By Chelsea Ravizza

A boisterous male peacock turned heads late last week after its ear-splitting call was shared to a private social media group, with residents claiming the noise reached an estimated 115 decibels in East Ayr.

Often likened to the sound of a chainsaw or leaf blower — typically registering between 105 and 115 decibels — peacocks rank among the loudest birds in the country. While not native to Australia, the striking birds have established themselves in communities across Queensland and beyond.

In recent years, several councils have moved to manage growing peacock populations in residential areas, with Brisbane City Council and, more recently, Central Coast Council implementing removal and rehoming programs in response to community complaints.

East Ayr’s peacock population has been a talking point for years, and renewed concern has again divided locals. Some residents have called for the birds to be rehomed, citing ongoing noise disruption, while others argue the peacocks should be left undisturbed as part of the area’s natural landscape.

“We have been here [Grey Street] for about 44 years, and they [peacocks] have been around all this time – truth be known, we have probably infringed in their land,” one local wrote online.

“I didn’t apply for a rental in Grey Street for this reason. I love mother nature and I’m all for coexisting, but I knew this would do my head in,” another commented.

Residents can report peacocks causing significant disturbance, property damage or safety concerns via Burdekin Shire Council’s Snap, Send, Solve mobile app, or through the non-urgent reporting form available at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Reports can also be made by contacting Council’s Customer Service Centre on 07 4783 9800.

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Amid the bustle of the festive season, the Burdekin Chamber quietly marked a significant milestone last month, announcing that just under $30,000 had been injected directly into the local economy through its Burdekin Gift Card program.

Burdekin Gift Cards have continued to prove they’re more than a convenient or thoughtful present — they’re a tangible way for locals to support local and keep spending within the shire.

Introduced by the Burdekin Chamber to encourage shopping locally while strengthening the regional economy, the initiative recorded another strong month of sales, reflecting ongoing community backing for Burdekin businesses.

Focused on promoting shop-local initiatives and fostering networking and development, the Burdekin Chamber has long prioritised community connection. One of its most successful initiatives to date has been the Burdekin Gift Card program — a community-wide, closed-loop gift card that can be redeemed exclusively at participating local businesses.

Available for purchase in any amount, Burdekin Gift Cards can be used at more than 50 businesses across the region, offering flexibility for everything from retail purchases to dining out.

Since the program’s launch, more than $100,000 has been loaded onto Burdekin Gift Cards, ensuring local dollars stay local and deliver direct benefits to the community and economy.

December marked the most successful month in the program’s history, with $18,367 in gift cards purchased and $10,936.21 spent at local businesses through redemptions.

With strong momentum continuing, chamber members and business owners alike are optimistic about the program’s ongoing growth and its positive impact in the months ahead.

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I had my first official calling to manhood the other day, just days after my 25th birthday. A warm welcome to the second quarter of my road to 100.

Speaking of roads... well, it all started on the Bruce Highway, as I learned I had acquired a puncture in my rear-right wheel.

Lovely.

I managed to arrive at my destination safely, but the next morning, the fate of my future travels was now firmly in my hands. It was up to me to change the wheel.

I get it—sounds quite elementary. But just let me have my moment, will ya?

So there I knelt, still in my pj’s, alongside my colleague and super assistant for the morning, Chelsea, who decided to pitch in by playing photographer (see photo) and snickering as I struggled to locate the spare wheel.

After a gruelling half hour in which blood, sweat, and tears were exuded in great quantities, I had finally done it—located the spare wheel, that is.

Then it was time to brush off some old, dormant memories of my dad teaching me how to use a jack and centre the wheel when tightening lug-nuts.

And once the wheel was (seemingly) attached, it was time to test if my memory had served me well.

For the entire hour-long drive back home—well, let’s just say I’d never been so attentive on the road.

No music. No podcast. No phone calls.

Just me. There. Stiff…

And worried that every bump in the road was the wheel saying “adios.”

But after a trip that felt like it spanned weeks, I eventually arrived safely in Home Hill, car in one piece, and safe in the knowledge that I now had the ability to change the wheel of a 2015 Renault Kangoo in my repertoire.

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Burdekin residents with a passion for animals are being invited to turn compassion into action, with NQ Wildlife launching a new round of introductory wildlife care training sessions in early 2026.

Designed for anyone eager to help protect the region’s native species, the training program offers locals the chance to learn how to safely care for, rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned wildlife — from possums and birds to reptiles, bats and kangaroos.

Running from late January through to early March, the sessions provide a welcoming entry point for first-timers, aspiring volunteers and those simply curious about how they can make a difference when wildlife is in trouble.

The training schedule includes hands-on introductions to wildlife care, rescue techniques and species-specific programs covering possums, birds, reptiles, flying foxes, microbats and macropods. Each session is led by experienced carers who share practical knowledge, real-world insights and a deep respect for the animals in their care.

Veterinarians, vet nurses and veterinary students are also encouraged to get involved, with free registration available by contacting NQ Wildlife directly.

With limited places available, organisers are urging anyone interested to book early and take the first step toward becoming part of a growing community working behind the scenes to protect North Queensland’s wildlife. More information and bookings are available via nqwildlife.org.au/training.

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NQ Wildlife are encouraging locals to learn how to care for our wildlife in 2026. Photo credit: Frank Fichtmueller

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After days of weather-related disruption, the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has officially moved to Stand Down following the reopening of Jerona Road and improving local conditions, offering residents a brief reprieve amid the ongoing disaster season.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, chair of the LDMG, said the transition reflects improved access and reduced immediate risk, but urged residents to remain vigilant.

“While the reopening of Jerona Road is a positive sign and allows us to formally move to Stand Down, it is important that the community do not become complacent,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

The move comes after recent weather events, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, which brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and minor flooding across parts of the Shire. While the Burdekin avoided major damage, some roads and public spaces were temporarily affected. Council crews are continuing to clear debris, inspect drainage infrastructure, and assess roads.

The Burdekin Shire Council emphasised that even though recent weather events caused minimal disruption, the risk of cyclones, heavy rainfall, and flooding remains high in the coming months.

Mayor Dalle Cort reminded the community that the region is still in the midst of disaster season, urging residents to ensure their homes and families are prepared..

“We are still well within disaster season, and conditions can change quickly. Preparedness remains essential,” she said.

“Now is the time to check your emergency plans, ensure your household is ready, and stay informed through official channels.”

Residents are encouraged to review and update their household emergency plans, keep emergency kits stocked with essential items, maintain yards free of debris, and stay informed through official sources such as the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard (disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au) and the Bureau of Meteorology.

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After days of weather-related disruption, the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has officially moved to Stand Down following the reopening of Jerona Road and improving local conditions, offering residents a brief reprieve amid the ongoing disaster season. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Serious concerns have been raised by Member for Burdekin Dale Last as the north faced another
severe weather season made more deadly by the despicable actions of criminals.

The theft of copper wire has seen deadly intersections of the Bruce Highway plunged into darkness
over several months while police were recently also investigating incidents where copper wiring was
removed from large generators in the Burdekin and telecommunications cabling north of Townsville.

Mr Last has condemned the low act which he said had the potential to put the lives of community
members in jeopardy and at times, had left taxpayers footing the bill for costly repairs.

“Let’s make this very clear, this action has incredibly dangerous ramifications especially during our current periods of severe weather where having a constant source of power and telecommunications is imperative for vulnerable members of our community,” Mr Last said.

“Across December police were investigating multiple incidents of copper theft from generators
placed across the Burdekin ahead of the Christmas period and I would encourage anyone with
information that may assist with these investigations to contact police.”

“I would question the morals of anyone who is willing to put themselves in harms way and ultimately
endanger the lives of drivers by cutting cabling on streetlights and plunging communities into an
internet blackout at the height of disaster alerts.”

Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government was taking copper theft seriously with the introduction of
stronger laws into parliament later this year.

“The Crisafulli Government is taking copper theft across the state seriously and that starts with
ensuring that our justice systems have the measures they need to crack down on these crimes,” Mr
Last said.

“Make no mistake if you commit these low acts that have the potential to endanger other community
members, particularly in their hour of need or when they are driving home after dark on a national
highway, you should face the full weight of the law.”

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Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

Australia Day is not just a date on the calendar. It is a moment to pause, to reflect, and to
reconnect with what it truly means to be Australian. It is a day that speaks to our shared story,
our values, and our responsibility to one another as a nation.

In a world that feels increasingly fractured, Australia Day reminds us of something enduring:
that unity is our greatest strength. We are at our best when we stand together under one flag,
grounded in mutual respect, fairness, and a shared commitment to the Australian way of life.
Whether you are spending Australia Day by the beach with family and friends, firing up the
barbecue, sharing a beer with mates, or attending a local ceremony, you are taking part in a
tradition that reflects the rich and proud identity of our nation.

For me, one of the greatest honours each Australia Day is attending citizenship ceremonies.
There is no better day to become an Australian. Watching people from all corners of the world
pledge their loyalty to this country, embrace our values, and officially call Australia home is deeply moving. It is a powerful reminder that Australian citizenship is not just a legal status, but a commitment to our freedoms, our laws, and our shared future.

Australia has always been shaped by those who chose to build a life here. We are a nation
enriched by diversity, but united by common values. With the privilege of calling Australia home
comes a responsibility: to respect our laws, uphold equality, and contribute positively to the
communities we live in. Our Australia is fair, democratic, and bound by the rule of law, and
those principles must always be protected.

Our flag is more than fabric and colour. It represents the freedoms we enjoy today and the
sacrifices made by generations before us.

Across our region, communities will be coming together through local events, ceremonies, and
celebrations. I encourage everyone to check their local community Facebook pages,
noticeboards, and council websites to see what is happening near you and to take part.

This Australia Day, I’ll be out and about across our region, joining in community events and
soaking up everything that makes our country great. From attending a citizenship ceremony to
celebrating with families at local events, it’s a day to be proud of who we are. You might even
find me on the beach for a bit of cricket. I’ll be enjoying a snag, having a crack at the thong
throwing competition and finishing with a slice of pavlova.

Australia Day is a reminder that we are united as Australians, bound by shared values, respect
for one another, and pride in our country.

As we celebrate this Australia Day, let us reflect on the values our flag represents, take pride in
our shared achievements, and continue building a nation that is strong, free, and fair, one that
future generations can proudly call home.

Happy Australia Day!

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A Burdekin-based registered nurse has broken new ground for rural healthcare workers, proving that advanced midwifery qualifications can be achieved without leaving home.

Ayr nurse Cher Vernon has become the first nurse to complete a Diploma of Midwifery through Townsville University Hospital (TUH) while continuing to live and work in a rural location. Traditionally, nurses employed within the Townsville Hospital and Health Service were required to complete the qualification onsite at TUH, often necessitating relocation to a major centre.

By completing the diploma from Ayr, Ms Vernon hopes her experience will open doors for other rural nurses considering further study.

“Normally, to get the Diploma of Midwifery you have to do the training through a tertiary hospital, which can be a challenge for nurses in rural communities,” Ms Vernon said.

“There’s the stress of needing to organise travel, work, and family which makes it very difficult and overwhelming.

“This was something I had been wanting to do for 15 years but was never able to do because of those commitments.”

Ms Vernon said the initiative was made possible after strong support from local leadership and collaboration with James Cook University.

“When I approached the director of nursing at the Ayr hospital and told her what I wanted to do, she and the health service moved mountains and worked with JCU to make this training available outside of Townsville,” she said.

Completing the program came with unique challenges, particularly meeting clinical requirements in a region with fewer births.

“For example, I needed to be at births as part of the training, which can be a challenge in the Burdekin because births are more sporadic compared to somewhere like Townsville,” she said.

Ms Vernon also completed short placements at TUH to gain experience with high-risk pregnancies and praised the support she received from colleagues across both regions.

Ayr Health Service Director of Nursing Tracey Gabiola said Ms Vernon’s achievement highlighted the importance of accessible training for rural health professionals.

“Access to training and development opportunities can be a barrier for staff in communities like the Burdekin,” Ms Gabiola said.

“What Cher has achieved is truly a credit to her and very inspiring.”

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Burdekin midwife Cher Vernon has helped pave the way for more nurses to gain
midwifery qualifications without needing to go to a major city. Photo supplied

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As the community moves from response to recovery following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, health authorities are reminding residents that the risk of injury and illness can continue well after the initial impact has passed.

Clean-up and recovery activities often expose people to hidden hazards, with common risks including falls, cuts, exposure to fallen powerlines, skin infections, snake and spider bites, sunburn, mosquito-borne illnesses, and carbon monoxide poisoning from petrol-powered generators used in enclosed spaces.

Burdekin residents are encouraged to prepare a health emergency kit and ensure they have a plan in place, particularly those who rely on powered medical devices and may be affected by power outages.

People should also remain alert for displaced wildlife such as snakes and spiders, hazardous materials including asbestos, and assume that any items exposed to floodwater are contaminated.

To reduce the risk of injury and illness during clean-up, authorities recommend avoiding direct contact with floodwater, wearing protective clothing, covering cuts with waterproof dressings, washing hands regularly, and using sunscreen and hats when working outdoors.

Even minor wounds should be treated carefully by cleaning with fresh water, applying antiseptic, and covering with sterile dressings. Medical advice should be sought if wounds are deep, contaminated, slow to heal, or if a tetanus booster may be required.

Waste management is another key consideration during recovery, with large volumes of debris often generated. Burdekin Shire Council have advised residents the region isn't eligible for kerbside collection under disaster recovery arrangements.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said it's important that residents dispose of debris responsibly through normal disposal methods at Council waste facilities, which are operating as usual.

"Please do not place debris on roadsides as this can create hazards for motorists and emergency services," Mayor Dalle Cort said.

"Our transfer stations are open and ready to assist residents with safe disposal."

Perishable waste should be sealed, hazardous materials secured, and care taken when handling older building materials that may contain asbestos.

For further health advice, residents can contact 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) at any time or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) to locate their nearest Public Health Unit and residents are encouraged to contact Council's Customer Service Centre on 4783 9800.

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Residents across the shire have been digging in to clean up after Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Widely celebrated and world-renowned medium, Charmaine Wilson, will return to the region in May as part of her 2026 Australian Medium Tour.

Charmaine has been consistently recognised for her skill and compassion since she began sharing her gift with others in 2002 after the loss of her father in 1999.

“I would say that the work chose me,” said Charmaine.

Hailing from Stanthorpe in Queensland’s Southern Downs Region, Charmaine took three years to understand how to work with the voices she kept hearing, and she credits pioneering mediums for helping her recognise her gift and embrace her hidden talents.

Charmaine has endured profound personal losses, including the tragic deaths of her brother, and her four-year-old daughter, the passing of her mother in 2006, the suicide of a close friend, and more recently, the loss of her stepfather.

“I had a youth filled with grief and it took a few more years after my dad died to understand my sudden insight,” Charmaine recalled.

“I started to hear spirits, and they trained me in receiving messages, and taught me how to navigate grief more positively – that’s what I teach now.”

Charmaine’s experiences with loss and grief have shaped her into a deeply compassionate and empathetic reader, giving her a unique ability to connect with clients, and understand the emptions they are navigating.

“If someone’s grieving a recent death, I would say to simply breathe, but I would also hope they would understand that grief is a process we must go through after the death of a loved one,” comforted Charmaine.

“Happiness is possible, but you must try and get out of the habit of always going back to the death when any little thing goes wrong. I have found since being a medium that many people cling too hard to the death, and therefore, their grief can turn into depression – that’s not what your loved ones would want.”

When asked how Charmaine locates audience members to communicate spiritual messages, she said there’s an undeniable feeling that gently anchors her focus.

“To me, there’s a magnetic pull to the person who the spirit’s looking for,” Charmaine explained.

“I can’t go anywhere else when they (the spirit) have me locked in.”

Since beginning her work just over two decades ago, Charmaine has been committed to providing accurate and meaningful insights from the spirit world to her clients, earning her recognition from the Australian Psychics Association.

Over the course of her professional career, Charmaine has won several titles including the 2005 Australian Psychic of the Year Award, the 2009 Queensland Psychic of the Year Award, and in 2008, she was crowned the winner of The One, a nationwide search for the country’s most gifted psychic.

Charmaine Wilson will grace the Burdekin Theatre stage as part of her 2026 Australian Medium Tour on Sunday, the 24th of May. Tickets can be purchased online now via www.burdekintheatre.com.au or in person at the Burdekin Theatre’s Ticket Office.

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Charmaine invites the community to witness the magic of spirits live at the Burdekin Theatre this May. Photo supplied

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Burdekin Bocce Club Receives Lifeline Through $100,000 Grant

By Jacob Casha

The Burdekin Bocce Club has secured a $100,000 boost from the latest Gambling Community Benefit Fund Super Round; a timely injection club officials hope will breathe new life into one of the Burdekin’s longest-standing cultural clubs.

Operating under the Burdekin Bocce Club moniker since 1996, the club has long served as a social hub for the local Italian community and the wider Burdekin community alike, with regular social meetings, bocce competitions and community events held on the premises.

With fellow North Queensland bocce clubs in Dalbeg, Millaroo, Townsville and Ingham going under in recent years, officials believe the grant could help secure a different fate for the Burdekin club.

Club secretary Regina Lequerica said it's about continuing "a uniquely Italian sport in a community that has much Italian heritage."

"When I got the call [to confirm the successful application], I started running around the kitchen," said Lequerica.

"For the people that really enjoy and look forward to this every Sunday, we've got to keep it going," she said.

Lequerica said the funds will be used to repair the roof over the playing courts, allowing the club to host larger functions and generate more income to keep the non-profit afloat.

“If the roof got any worse, we wouldn’t be able to play,” said Lequerica.

“Promoting the venue was becoming stressful, knowing that the condition of the roof is in such disrepair… but by having the grant and getting the new roof, we can open it up more. We can feel secure in welcoming people to our facility.”

Club president Ornella Huston said the benefits of the grant would also bring new members, including younger generations looking to connect with the sport and the club’s cultural traditions.

“I think we feel more comfortable now in being inviting—even with schools, potentially as part of their sport curriculum," she said.

"We’d love younger ones to learn how to play, because it is a really enjoyable game."

Bocce has long been part of Huston’s family, and she’s determined to keep it going.

"My dad used to play, and I didn’t know my mum had kept his bocce balls. When I started, she gave them to me, and I joined the club," she said.

"When I eventually became president, told my sister, and she was so pleased. But becoming president was never a goal, it was just about keeping the tradition alive. I didn’t want to lose it."

Situated on International Drive in Ayr, the Burdekin Bocce Club meets every Sunday, welcoming all ages and keeping alive a uniquely Italian sporting tradition while building community connections.

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Burdekin Bocce Club secretary Regina Lequerica (left) and new president Ornella Huston (right)  hope a $100,000 government grant can breathe new life into one of the Burdekin’s longest-standing cultural clubs. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Welcome to 2026 – a new year and new aspirations.

I hope you enjoyed your Christmas. I was told by one of Santa’s helpers that most children were on the ‘nice’ list but there were a few older ones and adults that could improve in 2026 to make this community even better.

We certainly sidestepped Cyclone Koji pretty well compared to our southern and western neighbours. It’s a good time to double our efforts in preparation ie clearing loose debris, branches and other items from around the home. Our thoughts go out to those affected by flood and fire.

I’ve been told of some social media around the transfer stations. Currently there are trials going on. Kirknie, Ayr and Home Hill commenced a four month trial on December 2025. A feedback form for all waste facilities can be found on Council’s website on the ‘Waste Management Facilities’ page or you can respond on the QR code as you leave the transfer stations.

Australia Day is approaching, so make your way to the Burdekin Memorial Hall Monday afternoon 26th January 2026. It’s fantastic to recognise members of the community who have made an outstanding contribution. Categories include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Lifetime service, Volunteer of the Year, Community Event of the Year plus others.

How good was it to see local Burdekin boy Adam Walton in the opening round of the Australian Open against the World’s No 1? Despite going down, he put up a tremendous effort. Just goes to show it doesn’t matter where you come from, with drive, passion and effort you can go far in your chosen pursuit.

Health & happiness.

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There has been significant community discussion recently regarding the intersection of Giddy Road and the Bruce Highway. I want to assure residents that extensive work has been taking place behind the scenes in collaboration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads. I have also raised this matter directly with the Premier, David Crisafulli, and our local Member for Burdekin, Dale Last. The issue has now been listed with the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, with safety improvements forming a key component of funding secured by the State Government.

Due to routing decisions by Google Maps, traffic volumes on Giddy Road have increased considerably over the past few years. Giddy Road is a rural road and not part of the state-controlled road network, yet motorists continue to use it as a shortcut to save a few minutes. This has raised significant concerns, particularly during this wet season, as similar issues have been experienced across northern and outback Queensland.

Our Council maintenance crews are working hard to repair damaged roads caused by the recent weather events. I cannot stress enough the importance of using the Snap Send Solve app or weblink to report any issues affecting you. It is simple to use and is the quickest and most efficient way to ensure Council is aware of problems.

Australia Day celebrations are just around the corner, and I am pleased to share that this year’s event will be a rare occasion where all levels of government will be represented. Andrew Willcox MP will deliver the Minister’s Message, and our local Member, Dale Last, will also be in attendance.

We are delighted to welcome Arthur Seeke, who operates the Torres Strait Heritage Museum, as our Australia Day Ambassador. Many of those who have travelled to Cape York may have met Arthur during their visit to the museum. I encourage everyone to join us at the Australia Day Celebrations from 4:00pm on 26 January at the Memorial Hall in Home Hill and give him a warm Burdekin welcome.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Bendigo Bank customers in North and North West Queensland affected by floods are being offered financial relief with a range of measures now available to eligible customers. 

Bendigo Bank Chief Customer Officer for Consumer Banking, Taso Corolis, said the Bank will always support customers in times of need. 

"We know the recent rain, resulting flooding and developing weather fronts may heavily impact our customers and many communities in the affected areas. As always, we’re here to help in any way we can," Mr Corolis said. 

"We have today activated our natural disaster assistance package and want any of our customers impacted to know we are here to support them, over the phone, online or of course, in branch. All our branches in the affected areas are currently open for business," he said. 

Bendigo Bank’s Assistance Package features for flood affected customers:
· Customers can apply for relief on their home, personal and business loans for up to three months 
· Bendigo Bank Agri business customers can apply for relief on loans for up to six months
· Discounted interest rates on new personal loans taken out by existing Bendigo Bank customers
· Credit cards and business credit cards can apply for deferral of repayments for up to three months 
· Waiver of interest rate reduction for early withdrawals on term deposits prior to maturity
· No 'loan break' costs for customers with a fixed rate who use an insurance payment to pay out their loan
· Merchant rental fees may be waived for impacted businesses. 

For information regarding financial hardship and to apply for assistance, please visit bendigobank.com.au/support/natural-disasters

Concerned customers are advised to speak with their local Branch Manager, Business Banking Manager or Agribusiness Relationship Manager when it’s safe to do so.

Bendigo Bank customers can contact our Mortgage Help Centre on 1800 652 146. Bendigo Bank Agribusiness customers, please call 1300 660 115. 

Bendigo Bank Insurance customers with a damaged home, rental building, car or other property seeking to make a claim or get advice, visit cgu.com.au/claims- external site or please call 13 24 80

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Burdekin Shire Council and local small businesses are now eligible for disaster assistance following widespread flooding across North Queensland, as recovery support is rolled out across the region.

The council can access funding through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to support response and recovery activities, while local small businesses impacted by the floods can apply for disaster loans of up to $250,000. Eligible councils for these loans include Burdekin, Aurukun, Isaac, Mackay, Pormpuraaw and Whitsunday.

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the support would ease the pressure on families and businesses facing the long recovery ahead.

“Clermont is a resilient community, but it hasn’t seen a weather event like this in over a century. They shouldn’t have to do it alone, and with this support, they won’t have to,” Mr Last said.

“This is about delivering practical help for those doing it tough after seeing their homes and livelihoods damaged by floodwaters.”

While direct Personal Hardship Assistance—emergency payments for food, clothing, medicine, and home repairs — is currently only available to residents in Clermont, McKinlay Shire, and parts of Mackay, Burdekin residents can still benefit from council-led programs and business loans.

Across North Queensland, the assistance includes:

• Emergency Hardship Assistance–$180 per person, up to $900 for families of five or more.
• Essential Services Hardship Assistance–$150 per person, up to $750 for families, after loss of essential services for more than five days.
• Income-tested grants for uninsured residents to replace essential household items, reconnect services, or repair homes.

Eligible Mackay localities include Broken River, Crediton, Dalrymple Heights and Eungella. Hardship assistance remains open to residents of Flinders, Richmond and Winton Shires.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said support would continue as communities deal with the ongoing impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and the North Queensland Monsoon Trough.

“During prolonged disaster events like this it’s critical we’re acting swiftly and constantly to get support where it’s required,” Minister McBain said.

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy added that funding assistance would provide vital support in the weeks and months ahead.

“We know how important it is to help Queenslanders get back on their feet following disasters like this,” Minister Leahy said.

Applications for hardship assistance can be made at www.disaster.qld.gov.au or via the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349. Small businesses seeking disaster loans can visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or call 1800 623 946.

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Businesses and Council are encouraged to apply for DRFA grants. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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