Opinion Piece

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As the debacle over the impact of toxic chemical compound continues to cause havoc in Ayr, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances residents will have the chance to have their say during an upcoming federal inquiry.
Mr Last said given Ayr’s ongoing battle to rid its water supply of PFAS chemical compounds there was no excuse why a full and thorough inquiry would not include a public hearing in the township.
“The announcement of a federal government inquiry into the dangers of PFAS is welcome news but residents in towns like Ayr need assurances that this inquiry will be a boots-on-the-ground approach and that those who want the chance to speak can do so face-to-face,” Mr Last said.
“For years Ayr has been plagued by instances of elevated levels of PFAS which at times has threatened the township’s water security.”
“While council has been proactive in their management of the heightened levels of PFAS in Ayr’s water supply, it’s important that any lessons that can be learned from the township’s experience with the toxic chemical compound are provided during the examination of the issue.”
“What we have seen recently is a clear indication there needs to be a more thorough understanding about the impact this chemical compound can have and that can’t be achieved without knowledge of how townships like Ayr are impacted.”
Mr Last said it was now up to the Federal Labor Government to provide assurances that any recommendations would be accepted and the report would not be left sitting in a top draw to collect dust.
“Everyone who has experienced the impact of PFAS contamination in their water supply should have the opportunity to have their voices heard if they choose to,” Mr Last said.
“Public Submissions to the inquiry have now opened and will examine the extent, regulation and management of PFAS with the final report to be presented by August 5, next year.”
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Contributed with thanks to Dale Last, Member for Burdekin.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last has campaigned tirelessly for an inquiry into PFAS contamination at the Ayr Fire Station. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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This past Monday 11 November, we came together to honour Remembrance Day. It was a solemn moment as I attended the memorial service in Ayr to pay our respects to the brave service men and women who have served our nation. Their sacrifice and dedication will never be forgotten. While attendance at the ceremonies in both Ayr and Home Hill was unfortunately lower than anticipated, I trust that many took a moment to reflect and commemorate in their own private ways.
For those who are unaware, I’d like to provide an update on the ongoing roundabout works on Queen Street. Recently, the kerbs on the roundabout were badly damaged during resurfacing works carried out by a contractor on behalf of TMR. This led to significant cracks and failures in the newly installed kerbs. I want to assure the community that repairs are currently underway, and the contractor is responsible for covering all restitution costs. Whilst we understand that these repair works may cause some inconvenience, they are necessary to ensure the roundabout is restored to its best condition. Your patience and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated.
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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Burdekin Potters Inc., a longstanding creative fixture in the Burdekin region, has been enriching the community with its pottery programs and initiatives since 1975. With nearly five decades of history, this not-for-profit organisation has seen remarkable growth, expanding from around ten members four years ago to an impressive 62 members today.
“Our youngest member is just 16, while our oldest is in her mid-70s,” shares Debra Ferraris, the current President of Burdekin Potters.
This diverse membership reflects the club’s commitment to fostering community bonds and accessibility through pottery.
Burdekin Potters offers pottery classes for both adults and children throughout the year, aiming to welcome new members into their artistic fold. The club also supports various groups, including Indigenous and special needs communities, and collaborates with local schools by providing materials and firing student pieces. These initiatives are core to their mission of making pottery an accessible and rewarding activity for all.
Recently, Burdekin Potters received a Bendigo Bank Community Grant of $9,450, allocated to repainting the exterior of their clubhouse in Plantation Park.
Debra explains, “We wanted the club to stand out and look refreshed in time to celebrate our 50 years in the community next year.” With a surge of local interest in pottery, the new paintwork not only revitalises the club’s appearance but also strengthens its community presence.
Receiving the grant has had a profound impact on the organisation’s future plans.
“It was awesome to be successful in gaining the funding to achieve this project,” says Debra. By covering the clubhouse’s renovation costs through Bendigo Bank’s support, Burdekin Potters can now allocate its own funds towards maintaining and purchasing essential equipment, as well as handling regular expenses such as rates, electricity, and insurance.
“Having a big-ticket item crossed off our wish list allows us to focus on these ongoing needs,” Debra notes gratefully.
Debra underscores the importance of Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr’s role in supporting the Burdekin’s local organisations. “It is invaluable for not-for-profit groups in the Burdekin to have an institution like Bendigo Bank offer these grants,” she says. “The Burdekin Potters is forever grateful for the assistance, as it allows clubs to acquire otherwise unobtainable resources.”
Looking ahead, Burdekin Potters is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary in June 2025—a milestone the entire community can anticipate. “We’re working towards organising an event to celebrate 50 years in the community next year,” Debra shares. With a vibrant mix of members from diverse backgrounds, Burdekin Potters is dedicated to making pottery an affordable, inclusive, and enriching experience.
“Our goal is to continually encourage community members to join our club, offering social interaction, mental stimulation, and the joy of a creative activity,” Debra adds.
As Burdekin Potters looks to the future, their gratitude for the Bendigo Bank Community Grant shines as brightly as their freshly painted clubhouse, embodying the transformative impact of community support in the arts.

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Burdekin Potters receive their grant! Photo supplied

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The Lower Burdekin Scouts embarked on an educational and enriching excursion to the Burdekin Marine Safety complex on Thursday 7 November to learn more about the fantastic work these wonderful volunteers achieve in and around the local community.
Each month, the Lower Burdekin Scouts follow a theme to further their knowledge, skills, and scouting expertise, with November’s theme being “emergencies”.
The Scouts enjoyed listening to the volunteers share rescue stories, and learnt valuable First Aid skills from Paul, Ian, and the rest of the experienced squad.
The cherry on top for the Scouts, however, was having the opportunity to explore the rescue boat and sport the bright red life jackets.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts warmly thank the Burdekin Marine Safety Volunteers for hosting an extremely interesting and educational night, and thanks the group for the amazing job they do for the local community.

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Exploring the rescue boat was a highlight for many of the younger Scouts!

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
137,074
2,492,898
Pioneer
65,544
1,179,470
Kalamia
77,229
1,326,338
Inkerman
85,153
1,488,482
Burdekin
365,000
6,487,187
CCS
Invicta
14.82
14.39
Pioneer
14.58
14.36
Kalamia
14.08
13.90
Inkerman
14.56
14.13
Burdekin
14.56
14.22
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
60%
14.78
Q183
7%
15.66
KQ228
12%
13.66
Q232
5%
14.37
Q208
10%
14.38
WSRA17
5%
12.89
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Comments:

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The Burdekin mills processed 365,000 tonnes of cane for the week which exceeded budget. No time was lost for wet weather.
The season-to-date total is now 6.49M tonnes, which represents almost 80 per cent of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.56, which is in line with budget forecasts.
The highest CCS, of 17.8, was from rakes of Q240 1R and Q240 5R both in the Leichhardt (INK) productivity districts.
A number of near misses were reported involving cars racing trains at level crossings.
Remember to exercise some patience, use your train brain and always give way to trains at road crossings.
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John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has reached the three-quarter mark of the 2024 crushing season, with its eight North Queensland mills processing a total of 11.78 million tonnes of cane so far. This represents 77% of the estimated 15.34 million tonne crop.
The Burdekin region is performing particularly well this season, with favourable weather conditions aiding in smooth harvesting. Current CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) levels have returned to budgeted targets, bringing the season-to-date average to a strong 14.2 units. Wilmar anticipates all Burdekin factories will complete their crush before Christmas, contingent on ongoing weather conditions.
Ian Davies, General Manager of Cane Supply and Grower Relations, highlighted the strong performance across all regions. "Our Burdekin mills are on track to finish before Christmas, which is a great outcome considering the challenges we've faced this year," he said.
Meanwhile, the Herbert, Proserpine, and Plane Creek regions are also progressing steadily. The Herbert crop is averaging 75 tonnes per hectare, and the Proserpine crop is cutting at 103.6% of its original estimate. In Plane Creek, yields are sitting at an impressive 86 tonnes per hectare with a weekly CCS of 14.38 units.
As Wilmar begins planning for the 2025 season, growers are encouraged to update their farm maps on GrowerWeb to ensure accurate forecasts for the year ahead.

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Local photographer Marni Hine’s journey behind the lens began far from her home in the Burdekin.
Reflecting on her early days in photography, Marni recalls, “I was a fashion model in Asia in the late 1980s and early 90s, and I became interested in the alchemy of photography then. It was such a mystery.”
This initial spark led her to New York City, where she studied photography at Parsons School of Design, diving into the world of “chemistry and dark rooms.” Her experiences shaped her career, eventually taking her around the globe with renowned fashion photographers.
“I loved the interesting and creative people involved in this industry,” she says, but adds with a laugh, “I was an awkward nerd, so being behind the scenes was preferable to me.”
Back in Australia, Marni has turned her focus to the Burdekin region, where she finds endless inspiration.
“Photographing locally after returning to Australia, particularly in the Burdekin, has a unique lean to it,” she shares.
Highlighting the local talent, Marni says, “There are so many wonderful photographers here who know how to use natural light beautifully.
The Australian landscape is varied and interesting, so there’s a lot of available outdoor scenarios to roam amongst.”
Though her love for natural light shines, Marni admits, “I really miss the technical aspects of lighting in a studio.”
She acknowledges the challenge of recreating that precise control outdoors without a budget: “To try to mimic this is the most challenging part.”
One of her favourite subjects is the Burdekin’s agricultural community, as she herself spent 12 years as a haul-out driver.
“It’s the first year I’m not hauling, and I miss the action,” Marni confesses.
“I have planned to continue photographing the paddock people. I love the poetic meaning of outdoor work and the quintessential image of ‘Hard Yakka’ that goes on here year-round.”
When asked about advice for new photographers, Marni encourages embracing mistakes.
“From those, you truly learn,” she says. She also advocates studying the history of photography “to see its evolution,” adding that “the play of creativity has become an anxiety-riddled task” in today’s world. For Marni, the joy of photography is “ultimately freedom…a gentle way to connect with the world around you.”
Marni shares her work on two Facebook pages: Project Raw, dedicated to the Burdekin’s cane farmers, and Marni Hine Photography, hoping to keep her community connected with her unique perspective.
“I hope to keep people interested in these pages so they can see the work when it sporadically arrives,” she says with a smile.

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Marni Hine is a stellar photographer right here in the Burdekin. Photo Supplied

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DOB: 04/10/2020
Sex: Male
Breed: Ragdoll
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Untested

Blaze and Arlo are two stunning cats who are as beautiful as they are affectionate. These sweet boys will win your heart the moment they start following you around, always eager for cuddles and pats. They love to be close to you, often curling up next to you.

Not only are they incredibly loving with people, but they share an unbreakable bond with each other. You’ll often find them playing together, grooming one another, and being the best of friends.

Blaze and Arlo’s gentle and sweet personalities make them the perfect addition to a home looking for double the love.

Sound too good to be true? Why not meet Arlo and Blaze by submitting an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html. 

Included in the adoption fee of $250, Blaze and Arlo are both desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on vaccinations and are flea/tick, intestinal worm treated.

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Burdekin Shire Council is lighting up the holidays with a new look and new locations for its iconic community Christmas trees. This year, Ayr’s tree will brighten the area outside the Burdekin Theatre, while Home Hill’s tree will shine at the Comfort Stop. The relocation offers safer, more accessible spaces for families and visitors, just in time for the launch of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal.

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Hello everyone, and happy November! Christmas is just around the corner, and I hope everyone has been enjoying the sprinkle of festivities as we get closer and closer to December! The photos from the Halloween House last week look awesome! Jeff and Leon did an amazing job, and I know everyone will be on the edge of their seats to see the debut of the pair’s fantastic, award-winning Christmas display in a few weeks.
I am so excited to share that I have officially completed my university studies and in early December I will graduate with a Bachelor of Communications and Journalism! It’s been an amazing three years, and throughout my degree I have explored so many avenues of journalism from creating podcasts and television shows to broadcasting radio packages and writing breaking news articles.
Griffith University was so supportive in providing me with industry-based experience throughout my studies, and as a result I was able to intern with Nine News Queensland, broadcast a radio show across Brisbane, and of course, carry out my cadetship with the Burdekin Life Newspaper which amazingly resulted in becoming a fulltime journalist with the team all the way from Brisbane!
Although the world of broadcast journalism holds many appealing qualities, I still love and enjoy print (written) journalism the most and cannot wait to pursue a career in this wonderful industry.
Following on from my December graduation, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be back in the Burdekin, working alongside Miah locally in the region as well as the team in Hinchinbrook. I will be helping to kickstart the newest publication under the Life Publishing Group umbrella, Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper – and this all happens before I head internationally in 2025!
There’s certainly a lot going on, and as we head into this time of the year, life will only get busier! I hope you all enjoy the read, and I’ll chat to you soon!

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A ministerial portfolio reflecting some of the Burdekin’s largest industries is a fitting tribute to the powerhouse electorate and the workers at the coal-face according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Mr Last was formally sworn in last week as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development ahead of the first sitting of the new Queensland Parliament at the end of the month.
“I was incredibly humbled to be returned as the Member for Burdekin for a fourth term and to have the honour of now being sworn in as a Minister that represents key industries in the electorate is the icing on the cake," said Mr Last.
“I know how crucial our mining and resources industries are and the pivotal role the industry plays for communities in the Isaac Region. I'm a passionate advocate for the resource sector and I look forward to building on those relationships I have established in recent years and taking the industry forward.
“In the Burdekin we know the important role our manufacturers play in supporting not only our resources industry but our agricultural and horticultural sectors, so to have the opportunity to also work hand in hand with those businesses is a fitting addition.”
Mr Last said ensuring resources and manufacturing were able to thrive in the electorate was vital in ensuring rural and regional communities surrounding those businesses were in the best position to thrive into the future.
“Growing up in rural Queensland, working in multiple rural communities and having a largely rural and remote electorate to represent means that I understand not only what our regions have to offer and the issues they face, but also the opportunities available in the future."
“We know that when our communities are well resourced and have the services they need that industries are able to thrive.”
“I look forward to continuing to be a strong advocate in all avenues of my ministerial portfolio and in turn supporting the Burdekin electorate.”

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The Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club recently celebrated a milestone as Nyree Woods was awarded a service recognition for her ten years of dedicated commitment on Monday 28 October. A beloved teacher at Ayr State High School, and valued community member, Nyree was presented with a chevron pin and service award, a symbol of her continuous contribution to the Lions organisation over the past decade.

Since joining nearly eleven years ago, Nyree has held a range of leadership roles within the club, including President, Secretary, and now, Treasurer - a position she currently occupies with pride. Her dedication and versatility in serving the Lions have made her a valued member of the Home Hill - Ayr community and a driving force behind the club’s work.

The service award recognises not only Nyree’s longevity in the club but also her remarkable contributions through various positions, and her encouragement of young members of the community to become involved in the amazing work of this local organisation. The club congratulates Nyree on her achievement and thanks her for her ongoing dedication to serving the community, and enthusiasm for Lions’ mission

With her experience and commitment, Nyree continues to inspire both new and seasoned members alike, exemplifying the values of leadership, service, and community engagement that define the Lions.

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Nyree Woods was celebrated for her dedication to community service and the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club with a chevron pin and service award.

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Recently returning to the Burdekin after eight years as CEO of Balonne Shire Council, Matthew Magin brings with him a strong commitment to community and economic growth. His experience leading Balonne—a remote, agriculture-driven region on the NSW border with major crops including cotton, grains, and livestock—has equipped him with a practical, resourceful approach to challenges faced by rural communities. This journey back to North Queensland, where Magin’s roots lie, is fuelled by his passion for community development and an unwavering support for the Cowboys.
"Returning to the Burdekin feels like coming home," Magin reflects. "The area has an exciting future, and I see huge potential here that Council can help unlock.”
In his first impressions of the Burdekin, Magin was struck by the region's well-maintained communities, its welcoming residents, and the distinctive “can do” attitude.
He’s excited by the numerous infrastructure projects underway, acknowledging that they are essential for sustainable growth.
“Council’s role as an enabler of economic and community development is crucial,” he says.
“Without vision and foresight, our community could miss out on the infrastructure needed to support future growth.”
Magin’s prior experience with Balonne has given him skills he’s eager to leverage for the Burdekin. In particular, he’s well-versed in advocating to government for essential funding and managing projects with limited resources.
“In Balonne, where raising own-source revenue was challenging, we relied on grants and government contracts. This experience has taught me the value of advocating for the community’s needs, a strength I plan to bring to the Burdekin,” he shares.
His DIY approach to problem-solving has also been honed in rural settings where local solutions are often necessary.
As for his goals, Magin’s approach centres on strengthening the Council’s internal culture and enhancing customer service.
“Improving culture internally translates into better service externally,” he explains, “and there’s an urgent need to address this. We’ll also focus on attracting and retaining staff, emphasising local skill-building to ensure a sustainable workforce.”
Recognising the importance of relationships, he intends to meet with local business owners to better understand and address their interactions with Council, aiming to streamline communication and improve service delivery.
Magin’s strategy for community engagement is to connect directly with residents, understanding their needs by being accessible and approachable.
“In just seven weeks, I’ve held numerous meetings and attended events to connect with stakeholders,” he shares.
“This process is vital for me to gain insights, understand challenges, and work towards solutions that benefit the whole community.”
Magin is aware of the challenges ahead, including the pressures of time, financial constraints, and resource shortages. In response, he’s adopted a forward-thinking philosophy, prioritising “Our Customers” as the organisation’s core value.
“Re-engineering our processes around customer focus will be a major challenge, but it’s one we’re committed to tackling,” he says.
He’s also focused on driving economic development by supporting local business growth and investing in infrastructure, including roads, water, and industrial land.
Outside of work, Magin looks forward to reconnecting with his personal interests.
“As a Cowboys fan, I’m thrilled to be back for the games, and spending time with my five grandchildren is a priority,” he shares, reflecting on the balance he hopes to achieve in both his professional and personal life.
Magin’s return to the Burdekin signals a new chapter for the Shire, with a leader whose expertise, commitment, and deep connection to the region promise to drive meaningful progress.

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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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