Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Ayr’s Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions site will close its doors on 30 September 2025 after more than five decades of operation, leaving a team of highly skilled workers with disability facing unemployment.
The organisation, which has served the Ayr and Home Hill communities since 1972, has faced ongoing financial challenges under the NDIS and is now calling on local businesses to help identify employment opportunities for its workforce.
“By calling on our community, our aim is to help identify jobs for people with a disability here in Ayr,” said Acting Executive General Manager of Work, Greg McCluand.
“Although we have actively sought out various business opportunities in recent years, sadly this has come without much traction, and we have struggled.”
The decision to cease operations was not made lightly, with McCluand assuring the community that all possible options were explored.
“We are committed to working closely with our valued employees and will continue to provide them with support,” he said.
The organisation is encouraging any local employers or industry groups who may be able to assist to get in touch.
For further information, contact Greg McCluand at Greg.McCluand@endeavour.com.au.
This year, popular local singing group The Kindred Spirits are celebrating 18 years of harmony and vocal artistry—in the meantime raising a remarkable $61,500 for the Queensland Cancer Council.
Formed in 2007 by local music teacher Ruth Stockdale, the group began as a small choir of 12 women with a shared goal: to raise money for cancer-related causes through music.
Their first concerts supported Breast Cancer and Movember, and since then, they’ve become a beloved fixture in the local arts scene.
Although members have come and gone over the years, the mission has remained the same—bringing people together through song and raising vital funds for a cause close to many hearts.
After a brief break in 2024, The Kindred Spirits return to the stage this month with their new concert, Musical Moments, set for Saturday 21 June at 2pm in the Minor Hall of the Burdekin Memorial Hall.
Audiences can expect a mix of old favourites and contemporary hits, guest performances, a multi-draw raffle, and a delicious afternoon tea—all included in the $25 entry. Seating is limited and early booking is recommended.
To book tickets, contact Ruth on 4782 1399 or speak to any Kindred Spirits member.
Formed in 2007 by local music teacher Ruth Stockdale, the group began as a small choir of 12 women with a shared goal: to raise money for cancer-related causes through music.
From cane farm to Harvey Norman sales arm—and everything in between—Katelyn Sibson has done it all.
Katelyn first joined the Harvey Norman Ayr team in 2016, learning the ropes across several departments before stepping away to focus on raising her three children. Since returning in 2021, she’s brought back not just experience, but a deeper sense of balance—juggling life as a mum with her part-time role in the computers and tech section.
Looking back, Katelyn admits she was nervous about entering the sales world.
“When I got approached to come here, I was very nervous, like, I can’t do that. I can’t sell,” she says. “And then within six months, one of the props was like, ‘You were made for this.’”
But Katelyn’s sales expertise—and hard-working nature—had been quietly nurtured long before her introduction to Harvey Norman.
From working at local pubs and supermarkets, to helping out on the family farm—or all three at once—the former Home Hill High student is no stranger to getting her hands dirty. And where many may see a stark chasm between farm work and sales work, Katelyn sees the same values in action—hard work, hands-on problem solving, and people depending on you to get the job done.
“Obviously, the farm is very dirty, and you’re hands-on with machinery and equipment… But, although in a clean uniform, we’re still very hands-on with our customers here”, she says.
She says her ability to resonate with farmers helps with her work. “I try to explain things in their language,” she says. “If it’s a CPU, I’ll compare it to a motor in their ute. That’s when it clicks.”
Outside of work, Katelyn enjoys fishing with her kids and spending time on the farm—where hard work and family go hand in hand.
SKY Renewables has welcomed the Crisafulli LNP Government’s move to hold a full Parliamentary Inquiry into developing a full-scale biofuels sector in Queensland, giving hope to sugar communities across Queensland.
SKY Renewables CEO and Founder Simon Yim hailed the announcement as a welcome sign of the State Government’s commitment to adding value to an industry that has served as the backbone of communities such as the Burdekin for generations.
“It is imperative that the sugarcane industry progresses to getting more value out of the crop than just sugar”, Mr Yim said.
“It is equally important that generational hardworking growers need to be directly benefiting from what will be a revolutionising change to the Queensland sugar industry.
“Canegrowers and the sugar industry have been the cornerstone of the Burdekin’s success for 150 years and developing a biofuels sector locally builds on that success and will prolong the district’s prosperity for decades to come.
“There is clear momentum for proposals such as ours and I want to thank the Premier, Minister Tony Perrett, Minister David Janetzki, and our local Member Dale Last for their enthusiastic support of cane-based biofuels.
“SKY Renewables sees the opportunity. The Queensland Government obviously sees the opportunity. I call on growers to partner with SKY Renewables before 30 June to benefit from this opportunity.
“I look forward to SKY Renewables making a comprehensive submission to the Committee”.
The announcement of the full-scale inquiry comes after Mr Yim presented to the Parliament’s powerful Primary Industries and Resources Committee earlier this year on the benefits of turning tops-and-trash into biomethane for export to Singapore.
SKY Renewables has commenced developing its submission to the Committee and is looking forward to work with each and every grower to make their voice heard once the Committee’s timelines are established.
In the meantime, Burdekin growers who are yet to partner with SKY Renewables are reminded that they only have until 30 June to sign on the dotted line.
“I encourage growers who are still on the fence to get in touch with me as soon as possible so they don’t miss out on an exciting opportunity to diversify their revenue streams”, Mr Yim said.
Mr Yim also wants to remind growers that the equity from contributing tops-and-trash in-kind stays with the farm. It means growers can realise the incremental equity value of the project if they sell the farm. Conversely, farms without such equity attached will inevitably be worth less. Mr Yim can be contacted via email at simon.yim@skyrenewables.com or on the phone on 0423 526 345. He will also be holding regular office hours at QSL’s Ayr office from June 24 to 27.
DOB: 1/03/24
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Soft Hands
Cat Friendly: Untested
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
A Domestic Shorthair a heart of gold, there is nothing she loves more than curling up on her foster mums bed for a snooze in her favourite sleeping position - belly up with her paws in the air.
Heidi loves her pats, especially under her chin and behind her ears. She has such a sweet nature and is very polite - she even knows to sit patiently and wait while her dinner is being prepared.
Her favourite game to play with her foster dad is hide and seek… probably because she always wins! Heidi can be a little nervous at first but if you have a bit of patience and a lot of love she will be your best friend in no time.
To meet Heidi, fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Included in adoption fee of $210 desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated.
Burdekin Christian College welcomed more than 300 visitors through its gates on Sunday afternoon, with students, staff, and families coming together for a fun-filled and informative Open Day.
Held from 1pm to 3pm, the event was a celebration of everything BCC—from classrooms and co-curricular programs to student performances, science experiments, and even a dinosaur adventure hunt.
“We had a wonderful time hosting everyone at our celebration of everything BCC,” the school shared on Facebook. “A huge thank you to the incredible Mrs Butler for organising the day, and to all the staff and students who gave up their time to make it such a success.”
Families had the chance to meet teachers and college leaders, explore the Prep Centre, and check out interactive displays across robotics, arts, digital technologies, and more. The mini jeeps, obstacle course, and mechanical surfboard proved a hit with kids, while the coffee van, sausage sizzle, and cream tea kept visitors refreshed.
Enrolments for 2026 and 2027 are now open, with personalised tours available. Call (07) 4783 5552 to book or learn more. Enrolments are accepted year-round, but places are limited.
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‘Sweet Days Hot Nights’ was another terrific event, despite the rain providing a little too much moisture for the burning. What a wonderful way of celebrating the life blood of the Burdekin, Australia’s cane capital. Judging by the number of wrist bands others and I put on I think it was the best attended so far. The food and entertainment was outstanding but the best thing I observed was people coming together, chatting, smiling, catching up with visitors and people not seen for a while.I had the pleasure of being MC at two ‘Biggest Morning Teas’, put on by Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and Shirley Gilmore. Both events were well attended with lots of prizes and raised much needed funds for ‘Cancer Council Queensland’. At Shirley’s there were a number of speakers including Carolyn and her friend Carol from New Guinea. We forget how good we have it in Australia when you hear stories from our close neighbours north. There is limited assistance for women going through Breast Cancer and wages are low.Well done to all those involved in the recent ‘Drama Festival’, maybe some budding stars of tomorrow, just getting up there is an achievement and a mention to all those behind the scenes. I remember working at the ‘Seymour Theatre Centre’ many moons ago and a budding actor was doing a performance with NIDA. A young high school girl was sick and didn’t get to see the whole performance so we arranged a meeting after the show, she was pretty chuffed getting her pic with a very young and handsome Mel Gibson. Budget deliberations are coming to a close and a recent citizenship ceremony welcomed more Australian residents to the Burdekin. The business community enjoyed inspiring speakers at the ‘Industry Breakfast’ yesterday and we celebrated the great work of the ‘Chappies’ this morning for breakfast. I’m looking forward to the official opening of the game changing ‘Macro Algae’ project tomorrow and celebrating Bendigo Banks 20th anniversary on the 26th.‘Health and happiness to you all and go Cowboys’
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It’s been a big week in the Burdekin, with plenty of community conversations and exciting initiatives underway.Yesterday, we held another Industry Breakfast, and it was once again a fantastic morning. These events are a great opportunity to hear directly from our local business community, discuss current projects, and explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the discussion.Looking ahead, I encourage you to join us this Saturday 21 June for the Open Day at the RegenAqua Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility, the first of its kind in the world. This facility is helping shape the future of sustainable water treatment and agriculture, and we’re proud to have it right here in the Burdekin.Free guided tours will depart from Council Chambers in Ayr at 8:00am, 9:30am, 11:00am and 12:30pm. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out. Book now at trybooking.com/DAVOQ or call Council on (07) 4783 9800.On another note, I want to touch on the issue of illegal dumping. It’s disappointing to still see waste left where it doesn’t belong especially when sorted household waste can be dropped off for free at Council’s Transfer Stations and Kirknie Landfill.We understand there can be confusion about what can and can’t be dumped. That’s why we’re encouraging residents to check the A–Z of Waste Guide or try the new Recycle Mate tool on Council’s website. Simply enter the item, and it will tell you exactly how and where to dispose of it locally. Visit burdekin.qld.gov.au.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.
The heartbreaking reality that nine lives are lost to suicide every day in Australia is one that also touches the Burdekin community.
Greater education on mental health awareness and training has provided a better understanding for the community with organisations such as CORES (Community Response to Eliminating Suicide) Queensland that run a number of programs in the Burdekin region
The Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, guided by a passionate local board, continues to champion the wellbeing of the Burdekin community. Their ongoing support of CORES—both through generous funding and recognition—ensures their essential programs remains a lifeline for many.
Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin said the board recognises the importance CORES plays within the community that is challenged by mental health.
“As a community owned bank, we believe in standing beside the people and programs that make a real difference,” says Chantel. “CORES plays a vital role in supporting mental health and suicide prevention across the Burdekin. We’re proud to continue backing their work, because strong communities are built on care, connection, and looking out for one another.”
CORES Queensland is a vital community-driven initiative dedicated to suicide prevention in the Burdekin region. Established in 2008, the program empowers locals with the skills and confidence to identify and support individuals at risk of suicide, fostering a proactive and compassionate community response.
The cornerstone of CORES Queensland's approach is its free, from programs like one-day Suicide Intervention Training sessions to free counselling services. These workshops are designed to equip participants with the ability to recognise early warning signs, engage in safe and respectful conversations, and connect individuals with appropriate support services. The training also emphasises the importance of self-care strategies for those providing support, ensuring they maintain their own well-being while assisting others
The Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has recently announced a $10,000 donation to CORES, to ensure ongoing training within our community. The support was warmly welcomed by Ross Romeo, Queensland Coordinator for CORES.
He says there have been great signs for Queensland with statistics indicating a decline in suicides for Queensland in the past 2 years.
“Rural and regional communities generally have the highest rates across Australia but we are feeling positive with the collaborations with those wanting a greater awareness on mental health is showing improvements.”, says Ross.
For anyone who would like to contact CORES, please call 0427 455 313 or email coresqld@kentishrc.com.au
You might’ve spotted the poem Heart of the Burdekin in last week’s issue—and, like us in the office, found yourself thinking, “Hang on, this is really good.”
The excellent news is that there’s much more where it came from.
Poet and veteran Kathryn Carlisle has released her debut collection, Feathers and Flame: Poetry of Australian Landscapes and Personal Transformation. An updated version of that poem—now titled Burdekin Snow—features proudly on page three.
“I wrote Burdekin Snow not just about the land, but the people,” Carlisle said. “My spouse, Sharon, of the Menso family, has deep ties to the region—multi-generational cane farmers who welcomed me as one of their own. There’s something special in that.”
Carlisle, who served nearly four decades in the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force, channels her own journey of healing into the collection, blending rich reflections on grief, growth and personal renewal with vivid depictions of Australian and international environments—from desert to coastline, farmland to bush.
She says the Burdekin sits comfortably in that broader landscape of resilience and connection: “It reminded me of where I grew up—of the kind of land and community that stays with you.”
Published by Tellwell Talent, Feathers and Flame isn’t just a poetry collection but a deeply personal meditation on transformation built upon experiences of service, human connection, and time spent immersed in nature.
And within that broader message lies the Burdekin spirit—rooted in land, family and legacy—and proof that no one is impervious to the uniquely charming grip of this place.
Grab your copy here: https://amazon.com/dp/0228811716
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, wants to see an increase in the $4.4B contribution that the sugar industry makes to Queensland’s economy and believes the recently announced parliamentary inquiry may be the key to achieving it.
Describing the inquiry as a key part of the Crisafulli government’s target to grow the value of Queensland’s primary production output to $30B by 2030, Mr Last said the inquiry would be broad to ensure the best outcome.
“Sugar is Queensland’s number one agricultural export, and the Burdekin is the largest sugar-producing region, so the potential of the inquiry process is huge for our district,” he said. “The inquiry will dig deep into a wide range of issues because that is what’s needed to ensure an even brighter future for the industry.”
“There is a wide range of opportunities available for the industry including the production of biofuels for aviation right through to generating base-load electricity. Part of the process is to identify which opportunities are viable for Queensland and which opportunities will deliver the best outcomes.”
“We also need to identify regulatory or legislative barriers that could hinder those opportunities and the best way to deal with them. By doing those two things and focussing on the levers we can pull to support the sector, we set our community, our region and Queensland on the right course.”
Mr Last said he would support opportunities that provided a boost to the local economy and local farmers while calling on local farmers and representative groups to play an active part in the process.
“Over 20,000 jobs statewide are supported by the sugar industry but, here in the Burdekin, that proportion is much higher so it’s essential for the district that we get this right,” he said. “Whether it is representative groups, associated industries or individual farmers, it is essential that any opportunities and possible restrictions are brought to the Committee’s attention.”
“Expressions of Interest are currently open for people who would like to contribute, and the Committee has already indicated that public hearings will be held. Across the sugar growing areas there can be a difference in both the opportunities and the challenges so the broadest consultation possible will identify both local and statewide issues that will need to be tackled.”
“Over the years there have been many proposals aimed at fully capitalising on the industry and even diversification. This inquiry is not focussed on any single proposal; it’s about establishing the critical items that will ensure success.”
“In addition to financial benefits and possible environmental benefits, another potential benefit is the creation of jobs in new industries. That means opportunities for some of our young people to follow their preferred career path without needing to leave the district.
“As we have all along, the Crisafulli government is continuing to consult and work with our primary producers to grow the industry. For too long those industries weren’t given the help they need or deserve but we are committed to helping them flourish for the benefit of the entire community.”
Mr Last said he would support opportunities that provided a boost to the local economy and local farmers while calling on local farmers and representative groups to play an active part in the process. Photo supplied
North Queensland’s F/TR Rifle Team has etched its name into the history books—claiming back-to-back national championships and cementing its place as a rising powerhouse in long-range shooting.
And right at the heart of the action were two Ayr locals: Jason Kupke and David Huckett, whose precision and consistency helped steer the team to another dominant victory at the 2025 F Class National Teams Championship, held in Townsville.
The F/TR discipline—known for its incredible distances of 700m, 800m and 900m—has seen rapid growth across the region over the past decade. But few could have predicted the heights North Queensland would reach in such a short time.
Another Win for the North
After stunning the competition last year by snatching the national title in Canberra—toppling even the favoured Queensland Rifle Association team—North Queensland followed up with an even more commanding performance on home turf.
The 2025 squad swept all five available trophies: Day 1, Day 2, the Overall Aggregate (National Title), the Long Range Aggregate, and Best Shooter, awarded to Michael Keelan of Cairns, coached by Jordan Drew.
Led by Captain Betta Gianasi (Ravenshoe) and Coach Drew (Cairns), the team was praised not only for its accuracy and poise under pressure, but for functioning like a “perfect working machine.” Drew’s sharp tactical coaching, particularly his ability to read and adjust for wind conditions, proved invaluable across both campaigns.
With strong representation from Ayr, Cairns, Mackay and Ravenshoe, this was a truly regional victory.
Special thanks go to Swarovski Optik for supplying spotting scopes used in Townsville, and to all those who made the event possible.
The team will now begin preparations to defend their title in South Australia in September 2026.
From left to right: Paul Little, Jason Kupke, Karl Vorderwinkler, Jordan Drew, Betta Gianasi, Boyd
Hamlyn, Tim Larence, Michael Keelan and David Huckett.
Left David Huckett and Right Jaso Kupke
From left to right::
REAR: Tim Larence, Michael Keelan, Jason Kupke, Boyd Hamlyn, and David Huckett .
FRONT: Karl Vorderwinkler, Jordan Drew, Betta Gianasi and Paul Little.
Last Tuesday's Chamber Check-In meeting at Burdekin Bowl proved to be a tech lesson, mental health check up, and buzzing social event rolled into one thanks to guest speakers Gary Roser of Harvey Norman, Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland, and a decent turn out.
Treasurer of the Burdekin Chamber, Kari Ravizza, kicked off proceedings with a brief introduction, before handing over to Romeo, who came equipped with worksheets for everyone present. He then guided attendees through "mental health bingo," a thought-provoking exercise that implored the audience to pay more attention to mental self care.
Then, Roser addressed the crowd, offering up a range of technology-based advice—an extension of the "AI in Business" workshops a couple weeks prior—touching on the implications of the AI not only in the workplace, but embedded in our everyday devices.
Food and beverages were available throughout the meeting, courtesy of Burdekin Bowl—who generously hosted the event beyond their usual hours of operation.
Some attendees stuck around to socialise afterwards, rounding out a productive and insightful meeting.
Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland addresses the crowd
Gary Roser of Harvey Norman shares his tech expertise
This week has definitely been one of the more challenging ones since my arrival—though not necessarily in a bad way.
With the new edition of Core Life Magazine just around the corner, things have been heating up behind the scenes here. As it’s my first edition involved, I’m brimming with both excitement and stress, accompanied by a pinch of nervous anticipation.
Workload: high.
Hours of sleep: low.
On the verge of a mental breakdown: maybe.
However, as I’ve said many times before—this is what I signed up for, and underpinning these feelings of stress is a deep-rooted appreciation and enjoyment for the position I find myself in. I always knew that, if I didn’t go all the way with football, I’d want to be a journalist. What I didn’t fully grasp back then was the fast-paced, deadline-driven reality of it—let me tell you, I definitely do now.
But I took this job with both hands, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. I love this profession. I love this town. I love the people. As I continue to find my feet, I just want to say reiterate my gratitude to you all—for reading, for supporting, and for helping make the transition smoother than I could’ve hoped for.
Jacob
The Burdekin’s rich past has been brought into sharper focus thanks to the work of photographer Lido Paganoni, whose striking images of Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon are now part of a treasured digital collection preserved by the Queensland State Library.
Born in Ingham, Lido spent many years between Ingham and Ayr before relocating to Brisbane in 1967. Throughout his professional career, he developed a deep passion for photography, using his lens to document everyday moments and significant sights across the region.
Among his most iconic images is a 1950s snapshot of Ayr’s Queen Street—bustling with vehicles parked in centre bays near the intersection where today’s roundabout now stands. Suspended above the crowd, a banner promotes a “Carnival and Dance,” hinting at the vibrancy and community spirit that has long defined the town.
Another popular photo, now digitalised by the Queensland State Library, shows students enjoying sports and social time on the Ayr State High School oval. The school, officially opened in 1937, holds fond memories for thousands of local families, many of whom recognise familiar scenes in Lido’s nostalgic image.
His 1950s gallery also offers glimpses into other corners of the Burdekin. From the grand facades of Brandon’s Imperial Hotel and Club Hotel, to the tidy gardens around Pioneer House, to a weatherboard home once part of the Lower Burdekin Sugar Experiment Station, each image speaks to the architecture, lifestyle and industry of the era.
In Home Hill, Lido’s photographs capture the infamous Malpass Hotel, a house on the corner of Sixth Street and Ninth Avenue, and the beloved Watson’s Theatre—landmarks that hold special meaning for many residents.
Thanks to the efforts of the Queensland State Library, Mr Paganoni’s work continues to preserve the stories of the Burdekin, offering both long-time locals and future generations a vivid window into the region’s past.
Ayr’s Queen Street in the 1950s
Students pictured on Ayr State High School’s oval
Multiple Home Hill businesses in the 1950s
Brandon’s Imperial Hotel and Club Hotel
The gardens surrounding Pioneer House in Brandon
A weatherboard house in Brandon
The Malpass Hotel in Home Hill
A house in Home Hill
Watson’s Theatre in Home Hill
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