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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On Friday, I had the pleasure of spending the day in Home Hill, meeting with local businesses and community members to gather valuable insights on how we can improve our CBD’s. Hearing directly from the people who live and work in our communities is essential in shaping a vibrant and welcoming town centre that meets the needs of our community.
From enhancing public spaces to supporting local business growth, there are many ideas on the table, and we want to ensure everyone has the chance to provide input. If you haven’t yet shared your thoughts, please remember that our survey closes tomorrow. You can complete it online at https://bit.ly/BSC-CBD – every voice matters, and your feedback is crucial in guiding the future of Home Hill's CBD.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to meet with us, complete the online survey, and share your insights.
If you’d like to stay up-to-date, be sure to tune into Burdekin’s Sweet FM 97.1 on Wednesdays, where our Councillors take turns at providing valuable information to the community. Between 2:00-3:00pm, you can hear directly from your local representatives, as they share updates on projects, answer questions, and discuss what’s happening in our Shire. I encourage everyone to tune in each week for a closer look at the work Council is doing for you.
Stay safe and take care of yourself. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Selectability, a community-based non-profit, has joined forces with the Blue Tree Project to promote mental wellbeing and encourage open conversations on mental health within the community.
Inspired by the project’s mission to spread mental health awareness, Selectability was initially approached by Stardust Drive-In, whose team suggested collaborating.
Embracing the opportunity, Selectability eagerly agreed, recognising the potential impact of the project in reaching diverse community members.
The Blue Tree Project's concept is simple yet powerful: painting trees blue to serve as conversation starters about mental health. The initiative’s visual impact has drawn significant attention in the community, often prompting curious visitors to ask about the project’s purpose.
“It’s such a visual thing in a community space,” Bryn Hicks, Selectability Regional Director explained.
“People come in asking what it’s about, and indirectly, we’re reaching the right person just by having it there.”
The project has resonated strongly with residents and stakeholders. Selectability’s consumers and staff, particularly, feel proud to be part of a project that supports them and their community. The initiative also reaches individuals who may not typically seek information on mental health topics, such as farmers and truck drivers, enabling important conversations to take place among groups often outside mainstream mental health discussions.
One of the unique aspects of the Blue Tree Project is its simplicity and community-focused approach. By situating these blue trees in widely frequented areas, the project becomes accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds—children, adults, and seniors alike. “A conversation saves a life,” Bryn emphasises, noting the life-saving power of open dialogue.
Looking ahead, Selectability is exploring additional community projects to expand their mental health impact. While details are still being finalised and funding applications are underway, there are promising opportunities on the horizon.
Selectability also reminds the community of their open-door policy. Community members are encouraged to drop by their offices Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, for resources, support, or simply to learn more about their services. Through the Blue Tree Project and beyond, Selectability remains dedicated to fostering an environment where mental health conversations can thrive.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager

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

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

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

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

QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello can be contacted on 0437 401 837 or email angelo.licciardello@qcar.org.au or QCAR Head Office 4783 2111.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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