Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony. The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life. Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears. Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain. The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year. CAPTION: Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied
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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen. The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations. Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia. The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent. Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”. eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate. Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours. The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act. eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users. The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront. For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike. CAPTION: The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock
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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users. Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover. “The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge. Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure. A Facility Built by Volunteers The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery. Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work. MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable. Election Promise and Handover In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club. As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million. In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland. Design Concerns and Infill Issues According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows. Those concerns, they say, were ignored. “Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said. “The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.” Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since. As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days. “All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.” Safety Concerns Escalate The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges. Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available. “Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge. In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out. After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route. A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety. “The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said. “The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.” Calls for Practical Solutions The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years. Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised. “There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge. “We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.” Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government. “The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said. “I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.” He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored. “Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.” Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy. “There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said. “Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access. “The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.” Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location. “The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.” He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed. “During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.” “In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open
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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg. Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen. “We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said. “I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.” The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began. Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet. Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen. Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen. “Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.” CAPTION: Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Council will commence flying fox dispersal activities in Arch Dunn Memorial Park with the aim to reduce flying fox numbers in preparation for Anzac Day. The activities will take place over three days from April 22nd to 24th 2025 between 5.30am and 6.30am each day as required.
These non-harmful dispersal activities will include audible deterrents (pyrotechnics, shotgun simulator, pool noodles, LED torches and flashing lights) and therefore residents are advised to take measures to secure their pets during the operation times.
All private landowners are reminded and encouraged that if flying-foxes land in their trees, they are entitled to discourage them from staying by using non-destructive disturbance techniques such as smoke, water sprinklers, visual deterrents such as imitation predators, bright lights, and noise from various commercial or improvised products. Please do not attempt to touch a flying-fox with bare hands.
For further information on what you can and cannot do with flying-foxes, please visit the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation website at www.detsi.qld.gov.au.
For further information about the dispersal activities taking place or to report roosting flying foxes during daylight hours, in numbers greater than 100, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 47839800.
The Ayr Chamber gathered last Tuesday evening for a catch-up focused on all things advertising, and how the Chamber can best support its members in reaching their target markets.
Rachael Smith, Chief Editor of Life Publishing Group—publisher of Burdekin Life Newspaper, Core Life, and Tripping Magazine—shared insights into the vision behind launching the two magazines in the region.
The magazine, which has had a soft launch in the Burdekin in recent months, aims to showcase business profiles and travel stories, with a growing distribution footprint extending along much of the Queensland coast.
The publication has been operating for almost 14 years and prints 15,000 copies every two months.
It is available from Mackay to Ingham, including Moranbah, the Whitsundays, the Burdekin, and Townsville.
Completely free, Core Life and Tripping Magazine is distributed at more than 1,000 locations, including 60 dedicated distribution stands.
During the meeting, Rachael introduced a special advertising package exclusively for Chamber members.
The offer includes exposure in the Burdekin Life Newspaper and a dedicated annual feature in Core Life Magazine that highlights Burdekin businesses.
Kari Ravizza, Treasurer of the Burdekin Chamber, also presented attendees with a range of additional advertising opportunities.
She spoke about the potential launch of a quarterly catalogue, designed to allow local retailers and businesses to promote special offers to the wider community.
Further details regarding pricing and distribution are expected to be available soon.
Eusebio Aguirre and Kari Ravizza from Burdekin Chamber of Commerce with Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci
Trish Jandt and Ruth Puddefoot from Burdekin Life Newspaper with Lameez Yunus from NQ Employment Burdekin
Uli Liessmann and Robert Antoniazzi from Home Hill Chamber of Commerce
Councillor Callan Oar with his wife Kristy Oar
Rachael Smith Chief Editor Life Publishing Group, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Linda Butler from Kdee Designs
Councillor Michael Detenon, CEO of Council Michael Magin and Rose Papadimitriou
Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
The Burdekin Chamber recently closed out the month of March with a commendable achievement in the way of the group’s Shop the Burdekin Gift Cards!
A primary focus of the Burdekin Chamber has always been to encourage and promote “shop local” initiatives to further foster intercommunity networking and development. In doing so, the Chamber introduced Burdekin Gift Cards some years ago as a closed-loop gift card program which can be purchased from and redeemed only at participating local businesses who are also valued members of the Chamber.
Since the program was launched, more than $100,000 has been loaded onto the cards, directly benefiting the local economy and this March, $1,180 worth of Burdekin Gift Cards were purchased within the community!
With over 50 participating local businesses to shop with, Shop the Burdekin Gift Cards are a fantastic way to support the local economy and shop local.
It’s all hands to the pumps as the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists prepare for their Open Day celebrations on Saturday 10th May at the Brandon Heritage Centre.
President Bruce Munro and fellow Burdekin Machinery Preservationist Peter Smith are reportedly sweating away on the final preparations of the historic Austral Hot Bulb Engine—a quaint old engine made in Australia by Ronaldson and Tippet. The burning question is: Can they get the hundred year old engine ready for Open Day?
This particular engine was donated to the Club by the McMahon Brothers of Bowen. It was then stripped down to the main chassis and meticulously renovated, part by part, by expert artisan Smith, whose motto is “measure twice, cut once.”
There was a palpable sense of excitement a few weeks ago when the engine finally roared to life with a bang and a great cloud of smoke. Following some adjustments to the governor and careful fine-tuning, it’s now operating much more smoothly.
The hot-bulb engine, also known as a semi-diesel or Akroyd engine, is an early type of internal combustion engine that was widely used in agriculture, marine, and stationary applications, and was the link between the steam era and diesel engines. They were simple, versatile and would run on a variety liquid fuel, crude oil, kerosene, old engine oil and even vegetable oil.
The hot-bulb engine is one of a host of different machinery, tractors and other items that will be on show at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day.
For more information about the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists please call Lex on 0488 366 443 or email us at burdekinmp@outlook.com
What: Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day
Where: Brandon Heritage Centre
When: Saturday 10th of May
Peter Smith measuring up for the Austral renovation. Photo supplied
The first start of the Austral Hot Bulb Engine. Photo supplied
In September 1960, the Home Hill Bowls Club began a major upgrade of its green. A sub-committee made up of club members Mr Davies, Mr Adams, Mr Hanson and Mr King was formed to oversee the project, while Mr Adsma and Mr Davies were given the task of organising logistics with Mr Doug Haigh from the Ayr Shire Council.
It was decided that the green would close after games finished on Sunday, 18th September. The very next day, work got underway. It was a huge job – graders, end loaders, trucks, and hardworking volunteers with picks and shovels transformed the green in a flurry of activity.
Once the old surface was removed and the ground was prepared, the levelling of the green began. Artie Adams led the levelling with the help of Stan Asmus. The green was then replanted with South African Couch grass, sourced from the Ayr Bowling Green.
After months of hard work, the green officially reopened on Saturday, 11th February 1961, with a social mixed bowls event held in the afternoon. The success of the upgrade – and the high standard of the green even today – is a lasting tribute to everyone who helped make it happen.
A few years later, at the club’s General Meeting in 1963, members agreed it was time to replace the old clubhouse. The committee at the time – Mr Vaughan Heard (President), Mr Wilburn Figg (Secretary), Mr Gordon Ryan (Treasurer), along with Mr Jim Oats, Mr Frank Boccalatte, Mr Tom Callow, Mr Ral King, Mr Mere Swindley and Mr Peter Ferguson – began making plans.
By February 1963, after reviewing reports, the committee decided to go ahead with building the new clubhouse. They accepted a tender from W. & M. Woodward for £6,987. To help pay for the building, the club issued 300 debentures of £10 each, interest-free for ten years.
The new clubhouse was officially opened on 21st September 1963 by Mr Ian Roberts, who was President of the North Queensland District Bowls Association at the time.
Further improvements continued over the years. In 1979, under the presidency of Mr Bob Young, the bar area was carpeted, tiled and refurnished, giving it a fresh and modern feel.
Today, the Home Hill Bowls Club’s green, clubhouse and surroundings stand as a proud tribute to all those members who have contributed their time, effort and dedication over the decades – building a community space for all to enjoy.
Two of the original Home Hill Bowls members, Pop Stockdale (left) and Ham McLeod.
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Friday night, the Burdekin had the opportunity to have Sam Childers share his incredible story at the Ayr Community Church. Sams journey has taken him from a life of violent crime to war torn eastern Africa where he has rescued over 1500 children from rebel armies in some of Africa’s most dangerous areas. He also runs schools, trade-training centres orphanages and farms in Africa all for the children. His life is also the basis of a 2011 movie starring Jerard Butler aptly named Machine Gun Preacher. What a great night which was very well attended. It was very interesting to hear the difference one man can make. Thank you to Councillor Amanda Hall who made this happen.I want to mention the Planning and Development open days which is held on a Friday in Council Chambers this week it will be on Thursday due to the public holiday. The Planning and Development and Technical Services team make themselves available for face-to-face consultations for Developers, Property Owner and Community Members with Relevant enquiries offering expert and advice on property development in the Burdekin. They will assist with any enquiries with you may have before you lodge any applications with those departments assisting with streamlining the process.The Council will also be conducting the Bi-annual Water Supply Meter Reading commencing 14th April 2025. The early commencement of the meter reading is due to the Council changing of the Rates to bi-annually. Can we please ask that residents clear meters of all obstructions and restrain your dogs to avoid injury to our Staff and unlock your gates. This would be greatly appreciated.The 2025 Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships will be held at the Burdekin Showgrounds on the 30th of May. It will be the headline event for the Sweet Days, Hot nights Festival which will be held on that weekend. The weekend will be fun for the whole family with free kids’ activities, including a Petting Zoo, Timmy the Train, Market stalls, also the Burdekin Rum Bar Gudjuda Rangers Turtle viewing. Mechanical Bull and lots more. It will be a great family event. You can witness skill and stamina of our cane cutters which will compete for some great prize money and the National Title so Save the Date.Hope you all have a safe and Happy Easter.
The results of our grower survey last year made it quite apparent that growers who market with Wilmar believe that the market information we provide is one of the most important services of our Grower Marketing team.
One way we keep growers up to date is via shed meetings and information sessions which we recently held in Proserpine, Ingham and the Burdekin.
It’s always thoroughly enjoyable for the team to get out and about, meeting with growers, learning more about their businesses and hearing what works for them.
With the current turmoil in global markets, it was a timely update given the uncertainty within the world. It was also a great opportunity to have our Risk Manager Bevan Patterson up from Brisbane to review the current Wilmar forecasts on global demand and supply, and try to make some sense of the chaos.
Currently we forecast a small net surplus in sugar for the upcoming season which is highly dependent on Brazil delivering another record crop of 42 million tonnes of sugar. Harvest is about to get under way in Brazil and the dry start to the year may result in yields underperforming current forecasts.
As Brazil accounts for nearly three quarters of global seaborne trade, any slip in production could see a surplus turn into a deficit, and higher prices.
The global market turmoil triggered by the tariff tit for tat has caused the AUD to be extremely volatile as traders analyse the impact on a trading nation like Australia. It is not often that we see the AUD below 60 cents and it has masked some of the drop in the #11 sugar price fall.
In better news, our 2024 season pools and allocation account continue to outperform, and we will soon release our quarterly performance and comparative analysis for January to March. Keep an eye on your inbox for that later this month. The analysis continues to show that growers are significantly better off by marketing with Wilmar, irrespective of the mechanisms used for GEI sugar pricing.
After a few days out of the office and in the regions catching up with our growers, it is great to see the sun shining and the fields drying out. We hope the rainy days are behind us, and we will soon see a hive of activity out on the farms as planting begins.
Wilmar Grower Marketing Business Development Manager Owen Richards addresses Burdekin growers
at a recent information session. Photo supplied
Australian plague locusts are an endemic pest that threatens our agricultural industry, devastating crops, and causing losses of up to $30 million.
By harnessing cutting edge science, experts can forecast locust outbreaks with greater accuracy, helping mitigate economic impacts.
The Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) uses advanced analytics to improve early detection and rapid response. However, forecasting locust populations is challenging.
The APLC has been developing a simulation model to predict locust population dynamics across their entire range. This model predicts the development, survival, and behaviour of locusts across all life stages: eggs, nymphs, and adults.
However, locusts inhabit a vast range of more than 2 million square kilometres, so deploying the model is challenging. Field surveys alone cannot provide enough coverage to initialise the model.
But artificial intelligence is changing the game. The APLC has partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA) to develop a new AI-driven model. The machine learning algorithms developed have incorporated 37 years of locust data with high-resolution weather, vegetation, and soil records to generate more accurate short-term forecasts (up to 90%).
These AI models will not only initialise the population dynamics model but also enhance field survey targeting, leading to more reliable on-the-ground surveillance. Additionally, they will support better planning and resource allocation.
Thanks to a growing ecosystem of models, the APLC is now better equipped to predict locust populations, making it easier to forecast their changes in response to Australia's highly variable climate. This will enable governments and industry to prepare and respond more effectively.
The APLC plans to integrate this AI-driven forecasting system into a new online data dashboard. This will further support enhanced locust predictions, enable real-time monitoring, and improve response strategies.
Australian plague locust (Chortoicetes terminifera). Photo credit: P.D. Amara / Flickr
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Fixing a decade-long reduction in housing supply across Queensland, including in the Burdekin, is the aim of a funding program that guarantees support for regional areas.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has welcomed the program’s commitment to regional Queensland due to details that have been shared with him by Burdekin locals.
“The facts are that, over the last 10 years, housing approvals in Queensland have fallen by nearly 30% and the waiting list for social housing has ballooned,” he said.
“I’ve spoken to families who have no option but to live in sheds and young people who cannot get a rental property due to what is basically a bidding war due to a supply shortage.”
“Our Residential Activation Fund provides funding to Councils and developers to address trunk and essential infrastructure like water supply, sewerage, power and roads. The priority during the first round is shovel-ready projects because our focus is on helping Queenslanders move into a home faster.”
“Applications for the Fund have now opened and I know that Council is well-advanced on their application. A lot of people think that the housing crisis is only in the cities, but there has been a definite impact here in the Burdekin.”
“In recognition of the broad impact, the government has guaranteed that at least $1Billion of the fund is for projects in regional Queensland. Not only will this provide an opportunity to fast-track construction, but it also provides a boost for the building and construction industry which means supporting local jobs.”
Mr Last said that, in addition to the Residential Activation Fund, the Crisafulli government had also committed to fast-tracking the delivery of additional social and affordable homes.
“Despite all the promises that were made, we’ve seen a reduction in social and affordable housing stocks across Queensland,” he said.
“That reduction means there was more pressure placed on the rental market, reducing availability and increasing prices.”
“Five thousand additional homes are under construction or contracted right across the state. We have been able to fast track those homes by working cooperatively with both the community housing sector and private developers to unlock land and to provide Queenslanders with a roof over their head.”
On Friday, April 25, the Burdekin community will come together to pay their respects to Australia’s past and present Service People, with local ANZAC services and parades to take place across the region.
In Home Hill, the Dawn Service will kick the day off, commencing at 5:25am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, followed by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute's silence at the Home Hill Cemetery Cenotaph.
Attendees will then return to the Burdekin Memorial Hall for the Gunfire Breakfast at 7:00am, with the March commencing at 10:45am on Tenth Avenue in front of the Ambulance Station. A solemn ceremony at 11:20am at Burdekin Memorial Hall will round off the morning.
The Dawn Service in Ayr will take place at Anzac Park, beginning at 5:30am, with the Service taking place at the same location at 9:20am.
School students are encouraged to gather along Queen Street, between Edwards Street and Parker Street, in preparation for the march. RSL members, Cadets, and other community groups will assemble on Parker Street, between Queen Street and Graham Street.
In Giru, commemorations will be held at Brolga Park, starting with a Dawn Service at 5:30am, followed by a morning Service at 9:30am.
Brandon residents will gather at the Spiller Street Cenotaph for an 8:00am Service.
Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs, and to reflect on the enduring spirit of service that continues to shape Australia today.
Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs. Image source: Queensland RSL
Local schoolgirl, Grace Ogomeni, inspired the crowd at her local ANZAC Day ceremony with a heartfelt speech highlighting the importance of the day for both sides of her family.
Grace is a School Captain at Home Hill State High School. A small school of just 200 students, despite its small numbers, it has a proud 60-year history of punching above its weight in terms of its achievements and the outcomes of its students.
With a Papuan father and an Australian mother, Grace spoke passionately about her heritage and the roles both sides of her family played in the conflict in Papua New Guinea during World War II.
Her father was born in the village of Kokoda – famed for the historic Kokoda Track – where the stories of the war are passed down through generations. On her mother’s side, her great-grandfather, a Charters Towers man, served in Papua New Guinea with the 39th Australian Infantry Battalion.
“The Australians and Papuans managed to stem the tide of the Japanese advance and, fighting side by side, sealed a bond of friendship that has endured between our two nations ever since,” Grace said.
“When I think about the ANZAC spirit, I think of this very bond - two worlds brought together, forming mateship and unity that stays strong in tough times.”
“We each have stories within our families - stories that define who we are and how our pasts are connected. Whilst we may not face the same challenges in today’s society compared to those who fought for us, we still have the opportunity to show courage, compassion and unity in our lives.”
“We must uphold these values and keep the ANZAC spirit alive,” she added.
Grace’s message of coming together, forming bonds and showing courage and compassion, is one that could serve us well in these tumultuous times, and it certainly resonated with those present on the day.
Home Hill State High School Captain Grace Ogomeni delivered a powerful ANZAC Day speech. Photo supplied
Clare State School has celebrated its 75th anniversary with nearly 500 attendees from the Burdekin community. Despite rain, Principal Troy Patti was delighted with the success of the event, which featured a Roll Call, Friday Night Fete, Time Capsule opening, and a Twilight Feast.
Highlights included a dinner at Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall, where past students and staff shared memories, and current students led a rendition of the school song. The event also saw the unveiling of a monument honouring three-generation families, marking a milestone that will be remembered for years to come.
Current and former teachers at Clare State School were honoured on the night. Photo supplied
Find social pics here:
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Hi Guys!
I’m both proud and excited to introduce myself as the new local journalist for the Burdekin Life newspaper!
I was born and raised in the Greater-Sydney region. I’ve had an ardent passion for writing ever since I was young, and began studying journalism in 2019 at Western Sydney University.
I made the leap to the USA to continue my studies in 2021, earning a full academic and athletic scholarship at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, where I was also on the Men’s Soccer team.
After graduating with a double degree in Journalism and Communications in 2024, I interned at Rojo Consulting, a PR/consulting firm based in Sydney, and played soccer semi-professionally.
Having played soccer all my life, I’m an avid sports fan, and can’t wait to sign up for some of the local sports clubs and teams—especially soccer ;)
I love to have a laugh and am always down for a chat, so feel free to say hi if you see me around town or flick me a message if there’s a story you think deserves to be told.
I’m thrilled to be embarking on this new adventure, and can’t wait to tell the rich and unique story of the Burdekin region.
I’m looking forward to meeting you all!
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With Easter just around the corner, excitement is building - especially for our little ones who are eagerly awaiting a visit from the Easter Bunny and, of course, plenty of chocolate! It’s a wonderful time of joy and indulgence, but beyond the treats, Easter carries a deeper significance for many in our community. For those who celebrate, it is a time of renewal, reflection, and hope - a reminder of new beginnings and the importance of faith, love, and kindness.The Easter long weekend also provides a valuable opportunity to slow down and spend quality time with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a backyard egg hunt, heading away on a short getaway, or simply taking time to relax at home, I encourage everyone to cherish these moments.For those who are traveling over the holiday period, please take extra care on the roads. With increased traffic, we all need to drive responsibly and ensure a safe and happy return home. Let’s also spare a thought for those in our community who may be facing difficulties at this time of year. A small act of kindness - whether checking in on a neighbour, offering support to someone in need, or volunteering - can make a real difference.I wish you all a joyful and safe Easter, filled with happiness, rest, and, of course, a few sweet treats!Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
In light of ongoing global financial uncertainty, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Financial and Cyber Crime Group (FCCG) are urging residents to remain vigilant and protect themselves from a rising tide of financial scams.
Recent market instability has impacted many Australians’ superannuation accounts, prompting some to seek alternative ways to recover their losses. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of this uncertainty by luring unsuspecting victims with fake investment opportunities and fraudulent schemes.
FCCG Commander, Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath, said fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often impersonating legitimate financial institutions and offering seemingly lucrative investment deals.
“Scammers thrive during times of economic instability,” Superintendent McGrath said.
“They use pressure tactics and professional-looking material to convince individuals to part with their hard-earned money and the consequences can be devastating – both financially and emotionally.”
Queenslanders are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves:
• Be sceptical of guaranteed high returns – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Only seek financial advice face-to-face from someone who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence. You can check licences on the ASIC website at asic.gov.au.
• Report scams immediately – if you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank, then report it at www.cyber.gov.au/report.
• Secure your accounts – if you suspect you’ve lost money or been scammed, notify your financial institution and update your online banking passwords.
• Know where to get help and visit www.scamwatch.gov.au for more information. If you believe your identity has been compromised, contact IDCARE at www.idcare.org.
If you’ve been contacted by a scammer via social media, be sure to report the account to the platform and for additional tools to improve your online safety and confidence, visit the eSafety Commissioner’s website at www.esafety.gov.au or www.beconnected.esafety.gov.au.
The QPS Financial and Cyber Crime Group are warning Queenslanders to be vigilant online (Photo Source: UnSplash)
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