I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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As the wet season once again builds on North Queensland's horizon Member for
Burdekin Dale Last has held steadfast on the Crisafulli Government's commitment to
'build back better' including the need to improve a crucial flood-prone link on the
Bruce Highway.
In February this year, significant rainfall and flooding across the region saw the Bruce
Highway cut at Plantation Creek causing chaos for local industries and stranding
interstate travellers, something Mr Last says needs a permanent solution.
"February's closure of the Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek not only saw interstate
travel grind to a halt; it cut the Burdekin Shire in half, impacting local trades, residents
and business owners," Mr Last said.
"I joined Queensland Premier David Crisafulli during this year's flooding event to
demonstrate firsthand how flooding at this locality impacts traveler's and the local
community.
"Not only has the project remained a priority for our government, we are ensuring we
put our words into actions with the Minister confirming his department is working
through detailed designs for areas of the Bruce Highway including Plantation Creek."
Mr Last said with the Bruce Highway claiming national importance, the responsibility of
securing improved flood immunity at Plantation Creek also lied with the Federal Labor
Government.
"As per the Bruce Highway funding agreement, the federal government is required to
make a contribution to this project. The Premier’s visit in February this year, and my
continued advocacy, has resulted in an application being made to the federal
government to jointly fund the betterment project."
"As our track record shows, the Crisafulli government has secured record funding for
improvements to the Bruce Highway because Queensland deserves its fair share.
"We look forward to the federal government doing the right thing and coming to the
table to deliver this project.”
Contributed with thanks to the office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP
A truck drives through the flooded Bruce Highway near Plantation Park. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones
As 2025 approaches, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with powerful community moments — each one a reminder of how local partnerships can create real change.
Among the standout highlights was the strong support shown for Burdekin Catholic High School’s Stand Up Sleep Out, an initiative driven by a passionate group of student leaders determined to shine a light on homelessness in the region.
Although homelessness is often seen as a “big city” issue, school captain Drea Piotto and her peers wanted the Burdekin community to understand that it affects regional towns too.
“Our goal was to open people’s eyes, raise awareness, and generate vital support,” Drea explained. “Homelessness is rarely a choice, and breaking that destructive belief was a driving force behind our event.”
Throughout the lead-up, students heard personal stories from people whose lives had been turned upside down, many right here in the Burdekin. For the young leaders, those conversations became a catalyst for action and empathy.
The event brought together local businesses, organisations and community leaders — including the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr team — all working towards the same goal. CEOs and leaders were invited to participate with a $100 entry donation, with many stepping forward to demonstrate that leadership in regional communities extends well beyond the boardroom.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr played a key role in ensuring the funds raised stayed local, with their contribution helping to maximise support for the Burdekin Community Association, the event’s chosen beneficiary.
Acting Branch Manager Jade Bywaters said supporting youth-led initiatives like this is something the bank is extremely proud of.
“Seeing young people lead conversations about real social issues is inspiring,” Jade said. “As a community bank, we’re proud to stand beside organisations and
students who want to make a difference. Supporting events like the Stand Up Sleep Out is exactly what community banking is all about — keeping funds local and helping create lasting change.”
As the Community Bank looks back on the year, the Stand Up Sleep Out is one of many examples demonstrating the strength of the Burdekin spirit: where young people, businesses and the wider community come together to support one another.
And while the year may be wrapping up, the commitment remains the same — continuing to invest in people, projects and ideas that make the Burdekin a stronger, more connected place to call home.
Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
As we near the end of the year, it has been an important time to reconnect with Burdekin growers and hear how the season has unfolded. Next week, we will be hosting market update sessions at Inkerman Mill and the Clare Club – both on Thursday 11 December.
These sessions are a valuable chance to sit down with growers, talk through the current price environment, and discuss the range of tools available to help manage risk and protect farm income.
They also give us the opportunity to answer questions directly, and to hear what support growers may need as they look ahead. Growers wishing to attend can RSVP through their local Relationship Manager.
In response to the significant fall in sugar prices this year, and the impact this has had on monthly advance payments, we know many growers are navigating tighter cash flow heading into Christmas. To help ease some of that pressure, we have opened the 2026 Pre-Season Payment earlier than usual.
From 1 December 2025, eligible growers can access a $5 per tonne payment on their 2026 nominated cane with Wilmar Grower Marketing. Repayments will not begin until the 2026 crush starts, and the current interest rate is 5.00%. This early access option is designed to provide additional flexibility at a time when growers are managing input costs, planning for the new year, and juggling the financial demands that come with the Christmas period.
The end of season finalisation is now under way for Burdekin growers. For those who market with Wilmar, our team will be in touch to outline your final position and answer any questions you may have. This process often provides a timely checkpoint to reassess your pricing for 2025 and beyond. With continued volatility in global sugar markets, understanding your position now can help guide forward pricing decisions and strengthen your risk management settings for the seasons ahead.
As we wrap up another year, we want to acknowledge the resilience and hard work of Burdekin growers through a challenging season.
On behalf of the Grower Marketing team, we wish all growers and their families a safe and Merry Christmas. We hope you are able to enjoy some well-deserved time with loved ones, and we look forward to working with you again in 2026.
Market update sessions are a valuable opportunity to connect with growers and share insights on how the global market is tracking. Owen Richards, Burdekin Business Development Manager presenting to growers at the Clare Club in April this year. Photo supplied
CANEGROWERS has welcomed the appointment of Peter Trimble as the new Chair of Sugar Terminals Limited (STL), calling it an important opportunity to restore confidence and unity across the sugar industry following a period of division.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said growers are hopeful the new leadership will bring renewed stability, transparency and genuine engagement to STL.
“Queensland’s sugar terminals are industry-owned assets. Growers paid two-thirds of the original construction costs, and today we continue to pay the bulk of storage and handling charges,” Mr Menkens said. “Growers deserve respect and transparency in return – and in recent years, they’ve felt neither.”
Mr Menkens said many growers remain disappointed with the handling of the 2023 insourcing decision and the conflict that followed.
“The process associated with the insourcing decision damaged confidence and continues to cast a long shadow across the industry.” he said.
He said Mr Trimble’s appointment provides an opportunity to rebuild relationships and restore confidence at a crucial time for the sector.
“The appointment of Mr Trimble as Chair is a chance to reset, rebuild trust and restore constructive relationships. We want to see open communication, real accountability and a commitment to working with growers to ensure the success of the whole industry.
“Peter knows this industry, and we hope he brings a steady hand and a willingness to listen. The opportunity is there – now it needs to be taken.”
Mr Menkens also acknowledged outgoing Chair Mark Gray, offering firm but measured reflections on his tenure.
“We wish Mr Gray better success in his future endeavours. Hopefully he has learned some valuable lessons from the divisions left in the wake of his approach to stakeholders, and the impact of some of the decisions made during his time as Chair. Our industry deserves better, and this is a chance to get back on track.”
Queensland’s much-loved giant mud crab populations are thriving, with a major new study reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class and sustainable fisheries industry.
A recently completed study led by Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and co-funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has confirmed that there is no current threat to the sustainability of the species. The research highlights the effectiveness of existing regulations, including the male-only harvest policy and the 15-centimetre legal minimum size limit.
The extensive project analysed approximately 20,000 giant mud crabs collected from across the state, using cutting-edge genetic techniques and satellite tagging to examine stock structure, monitor population health, and deepen the understanding of mud crab biology—particularly the spawning migration patterns of females.
DPI Principal Fisheries Scientist and lead researcher Dr Julie Robins said the findings provide strong scientific reassurance that Queensland’s management frameworks are successfully supporting healthy populations.
“Giant mud crabs are an iconic species and a vital part of Queensland’s fisheries, with our state accounting for 64% of Australia’s commercial harvest,” Dr Robins said.
“A significant success was the robust genetic analysis of the mud crab populations along the east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria.
“Queensland’s male minimum legal-size limit ensures a proportion of mature males are available to reproduce and over 90% of females sampled were mated and getting ready to spawn. This means there’s no shortage of mature crabs to produce the next lot of offspring.”
Dr Robins said the research not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided crucial biological reference points for future management.
“This study has added tremendous value to our collective knowledge and laid the groundwork for future discussions about mud crab management in Queensland,” she said.
"The collaborative nature of this project, working side-by-side with the commercial fishers, was invaluable. Their local knowledge was key to successfully gathering data on this iconic species."
As giant mud crabs remain a Queensland favourite—both commercially and recreationally—the study’s findings offer welcome confirmation that current sustainability measures are working, ensuring the species continues to flourish for generations to come.
Dr Julie Robins with one of the 20,000 giant mud crabs measured during the study (Photo Supplied)
Queensland agrifood innovators are being encouraged to step forward, with applications now open to join Team Queensland at evokeAG 2026, Australia’s premier agrifood technology and innovation event.
Primary producers, Queensland-based businesses, social enterprises, startups and AgTech ecosystem leaders are invited to apply for the opportunity to represent the state at the international event, which will be held in Melbourne on 17 and 18 February 2026.
Department of Primary Industries Acting Deputy Director-General Ashley Bacon said evokeAG offered an exceptional opportunity for innovators to showcase their work on a global stage.
“This is a chance for innovators to raise their profile, grow their networks, attract investment to Queensland and represent the very best our state has to offer,” Mr Bacon said.
“Team Queensland represents the innovation, talent and real-world solutions being developed and in use across our diverse landscapes to boost profitability, productivity and sustainability as we drive toward boosting primary production output to $30 billion by 2030.
“Now in its fourth year, the Team Queensland delegation continues to strengthen the state’s reputation as a national leader in AgTech innovation, sustainability and productivity.”
Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Deputy Director-General of Innovation Jasmine Vreugdenburg reinforced the government’s commitment to supporting Queensland’s innovation ecosystem.
“We are committed to empowering Queensland’s brightest AgTech entrepreneurs and fostering an ecosystem that drives growth and resilience in the state’s primary industries,” she said.
“Events like evokeAG help to connect our Queensland-based innovators with global opportunities, enabling them to seek investment, scale up their solutions and contribute to the state’s economic future.”
A total of 15 delegates will be selected by a cross-agency and industry panel. Successful applicants will receive a full-rate registration ticket valued at $1,750, granting access to the full program and welcome event.
Team Queensland is jointly led by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI). The initiative forms part of the Queensland Government’s broader commitment to elevating AgTech capability, supporting primary producers, and driving economic growth across the state.
About the Program
The Innovation Event Delegations initiative supports Queensland-based innovators by providing delegate or exhibitor tickets to key innovation festivals and events. Applicants must submit compelling business cases demonstrating how attendance will support their growth, industry contributions, and broader innovation capability development.
Eligible applicants include startups, scaleups, social enterprises, entrepreneurs and innovation ecosystem enablers headquartered in Queensland. Successful recipients may receive event tickets for Queensland-based events or be selected to join a Team Queensland delegation interstate.
The 2026 evokeAG theme, Invest. Innovate. Impact., highlights bold ideas, collaboration, and the commercialisation of agrifood solutions that drive sustainable growth and open new markets.
Delegates will also have access to a Hospitality Suite, providing opportunities to meet stakeholders and display information. Travel and associated costs remain the responsibility of applicants.
Key Dates
Applications close: 12pm, Wednesday 10 December 2025
Notification of outcomes: Friday 19 December 2025
To apply, organisations must:
For more information or assistance, contact 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or visit advance.qld.gov.au/grants-and-programs/jan/innovation-event-delegations.
Jo Gabiola has been helping the Burdekin find their homes for over 15 years, and her dedication to the community shows in every aspect of her work. Born in Ayr but now situated at Alligator Creek, Jo still travels 40 minutes each way to meet clients, typifying the commitment that has made her a trusted local agent.
Her career in real estate has spanned more than a decade, but Jo’s connection with people started long before she held a license. She managed the Home Hill Co-Op, owned two Jo’s Gifts & Linen stores, and worked in finance—all roles that taught her how to listen, manage, and care for clients. “I’ve always enjoyed human interaction,” she says. “Before that, I was behind a desk in finance, but I’ve always loved talking to people every day.”
Jo has retired twice, yet her clients kept reaching out, bringing her back for a third stint under the Raine & Horne banner, a testament to her passion for real estate and the trust she inspires. Her knowledge of the Burdekin and surrounding areas allows her to track market trends and guide clients through buying, selling, or simply exploring the right property. Over her career, she has won numerous awards, namely “Top Sales Agent Nationally” and “Top Exclusive Listing Agent Nationally” for her exceptional work.
Her approach is personal and empathetic. A homeowner and investor herself, Jo understands the fear and uncertainty clients often feel. “I understand the struggles involved and the fear of wondering, ‘Am I doing the right thing?’ I can help you reach your goal,” she says.
Outside of real estate, family is central to Jo’s life. She and her husband John have been married for 45 years, with two children and five grandchildren. Sundays are reserved for family lunches, cooking, and chaos she wouldn’t trade for anything. “I do all the cooking, and they do all the eating! Some days it’s just bedlam, and I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she laughs.
With her experience, dedication, and genuine love for helping people, Jo Gabiola continues to be a cornerstone of the Burdekin real estate community, turning houses across the Burdekin into forever homes.
Born in Ayr but now situated at Alligator Creek, Jo still travels 40 minutes each way to meet clients. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Ayr Industrial Precinct is on the brink of completion, marking a major step forward in expanding business opportunities across North Queensland.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the precinct will be a key driver of economic growth and investment for the region.
“Council is thrilled to see the Ayr Industrial Precinct taking shape and nearing completion,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“This project represents a major investment in the future of the Burdekin, providing well-located, fully serviced land that is competitively priced to attract a diverse range of businesses.”
Stage 1 lots are now available, with pricing starting from $50 per square metre plus GST, varying depending on size and location. Flexible options are offered to suit a variety of business needs.
The Mayor said Council’s support for development extends beyond delivering strategic projects like the Ayr Industrial Precinct.
“At our meeting on 25 November, Council adopted a new Economic Stimulus Policy for Development Incentives to make investment in the Burdekin even more attractive,” she said.
The policy provides a consistent and transparent process for assessing applications for reductions in fees and charges, including infrastructure charges, which can be a significant cost for developers.
“By reducing costs and creating a competitive environment for development, Council is laying the foundations for a stronger local economy for current and future generations,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
The policy aligns with the Burdekin Shire Council Corporate Plan 2025–2030, supporting business growth, innovation, and a sustainable economy.
For more information about opportunities within the Ayr Industrial Precinct and Council’s Development Incentives, visit the Burdekin Shire Council website and download the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au
The Ayr Industrial Precinct is on the brink of completion, marking a major step forward in expanding business opportunities across North Queensland. Photo supplied
Grace Pimpinella celebrated an extraordinary milestone on 22 November, surrounded by family
who travelled from Brisbane, Rockhampton, Gympie and Home Hill to honour her 90th birthday.
With a beautiful cake and a joyful gathering, the day was filled with laughter, memories, and deep
appreciation for a much-loved matriarch.
Born and raised in Stanthorpe, Grace moved to Home Hill after marrying her husband, Guiseppi
Pimpinella, with whom she shared a hardworking and devoted life on their Up River sugar cane
farm. Together they raised three children, later welcoming five grandchildren and sevengreat-grandchildren. Guiseppi, who passed away ten years ago, is lovingly remembered as part of her story and legacy.
Known for her kindness, resilience and warm heart, Grace has always been at the centre of her
family. She loved sewing clothes for her children and grandchildren, and alongside Guiseppi, grew
exceptional fruits and vegetables — winning numerous awards for her outstanding produce. Today,
she still delights in gardening, proudly tending to her plants. Earlier in life, she also enjoyed playing bowls and being part of the community.
Her family describes Grace as “the heart of our home,” a woman whose Italian cooking — tomato
sauces, lasagne, gnocchi and homemade pasta — has brought generations together around the table.
Her loved ones are deeply grateful for the love, wisdom and strength she continues to share. A
remarkable 90 years — and a truly remarkable woman.
Contributed with thanks to Enza Lyons
Grace Pimpinella celebrated an extraordinary milestone on 22 November—her 90th birthday. Photo supplied
The school bell rang out one last time for Burdekin Christian College’s graduating Class of 2025, closing the book on over a decade of classes, camaraderie and countless hours of homework.
The College celebrated them in style this month with a graduation ceremony at Populin's Hall and a traditional farewell on the school grounds. Both events saw smiles, tears and heartfelt farewells as the BCC community came together to send the graduates confidently into life beyond the school gates.
Populin's Hall doubled as the North Pole on Saturday, 15 November as BCC celebrated its graduating Class of 2025 with an elegant Winter Wonderland-themed formal graduation ceremony.
The theme, elected by this year's cohort, saw the hall adorned with the snowman Olaf, hanging icicles and snowflakes, gingerbread houses filled with ginger biscuits and sparkling trees, with the impressive cake by Naomi from Mix, Bake, Frost holding a personalised snowflake bearing each student’s name.
Students began the night with final photos at school before boarding the decorated BCC “Party Bus,” for a farewell tour of Ayr. Their grand entrance featured a choreographed routine to a mashup built around the song Beat It by Michael Jackson, a performance they had rehearsed over the preceding week.
The formal program included the presentation of senior certificates, with each student walked down the aisle by a significant other, gifted a rose, and recognised with awards. Teachers contributed meaningful tributes throughout the night, with principal Debra Creed delivering a speech likening each student to an orchestra, Mr Jensen sharing a poem connecting the cohort to a number of care bears, and Dimity Gleeson giving a special tribute to homeroom teacher Mrs Karen Wilson. Videos shown included a “Then and Now” photo montage and a farewell video featuring the whole school waving goodbye, with special student performances rounding off an emotional occasion for students, teachers and guests.
In what was another emotional affair, BCC’s Year 12 cohort of 2025 gathered on school grounds for one final farewell last Friday, marking the end of 13 years of schooling. The day featured a traditional ceremony in the school hall, followed by a guard of honour and the final mortarboard toss, symbolising the transition from school life to the wider world.
Looking ahead, students are pursuing a wide range of pathways, with several having gained early entry into tertiary programs, including the Brisbane Conservatorium of Music, while others are taking up apprenticeships or local career opportunities.
Principal Debra Creed urged graduates to hold fast to their character as they take this vital next step into the world.
"I urge you to remember, while you are embracing change and growth, to stay true to your values, which are hopefully the values BCC have instilled in you during your time at our College," she told them. "Continue to show the belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every human being."
She encouraged the cohort to embrace their individuality and potential, adding, "You all have your own song inside you. Whatever your song let it out–never be scared to sing it. Celebrate life, take those chances, make the most of every moment.
"I know every Year 12 student has something amazing to contribute to the world and I can’t wait to see the positive changes you will make to our society."
One of the beautiful things about the Burdekin is that a global tourism hotspot sits just a two-hour drive south. I spent the back end of last week soaking up the sun and admiring the breathtaking coastal scenery of the Whitsundays, though that wasn’t the main reason for the trip.
Members of the Life Publishing Group, the company behind Burdekin Life and other North Queensland papers and magazines, came together in Airlie Beach for a day of training before attending the Whitsundays Business Awards, where our Whitsundays Life paper took out the Regional Game Changer category.
The award reflects the pride and care we put into all our publications. I haven’t worked for many community newspapers outside this one, but from day one it’s been clear that the company’s ethos is strongly community-driven, focused on providing high-quality, timely news with a warm, local touch.
It’s been a pleasure learning from a multi-award-winning team as I make my foray into the media world. I look forward to continuing that journey, not only for my own growth, but so the Burdekin can have the best paper possible. Hopefully, it won’t be long before we bring home our own awards.
The Burdekin Woodcrafts Association has been bringing the joy of woodworking to the community for more than 30 years, and thanks to a recent RACQ Foundation Resilience Grant, the club is now in a stronger position to continue its good work.
The Brisbane-based RACQ Foundation, which has distributed over $15 million since 2011 to more than 500 Queensland community groups affected by natural disasters and drought, provided the Association with a combined $20,500 grant after water damage from recent floods. The funding was used to paint damaged ceilings and walls and to replace roof sheeting, allowing the club to continue its community-focused woodworking projects.
The Association, located at 30 Little Drysdale Street, is home to around 35 members who meet each Wednesday and Saturday morning to work on personal projects or community commissions. Members repair tables for local events, craft bespoke furniture for customers, and teach workshops, including upcoming wood turning and band saw box classes.
The Burdekin Woodcrafts Association welcomes anyone aged 18 and over to attend three free sessions before joining. Membership is $80 per year, with a $10 joining fee.
“All the money that comes in goes back into the club, like repairs or buying wood or equipment,” Merv said. “We just love what we do.”
For those looking to learn, create, and give back, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved.
The Burdekin Woodcrafts Association with Federal Member Andrew Willcox, who offered his help with the project. Photo supplied
Positive steps have been made towards improving the safety of a notorious intersection in the
Burdekin, however Member for Burdekin Dale Last has emphasised that everyone has a role to play when it comes to safety on our roads.
After extensive community consultation Mr Last said proactive measures and tackling the matter from all angles would provide the missing pieces needed to pave a pathway towards a solution for concerns faced at the Giddy Road- Bruce Highway intersection.
“An increase in traffic over recent years has seen the Giddy Road- Bruce Highway intersection
become notoriously dangerous with drivers often witnessing near-misses or at times having to be first responders to traffic accidents,” Mr Last said.
“The installation of a traffic monitoring system at the intersection is a positive step towards securing information and data necessary to advocate for upgrades.
“Every time we witness a near-miss incident on our roads we are reminded of the potential dangers and the loss of life that could have occurred. By taking proactive steps in addressing road safety concerns we are ensuring we're not waiting until a family is mourning the loss of a loved one before we take action.”
Mr Last said the complex nature of the Giddy Road intersection meant all areas of government and the community needed to play their part in ensuring the safety of all road users.
“As part of the proactive measures, I have also applied for the intersection to be considered for funding under the next round of the Federal Government’s Black Spot program,” Mr Last said.
“Anyone can nominate a road or intersection to be considered for Black Spot funding and, if the project meets the criteria and is selected by the panel, infrastructure upgrades can be committed
to.”
“As a former police officer I know first-hand the wide-spread impact fatal accidents have on
communities, from the first responders at the scenes to the families and friends left behind. By taking these actions it means that we're not left waiting for a fatality to occur before we see real action and investment on our roads.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last
Most Australians will eventually be touched by the reality of old age. Many of us will one day, if not already, require assistance in our later years. Older Australians have done their fair share and deserve the dignity of reasonable, affordable aged care, should they require it.
Older Australians have paid their taxes, fought in wars, raised generations, built and run
businesses, farmed our lands and pushed this country forward. They’ve contributed for
decades, and now that it is their turn to be looked after, the current Labor government has
abandoned them.
Australia is facing an aged care crisis that cannot be ignored. Since Labor came to office in
2022, pressures across the sector have severely worsened. Staffing levels are not keeping up
with the growing number of older Australians, and aged care beds are simply not being made
available. This past financial year, only 578 new beds came online nationally. That is only around 5% of the at least 10,600 required just to keep pace with growing demand.
In Queensland, just 26 new operational aged care beds were made available in 2024–25.
Twenty-six! There are more beds on display at Harvey Norman. At this rate, the “No Vacancy”
sign will be switched on at aged care facilities right across the country in the blink of an
eye. Recent reports show that, at current rates, full occupancy will be reached in under three years.
When this government came to office, Anthony Albanese promised to put the “care” back into
aged care. Yet its priorities seem more focused on climate change posters than on people. The
Prime Minister was willing to spend at least $1 billion to host COP31, but won’t invest
meaningfully in aged care. Turkey will now host the summit, but the fact that the government
chased the event while crying poor over aged care funding says it all. Health leaders and state governments are calling for about $1 billion just to stabilise the sector. Here’s an idea: redirect the COP31 money to aged care.
Anthony Albanese also promised 24/7 nursing care for aged care residents. Where are the extra
nurses? Even with high immigration levels, this government can’t find enough skilled workers to support our older Australians. Understaffed and under-resourced facilities are at breaking point.
Workers are expected to do more with less, and the pressure only shifts to our already strained hospitals. Elderly Australians remain stuck in hospital beds far too long, waiting for aged care spots to open up.
This crisis is not only about older Australians. It also impacts their families, their carers, and the decisions they face. Entering aged care is hard enough without government incompetence making it harder.
With our population ageing faster than ever, we need a government focused on ensuring the
right facilities, staff, and plans are in place to meet this rapid increase in need.
If Labor truly believes in “putting the care back into aged care,” then it’s time to prove it. Australia’s seniors deserve more than excuses. They deserve action, and they deserve the funds to flow to the right areas. I call on the government to re-evaluate its funding priorities and put older Australians at the front of the care line.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, showing support for older Australians who deserve dignity, care, and respect in their later years. Photo supplied
The festive season in Burdekin is set to sparkle once again, with the 2025 Burdekin Christmas Carols returning on Sunday, 14 December 2025, at Wickham Street, Ayr, beside the PCYC. Families and friends are invited to gather for an evening filled with music, holiday cheer, and community spirit.
The evening will feature a visit from Santa Claus, a fireworks spectacular, free face painting for the kids, and a variety of food stalls to keep everyone fuelled while enjoying the entertainment.
This year’s program promises a fresh twist, curated by local arts enthusiast Monica Licciardello, who has put together a lineup showcasing Burdekin’s incredible local talent.
“We’ve got some surprises in store and a lineup that celebrates the incredible local talent we have right here in the Burdekin. It’s going to be a night to remember,” Mrs Licciardello said.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the carols are a highlight on the Burdekin calendar, bringing the community together in a celebration of the season. She also acknowledged the support of Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, which returns as the naming rights sponsor for the event, helping make the evening possible and supporting local festivities.
Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and enjoy a night of festive fun, music, and community connection, making memories to carry through the holiday season.
Council is inviting local food and drink vendors to get involved, with expressions of interest due by Wednesday, 19 November 2025.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort acknowledged the support of Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, which returns as the naming rights sponsor for the Burdekin Christmas Carols. Photo supplied
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