Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
For many of us, the start of the crushing season is one of the clearest signs that another year is moving forward in the Burdekin. The locos are running again, harvesters are in the paddocks, and the familiar "black snow" has started to drift across the district. While growers continue to face challenges from low sugar prices and rising input costs, the start of the season always seems to bring a sense of optimism. The sugar industry remains the backbone of our local economy and supports countless businesses, jobs and families throughout the region. It has also been pleasing to see local success recognised recently, with Burdekin Shire Council receiving recognition at the 2026 LGMA Awards for Excellence for the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility. Congratulations to the staff involved in delivering a project that has attracted attention across local government. Community creativity is also being encouraged through the Regional Recycled Art Competition, which is open to schools, community groups, and individual artists. Entries close on 6 July, with details available on Council's website. As one of the judges, I look forward to seeing the innovative ways local residents transform recycled materials into artwork. As harvest ramps up across the district, I wish everyone a safe and productive season.
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It has been another busy week across the Burdekin, with a number of great events highlighting the talent and opportunities within our community. I recently attended the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival, which was held on Friday night. It was wonderful to see the performances from all our local high schools and the level of talent on display. There are also some important dates ahead, including Men’s Health Week from 15 to 21 June. I encourage everyone to take the time to look after their health and wellbeing — it’s important not just for yourself, but for those around you. We also had a visit from Bob Katter, Member of the Australian House of Representatives, who dropped into Council. It’s always valuable to have open doors and conversations across all levels of government as we continue to advocate for our region. Another highlight was the Pathways & Possibilities event, which was a rewarding experience for those who attended. Education and career opportunities are so important, and it was encouraging to see the range of pathways available to support people in making decisions about their future. These events are a strong reminder of the opportunities that exist within our community and the importance of continuing to support one another. 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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Over 150 Burdekinites marched through Plantation Park on May 31st in solidarity with victim-survivors of domestic and family violence. The DV Prevention Walk brought local families, community groups, councillors, and service providers to Ayr’s Plantation Park before a purple-and-orange convoy set off along the Bruce Highway, up to Kirlie Road, and back to the park. Marchers held high signs calling for an end to violence, before signing a banner pledging their commitment to safer families and communities. Burdekin Community Association CEO Debra Cochran, emcee of the event, told the crowd before the march that preventing domestic and family violence was a responsibility shared by the entire community. “Violence and abuse in any relationship is unacceptable. Preventing it requires all of us to step up, call out disrespect and at times, have tough conversations with our friends and loved ones,” Ms Cochran said. “Every step you take today is a step toward a culture where everyone feels safe, equal and respected. Let’s walk with purpose and carry the energy of today forward into what we say and do every day. “We say NO to violence.” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Officer in Charge of the Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields also addressed attendees on the morning. Police and DFV Service providers manned information stalls, with a free barbecue breakfast provided by the Network and free sweets courtesy of Sweetsville. SweetFM also brought music, rock painting, and badge making activities to the park. Ms Cochran described the event as “very successful and impactful.” “We fulfilled the main purpose of the event, which was to raise awareness about domestic and family violence within the community while creating a visible message of support for victim-survivors,” she said. “It was an opportunity for community members to come together in solidarity and demonstrate a shared commitment to promoting safety, respect, and healthy relationships within the Burdekin community. “We hope the event encourages ongoing conversation.” Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue across Australia and Queensland. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in four Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner since the age of 15. In Queensland, there were 27,857 domestic and family violence protection orders initiated in 2023–24, according to latest Queensland Courts data. Ms Cochran said the walk reinforced the importance of community support for victim-survivors of one of the State’s most pressing social issues. “We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them,” she said. PHOTO CREDIT: Natalie Saroglia
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Restoration work is underway across three Burdekin Delta creeks as part of a major wetlands project aimed at reducing pollutants entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far cleared invasive weeds from wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks as part of broader efforts to reduce fine sediment, dissolved inorganic nitrogen and pesticides reaching the Reef. According to the Australian Government’s 2024 Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report, the Burdekin River catchment is the largest individual contributor of fine sediment, delivering about 3.7 million tonnes. It also contributes significant particulate nitrogen and phosphorus loads. NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader Scott Fry said combining on-ground works with monitoring, modelling and training would help the WWBD project deliver measurable reductions in pollution and improve wetland health. “Waterways in the Burdekin Delta are both productive agricultural systems and vital ecological assets,” Mr Fry said. “Healthy, well-functioning wetlands are naturally able to capture and process pollutants before they reach the Reef. “We aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of scalable, long-term management practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental outcomes.” Work will employ a multi-step “treatment train” approach which focuses on improving wetland health, increasing water use efficiency to reduce excess flows into creeks, and trialing new water treatment methods. It will also involve harvesting aquatic weeds to remove stored nutrients and improve fish and bird habitat, revegetating creek banks with native plants and improving fire management practices. Weeds harvested will be turned into compost for use on local farms. The WWBD project will be delivered in conjunction with Lower Burdekin Water, Burdekin Shire Council and Bindal Traditional Owners, with funding from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program. It will complement work with Burdekin Delta cane growers to improve irrigation efficiency under NQ Dry Tropics’ Burdekin Tailored Automation project, a broader endeavour which aims to reduce agricultural runoff to waterways while improving farm efficiency. CAPTION (merge pics 1&2 for a side-by-side comp.): The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far seen wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks cleared of invasive weeds. Photo credit: NQ Dry Tropics
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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has played a key role in helping the Home Hill Cricket Association continue to thrive, providing both sponsorship and grant funding for important projects. Photo supplied
For more than 100 years, the Home Hill Cricket Association has been at the heart of sport in the Burdekin, bringing generations together through a shared love of the game.
As the region’s only junior and senior cricket club, the association plays a vital role in keeping grassroots sport alive. But for Tiffany Olditch and the many volunteers behind the scenes, it’s about far more than cricket.
“Ensuring grassroots sports remain active in the community contributes to a sense of belonging and promotes a healthy lifestyle,” Tiffany explains.
That sense of belonging is evident across all levels of the club. From young rookies learning the basics to senior players competing in the CNQ Townsville Second and Third Grade competitions, the Home Hill Cricket Association creates opportunities for people of all ages to connect, compete and grow.
A highlight on the local sporting calendar is the Canefield Ashes cricket carnival, hosted annually by the club. Now in its 22nd year, the event honours the memory of past member Eugene Pagotto and brings together 40 teams from across North Queensland for a two-day T20 competition. Beyond the action on the field, the carnival also gives back, with a portion of proceeds donated each year to a local cancer-related charity.
It’s events like these that showcase the power of community sport—and the importance of local support.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has played a key role in helping the association continue to thrive, providing both sponsorship and grant funding for important projects. That support has delivered real outcomes, including the purchase of a new zero-turn mower to maintain the playing fields and the installation of roller shutters to improve the clubhouse’s security and weather protection.
“These improvements make a big difference to our players and volunteers,” Tiffany says. “They help us provide a better environment for everyone involved.”
Equally important is the club’s focus on developing the next generation. Young cricketers are introduced to the game through weekly skills sessions at East Ayr State School, while older juniors take to the field on Friday afternoons. With support from Queensland Cricket, school-based programs and holiday clinics ensure kids across the Burdekin have the chance to get involved.
Whether it’s a child picking up a bat for the first time or a team representing Home Hill across the region, the association continues to strengthen community ties both on and off the field.
And with the ongoing backing of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the future of cricket in the Burdekin looks as strong as ever.
Contributed with thanks to Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
I would like to begin by thanking our community for the wonderful show of support over the weekend at Anzac Day events held across the Burdekin. It was heartening to see such strong attendance and respect shown at services throughout the Shire.
A special thank you must also go to Council staff who volunteered their time to assist with flying fox dispersal at Arch Dunn Park in preparation for the Anzac Day Memorial Services. Starting work as early as 3:30am is no small feat, and I am sure those who attended the Dawn Service were appreciative of the effort that helped ensure the service could proceed smoothly and respectfully.
This week, Council had the pleasure of hosting the Mayor, CEO and Councillors from the Whitsunday Regional Council. The visit included a tour of our Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility, followed by meaningful discussions on how our councils can work together on shared challenges and opportunities. Advocacy and partnership are critical to progress, particularly on issues that affect both regions, including the Bruce Highway, infrastructure priorities, support for our agricultural sector, water planning, and opportunities for greater regional collaboration. These connections are invaluable as we continue to learn from one another and deliver better outcomes for our communities.
I would also like to inform residents that the Ayr Pool has closed early for the winter season to allow preparations to begin for the construction of a new amenities block. Having grown up with these amenities, I know this upgrade is long overdue and will bring the facility into a modern era for current and future generations.
Finally, I want to acknowledge the incredible generosity I continue to see across the Burdekin. At every event, local businesses and service clubs step up to support those in need, often without recognition. I encourage everyone to remember this when making purchasing decisions. Supporting local businesses helps sustain local jobs, services and our broader community. When we support each other, the benefits come full circle.
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.
Council continues to work through budget discussions for the 2026/27 financial year. This is a critical process, as we balance competing priorities and ensure we are making responsible decisions for the long term.
Over the weekend, we marked Anzac Day. It was pleasing to see strong attendance across the Shire, with well attended services that recognised the sacrifices made by those who served.
Yesterday, we welcomed representatives from Whitsunday Regional Council. It was a productive meeting and a great opportunity to strengthen relationships with a neighbouring council. While we may differ on some matters, we share many of the same challenges. Open discussions like these are valuable in identifying practical solutions and learning from each other’s experiences.
It was also great to see strong community participation in local events, including Sugar Rush over the weekend. Events like this bring people together and are a positive reflection of our community.
Finally, I want to acknowledge growing concerns around antisocial behaviour, particularly impacting some of our local businesses. This is not acceptable, and it is something that needs to be taken seriously. Everyone should feel safe in our public spaces, especially the elderly, families and business owners. I will continue to support efforts to address these issues and encourage anyone affected to report incidents so they can be properly dealt with.
From major city firms to launching his own business in the Burdekin, Harry Vo has been supporting clients across a wide range of industries and business sizes during his accomplished accounting career. His path to this success, however, began in a much humbler setting.
Growing up in the Mekong Delta, a region synonymous with Vietnam’s agricultural heartbeat, Harry's childhood was shaped by veggie and fish farm work. Known as the nation’s “Rice Bowl,” the landscape and lifestyle demanded long days under a relentless, sweltering sun.
When he looked around, he realised he craved more.
“My dream was to go to a big university,” he shared.
“In my entire family, nobody had any qualifications or a degree. Everyone would transfer their farms onto the next generation and it would just go on and on. I told myself, ‘I need to do something different. I need to live a different life. I don’t want to do this.’”
That determination would propel him to Australia after a decade splitting his time between hospitality work and studying, where he eventually turned to accounting to build a more sustainable and long-term career path.
From there, he never looked back.[Text Wrapping Break][Text Wrapping Break]He earned his masters in professional accounting in Sydney in 2018, before strengthening a number of years of accounting experience across Big Four, mid-tier and SME advisory roles in regional Victoria, Brisbane and Townsville.
It was along this journey that he felt the tug of the regional lifestyle, which prompted his eventual move to the Burdekin in 2025.
“I was drawn to the lifestyle: the space, the pace, and the stronger sense of community,” Harry said.
“The Burdekin stood out because of its strong agricultural base and close-knit business environment. People value relationships here, and there is a genuine opportunity to make a meaningful impact.”
When Harry arrived in the Burdekin, he realised he wasn’t all that different from many of the locals—active, community-minded, and focused on contribution, reflected in a local volunteer award he received in Sydney in 2019.
“It’s about giving back and supporting the community,” Vo said.
“That mindset fits naturally in a regional community like the Burdekin, where relationships and trust matter. I want to make a positive impact in the community where I live and do business—a place I now proudly call home.”
Despite swapping rice paddies for Australia’s cane country along his journey, Vo said it’s those early lessons from his upbringing in Vietnam that still guides him in his work at HV Tax.
“All those challenges helped build my resilience. I always say, ‘I can’t choose where I’m born or start out, but I can choose my destination. I can choose my future,’” Harry said.
“Those experiences don’t just shape my unwavering professional ethics, but how I approach my work today. That’s what I’m bringing to this region; not just my technical qualities and capabilities, but empathy, perspective and understanding to help people navigate their own challenges.”
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In a region where relationships matter as much as results, HV Tax is carving out a reputation for delivering both.
The brainchild of Harry Vo, an experienced tax and advisory professional with both metropolitan and regional expertise across Australia, HV Tax was born out of a gap he identified while working in regional areas.
“I saw a great opportunity in proactive advisory and high-quality services,” Harry excitedly shared.
“I wanted to build a firm that goes beyond excellent compliance; one that supports clients year-round, helps them make informed decisions, and adds real value to their business.”
Under that philosophy, Harry relocated HV Tax—a chartered accounting practice—to the Burdekin in late 2025, offering locals accounting and taxation services that fuse technical compliance with future-oriented business strategy.
At the helm, Harry brings more than seven years’ experience across financial reporting, tax compliance and business advisory. He has worked with SMEs and high-net-worth clients across agriculture, construction, retail and professional services, experience that now shapes the firm’s local approach.
“It starts with understanding the local industries, particularly primary production and agribusiness,” Harry emphasised.
“My background, combined with my experience in a mid-tier firm specialising in agriculture, allows me to relate closely to these challenges.”
HV Tax delivers end-to-end support across Income tax, GST, CGT, FBT, and Payroll Tax, alongside proactive tax planning, structuring, and business advisory. The firm also supports financial modelling, performance analysis and growth forecasting to help business owners make informed decisions.
“What sets HV Tax apart is the combination of strong technical expertise and a forward-thinking approach,” he said, adding that while many accountants focus on historical reporting, his approach balances compliance with strategic planning.
For clients, that approach is designed to simplify what can often feel overwhelming.
“I want clients to feel clear, confident, and in control of their financial reporting and tax obligations” Harry noted.
“Tax and accounting can feel overwhelming, so I want clients to feel understood, supported, and assured that they are in capable hands from the very first meeting.”
That same emphasis on guidance and long-term support extends beyond clients, with Harry also mentoring future professionals and helping bridge the gap between study and practice.
“I understand how challenging it can be to start a career without guidance. I experienced that myself early on. Supporting students helps build confidence and bridges the gap between study and real-world experience.”
With his roots firmly planted in the Burdekin, the focus for Harry is on steady growth, with ambitions to build HV Tax into a trusted advisory firm recognised both within the region and beyond.
That direction hinges on his simple, “Your success is our success” philosophy.
Poor planning by the previous state government means new permits are required for maintenance of the Molongle Creek channel. Photo supplied.
Years after shovels and people power saw a community hold the former state Labor Government to account over all-tide access at Molongle Creek, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has taken the concerns of local boaties to the Federal level in a bid to ensure a decade-long commitment is not lost at sea.
Despite millions of dollars spent by the former Labor state government, Mr Last said what had been delivered four years ago had seen the advice of locals fall on deaf ears and the taxpayer footing the bill to bring about a long-term solution.
“The tidal dependant access of Molongle Creek is and always has been a matter of safety for those property owners at Cape Upstart, especially in times of emergency. It’s why the project garnered support from both major parties in 2017 and following their state election win, it was Labor’s responsibility to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said.
“Poor planning and implementation by the previous Labor state government means we now need to seek permits from GBRMPA in order to maintain all-tide access and neither the current state government nor the Molongle Creek Boat Club have any control over how long it takes for those permits to be granted or the conditions that apply to the permit.”
“This project has always been first and foremost borne from a need to address community safety and it’s why I have stood shoulder to shoulder with the community right up to this week where I have written directly to the Federal Minister for Environment for his assistance in the matter.”
Mr Last said he had committed his support to bringing about a solution for Molongle Creek with the state government now having to undertake long-term strategy and channel management options.
“The frustrations and importance of this project have not been lost on me as the Member for Burdekin and once again I will be continuing to work with all agencies and local community representatives to ensure all options are on the table for the long-term future of reliable access to Cape Upstart.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP’s office
Burdekin young people are invited to get creative and show their appreciation for first responders ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10th June. Photo supplied
Children and young people across the Burdekin Shire are being invited to channel their creativity into a meaningful cause as part of this year’s Thank a First Responder Day.
The Young Voices Art Showcase is calling on local youth to create artworks that celebrate and thank the first responders who work tirelessly to keep communities safe.
Whether it’s through a colourful painting, a striking photograph or a digital design, participants are encouraged to capture what first responders mean to them and their community.
The competition highlights the important role emergency services play across regional areas like the Burdekin, where strong community ties and local support networks are essential, particularly during challenging times.
Themes include acts of kindness, appreciation and community connection, giving young people the opportunity to reflect on the impact of those who respond when it matters most.
Two winners will each receive a $200 book voucher, but organisers say the real value lies in giving young people a voice and a way to show their appreciation.
Entries close on 24th May, ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10th June. Visit fortemaustralia.org.au for more information.
The morning of commemorations continued with an 8am service at Spiller Street in Brandon, before marches in Ayr, Giru and Home Hill at 9am, 9:30am and 10:45am respectively. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Hundreds across the Burdekin region stood still on 25 April to honour ANZAC Day, uniting in solidarity to remember those who served.
Dawn Services were held in Ayr, Home Hill, Giru and Groper Creek at around 5:30am, each marked by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute’s silence as the sun rose over the region.
An intimate ceremony at Ayr Cemetery followed, where Flight Lieutenant B.B. Newman, Pilot Officers K.M. MacDonald and J.R. Newman, Flying Officer T.E. Jones, and Sergeant F.G. Bower were honoured for their service.
The morning of commemorations continued with an 8am service at Spiller Street in Brandon, before marches in Ayr, Giru and Home Hill at 9am, 9:30am and 10:45am respectively.
Each march moved through closed-off streets lined by local crowds, with community groups, emergency services and schools taking part. In Ayr, the march concluded at the ANZAC Memorial, where a commemorative service was held. In Home Hill, participants made their way down Ninth Avenue to Arch Dunn Memorial Park, where a similar service followed.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP addressed crowds at both ceremonies. Mayor Dalle Cort also attended the Giru dawn service and Ayr Cemetery service, while Mr Last attended a dawn service in Bowen.
The morning’s events brought together residents from all walks of life in a shared act of remembrance for those who have served and continue to serve in the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces.
Locally, the original LRCIP funding—in effect since 2020—has been instrumental in delivering practical community assets. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council
The Burdekin region faces a potential financial headache as a vital federal funding stream, which has bankrolled major local upgrades from the Ayr Swimming Pool to the Burdekin Memorial Hall, is set to expire on June 30th.
The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP), which has injected millions into projects across the state, will cease at the end of the financial year unless the Federal Government announces an extension in the upcoming May Budget.
Burdekin Shire Council has joined the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) in an urgent advocacy campaign, warning that regional communities stand to lose the most if the program is not replaced.
“Burdekin Shire Council supports LGAQ’s call for ongoing infrastructure funding that recognises the scale and importance of what councils deliver, particularly in regional areas,” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“This is about ensuring regional Queenslanders have access to the same opportunities, infrastructure and services as those living in metropolitan areas.”
The Burdekin Shire Council is joining a statewide push for the Federal Government to extend a crucial infrastructure program due to expire on June 30th, warning that local councils face a significant funding gap without a new commitment in the upcoming May Budget.
Locally, the original LRCIP funding—in effect since 2020—has been instrumental in delivering practical community assets. Significant projects supported by the program include the refurbishment of the Burdekin Memorial Hall entrance and the installation of a compliant disabled access ramp, upgrades to the Burdekin Water Park at the Ayr Swimming Pool complex, and the revitalisation of Spiller Street’s Brandon Park, which included new playground equipment and amenities.
Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Shire relies on predictable funding to maintain the essential infrastructure residents use every day.
“Councils across Queensland are responsible for infrastructure that communities rely on every day – from local roads and footpaths to sporting facilities and shared community spaces,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Programs like LRCIP have allowed councils to deliver practical, community-driven projects that improve safety, connectivity and liveability while also supporting local jobs.”
The LGAQ estimates the program has contributed roughly $668 million to the Queensland economy, supporting nearly 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs. Peak body leadership warns that without a replacement, the loss of this funding will create a "financial black hole" for local governments.
LGAQ President Mayor Matt Burnett stated that regional equity is at the heart of the issue.
“People living in regional Queensland should be able to access the same employment, infrastructure and service opportunities as those living in the cities,” Mayor Burnett said.
“This program has been used to build roads, sporting grounds and other vital community facilities, and it’s our smallest communities who stand to lose most if funding isn't continued.”
For the Burdekin, the uncertainty makes long-term planning difficult, says Mayor Dalle Cort, who emphasised that local councils are now facing “difficult decisions” that could impact the standard of services provided to residents.
The LGAQ is pushing for a commitment in the May Budget that goes beyond the LRCIP, calling for an increase in untied Financial Assistance Grant funding to at least 1 per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue to improve long-term financial sustainability.
Residents can learn more about the campaign at www.lgaq.asn.au.
Communities across the Burdekin Shire will come together this ANZAC Day to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans, with a full program of dawn services, marches and commemorative ceremonies planned throughout the region.
Early risers will have several opportunities to pay their respects, with dawn services commencing at 5:25am at the Memorial Hall in Home Hill, followed closely by 5:30am services at Brolga Park in Giru and ANZAC Park in Ayr.
As the morning continues, smaller community services will take place across the district, including an 8am gathering at the Spiller Street Cenotaph in Brandon, before returning to Giru for a 9:30am service at Brolga Park.
In Ayr, the annual ANZAC Day parade will step off at 9am, leading into the main service at ANZAC Park at 9:20am, while in Home Hill, the parade will begin at 10:45am, followed by a commemorative service at Memorial Park at 11:20am.
The day’s events provide an opportunity for residents of all ages to reflect on the legacy of those who have served, while also reinforcing the strong sense of community across the Burdekin.
Locals and visitors are encouraged to attend a service or parade, stand in silence, and take a moment to remember the sacrifices made in the name of peace and freedom.
Kirsten Loader and Chris Mann officially became the owners of Hotel Brandon on Monday, 18 April, opening a fresh new chapter for the popular establishment. Photo source: Little Leaves Nursery
Little Leaves Nursery is set to enter an exciting new chapter, with owners Kirsten Loader and Chris Mann announcing they will take over Hotel Brandon, bringing the two much-loved businesses together in one dynamic space designed to create new opportunities for the community, rain, hail or shine.
The pair said they had been searching for some time for a larger venue that could offer indoor seating, particularly during the peak heat of summer and periods of wet weather.
“We have been looking to address this issue for a while and we’ve always wanted to provide a full breakfast and lunch – but unfortunately our little food van gets far too hot in summer,” Kirsten explained.
The idea to purchase Hotel Brandon was first floated by the venue’s former manager; something Kirsten and Chris initially saw as a little far-fetched. Over time, however, the concept began to take root, eventually prompting the couple to take the leap.
“We were very fortunate the owner wanted to keep the hotel in local hands, and so here we are,” she said.
With plans still taking shape, the pair say they are keen to settle in and get a feel for the venue before making any major changes. In the short term, locals can expect a handful of updates, including the bottle shop transitioning from Star Liquor to Liquor Legends, along with the introduction of a fresh new menu.
Looking ahead, Kirsten and Chris hope to undertake renovations to give the hotel a facelift and create a more family-friendly space; a vision shaped by Brandon’s shifting demographics, and they’re also exploring the possibility of a drive-through coffee and hot food service, catering to early risers in search of a quick bite on the go.
“We are still working through how we can incorporate Little Leaves Nursery into the hotel without it losing the relaxed atmosphere we have worked so hard to create,” Kirsten said.
“Since we opened Little Leaves Nursery, we have watched Brandon’s demographic start to change. We have noticed a lot of young couples and families starting to move into the area, and I think there’s a gap in the market to provide takeaway meals as well as a great in-house menu and kids’ play areas.”
Little Leaves Nursey and Hotel Brandon will continue to operate as usual for now, with Kirsten and Chris buzzing with excitement for what’s to come.
“We are grateful for the support of the staff who have remained with us at the venue, and we have a lot to learn from them, and from the locals before we make any big changes,” Kirsten said.
“There are definitely big plans, and we think the hotel has a lot of potential and look forward to exploring that in the future!”
Police are urging Burdekin motorists to slow down and stay alert as students return to school this week, with increased patrols targeting dangerous driving across the region. Photo source: QPS
Police are urging Burdekin motorists to slow down and stay alert as students return to school this week, with increased patrols targeting dangerous driving across the region.
The warning comes as the Queensland Police Service enters the final stretch of its statewide Easter road safety operation, with officers maintaining a visible presence on local roads during the busy back-to-school period.
Drivers can expect a stronger focus on school zones, with police reminding motorists to obey reduced speed limits and watch for children, cyclists and pedestrians during peak drop-off and pick-up times.
Statewide figures from the holiday crackdown, recorded 3 and 16 April, highlight ongoing concerns, with more than 10,600 traffic infringement notices issued, including about 4,000 for speeding. Police also conducted more than 75,000 roadside breath tests and 1,800 drug tests, detecting over 1,200 impaired drivers.
In the Northern Queensland region, which includes the Burdekin, a total of 512 traffic infringements were recorded—the lowest of any region—with 212 related to speeding. Police conducted more than 5,000 roadside breath tests, detecting 59 drink driving offences, along with 29 drug driving offences from 62 roadside drug tests.
Emergency Response and Coordination Command Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman said increased enforcement was critical in reducing risky behaviour on the roads.
“Every decision made behind the wheel matters,” he said.
“With more children back in school zones this week, we’re asking drivers to slow down, stay focused and drive to the conditions.”
Police say patrols will continue throughout the week, with road safety a shared responsibility for all motorists.
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FriendlyCare Pharmacy offers a Medication Packing Service designed to take the stress out of your daily routine, so you can focus on what matters most: your health. Photo supplied
Managing multiple medications every day is no small task. For many Australians, keeping track of what to take, when to take it, and whether a dose has already been taken can quickly become overwhelming, and the consequences of getting it wrong can be serious.
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Contributed with thanks to FriendlyCare Pharmacy
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce President Uli Liessmann alongside director of CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited and President of the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers (WABCG), Owen Menkens. Photo supplied
Owen Menkens, director of CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited and President of the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers (WABCG), said the Burdekin sugar industry is stable with room for growth, speaking to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce last Wednesday.
The evening’s keynote speaker, Menkens addressed a modest crowd of locals at the Home Hill Community Sports Club, touching on the local sugar industry picture and future forecasts.
He said that while sugar prices are in something of a lull, the situation is not unprecedented. He backed current Burdekin sugar farming infrastructure to weather the storm, calling it “one of the best in the world.”
Menkens said that key to the Burdekin’s sugar farming future would be the next generation, and that CANEGROWERS initiatives targeted at the younger generations have yielded success.
“We’ve done a lot of educational work with future generations,” he said.
“The look on these kids faces… when they see what you can do in the industry and the opportunity, they were just blown away. They couldn’t believe it.”
He remains optimistic of a successful passing of the torch.
“We’re not an ageing industry in the Burdekin,” Menkens said.
“We’ve got a lot of young growers coming into the industry fresh from other districts, and a lot locally coming onto their farms and taking them on.”
Home Hill Golf Club has received a welcome boost, securing $13,629 in funding through the latest round of Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) grants. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Home Hill Golf Club has received a welcome boost, securing $13,629 in funding through the latest round of Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) grants.
The round saw the Crisafulli Government distribute about $19.5 million to nearly 800 community groups across Queensland, with grants of up to $35,000 supporting projects ranging from facility upgrades to equipment purchases and community programs.
Club Secretary Megan Barbagallo said the news was met with excitement and relief, particularly after several unsuccessful applications in previous rounds.
“We were absolutely thrilled to receive the call from Burdekin MP Dale Last,” Mrs Barbagallo said.
“After missing out before, this grant means a great deal to our club and shows that persistence really does pay off.”
The funding will go towards replacing the roof of the club’s machinery shed, which has significantly deteriorated over time.
“Our shed roof is in very poor condition and has been leaking, putting important equipment at risk,” she said.
“This upgrade will ensure our machinery is properly protected and can continue to be used to maintain the course.”
Mrs Barbagallo said projects like this would be extremely difficult for a small community club to fund on its own.
“Clubs like ours rely heavily on grant funding to complete essential infrastructure upgrades. Without this support, many of these projects simply wouldn’t be possible,” she said.
The need for the upgrade was driven by ongoing wear and tear, with the roof reaching a point where replacement could no longer be delayed.
While the improvement may not be immediately visible to visitors, Mrs Barbagallo said it would have a lasting impact on the overall club experience.
“By protecting our equipment, we can ensure the course remains in great condition for our members, guests, and visitors,” she said.
“It all contributes to maintaining a high standard across the club.”
Home Hill Golf Club has undertaken a number of improvements in recent years, many made possible through successful grant applications, reinforcing its commitment to providing quality facilities for the local community.
Nominations for the Queensland Landcare Awards will close on Friday, 31 July. Photo source: Pexels
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Queensland Landcare Awards, recognising the everyday Queenslanders making a difference in their local environments.
The biennial awards celebrate individuals, groups and organisations dedicated to restoring bushland, protecting waterways, improving soil health, caring for coastlines and supporting sustainable environmental practices across the state.
From volunteer groups regenerating creeks to farming families trialling innovative approaches, schools introducing students to landcare, and First Nations organisations caring for Country, the awards highlight the wide range of contributions being made at a grassroots level.
Nominations are free and open to everyone, including self-nominations, with entries closing on Friday, 31 July, 2026.
Award categories span a diverse range of areas, including innovation, sustainable agriculture and community partnerships, reflecting the many ways Queenslanders are working to protect and enhance the natural environment.
The Queensland Landcare Awards are considered a prestigious state program, shining a spotlight on those driving real, on-the-ground change in their communities — not in distant locations, but right across regional and rural Queensland.
Winners in selected categories will progress as finalists to the 2027 National Landcare Awards, to be held in Adelaide, South Australia, providing an opportunity for local efforts to gain national recognition.
Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals or groups making a positive impact, or to put forward their own work.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the Landcare Australia website at www.landcareaustralia.org.au/awards.
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