Australian plague locusts are an endemic pest that threatens our agricultural industry, devastating crops, and causing losses of up to $30 million.

By harnessing cutting edge science, experts can forecast locust outbreaks with greater accuracy, helping mitigate economic impacts.

The Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) uses advanced analytics to improve early detection and rapid response. However, forecasting locust populations is challenging.

The APLC has been developing a simulation model to predict locust population dynamics across their entire range. This model predicts the development, survival, and behaviour of locusts across all life stages: eggs, nymphs, and adults.

However, locusts inhabit a vast range of more than 2 million square kilometres, so deploying the model is challenging. Field surveys alone cannot provide enough coverage to initialise the model.

But artificial intelligence is changing the game. The APLC has partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA) to develop a new AI-driven model. The machine learning algorithms developed have incorporated 37 years of locust data with high-resolution weather, vegetation, and soil records to generate more accurate short-term forecasts (up to 90%).

These AI models will not only initialise the population dynamics model but also enhance field survey targeting, leading to more reliable on-the-ground surveillance. Additionally, they will support better planning and resource allocation.

Thanks to a growing ecosystem of models, the APLC is now better equipped to predict locust populations, making it easier to forecast their changes in response to Australia's highly variable climate. This will enable governments and industry to prepare and respond more effectively.

The APLC plans to integrate this AI-driven forecasting system into a new online data dashboard. This will further support enhanced locust predictions, enable real-time monitoring, and improve response strategies.

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Australian plague locust (Chortoicetes terminifera). Photo credit: P.D. Amara / Flickr

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Fixing a decade-long reduction in housing supply across Queensland, including in the Burdekin, is the aim of a funding program that guarantees support for regional areas.

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has welcomed the program’s commitment to regional Queensland due to details that have been shared with him by Burdekin locals.

“The facts are that, over the last 10 years, housing approvals in Queensland have fallen by nearly 30% and the waiting list for social housing has ballooned,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to families who have no option but to live in sheds and young people who cannot get a rental property due to what is basically a bidding war due to a supply shortage.”

“Our Residential Activation Fund provides funding to Councils and developers to address trunk and essential infrastructure like water supply, sewerage, power and roads. The priority during the first round is shovel-ready projects because our focus is on helping Queenslanders move into a home faster.”

“Applications for the Fund have now opened and I know that Council is well-advanced on their application.  A lot of people think that the housing crisis is only in the cities, but there has been a definite impact here in the Burdekin.”

“In recognition of the broad impact, the government has guaranteed that at least $1Billion of the fund is for projects in regional Queensland. Not only will this provide an opportunity to fast-track construction, but it also provides a boost for the building and construction industry which means supporting local jobs.”

Mr Last said that, in addition to the Residential Activation Fund, the Crisafulli government had also committed to fast-tracking the delivery of additional social and affordable homes.

“Despite all the promises that were made, we’ve seen a reduction in social and affordable housing stocks across Queensland,” he said.

“That reduction means there was more pressure placed on the rental market, reducing availability and increasing prices.”

“Five thousand additional homes are under construction or contracted right across the state. We have been able to fast track those homes by working cooperatively with both the community housing sector and private developers to unlock land and to provide Queenslanders with a roof over their head.”

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On Friday, April 25, the Burdekin community will come together to pay their respects to Australia’s past and present Service People, with local ANZAC services and parades to take place across the region.

In Home Hill, the Dawn Service will kick the day off, commencing at 5:25am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, followed by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute's silence at the Home Hill Cemetery Cenotaph.

Attendees will then return to the Burdekin Memorial Hall for the Gunfire Breakfast at 7:00am, with the March commencing at 10:45am on Tenth Avenue in front of the Ambulance Station. A solemn ceremony at 11:20am at Burdekin Memorial Hall will round off the morning.

The Dawn Service in Ayr will take place at Anzac Park, beginning at 5:30am, with the Service taking place at the same location at 9:20am.

School students are encouraged to gather along Queen Street, between Edwards Street and Parker Street, in preparation for the march. RSL members, Cadets, and other community groups will assemble on Parker Street, between Queen Street and Graham Street.

In Giru, commemorations will be held at Brolga Park, starting with a Dawn Service at 5:30am, followed by a morning Service at 9:30am.

Brandon residents will gather at the Spiller Street Cenotaph for an 8:00am Service.

Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs, and to reflect on the enduring spirit of service that continues to shape Australia today.

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Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs. Image source: Queensland RSL

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Local schoolgirl, Grace Ogomeni, inspired the crowd at her local ANZAC Day ceremony with a heartfelt speech highlighting the importance of the day for both sides of her family.

Grace is a School Captain at Home Hill State High School. A small school of just 200 students, despite its small numbers, it has a proud 60-year history of punching above its weight in terms of its achievements and the outcomes of its students.

With a Papuan father and an Australian mother, Grace spoke passionately about her heritage and the roles both sides of her family played in the conflict in Papua New Guinea during World War II.

Her father was born in the village of Kokoda – famed for the historic Kokoda Track – where the stories of the war are passed down through generations. On her mother’s side, her great-grandfather, a Charters Towers man, served in Papua New Guinea with the 39th Australian Infantry Battalion.

“The Australians and Papuans managed to stem the tide of the Japanese advance and, fighting side by side, sealed a bond of friendship that has endured between our two nations ever since,” Grace said.

“When I think about the ANZAC spirit, I think of this very bond - two worlds brought together, forming mateship and unity that stays strong in tough times.”

“We each have stories within our families - stories that define who we are and how our pasts are connected. Whilst we may not face the same challenges in today’s society compared to those who fought for us, we still have the opportunity to show courage, compassion and unity in our lives.”

“We must uphold these values and keep the ANZAC spirit alive,” she added.

Grace’s message of coming together, forming bonds and showing courage and compassion, is one that could serve us well in these tumultuous times, and it certainly resonated with those present on the day.

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Home Hill State High School Captain Grace Ogomeni delivered a powerful ANZAC Day speech. Photo supplied

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Clare State School has celebrated its 75th anniversary with nearly 500 attendees from the Burdekin community. Despite rain, Principal Troy Patti was delighted with the success of the event, which featured a Roll Call, Friday Night Fete, Time Capsule opening, and a Twilight Feast.

Highlights included a dinner at Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall, where past students and staff shared memories, and current students led a rendition of the school song. The event also saw the unveiling of a monument honouring three-generation families, marking a milestone that will be remembered for years to come.

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Current and former teachers at Clare State School were honoured on the night. Photo supplied

Find social pics here:

https://tinyurl.com/29r3nvoa

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Hi Guys!

I’m both proud and excited to introduce myself as the new local journalist for the Burdekin Life newspaper!

I was born and raised in the Greater-Sydney region. I’ve had an ardent passion for writing ever since I was young, and began studying journalism in 2019 at Western Sydney University.

I made the leap to the USA to continue my studies in 2021, earning a full academic and athletic scholarship at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, where I was also on the Men’s Soccer team.

After graduating with a double degree in Journalism and Communications in 2024, I interned at Rojo Consulting, a PR/consulting firm based in Sydney, and played soccer semi-professionally.

Having played soccer all my life, I’m an avid sports fan, and can’t wait to sign up for some of the local sports clubs and teams—especially soccer ;)

I love to have a laugh and am always down for a chat, so feel free to say hi if you see me around town or flick me a message if there’s a story you think deserves to be told.

I’m thrilled to be embarking on this new adventure, and can’t wait to tell the rich and unique story of the Burdekin region.

I’m looking forward to meeting you all!

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With Easter just around the corner, excitement is building - especially for our little ones who are eagerly awaiting a visit from the Easter Bunny and, of course, plenty of chocolate! It’s a wonderful time of joy and indulgence, but beyond the treats, Easter carries a deeper significance for many in our community. For those who celebrate, it is a time of renewal, reflection, and hope - a reminder of new beginnings and the importance of faith, love, and kindness.The Easter long weekend also provides a valuable opportunity to slow down and spend quality time with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a backyard egg hunt, heading away on a short getaway, or simply taking time to relax at home, I encourage everyone to cherish these moments.For those who are traveling over the holiday period, please take extra care on the roads. With increased traffic, we all need to drive responsibly and ensure a safe and happy return home. Let’s also spare a thought for those in our community who may be facing difficulties at this time of year. A small act of kindness - whether checking in on a neighbour, offering support to someone in need, or volunteering - can make a real difference.I wish you all a joyful and safe Easter, filled with happiness, rest, and, of course, a few sweet treats!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.

In light of ongoing global financial uncertainty, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Financial and Cyber Crime Group (FCCG) are urging residents to remain vigilant and protect themselves from a rising tide of financial scams.

Recent market instability has impacted many Australians’ superannuation accounts, prompting some to seek alternative ways to recover their losses. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of this uncertainty by luring unsuspecting victims with fake investment opportunities and fraudulent schemes.

FCCG Commander, Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath, said fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often impersonating legitimate financial institutions and offering seemingly lucrative investment deals.

“Scammers thrive during times of economic instability,” Superintendent McGrath said.

“They use pressure tactics and professional-looking material to convince individuals to part with their hard-earned money and the consequences can be devastating – both financially and emotionally.”

Queenslanders are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves:
• Be sceptical of guaranteed high returns – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Only seek financial advice face-to-face from someone who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence. You can check licences on the ASIC website at asic.gov.au.
• Report scams immediately – if you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank, then report it at www.cyber.gov.au/report.
• Secure your accounts – if you suspect you’ve lost money or been scammed, notify your financial institution and update your online banking passwords.
• Know where to get help and visit www.scamwatch.gov.au for more information. If you believe your identity has been compromised, contact IDCARE at www.idcare.org.

If you’ve been contacted by a scammer via social media, be sure to report the account to the platform and for additional tools to improve your online safety and confidence, visit the eSafety Commissioner’s website at www.esafety.gov.au or www.beconnected.esafety.gov.au.

The QPS Financial and Cyber Crime Group are warning Queenslanders to be vigilant online (Photo Source: UnSplash)

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From flood recovery in the Burdekin to biosecurity updates and machinery innovation, QCAR continues to support growers where it counts – in the paddock, in the shed, and at the big-picture level.

Following recent heavy rainfall, the QCAR Burdekin team has been busy assisting growers with flood and erosion issues.

“You are not alone, and we might surprise you with how we can help,” said QCAR Central District Manager Angelo Licciardello. “We have the strength, the resilience, the knowledge and commitment to provide the highest level of service.”

With the 2025 crushing season on the horizon, Angelo encouraged growers to reach out early for assistance and practical on-farm support.

Meanwhile, growers are being kept informed of national regulatory developments. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has revised its expected timeframes for proposed decisions on several chemical reviews. Proposed decisions on fipronil agricultural products are now expected in April 2026, with veterinary products to follow in March 2026.

QCAR continues to monitor these updates and provide support as the industry awaits further detail.

Out in the paddock, innovation is always a talking point – and the two-row sugarcane harvester continues to catch the eye of farmers and machinery watchers alike.

“We all have our favourites, but no matter what colour you bleed it's indisputable to say that over the past couple of years there's been significant interest in the two row sugarcane harvesters,” Angelo said.

“Pictured here is our intrepid on-farm machinery spotter and ag chemical expert with one of the John Deere CH960 two row sugarcane harvesters in the Burdekin. We know there's a few getting around in the Central District as well.

“Is the verdict still out or does this machine do twice the work of its counterparts almost doubling productivity with significantly less labour, fuel consumption, compaction and cane loss? What do you think?”

Growers are invited to send photos of their favourite harvesting rig to media@qcar.org.au with a few details.

And for those heading to the 46th annual ASSCT Conference in Brisbane from 28 April to 2 May, QCAR will be in attendance.

This year’s theme is From Field to Future: Advancing Sugarcane Through Innovation and Research. Drop in to Booth 10 to say g’day.

For assistance, call the Ayr office on (07) 4783 2111 or Angelo directly on 0437 401 837.

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QCAR District Manager Angelo Licciardello checks out one of the John Deere CH960 two-row harvesters in the Burdekin – a machine turning heads across the cane-growing regions. Photos supplied: QCAR

The QCAR Burdekin team have been working closely with growers to support flood recovery efforts and address erosion issues following the recent extreme rainfall events

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Reform of global agricultural subsidies and tariffs at the World Trade Organization would support better environmental and food security outcomes, according to the latest ABARES Insights paper.

Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville, said taxpayers and consumers bear the brunt of hundreds of billions of dollars spent every year on agricultural support policies that inadvertently create adverse environmental impacts.

“Some forms of agricultural support distort production decisions in a way that encourages excess production and the use of inputs above and beyond what the market demands,” Dr Jared Greenville said.

“This excess can lead to environmental harm in the form of more emissions and more chemical use.”

The most environmentally harmful agricultural support policies, such as tariffs, price floors and payments linked to agricultural inputs and production, cost taxpayers and consumers around the world US$472 billion a year, between 2019 to 2023. This figure climbs to US$671 billion a year when export restrictions and other market price-deflating policies are included.

Europe and Asia provided the most environmentally harmful support as a share of farm income between 2019 and 2023. Australia and New Zealand recorded some of the lowest levels.

The report, Addressing Environmental Harm: Reforming Agricultural Support, details how removing and redirecting environmentally harmful support has the capacity to improve environmental outcomes.

Dr Greenville said the report details that “what is good for efficient global agricultural production is also good for the environment”.

“It is possible to minimise the environmental impacts of agriculture without compromising food security,” he said.

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Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville. Photo credit: Lisa McKelvie

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CANEGROWERS has welcomed Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki’s comments supporting the development of a domestic biofuels industry, during his speech to the Queensland Energy Club in Brisbane today.

“The sugarcane sector is ready to see a biofuels industry take off in Queensland, with cane as a key feedstock,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

"It's great to see the Treasurer not just showing support, but taking on an important leadership role in driving the development of this emerging industry."

However, Mr Galligan, who sits on the State Government’s recently formed expert panel on biofuels, said that it’s time to move from talk to action.

“The airline industry is on board, the bioenergy sector is keen, and the emerging SAF industry is pushing forward with pilot projects – like the one recently launched by biofuels company Licella at the Isis Central Sugar Mill in Childers.

“The government clearly wants this too, so let’s make it happen.”

Mr Galligan noted that developing a biofuels industry in Queensland, with sugarcane as a central feedstock, is a key focus of the industry’s 2030 strategic roadmap – Sugar Plus: Fuelling the Future of Food, Energy and Fabrication.

“Queensland’s sugarcane industry already produces ethanol and green electricity, so we are well positioned to supply a sustainable aviation fuel industry that could help power the future of Australian air travel,” Mr Galligan said.

“But to give the industry the confidence to make the switch to biofuels production, a national feedstock strategy, supported by offtake agreements, is essential.”

As members of Bioenergy Australia, CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Manufacturers have been advocating for the development of a national biofuels feedstock strategy for over a year.

“Our global competitors are way ahead on biofuels. We can’t afford to fall further behind. We need decisive action and meaningful government investment now,” Mr Galligan said.

“The development of a biofuels industry in Queensland won’t just help Australia meet its emissions targets – it will also boost energy security, boost the economy, and stimulate regional agricultural and industrial growth.

“We appreciate the Treasurer’s support, but what we really need now is a strong commitment from both State and Federal governments. That starts with a national feedstock strategy,” Mr Galligan said.

At a glance
Treasurer's backing: David Janetzki throws support behind Queensland’s emerging biofuels industry.

Sugarcane front and centre: CANEGROWERS says cane is ready to fuel the sector as a key feedstock.

Call for action: Industry urges government to move from talk to tangible investment and strategy.

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CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan

A sweet takeoff: Queensland’s sugarcane industry is ready to fuel the future of aviation through a homegrown biofuels industry. Photo supplied

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Burdekin Catholic High School has excitedly announced that enrolments are now open for Year 7, 2026. Families looking for a high-quality secondary education in a supportive, values-based environment are encouraged to consider what BCHS has to offer.

With a proud tradition of academic success, vocational achievement, and holistic development of young people, Burdekin Catholic High School continues to set the standard for secondary education in the Burdekin region. Whether students are aiming for university, TAFE, apprenticeships or the workforce, BCHS provides strong pathways to help every learner reach their goals.

BCHS Principal, Lorraine Wolffe welcomes new students with open arms, highlighting the plethora of opportunities the school provides for both academic and personal development.

“At Burdekin Catholic High School, we educate the whole person,” shared Lorraine.

“We are proud of our strong results, but we’re even more proud of the kind, capable young people who leave our school ready to make a difference in the world.”

Academic and Vocational Success
At BCHS, students are supported to achieve their personal best, with proven outcomes in both academic and vocational areas. The school offers a wide range of ATAR and VET subjects, ensuring every student has a meaningful and purposeful pathway. Teachers work closely with students to develop strong study habits, a growth mindset, and a love of learning that lasts well beyond school.

Excellence in Sport and the Arts
Burdekin Catholic High School is home to an outstanding Sports Program, giving students the chance to develop their skills across a wide variety of sports, from team games to individual competition. With strong representation at local and state levels, BCHS encourages participation, teamwork, and healthy living.

The Arts are also a vibrant part of school life, with dedicated programs in Music, Visual Arts and Drama. Students have the opportunity to explore their creativity, perform, exhibit and celebrate their talents in a supportive and dynamic environment.

A Marist Heart
As a Marist school, BCHS is grounded in the values of presence, simplicity, family spirit, love of work, and following in the way of Mary. These values guide everything the school does – from relationships to leadership, and from learning to service. Students are nurtured to grow in character, compassion and confidence, becoming young people who are not only successful, but grounded and generous in spirit.

Join the BCHS Family
Enrolments for Year 7, 2026 are now open. Families are encouraged to contact the school early, as places fill quickly, and interviews commence in Term 3. To learn more about Burdekin Catholic High School or to read more about their Taster Days or Twilight Open Evening, visit www.bchs.qld.edu.au.

Come and discover what makes BCHS a great place to learn, grow, and belong.

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Ayr State Primary School finished up Term 1 with plenty of treats, and loads of fun, and preparations are already underway, and the excitement is well and truly building ahead of Term 2!

The Easter Bunny made a quick trip over to visit Ayr State Primary School’s staff and students, treating plenty of lucky children and teachers to an adorably decorated bunny biscuit to enjoy at lunch time. The school extended a warm thank you to their awesome Tuckshop, P&C Committee and Miss Jazzy for making fun little surprises like this one possible.

Earlier this month, Ayr State Primary School’s Year 5 students were given the awesome opportunity to taste test high school at their very first Transition Day to Ayr State High School. Each of the students participated in an Art Class, designed and played battle ships in Digital Technology, and played lots of fun games in HPE.

“They had an amazing day exploring and learning about how Secondary school works, and interacting with other small schools,” shared Ayr State Primary School staff.

“They all went home tired and happy.”

Ayr State Primary School’s April school calendar will see students of all ages lace up and get active on the 24th with the Annual Fun Run event! Kicking off from 11:35am, students aged from 5 through to 12 years of age will run different courses of varying difficulty whilst their peers, parents and carers cheer them along from the sidelines!

With plenty of action going on in and outside of the school gates, Ayr State Primary School certainly is a hive of activity, engagement and enrichment.

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Adorable bunny biscuits were enjoyed by all to close out Term 1 at Ayr State Primary School (Photo Source: Ayr State Primary School)
Ayr State Primary School's Year 5 students participated in plenty of fun high school activities at Transition Day (Photo Source: Ayr State Primary School)
A class of HPE at ASHS was a Transition Day highlight for many! (Photo Source: Ayr State Primary School)

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It is the number one issue I hear from people in the Burdekin and across Dawson which is why we need a government that will grow our economy and deliver real cost of living relief for Australians.

Our Labor government is focused on bringing down inflation, increasing wages, and delivering this relief.

Labor has provided tax cuts, energy bill relief, cheaper medicines, student debt relief and more, to help Australians with the cost of living.

But we know we have more to do. So here is what we will deliver:

● More free GP appointments. Labor will make the single largest investment in Medicare ever. This will deliver an additional 18 million bulk billed GP visits every year so Australians can see a bulk billing GP.

● A tax cut for all 14 million Australian taxpayers, on top of our tax relief that is already rolling out.

● By delivering the biggest ever reduction in the cost of PBS prescriptions and freezing the cost of PBS medicines, Labor is making hundreds of medicines cheaper. The most you will pay for a PBS medicine is just $25 a script.

● An additional $150 in Energy Bill Relief for every Australian household and around one million small businesses.

We are also focused on strengthening Medicare and upgrading our key roads.

Labor is boosting hospital funding by $1.7 billion – delivering more money for public hospitals in every state and territory.

We are delivering more doctors and nurses in regions like ours where we need it most.

Labor will grow the health workforce to deliver more doctors and nurses than ever before, including the largest GP training program in Australian history, and hundreds of scholarships for nurses and midwives to extend their skills and qualifications.

I also know how important it is that we get funding for our Bruce Highway.

It is an essential road in our region and it is unacceptable that it’s been neglected for over nine years when the Coalition was in government.

Labor has announced $7.2 billion to upgrade and fix the Bruce Highway, with the priority areas including Bowen to Townsville and Ingham to Innisfail.

This historic funding is the single largest investment ever into the Bruce Highway and it’s fantastic news for our region.

Through all this, we are making sure our careful economic management helps Australians with the cost of living today, at the same time as we set our country up for the future.

Inflation is now less than half of what it was when Labor was elected and interest rates are coming down.

Unemployment is low and debt is down.

Our plan will ensure we are delivering a better future for all Australians, focussed on creating a strong economy and delivering cost of living relief.

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The written word took centre stage at the Burdekin Library last week as the Burdekin Creative Writers and Burdekin Night Writers once again brought local storytelling to life.

The community was treated to an afternoon of spoken word and literary celebration, as members of both groups shared original works spanning poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. From nostalgic reflections on the past to sharp insights into the present, the readings offered a rich tapestry of family stories, local myths, historic tales, heartfelt tributes, and even a love letter to North Queensland.

The event captured the power of storytelling to transport audiences beyond the everyday, and then gently return them home to the heart of the Burdekin.

Attendees were reminded that the Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology, a collection of stories featured at the event, is available to read at the Ayr branch of the Burdekin Library or can be ordered through Burdekin Printers.

Both writers' groups extended their sincere thanks to the Burdekin Library for once again hosting the showcase, and to the many guests who attended and supported local creatives. A special thanks was also given to George Venables, the driving force behind the anthology, whose passion and persistence made the publication possible.

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