The resilience, beauty, and spirit of rural Australia have been captured in the winning entries of Rural Aid’s sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photography Competition.

This year’s competition drew a record-breaking response, with 201 entrants submitting 429 photos – almost double the number received in 2024. The powerful images tell stories of life on the land, from moments of quiet reflection to the vastness and challenges of the Australian landscape.

Ten winners were each awarded a $250 prepaid Visa card for photos that judges said reflected the realities of rural life – its struggles, its triumphs, and the deep connection people share with country and community.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the competition continues to highlight stories that might otherwise go unseen.

“This year’s photos are a moving tribute to life outside the city limits. They tell stories of perseverance, pride and connection,” Mr Warlters said.

“There’s an authenticity to these images that resonates. Whether it’s a family working through drought, or a breathtaking sunrise over a remote property, the spirit of the bush shines through.”

Among the winners was Calliope’s Amy Ahchay, a first-time entrant, whose candid photograph of countrymen Rob and Gordon sharing a laugh over a cuppa in the paddock struck a chord with judges.

“I spotted Rob and Gordon deep in conversation across the paddock and just had to capture the moment. It was the perfect snapshot of bush life, two country larrikins, their horses, a cuppa, and a good laugh,” Amy said.

“To me, this is what the spirit of the bush is all about. It’s raw, it’s real, but it’s also full of heart. Mateship, storytelling, and that unshakable sense of connection that ties rural communities together.”

The winning images will feature across Rural Aid’s campaigns, publications and social media, helping to raise awareness of life in the bush and the people who call it home.

Rural Aid is also encouraging photographers to consider becoming volunteer content creators by donating images to support its fundraising and awareness work.

Since 2015, Rural Aid has provided vital support to farmers and rural communities, from hay and drinking water to mental health counselling and community-building initiatives. Now celebrating its 10th year, the charity continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Australians, ensuring their stories – and their resilience – are never forgotten.

2025 Spirit of the Bush Photos (Photo Supplied)

‍

Queensland’s sugarcane industry has welcomed the Federal Government’s $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program, declaring the state is perfectly placed to lead the charge in clean energy and regional job creation.

The ten-year program aims to unlock economic opportunities from low-carbon liquid fuels such as biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said Queensland already has a head start, with global recognition for sustainable farming practices and an extensive transport network.

“Almost half of the Queensland’s sugarcane is recognised by the world’s three biggest sustainability gatekeepers as a global leader in sustainable farming. This gives immediate confidence to airlines, freight and heavy industry that local feedstocks meet global benchmarks,” Mr Galligan said.

He explained that Queensland’s cane rail system is another advantage.

“Our growing region stretches along the Queensland coastline, alongside major population hubs. We also have a cane rail network stretching thousands of kilometres, linking farms to mills and multiple deep-water ports,” Mr Galligan said.

“This footprint shortens supply chains, cuts costs, and de-risks a rapid scale-up of domestic low-carbon liquid fuels. With sugarcane feedstock alone, Queensland could deliver more than 30% of Australia’s aviation fuel demand.

“This is about positioning Queensland as the nation’s biofuels hub. It means cleaner fuels for airlines and motorists, thousands of new jobs, and billions in regional investment.”

Australian Sugar Manufacturers (ASM) CEO Ash Salardini praised the Federal Government’s leadership.

“The government must be commended for grabbing this once-in-a-generation opportunity with both hands,” Mr Salardini said.

He also stressed the importance of strong supply chain foundations.

“We have to get the foundations right on biofuels. The challenge isn’t technology anymore – it’s standing up a reliable, scalable, and cost-effective supply chain.

“This agenda requires a laser-like focus on targeted support for feedstock logistics and infrastructure. Without it we risk building a biorefining capability that relies on imported feedstock – swapping our reliance on imported liquid fossil fuels with a vulnerability for imported bioethanol from places like Brazil and India,” Mr Salardini said.

Both CANEGROWERS and ASM agree that towns such as Cairns, Mackay, Bundaberg, Townsville, Childers and Tully could become bio-precinct hubs, producing clean fuels, biogas and renewable electricity.

With the sugar industry already supporting 20,000 jobs and contributing $4.4 billion annually to the Queensland economy, the potential for growth is significant.

“If we get it right, we’ll unlock thousands of jobs across regional Queensland and beyond, demonstrating that the net-zero ambition will bring good paying jobs to regional communities across Australia,” Mr Salardini said.

‍

Opinion Piece By Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox

‍

The sky is falling. We’re all going to drown. And if we don’t, we’ll die of heatstroke. That’s the kind of doomsday rhetoric being pushed by Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen and the Albanese government. Why? Because Labor believes fear keeps them in power and they want every voter to be scared.

Last week’s Climate Risk Report, commissioned by the Albanese Government, is the latest chapter in Labor’s long running campaign of alarmism and climate armageddon. It warns of property destruction from rising sea levels, increased heat related deaths, and the collapse of civilisation by 2050 unless we submit to a radical climate agenda.

What’s not mentioned in the report is the cost of Labor’s so called solutions. Power bills and insurances are soaring and grocery prices are biting harder than ever, while our children are being raised in a culture of climate anxiety. And who will ultimately pay the price for Labor’s climate lunacy? Every one of us. And for what gain?

We’re being told to dismantle our economy, cancel projects, and reshape our lives while the world’s biggest emitters, China, India, the U.S. continue to power ahead, not to mention that in the coming decades African nations with exploding populations may too become more energy hungry.

The government’s climate policies are under pressure. Renewable projects are being shelved and investors are pulling out. While more and more countries around the world turn off to Net Zero targets, the government refuses to consider alternative solutions like nuclear and it remains fact that coal is still the cheapest source of energy in Australia. Farmers voices are growing louder in opposition to prime agricultural lands being destroyed by mega solar and wind projects.

The timing too of this report is no accident. It was the pre cursor to the Governments long awaited revised emission targets, announced only a few days later. To compensate for 2030 targets being well off track, the government has decided to double down and go even harder announcing an even more ambitious target of a 62%–70% emissions reduction on 2005 levels by 2035, and this will translate to increased costs hitting Aussie households.

The global climate is changing. It has always changed and it will continue to change. Instead of painting a grim all is lost picture, Australia should be looking at ways to adapt and even take advantage of potential changes. We need practical outcomes, not panic and economic self-destruction. Let’s focus on lifting living standards, not tearing down industries based on what ifs and maybes.

Deep down, the government isn’t worried about 2050 at all, but they want voters to be. They are only worried about the 2028 election.

We need a government who will build people up, not frighten them into submission. Enough with the scare tactics. Let’s talk about real world solutions that don’t destroy livelihoods along the way.

‍

At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, banking goes far beyond financial services. It’s about people, relationships, and giving back to the place we proudly call home.

The staff here are not only dedicated to providing outstanding service, but also to strengthening the community through the Community Bank model — where profits are reinvested locally.

Three team members who embody this commitment are Chris Delaney, Jade Bywaters, and Sally Smith, each bringing unique experiences and a shared passion for the Burdekin region.

Chris Delaney, a Customer Relationship Officer, is as local as they come. Born and raised in the Burdekin, Chris spent 15 years away before returning home, where he’s now been settled for the past 25 years. With 20 years of service at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chris says the best part of her role is helping customers achieve their goals.

“The ability to be able to help my customers reach their goals is what I enjoy most,” she said. “What makes me proudest is seeing how much is given back to the community I love, from the bank I love — just from customers choosing to bank with us.”

Jade Bywaters, Customer Relationship Manager, has called Ayr home since she was eight years old. Now raising her two daughters with her partner Shaun, she feels deeply connected to the region. Jade joined the Community Bank nearly seven years ago, starting as a Customer Service Officer before moving into the home loan space. She says helping customers achieve milestones like purchasing their first home or upgrading to their forever home is incredibly rewarding.

“I’m passionate about helping my customers achieve their goals — whether they’re purchasing their first home, upgrading to their forever home, or investing in property. It’s a privilege to play a part in such important moments in people’s lives.”

Sally Smith, also a Customer Relationship Officer, shares that strong local connection. Born and raised in Home Hill, she has spent the past 18 years in Ayr with her husband and two children. Sally has been with the Community Bank for six years and loves the opportunities her role provides to support others.

“What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to help others succeed and reach their goals. There’s something really fulfilling about supporting someone in achieving their goals and knowing my efforts made a meaningful difference,” she said.

Like Chris and Jade, Sally is especially proud of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr and the tangible benefits it brings. “Knowing that the work we do every day helps support local sporting clubs, associations, and other community initiatives gives me a strong sense of pride,” she said.

Together, Chris, Jade, and Sally represent the heart of the Community Bank: locals serving locals, with a genuine commitment to helping customers succeed and ensuring the Burdekin community continues to thrive.

‍
1. Chris Delaney
2. Jade Bywaters
3. Sally Smith

The Country Women’s Association (CWA) is inviting locals to join them for a special Seniors Month morning tea on 14 October, offering a warm welcome with craft, conversation, and of course, scones from 9:30AM.

“We’d love people to come down, see what we do, and maybe even join in afterwards,” said CWA member Jan Juffs. “We’ll have some scones for morning tea as well—it’s just a nice way to spend a Tuesday.”

Last year’s open day was a quiet gathering of members and friends from the local patchwork group, but members are hopeful of a better turnout this year around.

Visitors can expect a mix of activities and demonstrations, with everything from embroidery and patchwork to card making and crochet. “Some ladies bring in glitter, glue and felt for their projects,” CWA Secretary Diana Jones explained. “There’s always something creative happening.”

The branch meets every Tuesday morning from 9am until "everyone has left". While the Seniors Month event is free, regular gatherings are open to everyone for a gold coin donation. Newcomers are encouraged to take part in the crafts, but simply enjoying the company is welcome too.

The group has a long history in the district, though keeping it alive hasn’t always been easy. “When we joined, there were only three members left. It looked like we might lose the hall,” Jones recalled. “I went to my first meeting and walked away as secretary—and I’ve been in the role ever since. Back then, we had only a couple of hundred dollars in the bank and were really struggling.”

Now, the branch has around 14 to 16 members, ranging from their 60s through to their 90s. They’re determined to shake off the image of CWA as “just for older people.”

“The CWA has always been about sisterhood and support. We're all like sisters, and we want new members to come in and be part of that.”

What: Seniors Month Morning Tea
When: 14 October, 9:30am
Where: 117 Young Street, Ayr

‍
“The CWA has always been about sisterhood and support. We're all like sisters, and we want new members to come in and be part of that.” Photo supplied

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

This week the Burdekin is proud to host the ‘Basques in Australia’ celebrations. Having a European background myself, I commend the Basque families in our community for keeping their heritage and culture alive, and I pray that future generations continue to embrace it. So many Basque families made the Burdekin their home, contributing greatly to our community over the years. I wish you all the very best for your celebrations.

School holidays are underway and there’s plenty for families to enjoy, including the Burdekin Library’s school holiday programs. From craft and activities to storytime and games, there’s something for the kids to get involved in. I encourage parents and carers to take a look and join in the fun.

Council is also proud to support the establishment of a Country Universities Centre (CUC) here in the Burdekin, which would provide more opportunities for local students to access tertiary education without leaving the district. The CUC Management Committee is seeking community feedback through a survey to better understand the level of interest and support.

I encourage everyone to have their say and complete the survey today and help shape the future of education in the Burdekin. To complete the survey visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/P3PCY62. More information can also be found on Council’s website, Burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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

‍

Councillor Callan Oar

The sound of locos rattling through the Burdekin is a sure sign of harvest, and this year those bins have been moving earlier and faster than usual. With an early start to the crushing, we’re on track to finish before Melbourne Cup, just like the old days. That’s welcome news for our farming families, mill workers and contractors, and it flows right across the community. An early finish means fewer wet season delays, smoother operations, and earlier returns into local businesses. From the hardware store to the butcher, everyone feels the benefit when the crush runs well.

By the time you’re reading this, it will be just 91 days until Christmas. With harvest wrapping up sooner, many families will be able to shift gears earlier and enjoy the festive season with a little more breathing space.

This weekend, during the school holidays, I’m taking my family and the caravan to one of our local beaches for a couple of nights. It’s a good reminder of the fantastic spots we have right here in our backyard. Spending locally, whether at our parks, shops or small businesses, keeps money in the community and helps our region thrive.

Tec-NQ House Year 11 boarder Max has taken a big step toward his future, securing a school-based plumbing apprenticeship with Hilditch Plumbing in Townsville. He splits his week between paid work on real sites, training with Tec-NQ, and the study he needs to complete his Senior Certificate, earning while he’s learning and loving every minute.

“It’s busy and it’s hands-on, which is exactly what I wanted,” said Max. “I’m earning while I learn, and I’m picking up skills on the tools that I can use straight away.”

Right now, Max is working in the civil construction space on local subdivisions. That means early starts, lots of digging, and the practical know-how that comes with preparing ground and pipe for underground services. “There’s a lot of groundwork,” he explained. “We’re trenching, bedding, and laying pipe. It’s hard work, but I’m really enjoying it.”

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Max’s journey shows how opportunity follows effort. “Max is a great example of what happens when a young person shows up, works hard, and makes a good impression on placement,” Luke said. “Good work experience can turn into paid employment and a school-based apprenticeship, and that’s exactly the vocational pathway we champion.”

Life at Tec-NQ House gives Max the structure to succeed. He leaves for site each morning with a nutritious packed lunch prepared by Don, the on-site chef at the House, then returns to a supportive environment in the afternoon to reset for the next day. “Having Chef Don’s lunches keeps the boys fuelled for long days,” Luke added. “Food, routine, and positive expectations make a huge difference when you’re juggling work and school.”

Max agrees the balance is working. “I go to work during the day, then come back to Tec-NQ House,” he said. “The staff help keep us on track, and the routine makes it easier to manage work, training, and study.”
During school holidays, Max transitions into full-time hours with Hilditch to accelerate his progress. The goal is clear: finish Year 12, move straight into a full-time apprenticeship, and qualify as a tradie with Hilditch Plumbing.

“Holidays are a chance to get more time on the tools,” Max said. “When I finish school, I want to step straight into full-time and keep going until I’m qualified.”

For Luke, Max’s story is exactly why Tec-NQ House exists. “Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” he said. “We set clear expectations around learning and behaviour, and we’re right there to support them with transport, meals, and pastoral care so they can focus on what matters: doing a good job on site and at school.”

He adds that employers notice the difference. “When a student like Max turns up on time, listens, works hard, and takes pride in the basics, employers are eager to invest in them,” Luke said. “That consistency is what leads to apprenticeships and long-term careers."

With Hilditch Plumbing backing his development and Tec-NQ House providing the platform, Max is building momentum one trench, one length of pipe, and one solid day’s work at a time.

‍
(Picture one - left to right: Peter Landy from Hilditch Plumbing, Max and Luke Papworth who is our Head of Boarding.)

(Picture two: Plumbing Facilitator Dave and Tec-NQ plumbing students)

When Burdekin locals Ken and Shay Linton took the reins of Home Hill News in 2022, they knew they had big shoes to fill, following an 18-year legacy left by Shay’s parents. Three years, a rebrand, and a full expansion of products later, the couple have seen the business blossom into Home Hill News and Coffee—a thriving community favourite now proudly celebrating its third birthday.

The project was set in motion when Ken, a local farmer, and Shay, who had always wanted to own a coffee shop, decided to take a risk.

"There wasn't any coffee shop in Home Hill,” said Ken.

“Ken didn’t see a future staying on the farm, and I had always talked about having a coffee shop, so we just said 'let’s give this a go',” added Shay.

And the rest is history. The Linton's hit the ground running, determined to make their own fresh mark on the long-standing family business.

"We had to diversify," said Shay. "When my mum and dad had it, it was all newspapers, magazines and giftware. We decided to add in the coffee, not knowing how it would go—but it's been amazing."

From there, they rapidly expanded the shop’s giftware offerings, branching out into homeware and even toys. But beyond their products, Home Hill News and Coffee has grown to not only serve good coffee, but also cultivate a reputation as the local hub of connection and conversation.

"We get the regulars, and then especially the travellers—hearing all their stories has been nice. You learn about so many different aspects of life," said Ken.

"It's nice to be able remember people's names and orders, and build a relationship beyond [just a transaction]. And I think that makes customers feel good too," said Shay.

As Home Hill News and Coffee prepares to celebrate its third birthday, the hands behind it remain grateful for the community support that has allowed them to thrive.

They do their best to reflect that gratitude by giving back. This year, they are Silver Sponsors of the Home Hill Harvest Festival and have continued to sponsor and donate to the Burdekin Netball, Home Hill Cricket Association, Home Hill Golf, Burdekin Netball Deb of the Year, Home Hill High Students Ball, and many local schools over the past three years.

"We are proud to be able to give back to our local community through sponsorship. We enjoy being able to support our wonderful community as they have supported us over the years."

While community support has been central to their success, Ken and Shay are quick to point out that their team also plays a huge role in keeping the business thriving.

"None of this would be possible without our hard-working staff members Desley, Louisa, Brea, Mackenzie, Bella, Ruby, Isla and Indi, who turn up for each shift ready to take on whatever the day brings or whatever crazy food idea Shay has thought of overnight."

Since taking over the long-running Home Hill News, Shay and Ken Linton have reimagined it as much more than a place to pick up the paper. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍

Just days after Burdekin cane farmers outlined opportunities and expressed concerns about the industry, they have also secured a new ally according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

As part of an inquiry charged with identifying growth opportunities for the sugar industry, the Queensland parliament’s Primary Industries and Resources Committee heard from both grower groups and growers who are exploring opportunities in Townsville recently.

“This inquiry represents an opportunity for industry growth and finding solutions to problems that are, or could, hold back future growth,” he said. “The majority of the evidence heard in Townsville was from representatives of the Burdekin, and that is fitting given the contribution that the Burdekin makes to the industry.”

“A range of opportunities to grow the industry were presented and, from a wider point of view, there was a genuine consensus that realising those opportunities was about benefits for the wider community as well as the sugar industry itself.”

The form that support takes is also something that the Committee will pay particular attention to because we need a way forward that is reliable, achievable and is advantageous across the industry, rather than just to one part of it.”

“The Committee is accepting written submissions up until October 8th and, following that, the real work commences. What I’d like to see in the Committee report is a thorough breakdown of the pros and cons of each opportunity so decisions can be made both by industry and the government.”

While not a direct result of the inquiry, Mr Last said the announcement of extended funding and expanded responsibilities for the new Queensland Food Farmers’ Commissioner could help make major inroads on at least one ongoing issue.

“It’s no secret that growers and millers often disagree on a range of issues when what is actually needed is cooperation,” Mr Last said. “The changes to the responsibilities of the Food Farmers’ Commissioner means farmers now have a new ally to assist them in securing a fair go from millers.”

“Whereas the previous government had only funded the role for 12 months, the Crisafulli government has guaranteed funding for 3 years. That has been done because we know that, in order to bring our Primary Producer’s Prosper blueprint to life, our primary producers need support, advocacy and someone that has the ear of government when issues cannot be resolved easily.”

“We make no apology for throwing our support primarily behind our farmers and the communities they live in because regional Queensland makes a major contribution to Queensland’s prosperity and the people who live and work in regional Queensland must benefit from that prosperity.”

Photo: Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, meets with representatives of QCAR to discuss sugar industry issues including the recent parliamentary inquiry.

‍

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

The 16 Days of Activism, commencing on 25 November, is a global campaign that unites individuals and organisations worldwide in calling for the prevention and elimination of gender-based violence in all its forms.

As part of this campaign, Zonta and the BDFAPN will be hosting a series of local initiatives in the lead-up to the vigil, including awareness-raising activities and social media campaigns designed to spark conversation and drive change.

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

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

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

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

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

Event details:

Date: Monday, 25 November 2025

Time: 7pm

Location: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, 161 Queen Street, AYR

Photo: From Left: Isabel Stubbs (Zonta Club Burdekin Inc); Fina Vasta (QPS); Glenn Arboit (BSC); Natalie Saroglia (BNC); Troy Everett (Burdekin Theatre); Inez Larsen (Zonta Club Burdekin Inc); Rebecca Grogan (BCA)

With Home Hill Sergeant Sam Pyke

Between 1am at 5am 28 August 2025 a Toyota Rav 4 was stolen from a Twelfth Avenue address in Home Hill. At about 1pm the same day, local Police located the stolen vehicle in Ayr. An 18 year old male from Home Hill was arrested for various property offences and remanded in custody. A 15 year old and a 16 year old were also arrested and charged with various offences and granted bail to appear in the Ayr Children Court on a later date.

Since 28 August 2025 and 18 September 2025 there have been 5 break and enter offences reported to police in the Home Hill Police division. This is only a slight increase of property crime overall in the division against offences reported last year.. Police at Home Hill will continue to be committed to holding offenders to account and ensuring our community feels safe. We use every tool in our toolbox to ensure that crime is addressed quickly, investigated professionally and efficiently dealt with.

Having said that, there are steps you can take to better protect yourself and your property. Please secure your homes and be security aware. The majority of break and enters we attend are opportunistic. This means offenders pick easy targets - doors left unlocked, windows open. If you see something or someone that is suspicious, please report it to the Police. There is a lot of information that goes up on Facebook community groups that is never shared with the Police. There is often criticism about Police inaction attached to these posts regarding incidents we are completely unaware of.

We do not monitor these groups for various reasons. If we don’t know about it, we can’t do anything.

Please phone Policelink on 131 444 – This number is 24/7 – 365 days a year. This will ensure local police are aware and can attend to check a situation out.

‍

Following an impressive cameo with opera superstar Paul Tabone, the Home Hill Choral Society brings their all-new show, Viva La Italia, to The Vault this weekend for a night of song, skits, and snacks, all with an Italian undertone.

With shows from Friday 26 through Sunday 28, the program promises a mix of classic Italian anthems—including a rendition of That's Amore!—along with the group's renowned comedy sketches and a touch of audience participation.

"We like people to become part of the show," says writer and director Erin Brennan. "We just try to create an atmosphere. We class ourselves as a big family, and our audience becomes part of that family."

Viva La Italia will be their third independent production this year, following the Irish-themed Shamrock Shindig in March and their Winter Concert in June. The group began rehearsing three months ago for what will be their first Italian-themed production in over 20 years.

Brennan says the crew are excited to present their work to the public and hopefully put smiles on faces.

"The best thing for us is when people say they had fun and forgot about their troubles and worries for a moment," she says.

Mark your calendars and join the fun at Viva La Italia! Shows run Friday 26 September at 7.30pm, Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September at 1.30pm at The Vault, 93 Ninth Avenue. Tickets are $35. For bookings and enquiries, contact Erin Brennan on 0428 822 091.

Brennan says the crew are excited to present their work to the public and hopefully put smiles on faces. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍

Feeling cramped at home? Clever storage solutions can transform even the smallest spaces, making your rooms feel more organised and spacious without a major renovation.

One simple trick is to utilise vertical space. Floating shelves in living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms not only provide extra storage but also draw the eye upward, giving the illusion of height. Over-door racks and hooks are another underrated option, perfect for storing shoes, towels, or bags without taking up floor space.

Under-bed storage is a game-changer for bedrooms. Slim containers or rolling drawers can hold everything from seasonal clothing to extra bedding, keeping clutter out of sight. For living rooms, multipurpose furniture works wonders—think ottomans with hidden compartments, coffee tables with shelves, or beds with built-in drawers.

Closets can be maximised with a few simple additions. Hanging organizers, tiered shoe racks, and stackable boxes help separate items and make them easier to access. Clear containers allow you to see contents at a glance, saving time hunting for what you need.

Even small kitchens can benefit from clever storage. Magnetic knife strips, spice racks on cabinet doors, and pull-out pantry baskets free up counter space and keep essentials within reach. For bathrooms, wall-mounted caddies, suction cup hooks, and over-the-toilet shelving add storage without crowding the room.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of decluttering. Regularly reviewing your belongings ensures only the items you truly use take up space, making storage systems more effective.

With a little creativity and strategic planning, every room in your home can be both functional and stylish.

‍

Last Wednesday’s Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting proved an eye-opener for many in attendance, as local members gathered to hear from guest speakers Natalie Saroglia of the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC), and Jenny Cummings of the Burdekin Shire Council.

Long-time BNC coordinator Saroglia opened the session, outlining the harsh realities of homelessness and unemployment in the local community, and the BNC’s role in addressing them.

Cummings then shared details of the upcoming Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Ready Trail, scheduled for Wednesday, 1 October 2025. The community initiative encourages locals to visit participating businesses, collect stamps, and go into the draw for prizes.

In other updates, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort announced that Council has successfully refurbished the exterior of three graffiti-affected properties along Home Hill’s main street. Cr. Dalle Cort also confirmed that Council will proceed with plans to construct a new pump track in Ayr.

‍
1. Long-time BNC coordinator Natalie Saroglia opened the meeting
2. Jenny Cummings shared details of the upcoming Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Ready Trail, scheduled for Wednesday, 1 October 2025
3. Home Hill Chamber Secretary Rob Antoniazzi, President Uli Liessmann, BNC Coordinator Natalie Saroglia, Council representative Jenny Cummings, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Treasurer John Clarke

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍