As we are only a few days away from the Home Hill Harvest Festival, I was looking into the history of the festival and it is incredible to see it continue on now in its 62nd year. The Parade and street party is the main event, but the festival has been running for weeks now with several side events occurring such as the Ephemera, Students Ball, Town of Origin, King and Queen of the hill, Derby Day, Golf Ambrose, Pet Show and the Harvest festival ball. The work that goes into all these events really is a lot and I would like to take the chance to thank the committee, everyone who has helped in any way for these events and of course all the sponsors.
Iconic events like the Harvest Festival are great for bringing our community together and volunteers and local business providing sponsorship really can’t be thanked enough for what they do behind the scenes to make these events happen.
If you are one of the many new residents who have moved to our great Burdekin shire, make sure you head over to Home Hill this weekend and experience the great community spirit on display at the Home Hill Harvest Festival Grand Parade and street party Saturday afternoon.   

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On Friday, I had the pleasure of spending the day in Home Hill, meeting with local businesses and community members to gather valuable insights on how we can improve our CBD’s. Hearing directly from the people who live and work in our communities is essential in shaping a vibrant and welcoming town centre that meets the needs of our community.
From enhancing public spaces to supporting local business growth, there are many ideas on the table, and we want to ensure everyone has the chance to provide input. If you haven’t yet shared your thoughts, please remember that our survey closes tomorrow. You can complete it online at https://bit.ly/BSC-CBD – every voice matters, and your feedback is crucial in guiding the future of Home Hill's CBD.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to meet with us, complete the online survey, and share your insights.
If you’d like to stay up-to-date, be sure to tune into Burdekin’s Sweet FM 97.1 on Wednesdays, where our Councillors take turns at providing valuable information to the community. Between 2:00-3:00pm, you can hear directly from your local representatives, as they share updates on projects, answer questions, and discuss what’s happening in our Shire. I encourage everyone to tune in each week for a closer look at the work Council is doing for you.
Stay safe and take care of yourself. 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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Selectability, a community-based non-profit, has joined forces with the Blue Tree Project to promote mental wellbeing and encourage open conversations on mental health within the community.
Inspired by the project’s mission to spread mental health awareness, Selectability was initially approached by Stardust Drive-In, whose team suggested collaborating.
Embracing the opportunity, Selectability eagerly agreed, recognising the potential impact of the project in reaching diverse community members.
The Blue Tree Project's concept is simple yet powerful: painting trees blue to serve as conversation starters about mental health. The initiative’s visual impact has drawn significant attention in the community, often prompting curious visitors to ask about the project’s purpose.
“It’s such a visual thing in a community space,” Bryn Hicks, Selectability Regional Director explained.
“People come in asking what it’s about, and indirectly, we’re reaching the right person just by having it there.”
The project has resonated strongly with residents and stakeholders. Selectability’s consumers and staff, particularly, feel proud to be part of a project that supports them and their community. The initiative also reaches individuals who may not typically seek information on mental health topics, such as farmers and truck drivers, enabling important conversations to take place among groups often outside mainstream mental health discussions.
One of the unique aspects of the Blue Tree Project is its simplicity and community-focused approach. By situating these blue trees in widely frequented areas, the project becomes accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds—children, adults, and seniors alike. “A conversation saves a life,” Bryn emphasises, noting the life-saving power of open dialogue.
Looking ahead, Selectability is exploring additional community projects to expand their mental health impact. While details are still being finalised and funding applications are underway, there are promising opportunities on the horizon.
Selectability also reminds the community of their open-door policy. Community members are encouraged to drop by their offices Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, for resources, support, or simply to learn more about their services. Through the Blue Tree Project and beyond, Selectability remains dedicated to fostering an environment where mental health conversations can thrive.

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Staff and clients from Selectability next to the blue tree: Miranda Kneubuhler, Emma McBride, Alina Forse, Lauren Mummery and Nikita Pedron. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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Do you ever wish you could get hands-on help with things you're not sure how to do? While online resources like Google and YouTube are helpful, nothing compares to learning from real people in a community setting. It creates a sense of belonging and accomplishment that enriches our lives.

In our recent discussions with the tradies working at the Neighbourhood Centre, we explored the topic of life skills—how they’re learned, who can share knowledge, and what skills our community could learn together. It’s easy to overlook the everyday skills we picked up as children from our families. However, not everyone has had those experiences, and in today's fast-paced world, where both parents often work, essential life skills can be overlooked. Let's face it—growing up and taking care of ourselves can be challenging!

At the Neighbourhood Centre, we are committed to fostering practical life skills learning through regular community workshops. We believe in the power of collaboration with the Burdekin community, and to bring this idea to life, we need your insights, suggestions, and participation.

Join us for our community chat sessions on:
- Tuesday, November 12th, from 6 PM to 7 PM
- Thursday, November 14th, from 2 PM to 3 PM

These sessions will be held at 40 Chippendale Street, AYR.

If you can’t attend either session, don’t worry! You can reach out to us via Facebook, email, or phone.

We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts on what skills you’d like to learn or any knowledge you’d love to share with others. We’re also eager to partner with local businesses, organisations, and clubs to make this a truly inclusive community effort.

During our conversations several suggestions emerged:
- Preparing to leave home (cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene)
- Basic car maintenance
- Simple home repairs
- Introductory sewing skills
- Budget-friendly cooking
- Tips on using a BBQ and sharing recipes
- Basic first aid training
- Support for single parents and their children
- Freezer meal preparation
- Home organisation strategies
- Parenting advice (new and experienced parents)
The list goes on, and it can only grow with your input!

We envision these engaging workshops as ongoing community events, helping us all learn and grow together.

Let’s put the UNITY back in COMMUNITY!  
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Until next time,
The Team - Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Radio host Tony Goddard, who began his broadcasting journey on September 5, 2001, has long captivated audiences with his eclectic mix of music and informative content. Initially drawn to radio through his work in policing, Tony launched his career with a segment called "On the Beat," which combined music with valuable police information on topics like property protection, traffic laws, and personal safety. This unique blend resonated with listeners, setting the stage for his future as a popular on-air personality.
In 2005, Tony transitioned to hosting a Saturday morning show, shifting his focus to music from the 1970s and 1980s, peppered with a touch of humour. "I have a fair few listeners from South East Queensland and the Northern Rivers of New South Wales," he shared, adding that his reach even extends internationally, with occasional listeners tuning in from Germany and Sweden. Remarkably, all his shows are broadcast live, adding an authentic, dynamic touch to each episode.
When it comes to musical influences, Tony's tastes are rooted in classic rock. "I love The Eagles, Queen, and Creedence Clearwater Revival," he says, noting that the bands of his youth have left an indelible mark on his career. His shows frequently feature these timeless hits, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
Tony's most memorable on-air moment involves an interview with an opposition minister for police, a non-political conversation that sparked political feedback. He's also had the opportunity to interview sports figures, including rugby league players and referees. These interviews, he reflects, not only entertain but also provide listeners with insights into the sports world.
Preparation for a live show have evolved over the years for Tony, who once relied on a library of CDs but now uses a USB for his hour-long broadcasts. For those considering a career in radio, he encourages volunteering: “It’s good for anyone who wishes to become involved. You might find you enjoy it, working with a reasonable mob of people here.”

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Tony Goddard is on the desk. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
129,375
2,355,824
Pioneer
71,423
1,113,926
Kalamia
52,900
1,249,109
Inkerman
75,428
1,403,329
Burdekin
329,125
6,122,187
CCS
Invicta
14.86
14.36
Pioneer
14.79
14.34
Kalamia
13.76
13.89
Inkerman
14.54
14.10
Burdekin
14.59
14.20
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
57%
14.82
Q208
9%
14.67
Q183
11%
15.68
WSRA17
5%
13.76
KQ228
9%
13.82
Q232
5%
13.94
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 330,000 tonnes of cane for the week which is below budget due mainly to cleaning intermissions at Invicta and Inkerman and some extended unplanned stops at Kalamia and Pioneer.
The season-to-date total is now 6.12M tonnes, which represents 75% of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.59, which is increasing with the hot dry conditions.
The highest CCS, of 17.7, was from rakes of Q183 2R in the Jardine (Pioneer) and Mulgrave (Invicta) productivity districts.
Remember to always use your train brain and give way to trains at road crossings.
John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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By Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager

It has been an interesting and diverse two weeks to say the least. The last fortnight has seen quite a range of activities being undertaken by the team at QCAR.
Week 19-20 Crush: The first week after the rain event on the 13 October caused some disruptions to harvesting and crushing, and then the quality of cane material caused its own issues.
Reviews are currently being undertaken into:
   • Cut to Crush over 24 hours
   • Delayed bin deliveries
   • Even a missing bin (which our QCAR admin team found)
CCS, Purity, Suspense Cane – these words are now becoming important in my day-to-day work life.
On a personal note, I took the opportunity offered by the Burdekin Cane Audit Service (BCAS) on the 22 October. The presentation and tour demonstrated there is a high level of accuracy required. Many checks are completed by auditors along the way to validate grower results. Thanks to Barb Colls and the BCAS team.
Our touring group also were taken through the mill by Operations Manager, Robert Borg, and we saw the mill in full operation observing how local sugarcane is transformed into raw sugar. The event is a credit to all the staff at Inkerman.

Milling Update: When you consider the age of these factories it is quite remarkable that they do what they do. The concern is:
   • Do we take our sugar industry for granted?
   • How do we improve efficiency at milling and harvesting?
   • Can we improve productivity per hectare?
   • Can we grow more hectares?
Need many collaborators to get a positive change.
P & K Farm Update:
   • has been fully harvested – 2,955 tonnes
   • mother plot - destroyed with rotary hoe
   • ratoons – trash incorporator cultivation
   • irrigation can now begin on plant cane

QCAR Connections:
   • Kelli Dabelstein – Northern Insurance Solutions
   • Clark Grogan – Rabobank
   • Troy Williams & Judy Betteridge – Lowes Petroleum
Upcoming Events:
   • National Agriculture Day, 15 November
   • GRDC Grains Research Update, 26 November, Ayr Showgrounds
   • Embracing Agriculture Digital Workshop, 27 November, Bowen Tafe College

ANGELO’S AGRONOMIC TIP: Late application of nitrogen on our last cut ratoons? With the wet season not far away are nitrogen inhibitors being considered? Enpower and N Protect will ensure we get the most out of our N applications.

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.

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Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager and David Paine, P & K Farm Manager

Growers observe the BCAS Workplace Coordinator demonstrate a Pol reading for sucrose in the Inkerman Mill laboratory. From left – Sue Wright, Angelo Licciardello, Shaun Betteridge, Dylan Betteridge, Kylie Sibson and Glenda Pola

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October is always a busy month on the grower marketing calendar with the closing off of marketing nominations for the season ahead.
With the dust now settled, we have registered a pleasing increase in the number of growers and GEI tonnes nominated through to Wilmar Grower Marketing across our four milling regions.
A common theme with growers who nominated us is the financial benefits Wilmar has delivered over the last few seasons.
The Production Risk Pool continues to outperform the Harvest Pool, and the Allocation Account is adding a significant premium to the forward price that growers lock in through the Target price mechanism.
We will continue to work hard to maximise that premium as, being a large grower ourselves, it has a direct impact on our financial return.
Other positive commentary from growers relates to the work done by our local Grower Marketing consultants. Most of the team have direct agricultural backgrounds, so have an affinity with the challenges growers face each day. Their willingness to go over and above on a personal level, and their passion to see our growers succeed financially, means very few growers choose to leave Wilmar marketing.
Another pleasing result was the interest shown in our new Managed Pool Plus. The launch of this product for the 2025 season was in direct response to feedback regarding sugar price volatility.
As you know, the last 24 months have seen some big swings in sugar prices. Many growers who like the control of forward pricing are fatigued by the market gyrations. By laying off some of that control into the Managed Pool Plus, they get the benefit of having longer-term price management without the worry of having to watch the market on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the concept of having access to the pool manager on a quarterly basis through a webinar format, provides further education around price risk management.
In October, we also initiated a comprehensive survey of our grower suppliers. It’s been a while since we’ve reached out to growers seeking direct feedback about our Grower Marketing offering and the broader business. The survey is open until next Friday (15 November). Please contact your local grower marketing consultant if you have not received an email invitation to complete the survey.
Again, thank you to all growers who chose Wilmar to manage their GEI price exposure for the 2025 season. Our team will work hard to ensure your trust is repaid.
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Contributed with thanks to Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Wilmar’s Burdekin Grower Marketing consultants, from left, Owen Richards, Meghan Wilson and Fiona Villis.

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Intersport and Compleat Angler continues to be a go-to spot for sports and fishing fans in the region, catering to a wide array of needs and trends. Football, basketball, netball, and soccer remain popular choices, with the "hottest" sport shifting each year and often aligning with school seasons. This seasonal change keeps the store busy as locals gear up for their favourite sports, whether they’re experienced players or new to the game.
Fishing trends are also evolving, with lures taking the spotlight – especially soft plastics like Zerek and Samaki Prawns. These lures have gained popularity for their lifelike appearance and versatility, making them appealing for many anglers. Electric reels are another big seller, especially with reef fishers who appreciate the power and convenience these reels offer when fishing in deeper waters.
Intersport and Compleat Angler plays an active role in the local sports and fishing community, proudly sponsoring many clubs in the area and contributing to fundraising events. With most seasons wrapping up, the team is preparing for the year ahead, ensuring local clubs have the gear they need to succeed.
What makes Intersport and Compleat Angler truly stand out is its exclusive range of brands, including Yeti and Crocs, as well as a range of outdoor essentials like ammunition, shooting accessories, and compound bows. With such a diverse inventory, the store has something for everyone, from avid anglers to sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts.
For those just getting started, the team offers practical advice. For newcomers to sports, a quality pair of shoes is a great investment – they can make a big difference in comfort and performance. Beginners in fishing are encouraged to start simple; there’s no need to overspend at first, as you can get everything you need to start without breaking the bank. And, as they say, “Once you start catching fish, you’ll be hooked!”
The team prides itself on helping customers find the right fit by taking the time to understand their needs. This dedication has made Intersport and Compleat Angler a trusted name in the local sports and fishing scene.

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Shania Nucifora, Brett Eathorne and Bernadette Dal Ponte, some of the team at Intersport. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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The Burdekin Shire Council is addressing residents’ concerns over the recent surge in mosquito populations impacting most of the region. This spike follows recent rain events and tides exceeding 3.5 metres, conditions that create optimal breeding grounds for mosquitoes as water seeps into salt flats and other normally dry areas.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the Council’s proactive approach through its ongoing mosquito monitoring and treatment program. This program focuses on targeting mosquito larvae to reduce adult populations before they spread, ensuring the safety and comfort of residents in public spaces.
“Our teams are working hard to reduce mosquito larvae around public areas using barrier treatments, helping protect residents and families who visit our outdoor facilities,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Most of the mosquitoes currently affecting the Burdekin are salt marsh mosquitoes, a species that can travel up to 50 kilometres on prevailing winds. These mosquitoes have a lifespan of around 14 days and rely on saltwater conditions to breed.”
The Council also encourages residents to adopt protective measures at home, including applying insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and considering barrier treatments around properties. Local suppliers, such as Nutrien Ag Solutions, Burdekin Growers, and Elders, offer barrier treatment products suitable for home use, while pest control services provide custom solutions for household mosquito management.
For residents seeking additional information about Council’s mosquito control efforts, or advice on dealing with the current infestation, Burdekin Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre is available at (07) 4783 9800 or by visiting burdekin.qld.gov.au.
How To Avoid Mosquito Bites
   • Cover up - wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and covered footwear.
   • Apply insect repellent - use an effective insect repellent on exposed skin,
   • Stop mosquitoes from getting inside, cover doors and windows with insect screens.
Clean up around your home
Reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by:
   • regularly emptying and wiping out any items that hold water, such as buckets and old tyres
   • ensuring rainwater tanks are sealed and inlet and outlet pipes are screened
   • draining water from or filling in pools of water in the yard
   • keeping your lawns mowed
   • killing adult mosquitoes with flying insect and surface sprays. Read and follow all directions and precautions on the product label.
Information sourced from Queensland Government website.

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A time to celebrate and a time for action! November is National Rural Health Month and it’s time to spotlight rural communities and health care.
 
Throughout November, the National Rural Health Alliance is excited to share rural healthcare stories and highlight the success stories of rural healthcare champions. We will also draw attention to the myriad of issues faced by rural, regional and remote communities in Australia when trying to access health care.  
 
“We all know that Australia’s rural, regional and remote communities experience poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
 
“National Rural Health Month highlights health sector stakeholders who are working towards tangible and sustainable healthcare solutions for rural Australians.”
 
“On average, a person living in rural Australia receives $848 less in healthcare funding each year, which equates to a $6.55 billion underspend across the country. This is despite rural industries generating about 80 per cent of Australia’s exports and providing about 90 per cent of the fresh food in our markets,” she said.
 
Rural people experience a triple health disadvantage: poorer circumstances in terms of social determinants of health, a lack of service availability, and higher costs of access and delivery, all resulting in poor health outcomes.
 
“Rural communities are amazingly resilient and innovative in their solutions to overcome healthcare challenges. As such, National Rural Health Month is also a time to reflect on their achievements that help bring positive changes.
 
Keep your eye on the Alliance’s social media accounts and the hashtag #NationalRuralHealthMonth and #NRHM24 throughout November for day-to-day stories of rural Australians and their healthcare journeys.

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators and students.

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National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen

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The old Burdekin River Rail Bridge can accurately be referred to as a magnet for disaster and was once a sore spot for Queensland Rail employees due to constant flood instances and deterioration.

Constructed during the period extending from 1896 to 1899, the Burdekin River Rail Bridge, also known as the Macrossan Bridge, connected North Queensland to the rest of the state.

Often described as a “north coast railway nightmare”, the dangerous section of line extending across the Burdekin River was a grievance among train drivers, particularly when the Burdekin River began to rise with trains at risk of being swept off the tracks and into depths below.

When the rail line would disappear into the floodwaters each wet season, communities were completely isolated, and deliveries bound for North Queensland consisting of food, clothing, and newspapers were made to sit on the bank until water levels subsided.

A devastating natural disaster, the Burdekin River flood in 1875 measured just under 22 metres over the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge, however the 1946 /1947 flood stood as a catalyst for change as the tragic event saw a cattle train washed off the tracks of the old bridge and into the floodwaters, resulting in 2 casualties. Plans began to circulate, and construction officially began to build the new Burdekin River Bridge in 1947.

In 1957, the new Burdekin River Bridge as it now stands, officially opened after 10 years of construction and planning. Supported by waterproof concrete caissons sunk 30 meters below the riverbed, the bridge measures just over 1100 meters and continues to serve as a flood-free “Silver Link”, connecting Queensland’s coastal highway.

Due to the uneconomic repercussions removing the structure would impose, the decision was made to leave the bridge where it continues to naturally deteriorate, eroding into the riverbed. A historical and nostalgic structure, what remains of the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge holds a listing on the Queensland Heritage Register, and a place in Burdekin history.

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A Queensland Rail Sunshine Express train traversed in floodwaters over the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge in 1946
The Western line of the old Burdekin River Rail Bridge between Sellheim and Macrossan
Flood damage on the Burdekin River Rail Bridge in 1917
The old Burdekin River Rail Bridge was a destructive and dangerous hazard
An accurate title – the old Burdekin River Bridge was deemed a railway nightmare
The Burdekin River Rail Bridge in flood in 1875 – suspected to be the Western line at Sellheim
Steam trains often crossed the bridge during flood waters
Changing tides. The old and new Burdekin River Bridge side by side

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DOB: 13/04/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier x
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft

Daisy is a lively and affectionate girl who’s always full of energy. She adores cuddles—on the couch or even the bed, if you let her!

Daisy is friendly with people and other dogs, making her a great fit for any family.

Smart and well-mannered, she knows to sit politely before meals and when coming indoors.

Daisy would love a home where she can enjoy both indoor and outdoor time with her family.

To meet Daisy, fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html. 

Included in adoption fee of $450 desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/worm treated. Daisy is currently on ProHeart medication.

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At 11.40pm on Saturday 19 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 42-year-old Burdekin man, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for disqualified driving and is due to front Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 2am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Davenport Street, Ayr.  As a result, a 39 year old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.
At 10.25pm on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Sydney Street, Ayr.  As a result a 41 year old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 11.25am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Munro Street, Ayr.  As a result, an 18 year old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .026 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.

WEAPONS LICENCES
If you are the holder of a current Qld Weapons Licence, I would remind you to check the expiry date of that licence to ensure it is current. Ayr Police are experiencing an increase in the numbers of people attending the station after their Weapons Licence has expired. A brand-new licence application then has to be submitted from scratch.  
There are a couple of benefits to renewing your weapons licence rather than letting it expire and they are (amounts sourced from QPS website 04/11/2024):
New weapons licence application fee is $117.61 per year
5yr new licence is $294.20;
10yr renewal is $388.50;
Permit to Acquire is $44.47;
Further, if your weapons licence expires and you have a weapon, you can no longer possess that weapon. It must be stored with a person who holds a weapons licence for that class of weapon but only for a maximum time of six months. Otherwise, it should be stored with a local firearm dealer possibly with a fee attached.  
Take a moment and check the expiry date of your weapons licence now to make sure it’s current and when you need to renew it by. Remember, it remains the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure their weapon licence is current.

Driver’s Licences & Qld Transport Business – Ayr Police NO longer do them

Ayr Police Station do NOT have any involvement in the issue of driver licences or driving tests. The Ayr Court House is where you can do all of your licence and registration matters.  We have not done licence issued duties for many years.  
We still get phone calls regularly inquiring about the issue of driver’s licences and there are still have people walk into the Police Station on a regularly inquiring about driver’s licences even though they have read notices on the front door and at the front counter advising we no longer issue them.
Renewals can be done online.  Also remember the courthouse closes over Christmas/New Year period, so if you require any licencing business to be done around that time, make sure you plan for this.

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website.
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 and 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, please contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
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

At 11.40pm on Saturday 19 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 42-year-old Burdekin man, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for disqualified driving and is due to front Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 2am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Davenport Street, Ayr.  As a result, a 39 year old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.
At 10.25pm on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Sydney Street, Ayr.  As a result a 41 year old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 11.25am on Saturday 26 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Munro Street, Ayr.  As a result, an 18 year old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .026 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.

WEAPONS LICENCES
If you are the holder of a current Qld Weapons Licence, I would remind you to check the expiry date of that licence to ensure it is current. Ayr Police are experiencing an increase in the numbers of people attending the station after their Weapons Licence has expired. A brand-new licence application then has to be submitted from scratch.  
There are a couple of benefits to renewing your weapons licence rather than letting it expire and they are (amounts sourced from QPS website 04/11/2024):
New weapons licence application fee is $117.61 per year
5yr new licence is $294.20;
10yr renewal is $388.50;
Permit to Acquire is $44.47;
Further, if your weapons licence expires and you have a weapon, you can no longer possess that weapon. It must be stored with a person who holds a weapons licence for that class of weapon but only for a maximum time of six months. Otherwise, it should be stored with a local firearm dealer possibly with a fee attached.  
Take a moment and check the expiry date of your weapons licence now to make sure it’s current and when you need to renew it by. Remember, it remains the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure their weapon licence is current.

Driver’s Licences & Qld Transport Business – Ayr Police NO longer do them

Ayr Police Station do NOT have any involvement in the issue of driver licences or driving tests. The Ayr Court House is where you can do all of your licence and registration matters.  We have not done licence issued duties for many years.  
We still get phone calls regularly inquiring about the issue of driver’s licences and there are still have people walk into the Police Station on a regularly inquiring about driver’s licences even though they have read notices on the front door and at the front counter advising we no longer issue them.
Renewals can be done online.  Also remember the courthouse closes over Christmas/New Year period, so if you require any licencing business to be done around that time, make sure you plan for this.

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website.
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 and 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, please contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
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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On Friday, November 8, the Burdekin Memorial Hall will come alive with glamour and community spirit at the highly anticipated Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball. This prestigious event offers an evening filled with elegance and generosity, celebrating the dedication and achievements of the seven 2024 Home Hill Harvest Festival Queens.
For the past few months, seven young women have represented their organisations with pride, taking on ambassadorial roles to support and uplift the Burdekin community.
Martina Bojack (Home Hill Community Sports Club), Sophie Brosnan (Get Fit Home Hill), Harmony Fletcher (Home Hill Rotary Club), Tegan Johnson (Burdekin Rugby League Club), Danelle Laubscher (Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club), Marnie Skipper (Home Hill Community Kindergarten), and Madison Mainwaring-Samwell (Burdekin Netball Association) have each worked tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for their causes.
Through events and fundraising efforts, the queens bring essential financial support to their respective clubs and charities, helping them thrive. Beyond the funds they raise, these young women spotlight the invaluable work done by local organisations, from sports clubs to service groups, strengthening the fabric of our community.
As dusk falls, the Burdekin Memorial Hall will transform into an oasis of sophistication.
Guests will enjoy a lavish sit-down dinner, celebrating the crowning of the Harvest Festival Charity Queen and Personality Queen. Music and dancing will fill the night with enchantment, while a licensed bar offers a selection of beverages to complement the evening’s charm.
This event is more than just a gala; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the dedication of the Harvest Festival Queens and a celebration of the harvest season’s spirit. Secure your tickets now and be part of a night to remember by contacting Deslie on 0408 822 029.

What: Home Hill Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball
When: Friday 8 November, 6:30pm
Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $70 per person
More Information: Contacting Deslie on 0408 822 029

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The 2024 Home Hill Harvest Festival Queens will be celebrated on Friday evening’s Rotary Gala Ball. L to R: Marnie Skipper, Danelle Laubscher, Sophie Brosnan, Harmony Fletcher, Martina Bojack, Madison Mainwaring-Samwell and Tegan Johnson.

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