Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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A wave of nostalgia has swept through the community with the return of the iconic vessel Distraction to the Burdekin Shire, rekindling memories of an ambitious backyard build that became part of local maritime history.
The mighty catamaran was originally constructed over nearly four years, with work beginning in 1994 and culminating in a celebratory launch in December of 1997. The project was led by local boatbuilder Chris Cannavan, alongside his sons Lee and Murray Cannavan, with frequent help from friends.
The vessel’s name, Distraction, was chosen with a smile. The build proved to be a constant diversion from farm work, something Chris often joked about. True to its grassroots beginnings, the design process involved no formal plans. As Chris famously said, “It was a very successful boat build for a toe-in-the-dirt idea,” referring to his habit of sketching concepts in dirt or dust to bring them to life.
The story of Distraction is closely tied to an innovative piece of equipment built a year earlier. In 1993, Chris constructed a custom six-metre press in his shed, using concrete, railway tracks and earth-moving rams, after discovering there were no such facilities north of Brisbane. That press went on to shape several Cannavan-built vessels, including some of the largest ever produced locally.
Among them was Ocean Karma, a 13.8 metre catamaran completed by Lee Cannavan in 2011. Still owned and operated by Lee, the vessel gained international attention after featuring as a water taxi in the 2022 film Ticket to Paradise, starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts.
Other notable builds include Popeye, a 14 metre catamaran named after Chris’s father, Arthur. Remarkably, Chris continues work on the vessel at 80 years old. At 15 metres, however, Distraction remains the largest of the Cannavan-built boats.
In December 2004, Distraction was sold to a resident of Bowen, where it was lovingly maintained as a pride-and-joy vessel for many years.
On 1 February, 2026, the story came full circle when Distraction was purchased back by Lee and Jane Cannavan, returning the vessel to the family and the region where it was born.
The homecoming carries deep sentimental value, not only for the Cannavans but also for residents of the Burdekin who remember the boat and the extraordinary effort behind its construction. With a range of modifications and improvements planned, the family hopes to see Distraction back on the water within the next two years; a fitting next chapter for a vessel that has always been more than just a boat.
Photos curtesy of Jess Cannavan.
Clare State School was awash with red last week as students and staff proudly showed their support for HeartKids by participating in Sweethearts Day, a special event focused on raising awareness and funds for children living with congenital heart disease.
Students arrived dressed in red, symbolising care, kindness and compassion, and took part in a range of meaningful classroom activities. One of the highlights of the day was the creation of vibrant, multicoloured foil hearts, which were proudly displayed around the school. The shimmering hearts served as a visual reminder of the importance of healthy hearts and the strength of children supported by the HeartKids Foundation.
Throughout the day, teachers led age-appropriate discussions to help students understand the role of HeartKids and why fundraising efforts like Sweethearts Day matter. Students learned how the foundation supports children and families affected by heart conditions through advocacy, education and care programs.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to not only be creative, but also to develop empathy and an understanding of how they can make a positive difference in the lives of others," said Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti.
The event encouraged a strong sense of community, with students enthusiastic about contributing to a cause greater than themselves. By combining learning, creativity and generosity, Clare State School demonstrated that even small actions—like wearing red and making a heart—can have a big impact.
Funds raised from Sweethearts Day will go towards supporting the vital work of HeartKids, helping ensure that children with heart conditions and their families continue to receive the care and support they need.
Contributed with thanks to Clare State School
Clare State School was awash with red last week as students and staff proudly showed their support for HeartKids by participating in Sweethearts Day. Photo supplied
An established school with a proud 140-year history, Ayr State School is entering an exciting new chapter, with significant infrastructure upgrades underway to support growing enrolments and enhance learning and play for today’s students.
The project includes a new blue basketball court, a senior playground designed in a dynamic ninja-course style, and four fully refurbished classrooms. While construction is well advanced, the full suite of upgrades is expected to be completed in Term 2, marking an important milestone in the school’s continued growth.
The new basketball court, finished in blue to reflect the school’s colours, will provide students with a vibrant, high-quality space for physical education, organised sport and recreational play. The court is designed to encourage teamwork, resilience and healthy lifestyles, creating a hub of activity and connection throughout the school day.
The senior playground has been designed with older students in mind and takes the form of a ninja-course style play space. Featuring climbing, balancing and movement-based challenges, the playground promotes strength, coordination and problem-solving while encouraging confidence, perseverance and positive risk-taking in a safe and engaging environment. The design supports both physical wellbeing and social connection, recognising the importance of active play for students of all ages.
Inside the school, four refurbished classrooms have been transformed into modern, flexible learning spaces. These upgrades support contemporary teaching practices and allow staff to cater for diverse learning needs through differentiated and collaborative approaches. The refreshed classrooms ensure the school can continue to deliver high-quality education while welcoming an increasing number of students.
Principal Nikki Schell said the upgrades balance respect for the school’s long-standing history with a strong focus on the future.
“For 140 years, our school has been at the heart of this community,” she said.
“These improvements honour that legacy while ensuring we are ready to welcome new families and provide learning environments that reflect our commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and excellence.”
As the project moves toward completion in Term 2, the new facilities represent both a celebration of the past and a confident investment in the next generation of learners.
The project includes four fully refurbished classrooms. Photo supplied
Last week, Ayr State High School (ASHS) celebrated Sweethearts Day, the school’s own take on Valentine’s Day, filling the campus with colour, music and plenty of joy.
Students and staff embraced the spirit of the day as gifts were exchanged, donations were made, and serenades echoed throughout the school grounds. From heartfelt messages to musical performances, the ASHS community came together to share a little extra kindness and fun.
A big thank you was extended to all staff and students who supported the Sweethearts Day stall and helped make the event such a success. Special recognition went to Tiana and her dedicated “band of sweethearts” who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, organising deliveries, running the stall and performing serenades.
The school also acknowledged Mr Dunk for capturing the day as official photographer, along with ASHS School Captain, Ayden Barnett and ASHS School Vice Captain, Charlie Shears, who took on the role of serenading troubadours and brought smiles to many faces.
With hearts well and truly full, Sweethearts Day proved to be a joyful celebration of community spirit at Ayr High.
Photos courtesy of Ayr State High School.
Residents of the Burdekin Shire recently took to social media to voice concerns about the lingering stench that coated the streets of Ayr last week, with all signs pointing to mill mud as the source.
A nutrient-rich byproduct of the sugar cane milling process, mill mud consists of residues left over after sugarcane juice has been clarified and filtered. It is commonly used as a soil conditioner and organic fertiliser to improve soil structure and boost plant growth due to its high nutrient content.
Mill mud has a distinct, often pungent odour, largely because it contains high amounts of organic matter such as bagasse and fibre that begin to decompose, producing a swampy or earthy smell. While the smell can be strong, it is generally considered a normal aspect of the product’s composition.
Wilmar Sugar Australia defines mill mud as a compost or fertiliser byproduct of the sugar extraction process and notes that it is not classified as hazardous under Safe Work Australia criteria. In the past, the company has conducted trials to develop best-practice guidelines for the use of mill mud and mill ash, concluding that mill mud maximises sugarcane yields while minimising the loss of nutrients from farms.
The company also stresses that the product is widely used across the region and is an important contributor to sustainable sugarcane production, despite the occasional odour concerns raised by local residents.
As 2026 gets underway, many Burdekin primary producers are looking ahead with cautious optimism. However, for some, the year has begun under difficult circumstances following Tropical Cyclone Koji and the associated flooding event late last year.
Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Regional Area Manager for North Queensland, Angelo Rigano, said he has spent recent weeks visiting properties across the region to help producers begin their recovery journey.
“Sadly, I know not everyone has had a smooth start to the year,” Mr Rigano said.
“If you’ve been impacted, it’s okay not to be okay, and I strongly encourage anyone who needs support to reach out for help — including mental health services.”
QRIDA is currently administering disaster financial assistance for eligible primary producers affected by the North Queensland Monsoon Trough, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and severe weather from 24 December 2025. The assistance is aimed at helping producers cover clean-up and reinstatement costs and get back on their feet as quickly as possible.
Eligible producers can now apply for low-interest loans and other disaster recovery support through QRIDA, with guidelines and application forms available on the QRIDA website.
Mr Rigano encouraged producers to regularly check the site as assessments continue and new information becomes available.
“As the government gains a clearer understanding of what communities need, additional assistance may be announced,” he said.
To help fast-track recovery applications, QRIDA has also shared five practical steps for producers affected by Cyclone Koji or recent flooding:
In further positive news, the application deadline for Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 has been extended until 14 August 2026.
“This extension gives producers who have faced multiple disaster events more time to complete clean-up and recovery works,” Mr Rigano said.
Early assessments following Cyclone Koji indicate many North Queensland farms — including those in the Burdekin — have avoided significant damage, with encouraging signs emerging across several agricultural sectors heading into 2026.
Mr Rigano said QRIDA remains committed to supporting Burdekin producers, not only through disaster recovery, but also by helping them improve productivity, expand operations and prepare for future droughts.
“I’m looking forward to catching up with more producers across the region in the coming weeks,” he said.
“QRIDA is here to help — whether that’s recovery, growth or planning for what’s ahead.”
For more information or assistance, producers are encouraged to contact QRIDA directly or complete the Department of Primary Industries’ Disaster Impact Survey if they were affected.
Dark storm clouds developing in the Burdekin during property visits over the past month. Photo supplied
They say experience is the best teacher. For Burdekin local and keen traveller Joan Andersen, more than 30 years spent helping visitors around the region has proven exactly that.
After helping establish the Burdekin Tourism Association decades ago, Joan now volunteers at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centre in Ayr, a role she says is equal parts hearing unique stories, learning about North Queensland and beyond, and showcasing what makes the Burdekin special.
“I like meeting new people. I enjoy talking to them, finding where they come from, what they do,” said Joan.
“You're learning just as much as they are from you.”
While many travellers pass straight through the region, Joan sees it as her purpose to encourage them to explore the region.
“A lot of people would bypass us because we’re just a little town. We’re not on the seaside, we’re not a beach resort or anything like that… But we’ve got a lot of hidden gems, and I always enjoy telling people how unique we are.”
But between curious visitors, Joan finds ways to quench her own inquisitiveness.
“I like to take new brochures, skip through them and check what's in there," she said
“There’s so much to learn, not only about Queensland, but the other states as well.”
Council is now encouraging more locals with a passion for the Burdekin to consider joining the Tourism Volunteer team at the Visitor Information Centres in Ayr and Home Hill.
For Joan, the role has provided a flexible and social way to give back to her community while continuing to meet new people and learn about the region.
She believes it would suit anyone who enjoys talking to people and has an interest in local tourism.
“If you’ve got spare time and are looking for something interesting, it’s a great way to learn and expand your enthusiasm for travelling,” she said.
“You help the town, you help the district, and you help the businesses in the town as well. It's much more interesting than sitting and watching your shows on television!”
Residents interested in becoming a volunteer at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centres can contact Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
A heartwarming show of community spirit was on full display in the Burdekin Shire earlier this month, as hundreds of locals banded together to reunite a much-loved dog with his family after more than a week on the run.
Ayr resident Machelle Slatcher raised the alarm on social media on 5 February after her border collie–kelpie cross, Rusty, went missing from Lisa Drive.
“MISSING in Ayr 4807. Border collie x kelpie went missing yesterday from Lisa Drive. Rusty is extremely friendly,” she wrote, sparking an outpouring of support.
What followed was an extraordinary community effort. Hundreds of people shared posts, phoned in sightings and kept watch along roadsides, paddocks and riverbanks, many for a dog they had never met, but were determined to help bring home.
As updates rolled in, Rusty was spotted across several locations, with Machelle regularly posting updates to keep the search going.
“He loves a ball, so he’ll become your best friend immediately,” she wrote.
Despite days passing and sightings becoming less frequent, the community didn’t give up. Then, in the early hours of 13 February, the message everyone had been hoping for arrived.
“STOP LOOKING!!! Rusty is home safe,” Machelle posted.
“I want to thank everyone and I mean everyone, literally half of the Burdekin has been out looking for him. I can’t thank you all enough, people I don’t even know have been contacting me and have been out and about. I can’t successfully put into works how grateful I am. I am so blessed to be living in such a caring community - thank you from the bottom of my heart!”
After eight days and an incredible community-wide effort, Rusty is now safely home, and his family are determined to keep it that way!
“He’s currently soaking up the aircon in the house, and I’m glad he’s stopped making that movie,” Machelle joked.
“GPS tracker is on its way- he’s not going on an eight-day journey ever again!”
CAPTION: Rusty is now home safe and sound. Photo credit: Machelle Slatcher
The countdown is on to the Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum, with the event now just weeks away in the Burdekin and Herbert regions on 3–4 March.
Co-organisers Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Aglantis are urging attendees to register, with limited spots remaining — including only five seats left on the dedicated bus from Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.
“The clock is ticking for next-gen farmers, new-to-industry farmers and anyone else interested in the advances in technology, innovation and systems in the sugarcane sector,” Aglantis event spokesperson Luke Malan said.
As Managing Director of Aglantis and co-organiser of the event, Mr Malan said he was excited to help revive a platform dedicated to promoting the future of farming, with a strong focus on practical application.
"This is about giving our nation’s growers real-world examples; helping them to see and pave the way to what the future of sugarcane farming could look like," Mr Malan said.
The forum has attracted significant backing from industry-leading sponsors, reinforcing a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and profitability of Queensland’s sugar industry.
Mr Malan said the strong industry support had enabled a high-calibre program featuring practical, on-farm demonstrations of automated irrigation and precision agriculture tools.
“Our incredibly supportive sponsors allow the showcasing of advanced agricultural technology, directly supporting the next generation of sugarcane farmers,” he said.
Among the key highlights for 2026 will be smart and automated irrigation systems, offering growers the chance to see efficiency-driven technology operating in real time. Precision agriculture and GPS technology will also take centre stage, with a focus on how these innovations translate into real-world profitability.
Carbon and reef compliance — an increasingly important consideration for emerging industry leaders navigating a changing regulatory landscape — will form a critical part of the discussion.
“Over the past year we’ve seen something powerful happen when farmers are simply given the space to come together. Conversations around dinner tables turn into real practice changes on farm, ideas shared on bus trips sparked new trials and connections made between growers can lead to lifetime friendships,” Mr Malan said.
He said the momentum behind the forum would not have been possible without the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and its investment through the RP84 Peer to Peer Farming Groups program.
“Their support backed ‘farmers backing farmers’ — creating opportunities to explore new technology, challenge thinking, and building confidence to adopt practical improvements. We are incredibly grateful to DPI for recognising the value of grower-led learning and for investing in stronger, more connected farming communities across Queensland.”
QCAR Chair Russell Hall said the forum was specifically designed to deliver hands-on, boots-on-the-ground value.
“While we’ll have industry veterans in attendance sharing their wealth of experience, the program focuses on the high-level innovation and practical technology required for modern farming,” Mr Hall said.
QCAR’s Senior Technical Agriculture Officer and event co-organiser Lawrence Di Bella said the event was about bringing the industry together and putting the tools of tomorrow into growers’ hands.
“We could not be more proud or more excited to be bringing this event back to the industry,” Mr Di Bella said.
“By combining high-level innovation with practical field trips, we are making sure our next generation of leaders can see how new technology translates to profitability and sustainability."
The program includes immersive on-farm demonstrations, site visits to progressive farms, and direct insights into how ag-tech tools can improve yield while managing environmental footprints. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers from the Burdekin, Herbert, Proserpine and Mackay regions, as well as experts who can help navigate the complexities of modern farming.
Event schedules and ticket details are available via the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis Facebook pages or by calling (07) 3496 9555. Tickets are also available at https://nextgen2026.eventbrite.com.au.
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Recreational and commercial fishers across the Burdekin Shire are being urged to take note of upcoming seasonal fishing closures, with the annual Spanish mackerel closed season set to affect local waters later this year.
The Burdekin falls within Queensland’s northern Spanish mackerel management zone, which applies to east coast waters north of latitude 22 degrees south, slightly north of Stanage Bay. As a result, popular local fishing areas will be subject to extended closures aligned with new moon periods.
In 2026, northern Spanish mackerel closures will run from 8 October to 29 October, followed by a second closure from 6 November to 27 November. During these periods, Spanish mackerel must not be taken, possessed or sold.
The closures are part of Queensland Fisheries’ seasonal management strategy aimed at protecting fish stocks during key breeding periods and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Several other closed seasons will also apply throughout the year. Barramundi will be closed on the Queensland east coast from 1 November to 31 January, while snapper and pearl perch will be off-limits from 15 July to 15 August.
Additional restrictions include two five-day coral reef fin fish closures in October and November, a tropical rock lobster closure from 1 October to 31 December, and a spanner crab closure from 1 November to 15 December in managed areas.
Fishers are reminded to check closure dates and boundaries before heading out, as penalties apply. With Spanish mackerel a prized local catch, fishers are encouraged to plan ahead and target alternative species during closure periods.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to the Burdekin region through its ongoing support of local rugby league at Bendigo Bank Park.
For generations, rugby league has played a vital role in bringing Burdekin families together. From juniors lacing up their boots for the first time, to parents volunteering on game day and grandparents cheering from the sidelines, local sport is woven into the fabric of the community.
As a community owned bank, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr understands the importance of backing initiatives that keep regional towns connected and thriving. Supporting rugby league is about far more than what happens on the field — it’s about investing in opportunities for young people, strengthening family bonds, and building pride across the district.
Through its sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park and support of the Burdekin Roosters, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is helping ensure the long-term sustainability of the sport locally. This support assists with facilities, programs and the continued development of players and volunteers who dedicate countless hours to keeping the game strong.
The Club of Origin, held in November last year, showcased the very best of local rugby league, uniting over 100 players both men and women, volunteers, sponsors and families from across the Burdekin region for a full day of community connection and club pride. The event delivered quality facilities, professional operations, live entertainment, and recognition for players, referees and support staff, reinforcing rugby league as a positive, well-run focal point for community involvement and future regional rugby league development. The winners of the competition were Colts who beat Brothers in the Grand Final.
Spokesperson for the Community Bank said supporting grassroots sport aligns strongly with the bank’s purpose.
“Our Community Bank exists to make a real difference locally,” she said. “When we invest in sport, we’re investing in young people, families and the long-term wellbeing of the Burdekin.”
“Local clubs rely on community support to survive and grow. We’re proud to play a role in helping rugby league remain strong for future generations.”
By standing alongside local sporting organisations, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to reinforce its commitment to building a stronger, more connected Burdekin—on and off the field.
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The Club of Origin, held in November last year, showcased the very best of local rugby league. Photo supplied
With a portfolio overflowing with exceptional achievements across academia, sport and community service, 2026 Young Citizen of the Year Grace Ogomeni was recently recognised for her humble contributions to the local community at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Award Ceremony.
“Hearing my name announced, followed by the applause, was overwhelming in the most heartwarming way. I felt incredibly grateful and proud, not just of myself, but of the community that supported me and has given me so many opportunities to get involved – this moment meant a lot to me because it reinforced my sense of belonging and connection to the Burdekin community,” she explained.
“I hope that people understand my achievements and involvements were not done to receive recognition - I hope everyone sees instead that they are a reflection of my values and my commitment to make a positive difference wherever I can.”
In the past year alone, Grace’s resume of success welcomed several prestigious titles including Home Hill State High School Valedictorian, House Captain, School Captain, Burdekin Secondary School Athletics Age Champion, Lloyd Memorial Sportswoman of the Year, as well as several Subject Dux honours.
“I would say leadership came naturally to me; however, I still learnt and developed many leadership skills through leadership programs and personal experiences,” Grace said.
“Staying organised and knowing what needs priority at different times helped me manage academics, sporting commitments and community service - when my motivation dipped, I reminded myself why I was doing what I did – for example the goal of getting into medicine really pushed me to stay focused.”
Grace’s dedication to crafting an efflorescent future will see her commence medical studies at James Cook University this year.
“I am very excited to start studying medicine at JCU, especially for the chance to go on placement in rural and remote regions,” Grace enthused.
“In the future, I hope to make a positive impact by helping close the gap in healthcare access for rural communities like the ones I grew up in. I want to make sure people in these often-overlooked towns have the care and support they deserve.”
Grace credits the local community for shaping her into who she has become, explaining how the interconnectedness and small-town nature of the Burdekin Shire was instrumental in her upbringing.
“Growing up in the Burdekin shaped my values of community, belonging and kindness. In a small town you see the impact of community-wide support,” she explained.
“Through school, sport and community activities, I felt a sense of belonging, which made me want to make sure others felt the same. These experiences inspired the path I want to take in medicine, where I can continue to give back.”
CAPTION: Grace Ogomeni was named Young Citizen of the Year at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Photography
The vital skills and job-ready training opportunities of apprenticeships are being brought to the fore during National Apprenticeships Week with Member for Burdekin Dale Last echoing the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to backing apprentices and their employers.
Boasting more than 200 enrolments in the local TAFE facility in 2025 and more than 1000 technicians and tradespeople in the district, Mr Last said the State Government’s investment in apprentices was vital in supporting essential trades and services relied on by the Burdekin’s major industries.
“Our major industries rely on our tradespeople every day in the Burdekin to keep machinery running, pumps operational and for the supply of everyday goods and services. It’s incredibly important the people who want to take up a career in sectors like manufacturing or construction are afforded every opportunity to do so,” Mr Last said.
“Having the opportunity to earn and learn through an apprenticeship without having to leave your hometown is crucial to securing the future of our local industries here in the Burdekin and that’s why the Crisafulli Government is backing them.”
Mr Last said National Apprenticeships Week ran from 9 to 15 February and marked a total investment in training the tradies of tomorrow of $270 million.
“Investing in our apprentices and the small businesses backing them means we are not only supporting our key sectors now but fostering growth for the future of our industries right across the state,” he said.
“The Crisafulli Government knows it is a serious decision to take on an apprentice with plenty to consider, which is why we are supporting small businesses with apprentice wage costs under a $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program.
“$40 million in 2025-2026 has been invested into programs supporting apprentices as part of the Crisafulli Government’s broader focus on strengthening skills, supporting employers and increasing workforce participation.”
Contributed with thanks to the Office of State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
CAPTION: Dale Last MP recently discussed traineeships and apprenticeships opportunities locally at QMN Manufacturing. Photo supplied
By Jacob Casha
Two Burdekin teenagers, stung by Irukandji jellyfish earlier this month, were reunited with the Marine Rescue Queensland Burdekin (MRQ Burdekin) team whose quick actions helped save them.
Teens Recover After Cape Upstart Irukandji Ordeal
What began as a routine day trip to Cape Upstart quickly became a race to the hospital after two Burdekin teenagers were stung by Irukandji jellyfish on Sunday, 1st of February.
Guardian Dan Horan, son Hudson Horan, 14, friend Tanner Cole, 13, and two others set sail from Molongle Creek to the Cape at around 9am, eventually anchoring the boat and snorkelling just off the shore.
At around 10:30am, Tanner and Hudson emerged from the water with red marks after feeling a mild stinging sensation.
Hudson recalled, “I got hit… then about five seconds later Tanner got got hit on the leg.”
Tanner said the sting initially didn’t feel serious.
“It was just itchy and that was it, really,” he said.
Within minutes, however, the boys’ conditions worsened.
“By the time we got to the boat, Tanner was really sick and started vomiting, and Hudson said he had stabbing pains in his legs and his back down into his feet. He couldn't feel his feet, and he was starting to shake,” Dan recalled.
They soon realised their symptoms were consistent with Irukandji syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction to the venom of Irukandji jellyfish.
Initial attempts to call Triple-0 were unsuccessful due to lack of mobile coverage, and tensions on deck began to heighten.
“I was very panicked… obviously your brain goes to the worst-case scenario,” said Dan.
“I'm thinking, are we gonna have to stop? Should I Just stay here? Am I gonna have to resuscitate them?”
Dan turned to the boat’s VHF radio system and contacted MRQ Burdekin, where volunteer Dawn Ordorica answered and organised for emergency services to be contacted within minutes.
Through the radio, fellow MRQ Burdekin volunteer Paul Quagliata coordinated with Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) to meet the group at the boat ramp.
“I was able to talk to Dan on the radio while I had the dispatcher and QAS on the phone, so we were able to relay that information quite quickly so they [QAS] knew what they're dealing with when they got there,” recalled Quagliata.
Within five minutes of Dan pulling up at the ramp, paramedics were on scene.
Quagliata said the quick coordination between MRQ Burdekin and QAS likely prevented a longer ordeal.
“I think we saved the boys probably 40 minutes of more agony.”
Paramedics immediately administered first aid on-site before providing pain relief and transporting the teenagers to Ayr Hospital, where doctors confirmed the stings were consistent with Irukandji jellyfish.
The pair was monitored until their symptoms subsided at around 5am the next morning.
A relieved figure, Dan lauded the efforts of emergency services in handling the situation.
“The fact that they [MRQ Burdekin] were able to have the ambulance there in five minutes of us pulling up the ramp, was a big, massive relief for me, and also the boys,” he said.
Quagliata said the situation served as testament to the importance of volunteer-led emergency services like MRQ Burdekin.
“It just goes to show what we're about in times of need and what we're capable of doing,” he said.
Cover—Dan Horan, Hudson Horan, and Tanner Cole with MRQ Burdekin volunteers Paul Quagliata and Dawn Ordorica, who coordinated their rescue. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
2— “The fact that they [MRQ Burdekin] were able to have the ambulance there in five minutes of us pulling up the ramp, was a big, massive relief for me, and also the boys,” said Dan Horan. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Shire Council has announced changes to the Clare Transfer Station’s operating days following a six‑month trial and clear community feedback on opening times.
Councillors received a report at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday 10 February 2026, reviewing the trial conducted between 4 July 2025 and 2 January 2026. During the trial, the facility’s schedule shifted from weekly Sunday openings in 2024/2025 to a fortnightly Friday service in 2025/2026.
According to a council media release, the trial aimed “to assess community usage patterns, determine whether Friday openings were more convenient for residents, and identify any potential operational efficiencies.”
Community feedback was collected via email submissions, Customer Request Management entries, and a QR code feedback tool. While the number of responses was limited, the council reported several consistent themes. Feedback showed a clear preference for Sunday operations, with only a small number of residents advising that Friday openings suited their needs. No feedback opposed the facility operating on a fortnightly basis.
Comments also highlighted the comparative suitability of Sundays versus Fridays, and the need for clearer signage and better communication to help residents know which fortnight the site is open.
Friday 13 February 2026 was the final Friday opening. From 1 March 2026, the Clare Transfer Station will return to Sunday openings on a fortnightly schedule, coinciding with the same fortnight that yellow‑lid recycling bins are serviced.
Residents seeking further information are encouraged to contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.
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