Don West Toyota has thrown its support behind Queensland PCYC's 'Lessons for Learners' driver mentor program, generously donating $5,000 to help sustain its operations.

"We donate every year to organisations that we think are essential to the community," said Dealer Principle Don West. "For the last two years, the target has been the youth."

Lead by QPS Officer Andrew Sherrington, PCYC’s Lessons for Learners program has focused on assisting Burdekin locals between ages 16 and 25 with obtaining their drivers license for the last eight years.

"It's all about getting these young people prepared for the roads and giving them the warnings so that when they're out there on the road, they know all the rules," said Sherrington. "It's been very effective so far."

Sherrington says the generous grant from Don West Toyota will help to deliver training in a more seamless and effective fashion.

"We're extremely grateful to Don West Toyota," said Sherrington. "This funding gives us an opportunity to provide ongoing training to help these young people get their license."

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Lead by QPS Officer Andrew Sherrington, PCYC’s Lessons for Learners program has focused on assisting Burdekin locals between ages 16 and 25 with obtaining their drivers license for the last eight years. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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After taking a break from soccer for a while, I’ve had to start getting creative with my methods of exercise.

I tried jogging up Mount Inkerman the other day. Mate—what on earth was I thinking. I barely made it a third of the way up before reducing myself to a slow, wobbly walk. Not sure how you guys do it! Maybe I’m just THAT out of shape right now.

After that failed mission, I looked for some alternatives. That’s when I stumbled upon Home Hill Swimming Pool. I’ve never been much of a swimmer, but I think it might be the perfect middle ground between strenuous hills and a leisurely walk—as well as a great way to start my days.

After purchasing my membership last week, I plan to start swimming before I clock into work most mornings. So, if you’re ever there at 6:30am and I’m not, I give you permission to spam my phone with calls until I wake up.

I'm also looking to try some new organised sports, so if you have any interesting suggestions, please reach out!

Otherwise, keep on keeping on!

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By Jacob Casha

If there was ever a story to illustrate the essence of the Burdekin, it’s four-month-old Zaleyah Codega’s—in more ways than one.

It was on Christmas Eve that Burdekin locals Kris and Natalie Codega learned during a routine 30-week scan that their unborn baby had congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)—a rare, life-threatening condition that restricts lung development.

“Once we found out, we were sort of left to our own devices to do a bit of research, and to be honest, it was the worst thing I ever did. It didn’t give us as good odds as we hoped,” said Kris.

The news hit hard, and the timing couldn’t have been worse.

“It definitely added stress to the already busy holiday period,” Kris said. “We tried to keep things as normal as we could for our five-year-old, but it was definitely a stressful and pretty wild time for us.”

Amid the whirlwind of emotions and fluctuating optimism, Zaleyah’s chances of survival and recovery ultimately hinged on one thing—her strength. And soon enough, the Codegas discovered their baby was built Burdekin tough.

“We were told she might not breathe or make a noise on her own, but when she was born, she surprised everyone,” Kris said. “She made sounds and started breathing by herself—that was a huge relief. Luckily, she was a bloody superhero!”

Following the successful delivery, doctors suggested an option that would make little Zaleyah a medical milestone: the first keyhole surgery for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) performed in Townsville. “They told us Zaleyah was a really good candidate because she was strong and stable,” Kris explained.

Initially, the idea of such a novel procedure was daunting for the Codegas, but after a successful surgery, the family was home with their little superhero within two and a half weeks.

It wasn’t an easy road, but in true Burdekin fashion, the strength and support surrounding Zaleyah and her family made all the difference.

“Here in the Burdekin, even if people didn’t know our exact situation, word gets around,” Kris said. “That Burdekin spirit—everyone was gunning for us. It made a huge difference.”

With family, friends, and neighbours rallying behind them, the Codegas never felt alone. “The community was constantly checking in with our families to see how we were going. Everyone was offering a hand if needed.”

For Kris, Natalie and their two daughters, the experience has only deepened their appreciation for the place they call home and the people who stood behind them. Zaleyah’s story is one of resilience, medical milestones, and true Burdekin strength—found both in her own fighting spirit and in the unwavering support of the community behind her.

Kris and Natalie Codega with their two daughters
Little Zaleyah was strong and resilient from the start
Zaleyah is now growing into a healthy, vibrant baby girl

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The recent state budget includes $1.8 Billion to extend and expand the Surgery Connect program that has already reduced the waiting list for elective surgery by over 2,500 patients in just one month.

With 30,000 more surgeries expected to be delivered this financial year, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said the program provided obvious benefits to patients on the waiting list.

“Over the last decade we have seen the number of Queenslanders waiting for elective surgery more than double,” Mr Last said.  “Action taken by the new state government has made a difference already, but we committed to improving healthcare and Surgery Connect is an important part of honouring that commitment.”

“Due to the scale of what is required, fully implementing our Hospital Rescue Plan will take time.  Boosting staff numbers, expanding hospitals and delivering new hospital beds is not something that happens overnight.”

“In the meantime, Surgery Connect will provide the procedures that patients need in order to improve their quality of life.  There is absolutely no change when it comes to emergency or lifesaving surgeries with this program solely aimed at elective surgeries and procedures.”

Mr Last said that clear goals had been set when it came to providing easier access to health services when Queenslanders needed them the most.

“Although we have made significant inroads into reducing the elective surgery waiting lists there is still a long way to go,” he said.  “While these procedures are more about quality of life, delivering those is an important part of a world-class health service.”

“Quite often these surgeries are about addressing pain and discomfort, but research has proven that long delays waiting for these procedures means symptoms worsen, pain increases and there is a proven impact on the patient’s mental health.  So, we are talking about procedures that can have a huge positive impact on patients and their families.”

“By Christmas the goal is to stabilise the waiting lists because we simply cannot sit back and watch them continue to grow.  Once that is achieved, we should start to see reductions in the pressure on our health services and reductions in the length of time people wait for elective procedures.”

“The results to date are extremely encouraging with 12,000 extra surgery referrals delivered between February and June 30 this year.  That’s 12,000 Queenslanders who were left in limbo, sometimes for years, because of a failure to address capacity and other issues in our public hospitals.”

“Effectively we are tapping into capacity in private hospitals to deliver procedures like hip and knee replacements and cataract surgery.  Besides the obvious benefits for patients, Surgery Connect reduces the pressure on our health staff who, through no fault of their own, have been forced to delay surgeries.”

“The Crisafulli government is stepping up to deliver better outcomes for both staff and patients.”

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Kelli, Suzette, Michelle, Simone, & Kellie take on Coastrek

Kelli Dabelstein, alongside her friends, Suzette Wallace, Michelle Oats, Simone Casey, and Kellie Keates, will tackle the mammoth 30km Coastrek Hike in the Sunshine Coast this Friday, the 18th of July in support of Beyond Blue.

Established in 2009, the national fundraising initiative encourages women to take part in a 20km to 50km hike through some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal trails. Over the years, Coastrek has supported over 80,000 hikers, raised over $52 million for some of the nation’s leading charities and transformed millions of lives across the country.

For Kelli, the decision to take part in 2025’s Sunshine Coast Coastrek Hike was simple.

“We (Kelli, Suzette, Michelle, Simone, and Kellie) usually take time out for a girls’ weekend to catch up, but this year we wanted to do something a bit different – something with purpose,” shared Kelli.

“Coastrek felt like the perfect way to challenge ourselves physically, spend quality time together, and give back to a cause that really matters.”

The five ladies have spent the past 12 weeks following an extensive training program designed by Coastrek, and been actively fundraising for Beyond Blue online, a cause close to all of their hearts.

“Fundraising for Beyond Blue is incredibly meaningful to all of us,” Kelli said.

“Mental health touches everyone - whether personally or through someone close - and Beyond Blue does such important work in supporting Australians who are struggling. By doing this walk, we hope to raise not only funds but also awareness, and to show that small steps - whether in walking or in reaching out - can make a big difference.”

Over the month of July, the ladies have been blown away with the support of the local community, with the hike just around the corner, the ladies have smashed their combined fundraising goal of $5,000.

“I’ve been genuinely surprised - and incredibly touched - by the generosity of people in our community. The support has been amazing, and it’s reminded me how willing people are to rally behind a good cause. I have so much appreciation and gratitude for every donation, big or small,” added Kelli.

“Not everyone is able to participate physically in something like Coastrek, and I see their donations as their way of being part of it. It really reinforces that this is a team effort, and every contribution helps make a difference for Beyond Blue and the people they support.”

To learn more about Coastrek or to donate to Kelli, Suzette, Michelle, Simone, and Kellie’s Soul Sista’s fundraising page, visit www.coastrek.com.au/fundraisers/SoulSistas15372.

Simone, Michelle, Suzette, Kelli and Kellie (not pictured) will take on Coastrek this Friday (Photo Supplied)

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The year 2025 marks a centenary since Agatino Rigano arrived in Brisbane alongside his cousin, Constantino (“Con”), in search of a better life after the devastation of World War I. Two years later, Agatino’s wife, Vita Concetta, joined him aboard the Re di Italia, and the family’s Australian story began.

To commemorate the milestone, the third Rigano Family Reunion was held on May 4, 2025, with over 100 attendees gathering at Home Hill Memorial Park.

The Rigano name traces back to 1453, when their ancestor, Count Giulio Rigano, a Spanish artist, migrated to Italy and eventually settled in Messina, Sicily. There, the family lineage continued until the birth of Agatino in Misserio on August 25, 1898. Remarkably, exactly 38 years later, his son Joe was born on the same day in Home Hill.

Agatino grew up cultivating olives, citrus and vegetables on the family property before being conscripted at 17 to fight with the Italian Army in North Africa and Europe. After five years of service, he returned to a shattered Sicily and made the decision to emigrate.

He and Con initially travelled to Innisfail, where they connected with a relative—Dr. Rigano—and found work in Tully clearing scrub and planting sugar cane. Despite enduring a year of hard labour without pay, they persevered and eventually moved to Giru and then Home Hill, where Agatino purchased a cane farm on Ford Road in 1928. That same property remains in the family to this day.

Agatino became a respected figure in the Home Hill community. He donated a large church bell to St Colman’s Catholic Church and was appointed a Justice of the Peace despite never receiving formal schooling. In 1958, he also established the town’s first modern service station at 153 Eighth Avenue—now home to the Burdekin’s Big Cane Stick and Town Directory.

Agatino’s legacy lives on through his 108 direct descendants. His children, Joe and Diana, are the last surviving members of the original Rigano family in Australia.

Special thanks go to Valeria Pennazza for organising the family reunions and compiling the Rigano family tree—a living testament to their Spanish-Italian-Australian heritage.

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The New Sales Representative at Burdekin Life

Outgoing, confident, and personable—three words Mia uses to describe herself, and three reasons why her new role at Burdekin Life feels like the perfect fit. “I loved my job beforehand but was looking for something different—something that broadened my horizons, gave me opportunity to flourish and work in the area I love,” she said. “When this job came up, I knew it was perfect.”

Mia has embraced the role wholeheartedly, from training trips to Airlie Beach to connecting with local businesses around town. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside my boss Trish… and getting out and about within the Burdekin, even if it's simply handing a paper into the business with a smile on my face.”

Being a Burdekin local helps her build strong relationships, but it’s her natural warmth that sets her apart. “Although my position is a sales representative, I treasure people's company and relationships more.”

Mia lives by the motto, “always be kind, as you never know what has happened that day,” and gives everything 100%. Whether she’s on the soccer field, at the beach, or visiting clients, Mia brings a personal touch to everything she does.

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School holidays have wrapped up, and it’s been a lively few weeks across the Burdekin and surrounding regions. From local highlights like Burdekin Rags to Runway, to the thrill of the V8 Supercars and Cowboys games, there’s been no shortage of action. And of course, who could forget that State of Origin match—truly one for the history books!This month, I had the privilege of attending the North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NQROC) meeting, which was held on Palm Island for the very first time. Mayor Alf Lacey, proud of his beautiful island home, personally led us on a tour of the area. We also experienced a traditional smoking ceremony nestled amongst a cluster of trees in a natural environment.NAIDOC Week celebrations were in full swing, with vibrant music and cultural dancing on display for all to enjoy. Palm Island is a truly spectacular and unspoilt place rich in culture, spirit and community.And while it was a wonderful experience, it also served as a reminder of how fortunate we are here in the Burdekin. A visit to the local supermarket revealed just how high the cost of living can be in remote areas. It’s a timely reminder to appreciate the convenience, access and affordability we often take for granted.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.

If there is a better place to enjoy winter than the mighty Burdekin, I’ve yet to see it. Judging by the number of caravans travelling through for a stop and stay, I’d say I’m not the only one who thinks so. The last few weeks my extended family and I have been taking in some of the great fishing and camping spots on offer around our town. We spent a couple of nights in Burdekin River and the kids have been enjoying time camping and fishing with my in-laws and the fishing club at Phillips’ and Plantation creek. I managed to get down to all the spots for a chat and a laugh with the members of the fishing club and they all agreed how good this time of year is around here.Since my last column, things around here have certainly been busy. The crushing has kicked off, the Ayr show society once again gave us thrilling event, the water festival has been launched, and the Maroons have put an end to any such ideas the Blues had of a dynasty starting. Speaking of the Water Festival, the committee are in full swing of backing up last year’s hugely successful event. This year will see 6 junior ambassadors and 6 senior ambassadors participating and hosting many events on the way to the festival climax which takes place over two weekends. Saturday the 30th of August, will see the long lunch return, where the Senior ambassador will be crowned. The long lunch last year was a fresh and great concept for the Water Festival and I look forward to attending again. The following Saturday (6th of September) will see the Mardi Gras and the crowing of the Junior Ambassador.Ayr Rotary Club celebrated 70 years of serving the Burdekin on Saturday night and I’m told it was a great night. With many travelling to be there and reminisce about the history of the club. The evening saw one member, Mr Frank Nucifora (SNR) receive mention for serving 60 years and still going for this amazing club. Service clubs like this are the backbone of towns such as ours and are great place for new residents to meet community minded people and get involved in the town.This weekend on Sunday 20th from 10am, Ayr Surf Club are hosting a Come and Try session. Nippers will participate in a variety of activities both in and out of the water. Make sure to bring your birth certificate, sunscreen and water bottle. This is another great club that will be celebrating 100 years in 2026.With that said, I wish you all well. Stay safe.

A Trusted Local Favourite for Decades

In an industry built on sparkle and status, Spearritt’s Jewellers has found a way to meet those needs while maintaining the warm, welcoming, and community-based approach that has kept them a local favourite for decades.

Located on Ayr’s Queen Street and trading under the Spearritt’s name since the 1950s, the store has long been part of the region’s social and retail scene. But under current ownership since 1991, its focus has sharpened into something even more defined: serving locals, rather than just selling to them.

“This is very much a country store,” says director Patricia Nuttall. “We’re here to service our valued customers the best we can and offer jewellery that people can afford and treasure.”

That community-first mindset is reflected both in what’s on the shelves—fine jewellery with broad appeal—and how the business engages with the region. Whether it’s supporting school raffles, local fundraisers or service clubs, Spearritt’s has earned a reputation for it’s generous support of local organisations.

“It’s just about kindness and generosity, and making the Burdekin a better place,” says Patricia.

Over the decades, the store has served multiple generations of Burdekin families. Children who once came in with their parents now return as adults, buying pieces of their own and continuing the cycle.

“Some people stay local. A lot go away. But it’s amazing how many come back to the shop.”

In an ever-changing industry, Spearritt’s has found strength in consistency. Rooted in community, backed by decades of trust, and still sparkling in all the right places, the longstanding business continues to serve as a bedrock for the Burdekin community.

“We’re here to be part of the community, provide jobs, and offer jewellery that people can afford and treasure." Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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At the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, we value collaboration with everyone in our community. For over 30 years, we have partnered with local solicitors to provide a Free Community Legal Advice service. We are deeply grateful to these firms for sharing their expertise on various legal matters with our community.

We are excited to announce our latest collaboration with Townsville-based Free Community Legal Services to host a Community Legal Service Expo in the Burdekin community.

Community Legal Centres (CLCs) are independent organisations that provide equitable and accessible legal services. These "communities" can refer to geographic areas served by generalist CLCs or specific groups or interests served by specialised CLCs focusing on particular issues (for example, DV or a specific area of law). CLCs offer appropriate, effective, and creative solutions based on their understanding of the community's needs.

In addition to providing legal services to individuals, CLCs also engage in broader initiatives. They promote community development, legal education, and law reform projects aimed at preventing legal issues and strengthening the community.

We invite residents to join us for a cup of tea and a conversation with lawyers about the free legal services available to the Burdekin community.

The Expo is an excellent opportunity for community members to explore various legal options and connect with these services. Please note that the advice provided at the Expo will be general in nature, as specific processes are necessary before offering advice on individual matters. There will also be opportunities to schedule follow-up appointments with firms if needed.

Community Legal Service Expo

Monday 21st July 2025

10am – 12pm

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

40 Chippendale Street, AYR

Until next time,

The team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Photo credit: Betterhelp.com

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Burdekin residents are invited to take part in a free suicide intervention training session on Friday, August 1, aimed at equipping the community with the skills to recognise and respond to early warning signs of suicide.

Hosted by CORES Queensland (Community Owned Response to Eliminating Suicide), the full-day workshop will run from 9am to 4pm at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr.

The program teaches participants how to identify someone at risk, what to say, what to do, and where to go for help. It also encourages help-seeking behaviour before a crisis develops and provides practical advice on supporting others and managing personal self-care.

While the session is not a crisis service, it offers essential tools for anyone wanting to build suicide prevention awareness and support networks within the community.

To attend, RSVP via https://bit.ly/4eObQbG. For more information, contact CORES Queensland at adminqld@kentishrc.com.au or call 0448 894 525.

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Girls with a passion for maths and science were given a front-row seat to the wide range of STEM careers in the sugar industry when they visited a Burdekin sugar mill.

The students, from Burdekin and Townsville high schools, gave up a day of their mid-semester holidays to go on an excursion to Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Invicta Mill as part of their involvement in the STEM Changemakers program.

They heard about the different pathways into STEM careers with Wilmar from three of the company’s female employees: Design Draftsperson Emily Biviano, Laboratory Coordinator Peta Di Bella and Electrical Apprentice Meg Westwood. Each spoke about what they studied at school, how they got into their current role, what they do on a typical work day, and the best advice they could share.

Now in its second year, STEM Changemakers empowers under-represented girls in regional areas to connect with local STEM industries. The program was developed by high school teacher and nationally recognised STEM champion, Sarah Chapman from Townsville. It links girls with industry role models to inspire and encourage them to think bigger about where their love of maths, science and technology could take them.

The visit to Invicta Mill was co-ordinated by Wilmar’s Manager Design Engineering Nina West, who was an industry mentor for last year's inaugural STEM Changemakers program.

Nina said it was great for the girls to be able to see a sugar mill up close and learn more about the industry.

“We had a member of the Agriculture team on each of the buses that transported the students to Invicta,” Nina said. “On the way, they spoke about all of the science that goes into growing sugarcane and the technology that’s used in our farming operations.”

At Invicta, the girls were welcomed by Manager Operations Harrison Slogrove, did a site tour, worked on an engineering challenge and learned about career pathways.

Nina said the aim of the program was not only to broaden students' understanding of the range of STEM careers available, but also the diverse pathways they could take to achieve them – something she believed Sugar and Renewables did well.

“Girls from the regions we operate in are statistically less likely to pursue a career in STEM. It’s nice to think we might have played a small part in changing that.”

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Invicta Mill Manager Mechanical Engineering Daryl Stockham was the bus driver and tour guide for the
STEM girls

Evie from Townsville and Sophia from Ayr were given cardboard models of a Wilmar Sugar and
Renewables locomotive to assemble

Manager Design Engineering Nina West (right) facilitated the engineering session

Wilmar’s Meg Westwood spoke to the girls about the types of work she does as an electrical
apprentice. Photos supplied: Wilmar

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Swift Action Taken To Contain Threat

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has confirmed a detection of fire ants in Moranbah — a worrying sign that the pest is moving dangerously closer to Central and North Queensland.

On 9 July 2025, program eradication officers acted swiftly at the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) Broadmeadow Coal Mine site, destroying nests using direct nest injection.

While Moranbah is not geographically part of the Burdekin region, it does fall within the Burdekin state government electorate — placing this detection alarmingly close to an area that, until now, has remained outside the known fire ant threat zone.

“The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is working closely with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance to contain, treat, and eradicate this significant detection swiftly,” said Michael Homden, Executive Program Director of the program.

“This detection is a strong reminder that community and industry vigilance can, and does, stop the spread of fire ants.

“Eradicating fire ants is a shared community responsibility – and BHP’s cooperation demonstrates how industry partners contribute to this critical national effort.”

In response, the program will undertake broadscale treatment and intensive surveillance in the affected area. Genetic analysis and tracing are also underway to determine how the ants reached Moranbah.

This detection outside the South East Queensland eradication zone highlights the ongoing risk posed by the movement of materials such as soil, mulch, or equipment. Businesses operating in fire ant biosecurity zones must understand and follow regulatory requirements. Breaches can trigger serious compliance actions.

Community awareness is vital. Learn to spot fire ants and report any sightings at fireants.org.au or by calling 13 22 68.

Eradicating fire ants remains a national priority — and it starts with all of us.

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Image source: BMA Australia

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Students from Clare, Millaroo and Airville State Schools combined for a day of robotics and inquiry learning with the team from Paluma Environmental Education Centre during the last week of the school term.

The students caught insects and used apps on iPads to identify what they had caught. It was surprising to see the variety of insects that were found on the school grounds.

The students also found evidence of photo synthesisers, carnivores, omnivores and herbivores in the school grounds and discussed the important role that the sun plays for all forms of life.

After lunch the students were split into two groups with Prep – Year 2 making a colour coded map for a robot to follow while the older students practised their coding skills to make their robots sense objects around them and move about the classroom without crashing into anything.

The students demonstrated excellent teamwork, problem solving and inquiry learning skills and had a great day learning with their mates from other schools.

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