Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Water and fertiliser are two of the biggest costs – and opportunities – for cane growers in the Burdekin, and new insights are highlighting how the two are closely linked.
According to Farmacist agronomists, irrigation scheduling can play a decisive role in whether nitrogen fertiliser is effectively used by the crop or lost through run-off, leaching or denitrification.
With sugarcane heavily reliant on nitrogen for growth, ensuring the nutrient remains in the root zone is vital. Poorly timed irrigations risk washing valuable fertiliser away before the cane has a chance to use it.
Tools such as the GDot soil moisture sensor are proving to be a simple yet effective way for growers to fine-tune irrigation timing. By monitoring soil moisture, farmers can better match water applications to crop needs, reducing stress on cane while improving fertiliser efficiency.
Farmacist says the benefits extend beyond productivity. Smarter irrigation not only helps keep nitrogen where it belongs but also reduces environmental losses, supporting both economic and sustainability outcomes for the industry.
“By aligning irrigation with crop demand, growers can make every drop of water – and every kilogram of nitrogen – work harder for them,” the article notes.
With the Burdekin region so dependent on irrigation, adopting these strategies offers significant potential to lift yields while lowering costs and protecting waterways.
For more information, visit: farmacist.com.au/blog/nitrogen-management-and-irrigation-scheduling.
Photo source: Farmacist
Artificial intelligence is set to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of agriculture, and an upcoming Sugar Research Australia (SRA) webinar will explore just how transformative that potential could be.
The free online event, AI-guided breeding to develop future crops, will be held on Friday, 10 October at 2pm (AEST), bringing together leading voices in the field to discuss the opportunities of applying AI to plant breeding.
Guest presenter Professor Lee Hickey from the University of Queensland will outline how artificial intelligence can harness large and complex datasets across four key stages of the breeding pipeline, accelerating the development of more resilient and productive crops.
The session will also highlight the importance of capacity building and training, ensuring the next generation of plant breeders are equipped with predictive breeding skills that will shape Australia’s agricultural future.
Webinar chair Dr Nathalie Piperidis of SRA said the event would offer practical insights into how digital tools can enhance traditional breeding methods.
“The pace of technological change in agriculture is rapid, and this webinar is a chance to hear from experts at the forefront of using AI to solve real-world breeding challenges,” she said.
The presentation will conclude with an overview of the Australian Research Council Training Centre in Predictive Breeding, a national initiative focused on advancing skills and innovation in this space.
For details and to register, visit sugarresearch.com.au/webinars
Sugarcane has always been part of Queensland’s story. From the sunlit paddocks along our coastline the sweet scent of a mill in full crush, it’s hard to imagine our state without it.
But there’s a side to the industry that many people don’t see – how far our growers have come in making cane a world leader in sustainability.
This month we reached a milestone worth celebrating. Farms accredited through our Smartcane BMP program have now earned a rare triple tick from the three most respected international sustainability umpires – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.
In layman’s terms, this means independent global auditors have confirmed that Queensland cane is grown to the highest environmental and sustainability standards.
That recognition didn’t arrive by chance. It’s the result of years of effort by growers keeping detailed records, improving soil health, managing water carefully and refining how they farm.
Today almost half of Queensland’s cane area is managed under Smartcane BMP, and that number keeps climbing.
Why does this matter? Because major buyers – from soft drink companies to overseas refiners – are demanding proof their sugar comes from responsible sources.
Thanks to the dedication of our growers, Queensland cane can meet that test. In fact, we’re now one of the very few cane-growing regions on the planet able to offer this level of verified sustainability.
And it’s not just about the environment. Smartcane BMP helps farmers build stronger, more profitable businesses, which means healthier regional communities and a stronger state economy.
When Queensland sugarcane is recognised internationally, the benefits flow to everyone – from the workers in the mills to the small businesses in our towns.
So next time you stir a spoonful of sugar into your tea or coffee, think of the people behind it – the Queensland growers proving that you can farm sustainably and stay competitive on the global stage.
They deserve every bit of the pride we feel today.
Canegrowers' Owen Menkens (Photo Supplied)
Smartcane BMP farms have earned international recognition (Photo Supplied)
As CANEGROWERS prepares to celebrate its centenary in 2026, the organisation is inviting the community to help build a unique photo collection that captures 100 years of cane country history.
Locals are encouraged to dig out their treasured sugarcane snapshots — from family moments on the farm to milestones in the industry — and share them on Facebook or by emailing info@canegrowers.com.au.
The collection will form part of a centenary showcase honouring the people and stories behind the sugarcane industry. Selected photographs may even feature in a special-edition 2026 Centenary Calendar, ensuring the region’s history is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
Your photos could help tell the story of a century of cane country!
When the Burdekin Community Association was founded five decades ago, it wasn’t born from a grand plan. It stemmed from concern—concern from everyday people who saw a gap in care for those leaving the hospital with nowhere to turn and the need for a community information centre.
Following a year of community consultation, Father John Payne and a committee of local citizens, with the support of the Ayr Shire Chairman and Shire Clerk, laid the foundations for BCA in 1975, setting out to respond to the Burdekin’s unmet needs and support those experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability or helplessness.
“At the start, it was all volunteers,” says CEO Debra Cochran. “We began with opening a Community Information Centre so people could find out what help was available. In 1978, we started the Home Help Service and helped people with cleaning, shopping and mowing lawns.
For the first seven years, BCA operated without formal funding. It wasn’t until the federal government provided Home and Community Care funding —and the association later became incorporated in 1984—that the organisation began to grow in scale and reach. The rest is history.
From a handful of volunteers, BCA now has 52 staff, 13 subcontractors and 61 volunteers, offering 36 distinct programs. Yet, despite this growth, the purpose remains to provide direct services to people experiencing hardship and distress, from children to seniors.
The organisation has experienced exponential growth over its five decades of servicing the community. Securing Home Care funding proved BCA could deliver government-supported services effectively. Later came the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, providing specialist care to those who need it most. Over the past 15 years, BCA has expanded further, offering specialist domestic and family violence and homelessness services, psychological therapies, suicide prevention and exercise physiology - all staffed by qualified professionals along with home care packages, national disability insurance scheme, Qld Community Support Service, Transport Service, Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, and Older People’s Action Program to name a few.
“We help people with whatever they’re facing,” says Cochran. “Sometimes it’s just providing information, sometimes it’s connecting them with a financial counsellor, a mental health clinician, or emergency relief. We work holistically, one small thing often leads to another.”
That human connection is at the heart of BCA, and it's having local people helping locals that makes the difference, Cochran says. “It’s community members helping each other. Our staff live here. They know the people, the issues. It’s about being part of the solution together.”
Due to increasing local demand, BCA is now exploring ways to expand domestic and family violence and homelessness services and increase aged care support. “The demand is rising, and it’s a challenge—but we’re also making progress,” she says.
As it celebrates 50 years of keeping the Burdekin ticking, the BCA remains committed to standing alongside every member of the community, offering care, comfort, and hope when it’s needed most. “Even the smallest conversation can make a huge difference,” says Cochran. “We can help in small ways, or big ways, people don’t have to face challenges alone.”
Fifty years on, BCA remains a pillar of the Burdekin, not because of buildings or funding, but because of people helping people, day in, day out.
Imagine, the BCA has been assisting our community for 50 years! What a milestone.
Of course, we could not have been with you for this long if it had not been for all of those supporters who have gone before us.
A special thanks to the Life Members and the Honorary Member, some of whom are no longer with us…
Bill Hodson – Life member;
Joan Heatley OAM – Life member;
Joan Kennedy – Life member;
Roy Dickinson OAM – Life member; and
Brenda-Anne Parfitt (formerly Norman) – Honorary member
Joan was President for 26 years and I pay tribute to her (and to all of the other Life Members and the Honorary Member) without whose dedication the BCA would not be the organisation that it is today.
A special thanks also goes to the staff and volunteers, who, over the last 50 years have all contributed to the success of the BCA.
The past and present Management Committee Members are also deserving of special mention. There have been many members and many of those have served for a number of years. providing a consistency and continuity for the BCA.
There is that saying (from a song I think) which goes…”From little things, big things grow”.
That is certainly the story of the BCA. From very humble beginnings down at the Information Centre at Plantation Park to now working from the Support Centre, Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre and Community Information Centre, with various other locations along the way.
A special acknowledgement and thanks must also go to the Burdekin Shire Council, who has supported the BCA in so many ways. Your assistance has been very important in allowing us to provide such valuable services for the last 50 years.
Also, a special thanks to our various collaborators from both Federal and State Government. Over the years, the BCA has delivered a number of programs funded by government. We currently deliver programs funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety and the Department of Housing and Public Works.
Thank you to all those who have donated to the BCA. Your donations have allowed us to be proactive in providing services to our community which would not otherwise have been available.
Lastly, thank you to each of you for helping to celebrate this wonderful milestone. I sometimes wonder if our predecessors ever thought the BCA would still be going 50 years on. Thanks to them, we are and I am confident that the BCA will continue to serve this community for many years to come.
Majella Meehan
President
My name is Debra Cochran and I’ve been with the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) for almost 25 years. I’ve been the CEO for 15 years and managed the Home Care Service prior to this.
Before moving to Ayr with my husband and commencing with BCA, I worked in senior management in various industries including coal mining, human resources, recruitment and banking. I’m rewarded by helping others and improving the Burdekin community which is why I jumped at the chance to work for BCA and continue to do so.
The BCA is a not-for-profit, incorporated association and registered charity, which strives to fulfil the unmet social, welfare and health needs of the Burdekin community. A diverse range of community services are delivered by the BCA to the Burdekin Shire. Since establishment in 1975, BCA has evolved to become one of the largest community organisations in the region. BCA’s Purpose is “To provide direct relief to the aged, families, children and individuals who are experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability or helplessness”.
BCA is managed by a volunteer Management Committee made up of a number of individuals who as a group represent the community and are responsible for the management of the association.
BCA’s structure consists of myself as CEO and four Service Managers. I’m responsible for implementing the association’s policies, procedures and decisions. On a day-to-day basis my role includes managing the BCA’s affairs.
Our team of 125 personnel continue to raise standards of support through personal and professional improvement and partnership with clients, families, providers, government and the community.
I’m very proud of the wide range of community and health services BCA provides in the Burdekin – 36 programs in total. During my time as CEO, we’ve significantly increased the quality of our services along with government funding and programs and the financial strength of the organisation.
We’re offering services to community members at the highest possible level (e.g. Specialist Homelessness Service, Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Service, Home Care Packages Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Psychological Therapies Program, Accredited Exercise Physiology Program etc). Our Team works closely with various network members, government High Risk and Critical Response Teams, to increase the level of assistance being provided to community members.
With the increase of domestic and family violence, homelessness, cost of living pressures and our ageing population, important priorities for BCA include continuing to find ways to increase services in these and other areas.
If I had one message for the community about BCA it would be that the organisation and our team are here to help and support you as much as we possibly can. Please reach out for support and information regarding community and health services.
Since 1987, the Housing and Community Support Service at the BCA has been providing vital assistance to individuals and families facing vulnerability across the region. Managed by Rebecca Grogan, the service combines practical support with opportunities for connection, learning, and empowerment, addressing both immediate needs and long-term wellbeing.
The service provides a Specialist Homelessness Program, which includes five Crisis Accommodation Program (CAP) properties. Complementing this are initiatives through the Burdekin Community Support Neighbourhood Centre Program, encompassing support groups, community development projects, awareness and education programs, and food relief through the State Emergency Relief Program and SecondBite Program to ensure families and individuals have access to essential resources. Specialist Domestic and Family Violence support, including court assistance and counselling for women and children, forms a critical part of the service, helping some of the community’s most vulnerable members navigate challenging circumstances.
Rebecca explains, “We’re here because we care. We want everyone to feel supported, connected, and included.” Programs like the annual Christmas Appeal exemplify this mission, linking local generosity to those in need and creating tangible impact within the community.
Over the years, the service has evolved to meet changing needs. Funded programs now replace previously unfunded initiatives, and services are increasingly client-centred, responding directly to feedback while collaborating with partner organisations to ensure people receive the right support. The approach focuses on “doing with—not doing for,” encouraging connection and self-determination alongside practical assistance.
Looking ahead, the service aims to strengthen community resilience, provide early intervention, and expand opportunities for information, support, and connection. Through its combined focus on immediate relief, ongoing support, and community empowerment, the Housing and Community Support Service continues to be a lifeline for the Burdekin region, ensuring individuals and families are supported, included, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
For older and vulnerable adults in the Burdekin region, the BCA Home Care Service has provided practical support that helps people remain in their own homes for longer since 1977. Managed by Diana Churches, the service offers in-home care, community participation, and transport both locally and to Townsville for eligible clients. Services are available through the Home Care Packages Program, Commonwealth Home Support Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Queensland Community Support Scheme, Burdekin Community Transport Program and Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Carer Gateway Services etc via brokerage agreements.
The service supports a broad range of adults, from seniors needing help with daily tasks to younger clients accessing disability services. By assisting with household management, community engagement, and transport, the Home Care Service allows clients without local family support to maintain independence and avoid residential care. Diana reflects, “I believe that we make a difference every day for our clients… some without ever having the need to enter residential care.”
With a focus on person-centred care, the Home Care Service adapts to meet the evolving needs of the community, listening to clients and tailoring services accordingly. This flexibility ensures the service continues to uphold the Burdekin Community Association’s 50-year tradition of support.
The program also highlights career opportunities in aged care and disability care, with Diana encouraging locals to consider joining as Support Workers. “You do not need experience or training to start your journey in Aged Care and Disability Care,” she says, emphasising the importance of expanding the service’s reach to assist more clients.
For those in need of support or considering a role in aged care or disability care, the Home Care Service provides guidance, practical assistance, and a pathway to independence. Residents can contact BCA on (07) 4783 3744 to access services or explore career opportunities, ensuring the community continues to receive compassionate, professional care where it matters most.
For nearly 50 years, the BCA’s Volunteer Service has been connecting people with opportunities to make a difference across the region. Managed by Rita Quagliata, the service recruits, trains, and supports volunteers from diverse backgrounds—including retirees, jobseekers, new arrivals, and students—helping them find meaningful roles that strengthen both the community and their own wellbeing.
Volunteers contribute across a wide spectrum of programs, with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) standing out as a long-standing initiative. Funded by the federal government, the scheme provides companionship and support for older Australians, extending beyond residential care to those receiving Home Care Packages. Since 2023, the ACVVS has emphasised Person-Centered Care, aligning with Aged Care Quality Standards to support resident autonomy and emotional wellbeing.
Rita says that volunteering with the BCA offers more than just a way to give back. “It gives people a sense of pride, fosters feelings of joy and contentment, provides a sense of meaning, boosts self-worth, reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and cultivates a strong sense of belonging,” she says.
Stories from volunteers underscore this. One migrant volunteer found purpose and belonging through the program, ultimately leaving a legacy to the BCA; another volunteer’s simple joy at receiving a BCA shirt highlighted the personal significance of recognition and support.
The service continues to evolve, engaging diverse communities, including First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse groups, while fostering connections that reduce isolation. Rita’s vision for the future is clear: expand volunteer roles, strengthen long-term participation, and raise awareness of the transformative power of volunteering.
Through its dedication to service and community engagement, the Volunteer Service enriches lives, strengthens social bonds, and ensures that individuals and the wider Burdekin community thrive together.
Ayr State High School students, staff and supporters turned out in force on Friday night for the school’s annual 5-Hour Charity Walk, raising an impressive $8,446.75.
A total of 104 walkers took part, with each year level nominating a cause to support. The Year 7 team raised $1,795.90 for the Brighter Lives Foundation, while Year 8 collected $2,498.40 for the Mark Hughes Foundation.
Year 9 walkers brought in $838.30 for the Burdekin Community Association, Year 10 raised $240 for the Cerebral Palsy League, and Year 11 raised $809.70 for Endometriosis Australia.
The Year 12 team contributed $2,004.45 to the Leukaemia Foundation, while school staff members raised $260 for Ronald McDonald House.
One of the standout efforts came from Year 8 student Claire G, who raised an incredible $2,035.20 on her own, making her the highest individual fundraiser of the night.
The evening combined fitness, fun and community spirit, with every step taken going towards charities that make a difference both locally and nationally. ASHS praised the generosity of students and families, saying the results showed the strength of community support when people come together for a good cause.
Ayr State School threw open its doors to the public on Thursday, September 11, for its annual Open Day, welcoming families, friends and community members to experience firsthand what the school has to offer.
From 4pm, parents and visitors were given a chance to tour classrooms, chat with staff, and observe student work on display. Teachers said it was a valuable chance to show the learning environment in action and to share the achievements of their students.
The event was also a hit amongst younger visitors, with messy play, face painting, science experiments and even pony walks proving popular. Food stalls kept the crowd satiated, serving spaghetti cups, a sausage sizzle and sweet honey puffs.
The school announced on Facebook how proud they were to showcase a school community that they describe as welcoming, supportive and inspiring. “It was wonderful to see so many families come along and be part of the afternoon,” one staff member said.
With enrolments for 2026 now open, the Open Day also served as an opportunity for new families to meet teachers, explore facilities, and get a sense of the close-knit environment the school provides.
Burdekin Catholic High School continues to lead the way in providing senior students with diverse opportunities through its Vocational Learning Program for Years 10–12. With a strong focus on practical skills, industry experience, and employability, the program is helping prepare students for successful careers across a wide range of fields.
The school offers a suite of dedicated vocational subjects including Industrial Graphics, Industrial Technologies, Sport and Recreation, and Business, which complement essential English and Mathematics. These subjects provide a strong foundation in both academic and practical learning, ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed beyond the classroom.
A key highlight of the program is the delivery of nationally recognised qualifications. Students can undertake a CPC20220 Certificate II in Construction Pathways through the school’s specialised Trade Training Centre, gaining hands-on experience in a purpose-built facility. In addition, the SIT20322 Certificate II in Hospitality is delivered in the school’s industry-standard Hospitality Centre, preparing students for real-world careers in food service and hospitality.
Burdekin Catholic High School also strongly supports students pursuing School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs). This year alone, more than seven students are engaged in apprenticeships with local employers, combining their classroom learning with valuable workplace experience.
Beyond the school grounds, students also benefit from access to TAFE Queensland’s Home Hill campus, attending one day per week to study specialised fields such as Automotive and Electrotechnology. One student has been supported studying Aquaculture through TAFE in the Whitsundays. This partnership allows students to gain skills in industries that are both locally significant and nationally in demand.
Lorraine Wolffe, Principal, said the Vocational Learning Program reflects the school’s commitment to catering for a broad range of student pathways to post schooling options.
“Our goal is to ensure every student leaves Burdekin Catholic High School confident in their abilities and equipped with skills that will open doors for their future—whether that be university, further training, or employment,” she said.
With a strong blend of classroom learning, industry-standard training, and workplace experience, Burdekin Catholic High School is proud to provide pathways that prepare students not only for jobs, but for meaningful careers.
The 2025 Giru Show lit up the region last weekend, bringing together families, friends, and visitors from across North Queensland for a day of fun, creativity, and community spirit. With a mix of returning favourites and exciting new attractions, the show had something for everyone.
Stalls ranged from an animal farm and games to a variety of market stalls, while the Pavillion was bursting with incredible exhibits—from cooking and flowers to an outstanding Lego display—showcasing the talent of local residents. This year also saw the debut of a Colouring-in competition, which was warmly received by children and families alike. The Pavillion’s success was made possible thanks to the dedication of exhibitors, stewards, and judges volunteering their time.
Special guests at the show included NQ Rural Ambassador Georgia Doull, MP Andrew Willcox, Hon Dale Last, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who officially opened the event. A touching memorial balloon release, kindly provided by Dazzling Blue, honoured the late Betty Corradi, a Life Member of the Show Committee.
Entertainment was in full swing throughout the day, with the Burdekin Brass Band opening the show and performing into the afternoon, and local Hwa Rang Do members showcasing their martial arts skills. Children enjoyed the lolly drop and games, while local groups helped run food stalls, the front gate, and the bar.
Organisers were quick to acknowledge that the success of the show relied heavily on the tireless work of volunteers, the generosity of sponsors, and the dedication of committee members who brought the event to life.
The Burdekin Deb Ball of the Year returned in 2025, bringing together debutantes, their families, and the wider community for an evening of celebration, tradition, and achievement. Hosted this year for the first time by the Burdekin Netball Association, the event saw a full hall with over 450 guests in attendance, all gathered to mark the accomplishments of 21 young debutantes.
The Deb Ball provides a special opportunity for young women to showcase the work and personal growth they have achieved throughout the year. Burdekin Netball secretary Cailan Gosling said the event brings together the efforts of the debutantes with the support of family and friends, creating a celebration of how far each participant has come. The evening is as much about community pride as it is about the debutantes themselves.
This year’s awards celebrated the debutantes’ dedication and achievements, with Sally Laidlow taking out the winner and girls’ choice award, Erin Palmer named runner-up, and Ava Swindley receiving a special mention. Three judges made the selections, while the girls’ choice award was voted on by the debutantes themselves.
For the Burdekin Netball Association, hosting the event for the first time was an honour. “We were honoured to keep this tradition alive for the community and the young ladies’ families. This event marks just how much each debutante has grown and how much they aspire to achieve,” Gosling said.
The Deb Ball remains an important tradition for the Burdekin community, celebrating not only individual growth but also the connections and shared experiences that bind families and neighbours together. From the excitement of the evening to the meaningful recognition of the debutantes’ efforts, the event continues to highlight the value of maintaining long-standing local traditions for generations to come.
With its fusion of elegance and community spirit, the annual Deb Ball of the Year remains a valued part of the Burdekin social calendar.
Runner up Erin Palmer, special mention Ava Swindley, and winner/girls choice, Sally Laidlow
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