The Burdekin Shire Council has secured funding under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) to deliver significant upgrades to the Ayr Industrial Estate road network.

The project aims to improve safety and accessibility, provide more efficient access for heavy vehicles, and enhance parking while strengthening long-term infrastructure capacity.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the investment reflects Council’s commitment to supporting local industry and improving the region’s transport network.

“This upgrade will ensure Ayr’s industrial area can better accommodate heavy vehicles, while also improving safety, accessibility, and infrastructure resilience,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“It’s a significant investment in our region’s future growth and productivity.”

Key features of the project include widening approximately 900 metres of road to 14 metres, installing new kerb and channel, pavement and asphalt surfacing, and upgrading underground drainage systems.

Four intersections will be renewed to improve traffic flow and vehicle safety, while 369 metres of drainage culverts, 12 inlet pits, and six manholes will also be installed.

The Council has thanked the Australian Government for supporting the works through SLRIP, helping to deliver safer and more resilient infrastructure for the community.

Construction will begin once detailed design and procurement processes are complete, with timelines yet to be confirmed.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort at an intersection in the Ayr Industrial Estate. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

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After building a career across India, the United Kingdom, and the United States, physiotherapist Phelps Kota has arrived in the Burdekin—and he’s here to make a difference.

Earlier this month, Kota helped inaugurate Kota's Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinic, aiming to reduce long wait times for physiotherapy in the region and provide care that restores mobility, independence, and hope. The clinic offers services across paediatric , orthopaedic, neurology, related conditions and pre and post operative rehabilitation, ensuring patients of all ages can access high-quality care close to home.

Kota’s journey to the Burdekin has been anything but linear. After completing a bachelor’s degree in India and gaining local work experience, he moved to the UK, earning his physiotherapy license at just 24 years old. He worked in NHS clinics, gaining experience across multiple specialties, before pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare and physiotherapy in the United States at Trine University in Detroit, Michigan , United States of America. Along the way, he trained in more than 15+ countries, attending workshops and developing the advanced clinical skills that he now brings to the Burdekin.

“The Burdekin had a clear need,” Kota said. “People here were waiting two to three weeks for physiotherapy. We wanted to give them access sooner and help them regain their lives.”

For Kota, working in regional communities is deeply personal. “I feel at home here. Coming to remote areas reminds me of my hometown in India," he said. "I’m excited to make a difference."

He moves to the region with his wife, a dentist, who also made the leap from India, leaving career opportunities behind to support his mission to keep the Burdekin healthy.

Kota’s approach is rooted in patient independence and care that extends beyond treating injuries. “Physiotherapy is about helping people to not have to depend on others for daily living, even if their condition isn’t fully curable,” he explained. “Even a small candle is enough in a dark room. We want to be that ray of hope for the Burdekin community.”

Since opening, Kota has welcomed patients from across the region, offering faster appointments and personalised treatment plans. His clinic is designed to ensure accessibility and comfort, with a focus on long-term recovery and improved quality of life.

With his clinic now established in the Burdekin, Kota is focused on bringing world-class physiotherapy to the community. Through expertise, dedication, and a commitment to patient care, he aims to offer support, independence, and hope for every patient who walks through his doors.

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“I feel at home here... I’m excited to make a difference," said Kota. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Last week’s Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meeting drew one of its largest crowds in recent memory, as local business owners kick-started their Thursday morning with coffee, conversation and community planning.

Proceedings were led by Seb Aguirre of ELA Solutions, who steered discussions towards one of the year’s most anticipated highlights—the Burdekin Christmas Street Party.

The agenda sparked plenty of lively debate, particularly around logistics such as preferred dates, potential road closures and whether Queen Street shopfronts should remain open during the festivities. While some members were keen to showcase local businesses, others raised concerns following last year’s disappointing turnout, which was hampered by heavy rain.

Despite differing views, the overall mood was upbeat, with members eager to breathe fresh life into an event that has long been a hallmark of the region’s festive season. Organisers are hopeful that with a strong line-up of stalls, live entertainment and food vendors, this year’s celebration will draw crowds back in true Burdekin fashion.

With planning now well underway, the Burdekin Christmas Street Party promises to deliver plenty of festive cheer—and, hopefully, a dry evening.

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Last week’s Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meeting drew one of its largest crowds in recent memory. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Kari Ravizza, Executive Member Jenny Papale, Executive Member Rose Papadimitriou, and President Eusebio Aguirre at last week’s Chamber meeting. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Lives Lived Well is here for the Burdekin, offering practical, non-judgemental therapeutic intervention for people affected by alcohol and other drugs. Our team works across the region, providing free, confidential counselling for adults and young people to help support people to gain the skills to Live Their Lives Well.

If you’re worried about your substance use, our clinicians can help you make sense of what’s happening and create a plan that fits your life. We offer one-on-one counselling in person or by phone. Our therapeutic approach is couched in evidence-based practice, and each session is tailored to the individual and their support needs and can further create connections with additional services such as Mental Health services, Domestic and Family Violence support and general practitioners.

We also offer Drug and Alcohol First Aid training (fee for service) to build community knowledge and basic skills around responding to AOD specific risky situations.

Our clinician travels from Townsville weekly and is based at Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr making it easier for people across the Burdekin to get help close to home.

If you’d like to know more, please contact Lives Lived Well on 1300 727 957 or visit our website www.liveslivedwell.org.au.

We’re part of your community, and we are passionate about the possibilities.

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What a wonderful couple of weeks it has been celebrating our community.

At the Giru Show, I was reminded of the incredible dedication that small communities put into their events. The Giru Progress Association continues to achieve great things, and this year’s show was extra special as we paid tribute to Mrs Betty Corradi. For 35 years Betty worked tirelessly for the community she loved, and it was moving to see her family honour her memory with a balloon release.

We also marked a significant milestone - the 50th anniversary of the Burdekin Community Association (BCA). For half a century, BCA has stood as a beacon of compassion, supporting those in need, addressing hardship and distress, and building a safer, more connected community. Their ongoing work in the areas of domestic and family violence, homelessness, health, and social support has truly changed lives.

Council has also secured further funding through the Community and Recreational Assets Recovery Program, which means works will soon commence at three much-loved locations, I look forward to sharing this with you all soon.

Finally, I want to highlight the incredible talent we continue to see at our own Burdekin Theatre. Many of us love travelling to the big cities for headline acts, but the recent performance from Paul Ettore Tabone reminded us that world-class talent can be found right here at home. Paul, who grew up in Ingham, captivated audiences with his extraordinary voice and stage presence. Keep an eye out for his next performance - you won’t want to miss it.

If you’d like to reach out, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Burdekin Communications Opens Doors of New Location

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After more than 60 years serving the Burdekin, Burdekin Communications has relocated once again in Ayr, turning a new page for the family-run business while returning focus to the core services that have long made it a community mainstay.

Now trading from a newly refurbished storefront at 123 Edwards Street, Burdekin Communications had the space ready and completed most of the move in less than a week.

“We moved the bulk of everything in just four days—it was a massive weekend,” owner Paul Benvenuti said. The new site offers strong advantages, with prime highway frontage, high visibility, and steady passing traffic. With development underway across the road, the location is expected to become even busier in the future.

Along with the move, Paul has stepped away from the Jaycar retail operation to refocus on the company’s foundations.

“We want to bring the business back to its core, which was two-way radio communications and marine electronics. We want to try and get back to the roots that helped the company to take off,” he explained.

For Paul, the change carries personal as well as professional significance. Burdekin Communications was founded in 1965 by his father, Kevin, and mother, Janette, and Paul has steered the business through decades of growth and change.

“It’s a big deal to me. I often sit back and think about [the legacy], but I’m happy to keep it going. I’ll keep it going as long as I can… there’s no doubt about that,” he said.

Under Paul's guidance, the business has evolved to supply, install, and service products from Garmin, GME, Icom, Uniden, Autobacs, RFI, Zetifi, Cel-Fi, and more, working with local councils, government departments, and marine operators. Burdekin Communications continues to prioritise professional, reliable service while supporting the Burdekin community.

Paul and his wife Christine also actively back local initiatives, including the Justin Scott Fishing Classic, held in memory of a young family friend.

“We try our best to give back. The support from the community has been awesome over the years, and that’s why we're so committed to giving back to the community whenever we can,” Paul said.

With the move complete and a renewed focus on its core services, Burdekin Communications invites locals to visit its Edwards Street location and experience the expertise and service that have kept the family business thriving for more than 60 years.

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Burdekin Communications has relocated once again in Ayr, now trading from a newly refurbished storefront at 123 Edwards Street. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

A final reminder to growers regarding the Global Traders Roadshow featuring Wilmar’s Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham. Peter is currently in India attending the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) convention, which means he will bring the very latest insights into Indian crop developments and ethanol policy for the year ahead. With India’s production forecast rising sharply this season, the country’s decisions around exports and ethanol could play a crucial role in shaping sugar prices for the tail end of the 2025 season pricing period.

With the weather cooperating and the mills running well, the end of season could be upon us before we know it. We’re already fielding enquiry from growers about their pricing status with the GEI Sugar they have delivered so far to determine whether they can confidently start pricing their GMPRS orders. To support this process, we have developed a new exposure monitoring tool to give growers clearer visibility of their position and help manage final pricing decisions as the season winds down.

As always, if growers are concerned about their final estimated delivery against pricing commitments please talk to your local Relationship Manager as soon as possible. We have options to deal with production shortfalls and the sooner we identify a potential issue the more flexibility we have in managing it.

On the global stage, #11 sugar prices continue to languish while the Brazilian crush powers ahead. A record 55 per cent sugar mix in the latest UNICA report has analysts revising their final Brazilian sugar production number higher. However, ethanol parity continues to ratchet higher with current estimates above 16 USc/lb.

The next couple of UNICA reports will be interesting to see if there is a switch back from sugar with ethanol stocks low in Brazil. A stronger AUD driven by a weak USD is adding to the uphill battle the AUD sugar swap price is facing.

I look forward to seeing you at our Global Traders Roadshow next week and introducing you to our expanding team. RSVP’s close this week so if you would like to attend, please contact your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager to secure your spot.

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Our Grower Marketing Relationship managers are on hand to help growers check their final estimated delivery against pricing commitments. Pictured are Misty Bland, Owen Richards, grower Russell Laidlow, Jonathan Reichard, Fiona Villis, grower Greg Laidlow and Trent Johnson. Photo supplied

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Water and fertiliser are two of the biggest costs – and opportunities – for cane growers in the Burdekin, and new insights are highlighting how the two are closely linked.

According to Farmacist agronomists, irrigation scheduling can play a decisive role in whether nitrogen fertiliser is effectively used by the crop or lost through run-off, leaching or denitrification.

With sugarcane heavily reliant on nitrogen for growth, ensuring the nutrient remains in the root zone is vital. Poorly timed irrigations risk washing valuable fertiliser away before the cane has a chance to use it.

Tools such as the GDot soil moisture sensor are proving to be a simple yet effective way for growers to fine-tune irrigation timing. By monitoring soil moisture, farmers can better match water applications to crop needs, reducing stress on cane while improving fertiliser efficiency.

Farmacist says the benefits extend beyond productivity. Smarter irrigation not only helps keep nitrogen where it belongs but also reduces environmental losses, supporting both economic and sustainability outcomes for the industry.

“By aligning irrigation with crop demand, growers can make every drop of water – and every kilogram of nitrogen – work harder for them,” the article notes.

With the Burdekin region so dependent on irrigation, adopting these strategies offers significant potential to lift yields while lowering costs and protecting waterways.

For more information, visit: farmacist.com.au/blog/nitrogen-management-and-irrigation-scheduling.

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Photo source: Farmacist

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Artificial intelligence is set to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of agriculture, and an upcoming Sugar Research Australia (SRA) webinar will explore just how transformative that potential could be.

The free online event, AI-guided breeding to develop future crops, will be held on Friday, 10 October at 2pm (AEST), bringing together leading voices in the field to discuss the opportunities of applying AI to plant breeding.

Guest presenter Professor Lee Hickey from the University of Queensland will outline how artificial intelligence can harness large and complex datasets across four key stages of the breeding pipeline, accelerating the development of more resilient and productive crops.

The session will also highlight the importance of capacity building and training, ensuring the next generation of plant breeders are equipped with predictive breeding skills that will shape Australia’s agricultural future.

Webinar chair Dr Nathalie Piperidis of SRA said the event would offer practical insights into how digital tools can enhance traditional breeding methods.

“The pace of technological change in agriculture is rapid, and this webinar is a chance to hear from experts at the forefront of using AI to solve real-world breeding challenges,” she said.

The presentation will conclude with an overview of the Australian Research Council Training Centre in Predictive Breeding, a national initiative focused on advancing skills and innovation in this space.

For details and to register, visit sugarresearch.com.au/webinars

By Owen Menkens, Chairman, CANEGROWERS

Sugarcane has always been part of Queensland’s story. From the sunlit paddocks along our coastline the sweet scent of a mill in full crush, it’s hard to imagine our state without it.

But there’s a side to the industry that many people don’t see – how far our growers have come in making cane a world leader in sustainability.

This month we reached a milestone worth celebrating. Farms accredited through our Smartcane BMP program have now earned a rare triple tick from the three most respected international sustainability umpires – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.

In layman’s terms, this means independent global auditors have confirmed that Queensland cane is grown to the highest environmental and sustainability standards.

That recognition didn’t arrive by chance. It’s the result of years of effort by growers keeping detailed records, improving soil health, managing water carefully and refining how they farm.
Today almost half of Queensland’s cane area is managed under Smartcane BMP, and that number keeps climbing.

Why does this matter? Because major buyers – from soft drink companies to overseas refiners – are demanding proof their sugar comes from responsible sources.

Thanks to the dedication of our growers, Queensland cane can meet that test. In fact, we’re now one of the very few cane-growing regions on the planet able to offer this level of verified sustainability.

And it’s not just about the environment. Smartcane BMP helps farmers build stronger, more profitable businesses, which means healthier regional communities and a stronger state economy.
When Queensland sugarcane is recognised internationally, the benefits flow to everyone – from the workers in the mills to the small businesses in our towns.

So next time you stir a spoonful of sugar into your tea or coffee, think of the people behind it – the Queensland growers proving that you can farm sustainably and stay competitive on the global stage.

They deserve every bit of the pride we feel today.

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Canegrowers' Owen Menkens (Photo Supplied)
Smartcane BMP farms have earned international recognition (Photo Supplied)

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As CANEGROWERS prepares to celebrate its centenary in 2026, the organisation is inviting the community to help build a unique photo collection that captures 100 years of cane country history.

Locals are encouraged to dig out their treasured sugarcane snapshots — from family moments on the farm to milestones in the industry — and share them on Facebook or by emailing info@canegrowers.com.au.

The collection will form part of a centenary showcase honouring the people and stories behind the sugarcane industry. Selected photographs may even feature in a special-edition 2026 Centenary Calendar, ensuring the region’s history is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

Your photos could help tell the story of a century of cane country!

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BCA’s 50 Years Supporting the Burdekin Community

When the Burdekin Community Association was founded five decades ago, it wasn’t born from a grand plan. It stemmed from concern—concern from everyday people who saw a gap in care for those leaving the hospital with nowhere to turn and the need for a community information centre.

Following a year of community consultation, Father John Payne and a committee of local citizens, with the support of the Ayr Shire Chairman and Shire Clerk, laid the foundations for BCA in 1975, setting out to respond to the Burdekin’s unmet needs and support those experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability or helplessness.

“At the start, it was all volunteers,” says CEO Debra Cochran. “We began with opening a Community Information Centre so people could find out what help was available. In 1978, we started the Home Help Service and helped people with cleaning, shopping and mowing lawns.

For the first seven years, BCA operated without formal funding. It wasn’t until the federal government provided Home and Community Care funding —and the association later became incorporated in 1984—that the organisation began to grow in scale and reach. The rest is history.

From a handful of volunteers, BCA now has 52 staff, 13 subcontractors and 61 volunteers, offering 36 distinct programs. Yet, despite this growth, the purpose remains to provide direct services to people experiencing hardship and distress, from children to seniors.

The organisation has experienced exponential growth over its five decades of servicing the community. Securing Home Care funding proved BCA could deliver government-supported services effectively. Later came the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, providing specialist care to those who need it most. Over the past 15 years, BCA has expanded further, offering specialist domestic and family violence and homelessness services, psychological therapies, suicide prevention and exercise physiology - all staffed by qualified professionals along with home care packages, national disability insurance scheme, Qld Community Support Service, Transport Service, Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, and Older People’s Action Program to name a few.

“We help people with whatever they’re facing,” says Cochran. “Sometimes it’s just providing information, sometimes it’s connecting them with a financial counsellor, a mental health clinician, or emergency relief. We work holistically, one small thing often leads to another.”

That human connection is at the heart of BCA, and it's having local people helping locals that makes the difference, Cochran says. “It’s community members helping each other. Our staff live here. They know the people, the issues. It’s about being part of the solution together.”

Due to increasing local demand, BCA is now exploring ways to expand domestic and family violence and homelessness services and increase aged care support. “The demand is rising, and it’s a challenge—but we’re also making progress,” she says.

As it celebrates 50 years of keeping the Burdekin ticking, the BCA remains committed to standing alongside every member of the community, offering care, comfort, and hope when it’s needed most. “Even the smallest conversation can make a huge difference,” says Cochran. “We can help in small ways, or big ways, people don’t have to face challenges alone.”

Fifty years on, BCA remains a pillar of the Burdekin, not because of buildings or funding, but because of people helping people, day in, day out.

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Majella Meehan

Imagine, the BCA has been assisting our community for 50 years! What a milestone.

Of course, we could not have been with you for this long if it had not been for all of those supporters who have gone before us.

A special thanks to the Life Members and the Honorary Member, some of whom are no longer with us…

Bill Hodson – Life member;

Joan Heatley OAM – Life member;

Joan Kennedy – Life member;

Roy Dickinson OAM – Life member; and

Brenda-Anne Parfitt (formerly Norman) – Honorary member

Joan was President for 26 years and I pay tribute to her (and to all of the other Life Members and the Honorary Member) without whose dedication the BCA would not be the organisation that it is today.

A special thanks also goes to the staff and volunteers, who, over the last 50 years have all contributed to the success of the BCA.

The past and present Management Committee Members are also deserving of special mention. There have been many members and many of those have served for a number of years. providing a consistency and continuity for the BCA.

There is that saying (from a song I think) which goes…”From little things, big things grow”.

That is certainly the story of the BCA. From very humble beginnings down at the Information Centre at Plantation Park to now working from the Support Centre, Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre and Community Information Centre, with various other locations along the way.

A special acknowledgement and thanks must also go to the Burdekin Shire Council, who has supported the BCA in so many ways. Your assistance has been very important in allowing us to provide such valuable services for the last 50 years.

Also, a special thanks to our various collaborators from both Federal and State Government. Over the years, the BCA has delivered a number of programs funded by government. We currently deliver programs funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety and the Department of Housing and Public Works.

Thank you to all those who have donated to the BCA. Your donations have allowed us to be proactive in providing services to our community which would not otherwise have been available.

Lastly, thank you to each of you for helping to celebrate this wonderful milestone. I sometimes wonder if our predecessors ever thought the BCA would still be going 50 years on. Thanks to them, we are and I am confident that the BCA will continue to serve this community for many years to come.

Majella Meehan

President

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Debra Cochran

My name is Debra Cochran and I’ve been with the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) for almost 25 years.  I’ve been the CEO for 15 years and managed the Home Care Service prior to this.

Before moving to Ayr with my husband and commencing with BCA, I worked in senior management in various industries including coal mining, human resources, recruitment and banking.  I’m rewarded by helping others and improving the Burdekin community which is why I jumped at the chance to work for BCA and continue to do so.

The BCA is a not-for-profit, incorporated association and registered charity, which strives to fulfil the unmet social, welfare and health needs of the Burdekin community.  A diverse range of community services are delivered by the BCA to the Burdekin Shire.  Since establishment in 1975, BCA has evolved to become one of the largest community organisations in the region.  BCA’s Purpose is “To provide direct relief to the aged, families, children and individuals who are experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability or helplessness”.

BCA is managed by a volunteer Management Committee made up of a number of individuals who as a group represent the community and are responsible for the management of the association.

BCA’s structure consists of myself as CEO and four Service Managers. I’m responsible for implementing the association’s policies, procedures and decisions.  On a day-to-day basis my role includes managing the BCA’s affairs.

Our team of 125 personnel continue to raise standards of support through personal and professional improvement and partnership with clients, families, providers, government and the community.

I’m very proud of the wide range of community and health services BCA provides in the Burdekin – 36 programs in total.  During my time as CEO, we’ve significantly increased the quality of our services along with government funding and programs and the financial strength of the organisation.

We’re offering services to community members at the highest possible level (e.g. Specialist Homelessness Service, Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Service, Home Care Packages Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Psychological Therapies Program, Accredited Exercise Physiology Program etc).  Our Team works closely with various network members, government High Risk and Critical Response Teams, to increase the level of assistance being provided to community members.

With the increase of domestic and family violence, homelessness, cost of living pressures and our ageing population, important priorities for BCA include continuing to find ways to increase services in these and other areas.

If I had one message for the community about BCA it would be that the organisation and our team are here to help and support you as much as we possibly can.  Please reach out for support and information regarding community and health services.

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with Rebecca Grogan

Since 1987, the Housing and Community Support Service at the BCA has been providing vital assistance to individuals and families facing vulnerability across the region. Managed by Rebecca Grogan, the service combines practical support with opportunities for connection, learning, and empowerment, addressing both immediate needs and long-term wellbeing.

The service provides a Specialist Homelessness Program, which includes five Crisis Accommodation Program (CAP) properties. Complementing this are initiatives through the Burdekin Community Support Neighbourhood Centre Program, encompassing support groups, community development projects, awareness and education programs, and food relief through the State Emergency Relief Program and SecondBite Program to ensure families and individuals have access to essential resources. Specialist Domestic and Family Violence support, including court assistance and counselling for women and children, forms a critical part of the service, helping some of the community’s most vulnerable members navigate challenging circumstances.

Rebecca explains, “We’re here because we care. We want everyone to feel supported, connected, and included.” Programs like the annual Christmas Appeal exemplify this mission, linking local generosity to those in need and creating tangible impact within the community.

Over the years, the service has evolved to meet changing needs. Funded programs now replace previously unfunded initiatives, and services are increasingly client-centred, responding directly to feedback while collaborating with partner organisations to ensure people receive the right support. The approach focuses on “doing with—not doing for,” encouraging connection and self-determination alongside practical assistance.

Looking ahead, the service aims to strengthen community resilience, provide early intervention, and expand opportunities for information, support, and connection. Through its combined focus on immediate relief, ongoing support, and community empowerment, the Housing and Community Support Service continues to be a lifeline for the Burdekin region, ensuring individuals and families are supported, included, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.

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