If you have seen media reports, you will be aware that mental health is a very real challenge for us globally, but more importantly for all of us as individuals. Latest data shows around 1 in 4 will experience a significant mental health issue in any 12 month period, and 1 in 2 during their lifetime.
The Mental Health Australia – Report to the Nation revealed many things such as:
   • The 18 – 39, followed by 40 – 59 year age groups had the lowest levels of mental health, but for many, mental health issues first emerged during adolescence through to early adulthood.
   • The highest risk factor amongst all groups for having a mental health issue is having previously suffered a mental health condition.
   • Anxiety and Depression still head the list of most common mental health conditions.
   • Cost of living, cost of housing and worries of global conflict continue to impact mental health of many in the community.
   • Access to mental health services has continued to improve along with the feeling that we can ask for help anytime.
While statistics can tell us a story, there is another element to consider - wellbeing. The biggest protective factor against mental health crisis, is personal wellbeing. Wellbeing is the sense that we are purposeful, connected and belong. It is often coupled with a positive, helpful pro-active outlook on life. In this dimension, we are feeling less secure financially, but more of us are confident of getting help and more of us are willing to give it.
What can help?
Firstly, we can all do things that help support our wellbeing. Simple things that give us direction purpose and meaning in life, things that help connect us socially in positive ways. Health and fitness activities are good, but you can add the benefit of social connectedness to your personal wellbeing simply by playing community sport. Next, finding things that feed your soul, things that inspire awe are far healthier than things that give us short bursts of dopamine and lead to addictive patterns.
Thirdly, get help. Nationally around half of us will feel we need to get help or support for ourselves or someone else. But only 36% actually manage to reach out and get that help.
Workplaces and Schools are changing, we have all had to respond to the Mental Health challenge. At Ayr High, we have been teaching about Mental Health and Wellbeing topics for many years. Like many workplaces and businesses, we also support multiple events like Mental Health Week where there will be a variety of awareness raising activities for staff and students this week. These go along with No to Bullying, RUOK and other events throughout the year.
But maybe more importantly, what has continued to grow is the level of support available for students. The team of people available to support students directly with social/emotional needs including mental health and wellbeing includes a Psychologist, a School Based Youth Health Nurse, a Chaplain, Youth Support Worker, CEC (Indigenous Support), a Behaviour Support Specialist Teacher, as well as our Guidance Officers and a Head of Department (Support Services). The objective is to reduce the barriers to support by ensuring we have the right sort of support available for every student. For the Ayr High family, we want to change the statistic so that every person who needs support for their Mental Health, gets it!

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The Lower Burdekin Scouts and their leaders, along with some families, participated in the 2024 RUSH event in Charters Towers over the weekend of 12 to 13 October. They joined 78 other teams and hundreds of participants for a fun-filled weekend of adventure, challenges, and exploration.

The Scouts loaded their trailer early Saturday morning and made the trip to Charters Towers, stopping briefly for morning tea along the way. Upon arrival at the Charters Towers Scout site, they set up their tents and enjoyed lunch before setting out to explore the town and its local parks.

Back at the Scout grounds, the group played games before preparing dinner. After their meal, they relaxed with a screening of Wonka, then settled in for the night.

Sunday started bright and early with a pancake breakfast before heading to the Charters Towers Showgrounds, where the RUSH officially began. The day was packed with excitement as teams took on a variety of challenges, including hiking up to the lookout, navigating billy carts, knot tying, rock climbing, target shooting, CPR drills, and even a visit to the local cemetery. Teams also raced around Charters Towers, collecting information and completing tasks.

The event concluded at the showgrounds, where participants gathered to hear the results and celebrate a successful day. After lunch, the Scouts packed up their gear and returned home.

A big thank you goes out to the organisers and leaders for making this weekend of fun and adventure possible.

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkery.

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Lower Burdekin Scout members ready to start the Knot Tying Challenge!

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Hope In a Suitcase for Foster Children in the Northern Region.
In a world where stability can feel elusive for children in foster care, the "Hope in a Suitcase" initiative shines as a beacon of compassion and care. Supported by the Catholic Women's League in the Burdekin region, this heartfelt program replaces the cold, impersonal plastic bags often used for relocation, with colourful suitcases filled with comfort and essentials.
"Hope in a Suitcase" is a heartwarming initiative founded by Rachael Clancy, to support children in foster care. Rather than moving from home to home with a plastic bag, these children are provided with a suitcase filled with personal items such as pyjamas, a toothbrush, new clothing, and something to cuddle, offering them not only comfort but also a sense of dignity.
The Ayr Catholic Women’s Branch, along with the Home Hill Catholic Women’s League and the Burdekin Catholic Parish, have embraced this initiative as part of a broader CWL State-level effort launched by the Catholic Women's League in 2023. For two years, the campaign has focused on filling suitcases with essential and personal items for foster children. Local community members, including volunteers from the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, have contributed by knitting bibs and other items to add to the suitcases.
In September and October 2024, the initiative continues with a renewed call for donations such as reading books, colouring books, and pyjamas for children of all ages. The local Catholic League and its supporters are deeply grateful for the community's contributions so far. The effort resonates with many, as providing these suitcases gives foster children something they can call their own, a small but significant gesture in a challenging time.

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Catholic Women’s League, promoting the initiative of “Hope In A Suitcase” In The Burdekin. Photo Supplied

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As we continue to celebrate the milestones of businesses in the Burdekin, it’s a great reminder of the vital role local shops and services play in our community. This year McCathies Furniture Plus marked 50 years in business, a significant achievement for a family-run store that has grown from humble beginnings as second-hand dealers to a respected retailer of quality furniture. Their commitment to providing exceptional service and supporting local customers has helped them reach this remarkable milestone.
At the same time, Campbell's Jewellery recently hosted its annual spring sale, offering residents a chance to support another long-standing local business. These moments are not just about the businesses themselves, but about the people behind them—the families who’ve built them, the staff who’ve worked tirelessly, and the customers who’ve supported them over the years.
In times when online shopping is easy and big retailers dominate, it’s crucial for us to remember the importance of buying local. Our local businesses provide jobs, support community events, and contribute to the unique character of the Burdekin.
When we shop locally, we invest in the future of our region, ensuring these businesses remain a vital part of our community for years to come.
So, whether it was finding a new piece of furniture or picking up a special gift from a jeweller, let’s continue to support those who make the Burdekin a vibrant place to live and work.
If you are a local business celebrating a business milestone (big or small!) reach out to us and find out how you can run a feature in the paper.
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Miah

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The Burdekin Shire Youth Council's 30th-anniversary celebration was a heartfelt tribute to three decades of empowering young people across the Burdekin. Founded in 1994 under then-Mayor Beth Honeycombe, the Youth Council has played a vital role in shaping the community, contributing to projects like the Anzac Park Skate Park, Burdekin PCYC, and Burdekin Aquatic Centre.
Council has also hosted memorable events, including the Mayor's Disco, Battle of the Bands, and the Fast Track Talent Showcase. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort recognised its impact, stating, "For 30 years, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has empowered our young people to contribute meaningfully to our community."
Attendees enjoyed light refreshments and shared in the celebration of the council’s achievements. Following the formalities, guests joined the Connect & Celebrate wellbeing event in the Theatre forecourt, marking a day of reflection and community spirit as the Youth Council looks forward to its future successes.

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Burdekin Shire Youth Council enjoyed a delicious cake to celebrate their 30 year milestone. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
Deputy Mayor Councillor Max Musumeci speaks at the event
Eddie Jones, youth mayor speaks

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Burdekin Shire Youth Council
Shines At 30 Year Celebrations

Tammy Quagliata, coordinator of youth council welcomes everyone
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Chloe becke
Tracey Ahern
Jorja Ahern

Jorda Quagliata
Taliyah Lammon

Janine Laneyand Isabella Lando

Lois Hustonand Caitlin Schlieff (library staff)

Alexis Michael and Lindley Nicole Cervoni

Lyn McLaughlin shares her memories

Councillor John Furnell speaks

Burdekin Community Association hosted a stall

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At a time when having access to instant information is everything, a commitment to bring a public child sex offender register to fruition will be a key tool in ensuring the safety of our children, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.

Mr Last said the LNP announcement of a three-tiered system to be known as Daniel’s Law would give parents and carers access details of reportable offenders who have failed to comply with their reporting obligations on a public website, to the ability to inquire about a specific person with regular unsupervised contact with their child.

“As parents we do everything in our power to keep our children safe and part of that is having the information at our fingertips about exactly what threats are nearby, that’s why this system is crucial,” Mr Last said.

“The announcement of Daniel’s Law will also include new offences to prevent the misuse of information on the register, striking the right balance when it comes to keeping the public informed and our children safe.”

“Similar systems are already in place in other states across Australia, so the time has well and truly arrived for Queensland to prioritise the rights of victims of crime ahead of the rights of perpetrators.”

Mr Last said the introduction of Daniel’s Law had the potential to save the lives of Queensland’s most vulnerable residents, no matter where you live. 

“Sadly, across the last decade we’ve seen children harmed in some of the most horrific circumstances and alarmingly many of these circumstances have involved an offender known to the family or have regular interactions with the child,” Mr Last said.

“Every parent deserves the right to know the people who could potentially interact with their child are not high-risk sex offenders.”

“For years Labor has been called upon to take real action when it comes to keeping our children safe in the communities they live, learn and play in yet they have sat on their hands. As a former police officer I know just how valuable tools like Daniel’s Law can be when it comes to preventing these offences and saving little lives.”

The origins of the new law is driven by the parents of Daniel Morcombe who, in December 2003 at age 13, was abducted and murdered by twice-convicted paedophile Brett Cowan.

Since 2014, the Morcombe family has publicly supported and advocated for the development of a publicly accessible sex offender register in Australia – referred to as Daniel’s Law in honour of the Morcombe’s son Daniel.

Daniel’s Law would ensure the register is freely accessible to the community, federally funded, and understood more broadly as an educational tool.

Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Members of Daniel Morcombe’s family fighting to instigate Daniel’s Law. Photo supplied

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Northern Queensland Legacy held a well-attended Veterans' Health Week Lunch at Dal Santos Delicatessen, bringing together Legacy widows from Burdekin, Charters Towers, and Bowen for a day of connection and support. With the theme of 'Connection,' the event fostered friendships and provided a space for widows to bond over shared experiences.
CEO Nicole Hayes emphasised the importance of this event, stating, "Connection is at the heart of what Legacy does. Reducing isolation and financial disadvantage is crucial, but so is the need to connect with others who’ve been through similar experiences."

Legacy members holding a torch and connecting at the recent luncheon which was very well attended. Photo supplied

Widows Unite Thanks To Legacy Event

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The Northern Queensland Legacy Veterans' Health Week Lunch at Dal Santos Delicatessen was a vital part of supporting local widows in building lasting support networks within their communities.
Attendees, including Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, enjoyed a lovely lunch, and a presentation by NBNco providing critical tips on ‘Connecting Safely on the Internet,’ helping older attendees navigate the digital world safely.
Funded by a Department of Veterans’ Affairs grant, the event was an opportunity for Legacy to focus on community building without the usual pressures of fundraising. Hayes expressed gratitude for the grant, noting, “It allows us to focus more on our beneficiaries and the extra support they need. It’s a relief for our volunteers as we continue to provide these valuable events.”
Bravus, a local sponsor, was also recognised for its contribution, covering transport costs for 14 ladies from Bowen. Hayes added, “We’re very grateful for Bravus’ support, which made it possible for so many to join us.”
Nicole Hayes encouraged community members to consider becoming a Legatee, emphasising that the organisation is always looking for more volunteers to assist in its mission.
“If you want to be part of something meaningful, whether it’s as simple as having a cup of tea with someone or taking on a bigger role, Legacy offers many ways to get involved.”
For those interested in becoming a beneficiary or Legatee, Hayes urges you to contact Legacy’s Townsville office at 4772 7533.

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The legacy lunch was a lovely turnout. Photo supplied
Sandwiches with the Legacy members and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort. Photo supplied
Councillor John Furnell and legacy members smiling together. Photo supplied
Photos supplied

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The Burdekin Men’s Shed Association Inc. commemorated Queensland Mental Health Week with an event titled "Cuppa, Chat, and Chew" on 9 October. The gathering focused on this year’s theme, "Connect for Mental Health," encouraging participants to take proactive steps to nurture both personal and community wellbeing. Queensland Mental Health Week highlights the importance of connecting with people who support mental health through events and activities.
This year's theme emphasised four core areas: connecting with oneself, community, others, and nature. Attendees were urged to focus on self-care, building meaningful relationships, fostering inclusive environments, and spending time in nature to enhance their mental wellbeing.
Fifty people attended the event, which featured social connection opportunities, free tea, guest speakers, and a sausage sizzle. Burdekin Shire Councillor and Men’s Shed member John Furnell served as the event’s MC, introducing the guest speakers, including Dale Last MP, Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, and the keynote speaker, Leon Martin.
Leon Martin, the event’s main speaker, delivered an engaging 40-minute talk. He shared his personal experiences with bullying, mental health struggles, and his current work supporting youth in overcoming modern challenges. His heartfelt story deeply resonated with the audience, many of whom related to his journey. The audience praised Martin’s ability to connect through his experiences, providing a powerful example of overcoming adversity.
Charles Ford, secretary of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association, commented, “I found the speaker very good as he spoke about life that he had been through, and I could relate to his story.”
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Dale Last MP’s attendance underscored the importance of local leadership in supporting mental health initiatives. Both public figures were visible throughout the event and gave speeches, supporting the Men’s Shed and its efforts to foster mental health awareness in the region.
The atmosphere of the event was widely described as warm and welcoming, with attendees enjoying both the meaningful discussions and the fellowship provided. The combination of a supportive environment and inspiring speakers left participants reflecting on the importance of mental health conversations, especially in smaller regional communities like the Burdekin.
The Burdekin Men’s Shed’s "Cuppa, Chat, and Chew" event was a clear success, creating a space for community members to connect and engage in open conversations about mental health. The Shed continues to play a vital role in promoting mental health awareness, providing a safe and inclusive environment where these essential discussions can thrive. Events like this are crucial in smaller communities, where the need for support systems is often more pronounced, and the opportunity to connect with others is invaluable.

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Alvin and Edward cooking the sausage sizzle. Photo supplied
50 people were in attendance. Photo supplied
John Furnell and Dale Last shaking hands. Photo supplied

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Since 2005, Christine Wassmuth, along with two other hosts, has been running the Christian segment of a local radio station, sharing her passion for music and faith with listeners. Christine’s love for music initially drew her to the profession. "I like music; that’s what drew me," she recalls, highlighting the power of melody and lyrics in shaping her broadcasting journey.
The Christian music genre, with its profound messages, has influenced Christine’s career, offering a unique perspective on Christianity. "By playing the music and listening to the words, I think that puts a different perspective and a deeper understanding of faith," she explains. The ability to connect listeners with uplifting and meaningful songs is central to her mission, creating a shared experience that resonates beyond the airwaves.
One of Christine’s most memorable moments on air occurred when she received a heartfelt letter from a listener. "We don’t always know who’s listening. One letter said thank you; we were waiting for news of our father and brother who were out at sea. We were listening to the radio, and the songs you played really comforted us." This experience underscores the profound impact of music and radio on people’s lives, reminding Christine that her work reaches those in need of comfort and hope. "It’s something to think about—the fact that other people are listening, and you can be listening in the morning and it’s just the song you needed to hear," she reflects.
Preparation is key for a successful live show, and Christine approaches each broadcast with care. She spends time selecting music that aligns with the readings for her segment, using various internet sources to find songs on the chosen theme. "I try to get as many songs as I can on that theme and play songs we like. We have prayers too, along with service times." Although she has scripts to guide her, Christine remains flexible, adjusting the playlist on the fly as needed. "I’m organised, so I don’t feel stressed when I start because I’ve put the time in beforehand," she says.
For those aspiring to enter the world of radio hosting, Christine offers simple yet encouraging advice: "Give it a go. You’ve got nothing to lose. It’s great; you’re sharing music you love with people who enjoy listening to it." Her welcoming attitude makes it clear that anyone with a passion for music can succeed in radio.
Keeping the audience engaged during long segments is another aspect of hosting that Christine handles with ease. "I just try to have a bit of variety and not speak for too long in one segment. People aren’t hanging onto every word; most are multitasking while listening." Her segment serves as a comforting alternative for those unable to attend church, providing a sense of community and spiritual connection.
The most time-consuming part of her work, Christine admits, is choosing the right songs. "It takes me the longest out of everything I do, but it’s not necessarily challenging. The last thing I’ll give up is the radio because I really do love doing it." Her love for music and the joy of sharing it with others is what keeps her motivated. "It really speaks to the heart of our segment because you understand the reading and connect it with the music," Christine concludes, capturing the essence of her role as a radio host—bringing together music, faith, and community.

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Christine Wassmuth in her element. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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Burdekin residents will have the opportunity to dispose of waste for free on Sunday, 1 December, as part of the “Let’s Get Ready Burdekin” initiative, which aims to help residents prepare for the upcoming disaster season.
The Free Waste Disposal Day encourages locals to clean up around their homes, eliminating potential hazards and reducing the risk of damage during severe weather events like cyclones.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort emphasised the importance of this initiative in supporting the community’s disaster readiness.
"As we approach cyclone season, it is crucial we do everything possible to prepare for potential disasters,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“The Let’s Get Ready Burdekin - Free Waste Disposal Day allows residents to safely dispose of sorted waste and prevent debris build-up that could pose risks during severe weather."
She further highlighted that this day is not just about cleaning up but fostering community resilience.
“By clearing your property now, you're protecting not only your home but also your neighbours and the wider Burdekin community. I encourage everyone to participate."
Residents can bring sorted waste to Council’s Waste Transfer Stations and Landfills, with usual operating hours in place. To ensure smooth disposal, residents are encouraged to review the list of acceptable waste materials ahead of time.
For more information, including waste disposal guidelines and disaster preparedness tips, visit Council’s website or call Council’s Customer Service Centre at (07) 4783 9800.

WHAT: Free Waste Day
WHEN: Sunday 1st December

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1: What key policies or ideals does the political party you’re running for have that you resonate most with, what are the reasons you align with them?
2: What is your main election promise and how are you going to ensure it actually happens if you are elected?
3: What policy/promise do you like from a competing party and how would you like to see it play out if elected?
4: What do you think about negative campaigning - do you think there is a place for it these days?
5: What is one thing unexpected that you would do if elected?

Daniel Carroll
Katter Party Candidate For Burdekin

1: Unlike other political parties, the KAP is a values based party. We believe in fairness for all North Queenslanders and offer common sense solutions to serious problems such as crime, support for businesses and cost of living.

2: Our first priority is to address the crime problem we face in Queensland. This generates so much waste and suffering for individuals and organisations. 

3: I like the promise from the liberal party that they will address the issue with youth crime but fear that their policies will not work 

4: I am running an entirely positive campaign and have nothing negative to say about any of the other candidates 

5: I will do a tour of every pub and social club in the electorate. I think these are often at the heart of our communities and need our support.

Dale Last
LNP Candidate For Burdekin
 
1: I am representing the Liberal National Party (LNP), just as I always have. Since joining the party and as Member for Burdekin I have consistently resonated with and upheld their ideals and policies. These ideals like having freedom of conscience and freedom of expression have been the foundation of my work as the Member for Burdekin, ensuring that no matter where you live or work in the Burdekin, there is an opportunity to raise your concerns, beliefs or desires with me.
 
2: My priority has always been and will always be the electorate of the Burdekin. I am proud to have worked closely with the Burdekin community to fight for a safer community, better access to health services and roads that meet the needs of the industries that rely on them. Burdekin residents made it clear they wanted to see a CT scanner at their hospital, and I am proud to say an LNP elected government will deliver that.  

3: Right across the electorate residents would be able to name a road that is not just poorly maintained or congested but down right unsafe. No matter where we live we deserve to be able to hop in our vehicles and arrive at our destination safely. Labor's commitment to upgrades and repairs on roads in this electorate is long overdue, especially when you consider how many times I have raised the state of our major roads on the floor of the Queensland Parliament over my three terms as Member for Burdekin. 
 

4: An election should be about a clear choice for voters based on ideals, policies and commitments to those voters in the electorate. A campaign which is built on mudslinging and negative vitriol against another party's candidate quite often does more damage to that candidate's own campaign. 

5: Give my hard working staff some well-deserved time off!

Anne Baker
Labor Candidate For Burdekin

1: Throughout its history, Labor has been a progressive force for workers and working families, especially for women, establishing many of the reforms and initiatives that continue to drive gender equality to this day. Without Labor, we wouldn’t have Medicare! I am a big believer in improving Healthcare without cuts. We need more hospital beds and more health workers, not less, plus returning Coal Royalties to region is the only way we are going to fix the Bruce Highway. I have already secured $157M in fully committed funding for the Peak Downs Highway and The Bruce Highway north of Bowen is next on my list.       
 
2: I have more than one commitment and they are not just promises. If elected my commitments will happen as the money is fully funded. Burdekin Netball Association Facilities redevelopment: $3.5m, Clermont Swimming Centre upgrade: $3.2m, Bowen Wood Turners Association: $10,000, Hinterland Community Care Funding: $42, 000, Burdekin’s Men’s Sheds: $40,000. TAFE pilot program: $10m,  Plus the $157M fully funded commitment to Burdekin Electorate Roads and the Peak Downs Highway.

3: Any promise or commitment that benefits regional communities is a positive. We need to ensure the Burdekin electorate is seen and heard by State and Federal Government, not looked over.   

4: Talking trash, No. Highlighting lack of representation or in some cases informing the public that a job could have possibly been done better is sometimes just a fact of life in politics as it can inform the voter to reconsider the current representation.   
 
5: After a long time in Local Government, 12 of those as Mayor, people who know me expect me to continually work for my community. If elected, after this campaign I may take half a day off before I officially start LOL! On a serious note, I will wholeheartedly support the Sugar Industry in their journey towards producing biofuels, bioplastics and other renewables to be sustainably produced replacements for fossil fuel-based products. I believe this is the way of the future for the industry, which may be unexpected for an ALP Candidate. I will fight to reduce electricity costs for farmers and fight to improve water quality and river health.  
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Andrew Elborne
One Nation Candidate For Burdekin

1: Fixing the cost of living problems, the power problems and the youth programs - I am experienced in all of them.

 
2: Simplify legislation so the average citizen can follow it, stop having legislation written by Lawyers.

3: I am running for One Nation and our policies.

4: There is no place for trash talking other parties, it is disrespectful to everyone

5: Being a large electorate, I would probably retrofit a caravan and take the office on the road to be accessible to all my constituents

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1: Fixing the cost of living problems, the power problems and the youth programs - I am experienced in all of them.
 
 
2: Simplify legislation so the average citizen can follow it, stop having legislation written by Lawyers.

3: I am running for One Nation and our policies.

4: There is no place for trash talking other parties, it is disrespectful to everyone
 

5: Being a large electorate, I would probably retrofit a caravan and take the office on the road to be accessible to all my constituents

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1: Throughout its history, Labor has been a progressive force for workers and working families, especially for women, establishing many of the reforms and initiatives that continue to drive gender equality to this day. Without Labor, we wouldn’t have Medicare! I am a big believer in improving Healthcare without cuts. We need more hospital beds and more health workers, not less, plus returning Coal Royalties to region is the only way we are going to fix the Bruce Highway. I have already secured $157M in fully committed funding for the Peak Downs Highway and The Bruce Highway north of Bowen is next on my list.       
 
2: I have more than one commitment and they are not just promises. If elected my commitments will happen as the money is fully funded. Burdekin Netball Association Facilities redevelopment: $3.5m, Clermont Swimming Centre upgrade: $3.2m, Bowen Wood Turners Association: $10,000, Hinterland Community Care Funding: $42, 000, Burdekin’s Men’s Sheds: $40,000. TAFE pilot program: $10m,  Plus the $157M fully funded commitment to Burdekin Electorate Roads and the Peak Downs Highway.

3: Any promise or commitment that benefits regional communities is a positive. We need to ensure the Burdekin electorate is seen and heard by State and Federal Government, not looked over.   

4: Talking trash, No. Highlighting lack of representation or in some cases informing the public that a job could have possibly been done better is sometimes just a fact of life in politics as it can inform the voter to reconsider the current representation.   
 
5: After a long time in Local Government, 12 of those as Mayor, people who know me expect me to continually work for my community. If elected, after this campaign I may take half a day off before I officially start LOL! On a serious note, I will wholeheartedly support the Sugar Industry in their journey towards producing biofuels, bioplastics and other renewables to be sustainably produced replacements for fossil fuel-based products. I believe this is the way of the future for the industry, which may be unexpected for an ALP Candidate. I will fight to reduce electricity costs for farmers and fight to improve water quality and river health.  
 
 

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1: I am representing the Liberal National Party (LNP), just as I always have. Since joining the party and as Member for Burdekin I have consistently resonated with and upheld their ideals and policies. These ideals like having freedom of conscience and freedom of expression have been the foundation of my work as the Member for Burdekin, ensuring that no matter where you live or work in the Burdekin, there is an opportunity to raise your concerns, beliefs or desires with me.
 
2: My priority has always been and will always be the electorate of the Burdekin. I am proud to have worked closely with the Burdekin community to fight for a safer community, better access to health services and roads that meet the needs of the industries that rely on them. Burdekin residents made it clear they wanted to see a CT scanner at their hospital, and I am proud to say an LNP elected government will deliver that.  

3: Right across the electorate residents would be able to name a road that is not just poorly maintained or congested but down right unsafe. No matter where we live we deserve to be able to hop in our vehicles and arrive at our destination safely. Labor's commitment to upgrades and repairs on roads in this electorate is long overdue, especially when you consider how many times I have raised the state of our major roads on the floor of the Queensland Parliament over my three terms as Member for Burdekin. 
 

4: An election should be about a clear choice for voters based on ideals, policies and commitments to those voters in the electorate. A campaign which is built on mudslinging and negative vitriol against another party's candidate quite often does more damage to that candidate's own campaign. 

5: Give my hard working staff some well-deserved time off!

‍

1: Unlike other political parties, the KAP is a values based party. We believe in fairness for all North Queenslanders and offer common sense solutions to serious problems such as crime, support for businesses and cost of living.

2: Our first priority is to address the crime problem we face in Queensland. This generates so much waste and suffering for individuals and organisations. 

3: I like the promise from the liberal party that they will address the issue with youth crime but fear that their policies will not work 

4: I am running an entirely positive campaign and have nothing negative to say about any of the other candidates 

5: I will do a tour of every pub and social club in the electorate. I think these are often at the heart of our communities and need our support.

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