After the slower pace of school holidays, getting your child motivated for the second half of the school year can be a challenge. But with the right support, they can ease back into routine and find the energy to thrive in Term 3.

Start by re-establishing structure a few days before school resumes. This means bringing back regular bedtimes, waking hours, and meal times. A well-rested child is more alert, emotionally balanced, and better equipped to tackle the school day.

Encourage your child to set simple goals for the new term—whether it's improving in a subject, joining a club, or making a new friend. Having something to look forward to can boost motivation and give them a sense of purpose.

Nutrition also plays a huge role. A balanced breakfast with protein, whole grains and fruit can help fuel concentration and mood. Ensure they stay hydrated and pack a lunch with snacks that energise, rather than slow them down.

Talk openly about their feelings. Some children feel anxious about returning to school. Reassure them and focus on the positives—seeing friends, learning new things, or fun events coming up.

Finally, be patient. It may take a week or two for them to fully re-adjust. Keep communication open with teachers if needed, and praise their efforts—not just their results.

With encouragement, routine, and the right mindset, your child can approach the second half of the school year feeling confident and re-energised.

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Beat the Bug: Top Remedies To Keep Cold & Flu At Bay

As winter sets in, so does cold and flu season. But the good news is there are plenty of simple, effective ways to help strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick.

First and foremost, good hygiene is key. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after being in public places. Avoid touching your face, particularly your nose, mouth and eyes, where viruses can easily enter.

Staying well-rested is another important defence. Your body repairs and strengthens its immune system while you sleep, so aim for 7–9 hours of quality rest each night.

A balanced diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables provides essential vitamins and antioxidants. Foods high in vitamin C, such as oranges, kiwi and capsicum, are known for their immune-boosting properties. Zinc-rich foods like nuts, seeds and legumes can also help your body fight off infections.

Don't forget to stay hydrated—water helps flush out toxins and keeps your system running smoothly. Adding herbal teas like ginger or echinacea can also offer extra support.

Regular moderate exercise boosts circulation and helps activate your immune response, while also reducing stress, which can otherwise suppress your body’s natural defences.

Some people also find benefit in supplements during cold and flu season, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, or probiotics—but it’s always best to check with a healthcare professional first.

And finally, if you do start to feel under the weather, make sure you go and see your friendly local pharmacist.

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When you’re recovering from a cold or flu, what you eat can make a big difference in how quickly you bounce back. Nourishing your body with the right foods helps rebuild strength, support your immune system, and ease lingering symptoms.

• Soups and broths are excellent choices when you're unwell. Not only are they easy to digest, but they also help keep you hydrated. Chicken soup in particular has anti-inflammatory properties and can help clear nasal congestion.
• Fruits high in vitamin C—like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple—support your immune system and help reduce the duration of colds. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants that aid recovery.
• Ginger is another natural powerhouse. It can help reduce nausea, soothe a sore throat, and fight inflammation. Add fresh ginger to hot water with lemon and honey for a soothing drink. Garlic is also known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties and can be added to meals to help fight off infections.
• Don't forget protein-rich foods like eggs, legumes, and yogurt, which help repair body tissues and keep your energy up. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir also support gut health, which is closely tied to immune function.

While a balanced diet supports recovery, it’s also important to get the right medical treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to visit your friendly local pharmacist, who can recommend suitable medications and ensure you're on the right track to full recovery.

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Nine Burdekin writers read their stories and poems to a small but appreciative crowd at the Home Hill Library on Wednesday, 2 July 2025.

“To stand in front of an audience and share something you’ve created takes guts,” said writer Megan Hippler. “I’m proud of everyone who was brave enough to read.”

The event was a collaboration between the Burdekin Creative Writers, the Burdekin Night Writers, and Burdekin Libraries, celebrating the 2024 Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology. From heartfelt poetry and memoir excerpts to short stories and children’s fiction, the showcase highlighted the breadth of literary talent in the region.

This was the second showcase held in 2025, following a reading with a different combination of writers at the Ayr Library in April. Both the 2024 anthology and its predecessor — produced by George Venables — are available at local libraries, and discussions have already begun for a potential third edition.

Burdekin Creative Writers has held monthly daytime meetings for writers of all experience levels since 2017. Burdekin Night Writers, which began in Cherelle Murphy’s home in 2007, now meets fortnightly via group video calls.

“The two groups meeting at different times in different venues lets more people join the group that suits their schedules and goals,” Hippler explained. “And some people join both.”

Though light-hearted and welcoming, the groups have helped members develop new skills, win writing competitions, get published, and now take the stage for public readings.

“When I joined the Burdekin Creative Writers in 2017,” Hippler said in her introduction, “I didn’t think I could write a short story, and I didn’t think I could read aloud. Because of these groups, I hope I’m about to show you otherwise.”

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By CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens

It’s early days for the new Queensland Government, but I’ll say this — the first six months have brought some practical decisions that are making a real difference for cane growers.

The recent State Budget struck a few important notes for agriculture. We’re not expecting miracles, but it’s encouraging to see a stronger focus on things that matter — especially biosecurity and rural resilience. With more movement of people and goods across borders, the threat of pests and diseases is growing rapidly. Queensland agriculture is at the front line in Australia’s defence against biosecurity incursions. That’s why it’s good to see funding aimed at strengthening Biosecurity services, including more boots on the ground. Biosecurity is one of those things you only notice when it fails — so getting ahead of problems is key.

Another area where we’ve seen genuine progress is in policy to support disaster recovery. Queensland growers have faced their fair share of floods, cyclones and fires, and the Government’s decision to increase disaster recovery grants for primary producers to $75,000 after the Herbert district flooding is a real win — not just for cane growers, but for the broader agricultural sector. The speed that Government moved on this issue was the pleasing indicator. Not waiting for frustrating bureaucratic process that point out the obvious devastating impact. This was a clear sign that our industry’s concerns are being heard on the ground where it counts.

Another important change was in the area of disaster recovery policy with the adjustment to the definition of ‘primary producer’ status. For many farming families, the previous inequity meant they were locked out of accessing disaster assistance just because they had diversified their farm income streams. This change to accommodate the full scope of farming operations, including diversification, is a sensible move that better reflects how real farms operate today. Finally on this front too, the inclusion of replant within the guidelines of appropriate use of disaster recovery grants was a huge step forward for Queensland agriculture.

None of this means we’re rolling out the red carpet. There’s still plenty of ground to cover, and we’ll keep pushing hard on issues like water, energy costs, and land use planning. But credit where it’s due — some of the early signals are promising from a State Government that is move forward diligently on long standing issues that require action.

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The Story Behind CORES Queensland

CORES Queensland has been saving lives in the Burdekin for over 16 years. The organisation—run largely by volunteers—offers a wide range of mental health and suicide prevention services, quietly operating as the heartbeat of the community. Though, if you ask CORES Queensland Coordinator Ross Romeo, he’ll tell you it’s the other way around.

“The Burdekin community are the backbone of our program,” he says. “They are the reason we’ve survived all these years—we’re just so grateful.”

The CORES banner was first raised in rural Tasmania in 2003. It’s introduction to the mainland came in 2008, when Giru farmer Peter Shadforth saw a segment about CORES on TV, sparking the idea to launch the program in the Burdekin.

Since then, the program has evolved to offer counselling services, workplace training, self-care workshops and school presentations, among other forms of suicide prevention education.

Ross Romeo, a former cane farmer who’s been heavily involved in the program since its introduction to the region, says it brings him great joy to connect with and support the local community.

“I enjoy connecting with the community and helping people to learn,” he says. “When you run a workshop or do training and someone comes up to you and says ‘I got something out of that’—that makes it all worthwhile.”

For Ross and CORES, it’s all about everyone playing their part to support each other.

“We’re just one piece of the puzzle. There are so many people in the Burdekin doing great things—not just supporting us,” he says.

“They’re connecting people together in all these different ways, with all the groups and sports clubs—that, to me, is suicide prevention, because they’re supporting people and connecting people together, and that’s probably one of the biggest parts of the puzzle.”

CORES remains committed to educating Queensland in the future, with plans to extend their services further north.

“The long-term goal is to continue supporting the community, reinforcing where we already are as well as exploring opportunities to go into new areas if it’s possible,” says Romeo.

“We’ve recently started pushing further north, starting to deliver training around the Mossman and Daintree area, and we’re gonna head up to Cooktown and further north as well,” he added.

While growth is part of the plan, the heart of the program remains unchanged.

For Ross Romeo and CORES, it’s never been about the plaudits—it's about finding ways to give back to the community that have supported them so generously.

“We always say—even if we help at least one person, that’s more than worth it.”

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For Ross and CORES, it’s all about everyone playing their part to support each other. Photo supplied

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A group of enthusiastic Year 5 and 6 students from St Colman’s Catholic School recently stepped out of the classroom and into the heart of the Burdekin’s agricultural landscape, visiting Rocks Farming Company in Mona Park for an immersive learning experience.

Held on Wednesday, the 18th of June, the excursion was made possible through a collaboration with CQUniversity’s Agri-Tech Education Officers, Lilly and Grace. The visit offered students a rare, hands-on insight into one of Australia’s largest sugarcane producers and the many technologies and careers that power modern farming.

Guided by Rocks Farming Company’s Brian, the tour kicked off with a bus ride up a hill overlooking the expansive 2,700-hectare irrigated property. From this high point, students were treated to sweeping views of sugarcane fields, cattle paddocks, and earth-moving equipment in action - an impressive introduction to the scale and complexity of farming operations in the region.

The students then explored the working sheds and maintenance areas where they learned about the wide range of job roles required on a farm - from machinery operators and general farm hands to skilled technicians and even helicopter pilots. Engaging Q&A sessions sparked student interest in how technology such as GPS-guided equipment and drone surveillance is used daily to streamline farming practices and increase productivity.

Back at school, the learning continued with a fun and educational session of “Tractor Code Creator,” where students programmed Edison robots to mimic the movement patterns of tractors. This fusion of agriculture and coding not only reinforced their understanding of farm logistics but also encouraged problem-solving and critical thinking.

Another standout of the day was learning about technology used in animal management, including wearable tracking devices for livestock that monitor their movements and health in real time.

The school extended a warm thank you to Brian and Talbot from Rocks Farming Company, and to Lilly and Grace from CQUniversity, for making the day such a memorable experience!

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A group of Year 5 and 6 St Colman's students discovered the future of farming at Rocks Farming Company last month (Photos Supplied)

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Unlocking nostalgic memories across the nation, Jack Hodgins has set out on a mission to publish a book detailing the golden era of Hoadley’s Battle of the Sounds and he’s confident the residents of the Burdekin Shire have plenty of stories to tell.

The contest captured the attention of Australians from 1966 to 1972, and at its peak, held 60 heats across the country where young bands would compete for a chance to win a place in a state country final, and ultimately the national grand finale.

“It gave bands a chance to play, in many cases, to the biggest crowds they would ever play and all they would have to do is send in a coupon to their local radio station,” Jack explained.

Jack’s interest in the competition was initially sparked after interviewing a series of musicians as part of his radio show, Vinyl Vibes, and a few online searches later, Jack felt compelled to immortalise the significant era in musical history.

“I felt that someone really needed to come along and try to seriously document the contest and once I realised the importance the contest held in Australian music history as a whole, the idea to write a book came shortly after that,” recalled Jack.

As Jack continued to dive deeper into researching Queensland’s involvement in the contest, he quickly realised there were very little details recorded at the time and began relying on locals to fill in the gaps.

“Ayr’s heats were facilitated by radio station, 4AY, and I want to leave no stone unturned for this book so it’s important that I try every avenue to reach rockers from the area,” Jack added.

“So far, only one band has been confirmed to have played in the Ayr heat - a band called Peace, who won the Ayr heat in 1971 and because so much wasn’t written down at the time connecting with people in places like Ayr is crucial as their memories may be the only surviving pieces of this musical history, and without them, these stories could be lost forever.”

With a publication date pencilled for June of 2026, Jack has been reaching out to communities across the country to gather whatever information he can about the iconic competition.

“The community’s responses have been one of the biggest reasons I’ve committed to turning my research into a full-blown book and people from all over the country have sent me audio, photographs and their personal memories - I think it’s been really meaningful for many of them as well,” said Jack.

“A lot of these rockers played in bands that may not have gone far beyond their local area, so to have someone reach out and show an interest in their band from the ’60s has been incredibly positive for them.”

If you have any information about the Ayr battles or the contest itself, you can email Jack at jackhodgins67@gmail.com to be part of highlighting the Burdekin Shire’s role in such an iconic era in musical history.

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Jack Hodgins is on a mission to document musical history (Photo Supplied)

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Small changes are making a big difference across Queensland, and the Burdekin Shire is proudly playing its part.

Through a smart partnership with Containers for Change QLD (COEX), more than 600 outdoor recycling units have now been installed in parks and public spaces across 13 participating councils, including the Burdekin Shire Council.

The initiative, supported by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), aims to make recycling more accessible while creating lasting social and environmental benefits. These specially designed units provide locals and visitors with a convenient way to recycle bottles and cans, helping reduce litter, support sustainability, and contribute to a cleaner community.

The Sunshine Coast Council first trialled the program, reporting up to 300 containers diverted from landfill daily. Following this success, other councils - including the City of Moreton Bay, Townsville, Burdekin, and Hinchinbrook - have joined the movement to scale the positive impact.

Burdekin Shire Council’s involvement in the program highlights the region’s continued commitment to sustainability and innovative local solutions. The initiative not only reduces waste but also contributes to the circular economy by ensuring collected containers can be reused or repurposed.

As the program continues to roll out across the state, Burdekin residents are encouraged to make use of the new outdoor recycling bins when enjoying local parks, playgrounds, and public spaces.

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Recycling made easy! New recycling unites have begun popping up around the state (Photo Supplied)

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The Burdekin Shire Council is among 30 North and Far North Queensland councils now eligible to apply for a share in a $19.2 million funding package aimed at restoring flood-damaged community assets.

The Community Recreational Assets Recovery Program has been launched to support recovery from the North and Far North Tropical Low disaster event, which impacted the region between the 29th of January and the 28th of February 2025.

The funding, jointly provided by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), will be managed by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).

The program focuses on repairing and rebuilding key community recreational assets such as parks, playgrounds, walkways, bikeways, clubhouses, community centres, beach access points, and picnic areas—helping to return normalcy to local life.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said community infrastructure plays a key role in lifting spirits after a disaster.

“We want to give Queenslanders assurance that our Government is working with the QLD Government to help communities recover and rebuild,” Minister McBain said.

“Programs like this deliver tangible outcomes and stand as visible reminders that no matter the scale and breadth of a disaster, we will overcome it and by restoring community recreational assets we are helping return life to normal for residents affected, providing places for people to make positive memories once more.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the Crisafulli Government is committed to working alongside councils throughout the process.

“We are stronger when we work together, and I’m pleased all levels of government are partnering working to rebuild recreational assets in their communities,” Minister Leahy said.

“QRA officers are ready and able to support all eligible councils with submissions for this funding, and will assist those successful with delivery of works and just as flooding events evolve over time, our recovery does as well, and tailored funding channels like this reaffirm our unwavering support for disaster hit regions.”

Burdekin Shire Council can submit funding applications through the QRA until the 11th of July 2025, with all approved projects to be completed by the 30th of June 2027.

For more information or to apply, visit the Queensland Reconstruction Authority website.

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has delivered more than half a billion dollars worth of projects and services for the Burdekin electorate via the Crisafulli government’s first budget.

Focussed on the key issues directly affecting local communities, Mr Last said essential services and infrastructure saw increased funding and election commitments were ‘fully honoured’.

“Across the Burdekin electorate, almost $600M in projects and services have been supported in this budget including every single election commitment,” Mr Last said.  “This year’s budget delivers on the priorities that Queenslanders supported at the last election while laying the foundation for long term budget repair.”

“Projects such as the installation of a CT Scanner at the Ayr Hospital and upgrades at Burdekin Netball are now backed with full funding.  Funds allocated for land to house the new fire station in Ayr means the project can kick into gear to deliver a modern station and relocate emergency services staff away from potentially carcinogenic chemicals.”

“The budget also locks in previously announced projects including upgrades to the Bruce Highway, increased social housing and improved resources for our Police.  Funding has also been confirmed for programs to tackle youth crime and to boost the number of healthcare workers across the state.”

“Confirmed funding for the infrastructure and services that we rely on means progress on the issues that matter to us locally and across the region.  The expansion of the Townsville University Hospital, for example, means faster access to high-level medical care in our time of need and the Crime Prevention School will help to prevent crime right across North Queensland, including in the Burdekin.”

Mr Last said the budget would add to previously announced plans and programs to support the Burdekin’s key industries and provide funding to local government for several important projects.

“The Burdekin’s economy relies on the sugar industry and the expenditure announced in the budget will provide support to the sugar industry and, therefore, the district as a whole,” he said.  “A 15% discount on irrigation water and works to address rising groundwater are among short and longer-term measures to back agriculture.”

“The cost of irrigating is one of the largest costs that farmers face and, for years now, we have seen prices increase based on a whole range of factors.  The budget funds a regional water assessment and other programs to get to address the underlying issues contributing to those cost increases and provide certainty for farmers.”

“While the budget is responsible and is built on respecting taxpayers’ money, it delivers on our commitments and allows us to continue to deliver the services and infrastructure families access every day; including by partnering with councils across the state.”

“In the Burdekin LGA, the Works for Queensland program will see council deliver almost $1.8M in projects.  That funding will deliver projects across the district including upgrades at pools in both Home Hill and Ayr.”

“This is a budget that invests in a stronger, more productive economy that will benefit all Queenslanders.”

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On Tuesday, June 24, Rights in Action brought more than just a free barbecue to Anzac Memorial Park—they brought a chance for families to connect, ask questions, and access vital support.

The Townsville-based advocacy organisation deliberately planned the event as an informal gathering to introduce their new Inclusive Education Toolkit, a free resource designed to help parents and carers of children with disabilities understand their rights and find the support they need in schools.

“This came about because we noticed there was a gap,” said Sally, Community Engagement Lead at Rights in Action. “Inclusive education kept coming up as an issue when we spoke to communities, so that’s what we focused on here.”

The event, their first community barbecue in the Burdekin, drew families alongside local service providers, creating a relaxed space for sharing information and building relationships.

“I’ve done quite a few visits to Ayr, and we found that people just want to get to know you,” Sally said. “They don’t want to talk to someone on the phone—so we thought, 'why not come out, have a barbecue, and invite some parents down.'”

The Inclusive Education Toolkit, along with webinars and additional support, is freely available online. Rights in Action can also provide direct advocacy to families who need it.

By combining good food with genuine connection and practical help, Rights in Action delivered more than a meal—they delivered a real good deed.

To access the toolkit or learn more, visit www.rightsinaction.org.

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The Townsville-based advocacy organisation deliberately planned the event as an informal gathering to introduce their new Inclusive Education Toolkit. Photo supplied

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In recent weeks, I’ve noticed a growing conversation within our community around the issue of homelessness. Sadly, the Burdekin is not immune to this challenge, and we are seeing an increase in both homelessness and housing stress. I am advised there are currently around 500 people experiencing homelessness in our region, with more than 800 displaced individuals unable to access secure, stable housing.There are many contributing factors - mental health, the national housing shortage, rising living costs, or simply an inability to find appropriate accommodation. Some may also choose to live this way. Regardless of the reason, I encourage everyone to approach this issue with compassion. Police and Council do not have the authority to move people on, and I ask that we all remember to be grateful for the roof over our own heads and extend kindness to those less fortunate.Another frequent topic raised with Council is the need for improved transport between Ayr and Home Hill. I want to assure residents that Council has explored multiple options over the years, and I have also raised this issue during my term as Mayor. However, without additional government funding, expanding current services remains unfeasible. For the existing route to become viable, government assistance is essential.On a brighter note, the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company's Debutante Ball once again proved to be a spectacular evening. Congratulations to all the debutantes and their partners. Events like these continue to showcase the incredible spirit within our community.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.

Council adopted its 2025/26 budget last week, and I’d like to thank all council staff for delivering a sensible and responsible outcome that reflects today’s economic climate.With just a 1.5% increase in general rates and only modest rises across water, sewerage and waste services, this budget strikes a careful balance. That Burdekin Shire Council can deliver such a low increase, well below the current CPI, while still meeting community expectations is a testament to our strong financial position. As a friend of mine likes to say: “Would you rather be paying interest, or earning it?”The increases to water, sewerage and waste charges were necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of these essential services. These areas are managed as separate business units within Council and are designed to operate on a cost-neutral basis, covering their own costs without generating profit.This approach is not only financially responsible, but fair. It ensures that people who don’t use these services aren’t paying for them. By keeping each service accountable for its own costs, we avoid placing additional pressure on general rates and protect ratepayers from cross-subsidisation. I hope this helps explain the increases a little better. Please remember, I am always willing to discuss this with the community. All Councillors’ contact details can be found on the Burdekin Shire Council website.

For most people the mention of the word budget prompts images of page after page of numbers and the need for a quick overview but, for one Burdekin student, last week’s state budget heralded a unique opportunity.

Ayr State High School’s Sophie Robertson was one of 47 high school students from across the state who got to witness the hustle and bustle of budget day firsthand at Parliament House in Brisbane before catching up with Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

“It’s great to see one of our local students provided with this opportunity because most people will never have the level of access that Sophie and other students enjoyed, especially on budget day,” Mr Last said. “From meeting the Premier to taking part in their own mock budget media lock-up and watching the delivery of the budget from the public gallery, it really is an all-access pass.”

“This is a new initiative that is designed to both educate and empower our future leaders.  The fact is that the decisions made during the budget process, and in parliament, have a direct effect on the state’s future and the younger generation deserve the opportunity to understand how and why those decisions are made.”

Sophie was joined by students from schools throughout regional Queensland including Longreach, Cloncurry, Chinchilla, Tara, Mount Isa, Mackay, Gladstone, Gympie, Sunshine Coast, Scenic Rim, and Brisbane.

The students engaged in interactive workshops, behind-the-scenes tours and watched the State Budget being delivered to gain a better understanding of the economy and how they can help shape Queensland’s future.

Premier David Crisafulli said this was an exciting opportunity for the students.
“From Far North to Western Queensland and throughout the South East, we wanted to give students from across the State the opportunity to learn how the Budget is developed and how it will improve the lives of Queenslanders.

"It was an honour to meet the students at Queensland Parliament to help them understand our Budget and the impact it will have, before they take what they learn back to school to share with their classmates.”

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the new initiative would help students gain valuable insights into the Budget process.  “Today’s students are tomorrow’s future leaders and it’s exciting to give them a behind-the-scenes look at the Budget,” he said.

Mr Last said the delivery of over $4.7 Million in infrastructure upgrades to schools in the Burdekin electorate illustrated the Crisafulli government’s commitment to education.

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