Rural landholders across the Burdekin Shire are now eligible to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to assist with clean-up and reinstatement costs following the North and Far North Tropical Low disaster event that occurred earlier this year between the 29th  of January and the 28th of February.

The Rural Landholder Recovery Grant Scheme has been activated to support primary producers whose properties and livelihoods were impacted by this declared natural disaster. Funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, this initiative aims to help landholders get back on their feet by covering direct recovery costs.

Eligible local government areas include Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Charters Towers, Flinders, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Tablelands, Townsville and Yarrabah and to qualify, landholders must meet the following criteria:

• Own or lease at least 10 hectares in one of the disaster-declared areas.
• Operate a primary production enterprise on that land.
• Hold an ABN that was active during the disaster event.
• Have earned at least $20,000 gross from primary production in the year before the disaster.
• Have no more than $250,000 gross off-farm income.
• Intend to re-establish the enterprise on the affected land.
• Not have already received financial assistance through other disaster loan or grant schemes for the same event.

The grant is reimbursable and can cover a range of expenses such as debris removal, damaged fencing, restoration of access roads, infrastructure repairs, and more. Applicants are required to provide supporting documents such as a rates notice or lease, 5–10 photos of the damage, insurance information, and evidence of expenditure.

Applications for the Rural Landholder Recovery Grant will close on the 13th of February, 2026, but eligible landholders are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to support timely recovery.

For full eligibility criteria and to apply, visit the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) website.

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

North Queensland has seen a nice drop in temperatures this past fortnight, which is a welcome change to our growers who are still busy out in the field preparing for the start of the 2025 season. Our team has also been active on the ground, meeting with growers to finalise their pricing and provide updates on what’s happening in the market.

For those participating in the Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season, you would have recently received an update detailing the pool’s valuation, pricing strategy, and market outlook.

While it's still early days, the pool is tracking well above the benchmark price, supported by strong base pricing in both the futures and currency markets. The use of option strategies allows for downside protection while maintaining the opportunity to benefit from potential market rallies.

Launched last year as a new pooling option for Wilmar growers, the Managed Pool Plus has attracted strong interest from those seeking a more stable approach amid market volatility. Nominations for the 2026 season are now open and will close on 30 June. I encourage you to contact a member of the team if you’re considering this option for your pricing next season.

In broader market news, the #11 sugar contract remains range-bound due to limited activity from both buyers and sellers.

Attention is centred on Brazil’s bi-weekly UNICA reports, which offer key metrics such as harvested tonnage, CCS, and sugar mix. Yield data comes from the monthly CTC reports. The May reports indicate the Brazilian harvest is running behind schedule, with lower-than-expected yields, CCS, and sugar mix. However, it's still early in the season, and recent weather-related delays may be offset in upcoming updates.

Given the current "watch and act" sentiment, we expect prices to remain within a broad trading range of 17.00 to 18.50 USc/lb. A weaker-than-anticipated UNICA update could push prices toward the upper end of that range, while further declines in oil prices could pressure the lower end by reducing ethanol parity pricing.

Queensland’s 2025 sugarcane crush is officially underway, with harvesters firing up across the Tablelands district this morning. It marks the start of a new season that growers hope will bring better fortunes after a tough run last year.

Around 28.5 million tonnes of cane are expected to be cut and crushed across 13 districts, from Rocky Point in the south right up to Mossman in the far north.

The crop is down slightly from last year, with recent widespread flooding across north Queensland causing major losses to plant cane, while prolonged cloudy weather also slowed growth in some districts.

Despite this, growers are hoping to turn the page on 2024, which was one of the most disrupted seasons in recent memory. Unseasonal rain, mill breakdowns and industrial action caused major delays that saw some districts harvesting into January – and around a million tonnes of cane left in the paddock.

“Growers are eternal optimists,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

“They’ve done their part, growing the best crop they can under the conditions. Now we will be working together with the rest of the supply chain to make this season work.”

While last season’s industrial disputes have been resolved, the reality is, multiple difficult harvesting seasons have had a cumulative impact on the profitability of farmers, Mr Galligan said.

“In the brief break since the last harvesting season we’ve been in urgent talks with the sugar manufacturers, and while we’re seeing a real willingness to tackle the problems and get things back on track, there are no quick fixes, unfortunately.”

Workforce shortages are also creating challenges, especially in regional areas where skilled mill workers, harvester drivers and haulout crews are in short supply.

CANEGROWERS is working with local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address these issues.

“There’s huge potential in this industry,” Mr Galligan said.

“But we won’t fully unlock it until we can consistently harvest the entire crop in most efficient and profitable time.”

With the first cane bins filling up, growers are crossing their fingers for dry weather, reliable mills, and a smooth run through the season.

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Photo supplied: CANEGROWERS

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Cobber is once again calling on Australia’s toughest, stock-chasing, hard-running working dogs to battle it out for the title of the hardest working dog, with nominations now open for the milestone tenth edition of the Cobber Challenge.

The annual competition showcases the best working dogs in the country, paying tribute to the four-legged legends behind Australia’s billion-dollar agriculture industry. Over the last decade, Cobber Challenge competitors have collectively run enough distance to lap the continent two and a half times — all while still herding livestock and chasing the occasional ball.

From wrangling steers to guarding flocks and even dominating trial circuits, Cobber is encouraging farmers to shine a light on their most trusted companions. In a first for the competition, 2025 nominees can now be entered via video submissions as part of the 10-year anniversary celebrations.

Cobber’s Marketing Manager Kellie Savage said she hopes this year’s milestone event will be the biggest and best yet.

“Each year we’ve had a highly competitive field and we’re anticipating the same for our tenth year,” she said. “We’re calling on Australia’s hardest working dogs to enter the field to make the 2025 Cobber Challenge our best yet.”

Each selected dog will be fitted with a GPS tracker to log distance, speed, and duration over a three-week period. At the end, one top dog will take home bragging rights, $3000 cash, a year’s supply of Cobber Working Dog feed and the prestigious trophy. Runners-up will also receive prizes.

Veteran competitor Daniel Pumpa, who has competed with both Ripper and his father Turbo, said the experience has been incredibly rewarding.

“For any farmer who is considering entering their working dog in this year’s competition, I can’t speak highly enough about the fantastic experience we’ve had, and the great recognition Ripper and Turbo have received,” he said.

Nominations are open until 22 June. Visit cobberdogfood.com.au/cobberchallenge for more information.

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Born and raised in Ayr, Kristy Grabs knows the value of community—and she brings that local warmth to every interaction in her role as floor manager at Harvey Norman Ayr.

With four years at the store under her belt—one in computers, and the last three in electrical—Kristy’s retail career stretches far beyond Harvey Norman. She spent 15 years at Overflow, where she worked her way up into a management position, and helped open Silly Solly’s before joining the Harvey team.

“I love interacting with the people that come in,” says Kristy. “It’s all about giving the customer the best experience and the best knowledge that we know. It’s all about making them walk out happy and willing to come back.”

It’s this personal approach that Kristy is known for—her ability to connect with customers through genuine, often unexpected conversations.

“I like to make it personal—I’m definitely one to talk and have a conversation!” she says. “Conversations can veer from talking about what they’re doing renovation-wise to their personal life about their dog!”

As floor manager, Kristy serves customers, manages stock, keeps things in order on the floor, and works hard to ensure all queries are handled with care and efficiency. She also takes pride in mentoring younger staff whenever she can, and is always eager to improve her own craft.

“I’m always keen to learn… and that’s what I love about this job. It’s an industry where you learn something new every day—it’s constant, and it’s good, because that’s what I thrive on: challenging myself and learning new things.”

Outside of work, Kristy loves camping, fishing, and getting outdoors with her family. She describes herself as “bubbly, overly friendly and easygoing”—traits that shine through in her customer service.

Appreciative of the convenience and close-knit vibe of Ayr, Kristy says she’s here to stay.

“I like the small country town feeling, the water is right there, and I have my parents and grandmother here so there’s no way I’m leaving this town anytime soon!”

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Born and raised in Ayr, Christy Grabs knows the value of community—and she brings that local warmth to every interaction in her role as floor manager at Harvey Norman Ayr. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Tucked just off Queen Street lies Carmichael Ford—a powerhouse of automotive knowledge and expertise. And while the building may have changed location, customers still receive the same experience, loyalty and service that has always lived inside.

At the helm of this close-knit team is Jenna Heidke, Branch Manager and spare parts interpreter—a title that, she laughs, “means you’ve got to be a bit of a detective!” Jenna joined the company in 2002 as an apprentice parts interpreter in Bowen. It was her first job—and more than two decades later, it still is.

“I’ve always been a bit of a petrol head,” she says. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do at the time, then this opportunity came up and I never looked back.”

Today, Jenna juggles a hands-on technical role with the demands of running a tight operation. From looking up parts to liaising with the workshop and keeping the day-to-day ticking over, she’s the engine room of a team of 10 staff members.

Carmichael Ford has long been a fixture in Ayr. Previously located on the main street, it shifted operations to its current backstreet location in recent years, no longer selling vehicles—for now.

“We’re working on getting a dealer licence again,” Jenna says. “Once that’s sorted, we’ll get cars back here and really push that side of the business.”

Until then, their focus is clear: top-tier Ford servicing, warranty repairs, and spare parts—backed by a national brand and delivered with small-town familiarity.

And when it comes to brand strength, few names in the automotive world are punching harder than Ford right now. “The Ford Ranger isn’t just the top-selling 4WD—it’s the top-selling vehicle in Australia 2 years running.” The latest model, designed and engineered in Australia, is a source of pride for Jenna and her team, who see first-hand the quality and demand behind the badge.

Still, for all the talk of cutting-edge technology and national success, Carmichael Ford’s real advantage is its people. Jenna credits the culture—relaxed, resilient, and team-oriented—as a major reason customers keep coming back. “We know our customers. We remember their names. They know us. There’s trust there.”

The team includes veteran technician Malcolm White, who recently clocked up 60 years with the Ford Dealership in Ayr. “He started here very young,” Jenna says. “He’s still here, and he’s a massive support to me. Just an incredible asset to our company.”

Originally from the region, Jenna’s completed her apprenticehip in Bowen but returned to Ayr in pursuit of a sea change—and now plays a vital role in connecting Ford’s global legacy with the day-to-day needs of her local community.

Her message to the people of the Burdekin is simple: “We’re here, and we’re open. Whether it’s servicing, warranty repairs, or parts—we’re ready to help.”

Although no longer on the main drag, with Jenna at the wheel and Malcolm in the engine bay, Carmichael Ford is right where it belongs—grounded in the community, driven by passion, and proudly Ford

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Carmichael Ford—a powerhouse of automotive knowledge and expertise is located on Queen Street. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Neighbourhood Centre Week is a nationwide initiative held annually in May to celebrate the vital role and impact of local Neighbourhood and Community Centres.
This year, the theme for Queensland is ‘The heart of our community’.
From the 12th to 18th May, Neighbourhood Centres celebrated in various ways, from community meals to community murals. The week united communities across Queensland by connecting people in a statewide celebration while saying thank you and encouraging Queenslanders to celebrate the amazing work of Neighbourhood Centres. Centres have been on the frontline, supporting their communities through everything from cost–of–living challenges to natural disasters.  Visit the Neighbourhood Centre Week website to find out more: www.neighbourhoodcentreweek.com

The Burdekin Community Association Inc is proud to be one of the 150+ Neighbourhood Centres across Queensland supporting communities every day.
The BCA Support Centre is your local go-to in the Burdekin!
Whether it’s aged care, disability support, emergency food relief, domestic and family violence services, homelessness, social and exercise activities, information, advice or referral about issues or community services or just someone to chat with, we’re here for you.  We also host visiting community services and offer room hire!
Pop in and meet our amazing team.

Connect with the Burdekin Community Association Inc here:
BCA Support Centre – 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744.
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health – 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711.
Community Information Centre – 119 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 7633.

https://www.facebook.com/bca1975
www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month – May 2025

Theme:  Take a positive action today to build a safer Queensland

Prevention starts with all of us.
#DFVPM2025  #endDFV  #TakePositiveAction

The Burdekin Domestic and Family Abuse Network invites all community members and visitors to the Burdekin to stand together against Domestic and Family Violence.

Join us in raising awareness and promoting safety in our region.

Burdekin Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Walk
Saturday 24th May 2025
8:30am
Ayr Anzac Park (near the Rotunda), 122-136 Macmillan Street, Ayr
Free sausage sizzle, information and activities for children

Together, we can take meaningful action to prevent violence and support a safety, more respectful community.  Everyday Queenslanders can make a difference in stopping violence before it starts.

#WearPurpleFridays throughout May to show your support.  Let’s walk together for change.

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As the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival draws near, two standout events promise to deliver unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors: the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships (AHCCC) and the iconic First Fire.

For long-time competitor and local grower Mark Vass, the championships are about more than just sharp knives and speed.

“It’s good tradition,” he says. “We have all these flashy machines now that do everything, so it's good to go back and get a taste of how hard it was.”

The event, held at Home Hill Showgrounds, pits men and women against rows of green cane stalks in a test of technique, timing and toughness. Competitors are judged not only on speed, but on the quality of their cut—something Mark learned quickly in his early days.

“I can remember when I first did it—I would’ve been around 22, in my peak physical condition, and went in there just to get absolutely dusted by 70 year olds,” he exclaimed. “It's all about their technique.”

But before the cane falls, the fire rises. The First Fire event—held in the same paddock the night before the championships—marks the start of the crushing season.

“It’s a Burdekin icon, burning the sugarcane. We’re one of the only places in the country that still does it,” says Vass.

The fire lights up the paddock with an intensity that’s hard to ignore—crackling heat, falling ash, and flames licking high into the night sky.

“It roars,” says Vass. “The flames could potentially go two stories high.”

Beyond the visuals, the event holds deep meaning for older generations.

“You see the joy on their faces,” Mark says. “There are still a lot of people around here who cut cane by hand, so seeing the tradition kept alive—it means a lot to them.”

The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will be held at the Home Hill Showgrounds from 30-31 May. Book your tickets now at: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au

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What: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
When: 30-31 May
Where: Home Hill Showgrounds

For long-time competitor and local grower Mark Vass, the championships are about more than just sharp knives and speed. Photo Supplied

Unlike the weather, event season in the Burdekin is just beginning to warm up, and we were back with another banger this weekend with the Burdekin Growers Race Day.

I’ll be honest—coming into it, I just wanted to get in, get the photos, and get out, as I was feeling a bit off the pace for reasons that definitely didn’t involve my antics the night before… But as I approached the gates, seeing thousands of people milling around in full swing, I knew that wasn’t gonna be the case.

What an event. From the extravagant outfits to the atmospheric cheers and jeers of the punters that either racked up new gambling debts or barely chipped away at their existing ones—this sure was a warm welcome to the country racing scene for me.

I realised that as I paced the grounds, back and forth, looking for some groups to photograph, that I had somewhat of an epiphany: maybe I’ve got a bit of country in me after all!

Because in my unseasoned opinion, it’s events like these that typify country life—and I loved it. Yes, I understand that races happen all over the country, and yes, some of them attract larger crowds—believe me, I’ve been to the Royal Randwick on a busy Saturday.

But it’s not about the amount of people in attendance—it’s more about the makeup of the crowd, if you will. Because in the city, you can feel anonymous in a sea of thousands. Here, it felt like everyone there either knew each other, used to know each other, or would by the end of the day.

And I loved being a part of that.

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Plantation Park came alive on Sunday for the 16th annual Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, drawing a strong crowd for a day of fun, fundraising and floating plastic ducks.

Hundreds lined the creek bank to cheer on the rubber competitors, with one lucky duck taking out the $1000 top prize and the coveted 2025 Quack Cup.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox joined locals in enjoying the festivities, which included food stalls, kids’ activities and live tunes from the Burdekin Brass Band.

The costume contests saw ducks and humans alike dressed to impress, with prizes awarded for standout style.

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Ayr, a total of 320 ducks were sold, generating around $16,000. Expenses will be deducted before the remaining funds are handed over tothe Burdekin Woodcrafts Association and the Burdekin Men’s Shed—two local groups doing vital community work.

With good weather, great company, and plenty of laughs, it was another memorable outing for this beloved Burdekin tradition.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Councillor John Furnell
Colourful attendees brought cheer to this fun-loving event
Photos supplied  

John Lindley donning his best duck outfit
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Ayr Rotary Club
Burdekin Brass Band treating the crowd to some live tunes
Ayr State High School volunteers, who worked tirelessly throughout the morning

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Burdekin Growers Race Day Delivers Again

The Burdekin Growers Race Day lived up to its reputation as the region’s premier 18+ social event on Saturday, May 17, delivering a mix of racing, fashion, and community celebration under perfect autumn skies.

Thousands flocked to the track for the annual event, as the vibration of hooves denting the manicured grass course signalled the start of a six-race program showcasing top local talent.

Race Day Gallops To Success!

When punters weren’t engrossed in the happenings on the track at the Burdekin Growers Race Day, their attention was turned to Fashion on the Field—a colourful showcase of the most stylish racegoers.

Punters also tried their luck with mega prize draws and super bets. Giveaways ensured that all racegoers left as winners—regardless of their luck on the course—with every attendee leaving with a box of fresh, locally grown fruit and vegetables, celebrating the region’s infamous agricultural roots.

With beer, betting and bloody good weather from the first race through to the last, attendees were treated to a perfect day of country racing at its finest.

As the sun began to set over the beautiful Burdekin landscape, the party kicked into gear with live music and entertainment that kept the crowd dancing well into the night, wrapping up an Raceday that will live long in the memory of those in attendance.

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/yo52nt58

The Burdekin took centre stage on national television last week as The Today Show brought its live weather broadcast to the region as part of a week-long Townsville North Queensland showcase.

On Tuesday, May 14, viewers across the country woke up to the sights and sounds of the Burdekin, with weatherman Tim Davies broadcasting live from the Burdekin Theatre forecourt between 5:30am and 9:00am.

Locals turned out in force to be part of the action, with behind-the-scenes fun, community spirit, and plenty of caffeine-fuelled energy—Migoo “The Croffle House” was on-site serving up coffee and breakfast treats to early risers, while the crew captured the essence of what makes the region so unique.

The broadcast featured students from a number of local schools participating in the Burdekin’s Sweetest School Competition—a hands-on learning program for local schools in the Burdekin, which will see the school with the best plantation be awarded $1,000 and a celebratory trophy at the infamous Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.

The Burdekin’s moment in the spotlight was part of The Today Show’s tour of North Queensland, which also included stops in Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Magnetic Island, and Townsville—shining a national spotlight on the people, places, and stories that make the region so special.

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Today Show weatherman Tim Davies (centre) with Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci (left) and John Furnell (right)

The Today Show brought its live weather broadcast to the region as part of a week-long Townsville North Queensland showcase. Photo supplied

School children came along to experience being on live TV

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Well, the 2025 crushing season is about to start. I am really hoping we can have a good run this year. Wouldn’t it be nice to have it all crushed before December.

At Council, we are still deep in budget discussions. After the work we have done to date, I am pretty confident we will be able to deliver a budget that is not only responsible but also ensures we meet the community's wants and needs.

A few new initiatives have been started, led by our Executive Leadership Team and councillors. A new Asset Management Steering Committee and Fleet Management Steering Committee have been created. These committees will help bring together key people from different departments.

The purpose is to provide strategic guidance, effectively ensuring we can make the best decisions when it comes to council assets. Councillor Musumeci and myself are the elected representatives on these committees.

Did you all watch the Today Show last Wednesday? I really hope no one missed out on seeing our Deputy Mayor trying to convince Australia that he could keep up with the Greek Dancers.

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Well, it’s not every day we get to showcase our region to a national audience, and I couldn’t be prouder. From our vibrant community spirit to our incredible local produce, the Burdekin truly has something special. How great was it to show the rest of Australia on the TODAY show when the weather team come to town!

Adding even more fun to the visit was the Burdekin’s Sweetest School Competition contestants, where local students brought in their homegrown sugarcane and proudly displayed their agricultural skills. It was a great way to involve our schools, celebrate the next generation, and honour the industry that’s at the heart of our community.

This Sunday, I’ll be travelling to Townsville with our CEO to meet with Queensland State Ministers as part of the upcoming Cabinet visit. This is a vital opportunity for us to present the Burdekin’s needs directly to decision-makers and ensure our community’s priorities are front and centre. I look forward to advocating on behalf of our residents.

And of course – we are now gearing up for one of the biggest events on our calendar, the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival on Friday 30 and Saturday 31 May. It is almost time to celebrate our rich culture, community, and the fiery tradition of the First Fire. I hope to see you there as we showcase the best of the Burdekin.

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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Roads, Rucks And Recovery

Norm Bethel has lived enough lives for a dozen men. Now in his eighties and calling the Burdekin home, the esteemed New Zealander’s journey has taken him from coaching rugby legends, to long-haul trucking, to miraculously surviving a horror crash that nearly took it all away.

Born across the ditch, Norm grew up between New Zealand’s North and South Islands in a country where “rugby is a passion, not a pastime.” He wasn’t just a fan of the game—he shaped it, mentoring young players who’d go on to become All Blacks. Among them was the late, great Jonah Lomu, a global superstar of the sport. “He used to stay at my house,” Norm says. “I coached him as a teenager. He was something special.”

At 20, in 1967, Norm packed up and crossed the Tasman for one simple reason: “Money. More opportunity.” He started in Darwin, hauling freight down dirt roads all the way to Melbourne. “Three-week round trips. Slept on the roof of the truck. That’s how it was,” he recalls. “Got ripped off early. Learnt quick.”

Norm then moved into meat-works—a job that took him all over the country—working hard by day, partying just as hard by night. “Every night. Wherever you were,” he laughs. “You had to have fun.”

A born entrepreneur, Norm eventually started running his own businesses—transport, construction, development—splitting time between Australia and New Zealand. But in the mid-80s, a health scare nearly ended it all. Two days before a marathon, he went to the doctor for flu meds. “I never left the surgery. Ambulance took me straight out. My heart was about to explode.”

Norm became the first person in the southern hemisphere to receive a plastic aorta. Three months later, he ran another marathon. “Three hours, ten minutes. I was fit.”

After returning to Australia, Norm took on major contracts—including at Abbot Point near Bowen. He fell in love with the area and stuck around, becoming president of the local bowls club. But tragedy struck again. On his way to a meeting, Norm fell asleep at the wheel and crashed at full speed, his car launching off the Bruce Highway and under a bridge.

“I woke up in Townsville Hospital. Broken back. Everything broken. They said I’d never walk again.”

But Norm fought his way back. From full-body casts to walkers, to recovery. “Worked my way through it,” he says. He retired at 75.

These days, you’ll find him at the Home Hill Bowls Club, flipping sausages and laughing with the regulars. “No tension. No egos. Just a good place to be,” he says. He’s come to love the Burdekin’s community spirit. “People say g’day. Shops are busy. They support each other here. It’s a proper town.”

After a lifetime of near-misses, milestones, and marathons, Norm Bethel is still standing—a valuable member of the Burdekin community he now calls home.

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After a lifetime of near-misses, milestones, and marathons, Norm Bethel is still standing—a valuable member of the Burdekin community he now calls home. Photo source: Jacob Casha

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