By Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager 

Well, there is more to sugarcane farming than I thought!

Weeks 21 & 22 Crush:  The last two weeks QCAR has been involved in discussions with many industry bodies to continue to develop relations and partnerships which can influence our success as a region/district to be the leaders in sugarcane production.  
I recently turned my focus to water systems in the Burdekin, so many thanks to Evan Shannon of Farmacist, NQ Dry Tropics and Sunwater for sharing their knowledge and insights.

The QCAR Water Committee is now actively looking to engage with local suppliers and government bodies to ensure we are up to date with all current and future projects in the Burdekin basin. We recently welcomed Dr Kayleen Walsh as our Chair. 
Exciting times ahead for the community: 
   • Burdekin Fall Dam Raising 
   • Rio Tinto Investment 
   • Jet Zero (S.A.F) 

Let’s ensure that all government bodies, landowners and local suppliers are fully engaged and co-operating to take full advantage of these opportunities – partnerships are a must! 
In conjunction with change it is important we recognise the limitations we currently have – energy costs, rising groundwater, milling performances – these all need some attention and collaboration as well.  

Milling Update: 
   • Point of interest: Volume for the week for an individual contractor (the unsung heroes) 
   • Kalamia = 5277.18 tonnes 
   • Invicta = 10356.28 tonnes 
   • Pioneer = 9150.54 tonnes 
   • Inkerman = 6265.27 tonnes 
P & K Farm Update:  
   • mother plot – another cultivation required to destroy regrowth plant cane 
   • imidacloprid applied into furrow – Denis Pozzebon applicator 
   • fertilizer applied – Liquaforce, Rob Woods 
QCAR Connections: 
   • Evan Shannon, Farmacist – Water, Burdekin Basin 
   • Rob Hunt & Luke Clark, NQ Dry Tropics – Future funding 
   • William Weaver & Aaron Elphinstone, Sunwater 
   • Burdekin Council, Mayor Dalle Corte & Team (with BPS & Kalagro) – Invasive/Problem weeds into sugar farming areas 

Upcoming Events: 
   • GRDC Grains Research Update, 26 November, Ayr Showgrounds 
   • Jet Zero Australia – Sustainable Aviation Fuel, 27 November, Burdekin Theatre 
   • Embracing Agriculture Digital Workshop, 27 November, Bowen Tafe College 
   • BBIFMAC AGM & Weather Forecast – Presentation by Neil Cliff – DAF, 10 December, PCYC, 9.30am to 12.30pm
 
ANGELO’S AGRONOMIC TIP: Herbicide choices - Running out of time to do knockdown applications. There are a range of robust, more UV stable herbicides on the market. Talk to your on-farm advisor about options for example Valor, Terrain Amitron, Balance, Palmero T.X. 

QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello can be contacted on 0437 401 837 or email angelo.licciardello@qcar.org.au or QCAR Head Office 4783 2111 

‍

Home Hill State High School marked National Agriculture Day on 18 November with a vibrant celebration highlighting the region’s rich agricultural heritage and sustainable farming practices. Students, teachers, and community leaders came together to showcase the vital role agriculture plays in the Burdekin region and beyond.  
National Agriculture Day, typically celebrated on 15 November, was delayed slightly to accommodate school schedules but retained its focus on recognising the people and industries that feed and sustain communities.  
Greg Rossato, Director and third-generation cane farmer with Canegrowers Burdekin, praised the school’s initiative, saying, “We’ve been invited down to the school here for Ag Day to support their efforts. We’ve also collaborated with the Burdekin Shire Council to launch the ‘Burdekin’s Sweetest School’ program. Fourteen schools in the Burdekin region are growing sugarcane as part of this competition, which will culminate during the Sweet Days Hot Nights festival next year. It’s a fun way to promote knowledge about the sugarcane industry.”  
Home Hill High students also demonstrated their agricultural prowess by harvesting crayfish cultivated in the school’s pond over the semester. These fresh, local delicacies were transformed into dishes such as crayfish curry and served alongside scones, sausages, and other treats, all prepared by the students.  
Louise Nicholas, a teacher at Home Hill State High School, explained, “Today’s celebration is about honouring agriculture and its industries in the Burdekin. It’s a chance for our students to showcase their skills and the fruits of their hard work, like the crayfish they’ve raised.”  
The event also highlighted sustainability, a key theme of modern farming. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate sustainability in our region,” said Kim Kymogomeni, Home Hill High School staff member, underscoring the importance of integrating environmental consciousness with agricultural education.  
Home Hill High School’s celebration was not just a feast for the senses but a reminder of the interconnectedness of the region’s industries and the importance of fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders. By engaging students in hands-on farming projects and partnerships like ‘Burdekin’s Sweetest School,’ the community is sowing seeds of awareness and pride in one of the Burdekin’s most iconic industries.  
The school plans to continue building its agricultural education program, using days like National Agriculture Day to inspire students and community members alike. For Home Hill High School, agriculture is not just a subject—it’s a celebration of heritage, innovation, and the future.

‍

Greg Rossato, Riley Chapman, Tristan Hooker, Emily Power, Phoebe Cordingly, Greg Watson, Louise Nicholas, Gillian Russell. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

‍

Drawing from an outstanding 140-year history of reputable and trusted business operations, Raine & Horne Ayr sits perfectly at 128C Edwards Street and continues to incorporate the professionalism and 1883 values of Tom Raine and Joesph Horne when servicing the bountiful Burdekin district.

Carla Healy, Principal and Sales Specialist at Raine & Horne Ayr, will soon be celebrating a decade of real estate expertise, and having recently taken over the business with her husband Keith, she cannot thank both Peter and Nora Andersen enough for their guidance and support.

“The guidance and wealth of experience I have gained working with the Andersen’s, has provided me with strong work ethics, plus the determination to improve and succeed, which of course has brought me to where I am today,” explained Carla.

“Our team joined forces with Raine & Horne 6 years ago which was awesome, and everything just keeps getting better, and this next chapter as Principal of Raine & Horne Ayr has only made my future goals more desirable.

I am proud to say I am a local through and through and the Burdekin will always be my home.

We have a fantastic team of 9 in our office, hubby included, and they are all members of my family, and super proud to have them join me for this wonderful adventure.”

Alongside her fantastic and dedicated team, Carla prides herself on the exceptional level of personalised customer service both her and her staff strive to provide each client.

“We provide the Burdekin Community with honest and reliable information in regard to all aspects of real estate whether it be for sales, both residential and rural, rentals or just advise in general,” said Carla.

“Our team offers a wealth of experience in all aspects in dealing with property and are well informed and up to date with all property changes, regulations and legislation - I can definitely say we are pretty awesome to deal with!”

Carla believes there’s nothing more rewarding than embarking on a selling or purchasing journey with a client, explaining that not only does the experience produce successful real estate results but also leaves both parties with fond memories and lasting friendships.

“It’s a big responsibility to take on but I’m there to help every step of the way to make the whole process as smooth as possible for both Buyer and Seller,” shared Carla.

“I pride myself on my honesty and most importantly, local knowledge and I make sure you know everything possible about a property you have intention to buy, and my moto has always been “there is a property out there for everybody and I love helping those in the market to find what they are looking for”.”

In looking ahead to 2025, Carla had one thing to say...

“I’m going to leave this at BIGGER AND BETTER, BRING IT ON!”

‍

Carla Healy is a property selling mogul. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

‍

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

‍
With the weather gods being kind over the past eight weeks, the Burdekin season is about 85 per cent complete at the time of writing.
Our Target price growers have mostly priced their 70 per cent exposure limit, with a few still holding out for higher pricing.
Our focus now is updating growers with their delivered GEI exposure, so they can comfortably price the balance of their crop through the Grower Managed Production Risk Scheme pricing mechanism.
The Production Risk Pool is conservatively priced with the uncertainty regarding finish dates and final GEI sugar deliveries. We have, however, used the recent dip in the AUD to increase our FX hedge percentage against expected USD receipts.
Growers have been cautious about getting too far ahead with their pricing, which has them in a good position should there be a significant weather event causing delays to the harvest.
Our grower marketing consultants are monitoring growers’ pricing and delivery positions to ensure no one gets into trouble with potential shortfalls. As with previous years, we do have options should there be a committed cane shortfall (washout) and it is important to talk to your local consultant to discuss your status.
For growers who committed GEI tonnes to the 2025 Season Wilmar Managed Pool Plus, you will be receiving an invitation shortly to our first information session. We will have Risk Manager Bevan Patterson and Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham online as guest presenters.
Bevan will talk about the overarching pool management process and Peter will give a market update and talk through the outlook for physical premiums in our key export markets. It will be an informative session, so I encourage all growers with GEI sugar tonnes in the Managed Pool Plus to register.
Lastly, thank you to everyone who participated in our recent grower survey. We had a great response across all regions. The survey company is now analysing the responses, and their report will inform future planning and communication from the Grower Marketing team.

‍

Our grower marketing consultants are monitoring growers’ pricing and delivery positions, and have options should there be a committed cane shortfall.

‍

The graduation of the Burdekin Christian College’s Year 12 class was an emotional and joyous occasion, filled with love, laughter, and a few tears. This year’s group of graduates held a special place in the hearts of the school community, with Principal Debra Creed expressing the sentiment, "It’s always special, but this year was really something extraordinary."

Burdekin Christian College year 12 students at their Graduation Ceremony last week. Photo supplied.

‍

See Where The Future Will Take You

Burdekin Christian College’s event was themed “See Where the Future Will Take You”, an idea the graduates themselves curated through a Pinterest board. The travel-inspired theme added a unique touch, with staff dressed as flight attendants and a stunning cake designed as a piece of luggage. Guests were welcomed with mini suitcases filled with chocolates, further carrying the travel motif throughout the evening.
The ceremony began with the graduates visiting their school one last time for traditional photos at their lockers and the stairs. They entered the venue with a celebratory dance to Justice Crew’s hit song, followed by a second performance to "Shine Like a Diamond," a heartfelt tribute to their care teacher, Megan Diamond. School captains Brent Dingle and Shanae Arroita delivered a moving speech, celebrating their peers’ journeys and aspirations.
Principal Creed drew a meaningful parallel between life’s challenges and travel, reminding the students that “turbulence doesn’t last forever.” Mr Jensen, the Dean of Academics, provided a humorous twist with a fairy tale crafted around the students, creating light-hearted laughter amidst the evening’s emotions.
Certificates were presented, with special recognition given to two students who had attended the school from prep to Year 12. A touching moment followed as each graduate received a rose to present to their parents, symbolising gratitude and love. The evening concluded with a traditional gypsy tap dance and heartfelt farewells.
The graduation festivities didn’t end there. The following Friday, the school held a final assembly attended by 350 students and their families. The assembly featured prayers, a Bible reading, and a farewell dance by the school’s lion mascot, who handed over the mascot role to the next in line. A slideshow showcased the graduates’ memories, including trips to Singapore and various fundraisers, while a video titled “Learning to Fly” beautifully captured their journey from prep to graduation.
Gifts were presented to the graduates, each imbued with symbolic meaning. From personalised snow globes and message-in-a-bottle keepsakes filled with heartfelt words to compass gifts handed out by prep students, every detail was designed to inspire and encourage the students as they set off on their new adventures.
The day concluded with a guard of honour formed by the entire student body, leading to the traditional mortarboard toss, surrounded by the cheers and love of family and friends. As the Year 12 graduates embark on diverse paths—ranging from apprenticeships and Defence Force roles to careers in aeronautical engineering and local industries—they leave behind a legacy of cherished memories and strong bonds at Burdekin Christian College.

‍

Ayr State High School's 2024 Academic Awards evening, held at the Burdekin Theatre, was a celebration of student excellence across a variety of disciplines. The event brought together students, families, and staff to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of students from Years 7 to 12. From academics to leadership, citizenship, and sports, the evening highlighted the diverse ways in which students excel within the “Ayr High Family”.

The evening was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Ayr State High students, who were recognised for their contributions in all aspects of school life. Each award presented was a reflection of the high standards set by the students and the supportive environment fostered by the school.

Principal Mr. Craig Whittred, who was in attendance, shared his pride in the students’ accomplishments.

“It is always very uplifting to see the high-quality achievements of the students across all year levels - the achievements of the students is absolutely remarkable,” he remarked.

‍

2024 and 2025 Student Ayr State High School Executive Team.
The overall year level DUX award recipients from years 7 through to 12.
Junior and Senior Citizenship Award recipients.
Junior & Senior, All Rounder Award recipients.
Many students were celebrated at Ayr State High School’s 2024 Academic Awards Evening.

‍

Help us bring the joy of Christmas to the lives of locals this festive season. From families experiencing Domestic and Family Violence, to older persons alone, we are hoping to be able to provide assistance to locals needing a festive lift this holiday season.
 
We would greatly appreciate the following new items:
   • Bonbons
   • Festive decorations
   • Festive tableware
   • Toiletries including women's hygiene
   • Christmas books
   • Sparklers
   • Long life milk
   • Tinned fruit & vegies
   • Gravy
   • Jelly
   • Sunscreen/insect repellent
   • Breakfast Cereal
   • Spreads and condiments
   • Tea
   • Coffee
   • Pudding
   • Long life custard
   • Festive biscuits
   • Tinned protein—Tuna, beans, spam
   • Soft drink or cordial
   • Chips, nuts, snacks, lollies
   • Pasta, rice and noodles
 
Donations can be dropped in to The Support Centre, Burdekin Community Association at 130 Queen Street, Ayr
Please call 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au for more information.

‍

Apathy, often described as a lack of interest or enthusiasm, can creep into our lives quietly, leaving us disconnected and unmotivated. Whether it's a result of burnout, stress, or the overwhelming pace of everyday life, apathy can hinder personal growth and happiness. However, understanding the roots of this feeling and implementing strategies to overcome it can help us reclaim our motivation.

Firstly, it's important to recognise the signs of apathy. These might include disinterest in activities you once enjoyed, a sense of fatigue, or procrastination. Identifying these feelings is the first step towards confronting them.

Practical strategies to combat apathy are:

   • Set small achievable goals. Break tasks into manageable chunks.
   • Regular physical activity. Exercise releases endorphins, which can enhance mood and energy levels.
   • Reconnect with your passions
   • Surround yourself with positive, motivated individuals, creating an encouraging environment.
   • Celebrate these small victories; they help generate positive energy and reinforce your capability, helping to dispel feelings of inadequacy.

At the Neighbourhood Centre, we believe that creating a community helps support individuals and gives them a sense of belonging. Our byline is ‘We work WITH people, not FOR them’.  That is why we have partnered with others to broaden opportunities for community members.

Some of our current collaborations are:
Burdekin Crochet Group
Burdekin Parkinson’s Support Group
Burdekin Dementia Support Group
Burdekin Seniors’ Computer Club
CORES – Self-Care and Mental Wellness Workshops
SHINE – Seniors’ Health and INteractive Exercises  

What we need people to collaborate with:
Compassionate Communities – building our community’s death, dying, and grief literacy and establishing community networks to assist each other.  
Community Life Skilling – bringing together community members with skills and knowledge with those who want to learn.  

We can’t all be participants and sit and wait for something to happen. We need to be doers, make that first connection and create opportunities.  

While apathy can be challenging, it is not insurmountable. Let’s take the first step today and come on into the Neighbourhood Centre and see how we can work together!

Until next time,
The Team - Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

‍

The Home Hill Harvest Festival’s Gala Ball was a night of elegance, celebration, and community pride. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner and danced the night away, honouring the remarkable young women competing as Festival Queens.

Each of the seven contestants showcased their unique personalities through interviews and group performances, giving the audience insight into their dedication to the community.

‍

A bright yellow Rotary Duck from Ayr has made an unexpected appearance in Canberra, delighting locals with its journey to the nation’s capital. The cheerful duck, a symbol of the annual Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, was recently brought to Canberra by Andrew Willcox, the Member for Dawson.
The Rotary Club of Ayr, led by John, arranged for the duck to be sent to Willcox's Canberra office. The playful mascot quickly found its way to the pond outside Parliament House, making a splash in its new environment. Now, it sits proudly on Willcox's office shelf, serving as a symbol of Ayr’s vibrant community spirit and the important Rotary fundraiser.
Each year, the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race fills the Burdekin Plantation Creek with hundreds of yellow ducks, raising vital funds for local causes. “This fellow will sit proudly on my shelf,” Willcox shared, “as a reminder of the significance of Rotary’s fundraiser.”
The duck’s journey to Canberra highlights the unity and goodwill fostered by Rotary, connecting the small Queensland community of Ayr with the heart of Australian government in a meaningful and light-hearted way.

‍

Andrew Willcox at Parliament House with the beloved rubber ducky

‍

Renee Hudson has recently celebrated the official publishment of her first children's book titled, Where in the World is Winston, an adorable story following the travels of an adventurous sausage dog!

Originally from Home Hill, Renee graduated from Home Hill High School and moved to Townsville to peruse her studies in speech pathology, a field she feels deeply passionate about. In 2014, Renee graduated from James Cook University with a Bachelor of Speech Pathology, and then commenced a position at Townsville University Hospital where she currently acts as the assistant director of speech pathology.

“I chose speech pathology because I wanted to work in a profession where I was helping other people,” explained Renee.

“I moved to Townsville to study, and at first it was hard being away from family, and I used to travel to Home Hill a lot to visit as my parents are my biggest supporters!”

With strong family values, Renee and her two sisters share a close bond with one another. Renee treasures spending time with her family, and friends, and a wonderful, and memorable milestone to look forward to - February of next year will see Renee and her fiancé Jamison hold their wedding in Tasmania.

“I have two sisters who are my best friends, and I love spending time with family, friends, my fiancé Jamison, and Winston, my pet dachshund – he’s the best thing ever, and the inspiration behind my book!”

After experiencing plenty of downtime in the midst of Cyclone Kirrily, Renee found herself inspired to write a children’s book through an engaging and educational lens. Drawing upon Renee’s career in speech pathology, Where in the World is Winston was written with a focus on language development and learning, attracting praise from publishments like the ABC, Townville Bulletin, and North Queensland Weekend.

“My goal was to create a little book that children loved with a character that children loved whilst also promoting language development and learning,” shared Renee.

“The book focuses on teaching children about different locations around the world with plenty of repetition and rhyming throughout and it was also important to me that the illustrations were engaging, bright and colourful.”

With the support and encouragement of her family behind her, Renee began writing her first book.

“The story came to me relatively easily, however, the challenge was embarking on the journey of self-publishing, and finding an illustrator to bring my vision to life.

“I find feedback the most rewarding as I’ve had many parents reach out and tell me their children love the book, and its so nice to hear Winston is bringing joy into other’s lives through his adventures in the book!”

With a second book set to be published in 2025, Renee warmly invites the community to attend a reading of Where in the World is Winston at the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday 28 November, where Winston himself will be ready to receive plenty of praise, and answer all questions on his adventures to date.

What: Where in the World is Winston reading by Renee Hudson
When: Thursday 28 November, 10am
Where: Burdekin Library, Ayr, Music Loft
More Information: The Burdekin Library website https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

‍

Celebrated author, Renee Hudson with her loveable pup Winston.
A national star, Where in the World is Winston was written about Renee’s four legged fur baby.

‍

Attending the Harvest Festival for the first time was a memorable experience that truly showcased the spirit of our community. This cherished annual celebration not only brought our town together but also highlighted the talent, traditions, and tastes that make this festival a standout event.
Wandering through the festival, I couldn’t resist stopping for the famous honey puffs—warm, golden treats that lived up to their legendary reputation. The lively buzz of the crowd added to the festive atmosphere, and as the sun began to set, a local band played out the beautiful sunset. The band’s energy was infectious, and soon enough, everyone was tapping along, smiling, and enjoying the music that brought friends and families together.
The Gala Ball was another highlight this week, steeped in elegance and community pride. Watching the Festival Queens gracefully step onto the dance floor was thrilling, each participant exuding confidence and charm. The interviews that followed gave us a glimpse into their personalities and the inspiring ways they connect with our region.
As the Harvest Festival celebrations come to an end, I’m reminded of the unique vibrancy and close-knit community we’re fortunate to have here. These experiences—savouring delicious local treats, enjoying live music, and seeing our community’s finest celebrated on stage—truly capturing the heart of the Harvest Festival. I can’t wait to attend again next year, and I encourage everyone to be part of this fantastic tradition.

‍

Haughton Solar Farm has just been granted approval for a substantial expansion which is set to provide a significant economic boost for the region, with an estimated 405 full-time jobs and 10 permanent roles created.
With the Burdekin Shire Council approval, the project will increase the farm’s capacity to 300 megawatts (MW) of solar power, enough to power an additional 110,000 homes, and the project will also include a 200 MW Battery Energy Storage Solution (BESS).
The expansion will see the addition of 1154 hectares of solar panels to the existing 100 MW Haughton Solar Farm, bringing the total capacity to 400 MW. The new BESS will be capable of storing energy for over two hours, providing a reliable backup that can be deployed to the grid during peak demand times, such as at night.
Mr Capomolla, a representative from Pacific Blue, called the approval a significant milestone for both the company and the renewable energy sector.
"Once this stage is complete, Haughton Solar Farm is expected to have a generating capacity of up to 500 MW, enough to power around 290,000 homes,” he said.
“This project is part of a four-part plan for our Burdekin Renewables Hub.”
The plan for the hub also includes a 500 MW wind farm and a 250 MW pumped hydro energy storage scheme. Together, these projects will make substantial contributions to Queensland’s and Australia’s renewable energy transition, delivering power to over 600,000 homes.
"Importantly, the expansion will provide a significant economic boost, with the creation of 405 full-time jobs and 10 permanent roles," Mr Capomolla added.
"We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Burdekin Shire Council and the local community, and we look forward to continuing to work with local organisations through the Haughton Sustainable Community Fund."
Since the commissioning of the Haughton Solar Farm in 2019, Pacific Blue has supported over 60 local projects through the Fund, contributing more than $400,000 to community initiatives.
In addition to the solar expansion, Pacific Blue has been running an AgriSolar trial at the site, grazing 100 Dorper sheep on the land used for solar energy generation.
"The results have been extremely encouraging," said Mr Capomolla.
"The trial has reduced landscaping costs by $500,000 and improved the wellbeing of the sheep, demonstrating the benefits of combining agriculture with renewable energy."
For more information about the Haughton Solar Farm expansion and the BESS project, visit pacificblue.com.au.

The Haughton Solar Farm has been approved for expansion.

‍

As the festive season approaches, Burdekin residents are preparing to embrace the Christmas spirit. For years, Queen Street in Ayr has been the heart of holiday celebrations, with its iconic Christmas tree as a focal point in the main shopping district.
However, this year, locals will notice a significant change – the tree won’t be in its usual spot and, this bold move by Council, has sparked concern among some community members.
One Burdekin resident believes that Queen Street and the Christmas tree are inseparable parts of the town’s holiday traditions.
“If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” Treena List expressed. “The business centre relies on the foot traffic and festive spirit the tree brings. Without it, the shopping district will be missing that special Christmas touch.”
Another resident, who previously ran a florist shop in town for 22 years, strongly supports keeping the tree on Queen Street.
“I feel strongly about Queen Street – it’s an iconic part of Ayr, and the Christmas tree has been there for as long as I can remember. It’s a tradition that many of us hold dear,” she said.
“The kids love seeing it when they go on holidays, and it’s a part of the community’s identity.”
In response to the concerns, Burdekin Shire Council has asserts that the decision to relocate the Christmas trees was made in order to give better access to the trees and to prioritise safety.
Two new spots have been announced - one outside the Burdekin Theatre in Ayr and the second at the Home Hill Comfort Stop.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort explained, “The roundabout location has served us well, but Council has identified that relocating the new Christmas trees offers some fantastic benefits.
“The existing Christmas trees are over 30 years old, have structural damage, and are aging, making them ready for a well-deserved retirement.”
The move also addresses safety concerns for families, residents, and council workers.
“This move prioritises safety for both our community members and Council workers and reduces the risks some people take to capture a photo on a busy road,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.
While some residents are nostalgic about the traditional location, Mayor Dalle Cort acknowledges the mixed feelings surrounding the change. “Council recognises that there are mixed feelings around the location changes, and we understand change can be difficult, but we see this as a wonderful opportunity to create a safer, family-friendly environment,” she shared.
The new tree locations will allow families to gather and celebrate in safer spaces.
“Families can now enjoy the Christmas trees up close, in spacious locations that are ideal for gathering, celebrating, and taking holiday photos without the concern of busy traffic,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Despite this, Treena List says she feels frustrated that Council offered no public consultation on the matter.
“All the decisions are made by council, but I am upset about the fact that there was no consultation and I hope in future decisions there will be more consultation with the community on the decisions made by the council for the district. But we must move on as that’s politics.” Treena List concludes.
This year’s festive season will look different, but the Council hopes that the new locations will become cherished spaces for future celebrations.

Treena List says she is not happy about the Christmas tree being moved. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

‍

The Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) is pleased to tell you that our application to the CommBank Staff Foundation has been successful. Our application would not have been possible without BCA being nominated by local Commonwealth Bank Australia employee, Rebecca Love.
 
The Foundation will grant BCA $20,000 to help with service operational costs for the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre.  Please see our website www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au for the wide range of vital services offered to Burdekin community members, visit 12a Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph 4783 2711. Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 4.30pm.
 
I invite you to read an excerpt from the CommBank media release regarding the grants program below.
 
11 November 2024
 
Empowering communities:
$3.5 million awarded to Aussie organisations driving positive change
 
The CommBank Staff Foundation doubles its impact with 175 organisations each receiving $20,000 through the 2024 Community Grants program.
 
One hundred and seventy-five community organisations will each receive $20,000, totalling $3.5 million, through the CommBank Staff Foundation’s Community Grants program in its most significant funding year yet.
The 2024 Community Grants will enable a diverse array of projects and provide funding to worthy community organisations supporting mental health, regional communities, victim-survivors of domestic violence, First Nations Peoples education, children’s health, migrants and refugees, and more. With the grants doubling from previous years, this funding will fuel important initiatives that reflect the diversity, resilience and needs of the communities in which these organisations operate in.
This year, the CommBank Staff Foundation has raised $3.5 million to fund these grants through regular salary donations from staff which are then matched by CommBank. Over the past 17 years, the Community Grants program has awarded more than $30 million to worth community organisations, building on CommBank’s long-standing workplace giving culture which dates back to 1917.

‍