If anyone ever tells you there’s nothing to do in the Burdekin — tell them they’re not looking hard enough!

It’s event season in the Burdekin, and this weekend marks the first Debutante Ball of the year — a special tradition that brings families and our community together to celebrate and support our local young women.

Our tennis community was buzzing over the weekend, with visitors from near and far taking part in competitions and the official opening of the new amenities block at the Home Hill Tennis Courts.

It was wonderful to see Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, officially unveil the facility alongside the passionate Mrs Caswell, a dedicated volunteer with the Home Hill Tennis Association.

Her speech highlighted the power of local sponsorship, community support, and how everything from funding to the build was kept local. This is exactly how our community continues to thrive: by backing our own.

The Home Hill Tennis Association is also embracing the fast-growing sport of Pickleball. If you haven’t come across it yet, now’s the perfect time to give it a go, you might just discover your next favourite sport.

With the string of short weeks behind us, it’s great to see our local farmers hard at work preparing the fields. The sugar cane season is just around the corner, and it’s a reminder of how connected we are to the land and the hands that work it.

And speaking of things to do, don’t miss the Burdekin Machinery Field Day this Saturday. It’s always a highlight on the calendar and a great chance to explore, connect, and support local industry.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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For every year since its inception in 1981, the Sugar Bowl has served up a weekend full of all-round entertainment and good quality tennis. This year's edition was no different.

However, unlike any year in the past, this year’s event saw the opening of a brand-new, wheelchair-accessible amenities block. Players and spectators alike gathered early on Saturday morning to witness the official opening of the facility, at which Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort were both present.

“The design makes a statement—it’s no longer just a rudimentary toilet block, but a functional, welcoming, and classical structure that enhances our club’s identity,” said Home Hill Tennis Association (HHTA) Secretary, Kate Casswell.

The opening of the amenities marked the commencement of the tournament, with hundreds of players battling it out for ultimate glory across a range of skill and age-based divisions.

A SMASH HIT!

Sugar Bowl 2025 Results:

A Grade Men
1st: Tea Bags – 264 pts
2nd: Tommy Haas Beens – 226 pts
3rd (tie): Casswell & Debondi – 187 pts

A Grade Ladies
1st: M & Ms – 189 pts
2nd: Macwhittown Pals – 170 pts

A2 Men
1st: Bad Hatters 2 – 235 pts
2nd: Energizers – 222 pts
3rd: Calen Crew – 205 pts

A2 Ladies
1st: Post Card Lifers – 236 pts
2nd: The Odd Bunch – 215 pts
3rd: Tam – 198 pts

B Men (average games)
1st: Here 4 Beer – 48.4
2nd: Northern All Stars – 45.4
3rd: Redemption – 44.6
4th: Shoeys – 44.5

Woods Team Spirit Trophy
Winner: Teaspoons

Raffle Prizes
1st: Kerry Formilan – Split system air conditioner
2nd: Justin Vidler – Nutrien pack

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(Left to right) - Club Secretary Kate Casswell, Hon Dale Last MP, Tennis Development Officer Tennis Queensland Ryan Coffey, Club Patron Jill Barbagallo, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Councillor John Furnell.
1: A Grade Ladies winners
2: A Grade Men, the Teabags
3: A2 Ladies Post Card Lifers
4: A2 Men, Bad Hatters 2
5: B Grade Ladies 2025 Charters Towers
6: B Grade Men Here 4 Beer

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With degrees in Teaching and Multimedia & Information Technology—and years of experience working in the field of IT—Adrian’s transition into a proprietor role at Harvey Norman was seamless.

Before stepping into a proprietor role at Harvey Norman—where he’s spent more than 13 years—Adrian had built a diverse résumé that includes stints at EB Games, KFC, a tech startup, and even web development for Australian Mining Link.

He says that the technology and sales knowledge accrued throughout his career has helped him to thrive in his new role at Harvey Norman, Ayr.

“It definitely helps that I understand the technology,” says Adrian. “I was actually able to get a complete solution better than some colleagues that have been doing it for ages, just because they just didn't understand the technology.”

“My teaching experience has also helped as a proprietor, a trainer, and also as a sales person,” added Adrian.

Born and raised in Mackay, Adrian has travelled all across Australia as a Harvey Norman proprietor, eventually landing in the Ayr store six months ago—a place with which he has quickly fallen in love.

“The community has been extremely welcoming. I've already made some very good friends… just from being here, helping them multiple times and having chats and similar interests,” says Durelli.

Adrian says his way of giving back to the community is by offering the best possible services to customers: “The ultimate goal is always to have the best service. We can't do everything for the customer, but we try to do the most that we can so that they don't leave unhappy—so that they get a full solution.”

The ability to help people in this way is one of the main things that drew Adrian to becoming a proprietor. “I fell in love with helping people,” says Durelli. “You're your own boss, you get to go out, help the community, help people in your store… and then you get to also get to help your staff. I’ve been able to help them grow to a point where they now have a career.”

Much like Gary, Adrian is an avid football fan, and currently plays for the Burdekin FC Panthers. Beyond work and sport, he enjoys going out with mates and making connections in the community.

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Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist David Robertson outlines in his latest economic update why growth and jobs will be the key drivers for the RBA’s cash rate decisions through 2025 in light of the latest inflation figures.

Global turbulence stems local inflation
The uncertain global backdrop and lower growth expectations have served to limit upside risks to inflation, with the RBA’s preferred measure of underlying inflation falling to 2.9% in the March quarter.

“Fortunately, unlike the US which faces stagflation due to its tariffs, our inflation outlook appears much more benign than previously forecast,” Mr Robertson said.

“The trimmed mean - the Reserve Bank’s preferred measure of underlying inflation - is expected to settle between 2.5% and 2.75% and to stay there.”

So after three years of having a laser sharp focus on inflation, the primary focus for the RBA is now rapidly shifting, Mr Robertson said.

“The RBA has been dealing with global inflation shock for three years but its concerns are quickly moving from price stability and inflation to protecting growth and jobs.”

All eyes on May for next cash rate cut – but by how much?
May looks set for the next cash rate cut, but questions remain over just how deep the cut will be.

“The next cut is almost certain for May 20, but of what magnitude?” Mr Robertson said.

“We have four more cuts, including May, in our forecasts taking the rate down to around 3.1%, a drop of 25 basis points per quarter.

“Meanwhile, the markets are now factoring in five rate cuts to around a 2.8% level by year end. It’s a deeper path than previously expected.”

The RBA can ease rates quickly if global conditions suddenly worsen, Mr Robertson noted, but this is an unlikely course of action for the moment.

“A larger 50 basis point cut in May is most unlikely unless markets become dislocated like in the GFC, which isn’t currently visible, but a 35 basis point cut from the RBA in May would round out the cash rate to more convenient fractions.”

Financial markets face extreme volatility
Volatility on financial markets remains extreme, despite the latest exemptions and deferrals of the US Government’s tariffs, Mr Robertson said.

“Equity markets have been clawing back some of their losses but there are still difficult times ahead.

“Tariffs are generally bad for everyone but especially problematic for the country imposing them. So with the escalation between the US and China - the world’s two largest economies - it’s a question of just how much slower these economies will be growing this year and next.”

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) now forecasts US growth will reduce by a third to 1.8% this year, and China’s GDP growth is projected at 4% (down from 4.6%).

Mr Robertson notes these forecasts may be a ‘best-case scenario’ given how challenging any negotiations are likely to be.

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David Robertson - Chief Economist Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.

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Regis Aged Care Home Hill will soon host a beautiful Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser on the 10th of May in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and in an exciting 2025 debut, the organisation has extended a warm invitation to the entire Burdekin community to attend.

An afternoon of socialisation, refreshments and plenty of prizes, attendees are encouraged to pop on over to Home Hill’s Tenth Avenue from 1pm onwards on the 10th of May to browse the wonderful selection of prizes before the Cent Sale begins at 1:30pm.

Over the past couple of months, Regis Aged Care kindly asked the businesses of the community to donate prizes of any kind towards the Cent Sale Fundraiser, and in true Burdekin fashion, Regis has been beyond overwhelmed with the region’s support.

“The response to our upcoming event has been truly heart-warming, with an amazing array of prizes already donated,” shared Regis Home Hill’s Office Manager, Megan Tye.

Gift hampers, vouchers, and uniquely handcrafted items are among the plethora of prizes on offer with Megan noting, that this is simply the beginning.

“We're still reaching out to more businesses, and the prize pool continues to grow, and this wonderful show of community spirit demonstrates just how special our local business community is,” added Megan.

Attendees are asked to present a $5 entry fee (children are free) which includes afternoon tea, and a ticket into the door prize competition all whilst supporting NBCF.

“Our upcoming fundraiser combines the charm of a classic afternoon tea with an exciting cent sale, bringing families and community together for a cause that touches us all – the Breast Cancer Foundation,” said Megan.

“This initiative holds deep personal significance for our team, particularly as many of us have been affected by breast cancer, and what makes this event even more special is the active involvement of our residents, who are helping with wrapping prizes to creating beautiful display for the day.”

The excitement across the Aged Care community has continued to build in anticipation of May’s event, and Megan, along with the rest of the staff, find the lead up to each of these occasions a spectacle in itself.

“You can feel the excitement building days before, as residents pick out their favourite outfits and share memories of social gatherings from their younger years as our morning and afternoon tea socials aren't just about refreshments – they're about creating moments that matter,” noted Megan.

“These gatherings serve as perfect occasions for our residents to step out of their daily routines and into something extraordinary and we believe that by uniting our community, we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against breast cancer.”

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What: Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser
When: 10th of May from 1pm
Where: Regis Aged Care Home Hill

Regis Aged Care Home Hill invite the community to attend May's Mother’s Day Garden Party and Cent Sale Fundraiser. Photo: Illustration only

With an incredible dream and the support of the entire community, Macy Dabelstein will embark on a lifechanging journey to Nepal this October to provide free medical care to thousands of men, women and children in rural communities.

Earlier this year, both Macy and her college, Josephine Long, decided to participate in World Youth International’s Nurses in Action initiative – a program enabling nurses and allied health professionals to deliver primary healthcare services to those living in remote areas within Kenya and Nepal.

“Since nursing together this year, Josephine and I have expressed a shared interest in taking the next step in our careers to gain more experience and help others,” explained Macy.

“Nursing overseas will be a once in a lifetime opportunity and will provide us with a new perspective on healthcare for those less fortunate and allow us to witness the daily struggles faced by individuals in Nepal dealing with chronic and acute illnesses.”

Macy and Josephine will engage in vital medical projects focusing on improving health services whilst offering healthcare to communities living in extreme poverty for just under a month, impacting the lives of almost 300 people every day.

“We aim to return with new nursing knowledge that we can apply in our careers as rural and remote nurses, along with a greater appreciation for our resources,” Macy added.

“This experience in a resource limited setting will enhance our clinical skills and cultural competence, empowering us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need and strengthening our role as advocates for accessible healthcare in our communities.”

In 2023, Macy graduated from James Cook University with a Bachelor of Nursing and has been a Registered Nurse (RN) at Cloncurry Hospital in North West Queensland for just under three months after completing a graduate program at the Ayr Hospital.

“Working as an RN in a rural setting presents unique challenges, particularly due to limited resources, however, I thrive on the excitement of the unknown where I’m never quite sure what will walk through the Emergency Department doors,” said Macy.

“Cloncurry has a tight-knit community, and establishing therapeutic relationships with our locals allows us to provide compassionate care tailored to their needs and we’re dedicated to making a positive impact in our community and enjoy caring for the residents.”

As part of the program, the pair were to raise $3,700 to fund the work of World Youth International (WYI) across the globe and after reaching out to dear friends, family and the wider Burdekin, Cloncurry, Brisbane and Goondiwindi communities, Macy and Josephine have raised almost $5,000 for the organisation.

“We are overwhelmed by the incredible support we've received since sharing our upcoming trip on social media and thanks to everyone’s generosity, we reached our fundraising goal within 20 hours,” Macy enthused.

“We will continue fundraising in our community, as any additional funds will allow us to contribute to a select project at one of the WYI project sites while volunteering in Nepal.”

To donate to Macy and Josphine’s account with WYI visit https://worldyouth.org.au/volunteers/macy-dabelstein.

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Josephine Long and Macy Dabelstein will travel to Nepal this October as part of the World Youth International’s Nurses in Action initiative (Photo Supplied)

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May will stage the debut of CANEGROWERS first-ever Herbert River Link2Country Expo event; an action-packed two-day long extravaganza focusing on connecting communities to the agricultural sector through hands on experiences and career opportunities!

On the 23rd and 24th of May, Ingham Showgrounds will come alive with trade stalls hosted by industry experts, educational programs, and career information opportunities as well as plenty of live music, entertainment, fundraising initiatives, networking events and more!

With a plethora of entertainers already confirmed, Link2Country recently announced The CrackUp Sisters will be travelling all the way from Winton to join the event and bring stories from the outback to life through a comedic performance.

Preparations for the expo have been underway for many months, and the anticipation continues to build as the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry & Tourism counts down the final days!

Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.trybooking.com/CYTFD with sales directly supporting agricultural careers and networks within the region.

“The expo is a community and careers expo focused on connecting our region to the agriculture industry,” shared Link2Country.

“We want to celebrate the amazing industries that are throughout the FNQ region.”

Over 500 students are expected to attend the event and leading industry professionals are eager to share plenty of educational and informative resources to encourage agricultural career opportunities.

“Whether you are in school and are interested in an Ag career, or you are already working in the region and you want to speak with industry experts, there is something for everyone,” added Link2Country.

Additional event details can be found online at www.link2country.com.au.

“Let's come together to celebrate our amazing region and hopefully, we kick start some exciting careers in the Ag industry.”

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The two day agricultural event is expected to attract more than 500 students. Photo supplied

In an exciting announcement, Link2Country have confirmed The CrackUp Sisters will be coming to the expo! (Photo Credit: The CrackUp Sisters)

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A fantastic display of Ford vehicles will ignite Townsville’s Cannon Park on Saturday the 10th of May from 8:30am to delight motor enthusiasts of all ages!

The Townsville Ford Enthusiasts Club warmly invites everyone to come along for an open-door morning to remember where all makes and models will be on display from members travelling from Ingham, Charters Towers, Giru and Ayr. Attendees are also invited to join a designated cruise route to the Strand before parking at the end of Palleranda to complete the day.

“Remember we welcome all motoring enthusiasts not just Fords and cars all makes and models welcome and we invite any motorbike groups to tag along, and other vehicles are encouraged to join our display and cruise,” shared Townsville Ford Enthusiasts Club member, Isiaha Reardon.

Coffee and food will also be available throughout the morning with members advising attendees to arrive on or before 8am to secure the best parking spot to enjoy the display.

“See you all there for a massive event and a great chat!”

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What: Ford Super Meet & Cruise
When: Saturday the 10th of May from 8:30am
Where: Cannon Park

The excitement is building ahead of this Saturday's Ford Super Meet & Cruise (Photo Credit: Townsville Ford Enthusiasts Club)

Just last week, the Home Hill / Ayr Lions Club were struck with a bolt of inspiration and amazement as Nicholas Tremaine cycled into the Burdekin as part of his Distance 4 Dementia fundraising initiative.

After witnessing the devastating and lifechanging impact the illness had on both his mother and uncle, Nicholas felt he could make a difference in the lives of those diagnosed with and/or touched by dementia.

“Like many Australians, I am not alone in facing the reality of having a loved one living with dementia,” shared Nicholas.

“Now only a few years on, although my mother’s health has stablised, I am unsure if when I visit her  she will remember who I am - now a shadow of her former, vibrant, enthusiastic and community orientated self, it is this that motivates me to fight for others and take on this challenging mission.”

Nicholas’ initiative, Distance 4 Dementia, will see him cycle all the way around Australia throughout 2025 with the goal of covering 40,075km – the equivalent of cycling the circumference of the earth with an average of 110km per day.

“I have set myself the mission of taking on the grueling challenge,” added Nicholas.

Hailing from Kangaroo Island, Nicholas has now made his way to the Northeastern Queensland coastline and on day 119 of his journey, Nicholas cycled from Airlie Beach to Home Hill where he shared his touching story with members of the Home Hill / Ayr Lions Club. After hearing of his travels and the difference Nicholas has already made on his journey, a member of the Home Hill / Ayr Lions Club kindly offered Nicholas a bed for the night, leaving Nicholas beyond grateful.

"The support I have received from Lions clubs across Australia has been amazing, as well as the support from the general public with offers of food, water and accommodation," expressed Nicholas.

"Truly I can’t express how much it means, thank you to everyone."

Dementia is currently the second leading cause of death in Australia, and provisional data indicates it may soon become the leading cause. In 2024, an estimated 421,000 Australians were living with dementia, and without a medical breakthrough, this number is projected to rise to over 821,500 by 2054.

“As I put my body to the test over the next year, I will document my journey every step of the way, driving awareness for the need to fight for a better future for people living with dementia and hopefully one day, a cure.”

To follow along with Nicholas’ journey, search Distance 4 Dementia on social media or visit https://fundraising.dementia.org.au/fundraisers/nictremaine/cycle-around-australia to make a donation.

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Nicholas has been cycling across Australia since the 1st of January (Photo Source: Distance 4 Dementia)

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Cecillia Cason has once again added another commendable achievement to her growing collection of titles after returning home from Melbourne’s 2025 Yamaha Australian National Band Championships.

Cecillia was awarded the Junior Champion award for her outstandingly skilled Tenor Horn performance and technique after competing in the Junior Solo section against many other experienced musicians.

Representing Townsville Brass, Cecillia’s talents left the judges speechless, earning her an outstanding score of 95 points, first place in Australia, and the prestigious title of National Champion.

In the past twelve months alone, Cecillia has travelled across Australia and to the United States of America to showcase and hone her musical skillset to respected judges and celebrated musicians across the globe. November of last year saw Cecillia set off to Seattle as one of only 20 Australian students selected to participate in the highly prestigious Western International Band Clinic, a place she earnt following on from attending Griffith University’s Pacific Honours Ensemble Program.

With her feet now back on Burdekin soil for the moment, Cecillia believes this remarkable milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support of her dedicated tutors and teachers. One mentor in particular, Dr. Mark Smith, was warmly thanked for his expert guidance and support, with Cecillia noting his mentorship, encouragement, and belief in her abilities were key to achieving her success and national triumph.

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Cecillia Cason was awarded first in Australia for her Tenor Horn performance at the 2025 Yamaha Australian National Band Championships (Photo Supplied)

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A casting call has been sounded across the Burdekin region leaving the farmers of the region well and truly in the spotlight and under the microscope!

Casting for the next season of Farmer Wants a Wife has begun, and producers of the hit reality TV series have identified the Burdekin as a promising region for potential contestants ahead of its 14th season, and the buzz is already spreading across the paddocks.

With all eyes on the Burdekin’s most eligible farmer bachelors and in true country fashion, mates have cheekily nominated each other behind their backs, but casting directors say the show’s success speaks for itself.

“The stats don’t lie, this show works, your chances of finding love are high and this could really change your life,” shared Judy Smart.

Whether you’re a single farmer yourself or know one who deserves a shot at romance, applications can be made online at www.farmerwantsawife.com.au, or nominations can be emailed to farmerwantsawife@eurekaproductions.au.

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Farmer Wants a Wife Producers have eyes on the region ahead of the show's next season (Photo Supplied)

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Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited has officially confirmed that the Burdekin region will lead the way in launching the 2025 crushing season, with operations at its four local mills, Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, set to commence on Tuesday, the 3rd of June 2025.

The Burdekin mills will be among the first in Wilmar’s network to fire up, with production in other regions, including Plane Creek Mill, Proserpine Mill and the Herbert district, scheduled to begin shortly after. The remainder of Wilmar’s mills are expected to be fully operational by the 17th of June.

Preparation is already well underway, with steam trials scheduled as part of Wilmar’s comprehensive pre-season commissioning program. The first of these trials will take place at Inkerman Mill on Monday, the 13th of May, allowing teams to test equipment, ensure safe operations, and fine-tune machinery ahead of the season start.

Wilmar has expressed optimism for a strong and productive season, supported by favourable crop estimates and the early rollout of operational readiness. With just weeks to go, the company is working closely with growers, harvesters, and mill staff to ensure everything is in place for a smooth and successful 2025 crush.

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The Burdekin region will begin crushing from the 3rd of June (Photo Source: Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited)

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Local community and not-for-profit organisations have until 5pm next Friday, the 9th of May, to apply for funding from the 2025 Haughton Sustainable Community Fund, with up to $10,000 available per successful applicant.

Administered by Pacific Blue, the fund supports projects across the Burdekin Shire—including Ayr, Brandon, Clare, Dalbeg, Giru, Home Hill, and Millaroo—that deliver lasting benefits in health, education, environment, sport, culture, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing.

With a total of $80,000 on offer this year, the fund has already helped deliver 76 projects locally since the Haughton Solar Farm’s commissioning in 2019. Past recipients include the Burdekin Amateur Basketball Association, Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club, and Zonta Club.

In light of recent flooding, Pacific Blue has extended the application window to assist organisations in their recovery efforts.

“As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Pacific Blue Sustainable Communities Fund program across Australia, we are proud to see the positive impact it brings to the Burdekin region,” said Pacific Blue CEO Domenic Capomolla.

“We hope this year’s fund will assist the Burdekin in recovering from the recent flooding, while recognising the region’s resilience.”

Applicants must submit through the SmartyGrants online platform, and are reminded to check they’ve received a confirmation email upon submission. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

For more information or assistance, visit pacificblue.com.au or email communityfund@pacificblue.com.au.

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A sweet little echidna was recently rescued by NQ Wildlife Care after being washed up on a Burdekin beach in the aftermath of the recent floods.

Despite the ordeal, the tough little creature was in surprisingly good condition, though it was a little soggy and stunned. After being brought into care, it received the rest and recovery it needed before returning to the wild.

Echidnas, known for their unique spiky appearance and digging habits, are well-adapted to tough conditions, and this resilient one is expected to soon be back to doing what it does best - digging, foraging, and living independently in the wild.

“Nature sure throws some curveballs, but it’s amazing how resilient our native wildlife can be,” shared NQ Wildlife Care on their social media.

The dedication of NQ Wildlife Care’s local wildlife carers who work tirelessly to ensure these animals can recover and return to their natural habitats was commended online, with many members of the community happy to see how well the prickly pal recovered.

NQ Wildlife Care kindly asks the community to be vigilant and to call 0414 717 374 for all wildlife rescues. For more information about local wildlife care or how to support these efforts, visit NQ Wildlife Care’s website, https://nqwildlife.org.au/.

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NQ Wildlife Care nursed the little echidna back to health after the floods earlier this year (Photo Credit: NQ Wildlife Care)

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Queensland’s farmers and regional businesses will benefit from strengthened leadership at the state’s rural support agency, with four new appointments to the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Board – each bringing deep roots in agriculture, regional development and the private sector.

The Queensland Government’s renewed focus on rural resilience and economic growth is reflected in the announcement by Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, who has named a new-look QRIDA Board set to champion the needs of primary producers and rural enterprises across the state.

Among the new appointments is sixth-generation farmer and senior lawyer Caitlin McConnel, who has made history as QRIDA’s first female Chairperson. Joining her on the Board are agricultural machinery industry leader Bruce Vandersee, rural business banking expert Danica Olsen, and agribusiness lawyer Ari McCamley.

Ms McConnel, Mr Vandersee and Ms Olsen will serve three-year terms, while Mr McCamley has been appointed for approximately 16 months to provide continuity in governance.

Minister Last said the new Board brings strong agricultural credentials and practical insight that will be vital in steering QRIDA through challenges such as recovery from recent flooding in Western and North Queensland.

“Strong leadership at QRIDA is vital to support our long-term disaster recovery efforts, particularly after the recent flooding in Western Queensland and in North Queensland,” he said.

“These Board appointments will bring new perspectives and help the organisation explore new opportunities in developing Queensland’s rural and industry sectors."

He highlighted the diverse private sector experience each new Director brings: from Mr Vandersee’s extensive career in supplying farm machinery, to Ms Olsen’s work in business banking tailored to rural clients, and Mr McCamley’s legal expertise supporting the agribusiness sector.

“QRIDA plays a critical role assisting farmers, businesses, and non-profits, particularly through financial support during times of hardship,” Minister Last said. “With this refreshed Board, QRIDA is in a strong position to deliver for rural Queenslanders in the long-term recovery from this year’s natural disasters.”

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Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, pictured during a past visit with Honey the pig, continues his support for the sector with new leadership at QRIDA. Photo source: Dale Last MP (Facebook)

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