Community News

Jump in with Jacob 19 December

Jump in with Jacob 19 December

I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.

Read the full story
Cuppa & Chat

Cuppa & Chat

Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied

Read the full story
Burdekin Healthcare Workers Celebrate A Lifetime Of Care

Burdekin Healthcare Workers Celebrate A Lifetime Of Care

Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.

Read the full story
Voices Needed In Highway Say

Voices Needed In Highway Say

A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”

Read the full story
Advertising Banner

Join The Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast!

December 31, 2024

The Burdekin Aero Club Inc. invites the community to their Monthly BBQ Breakfast on Sunday, 12th January at the Ayr Aerodrome in Brandon!

Held on the second Sunday of each month from 8am to 11am, members and non-members are encouraged to come along for a delicious barbeque breakfast paired with plenty of opportunities for attendees to meet local pilots and get an up-close look at the aircrafts on display.

What a great way to start your Sunday!

What: Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast
When: Sunday 12th January, 8am to 11am
Where: Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon
Cost: $10 per person
More Information: call 0429 144 921

Pop down to the Ayr Aerodrome for a morning of socialisation and aviation!

Read More

Pizzas Bring Christmas Cheer

December 31, 2024

Staff at the Ayr Health & Hospital, were duly rewarded on Christmas eve, when long time business supporter, Wilmar, recognised the tireless work of all the staff and delivered 30 pizzas to say thanks.

Wilmar, an organisation involved in community outreach, has traditionally provided food for Ayr Hospital staff working over Christmas, with offerings ranging from barbecues to cupcakes. On the 20th of December, 2024, they switched to pizza due to a change in preference, which proved to be a masterstroke on account of all the wet weather.

Wilmar also supports the community by sponsoring events like brass concerts, funded by contributions from the business sector. The outreach is valued for fostering community connection, and the hospital staff appreciate the gesture as a token of recognition for their hard work throughout the year.

The relationship between Ayr Health and Wilmar has been long-standing, particularly during the Christmas season, as highlighted by the Director of Nursing, Tracey Gabiola.

“Every year we get contacted by Wilmar, and they're always willing to offer a little bit more Christmas spirit. While we've had cupcakes and various treats in the past, we decided to mix it up this year, which is quite appropriate, considering all this wet weather we’ve had,” Tracey expresses.

“All our staff will be delighted to have these pizzas today, while also feeling appreciated because of all the hard work that they do for the year in providing the service to our community. It's truly lovely. We all really appreciate it very much,” Tracey smiles.

Allan Cross, a Wilmar representative and Burdekin local, was delighted to show Wilmar’s gratitude to Ayr Health’s frontline workers and all their hospital staff.

“Today is the first time I’ve come to do this here at Ayr Health, and this year we've gone for 30 pizzas because they requested a change. But for all the hospital staff who work hard over Christmas, and indeed throughout the year, this is an acknowledgement of our appreciation for all their efforts,” Allan says.

“For me personally, it’s about connection to our community. It’s as simple as that,” he adds.

Peter Wood (Wilmar), Allan Cross (Wilmar) and his kids, Edith and Tim, Amanda Barney (Ayr Health admin), Dave Kearney (Ayr Health nurse), Ruth Smethurst (Wilmar), and Tegan Cesconetto (Ayr Health OSO). Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Allan Cross with Edith and Tim Cross, Ayr Health Director of Nursing, Tracey Gabiola, and 30 pizzas. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Read More

New Year Brings New Opportunities

December 31, 2024

A new year has been hailed as a chance for new opportunities by Member for Burdekin Dale Last with goals to strengthen and support industries and communities within the electorate.

Marking his tenth year as Member for Burdekin Mr Last reaffirmed his focus remained on issues that mattered to residents in the Burdekin Electorate.

“As the member for Burdekin, my pride for the electorate is as strong as ever and my dedication to working for my electorate is unchanged,” Mr Last said.

“That pride and dedication is due to many things but mostly it is due to the people of the electorate. There is seldom a day goes by where I don’t learn of an achievement or challenge that a resident in the electorate has had to overcome.”

“For me, the next four years are about realising our potential and making our communities better places to live and work.”

Mr Last said while the Burdekin was not alone in its challenges it faced, the need for collaboration and recognition of opportunities within the region were unwavering.

“While we as a community have kicked some goals over the last four years, many of the challenges faced in the Burdekin electorate remain and some new ones have arisen which we cannot turn a blind eye to,” Mr Last said.

“Right now we are in the midst of a severe weather season and while we have in the past celebrated the improved flood immunity provided by the completion of the Haughton Floodplain project, the fight for better roads in this electorate continues.”

“The first step to bringing our highway up to standard when it comes to safety is already underway with the return of the Bruce Highway Advisory Council by the Crisafulli Government, however it is now up to the federal government to play its part by reinstating the 80:20 funding model.”

“Improving essential services and critical infrastructure like our roads, hospitals and schools are critical in attracting new families to our area, and I will never give up the fight to ensure our share of funding is secured for the north of the State."

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

Read More

Join The Home Hill Chamber Of Commerce’s Monthly Meetings

December 31, 2024

The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce invites the community to its monthly Social and Networking Meeting held on the third Wednesday of every month. The next event will be held on Wednesday, the 18th February, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Home Hill Community Sports Club, located at 87 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill.
This month, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a guest speaker from Powerlink, who will provide insights into the CopperString Project, an important infrastructure development.
These meetings are open to both Chamber members and the public and provide a great opportunity for attendees to meet new people, network with local professionals, and learn more about key community projects.
While you’re welcome to attend without an RSVP, it’s appreciated if you can email secretary@homehillchamber.com.au to help with planning the event.

What: Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Meeting
When: Wednesday 19th February from 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Where: Home Hill Community Sports Club
More Information: email secretary@homehillchamber.com.au

The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber’s monthly meetings.

Read More

Salvo’s Christmas Cheer

December 31, 2024

Delivered by many helping hands, 94 Burdekin households received “Christmas Cheer” support through the Salvation Army this Christmas. The support included gift cards, toys, Christmas and non-perishable foods, household items and fresh produce.
The number of households receiving Christmas Cheer this year increased by 25%. With many in the community who are struggling with homelessness and the cost of living, with some living in tents, couch surfing, or have medical/mental health needs for themselves and their families, this was a wonderful way to help ease their burden.
“We were blessed to have volunteers from nine different churches both in the preparation for and on the day of distribution. The effort from all our terrific volunteer helpers, was a fantastic outpouring of community goodwill and crucial to successfully delivering support to these households,” said Gwen Marshall, Community & Ministry Manager, Salvation Army.
Donations from the community were also a key part of the Christmas Cheer. Much thanks needs to be given to Rapisarda Farms (watermelons); Chapman’s from Rocky Ponds (pumpkins); Church communities (non-perishable foods & household goods); MP Dale Last appeal (food and toys); Men’s Shed and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort’s Christmas Tree Appeal (toys); K-Mart wishing tree, with special mention to Woolworths for their generous support (Christmas food and chocolates), all of who contributed to the greater good of the community with this incredible initiative.

Some of The Salvo’s volunteers: L-R Michelle McVeigh, Jeanette Gould, Rhonda Matthews, John McVeigh, Felipe Lima, Cathy Crooks, Karina Lima, Seini Mau, Naomi Gould, and Gwen Marshall. Photo: Supplied

Read More

Cr Column Councillor John Furnell

December 31, 2024

What a wonderful Christmas 2024 and here we are celebrating a new year, ringing in 2025.
Carols in Home Hill Sunday 8th December was well attended, despite the weather and change of venue. It was great to see local recording artist René entertain the crowd along with other talented locals. The evening concluded with Santa arriving with lolly bags greeted by Minty and rounding off with spectacular fireworks.  
I had the good fortune to experience the End of Season Golf Classic Friday the 13th December, where the generosity of the Burdekin came to the fore, pardon the golf pun, supporting CORES by raising over thirty thousand dollars. Congrats to Ben, Kelsy and their band of volunteers.  
Joyous church celebrations in Ayr at the United Church and in Home Hill at the Catholic Church on the 15th expressed the real meaning of Christmas with thoughtful words and beautiful music.
The Burdekin Youth Council hit the airwaves at Sweet FM on Wednesday the 18th to tell the listeners about themselves and the history which dates back thirty years.
Street festivities on the 19th and tremendous Christmas lighting throughout the Burdekin. Special mention to Leon and Jeff opposite the Golf Club, who go ‘above and beyond’ entertaining young and old.
The day itself was full of cheer, presents, excess food and afternoon siestas.
Despite all the festive cheer, some among us experienced loss and challenges, may we as a community wrap our arms around them to ease the discomfort.
New Year has been celebrated and resolutions made, some already broken, but we are given another year to strengthen what we already have, to change aspects of our life for the better and make a conscious choice to contribute to the Burdekin community.
There are many volunteer organisations crying out for potential members and this may just be the year to make that decision.

Wishing you health and happiness.
Councillor Furnell

Read More

A Minute with the Mayor Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

January 23, 2025

Wow, Christmas and New Year have come and gone in the blink of an eye! For many of us, the festive season is a time for family, laughter, and reflection. Coming from a big family myself, it’s rare that we’re all able to gather in one place, but I was grateful to spend Christmas Day in Townsville with my family members who could make it.
It was particularly special to have my mum, who lives with dementia, enjoy a wonderful day surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It’s a day we will all treasure - full of joy, love, and memories to hold close.
At our Christmas table, we often welcome more than just family. We’ve made it a tradition to include what I lovingly call “our orphans” - friends who might be on their own or whose partners are working during the holiday season. Their presence adds a unique dynamic to the day, with plenty of laughter and stories that make the celebration even more meaningful.
As we step into 2025, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. I hope this year brings you everything you dream of and more.
I am excited for what lies ahead and look forward to working alongside my fellow Councillors to ensure the Burdekin continues to thrive.
Thank you for your continued support. Let’s make 2025 a remarkable year for the Burdekin!
Stay safe and take care of yourself. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Read More

Burdekin Potters Celebrates 50 Years With The Support From Bendigo Bank Grants

December 31, 2024

Burdekin Potters Inc. has been a cornerstone of creativity and community spirit in the Burdekin region since its establishment in 1975. With 2025 marking its 50th anniversary, the club has seen tremendous growth in recent years, increasing its membership from just 10 members four years ago to 62 in 2024. From young individuals just starting out to those in their mid-70s, the club embraces potters of all ages, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for creativity to flourish.
The Burdekin Potters play an active role in the community, offering pottery classes for both adults and children throughout the year. The club also provides valuable support to indigenous groups, special needs communities, and local schools, helping them incorporate pottery into their curricula. Teachers receive advice and guidance, while the club supplies clay and fires the students’ creations in the club’s kiln.
In addition to its local outreach, the Burdekin Potters regularly hosts beginner courses to encourage new members to join the club. The club’s diverse and growing membership includes everyone from aspiring artists to seasoned potters, creating a strong sense of community and camaraderie.
In their efforts to ensure the club’s long-term sustainability, the Burdekin Potters sought out support through the Bendigo Bank Community Grant program, which has been instrumental in helping local clubs achieve their goals. The club was successful in securing a grant of $9,450 to refresh its clubhouse, ensuring it looks its best as it celebrates its 50th anniversary next year.
The exterior of the clubhouse in Plantation Park was given a fresh coat of paint, significantly enhancing its appearance and making a lasting impression on the community with Club President, Debra Ferraris more than excited for what’s to come.
“It was awesome to be successful in gaining the funding to achieve this project,” shared Debra.
“To have a big-ticket item crossed off our wish list, allows us to focus our funds (from sales of clay and membership fees) on maintaining and purchasing equipment for the club, as well as paying for general expenses like rates, electricity, and insurance.”
The club’s continued success and growth are a testament to the hard work of its volunteers and members, and the support of the community. As the club celebrates its 50th anniversary, they hope to inspire even more individuals to join and experience the joy of pottery!

Members of the Burdekin Potters receiving a cheque from the Bendigo Bank Community Grant program. Photo supplied

Read More

Lower Burdekin Scout Group 2024 Christmas Raffle

December 31, 2024

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group held a Christmas Raffle for the first time in the last 5-7 years. The Scouts would like to thank “Beaver” who is one of our Adult Helpers for coming up with the fundraising idea and doing all the leg work. This fundraiser will assist us in keeping our membership fees the lowest in our region.
We especially would like to thank the following local organisations who supported us by donating vouchers and gifts, which enabled us to create 12 packages of gifts as prizes:
Home Hill News & Coffee, Pathway to Holistic Health, Home Hill, Marzays, Home Hill
The Prawn Shop, Home Hill, Dee & Vees Takeaway, Home Hill, Fit Gym, Home Hill, Coles, Ayr, Woolworths, Ayr, Lilly May’s Flowers & Gifts, Home Hill and Tattoo Lotus, Ayr.

We would also like to thank Harvey Norman and Woolworths, for allowing the Scouts to sell the raffle tickets outside their stores. Harvey Norman also additionally supported the Scouts by allowing us to run a BBQ and sell raffle tickets on Thursday, 19 December.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts sold 479 tickets at $1 each to local families and visitors, and there were 12 prize packages.
The raffle and BBQ were the last Scouting activity in 2024, which has been a busy year for our Scouts.
Some of the activities were: Australia Day, swimming, Anzac Day, abseiling, camping, hiking, sailing, Harvest Festival, Ayr Show, Water Festival, visiting local Emergency Services and movie night.
The 2025 program has been developed and there will be lots of activities like there was in last year. 2025 starts with the Jamboree in Maryborough from the 5–16th of January.
People who would like to try Scouting, can come along in 2025 for four nights at no cost or more information, simply call Rikki on: 0419 104 035.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts wish all the readers, our supporters and members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Lower Burdekin Scouts, Corey and Rikki, setting up for the BBQ. Photo: Supplied

Read More

Lower Burdekin Landcare Celebrates 35 Years Of Growing Together

December 31, 2024

The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Incorporated will soon celebrate its 35th anniversary within the region, with the committee’s rich agricultural history dating back to 1990.

John Trace held the position of 1990 Burdekin Shire Chairman and decided to establish a Landcare steering committee within the community, issuing an official meeting on the 28th of February. A year later, following on from Councillor Ron Brennan chairing the first public meeting of the committee, April of 1991 saw the announcement of President, Bob Whitson, Vice President, Maree Cameron, Secretary, Mike Franettovich, and Treasurer, Pat Neville as well as the renaming of the group to Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Incorporated. As June of 1992 rolled around, Les Searle was elected Chairperson, and actioned scouting for tree planting sites in both Ayr and Home Hill, and the rest, as they say, is history.

With over three decades of achievements and milestones, 2024 has seen the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association encourage a new generation into the fold through the launch of a wonderful Junior Landcare program. Chairwoman, Deb Calligaro, notes the program as a celebratory accomplishment, warmly thanking Keith Kiloh for his instrumental role in launching the initiative, wishing him all the best ahead of his retirement.  

“Keith has done an amazing job as our previous Chairman and has really set us up for a bright future,” shared Deb.

“We thank Kieth immensely for all his hard work, dedication and leadership during his time as our leader and wish him all the very best in life.”

Along with the successful introduction of the Junior Landcare program, the Association celebrated both National Tree Day 4 Kids, and National Tree Day throughout 2024 along with a selection of improvements to their International Road facility. With 2025 underway, Lower Burdekin Landcare plans to continue advancing the Association’s reach within the community and increase volunteer numbers, with Deb inviting the community to see the work they carry out firsthand.

“We would like to create a mental health hub where anyone can come to the nursery and sit amongst nature and enjoy a cuppa and a chat with us,” added Deb.

“We would love for people to come into our nursery and see what we do and what is involved in being a volunteer or a member.

As a volunteer you don’t have to come every day that we are open nor do you have to stay the whole four hours, we are happy for any time that anyone can spare.”

Deb and the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association committee invite the community to either visit the nursery located at 57 International Road, Ayr or reach out via 07 3543 0477 or 0407 333 927 for more information.

Read More

Burdekin’s Sweetest School Competition Plants The Seeds For Agricultural Excellence

December 31, 2024

The Burdekin region is set to cultivate the next generation of agricultural talent with the return of the much-anticipated Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition. This unique event invites local schools to roll up their sleeves and showcase their skills in sugarcane cultivation while fostering a sense of pride and collaboration across the community.
The competition, beginning in April, promises an exciting journey for participating schools as they learn the intricacies of sugarcane farming. From planting to nurturing their crops, students will gain hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture and witness the vital role the sugarcane industry plays in the region's economy.
By embracing this challenge, students and teachers alike will delve into environmentally conscious farming practices, nurturing both their crops and a deeper understanding of the hard work and dedication required in agriculture. The initiative is designed to spark a passion for farming among the younger generation while promoting teamwork and innovation in the classroom.
Schools will cultivate their crops over 12 months, with industry experts evaluating the sugarcane for quality and growth. The competition will culminate in May 2025, aligning with the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival, where the winning school will be announced during the Australian Hand Cutting Championships.
The victorious school will not only take home a $1,000 prize, proudly sponsored by CANEGROWERS Burdekin, but also a trophy and a year’s worth of bragging rights.
This grassroots initiative continues to inspire students and highlight the importance of agriculture in the Burdekin community, ensuring that the region’s sweetest industry has a bright and sustainable future.

Read More

Christmas Crushed Delays Take Heavy Toll On Farming Families

December 31, 2024

Grower advocacy group, CANEGROWERS, have said that Queensland's sugarcane farming families have spent Christmas counting the cost of yet another delayed harvest. It claims that updated industry analysis has found that poor milling performance throughout the year has caused crushing to continue into the wet season, which could cost growers over one-hundred million dollars in 2024.
The analysis by CANEGROWERS has revealed that as of 14 December more than 1.8 million tonnes of cane, worth a staggering $179 million, remained unharvested across Queensland.
“Some mills are still crushing, so it’s too early to tell how many tonnes will remain unharvested when the season finally ends, but that could happen any day given the continuing wet weather we’re experiencing across the state,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
“What’s clear is that growers and harvesting contractors are going to take a huge financial hit this year due to delays that they have no control over.”
The challenges are compounded by the downstream effects of standover cane and late-harvested ratoons, which threaten to erode grower profits well into 2025.
While mills also face financial setbacks from the extended crush, growers bear the lion’s share of costs, Mr Menkens said.
“As the crush drags past mid-November, rising temperatures and the onset of the rainy season create a triple blow – reduced sugar content in the cane, higher harvesting costs, and damage to wet paddocks, which require expensive remediation.”
The disparity in financial losses is stark.
“Obviously mills lose out too, but of that $179 million, the cost to growers and harvesting contractors is $115 million, so the growing sector is by far the hardest hit,” Mr Menkens said.
“We’re not supposed to be harvesting at this time of year, it’s as simple as that, and farmers are frustrated by the situation, which many feel is preventable.
“This frustration is reflected in tension across the industry, but arguments alone won’t solve the issue.”
Underlying these delays are systemic problems. Queensland’s sugar mills, many of which are ageing, urgently require significant investment to meet modern standards.
Workforce shortages compound the issue, with mill workers, harvester operators, and truck drivers in short supply.
Mr Menkens emphasised the need for unity and transparency to overcome these challenges.
“The future of our industry hinges on collaboration. Fixing systemic issues requires growers, millers, and government to work together, but we also need transparency.
“Every year the milling sector tells us the vast sums that they spend on maintenance and capital expenditure, but we don’t actually know what the true cost of bringing our mills up to speed might be.
“Spending $40-$50 million on capex sounds impressive, but if the true cost is $100 million then suddenly it doesn’t seem like nearly enough. So, transparency is essential.”
While historical tensions and mistrust between growers and millers persist, the industry’s survival depends on building trust and working toward shared goals, Mr Menkens said.
“Confidence to spur capital investment, shared strategic planning, and workforce development must be priorities.”
“It’s time to move beyond blame and focus on solutions. With cooperation, we can realign our seasons and position Queensland’s sugarcane industry for a stronger future.”

Photo supplied: CANEGROWERS

Read More

Get Set For Work With The PCYC

December 31, 2024

The Get Set for Work program, run by Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), targets 15-19-year-olds who have dropped out of school and provides them with a Certificate II in skills for work and vocational pathways.

The program includes resume and cover letter assistance, first aid, RSA, and white cards, and features guest speakers on topics like budgeting, mental health, workers' rights, road safety, indigenous culture, and drug and alcohol awareness.

“Our Get Set for Work program is for youth aged 15 to 19 and is part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. The program aims to guide youth who have dropped out of school towards gaining employment,” explains Rowan Scott, PCYC Program Coordinator.

The Get Set for Work program is free, runs five days a week, and starts up again on January 28. Success stories include participants landing jobs in travel agencies, engineering, and hospitality.

The program aims to build confidence and employable skills.

PCYC’s most recent program in December, saw a 100% success rate, with all five participants completing the program. Past graduates often return to share their employment successes with the participants.

“Seeing the participants come in at the start, they’re a little nervous, a bit immature and unsure. By the end of the 10-week program, however, we start to see big changes in them when they complete their Certificate II, or find work for example. It's a small reward for us but a big deal for them,” Rowan says with pride.

“Here at PCYC we also run a ‘Break the Cycle’ program, which helps participants obtain their 100 hours towards their learner's license. Like Get Set for Work, it’s free! We also provide a pick-up and drop-off service, which runs five days a week, from 9am to 3pm,” he says.

Both programs are designed to give participants more freedom and flexibility, while giving them a greater sense of self-worth and purpose. PCYC continues to support their participants even after the courses have concluded, providing ongoing assistance.

Businesses are encouraged to participate in the programs, with many seeing great success as a result of hiring entry-level workers.

Interested participants and businesses, can contact Rowan Scott or Tamara Kemp for more information on: 06 4783 1009.

Rowan Scott (Program Coordinator) and Tamara Kemp (Social Worker). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Read More

Burdekin Neigbourhood Centre December 2

December 31, 2024

We are checking in with you all!

How are we all going?
How did Christmas go for everyone?  
A relaxing time spent with those that matter, or did it feel more like a dumpster fire?

As we reflect on the past year, there comes a moment to release the challenges of 2024. Tonight presents a wonderful opportunity to shift our focus toward planning and setting intentions for the new year. It’s a time for manifestation and envisioning what we want to create in 2025.

No matter how your experiences have shaped you, this moment allows for growth and renewal. Letting go of the difficulties faced lets us clear space for new opportunities and aspirations. This is not merely about resolution-making but about truly contemplating the direction we wish to take moving forward.

The significance and history of New Year's celebrations can be traced back thousands of years and vary widely across different cultures and regions.

In 46 BC, Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar, which established January 1 as the beginning of the year. This choice was related to January being named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, gates, transitions, and time, symbolically looking back at the past and forward to the future.  Regardless of the specific date or customs, the essence of welcoming a new year resonates universally, transcending cultural barriers.

New Year's celebrations represent hope, renewal, and the collective desire for a better future, making it one of the most significant and widely celebrated occasions around the globe.  

We are excited to welcome everyone back to the Centre from Monday 6th January 2025.
Our programs and services will be available from this date.

Our groups' start-up dates:

Crochet Group – Monday, 13th January starting at 1pm.  We are opening the group up to other crafters.  If you would like to join the group and be around like-minded crafters like yourself – get in touch with us to find out more.

Presentation of Grief – Wednesday, 29th January 10.30am.  An interactive education session on what grief looks like, how to support someone who is grieving and ideas on self-care.

Burdekin Dementia Support Group – Tuesday, 4th February at 10.00am

Burdekin Senior Computer Club – Thursday, 6th February at 9.30am

Burdekin Parkinsons Support Group - Friday, 28th February at 9.30am

So, as the clock ticks down, let’s embrace this moment to renew our focus, heal from past difficulties, and cultivate hope for the future.

Until next time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Read More

Wrapping Up 2024’s Honour Board Events At The Ayr Golf Club

December 31, 2024

The final Honour Board event of 2024, Constable & Taylor Day, was held on Saturday, December the 7th, drawing an impressive 56 participants eager to embrace the tradition at the Ayr Golf Club. Despite the rainy weather earlier in the week, the course was in fantastic condition, thanks to the tireless efforts of our volunteers and greenkeeper with their hard work ensuring a seamless event.

Captain Sandra Wight shared a heartfelt moment during the event, reflecting on her visit last year with Dr. Bill Taylor, just before his passing. During their discussion, Dr. Taylor spoke fondly of how both his father, Dr. Taylor, and Dr. Constable were passionate about fostering new friendships through randomly drawn partners. This vision of inclusivity has become a cherished tradition, making Constable & Taylor Day a special occasion each year.

The day was filled with excitement and friendly competition, culminating in a thrilling playoff to determine the next names to grace the Honour Board. The crowd gathered around the playoff hole to witness some exceptional putting, with Patron Pat Lawson delivering a clutch putt for par to secure the victory by a single shot.

Congratulations to Geoff Munro and Pat Lawson, the 2024 Constable & Taylor Day champions! A special mention also went to the runners-up, Donna Reid and Lenny Phillips, who both played brilliantly, with their teams finishing with 44 stableford points.
Equal third place was claimed by Mike Casey and Ross McLaughlin, as well as Charlie Coles and Phil Johnstone, who both scored 42 points. In a tie for fourth place, with 39 points each, were Trevor Jones & Ann Phelan, Robert Potter & Vin Sorbello, and Marion Chappell & Jon Lena.

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

Home Hill: Cornetts IGA | United Service Station| Complete Health Pharmacy
Ayr: Woolworths | Coles | Tosh’s Convenience Store | Shell Service Station | Ayr Medical Group | Farmhouse Ayr Coffee & Cafe | Dal Santo’s Deli | Woods Newsagencies  
Brandon
: Hotel Brandon | JC’s Cafe
60 + distribution points

Locally Owned. Community Loved.