Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
While most Burdekinites were in weekend mode last Sunday, a group of Ayr-Home Hill Lions volunteers spent several hours at the Lions Fruit Park in Home Hill giving the mango trees a much-needed trim. Volunteers Sam Harris, Lisa Corica, Rhondda Ware, Lynn Hutchings, Dan Bawden, Chris Goodwill and John and Jenny Donald worked steadily throughout the day, carrying out the first major prune the trees have had in years. By day’s end, seven trailer loads of off-cuts were transported to the local dump for disposal. The surrounding lawns were also mowed as part of the manicure, leaving the park noticeably refreshed. “We all agreed that the fruit park looks a lot better after the trim and mow,” a club spokesperson said. The working bee concluded across the road at the Lions Diorama, where volunteers enjoyed celebratory scones and coffee. The work represents one of the many voluntary efforts carried out by the longstanding local service club across the region. CAPTION: (L-R) Sam Harris, Lisa Corica, Rhondda Ware, Lynn Hutchings, Dan Bawden, Chris Goodwill and John Donald. Photo credit: Jenny Donald
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More than 60 scientists, farmers, Traditional Owners, conservationists and industry representatives gathered in Home Hill this month to explore new ways of protecting waterways, strengthening agricultural resilience and improving water quality flowing to the Great Barrier Reef. The 2026 Burdekin Regional Water Quality Science Forum, hosted by NQ Dry Tropics, highlighted the importance of strategic planning, collaboration and targeted investment to address environmental challenges while supporting productive farming systems. A field tour showcased practical projects already delivering results, including streambank restoration at Molongle Creek, where almost 4,000 timber piles were installed after severe flooding to stabilise the creek bank and encourage natural regeneration. Forum delegates also visited Mt Alma Organics near Inkerman, where the Spotswood family is working alongside NQ Dry Tropics to restore more than 60 hectares of wetland through long-term landscape management. Chief Scientific Officer from the Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Carl Mitchell said long-term thinking was becoming increasingly important in water quality planning. "We need to think strategically about how the program would be used in, say, 20 years from now," he said. Collaboration between landholders, scientists and Traditional Owners was another key focus, with discussions highlighting the growing use of cultural burning as a land management tool. NQ Dry Tropics Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager Rob Hunt said collecting the right information was essential to improving environmental outcomes. "We really need to know what we're measuring," he said. "Whether it's to make sure our models are right, or to ensure a project is delivering what it's meant to deliver, or properly understanding the co-benefits arising from a project, we need to be able to map those out and understand what we're measuring." Senior Scientist and principal at C2O Consulting Jane Waterhouse said investment also needed to be carefully prioritised. "We also want managers and investors to think about protecting the areas in good condition ensuring we are taking action if necessary to maintain good water quality," she said. The forum also examined emerging opportunities in carbon emissions reduction, with researchers and industry leaders discussing how changes to fertiliser use and farming practices could improve productivity while creating future carbon market opportunities. The event was funded through the Australian and Queensland governments' Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting Program. CAPTIONS: NQ Dry Tropics Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager Rob Hunt directing people onto the bus to begin the forum. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics The gathering had lots of questions about the 60ha wetland at Mt Alma Organics Farm. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics Traditional Owner James Gaston, left, welcomes the group to Birrigubba Country. Watching on are Eddie Smallwood and Marian Davis. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics Pictured during the forum are, from left: C2O Consulting Senior Scientist Jane Waterhouse, and NQ Dry Tropics Grazing Field Officer Eleanor Haig and Graduate Technical Officer Amelia Ross. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics Alluvium Consulting's Principal Project Manager Jason Carter, left, with NQ Dry Tropics' NRM Implementation manager Brett King. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics Pictured, from left, are: Healthy Waters Partnership team members Dinny Taylor and Kara-Mae Coulter-Atkins with NQ Dry Tropics .Project Officer Hayley Cook. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics Inkerman organic farmer Gary Spotswood talks about the family's plans for the next 100 years, having farmed there for 99 years. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
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It has been another wonderful week in the Burdekin, filled with community spirit, celebration and important milestones for our region. The Burdekin Singers Debutante Ball was once again a standout event, with 23 debutantes presented alongside their partners. It was a truly special evening, marking an important moment in the lives of these young people as they step forward into a new chapter. Seeing them so poised and confident was inspiring - leaders in the making, full of potential and optimism for the future. Congratulations to all involved in delivering such a beautiful and well-run event. The Burdekin Show has also come and gone for another year, and what a fantastic event it was. We were fortunate to enjoy fine weather, which made for a great day out for families and visitors alike. It was especially pleasing to meet a group of young backpackers taking a well-earned day off to enjoy the Show. They spoke so highly of our community - our openness, friendliness and lifestyle, and it is always encouraging to hear how much people appreciate what we often take for granted here in the Burdekin. Council has now handed down its 2026/27 Budget, which takes a practical and forward-looking approach to the future of our region. We are proud to report that our general rates remain among the lowest in the State. This Budget reflects our commitment to the theme “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” - investing in the infrastructure our community needs now, while carefully planning for the years ahead. We recognise that many households are facing financial pressures, and Council has been mindful to strike a balance between affordability and maintaining essential services. Flexible payment options and support are available for those who may need assistance, and I encourage residents to reach out to Council if required. With school holidays now underway, I encourage families to take advantage of the many local activities on offer. Our libraries and community spaces are hosting a range of programs to keep young minds engaged and entertained throughout the break. As always, thank you for being part of what makes the Burdekin such a vibrant and welcoming community. 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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There is a lot of talk about the future of regional Queensland, but if you want to see where the Burdekin is heading, you don’t need a spreadsheet. You just need to look at our local workshops, worksites, and businesses. You need to look at our apprentices and trainees. For a long time, there was a belief that to "make it," regional kids had to pack their bags for the big cities. But here in the Burdekin, we prove every day that you can build a first-class career right here in your own backyard. When a local business takes on an apprentice, they aren't just filling a vacancy, they are investing in the survival of our community. Keeping our young people local means keeping our sporting clubs full, our volunteer groups alive, and ensuring the next generation is here to raise families in Ayr, Home Hill, and our districts. Council plays its part by hosting trainees and apprentices across our departments, but the real heavy lifting is done by our local businesses and contractors. Taking on a young worker takes time, patience, and money. To every Burdekin business owner who backs our youth, thank you! You are the backbone of our economy. To the young men and women currently turning spanners or learning a trade, stick with it. The skills you are learning right here are world-class. Let’s keep backing our kids, supporting our local shops, and keeping the Burdekin the best place in the North to build a life and raise a family.
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The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far seen wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks cleared of invasive weeds. Photo credit: NQ Dry Tropics
Restoration work is underway across three Burdekin Delta creeks as part of a major wetlands project aimed at reducing pollutants entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far cleared invasive weeds from wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks as part of broader efforts to reduce fine sediment, dissolved inorganic nitrogen and pesticides reaching the Reef.
According to the Australian Government’s 2024 Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report, the Burdekin River catchment is the largest individual contributor of fine sediment, delivering about 3.7 million tonnes. It also contributes significant particulate nitrogen and phosphorus loads.
NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader Scott Fry said combining on-ground works with monitoring, modelling and training would help the WWBD project deliver measurable reductions in pollution and improve wetland health.
“Waterways in the Burdekin Delta are both productive agricultural systems and vital ecological assets,” Mr Fry said.
“Healthy, well-functioning wetlands are naturally able to capture and process pollutants before they reach the Reef.
“We aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of scalable, long-term management practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental outcomes.”
Work will employ a multi-step “treatment train” approach which focuses on improving wetland health, increasing water use efficiency to reduce excess flows into creeks, and trialing new water treatment methods.
It will also involve harvesting aquatic weeds to remove stored nutrients and improve fish and bird habitat, revegetating creek banks with native plants and improving fire management practices.
Weeds harvested will be turned into compost for use on local farms.
The WWBD project will be delivered in conjunction with Lower Burdekin Water, Burdekin Shire Council and Bindal Traditional Owners, with funding from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program.
It will complement work with Burdekin Delta cane growers to improve irrigation efficiency under NQ Dry Tropics’ Burdekin Tailored Automation project, a broader endeavour which aims to reduce agricultural runoff to waterways while improving farm efficiency.
The proposed $750 million Bowen Pipeline Project has entered a critical phase, with project leaders extending their water sales program as they work towards securing federal funding and delivering what they describe as a "generational" piece of infrastructure for North Queensland.
The privately funded project would see a 182-kilometre underground pipeline constructed from the Burdekin River to Bowen, delivering up to 100,000 megalitres of water annually to one of Australia's most productive horticultural regions.
Project proponents say the pipeline would provide a secure and reliable water source for the Bowen-Gumlu region, which produces around one-fifth of Australia's annual vegetable crop and generates approximately $750 million in fresh produce each year, despite relying largely on seasonal rainfall.
Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said community interest in the project's water sales program continued to grow, prompting the extension of its Locals First water investment policy until 14th July.
“Our water sales program is tracking nicely with interest steadily increasing from the local communities," Mr Brown said.
“Having said that, it is most interesting to see that demand is intense from those regions that have experience in water trading and water markets generally.
"They understand that water is an asset, like land, and is a strong enhancement for any investment portfolio, particularly on the driest continent on earth.
“Our desire is for the local community to benefit from the ownership of water and as such we will keep the Locals First water investment policy open for another four weeks. After that the water will be allocated to all parties.”
Mr Brown said community information sessions had generated strong interest from local residents keen to better understand water markets and the long-term value of water ownership.
“Attendees at our presentations have been delighted with the knowledge they acquire about how water trading is done, the water asset value increases over time, pressures for delivery and the pricing of the water,” he said.
The company has also expanded its local employment and procurement commitments, linking water ownership opportunities with potential construction jobs.
“Our Locals First employment and supply policy is resonating strongly in the community,” Mr Brown said.
“In fact, we have expanded the policy whereby local water purchasers will be given priority consideration for employment opportunities during the construction phase, where suitable.”
To strengthen its case for federal funding, the project must demonstrate both significant water demand and a substantial number of users. The minimum purchase volume has been set at 20 megalitres, which can be shared between neighbouring properties.
Project leaders are aiming to achieve shovel-ready status by September 2026 before lodging an application seeking federal funding for half of the construction costs.
“After nine years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push to make this $750 million generational Project a reality,” Mr Brown said.
If successful, the company hopes to secure funding through the May 2027 Federal Budget and begin construction in September 2027.
A fundraising breakfast held last week raised $35,000 for Burdekin Chaplains, headlined by a $30,000 donation that surprised even organisers.
The Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast, hosted annually by the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team, welcomed a crowd of around 70 to Ayr State High School grounds on Thursday 4th June to support local chaplaincy over a free breakfast.
Several guest speakers addressed the audience, including Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Chairman Darren West, who was met with a roar of applause as he presented a cheque for $30,000 to the host organisation.
“We know the chaplains have done it tough for funds at times over the years, so we’re pleased to be here today to present this cheque,” Mr West said.
Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team Co-Chair Kylie Webley said the organisation was “not expecting to receive such a generous donation.”
A number of other contributions made up the $35,000 total, including one from Margaret Thorne of Bluey’s Thrift Shop in Home Hill which was also presented on the morning.
Ayr State School Principal Nikki Schell addressed the breakfast, delivering a gripping speech that used the Burdekin River as a metaphor for the role chaplaincy plays in local schools and communities.
“Just as the river breathes life into our region, chaplaincy breathes life into our schools and into our communities,” Ms Schell said.
“Not life in the physical sense, but life in the things that matter most: hope, belonging, connection, joy. The confidence to keep going when things feel hard, the courage to ask for help, the comfort of knowing that someone cares.”
Scripture Union manager for North Queensland Brooke Sorbello also delivered a speech at the event, while former Burdekin Chaplaincy Committee Chair Ronda Williams was acknowledged for her years of service to the organisation.
Ms Webley said the morning was an important opportunity to bring local chaplaincy to the forefront, calling the community support “invaluable.”
“Without the support, Burdekin Chaplains would not have the same reach across our schools, and our community may not understand the needs and challenges facing our young people today,” she said.
“It’s also important for chaplains to feel supported in their work.”
The Burdekin's seven school chaplains provide social, emotional and pastoral support across 10 local schools, working with students, staff and families.
Their role includes mentoring, wellbeing programs and helping young people navigate challenges ranging from bullying and anxiety to family breakdown.
Funds raised from this year’s breakfast will help keep chaplains at local schools and assist with the needs of students.
Community members seeking more information or ways to become involved are encouraged to contact Kylie or Joanne Ballin of the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team at: burdekinlcc@gmail.com.
Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Photo supplied
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to welcome Tracey Young to the team as a new Customer Service Officer, bringing with her a strong passion for people, community and helping customers with their everyday banking needs.
Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Together they are raising their three children – Charlie, Mitchell and Henry – while embracing the close-knit lifestyle that makes the region so special.
For Tracey, joining Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is more than simply starting a new role – it is an opportunity to work closely with local people and contribute to a bank that actively supports the wider community.
“What I enjoy most is interacting directly with our customers every day,” Tracey said.
“It is incredibly rewarding to solve their problems, help them with their day-to-day financial needs, and build real trust within our local community.”
Outside of work, Tracey enjoys an active family life centred around horses, camping adventures, travelling to new places and spending quality time with her family whenever possible.
Having spent more than a decade living in the Burdekin, Tracey says the welcoming spirit of the community is what stands out most.
“Definitely the people and the small-town community spirit,” she said.
“Everyone is willing to help each other out, whether it’s at a local sporting group, a not-for-profit organisation, the local school, a fellow Burdekin neighbour or even a traveller passing through. You will always be welcomed with a warm smile.”
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said the team was excited to welcome Tracey and the local knowledge and customer focus she brings to the branch.
“Tracey’s warm personality and passion for helping people make her a wonderful addition to our team,” Sally said.
“At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, we pride ourselves on delivering personal service and supporting the communities we live and work in, and Tracey reflects those values perfectly.”
Customers visiting the branch are encouraged to stop by, say hello and welcome Tracey to the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr family.
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
The BMSA barbecue was delivered in conjunction with sponsor Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.
Members of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association (BMSA) whipped out the barbie last Friday to raise funds for the Lower Burdekin Scout Group.
The fundraiser, sponsored by Bendigo Bank, brought the aroma of a freshly cooked barbecue breakfast to Ayr’s Queen Street from 9am until around noon.
BMSA President Rob Ritchie called it a “great opportunity to get out and face the community” while raising money for an important local group.
“We’ve donated to national charities before, but the Lower Burdekin Scout Group is a great community group, and we’d rather see money raised stay in the community,” he said.
“They’ve got to do every bit of fundraising themselves, so if we can help a little bit, all well and good.”
BMSA member Chris Fox said the barbecue was the latest example of a mutual relationship between the two organisations that has spanned years.
“They’ve done lots for us, so we do our best to reciprocate in kind,” he said.
On top of the occasional fundraising barbecue, the BMSA meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00–11:30am for recreational activities, skills development and community projects.
Anyone interested in joining the BMSA is encouraged to call 0467 083 502, email burdekinmensshed@outlook.com or visit the shed at 155-157 Young St, Ayr.
Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
Every federal budget should be a structural blueprint for a nation’s future prosperity. Instead, Labor’s latest budget has delivered a grim ledger of broken promises, toxic taxes, and skyrocketing debt that leaves everyday Australians footing the bill.
It confirms that Anthony Albanese is presiding over an incompetent executive and overseeing a country that is heading completely in the wrong direction.
Since Labor was elected, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Because this government simply cannot manage money, they are aggressively coming after yours.
Their record spending means the federal budget is now forecast to be in deficit for a decade, and total national debt is about to smash through the $1 trillion mark.
To put that into perspective, the yearly interest bill alone on that debt will top $42 billion. That is a crushing $80,000 per minute leaking out of the budget, money that should be funding highways, veteran wellbeing and providing dignity to those in their twilight years.
Rather than exercising restraint, Labor has locked government spending at its highest level in forty years, outside of a pandemic. To bankroll this spending spree, our economy is being burdened with $50 billion in higher taxes, including a massive $15 billion hit to personal income taxes.
These toxic taxes are a direct assault on aspiration. They are locking young Australians out of the stable opportunities afforded to older generations, whacking punitive penalties on housing, savings, investment, and small businesses.
This economic mismanagement is actively fuelling a homegrown inflation crisis. For communities across our region, this means interest rates will stay higher for longer.
The human cost of this failure is devastating. A typical Australian family with a mortgage is now $32,000 a year worse off under Labor, when you take into account higher mortgage repayments and higher cost of living factors.
At the same time, the actual buying power of your wages has declined by 3 per cent. You are working harder than ever, yet your pay packet buys less every single week.
Australians do not have to settle for this managed decline, and people will rightly ask, what would your party do differently?
The Coalition has put forward a comprehensive plan to restore our standard of living and protect our way of life. Our strategy will reward hard work, restore home ownership, and put Australians first.
We have promised to axe Labor’s toxic taxes. At the heart of our commitment is a Tax Back Guarantee. We will end Labor’s insidious inflation tax by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation, ensuring workers keep more of what they earn.
To secure our financial future, we will establish a Future Generations Fund. We will bank resource windfalls to systematically pay down debt and build the vital national infrastructure our regional communities desperately need. By returning 25 per cent of resource windfalls directly to their regions of origin, the Coalition will deliver an incredible boost to Dawson, ensuring the wealth generated in the Bowen Basin gets reinvested to boost investor and business confidence.
This budget presents a fundamental choice for Australians to consider before this next election. It is a choice between a government that taxes your savings and shrinks your future, and a Coalition plan that rewards hard work, restores home ownership, and secures Australia’s future.
A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and photography
Generations of lifesavers, families and supporters converged on the district at the weekend as the iconic Ayr Surf Life Saving Club marked a century of beach safety and mateship with a spectacular three-day centenary celebration.
More than 300 attendees flocked to the region at the weekend to mark one of the most significant milestones in local history as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club celebrated its 100th anniversary.
The milestone was commemorated with a packed three-day program of events running from May 29 to 31, bringing together generations of members, families and supporters to reflect on a century of coastal protection and community spirit.
A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations, complemented by a Friday night meet-and-greet at the Kalamia Hotel and a relaxed recovery gathering at the Alva Beach clubhouse on Sunday.
Club President Dr Benjamin Lawry said the anniversary celebrations were a fitting tribute to the volunteers, members and community supporters who have sustained the organisation for a century.
"Over the past 100 years, countless individuals have given their time, energy and commitment to ensure the safety of beachgoers and strength of our community," Dr Lawry said.
"This weekend was an opportunity not only to celebrate our history, but to thank everyone who has played a role in building the Club into what it is today.
"The stories shared throughout the weekend reminded us that while our uniforms, equipment and the beach itself have changed over the years, the spirit of service, friendship and community remains exactly the same."
The club’s deep historical roots trace back to late 1925, following the tragic drowning of John Begg Donaldson while swimming at Lynch’s—now known as Alva—Beach.
In the wake of the tragedy, Mr Donaldson's workmates at the Kalamia Mill raised funds and sent them to his parents in Scotland, who returned the money with the insistence that the local community use it.
A meeting was subsequently convened at the Shire Chambers in October 1926, where the decision was made to form the Donaldson and Lower Burdekin Life Saving Club, which originally affiliated with the Sydney-based Surf Life Saving Association of Australia four years before a Queensland branch even existed.
Now known as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, the institution stands proudly as one of Queensland's oldest surf lifesaving clubs.
The club’s storied history was also honoured on the weekend by the official launch of a new retrospective book, 100 Summers: the story of the Ayr SLSC, written by author Martin Grandelis following months of exhaustive research, interviews and writing to document the people who shaped the club.
Long-time members used the weekend to reflect on the profound personal impact of the local institution, including Club Patron Hockey Vernon, who joined the club as a cadet in 1959.
Addressing the gala dinner, Mr Vernon delivered a heartfelt speech on how the club has shaped generations of local families over the decades.
“From joining the Club in 1959 as a cadet, it quickly became much more than just a place to volunteer. It became a second family,” Mr Vernon said.
“The mateship and camaraderie found down at Alva have been a constant and particularly meaningful part of my life. Seeing my children become part of the Club has been especially rewarding, and a testament to the lasting impact this community has on generations.
“Sharing in the celebration of 100 years of the Club has been incredibly special. It has been wonderful to see so many familiar faces, past and present, come together to honour the history, achievements and spirit of this Club I call family.”
As commemorations for 2026 QLD Day gear up, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is encouraging Burdekin residents to take the time to celebrate everything great about their community and our state.
Mr Last said the Burdekin’s multicultural heritage, local legends and spanning industries meant there was plenty to recognise and celebrate on June 6.
“I have always said the Burdekin Electorate punches above its weight and Queensland Day is another chance to shine a light on the people, places and the contributions our industries make to our state,” Mr Last said.
“No matter where you are in this state, QLD Day is our chance to get together and celebrate what Queensland means to us and what it means to be a Queenslander.”
“For me, Queensland Day is a chance to recognise those local legends in our community who step up to support others at times of hardship, our emergency services, volunteers and those we describe as local legends. We saw this recently when victims of a tragic bus accident were provided immediate support by members of our community.”
Ahead of celebrations at the weekend, Mr Last congratulated those from all corners of the state who had been recognised in the QLD Day 2026 All the Best.
“Queenslanders have backed their best fish and chip shop, beaches, cafes, bakeries and florists with some of our best small businesses appearing on the state’s stage,” Mr Last said.
“The campaign was another way we can get behind our favourite small businesses and it’s fantastic to see finalists from right across the state, including the Burdekin Electorate.”
QLD Day, held annually on 6 June, marks the date the state officially separated from New South Wales in 1859 and became an independent self-governing colony.
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Death is one of life's certainties, yet it remains one of the most difficult experiences we face. When we lose a loved one, it can feel as though our world has been turned upside down.
In small communities like ours, however, grief is rarely carried alone.
From funeral notices in the local paper to personal messages of condolence, there is a shared understanding that when one family is hurting, the wider community stands beside them.
Earlier this week, Burdekin Funerals took to social media to acknowledge another tradition that continues to reflect the compassion and respect of the Burdekin community.
"One thing we've always admired about communities like Ayr and Home Hill is the respect people still show during a funeral procession," they said.
"Cars pull over. Businesses pause. People stand quietly out the front.
"It's a simple gesture, but it means more than most realise to the families travelling behind that hearse, saying their final goodbye.
"Sadly, not many towns still do this anymore.
"Thank you for continuing to show kindness, patience and respect in moments that matter most."
While seemingly small, these acts serve as a powerful reminder of what makes country communities special. In a world that often moves at a relentless pace, taking a moment to pause and honour someone's final journey speaks volumes about the values we continue to hold dear.
It is a tradition of respect, dignity and community spirit - one that many hope will continue for generations to come.
AgServices agronomists Drew McGilchrist (left) and Marc Tanizar (right) chat with Mackay grower Lee Blackburn about the positive outlook for Bio Dunder supplies. Photo supplied
From Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
As the 2026 harvest begins, the Wilmar AgServices team has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we are ready to support growers with their fertiliser needs throughout the season.
We recognise that global events have affected the supply of some raw material inputs, creating uncertainty across fertiliser markets and raising concerns about product availability.
We want to reassure growers that we are confident in our current supply position – both for our base Dunder stocks and key added inputs such as urea. Planning is also well advanced to ensure Bio Dunder liquid fertiliser applications can commence in line with harvesting operations.
While our supply outlook is positive, the current supply environment remains dynamic. We encourage growers to confirm their fertiliser requirements early to help secure supply and enable our experienced local contractors to schedule applications efficiently across farms.
Made in Sarina, Bio Dunder is an organic-based fertiliser trusted by generations of farmers. It delivers a comprehensive nutrient package of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur (NPKS), together with valuable organic carbon that supports long-term soil health.
Our agronomists and contractors consistently see the best yield responses when Bio Dunder is applied straight after harvesting. That’s why we encourage growers to ‘follow the harvester’ with their Bio Dunder application.
We know rising input costs are placing pressure on farming operations. Our sales agronomists continue to work closely with growers to optimise NPKS programs that help reduce fertiliser costs without compromising sugarcane yield potential. Our pricing remainscompetitive, particularly when considering the soil health benefits Bio Dunder provides.
Call us on 1800 881 957 to confirm pricing and supply for the season. Alternatively, email
AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
We’re ready and able to support your fertilising needs throughout the 2026 harvest.
Meet some of this year’s QLD Day ambassadors, championing the essence and vibrance of Queensland.
We know Queensland has produced no shortage of rugby league royalty. Wally Lewis AM – also known as “The King” – is the face of his state yet again as a 2026 QLD Day ambassador.
“I’m a proud Queenslander, born and bred, and I’ve spent a lifetime representing this wonderful state,” Wally said.
“I’m inspired by everyday Queenslanders, the people who show up for their families, their communities, and each other; that’s the real strength of this state.”
One of rugby league’s greatest players, Johnathan Thurston AM; former three-time premiership winner for the Brisbane Broncos, Gorden Tallis; and captain of the Broncos, Maroons and Jillaroos, Ali Brigginshaw are also representing rugby this year.
There must be something in the water, with our best swimmers diving in as ambassadors: eight-time Olympic medallist, Cate Campbell OAM; Paralympic gold medallist Alexa Leary OAM; and four-time Paralympic medallist Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson. Netball great Laura Geitz, raised in the Darling Downs town of Allora, joins Gold Coast AFL rising star Ethan Read.
One of Australia’s most beloved tennis champions, Pat Rafter said he proudly wears the title of ‘Queenslander’, while he secretly loves having a stadium with his name on it.
“I love being a Queenslander, I was brought up in Mount Isa, so I guess there is a fair bit of that country passion in me,” Pat said.
“Having a stadium with my name on it is so cool. The Queensland tennis crowd is pretty respectful; they enjoy their tennis but appreciate good players with good attitude.”
From the arts, didgeridoo virtuoso and composer William Barton sits alongside Pub Choir founder Astrid Jorgensen OAM, country music balladeer Lee Kernaghan OAM, and celebrity chef Alastair McLeod.
Rounding out the line-up is veteran journalist and child-safety advocate Kay McGrath OAM, a Queensland Great, encouraging all Queenslanders to celebrate the unique spirit of the Sunshine State.
“Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Kay said.
What ties them together isn’t fame – it’s our state. Each ambassador’s story is rooted in a different patch of Queensland, from outback towns to coastal cities. Together, they paint a portrait of a state that’s as diverse as it is proud.
The QLD Day Awards shine a spotlight on the Queenslanders who go above and beyond – the community volunteers, local legends, young achievers and those shaping our state’s future.
From grassroots changemakers to everyday heroes, these awards celebrate Queenslanders from all walks of life who make Queensland a better place. Announced on QLD Day, the winners reflect a proud tradition of service, generosity and community spirit that has defined our state since 1859.
Jane Hedger, CEO of Volunteering Queensland, said the awards recognise the Queenslanders who often work behind the scenes to support others.
“The QLD Day Awards shine a light on those Queenslanders who quietly make the world go round and give us an opportunity to say thank you,” she said.
For Catherine Lamb, a Meals on Wheels volunteer from Ashgrove, Brisbane, giving back is simply part of who she is.
“It’s about the simple things – how good you feel doing something good, and how much it means to the person on the other end,” Catherine said.
This year’s recipients continue a strong legacy of community champions, following in the footsteps of the 2025 QLD Day Local Legends – all shining examples of the Queensland spirit in action.
Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Government has launched a new funding round for its Future Drought Fund Drought Resilience Hubs program, creating opportunities to further strengthen drought preparedness across agricultural regions including the Burdekin.
The national initiative will establish seven Drought Resilience Hubs across Australia, supporting farmers and rural communities with practical tools, knowledge and services aimed at improving resilience to future drought conditions.
Following an independent review, the program has been redesigned to place greater emphasis on delivering on-the-ground outcomes and helping producers adopt proven drought-resilient practices.
A total of $86.7 million will be invested nationally through to June 2032 to support the next phase of the program.
The hubs are intended to act as regional connectors, linking producers with experts, innovations, research and support services while identifying local challenges and opportunities specific to their area.
The program also aims to strengthen collaboration between industry groups, governments, research organisations and regional communities.
Applications are now open for eligible organisations interested in operating the hubs, with funding expected to support activities from March 2027 through to June 2032.
Applications will close on the 10th of August. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says the $53 million project would address the region’s key barriers to growth. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Shire Council is seeking over $53 million in state funding to unlock roughly 1,000 new residential lots in Ayr, in a bid to ease the region’s ongoing housing shortage.
The proposal will be submitted under Round 2 of the Queensland Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which supports major infrastructure projects needed to open up new housing supply.
If successful, the funding will deliver critical trunk infrastructure including roads, sewer networks, water supply upgrades and treatment plant expansions, targeting long-standing development constraints that have limited new housing construction in the area.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the project would address one of the region’s key barriers to growth.
“Council recognises that a lack of enabling infrastructure is one of the biggest barriers to housing growth in the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Through the Residential Activation Fund, we are investing in the essential infrastructure needed to unlock new residential land, reduce development barriers and support future population growth.”
She said the investment would also strengthen the local economy by improving housing availability for workers.
“This project is not just about housing—it’s about strengthening our local economy, attracting workers and ensuring the Burdekin remains a great place to live, work and invest,” she said.
Council data shows local housing construction has fallen by 41 per cent since 2021, a decline attributed to a shortage of affordable, development-ready land. High upfront development costs, flooding constraints, rising insurance premiums and a shortage of builders and trades have also contributed to the slowdown.
The $53 million proposal targets infrastructure upgrades and extensions in growth areas including Craig Street, Chippendale Street and Beach Road. The figure includes construction costs, contingency allowances, contractor margins and indirect expenses.
If approved, council expects enabling works to begin in July 2027 and be completed by December 2028, with housing development to follow as serviced land becomes available.
The state government has already approved almost $994 million in projects under the Residential Activation Fund to unlock both infill and greenfield housing. Successful projects from Round 2 are expected to be announced from July 2026.
“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders,” says Club President Peter Knapton. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin community has rallied behind the Burdekin Touch Football Association, rapidly backing a new "Sponsor-a-Block" initiative to protect local sporting grounds following devastating damage last month.
The fundraiser allows local businesses and residents to sponsor heavy concrete barriers recently placed around the Wickham Street complex, each block stencilled with the sponsor's name to serve as a permanent wall of advertising and security.
A total of 60 blocks have already been sponsored as of 28 May, raising vital funds to secure what are regarded as some of the best in North Queensland.
The immediate response from local businesses, families, individuals, and teams follows an incident where vandals tore through the complex, leaving four fields with considerable damage and forcing a four-week halt to all men’s, women’s, and junior competitions.
Club President Peter Knapton said the widespread support highlighted local outrage over the vandalism.
"The community is obviously sick of mindless damage and the obvious lack of respect for other people’s property by a small minority,” Mr Knapton said.
“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders.”
The committee launched the initiative after discovering that standard rock barriers used by other councils were too expensive. While Ergon Energy initially offered used power poles, the club ultimately sourced the cement blocks from BQC Quarries to create a vehicle-proof barrier.
The project, which carries a total cost of $10,000, is being funded through a combination of the block sponsorships and club funds. 56 blocks have been positioned at the complex so far, with a further 135 blocks still available for sponsorship.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a block is encouraged to text Peter on 0427710500.
Fifty years since the formation of the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade was commemorated on Sunday, coinciding with National Volunteers Week.
Formed on 24 May 1976, the brigade was presented with a Queensland Fire Department Certificate of Appreciation stating –
“This milestone acknowledges the brigade’s longstanding commitment to protecting lives, property and the community through volunteer service, resilience, teamwork and unwavering dedication during emergencies and times of need”.
Groper Creek Fire Brigade’s First Officer Dave Coplick accepted the recognition from Rural Fire Service Queensland Deputy Chief Officer Northern Region Tony Hazell, who travelled with Townsville Area Manager/Inspector Mick Thomson to thank volunteers for their ongoing service.
“We couldn’t let the date go by without acknowledging the brigade’s 50 years of service to the community of Groper Creek and we would like to thank you for your ongoing commitment to fire safety and disaster management,” Mr Hazell said.
Queensland has more than 27,000 RFSQ volunteers in the 1,400 rural fire brigades and 2,400 fire warden districts throughout the state.
Brigade First Officer Dave Coplick thanked those who were able to join in the informal foreshore festivities, particularly RFSQ representatives and Dalbeg-Millaroo Brigade members who had travelled for the occasion.
Groper Creek Brigade Secretary Jeanette Garvey paid tribute to those who had previously been involved in the brigade and current voluntary members, who continue to work behind the scenes.
“The brigade has evolved from the initial ‘bush’ brigade when it was first formed in 1976 and we are continuing to evolve with the latest equipment, resources and support provided by the State,” Ms Garvey said.
“Like many other community groups, we are always looking for more active hands-on volunteers, especially young and fit persons, to train and use brigade equipment. We also welcome all volunteers who are able to support in so many ways.”
To find out more about joining the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade, contact Jeanette Garvey ph 0421 508 510.
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