damages our environment and leaves locals footing the bill to clean it up,” Minister Powell said.
“Queenslanders deserve to live in clean communities and enjoy the lifestyle that makes our State such a great place to live.
“If you think you can dump rubbish in the bush, on the side of the road or in the community and get away with it, think again.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said empowering Burdekin Shire Council to take proactive action on illegal dumping was a crucial step towards providing cleaner community spaces that everyone can enjoy.
“The new Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer will have the tools at their hands to properly investigate incidents and hold those offenders to account,” Mr Last said.
“It’s no secret the Burdekin is renowned for the lifestyle it provides especially when it comes to our beaches, creeks and river systems. By doing our part to mitigate illegal dumping we ensure our favourite spots to get outdoors with our family remain pristine for generations to come.”

What began as a modest fundraising goal has turned into an incredible show of Burdekin generosity, with $1,403.10 raised for Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Organiser Kaylee Boccalatte initially hoped the fundraiser might collect around $200, but support from across the community saw the final total climb to more than seven times that amount.
The funds could provide around a fortnight of accommodation for families needing a home away from home while their child receives care.
Community members supported the cause by donating, buying raffle tickets, visiting the fundraising stall and spreading the word.
Local businesses My Vibe Homewares and Slice of Europe also donated prizes, while Burdekin School lent a game board to support the fundraiser.
Kaylee credited the result to the community, saying while her team collected the funds, the generosity behind the $1,403.10 total belonged to the Burdekin.
A small idea, a big heart, and another beautiful example of locals looking out for others.

Hotel Pioneer will welcome locals young and old from 11.30am on Saturday, 19th September for a day of live music, food, beer, and Oktoberfest-themed activities.
We've all heard of Oktoberfest.
We know there's beer. We know there's music. We know there are rowdy Germans in jumpsuits.
While you might have to travel a few thousand kilometres to find the latter, the rest will be at Hotel Pioneer in Brandon next weekend as it celebrates the famous German festival.
The hotel will welcome locals young and old from 11.30am on Saturday 19th September for a day of live music, food, beer, and Oktoberfest-themed activities.
With tunes courtesy of local musician Chris Quagliata, guests will go head-to-head in keg rolling, pretzel-eating competitions and a host of other challenges, with prizes up for grabs in each.
And if you’re feeling extra German (or happen to have some Trachten lying around), rock up to the venue donning your best Oktoberfest outfit for a chance to be crowned “best dressed”.
There’s no pressure to compete at all, though. The event will cater to locals of any age and beer-tolerance, with children’s activities keeping kids busy while taps flow throughout the day.

Traditional German meals will also be available as part of an all-you-can-eat buffet.
While it won’t quite be Munich, Hotel Pioneer General Manager Kirsten Loader said the spirit will be there in full.
“I lived in Germany when I was younger. I wasn’t allowed to partake because I was quite young (laughs), but I’ve seen how much fun they are,” Kirsten said.
“We won’t have the big tents, but we’re going to have a live performer, games, beer, and lots of food, which I think is the main premise.”
Tickets for the event are already available online, each including a special Oktoberfest meal and a beer.
$15 commemorative Hotel Pioneer steins will also be available on the day.
Book now by visiting https://thepioneer.com.au/elementor-1030/ or calling 47 82 5255.

Australia’s agricultural production is forecast to remain close to record levels this financial year, despite challenging seasonal conditions and higher fuel and fertiliser costs.
Australia’s agricultural production is forecast to remain close to record levels this financial year, despite challenging seasonal conditions and higher fuel and fertiliser costs.
The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) has forecast the gross value of agricultural production will reach $99.4 billion in 2026-27.
The figure would be the second-highest on record, following agricultural production exceeding $100 billion in 2025-26.
When fisheries and forestry are included, the combined value of production is forecast to exceed $105 billion.
ABARES has also forecast the value of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry exports to reach $80.8 billion in 2026-27, which would be the third-highest result on record.
The forecast comes as producers face higher input costs and difficult seasonal conditions, with the Federal Government saying disruption linked to the war in the Middle East is also affecting fuel and fertiliser costs.
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the forecast demonstrated the resilience of Australian producers.
“This latest forecast shows that despite challenging seasonal conditions and disruption from the war in the Middle East which is impacting globally, our agricultural production value continues to remain strong,” Ms Collins said.
She said the Government would continue working with farmers and producers on trade opportunities and support measures.
Assistant Agriculture Minister Anthony Chisholm said producers were continuing to adapt to changing climate and geopolitical conditions.
The Government said it was investing more than $14 billion through its Strengthening Australia’s Fuel Resilience package, which includes measures aimed at securing fuel and fertiliser supplies.
It is also providing an additional $1 billion in concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation from this financial year.
According to the Government, farmers saved about $34 million in interest payments during the first half of 2026 through Regional Investment Corporation lending.
Mr Chisholm said the Government would continue working with industry to improve productivity, expand market opportunities and maintain Australia’s competitiveness in global agricultural markets.

In the last week of August, Ayr State High School turned purple for its annual Wear It Purple Day, supporting members of the school community who identify as LGBTIQA+ and recognising those who are respectful and supportive allies.
As well as rolling out the purple T-shirts and decor, members of Headspace Townsville and the Burdekin Community Association attended the event to share resources about mental health and wellbeing with students.
Co-founded in 2010 by Katherine Hudson and Scott Williams, Wear It Purple Day was established in response to concerns about bullying, exclusion and a lack of acceptance among young people. This year's theme, Colours of Courage, focused on the bravery involved in creating inclusive and welcoming spaces.
“This event focuses on celebrating diversity, inclusion and raising awareness so that every person who attends Ayr High feels safe, respected and supported, as receiving an education is important to future opportunities,” a school spokesperson said.
Beyond opening up important conversations among students, the annual initiative serves as a reminder that creating an inclusive community is a shared responsibility that begins with courage – a courage to stand up not only for yourself, but for others too.

John Winn has been recognised for 26 years of volunteer executive leadership with the Burdekin State Emergency Service as he steps back from his role as Deputy Local Controller. Photo supplied.
John Winn has been honoured for over two decades of voluntary executive leadership with the Burdekin State Emergency Service (SES) following his decision to step down as Deputy Local Controller.
John was presented with a special Certificate of Appreciation recognising his 26-year tenure in executive roles, which included nine years as Ayr Group Leader alongside terms as Acting Local Controller, Local Controller, and Deputy Local Controller.
Current Local Controller Cheryl Wade said the award was a rare gesture, presented to acknowledge his “above and beyond support as a volunteer”.
“John would jump at a call to serve and protect his community,” she said.
John has spent 38 years with the SES, joining in 1988 after Cyclone Charlie swept through his home community of Alva Beach.
Since then, he has responded to cyclones, floods, and search operations across Queensland, with deployments reaching as far north as Innisfail and as far south as Grantham.
As of November last year, John had logged 11,232 hours of volunteer community service—though he said the actual figure was considerably higher once after-hours calls, maintenance, and administrative work were taken into account.
That commitment is a family legacy. His wife Rosemarie has given 31 years to the SES, while their children Nathan, Brendan, and Megan have all served. Together with extended family, the Winn family’s total contribution to the Burdekin SES stands at 148 years of volunteer service.
John said the motivation behind those decades of service comes down to the reaction on the ground.
“Perhaps the best part of the SES is the ‘thanks’ you see on people’s faces when you and other SES members show up to assist them in what is their darkest hours,” he said.
While stepping down from his executive responsibilities, John will remain with the Burdekin SES Ayr Group as a Senior Field Officer. He encouraged community members to consider getting involved.
“There is always a role for anyone who wants to join,” he said.
“Everyone has something to give.”
Anyone interested in joining can attend a Burdekin SES Monday night meeting at 7pm at 4 McCathie Street, Ayr Industrial Estate.

(L-R) Leaders Ian Zaro, Gerald Henaway, Ollie henaway, and Mary-Anne Haller, in front of the organisation’s Cunningham Street hangout. Photo: Jacob Casha.
It all started with basketball and barbecues.
That was Gerald Henaway’s answer to the youth crime plaguing the Burdekin 40 years ago.
Gerald, a Burdekin local and youth worker at the time, recalled a period that saw nearly three break-and-enters a day. Meanwhile, illegal marijuana operations riddled the Burdekin River, property theft was running rampant, and the Indigenous community’s reputation was paying the price.
He knew something had to change.
“I saw all these indigenous kids getting involved in drugs and committing offences … and I wanted to make a difference,” Gerald said.
“The mayor, Townsville Police and local service providers—we all sat down to address the crime which was real bad at the time, and started with basketball and barbecues.
“We threw money out of our own pockets, and it all just grew out of that.”
Those efforts gave rise to BAYWatch—Burdekin Area Youth Watch—which, four decades later, has grown into an award-winning youth program supporting more than 100 Indigenous and disadvantaged local children.
And the mission hasn’t budged.
“We just want to see these kids bring real value to the community,” Gerald said.
He said the group is a way to keep children and young adults connected, educated, and active, prying them away from crime.
And if you’ve ever wandered past their Cunningham Street hangout in Ayr, you’d see they keep quite busy.
Led by Gerald, wife Ollie Henaway, daughter Geraldine Henaway, Ian Zaro, and Mary-Anne Haller, the program offers a six-day-a-week after-school program that engages children in everything from touch football and basketball to rugby league, tennis, soccer, hockey and ten-pin bowling.
It’s not just about sport, though.
From learning to drive and obtaining a licence to mowing lawns, fishing trips, camps and church activities, the group prides itself on giving children opportunities to learn practical life skills they might otherwise never have the chance to develop.
But this sustained effort, alongside recent cuts to government support, has made the program increasingly difficult to operate.
After relying on government funding for over 20 years, the organisation was asked to transition its service towards casework with a much smaller group of approximately 15 young people.
But Gerald refused to cull the network of children he was helping, knowing it meant a significant chunk of funding would be lost.
"We didn’t want to change what we were doing,” he said.
Now, the program relies solely on donations to help it cover running costs, including maintaining the three buses that transport kids to and from daily activities.
“I don’t think there’s anyone in Australia that does all these things with this amount of money,” Gerald said.
“I’ve had people and businesses come up to me and say, ‘If you weren’t doing all this, we’d have a lot more problems here.”’
After four decades of tackling youth crime at its grassroots, BAYWatch is asking the Burdekin to help it keep doing what it does best.

“The team is everything. They’re the people at the front of it,” says Peter. Photo: Jacob Casha.
Red Rooster might be a national brand, but for new owner Peter Walsh, the Ayr store is strictly local.
As he rolls out a series of storewide upgrades, the North Queenslander is determined to make that clear.
“The community deserves to have a nice place to come and eat,” Peter said.
“We're working on getting the right people, upgrading our service, and creating that family, community atmosphere.”
The plan is already in motion. With upgraded kitchen equipment and refreshed operational processes, Peter says locals are already seeing quicker service.
Those tweaks are part of a broader makeover for the Queen Street store, featuring fresh paint, general refurbishments and new digital kiosks to make ordering easier. Peter says the changes complement an already extensive menu designed to “cater for almost anyone.”
But according to him, just as important as any meal or upgrade are the people behind the counter.
“The team is everything. They’re the people at the front of it,” he said.
“We’ve got a funny bunch. They're very loyal, they’re very dedicated, and they want to be part of the journey.”
As the team strides forward, Peter says the mission remains what it always has been.
“We want to be part of the community,” he said.
“Previous owners did a lot for charitable organisations, sporting clubs, sponsorships, and the store had a really good community reputation. We want to build all that back.”
With operations expanding, the team is currently on the lookout for new members. To find out more about employment opportunities, pop into the store and hand in a resume.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said taxpayer-backed investment should not compete with farmers for agricultural land. Photo supplied.
The Coalition has pledged to prevent the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) from funding entities that acquire agricultural land to establish tree plantations for carbon offsets.
The proposed legislation would also abolish Labor’s net zero laws and end what the Coalition describes as more than $80 billion in government spending on the transition.
The announcement follows the sale of Tasmania’s 21,745-hectare Rushy Lagoon property to UK investment firm Gresham House. The CEFC is investing $69 million in the project, with about 9000 hectares planned for pine plantations.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said taxpayer-backed investment should not compete with farmers for agricultural land.
“We have farmers across Dawson working incredibly hard to put food on Australian tables, yet Labor is prepared to help foreign investment funds acquire Australian land for carbon projects,” Mr Willcox said.
He questioned whether agricultural industries including Bowen’s mango plantations, sugar and vegetable production could face increasing competition for land.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said food security should take priority over carbon projects.
“Families are already paying too much at the supermarket and the last thing we should be doing is weakening our ability to grow food by turning productive farms into carbon assets,” Mr Taylor said.
“It is extraordinary that taxpayers are being asked to help investment funds outbid farmers for Australian farmland.”
Nationals leader Matt Canavan said the Coalition would repeal Labor’s net zero laws and prevent taxpayer money being used to purchase farms for carbon projects.
Mr Willcox also linked the issue to the proposed expansion of Australia’s biofuels industry, arguing agricultural production would need to be protected to supply feedstocks.
“Labor is now telling us that sugar and other agricultural products can provide the feedstocks for a new Australian bioenergy industry, but you cannot build a biofuels industry without the farmers who grow the feedstock,” he said.
The Coalition said its proposed changes would prevent taxpayer funding from distorting the agricultural land market.
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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP’s annual school captains’ luncheon has opened proactive discussions around shaping the Burdekin’s future.
The luncheon, aimed at providing the chance for school captains to connect with their local State Member and have their say about the strengths and opportunities they see in their local community.
“These round-table events are invaluable in giving our next generation of leaders the chance to identify positive contributions they can make to their school and their community and receive the support to put those ideas into action,” Mr Last said.
“This year there was plenty of discussion around ideas to bring university opportunities to Burdekin students which is particularly prudent at the moment when these students are making big decisions around their future.”
“We know that the majority of the time those looking to undertake a university degree are faced with the decision to leave the Burdekin, however there also needs to be a working relationship between universities and our regional towns that enables students to make informed choices about their future studies. It is why I have worked closely with the Minister for Education as we look to grow this pathway, particularly in the Burdekin.”
Mr Last said the Burdekin should be proud of its student leaders who were not only looking at ways to support current Year 12’s but also those to follow in the coming years.
“I ask these students each year about what legacy they want to leave in their final year of schooling, not just in their school environment but in their wider community and each year their suggestions leave me feeling proud as their state member.
“By securing other universities to come to the Burdekin and share what they have to offer our school leavers, our students are offered better access to more information about study options available to them.”
Contributed by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

Denise said the crash had “destroyed” her $37,000 front fence, while significantly damaging her car, barbecue, and a gazebo that was set to be converted into a cattery. Photos supplied.
Police are investigating a single-vehicle crash that tore through a Brandon front yard late last month.
Police say the driver of a white Nissan Navara lost control at around 2.45am on Friday, 28th of August, ploughing through two palm trees before colliding with the front of a Drysdale Street property.
The male driver reportedly fled the scene on foot with a dog, leaving two Bull Arab puppies inside the vehicle.
“Significant damage was caused to the resident’s fence, property and vehicle,” said Ayr Police Sergeant Daniel Dew.
“Thankfully, no persons or animals were injured.”
Homeowner Denise Hudd said she was readying herself for bed when the vehicle struck her fence, waking neighbours along the street.
“I’m laying in bed and I hear this loud ‘bang!’ Then I look out the window, and there's a car in my fence,” she recalled.
“I've never seen that many people out on the street at 3am.”
Denise said the crash had “destroyed” her $37,000 front fence, while damaging her car, barbecue, and a gazebo that was set to be converted into a cattery.
She said the cattery was intended to support her partner’s charitable work training cats to detect cancers.
“We don’t know what we're gonna do now. We’ve got four cats and two dogs that we can't let outside because there's no front fence,” Denise said.
Sgt. Dew said police have identified a suspect, who is yet to be named, and are considering charges for failing to provide particulars under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act.

Police are also investigating possible animal cruelty offences and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.
Sgt. Dew said the puppies involved in the crash were handed over to Burdekin Shire Council, which passed them on to Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue to be desexed, microchipped, and vaccinated.
A potential owner has already been vetted, with a ‘meet and greet’ scheduled this Sunday to rehome one of the puppies.
Sgt. Dew said two other dogs—believed to have been involved in the crash—were located by residents in separate areas of Brandon later that day.
It remains unknown whether either was the dog taken from the scene by the driver.
Anyone with information, dashcam footage or CCTV footage is urged to contact Ayr Police Station, PoliceLink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers.

Starting school is an exciting milestone, and giving children a strong and positive start can make a lasting difference to their confidence, learning and future success.
At Osborne State School, we believe a successful transition begins well before the first day of Prep. Attending playgroup, visiting the school and joining in school activities such as open days, movie nights, school dances and other community events are wonderful ways for children to become familiar with the school environment. These opportunities allow children to meet staff and other students, explore the school grounds and begin to feel that they belong.
Every child is different, and some children—and parents—may need a little more time to feel comfortable. Families are always welcome to arrange additional visits, ask questions and talk with staff about any concerns they may have before their child starts school.

Starting strong also means learning strong. When choosing a school, it is important to consider how the school approaches teaching and learning, particularly literacy in the early years. Developing strong foundations in reading, writing, phonics and oral language gives children the skills they need to access learning across all areas of the curriculum as they progress through school.
At Osborne State School, we have a strong focus on explicit and direct instruction. Learning is purposeful, structured and intentional, ensuring children are explicitly taught the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
Being a small school also gives our students the best of both worlds. Children have time to learn through play, creativity and hands-on experiences, while our small class environment provides high levels of staff support and opportunities for targeted teaching. Our staff know each child—their strengths, interests and individual learning needs.
Choosing a school is about more than choosing where your child will spend their first year. It is about choosing the foundations on which their future learning will be built.
At Osborne State School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to start strong, learn strong and build the foundations for future success.
Contributed by Osborne State School

After one year serving the Burdekin region, Zarraffa’s Coffee is proud to call Ayr home, bringing its signature coffee, fresh food and strong commitment to community to the heart of the Burdekin.
For the proudly Australian-owned and operated coffee brand, its presence in Ayr represents more than simply another location. It reflects Zarraffa’s ongoing commitment to regional communities and its passion for providing locals, workers and visitors with convenient access to the quality coffee, food and friendly service the brand is known for.
Located at 125 Edward Street, the Ayr store has been designed with convenience and accessibility at its core, catering to local customers as well as commuters and travellers passing through the region. The drive thru offers a quick and easy way for customers to pick up their favourite coffee and food on the go, whether they are heading to work, doing the school run, travelling through town or simply starting their day.
For those who prefer to take a little more time, the store also features a walk-up window and outdoor seating area, creating a welcoming space where customers can sit back, enjoy their coffee and connect with friends, family or the local community.
Customers can enjoy Zarraffa’s renowned range of signature coffee drinks, including familiar favourites alongside a selection of specialty beverages. The menu also features a variety of food options, including breakfast items, savoury and sweet snacks and the freshly baked in-store range, providing convenient options to enjoy alongside a favourite brew.
For Zarraffa’s, being part of a regional community means more than simply serving coffee. The brand has a strong focus on community connection and supporting the areas in which its stores operate. The Ayr team is proud to continue building relationships with local customers, businesses, community groups and organisations and to be a familiar part of everyday life in the Burdekin.
The Ayr store is also part of Zarraffa’s broader commitment to expanding its footprint across Australia and making its signature coffee experience accessible to more Australians, including those living in regional and rural communities.
Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr continues to be a convenient local destination for coffee lovers, offering a drive thru, walk-up window, outdoor seating, extensive coffee menu and fresh food range, while remaining focused on being an active and connected part of the Ayr community.
Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr is located at 125 Edward Street, Ayr, QLD 4807.
Opening hours: 5am to 8pm Monday to Sunday, and 6am to 6pm on Public Holidays. For more information about Zarraffa’s Coffee visit www.zarraffas.com
Contributed by Zarraffa’s Coffee