Opinion Piece

As the debacle over the impact of toxic chemical compound continues to cause havoc in Ayr, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances residents will have the chance to have their say during a senate inquiry.

Mr Last said given Ayr’s ongoing battle to rid its water supply of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemical compounds there was no excuse why a full and thorough inquiry would not include a public hearing in the township.

“The announcement of a federal government inquiry into the dangers of PFAS is welcome news but residents in towns like Ayr need assurances that this inquiry will be a boots-on-the-ground approach and that those who want the chance to speak can do so face-to-face,” Mr Last said.

“For years Ayr has been plagued by instances of elevated levels of PFAS which at times has threatened the township’s water security and has rendered a fire station obsolete and in need of relocation.”

“What we have seen recently is a clear indication there needs to be a more thorough understanding about the impact this chemical compound can have and that can’t be achieved without knowledge of how townships like Ayr are impacted.”

Mr Last said for six years the community had largely been kept in the dark by Labor over what had caused PFAS chemicals to leach into the town’s water supply with band-aid solutions and half-baked ideas put forward to alleviate the problem.

“This community has seen just how far the state Labor government have been willing to go to sweep the contamination of a drinking water source under the rug when the webpage hosting the link to the detailed site investigation was updated just days before works are committed to in the budget.

“When you examine the 2023 report by the local council which raised concerns that no QFES investigation into the issue had been made public at the time, you have to question the transparency around this issue,” Mr Last said.

“After years of uncertainty around the water security of their township, Ayr residents deserve the opportunity to have their say about how they have been impacted by the contamination of their drinking water supply.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale last.

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As part of the Burdekin Water Festival Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras the community has been advised to note the closure of the following streets on Saturday 7 September.

   • Edwards Street including between Queen and MacMillian Street from 6am to 1pm.
   • Queen Street including Soper to Mackenzie Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Soper Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Parker Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Edwards Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 1am.
   • Young Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • MacKenzie Street between Graham and Wickham Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • MacMillian Street between Young and Pool Streets from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Park Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Queen Street including Parker to Young Street from 7:30pm to 1am.

Both the Burdekin Water Festival Committee and the Queensland Police Service thank the community for their understanding and compliance of these closures and look forward to Bringing it Back this weekend.

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The Giru community is reeling after a young girl, who recently moved to the area, was attacked by two dogs while on her way to school.

The incident occurred last Tuesday, leaving the child pinned to the ground as the dogs bit her ankle, ear, and throat. She was rushed to Townsville Hospital, where she is currently undergoing surgery to repair the damage to her ankle and throat.

The severity of the attack has sparked concern among residents, particularly parents, who fear for their children's safety in areas where dogs are not restrained. One concerned parent, whose child is friends with the victim, expressed frustration that despite the seriousness of the situation, the local Council has not yet seized the dogs involved in the attack.

The concerned resident emphasised that the dog owners are not being uncooperative, however, she believes it is crucial to raise awareness about the incident to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of the community's children.

In response to the incident, Acting Chief Executive Officer Nick O’Connor confirmed that Council is actively investigating a recent dog attack in Giru.

“Staff are working with the owner of the dogs and the family of the young girl who was injured,” said Mr O’Connor.

“Once all the statements have been provided, a decision will be made as to what further steps the Council will take.”

He also conformed that Council staff conducted an inspection of the dog enclosures at the Giru property on Thursday, 29 August.

“Following that inspection, upgrades were undertaken by the dog owner over the weekend to reduce the risk to the community while the Council completes the investigation” he explained.

“The investigation is being conducted in accordance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.”

The community is urged to stay vigilant and report any similar incidents to local authorities.

Here is a Summary of Council’s dog attack procedure:

   • Ensure the public is safe and that the animal/s are secure
   • Inspect the dog enclosures at the property to ensure animals are secure;
   • Conduct interviews with relevant people;
   • Request photographs of injuries and medical report/s
   • Prepare Internal report recommending actions in accordance with Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 which may include fines, declaration as a regulated dog and/or prosecution.”

What to do if you encounter an aggressive dog:

   • Lower your head and turn your gaze away from the dog.
   • Turn your body slowly to the side but do not turn your back to the dog.
   • Cross your arms across your chest and remain standing still.
   • Do not speak to or yell at the dog.

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A most enjoyable morning was experienced by some residents of Regis, Aged Care, Ayr last week.
Mrs Raelene Grantz, Membership Chair, Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, and Ms Kristy McCoskey, Regis Lifestyle Coordinator spent some time “stuffing” and “stitching” breast care cushions in preparation for delivery to the Mater and University hospitals in Townsville and to patients on request.
Annually, the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc members and the Friends of Zonta sew and donate more than 120 breast care cushions and approximately 80 breast care packs consisting of cushion, drainage and shower bags to cancer patients, both male and female.
The morning’s activities at Regis were not all “work and no play”.  
The participants enjoyed a “cuppa”, some laughs and lots of friendly chatter.  More importantly, the morning gave the participants a sense of belonging and making a valuable contribution to a local community project. Community connections and a sense of belonging are critical for our health and wellbeing.
Thank you to the Regis ladies for your wonderful assistance, the quality of your work and hospitality.  Zonta looks forward to engaging your assistance going forward.

Contributed by Zonta Club Burdekin Inc

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120 Breast Care cushions have been donated to hospital patients. Photo supplied

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I’m very pleased to let community members know that BCA has appointed a new Journey Coordinator as part of our Mental Health services expansion.
 
The main aim of the Journey Coordinator is to connect adults and children to the services and supports they require and ensure that they access timely and appropriate mental health services. In the future, we expect that the Journey Coordinator will also be able to deliver free group mental health education sessions, for people needing low intensity mental health support services.
 
The Burdekin Centre for Rural Health is open from Monday to Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm.  The Journey Coordinator’s days and hours are Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm.
 
Referrals for the Journey Coordinator Service can be made by visiting or telephoning the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12a Chippendale Street, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au or telephoning the Head to Health Phone Service on 1800 595 212.    
 

Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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We often get asked what happens at the Neighbourhood Centre. The answer is a lot of everything, and more often than not, the programs and activities are born out of our conversations with community members and what they want to see happen at the Centre.  

Do you or a group of people you know have concerns or ideas that you would like help raising? We can help! Are you from a local service or group that would like to collaborate on different community projects? We can help!

At the Neighbourhood Centre, we don't work for people; we work with people. We firmly believe that when we come together as a community, we can achieve amazing things.    

Some community-led activities are coming up at the Neighbourhood Centre. As you are reading this, we would love if you could share your knowledge with your family and friends that could benefit from coming along.

Self Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop
Join Ross Romeo (CORES) on Thursday, 12th September from 10am – 12pm
Explore the concept of self-care and mental wellbeing, identify personal signs of stress and simple strategies that can be used to manage individual stress levels on an everyday basis. There are workshops available until the end of the year – both during the day and in the evening.

SHInE (Seniors’ Health and Interactive Exercise Program)
Join Andrea Piotto for the next SHIne program starting September 30th and running for 8 weeks – Monday and Wednesdays.  11.15am – 12.00pm. You can choose to come once or twice a week. Cost is an upfront payment of $80 for 1 day a week or $160 for 2.  We ask that interested people register and pay by 13th September. Lot’s of different ways to exercise – learn new skills, make new friends. Great fun!

Our support and social groups have all been initiated by locals who have lived experience or find joy in helping others to live their best lives. If this sounds something you would like to be involved in as well – don’t hesitate to call in and chat to us!

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Australian Local Government Women’s Association Queensland Branch Annual Conference in Brisbane alongside Councillors Amanda Hall and Fina Vasta. This conference was an incredible opportunity to connect with other women leaders in local government and share our experiences.
I was honoured to be part of a mayoral panel with two other mayors, where we discussed the unique role of being a mayor, the challenges we face, and what inspires us to keep going. It was an enriching experience to exchange ideas, reflect on our learning journeys, and offer advice to others who are either in leadership roles or aspire to be.
One of the key takeaways for me was the importance of resilience and adaptability in leadership. The role of a mayor is ever-evolving, with each day bringing new challenges and opportunities. But through it all, it's the community that keeps us inspired and motivated.
Switching gears to our wonderful Burdekin community, this past weekend was one for the books with the Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch. The Long Lunch was a fantastic celebration with delicious food and the crowning of our Senior Water Festival Ambassadors. Congratulations to all the Ambassadors for all you have achieved and a congratulations to the winner Demi and runner up Brielle.
I am very much looking forward to the Mardi Gras on Saturday kicking off at 4:30pm. It’s events like these that remind me of the incredible sense of community we have here in Burdekin. I encourage everyone to join in the festivities and be part of this cherished Burdekin tradition. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organisers for bringing it back this year. Your hard work and dedication have made it possible for us to enjoy this cherished tradition once again, and I know the entire community is looking forward to it.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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The Burdekin Art Society, a cornerstone of the local creative community, has received a substantial boost thanks to a $9,900 grant from Bendigo Bank’s Community Grants program. Established 53 years ago, this vibrant organisation has long been a hub for art enthusiasts, offering everything from casual Tuesday morning sessions to dynamic children’s art classes and workshops with award-winning artists.

With 43 members who volunteer their time and talents, the Society plays a crucial role in fostering local artistic talent. Their annual Burdekin Art Exhibition, held in the Burdekin Theatre Foyer each August/September, and the November exhibition at the Home Hill Harvest Festival attract a diverse array of entrants from across the state and beyond. These events not only highlight local artistry but also draw hundreds of visitors each year, eager to view and purchase artworks.

The recent grant from Bendigo Bank is set to make a significant difference. Over the past few years, the Society’s art exhibition lighting, now 15 years old, has become outdated and cumbersome. The grant will enable the purchase of new, modern lighting, improving both safety and aesthetics. This upgrade is essential, as it will enhance the exhibition experience for visitors and simplify setup for volunteers, who previously had to manage heavy stands and outdated equipment.

Joanne Barbagallo, Assistant Treasurer and Art Exhibition Coordinator expressed the Society’s excitement and gratitude. “Receiving this grant means we can present a more professional and safer exhibition to the community. It’s an enormous relief to replace our old lighting, which has been a significant challenge for us.”

Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr’s commitment to local organisations like the Burdekin Art Society underscores their role as vital supporters of the Burdekin region. By keeping financial support within the community, they help ensure that local initiatives can thrive and continue to benefit residents.

The Burdekin Art Society invites everyone to experience the high standard of their Annual Art Exhibition. Known for its impressive range of entries and quality, this event attracts artists and buyers from far and wide. With the new lighting in place, the Society is poised to showcase local art in the best possible light, thanks to the generous support of Bendigo Bank.

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The Burdekin Art Society receives their grant

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In a world where the demands of daily life can often overshadow our well-being, a unique self-care workshop put on by CORES has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Founded on the principle that taking care of oneself is just as important as caring for others, this workshop is making a significant impact in the Burdekin community.

The inspiration behind the workshop comes from a growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of self-care.

Ross Romeo, the Queensland coordinator of CORES, noticed that while people are quick to care for others, they often neglect their own needs. The core mission of the workshop is to change this mindset by encouraging individuals to recognise their own worth and to take deliberate steps towards self-care.

Participants in the workshop are introduced to key practices designed to help them reconnect with themselves. They learn to identify activities that bring them joy and fulfilment—activities that "fill their cup."

By focusing on treating the root causes of stress and burnout rather than just the symptoms, the workshop sets an example that can create a ripple effect throughout the community.

The workshop is tailored to meet the diverse needs of its participants. While everyone’s self-care journey is unique, there are commonalities that bind us together. The sessions are adapted to highlight these shared experiences, emphasising the power of the mind and the importance of giving oneself permission to prioritise self-care.

The impact of the workshop is evident in the feedback from past participants. Over 80% of attendees report incorporating at least one self-care practice into their daily routine, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The workshop’s relevance is maintained by continuously adapting to the changing landscape, such as the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

For those just beginning their self-care journey, the workshop offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: give yourself permission to take that first step. By doing so, you set the foundation for a healthier, more balanced life.

This initiative, supported by the Burdekin community, has already saved lives and continues to be a valuable resource. The workshop started in 2008 without any funding, and today, with the support of NQPHM, it continues to thrive, thanks in large part to the Burdekin community's embrace of the program.

WHAT: Self Care Workshop
WHERE: 40 Chippendale St, Ayr
WHEN: Thursday 12th September 10am-12pm

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Australia’s place in the US $20 billion global banana market has been safeguarded, according to the federal government, with a new genetically modified banana being granted approval for commercial release and consumption.

The QCAV-4 variety of the Cavendish banana has been developed by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to counteract the effects of Panama Disease or Tropical Race 4 (TR4), a fungal disease that starves bananas of their nutrients eventually killing the plant.

Following 20 years of development and rigorous scientific assessment to ensure it is safe for consumption, QCAV-4 received final regulatory approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) earlier this year.

The approval comes at an important time as the disease impacts banana industries across the world, including here in Australia which consumes around five million bananas per day.

With TR4 estimated to have the potential to impact 80 per cent of global banana production, Australian researchers have made a world-first breakthrough to protect local banana farms and secure our food production systems.

While there is no immediate demand locally to bring QCAV-4 to market due to our biosecurity system successfully keeping Panama Disease from devastating the Australian banana industry, there are a number of countries with an increasing need to find a sustainable, long-term solution to the ravages of TR4.  

Genetically modified labelling provisions would apply to food derived from QCAV-4, so consumers can make informed choices should the banana be commercially produced and sold.

The team behind its creation are now turning their attention to developing a non-genetically modified, gene-edited version of the product that can resist TR4 and other diseases, continuing to future-proof one of the world’s favourite fruits.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said this is an important milestone for researchers at QUT and a significant development in the fight against potential threats to Australian biosecurity.

“Panama disease has caused havoc in the Philippines and China, spreading quickly in South-East and south Asia, parts of Africa and now South America,” Minister Collins said.

“This has been a long process for the scientists at QUT, and the final approval is vindication of their work, skill and patience.

“This is a major Australian achievement worth celebrating.”

Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm added, “If TR4 were to spread extensively here, it would devastate our farming communities. That’s why it’s great to see Queensland researchers leading the way, yet again, to provide our producers with a scientific safety net for their crops.”

QUT Distinguished Professor James Dale said the QUT team has been working on developing and growing GM Cavendish bananas for more than 20 years.

“Apart from providing a genuine protection against Panama Disease TR4 for the world’s export industry, QCAV-4 is a safety net for Australia’s $1.3 billion industry.”

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CANEGROWERS is calling on Wilmar Sugar and unions representing mill workers to prove they are serious about resolving their long-running pay dispute by getting out of the way and letting the independent umpire decide a fair and reasonable outcome.
 
“After many months of fruitless and increasingly bitter negotiations, it’s time for both parties to step aside and let the Fair Work Commission decide,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
 
“It’s clear that the parties involved are either unable or reluctant to reach an agreement, despite the damage it’s doing to farming families, the sugarcane industry, or their own communities,” Mr Menkens said.
 
“We have said repeatedly that workers deserve to be represented and achieve a fair pay deal and milling companies must be financially viable. But this dispute has become increasingly hostile and there is no sign of a compromise on the horizon.
 
Mr Menkins said that CANEGROWERS has taken strong action.

“Our representatives have had several meetings with Wilmar officials and union senior officials.
 
“What we’re saying is, you’ve had your chance to reach a compromise acceptable to both sides and you’ve failed. This can’t continue indefinitely. It’s impacting the harvest, it’s impacting growers and contractors, it’s impacting families, it’s impacting the industry, and it’s impacting communities. 
 
“It’s time to admit you’ve reached an intractable stalemate, step aside and let an independent third party decide the issue.”
  
Mr Menkins added that the current rolling stoppages at Wilmar mills, which crush about fifty per cent of Queensland’s sugarcane, have already cost growers and contractors dearly, not just financially but also in terms of the stress and anxiety they’re experiencing.

“It’s already a difficult season, and if we’re to have any chance of success we need to start pulling in the same direction, working together to make up ground, not continuing to be hampered by strike action.
 
“For everyone’s sake, either do a deal now, or engage the Fair Work Commission.

“Let’s get this crop off and try to make the 2024 season a success.”

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
133,532
1,087,858
Pioneer
58,085
485,589
Kalamia
68,373
613,772
Inkerman
69,767
700,741
Burdekin
329,756
2,887,960
CCS
Invicta
13.71
14.01
Pioneer
13.91
14.11
Kalamia
13.45
13.76
Inkerman
13.92
13.84
Burdekin
13.74
13.93
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
50%
13.91
WSRA17
7%
13.69
KQ228
24%
13.63
SRA23
5%
13.02
Q183
8%
13.51
Q208
3%
13.72
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 330,000 tonnes of cane for the week. It was a slow start to the week with mills re-starting after a two-week stop due to wet weather. Throughput was also impacted by continuing industrial action.
The season-to-date total is 2.89M tonnes represents 35% of the Burdekin region’s revised estimate of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 13.74, which was well below budget due to the wet field conditions.
The highest CCS sample of 16.5 was from a rake of Q240-PL in the Inkerman (Inkerman) productivity district.
As always, please remember to take care as you approach cane rail crossings as mills are now back in full production.
John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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The newly established network of Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators will connect stakeholders with others in the industry and share information on sustainable agriculture practices.

The facilitators are employed by local Natural Resource Management organisations funded through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and will support the program’s broad climate-smart sustainable agriculture outcomes.

Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, Matt Lowe, said the $40.7 million investment in the network of facilitators, spread across 52 regions Australia-wide, ensures there is a designated point of contact for farmers, landholders and community groups.

“We understand there’s a lot of information out there and that support is needed on the ground to ensure everyone has access to the latest and most helpful information,” Mr Lowe said.

“The facilitators will provide one-on-one support for farmers and landholders, providing them with available information and funding opportunities, as well as connecting them with others in the industry.

“Our industry has made great strides in becoming more sustainable, and this network will further support us in achieving our climate-smart goal.

“The facilitators will work closely with our network of Regional Soil Coordinators, also funded through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

“Together, the facilitators and Regional Soil Coordinators will ensure our valued stakeholders on the ground have a point of contact on all thing’s climate, sustainability and soil.”

For more information, visit: agriculture.gov.au/climate-smart

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National Meals on Wheels Day was on Wednesday the 28th of August and thousands of Meals on Wheels volunteers served up care, connection and comradery to Australians in need.   

As part of the annual celebration Saint Andrews Meals on Wheels Lower Burdekin Committee has had a morning tea and has welcomed Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort to share in the festivities.

Each client received a small bag of chocolate chip biscuits as a special memento for the day.  
 
Lower Burdekin Meals on Wheels Services is available to service the frail and aged as well as younger people with disability, carers who are assisting people who are receiving Meals on Wheels, those recovering from surgery or illness and people who are unable to cook or prepare meals themselves. 
 
“We cater for all demographics and our service enables the people in the community to be able to have support to live independently and with dignity in their own homes,” said a local spokesperson.

“When receiving Meals on Wheels one of our friendly, happy volunteers greet them at the door and they have the comfort of knowing that someone is coming each day.”
 
Meals on Wheels is calling on anyone who wants to get connected by joining the volunteer ranks at their Meals on Wheels service. 

“It might be a few hours a week but the power of connection and the real benefits to the health and wellbeing of the vulnerable people of our community means our volunteers always get back more than they give.”
 
Please call the local Meals on Wheels today if you have a family member or someone who needs their service or if you want to come and join as a volunteer. 
 
Contact details:  Phone 0747832659 / Email mowayr@bigpond.com 

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Saint Andrews Meals on Wheels Lower Burdekin celebrates National Meals on Wheels Day. Photo supplied

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At 4.10pm on Friday 9 August, Ayr Police spoke with a male person on Norham Road, Ayr.  As a result a 37yr old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for possessing a dangerous drug.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 11.55pm on Friday 9 August, Ayr Police spoke with a male person at Alva Beach.  As a result a 45yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for possessing a dangerous drug.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 2.20am on Saturday 10 August, Ayr Police attended a street disturbance on Queen Street, Ayr.  As a result a 24yr old Burdekin man was charged with public nuisance and serious assault of a Police Officer.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 8.40pm on Saturday 10 August, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Wilmington Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 22yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 October. 

At 10.50pm on Saturday 10 August, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Ayr.  As a result a 43yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and she is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 12.50pm on Wednesday 14 August, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Chippendale Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 30yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October. 

At 12.55pm on Wednesday 14 August, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Ayr.  As a result a 21yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for disqualified driving and he is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 7.55pm on Wednesday 14 August, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr.  As a result a 37yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .133 and is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 16 September. 

At 11.35am on Thursday 15 August, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Beach Road, Ayr.  The driver, a 19yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October. 

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Steve Barton.

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