Zonta Club Burdekin Inc (Zonta) and the Burdekin Domestic and Family Abuse Prevention Network (BDFAPN), BCA, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Police and Burdekin Shire Council are coming together to mark the campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, with a community vigil at the Burdekin Theatre forecourt on Monday, 25 November 2025.

The16 Days of Activism, commencing on 25 November, is a global campaign that unites individuals and organisations worldwide in calling for the prevention and elimination of gender-based violence in all its forms.

As part of this campaign, Zonta and the BDFAPN BCA, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Police, Burdekin Shire Council will be hosting a series of local initiatives in the lead-up to the vigil, including sharing powerful first-hand stories, awareness-driving activities, and social media campaigns designed to spark conversation and drive change.

The vigil at the Burdekin Theatre will be held in remembrance for those who have lost their lives as a result of gender-based violence, while also standing in solidarity with survivors and their families.

Zonta’s President, Isabel Stubbs, says that this vigil is an opportunity for our community to come together, reflect, and take a stand against violence.

"We want to do our part in the community by showing our support and helping raise awareness. By doing so, we can help create a culture of respect and safety for all," she said.

"This vigil is a time for reverence, remembering, and determination. We honour the survivors, light candles for the departed, and renew our commitment to building safer communities."

The event is open to all members of the community. We encourage all to attend and show their support.

Event details
Date: Monday, 25 November 2025
Time: 7pm
Location: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, 161 Queen Street, AYR

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The Vigil Committee. Photo supplied

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BCA’s Accredited Exercise Physiology Program has been specifically designed to help individuals of all ages. Sessions are delivered from our fully equipped and friendly Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) supervise all AEP Program participants and provide best practice exercise prescription to ensure that everyone performs exercises that are safe and appropriate for their goals and health conditions. Sessions are delivered one-on-one and face to face.

Our AEPs specialise in helping people to manage a chronic disease or injury, provide post-surgery rehabilitation support, recover from a cardiac or cancer event, improve strength and mobility, reduce cholesterol, manage or improve arthritis and joint pain, and maintain or reduce body weight.

There are several ways you may be able to access AEP Program services, including through a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM), the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) for Gold and White card holders, the Home Care Packages Program (HCP), the Support at Home Program (SaH) which is expected to commence on 1 November 2025, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a Private Health Fund, or by paying a private fee for service.

If you are accessing the program through a CDM or DVA, please speak with your GP. For Aged Care Packages or NDIS, please speak with your service provider or contact BCRH if you are self-managing your Package or Plan. For Private Health Fund enquiries, please speak with your Fund, and for private fee-for-service options, please contact BCRH directly.

For information, please contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (BCRH) located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

P: 4783 2711
E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
F: www.facebook.com/bca1975

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran

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A couple of weeks ago, I was driving south down Queen Street, debating whether I felt more like pizza or Maccas. That’s when I noticed sirens and a crowd gathered outside the Queens Hotel, and, like clockwork, my journalistic instincts kicked in. I slammed a U-turn and headed straight for the scene, sensing story potential—and my instincts were right, though not in the way I expected.

I parked and wove through the crowd, asking a few people what all the fuss was about. Nobody seemed to know for sure, but i heard murmurs of a small kitchen fire. Just as I was about to give up, I spotted someone unmistakable: Karrie Webb. Burdekin local. Global legend. I’d been trying to reach her for a story over social media for months, without success. This time, though, no spam inbox stood in my way.

I greeted her, and we got to chatting. I explained the situation and floated the idea of featuring her in my Burdekin to Big Time series, which she happily agreed to. When the interview rolled around, she was a fantastic subject—decades of experience with the media clearly showed. We had a wonderfully candid conversation about her journey to the top and the role our beloved Burdekin played along the way.

Stay tuned for the story - we'll be running it in the paper next week!

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The treasured generational entrepreneurial spirit of the McCathie family has been nationally recognised following the nomination of McCathies Furniture Plus in the 2025 Australia’s Favourite Family Business Competition.

Just over 50 years ago, Jack and Milly McCathie founded the business in the heart of the Burdekin Shire, and half a century later, the business continues to operate with the same trustworthy, family values as it did in 1974. John and Lyndy McCathie joined the family business in 1978 where John worked alongside his parents to introduce new furniture pieces and help relocate the business to its current location at 262 Queen Street, Ayr.

In 2013, John and Lyndy’s daughter, Kari and her husband Rob Ravizza joined the family business, becoming the third generation to own and operate McCathies Furniture Plus. More recently, Kari and Rob’s son, Jye Ravizza, has taken up a casual role in the business, excitingly becoming the fourth generation to proudly wear the McCathies logo.

“We’re extremely proud of our small business to be recognised and to be a finalist,” explained Lyndy.

Having now been named a finalist in the competition, Kari believes it’s more than just an achievement, it’s a celebration of their shared history, hard work, and the enduring values that have been passed down through generations.

“Coming from a teaching background rather than a business one, I was anxious at first taking over the family business – worried I might be the generation to end what my grandparents, Jack and Milly, and my parents John and Lyndy worked so hard to build,” shared Kari.

“Being shortlisted feels like a real acknowledgement that I can do this – that I’m capable of continuing our family legacy with the same honesty, kindness and community mindedness that have always defined McCathies Furniture Plus - for my family and me, it’s a moment of pride, gratitude and reassurance that values we’ve carried forward still matter and make a difference.”

To vote for McCathies Furniture Plus in the 2025 Australia’s Favourite Family Business Competition, visit businessbuilders.com.au/australias-favourite-family-business-2025.

“To have been nominated is an incredible honour and a very proud moment for our family and team and to be recognised among so many wonderful family businesses across Australia is truly special,” said Kari.

“McCathies Furniture Plus has always been built on family values – honesty, integrity and community, so being shortlisted feels like a celebration of all the hard work, heart and generations that have gone into our business.  It’s also a reminder of how lucky we are to have the ongoing support of our loyal customers and our local community.  We wouldn’t be here without them!”

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Three generations; Lyndy McCathie, Kari Ravizza, Rob Ravizza, John McCathie – holding a photo of Milly, Jack McCathie and also Murphy the dog. Photo supplied

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The spirit of service was front and centre over the weekend as Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Burdekin volunteers were recognised as founding members of the new statewide organisation.

In a ceremony attended by Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Mayor Cr Pierina Dalle Cort, emergency services colleagues, and proud families, the crew received their official MRQ Citations—along with commemorative coins struck to honour the unit’s decades-long legacy.

From its early days as Air Sea Rescue to Volunteer Marine Rescue and now MRQ, the Burdekin team has been a constant presence on local waters, answering the call whenever lives are at risk.

The formation of MRQ, which unites the Volunteer Marine Rescue and Australian Volunteer Coast Guard under one banner, marks a new era for marine safety in Queensland. Despite the change, the mission remains the same—saving lives at sea.

When the full transition wraps up in 2025, around 2,700 volunteers across 47 units will respond to 4,000 activations a year under MRQ, operating as part of the Queensland Police Service.

For the Burdekin crew, the occasion was a salute to history, mateship, and unwavering service.

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While the Burdekin has not seen a dramatic increase in housing construction, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, believes a recently announced government initiative offers numerous advantages for the construction industry across the state and closer to home.

An election commitment, the Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program will deliver wage subsidies to small businesses in the construction sector that employ apprentices.

“A reduction in tradespeople in the construction industry is both a major challenge in addressing housing issues and for families and rental property managers,” Mr Last said. “Regardless of whether it’s a minor repair or a major project, we all know that usually you have to join the queue when it comes to getting a quote, let alone getting work underway.”

“Trades in the construction industry are rewarding careers and, as a government, we want to make it as easy as possible for local small businesses to hire apprentices. Not only does that address current issues, but local apprentices are more likely to stay in the area and provide services for years to come.”

“We recognise that taking on an apprentice represents a financial commitment for small business, especially when the apprentice is participating in off-site training like TAFE. Just over $10,000 per apprentice is available for construction businesses employing apprentices aged under 21 and, for apprentices over 21, the subsidy is almost $14,000.”

Mr Last said the range of trades that were eligible for the subsidy was comprehensive but stressed that support was limited to the first 2,000 eligible registered apprentices employed by businesses with fewer than 20 employees.

“The commitment made by a small business that hires an apprentice is far larger in proportion than it is for a large construction company.”

“The message is that if you are an apprentice, or employ an apprentice, in the construction, plumbing, engineering or electrical fields you need to apply for this funding as soon as possible. Regardless of whether the apprenticeship is full-time, part-time or school-based, if the apprentice commenced after July 1st in a construction related trade, they are eligible.”

“Fixing the housing shortage will take a multi-faceted approach in order to get the right results. That’s why we have taken steps to assist with making land available, provided financial assistance for headworks and why we are now helping to boost apprentice numbers.”

“We can’t just make the construction of new dwellings the sole focus. If people aren’t happy in their current home, or can’t live there due to needing repairs, you end up with more people waiting on new homes.”

“Just as it has with other issues, the government’s focus is on finding practical ways to address what has become a statewide issue."

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill crushed out on the weekend, making it the first
sugar factory in Australia to finish the 2025 season.

The last bins of cane were tipped at Kalamia Mill in the Burdekin just after 1am Saturday (25
October) and the last batch of raw sugar went up the belt in the early hours of Sunday
morning.

General Manager Operations James Wallace said it was great to see one of Wilmar’s
factories take line honours for the 2025 season.

“The start and finish of the annual sugar production season are important milestones for all
of the cane-growing communities in Queensland and New South Wales,” he said.

“It’s not often you get to be first past the post, so we’re really pleased that one of our eight
factories was the first in the industry to crush out for 2025.”

Mr Wallace said two more of Wilmar’s factories – Invicta Mill in the Burdekin and Proserpine
Mill in the Whitsundays – were on track to finish in the next few days.

“We’re in a much better position than we were last year, due to improved factory
performance and fewer rain disruptions,” Mr Wallace said.

“Based on our current crop estimates and no significant downtime from unplanned factory
stops or wet weather, we’re expecting all of our sites to be finished the season by the end of
November.”

Mr Wallace said the key focus was on safely wrapping up the final weeks of the season.

There are currently 21 operational sugar mills in Queensland and New South Wales. Wilmar
Sugar and Renewables owns eight of these factories, located in Ingham, the Burdekin,
Proserpine and Sarina.

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Kalamia Mill was the first in the Australian industry to crush out for
2025.

Kalamia Mill Operations Coordinator Mark Nicolaides watches the last bins go through the tippler for the 2025 season.

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Home Hill marathoner Karin Thorburn has added another remarkable milestone to her already record-breaking career, taking out the Sporting Excellence Award at the 2025 North Queensland Sportstar Awards in Townsville on Saturday night.

The accolade recognised Thorburn’s extraordinary feat as the first Australian to complete more than 500 official marathons, alongside her tireless efforts to grow the sport across North Queensland.

“I couldn’t believe it [when i heard my name called]... I was in complete shock,” she laughed. “When you’re surrounded by so many fantastic athletes, you don’t expect to win. I’m just a runner doing what I love to do.”

For more than 26 years, Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running. She started at age 33, after raising her three children, looking for something that was truly her own. Since then, her passion has taken her around the world, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the official title of Six Star Finisher.

Along the way, she has continued to push boundaries, setting personal milestones and inspiring new runners with her dedication, all while balancing her work at Regis Aged Care Centre in Home Hill, where her residents remain some of her biggest supporters.

“I think when they see this, they’ll be so chuffed and proud,” she said.

Originally from Sydney, Thorburn and her husband Tim settled in the Burdekin just over a year ago, embracing the region’s slower pace and strong community spirit. They’re regulars at Plantation Parkrun in Ayr and also help to organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville—an event that’s attracted runners from across the world and even earned a Guinness World Record.

As she prepares to fly out this week for the New York Marathon, Thorburn remains focused on the simple motivation that started it all.

“It just comes back to passion,” she said. “While I’m healthy and able, I’ll keep running marathons around the world, and helping others start their own journey.”

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Runners Rise to the Challenge at Mount Inkerman

The sun had barely risen on Saturday, October 25, when a group of determined locals gathered at the base of Mount Inkerman for this year’s King and Queen of the Hill event. Starting at 6am, runners and walkers of all ages — along with a couple of enthusiastic dogs — took on the steady climb up the mountain road before making their way back down the goat track to the finish.

The event drew a good turnout despite the early start, with a few supporters cheering from the side as participants tackled the course. Feed Me Food was on hand providing much-needed coffee and breakfast for runners and spectators alike. Helping to keep the event running smoothly were this year’s Harvest Festival Queens — Ellie Woods, Aaliyah Gibson, and Eden Betteridge — who took on the important role of timekeepers for each category.

Kings and Queens Conquer the Mountain

This year’s results saw some excellent efforts across all age groups.

Under 12 Girls 1st – Taylor Chapman (23:22) 2nd – Keely Watson (23:28) 3rd – Katie Bapty (28:55)

Under 12 Boys 1st – Jardie Russell (21:11) 2nd – Connor Linton (26:10) 3rd – Brycene (26:29)

13–16 Girls 1st – Alexis Howell (21:23)

13–16 Boys 1st – Sonny O’Rourke (18:21) 2nd – Harley Woodwood (19:35) 3rd – Angus Watson (20:56)

17–35 Ladies 1st – Jennifer Fotinos (20:58) 2nd – Kathi Vass (23:58) 3rd – Carly Kies (24:34)

17–35 Men 1st – Aaron Bathis (14:46) 2nd – Brendon Maltby (16:03) 3rd – Toby Wilson (17:15)

35+ Ladies 1st – Vicki O’Brien (26:50) 2nd – Rebecca Watson (27:32) 3rd – Carolyn Rossgregor (30:01)

35+ Men 1st – Robert Tanner (17:48) 2nd – Jason Maltby (20:19) 3rd – Wal Archibald (21:21)

The fastest male on the day was Aaron Bathis with a remarkable time of 14 minutes and 46 seconds, while the fastest female was Jennifer Fotinos, finishing in 20 minutes and 58 seconds. Both times improved on last year’s records of 16:00 for the men and 22:15 for the women.

The Home Hill Harvest Festival committee thanked everyone who took part, noting the strong community spirit and sportsmanship on display. With stunning views, good company, and plenty of determination, the early morning event once again proved to be a highlight of the festival calendar.

A big thank you goes out to all our sponsors for their ongoing support, and especially to Mark Watson from Alliance Pharmacy in Home Hill, who has been an avid supporter of the King and Queen of the Hill for many years.

Article by Carlene Muilwyk

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Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories & Photography

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Over the past week I had the pleasure of attending the Local Government Annual Conference with Cr John Furnell, Cr Fina Vasta and CEO Matthew Magin, where Matthew and I presented on Council’s innovative Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility. The presentation attracted strong interest from other councils, many of whom are eager to understand how they could replicate this sustainable initiative within their own communities.

I’m also proud to share that Council received a Risk Excellence Award, recognising our commitment to proactive and responsible governance.

On Saturday, I attended a milestone event for our local volunteers - Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Burdekin officially transitioned to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ). It was wonderful to celebrate this achievement and acknowledge the dedicated volunteers who have contributed so much over the past 54 years.

Earlier this week, we welcomed Regional Development Australia (RDA) to the Council Chambers. Their visit included a tour of the Macroalgae Facility and the Ayr Industrial Estate, highlighting opportunities for future regional collaboration and growth.

And finally, today marks an event I always look forward to - the Seniors Expo and Luncheon. This event is a celebration of our vibrant senior community, bringing people together to connect, share stories, and enjoy a day of entertainment and appreciation.

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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My how the year has flown. It has been almost two years since I was elected Councillor and believe it or not, there is more to the Burdekin than just Ayr. Without Divisions, some areas do not receive fair and equal representation and I consider it my job to represent the whole of the Burdekin Shire. Despite this, there are still those who think I advocate more for Clare, Millaroo and Dalbeg (as I live in Clare) and who have verbalised this to others. Let me assure you that this is not the case as I am vocal about the condition of our roads right across the Shire as well as numerous other issues. If you have any concerns don’t hesitate to reach out to me. My contact details are on Council’s website.

The Brandon Bowls Club recently celebrated their 70 Year anniversary. I was fortunate enough to attend their celebrations and witness firsthand the jovial competitiveness of the members. Having attempted to play bowls many years ago, let me tell you, it’s not as easy as it looks. There is definitely a high level of skill and fitness involved. Congratulations to the organisers for a fun-filled afternoon.

Congratulations also to the Burdekin Unit SES who celebrate their 50-year milestone this year. As we once again move towards our disaster season, please remember to thank the men and women involved in this incredible organization for the tireless work they continue to do for the Burdekin during disaster events and all throughout the year. Your efforts are appreciated more than you know.

The Home Hill Harvest Festival events are in full swing and will culminate with the Grand Parade and Street Party on November 8. This is always a wonderful, family friendly afternoon with lots of entertainment and food thanks to the dedicated committee and organisers who volunteer their services. The Sweet FM markets will also be on the morning of the 8th, from 8am – 1pm on the front lawn of the old Courthouse in Home Hill. Tell your friends and head along.

More congratulations, this time to Alf Musumeci, President Home Hill Rotary and Mrs Nola Nendick, President Ayr-Home Hill Lions who were both presented with Honorary Memberships to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce recently. Their longstanding commitment to the Burdekin Shire has not gone unnoticed.

The Burdekin is home to a wonderful community and in recent times, we have lost some of the people within our community. I’d like to offer my thoughts and prayers to their families; may God Bless you and comfort you all.

Stay safe and enjoy all that our Shire has to offer.

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Burdekin residents and families living interstate or overseas will now have easier access to cemetery information following upgrades to the Shire Council’s cemetery management system, OpusXenta.

The enhancements allow users to access cemetery records directly from smartphones and include digital maps, interactive search functions, and progressively uploaded images of headstones. This means relatives can view memorials remotely, offering comfort and connection even from afar.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the improvements will provide meaningful benefits to the community.
“Council’s cemetery management system already provides interactive maps and a user-friendly search function, helping residents locate precise burial sites,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “These new enhancements mean people can now access the system directly from their smartphones, making it more convenient than ever to find information on the go."

The system also continues to support council staff by streamlining cemetery administration, aiding long-term planning, and extending the life of cemetery facilities.

For further information, residents can contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 or visit burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Families can now access Burdekin Shire’s upgraded cemetery management system, OpusXenta, on smartphones, with interactive maps and headstone images helping loved ones connect from near or far. Photo source: Visit Burdekin

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It’s been quite a while since the Centre has contributed an article for the paper, and we have to say, we’ve really missed it! We're truly grateful for the chance to connect with everyone in this way.

What started three months ago as an initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness has blossomed into a lively gathering filled with stories and connections. Maddy Darley, the Centre’s Community Development Officer, has been instrumental in holding space for a monthly Community Cuppa morning. These gatherings are relaxed and informal, with no specific agenda other than simply enjoying each other’s company.

Maddy shares, “I’m so proud to be part of this community effort. It’s incredible to see how a simple idea has evolved into something truly special, nurtured by everyone’s stories and contributions. Each person adds their unique touch, and it’s developing in such a positive direction!”

During each Cuppa morning, participants have uncovered deeper connections than they initially expected. We've discovered mutual ties, shared interests, and even found out that some grew up just around the corner from one another. The stories exchanged have been incredibly enriching, and it’s exciting to think about what surprises await us next time!

As a Neighbourhood Centre rooted in community development, these Cuppa mornings have become a fantastic opportunity to listen to community members about what matters most to them.

Be sure to check out the Centre’s Facebook page or stop by to see when the next session is scheduled. There are no pressures to attend every time; if you can make it, we’d love to welcome you!

Until next time,

The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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What started three months ago as an initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness has blossomed into a lively gathering filled with stories and connections.

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Recently, we released the first edition of this season’s comparative analysis for growers. This year’s analysis takes a slightly different focus, offering valuable insights into the strategies growers use to manage their GEI price exposure.

Typically, growers who choose to market with Wilmar Grower Marketing use the Target Price and GMPRS pricing mechanisms, which give them maximum control over their final price outcomes. This year’s report analyses the variation in the weighted GEI Sugar price by examining how different proportions are allocated across these mechanisms. With the revamped Managed Pool Plus (MPP), growers now have an additional choice within the committed cane category. As at the end of September, the analysis indicates that the greater the GEI Sugar exposure allocated to the MPP, the higher the weighted price overall.

The report also compares pricing mechanisms between marketers. As at 29 September, there was a clear benefit in marketing your GEI sugar tonnes through Wilmar across most pricing strategies employed. It’s important to note that it is still early in the season, and as pools are only partially hedged, the outright price and marketer differentials could shift significantly as the pricing period progresses.

Growers have a range of options to manage their GEI sugar pricing. Wilmar Grower Marketing offers a suite of products that allows you to take control of your own pricing or have Wilmar manage your exposure. You can lock in prices up to three years forward to gain income certainty or commit to pools that allow your GEI price to move with the market over time.

This flexibility enables you to tailor a pricing strategy that suits your individual circumstances and risk appetite. The Wilmar Grower Marketing team can help you understand how each mechanism works and provide general guidance on price risk management principles.

With the 2026 season nomination deadline fast approaching, this is the final opportunity for growers to choose Wilmar Grower Marketing.

It is important to note that you can make or change your nomination up until this date. Any proportion of your GEI sugar that isn’t priced can be moved – you aren’t locked in.

Nominations close on 31 October, so now is the time to review your options and decide on the marketing partner that best aligns with your business goals.

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View all of the results in the latest Pool Performance and Comparative Analysis report for the 2025 season.

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Combined Rotary Clubs of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr are doing it again!

BUSINESSES from across Queensland are already making plans to be part of the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day on 29-30 May 2026.

With a change of venue to the Townsville Show Grounds and more suitable dates than the previous event, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is gearing up to be a cracker event.

With a few new faces on the 2026 Committee, combined with some seasoned committee members, these volunteers are working with exhibitors and stakeholders to ensure that the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be a successful event showcasing the best of North Queensland. One on the calendar not to miss.

All proceeds from this event are farmed back into the communities of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr.

We are happy to announce that Ian Gough from Gough Plastics and Justin Minuti from TRACPOWER have shown their support to the community, once again, by partnering with Rotary for this event.

The Battle Family from Nortrans have thrown their support behind the event as well, coming on board as a major sponsor.

From the latest in farming technology to time-honoured traditions, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be about sharing knowledge, strengthening connections, and honouring the hardworking hands that shape our fields and our future.

There will be a broader range of exhibitors, including but not limited to technology, lifestyle interests, machinery for the farm and the everyday household.

Other exhibitors at the event will include government agencies, health services, financial services, community support organisations, job training and secondary and tertiary education providers from across North Queensland.

Interested exhibitors can secure their site on the website nqfieldday.com.au

Online ticket purchases will once again be available, and there will be regular prize draws for those who have pre-purchased tickets. Mark it on your calendar; book your exhibitor's site and/or pre-purchase your tickets and follow our updates on Facebook.

“Let’s Dig In, Gear Up and Grow Together.”

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