Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony. The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life. Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears. Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain. The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year. CAPTION: Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied
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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen. The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations. Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia. The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent. Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”. eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate. Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours. The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act. eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users. The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront. For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike. CAPTION: The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock
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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users. Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover. “The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge. Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure. A Facility Built by Volunteers The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery. Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work. MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable. Election Promise and Handover In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club. As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million. In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland. Design Concerns and Infill Issues According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows. Those concerns, they say, were ignored. “Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said. “The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.” Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since. As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days. “All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.” Safety Concerns Escalate The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges. Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available. “Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge. In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out. After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route. A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety. “The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said. “The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.” Calls for Practical Solutions The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years. Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised. “There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge. “We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.” Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government. “The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said. “I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.” He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored. “Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.” Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy. “There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said. “Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access. “The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.” Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location. “The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.” He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed. “During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.” “In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open
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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg. Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen. “We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said. “I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.” The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began. Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet. Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen. Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen. “Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.” CAPTION: Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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This week’s Good Deed goes to one of our own — Burdekin Life journalist Jacob Casha — who, since moving to town just over a month ago, has proven himself an asset not only to the newspaper but also to the community.
Well-known at the Home Hill Bowls Club for his enthusiastic participation in the sport, attending local soccer games, and joining the Tennis working bee, this young man is truly embracing local life.
Kate Caswell from Home Hill Tennis took the time to write into the paper to nominate him for some recognition.
“Since coming to town, Jacob has really gotten into the community spirit and taken up pickleball and bowls,” she shared.
“This week we had a working bee to clean off some mould, and Jacob came along and added operating a pressure cleaner to his skill set! Thanks for helping out, Jacob.”
Jacob’s kind gesture shows that small acts and time given to worthy causes are incredibly meaningful to the community and inspire kindness in others.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved locally, follow Jacob’s lead and volunteer your time to help others.
Not only will you get the warm fuzzies from lending a hand and the satisfaction of a job well done — you may also form some great connections along the way.
Last week at Home Hill State High School, Year 7 and 8 students in the STEAM class took on a hands-on engineering challenge inspired by one of history’s greatest inventors. Tasked with building Da Vinci bridges out of paddle pop sticks—without glue or tape—students quickly learned that patience, persistence, and resilience are crucial ingredients in the creative process.
The activity, while frustrating at times due to the fiddly nature of the materials, encouraged students to problem-solve, revise their designs, and keep trying even when the bridge collapsed. Most students successfully reached step five of the construction, a testament to their teamwork and determination.
The lesson extended beyond engineering—it was about embracing the journey of invention. As the students discovered, even the best ideas require trial, error, and multiple revisions before reaching their full potential--A reminder that persistence pays off in learning and life.
Hailing from Townsville, Anne Walsh of Anne Walsh Fine Art travels to Home Hill’s 170 Arts on the Avenue on the first Saturday of each month to host a wonderful Art Class to foster creativity and artistic talent.
With a love for coastal seascapes, Anne has a passion for nature and water scenes to evoke feelings of immersion and escapism through each brushstroke and her talents have been commended on several occasions. Anne’s joy of sharing art with others has led her to become a much-loved teacher, and over the past four years, she has mentored students within the Burdekin Shire privately through one-on-one classes and in workshops conducted at either the Burdekin Art Society or with the Burdekin Artisan Community Association.
“My love and passion for painting is what inspires me to help other artists with their artistic journey, and I enjoy being able to share my knowledge and techniques,” Anne explained.
“I like encouraging each artist to just enjoy the process of painting or drawing with enthusiasm and self-belief, then to see what they accomplish is inspiring.”
The Burdekin Artisans have happily welcomed Anne into their studio for the past few months where artists of all experience levels have flourished and thrived, especially those who had never picked up a brush or pencil before.
“The classes are based on each student bringing whatever they want to work on, whether it be watercolour, acrylics, drawing, pastel or oils and I help each artist individually and as a whole on composition, colour mixing, brush techniques, perspective and tonal values,” Anne outlined.
In each workshop, Anne prides herself on establishing an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere for her students to explore their creativity freely with individual guidance.
“Art is such a personal expression and can sometimes be quite daunting for those who would like to have a go but feel hesitant, so I love to make the experience fun and full of laughs,” added Anne.
“I also get to meet some beautiful, interesting and like-minded people along the way.”
On Saturday the 7th of June, Anne will teach another fantastic class from 9am to 2pm at 170 Arts on the Avenue. Bookings are essential and can be made by phoning 0497 356 355.
What: Art Class with Anne Walsh
When: Saturday the 7th of June, 9am to 2pm
Where: 170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill
Anne Walsh has been guiding artists of the Burdekin Shire for the past four years (Photo Supplied)
Anne's next class will be held on the 14th of June at 170 Arts on the Avenue (Photo Supplied)
Truck drivers across Australia are receiving vital wellbeing support when and where they need it most thanks to a new, first-of-its-kind mental health campaign from Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, led by actor, comedian and truck enthusiast Shane Jacobson.
Launched on National Road Safety Week’s Regional Roads Day last Monday, the 19th of May, the campaign delivers preventative mental health support to truck drivers travelling Australia’s most isolated freight routes using geo-targeted radio messages, billboards, and podcast content to reach drivers where traditional support can’t.
More than half a million Australians work in trucking, warehousing and logistics, and truck driving remains the most common occupation for men in the country, however, the industry ranks last out of 19 sectors for mental health with many drivers spending long, isolated shifts away from family, friends and support.
“We know how important connection is for mental health and wellbeing, but every day, truckies are driving away from the people they love,” How Ya Travellin’? host Shane Jacobson said.
“They’re isolated for long periods of time, working unpredictable shifts, with little access to healthy food or exercise options which makes it easy for their mental and physical health to slide without anyone noticing.”
Hijacking the airwaves for the next six weeks, the How Ya Travellin’? campaign will interrupt commercial radio breaks along some of Australia's most isolated freight routes like the Eyre, Great Northern, Hume and Stuart Highways to replace ads with tailored, time-based wellbeing tips and real stories of overcoming mental health challenges.
Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds CEO Naomi Frauenfelder notes the campaign has been designed to break into moments of isolation with simple, timely reminders of support to help truckies feel a little less alone, even on the most remote roads.
“We often hear from drivers that something small, a family worry, a stressful interaction, a moment of doubt, can spiral into something overwhelming after going uninterrupted for ten hours and a thousand kilometres alone in the cab,” added Naomi.
Since its launch just last week, the campaign has already begun to spark plenty of meaningful and important conversations between truckies around mental health, with many rallying behind the initiative in support of those who prop up one of the most integral industries in Australia. More information about the campaign can be found at www.healthyheads.org.au.
An impactful and inspirational fundraising event will grace the four walls of Home Hill’s beautiful Burdekin Memorial Hall this October to raise vital funds for those impacted by cancer across North Queensland.
Raelene Grantz will host a wonderful Gala Afternoon Tea on Sunday the 19th of October titled Burdekin Fights Back to stage a selection of guest speakers, exciting entertainment, multi draw raffles, cent sales and of course a delicious buffet to raise funds for the Cancer Council foundation.
In February of last year, Raelene was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine yearly mammogram, just twelve years on from her twin sister, Maree, facing her own breast cancer battle. Fortunately, the sisters are both now cancer free and have a strong desire to give back to the Cancer Council of North Queensland’s North Ward branch at Gluyas Lodge in Townsville.
“Being a cancer survivor myself and having family, and friends in the Burdekin that have had cancer, I just want to give back and the Townsville Hospital was so caring towards me when I battled cancer last year,” shared Raelene.
“I hope my fundraising goes to research and supporting family and friends of those how have cancer as I firmly believe research is the answer to finding a cure for all cancers.”
Raelene hopes the region will save the date for the October event, and she invites the entire community to attend what is shaping up to be a gorgeous afternoon.
To donate to Raelene’s Cancer Council fundraising page, visit www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/raelenegrantz.
What: Gala Afternoon Tea
When: Sunday the 19th of October from 2pm
Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill
Rural landholders across the Burdekin Shire are now eligible to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to assist with clean-up and reinstatement costs following the North and Far North Tropical Low disaster event that occurred earlier this year between the 29th of January and the 28th of February.
The Rural Landholder Recovery Grant Scheme has been activated to support primary producers whose properties and livelihoods were impacted by this declared natural disaster. Funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, this initiative aims to help landholders get back on their feet by covering direct recovery costs.
Eligible local government areas include Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Charters Towers, Flinders, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Tablelands, Townsville and Yarrabah and to qualify, landholders must meet the following criteria:
• Own or lease at least 10 hectares in one of the disaster-declared areas.
• Operate a primary production enterprise on that land.
• Hold an ABN that was active during the disaster event.
• Have earned at least $20,000 gross from primary production in the year before the disaster.
• Have no more than $250,000 gross off-farm income.
• Intend to re-establish the enterprise on the affected land.
• Not have already received financial assistance through other disaster loan or grant schemes for the same event.
The grant is reimbursable and can cover a range of expenses such as debris removal, damaged fencing, restoration of access roads, infrastructure repairs, and more. Applicants are required to provide supporting documents such as a rates notice or lease, 5–10 photos of the damage, insurance information, and evidence of expenditure.
Applications for the Rural Landholder Recovery Grant will close on the 13th of February, 2026, but eligible landholders are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to support timely recovery.
For full eligibility criteria and to apply, visit the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) website.
Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
North Queensland has seen a nice drop in temperatures this past fortnight, which is a welcome change to our growers who are still busy out in the field preparing for the start of the 2025 season. Our team has also been active on the ground, meeting with growers to finalise their pricing and provide updates on what’s happening in the market.
For those participating in the Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season, you would have recently received an update detailing the pool’s valuation, pricing strategy, and market outlook.
While it's still early days, the pool is tracking well above the benchmark price, supported by strong base pricing in both the futures and currency markets. The use of option strategies allows for downside protection while maintaining the opportunity to benefit from potential market rallies.
Launched last year as a new pooling option for Wilmar growers, the Managed Pool Plus has attracted strong interest from those seeking a more stable approach amid market volatility. Nominations for the 2026 season are now open and will close on 30 June. I encourage you to contact a member of the team if you’re considering this option for your pricing next season.
In broader market news, the #11 sugar contract remains range-bound due to limited activity from both buyers and sellers.
Attention is centred on Brazil’s bi-weekly UNICA reports, which offer key metrics such as harvested tonnage, CCS, and sugar mix. Yield data comes from the monthly CTC reports. The May reports indicate the Brazilian harvest is running behind schedule, with lower-than-expected yields, CCS, and sugar mix. However, it's still early in the season, and recent weather-related delays may be offset in upcoming updates.
Given the current "watch and act" sentiment, we expect prices to remain within a broad trading range of 17.00 to 18.50 USc/lb. A weaker-than-anticipated UNICA update could push prices toward the upper end of that range, while further declines in oil prices could pressure the lower end by reducing ethanol parity pricing.
Queensland’s 2025 sugarcane crush is officially underway, with harvesters firing up across the Tablelands district this morning. It marks the start of a new season that growers hope will bring better fortunes after a tough run last year.
Around 28.5 million tonnes of cane are expected to be cut and crushed across 13 districts, from Rocky Point in the south right up to Mossman in the far north.
The crop is down slightly from last year, with recent widespread flooding across north Queensland causing major losses to plant cane, while prolonged cloudy weather also slowed growth in some districts.
Despite this, growers are hoping to turn the page on 2024, which was one of the most disrupted seasons in recent memory. Unseasonal rain, mill breakdowns and industrial action caused major delays that saw some districts harvesting into January – and around a million tonnes of cane left in the paddock.
“Growers are eternal optimists,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
“They’ve done their part, growing the best crop they can under the conditions. Now we will be working together with the rest of the supply chain to make this season work.”
While last season’s industrial disputes have been resolved, the reality is, multiple difficult harvesting seasons have had a cumulative impact on the profitability of farmers, Mr Galligan said.
“In the brief break since the last harvesting season we’ve been in urgent talks with the sugar manufacturers, and while we’re seeing a real willingness to tackle the problems and get things back on track, there are no quick fixes, unfortunately.”
Workforce shortages are also creating challenges, especially in regional areas where skilled mill workers, harvester drivers and haulout crews are in short supply.
CANEGROWERS is working with local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address these issues.
“There’s huge potential in this industry,” Mr Galligan said.
“But we won’t fully unlock it until we can consistently harvest the entire crop in most efficient and profitable time.”
With the first cane bins filling up, growers are crossing their fingers for dry weather, reliable mills, and a smooth run through the season.
Photo supplied: CANEGROWERS
Cobber is once again calling on Australia’s toughest, stock-chasing, hard-running working dogs to battle it out for the title of the hardest working dog, with nominations now open for the milestone tenth edition of the Cobber Challenge.
The annual competition showcases the best working dogs in the country, paying tribute to the four-legged legends behind Australia’s billion-dollar agriculture industry. Over the last decade, Cobber Challenge competitors have collectively run enough distance to lap the continent two and a half times — all while still herding livestock and chasing the occasional ball.
From wrangling steers to guarding flocks and even dominating trial circuits, Cobber is encouraging farmers to shine a light on their most trusted companions. In a first for the competition, 2025 nominees can now be entered via video submissions as part of the 10-year anniversary celebrations.
Cobber’s Marketing Manager Kellie Savage said she hopes this year’s milestone event will be the biggest and best yet.
“Each year we’ve had a highly competitive field and we’re anticipating the same for our tenth year,” she said. “We’re calling on Australia’s hardest working dogs to enter the field to make the 2025 Cobber Challenge our best yet.”
Each selected dog will be fitted with a GPS tracker to log distance, speed, and duration over a three-week period. At the end, one top dog will take home bragging rights, $3000 cash, a year’s supply of Cobber Working Dog feed and the prestigious trophy. Runners-up will also receive prizes.
Veteran competitor Daniel Pumpa, who has competed with both Ripper and his father Turbo, said the experience has been incredibly rewarding.
“For any farmer who is considering entering their working dog in this year’s competition, I can’t speak highly enough about the fantastic experience we’ve had, and the great recognition Ripper and Turbo have received,” he said.
Nominations are open until 22 June. Visit cobberdogfood.com.au/cobberchallenge for more information.
Born and raised in Ayr, Kristy Grabs knows the value of community—and she brings that local warmth to every interaction in her role as floor manager at Harvey Norman Ayr.
With four years at the store under her belt—one in computers, and the last three in electrical—Kristy’s retail career stretches far beyond Harvey Norman. She spent 15 years at Overflow, where she worked her way up into a management position, and helped open Silly Solly’s before joining the Harvey team.
“I love interacting with the people that come in,” says Kristy. “It’s all about giving the customer the best experience and the best knowledge that we know. It’s all about making them walk out happy and willing to come back.”
It’s this personal approach that Kristy is known for—her ability to connect with customers through genuine, often unexpected conversations.
“I like to make it personal—I’m definitely one to talk and have a conversation!” she says. “Conversations can veer from talking about what they’re doing renovation-wise to their personal life about their dog!”
As floor manager, Kristy serves customers, manages stock, keeps things in order on the floor, and works hard to ensure all queries are handled with care and efficiency. She also takes pride in mentoring younger staff whenever she can, and is always eager to improve her own craft.
“I’m always keen to learn… and that’s what I love about this job. It’s an industry where you learn something new every day—it’s constant, and it’s good, because that’s what I thrive on: challenging myself and learning new things.”
Outside of work, Kristy loves camping, fishing, and getting outdoors with her family. She describes herself as “bubbly, overly friendly and easygoing”—traits that shine through in her customer service.
Appreciative of the convenience and close-knit vibe of Ayr, Kristy says she’s here to stay.
“I like the small country town feeling, the water is right there, and I have my parents and grandmother here so there’s no way I’m leaving this town anytime soon!”
Born and raised in Ayr, Christy Grabs knows the value of community—and she brings that local warmth to every interaction in her role as floor manager at Harvey Norman Ayr. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Tucked just off Queen Street lies Carmichael Ford—a powerhouse of automotive knowledge and expertise. And while the building may have changed location, customers still receive the same experience, loyalty and service that has always lived inside.
At the helm of this close-knit team is Jenna Heidke, Branch Manager and spare parts interpreter—a title that, she laughs, “means you’ve got to be a bit of a detective!” Jenna joined the company in 2002 as an apprentice parts interpreter in Bowen. It was her first job—and more than two decades later, it still is.
“I’ve always been a bit of a petrol head,” she says. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do at the time, then this opportunity came up and I never looked back.”
Today, Jenna juggles a hands-on technical role with the demands of running a tight operation. From looking up parts to liaising with the workshop and keeping the day-to-day ticking over, she’s the engine room of a team of 10 staff members.
Carmichael Ford has long been a fixture in Ayr. Previously located on the main street, it shifted operations to its current backstreet location in recent years, no longer selling vehicles—for now.
“We’re working on getting a dealer licence again,” Jenna says. “Once that’s sorted, we’ll get cars back here and really push that side of the business.”
Until then, their focus is clear: top-tier Ford servicing, warranty repairs, and spare parts—backed by a national brand and delivered with small-town familiarity.
And when it comes to brand strength, few names in the automotive world are punching harder than Ford right now. “The Ford Ranger isn’t just the top-selling 4WD—it’s the top-selling vehicle in Australia 2 years running.” The latest model, designed and engineered in Australia, is a source of pride for Jenna and her team, who see first-hand the quality and demand behind the badge.
Still, for all the talk of cutting-edge technology and national success, Carmichael Ford’s real advantage is its people. Jenna credits the culture—relaxed, resilient, and team-oriented—as a major reason customers keep coming back. “We know our customers. We remember their names. They know us. There’s trust there.”
The team includes veteran technician Malcolm White, who recently clocked up 60 years with the Ford Dealership in Ayr. “He started here very young,” Jenna says. “He’s still here, and he’s a massive support to me. Just an incredible asset to our company.”
Originally from the region, Jenna’s completed her apprenticehip in Bowen but returned to Ayr in pursuit of a sea change—and now plays a vital role in connecting Ford’s global legacy with the day-to-day needs of her local community.
Her message to the people of the Burdekin is simple: “We’re here, and we’re open. Whether it’s servicing, warranty repairs, or parts—we’re ready to help.”
Although no longer on the main drag, with Jenna at the wheel and Malcolm in the engine bay, Carmichael Ford is right where it belongs—grounded in the community, driven by passion, and proudly Ford
Carmichael Ford—a powerhouse of automotive knowledge and expertise is located on Queen Street. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Neighbourhood Centre Week is a nationwide initiative held annually in May to celebrate the vital role and impact of local Neighbourhood and Community Centres.
This year, the theme for Queensland is ‘The heart of our community’.
From the 12th to 18th May, Neighbourhood Centres celebrated in various ways, from community meals to community murals. The week united communities across Queensland by connecting people in a statewide celebration while saying thank you and encouraging Queenslanders to celebrate the amazing work of Neighbourhood Centres. Centres have been on the frontline, supporting their communities through everything from cost–of–living challenges to natural disasters. Visit the Neighbourhood Centre Week website to find out more: www.neighbourhoodcentreweek.com
The Burdekin Community Association Inc is proud to be one of the 150+ Neighbourhood Centres across Queensland supporting communities every day.
The BCA Support Centre is your local go-to in the Burdekin!
Whether it’s aged care, disability support, emergency food relief, domestic and family violence services, homelessness, social and exercise activities, information, advice or referral about issues or community services or just someone to chat with, we’re here for you. We also host visiting community services and offer room hire!
Pop in and meet our amazing team.
Connect with the Burdekin Community Association Inc here:
BCA Support Centre – 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744.
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health – 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711.
Community Information Centre – 119 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 7633.
https://www.facebook.com/bca1975
www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month – May 2025
Theme: Take a positive action today to build a safer Queensland
Prevention starts with all of us.
#DFVPM2025 #endDFV #TakePositiveAction
The Burdekin Domestic and Family Abuse Network invites all community members and visitors to the Burdekin to stand together against Domestic and Family Violence.
Join us in raising awareness and promoting safety in our region.
Burdekin Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Walk
Saturday 24th May 2025
8:30am
Ayr Anzac Park (near the Rotunda), 122-136 Macmillan Street, Ayr
Free sausage sizzle, information and activities for children
Together, we can take meaningful action to prevent violence and support a safety, more respectful community. Everyday Queenslanders can make a difference in stopping violence before it starts.
#WearPurpleFridays throughout May to show your support. Let’s walk together for change.
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As the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival draws near, two standout events promise to deliver unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors: the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships (AHCCC) and the iconic First Fire.
For long-time competitor and local grower Mark Vass, the championships are about more than just sharp knives and speed.
“It’s good tradition,” he says. “We have all these flashy machines now that do everything, so it's good to go back and get a taste of how hard it was.”
The event, held at Home Hill Showgrounds, pits men and women against rows of green cane stalks in a test of technique, timing and toughness. Competitors are judged not only on speed, but on the quality of their cut—something Mark learned quickly in his early days.
“I can remember when I first did it—I would’ve been around 22, in my peak physical condition, and went in there just to get absolutely dusted by 70 year olds,” he exclaimed. “It's all about their technique.”
But before the cane falls, the fire rises. The First Fire event—held in the same paddock the night before the championships—marks the start of the crushing season.
“It’s a Burdekin icon, burning the sugarcane. We’re one of the only places in the country that still does it,” says Vass.
The fire lights up the paddock with an intensity that’s hard to ignore—crackling heat, falling ash, and flames licking high into the night sky.
“It roars,” says Vass. “The flames could potentially go two stories high.”
Beyond the visuals, the event holds deep meaning for older generations.
“You see the joy on their faces,” Mark says. “There are still a lot of people around here who cut cane by hand, so seeing the tradition kept alive—it means a lot to them.”
The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will be held at the Home Hill Showgrounds from 30-31 May. Book your tickets now at: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au
What: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
When: 30-31 May
Where: Home Hill Showgrounds
For long-time competitor and local grower Mark Vass, the championships are about more than just sharp knives and speed. Photo Supplied
Unlike the weather, event season in the Burdekin is just beginning to warm up, and we were back with another banger this weekend with the Burdekin Growers Race Day.
I’ll be honest—coming into it, I just wanted to get in, get the photos, and get out, as I was feeling a bit off the pace for reasons that definitely didn’t involve my antics the night before… But as I approached the gates, seeing thousands of people milling around in full swing, I knew that wasn’t gonna be the case.
What an event. From the extravagant outfits to the atmospheric cheers and jeers of the punters that either racked up new gambling debts or barely chipped away at their existing ones—this sure was a warm welcome to the country racing scene for me.
I realised that as I paced the grounds, back and forth, looking for some groups to photograph, that I had somewhat of an epiphany: maybe I’ve got a bit of country in me after all!
Because in my unseasoned opinion, it’s events like these that typify country life—and I loved it. Yes, I understand that races happen all over the country, and yes, some of them attract larger crowds—believe me, I’ve been to the Royal Randwick on a busy Saturday.
But it’s not about the amount of people in attendance—it’s more about the makeup of the crowd, if you will. Because in the city, you can feel anonymous in a sea of thousands. Here, it felt like everyone there either knew each other, used to know each other, or would by the end of the day.
And I loved being a part of that.
Plantation Park came alive on Sunday for the 16th annual Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, drawing a strong crowd for a day of fun, fundraising and floating plastic ducks.
Hundreds lined the creek bank to cheer on the rubber competitors, with one lucky duck taking out the $1000 top prize and the coveted 2025 Quack Cup.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox joined locals in enjoying the festivities, which included food stalls, kids’ activities and live tunes from the Burdekin Brass Band.
The costume contests saw ducks and humans alike dressed to impress, with prizes awarded for standout style.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Ayr, a total of 320 ducks were sold, generating around $16,000. Expenses will be deducted before the remaining funds are handed over tothe Burdekin Woodcrafts Association and the Burdekin Men’s Shed—two local groups doing vital community work.
With good weather, great company, and plenty of laughs, it was another memorable outing for this beloved Burdekin tradition.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Councillor John Furnell
Colourful attendees brought cheer to this fun-loving event
Photos supplied
John Lindley donning his best duck outfit
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Ayr Rotary Club
Burdekin Brass Band treating the crowd to some live tunes
Ayr State High School volunteers, who worked tirelessly throughout the morning
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