At just 16, Jack Roveglia is already a familiar face behind the counter at Harvey Norman Ayr. Since starting almost two years ago, he’s found more than just a job—it’s become a space where his interests and ambitions can thrive.

“I’m a salesperson,” he says, simply—but that title only scratches the surface.

Jack’s love for technology has been nurtured since young. “I’ve always liked electrical things—working with wiring and circuits. That’s what interests me,” he says. “When I saw a job ad for Harvey’s, I thought that’d be good. I could help people and be in a space I enjoy.”

Now in Year 11, Jack is planning a future in electrical engineering, a field that aligns with both his academic focus—physics, math methods, specialist maths—and his natural curiosity.

“I don’t know exactly what role I want (after university) yet,” he says. “But I know I like circuitry and the tech side of things. I figure through uni placements and experiences, I’ll work it out.”

Though the job doesn’t involve hands-on circuitry, it’s brought him closer to the world he wants to inhabit. “When customers ask something I don’t know, I’ll go search it up. It’s something else I know now,” he says. “I’ve built up my knowledge just from learning on the job.”

Raised in the Burdekin, Jack was born in Townsville but grew up between Home Hill and Brandon. He says the simplicity of the region is what he loves most. “You’ve got Townsville for the big stuff, and Ayr’s just a quiet place. Most of my schoolmates are part of the community anyway. It’s a good place to grow up.”

He’s also come to appreciate what makes customer service in a regional centre unique.

“In big stores like Townsville or Brisbane, you might never see the same person twice,” he says. “Here, we’ve got regulars. I work weekends, and there are people who come in almost every Saturday or Sunday—sometimes just for something to do.”

Those regular interactions have helped Jack build strong relationships with customers—and confidence. “I try to simplify things for people,” he says. “I like helping people understand.”

That attitude reflects a wider trait Jack sees in himself: “I’d say I’m ambitious, helpful… and maybe someone who’s not afraid to put their hand up. I like to stand up and volunteer.”

Jack’s journey is just beginning—but if the past two years are any sign, the future’s looking bright—and probably running on circuits.

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Jack’s love for technology has been nurtured since young. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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OPINION PIECE By Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox

It’s no secret that the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is under financial pressure. Costs have ballooned, and participation rates are rising faster than anticipated. Reform is clearly needed. But how the government plans to tackle reforms is all cloak and dagger.

Before the May election, Labor stuck to its usual script, spruiking only they could be trusted with healthcare and made promises of no cuts to health. Yet just two months into a new term, Labor is making cuts to the NDIS and doing so without a clear plan or any consultation.

From July 1, funding cuts will reduce hourly rates paid via the NDIS scheme to Allied Health professionals and their travel allowances to visit patients for in home appointments halved. These cuts will hit regional and remote communities hardest. With zero foresight to the future of the sector they are down right cruel to providers, participants and their families.

As the Federal Member for Dawson, I’m deeply concerned about what this means for our region and other regional and remote communities across Australia.

Health professionals who travel long distances to support patients with disabilities may now face the difficult choice of no longer travelling for in home care appointments, or passing the extra travel costs onto their patients. Some may shut their doors altogether.

If help can’t travel, the burden falls on caregivers to get to the nearest provider, meaning more expenses, lost time, and the sacrifice of work and other commitments. Reducing access for mobility impaired people in this way will also shrink services in regional centres, like Mackay and Townsville.

These cuts have also been announced with next to no lead time, leaving many practices scrambling to find ways to keep skilled health professional employed and to remain viable. The shock to the system could result in many professionals working with mobility impaired patients leaving the sector.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association has called for an immediate reversal, warning the changes will mean fewer services, reduced hours, and worse outcomes. They say it will put more pressure onto an already strained hospital system. I support these views and call on the government to rethink their actions.

Reforms must start with identifying inefficiencies in the system, and tightening up eligibility criteria, not hitting those who do the valuable work and those that need the help most.

Labor says it wants to fix the NDIS, but cuts without strategy isn’t the answer.

The question remains, does Labor have a real plan to reform the NDIS, or are they simply cutting until the system collapses onto our public hospitals?

People with mobility impairments in regional areas should be a top priority, not collateral damage of the government’s pursuit of budget repair headlines.

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Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox says cuts to NDIS could impact access to regional healthcare. Photo supplied

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Last Thursday, Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr celebrated 20 years of serving the community by doing what they do best: serving the community.

The two-decade milestone was marked by a well-attended special event at the Burdekin Theatre, which saw grants totalling $65,000 awarded to five deserving organisations across the Burdekin.

“The whole idea of a Community Bank is to provide banking services to our communities, to generate profits, and to then distribute those profits back into those same communities,” said Chairman Darren West.

“This has only been made possible by the support of our Home Hill, Ayr and Bowen communities, and those people and organisations who decided to bank with us.”

Reflecting on the journey from concept to cornerstone, West shared how far the bank had come since its earliest days.

“We opened in 2005 with a portfolio of $11 million,” he told the crowd. “Today, our book stands at $251 million. That didn’t happen overnight—it happened because people believed in the idea and backed us.”

He also recalled the bank’s very first act of giving back. “Our first contribution to the community was in 2008—just $1,075. We were so chuffed,” he said. “Now, we’ve distributed over $1.5 million across the region.”

The event also saw Special Guest Speaker David Robertson, Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Markets Research at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank take the stage, providing guests with valuable market information, including Australia's financial position amongst other global powerhouses and global forecasts for the coming year.

The event signified a momentous milestone, not only for Bendigo Community Bank, but also for the Burdekin as a whole.

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Jan Stirling, Paul Benvenuti, Con Christofides, Robyn Haller
Zack Campbell, Elisha Barker, Sean Doyle, Max Musumeci, Bruce Berruti
Susan Catanzaro, Dave Catanzaro, Greg MacElroy
Gloria Vass, Cailin Gosling, Kate Casswell
Paula and John Mottin
The two-decade milestone was marked by a well-attended special event at the Burdekin Theatre.
The event also saw Special Guest Speaker David Robertson, Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Markets Research at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank take the stage
Natalie Saroglia and Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland with their grant award
Burdekin Chaplains pictured with their recent grant
Representatives from the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre with their grant
Burdekin Community Association members with their awarded grant
The Burdekin Men’s Shed proudly displaying their grant award

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The 2025 Burdekin Show burst to life under mostly clear skies and a soft winter sun, drawing thousands through the gates for a full day of colour, noise and classic country show charm.

From the moment the gates opened, the showgrounds buzzed with the sounds of laughter, engines, livestock and live music. Smoke drifted from food stalls frying onions and churning out steak burgers, while kids chased each other between pavilions, faces sticky with fairy floss.

Side Show Alley roared to life early, with shrieks echoing from the top of the Hurricane ride and the steady thud of mallets hitting high-striker games. In the main ring, the Flare Action Sports team launched their quad bikes skyward, drawing gasps from the crowd as they twisted mid-air. Over at the animal nursery, toddlers squealed with delight at piglets and goats, while parents snapped photos with melting ice creams in hand.

As the afternoon gave way to dusk, a warm orange glow settled across the grounds. Then, as the last of the show entries were judged and the dachshund race crowned its winner, Side Show Alley lit up. Neon lights blinked against the evening sky and the smell of wood chips and hot sugar filled the air. The Fireworks Spectacular wrapped up the night with a booming finale—sparks showering over the crowd, kids perched on shoulders, eyes wide, and hearts full.

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Find the social Pics here: https://tinyurl.com/25sydp6y

Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch This Friday

The Burdekin Water Festival is back for 2025, and it's bigger, brighter, and bursting with excitement! Kicking off this Friday 4 July with the Community Launch at Populin’s Hall, the night will showcase this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors under the vibrant theme “Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe”.

From fashion parades to the “European Summer,” Long Lunch on 30 August, and the iconic Grand Parade and Mardi Gras on 6 September, the Water Festival promises months of unmissable moments. Expect dazzling floats, thrilling rides, international street food, and live entertainment for the whole family, not to mention the return of the Tug-O-War and beloved competitions.

The Burdekin Water Festival continues its legacy as one of Queensland’s longest-running celebrations, so pack your bags, mark your calendar and join the journey!

Full program at: www.burdekinwaterfestival.com.au

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This week was definitely more relaxing from a professional standpoint—let’s call it the calm in the midst of the storm.

I had Friday off, as a few of my mates from Sydney came up to visit. Our expedition started in Townsville on Thursday, where we spent the night before heading down to Airlie Beach, with a scenic pit stop right here in the Burdekin to show my mates around my new home-town.

Having not known much about the place before arriving, they were pretty pleasantly surprised by North Queensland. We had a blast, and they definitely left with a better understanding of why I speak so highly of this place—and how that admiration goes far beyond not needing to wear three layers in winter.

And for all the fun I had, my coworkers were back in the office picking up my slack. Huge thanks to them for giving me the space to enjoy what felt like a much-needed moment of mental disconnection—and for, in general, helping me grow and flourish as a young journalist over the last few months.

As great as the break was, it’s now back to business. I’m looking forward to what the next few weeks bring.

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Have you checked the calendar? The winter school holidays have rolled around once again, marking the halfway point of the 2025 school year, the conclusion of term two, and the commencement of 14 days of endless fun! With so much to do and see in and around the Burdekin Shire, we’ve compiled a list of what’s hot this winter for you and your kids to enjoy…

ON AIR Teen Radio Takeover
Calling all radio enthusiasts and future broadcasters! The Burdekin Library has partnered with 97.1 Sweet FM to debut ON AIR Teen Radio Takeover on Friday, the 4th of July for an exciting opportunity directly in the Home Hill studio. Teenagers aged between 12 and 18 years are invited to take the microphone and learn everything there’s to know about radio production, scriptwriting, and recording with our very own home-grown professionals and special guest, Charlie Scuderi. The opportunity will provide attendees with hands-on media experience, allowing teenagers to learn something a bit different, and possibly broaden their career aspirations. The FREE event is set to run from 10am to 11:30am and bookings are absolutely essential and must be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch
An evening overflowing with community spirit, entertainment, a fabulous fashion show, and good vibes will adorn Populin’s Hall on Friday the 4th of July from 6pm onwards! With a wonderful mix of both Junior and Senior Water Festival Ambassadors set to make their debut, this event will serve as the perfect family night out these school holidays!

DIY Bookmarks
Get crafty with the Burdekin Library’s FREE DIY Bookmarks workshop on Monday, the 7th of July from 10am to 11am at the Ayr Branch on Graham Street! Kids aged 10 years and over are invited to make reading a little more fun and create their own handcrafted bookmark with plenty of markers, stickers, recycled book pages and more ready for imaginative little minds to run wild with! Bookings are essential and must be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

DIY Board Games
Roll the dice and follow your creative intuition with the Burdekin Library’s DIY Board Game workshop on Wednesday the 9th of July! Set to be hosted at the Home Hill Branch, young crafters aged five years and over are invited to join in for a FREE fun filled session running from 1pm to 2pm! Bookings are essential and must be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

Circuit Chill & Create
The Burdekin Library’s Circuit Chill & Create FREE workshop will run once again these school holidays but this time round, with a frosty twist! Kids aged eight years and older are encouraged to see where their creativity takes them as they craft winter themed greeting cards and personalised stickers on Thursday, the 10th of July from 10am to 11am at the Burdekin Library’s Ayr Branch. Bookings are essential and must be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

Spend Time in the Sunshine
Although the frosty temperatures may tempt you to keep under the covers these winter school holidays, there are far too many awesome places out within the community, waiting for you and your family to explore! We’d be here until next year covering each and every hidden local gem, however, here are a few notable mentions that will get the blood pumping and warm you up in no time; from a hike up the mighty Mt Inkerman or a brisk walk, run or jog along Alva or Wunjunga Beach to the adrenaline inducing Home Hill Ninja Warrior Park at Watson’s Green!

With your itineraries full, and your energy levels high, it’s time to make the most of these school holidays, right here in the Burdekin Shire!

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Craft like you've never crafted before with the Burdekin Library's FREE school holiday activities (Photo Source: Burdekin Library)
Charlie Scuderi will lead teenagers through 97.1 Sweet FM's first ever ON AIR Teen Radio Takeover (Photo Credit: Mark T. Rasmussen)
Give the Home Hill Ninja Warrior Park a crack these school holidays! (Photo Source: Visit Burdekin)
Pay Wunjunga Beach a visit and warm up with a jog along the sand (Photo Source: Visit Burdekin)
Enjoy a family night out at the Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch this Friday evening (Photo Credit: Sharron Bozzetto)

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Queensland primary producers who have completed a Farm Business Resilience Plan (FBRP) are being invited to participate in a research initiative led by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Bureau of Meteorology. The study aims to gather insights on the use of digital tools that provide climate information to support agricultural decision-making.

Eligible participants will engage in confidential interviews discussing their experiences with weather and climate risks, as well as the strategies outlined in their FBRPs. To acknowledge their time and contributions, participants will receive a $100 payment.

This research is part of the broader Climate Services for Agriculture program, which includes tools like My Climate View—a digital platform offering tailored climate projections for various agricultural commodities across Australia. The program is funded by the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund and is designed to enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector to climate variability and change.

By participating, producers will contribute to the development of more effective climate services and tools, aiding in future drought planning and the refinement of FBRPs. This initiative underscores the importance of integrating scientific research with practical farming strategies to bolster the sector's adaptability and sustainability.

For more information and to express interest in participating, please visit: https://brnw.ch/21wTj5k.

By Andrew Willcox MP – Federal Member for Dawson, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capabilities

The sugar crush across Dawson is on again, and it’s a timely reminder that cane trains are on the move and caution is needed around level crossings. Please, everyone — stay aware and remain safe on our roads.

As the federal member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capabilities, I am incredibly proud of our local sugar industry. Behind wheat, sugar is Australia’s most exported crop, generating around $2 billion in revenue every year — and a significant portion of that is grown right here in Dawson.

The industry provides a livelihood for thousands, with strong flow-on effects to other parts of our local economy. Our region truly is the sugar capital of Australia.

But our industry is more than just the sweet stuff in our coffees. Sugar is also used to generate electricity and in the production of bio-blended fuels — making it a quiet powerhouse in Australia’s renewable energy future.

In my new portfolio role, I’m keen to share the positive stories emerging from our sugar sector to ensure investment and innovation continue to flow into this region.

Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill is home to a 38-megawatt cogeneration plant that transforms cane byproducts — like bagasse — into renewable electricity. The plant currently supplies about 30 per cent of Mackay’s electricity needs, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 200,000 tonnes annually.

Right next door, the Mackay Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant (MRBPP) is pushing the envelope in research and development. Operated through a collaboration between Mackay Sugar and the Queensland University of Technology, the facility is helping demonstrate how sugarcane biomass can be converted into advanced biofuels, green chemicals, and other commercial-grade bioproducts.

Further south, Wilmar’s Plane Creek Mill — already a household name for its sweet treats — is also Australia’s largest sugar-based manufacturer of ethanol. Its ethanol is used in fuel blends, including emerging applications in aviation, adding another layer of value to the humble cane crop.

It’s a future that excites me. The industry is no longer just about farming and milling — it’s now about research, technology, and new frontiers in clean energy and manufacturing. With so much innovation underway, the potential applications of sugar byproducts are expanding dramatically, opening doors to greater investment and regional opportunity.

So next time you stir sugar into your morning cuppa, take a moment to consider the possibilities. You’re not just sweetening your drink — you’re connecting with one of Australia’s most dynamic and forward-looking industries.

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CANEGROWERS Australia Chairman Owen Menkens has been elected President of the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers (WABCG), marking a proud moment for the Australian sugarcane industry on the final day of the WABCG Conference in Cairns.

The appointment was confirmed during official proceedings last Wednesday, with delegates from around the world endorsing Mr Menkens to lead the peak global body representing sugarcane and beet growers from 38 countries.

“It’s a great honour to be elected to this position and to represent growers from around the world,” Mr Menkens said.

“Sugar producers globally are facing many shared challenges – from trade access and climate change to sustainability and pricing. The WABCG plays an important role in ensuring that growers’ voices are heard and that we learn from one another.”

Last week's gathering in Cairns marked the long-awaited return of the annual WABCG conference to Australia after more than 15 years.

Over three dynamic days, delegates from around the world explored the challenges and opportunities facing the global sugar industry, toured sugarcane farms across Far North Queensland, and experienced the region’s rich culture and warm hospitality.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said Mr Menkens’ election was a strong endorsement of Australia’s leadership in sustainable, innovative and grower-led sugarcane production.

“Owen is a passionate advocate for farmers and for the future of our industry,” Mr Galligan said.

“His election as WABCG President is a recognition of both his leadership and the role Australian growers play on the world stage.”

The conference wrapped up with a field tour through the Tableland and Gordonvale areas, providing international delegates with a firsthand look at Queensland’s cane farming regions and innovation in the paddock.

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A long-serving Burdekin paramedic has been recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours List, receiving one of the highest accolades in the profession, the Ambulance Service Medal (ASM).

Peter Heron, Acting Officer In Charge (OIC) at Kirwan Ambulance Station and a proud Juru man, is one of only four Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) officers to receive the honour in 2025.

Officer Heron has served with the QAS for nearly 30 years, working in rural and remote communities across Queensland, from Mount Isa, Julia Creek, Normanton and Mornington Island, to Ingham, the Northern Beaches, Ayr and Home Hill, where he remains a proud local.

In addition to his frontline work as a paramedic, Officer Heron also serves as an Indigenous Liaison Officer and a volunteer Peer Support Officer, dedicating significant time outside his shifts to supporting colleagues.

He said while the honour came as a surprise, it was deeply appreciated.

“I’m not someone generally who likes to have awards presented to me,” Officer Heron said.

“I do my job because I love helping the community and I certainly never expected this but it’s really nice to know someone appreciates what I do as part of the service.”

QAS Commissioner Craig Emery ASM commended Officer Heron’s distinguished service and strong leadership.

“Officer Heron has responded to many cyclones, floods and multi-casualty accidents, during his career,” Commissioner Emery said.

He highlighted Officer Heron’s 2004 deployment to Palm Island during a time of significant community unrest as a standout moment of leadership and dedication.

“In 2004, Officer Heron was deployed to the Palm Island riots following significant community unrest and his exemplary leadership and commitment to the Palm Island community ensured the welfare and safety of QAS officers, and seamless ambulance service delivery within the community during that difficult time.”

Commissioner Emery also praised Officer Heron’s ongoing work in culturally informed support and Indigenous health advocacy.

“Officer Heron is actively involved in the Priority One Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support Service, which provides culturally specific advice and support to colleagues and he plays a crucial role in the Indigenous Paramedic Program’s recruitment, education and training," added Commissioner Emery.

"Officer Heron also works tirelessly for his local community, volunteering for the Burdekin Area Youth Watch, which supports local young community members and is a proud member of the Ayr and Home Hill Health Advisory Committee, which focuses on improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health in the region."

The Ambulance Service Medal is the highest national professional honour a paramedic can receive, awarded for distinguished service and leadership in the ambulance field.

"The QAS is immensely proud of Officer Heron’s tireless work for the service, and we thank him for his work over the years helping us to break down cultural barriers to health access and also to grow our staff ranks to better reflect the communities we serve,"said Commissoner Emery.

Joining Officer Heron on this year’s Honours List are Ian Tarr (Kedron), Wayne Kirk (Warwick), and Patrick Brown (Ingham), each recognised for their own contributions to the Queensland Ambulance Service.

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After decades of dedication, Peter Heron was celebrated in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List (Photo Supplied)

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Just ask all the wives
When the "Harvesting Season" arrives
They'll tell you how hard their man works
For no extra perks

Off to bed early each night to get a good sleep
Before they fall in a heap
To wake in the morning before sunrise, to then
Do it all over again

Whether driving the harvester or pulling the bins
The pattern is always the same
Cut the cane and fill up the bins
Haul em out, drop em off at the siding
Come back and do the same

When they come home had it, washed up and ready for tea
There's no time for the kids or even me
They eat with gusto then hit the hay
Sleep like logs, to be ready for another big day

When it's all done and the paddocks are bare
When the bins are all full and no longer there
It's a job well done and all are spent
They head on home, having earned every cent

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A group of green-thumbed students from Ayr State High School have been getting hands-on with native plants as part of their Certificate II in Production Horticulture studies.

The students recently visited the Lower Burdekin Landcare nursery, where they were guided by experienced volunteers through activities designed to deepen their understanding of local plant species and the vital role native vegetation plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

From identifying native flora to learning how these plants support biodiversity, the visit was a valuable opportunity to blend classroom learning with real-world experience.

Students also spent time at Home Hill State High School, where they practised practical horticultural techniques such as taking plant cuttings and preparing seedling trays—skills they’re eager to put to use in school gardens and agricultural plots.

Ayr High extended a warm thank you to Lower Burdekin Landcare for generously sharing their time and knowledge.

With experiences like these, the future of local horticulture looks bright!

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Sarah McDonnell has led an impressive academic career in the pursuit of advocating for women’s health initiatives through magnifying the misunderstood, under-discussed or heavily stigmatised conditions many face, especially in remote communities.

After graduating as Ayr State High School’s School Captain in 2020, Sarah went on to peruse a Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville. In late 2026, Sarah will excitingly celebrate her tertiary graduation, and she hopes to lead a career in general practise, a speciality within the medical field in itself, with the option to peruse advanced skills in areas of interest, in particular, women’s health conditions.

“I’m particularly passionate about women’s health and hope to develop additional expertise in obstetrics and gynaecology,” Sarah shared.

“This would allow me to support women in rural and remote communities, providing antenatal care and helping deliver babies - something I see as both a privilege and a meaningful way to make healthcare more accessible.”

In her earlier academic years, Sarah volunteered for a plethora of women’s health initiatives promoting accessibility and education including Share the Dignity, marking the start of a long-term commitment to breaking down stigmas and improving access to care.

“I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue medicine, and as I became more aware of the challenges women face - particularly around stigma, access, and representation in healthcare - my interest in this space only grew stronger,” said Sarah.

“I’ve always been drawn to the idea of helping people in a way that’s meaningful and long-term, which naturally led me to general practice as I love the continuity of care it offers - the opportunity to support someone through various stages of life, build strong therapeutic relationships, and even care for families across generations.”

Over the past five years of her medical studies, Sarah has continued to actively peruse every opportunity to build on her passion from taking elective placements and delivering over 10 babies to being part of several student-led organisations. Currently conducting a research project titled Beyond the Pain: The Psychological Impacts of Adenomyosis in Australia, Sarah hopes the findings will ultimately contribute to a broader understanding of the condition through identifying gaps in care, barriers to diagnosis and the unique challenges faced by different groups.

“My study, Beyond the Pain: The Psychosocial Impacts of Adenomyosis in Australia, is the first of its kind to explore how this condition affects women beyond just the physical symptoms,” explained Sarah.

“We’ve adapted a validated endometriosis quality-of-life tool to examine domains such as mental health, emotional wellbeing, sexual relationships, education, employment, and financial stability and by highlighting the broader impacts of adenomyosis, this project aims to improve understanding, advocate for earlier diagnosis, and push for more holistic, patient-centred care in women’s health.”

Approved by the JCU Human Research Ethics Committee, recruitment for the study has begun and biologically female participants residing in Australia aged 18 years or older with a confirmed diagnosis of adenomyosis are invited to take an anonymous survey online at https://lnkd.in/dwHSUphe.

Sarah’s current project covers just one of many underrepresented and understudied women’s health conditions she has come across throughout the course of her degree, and with such a long-standing passion for women’s health, her interest and curiosity has continued to deepen.

“My perspective has shifted – not in terms of reducing my passion, but by fuelling a stronger drive to advocate for change.”

“I’ve come to realise how many gaps still exist in the literature, how much more we need to learn, and how often women’s health is reduced to physical symptoms alone. Ultimately, my studies have made me even more determined to push for a more inclusive, holistic, and well-researched approach to women’s health - one that truly reflects the complexity and importance of the lived experience.”

Sarah believes women’s health as a whole has been historically under-researched, further fuelling decades of diagnostic misconceptions, and dismissive attitudes.

“If I could change one thing about how women’s health is approached today, it would be shifting the focus from a purely gynaecological lens to a truly holistic one,” Sarah said.

“Too often, women are given short-term solutions like painkillers or hormonal treatments, without any real acknowledgement of the broader, long-term impact these conditions have on their lives.”

While the nation’s awareness of conditions like endometriosis has begun to grow, Sarah hopes pelvic pain will become a key topic among medical researchers to correct centuries of incorrect and non-existent clinical trials.

“There are many other causes of pelvic pain, including adenomyosis, fibrosis, and anatomical variations, that remain poorly understood and we still know every little about the underlying cause of many of these conditions, and treatment options are often limited, carry side effects or have unknown impacts on fertility – there is a real need for more research, better management pathways, and greater clinical and public awareness around pelvic pain as a whole,” Sarah added.

“Many live with symptoms for years before receiving a diagnosis and endometriosis, for instance, has an average diagnostic delay of around 10 years - that’s a decade of ongoing pain, disruption, and the compounding effects on mental health, relationships, work, and daily life.”

Sarah’s current research project will continue recruiting candidates over the next six months, yet, with her tertiary studies quickly coming to an end, Sarah’s mission to bring awareness, generate research, and facilitate diagnostic tools is only just beginning.

“Through my Honours project and future practice, I hope to contribute to changing this narrative - by advocating for care that recognises and responds to the full psychosocial impact of women’s health conditions, not just the physical symptoms.”

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From Ayr SHS School Captain to future GP, Sarah McDonnell continues her mission to make women’s health care more accessible (Photo Supplied)
Currently completing her Honours research at JCU, Sarah is investigating the psychosocial impacts of adenomyosis in Australian women (Photo Supplied)
Sarah is on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery from JCU in late 2026 (Photo Supplied)
Sarah’s research project, Beyond the Pain, is the first Australian study of its kind focused on the psychological effects of adenomyosis (Photo Supplied)

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Representing Liessmann and Sons

Since she was just eight years old, Molly Julyan dreamt of one day becoming a Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador, and now, at the age of 21, she’s become the girl she used to admire.

“Going to the Grand Parades, seeing the floats go by and then afterwards, enjoying all the fun rides are memories that I’ll cherish forever,” reminisced Molly.

Hailing from Home Hill, Molly will represent Liessmann’s and Sons, and she could not be more excited and honoured to embark on her journey as a Senior Ambassador where she hopes to make many lifelong memories along the way.

“What motivated me to be an Ambassador for this year’s Burdekin Water Festival was to be able to give back to the community, step outside of my comfort zone and try something new,” shared Molly.

Above all else, Molly believes this opportunity will present her with a plethora of opportunities to grow, and for her confidence to flourish, noting she’s eager to support and contribute to the wider Burdekin community however she can both in and outside her role over the next four months.

“What excites me about this experience is getting myself out there by helping our beautiful community, supporting local businesses, forming new friendships with my fellow Ambassadors and supporting each other,” Molly added.

“But all around, I’m most excited to grow as a person, step out of my comfort zone, and give everything a go with a positive attitude.”

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Molly Julyan will represent Liessmann’s and Sons as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)

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