‘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’

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

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Kathryn Carlisle’s new book “Feathers and Flame” hits the shelves

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

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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.”

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland addresses the crowd
Gary Roser of Harvey Norman shares his tech expertise

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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

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Lido Paganoni’s Lens On Local History

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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Plantation Park will come alive with colour, creativity, and community spirit once again on Sunday, the 1st of June for another wonderful Plantation Park Markets from 8am.

Held periodically on the first and third Sunday of each month, the Plantation Park Markets have been permanently part of the community’s calendar since January of 2022 following waves of positive feedback from both customers and stallholders. A community run, community supported initiative, the markets continue to grow exponentially as one of the region's largest celebrations of local craftspeople and entrepreneurs, with stallholders encouraged to reach out to 4790 3333 or 4783 6627 to find out how to become involved.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to wander through a wide variety of stalls featuring handmade crafts, fresh produce, plants, baked treats, gifts, and more. With something for everyone, it’s the perfect opportunity to support small businesses, pick up a unique find, and enjoy a relaxing morning in the fresh air.

Bring the family, grab a coffee, and soak up the friendly market atmosphere right in the heart of Ayr and make sure to make the most of the picturesque park afterwards with a leisurely stroll.

Whether you're after a tasty snack, a thoughtful gift, or simply a pleasant morning out, the Plantation Park Markets are the place to be.

The Community’s Tribute to Jean Morris 93 Years in the Making

93 years ago, the Burdekin Shire was the setting of a tragic and violent murder of a young woman which to this day, remains one of the region’s most infamous unsolved mysteries.

Anna Philomena Morgan’s death headlined publishments far and wide in 1932, encouraging a plethora of theories as to what led to the 19-year-old’s murder, with many speculating the Italian Australian mafia was to blame. More commonly known as Jean Morris, the young woman led a life shrouded in mystery and after no one came forward to claim her body, she was laid to rest in an unmarked grave in the Ayr Cemetery.

Touched by Jean’s tragedy, Henry Petersen and Paula Dowson made it their mission to give the young woman a dignified funeral and gravestone to truly honour a life lost too soon and make a stand against violence towards women.

After almost a century, Jean Morris’ grave has finally been officially marked, following the presentation of an impressive headstone on Tuesday, the 28th of May where many locals joined Henry, Paula, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort for a monumental Unveiling Ceremony.

Spearheaded by Henry and Paula, almost two years of fundraising and heartache has led to this moment, with the pair explaining they could not have reached this point without the support of the entire community.

“We’ve given her the dignity she is deserving of, and we’ve given her her name,” shared Paula at the unveiling last month.

James Cook University Historian, Bianka Vidonja was also in attendance of the ceremony, and closed the gathering with a moving speech, remining everyone that Jean should not be remembered for her association with the Black Hand, or her profession, but as a fashionable and vibrant young lady.

“Today, Anna, almost a century after your brutal murder, we honour and remember you,” Bianka said.

While the fundraising for the headstone has come to a close, Henry believes a sealed, weather proof case for an official visitors log book would make a welcome addition to the historic grave. All donations towards the fundraiser can be made online at https://www.gofundme.com/f/stiletto-jean-morris-headstone-fundraiser.

“This girl is part of our history,” Henry said.

“She should be remembered.”

Trevor Neal (Whitsunday Monuments), Henry Peterson, Paula Dowson and Mayor Pierina Dale Cort and JCU Historian Bianka Vidonja at the Unveiling Ceremony (Photo Supplied)
Paula presented a moving speech at the unveiling (Photo Supplied)
The official unveiling of Jean Morris' gravestone was marked by a monumental ceremony (Photo Supplied)

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Burdekin’s Cane Fire Debate Rekindled for 2025 Crushing Season

With the 2025 crushing season now ablaze, a local debate as old as time has reignited across the community once again, raising the question, “why burn it?”.

The Burdekin Shire proudly exists as one of the last regions across the country where sugarcane burning is still practiced before harvest, with the bright amber hues of controlled cane fires scattered throughout the area typically from June to December each year.

As quoted by a local cane farmer, the Burdekin Shire’s sugarcane crops grow extremely leafy due to the sheer abundance of water within the region and harvesting a crop so lush results in additional “trash” to cover the ground, which can impede on future irrigation. The demanding nature of the booming sugar industry also leaves no room for delay and cane fires expedite the harvesting process immensely as opposed to cutting green.

Annually, the fires capture the fascination of the nation, with tourists flocking to the shire to catch a glimpse of the flames or enjoy the festivities of the infamous Sweet Days, Hot Nights event, like hundreds did just last month. Although a normality for locals, travellers passing through the area find the fiery phenomenon a peek attraction, with many taking to local Facebook groups to ask around and see who’s burning.

However, there are of course, two sides to every coin and whilst a joy for many, the smell of “sweet smoky caramel” and rain of black ash can cause a ruckus among a small portion of locals, with some taking to social media to vent their frustrations.

Yet, after almost a century of preharvest burning, the iconic practice preservers, with the community treasuring the tradition, believing it’s one of the many great traits of the region which make the Burdekin the Burdekin.

“Burdekin snow, black snow, cane trash! That’s what we call the ash from the cane that would fall from the sky when the cane fires were burning. We used to run around and catch them as they fell when we were kids – best memories,” wrote a nostalgic local online.

“I love the Burdekin snow season, it’s unique, and I hope our cane fires never die.”

The Burdekin is one of the last regions to burn its sugarcane crops before harvest (Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council)

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A group of talented Ayr State High School students recently showcased their musical abilities at the prestigious State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) held in Townsville a couple of weeks ago.

The program, hosted by the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, brings together some of North Queensland’s most dedicated young musicians for an enriching experience of intensive rehearsals, professional masterclasses, and a culminating public concert performance.

Students are selected for SHEP through a nomination process and are given the opportunity to learn and perform alongside accomplished conductors and professional musicians. Throughout the weekend, Ayr High’s students not only developed their musical talents but also built valuable confidence and collaborative skills.

The school extended congratulations to all participants who represented Ayr High with both pride and passion.

Ayr High continues to support opportunities that encourage artistic excellence and personal growth among its students, with SHEP standing as a proud example of both.

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Last week, Ayr State School warmly welcomed some of the region’s real-life heroes for a special afternoon dedicated to thanking those who keep the community safe.

The event brought together local police officers, ambulance officers, and a Burdekin Shire Council Ranger, giving students a hands-on opportunity to learn more about the vital roles these first responders play.

From exploring emergency vehicles to participating in interactive demonstrations—including a spirited race-off against the police—the students were buzzing with excitement. One of the most talked-about moments was when a teacher was playfully handcuffed by police during a demonstration, which was met with laughter and cheers from students.

The school community extended its heartfelt thanks to all emergency service personnel for their ongoing service, courage, and care.

“Your bravery, dedication, and kindness do not go unnoticed,” the school shared.

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We are excited to announce BCA’s new Accredited Exercise Physiology (AEP) Program, that will commence on the 1st of July 2025.

The program has been specifically designed to help individuals of all ages. Sessions will be delivered from our fully equipped and friendly Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) supervise all AEP Program participants and provide best practice exercise prescription to ensure that everyone performs exercises that are safe and appropriate for their goals and health conditions.  Sessions will be delivered one-on-one and face to face.

Our AEPs specialise in helping people to:
Manage a chronic disease or injury
Post-surgery rehabilitation support
Recover from a cardiac or cancer event
Improve strength and mobility
Reduce cholesterol
Manage/improve arthritis and joint pain
Maintain or reduce body weight

Ways you may be able to access AEP Program services:
Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM)
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – Gold and White card holders
Home Care Packages Program (HCP)
Support at Home Program (SaH) – expected to commence 01.11.25
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Private Health Fund
Private Fee for Service
What do I do next?
CDM or DVA, please speak with your GP
Aged Care Package or NDIS, please speak with your service provider or contact BCRH (details below) if you are self-managing your Package/Plan
Private Health Fund, please speak with your Fund
Private fee for service, please speak with BCRH (details below)
For information, please contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (BCRH) located at 12A Chippendale St, Ayr.
P:   4783 2711
E:   bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
F:   www.facebook.com/bca1975

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran, CEO of the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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