By Jacob Casha

The American Theatre Wing’s renowned Tony Awards—held annually in New York City—celebrated its 78th edition on Monday morning AEST, recognising excellence in Broadway theatre with that characteristic Broadway grandeur.

And amidst the whirlwind of flashy dresses and ostentatious, fake-pocketed suits was the proud, grounded presence of Burdekin-born-and-raised Neil Gooding—whose works were recognised with four Tonys and a further six nominations at the event.

His projects Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical and Sunset Blvd. helped actors Jak Malone (Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical) and Pop icon-turned-stage powerhouse Nicole Scherzinger (Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical) take home Tonys for their acting performances, while Sunset Blvd. also secured Best Lighting Design of a Musical and Best Revival of a Musical.

Operation Mincemeat was also nominated for Best Musical, while Gooding’s third nominated musical, Gypsy, was in the running for Best Revival of a Musical, alongside Sunset Blvd.

The former Ayr State High student is no stranger to seeing his work garner widespread acclaim, with previous efforts earning him nominations for Best Direction of a Musical at both the Helpmann Awards and the Green Room Awards for Gutenberg! The Musical!, as well as a Sydney Theatre Award nomination for Dogfight.

Now based in the concrete jungle that is New York City—a wild paradox to his roots in Ayr—Gooding doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon, proudly waving the Burdekin flag on the world’s biggest theatre stage.

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It was as I plunked myself down beneath the awning, catching my breath after being given the runaround in a Cane Country Cup match on the weekend that, just above the sound of my own wheezing, I heard my good friend, Linda Gooding, chatting to someone about how her son, Neil, was in the running for a "Tony Award" in New York City.

Naturally curious, I asked Linda and her Husband John about it, and came to find that it’s basically the Oscars of live Broadway theatre! For further clarity, think: the AACTA Awards, but much bigger.

And not only did Neil, a Burdekin local, have works in the running for an award—his productions were nominated for 10 different Tonys—four of which they ended up winning. You can read more about the awards later in this issue.

This got me thinking: How many of us Burdekinites have made it onto the big stage before?

This thought—coupled with suggestions from you guys about a column honouring Burdekin sports legends/Australian representatives—helped me to form the idea behind “Burdekin to Big Time”—a new segment which aims to shed light on the Burdekin legends—past and present—of sports, entertainment, and everything in between (set to start in next week's issue).

Because although we might not be the biggest community, or the most prolific producers of global talent, every now and then, someone like Neil Gooding comes along, proving that special can be born anywhere.

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By Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

It’s great to see the 2025 production season off to an early start, with crushing under way in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions, and the Herbert commencing this week. The weather continues to cooperate, and we hope that remains the case so all regions can get sugar into the sheds.

The #11 sugar contract continues to trend lower, with little change in the global surplus production forecast. The recent UNICA report for the first half of May 2025 showed Brazilian harvest progress catching up, though it remains 20% behind the same period last year.

Cane tonnes and sugar mix have increased, but Total Recoverable Sugar (CCS) remains low. The report aligned with market expectations. However, a 5.6% drop in gasoline prices by Petrobras halted a rally, as ethanol parity fell below 15 USc/lb.

We are forecasting a small global surplus for the 2025–26 season, mainly due to another large Brazilian crop expected. Indian production also looks strong, supported by an early monsoon, with forecasts of 32.5 million tonnes for 2025–26, up from 26 million in 2024–25. In Thailand, weak cassava prices are likely to result in another bumper crop, reinforcing export competition.

Our 2025 Season Commencement of Crush Pool reports were released last week. Notably, the Allocation Account forecast is significantly lower than last year due to a drop in physical premiums. This reflects increased Thai production impacting our sales into traditional Asian markets.

Additionally, the US Quota estimate has been reduced for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with import tariffs now factored in. It’s still early in the season, but growers should be aware that the strong physical premiums of recent years are under threat.

Across the regions, we’ve been connecting with growers at events such as the inaugural Link2Country Expo in Ingham, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in the Burdekin.

Our Burdekin Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, presented the Under 35 Category awards at the Cane Cutting Championships, proudly sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

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Wilmar’s Grower Marketing Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, right, presenting the awards for the Under
35 Category at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. Keith Gilbert won first place, Stuart
Gilbert second place and Angus Gilbert third place. Photo supplied

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CANEGROWERS has welcomed the renewed momentum in Australia-EU free trade negotiations, urging both sides to work towards a deal that delivers meaningful outcomes for Australian agriculture.

“We’re pleased to see talks are getting back on track,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said. “But success will depend on whether an agreement provides commercially realistic access for agricultural sectors like sugar.”

Negotiations stalled in late 2023 after proposed market access for key commodities – including sugar – fell well short of industry expectations.

CANEGROWERS was among the peak agricultural bodies that supported the government’s decision to pause discussions.

Mr Galligan was in Japan for the final round of talks in late 2023, where they urged Trade Minister Don Farrell not to sign a deal that would lock in poor outcomes for agriculture for decades to come.

We advised the Minister directly that no deal was better than a bad deal – and to his credit, the government listened,” Mr Galligan said. “It was a strong stance, and the right one.”

“The sugar industry is open to trade and wants a deal that works for both sides. But any agreement must recognise the value and competitiveness of Australian farm exports. We’re not looking for special treatment – just fair, practical, and commercially meaningful terms.”

Mr Galligan pointed to the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement as a credible benchmark for what a modern deal can look like.

“With the right approach, an Australia-EU agreement can deliver long-term benefits for both our economies. We look forward to working with the government to help get it there.”

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It’s been a big week in cane country. Harvesters are up and running in the Tableland and Bundaberg districts, marking the start of the 2025 crush.

For growers, there’s nothing quite like seeing the first cane bins filling up – it signals a new season, a fresh start, and hope for better days after a challenging run last year.

Across the rest of Queensland, farms are almost ready. Growers are fine-tuning gear, checking fields, and waiting for their local mills to fire up.

No matter where you are, there’s a shared sense of anticipation and relief to be getting on with it.

Last season was one of the most difficult in recent memory. Wild weather, breakdowns, and industrial action delayed the harvest so long that some districts were still cutting in January.

By the time it was over, about a million tonnes of cane had been left in the paddock – not for lack of effort, but because the system simply didn’t hold up.

But cane farmers are a resilient bunch. We’ve done what we always do – rolled up our sleeves and got back to work. We've replanted, repaired and prepared. And now we’re ready to go again.

The forecast for this year is about 28.5 million tonnes of cane across 13 growing regions.

That’s a little lower than last year, mostly due to the recent widespread flooding across North Queensland – especially around the Herbert River district – which destroyed large areas of cane.

Even so, the mood among growers is cautiously optimistic. We’ve done our bit. Now we’re relying on the mills, the weather, and the supply chain to help turn that hard work into returns.

That won’t be easy. Labour shortages are still hitting hard. Skilled workers – from harvester drivers and haulout operators to mill staff – are in short supply.

And it’s not just sugarcane – agriculture right across the board is feeling the pinch.

That’s why CANEGROWERS is working with our local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address the shortage. Because no matter how good the crop looks, it doesn’t mean much if we don’t have the people to move it.

Last week also gave us the chance to keep up our pressure on the government in another critical area – disaster support.

Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, visited Ingham for the Link2Country Expo and a Community Cabinet meeting. While there, he met with growers still dealing with the impacts of the summer floods.

We made our position clear – disaster support needs to reflect the way farming works in 2025.

Right now, some growers are being ruled out of disaster funding because they earn part of their income from agricultural support services – things like planting or harvesting for other farms. But that’s still farming. And it’s often what helps keep smaller operations afloat.

After the floods, this issue hit home hard. Some farmers were denied help simply because their income didn’t fit the current rules.

That’s why CANEGROWERS, alongside the QFF, is fighting to modernise the rules under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The system needs to catch up with the reality on the ground and make sure no grower is left behind when disaster strikes.

We’re grateful the Minister took the time to visit and listen. But now we need more than goodwill – we need action.

As crushing ramps up across the state, we’re keeping our eyes on more than just the crop.

We’re focused on securing the long-term future of this industry – one where growers are backed by fair systems, strong support, and a shared belief in the value of what they do.

Here’s to a smoother season ahead and a fairer go for every grower who puts in the hard yards.

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The competition that combines artistic fun with serious safety messages is now open to all Queensland primary school children from Prep to Year 6.

Twelve different pieces of artwork from Queensland primary students will be chosen to feature in the calendar, with a different safety theme for each month.

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie said the competition is about creative young minds promoting the importance of farm safety.

“Raising awareness among primary school students and their communities about common safety hazards on farms and in rural settings is an ongoing campaign.

“Tragically, serious injuries and fatalities occur on farms and rural settings each year, the calendar serves as a creative and visual reminder covering overhead powerlines, being safe with electrical equipment, animal safety and the importance of washing hands after contact with animals.

"Tragically, in the last year alone 26 Queenslanders lost their lives simply going to work. These aren’t just numbers—they’re 26 families left without a chance to say goodbye. The rural sector alone accounted for 10 of those lives.

“Our government backs our agricultural sector to continue to grow the economic output and that also means supporting safe and productive farming workplaces as well.

“We know many rural communities and schools have the calendar prominently displayed in the home throughout the year, educating Queenslanders of all ages to work and play safely on farm properties

Member for Condamine Pat Weir said that the focus on rural safety around farms should never be forgotten.

“As someone who has been injured themselves from a farm accident, I know all too well the importance of the issue to local farming families,” Mr Weir said.

“It’s great that the focus is also about educating our next generation of farmers as well throughout primary schools in Queensland.”

Central Queensland’s Gogango State School’s teacher, Ms Wendy Thornton said the farm safety competition is a fantastic addition to our unit of work about farms.

“The students enjoy the challenge of illustrating farm safety aspects which are extremely important for each student to remember as they go about their daily lives in rural settings,” Ms Thornton said.

Cooloola Christian College’s Principal Mr Ross Watisbuhl said as a regional area in Gympie, farm safety is so important to our community.

“We are thrilled that the calendar is distributed around the state featuring the work of students,” Mr Watisbuhl said.

More than 40,000 copies of the calendar will be printed for statewide distribution. The competition is open until 27 June. The 12 winning entrants receive a $250 gift card and $500 for their school.

For information on how to enter and to download resources, go to WorkSafe.qld.gov.au.

The competition opens until Friday 27 June (school term two) with winners announced in October, as part of Safe Work Month. The competition is open to all Queensland primary school students (Prep to Year 6).
The competition template can be found on the WorkSafe website.
The competition aligns to the Australian Curriculum General capability: Literacy and the Health and Physical Education learning area

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FROM WHERE I SIT

At midnight on 26 April, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr. The driver, a 26yr old Burdekin woman, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for drink driving, .146 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At about 12.40am on Friday 2 May, a single vehicle traffic crash occurred on Bruce Highway, McDesme. As a result of investigations, Ayr Police located a 30yr old Townsville man nearby. He was later issued with a NTA for drink driving, .086 and repeat unlicenced driving and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At 6.30pm on Friday 2 May, a two vehicle traffic crash occurred on Norham Road, Ayr. The driver of one of the vehicles, a 27yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .062 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At 2.40pm on Tuesday 13 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Cox Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 54yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 11.20am on Thursday 15 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Graham Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 54yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 6.50pm on Friday 16 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Drysdale Street, Ayr. The driver, a 67yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

At 11.30pm on Friday 16 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Chippendale Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 62yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .126 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19 May.

At 1.40pm on Saturday 17 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on MacKenzie Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 32yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 5.30pm on Saturday 17 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Eighth Avenue, Home Hill. As a result the driver, a 32yr old Burdekin woman, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 10.45am on Sunday 18 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 40yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .103 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 9 June.

At 4.55pm on Sunday 18 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Margaret Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 24yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 8.05pm on Sunday 18 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 38yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 July.

At 2.20pm on Wednesday 21 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Beach Road, Ayr. The driver, a 47yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

SOCIAL MEDIA

As technology continues to improve, so does our ability to share memories and stay in touch with friends. Social media platforms provide an invaluable opportunity to connect, have questions answered and offer assistance.

The information available on social media has been successfully used by Ayr Police on more than one occasion to locate stolen property or missing children. An information tool that we embrace, when used for the right reasons.

This opportunity though is sometimes marred by people in our community that use it to settle vendettas and harass. Some people seem too comfortable in constantly providing perceived problems, but no solutions. It seems to offer a certain amount of anonymity and separation that attracts ‘key board warriors’.

It is not uncommon for Police to receive complaints from members of our community about bullying, harassing and threatening comments via social media.

A quick type in anger may constitute an offence against state and commonwealth laws that have been put in place to prevent this exact behaviour. Some offences can attract terms of imprisonment, a reflection on how serious these offences are viewed through the justice system.

Before you type: think about the possible ramifications, consider if it may be threatening or harassing, think about if it is fact and contemplate what you are actually trying to achieve.

Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it

If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000. The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.

Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.

You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys

Car keys – treat them like cash

Did you know??

Stopping at STOP Signs and STOP lines

If you are faces with a STOP sign or STOP line, you must stop before reaching that line or, if there is no line, the intersection.

A driver must come to a complete stop and cannot ‘crawl’ through the intersection at low speed, even if turning left.

Once stopped you must give way to other road users including cyclists.

Home Security Audits

The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm

Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight. Locking your house and car &

securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.

If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.

Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.

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A morning held in celebration of some of the region’s most important and inspirational people will grace Ayr State High School’s BBQ Area this June and the entire community has been warmly invited to attend.

The Burdekin Local Chaplaincy Committee will hold an informal Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast to honour, recognise and commend the work of our local school chaplains whilst raising valuable funds to support the youth of our community.

School chaplains play an integral role in supporting the wellbeing of young people within the community and provide students with emotional guidance through a range of issues including loss, peer pressure and bullying, isolation, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and other complex feelings.

In 2024, The Burdekin Local Chaplaincy Committee’s Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast was one of the most heartwarming and touching events on the calendars of all who attended, and one guest speaker in particular, Chappy Jennie, brought a tear to the eye of many.

“As a School Chaplain, I focus on prevention and support and I aim to provide a non-judgmental, accessible, listening ear and a caring presence for not only for our kids in crisis, but also for those who just need a friend,” shared Chappy Jennie at last year’s fundraising breakfast.

“So today I want to thank you for your support of School Chaplaincy - I want to thank you because if it wasn’t for people like you, we wouldn’t have the opportunities that we have to support young people who often feel unseen, undervalued, misunderstood and powerless to change the life that they have been dealt with.”

Whilst government funding only covers the placement of a chaplain for one and half days per week, the ongoing support of the Burdekin Shire has ensured the majority of chaplains within the region are able to be in our schools four, and sometimes even five days a week, delivering essential support to those who need it most.

2025’s event will be held on Thursday, the 19th of June from 7am to 8:15am at Ayr State High School, and The Burdekin Local Chaplaincy Committee kindly asks attendees to RSVP by emailing admin@ayrshs.eq.edu.au. Complimentary bacon and egg burgers, fruit, tea and coffee will be supplied, as well as buckets of inspirational stories from your local chaplains on how they’re continuing to bring hope to some our youth.

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A group of six enthusiastic Year 9 students from Home Hill State High School recently represented their school with pride at the Y Lead Altitude Day Young Leaders’ Symposium in Townsville, taking part in a fantastic day dedicated to growth, inspiration and leadership.

Held on the 23rd of May at Brothers Leagues Club, the event brought together students from across North Queensland, including representatives from The Cathedral School, Pimlico, Town High, Kirwan, and Bowen to help shape the next generation of leaders.

The students were accompanied by Mr Gall and Mrs Falco, who were proud to see their students immerse themselves in the full-day program of activities, motivational speakers and leadership exercises.

The event, themed “Reaching New Heights,” encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones, network with like-minded peers, and reflect on their own values and leadership potential.

The aim of Altitude Day, according to organisers, is to help young people find their passion, gain courage, and “action plan their biggest dreams.”

“Today, we get to celebrate and cultivate your students’ leadership development as they embark on a journey to step into courage, action plan their biggest dreams and discover their untapped potential,” said Y Lead’s Zoe Meridith-Brown.

The day made a lasting impression on students Medea Burr, Angelina Curro, Alex Kirkwood, Ashlyn Poli, Lachlan Saxby and Cooper Webster, all of whom embraced the spirit of the event by actively participating and even addressing the crowd.

Adding to the experience was a reunion with Sharni Smerdon, a past student leader and graduate of the Y Lead program, who now volunteers with the organisation and played a role in facilitating the event.

The Altitude Day symposium continues to be a valuable opportunity for local youth to develop leadership skills and confidence in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

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Six Home Hill High School Students attended the Y Lead Altitude Day in Townsville (Photo Supplied)

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SKY Renewables’ push to sign up Burdekin growers to sell tops and trash for extra cash has been extended to June 30, with growers having until the end of financial year to make a call on enriching their revenue streams.

Since a well-attended town hall on 7 May, growers representing close to 1,000,000 tons of the Burdekin cane crop have signed on with SKY Renewables to turbocharge the transformational Project Lion proposal.

SKY Renewables CEO Simon Yim says he is thrilled with the uptake from Burdekin growers who have signed agreements to provide tops and trash for the project.

“Burdekin growers are increasingly realising that partnering with SKY Renewables is a zero-risk proposition for them”, Mr Yim said; “but the unity they are representing by signing up creates a formidable voice of unity and purpose.”

“In light of the great momentum SKY Renewables is gathering, we are extending the deadline as there are a fair number of growers who are either not yet aware of this proposed deal or need that bit of extra time to process the signing.”

Project Lion involves harvesting the tops and trash of cane – currently burned – and turning them into briquettes, which will eventually be turned into bio-methane for export to renewable gas-hungry markets such as Singapore.

“If the project proceeds, there are only upsides for growers. We are partnering with them to turn green into gold. Our project is all about increasing the sustainability of the Burdekin’s sugar industry at all stages of the supply chain.

Canegrowers Queensland Chairman and Burdekin canegrower Owen Menkens said he had signed up.

“I hope everyone would take advantage of this opportunity”, Mr Menkens said.

Glenn Betteridge, the newly-elected Chairman of Canegrowers Burdekin has also signed an agreement with SKY Renewables.

“I signed up. I believe in Simon and in our project”, Mr Betteridge said.

“SKY Renewables presents an opportunity for growers to earn additional income from tops and trash net of all additional costs. I have signed up and hope all of you take advantage of it”, said third-generation Burdekin canegrower Christian Lago.

“It’s time we took control of our industry to its full potential for the benefit of the whole community”, said Ricky Mio of Mio Ag & Co, based near Clare.

Mr Yim will be available in the QSL office in Ayr after mid-June to meet with growers wanting to sign up.

Interested growers wanting to sign up with SKY Renewables should email Mr Yim at simon.yim@skyrenewables.com.

The equity offer for growers will no longer be available after the EOFY deadline.

“I would much prefer growers to be partners than mere suppliers”, Mr Yim said.

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Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is proud to celebrate 28 years of providing exceptional eye care and exquisite eyewear to the Burdekin community. Known for their commitment to the highest levels of customer service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has become a trusted name in the region, offering both expert vision care and a wide selection of stylish eyewear.

Helene and her dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that every patient receives personalized attention, catering to individual eye care needs with the latest in diagnostic technology and eyewear trends.

To mark this incredible milestone, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is holding a special Sunglasses Sale throughout the month of June. Customers can enjoy 20% off all sunglasses in-store, making it the perfect time to refresh your eyewear collection. Whether you're looking for trendy frames or classic designs, their extensive range ensures there’s something for everyone, including a cute selection of children's sunglasses.

"We are incredibly grateful to all our loyal patients and we look forward to continuing to serve the eye care needs of new and existing patients well into the future," said Helene Holmes, owner and optometrist. “This sale is just a small way for us to say thank you to our community for their ongoing support.”

Don’t miss out on this fantastic chance to save on a new pair of sunglasses from well-known brands such as Oroton, Carolina Herrera, Mako and Bill Bass.

Everyone is welcome to visit Helene Holmes Optique Eyes at 150 Queen Street, Ayr and join in the celebrations!

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There’s a bit of a shuffle happening at Julie’s Pharmacy—not behind the counter, but on the shelves.

Long-time owner and local pharmacist Julie Hollingsworth is holding a massive clearance sale, with discounts across a wide range of giftware and body products. Much of it is marked down by 50% or more, with some items up to 70% off. The focus is on clearing space, but the atmosphere remains the same: welcoming, familiar, and rooted in community.

Julie has been running the pharmacy for 24 years, after buying it from Mr. Kirk, who owned it for 45 years before her. She grew up in the Burdekin, studied pharmacy in Brisbane, and returned in 1999—originally for a short stint. Family circumstances kept her here, and she’s been a big part of the town ever since.

Over the years, the pharmacy has become more than just a place to pick up prescriptions. “Our customers are really loyal. We know most of them by name,” she says.

That sense of connection runs deep, and it’s what Julie values most about her work. “It’s not just about dispensing. People come in for all sorts of advice, and we’re part of their day-to-day lives.”

Alongside the usual pharmacy services, Julie’s team also offers baby weighing, ear piercing, blood pressure and glucose monitoring, and stocks a popular range of health footwear.

For Julie, it’s all part of being a consistent, supportive presence in the community. Things might be shifting slightly inside the shop, but the heart of the place remains exactly where it’s always been.

You will be able to find everything you need at 144 Edward St in Ayr.

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Long-time owner and local pharmacist Julie Hollingsworth is holding a massive clearance sale, with discounts across a wide range of giftware and body products. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Feast of the Three Saints in Silkwood has become known for its generosity, donating the proceeds of their annual feasts to organisations across North Queensland each year.

This year, the committee chose to support CORES Queensland, a community-based suicide prevention organisation based in the Burdekin.

CORES provides vital services including training, self-care workshops, school presentations, and free counselling—all aimed at saving lives and supporting mental wellbeing across the region.

“I personally think it’s great what they do for the Burdekin and I think there needs to be more of it," said Feast of the Three Saints committee member David Pennisi, referring to the work of the team at CORES.

"We wanted to support that and help him to keep doing what he’s doing."

The donation will help CORES continue its life-changing work throughout North Queensland.

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Feast of the Three Saints committee members David Pennisi and Sibby Torrisi with CORES Queensland coordinator Ross Romeo. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Masaki Golding is a key part of the Harvey Norman Burdekin sales team and an expert in his field. He’s the go-to guy for everything tech-related in the store, from helping staff get their heads around new gadgets to jumping in wherever the team needs an extra hand.

Masaki’s relationship with technology runs deep, though it wasn’t always that way. Born in Japan but growing up mostly in Bowen, his love affair with computers developed gradually.

“When growing up, I actually was not around tech at all… But while going to school, I found out that my favourite thing was to be around computers, and I taught myself how to work with them. I’ve just run with it.”

Before retail, Masaki’s career path was more hands-on than tech-driven. “I’m mostly certified in construction. I went from doing solar farms to retail!"

Transitioning from operating machinery to explaining computer specs might sound like a leap, but for Masaki, it was just another way to help people.

And helping people is what drives him. “We treat people how we want to be treated,” he says. “I’m able to empathise more and assure the people of Burdekin that someone is here to listen. It just feels good.”

Outside the shop floor, it’s all about family. Masaki and his wife, childhood sweethearts, are busy raising four kids. Between reading sessions, family walks, and a bit of exercise, the household is always full of life.

“My kids are my number one hobby,” he admits with a grin.

Masaki feels right at home in the Burdekin. Coming from a small town himself, he values the slower pace and tight-knit feel of regional life.

“There aren’t as many cars, not as many people, but it just feels right,” he says. “If you walk around the corner, you’ll probably run into someone you know. That’s how a community should be.”

Friendly, enthusiastic, and down-to-earth, Masaki is the kind of team member who makes Harvey Norman feel less like a store and more like a community hub.

“Me and my team—we’re definitely here for the people of the Burdekin. We care, and we’re always happy to help.”

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At 10am last Thursday, PCYC Burdekin welcomed community members, support agencies, and high school students for a heartfelt Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness Morning Tea, held as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.

Guest speaker Foxie Eleoyze, an intuitive coach, NLP trainer, and energy healer, headlined the event with a focus on empowerment and healing. The atmosphere was informal and welcoming, encouraging open conversations about DFV in a safe setting.

Sergeant Dan Dew, who helped organise the event alongside support agency partners like the Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, and Zonta, said the aim was to foster face-to-face connections between police, support services, and the public.

“We wanted it to be more than just a police perspective,” Sergeant Dew said. “We wanted to try and have all our support agencies in the room together, so that members of the public can come in, mingle chat, have a friendly chat over a coffee, and get different perspective on how things happen."

He highlighted the value of involving students, saying education must begin early. “Having the schools here is huge. Education starts in school, and the more we normalise these conversations, the better.”

Domestic violence continues to be a pressing issue in the Burdekin. “Since 2016, police domestic violence calls of service have increased by 111% in the region,” Sergeant Dew said. “But police staffing levels haven’t increased by 111%, and the scope of what we deal with has grown—especially with recent changes to coercive control legislation.”

Despite the challenges, he’s optimistic about the future of the initiative: “It’s worked out really well this year, and we’re already thinking about how to go bigger and better next year.”

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Burdekin Community Association representatives
Sergeant Dan Dew, Fina Vasta, and guest speaker Foxie Eleoyze
Ayr Police
Burdekin Christian College and Ayr State High School

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