Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Not every business starts with a blueprint. For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one. Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business. But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare. Until he received a call. Then another… and another. Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded. With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck. And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper. “As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another… “Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’” His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years. He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third. By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics. That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars. Growing with the industry “I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk. Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow. It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader. “I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said. “You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.” Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry. With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology. He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself. “I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said. Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today. “I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said. “The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.” Doing it the right way Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught. Care. And he makes sure his staff do, too. “I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said. “So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’” When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension. When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said: “No.” “I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said. “My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.” With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way. As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.” Family and community at its heart For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club. Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company. “The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said. “The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.” Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force. “I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said. “But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything. “It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch. “She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.” Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing. As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages. “I still love what I do,” he said. “The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it. “I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years. “When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did. CAPTION: Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Read the full story
The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down. Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment. In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family. Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations. “Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said. “They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.” The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April. Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye. Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour. He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side. In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations. Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family. “(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said. “It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.” Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link CAPTION: Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
Read the full story
The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget. The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model. This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations. Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery. "This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said. "Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal. "During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks. Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain." Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines. "The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said. "Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work. By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons. "It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time. “This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election. "This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.” Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox CAPTION: FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
Read the full story
"As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard. Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community. “Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said. “I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.” Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives. “A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said. “If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.” Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review"
Read the full story
The Fund aligns with Primary Industries Prosper 2050, Queensland’s 25-year blueprint to build a better future for primary industries, and its goal to boost primary production output to $30 billion by 2030. Photo source: QIC
The Government has unveiled a $30 million fund aimed at accelerating agricultural innovation across Queensland, as part of a broader push to grow the State’s primary industries sector to $30 billion by 2030.
The Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund will support agri-innovators developing cutting-edge technology for on-farm use, with a focus on boosting productivity, profitability and sustainability. Delivered in partnership with the Queensland Investment Corporation, the fund is expected to fast-track new technologies from concept to application while attracting private investment.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader economic agenda, positioning innovation as a key driver of long-term competitiveness, while also being framed against claims the sector experienced declining support over the past decade.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said innovation would be critical to the future of farming.
"Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund is a game changer for the future of farming because it will deliver the next generation of AgTech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability,” he said.
“We’ve heard loud and clear from industry there’s no shortage of innovation in Queensland, but what’s needed is stronger commercialisation pathways, and greater investment in practical technologies and this election commitment delivers that."
Treasurer David Janetzki said the fund would strengthen value chains and support long-term growth.
“These targeted investments will not only strengthen Queensland’s primary industry value chains but also position our State's long-term success including global recognition for its practical innovation,” he said.
Industry groups have welcomed the move, with Queensland Farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard stressing the importance of getting innovation onto farms quickly.
“It’s critical that we move practical innovations out of the lab and into the paddock, where they can deliver real productivity gains for Queensland producers,” Ms Sheppard said.
Businesses can submit expressions of interest through the Queensland Investment Corporation website, https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds.
I hope everyone enjoyed the recent long weekend celebrating Labour Day, an important opportunity to recognise the contribution of workers across our communities.
May also marks the official launch of Queensland Small Business Month 2026, and here in the Burdekin we are proud to celebrate the more than 508,000 small and family businesses across Queensland that form the backbone of our local and regional economies.
Small and family businesses are not just found in our central business areas — they operate right across our towns, rural communities and districts. Council acknowledges that the current economic environment is challenging for many operators, and Small Business Month is focused on providing free, practical advice and support to help businesses build resilience and identify new opportunities for the future.
I encourage local business owners to connect with their local Chambers of Commerce throughout May to learn more about the events, resources and support available.
Council also continues to invest in the safety and amenity of our town centres, with new security cameras recently installed along Queen Street, supporting community safety and crime prevention efforts.
In other positive news, I am pleased to acknowledge the completion of works at the Burdekin Theatre, which have been delivered on time and on budget. These upgrades ensure the theatre is ready to continue hosting performances, events and community activities into the future, and Council thanks all involved in delivering this project to a high standard.
Finally, I would like to wish all mothers, grandmothers and mother figures in our community a very Happy Mother’s Day. I hope you are able to enjoy the day surrounded by family, loved ones and appreciation for all that you do.
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.
Townsville and Abbot Point have been identified as key hubs for a state-led push to boost fuel self-sufficiency, with the State Government opening expressions of interest for new refining and storage projects.
Under the newly launched Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, the government is unlocking land at strategic ports to shield the state from global supply chain disruptions. The initiative is a cornerstone of the broader Queensland Fuel Security Plan, which aims to fast-track the ability to drill, refine, and store fuel locally.
Premier David Crisafulli said the program would provide relief for regional families and the commercial sector.
“We must restore our ability to drill, refine and store fuel right here in Queensland, so we are never again left at the mercy of global supply chains,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“More storage and refining fuel locally means it’s easier for families to fill up and small businesses to stay afloat amidst rising national cost pressures.”
The program includes a statewide audit of industrial land and a coordinated framework to streamline approvals for private investment. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the move would strengthen sovereign capability, noting that "being able to refine and store more fuel locally will further strengthen our sovereign capability."
Last Sunday, I attended the Breaking Barriers Event at the Memorial Hall. It was a wonderful afternoon, featuring inspirational speakers who shared powerful messages with an engaged audience. Each speaker drew on personal experience, covering topics including domestic violence, suicide, menopause, grief and dying, and mental health. Congratulations to everyone involved in organising the event, and I hope to see more opportunities like this in the future.
The Burdekin Domestic and Family Violence group will hold a DV Walk on 31 May at Plantation Park. Attendees are asked to arrive at 8:15am for a 9:00am start. The walk will proceed to Rossiter’s Hill and return, with the aim of raising public awareness of domestic violence and the importance of community action to prevent violence in the home and broader community. BCA, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Zonta, Police, and Burdekin Shire Council will support the morning’s activities, including kids’ arts and crafts and a free BBQ breakfast. Community members are encouraged to attend and wear purple to show support.
If you haven’t heard of it, here’s a great local initiative worth a mention: the Burdekin Men’s Shed.
It’s all about supporting men’s health and wellbeing—physically, socially and emotionally—by helping blokes stay connected and supported right here in the Burdekin.
The Burdekin Men’s Shed is a not-for-profit group that started in June 2011, and it was officially opened in November 2012. The Shed is located at 155–157 Young Street, Ayr. It’s a friendly place where men of all ages can pop in for a yarn and a cuppa, make new mates, share skills, learn something new, and feel part of the community. The Shed also helps connect members with men’s health information and local support services, and plays an important role in reducing isolation, loneliness and depression.
There’s plenty on offer at the Shed. Members have access to a large meeting and recreation room with a modern kitchen, storeroom, meeting area, TV/DVD lounge, book and magazine library, laptop and desktop computers, and a games area. There are also three workshops—woodcraft (Workshop 1), metalwork and welding (Workshop 2), and office and mechanical repairs (Workshop 3). They hold garage sales every two months from the large storage and showroom at the front of the building. Out the back, the veggie garden has seven raised beds that provide fresh produce for members.
“New members are always welcome”
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating following a fatal traffic crash in Barratta, north of Ayr, on the evening of 28 April.
Initial investigations indicate that at approximately 8.20pm, a motorcycle travelling north on the Bruce Highway collided with an Isuzu light truck.
The rider of the motorcycle, a 36-year-old Gayndah man, sustained critical injuries and was declared deceased at the scene.
The driver of the Isuzu, a 48-year-old Balnagowan man, was not physically injured and is assisting police with their inquiries.
Tuesday's crash marks the second fatal motorcycle crash in the Ayr area this year, following a collision in February involving a motorcycle and a Kia Sorento on Rutherford Street.
Both incidents come amid a rise in road fatalities across Queensland. As of 19 April, 95 people have died on Queensland roads in 2026, a 17.3 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the Barratta crash, or who has relevant CCTV or dashcam footage, to contact investigators.
Former Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens, Queensland Senator Susan McDonald, Burdekin Shire councillor Amanda Hall, and Northern Regional Chair of LNP Women Jean McCubben. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
A proposal to establish a Burdekin Liberal National Party (LNP) Women’s branch has garnered strong community interest following an information meeting held last weekend at the Home Hill Community Sports Club.
If formed, the branch would connect local women with the wider LNP Women’s network and provide a platform for discussing regional issues with party representatives and policymakers.
Queensland Senator Susan McDonald, who attended the meeting as a guest speaker, said the initiative would ensure local voices are better represented.
“This is a chance to speak with a voice that is practical and grounded in the Burdekin community,” she said.
The meeting, led by Burdekin Shire councillor Amanda Hall, also featured addresses from former Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens, former Burdekin Shire Youth Council mayor Nicole Cervoni, and Northern Regional Chair of LNP Women Jean McCubben, who is leading the push for the branch.
Ms McCubben, a Home Hill local, said the branch aims to increase the region's influence on state and federal levels.
“People in smaller country towns don’t realise the power they’ve got. Just because they’re small, doesn’t mean they have to be quiet,” she said.
“This branch is to tell locals that they belong, and they have just as much say as someone who lives in Brisbane.”
The Burdekin is part of a broader expansion of women’s branches across North Queensland that has already seen the formation of a branch in Mackay.
Ms McCubben said the branch would give local women a direct pathway to influence policy, with issues raised at branch level progressing to party conventions, where they are debated and voted on before being put to government representatives.
She said the branch will also create a pathway for women to step into leadership roles within the party.
“The women are the workers, they’re the engine, they’re the grunt work,” she said.
“You look at Rosemary [Menkens], and at people like Susan [McDonald]—she’s from Cloncurry, and now she’s in the senate in Canberra. We want more of them.”
Organisers will now submit an application to the state executive for formal approval.
Ms McCubben said that pending approval from the state executive, an inaugural AGM would be held to appoint office bearers and formally establish the branch.
She said the group would then engage with the local community to identify key issues and set its priorities moving forward.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed a $30 million boost to on-farm technology under the launch of the Crisafulli Government’s Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund.
Commercially viable innovation with the aim of improving productivity, resilience and profitability across Queensland’s primary industries will be supported under the new fund as the Crisafulli Government works towards the ambitious target of increasing the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030.
Mr Last said the fund provided an opportunity for Burdekin’s agricultural sector to bring their innovative ideas to life.
“The Burdekin’s agriculture sector has been at the forefront of innovation particularly in our sugar cane and horticulture industry and the benefits of that innovation flow into communities like Ayr and Home Hill,” Mr Last said.
“We know when our agricultural sector is operating efficiently and productively, we see that investment flow right through to our small businesses and community groups which is why the Crisafulli Government is backing our farmers to not grow, not just now but into the future.”
“By investing in innovation in this state we are able to strengthen commercialisation pathways and build platforms for practical technologies that make a real difference at the farm gate and ultimately the Queensland economy.”
Mr Last said the Sowing the Seeds of Farming was a game changer for the future of farming in its ability to drive and deliver the next generation of Ag Tech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability.
“Whether it is improving the efficiency of on farm practices, providing safer workplaces or embracing technology, our farmers have a global reputation for remaining at the cutting edge of production and exports,” Mr Last said.
“I’m proud to back the Crisafulli Government’s initiative to improve productivity, resilience and profitability across Queensland’s primary industries, while helping to attract additional private investment.
Businesses interested in exploring how the fund can support its growth can provide information via the QIC website for review: https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds
Wunjunga Beach is set for a $100,000 clean up more than a year after record-breaking floods left the coastline littered with debris. Photos supplied by Burdekin Shire Council
Wunjunga Beach is set for a $100,000 clean up more than a year after record-breaking floods left the coastline littered with debris.
The funding, announced last week, is part of a joint State and Federal Government package aimed at revitalising North and Far North Queensland communities hit by the January 2025 tropical low.
Burdekin Shire Council will use the funds to hire contractors to remove and dispose of exposed debris—including fallen trees, large trunks, scattered rock and rubble—that has remained on the beach since the floods.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said addressing Wunjunga was “essential,” citing safety risks posed by the “significant volume” of exposed debris at the popular tourist spot.
“Wunjunga Beach is a popular destination for locals and travellers, particularly given its accessibility from the Bruce Highway,” she said.
“Restoring the beach to a safe and natural condition supports ongoing recreational use and enhances the visitor experience, which in turn contributes positively to tourism across the Burdekin.”
Jointly funded by state and federal governments under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the project is expected to be completed well before the approved program deadline of 31 March 2027.
Mayor Dalle Cort said coastal areas like Wunjunga play a vital role in community wellbeing and environmental health.
“Maintaining these sites in good condition helps protect natural values … and allows residents and visitors to safely enjoy our unique coastal environments.”
The Wunjunga Beach clean-up is one of 30 new projects between Cape York and Winton funded by the DRFA Clean Up and Local Conversation Grants.
Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the projects will bolster tourism and restore natural habitats for local wildlife.
“These projects aim to promote healthy and resilient ecosystems, from removing debris and stabilising riverbanks, to controlling invasive species and planting native trees,” Powell said.
“We’re also supporting the restoration of key habitat for wildlife such as cassowaries and turtles, protecting these species for future generations.
“In doing so, we’re not only supporting a healthy environment; we’re also supporting local tourism.”
Start dates for the Wunjunga Beach clean-up will follow funding approval and depend on weather and tidal conditions.
A simple act of kindness at a local drive-through has sparked smiles. Photo source: Shutterstock
Small acts of kindness are continuing to brighten days across the Burdekin Shire, with residents sharing heartwarming moments that show the power of community spirit.
In one recent example shared online over the long weekend through a private group, a resident anonymously expressed their gratitude after a simple but meaningful gesture at a drive-through.
“I just want to say thank you to the gentleman in front of me in a work vehicle this morning [Monday 4th May] at Macca’s drive through for paying for my order it was truly a blessing,” they wrote.
While the moment may seem small, it reflects a growing trend of everyday generosity being shared across the region, from helping hands to thoughtful surprises.
As these stories continue to surface, they serve as a reminder that even the simplest acts can make a lasting impact, strengthening the sense of connection within the community.
Operations manager Brandon Blakelock (left) and Burdekin area manager Andrew Cross (right) at the region’s first large-scale macadamia orchard in Horseshoe Lagoon. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin’s first large-scale macadamia orchard has delivered its first commercial harvest seven years after a bold break from cane, signalling a new path for local growers.
The switch, spearheaded in 2019 by Burdekin Area Manager of MH Premium Farms Andrew Cross, followed research identifying climatic similarities between the Burdekin and Bundaberg regions—the latter accounting for roughly 40 per cent of Australia’s macadamia production.
“We were trying a lot of alternatives to sugarcane to realise a bit of capital growth, and looked at macadamias for a while,” Cross said.
“We looked at Bundaberg and after a couple years of due diligence on environmental research, we realised the climates are just about a mirror-image.”
Planting began in 2021, with 8,000 macadamia trees spread across a 23-hectare orchard in Horseshoe Lagoon. After five years of negative cash flow, the current harvest has seen early yields average around five kilograms per tree.
Cross said early results had exceeded expectations, with the orchard now moving into full commercial production as yields increase across plantings in Horseshoe Lagoon and Brandon.
“I think it could definitely open the door to a new local industry, complementary to sugar,” he said.
“The existing (macadamia) land values in Bundaberg would be fourfold of what cane land is here in the Burdekin. We don't expect to realise that out here just yet… but any uptake in land valuation is certainly a big cherry.”
Cross said the seven-year process has been mostly smooth sailing, despite the switch being met with much local skepticism.
Macadamia trees have a known susceptibility to cyclones, making the Burdekin a historically risky location for mass investment in the crop.
Despite a few “sleepless nights” around this year’s Cyclone Koji scare, Cross said the team is “not worried.”
“Everyone obviously jumps straight to cyclone risks. We spent years in Bundaberg understanding the climatic and growing risks—we’re not worried,” he said.
“The cyclones the Burdekin’s had historically wouldn’t have been good, but wouldn’t have been devastating either. Even after Yasi and Larry up at Innisfail, there’s still macadamia orchards retaining there now.
“But if we get a severe cyclone, it’s going to be a mess. There’s no two ways about it.”
Cross said the project still had room for expansion, with further plantings underway as the operation scales across the Burdekin.
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition.
The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days.
Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.
Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries.
Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip.
At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547.
Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.”
“It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said.
“I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.”
The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston.
The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn.
“The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said.
“Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.”
She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.”
“I love a challenge," Thorburn said.
“Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.”
Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September.
“I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said.
“Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.”
Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.”
Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill.
As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers.
Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades.
“My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said.
“I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’”
Photos supplied
My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin.
Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin.
At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision.
Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin.
The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability.
Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience.
Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade.
At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift.
For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355.
Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
.jpg)
Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything.
Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace.
China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming.
We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students.
At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.”
The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply.
Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains.
I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix.
The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight.
Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security.
We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
Regional tourism operators have welcomed the Tourism Support Hub, describing it as a positive step toward easing pressure on small businesses navigating rising costs and complex government processes. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Just months after its launch, the Government’s Tourism Support Hub has surpassed 100 enquiries, marking an early milestone in its broader plan to reshape the state’s tourism future.
Developed under Queensland’s Destination 2045 initiative, the Tourism Support Hub has already drawn strong interest from Regional Tourism Organisations across the state, fielding enquiries spanning business development, agritourism, cultural tourism, national park permits and disaster recovery.
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Secretary, Kari Ravizza, and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Secretary Rob Antoniazzi have both welcomed the initiative, saying the Tourism Support Hub will make a meaningful difference to how small and regional businesses operate.
“To have a dedicated support officer offering step-by-step guidance sounds fantastic and would be welcome in all small business industries,” she said.
Mrs Ravizza said she hopes businesses take full advantage of the Tourism Support Hub, noting that any government support specifically targeting regional areas is a positive step forward.
“Regional businesses often operate with limited resources and wear multiple hats. Support navigating government processes would be beneficial,” she said.
It is no secret the business community is struggling through a period of ongoing uncertainty, with both Mrs Ravizza and Mr Antoniazzi pointing to mounting economic pressures. Cost-of-living impacts are reducing discretionary spending and affecting visitor numbers, while rising fuel and transport costs are making travel less affordable for tourists and increasing operating expenses for businesses. At the same time, operators are working to rebuild resilience after recent weather events, all against a backdrop of continued economic uncertainty and a noticeable decline in travellers stopping in the region.
“Smaller and family-run operators can easily be overlooked or may not have the capacity to actively seek out support. There can also be barriers around awareness, time, and confidence in engaging with government programs,” said Mrs Ravizza.
“The Tourism Support Hub is a step in the right direction, particularly with its personalised approach, but continued promotion and outreach are essential to ensure these businesses know the support exists and feel encouraged to use it.”
In 2025, a record 2.4 million international visitors injected $7.5 billion into Queensland’s economy, with total visitor expenditure soaring to $44.3 billion, equivalent to $121.5 million every day.
Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Natassia Wheeler, said the Tourism Support Hub was helping to build a stronger, more resilient tourism industry.
“Access to clear, practical support is critical for tourism operators, particularly in the current operating environment,” Ms Wheeler said.
“The Tourism Support Hub is playing an important role in helping businesses navigate processes and connect with the right information when they need it.”
Tourism operators can find more information on the Tourism Support Hub at www.qld.gov.au/tourismsupporthub, or contact the team directly on 07 3101 2002 or via email at tourismsupporthub@detsi.qld.gov.au.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
