Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Ayr Golf Club has marked another successful Mona Coburn & Di Oats Day, with 23 players taking to the course for the much-loved annual event. Held on Wednesday, the day was a celebration of both competition and community, honouring the lasting contributions of two important figures in the club’s history. The event was made even more special thanks to the continued sponsorship and support from the families of Mona Coburn and Di Oats. Club members were pleased to once again welcome Bruce Coburn and Sandy Oats, who attended the day and presented prizes to the winners on behalf of their families. Ayr Golf Club said it was an honour to have them present, acknowledging the ongoing role both families play in supporting the event and preserving its significance within the club. The annual day serves as a reminder of the strong sense of tradition within the club, with many family members continuing to stay involved and contribute to its success. Club representatives said they were grateful to have such dedicated support, noting that events like these highlight the important legacy left by past members and the community spirit that continues to thrive today. Congratulations were extended to all prize winners, with the club also offering a heartfelt thank you to Bruce Coburn, Sandy Oats and their families for their ongoing and generous support. CAPTION: The annual event continued to honour club legends while bringing members together on the course. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club
Read the full story
Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority has increased disaster recovery grants to up to $50,000 Support covers small businesses and not-for-profits impacted by recent severe weather events Funding can be used for clean-up, repairs, equipment replacement and recovery costs Burdekin Shire is included as an eligible disaster-affected region
Read the full story
On Thursday, 2 April, concerned local resident Matthew Russell came across an unexpected visitor paddling through Nelsons Lagoon on Adelaide Street, Ayr. In a post shared online, Mr Russell alerted locals to the presence of a small freshwater crocodile, with many community members remarking on how unusual it was to spot a crocodile in the park, particularly so far from larger waterways. Unlike saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocodiles are smaller, shy and slender-snouted, typically feeding on fish, frogs and insects. They are not considered a significant threat to humans. Nonetheless, Mr Russell followed Queensland Government regulations, taking the initiative to report the sighting to the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) via the QWildlife app. Sightings can also be reported through DETSI’s online portal or by calling 1300 130 372. “We encourage you to report any crocodile you have concerns about – even if it’s deceased,” a DETSI spokesperson said. “If you are not concerned about a crocodile you have seen, you can still report it. This information can help us keep track of the movements and behaviour of crocodiles in the area.” No waterway in Northern Queensland can ever be considered crocodile free. DETSI reminds residents who come across crocs in the wild to keep a safe distance, stay away from the water’s edge, report the sighting immediately and remain croc-wise at all times. CAPTION: Mr Russell spotted the croc last week and immediately took action. Photo credit: Matthew Russell
Read the full story
Ayr State High School will be under round-the-clock security surveillance these school holidays following a recent spike in vandalism. In a public notice shared with the community, SRW Security Services confirmed a 24/7 presence at the school, with two security officers rostered on every shift to monitor the site. “Due to a significant amount of damage caused in recent weeks, SRW Security Services will now have a 24/7 security presence at Ayr State High School for the duration of the school holidays,” the post read. The increased security aims to protect public assets and deter further incidents, with a clear message directed at potential offenders. “This is about protecting community assets and putting a stop to ongoing vandalism. If anyone is considering trespassing or causing further damage — don’t. You will be dealt with accordingly by QPS.” The move comes amid growing concern from locals about damage to public facilities, particularly during school holiday periods when sites are more vulnerable. Authorities are also reminding residents of the importance of community vigilance through the School Watch program, which encourages locals to report suspicious after-hours activity at schools. Empty schools can become targets for unlawful entry, arson, theft, graffiti and property damage, particularly during holidays, impacting not just repair costs, but the wider community. The program, a partnership between the Department of Education and the Queensland Police Service, provides a direct way for the public to report concerns, even if they seem minor. On average, more than 700 calls are made to School Watch each year. Residents are urged to “Look, Listen, Report” by calling School Watch on 13 17 88, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. SRW Security Services said the update was also shared in response to community questions about the visible security presence at the school. “We appreciate the community’s support,” the post continued, encouraging residents to share the message and help protect local infrastructure. The added security is expected to remain in place throughout the holiday period as efforts continue to prevent further damage and maintain safety at the site. CAPTION: Additional 24/7 security has been put in place at Ayr State High School. Photo source: SRW Security Services
Read the full story
On Saturday 10th May 20 keen hikers (Scouts and family members) of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group hiked up and down Mt Inkerman. The day before Mother’s Day each year Scouts around the world undertake a hike called “Trail Jam” or previously known as “Jamboree of the Trail”.
The ages of the hikers ranged from 2-80 years, and the morning started with a small activity involving compasses and maps before tackling the trail. There was a hot BBQ sausage waiting for all the hikers when they got to the top. The Scouts then had to use their compass to find the magnetic bearing of several landmarks from the lookout.
The weather was very mild and the views spectacular. Before heading back down the trail everyone went to look at the spot where the hang-gliders take off and land. Unfortunately, there were no hang-gliders using Mt Inkerman that day.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night in 12th Ave Home Hill, 5–7 years meet 4pm to 5pm and 8-18 years meet 5.30pm to 7.30pm. People can come along for four weeks free to Try Scouting by contacting Rikki on 0419 104 035.
.jpg)
It’s time for another Councillor column and it has been a very busy period since my last column, with budget meetings, Anzac Day and the election.
I recently completed a three-day Foundations of Directorship Training course in Brisbane through Lower Burdekin Water, of which I am the Council representative director. It was a very intense, insightful three days and I look forward to bringing that knowledge to my positions as both Director and Councillor.
It was wonderful to read the positive social media post regarding the recent upgrade to the Brandon playground park. Thank you for your very kind words Alex Taran.
As requested by a ratepayer, let’s talk recycling. What CAN go in your Recycle bin - ✔Aluminium and steel cans, aerosols, foil, ✔Glass bottles and jars, ✔Hard plastic packaging (e.g. milk and beverage bottles, bathroom, laundry and household cleaning bottles, food containers), ✔Paper and cardboard - Please remember items must be clean, empty, and loose, with lids removed.
What CAN’T go in your Recycle bin - X No plastic bags or packets (No soft plastics), X No clothing or donatable items, X No scrap metal or timber, X No food or garden waste, X No nappies or general waste, X No electronics or batteries.
A comprehensive guide to recycling can be found on Council’s website.
I’d like to stress the importance of being involved in your community and Council. Council meetings are open to the public and are generally held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 9.00am.
A few things happening around our Shire:
• Burdekin Growers Race Day this weekend Saturday 17 May
• Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race at Plantation Park 9.30am Sunday 18 May
• FREE Backyard Waste Disposal - Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May (conditions apply)
• Sweet Days, Hot Nights Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring First Fire on Friday 30 May & the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships on Saturday 31 May
Until next time, stay safe and God Bless.
More than 60 per cent of growers who attended last week’s town hall meeting in Ayr have signed up—either on the spot or within 48 hours—to supply cane waste to SKY Renewables, according to company CEO Simon Yim.
The event, held at the Ayr Showground Hall on Wednesday 7 May, outlined SKY’s plan to convert sugarcane tops and trash into renewable natural gas (Bio-LNG) for export to energy-hungry markets like Singapore, which relies on liquefied natural gas for 95 per cent of its electricity.
SKY Renewables, founded by Yim, has been working with Burdekin canegrowers since 2018 and is positioning itself as a global first mover in producing renewable gas from sugarcane waste. The proposed value chain would pay growers around $15 per green tonne for the waste, with SKY covering all additional harvesting and logistics costs.
“Renewable natural gas is the only recognised way to reduce the carbon emissions intensity of LNG-fired power generation in Singapore,” Yim said. “Singapore industries face the highest carbon tax in Asia and renewable gas is vital for the nation, which has Asia’s highest GDP per capita.”
The meeting featured a panel including Yim, Canegrowers Burdekin Chair Owen Menkens, QCAR Chair Christian Lago, grower Ricky Mio, and former QSL CEO Greg Beashel.
Led by Yim, the meeting outlined SKY’s plan to carry out its vision. The final hour of the meeting saw the panel field questions from the crowd predominantly made up of local farmers.
SKY is now planning shed meetings and mini town halls across the district from 22 May through to the end of the month. Two larger events are confirmed for Inkerman Hall—1:30 pm on 26 May and 6:30 pm on 28 May.
“I would encourage growers to check in with their friends and neighbours so nobody gets left behind before the 31 May deadline,” Yim said.
SKY Renewables, founded by Simon Yim, has been working with Burdekin Canegrowers since 2018. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin Christian College will transform into a hub of curiosity and creativity on Friday 23 May, when the school welcomes families and community members to its annual Under 8’s Day Science Fair, running from 9:00am to 10:30am.
The event is all about letting kids explore science in fun, hands-on ways—whether that means mixing up colourful chemical reactions, digging for fossils, or cracking a cookie-themed mystery.
“It’s about unleashing scientific thinking through play,” said event organiser Ronda. “We’ll have all kinds of zones—space exploration, forensic science, medical experiments, biology, and more.”
From crafting model lungs and homemade stethoscopes to examining (plastic) human organs and seeing how the human body works, kids will get a taste of life as a real scientist. They’ll also meet a “walking x-ray” and try their hand at bug hunting and dinosaur digs in the biology lab.
Running for over four years, the fair has become a highlight of the school calendar, drawing crowds of eager learners and families. “It’s usually quite buzzing and the kids are having fun, and running around and doing all the different activities,” said co-organiser Ashlee.
The event will also feature guest appearances from Sweet FM’s live radio team, local police and emergency services, and a tractor display by Honeycombs.
After working up a scientific appetite, visitors can head to the Atomic Café for a well-earned snack.
The public is warmly invited to join in the action, with organisers promising a morning full of laughter, discovery, and wide-eyed wonder.
Under 8's Day at the Christian College was a huge success last year. Photo sourced: Facebook
Young storytellers across the Burdekin are being encouraged to tap into their imaginations for the 2025 Sweet Days Hot Writes Short Story Competition, with entries now officially open.
Hosted by Burdekin Shire Council, the competition is open to children aged 5 to 17 who live in the Burdekin region. This year’s theme, “Mystery in the Canefield,” invites participants to draw inspiration from the area’s iconic rural landscape and local culture.
Entrants will compete in three age-based categories, each with its own word limit: children aged 5 to 7 can submit stories of up to 200 words, those aged 8 to 11 can write up to 500 words, and teenagers aged 12 to 17 can submit stories of up to 1,000 words.
Winners in each category will receive a cash prize, and their stories will be published in a digital e-book available on the Burdekin Library’s BorrowBox app — a chance for young voices to be shared with the wider community.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the initiative plays an important role in encouraging creative expression and pride in the region.
“Sweet Days, Hot Writes is a wonderful way to nurture creativity in our young people while shining a light on the rich culture and community spirit of the Burdekin,” she said.
“I encourage all children and teenagers to get involved and share their stories.”
Entries close at 5.00pm on Friday 23 May 2025.
More information, including full terms and conditions, is available by contacting Burdekin Library on (07) 4783 9970 or via email at library@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Over $3.65 Million has been committed to sporting and community groups in the last few weeks with Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, describing the funding as illustrating the government’s commitment to grass roots organisations in the district.
Following a commitment in the lead up to the October 2024 election, planning for facility upgrades at Burdekin Netball is now underway while facility and equipment upgrades for 6 community groups have also been given the green light under the provisions of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
“In areas like ours, sporting and community organisations play a key role in connecting people and also in improving health,” Mr Last said.
“The health benefits from sport are obvious but there’s also volumes of research proving that membership of a community group improves health as well.”
“In addition to the netball facility upgrades there is a scoreboard for the swimming club and equipment for the Burdekin Potters, the Burdekin Off-roaders and the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Both the Giru Progress Association and the Burdekin Artisans will be upgrading their facilities, so we have a great mix of short and medium-term projects.”
“Across the state more than 2000 applications were received so competition for funding was tough. I am immensely proud of the effort put in by our local organisations to secure this funding and they certainly deserve our thanks.”
Mr Last urged groups to start preparing for the next round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) with applications now opening on June 9th June and closing on July 18th.
“We have delayed the opening of the next round in recognition of the impact that weather events earlier in the year had on organisations that are largely run by volunteers,” he said. “Grants of up to $100,000 are available and that gives groups the chance to fund major projects that will provide even more benefits to our community.”
“Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants are available to a wide range of not-for-profit groups across the state, with the funding able to be utilised for a wide range of projects. From facility, equipment and accessibility improvements right through to domestic and family violence initiatives; there is funding available, and I would encourage local groups to apply.”
It was another busy week for news in the Burdekin.
Among the notable events was the re-opening of Stardust Drive-In Cinema, which welcomed customers for the first time in almost a year-and-a-half, after Cyclone Kirrily left its mark on the beloved, long-standing community hub back in January, 2024.
I decided to give it a go at their soft re-launch last Friday, and it did not disappoint. It was also refreshing to see the community turn up in droves to support the venue, which has been a staple in the Burdekin entertainment scene for over over 60 years.
Speaking of entertainment—I also managed to sus out Capone’s Nightclub on Saturday night. Nothing quite like anything back home in Sydney, but still a neat set-up and I imagine it will be packed this weekend following the races.
Which brings me to the Burdekin Growers Race Day—my first one, and I’m looking forward to it. From what I’ve heard, it’s one of those days that starts with the horses but ends up being about everything else. Good stories, loud shirts, a bit of dust, and a crowd that knows how to enjoy itself.
The pace doesn’t seem to be slowing down around here—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Can’t wait for the week ahead.
And, as always, if you have a story to tell, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Kicking off the 2025 season in the Burdekin, the St. Coleman's Debutante Ball was a night to remember. Held on Saturday, May 10th at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, the event saw eight debutantes and their partners take the stage in a stunning display of grace and tradition. The evening was made even more special by the presence of Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who joined the packed hall of parents, family, and attendees to celebrate this significant occasion. The event marked the perfect start to a season filled with elegance and community spirit.
Under a sky full of stars, the Burdekin was treated to a night of elegance and tradition as the 2025 St. Coleman's Debutante Ball launched the season with unforgettable flair. The Burdekin Memorial Hall was packed with 400 guests, all gathered to witness a beautiful evening celebrating the debutantes' journey into adulthood.
The night began with a touching ceremony at St. Coleman's Catholic Church, where the debs were blessed in the presence of their proud families. Jayel Gibson and Chad Fraser delivered heartfelt readings, setting the tone for what would be a memorable evening.
Once the blessings were complete, guests made their way to the Memorial Hall for an exquisite dinner, followed by the much-anticipated debutante presentation. The debs and their partners were introduced to the evening’s distinguished guests, including Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Home Hill High Principal Sharon O'Neill. With grace and poise, the debs stepped forward, marking the beginning of their unforgettable journey.
The evening continued with heartfelt speeches. Kareana Heron and Blaize Palmer gave thanks on behalf of the debutantes, expressing their gratitude for the support of their families and the community. Tonia Rossato, speaking on behalf of the Deb Ball Committee, shared her pride in the event’s success, while Ruby Linton and Wil Michielin had the honor of cutting the beautiful cake, made by the talented Jodie Weston. The cake was a centerpiece of the evening, symbolizing the sweet start of new beginnings.
The night was far from over as the debutantes showcased their skills and captivated the audience with their dance performances. With two partner dances, a boys’ dance, and a girls’ dance, they impressed everyone with their talent and grace. But the most touching moment came when the night concluded with the Father/Daughter and Son/Mother "Pride of Erin" dance, a beautiful tradition that highlighted the bond between parents and their children.
This spectacular evening wouldn't have been possible without the hard work and dedication of many. A heartfelt thank you goes to the families of St. Colman's School, the St. Colman's Parish Ladies, Howie’s Catering, the Burdekin Shire Council’s Memorial Hall crew, and Dominique's Events. The St. Colman's Debutante Ball Committee—Madison Mainwaring-Samwell, Holly Alford, Hayley Oats, Barbara Cox, Jacquelyn Mainwaring-Samwell, Tonia Rossato, Dom Augostis, and Shalon Gibson—deserve special recognition for their tireless efforts in making this event a success.
With every detail beautifully executed and every moment steeped in tradition, the St. Coleman's Debutante Ball 2025 was truly a starry night to remember.
After over a year of repair and preparations, Burdekin’s beloved Stardust Drive-In Theatre softly relaunched last Friday, 9th May, reopening its gates for the first time since Cyclone Kirrily devastated the site in January 2024, with locals flocking back to the community icon that has served the region for over 60 years.
Devastation struck early last year as the cyclone tore through the area, toppling the drive-in’s iconic screen and leaving the venue in ruins. Despite the challenges, Stardust’s team remained determined to rebuild the venue. "The power of nature took our screen, but it couldn’t dampen the spirit that defines us,” read a post published to their Facebook page.
The reopening was highly anticipated by the public, with the venue long serving as a beloved spot where generations of locals have gathered to enjoy films under the stars.
“I have amazing memories of the Stardust,” said one community member.
The soft-launch on Friday was met with enthusiastic support, with locals pouring in to see a screening of the brand A Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black, for the price of just $12. The concessions also offered up a range of snacks and beverages to enjoy with the film.
The venue also features an indoor cinema, giving movie lovers the choice between watching under the stars or in the cosy comfort of an indoor setting. An 18-hole mini-golf course is also on-site, ensuring there’s plenty of fun to be had before the opening credits roll.
Excitement is building as the community favourite sets itself to officially relaunch with a bang on the 24th of this month. For showtimes, updates and more, visit Stardust’s website or Facebook page.
Stardust Theatre is set to re-open on May 24
The drive-in theatre screen was destroyed in Cyclone Kirrily
The theatre is an iconic spot and has been operating for 60 years
On Thursday, 8 May 2025, families from across the Burdekin gathered at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre in Ayr for a warm and welcoming Biggest Morning Tea, hosted by 54 reasons, a local arm of Save the Children Australia. The event brought together children, parents and carers for a morning of fun, connection and community support.
Attendees enjoyed a lively and engaging atmosphere, complete with an arts and crafts table, a swing set, slippery slides and a range of children’s games. A generous morning tea was provided, with delicious contributions from Maria Porter Bakehouse Goods and Tasha’s Tasty Treats. The event raised $100 to support local children’s programs.
The morning was supported by Play2Learn, 54 reasons’ supported playgroup program. Play2Learn runs weekly across Ayr and Home Hill, offering children aged 0–5 a safe and stimulating environment to develop school readiness skills and social connections. Just as importantly, it provides caregivers with access to parenting support, community networks and a place to connect with others navigating early childhood.
As part of Save the Children Australia, 54 reasons is dedicated solely to Australian children and families, delivering programs that help children grow, feel safe, and thrive. Events like the Biggest Morning Tea not only raise funds—they help strengthen the ties that bind the Burdekin community.
Attendees enjoyed a lively and engaging atmosphere, complete with an arts and crafts table, a swing set, slippery slides and a range of children’s games. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Are you a young writer eager to share your voice with the community? Burdekin Life is offering budding journalists the chance to be part of our local newspaper! Whether it’s school news, personal hobbies, unique experiences, or anything that speaks to your age group, this is your opportunity to be heard. Plus, you’ll have the thrill of seeing your work published in a community-focused publication!
Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith says, "We're excited to open up submissions to young writers who want to tell the stories that matter to them. We welcome a wide range of topics, from school life to personal passions, as long as the content is relevant to our local community."
While this is a wonderful chance to get your work published and gain valuable writing experience, please note that this is an unpaid opportunity—an excellent stepping stone if you’re considering a career in journalism or simply want to see your name in print - and who knows where it could lead!?
If you’re ready to share your story, send your submissions to editorial@burdekinlife.com. Articles should be approximately 250 words and include a photo.
Don’t miss out on the chance to make your mark in the Burdekin community—this could be the start of your journey into the world of journalism!
Kindness at school is more than just good manners—it’s about creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone. By looking after others and standing up for yourself, you help build a school culture based on respect and empathy.
Here are some simple tips:
By following these tips, you contribute to a kinder, more supportive school environment where everyone feels valued.
Stella Borellini leapt out of her comfort zone last year when she accepted a nomination to represent the Burdekin Academy as a Junior Ambassador in 2024’s Burdekin Water Festival.
With new friendships, community focused experiences, and a new sense of self-confidence, Stella’s journey as a Junior Ambassador was nothing short of rewarding, and she hopes many others will take to the opportunity.
“A message I would like to share with aspiring Ambassadors is that it may seem daunting to participate in these sorts of things, however it’s not,” shared Stella.
“This commitment was the highlight of my year as it was a delightful, heartwarming, feel good experience and one word I would use to describe the Burdekin Water Festival experience is phenomenal!”
Over the course of approximately four months, Stella and her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors engaged in a plethora of community-based activities and fundraising events for various organisations and charities.
“My favourite memory from the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival was definitely the Fashion Parade because it was something I had never done before,” expressed Stella.
“You can just be yourself and have fun with all the other Ambassadors!”
In September of last year, Stella was celebrated as the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up, a title she accepted with joy and will treasure for years to come.
With the crown aside, Stella’s mother, Allison Borellini, was beyond delighted to see how much her daughter grew from her experience as a Junior Ambassador, adding how amazing it was to see Stella involved with so many wonderful events and people.
“Stella thoroughly enjoyed her time as a Water Festival Ambassador and it introduced her to taking part in fundraising efforts for her club, the Burdekin Academy, and what it means to give back and be involved with your community,” Allison said.
“Her confidence skyrocketed when it came to public speaking and talking with various people throughout the Burdekin community, and as a parent, it can be busy but your club will be behind you every step of the way and it is an extremely rewarding experience.”
A five-year regional initiative has wrapped up with a lasting legacy of 187 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators across North Queensland, including several from the Burdekin.
The Water Industry Worker Program (WIWP), first launched in 2019, was developed to address the growing need for skilled water industry professionals across regional Queensland. Delivered by training specialists Simmonds & Bristow, the program began as a pilot with five councils: Mackay, Townsville, Whitsunday, Cairns and the Burdekin.
Simmonds & Bristow trainer Liz Millan said Burdekin’s participation in the pilot program helped shape what would grow into one of Queensland’s largest-scale training efforts.
“I had been talking to Townsville City Council about a Water Industry program since around April 2018,” Ms Millan said.
“Despite lots of discussions throughout the year for North Queensland training clusters, it amounted to nothing as the councils struggled to consolidate their needs.”
By September 2019, training in Townsville had officially begun. Participants from the Burdekin trained locally on the same infrastructure they would eventually work on, ensuring their learning was directly relevant to their future roles.
Following the pilot’s success, the program expanded to 11 councils across the state, running for five rounds and achieving a 90% completion rate.
Burdekin Shire Council’s continued involvement demonstrated the region’s commitment to investing in a skilled, local workforce to manage critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
The program has not only strengthened council capabilities but also provided long-term job security for regional workers, cementing Burdekin’s part in a statewide success story.
Approximately 200 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators for north Queensland have entered the workforce (Photo Supplied)
A five-year regional initiative has wrapped up with a lasting legacy of 187 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators across North Queensland, including several from the Burdekin.
The Water Industry Worker Program (WIWP), first launched in 2019, was developed to address the growing need for skilled water industry professionals across regional Queensland. Delivered by training specialists Simmonds & Bristow, the program began as a pilot with five councils: Mackay, Townsville, Whitsunday, Cairns and the Burdekin.
Simmonds & Bristow trainer Liz Millan said Burdekin’s participation in the pilot program helped shape what would grow into one of Queensland’s largest-scale training efforts.
“I had been talking to Townsville City Council about a Water Industry program since around April 2018,” Ms Millan said.
“Despite lots of discussions throughout the year for North Queensland training clusters, it amounted to nothing as the councils struggled to consolidate their needs.”
By September 2019, training in Townsville had officially begun. Participants from the Burdekin trained locally on the same infrastructure they would eventually work on, ensuring their learning was directly relevant to their future roles.
Following the pilot’s success, the program expanded to 11 councils across the state, running for five rounds and achieving a 90% completion rate.
Burdekin Shire Council’s continued involvement demonstrated the region’s commitment to investing in a skilled, local workforce to manage critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
The program has not only strengthened council capabilities but also provided long-term job security for regional workers, cementing Burdekin’s part in a statewide success story.
Approximately 200 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators for north Queensland have entered the workforce (Photo Supplied)
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
