After my mates last month, it was my parents’ turn to pay me a visit in this beloved region I now call home—and it’s only when you’re showing guests around that you realise just how much you’ve come to know about a place.

Don’t get me wrong—I’m not claiming “local” status yet. But I’ve come a long way from the guy who first arrived here wondering why everything was closed on Sundays.

Mum and Dad liked what they saw. I took them up the mountain, down to Groper Creek for a bit of fishing, and then up to Townsville for the weekend. They were fascinated by the landscape and had nothing but kind words for everyone they met along the way. Let’s just say, they’re glad I’m in safe hands.

Their visit was a good reminder of what makes this place special—the people, the stories and the sense of belonging. And that’s what we try to capture in these pages each week.

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Time is running out to shine a spotlight on Queenslanders making an extraordinary impact in their communities, with nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards closing at 11.59pm on Thursday, the 31st of July.

The government is calling on locals across the State to nominate inspiring individuals for the prestigious national awards, which recognise everyday Australians doing remarkable work across four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over), Young Australian of the Year (16 to 30 years), and Australia’s Local Hero.

“This is about recognising those heroes who quietly go about making Queensland a better place to live, today and into the future,” Premier David Crisafulli said.

“The strength of our communities is the local champions who give back for the benefit of others, let’s celebrate their tireless contributions this Australia Day.”

In 2025, Queensland’s Senior Australian of the Year title went to Dr Bronwyn Herbert, who was honoured for her exceptional work in social services and homelessness research. Dr Herbert began her academic journey later in life, earning her Bachelor’s degree at 40, her Master’s at 61, and her PhD at the age of 90.

The annual Australian of the Year Awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge leadership, dedication, and acts of selflessness that shape a better future for all Australians.

To nominate a Queenslander who inspires you, visit www.australianoftheyear.org.au before midnight on the 31st of July.

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A 27‑year‑old Ayr woman is among three people charged after an armed robbery at a Bruce Highway rest stop in Cardwell on Saturday, 26 July.

Police allege that around 6.35pm, the trio–including a 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man and a 17‑year‑old Rasmussen boy–approached a white Hyundai Accent and demanded the 18‑year‑old German tourist driver hand over his keys, wallet and phone.

One of the group allegedly threatened the man with a firearm before ordering him out of the vehicle. The tourist complied and later alerted police.

The car was intercepted entering Townsville a short time later after a coordinated response involving the Tactical Crime Squad, Dog Squad and Polair.

The Ayr woman and the 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man have each been charged with two counts of armed robbery in company and are due appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 July. The 17‑year‑old boy faces the same charges and will appear in Townsville Children’s Court.

Investigations are ongoing.

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OPINION PIECE

The Albanese Labor Government has used its numbers in Parliament to block a proposed Senate Inquiry into the health and future of Australia’s metals manufacturing industry, without providing any explanation for the decision.

The Inquiry, moved by Nationals Senators Susan McDonald and Matt Canavan, was designed to investigate the looming crisis facing the sector, including key processing facilities Glencore’s Mount Isa and Townsville operations.

“These facilities underpin our local economies and are a vital part of Australia’s sovereign capability. Shutting them down would mean significant job losses and a massive blow to our national resilience,” Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

The rejection of the Inquiry comes despite Labor’s own Industry and Innovation Minister, Senator Tim Ayres, recently admitting the Mount Isa closure represents a “very significant economic problem”.

With billions of taxpayers’ funds committed to Labor-designed programs such as the Future Made in Australia plan, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the Critical Minerals Facility, and the National Reconstruction Fund, time will tell if these programs are tapped into to support these facilities and their workers.

“This government talks up a big game with its commitment to manufacturing, but when it’s time to act, they are nowhere to be seen,” said Mr Willcox.

“Workers, their families and our communities deserve answers and some certainty about their future. Blocking this inquiry sends the exact opposite message. When our metals manufacturing industry shuts down, countries like China and Indonesia fill the void.

“Labor’s decision to block this inquiry is deeply disappointing, but sadly it’s not surprising. For all their talk about building a ‘Future Made in Australia’, this is just more fluff and no substance,” Mr Willcox said.

Andrew Willcox

Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

Member for Dawson

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Helping You Achieve Financial Goals

When Ross Rickards opened Astute Ayr in January 2020, he brought with him over a decade of experience in banking and a stint managing insurance clients—background that gave him a clear vision of what a customer‑first financial service should look like.

Now, five years on, that vision has flourished into a bustling office that handles everything from home loans, equipment finance and commercial lending to Business, domestic and private health insurance services, all under the award‑winning Astute North Queensland banner.

Starting out solo, Rickards had to shoulder every task himself. Then, to pile on the pressure, COVID‑19 hit. “It was a big scare, but in hindsight it actually helped us,” he said, pointing to the rapid adoption of remote appointments and the property market surge that brought southern investors flocking to North Queensland.

Today, Astute Ayr boasts six full‑time staff, split evenly between home loans and insurance specialists. “I’m so lucky to have such an awesome team—they’re the backbone of my business and a big reason I love coming to work every day.”

The team prides itself on a customer-centric approach, driven by around-the-clock availability. “Our approach has always been customer‑first. If a client texts me on a weekend, I’ll call them back. Five minutes out of my day can stop someone stressing all weekend,” says Rickards.

A significant milestone came in August 2023, when Astute Ayr moved into its current home—the old TAB building off Queen Street. Rickards found humour in the contrast: “Instead of people walking in here to blow their money, they’re coming in and we’re helping them save money, put themselves in a better financial position, and achieve their dreams."

Astute Ayr remains proudly Burdekin‑based, but its reach extends nationwide, working with people Ross went to school with or played sport with and against from all across the country.

"We do loans for clients in WA, Brisbane, Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Melbourne. It’s something I absolutely love about what we do," says Rickards.

"If they ever have an insurance claim, we directly help them out with the process instead of dealing with call centres.”

For Rickards, the heart of the business lies in building these lasting relationships.

“We love helping people who’ve never been taught how to manage money. Seeing them come back a year or two later in a much better position—that’s the best part of what we do.”

With a focus on making finance & insurance simple and accessible, Rickards and his team continue to build strong relationships and support clients every step of the way as they work toward achieving their financial goals.

You can get in contact with the team on 07 4783 5229 or ayr@astutefinancial.com.au

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For Rickards, the heart of the business lies in building these lasting relationships. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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On 20 July 2025, surrounded by friends at the Alva Beach Tourist Caravan Park, Joan Mutton marked her 100th birthday the same way she has spent the past two decades of winters: in the Burdekin, fishing, quad‑biking and swapping stories at happy hour.

“We’ve been coming up here for the last 20 years,” Joan said. “A lot of these people that come up here, and also friends we have made in Home Hill and so forth, were all here to celebrate, and it was lovely.”

Born in Adelaide in 1925, Joan grew up in a time when electricity was just reaching the Adelaide Hills and cars were a new sight on the roads. At 16, during World War II, she joined the Australian Defence campaigns, kicking off a professional career of hard work and service.

She went on to study accountancy, run her own real estate business, manage a citrus orchard for more than a decade and help establish the West Beach SA Bendigo Community Bank, where she served as Administrative Secretary and a Board Member—“all voluntary, too,” she proudly added.

Adventurous by nature, Joan has made 21 overseas trips, from Scandinavia to Canada, but still calls her “gypsy life in the caravan” one of her happiest chapters. She credits staying active for her longevity: “I still do all the cooking—I’m pretty well self‑sufficient. Once you stop doing things, you can’t get it back.”

She even keeps up with technology, though she laughs at the pace of change: “You’re never too old to learn, but they do keep moving the goalposts!”

Family remains central: two daughters, four grandchildren and five great‑grandchildren, all waiting for another celebration when she returns to Adelaide.

Her secret to a century well‑lived? “Never give up, and you’re never too old to learn. You just keep on going—and be kind."

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The Burdekin continues to shine with celebrations of significance across our community. From Rotary marking 70 years of service, Burdekin Pottery celebrating 50 years of creativity, to the 100-year milestone of the Catholic Church in our region. We also applaud long-standing local businesses like Liesmann Plumbing, celebrating 55 years, and Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate, marking 60 years of operation. And next year, we’ll honour 100 years of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club.

Donations from the generosity of our community have collectively shaped the Burdekin into what it is today. It’s a community I believe we are all proud to be part of. We are truly fortunate to have had pioneers who worked tirelessly, volunteering their time and resources to bring their visions to life. Without their dedication and selflessness, we would not have treasured facilities like the Burdekin Theatre, our aged care centres, churches, and many other vital community spaces.

After attending the recent Voices of the Future event at Ayr State High School, I can confidently say: the future is in good hands. It was inspiring to see our youth speak with passion, purpose, and confidence qualities many of us never had the chance to develop so young.

From little things, big things truly do grow and the Burdekin is growing into something extraordinary.

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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Once again Burdekin didn’t disappoint last weekend.

The bagpipes were playing and competitors of various ages were enjoying the local highland dancing competition called ‘Sugarcane and Sword Dances’ at Burdekin Catholic High School’s Marcellan Centre. Competitors from Burdekin, Mossman, Mackay, Townsville and Brisbane took part. Fantastic to see the ‘Burdekin Youth Council’ members assisting with the canteen.

Burdekin Potters celebrated 50 years of ‘Creativity and Community’ at Plantation Park pottery. With hands on activities, demonstrations, giant birthday cake and the grandkids treasuring the pottery ‘Lucky Dip’. There was pottery activity going on all over the weekend. It was a tribute to the current and former members.

The talents of the Burdekin youth came to the fore Saturday afternoon/evening with Burdekin Catholic High School’s performance of Moana JR at the Burdekin Theatre. Engendering the youthful Burdekin talent is always tremendous to see. The Burdekin Theatre is a true treasure of forethought from previous council administration and the local community.

Hudsons Circus came to town at end of week/weekend at the Ayr Showgrounds and what tremendous entertainment it was. Small and Big kids alike enjoyed the variety and skill on display. It was a fine example of their team working together from one moment performing trapeze, to selling popcorn to performing heart-stopping balance acts and precision motor bike riding in the Globe of Steel.

Gospel Sunday afternoon/evening at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt was a great way to end the weekend with soulful singing, inspirational music and contemplative words of inspiration and challenge.

Some upcoming reminders about ‘Stand Up Sleep Out’ – youth against homelessness event at Burdekin Catholic High School Friday August 8. Burdekin Brass Band hit the Burdekin Theatre stage again at ‘Burdekin Brass Live’ Sunday August 10.

Makes me proud as a councillor to see community facilities being utilised throughout the shire. Non-toxic smoke testing of the sewer network and Flying Fox monitoring continues and animal registration renewals are due by end of today.

Great to see the ‘Cowboys’ men & women have wins

Health and happiness, Councillor John

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As the hazard reduction burn season ramps up across Queensland, local firefighters and energy providers are reminding landowners to take extra precautions when burning near power infrastructure.

Both Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire Department are urging property owners to be mindful of power poles and electrical equipment when conducting hazard reduction burns, which play a vital role in reducing vegetation and fire risk across rural areas.

Ergon Energy’s Corrine Young, who also serves as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, emphasised the potential dangers of uncontrolled burns near community electrical infrastructure.

“Power poles are a critical part of keeping our communities connected and any damage to these structures can lead to lengthy power outages and significant repair costs,” Ms Young said.

“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines pose a severe threat - they can cause serious injury or even be fatal to anyone or any animals that come into contact with them. Furthermore, out of control hazard reduction burns have been known to partially burn through poles, leaving them standing, only to fall over at a later date during high winds and other severe weather.

“To help protect these vital assets, we strongly recommend that before starting any hazard reduction burn, property owners clear at least five metres around all power poles and electrical equipment.”

Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones echoed the importance of preparation and caution when conducting planned burns.

“Before commencing a burn it’s important for landowners to be prepared by ensuring they have a permit and also have equipment such as hoses, water tanks, or fire extinguishers on hand should these be needed during an emergency,” Chief Officer Jones said.

“Landowners should clear their property and electricity infrastructure of any long grass, foliage and rubbish and never leave a planned burn unattended.”

“Always check the weather forecast before commencing any planned burn and postpone on windy days as conditions can change rapidly.”

“In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero and for more information about bushfire preparedness head to www.fire.qld.gov.au.”

Ergon and Energex also reminded property owners to take just as much care with privately owned property poles, which can also pose hazards and incur repair costs if damaged. For more information, visit www.energex.com.au/propertypoles.

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As the hazard reduction burn season ramps up across Queensland, local firefighters and energy providers are reminding landowners to take extra precautions when burning near power infrastructure.

Both Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire Department are urging property owners to be mindful of power poles and electrical equipment when conducting hazard reduction burns, which play a vital role in reducing vegetation and fire risk across rural areas.

Ergon Energy’s Corrine Young, who also serves as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, emphasised the potential dangers of uncontrolled burns near community electrical infrastructure.

“Power poles are a critical part of keeping our communities connected and any damage to these structures can lead to lengthy power outages and significant repair costs,” Ms Young said.

“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines pose a severe threat - they can cause serious injury or even be fatal to anyone or any animals that come into contact with them. Furthermore, out of control hazard reduction burns have been known to partially burn through poles, leaving them standing, only to fall over at a later date during high winds and other severe weather.

“To help protect these vital assets, we strongly recommend that before starting any hazard reduction burn, property owners clear at least five metres around all power poles and electrical equipment.”

Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones echoed the importance of preparation and caution when conducting planned burns.

“Before commencing a burn it’s important for landowners to be prepared by ensuring they have a permit and also have equipment such as hoses, water tanks, or fire extinguishers on hand should these be needed during an emergency,” Chief Officer Jones said.

“Landowners should clear their property and electricity infrastructure of any long grass, foliage and rubbish and never leave a planned burn unattended.”

“Always check the weather forecast before commencing any planned burn and postpone on windy days as conditions can change rapidly.”

“In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero and for more information about bushfire preparedness head to www.fire.qld.gov.au.”

Ergon and Energex also reminded property owners to take just as much care with privately owned property poles, which can also pose hazards and incur repair costs if damaged. For more information, visit www.energex.com.au/propertypoles.

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North Queensland’s ongoing flood recovery efforts have been boosted with the announcement of three new funding packages worth more than $77 million, with Burdekin residents now eligible for legal support under the expanded assistance.

The packages, jointly delivered by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), are designed to support recovery and boost resilience across flood-affected areas, including the Burdekin.

In particular, Burdekin residents and businesses severely impacted by the 2025 monsoonal flooding event are now eligible to access free legal assistance to help them navigate issues such as insurance claims, tenancy disputes, and property damage.

The three key recovery packages include:

$73 million Environmental Recovery Program – to restore catchments, coastlines, and national parks, and protect key natural and cultural sites;

$3.12 million Water and Sewerage Infrastructure Recovery Program – focused on repairs and disaster mitigation in Charters Towers;

$1.42 million Legal Assistance Relief – available to flood-affected residents and businesses in Burdekin and other impacted LGAs.

With these new packages, more than $507 million in DRFA support is now being delivered across North and Far North Queensland in response to the devastating North and Far North Tropical Low disaster earlier this year.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain said the scale of the disaster demanded a recovery effort just as significant.

“From the get-go we have stressed our unwavering support to all north Queenslanders impacted by this disaster,” Minister McBain said.

“We are committed to ongoing recovery efforts in the region and determined to see this work through - actions such as stabilising erosion, revegetating waterways, controlling weeds and pests, and biodiversity conservation will ensure we not only recover but are ready for the future.”

While the environmental package will be delivered across 40 LGAs including Burdekin, legal support is specifically being extended to residents in Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Townsville, Tablelands and Yarrabah.

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy also highlighted the importance of infrastructure restoration and the broader regional benefits of the new programs.

“Having safe and reliable water supply improves health and economic outcomes. It gives residents peace of mind, and businesses confidence,” Minister Leahy said.

“Charters Towers Regional Council will soon be able to manage their water and sewerage assets with certainty, and avoid any flood risks to the infrastructure.”

Local residents or businesses in the Burdekin seeking legal assistance as part of the new funding can find more details, along with further information on all current disaster recovery programs, at www.qra.qld.gov.au.

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On Friday, 25 July, the Salvation Army Family Store in Ayr officially shut its doors to the public, putting an end to its thirty-year spell of servicing the Burdekin.

The closure, ordered by the organisation’s head office in Brisbane, came as a shock to regular visitors—and especially to employees, who were notified of the decision just a few days prior.

“It’s a shame, because they don’t see the impact it has on the community,” said store manager Kieran MacElroy. “There’ve been a lot of people coming in and showing their support.”

But the dire news didn’t deter the store from showing out for the community one last time, hosting a massive sale and giving away most items for free as locals poured in.

For the store, it was one last opportunity to give back to the community that had supported them for the last three decades.

“We are very grateful for our customers,” said MacElroy. “We’ve made some great relationships. For a lot of locals, visiting was their weekly or daily thing.”

And although the Salvation Army’s doors are closing, MacElroy hopes that locals continue to support other charities in the region.

“We appreciate every donation—that’s what has kept us going. We encourage people to keep doing that with Lifeline and Vinnies,” said MacElroy.

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The Salvation Army Family Store in Ayr officially shut its doors to the public, putting an end to its thirty-year spell of servicing the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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After five years of steady growth, Explore Property Burdekin has opened the doors to its fully renovated new office in Ayr, moving just across Queen Street into a space that reflects its modern, service‑driven approach to real estate.

The new space—formerly Country Connection dress shop—has been rebuilt from the ground up with new flooring, upgraded air-conditioning, and a fresh, contemporary design. All work was completed by local tradespeople.

Director and Principal Kylie Lawson, a real estate professional since 2005 and the recent recipient of Explore Property’s prestigious ‘Person in the Arena’ award, says the new office is a testament to the strong support of the local community.

“We started with three staff, and now we’re a team of eight. We appreciate the support we have received over the last five years which has allowed our business to grow and expand.”

Kylie attributes the agency’s momentum to strong, customer-centric service and deep local knowledge.

“Being locals, we really understand the area, which helps us match people with the right homes," she says. "Even when people come from out of town, it’s exciting to show them just how much our community has to offer—often more than they expect.”

Explore Property Burdekin prides itself on its marketing resources, attention to detail, and close-knit team culture. As the business continues to expand, Kylie remains grateful to those who have helped make it possible.

“We appreciate your trust in our team—it’s our privilege to help turn your property goals into reality.”

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Explore Property Burdekin prides itself on its marketing resources, attention to detail, and close-knit team culture. Photo supplied

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One of the Burdekin Water Festival’s most beloved events of the past has been revived, and nominations are now open for the community to enter in the official 2025 Residential Garden Competition as sponsored by Nuttall’s Garden Centre.

Like numerous other festival favorites, the Residential Garden Competition was once a key part of the annual celebration, and the Burdekin Water Festival Commitee have already received plenty of positive feedback from locals.

The competition will see the community showcase their green thumbs across three categories including open garden / tropical garden, unit garden and new garden (under two years old). All home gardens within the Burdekin Shire where no professional gardeners are employed are eligible for the competition and all nomination forms can be found at Nuttall’s Garden Centre, McCathies Furniture Plus, ELA Solutions, Delta Cleaners or online at burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

Judging will take place on Saturday the 23rd and Sunday the 24th of August, and the winners will be announced at a wonderful Morning Tea event at Nuttall’s Garden Centre on Saturday the 31st of August from 10am onwards.

“We can’t wait to see what beautiful Burdekin gardens will be on show” shared Burdekin Water Festival’s Kari Ravizza.

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Representing The Burdekin Netball Association

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Charlotte Sgroi has always loved being part of a team, and supporting those around her, so when she was asked to represent the Burdekin Netball Association as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador, the decision was easy!

“I was honestly overwhelmed - in the best way - when I was invited to be the Junior Ambassador for the Burdekin Netball Association and I'm so thankful to Burdekin Netball for trusting in me and giving me this amazing opportunity,” shared Charlotte.

“I accepted the invitation to become a Junior Ambassador as I thought it would be a great opportunity to give back to the Burdekin Netball Association for everything netball has given to me by encouraging everyone to play netball; and to promote our friendly, inclusive and well organised association!”

Having loved the action of the sport for over four years now, 11-year-old Charlotte has represented her club across numerous competitions and trials, including in the most recent Burdekin Under 12 Representative Team. Actively involved in her school community, Charlotte also enjoys the spotlight, and has performed in the Burdekin Eisteddfod, sung at community events and loves sharing the stage with her Simply Dance, FC Caledonia and Perform Music peers.

Charlotte hopes to take advantage of each and every opportunity that comes her way over the next couple of months, and with so much to look forward to, she’s most excited to meet the residents Regis Aged Care Home at the festival’s upcoming event.

“I am also looking forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone and trying new things, making new friends and connections in our community; and to help out wherever I can - or as we say in netball, to be “here if you need!””

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Charlotte Sgroi will represent the Burdekin Netball Association as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)

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