The Coalition will strongly oppose any move by the Albanese Government to increase the size of the Australian Parliament; warning it would come at significant cost to taxpayers at a time Australians are already under severe financial pressure.

Analysis from the Parliamentary Budget Office shows that expanding the Parliament could cost taxpayers more than $620 million, including salaries, staff, travel, and office costs. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the proposal is a direct threat to the representation of regional Queensland.

Leader of the Opposition, Angus Taylor, said the Government had its priorities completely wrong.

“At a time when Australian families are tightening their belts, the last thing they should be asked to fund is more politicians,” Mr Taylor said.  

“This is a Government that cannot manage the economy, cannot control spending, and now wants to make Australians pay for a bigger Parliament. This is more spending, more bureaucracy, and more pressure on the budget at exactly the wrong time.”

Leader of The Nationals, Matt Canavan, said the proposal showed how out of touch the Government had become.

“People in regional Australia are doing it tough. They are paying more for fuel, groceries, and power,” Senator Canavan said.

“They do not want more politicians in Canberra; they want practical help with the cost of living.  

“This Government is focused on itself; the Coalition is focused on Australians.”

Mr Willcox said that increasing the number of seats would further diminish the voices of regions like Dawson by shifting the balance of power toward the major cities.

“This is a calculated Labor tactic to stack the deck in their favour.

“By adding more seats to urban areas with high levels of immigration and a heavy reliance on government services, they are effectively diluting the voting power of our regions,” Mr Willcox said.

“More seats in the cities means more voting power for urban centres, and that diminishes the voices of our farmers, miners, and regional small business owners.  

“This city-centric ideology is already strangling the country, it will be detrimental to an Australian-made future.”

As the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Mr Willcox warned that the move would erode the national identity.

“Our sovereign capability relies on a strong, independent regional Australia.

“The more we pander to imported ideologies and urban-focused agendas, the more we lose our national identity.

“The Coalition will always back our regions and fight to ensure that Dawson is not left behind by Labor’s bureaucratic expansion.”

Caption: Andrew Willcox MP says making room for 28 additional politicians in Parliament won’t be as easy as simply dismantling and rebuilding this impressive LEGO model of Parliament House, which is on display inside Canberra’s Parliament House. Photo supplied

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Major safety upgrades along Queensland’s Bruce Highway are continuing to gather pace, with 22 new contracts released under the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program.

The latest package includes five construction procurement and 17 design contracts, covering key sections of the highway between Gympie and Cairns. Works will deliver more than 100 kilometres of wide centre line treatments, 50 kilometres of pavement strengthening and overtaking lanes, and five narrow bridge upgrades in North Queensland.

The program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis, is already underway, with eight projects completed, 17 in progress and a further 13 construction projects set to roll out in 2026.

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Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the latest contracts marked significant progress.

“This latest activity signals significant progress in delivering the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program,” Minister King said.

“The Australian Government is proud to be funding 80 per cent of this $9 billion program, because improving safety on the Bruce Highway will help save lives and support the communities and industries that rely on this critical route.”

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Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the State Government was focused on delivering safer roads.

“The Government is getting on with the job of delivering safer roads for Queensland,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“We’re keeping the momentum up with 22 new contracts moving to market to boost safety along the Bruce Highway.

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“We told Queenslanders we are committed to fixing the Bruce and works are already making a real difference for motorists, regional communities and freight operators between Gympie and Cairns."

Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm said the investment would benefit communities along the entire corridor.

“The Government is delivering record investment to build a better Bruce Highway for Queenslanders,” Senator Chisholm said.

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“From here in Burdekin and all the way up to Cairns, we are accelerating the delivery of intersection upgrades, rest area improvements, wide centre line treatments and pavement strengthening.

“These works will make a real difference for drivers, freight operators and regional Queenslanders, and form part of a long-term pipeline of upgrades that will squarely benefit the people who live here.”

Assistant Minister for Northern Australia Nita Green said the upgrades were critical for regional connectivity.

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“Regional Queenslanders know just how critical the Bruce Highway is for connecting our communities, supporting our industries and getting people home – these upgrades will help ensure safety,” Senator Green said.

“The Government is connecting and protecting the Queenslanders who drive the Bruce every day.”

State Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the investment was focused on regional needs.

“With every dollar in this program invested outside the South East Corner, we are building the infrastructure regional Queensland needs to support our growing population,” Mr Last said.

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“We said we would deliver an upgraded Bruce Highway in an 80:20 split with the Commonwealth, and we are getting on with delivering it.”

State Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the upgrades would improve safety for all road users.

“These upgrades represent a major boost for North Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.

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“Strengthening the Bruce Highway means safer trips for locals and visitors alike, and it’s great to see real investment backing the growth of our region and helping keep people safe.”

Contractors are expected to be appointed progressively from April 2026, with construction to follow as the program continues to expand.

CAPTION: The $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program will deliver major safety upgrades along Queensland’s Bruce Highway. Photo supplied.

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Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has called on the Federal Government to fast-track approvals for a major new oil development in Queensland, describing it as a “generational opportunity” to strengthen Australia’s fuel security.

Speaking from the Taroom Trough, the first oil field developed in Australia in half a century, the Premier said the project would play a critical role in reducing the nation’s reliance on overseas fuel supplies.

“National fuel security is about drilling, refining and storing fuel locally,” Mr Crisafulli said.  

“We’re determined to lead the country and make it happen.”

The Queensland Government has moved to accelerate the project through a newly established Taroom Trough Development Plan, aimed at streamlining approvals and cutting delays.

Mr Crisafulli said the state was now urging Canberra to match that approach by placing the project under the National Interest Fast-Track Assessment Pathway.

“We’re asking for it to be assessed under the National Interest Fast-Track Assessment Pathway to remove duplicated approvals and get fuel flowing to Australians quicker,” he said.

The Premier framed the development as a strategic necessity amid growing global uncertainty, warning Australia risks falling behind if it fails to act.

“This is a generational opportunity to ensure we’re not left at the end of a global supply chain,” he said.

If approved, the Taroom Trough project is expected to mark a significant shift in Australia’s domestic energy production, with the potential to bolster both economic growth and national resilience.

CAPTION: Premier David Crisafulli at Taroom Trough in South East Queensland on Wednesday. Photo supplied

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A simple act of kindness on Margaret Street has left a sweet impression on the local community, and it all started with an abundance of lemons.

Last week, a resident took it upon themselves to share the surplus from their backyard tree, placing a box of fresh lemons out the front of their home for passersby to take freely.

The small gesture quickly caught the attention of locals, with many taking to social media to express their appreciation for the thoughtful act.

“Great gesture, waste not want not,” one resident wrote online.

In a time where cost of living pressures continue to bite, the humble box of lemons served as a reminder of the power of community spirit, and how even the smallest acts can brighten someone’s day.

Sometimes, it really is as simple as sharing what you have.

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CAPTION: A vibrant moment of connection, generosity and neighbourly care blossomed on Margaret Street last week. Photo source: Shutterstock

Calls to strengthen Australia’s fuel security are gaining momentum, with Kennedy MP Bob Katter urging the Federal Government to invest in ethanol production as a way to support rural industries, including those in the Burdekin.

Mr Katter joined crossbench MPs from across the country to push for a suite of measures aimed at reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel, including expanding the use of domestically produced biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel.

For agricultural regions like the Burdekin, one of Australia’s key sugar-producing areas, ethanol presents a potential opportunity to add value to locally grown crops while strengthening fuel independence.

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“For decades, governments have avoided the enforcement of meagre state mandates for Australian made biofuels and – unlike most other countries – have failed to implement a national mandate to secure our renewable supply of ethanol-blended petrol,” Mr Katter said.

He said Australia’s strong grain and sugar production base positioned the country to play a much larger role in biofuel manufacturing.

“The biggest oil crisis the world has ever seen impels the immediate enforcement, in full, of existing ethanol and biodiesel mandates in Queensland and New South Wales – along with urgent expansion to 10 per cent ethanol-blended petrol nationally – to ensure we use all that we grow in thriving regional industries, whilst reducing our dangerous reliance on dirtier, imported fuels that cost Australians dearly to deliver super-profits to our foreign overlords.”

Mr Katter also questioned why more action had not been taken, given ethanol’s current and potential contribution to national fuel supply.

“Ethanol can right now supply three per cent of Australia's demand. Additionally, four of the recently closed refineries can easily be recommissioned. Why, on these three obvious initiatives, has the Government done nothing?”

While the Federal Government has acknowledged locally produced fuel as part of its broader strategy, no firm commitment has yet been made on a national ethanol mandate.

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Australia’s sugar industry has strongly criticised the outcome of the Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement, with CANEGROWERS warning the deal fails to deliver meaningful benefits for cane farmers.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan described the agreement as a major setback for the industry, particularly for growers across Queensland.

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“This is a horrendous outcome for Australia’s cane growers,” Mr Galligan said.

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“For the past decade we have made our needs abundantly clear to the Australian Government and they have not delivered. There is no meaningful commercial access for sugar in this deal.

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“The market access Australia has achieved is extremely small – less than 2% of Europe’s import requirement and well below what Brazil and its Mercosur partners secured last year, which was around four times larger than Australia’s outcome.”

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Under the agreement, Australia will receive an additional 35,000 tonnes of sugar quota access over three years, adding to an existing allocation of 9,925 tonnes. However, Mr Galligan said the increase falls far short of what is needed to create real commercial opportunities.

“These volumes are not economically meaningful. They will not shift the dial for growers or materially change Australia’s position in the European market.

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“This is not what genuine market access looks like.”

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He also criticised the lack of long-term growth opportunities within the agreement.

“Compounding this, the agreement delivers no growth, no pathway to expand access and effectively locks growers into a bad deal for the next generation.

“It’s a capitulation to protectionist European sugar interests, plain and simple.”

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Mr Galligan said the outcome was particularly disappointing given Europe’s reliance on imported sugar.

“The EU is a net importer of sugar and must bring in significant volumes each year to meet domestic demand.

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“Australia can help meet that demand with high-quality, sustainably produced sugar, but instead we have been locked out.”

He added that the deal does little to address the challenges faced by Australian producers, particularly exposure to volatile global prices.

“This deal does nothing to change that position.

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“We support trade liberalisation, but it has to be meaningful. Growers need outcomes that create genuine opportunity, not agreements that deliver nothing now and take us backwards when it comes to trade liberalisation.”

CANEGROWERS said it will continue to review the full details of the agreement while advocating for improved global market access and fairer trading conditions for Australia’s sugar industry.

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*Stock image from https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-spoonful-of-sugar-11477544/

Students from the geoscience faculty at James Cook University (JCU) recently headed to the Burdekin River for a hands-on field trip, gaining real-world experience studying the region’s unique geology.

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The group spent the day examining igneous intrusions and striking magma mingling textures, with conditions requiring them to quite literally get their feet wet.

“We had to get our feet wet this year but it was another fantastic geology field trip to the Burdekin River to look at igneous intrusions and spectacular magma mingling textures,” said JCU Senior Lecturer in Geoscience, Helen McCoy-West.

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Staff and students described the excursion as a valuable learning experience, offering the opportunity to see geological processes up close while exploring one of North Queensland’s key natural features.

“Thank you to the staff and students for a great day out!”

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Primary producers across the Burdekin are set to benefit from a new climate tool designed to better predict the end of the northern wet season.

Developed through the Northern Australia Climate Program, the Northern Rainfall Retreat (NRR) tool identifies the date of the last significant rainfall before the wet season ends—critical information for farmers managing livestock and crops.

The timing of late-season rain can have a major impact on agricultural operations, influencing mustering, livestock transport, stocking rates and crop harvesting. Unseasonal rainfall events can also disrupt harvests, damage infrastructure and affect herd numbers if conditions become extreme.

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The tool uses historical rainfall data and climate modelling to pinpoint when rainfall typically “retreats” at a specific location. By analysing cumulative rainfall anomalies from the start of the year, it determines the point when rainfall peaks before transitioning into the dry season.

Local natural resource management group NQ Dry Tropics is one of several organisations involved in delivering the program, alongside partners including the University of Southern Queensland and the Bureau of Meteorology.

The broader program focuses on helping the red meat industry manage drought and climate risk across northern Australia. For Burdekin producers, the NRR tool offers a practical way to reduce uncertainty and make more informed decisions as the region transitions out of the wet season.

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Small businesses and community organisations across the Burdekin can now access increased financial support following recent severe weather events, with disaster recovery grants boosted to up to $50,000.

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The expanded Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, administered by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority, are available to those directly impacted by the Queensland monsoon trough, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather from 24 December 2025.

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The funding increase doubles the previous maximum of $25,000 and has also been extended to include non-profit organisations, alongside small businesses.

The grants are designed to assist with clean-up and reinstatement costs, including purchasing equipment and materials, hiring tradespeople for safety inspections, and disposing of debris or damaged goods.

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Eligible applicants can either apply for an initial payment of up to $5,000 with proof of damage, before claiming further reimbursements as recovery progresses, or submit a single application for expenses up to the full $50,000 with evidence of completed works.

The Burdekin is among a number of local government areas included in the funding rollout, reflecting the widespread impact of recent weather events on regional communities and industries.

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Applications remain open until 15 January 2027, giving affected businesses and organisations time to complete recovery works and submit claims.

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QRIDA is also offering one-on-one support through its Connect service, with regional staff available to guide applicants through the process online or over the phone.

The grants form part of the jointly funded Commonwealth and Queensland Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, aimed at helping regional communities rebuild and recover.

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Two students from Burdekin Christian College are helping shape the future of youth leadership in the region, following their election to key positions on the 2026 Burdekin Shire Youth Council Executive.

William Wiseman has been named Youth Mayor, stepping into the top role after four years of dedicated service on the Youth Council. His appointment follows a steady rise through the ranks, having served as Deputy Youth Mayor in 2025. Known for his consistent commitment to community involvement, William’s election reflects both his experience and leadership within the group.

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Joining him is fellow Burdekin Christian College student Alicia Jansen Van Rensburg, who has been elected Deputy Youth Mayor. Despite being a relatively new face in the Burdekin after relocating from New Zealand, Alicia has quickly immersed herself in the local community and made a strong impression through her contributions to the Youth Council.

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A Burdekin Christian College spokesperson praised both students, describing William as “an incredibly responsible and civic-minded” young leader and “a role model for those around him.”  

“William is a role model for those around him and we know he will focus on doing good for the youth of the Burdekin,” they said.

Alicia was similarly recognised for “stepping up to take on this new role of responsibility.”

“With the future of the Burdekin youth in her hands we know it is safe! BCC is so proud,” the spokesperson said.

While the spotlight falls on the two BCC students, the executive team is rounded out by Secretary Jorda Quagliata of Ayr State High School, whose five years of experience on the Youth Council will provide valuable support behind the scenes.

Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort congratulated the newly elected executive, highlighting the importance of youth leadership in the region.

“Our Youth Council continues to demonstrate the passion, leadership and commitment of young people in the Burdekin,” she said.

With two of the three executive roles now held by Burdekin Christian College students, the school has reason to be proud in its students, who not just participate in community life, but actively helping lead it.

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At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, banking is built on something deeper than numbers – it’s about people, trust, and being part of life’s biggest and smallest moments. For Personal Bankers Sally and Chris, their roles are not just about financial services, but about helping locals move forward with confidence.

Born and raised in Home Hill, Sally has a deep connection to the Burdekin community she proudly serves. Now in her sixth year with the bank, she brings both professional experience and genuine local understanding to every customer interaction.

For Sally, the most rewarding part of her role is being part of people’s milestones. “Whether it’s buying their first car, renovating their home, or planning a dream holiday, it’s a privilege to be part of their journey,” she says. It’s this sense of shared excitement and achievement that makes her role more than just a job.

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Outside of work, Sally enjoys spending time with her husband Kent and their two children, Riley and Indiana, often escaping to their family holiday home at Cape Upstart. It’s a balance that reflects her strong focus on family and community – values she also sees reflected across the Burdekin.  

“There’s a real sense of unity here. People genuinely support each other, especially in times of need.”

Alongside Sally is Chris, who brings two decades of experience to her role as a Personal Banker, having started with the Community Bank in 2005.  

Born & raised in the Burdekin returning to the area 25 years ago, Chris has built lasting relationships with customers over the years, many of whom she has supported through different stages of their financial lives.

Chris shares a similar passion for helping customers achieve their goals.

“It could be a personal loan for a new car or simply reviewing their banking to better suit their needs – it’s about making sure they’re in the best position possible,” she explains.

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Outside the branch, Chris enjoys creative pursuits including painting, puzzles, and her involvement with the Home Hill Choral Society – another example of the strong community spirit that defines the region.

For both Sally and Chris, the Burdekin’s greatest strength lies in its people. From everyday support to coming together during natural disasters, it’s a community built on resilience, connection and care.

At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, it’s this local understanding – combined with genuine care – that continues to make a difference in the lives of customers every day.

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Former Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) CEO and current Powerlink Chair Craig Doyle has joined Queensland bioenergy player SKY Renewables as Senior Advisor.

With projects planned for North Queensland and the Central Highlands Region, Mr Doyle’s arrival flags an exciting development in SKY Renewables’ corporate leadership expertise.

Across a career spanning both government and industry, Mr Doyle has played a central role in major projects across northern Australia.

His work with NAIF saw billions of dollars of investment into strategic infrastructure projects across the north.

His experience will provide valuable insight to SKY Renewables.

Founder and CEO of SKY Renewables, Simon Yim, welcomed a leader of Mr Doyle’s calibre already joining a high-powered core team.

“Craig brings to our team extensive networks in business, government and the community”, said Mr Yim.

“His experience will be invaluable as we move from feasibility and planning towards project delivery”.

Mr Yim said the company’s projects in Queensland aim to strengthen regional economies while supporting the transition to lower-emissions fuels, particularly through the development of sustainable aviation fuel and other renewable energy products linked to the agricultural sector.

“SKY Renewables has been working closely with primary producers and industry stakeholders to explore opportunities to convert agricultural residues into high-value renewable fuels”, said Mr Yim.

Mr Doyle said he was excited to join SKY Renewables as it proceeds with its Queensland projects.

“SKY Renewables has done the hard yards since 2018, and stands alone in the sector by directly connecting primary producers with biofuels consumers”, Mr Doyle said.

“I’m thrilled to be joining a company that adds value to Queensland’s agricultural sector and is a first mover in producing sustainable aviation fuel right here in North Queensland.”

In addition to his roles at NAIF and Powerlink, Mr Doyle has senior leadership experience at Gladstone Ports Corporation, Mackay Regional Council and Wilmar International.

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*Stock image from https://www.pexels.com/photo/landscape-of-a-wind-farm-15268778/

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Applications are now open for Pacific Blue’s Sustainable Communities fund. Begun in 2019, the scheme invests in community initiatives supporting wellbeing, education, and sustainability.

Interested parties have until April 30^th to submit their application, with community groups across Ayr, Brandon, Clare, Dalbeg, Giru, Home Hill, and Millaroo invited to apply for grants of up to $10,000.

Over 20 years, Pacific Blue has invested more than $6 million into community-led projects across the country, including over $500k right here in the Burdekin.

Recent recipients include the Burdekin Amateur Basketball Association, which received funding for new grandstand seating, and the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club, which upgraded its first aid and office facilities. The Zonta Club also benefited from new technology to support their vital community work.

Domenic Capomolla, CEO of Pacific Blue, highlighted the fund as a way to give back to the community that plays a vital role in Australia’s renewable energy transition.  

"We are proud to see the positive impact it brings to the Burdekin region.” He said.

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“The fund channels the benefits of our solar farm into projects that create lasting social, environmental, and economic outcomes for the regions that support our transition to renewable energy.”

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Interested organisations are encouraged to review the Community Fund Guidelines to ensure their application aligns with the fund's criteria.

For more details or to submit an application, visit pacificblue.com.au

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Recycling is something we should all take more seriously. While it may seem minor, what goes into the bin has a real cost to Council and, ultimately, to our community. Contamination increases processing costs and places an unnecessary burden on ratepayers. A small change in thinking can make a big difference.

As we approach Easter, I would like to spare a thought for communities in the North who are experiencing the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Narelle. Cyclones and heavy rainfall often result in road closures, which means supplies can be delayed or cut off altogether. For many children in those communities, something as simple as receiving Easter eggs may not be guaranteed, and Easter may look a little different for them this year.

Easter remains the most significant celebration in the Christian calendar and is also a time of reflection, family and generosity. If you are in a position to do so, please consider showing kindness and understanding to those who may be doing it tough this holiday period.

With school holidays now underway, many families will be travelling to their favourite destinations or exploring somewhere new. Wherever you are heading, please travel safely, look after one another on the roads, and enjoy time with loved ones. I wish everyone across the Burdekin a safe and Happy Easter.

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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That was a great weekend! Once again the Canefield Ashes was upon us and it did not disappoint. I imagine that by now the chiropractors and physio’s have full waiting rooms. But it is worth it. Now in its 22nd year, this carnival continues to attract a bigger crowd, and it is always humbling to see how the volunteers all get behind still. All in honour to remember Eugene Pagotto with a game of cricket, a few drinks and a laugh. Well done to all that help bring this back every year. 

I also participated in the Home Hill golf clubs opening day. It was great to see good numbers there and the club also recognised two life members for their contributions in the club’s life. Well done and thanks to Geoff Todman and John Power for all you do for this club.

I hope everyone else had a good weekend and I wish you all a happy and safe Easter.

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