Community News

Remembering Veterans And Their Service

Remembering Veterans And Their Service

Marking 59th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan At Creek Veterans Retreat On Monday, 18 August, locals, dignitaries and veterans gathered at the Deep Creek Veterans Retreat in Ayr to mark the 59th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Commencing at 11 am, the annual parade commemorated the 1966 battle in Vietnam—one of the key engagements involving Australian forces during the Vietnam War—honouring past veterans with a wreath-laying service, the playing of the Last Post and Reveille, and a

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Mia Galbraith Hosts Self Love Night

Mia Galbraith Hosts Self Love Night

Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Senior Ambassador representing CORES QLD, Mia Galbraith, has taken it upon herself to run a Self Love Night to raise awareness for the importance of mental health and valuable funds for the invaluable work of CORES QLD. In the lead up to this weekend’s event, Mia has shared several videos and posts online, detailing how important it is to take care of and prioritise your own personal mental health, featuring BWF Committee members as guests on occasion to encourage

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Editor's Note 21 August

Editor's Note 21 August

Hi Everyone, It’s great to be back and feeling refreshed after a two-week holiday in Italy with my family. We stayed in a tiny village called Radicondoli, about three hours north of Rome, with a population of just 950! Our days were spent poolside, playing card games, and wandering into the village for fresh bread in the mornings and a glass of wine (or two!) in the evenings. It was my second time in Italy—my first visit was in my early twenties—and I’ve fallen in love with the country all ov

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Sugar Inquiry Brought Closer To Home For Burdekin Growers

Sugar Inquiry Brought Closer To Home For Burdekin Growers

Burdekin cane farmers will have the opportunity to contribute in person to an inquiry aimed at growing the industry following the announcement of a public hearing in Townsville. Announced in June, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP urged local growers to embrace the opportunity and provide much needed input. “When the inquiry was announced, a commitment was given to dig deep into a wide range of issues affecting the industry,” Mr Last said. “A thorough investigation is necessary to ensure

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Pet Of The Week Meet Apricot!

February 12, 2025

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Does she sound too good to be true? Come see for yourself! To meet the gorgeous Apricot fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

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DOB: 01/02/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Slow Introduction
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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The ‘Apprentice’ Presenter

February 12, 2025

Kevin Tuffin, a qualified truck mechanic and Sweet FM presenter for two years, discusses his journey in radio, starting with a Thursday night show introduced by friend Brian Giddy.

“I've been a presenter with the radio station for about two years now. You could say, I'm the ‘junior’ member of the team, or what do you call it, the apprentice,” Kevin jokes. “I was introduced to the station by my friend, Brian. He asked me if I wanted to do a show with him on a Thursday night. And I said, ‘Yeah sure, why not,’ I thought, we’ll give it a go. The rest is history,” Kevin grins.

Kevin's passion for music dates back to the 80s when a local youth disco called ‘Sound Shelter’ was run by a former pastor in the Burdekin.

“The Sound Shelter was formed by a local parish priest. I was in the YCW (Young Christian Workers) at the time, and so that's where it all started. It was on Young Street there in Ayr, and I was helping run that for a few years in the early 80s. We were a group of youngsters at that time, so I would have been 18 or 19, but then I was delegated to be one of the DJs. That was a lot of fun.”

“But I always loved playing music. I’ve always had an affection for playing music and watching others have a great time. And I love all types of music, including pop, rock, country & western, heavy metal, all that sort of stuff,” Kevin says.

He alternates hosting duties with Brian, playing a mix of 60s, 70s, and 80s music mostly.

“Sometimes he's (Brian) running it, sometimes me. We do a turnabout. One week, I'll be in the hot seat running the show and he'll be the offsider, where he’s the one looking if people request a song, looking it up etc. Then the following week, he'll be in the host’s chair, and I'll be the offsider. We try and alternate it to mix it up a bit,” Kevin enthuses.

Kevin also runs Tuff’s Mechanical, a business he started in 1985, which is now managed by his son.

“I've had a business for a while that I kicked off officially in 1985, what’s that’s, 40 years ago? I started it from nothing and we're still growing today. My son's virtually taken over the running of it now because I'm getting older,” he laughs.

Does Kevin see any similarities between running a business and running a music show?

“You wouldn’t think there is, but there is. You’ve got to be organised, know what you’ve got, and to be prepared. It’s the same with business. You’ve got to prepare for the day, and in that respect, there's similarities. You want to be efficient, aim high, and as in my business, provide good service.”

Kevin enjoys his role, valuing the community impact with the joy of playing music. He hopes they can attract younger audiences to radio, and into the presenter’s hot seat.

"If you want to get a young audience, you got to play modern music. They’re the future! If you want to keep it (radio) alive, you've got to get young blood in,” Kevin declares.

Listen in to Kevin on Thursday evenings from 7-10pm. If you’d like to join the station as a presenter, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.

The “apprentice” Kevin Tuffin (68), still learning, and loving music. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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What would you suggest someone do during a flood period? And what’s the one thing you’d grab if you had to evacuate quickly?

February 27, 2025

Leeroy: “Listen to the radio so you can stay connected to the news, read the (online) newspaper or watch the television and just keep up to date with what's happening around, because I reckon that's the only way we can find out what's happening around us. There are people going to the communities, reporters and news agencies, and they are the people's eyes and ears, so I recommend everyone should keep their ears and their eyes to the TV and the radio. And first thing would be to take my torch for when it gets dark so I'll be able to see where I can go because I have kids. I'll take my kids and take them to a safe spot, maybe inland up to the mountains.”

Wolfgang: “Get information from the local council or the authorities and go and stock up on some bread and milk and essentials. Just keep an eye on what the weather is doing, and if you're a local, you're usually prepared for what's going to happen. Other than that, it's mostly common sense. Don't panic. Just be aware that if things start getting bad, you can always ask for help. As for the one thing, you have to take your mobile phone and charger, and maybe a grab bag if you keep your personal possessions like money and essential paperwork. If you're a local you usually know the high points, take your car to a high point and leave it there.”

Samantha: “What would I do? Well, I've just been watching movies. That's one thing I've been doing with all this wet weather. But what I also recommend and suggest to somebody if they're kind of new to the area or depending whether they're in low-lying areas and can see the floods are coming, then go to a friend or family if they've got any here, if not then evacuation centres. Actually, I don't know if there are any evacuation centres. I think there's one. The one item I’d take if I had to evacuate quickly, are photos.”

Melanie: “Probably stay out of the rain and stay safe, I reckon. Because honestly we don't get a lot of rain around here, so when it does rain, it's actually pretty nice. But yeah, stay out of the rain and stay safe. And the first thing? That’s a good question. Honestly, I'd probably help take my siblings because I'm one of 12, so yeah, there are a lot of us. Because I don't live at the same house if I was to up and leave, I've practically got nothing at my house, so I’d go straight to my parents, grab my siblings, and leave.”

Clifford:
“I’d suggest probably finding someplace high up or going to the highest place possible you can find, where it’s safe. But also listen to the radio and if there's no power, then the best place to go is the evacuation centre. As for one thing to take in a hurry, I recommend taking your important personal belongings. For us foreigners, our passports and documents are important, so definitely those. Then also some first aid kits, and easy, consumable foods like in cans or something like that.”

Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Leeroy Chung recommends listening to the radio and taking a torch.
Wolfgang Iwaszczyn likes information from authorities and having a phone and charger.
Samantha Wallace thinks going to friends or family, and grabbing your photos.
Melanie Aruba reckons stay out of the rain while helping with family.
Clifford Valenzuela suggests going someplace high and to take your passport.

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From Boxing Dynamo To Futsal Champion Sportsperson Of The Year Shares Her Story

February 5, 2025

Recently crowned Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award winner at the Burdekin Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards, Jennifer Fotinos, not only excels in one sport – but three! She’s also represented both state and country in two of them. It’s a phenomenal effort for someone so young.

At just 20 years of age, Jennifer has achieved so much already and if her recent successes and attitude are anything to go by, she’ll achieve plenty more before she’s done.

While Jennifer first started playing soccer at age six, it’s her more recent sporting endeavours – futsal and boxing – where she has gone onto even greater heights. Representing Queensland and Australia in futsal (indoor soccer on a smaller pitch with less players), she was part of the team that won the Scottish Cup last year. A sport she only began playing four years ago.

In boxing, Jennifer again represented Queensland, winning state titles, and was set to box in the Australian national titles before that event clashed with her International futsal commitments.

So how did you a young woman go from soccer to futsal to boxing, then represent her state and country in them?

Jennifer Fotinos, one accomplished, determined young woman with some of her boxing medals. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Meet Jennifer Fotinos: A Multi-Talented Sports Star

“I started playing soccer when I was six years old and have been doing it the longest at 14 years. Futsal was later on in life. I've only been doing that for four years, but because I was already playing soccer there were a lot of transferable skills from that to futsal,” Jennifer explains.

“Boxing is the newest sport I've done, which I’ve been doing for two years now. I only found out about boxing because my brother was doing it briefly here at Rock Solid boxing gym in Home Hill, where he dragged me along. Originally, I just went purely for fitness and to help me with my soccer and futsal, but then I just really enjoyed it and started growing a love for it. I got an opportunity to fight, and I haven't looked back since.”

If that wasn’t enough to make your head spin, Jennifer Fotinos also started doing Karate (Hwa Rang Do) at the age of six, continuing for eight years where she eventually earned a black belt. But it’s not all about sport either. Somehow, she balances her sporting commitments while studying a Bachelor of Education at Townsville University, where she finds studying to be harder and more intense.
“I'm studying to be a teacher and majoring in HP (Health and Physical Education) and English. I'm going into my third year now at University, and it’s harder than sports sometimes,” Jennifer chuckles.

Whether it’s sports or her educational career, no matter what Jennifer pursues you just know she’ll do very well. It’s in her nature, she’s driven, dedicated, passionate. Most of all, she’s got an incredibly mature head on her young shoulders, while keen to show gratitude.

“I would like to accredit the Burdekin Football Club for being an introduction for me to sport and thank all my coaches and volunteers throughout the years in helping build my foundational skills. I have experienced some real highlights with the club including Grand Final wins, and also winning women’s Player of the Year (2021).”

“And more recently Rock Solid Boxing Club with Scotty McLean who recently won Citizen of the Year Award. He uses boxing as a tool to instil important values such as discipline, respect and perseverance. This place, regardless of background or experience, everyone is welcomed and encouraged to develop not only in the sport, but also as individuals. He’s truly inspiring.”

Jennifer is now gearing to compete in the Australian boxing titles and continue her soccer and futsal careers.

“I don't try and think too far ahead. I always see myself improving and being better. But my dream when I was young was definitely to represent my country and to make a living playing sport, that is definitely my top aspiration,” she says with a smile.

“This year, I'm aiming to enter the Australian boxing titles at the end of this year, which will be held in Townsville. I want to compete and do the best I can and hopefully strive for an Australian title. As for soccer and futsal, I just want to keep playing in Premier League Soccer and at futsal, where I just competed at the Queensland nationals title. I want to keep training, stay fit, and compete at all the tournaments I can,” she adds.

In wrapping up, Jennifer has some final advice for any other young athletes in the Burdekin with their own dreams.

“If you find something you genuinely love and have purpose in, go and strive for it. You know, nothing good in life comes easy. So, if you genuinely enjoy what you're doing, don't think that anyone or anything will limit you, and just view obstacles and all the setbacks in your way as an opportunity to learn and grow.”

Futsal champ, Jennifer (20), with the Scottish Cup in futsal. Photo: Supplied.
Soccer star Jennifer Fotinos, in action. Photo credit: Sharon Woodward.
Jennifer with two of her boxing medals. Photo: Supplied.
Jennifer being presented with the Sportsperson of the Year Award by Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Dr. Bob McGregor. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Rains, MPs, And Goodbyes

February 27, 2025

What a week, huh? So much unrelenting rain I was beginning to understand what Noah must have felt like when he built his Ark. Thankfully, this region didn’t suffer like our cousins up north did, where there’s no signs of it slowing either with yet more rain forecast.

It’s a good reminder of what matters and what doesn’t when you see so much devastation.

Our sister paper, Hinchinbrook Life, up in Ingham however, lost power in the deluge and floods and will now run a special ‘Flood Edition’ late this week or early next weather permitting. It’s still touch and go whether we’ll be able to get this week’s issue of Burdekin Life out on time on account of our printer being based in Townsville, with some roads remaining cut off. (If you’re reading a printed copy of this on Thursday, you know we got through).

I’ve lived in several regions that suffer their own natural disasters, including three years in Mexico, which like Far North Queensland, has wet and dry seasons. At least in Mexico the rain stops after a few hours. The continual rain for days here beggars belief.

In between the big wet, I met MP for Dawson, Andrew Willcox for a sit-down chat. I’d always heard nothing but good things about him. A man of the people, and of his word. Anyone who speaks out on the Misinformation and Disinformation bill gets my vote. Crazy to think freedom of speech may not be a right.

Andrew’s a lot like many of you, a farmer by trade, he’s now taken to politics and cares about the things that matter in this region – agriculture, communities, roads, people. He was an easy bloke to talk with.

Lastly, we said goodbye to Miss Chelsea Ravizza, the local cadet journalist here who now ventures off on her big adventure overseas. A true rockstar within these pages, while she will be missed, I cannot fault her desire – I was the same age when I first headed off overseas. Good luck Chelsea, go blaze your own trail!

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Rains, Floods, Warnings

February 5, 2025

A slow-moving low pressure system brought several days of widespread and heavy rainfall to the Far North Queensland during the week, with many sites recording daily rainfall totals between 200 and 700 mm, and in some locations, 7 day rainfall totals greater than 1000 mm.

Many sites across northern Queensland recorded their highest daily, or multi-day rainfall on record. Weekly rainfall totals greater than 300 mm were recorded across the Lower Burdekin districts.

Several days of significant rainfall, led to major flash and riverine flooding along the Queensland's tropical east coast, particularly between Tully and Ayr.

With so much heavy rain this past week, the inevitable floods that follow, happened. Thankfully, Ayr, Home Hill, Brandon, and the outlying regions of the Burdekin came away relatively unscathed. But with more rain forecast, residents are not out of the woods yet.

We’ve all seen the devastation up north in Townsville, and especially Ingham. With the Burdekin Shire Council, Federal MP Andrew Willcox, State MP Dale Last, and the police and emergency services all issuing warnings, now is not the time to become complacent.

If anything, it’s time to be more vigilant and ensure you have a safety and evacuation plan. Any of the aforementioned above have valuable information on how to do so, so look online. More importantly, be sure to check in on your neighbours, especially the elderly, who may be living on their own. A community is only as strong as its more vulnerable members. Be ready to help them.

With several roads cutoff, both north and south, supply lines have been diminished. Now is not the time to panic buy and rush an already understocked supermarket. Supply routes will open back up soon, so it won’t take long for the shelves to be fully stocked once more.

Police, emergency services, and council, are all urging caution. If you see a road covered in water, don’t drive through it. Be mindful of other road users, use your headlights at all times so you can be seen, and more importantly – use common sense during this period.

Plantation Park was swamped with the recent deluge. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Bruce Highway covered in water in some sections. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The road to Inkerman sugar mill, virtually impassable. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Good Deed Feed A Helping Hand

February 5, 2025

We’ve all experienced that dreaded sinking feeling when we suddenly realise we’ve forgotten something important, whether it’s a phone, keys, or wallet. For local resident Robyn Rose, it happened after a quick shopping trip when she realised she had left her handbag behind.
Losing a handbag can be an incredibly stressful and upsetting experience. For Robyn, it was no different. A handbag is not just a place to store belongings; it often holds important items like ID, credit cards, and cash. However, what could have been a far worse ordeal was made much easier by an act of kindness from a local stranger.
After Robyn left her handbag on a bench outside Woolworths, someone discovered it, and rather than taking it or ignoring it, chose to hand it in to the store. This thoughtful action meant that Robyn could recover her belongings safely, where the anxiety of the situation was alleviated.
In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, Robyn took to Facebook to publicly thank the person who had returned her handbag. She wrote:
“To the kind person who handed my handbag in to Woolworths after I left it on the seat outside, a million thank yous, I am so incredibly grateful and may you have a wonderful day from a very thankful pensioner.”
It’s easy to overlook the profound impact of simple, kind actions, but for Robyn, this small gesture of honesty and consideration made all the difference. In a time when so many are facing challenges, particularly with the ongoing flooding situation in the region, acts like this serve as a reminder of the power of community.

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Council Is ‘Open for Business’ – Dedicated Days For Planning And Development Advice

February 5, 2025

Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that it is reinforcing its commitment to supporting local developers, property owners, and community members, with dedicated face-to-face consultation opportunities.

Starting Friday 31 January 2025, the last Friday of each month will be set aside for focused engagement with both the Planning and Development and Technical Services teams.

On these designated Fridays, their Planning and Development and Technical Services Managers will make themselves available for in-depth discussions, advice, and guidance related to property development and other technical inquiries. This initiative is designed to streamline the process for anyone needing assistance or information regarding property matters.

Council’s regular opening hours remain unchanged, and staff are available throughout the week to assist the community with a wide range of services. However, by freeing up their schedules on these Fridays, the Planning and Development and Technical Services Managers ensure their undivided attention for those who may require more tailored support.

This initiative underscores Council’s dedication to being open for business and supporting growth and development in the Burdekin Shire.

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800. Council’s Customer Service opening hours are Monday to Friday: 8:00am–5:00pm

Technical Services and Planning and Development Managers, are open for your business. Photo: Supplied.



What: Planning and Development Advice days
When: Last Friday of each month.
Who: Developers, property owners, community members with relevant inquiries.
Appointments: Council will take appointments, but walk-ins are welcome.

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Safety Is Paramount In Wet Weather

February 5, 2025

As severe wet weather continues to hamper the Burdekin region, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has warned locals not to be complacent as multiple reports of motorists driving through flooded roads continues to occur.

Mr Last said despite multiple warnings from authorities to stay off roads, reports of people driving through flooded roads has left local emergency services and community members risking their lives to help.

“Make no mistake this is a significant weather event and, while the Burdekin has not seen the level of flooding that our friends further north have, there is still a significant number of roads impacted by floodwater throughout the region,” Mr Last said.

“As a former police officer it’s incredibly frustrating when locals become complacent during events like these and decide a sightseeing venture is more important that their safety or the safety of others in our community.”

“Lets not forget that behind every orange raincoat, blue uniform, or at the wheel of our fire appliances, is someone’s loved one who has had to bravely put their lives on the line for your safety.”

“While the rain continues to fall, the best way you can assist local services and fellow community members, is by staying update with the latest forecasts and taking advice and warnings from trusted sources like our local disaster management groups.”

Mr Last said while the district was still receiving significant levels of rainfall earlier this week, the clean up effort across the North Queensland region would be a mammoth task.

“Each time the Burdekin is faced with severe weather we not only see our emergency service volunteers go above and beyond for others, we also see neighbours and strangers rolling up their sleeves to help others with clean up efforts and I have no doubt those efforts will continue to ramp up in the coming days.”

“To those who have taken the time away from their own families to help others in the community, I’d like to offer my personal thanks. We know that our SES play an integral part of our disaster response each and every severe weather season and they deserve our gratitude and support.”

“Already the Crisafulli Government has announced grants are available to residents in impacted areas. For those interested, please visit the Queensland disaster recovery support website or call: 1800-173-349 to check your eligibility and apply.”


Flooded roads are not only hazardous but dangerous for drivers and emergency service rescue workers alike. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Federal Member Remains In Region To Give Vital Flood Support

February 5, 2025

“I was due to fly to Canberra for the first sitting of Parliament this week but I have made the decision to remain here for now, to support the people and provide any Federal assistance I can through this devastating event,” The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

“The Townsville region is facing one of the most significant flood emergencies since the catastrophic events of 2019.

“Sadly a woman has tragically died after an SES rescue boat capsized during a rescue in Far North Queensland this morning.”

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who are now grieving the loss of a loved one.”

Authorities are bracing for the worst after the Bureau of Meteorology warned conditions still pose a life-threatening risk as homes and businesses continue to be inundated.

The Federal and State Governments have activated Disaster Relief Grants as this unfolding flood emergency continues in the electorate of Dawson.

Personal Hardship Financial grants, Emergency Hardship Assistance grants, Essential Household Contents grants and Structural Assistant grants are available for people living in the following areas: Balgal Beach, Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, Rosslea, Stuart, South Townsville and Burdekin.

“I would like to thank our emergency services and volunteers who are out in dangerous conditions making sure the community is safe as evacuations continue.”

“Please take care and regularly check your local disaster dashboard for a full comprehensive list of roads that are closed due to flooding.”

“The Bruce Highway remains closed in several places, and I ask people avoid unnecessary travel.”

“Townsville Airport has also been closed and passengers are being urged to contact the airline they are booked through.”

The devastating floods in Far North Queensland. Photo: Supplied.
A flood map showing the effects of the flooded areas. Photo. Supplied.

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Have Your Say On Healthcare In The Burdekin

February 5, 2025

Are you passionate about improving healthcare in the Burdekin? The Townsville Hospital and Health Service is calling on community members to share their voices and make a difference by joining the Burdekin Consumer Advisory Network (CAN).

The Burdekin CAN offers a platform for locals to contribute ideas for improvement, highlight what’s working well, and advocate for the specific needs of the community. It’s an opportunity to play an active role in shaping hospital and health services that better serve the region.

If you’re eager to have your say and be a voice for your community, don’t miss this chance to get involved. Applications are open now and close on Friday, the 14th of February.

For more information or to apply, visit the Townsville Hospital and Health Service website today. If you have any questions about completing your application, please contact Ana Mooney on 4783-0815 or email THHS_BurdekinCAN@health.qld.gov.au.

Your input can help create meaningful change for healthcare in the Burdekin.

Barbara and Fiona are members of CAN

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Cr Column Councillor Michael Detenon

February 5, 2025

This is my first column for the year so welcome everyone to 2025. The weather has already reminded us we live in the North Queensland tropics as we experienced weeks of hot and humid over Christmas and the New Year.
The heatwave finally broke and it did so in a very wet way as I am listening to heavy rain and like many residents, am unable to leave my house as I write this.
We are fast approaching budget preparation at council, and although it is a big task, it is something I enjoy participating in. I feel it is the best opportunity to really make a difference in the community as we plan out the next financial year. I personally will be heading into the budget preparations with the same mindset as I did last year, which is maintain what we have and keep costs as low as possible. I don’t ever say that I am fighting for no rate rise as the council faces cost increases the same as we all do, and it is unrealistic. I will however be advocating to keep focusing on maintaining our critical assets such as water, sewerage and roads.
I think we already have so much to offer as a small rural community and we need to make sure we are looking after what we already have.
I am always open to suggestions on new innovations and ideas which help our communities grow, but with the current economic climate I really think keeping our costs to a minimum is our number one priority.
I hope everyone is starting to dry off and 2025 is a great year for all!

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Minute with the Mayor Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

February 20, 2025

Our thoughts are with the families and communities currently facing the floodwaters entering their homes. It’s a distressing time, with loss and uncertainty weighing heavily on many.
Our volunteers are the backbone of these efforts, often working long hours with little recognition and no pay. The number of volunteers continues to decline, and the reality is, they cannot do it alone.
This situation puts into perspective just how vital our volunteers are. From emergency response to recovery efforts, they play a crucial role in keeping our communities safe and supported, especially during the severe weather events. If you’ve ever considered getting involved, now is the time. Even the smallest contribution can make a significant impact.
I urge everyone to stay informed by following the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard for real-time updates and critical information, disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Accurate, up-to-date information is crucial during severe weather events. Please make sure you are accessing official sources.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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FROM WHERE I SIT

February 5, 2025

At 3.00pm on Sunday 12 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Seaforth Road, Jarvisfield.  The driver, a 29yr old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) disqualified driving, driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 January.
At 4.00pm on Tuesday 14 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle Plantation Park, Ayr.  The driver, a 49yr old Townsville woman was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 March.
At 3.00pm on Sunday 19 January, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Melbourne Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 35yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 24 March.
At 5.45pm on Sunday 19 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle Jones Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 36yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court at a later date.
At 4.55am on Wednesday 22 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Gibson Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 41 yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving (repeat offender), driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
At 8.10pm on Wednesday 22 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Edwards Street, Ayr.  As a result an 27yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .157 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
Road Safety – School zones
With school recommenced for this term, just a timely reminder for parents who drop their children off at local schools.  
Drop off zones are exactly that, pull up and drop off your children then leave. If you intend on walking your child into school, park elsewhere. We don’t want to cause any traffic congestion during an already busy time of the day.
Don’t stop in the lane of travel waiting for vehicles that are parked picking up children, as this back up and congests traffic unnecessarily.
Also be aware of the school zone speed limits and drive cautiously.
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Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash

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Indicators – are they an optional extra??
Many drivers, by their lack of use of indicators, give that impression. However Regulation 45 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation explains what is changing direction. The list outlines the many instances where the use of indicators is required.
Remember indicators were often referred to as a ‘signal of intention’ and designed to alert other road users as to what you were doing. Correct use of your indicator can save misunderstandings.

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight. Locking your house and car & securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.  
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.

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Meet Inka Your New Best Friend!

February 5, 2025

Inka is a sweet-natured and easy-going young pup who loves nothing more than lounging in the sun and watching the world go by. She enjoys playtime with her foster siblings and gets along wonderfully with a variety of animals in her foster home. With her friendly and gentle nature, she’s a perfect match for families with kids, and she especially loves splashing in the water and trying out new games.

Still a young pup, Inka is working on her training, but with her excellent listening skills, she’s proving to be an A+ student! If you’re looking for a playful and loving companion to brighten your days, Inka is ready to be by your side.

Adoption Details:
   • Fee: $450 (includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick/worm treatment & ProHeart)
   • DOB: 03/07/2024
   • Sex: Female
   • Breed: Bullarab X
   • Kid Friendly: Yes
   • Cat Friendly: Yes
   • Dog Friendly: Yes
   • Fence Requirement: 6ft
   • BIN: BIN0000268254643

Could Inka be the perfect addition to your family? Don’t miss your chance to meet this wonderful girl!

To meet Inka and start your forever adventure together, fill out an inquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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Your FREE Voice In Print

Home Hill: Cornetts IGA | United Service Station| Complete Health Pharmacy
Ayr: Woolworths | Coles | Tosh’s Convenience Store | Shell Service Station | Ayr Medical Group | Farmhouse Ayr Coffee & Cafe | Dal Santo’s Deli | Woods Newsagencies  
Brandon
: Hotel Brandon | JC’s Cafe
60 + distribution points

Locally Owned. Community Loved.