By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman

As we approach the midpoint of the 2025 crush, it’s clear this season is shaping up very differently to the one we endured last year.

In 2024, widespread delays, mill breakdowns, and wet weather left many growers stuck in the paddock and well behind schedule. This year, thankfully, we’re in a better place.

Dry conditions have helped keep the wheels turning. Some districts are even ahead of schedule, a rare but welcome sight. Mills are running more reliably in many areas, thanks to stronger off-season planning and maintenance.

It’s not perfect, and we’ve still seen disruptions, but cane is being harvested and crushed more efficiently than this time last year.

While this is relieving for a grower’s state of mind, we continue to navigate ongoing challenges, the global sugar price has dropped substantially from last year and input costs continue to pressure margins. Fuel, fertiliser, labour all remain elevated compared to last season and water availability remains critical.

Still, one thing hasn’t changed: the resilience of our growers. Time and time again, they rise to the challenge. It’s not just about farming cane — it’s about keeping the heartbeat of regional Queensland strong. Growers support local jobs, schools, businesses, and services. Their success underpins entire communities.

In my conversations across the state, the sentiment is cautiously optimistic. There’s relief that the season is progressing better than last year, and a quiet determination to keep pushing forward. Growers are realists, they know how quickly things can turn, whether it’s from global markets, extreme weather, or shifting policy. But they also know how to adapt and keep going.

Compared to last year, there’s a stronger sense of stability in the air. That’s thanks to the people on the ground, the growers, families, and workers who make this industry what it is.

Let’s stay on track and finish the season strong.

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August photo in the CANEGROWERS 2025 calendar. Photo credit: Robyn Bacon

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To mark the beginning of celebrations for 2025 National Skills Week, on Saturday, August 23, North Queensland Senior School and training organisation, Tec-NQ, will throw open its doors for an all-ages Open Day with a difference. With 69 trades currently identified as experiencing a national skills shortage, there is no better time to try out a trade.

Tec-NQ Chief Executive Officer Ross Jorgensen said this year’s Open Day will be an all-ages celebration of everything trade, offering something of interest for the whole family.

“Again in 2025, we’ll have a selection of industry partners displaying unique and emerging technical tools of trade. Teachers, trainers, industry partners and students will also be on hand to talk about undertaking a work-based education at Tec-NQ” he added.

There will be hands-on try-a-trade activities for all ages. Kids can rev up a big diesel motor, teens can wire a circuit board, and everyone can test their welding skills on the augmented reality simulator. Plus, engage in interactive activities and small take-home projects.

Tec-NQ is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), an independent senior secondary school and an accredited boarding school with extensive industry networks to deliver trade-based career opportunities for North Queensland students. Tec-NQ House, located in Rosslea, accommodates up to 40 male boarding students from remote and rural communities completing their schooling at Tec-NQ.

The Open Day runs from 9am – 12.30pm on Saturday 23rd August at their campus at 54 Discovery Drive in Douglas. Register for a campus tour and information session at tecnq.com.au

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The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre invites all members of our community to come together with us in a supportive environment, regardless of their background or life experiences.

We deeply value the sharing of stories, the exchange of knowledge, and the cultivation of strong, positive relationships among our members.

Our aim is to create a true sense of belonging by uplifting one another through life’s various challenges. It is important to recognise that loneliness often arises from the perception of disconnection rather than physical solitude.

Loneliness isn’t just about being alone — it’s often the feeling or perception of being disconnected. It’s a state of mind, and one we aim to ease by creating meaningful connections within our community.

This month, we are delighted to announce another Morning Tea, an enjoyable occasion designed to diminish feelings of loneliness through the simple joy of gathering over a cup of tea and freshly baked scones in our welcoming space.

Our focus this time will be on how we can use our experiences and knowledge to support one another — whether it’s through sharing a recipe that could help a family save a few dollars or offering some advice and wisdom for those going through life’s obstacles.

Everyone is welcome, and we’d love to see you at the Centre to be part of the positive change, helping end the sense of loneliness and disconnection in our community.

What: Ending Loneliness Morning Tea

When: 10:00 AM, Wednesday, 20th August 2025

Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, AYR

Until next time,
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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It was shovels at the ready on Sunday, 27 July, as members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group joined local volunteers for National Tree Planting Day at the Landcare Centre in Ayr.

With perfect weather, the Scouts rolled up their sleeves and got to work—digging, planting, watering, and mulching native trees. By the end of the morning, they’d lost count of how many they’d helped into the ground.

“As Scouts, we’re always looking for ways to support our community and care for the environment,” said coordinator Chris Berkery.

The event was capped off with a well-earned barbecue lunch, courtesy of the local Landcare team. The Scouts thanked organisers for a great day and the opportunity to make a hands-on contribution to the local environment.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets Thursday evenings on 12th Avenue, Home Hill. People are welcome to try Scouting free for four weeks.

To find out more or register your interest, contact Rikki on 0419 104 035.

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Feeling a little isolated, or just keen to meet new people? Loneliness Awareness Week is the perfect time to step out, get involved, and make meaningful connections—right here in the Burdekin.

Friendship Bracelet Fun & Sausage Sizzle (Free)
Get creative and share a few laughs at this feel-good event celebrating connection and community.

Friday, 8 August
9:00am – 11:00am
BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr

Make a friendship bracelet, enjoy a free sausage sizzle, and leave with more than just a full stomach—this is your chance to spread kindness, spark new conversations, and brighten someone’s day (including your own!).

Community Connections Group (Free)
Looking for something more regular? The Community Connections Group meets weekly and is open to anyone wanting a friendly space to socialise, learn, and connect.

Every Wednesday
9:30am – 11:30am
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr

Drop in for a cuppa, a chat, and maybe even a few new friendships.

To register or find out more, contact the BCA Support Centre on (07) 4783 3744.

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The Burdekin community is invited to experience the future of farming, education, and innovation at Home Hill State High School’s Agricultural Precinct Open Day on Thursday, 21 August.

Open Day will officially unveil the school’s purpose-built Agricultural Precinct and learning spaces – a significant investment in the region’s agricultural education and workforce development. This new facility integrates cutting-edge horticulture, aquaponics, protected cropping, and traditional farming practices to prepare students for careers in agriculture, food production, and sustainability.

Agriculture Lead, Louise Nicholas, said the precinct is more than a classroom.

“We’ve created a space that links education directly with industry. Our aim is to grow the next generation of agricultural innovators right here in the Burdekin. The support of the local member, Dale Last MP, council, industry, businesses, families, and organisations has been critical, and this event is an opportunity to thank them and invite new connections.”

The morning will feature an official welcome and acknowledgments, guided tours of the precinct, including the greenhouse, the ‘Dig Inn’ market garden, the Aqua Lab, and the kitchen. Students will lead tours and share their learning, alongside industry stalls from Canegrowers, Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network, Sunwater, and Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA), who will also have interactive Virtual Reality experiences on offer.

Visitors can enjoy a range of interactive displays, seedling giveaways, and plant identification games. A tasting table featuring local produce, pickles, and tuckshop treats will keep tastebuds happy, while a feedback wall and survey will collect community ideas and future involvement opportunities.

“We are proud of what we’ve built here and hope the broader community will join us to celebrate and shape the next steps,” Ms Nicholas said.

For more information, follow the Home Hill SHS Facebook page or contact the school directly.

RSVP to the school by Monday, 28th July to assist with planning.

All are welcome to attend and see first-hand how Home Hill SHS is cultivating skills, curiosity, and careers for our region’s future.

What: Home Hill State High School's Agricultural Precinct Open Day
When: Thursday, 21 August, 9:00am–11:00am
Where: Home Hill State High School Agricultural Precinct

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A very good weekend for the Panthers, winning four and losing just one of the five matches played. On Saturday, away to Saints Eagles Souths the Premiers won 2-0 but the Reserves 0-1. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies defeated Wulguru 6-0, the Division 1 Men beat Warriors 5-2, and the Division 2 Men thumped JCU 7-0.

This Saturday is Ladies Day with the Auction kicking off after the Premiers match. The Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. On Friday night the Ladies, are away to Saints, in Townsville at 6.30 and the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are also away in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Olympic at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Warriors at 6.30.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premier League side was changed slightly which saw the starting debut for Cooper Kross. The game started well for the Panthers with good possession and healthy field position. A goal fell for Oliver Gabiola after about 20 minutes and spirits were high. Saints managed to create several opportunities during the first half but a combination of good goalkeeping and poor finishing kept them scoreless. Jay Leckenby latched onto a goal from very close in, after thirty minutes, give the Panthers a two goal lead and the Panthers played out the match without much further trouble. A good win that keeps Burdekin in fifth place and their finals hopes alive.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves had another game with a different squad and with a record number of players out, lost 0-1 to Saints. Another game where effort couldn't overcome poor execution of passing and missing good opportunities to score. Saints took an early lead and were determined in defence. The Reserves couldn't get a goal despite several good scoring chances, including a disputable disallowed goal for offside. It is still possible for the Panthers to make the finals, but it will take better performances to make it happen.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers were away to Warriors in Townsville and came away with a 5-2 victory. After being 0-2 down at half time the Panthers recovered in the second half to win 5-2 with two goals from Braydon Card and a goal each from Seaton Ivory, Seb Mio and Henry Fallon. This was a great win for First Division. Team worked well and made a comeback after being down 2-0 at halftime.

Division 2 Men

The C.A Contracting Funkies had a solid 7-0 win on Friday night vs JCU Riverway. The match was a very one-sided contest with Burdekin dominating the entire game and although scoring seven goals, missed many more through a lack of composure and wayward shooting in front of goal.

Riverway looked to counterattack a few times, but keeper Dave Bryen made a couple of great saves to keep a clean sheet. Well done to Jacob Rossato for scoring his first goal in what feels like decades. Chris Achille 2, Simon Scuderi 2, Nicholas Cathcart and Fengil Kanjoothara got the other goals for Burdekin. Burdekin moves to 5th and continues their push for finals against Warriors this Friday night, again in Townsville.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies delivered a brilliant performance against Wulguru. Zandi Bonanno opened the scoring just five minutes in, setting the tone early. Tahlia Lawson followed up with a well-placed finish in the 16th minute. Sienna Lago then took control, netting two goals before halftime to send Burdekin into the break with a 4–0 lead. The momentum carried into the second half, with Zandi Bonanno scoring her second goal in the 80th minute. Charley Ruskin finished the match, from the penalty spot, bringing the final score to a dominant 6-0 win. Outstanding effort. well done, ladies!

Juniors

A windy and chilly trip Saturday to Townsville for the Under 8s and up. Those with early games felt it! One more Townsville trip now for our Juniors in a few weeks’ time to round out the season up there. The Under 5s to 7s played in Ayr in similar conditions and of course had a ball! All junior teams are back in Ayr this Saturday with Townsville teams traveling down the highway.

Masters

Another good turnout on a cool winter’s evening. Spain beat England 4-1 with Jonty Davis, Man of the Match, after scoring a goal in the first half and making some good saves in goal in the second half. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

National and International

The Matildas will be playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam in August. Their first Group game is against Myanmar on 7th August; they then play Philippines and Timo-Leste.

The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The Quote of the Week is from former Nottingham Forest Manager Brian Clough, on looking after Roy Keane: "I only ever hit Roy the once. He got up so I couldn't have hit him very hard".

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Twenty-six players fronted on another perfect winter’s afternoon. A game of club singles and a game of club triples were held alongside three social triples matches.

On Rink 5, Paul Vass edged out Des Chapman in a tight singles clash, 25–21.

In the triples, Gary Nosworthy, Dino Poli and Hugh Montgomery proved too strong for Maude, Bob Pickard and Phil Marsden on Rink 3, winning 25–13. Rink 4 saw Michael Young, Elaine Young and Trevor Elton account for Bob Young, Ron Smith and Terry Feakes, 24–16.

On Rink 6, Margaret Chapman, Bruce McCallum and Michael McClosky dominated Judy Elton, Mick Olsen and Wayne Newton, finishing 20–7.

Rink 7 featured the daily winners—Tony Caruso, Yogi Bunn and Alex Bojack (pictured)—who defeated Henry Hazel, Sandra Darwin and Steve Doig 22–10.

Tony Caruso also claimed the breakfast tray raffle, with Alex Bojack taking out second draw and a nice bottle of wine.

The Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers and Wednesday morning Kraft group are still going strong. Wednesday night barefoot bowls continues to attract keen bowlers—whether it’s the competition or the pre-game sausage sizzle.

Thursday morning BINGO remains very popular, and Thursday afternoon social bowls is both competitive and well attended. Saturday afternoon social bowls is just $5 for a game.

Until next week—good bowling!

Photo and report by Stephen Doig

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After more than four decades in the Queensland Police Service, Steve Barton, Officer‑in‑Charge at Ayr Police Station, is hanging up his badge with much pride and little fanfare—exactly how he prefers it.

“I’ve just really enjoyed doing what I’ve done,” he said.

“Every job has its challenges and things you wish you’d done better, but [I'm proud of] my commitment to the work and the community.”

A Career Built On Commitment And Connection

Barton began his career in the early 1980s, serving across Queensland in towns including Toowoomba, Blackwater, Capella, Hervey Bay and, for the past 15 years, Ayr. Much of that time was spent in small one‑ and two‑officer stations, a vastly different experience, he says, to larger postings.

“You had no one to rely on—sometimes you just hoped bad things didn’t happen. You certainly learned how to talk to people quickly and communicate well,” he recalled.

Over the years, Barton has also watched the job change dramatically, particularly with the rise of technology. “When I started, we were still using cardboard cards to keep records. Now you’ve got almost everything at your fingertips,” he said.

Through all the changes, Barton says what’s stayed consistent is the personal connection that come with policing small rural towns.

“You get to know people, even those you deal with regularly, and it becomes more personable. Sometimes you go that extra bit, like helping an elderly couple get home after a crash. It’s just what you do.”

As for retirement, Steve and his wife plan to stay in the region. “We like the slower pace of life here. Townsville’s close enough for what we need, the community’s good, and the weather’s fine—apart from summer, which is a bit of a prick,” he said with a laugh.

Looking back, he hopes to be remembered simply as “an effective officer in charge, devoted to duty.”

“I’ve had my time. I’m comfortable with what I’ve done and ready for the next chapter,” he said.

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After my mates last month, it was my parents’ turn to pay me a visit in this beloved region I now call home—and it’s only when you’re showing guests around that you realise just how much you’ve come to know about a place.

Don’t get me wrong—I’m not claiming “local” status yet. But I’ve come a long way from the guy who first arrived here wondering why everything was closed on Sundays.

Mum and Dad liked what they saw. I took them up the mountain, down to Groper Creek for a bit of fishing, and then up to Townsville for the weekend. They were fascinated by the landscape and had nothing but kind words for everyone they met along the way. Let’s just say, they’re glad I’m in safe hands.

Their visit was a good reminder of what makes this place special—the people, the stories and the sense of belonging. And that’s what we try to capture in these pages each week.

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Time is running out to shine a spotlight on Queenslanders making an extraordinary impact in their communities, with nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards closing at 11.59pm on Thursday, the 31st of July.

The government is calling on locals across the State to nominate inspiring individuals for the prestigious national awards, which recognise everyday Australians doing remarkable work across four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over), Young Australian of the Year (16 to 30 years), and Australia’s Local Hero.

“This is about recognising those heroes who quietly go about making Queensland a better place to live, today and into the future,” Premier David Crisafulli said.

“The strength of our communities is the local champions who give back for the benefit of others, let’s celebrate their tireless contributions this Australia Day.”

In 2025, Queensland’s Senior Australian of the Year title went to Dr Bronwyn Herbert, who was honoured for her exceptional work in social services and homelessness research. Dr Herbert began her academic journey later in life, earning her Bachelor’s degree at 40, her Master’s at 61, and her PhD at the age of 90.

The annual Australian of the Year Awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge leadership, dedication, and acts of selflessness that shape a better future for all Australians.

To nominate a Queenslander who inspires you, visit www.australianoftheyear.org.au before midnight on the 31st of July.

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A 27‑year‑old Ayr woman is among three people charged after an armed robbery at a Bruce Highway rest stop in Cardwell on Saturday, 26 July.

Police allege that around 6.35pm, the trio–including a 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man and a 17‑year‑old Rasmussen boy–approached a white Hyundai Accent and demanded the 18‑year‑old German tourist driver hand over his keys, wallet and phone.

One of the group allegedly threatened the man with a firearm before ordering him out of the vehicle. The tourist complied and later alerted police.

The car was intercepted entering Townsville a short time later after a coordinated response involving the Tactical Crime Squad, Dog Squad and Polair.

The Ayr woman and the 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man have each been charged with two counts of armed robbery in company and are due appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 July. The 17‑year‑old boy faces the same charges and will appear in Townsville Children’s Court.

Investigations are ongoing.

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OPINION PIECE

The Albanese Labor Government has used its numbers in Parliament to block a proposed Senate Inquiry into the health and future of Australia’s metals manufacturing industry, without providing any explanation for the decision.

The Inquiry, moved by Nationals Senators Susan McDonald and Matt Canavan, was designed to investigate the looming crisis facing the sector, including key processing facilities Glencore’s Mount Isa and Townsville operations.

“These facilities underpin our local economies and are a vital part of Australia’s sovereign capability. Shutting them down would mean significant job losses and a massive blow to our national resilience,” Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

The rejection of the Inquiry comes despite Labor’s own Industry and Innovation Minister, Senator Tim Ayres, recently admitting the Mount Isa closure represents a “very significant economic problem”.

With billions of taxpayers’ funds committed to Labor-designed programs such as the Future Made in Australia plan, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the Critical Minerals Facility, and the National Reconstruction Fund, time will tell if these programs are tapped into to support these facilities and their workers.

“This government talks up a big game with its commitment to manufacturing, but when it’s time to act, they are nowhere to be seen,” said Mr Willcox.

“Workers, their families and our communities deserve answers and some certainty about their future. Blocking this inquiry sends the exact opposite message. When our metals manufacturing industry shuts down, countries like China and Indonesia fill the void.

“Labor’s decision to block this inquiry is deeply disappointing, but sadly it’s not surprising. For all their talk about building a ‘Future Made in Australia’, this is just more fluff and no substance,” Mr Willcox said.

Andrew Willcox

Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

Member for Dawson

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Helping You Achieve Financial Goals

When Ross Rickards opened Astute Ayr in January 2020, he brought with him over a decade of experience in banking and a stint managing insurance clients—background that gave him a clear vision of what a customer‑first financial service should look like.

Now, five years on, that vision has flourished into a bustling office that handles everything from home loans, equipment finance and commercial lending to Business, domestic and private health insurance services, all under the award‑winning Astute North Queensland banner.

Starting out solo, Rickards had to shoulder every task himself. Then, to pile on the pressure, COVID‑19 hit. “It was a big scare, but in hindsight it actually helped us,” he said, pointing to the rapid adoption of remote appointments and the property market surge that brought southern investors flocking to North Queensland.

Today, Astute Ayr boasts six full‑time staff, split evenly between home loans and insurance specialists. “I’m so lucky to have such an awesome team—they’re the backbone of my business and a big reason I love coming to work every day.”

The team prides itself on a customer-centric approach, driven by around-the-clock availability. “Our approach has always been customer‑first. If a client texts me on a weekend, I’ll call them back. Five minutes out of my day can stop someone stressing all weekend,” says Rickards.

A significant milestone came in August 2023, when Astute Ayr moved into its current home—the old TAB building off Queen Street. Rickards found humour in the contrast: “Instead of people walking in here to blow their money, they’re coming in and we’re helping them save money, put themselves in a better financial position, and achieve their dreams."

Astute Ayr remains proudly Burdekin‑based, but its reach extends nationwide, working with people Ross went to school with or played sport with and against from all across the country.

"We do loans for clients in WA, Brisbane, Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Melbourne. It’s something I absolutely love about what we do," says Rickards.

"If they ever have an insurance claim, we directly help them out with the process instead of dealing with call centres.”

For Rickards, the heart of the business lies in building these lasting relationships.

“We love helping people who’ve never been taught how to manage money. Seeing them come back a year or two later in a much better position—that’s the best part of what we do.”

With a focus on making finance & insurance simple and accessible, Rickards and his team continue to build strong relationships and support clients every step of the way as they work toward achieving their financial goals.

You can get in contact with the team on 07 4783 5229 or ayr@astutefinancial.com.au

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For Rickards, the heart of the business lies in building these lasting relationships. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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On 20 July 2025, surrounded by friends at the Alva Beach Tourist Caravan Park, Joan Mutton marked her 100th birthday the same way she has spent the past two decades of winters: in the Burdekin, fishing, quad‑biking and swapping stories at happy hour.

“We’ve been coming up here for the last 20 years,” Joan said. “A lot of these people that come up here, and also friends we have made in Home Hill and so forth, were all here to celebrate, and it was lovely.”

Born in Adelaide in 1925, Joan grew up in a time when electricity was just reaching the Adelaide Hills and cars were a new sight on the roads. At 16, during World War II, she joined the Australian Defence campaigns, kicking off a professional career of hard work and service.

She went on to study accountancy, run her own real estate business, manage a citrus orchard for more than a decade and help establish the West Beach SA Bendigo Community Bank, where she served as Administrative Secretary and a Board Member—“all voluntary, too,” she proudly added.

Adventurous by nature, Joan has made 21 overseas trips, from Scandinavia to Canada, but still calls her “gypsy life in the caravan” one of her happiest chapters. She credits staying active for her longevity: “I still do all the cooking—I’m pretty well self‑sufficient. Once you stop doing things, you can’t get it back.”

She even keeps up with technology, though she laughs at the pace of change: “You’re never too old to learn, but they do keep moving the goalposts!”

Family remains central: two daughters, four grandchildren and five great‑grandchildren, all waiting for another celebration when she returns to Adelaide.

Her secret to a century well‑lived? “Never give up, and you’re never too old to learn. You just keep on going—and be kind."

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