Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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At our school, we understand how busy family life can be. Mornings can be rushed, afternoons are full, and balancing work, home and school can be a challenge. That’s why we’re proud to offer a comprehensive support program that lightens the load for families and ensures every child arrives at school ready to learn.
Through this program, students receive breakfast, a fruit snack, lunch, and afternoon tea each school day. In addition, all students are provided with their school stationery, a school uniform, and their annual school photos. By taking care of these daily essentials, we help families save time, reduce stress, and make the school routine that little bit easier.
What makes our school truly unique is this strong commitment to supporting both students and their families. By removing barriers and reducing the practical pressures of the school day, we’re creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where every child can succeed. It’s one of the many reasons our school is a great place to learn — and a great place to enrol your child.
This program is made possible thanks to the generosity and support of Food Bank, Fuel for Schools, the School Food Program, and our incredible P & C Association. Their partnership helps us make a meaningful difference in the lives of families every day.
Together, we’re building a school community where students feel supported, families feel valued, and everyone can flourish.
Contributed with thanks to Ayr State School
Ayr State School students enjoying burgers for lunch on National Burger Day as part of the school's comprehensive support program. Photos supplied
China is, without question, one of Australia’s most significant trading partners. We export vast
amounts of natural resources and agricultural products, and in return, we import vehicles, solar
panels, wind turbines, various technological products, and household goods. But is this
relationship balanced, and are we becoming too dependent?
Recent reports out of the United States have raised serious concerns about the potential for
embedded technologies in imported infrastructure from China. Investigations have identified
backdoor capabilities in Chinese-made inverters and batteries used to connect solar and wind
systems to the American power grid. The implications are seriously concerning. Could these
systems be accessed or disabled remotely?
Here in Australia, the Albanese government is continuing its rapid push for more large-scale
solar and wind projects, many of which use Chinese-built components. Such reports coming
out of the USA should prompt urgent scrutiny.
Chinese-built EVs are also hitting Aussie roads in increasing numbers. Speculation is growing
around whether software in these vehicles contains embedded spyware or remote access
functions. Could data be tracked? Could vehicles be monitored, or even disabled remotely?
This isn’t aimed at alarmism. It’s about exercising caution. We must be fully aware of and
thoroughly investigate what’s entering our country, especially if our government is hell-bent on
tying the future of our energy grid to technologies made overseas. If a conflict arose, could a
foreign power flick the switch to cripple our electricity system and, by extension, our economy?
This isn’t about rejecting renewables or turning our backs on trade. It’s about balance. It’s about
resilience. It’s about protecting the infrastructure that underpins our economy and our way of
life.
Australia’s critical infrastructure, our energy systems, transport networks, and communications
must be secure, scrutinised, and ideally sovereign. Because if another country has the power to
disrupt our systems, then we’ve already handed over the keys. We need them back.
Outside of our grocery stores, mining sites, and engineering hubs, it’s becoming harder to spot
the green and gold Aussie-made logo. The bigger question is, how do we reduce our reliance on
other nations and build our sovereign capabilities?
For decades, we’ve watched smelters, refineries, and coal-fired power stations close, while our
car industry was allowed to disappear. But what if, instead of walking away, we invested in
modernising and building new assets? With advances in AI, robotics, automation and other
technologies, we are more equipped than ever to turn our resources into finished products here
at home, instead of exporting raw materials only to repurchase them at a premium.
Our trading relationship with China must remain respectful and firm. But we also need due
diligence, transparency, and surety.
It’s time to back our manufacturers, boost local production, and make sure that we’re not just
driving the economy, but holding the keys as well.
Contributed with thanks to Andrew Willcox MP
Andrew Willcox says it’s time to back Australian manufacturers and ensure we’re the
ones holding the keys to our nation’s future. Photo supplied
In the heart of Home Hill, Mayfield Early Education has built a reputation as a place where children can explore, learn, and grow at their own pace. Formerly Genius Childcare Home Hill, the centre blends thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces to nurture curiosity, creativity, and social skills, giving every child room to discover what excites them.
Centre Manager Hannah Nicholls, a Burdekin local who has been part of the team for three years, says the centre believes in letting curiosity lead the way. “We let them find what they are interested in, and then try to develop their knowledge on that.”
For Nicholls and the team, fostering a sense of community matters just as much as academic learning. “It’s all about creating an environment where they all get along and feel like they belong,” she said. That ethos guides everything from the centre’s structured programs to the everyday interactions that shape children’s social and emotional growth.
Mayfield Home Hill offers long day care from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm and a kindergarten program from 8:30 am to 3 pm, preparing children for school while supporting individual development. Learning spaces are divided by age, including the Window Room (nursery), Woodland Room (toddlers), Willow Room (two- to three-year-olds), Meadow Room (three- to three-and-a-half-year-olds), and Sunset Room (kindergarten).
Each room is recently renovated, featuring cutting-edge technology and a spacious setting for young ones to collaborate and learn. Resources and activities are refreshed regularly, giving children the freedom to follow their interests while building new skills.
Reflecting on the centre’s role in the Home Hill community, Nicholls notes, “We’ve built a good local reputation. So many parents comment on how well we look after the children… we make it feel like they’re at home.”
At Mayfield Home Hill, children are supported, engaged, and given the space to grow. Families, meanwhile, can feel confident knowing their children are in capable, caring hands—a balance the centre continues to nurture every day.
The Burdekin’s very own Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival is up for a People’s Choice Award at the 2025 NQ Tourism and Events Awards, and locals are being urged to get behind the festival and vote. As the region’s only entry in the Festival and Events: Destination category, every vote counts in helping bring the award home.
Voting is open to the public, with the highest vote-getter in each category winning. Voting closes 26 October, and those who participate go in the draw to win a $500 Holiday Voucher.
The festival highlights everything that makes the Burdekin unique, from its agricultural heritage as the Sugar Cane Capital of Australia, to fresh local produce, culinary delights, adventure and sports tourism, music, and family-friendly entertainment.
The 2025 program delighted the region with headline events such as the Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring First Fire on 30 May, and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships on 31 May. With two days of community celebration, country hospitality, and fun for all ages, the festival showcased the Burdekin at its best.
Now the community has the chance to celebrate the festival once again by helping it claim a People’s Choice Award. Cast your vote today and help Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival take top honours for the Burdekin.
Vote via the QR code below or the following link: https://bit.ly/46NkK5G
The stage at The Lighthouse is about to burst into colour, rhyme, and Seussian mayhem, as the Bendigo Bank Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company gear up for their next big adventure—Seussical Jr. Opening Friday 17 October, the production brings together 44 young performers in a fast-paced, joy-filled musical celebration of imagination.
The show, directed by long-time Burdekin Singers creative Pat Nuttall, revisits a production the group has performed before—but with plenty of new ideas.
“Pat has done the junior show in the past,” explained cast coordinator Thomas Pickersgill. “She’s changed and come up with new ideas of how she wants to bring it to life. The Burdekin Singers have also done it as part of the senior show, and she’s taking some elements from that and just improving it and making it better again.”
Featuring a cast of 44 local children aged five to eighteen, the production has been months in the making. Before the school holidays, the young cast began vocal rehearsals; then, over the break, they threw themselves into intensive full-day sessions.
“During the holidays, we smash out and do a lot of the rehearsals—10 to 5 nearly every day with a couple of hours break,” said Pickersgill. “The kids thrive and love it. Now we’re at a point where we’re running the show a whole week before opening.”
With so many young performers, Seussical Jr promises a burst of energy on stage—and a proud moment for local families. “People’s reactions to seeing their kids up on stage—that’s what we’re looking forward to,” Pickersgill said. “The little kids get all the oohs and ahs, the big kids get to show off all their talent and their skills, and it’s just a great night for everyone in the audience.”
The Burdekin Singers’ junior productions have long been a proving ground for local talent, and Seussical Jr looks set to continue that tradition—blending the familiar whimsy of Dr. Seuss with the enthusiasm of a new generation of performers.
Seussical Jr opens Friday 17 October at The Lighthouse, Ayr, and runs until Sunday 2 November. Tickets ($20–$30) are available at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1471609. Each ticket includes a selection of home-cooked nibbles and sweets, with guests encouraged to bring extra snacks to share.
What: Seussical Jr presented by The Bendigo Bank Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company
When: Friday 17 October - Sunday 2 November
Where: The Lighthouse, Ayr
Rehearsals in full swing as the Burdekin Singers prepare to deliver their unique rendition of Seussical Jr. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
For one elegant evening, Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will sparkle with glamour and community spirit as guests gather for the Rotary Gala Ball, part of this year’s Harvest Festival. The event promises live music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the people who make the community shine.
The Gala Ball will honour the Harvest Festival Queen, as well as the Charity Queen and Personality Queen, recognising their contributions to the local community. Attendees can enjoy a formal sit-down dinner, mingle with fellow festival-goers, and support local initiatives in a night that blends elegance with generosity.
Organised by the Rotary Club in partnership with the Harvest Festival committee, the evening is designed to bring residents and visitors together in a celebration of style, camaraderie, and community spirit. A licensed bar will be available throughout the night, and guests are encouraged to dress formally to match the gala setting.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 7th November 2025
Time: 6:30 pm to midnight – Dinner at 7 pm
Venue: Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $80
Grab your tickets now – Call Deslie on +61 408 822 029
The evening is designed to combine celebration with charitable support, reflecting the festival’s focus on community engagement and generosity.
The Burdekin Race Club will host its annual Derby Day on Saturday, 1 November, as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival celebrations. The event is a longstanding highlight of the Burdekin calendar, combining country racing with a traditional black-and-white fashion theme.
Attendees can enjoy a full program of races throughout the afternoon, with plenty of opportunities to soak up the social atmosphere and take in the stylish race-day attire. The event attracts locals and visitors alike, offering both racing excitement and a social atmosphere for the community.
Having recently celebrated its 100th birthday, the Burdekin Race Club has been a key part of the region for more than a century, hosting five major race meetings each year. Its signature events, such as the Burdekin Growers Race Day in May, regularly draw large crowds from across North Queensland.
As part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival, Derby Day adds a racing highlight to the festival’s calendar of events, which celebrate local culture, agriculture, and community spirit.
Gates will open at 11:30am, with the afternoon set to feature both competitive racing and social activities for visitors. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the traditional black-and-white dress code as they enjoy one of the region’s most anticipated community events.
The event is a longstanding highlight of the Burdekin calendar, combining country racing with a traditional black-and-white fashion theme.
On Wednesday, 8 October, the Burdekin Men's Shed Association hosted it's annual Mental Health Week event, with this year's "Cuppa, Chat and Chew" welcoming attendees from across the Burdekin to connect and discuss mental health.
The day began with a morning tea at 9 am, followed by a keynote address from Holly Apps of the Burdekin Community Association, during which she shared personal insights and anecdotes from her own mental health journey, engaging the audience throughout. Guests were also given the opportunity to contribute, with representatives from local organisations sharing their experiences and perspectives.
The event brought together a diverse range of community organisations, reflecting the Men's Shed's commitment to providing access to a wide array of mental health resources. Charles Ford, spokesperson for the Burdekin Men's Shed Association, explained the reasoning behind the inclusive approach: “We are part of the community… we want to expose our clients to everything,” he said. “Most of our members have contacted one of these organisations at some time, and they benefited from it.”
Ford also highlighted the broader mission of the Men's Shed, noting that the events aim to address men's health issues such as depression and isolation, while fostering connection and support. “I call it health without a pill,” he said. “They basically come along, and instead of regurgitating their illness at home, they come here… by the time they’re talking to somebody else, it disappears.” The benefits, he added, extend to carers and family members, who are given a reprieve while participants engage with the community.
The association’s Mental Health Week event is part of a busy calendar that spans the month, including luncheons for seniors, committee meetings, and other community gatherings. These initiatives, Ford explained, are designed to strengthen ties across the Burdekin region and ensure that support is accessible for those who need it.
By connecting individuals with resources and providing a space for open conversation, the Burdekin Men's Shed continues to champion mental health awareness and foster a stronger, more supportive community.
Photos:
1. Burdekin Men's Shed Association members with Cr. John Furnell and keynote speaker Holly Apps. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
2. The event brought together a diverse range of community organisations, reflecting the Men's Shed's commitment to providing access to a wide array of mental health resources. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
3. BMSA President Chris Fox and Guest Speaker Holly Apps.
4. Burdekin School Principal Claire Cheyne.
5. George Kouk of Selectability Ayr
6. Zonta President Isabel Stubbs
7. Michelle Mallory of Nth QLD Right At Home
A definite game-changer for the Burdekin Potters has been a successful grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) to acquire a new Tetlow front-loading electric kiln.
Memberships of the club have grown to over 60 in the past five years and the addition of a second kiln will greatly increase the turn-around time with the firing of pottery pieces.
There have been constant, back-to-back firings at the Burdekin Potters! Pottery pieces first need to be bisque fired. Then glaze (colour) is applied, and they are once again put in the kiln for the final high firing to mature the glaze.
The extra kiln capacity will also benefit the local Kindys and schools, who have their students work fired at the Burdekin Potters on a regular basis.
Expensive equipment, like an electric kiln, is only achievable through the generosity of organisations, such as GCBF, who constantly support not-for-profit clubs in their endeavors to grow and offer social interaction and creativity to regional communities. The addition of the kiln will be a definite bonus as Christmas is already creeping up, and members are madly potting.
Contributed with thanks to Debbie Ferraris
Photos:
The kiln is finally positioned in the clubhouse.
Miranda loads the last pieces into the kiln for its maiden bisque firing.
Every time I drive through cane country, I’m reminded that those green paddocks grow more than sugar. They grow energy, jobs and opportunity. The potential has been staring us in the face for years – the question is whether we’re finally ready grab it.
The Federal Government’s recently announced $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program shows there’s an appetite for change.
That kind of investment sends a clear message that Australia is serious about renewable fuels. But money on the table is only half the story.
For projects to get moving, we need firm policy settings – rules that don’t shift with the wind and long-term commitments that give investors confidence.
That’s the case CANEGROWERS has been putting to the State Parliamentary Inquiry into Biofuels and the Sugarcane Industry over recent weeks.
We’ve already fronted regional hearings in Mackay and Townsville to explain how mills, growers and regional communities are ready to deliver if given the right framework.
Without things like enforceable fuel mandates and guaranteed offtake agreements, projects risk stalling before they even get off the ground. And when that happens, overseas producers happily step in and take the opportunity instead.
What’s at stake here isn’t just about fuels. It’s about the life of our regions. Upgrading mills, building turbines, constructing new facilities – all of that means jobs in towns that have too often watched opportunities drift away.
Reliable renewable power feeding into the grid means farms and small businesses can get on with the job without worrying about blackouts. And it means young people in our districts can see a future here, not just somewhere down the highway.
Next month in Brisbane, CANEGROWERS will again make the case for Queensland cane to be at the centre of a biofuels boom.
Ethanol from juice and molasses, sustainable aviation fuel through new pathways, renewable electricity from bagasse – these are practical, ready-to-go options. What’s missing is the green light.
It’s time to turn good intentions into real projects. Back what we grow, set the rules, and watch Queensland’s cane fields fuel a cleaner, stronger future for everyone.
Ayr State High School’s budding entrepreneurs had the chance to put their business skills into action last week, hosting a lively market day as part of their Year 8 Economics and Business unit.
Fifteen groups of students set up stalls across the school, selling a range of creative products while putting classroom theory into practice. The event not only showcased innovation and teamwork but also taught students valuable lessons in markups, pricing, and profit.
By the end of the day, the stalls had collectively raised just over $200. The top spot went to KJR Construction Cookies, who achieved the highest profit overall, while Cody's Chopped Chin Cookies claimed second place with another strong performance.
Teachers praised the Year 8 cohort for their creativity and determination, with all groups successfully seeing their business plans through from the classroom to the real-world challenge of selling to their peers.
The hands-on activity provided students with a fun and practical way to understand the fundamentals of running a business, from developing a product and managing costs to handling competition and marketing.
Congratulations to all students involved on a successful day of learning, teamwork, and entrepreneurial spirit.
When Leanne Marriott left England in 2009, she thought she was embarking on a single-year adventure. Travelling through Asia and into Australia quickly changed those plans, and now, 16 years later, she's very much a local.
By 2012 she had settled in the Burdekin, where her background in disability services in England naturally led her to Flexi Queensland. Leanne was particularly drawn to Flexi’s long-standing reputation for person-centred care, a reputation she has strived to uphold in her role as Manager at the organisation.
Her managerial role is multifaceted, overseeing day-to-day operations, supporting team staff, and making sure service users receive the care and respect they deserve.
"One moment I might be dealing with paperwork or funding reports, and the next I’m sitting with a family, helping them navigate their options for support," she says. "The variety keeps you on your toes, but it’s the human side of the work that keeps you going. Working in this role reminds me daily of what matters most."
For Leanne, success isn’t measured by accolades, but by the small, life-altering wins her work facilitates. “Success isn’t always loud," she says. "Sometimes it looks like a young person with a disability gaining confidence to go to the counter and pay for something. Sometimes it’s helping someone move into their own home after years of living with family. These milestones… are life-changing.”
Her career in disability support has helped her forge lasting local ties in the Burdekin, the town she has now called home for over a decade. Away from Flexi, her life is centred on family and the outdoors. With two young children, camping trips, property maintenance, and exploring new places keep her busy.
Michaela Mye has called the Burdekin home for 15 years, quickly becoming an integral part of the community through local sport and family life. She plays touch football and netball, activities that have helped her connect with many locals. Family is at the heart of her life, with her daughter, fiancé, and two dogs keeping her busy and grounded.
She was led to Flexi Queensland by her passion for supporting people with disabilities to live independently and achieve their goals. “It’s rewarding to make a positive difference and be part of an inclusive, supportive organisation,” she says.
As a House Leader, Michaela oversees day-to-day operations in the SIL homes, supports service users with their independence and personal goals, and guides her staff team to deliver safe, person-centred care.
Much like her colleagues, Michaela is particularly proud of Flexi Queensland being recognised at the Enablement Awards two years in a row, a testament to the dedication of the team and the impact they have in the community.
Outside work, Michaela enjoys spending time with her family and dogs, soaking up the relaxed Burdekin lifestyle. She also has a surprising passion for true crime, which she admits she could binge-watch for hours.
Michaela's connection to the local community, combined with her professional dedication, ensures she makes a meaningful impact both inside and outside the homes she leads.
Eighteen-year-old Lacy Horan has spent her entire life in Ayr, growing up surrounded by the close-knit community of the Burdekin.
Lacy was drawn to Flexi Queensland by the opportunity to work flexibly while making a tangible difference in the lives of community members. As a lifestyle facilitator, her role covers a wide range of responsibilities, from assisting with personal care and supporting service users in the community to fostering independence in everyday tasks, and more.
“I love building genuine connections with our clients and being part of a team that encourages growth both professionally and personally,” Lacy says, also appreciative of the social aspects of the role like trips to Townsville to weekly bowling events.
Lacey takes special pride in being part of the dedicated Flexi team that was awarded the prestigious 'Most Exceptional Disability Support Service Team in Australia’ award, highlighting the milestone as one of her favourite moments in her role to date.
Outside of work, Lacy enjoys spending time with family and friends by the creek, shopping, or relaxing at home. A love of sports nurtured in her early years allowed her to build strong local connections, relationships she continues to treasure today.
Fun fact: She learned to ride a bike without training wheels when she was just 18 months old—a hint at her determination and adventurous spirit that she brings to her role every day.
Flexi Queensland officially celebrated 30 years of service to the Burdekin community on July 18, marking three decades of support for people with disability across the region.
The milestone event also honoured Maryann Petersen, a founding Board Member and long-time community advocate. Maryann is well known for her work at The Job Shop in Ayr, a family-operated business providing First Aid training, supplies, and support across Townsville, Burdekin, and Charters Towers for more than 21 years.
In recognition of her contributions, the organisation officially renamed its Therapy and Activity Centre the Petersen Hangout. The new name reflects Maryann’s legacy and the welcoming, inclusive spirit she has brought to the community. The Petersen Hangout now proudly stands at the end of Queen Street, Chippendale.
The anniversary celebration brought together families, staff, supporters, and community members for an evening of festivities. Attendees enjoyed a sausage sizzle, games, crafts, face painting, balloon animals, live performances from Let’s Groove and the Burdekin Brass Band, and a raffle and lucky door prize.
The event provided a chance for the community to connect, celebrate, and recognise both the organisation’s 30 years of service and the lasting impact of a community champion.
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