Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
Read the full story
It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
Read the full story
Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
Read the full story
Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Read the full story
Grab a snag and support a worthy cause this Saturday, the 31st of May, as Flexi Queensland fires up a community sausage sizzle outside Home Timber and Hardware, Ayr from 8:30am.
Sausages will be served hot and tasty for just $3 each, with all proceeds going towards supporting Flexi Queensland’s vital services. 2025 marks 30 years of Flexi Queensland delivering a range of services to help individuals live independently, connect with their community, and achieve personal goals through tailored support and programs.
The organisation asks the community to mark your calendars for the 18th July, where Flexi Queensland will host a special fundraising event from 4pm to 7pm. The afternoon will feature a free sausage sizzle, thanks to the generous support of Woolworths Ayr, as well as face painting by Townsville Angel Faces, and live entertainment by Let’s Groove and the Burdekin Brass Band.
The day will also include the official renaming of the Therapy and Activity Centre (TAC) in honour of one of Flexi Queensland’s founding Board Members as a heartfelt tribute in celebration of the organisation’s three decades of community service.
Whether you're out shopping yourself or just passing by, be sure to stop in for a tasty snack and a friendly chat this weekend, all while backing a meaningful local initiative.
Prepare for bubbles, beakers, and brainy fun because Maidavale State School will soon ignite young minds with their annual Under 8’s Day!
Set to take place on Thursday, the 29th of May from 9am to 11am at the school grounds on 233 Maidavale Road, this year’s theme “Unleashing Scientific Thinking Through Play,” promises to deliver a morning packed with hands-on science activities, exciting experiments, and discovery-driven fun tailored to children under eight years of age.
The event will feature a playful take on science with child-friendly activities that encourage curiosity and creativity from fizzy volcanoes and floating rockets to colourful potions and petri-dish painting. It’s an opportunity for little learners to explore the wonders of science in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment.
Parents, carers, and members of the wider community are warmly invited to join in the festivities and with the school’s motto “Strive for the Best” guiding the day’s activities, the event aims to foster a love of learning and build foundational thinking skills through joyful, hands-on experiences.
Whether you're a parent, grandparent, educator, or science enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy so pack your hats, water bottles and sense of curiosity to celebrate the power of young minds!
Email principal@maidavaless.eq.edu.au or call 0472 831 078 for more information!
What: Maidavale State School Under 8's Day
When: Thursday, the 29th of May, 9am to 11am
Where: Maidavale State School, 233 Maidavale Road
Maidavale State School's 2024 Under 8's Day was a wonderful success! (Photo Credit: Maidavale State School)
Local kids got hands-on with nature during another fun-filled Junior Landcare event hosted by the Burdekin Landcare Association Inc.
Participants rolled up their sleeves and embraced the challenge of building their very own native bee and insect houses, attracting future visits from pollinators like bees, ladybugs, and other beneficial bugs. The creativity and effort on display were impressive, with every young participant proudly taking home a handmade habitat to support local biodiversity.
As well as learning about the importance of insect conservation, the children also enjoyed the satisfying task of harvesting fresh produce from their very own veggie garden beds, all grown from seed during earlier workshops! From leafy greens to crunchy legumes, the joy of picking their homegrown produce was a highlight for many.
Burdekin Landcare Association Inc. continues to inspire the next generation to connect with the environment through hands-on activities that make learning about sustainability fun and engaging. To learn more about upcoming Junior Landcare events, email Secretary@LowerBurdekinLandcare.org.au or call 07 3543 0477.
The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association regularly hosts Junior Landcare events for young gardeners (Photo Supplied)
Organisers were impressed once again with the talents of some of the region's youngest gardeners (Photo Supplied)
Queensland is a state built on mateship, resilience, and community spirit and every town and suburb has someone who quietly embodies those values. As Queensland Day approaches, now is the perfect time to give those people the recognition they truly deserve with the newly launched Queensland Day Local Legend Awards!
The initiative has been designed to spotlight the everyday heroes among us, the volunteers, neighbours, and community champions who lend a hand without ever asking for thanks.
“The Local Legends are the ones who don’t ask for credit – they just get in and get the job done – and embody the Queensland spirit,” Premier David Crisafulli said.
These are the people who man the barbecues at local fundraisers, patrol our beaches on hot summer days, mow the local sporting fields before game day, and check in on those doing it tough as their kindness and service are the threads that hold our communities together.
Every Queenslander is encouraged to nominate someone who makes a difference, no matter how big or small the act.
“Every Queensland town or city has someone who makes that community a better place, and this is about giving those people the recognition they deserve,” added Premier Crisafulli.
Award recipients will be announced on the 6th of June, during Queensland Day celebrations at the Dolphins v St George Illawarra Dragons NRL game at Suncorp Stadium. Winners will receive a certificate presented by the Premier himself, along with a pack of limited-edition Bundaberg Brewed Drinks ‘Local Legend’ ginger beer.
This initiative follows the government’s “All the Best” campaign launched earlier last week, inviting Queenslanders to celebrate their favourite places, produce and local icons from the best meat pie to the most-loved beach or pub.
Nominations close at 11.59pm on Sunday the 1st of June, and can be submitted online at www.qld.gov.au/qldday.
Traffic flow along the Bruce Highway was severely impacted on Saturday, the 17th of May, following a single-vehicle traffic crash at Barratta Creek, near Jerona Road.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed emergency services were called to the West Barratta Creek Bridge at approximately 1:15pm, after reports that a bronze Landcruiser Defender, towing a trailer with a white Nissan Patrol, had crashed.
The vehicle was travelling southbound when the incident occurred, causing significant disruptions to traffic along the busy stretch of highway.
The driver, a 17-year-old man from Oak Valley, and two passengers, a 17-year-old Ross River man and an 18-year-old Oak Valley man, were assessed at the scene and found to have escaped injury.
Fortunately, no other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Authorities remained on scene throughout the afternoon to manage traffic and begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident with official investigations ongoing.
Drivers experienced lengthy delays on Saturday as a result of the incident (Photo Credit: Luke Bozzetto)
Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has lashed out at Labor’s proposed superannuation tax, warning it will “rip the guts out of middle Australia” and devastate the farming and small business sectors.
The policy, which proposes taxing unrealised capital gains in superannuation accounts, has drawn heavy criticism from financial and agricultural groups who say it targets everyday Australians rather than the wealthy elite.
“Unrealised capital gains” refer to increases in an asset’s value that haven’t yet been sold. Mr Katter said it was ludicrous to tax “theoretical, paper money,” particularly for rural landholders.
“This policy will have a catastrophic effect on anyone that has a farm, house or similar asset held by a super fund,” Mr Katter said. “If the market value increases, you will get a huge tax bill… you will have to sell the asset to pay this crushing tax bill.”
He warned that farmers and landowners would be hit hard.
“Land appreciation doesn't mean you're rich in cash,” he said. “It means your rates go up, your insurance goes up, and now… your tax goes up too.”
Mr Katter said the policy unfairly punishes those investing in Australia’s future.
“This isn’t going to hurt the big corporates… this is going to break the back of middle Australia.”
Calling for the policy to be scrapped, he said it would worsen the decline in farming numbers and force more people off the land.
“If the government really wanted to do something helpful, it should legislate to require a large portion of super investment in Australian manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, mining and other economy-generating projects.”
Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter delivers a fiery spray over Labor’s proposed super tax, warning it will cripple farmers and rural investors. Photo supplied
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has launched a new monthly Values Recognition Program—and Burdekin-based employees were front and centre in the inaugural round of winners.
Four of the six staff recognised in the first intake are from the Burdekin region, showcasing the strength of local leadership, innovation and teamwork across Kalamia, Pioneer, Invicta and Inkerman mills.
The newly established program is designed to celebrate employees who consistently demonstrate Wilmar’s core values of integrity, excellence, passion, innovation, teamwork and safety in their day-to-day work. It’s part of a broader push to embed a values-led culture throughout the business.
Among the first recipients was Deb Calligaro from Kalamia Mill, who was applauded for her dedication and integrity. Cameron Suski from Pioneer Mill was recognised for innovation and a passion for problem-solving, while Natarsha Little from Invicta Mill stood out for her commitment to safety and teamwork. At Inkerman Mill, Bevan Orenshaw was acknowledged for consistently demonstrating excellence in his work and supporting others to do the same.
The remaining two awardees were Scott Gofton from Victoria Mill and Aimee Barratt from Wilmar’s Townsville office, rounding out a diverse group of team members from across the organisation.
“We know people across our business are doing great work every day, and this program is an opportunity for them to be acknowledged and applauded,” a Wilmar spokesperson said.
The company received dozens of nominations in the program’s debut and will continue to run the awards monthly to ensure outstanding contributions don’t go unnoticed.
Congratulations to all the winners—and especially to those helping put the Burdekin mills at the forefront of Wilmar’s values in action.
Deb Calligaro – Kalamia Mill
Deb was recognised for her unwavering integrity and dedication to supporting her team. Her commitment to doing things the right way, every time, sets a strong example for those around her.
Scott Gofton – Victoria Mill
Scott earned praise for his consistent pursuit of excellence and willingness to go above and beyond to deliver high standards in everything he does.
Aimee Barratt – Townsville Office
Aimee was celebrated for her passion and innovative thinking, particularly in how she supports Wilmar’s broader operational goals from behind the scenes.
Cameron Suski – Pioneer Mill
Cameron stood out for his practical innovation and proactive approach to problem-solving, helping improve safety and efficiency on site.
Natarsha Little – Invicta Mill
Natarsha’s dedication to safety and teamwork earned her this recognition, with colleagues commending her collaborative spirit and care for others.
Bevan Orenshaw – Inkerman Mill
Bevan was recognised for his reliable performance and willingness to support his team with excellence and professionalism.
The State Government has taken the first step in planning for Queensland’s future timber supply, with the inaugural Timber Supply Chain Ministerial Roundtable bringing together growers, processors, and industry leaders to help shape a long-term timber action plan.
With growing demand for home construction and infrastructure across the state, particularly in regional areas, the Queensland Future Timber Plan (QFTP) aims to ensure we have a strong, sustainable supply of local timber to meet the target of one million homes by 2044.
The Roundtable includes key representatives from Timber Queensland, AgForce, the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Housing Industry Association, Forestry Australia, HQPlantations, the Australian Forest Contractors Association, and some of the state’s leading timber businesses.
Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the Queensland Government was committed to working alongside industry to reinvigorate the timber sector.
"We’re serious about securing Queensland’s timber future, and that starts by working directly with the people who grow, harvest and process our timber,” Minister Perrett said.
“This is about protecting jobs, building regional economies, and making sure we have the materials needed for the homes and infrastructure of tomorrow.
“The Roundtable will provide practical advice on how we can meet growing construction demand while supporting innovation and sustainability across the supply chain.
“This is a landmark opportunity to rebuild future of one of Queensland’s most important and environmentally sustainable industries starting with the people who know it best.”
Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens welcomed the establishment of the Roundtable and said the QFTP represented a major opportunity to unlock the full potential of the sector.
“The timber industry already plays a key role in ensuring we have local sustainable materials for housing and construction,” Mr Stephens said.
“Through this plan, we aim to unlock the barriers and opportunities to further increase the supply of timber to help meet the Government’s target of one million new homes over the next two decades.”
The Roundtable will meet over the next 12 months to guide the development of the plan, which also aligns with the State’s 25-year blueprint for primary industries — a strategy that aims to lift Queensland’s production output to $30 billion by 2030.
.jpg)
The Bowen Pipeline Project is edging closer to becoming a reality, with state approval expected in 2025 and construction forecast to begin within the next 12 months.
Bowen Pipeline Company spokesperson Sean Brown recently confirmed the project remains on schedule, with the public advertising phase of its Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application underway since the 4th of April. The application, lodged in December of 2024 and confirmed in March earlier this year, is progressing through the State and Commonwealth approvals process.
The 182-kilometre underground pipeline will transport water from the Burdekin River near Home Hill south to Bowen, supplying water to the Bowen township, Gumlu and Guthalungra.
The project will deliver secure water access to a region responsible for producing one-fifth of Australia’s vegetables and is tipped to boost local agricultural income by $300 million annually, supporting emerging green energy industries, including ammonia, fertiliser, methanol and sustainable aviation fuel, with the potential to generate $1 billion in additional economic activity.
Approximately 200 jobs will be created during construction, with up to 1,200 ongoing full-time roles once operational.
“This is a long-term investment in regional growth,” Mr Brown said.
“The support from the community and stakeholders has been vital, and we are proud to be delivering economic and environmental outcomes for North Queensland.”
Queensland’s first Net Zero pipeline, the project will use world-leading Australian HDPE pipe technology to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. The construction will also use green hydrogen from Townsville and Australian-made solar panels.
Backed by 40 grower and community investors from the Bowen and Burdekin regions, the project has raised over $4 million in private funds and secured a $5 million Commonwealth grant. Significantly, the Juru and Bindal Peoples are equity partners, marking a national first in Indigenous participation in agricultural infrastructure.
With support from Burdekin Shire Council, Whitsunday Regional Council and agreements in place with all affected landowners, the Bowen Pipeline is poised to deliver lasting economic, agricultural and environmental benefits to the region.
For more information, visit www.bowenpipeline.com.au.
The Bowen Pipeline Project will unlock major agricultural growth, create hundreds of local jobs, and drive long-term economic benefits for North Queensland (Photo Supplied)
Sunwater recently welcomed four Year 11 students from Ayr State High School to their Clare depot as part of the school’s annual work experience program.
In support of the next generation of water industry professionals, each of the students gained valuable insights into different aspects of Sunwater’s operations under the guidance and supervision of experienced experts.
Jack, Callie and Lucas explored and worked alongside the maintenance and projects teams to assist with pump station maintenance, fabrication, mechanical checks, observe pump repairs and assist with field measurements whilst Ben toured the Burdekin Haughton Water Supply Scheme.
“The experience is helping shape their future careers while fostering a deeper understanding of the essential work we do at Sunwater,” shared a Sunwater spokesperson.
Four Ayr State High School students carried out work experience at Sunwater's Clare depot (Photos Supplied)
A woman has died and two others have been hospitalised following a head-on collision on the Flinders Highway near Charters Towers on yesterday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the scene at Breddan, just west of Macrossan Bridge, shortly after 4pm on May 14, following reports of a two-vehicle crash.
Initial investigations suggest a Holden Epica and a Hyundai Kona were travelling in opposite directions when they collided head-on.
A woman in her 50s, who was a passenger in the Kona, died at the scene.
The driver of the Epica, a woman in her 40s, suffered critical injuries and was rushed to Townsville Hospital.
The Kona's driver, a man in his 50s, was also taken to Townsville Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the incident and has appealed for anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage to come forward.
Investigations are ongoing.
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) can help you to access community services and get more involved in the Burdekin community. We offer a very wide range of services, under 36 programs, for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Our team is very well qualified and experienced and can provide you with information and/or help you to access local and outreach services. For example, aged care, disability care, transport, housing, crisis accommodation, financial coaching, social activities and support, psychological counselling, rehabilitation and exercise programs, domestic and family violence services, essential food and toiletries, telehealth, legal services and much more.
Home Care Service
Our Home Care Service delivers services for younger people with a disability, or condition that impacts their ability to live safely and independently, and their carers. A few of the great programs offered by the Home Care Service are briefly outlined below.
Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS)
QCSS provides support to people under 65 or under 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who with a small amount of help, can maintain or regain their independence, continue living safely in their home and actively participate in the community. Services include Inn-home Supports and Community Connection Support.
Burdekin Community Transport Program (BCT)
BCT provides community transport locally and to Townsville to access medical appointments, do the shopping, attend social activities and venues, visit others etc. Transport under BCT is available for people who experience transport disadvantage and are under 65 and unable to access, or have limited access, to other transport options including public or private transport. Unpaid carers can also travel in their role as carer. Please note that Transport services are also provided to seniors under our other programs such as HCP, CHSP, NDIS.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
NDIS supports a better life for people with a significant and permanent disability and their families and carers. Services include assistance with daily personal activities (showering/bathing/medication monitoring etc), travel/transport arrangements, innovative community participation, development-life skills, household tasks, participating in the community, exercise physiology, personal training and psychological counselling.
Please contact the BCA Team to access services or obtain information on Ph 4783 3744, The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, bca@bcaburdekin.org.au, www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
A trusted name in the Burdekin, Pyott’s Mechanical and Hydraulics continues to grow as a leading force in heavy vehicle servicing and hydraulic solutions. Under the leadership of Ashley Pyott since 2017, the business has expanded its focus to include a well-stocked retail store, offering convenience and accessibility for local customers.
“We’ve had the retail store for two years now,” says Ashley. “We have put a lot of extra stock in there. With the oil, there’s stock… like, a lot of stock. You can walk in here and get what you want.”
In addition to hydraulic hoses, auto-electrical supplies, and general truck parts, Pyott’s Mechanical now offers oil delivery across the Burdekin, catering to both large-scale and individual customer needs. “Currently we’re delivering a 1000-litre shuttle of oil to Giru for free,” says Ashley.
Proudly born and raised in Ayr, Ashley values the strong community ties that define the business. “We have a good relationship with most people that come in. It’s not just about serving them and sending them on their way.”
With a reputation built on reliability, service efficiency, and a genuine connection to the local community, Pyott’s Mechanical and Hydraulics continues to be the go-to destination for heavy vehicle and hydraulic needs in the Burdekin.
Born and raised in Ayr, Ashley Pyott says there’s a great sense of pride that comes with serving the local community. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
It’s a song they say has the ability to empower a woman to kick a door off its hinges with enthusiasm and excitement, and the Burdekin Football Club hopes to emulate such extraordinary energy and more at their upcoming Ladies Day extravaganza!
Just last week, the Burdekin FC Inc. announced the theme of their infamous 2025 Ladies Day event will be “Let’s Go Girls” - Denim & White and the wider community could not be more ready to shout the Shania Twain anthem.
Set to be held on the 9th of August at International Park, attendees can expect to be treated to a day of dancing, singing, and delicious refreshments whilst enjoying live music and plenty of awesome soccer matches into the late afternoon and beyond.
In years gone by, the Burdekin Football Club have thrown together a bouquet of spectacular Ladies Day events with wonderful themes like Spring Fling, A Day In Amalfi, 50 Shades of Pink, and NYC Fifth Ave presenting waves of fabulous fashion and socialisation to the Club’s Beach Road fields.
With more details yet to be announced, the community cannot help but feel giddy with anticipation for the Burdekin Panther’s most infamous events on the club’s yearly calendar and those interested are encouraged to keep an eye on the Club’s socials for more information.
2024's magical Ladies Day event was themed Spring Fling! (Photo Credit: Burdekin FC Inc.)
A wave of gratitude has washed over the Burdekin once again after almost 200 members of the community were warmly touched by the kindness of a stranger earlier this month.
Leisa Kenny shared her story online, detailing how a lovely woman set out on a special delivery to return her husband’s phone, cash, ID and important cards which had fallen from his pocket whilst cycling to work.
“Thank you for being a phenomenal, kind and honest person,” expressed Leisa.
“May good karma come your way in bucket loads.”
Leisa took to social media to share her story, with the hopes the anonymous woman would see the post and the community would share in Leisa’s joy. To her delight, almost 200 people have interacted with the post, noting it’s the smallest acts which can have the greatest difference.
“Such a great feeling to know how many good people are out there,” added Leisa.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
