Manager

When Leanne Marriott left England in 2009, she thought she was embarking on a single-year adventure. Travelling through Asia and into Australia quickly changed those plans, and now, 16 years later, she's very much a local.

By 2012 she had settled in the Burdekin, where her background in disability services in England naturally led her to Flexi Queensland. Leanne was particularly drawn to Flexi’s long-standing reputation for person-centred care, a reputation she has strived to uphold in her role as Manager at the organisation.

Her managerial role is multifaceted, overseeing day-to-day operations, supporting team staff, and making sure service users receive the care and respect they deserve.

"One moment I might be dealing with paperwork or funding reports, and the next I’m sitting with a family, helping them navigate their options for support," she says. "The variety keeps you on your toes, but it’s the human side of the work that keeps you going. Working in this role reminds me daily of what matters most."

For Leanne, success isn’t measured by accolades, but by the small, life-altering wins her work facilitates. “Success isn’t always loud," she says. "Sometimes it looks like a young person with a disability gaining confidence to go to the counter and pay for something. Sometimes it’s helping someone move into their own home after years of living with family. These milestones… are life-changing.”

Her career in disability support has helped her forge lasting local ties in the Burdekin, the town she has now called home for over a decade. Away from Flexi, her life is centred on family and the outdoors. With two young children, camping trips, property maintenance, and exploring new places keep her busy.

‍

House Leader

Michaela Mye has called the Burdekin home for 15 years, quickly becoming an integral part of the community through local sport and family life. She plays touch football and netball, activities that have helped her connect with many locals. Family is at the heart of her life, with her daughter, fiancé, and two dogs keeping her busy and grounded.

She was led to Flexi Queensland by her passion for supporting people with disabilities to live independently and achieve their goals. “It’s rewarding to make a positive difference and be part of an inclusive, supportive organisation,” she says.

As a House Leader, Michaela oversees day-to-day operations in the SIL homes, supports service users with their independence and personal goals, and guides her staff team to deliver safe, person-centred care.

Much like her colleagues, Michaela is particularly proud of Flexi Queensland being recognised at the Enablement Awards two years in a row, a testament to the dedication of the team and the impact they have in the community.

Outside work, Michaela enjoys spending time with her family and dogs, soaking up the relaxed Burdekin lifestyle. She also has a surprising passion for true crime, which she admits she could binge-watch for hours.

Michaela's connection to the local community, combined with her professional dedication, ensures she makes a meaningful impact both inside and outside the homes she leads.

‍

Lifestyle Facilitator

Eighteen-year-old Lacy Horan has spent her entire life in Ayr, growing up surrounded by the close-knit community of the Burdekin.

Lacy was drawn to Flexi Queensland by the opportunity to work flexibly while making a tangible difference in the lives of community members. As a lifestyle facilitator, her role covers a wide range of responsibilities, from assisting with personal care and supporting service users in the community to fostering independence in everyday tasks, and more.

“I love building genuine connections with our clients and being part of a team that encourages growth both professionally and personally,” Lacy says, also appreciative of the social aspects of the role like trips to Townsville to weekly bowling events.

Lacey takes special pride in being part of the dedicated Flexi team that was awarded the prestigious 'Most Exceptional Disability Support Service Team in Australia’ award, highlighting the milestone as one of her favourite moments in her role to date.

Outside of work, Lacy enjoys spending time with family and friends by the creek, shopping, or relaxing at home. A love of sports nurtured in her early years allowed her to build strong local connections, relationships she continues to treasure today.

Fun fact: She learned to ride a bike without training wheels when she was just 18 months old—a hint at her determination and adventurous spirit that she brings to her role every day.

‍

Flexi Queensland officially celebrated 30 years of service to the Burdekin community on July 18, marking three decades of support for people with disability across the region.

The milestone event also honoured Maryann Petersen, a founding Board Member and long-time community advocate. Maryann is well known for her work at The Job Shop in Ayr, a family-operated business providing First Aid training, supplies, and support across Townsville, Burdekin, and Charters Towers for more than 21 years.

In recognition of her contributions, the organisation officially renamed its Therapy and Activity Centre the Petersen Hangout. The new name reflects Maryann’s legacy and the welcoming, inclusive spirit she has brought to the community. The Petersen Hangout now proudly stands at the end of Queen Street, Chippendale.

The anniversary celebration brought together families, staff, supporters, and community members for an evening of festivities. Attendees enjoyed a sausage sizzle, games, crafts, face painting, balloon animals, live performances from Let’s Groove and the Burdekin Brass Band, and a raffle and lucky door prize.

The event provided a chance for the community to connect, celebrate, and recognise both the organisation’s 30 years of service and the lasting impact of a community champion.

‍

It's been just over a month since Ruralquip welcomed new ownership, and while the transition marks an exciting milestone for the business, for customers, it’s been business as usual.

The new owners say maintaining continuity has been a top priority, with the full team of existing Ruralquip staff retained to facilitate a smooth handover.

“We're pleased to confirm that all existing Ruralquip staff, many of whom have served the local community for years, remain part of the Ruralquip family”, the owners said. “Their knowledge, dedication, and strong relationships with customers are the heart of what makes Ruralquip so valued. We're proud to support that legacy and continue building on it.”

Over the past month, the new ownership group has worked closely with the team to minimise disruption to day-to-day operations, and are thankful for the community’s ongoing support throughout the transition.

“We're incredibly grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received and sincerely thank Ruralquip's loyal customers for their patience and support.”

‍

Shannon Musumeci | General Manager
Rhonda Moretto | Office Manager
Wayne McDougall | Retail Manager
Karen Muguira | Purchasing Officer
Will Sager | Despatch Officer
Cassia Calder | Marketing & Warranties
Chris Visagie | Retail Assistant/Special Orders
Gabrielle Body | Retail Assistant
Jonn Morris | Retail Assistant
Kyle Hald | Retail Assistant
Nicholas Tallar | Retail Assistant
Matthew Brett | Retail Assistant
Daniel Ham | Steel Department Manager
Brendan Cody | Steel Department Assistant
Dylan Cranitch | Steel Department Assistant
Michael Wright | Steel Department Assistant
Bruce Davison | Workshop Foreman
Steven Sutcliffe | Delivery Driver/Workshop Assistant

‍

David Jackson OAM doesn’t just report the news—he lives it, and for more than half a century, he has been at the heart of Home Hill, capturing its stories, shaping its history, and championing its people.

Born into a family of local news pioneers, David’s roots in journalism were almost predetermined. His grandfather founded the Home Hill Observer in 1923, his father carried it through wartime, and David, alongside his brother, took the reins in 1974. “Even when Dad was in Changi, the paper didn’t miss an edition,” he recalls. “That’s the kind of commitment that shaped us.”

David’s early life was hands-on, steeped in the craft of print. He learned hot metal printing, set type by hand, and mastered heavy commercial presses. “It was a dirty, tough job, but you gained pride in what you produced,” he says. By 14, he was attending council meetings, taking notes, and reporting local governance—a training ground that would serve him for decades.

As the industry evolved, so did David. Computers replaced hot metal, photos became central to storytelling, and regional journalism shifted under the pressures of modern media. Yet through it all, he adapted while keeping the community at the centre of every story. “You get involved in the community, and the people become part of your story,” he says.

That community influence, though, has spanned well beyond journalism. Having chaired the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce, spent 42 years in Rotary, and held leadership roles across numerous local organisations, David has become a bedrock of the local community--officially recognised in 2007, when he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal. “It was never something I chased—it was about being part of the town. The award was a bonus,” he says, crediting his wife, Desley, for decades of unwavering support.

David remains at the forefront of local reporting through the Home Hill News, connecting readers well beyond the Burdekin. “People in Brisbane, Canberra, even overseas still want to read about Home Hill,” he says. “It’s their connection to the town, to its stories and heritage.”

Over decades of chronicling the region, David has become part of the story himself—a cornerstone of local journalism and a symbol of what it means to actively support your community, and as he continues to capture the events and moments that define our town, his work stands as a lasting record of its people, its history, and its spirit.

‍

Whitsunday Myrtle was established in January 2013 by Grace Evans at Airlie Beach, after enjoying many cups of Lemon Myrtle tea and spending much time researching its health benefits. It began its market distribution in January 2014 offering a range of natural handmade products.

The scientific name of the Lemon Myrtle tree is Backhousia citriodora of the Myrtaceae family. It grows all the way along the eastern boarder of Australia from the Atherton Tablelands in the north to as far south as the northern borders of New South Wales. It prefers well-drained soil and does not like cold temperatures. With the help of a botanist, Grace decided to delve deeper into the chemical composition of the Lemon Myrtle plant and work out a way of serving this plant on a platter with a buffet of choices encompassing its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, antiseptic, calmative and sedative properties.

Most of the soap products, body oils and creams invariably incorporate the fragrant essential oil ‘Citral’ derived from the Lemon Myrtle tree, particularly its leaves. In the Whitsundays, the leaves are harvested for tea and leaf spice or distilled for extraction of the essential oil ‘Citral’ which is the predominant essential oil produced by this amazing plant. The Lemon Myrtle has the highest source of ‘Citral’ compared with lemongrass. Steam distilled Lemon Myrtle oil is typically 90-98% pure. Fresh leaves alone yield between 1-3% ‘Citral’.

Lemon Myrtle when used topically provides remedial benefits that may assist with healing and general well-being of our bodies. Aboriginal people use the Lemon Myrtle plant for medicine and flavouring. In Australia, during World War II the Lemon Myrtle tree leaves were used as flavouring for lemonade soft drinks. Recently, the Lemon Myrtle plant has been grown under Australian natural agricultural conditions for essential oil production.

Whitsunday Myrtle believe in making effective natural products from the finest essential oils incorporating the Lemon Myrtle, along with other plants beneficial properties, in creating products for specific purposes.

"We believe in buying ingredients only from companies that do not conduct or commission tests on animals. Our products are locally handmade by real people in the Whitsundays," shared Grace.

"We are proud of every single ingredient we use in our products and we list them on every soap, pot, bottle, sign and web page to ensure that the user is well informed.

"Join us in discovering the wonders and benefits the Lemon Myrtle tree has to offer, as you refresh, revitalise and reinvent your well-being with our Australian handmade natural products today!"

Whitsunday Myrtle products are available at Complete Health Pharmacy in Home Hill.

‍

Whitsunday Myrtle was established in January 2013 by Grace Evans at Airlie Beach. Photo supplied

‍

As Queensland enters October, the latest health data shows a mixed picture of respiratory illness across the state, with influenza cases easing but RSV and COVID-19 continuing to place pressure on hospitals.

Influenza cases dropped by 27 per cent in late September, with 2,706 new cases recorded during the week of 15–21 September. Despite this decline, overall flu activity remains elevated, particularly in Central Queensland, where more cases are being reported among school-aged children.

To date, 77,956 influenza cases have been confirmed in 2025, with 7,514 people admitted to hospital and 194 flu-related deaths recorded between January and September. On average, 169 hospital beds were occupied daily by flu patients in the most recent reporting week, down from 208 the week before.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains a concern, especially for infants and young children. While case notifications fell from 905 to 718 in the most recent week, hospitalisations increased. An average of 54 hospital beds were occupied by RSV patients daily, compared to 44 the week prior. Of the 28,302 RSV cases recorded this year, more than 7,000 were in children under two years old, and over a third of RSV-related hospital admissions were among this age group.

COVID-19 case numbers are trending downward, with 487 cases reported in the most recent week. However, older Queenslanders remain the most at risk. Of the 33,593 cases recorded this year, nearly a quarter have been in people aged 75 years and over. In total, 6,253 people have been admitted to hospital with COVID-19 this year, with most not up to date with vaccinations.

Health officials continue to encourage Queenslanders to remain vigilant as respiratory illnesses persist through spring.

For ongoing updates, visit Queensland Health’s Acute Respiratory Infection Surveillance website.

‍

Burdekin seniors get ready, because Seniors Month is returning October 2025. From 1-31 October we’re celebrating older Queenslanders and their ongoing contribution to the state – whether as volunteers or in the workforce, community leaders or carers, grandparents, or advocates.

Seniors Month is all about increasing the social connectedness of older people and their communities, because we all want to be connected to our communities and the important people in our lives, cared for and supported if care and support are needed, and celebrated as valued community members.

Throughout the month community groups and organisations are hosting inclusive events and activities throughout the state.

The Burdekin Community Association Inc has once again created the Burdekin’s Queensland Seniors Month flyer. The flyer is available on Facebook, our website in at our premises.

BCA events include:
Thu 16th October – BCA Seniors Day Out Bus Road Trip
1st Stop – Horseshoe Lagoon Conservation Park, 2nd Stop – Giru Bowls & Recreation Club
9.00am to 2.00pm
$15.00 per person which includes Lunch
Bookings essential – contact the BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr.  Ph: 4783 3744

Tue 21st October – BCA Get Online Week
Free Information Technology Session and Sausage Sizzle
9.30am to 12.00pm
BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen Street Ayr
No booking required

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran

‍

Burdekin seniors get ready, because Seniors Month is returning October 2025. Photo source: Vista Living Senior Care

‍

The Bendigo Bank Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company are set to bring the colourful, quirky world of Dr. Seuss to life in their latest production, Seussical Jr, opening Friday 17 October at The Lighthouse in Ayr.

Audiences will be swept away on a musical journey through the imagination, featuring beloved Seuss characters including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, and Gertrude McFuzz. With catchy songs, vibrant costumes, and a heartfelt storyline, Seussical Jr promises to be a dazzling experience for families, dreamers, and anyone young at heart.

Performances will run across several weekends until Sunday 2 November 2025, with tickets priced between $20 and $30. Each ticket includes not only your seat for the show but also a selection of scrumptious home-cooked nibbles and sweets. Patrons are welcome to bring along additional snacks to share with family and friends, making it an even more memorable night out.

The Lighthouse is a fully licensed venue, and guests are reminded that BYO drinks are not permitted. Accessible seating is available upon request when booking tickets.

The Burdekin Singers have long been known for their community-driven productions that showcase local talent, and Seussical Jr is shaping up to be another crowd favourite.

Step into the magical world of Dr. Seuss, where imagination knows no bounds — and discover just how far “the thinks you can think” can take you.

What: Seussical Jr presented by The Bendigo Bank Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company
When: Friday 17 October - Sunday 2 November
Where: The Lighthouse, Ayr

Grab your tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1471609

‍

Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will host the Burdekin Fights Back Gala Afternoon Tea on Sunday, 19 October, raising funds for the North Queensland Cancer Council and Gluyas Lodge in Townsville. The event will feature entertainment by Ricky Romeo and be guided by local MC Emma Halliday.

Guest speakers will include Dr. Paula Heggarty, GP and Associate Professor of Rural Medicine at James Cook University, and Tegan Marsden from the North Queensland Cancer Council. Attendees can also participate in a cent sale, lucky door prizes, and a mega raffle.

A buffet afternoon tea will be served, with tea, coffee, and a licensed bar available. Organisers hope to include contributions from local businesses and home cooks for the afternoon tea, and anyone interested in donating cakes, slices, or savoury items is encouraged to contact on 0407118671.

Tickets are $40, which includes a free cent sale sheet, and are available at [https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1462482].

What: Gala Afternoon Tea
When: Sunday the 19th of October from 2pm
Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill

‍

Home Hill came alive on Sunday, 28 September, as the 2025 Canefields Ephemera launched in style at Mann Lloyd Gardens. Six striking installations by local artists transformed the gardens into a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and regional identity. Among the showcased works were Uli Liessmann’s Dancing in the Park, Rhesa Menkens’ Palmacrame and Tribute to My Father, Allan Petersen’s Antler Gully, Rebekah Oakes’ Frederick the Frog, and Lisa Gianni’s Heart of the Burdekin.

The highlight of the afternoon was the $5,000 Ephemera Prize, awarded to Gianni for her powerful life-sized Hebel block sculpture celebrating the region’s sugar cane heritage. Judges praised the event as a vital platform for local talent and cultural engagement.

Installations will remain on display until 9 November, with the public invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award via the Home Hill Harvest Festival Facebook page.

Art in Bloom at Mann Lloyd Gardens

On Sunday, 28th September, art lovers gathered at Mann Lloyd Gardens in Home Hill to celebrate the launch of the 2025 Canefields Ephemera. The event featured six striking installations created by talented local artists, each bringing their own unique vision to life among the gardens.

Artists showcased included:

Uli Liessmann – Dancing in the Park

Rhesa Menkens – Palmacrame and Tribute to My Father

Allan Petersen – Antler Gully

Lisa Gianni – Heart of the Burdekin

Rebekah Oakes – Frederick the Frog

The highlight of the afternoon was the announcement of this year’s $5,000 Ephemera Prize, proudly sponsored by the Home Hill Harvest Festival. The prize was awarded to Lisa Gianni for her powerful work Heart of the Burdekin — a large sculpture comprised of carved Hebel block, stacked to create a life-sized artist’s depiction of sugar cane. Lisa, who has entered the Ephemera for the past three years, was proud to accept the prize and thrilled to be part of such an exciting event.

The works were judged anonymously, with one of the event judges sharing their admiration:

“It was my pleasure to serve as a judge at the 2025 Canefields Ephemera today. I truly value the opportunity to be part of such a creative initiative, and I want to express my strong support for this event. Canefields Ephemera is an important cultural highlight for our region. It not only celebrates artistic talent but also nurtures creativity, community engagement, and regional identity. The event provides a valuable platform for artists to share their voices, and I am confident it will continue to grow in significance and impact. I would be delighted to contribute as an artist in 2026, and I look forward to seeing Canefields Ephemera continue to welcome and nurture artists from across our region.”

The Ephemera installations will remain on display at Mann Lloyd Gardens until 9th November, offering the community and visitors plenty of time to view these creative works.

Visitors are also invited to take part by voting for the People’s Choice Award on the Home Hill Harvest Festival Facebook page: facebook.com/hh.harvest.festival

The Home Hill Harvest Festival Committee warmly thanks all of the artists for their creativity and passion, and extends sincere appreciation to our sponsors and community for supporting this unique cultural event.

Written by Carlene Muilwyk

Photos by Malanie Napier Memories and Photography

‍

Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

Uli Liessmann's poses in front of his entry, 'Dancing in the Park'.

‍

Families are invited to lace up and put on their walking shoes to join in a morning of fun, entertainment, and community spirit at this year’s Step Up for Down Syndrome & Intellectual Disability event.

The walk will take place along Townsville's scenic Riverway on Sunday, the 12th of October, from 8am to 12pm, with all funds raised staying in the local region. Money raised will go directly toward providing support, services, and vital information to empower people with Down syndrome and their families.

More than just a walk, Step Up! Townsville is a celebration, a chance for the community to come together, enjoy activities, and show support for inclusion and awareness. Families can look forward to plenty of entertainment and opportunities to connect while stepping up for a great cause.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children, free for under 4s, or $35 for a family pass (2 adults, 2 children).

To book your tickets, visit: www.downsyndrome.org.au/.../step-up-townsville.

For more information, contact (07) 3356 6655, email office@downsyndromeqld.org.au, or visit www.downsyndromeqld.org.au.

‍

What: Step Up! Townsville
When: Sunday, the 12th of October, from 8am to 12pm
Where: Townsville's Riverway

‍

Guys, it finally happened—I officially laced up the boots again for the first time in what seemed like an eternity when I made my Night Soccer debut a few weeks ago.

It almost felt like a foreign experience. Beyond my clear regression in skill, I genuinely thought I might pass out after the first minute of play, because as enjoyable and relaxing as my time out of the game has been, it's definitely left a huge void in my physical activity. But maybe this experience was the slap in the face I needed to get properly active again.

When I first moved to the Burdekin, I hit the ground running, keen to dip my toe into the array of sports the region has on offer. That eagerness, for whatever reason, plateaued, and I've found myself fully embracing a lifestyle devoid of strenuous activity. Now, I guess it's time to rekindle that enthusiams—and, as aforementioned, what better place to do it?

Beyond showing me first-hand how unfit I am, sport offers a place to connect. In a town with such a love for all things sports, it's no wonder the community is so connected. Whether a spectator or a player, beyond the cheers and jeers, highs and lows, it's crazy how much a ball, white lines and some goals/hoops/nets can bring people together.

Anyways, I hope you guys have been enjoying the paper. As always, please let us know anything we can do to improve, or any stories you may have for us!

‍

The next generation of Burdekin basketballers had the chance to learn from two of the nation’s finest last Wednesday when Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson and Opals star Tess Madgen visited the region to run a grassroots training camp as part of Basketball Australia’s She Hoops program.

From 9am, around 40 young players were put through a series of drills and games over 90 minutes, sharpening their skills under the guidance of two of Australia’s greatest basketball exports.

She Hoops, led by three-time WNBA MVP and Olympic medallist Jackson, is Australia’s largest resource for women in basketball—an inclusive, one-stop platform designed to empower, educate, and inspire women and girls from grassroots through to elite level, encouraging them to thrive as athletes, coaches, officials, and administrators.

Coming from a country town herself, Jackson stressed the importance of bringing these programs to rural regions.

“More often than not, we go to towns and kids are so passionate, but they don’t understand the opportunities that are present through the sport,” Jackson said.

“Tess and I are from the country ourselves, so we understand the barriers around participating in these areas. We’re just like them, but we just followed our dreams—they can, too.”

Since launching in 2022, She Hoops has already seen a 25% increase in female participation in basketball, with early signs suggesting it is helping reverse the trend of girls dropping out of the sport between the ages of 14 and 16.

Beyond the numbers, Burdekin Basketball representative Courtney Pennisi said the visit was a milestone moment for the community.

“Never in our wildest dreams did we think that Lauren Jackson would be visiting us here,” she said. “This town never gets this sort of opportunity, so we’re incredibly lucky to have them both here.”

‍