Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Three Burdekin hospital workers have clocked up 120 years of combined service to the Ayr and Home Hill communities. Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Rosemary began at Ayr Hospital in 1985 in the front office before moving into medical records, accounts payable, assets and finance. Janine started in the Home Hill Hospital kitchen and has since worked across kitchen, cleaning and laundry roles at both Ayr and Home Hill. She later became an orderly before moving into her current role as an assistant in nursing at Home Hill. Annemaree began her career at The Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane, working as an enrolled nurse for four years before completing her registered nurse training in Townsville. She returned to the Burdekin after the birth of her first child and now works across the dialysis unit and emergency department at Ayr. The three staff members said their connection to the community, colleagues and variety of work had kept them in the health system for four decades. “Your work colleagues and the friendships you make along the way keep you in the role,” Rosemary said. For Janine, working in her own community and caring for patients has been a key part of her career. “We’ve had some funny moments; just the other night one patient was disco dancing in the hallway with me,” she said. Annemaree said working across different areas had kept her career varied. “I work in dialysis, sometimes in the emergency department, and sometimes on the ward, and because I have always worked across multiple areas, I’ve never felt stuck in one place,” she said. The breadth of responsibilities is a common feature of working in rural hospitals, Ms Wone said. “You need to know lots of different things when you work in a rural or remote hospital setting, so we are very busy,” she said. “But even with how much we have all achieved, I can’t believe it’s been 40 years; it feels like it happened overnight.” CAPTION: Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Photo supplied
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Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Photo: David CooperBurdekin community members, local dignitaries, and police gathered at Ayr's Burdekin Community Church on 29th September to commemorate National Police Remembrance Day. The solemn service honoured officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, featuring a wreath-laying ceremony and a reading of the Roll of Honour.Read more here: www.burdekinlife.com/article/burdekin-honours-fallen-officers-on-remembrance-day
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Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered on Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. “Someone has to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Someone has to step into the disorder and work to restore order—and that is one of the responsibilities entrusted to our police,” he said. “Today, we honour those who stood. Some stood in circumstances that ultimately cost them their lives, and this day each year ensures that their courage will never be forgotten.” A Police Commissioner’s Address was delivered by Acting Inspector Megan Benson before local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty. Officers then lit memorial candles, before community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths. Among dignitaries were Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last, who called it a “privilege” to join local police in their commemorations. “As a former police officer, National Police Remembrance Day is an incredibly important opportunity to remember those officers who lost their lives while serving their community and to show our support to those who continue to keep our communities safe today,” Mr Last said. “Small regional towns like the Burdekin mean our police officers become involved in a variety of facets in our community and it is part of what makes these roles in our small communities so unique.” “It also means that chances to stand with our men and women in blue should not be overlooked.” A morning tea was held in the church hall following the service. CAPTIONS: 1—Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. 2—Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. 3—Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. 4—Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci laid a wreath on behalf of Burdekin Shire Council 5—Among dignitaries was Member for Burdekin Dale Last 6—Local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty 7—Liaison Officers light memorial candles 8—Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields addresses the audience 9—Community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths Photos: Jacob Casha
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HONEYCOMBES CELEBRATES FOUR FINALISTS IN PRESTIGIOUS JOHN DEERE TECHNICIAN AWARDS
Honeycombes Sales and Service is proud to announce that four of their Ayr based team members have been named finalists in the 2026 John Deere Technician Awards, recognising excellence across the agricultural service and partsindustries throughout Australia and New Zealand.
The Honeycombes finalists include Adam Patane, recognised for Apprentice Service Technician of the Year, Mark Cullen in the running for Service Technician of the Year, and Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson as finalists for Parts Technician of the Year.
The awards highlight the people behind the scenes who help keep the wheels of agriculture turning – the technicians and parts specialists who help farmers, contractors and businesses stay operational when every hour counts.
“To have four Honeycombes team members recognised as finalists in the John Deere Technician Awards is an outstanding achievement and one we are incredibly proud of. Adam, Mark, Demi and Bradley are a great example of whatcan be achieved when we invest in local people - creating opportunities to build rewarding careers close to home, while developing the skills and expertise that give back to our communities and support the agricultural businesses thatkeep regional North Queensland moving.” said Mark Barrett, CEO.
We congratulate Adam Patane, Mark Cullen, Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson on being recognised among the industry’s best. We’re proud of your achievements and wish you every success at the Awards ceremony.
World-class careers don’t have to start in the big cities. At Honeycombes, we’re developing the next generation of industry leaders right here in regional Queensland
THEY STARTED WITH AN OPPORTUNITY. SO CAN YOU.
APPRENTICE SERVICE TECH REGIONAL FINALIST
For Apprentice Service Technician finalist Adam Patane, a career in agricultural machinery was a natural fit. Growing up on a third-generation family farm, Adam saw first-hand the impact machinery downtime can have on farming operations and developed a passion for keeping equipment moving.
Since joining Honeycombes as an apprentice in 2023, Adam has embraced every opportunity to learn, building his skills across diagnostics, hydraulics and diesel systems while earning a reputation for his positive attitude, attention to detail and strong work ethic.
“For me, it’s not just about fixing machines — it’s about making sure customers feel supported and confident,” Adam said.
PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST
Demi Russell’s passion for the industry was shaped early by her mother, who spent more than 35 years in parts and taught her the value of hard work and strong relationships.
“After school, I would often help her, which instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic and building genuine customer relationships,” Demi said.
Now raising her family of four, Demi brings that same care and commitment to supporting customers and the agricultural community every day.
“I take pride in knowing that what I do helps keep machines in the paddock, supporting local businesses, strengthening the local economy, and contributing to a sustainable future for my family and community,” she said.
SERVICE TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST
Over the past six years, Mark Cullen has become a trusted name among Honeycombes customers, recognised for his technical expertise, reliability and ability to find solutions when they matter most.
“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and getting them back up and running,” Mark said.
That passion began early while helping his father with truck servicing and repairs, sparking a lifelong interest in machinery and supporting the people who rely on it every day.
Whether in the workshop or out in the field, Mark is known for his calm approach, problem-solving skills and commitment to helping customers keep their operations moving.
PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST
For Parts Technician finalist, Bradley Sibson, helping customers minimise downtime is personal.
Having grown up on a cane and cattle property, Bradley understands the pressure farmers and contractors face when equipment isn’t operating as it should. That understanding drives the way he approaches his work each day.
“I understand how critical it is to keep machines running… I take pride in being someone customers can rely on,” Bradley said.
Customers consistently praise Bradley for his communication, responsiveness and determination to find solutions. Whether sourcing hard-to-find parts or exploring alternative options, he is known for going above and beyond.
His decades-long passion for wildlife photography saw Graham spend hours, sometimes days, waiting for a bird to turn just the right way. Photos supplied
Burdekin local Graham Cumming offered up a snapshot—or 100—of his award-winning photography work during an exhibition in Townsville last month.
Graham, 88, displayed around 116 self-captured birdlife photographs to his Arcare Aged Care neighbours and visitors, using the facility as a makeshift gallery from 13–19 July.
The photographs depicted an array of North Queensland birdlife, with many taken decades ago in Ayr, where Graham used a makeshift darkroom in his shed to print them.
Arcare Lifestyle Coordinator Brooke Gottschling said the exhibition gave Graham a chance to showcase his decades of dedication to the craft, receiving glowing reviews in the process.
“Graham wanted to showcase some of his talent … and to show people what he used to do,” she said.
“The residents all loved coming out and having a good look. We had a few family members come in as well, and they enjoyed walking around the facility and seeing the pictures.”
His first exhibition of such scale, Graham called the experience “absolutely fantastic,” although admitted there was a hidden purpose to the display.
His decades-long passion for wildlife photography saw Graham spend hours, sometimes days, in his own purpose-built hide, waiting for a bird to turn just the right way.
That dedication yielded not just award recognition, but a body of work comprising more than 200 photographs.
When he moved into his new Arcare residence not long ago, he quickly realised they couldn’t all fit on his wall.
As a result, Graham made each piece in last month's exhibition available as a free keepsake, personally signing each one.
He said they were able to “get rid of a fair few,” capping off a fulfilling week.
As Year 10 students across the region reach a pivotal crossroads in their secondary education, choosing the right environment for Senior School (Years 11 and 12) becomes one of the most significant decisions a family can make.
At Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) the senior years are designed as a launching pad, empowering young men and women to step confidently into higher education, vocational training or direct pathways into the local workforce.
Combining strong academic offerings, practical vocational training, dynamic co-curricular activities, and a welcoming community atmosphere, BCHS continues to prove why it remains a choice for senior education in the Burdekin region.
Flexible Pathways Tailored to Every Student
Every student’s journey following high school is unique. BCHS provides diverse Senior Learning Pathways to suit individual goals, strengths, and ambitions:
BCHS has a dedicated Careers Advisor Teacher, Mrs Dalle Cort, offering one-on-one career guidance and accessible academic support. Senior students receive the personalised attention needed to reach their full potential.
The Marist Foundation: Community, Pastoral Care, and Values
Rooted in the Marist tradition, BCHS places equal emphasis on academic performance and character development. Built on core values of Family Spirit, Simplicity, Presence, Love of Work, and Love of Mary, the school ensures senior students are known, valued, and supported through the pressures of Years 11 and 12.
Pastoral care is integrated into daily school life. Through leadership opportunities, house competitions, retreat programs, and community outreach, BCHS fosters confident leaders ready to contribute positively to society.
Beyond the Classroom: Enrichment & Community Spirit
Senior life at BCHS extends well beyond textbooks. Senior students regularly participate in:
Enrol Now for Senior School at BCHS
Whether your child is looking to transition from Year 10 into Year 11, or seeking a supportive move into a new school community for their senior years, Burdekin Catholic High School invites local families to discover the BCHS difference.
Enrolment Prospectus and Principal tour bookings are available online or via the school office. Secure your child's spot for Senior School today!
QRIDA is providing assistance to eligible primary production businesses affected by the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather between December 24, 2025 and April 24, 2026. Photo source: Shutterstock
Burdekin primary producers affected by severe weather and tropical cyclone events earlier this year can access financial assistance to help rebuild and restore their operations.
The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is providing assistance to eligible primary production businesses affected by the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather between 24th December 2025 and 24th April, 2026.
Eligible businesses can access Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $2 million to help re-establish their primary production operations following the disaster.
Producers may also be eligible for Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans of up to $100,000 to assist with essential working capital expenses.
The assistance is designed to help affected primary producers manage the financial impacts of the disaster and support the recovery and continuation of their businesses.
Primary producers impacted by the disaster event are also encouraged to complete the Queensland Government’s Disaster Impact Survey.
The voluntary survey helps the Queensland Government understand the extent of damage caused by recent disasters and assess the need for additional assistance to support affected communities and businesses.
Producers seeking information about disaster financial assistance available through QRIDA can visit the QRIDA website or contact the authority on 1800 629 946.
The Disaster Impact Survey can be completed through the Queensland Government’s Business Queensland website.
Primary producers are encouraged to assess the assistance available and complete the survey to ensure the impacts of the disaster are captured as recovery needs are considered.
Family law is an increasingly complex area requiring knowledge, experience and a practical approach. At Connolly Suthers, our Family Law team is committed to providing clear, personalised advice tailored to your unique financial, emotional and legal circumstances.
Below are some of the most common questions we receive about property settlements following a separation.
When can I apply for a property settlement?
If you are married, you do not have to be divorced before negotiating or finalising a property settlement. A property settlement can generally be reached at any time after separation.
However, once your divorce becomes final, you generally have 12 months to commence court proceedings or seek Consent Orders if an agreement has not been finalised.
For de facto couples, the general time limit is two years from the date of separation to commence an application.
Should I see a lawyer even if we already have an agreement?
Yes. Even if you and your former partner have reached an agreement, it is still important to obtain legal advice.
A lawyer can help ensure the agreement properly reflects your intentions and can assist in formalising it so that it is legally binding, enforceable and provides certainty moving forward.
Will my superannuation be included in a property settlement?
In many cases, yes. Superannuation is generally considered "property" for the purposes of a property settlement.
However, how it is treated will depend on your individual circumstances and the overall division of assets.
Need advice?
Every family law matter is different. Obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your options and ensure your rights are protected.
If you would like to discuss your circumstances with one of our experienced Family Lawyers, contact the Connolly Suthers Ayr office on (07) 4790 4790, email law@connollysuthers.com.au, or visit www.connollysuthers.com.au.
Our Family Law services include:
Supplied by Connolly Suthers
Burdekin Shire Council announced on Facebook that foundational infrastructure for an incoming water fountain at the site had been “ripped from the asphalt.” Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.
A new near-million dollar pump track has become the latest victim of vandalism in the Burdekin just days after being unveiled.
Government officials cut the ribbon on the facility at Anzac Park earlier this month, after more than a year of planning and development.
But within a week, Burdekin Shire Council announced that foundational infrastructure for a water fountain at the site had been “ripped from the asphalt.”
A Council spokesperson said the damage has stalled the delivery of the fountain, with ratepayer funds redirected to repairs instead of improving other parks and facilities.
The incident is the latest in a string of vandalism cases reported across the region, with damage to war memorial signage at Charlie’s Hill, the destruction of public lavatory facilities in Alva Beach, and damage to public plant boxes all reported since last December, among other incidents.
Council said it was “disappointed” by the damage to the newly opened pump track and urged residents to take greater care of public facilities.
“We encourage everyone to take pride in our shared community spaces and help us keep them safe for everyone to enjoy,” the spokesperson said.
“Together, we can help protect the places that bring our community together.”
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Hundreds of jobs could be created in North Queensland after a $20 million investment was announced to help unlock one of the region’s largest undeveloped copper deposits.
The investment in Aeon Metals’ Walford Creek Project, about 350km north-west of Mt Isa, is expected to support up to 200 construction jobs and 60 ongoing positions as the project progresses towards development.
The site contains an estimated 75 million tonnes of resources including copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, silver and nickel.
The funding, through the Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, will allow Aeon Metals to undertake feasibility studies and resource expansion drilling as it works towards a final investment decision.
Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the project demonstrated the potential of Queensland’s resources sector.
“Walford Creek has the potential to supply the copper and cobalt needed for advanced manufacturing, defence, and technology which is increasingly important for nation’s looking to secure their global supply chains,” Mr Last said.
“The Crisafulli Government is backing our resources sector to attract investment, get projects moving and create long-term jobs and economic opportunities for regional Queensland.”
The investment is one of the first from the State Government’s expanded $250 million Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, which received an additional $100 million in this year’s Budget.
Aeon Metals Executive Chair Paul Harris said the funding would support key development work and help progress the project towards a final investment decision.
Circle of Life.
Last week we welcomed another grandchild. Healthy mum and bub, head full of hair—unlike Poppy J—starting a life that will bring challenges and opportunities that we may not even know of now.
The next day we attended a funeral of a man who led a long and fruitful life. A man who came from another country, worked hard, raised a family and gave back to the community. Whilst running a cane farm he was also volunteering as an ambulance officer for 20 years—a man who ‘gave’.
To this end can we look at giving back to our community without seeking a reward. This may come in many forms such as school canteen, sporting teams, community groups and many others. Whatever time you can give I’m sure you’ll be rewarded in the contribution. Community groups are crying out for people to help, especially younger members of our community.
I was recently on Sweet FM and spoke about the app ‘Snap Send Solve’. I know sometimes people express ‘what can I do when I see a problem ?’ I use Snap Send Solve when travelling around the Burdekin and you can too.
If you notice a concern around the community, e.g. pot hole, gutter damage, overgrown council areas, etc., simply download the App. The free ‘Snap Send Solve’ app allows residents to take a photo, add a brief description and send it directly to Burdekin Shire Council at any time of day.
Reminder: 2026/2027 Half Yearly Rates due by Monday September 7.
Wishing you health & happiness.
Last week, communities across Australia came together to commemorate Long Tan Day, also known as Vietnam Veterans Day. I had the privilege of attending the Burdekin service at the Deep Creek Veterans Retreat, a peaceful and fitting location to honour those who have served our nation.
As General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Australian Army veteran and former Governor-General, said: “Lest we forget is not just a phrase. It is a promise.” These words remind us of our enduring responsibility to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia's veterans. We remember those who gave their lives, those who returned carrying the lasting impacts of service, and the families who have supported them every step of the way. Their courage, resilience and dedication will never be forgotten.
The weekend also showcased the vibrant spirit of our community, with two fantastic inaugural events taking place across the Burdekin. Motor Madness made its debut at the Burdekin Showgrounds, while the Water Festival Junior Ambassadors Fun Fair brought plenty of excitement to Silver Screens & Coffee Beans. Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering these successful events. Most importantly, thank you to the volunteers who generously gave their time. Without volunteers, many of our community events simply would not be possible.
Burdekin Shire Council is inviting local grant providers to participate in a Community Grants Information Session. This initiative aims to connect organisations with funding opportunities and help strengthen grant applications across our region. I encourage interested organisations to register and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
Finally, a reminder that Free Mulch Day returns on Sunday, 23 August, from 8am to 12 noon at the Ayr Transfer Station. With the beautiful weather we’ve been enjoying, it is the perfect time to get out in the garden and make the most of this free resource.
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.
Former Burdekin Library trainee Nicole Cervoni has been named Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year at the North Queensland Training Awards. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.
Former Burdekin Library trainee Nicole Cervoni has been named Trainee of the Year at the North Queensland Training Awards.
Announced at the Townsville event on 31 July, the honour caps off a stellar 12 months that has seen the Millaroo local make waves across the region through her dedication to community service and vocational excellence.
The Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award recognises outstanding achievement by individuals who have recently completed or are finalising a traineeship in Queensland.
Nicole completed a Cert III in Business as part of her Traineeship in Library and Information Services, juggling her studies and Youth Mayor responsibilities with full-time work at the Burdekin Library. There, she built a reputation as the “girl with the best book recommendations.”
She also helped launch the State Library of Queensland’s Digital Mentors program locally—making Burdekin Library the first in the state to roll out the initiative—and delivered popular community Cricut workshops that fostered local connections.
These milestones followed Nicole’s recognition as the Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year and TAFE Queensland's Business Trainee of the Year in 2025.
Despite her recent successes, she said her nomination for the Queensland Training Awards was already a shock, with her victory last month coming as a bonus.
Her recognition in the North Queensland region means she now enters the running for the State Awards later this year.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is preparing to shine a light on the remarkable women who help keep rural communities strong with the launch of Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities.
More than just a luncheon, Beyond the Gate will bring women from across the Burdekin and surrounding regions together to connect, share experiences and celebrate the many roles they play in shaping rural Queensland.
From women working on the land and running local businesses to those leading community organisations, supporting families and contributing behind the scenes, the event recognises that the strength of rural communities is built on people who are willing to get involved and make a difference.
The event coincides with the International Day of Rural Women, celebrated globally on October 15, recognising the important contribution women make to rural communities, agriculture and regional economies.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said Beyond the Gate was an opportunity to acknowledge that contribution while also giving local women an opportunity to come together.
“Rural women contribute so much to the strength and character of communities like ours, often balancing businesses, properties, families and community commitments,” Sally said.
“Beyond the Gate is about recognising those women, giving them an opportunity to connect and celebrate what they achieve, and reminding them just how important their contribution is.”
A highlight of the luncheon will be guest speaker Angie Nisbet, co-founder of Queensland business FarmHER Hands.
Based near Hughenden in North West Queensland, Angie and fellow founder Shona Larkin understand rural life firsthand. Their idea for FarmHER Hands began after a morning working in the paddock and a conversation about the need for stylish and practical hand protection for women.
That simple conversation developed into FarmHER Hands and a range of UPF50+ sun protection gloves designed specifically with hardworking rural women in mind.
Angie's story of identifying a need, backing an idea and building a business from rural Queensland reflects the resilience, ingenuity and determination that Beyond the Gate aims to celebrate.
Guests can also look forward to an “On the Couch” panel session, where a range of guests will share their experiences and perspectives, along with networking, a delicious lunch and drinks.
For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the event is also an extension of its commitment to supporting the people who make the Burdekin and surrounding rural communities such special places to live and work.
“When rural communities are strong, Queensland is strong,” Sally said.
“We see every day the contribution local people make through agriculture, small business, volunteering and community organisations. As a Community Bank, we want to do more than provide banking services—we want to support the people and communities that make our region thrive.”
Beyond the Gate is intended to become an annual opportunity to celebrate rural women, build connections and recognise the leadership, resilience and heart they bring to their communities.
Because sometimes it is worth stepping Beyond the Gate to recognise the extraordinary people who are helping rural Queensland move forward.
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP outside Ayr Fire and Rescue Station. Photo supplied.
A stakeholder meeting to bring certainty to the future of fire services in the Burdekin community has been hailed as a positive step forward by Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.
As preparations continue for the release of tenders for the new Ayr Fire Station, Mr Last said continued consultation had led him to call for the Commissioner to provide certainty to local firefighters.
“The meeting held on Friday was an opportunity for community leaders and our firefighters to have an open discussion around ensuring our firefighters have the facility and resources needed to service this community,” Mr Last said.
"Part of those discussions allowed the commissioner to outline what is taken into consideration before a fire station can move to a 24/7 model and what actions Queensland Fire Department have taken to support the current staffing model at Ayr Fire Station.”
“As part of the process towards construction it is important that our firefighters’ views are taken into consideration by the Commissioner and the Queensland Fire Department to ensure our new fire station meets the needs of our community both now and into the future.
“It is now up to the Commissioner to take that information back to Brisbane and ensure that as we enter the following phases of planning and construction of the fire station those concerns are taken into consideration.”
Mr Last also gave his assurances to the community and fire fighters that he would continue to support them and advocate for the resourcing and infrastructure they need.
“I was proud to back our firefighters with the commitment to progress a new fire station in 2024 to not only address environmental concerns but provide a modern facility that our community and firefighters could be proud of," Mr Last said.
“Our community relies on our firefighters during their hour of need and I know we are extremely grateful to them and proud of the work they do.”
Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.
Principal Craig Whittred, Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek and Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, were joined by Ayr State High School captains Caitlyn and Ayden to officially open the school's multipurpose hall. Photo supplied.
Generational education infrastructure recently delivered in Ayr State High School has already proven its value as Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP joined Minister for Education and Arts John-Paul Langbroek to officially open the new hall last week.
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s delivery of the $13 million multipurpose hall at Ayr State High School has provided a modern facility for students, staff and the community to learn and come together.
“This facility is a great example of generational infrastructure, not only benefitting our school students but the entire community,” Mr Last said.
“The fact the hall goes beyond providing an undercover multipurpose court with the capabilities to expand learning opportunities for students in an industry standard facility is a great news story for the Burdekin region.”
The hall features: sports facilities, including a multi-purpose court for basketball, netball and volleyball; a kinesiology lab and gym for Health and Physical Education studies to inspire future careers in health, sport and exercise sciences; a kitchen and kiosk, supporting event catering; and a staff room and offices for teacher planning and collaboration.
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the new hall reflected the Queensland Government’s commitment to deliver generational education infrastructure for all of Queensland.
“State schools are the heart of communities, and this new hall at Ayr State High School is an investment in both community connection and student success. It provides a welcoming space to help young people explore future career opportunities,” Minister Langbroek said.
“We are building Queensland’s future. Our $23.1 billion Education Budget in 2026–27 includes $276.3 million for school and early childhood education infrastructure that enhances education outcomes.”
Ayr State High School Principal Craig Whittred said staff, students, parents and the community were excited to see the hall officially opened.
“Our school community is enjoying the benefits of this impressive new facility, which supports a variety of curriculum and sporting offerings as well as providing our Certificate III in Fitness students with an industry standard facility to learn in,” Principal Whittred said.
“The new hall has already supported a number of events including the recent careers day, Semester 1 celebration assembly, parent teacher interviews and school fundraiser events, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback.
“We look forward to the many possibilities this hall provides to strengthen our connection with families and local organisations as we continue to deliver a quality education for our students.”
(From left to right) John Licciardello (Director of ML Partners), Kayleen Grasso (Partner of Fahey and Walsh), Peter McKaig (Director of ML Partners). Photo supplied.
Three respected North Queensland businesses are coming together, marking an exciting new chapter for clients, team members and communities across the region.
Fahey & Walsh has recently joined ML Partners, strengthening its ability to support clients throughout the Burdekin and surrounding areas while preserving the personalised service and trusted relationships that have been at the heart of the business for more than 100 years.
In a second milestone, ML Partners and Carey Group have agreed to merge, bringing together three well-established North Queensland businesses with a shared commitment to helping families, businesses and communities thrive.
For Fahey & Walsh Partner Kayleen Grasso, the decision was driven by a desire to ensure the long-term future of the business while maintaining the trusted relationships built with clients over generations.
"Fahey & Walsh, ML Partners and Carey Group share the same values and commitment to client service," Mrs Grasso said.
"This partnership gives our clients access to broader expertise and resources while retaining the personalised service and trusted relationships they value."
Importantly, there are no planned changes for Fahey & Walsh clients or team members.
"Most importantly, it's business as usual," Mrs Grasso said.
"Our clients will continue working with the same team they know and trust, and I'm pleased to be continuing with the business as part of this next chapter to ensure continuity and maintain the longstanding relationships built within the community."
ML Partners Director John Licciardello said the alignment between the organisations became clear throughout discussions about the future.
"The alignment between our organisations was clear from the outset," Mr Licciardello said.
"Together, we're building a stronger business that expands opportunities for our clients and team members while remaining committed to the communities we serve."
Joe Carey, Chairman and Partner of Carey Group, said the merger reflects a long-standing relationship and shared vision for the future.
"We've worked alongside the ML Partners team for many years and have enormous respect for their people and values," Mr Carey said.
"Together, we're creating new opportunities for our clients, our people and our communities while preserving the relationships that underpin our businesses."
The combined business will bring together approximately 180 professionals across accounting, audit, financial planning and business advisory services, strengthening the depth of expertise and resources available throughout North Queensland.
While the businesses are excited about the opportunities ahead, their focus remains firmly on maintaining the personalised service, trusted advice and strong relationships that have defined their success over many years. Clients will continue to receive advice from the people they know and trust, backed by the additional resources and expertise of a larger regional group.
The merger represents a shared commitment to the future of North Queensland, ensuring individuals, families and businesses continue to have access to high-quality professional advice delivered by local people who understand the communities they serve.
Burdekin’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.
Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.
In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.
So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!
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