It’s been quite a while since the Centre has contributed an article for the paper, and we have to say, we’ve really missed it! We're truly grateful for the chance to connect with everyone in this way.

What started three months ago as an initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness has blossomed into a lively gathering filled with stories and connections. Maddy Darley, the Centre’s Community Development Officer, has been instrumental in holding space for a monthly Community Cuppa morning. These gatherings are relaxed and informal, with no specific agenda other than simply enjoying each other’s company.

Maddy shares, “I’m so proud to be part of this community effort. It’s incredible to see how a simple idea has evolved into something truly special, nurtured by everyone’s stories and contributions. Each person adds their unique touch, and it’s developing in such a positive direction!”

During each Cuppa morning, participants have uncovered deeper connections than they initially expected. We've discovered mutual ties, shared interests, and even found out that some grew up just around the corner from one another. The stories exchanged have been incredibly enriching, and it’s exciting to think about what surprises await us next time!

As a Neighbourhood Centre rooted in community development, these Cuppa mornings have become a fantastic opportunity to listen to community members about what matters most to them.

Be sure to check out the Centre’s Facebook page or stop by to see when the next session is scheduled. There are no pressures to attend every time; if you can make it, we’d love to welcome you!

Until next time,

The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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What started three months ago as an initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness has blossomed into a lively gathering filled with stories and connections.

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Recently, we released the first edition of this season’s comparative analysis for growers. This year’s analysis takes a slightly different focus, offering valuable insights into the strategies growers use to manage their GEI price exposure.

Typically, growers who choose to market with Wilmar Grower Marketing use the Target Price and GMPRS pricing mechanisms, which give them maximum control over their final price outcomes. This year’s report analyses the variation in the weighted GEI Sugar price by examining how different proportions are allocated across these mechanisms. With the revamped Managed Pool Plus (MPP), growers now have an additional choice within the committed cane category. As at the end of September, the analysis indicates that the greater the GEI Sugar exposure allocated to the MPP, the higher the weighted price overall.

The report also compares pricing mechanisms between marketers. As at 29 September, there was a clear benefit in marketing your GEI sugar tonnes through Wilmar across most pricing strategies employed. It’s important to note that it is still early in the season, and as pools are only partially hedged, the outright price and marketer differentials could shift significantly as the pricing period progresses.

Growers have a range of options to manage their GEI sugar pricing. Wilmar Grower Marketing offers a suite of products that allows you to take control of your own pricing or have Wilmar manage your exposure. You can lock in prices up to three years forward to gain income certainty or commit to pools that allow your GEI price to move with the market over time.

This flexibility enables you to tailor a pricing strategy that suits your individual circumstances and risk appetite. The Wilmar Grower Marketing team can help you understand how each mechanism works and provide general guidance on price risk management principles.

With the 2026 season nomination deadline fast approaching, this is the final opportunity for growers to choose Wilmar Grower Marketing.

It is important to note that you can make or change your nomination up until this date. Any proportion of your GEI sugar that isn’t priced can be moved – you aren’t locked in.

Nominations close on 31 October, so now is the time to review your options and decide on the marketing partner that best aligns with your business goals.

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View all of the results in the latest Pool Performance and Comparative Analysis report for the 2025 season.

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Combined Rotary Clubs of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr are doing it again!

BUSINESSES from across Queensland are already making plans to be part of the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day on 29-30 May 2026.

With a change of venue to the Townsville Show Grounds and more suitable dates than the previous event, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is gearing up to be a cracker event.

With a few new faces on the 2026 Committee, combined with some seasoned committee members, these volunteers are working with exhibitors and stakeholders to ensure that the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be a successful event showcasing the best of North Queensland. One on the calendar not to miss.

All proceeds from this event are farmed back into the communities of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr.

We are happy to announce that Ian Gough from Gough Plastics and Justin Minuti from TRACPOWER have shown their support to the community, once again, by partnering with Rotary for this event.

The Battle Family from Nortrans have thrown their support behind the event as well, coming on board as a major sponsor.

From the latest in farming technology to time-honoured traditions, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be about sharing knowledge, strengthening connections, and honouring the hardworking hands that shape our fields and our future.

There will be a broader range of exhibitors, including but not limited to technology, lifestyle interests, machinery for the farm and the everyday household.

Other exhibitors at the event will include government agencies, health services, financial services, community support organisations, job training and secondary and tertiary education providers from across North Queensland.

Interested exhibitors can secure their site on the website nqfieldday.com.au

Online ticket purchases will once again be available, and there will be regular prize draws for those who have pre-purchased tickets. Mark it on your calendar; book your exhibitor's site and/or pre-purchase your tickets and follow our updates on Facebook.

“Let’s Dig In, Gear Up and Grow Together.”

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A new initiative is urging Queensland businesses to take biosecurity as seriously as other critical risks, with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and Biosecurity Queensland leading the charge.

Biosecurity in the Boardroom highlights the growing threat of biosecurity incursions across all sectors of the economy, not just agriculture. With risks forecast to quadruple over the next decade, organisers say businesses of all kinds need to act now to protect supply chains, reputations, and long-term viability.

QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said biosecurity has traditionally been seen as a farm-based issue, but it is increasingly a concern for all industries.

“Biosecurity impacts Queensland’s cultural, environmental, social, and economic values,” Ms Sheppard said.

“Business leaders must treat biosecurity as a core risk, just like workplace health and safety, to safeguard continuity and avoid reputational and financial damage.”

The initiative provides resources for company boards and senior executives, prompting businesses to consider biosecurity in their strategic planning, corporate culture, and day-to-day operations. From tourism to transport, education to energy, every sector has a role to play in protecting Queensland’s biosecurity system.

The launch event, held at Customs House in Brisbane, featured leaders from multiple industries and was opened by Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon MP, who highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration.

“Partnerships like Biosecurity in the Boardroom bring together the expertise we need across business, industry, and government to strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity system,” Mr Dillon said.

Keynote speaker Dr Rachel Chay, Queensland’s Chief Biosecurity Officer, warned that biosecurity risks are not confined to farms or regional areas.

“Addressing these risks requires a united effort—from boardrooms to paddocks,” she said.

With strong attendance from a wide range of industries, QFF says the initiative reinforces that biosecurity is a whole-of-economy issue. Whether moving goods, managing supply chains, or hosting visitors, all sectors are vulnerable—and all have a role to play.

For more information and resources, businesses can visit www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/risk/biosecurity.

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Says Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, has raised serious concerns regarding the
Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) new website, following overwhelming feedback from constituents, local farmers, and weather professionals.

“My office has received numerous complaints from residents who rely on the Bureau for timely and accurate weather information,” said Mr Willcox.

“The new website has been described as confusing, difficult to navigate, and missing essential
information.”

A Dawson local who contacted Andrew shared, “The new website is basically unreadable and the information that was on the old website is no longer displayed. It’s supposed to be part of the working tools of industry and the general public… and as it stands, it may as well be a blank
page.”

With cyclone season fast approaching, Mr Willcox warns that the timing could not be worse.

“Farmers, transport operators, and everyday Queenslanders rely on fast access to radar,
forecasts, and warnings,” he said.

“The last thing our community needs is a confusing maze of menus when every second counts.”

Mr Willcox has formally written to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Senator the Hon Murray Watt, urging the Bureau to reconsider the new website layout and consult with local landowners, agricultural representatives, and regional weather forecasters to ensure the platform is practical, accessible, and user-friendly.

“While the new design may look modern, it cannot come at the expense of functionality,” said
Mr Willcox.

“Australians deserve a Bureau that prioritises accessibility and reliability over aesthetics,  especially when it comes to safety and critical information.”

Mr Willcox called for urgent action to either reinstate the previous format or implement immediate improvements, ensuring all Queenslanders can confidently access the weather information they need.

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Andrew Willcox raises alarm over BOM’s confusing new website, warning regional Queenslanders could be left at risk this cyclone season. Photo supplied

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October is Random Acts of Kindness Month, and Maidavale State School is playing its part this year by making sure the Burdekin's givers become receivers of delicious treats baked right at the school.

The initiative is part of the school's longstanding Community Connect program, which encourages students to bake goods—from biscuits to muffins and cupcakes—and deliver them as a ‘thank you’ to organisations and services across the Burdekin.

"The point is to thank people for their service to our community, to appreciate others, and to put smiles on their faces," said Teaching Principal Erin Alloway. "We want to make sure [our students] grow up to make the world a better place—being courteous, kind, considerate, tolerant, and showing all the positive character strengths that involve thinking of others."

Through the program, the school has already visited Centrelink Services Australia, the Burdekin Community Association, and more, with plans to visit a couple more organisations before the year's end. Alloway says the students themselves spearhead the project, teaching them vital life lessons along the way.

"The kids love it; they suggest where we should go, like the fire station or the police, and they have input on what we bake. They enjoy seeing people smile, taking photos, and sharing the experience," she said. "It teaches children that life isn’t all about them—it’s about building good character, virtue, and making the world a better place."

When asked what they enjoy most about participating in the program, Year 5 student Ryder said "seeing people surprised and happy," while Year 1 student Ociean said "being kind." Year 4 student Anna said she's learnt that "sharing is caring," while Year 3 student Elijah said he "learnt how to follow a recipe."

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Maidavale State School says thanks to the BCA by giving them home-made cup cakes

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After more than 50 years of service, the Endeavour Foundation’s Ayr social enterprise has closed its doors for the final time. The disability employment provider, which has operated locally since 1972, announced in June that financial pressures under the NDIS made continuing the service unsustainable.

Acting Executive General Manager of Work, Greg McCluand, said the decision was a difficult one. “We have continued to work with the community to meet our commitments, support our employees, and explore other opportunities,” he said.

Of the seven local employees, two are taking a break, while three will join the Foundation’s ongoing Learning and Lifestyle community program. Mr McCluand said staff member Ashleigh is finalising a hospitality role, and long-serving Kevin, who has been with the organisation for 40 years, is aiming for a courier driving position while remaining connected to the Learning and Lifestyle hub.

Kevin reflected fondly on his time at the Ayr site. “After working here for 41 years, I’ve done everything from picking vegetables, planting cane, nursery work, working with timber, building trailers, to cutting and producing bags of rags. It’s sad to see it end, but I’m proud of the skills I’ve gained,” he said.

Ashleigh, the youngest team member at 21, added, “It’s been a pleasure meeting everyone here, making new friends, and working with this amazing team. I still have many years of work ahead, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter.”

The Ayr work team recently celebrated their achievements with family, friends, former employees, and community members at the Kalamia Hotel. Certificates of service were awarded to Kevin (40 years), John (36), Ian (19), Nicole (16), Daniel (14), Fraser (13), and Ashleigh (2).

“It’s definitely a sad time; it’s the end of an era,” Mr McCluand said. “But it’s wonderful to see our team moving forward with positivity and embracing the opportunities that await them.”

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Ayr team L2R Daniel, John, Nicolle, Melissa, Ashleigh, Dan, Kevin, Fraser, Ian, Amanda, Tony. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Netball Association’s $3.5 million redevelopment is one step closer to reality with the recent appointment of a local project manager to oversee the project.

Announced in September 2024, the revamp follows five years of planning by the association, aimed at modernising facilities for players across the region. The project will see the demolition of the existing four hard courts, replaced with eight brand-new courts—two of which will be undercover. Plans for the clubhouse include renovations or a complete rebuild, depending on the remaining budget.

The newly appointed project manager will work closely with the Project Control Group (PCG), comprised of four Burdekin Netball committee members, to ensure the redevelopment progresses smoothly.

“It’ll be great to work with another local on such a major redevelopment,” Burdekin Netball President Cara Trindle said. “It’ll be a massive improvement and something that the whole of the Burdekin can look forward to.”

The $3.5 million funding, secured with support from the LNP, was described as a lifeline for grassroots netball in the region. The upgrades will not only modernise facilities but also address long-standing safety concerns, securing the future of the sport in the Burdekin.

The association expects work to begin soon, marking an exciting new chapter for Burdekin netball and its growing community of players and supporters.

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Mosquito activity in the Burdekin is high year-round, particularly during the warmer months. With heavy rainfall, tidal inundation, and excess irrigation, dormant mosquito eggs can hatch in large numbers, creating the potential for increased biting and disease risk in the community.

Burdekin Shire Council is actively managing mosquito populations, targeting the species Aedes vigilax through an aerial treatment program. Council officers also conduct twice-weekly field surveys across coastal and urban areas to monitor larvae numbers and determine appropriate control measures. Biological treatments are used to stop larvae from developing into adult mosquitoes, helping to reduce overall numbers safely and effectively.

Residents can take practical steps to protect themselves and their families. Clearing roof gutters, containers, and yard debris that collect water, maintaining pools, and screening rainwater tank inlets and outlets are simple ways to prevent breeding. Wearing loose, light-coloured clothing, using insect repellent, and avoiding outdoor activity during peak biting times at dawn and dusk can also reduce bites. For added protection, local pest controllers can provide barrier treatments around homes.

By working together, the Burdekin community can help minimise mosquito numbers and enjoy a safer, more comfortable summer season.

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Once again, the region’s annual sunflower patch has coloured the region in vibrant shades of yellow and gold, painting smiles across the faces of everyone who passes Ayr’s Patricia Road!

Delighted by 2024’s gleaming debut of the floral field, a local family have sewed the seeds once again, spreading the message of “Pick a Sunflower, Support a Cause!” to all who visit the patch located at 12 Patricia Road, Ayr.

Anyone and everyone who wishes to pop down to the patch are encouraged to bring along their own pair of cutters to pick their own special sunflower and leave a small donation to support the lifechanging work of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF).

Since 1991, NBCF has worked to provide help to those affected by breast cancer through early detection, education and support services. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and NBCF offers free, innovative programs to ensure no one faces breast cancer alone online at www.nationalbreastcancer.org.

Come one, come all to Patricia Road to “snap a photo in the sunshine, and help spread the love, one sunflower at a time” while the field is in full, beautiful bloom!

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Pick a sunflower, leave a donation for NBCF and spread the love!

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Last weekend, I was brought crashing back to earth after a humbling experience at Amelia Pivotto’s trivia night on Friday.

At first, it was all going so swimmingly—a perfect night under the stars, replete with vibrant chatter and laughter as the questions came thick and fast. Our team was doing… fine. Not topping the leaderboard, but not embarrassing ourselves either.

Then a particular question came up. Something along the lines of, “what is the name of the Burdekin journalism legend—a local cornerstone and the embodiment of community spirit?”

My ears pricked up. Could that be me? I was flattered. I thought to myself, “wow… I’m glad I’ve had such a grand impact on this community after just a matter of months.”

With confidence, I started spelling out my surname to our team scribe, with little doubt I was the answer. I mean, who else could it be?

Turns out, it was David Jackson—the same David Jackson I wrote an entire feature about just two weeks ago. Might need to pay Dr. Tata a visit for apparent short-term memory problems.

I suppose I’ve got a few decades—and a few thousand articles—to go before I can even begin to scratch the surface of what ‘Jacko’ has done for this community.

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A 25-year-old Ayr man has died following a trail bike crash at Osborne early Monday morning.

Emergency services were called to Iona Road around 6am on October 20, after reports a rider had been found unresponsive.

Police said the man sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Forensic Crash Unit has launched an investigation into the incident, with officers appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has relevant dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward.

Police reminded motorists that road safety remains a shared responsibility, urging all road users to remain vigilant and avoid the “Fatal Five” contributing factors to serious crashes — speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Policelink or Crime Stoppers.

Policelink: www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

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A Local Fire Ban has been declared across the Burdekin Shire by the Rural Fire Service Queensland, taking effect from midnight Saturday, 18 October, and continuing until 11:59pm Friday, 31 October. The ban comes in response to current weather conditions and heightened fire risk.

During this period, lighting, maintaining, or using fires in the open is strictly prohibited. All existing permits to light fires are suspended, except in limited cases. Fires used for cooking on a properly constructed BBQ or in a gas or wood-fired oven are allowed, provided the flames cannot escape and a hose or extinguisher is on hand. Small contained fires, such as a fire pit or brazier no larger than one metre by one metre by half a metre, may also be used for warmth between 6pm and 6am if the surrounding area is cleared of vegetation.

Sugarcane burning may continue where a valid permit has been issued, and essential or commercial burning is permitted only with the approval of the Chief Fire Warden.

Residents are also urged to exercise caution when using power tools such as lawn mowers and slashers, and to keep suitable equipment nearby to extinguish any accidental fires.

For further information on fire bans and exemptions, visit the Queensland Fire Department website at www.fire.qld.gov.au.

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With Remembrance Day around the corner, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is encouraging local groups to apply for grants that allow the community to better honour and acknowledge the service of veterans.

The fact that the Burdekin election is home to a significant number of veterans meant the new funding program offered a potential boost for a community whose track record for honouring veterans was among the best in the state.

“You only have to look at the number of people who attend events like Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans’ Day and Anzac Day to see that this community is extremely proud of our veterans,” Mr Last said.  “On a per capita basis our community had made a huge contribution to many conflicts and that fact isn’t lost on locals, regardless of age.”

“Unlike some countries, we don’t celebrate conflict; we commemorate and honour the brave men and women who serve.  I think it’s appropriate that, as a government, we provide funding that supports the community in making that commemoration possible.”

“Whether it’s a new memorial, refurbishments of existing memorials or activities and equipment, there is funding available to ensure we continue to honour our veterans.”

Mr Last said the Honouring our Veterans program was the first step in the Crisafulli government’s commitment to implement a Veterans’ Strategy.

“Queensland is home to more veterans than any other state in Australia,” Mr Last said.  “Our approach is to not only support the more than 160,000 veterans and one way to do that is to ensure the community can honour their service.”

“The strategy we are developing is not about duplicating existing services or taking over tasks from the federal government.  It’s about finding ways that the state government can provide practical support with practical measures to support their transition to civilian life for example.”

“We have begun in-person consultation with veterans and their families because getting the strategy right is vitally important.  The last thing that veterans need is another layer of bureaucracy or a strategy that makes big statements but delivers very little.”

“In terms of the current funding there is basically two areas that are currently being focussed on.  One is capital works projects like refurbishments, upgrades and new memorials and the other area of focus relates to activities and events that educate and raise awareness.”

“I’d encourage local groups and organisations to consider applying for funding and to think outside the square, especially if there is a need that they think is not currently being met.”

“The community groups that help us honour our veterans deserve this support but, most of all, our veterans deserve it.  I’m looking forward to seeing the applications from our community and for the positive effects that will have as we remember those who have given so much in our names.”

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A $550 million tourism development in Townsville is set to ripple benefits through the Burdekin, with local businesses tipped to gain from increased visitor traffic and regional growth once the project gets underway.

Townsville City Council last week granted preliminary approval for the Townsville Waterpark, Beach Club, and Hotel project—a major step forward for what has been described as a game-changer for North Queensland’s tourism economy.

The 15-hectare site sits at the intersection of Bruce and Flinders Highways, directly opposite Fairfield Central Shopping Centre and just over an hour’s drive from Ayr and Home Hill — placing the Burdekin within easy reach of the new attraction.

For Burdekin locals, the development could mean new opportunities in construction, accommodation, and tourism. Local suppliers and tradespeople may be among those engaged during the build, while hospitality operators could benefit from increased visitation as the region’s tourism profile expands.

According to an independent economic impact study by Sydney-based advisory firm Location IQ, the Townsville Waterpark development is expected to create more than 1,100 direct and indirect jobs across construction and operations. Once completed, it could generate more than $26 million in annual retail and hospitality sales and over $400 million in turnover by 2046.

The project is designed in two precincts: Precinct 1, on the western side, will feature the 3,000-person capacity waterpark, a 10,000-square-metre Beach Club for up to 5,000 guests, and a 15-storey, 200-room hotel with function and event facilities for 600 people. Precinct 2 will include mixed-use commercial development such as shops, food outlets, health and fitness spaces, and a childcare centre.

Council documents show the approval introduces a new Plan of Development for the site, setting out how future development applications will be assessed. Developers must still meet several conditions, including updated water and sewerage planning, a transport masterplan, and stormwater requirements.

Townsville’s Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the decision marked an important milestone, describing it as “a step in the right direction” for a project the community had wanted for decades.

With Townsville’s visitor expenditure climbing to $1.2 billion for the year ending June 2024—up more than 10 per cent from the previous year—local observers say the Burdekin could share in the benefits.

A large-scale waterpark just a short drive north is expected to encourage more day trips, overnight stays, and regional collaboration, giving the Burdekin another reason to attract passing visitors and new investment.

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An artist's impression of the $500 million waterpark planned for Townsville. Photo sourced

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