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
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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.
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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
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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
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Burdekin Bowl is turning up the lights and the fun with a Glow in the Dark Theme Night on Saturday, the 31st of May, and the whole community is invited to join in!
Families, friends, school groups, work socials, mum squads or cousin crews, everyone is welcome to get a lane together for a night of laughter, strikes, and glowing good times.
The fun kicks off at 6pm, with entry just $12 for adults and $10 for children, including shoe hire.
Get your glow sticks ready and dress in your best glow-in-the-dark attire as there are prizes to be won and a licensed café and bar on-site to keep you fuelled throughout the night.
Each lane can host up to six people, and bumpers are available for those who need them!
Bookings are essential, so crack your glow sticks and secure your spot by calling 4783 3332 or messaging the Burdekin Bowl Facebook page.
Let the good times roll!
What: Glow & Roll at Burdekin Bowl
When: Saturday 31st May, 6pm
Where: Burdekin Bowl
In a thoughtful act of community kindness, Woolworths Ayr lent a helping hand to SES Burdekin during the recent flooding event by supplying snacks to keep volunteers going during their long and challenging shifts.
The simple but generous gesture provided a much-needed morale boost for the SES crew, who worked tirelessly to assist the community throughout the emergency.
“Thank you, Woolworths, for your care of the volunteers when times got tough,” SES Burdekin shared.
Across Queensland, State Emergency Service volunteers have had a demanding start to 2025, stepping up time and time again in the face of severe weather and community need. From devastating floods in the state’s north to the widespread impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred and record-breaking inundation across Central and South Western Queensland, these dedicated individuals have been on the ground helping wherever they are needed most.
Now, as the weather begins to ease, there’s a moment to pause and recognise the extraordinary work these volunteers continue to do. Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day), set for the 21st of May, will offer Queenslanders the chance to say thank you.
Falling during National Volunteer Week, which runs from the 19th to the 25th of May, WOW Day is a national initiative that celebrates SES volunteers and the crucial role they play in times of crisis.
Getting involved is simple. You can add a splash of orange to your outfit, attend a local event or celebration, or post a photo of yourself in orange to social media using the hashtags #thankyouSES and #WOWDAY. It’s a small but powerful way to show appreciation.
For more information and ideas on how to get involved in WOW Day, visit www.ses.qld.gov.au/wow.
SES Burdekin volunteers thanked Woolworths Ayr for their generosity over the festive season (Photo Source: SES Burdekin)
Earlier this May, curiosity and creativity were in full bloom as students, teachers, and parents from Home Hill Primary School crossed the river for a special excursion to the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Inc.
The visit was part of the school’s exciting new sensory garden project - an initiative designed to engage students’ senses through nature. To help bring their garden to life, the students were invited to explore and handpick plants they’d love to see grow, and Lower Burdekin Landcare members were beyond delighted with the student’s choices.
“What a selection they made!” shared proud members of the Lower Burdekin Landcare team.
“They chose plants that they could see, taste, smell and hear – well done kids!”
With the warm guidance of Landcare’s wonderful volunteers, the children also got their hands dirty planting a variety of flower and veggie seeds to take back to school, ready to nurture, water, and watch grow.
“Thank you so much for visiting Landcare today, we loved having you here!”
Home Hill Primary School students engaged in a variety of educational activities led by Lower Burdekin Landcare Association volunteers (Photo Credit: Mrs Loring)
While many were busy egg-hunting over the Easter Weekend, the Home Hill Choral Society were singing their hearts out at this years North Queensland Eisteddfod in Townsville—and earning silverware in the process.
The Eisteddfod, which runs from Good Friday to Easter Sunday each year, invites both small and big choirs from Mackay all the way through to Cairns to compete across a wide range of vocal categories.
The Home Hill Choral Society—a team of 14 this year—competed in the Small Choir category, performing A Celtic Song of Thanks and An Irish Blessing in the Sacred Works section on Friday—performances which saw them bring home the winners trophy.
“We are very proud to have attended the Eisteddfod and represent our district,” says Music Director of the group, Cheryl Platt.
As well as competing at events like the NQ Eisteddfod, the Home Hill Choral Society rehearse twice a week, and often perform at various local events over the calendar year.
“We do shows around the year, and they’re usually theatre-restaurant shows. We do a variety of choral pieces as well as unison pieces and some fun pieces, and then we do some little skits,” says Platt.
“We also do a lot of community work—we sung at Anzac Day at the cemetery this year, and sometimes we do the Dawn Service.”
The group has also performed at many premier venues across Australia throughout its rich history, including the world-famous Sydney Opera House.
Now in its 94th year, the Home Hill Choral Society continues to proudly represent the Burdekin, serving as a true cornerstone of the local arts scene.
While many were busy egg-hunting over the Easter Weekend, the Home Hill Choral Society were singing their hearts out at this years North Queensland Eisteddfod. Photo supplied
If you’re on the hunt for bargains, looking to lighten your load at home, or simply keen to enjoy a relaxed morning out, mark your calendar for Saturday, the 14th of June for the beloved Arts on the Avenue Car Boot Sale!
Held on the second Saturday of each month, weather permitting, the event will once again transform the Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark into a lively community marketplace from 8am to 12pm. Shoppers can expect a mix of pre-loved clothing, second-hand treasures, handmade crafts, plants, and more.
More than just a place to shop, the Car Boot Sale champions sustainable living as by buying second-hand and giving unwanted items a new life, locals are helping to reduce landfill, lower consumption, and minimise waste, one purchase at a time.
Hosted by the Burdekin Artisan Community Association, the sale not only supports the environment but also contributes to the local arts community. With sites priced at just $10, it’s a low-cost way for stallholders to participate, whether you’re a creative looking to share your wares, or just decluttering your garage.
To book a site or find out more, call 0497 356 355.
Bring your reusable bags, sip on a coffee, and join in the friendly atmosphere this June!
What: Car Boot Sale
When: Saturday the 14th of June
Where: Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark, Home Hill
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Burdekin Catholic High School warmly invites prospective students and their families to our Open Twilight Evening on Monday, May 26, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. This special event offers a valuable opportunity to explore the heart of our vibrant school community, meet our passionate staff, and experience first-hand what sets BCHS apart.
The Open Twilight Evening is more than just a tour — it's a window into your child’s future. Families will have the chance to see our modern learning environments, explore subject displays, and talk to current students about their experiences. Staff will be available to answer questions about curriculum, student wellbeing, extracurricular opportunities, and the school’s strong Catholic values that guide everyday life at BCHS.
Choosing the right secondary school is a significant decision. Attending this evening gives families the information and confidence needed to make that choice with clarity. BCHS prides itself on nurturing students academically, spiritually, and socially, preparing them to thrive in an ever-changing world.
We encourage all prospective families to come along and discover the welcoming atmosphere and quality education that Burdekin Catholic High School has to offer.
All are welcome — please register at https://www.bchs.catholic.edu.au/quicklinks/twilight-open-evening/
Ayr State High School’s Sophie Robertson has been selected to attend the esteemed 44th Professor Harry Messel International Science School, to be held at the University of Sydney from the 7th to the 18th of July later this year.
Chosen from a highly competitive pool of over 450 applicants nationwide, Sophie is one of just 44 students across Australia to receive a coveted scholarship to the program. Sophie was also only one of five Year 11-12 students selected across Queensland and her place is fully funded by the University of Sydney’s Physics Foundation.
The International Science School offers high-achieving science students the chance to immerse themselves in two weeks of cutting-edge learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Sophie will join like-minded peers from around the globe, including China, India, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Throughout the program, students will tour state-of-the-art laboratories, take part in hands-on experiments, and have the rare opportunity to meet Nobel Prize laureates. Beyond the science, participants will enjoy a dynamic social calendar including a dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour, designed to build friendships and networks across continents.
Ayr State High School could not be prouder of Sophie’s remarkable achievement and wishes her all the best as she embarks on what is sure to be an unforgettable and inspiring scientific journey.
Ayr State High School student, Sophie Robertson will soon travel to attend the 44th Professor Harry Messel International Science School (Photo Supplied)
Nationally recognised award-winning cattle dog handler, Steven Elliott, will return to the region once again to host a comprehensive Working Dog School at the Ayr Showgrounds next month.
Hailing from Winton, 177 kilometers northwest of Longreach, Steven was left paralysed from the chest down after falling from a saddle bronc on New Year's Eve in 2003. However, despite a dislocated C6 and C7 vertebrae, Steven transformed his love for training and riding horses into an accomplished career training working cattle dogs. Steven’s work has been celebrated at multiple competitions over the years, and his talents have been broadcast across the country in 2024’s season of Muster Dogs Australia.
Steven now regularly travels the nation, running educational schools to share his wealth of dog training knowledge and methods with others, a passion he has been honing over the past 13 years. His love for the industry continues to grow, and Steven finds great fulfillment in seeing young dogs reach their full potential through each of his workshops.
“When you get a little pup who has so much desire for the herding instinct, watching them learn the skills is the most rewarding part of the trade,” shared Steven.
Having revisited the region after five years to make his Burdekin Show debut in June of 2024, Steven will journey back to Ayr once again to run lessons suitable for those of both beginner and experienced ability levels on the 21st and the 22nd of June.
Enrollment fees to the class are $550 each which includes lunches, smoko and an invitation to a wonderful BBQ on Saturday evening and all reservations can be made by phoning Richard on 0439 826 886.
What: Steven Elliot Working Dog School
When: 21st & 22nd of June
Where: Ayr Showgrounds
Steven Elliot's Working Dog School will be coming to the Burdekin this June (Photo Supplied)
Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
As the pricing nomination date for the 2025 season passes there are a couple of notable trends emerging
in the ways growers are approaching their GEI sugar price management.
Firstly, we are seeing a drift away from growers managing the price risk themselves and going back to
the pools.
Interestingly we have seen our first drop-off in growers choosing to manage their GEI pricing exposure
with the popular GMPRS product. In the same vein, we have a significant increase in the tonnage
committed to our Production Risk Pool.
A contributing factor to this trend is the continuing volatility in prices. This is creating pricing fatigue
amongst growers whereby the challenge of setting price levels creates doubt in their minds. No doubt the
consistent outperformance of our Production Risk Pool would also be influencing growers, but this may
not always be the case.
The other notable and linked observation is the level of forward coverage growers have for this season
and beyond. Broadly speaking, for growers who chose to use the Target pricing mechanism, around 30
per cent is locked in for the 2025 season. This is well down on previous seasons.
One factor influencing this outcome would be the late finish to the 2024 crush and extreme wet season,
leading growers to be cautious about expected production this year. Our recently released crop estimate
validates grower caution on production expectations.
The other factor is the absolute price level which has been under pressure most of the year. Coming out
of a period of relatively high sugar prices, growers may have to adjust down their expectations for the
balance of their price exposure.
Given this drift away from independently managing price risk, we have opened our Managed Pool Plus
early for 2026 season nominations. We will be accepting commitments from now through to 30 June
2025. This allows us to manage the price exposure over a longer time frame to take advantage of price
opportunities.
We recently completed a detailed review of the 2025 Season Managed Pool Plus and so far, the pool is
performing well above benchmark pricing, which is a good outcome for our growers.
The performance of the Production Risk Pool over the past three years is a significant factor when
growers choose how to price their GEI Sugar exposure
Ayr Bowling Club has been a hive of activity this week, with members turning out in strong numbers for a packed schedule of social games and championship matches. The lively atmosphere on the greens reflected both the camaraderie of the club and the competitive spirit of the championship season, now in full swing. Spectators and players alike were treated to an impressive display of talent, skill, and sportsmanship throughout the week.
Tuesday – Ladies’ Social Bowls
An enjoyable afternoon of friendly competition saw the team of Karen Shepherd, Ron Soper, and Mary Poli claim victory over Katharina Stuckler, Beryl Cornford, and Dot Cutting. Runners-up were Meryl Smith, Donna Soper, Sandra Stidston, and Irene Wilson, who edged out Isabel Cislowski, Linda Giumelli, Merle Nixon, and Heather Jorgensen in a well-fought match.
Wednesday – Men’s Social Bowls
Three games of triples were played, with the winning team consisting of Barry Hewson, John Pironne, and Ron Soper.
Wednesday Night – Social Bowls
Two games of triples were played under lights. Winners were Lyn Cecil, Rob Jorgensen, and Sam Caltabiano in one game, while the other match was won by Bertilla Piazetta, Margaret McLaughlin, and Ross McLaughlin.
Friday – Fun Night
Friday Fun Night was a fantastic success, with a great turnout for an evening of sausage sizzles and social bowls. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere saw many newcomers trying their hand at bowls for the first time. Generously sponsored by Harvey Norman, Ayr, the night was filled with laughter and friendly competition. The winning team was Johnny Grabbi, Arthur Gauvin, and Joe Grabbi. In second place were Colin, Helen, and Nathan. The Sportsman’s Prize went to Mason, Elissa, and Laura for their spirited play and positive attitude.
Saturday – George Nixon’s 90th Birthday Celebration
Saturday was a special day as members gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of life member George Nixon. In true generous spirit, George sponsored the day’s event, which was filled with good cheer, competitive bowls, and a strong sense of community.
Taking top honours were Angela Williams, Dino Poli, and Hugh Montgomery. Second place went to Shane, Lorraine, and Ron, with Barry, John, and Anthony finishing in third. It was a joy to welcome new members and visitors for such a memorable occasion.
Championship Results
In the Men’s A Singles, Ron Soper defeated Barry Shepherd 27–15.
In the A Grade Pairs, Joe Grabbi and Lew Stidston beat Anthony Bull and Maurie Power.
The Mixed Pairs also commenced this week, with Lorraine Wolffe and Anthony Bull recording a strong 34–9 win over Karen Shepherd and Barry Shepherd. All winning teams progress to the next round.
Upcoming Competitions
The draw for the Ladies’ Pairs has been completed and matches will be played as players become available. For the Triples, three teams will play a round robin format — the draw is now up on the board. Good luck to all competitors.
Get Involved – Friday Roll Ups
If you’re interested in giving bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a great way to start. Held every Friday from 3:00–5:30pm, these casual sessions offer a chance to sharpen your skills, enjoy a few drinks, and have a laugh with fellow members. Whether you're learning the ropes or just looking to relax, come down and join the fun.
A farmer dies by suicide in Australia every 10 days—a heartbreaking statistic that highlights the urgent need for targeted support in rural and agricultural communities.
Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) stands in solidarity with the many organisations working to change this reality, including Cores Queensland, a grassroots initiative making a powerful difference across the state.
Cores Queensland offers suicide prevention training and mental health support in regional centres such as the Burdekin, Hinchinbrook, Innisfail, Palm Island, Mackay, the Whitsundays, Wide Bay and the Sunshine Coast. These programs are designed to equip community members with the tools to recognise warning signs, offer support, and foster stronger local networks.
As part of this vital work, the Burdekin Cores Team is inviting locals to a free Self Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop on Thursday 22nd May 2025 from 5:30pm to 8:00pm. This evening session offers practical strategies for managing mental health and creating safer, more supportive rural communities.
QCAR encourages growers, families and rural workers to prioritise their wellbeing and take part. Interested participants can book via the Cores Queensland Facebook page, email admin@thebnc.org.au, or call (07) 4783 4243.
Together, through open conversations and community-led action, we can ensure no one in the bush feels alone.
James Cook University scientists have found stonefish toxins could be used to fight parasitic worm infections suffered by nearly a quarter of the world’s population.
JCU PhD candidate Danica Lennox-Bulow led the study. She said parasitic gastrointestinal worms (helminths) are a massive problem around the globe - and it looks to be getting worse.
“It’s estimated that over two billion people, or a little over 24% of the global population, are currently infected with helminths. They can cause intestinal issues, organ damage, skin conditions, malnutrition and impaired growth and physical development,” said Ms Lennox-Bulow.
To make matters worse, existing drugs are becoming increasingly ineffective against the worms.
“It’s well-established that resistance has developed against all major classes of drugs used against helminth species that infect livestock.
“Within the last decade, cases of drug resistance have also emerged for helminth species that infect pets and humans. As such, new drugs with novel mechanisms of action are urgently needed,” said Ms Lennox-Bulow.
The scientists tested skin toxins from Queensland’s Estuarine Stonefish and Reef Stonefish against the infective (skin burrowing) larval stage of the Rodent Hookworm.
“While skin toxins from both stonefish species were found to be toxic to rodent hookworm larvae, those from the Estuarine Stonefish displayed the most favourable characteristics for therapeutic application.
“Specifically, the small size of the active components and their limited toxicity to mammalian cells in vitro are highly encouraging,” said Ms Lennox-Bulow.
She said components within the skin toxins from the Estuarine Stonefish show promise for therapeutic development.
“There’s still a lot of work to do before stonefish skin toxins are as effective against parasites as established drugs are. We need to drill down to find exactly what the active components are and we need to test these against a wider range of parasite species and taxa. But we’ve definitely found something here worth a closer look.”
The Queensland Government is working with primary producers across the State to design a plan to deliver a prosperous future for the sector.
Consultation throughout regional Queensland has started on the 25-year blueprint, “Primary Industries Prosper 2050”, which is the largest strategic collaboration between the Government and industry in at least a decade.
Following the forum in Brisbane on 26 February, the draft blueprint is now touring the State and available online.
Farmers, graziers, fishers, forestry workers, truck drivers and anyone connected to primary industries can contribute to the plan at a series of consultation events held across Queensland or online.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering A Fresh Start for Queensland’s primary industries and is committed to boosting the State’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.
Speaking at the Gympie information session, the Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the blueprint will drive future investment, create jobs, and unlock opportunities for agribusiness.
“This blueprint is our map to a better future for Queensland’s primary industries,” Minister Perrett said.
“I’m calling on all representatives from across our industry sectors, including research, community, investors and government, to make sure their voices are heard so we can co-deliver a future where our primary industries thrive and prosper.
“We want every industry to have their say and I can’t think of a better place to launch the consultation than the Gympie region which supports one of the most diverse primary industries offering in the State encompassing livestock, horticulture, fisheries and forestry.
"For a decade under Labor, Queensland’s primary industries sector was left to wither on the vine through the failure to invest and adapt to changing technologies.
“We need to work with the industry to return the sector to full profitability after decades of neglect under various Labor governments that took advantage of our food, fibre and foliage industries.”
Help shape the future of Queensland’s primary industries by joining the conversation on a draft blueprint online at https://dpi.engagementhub.com.au/primary-industries-blueprint.
The public consultation closes on 9 June, 2025.
Community members and producers from across the region contribute to the Primary Industries Prosper 2050 blueprint. Photo source: Tony Perrett MP (Facebook)
One of the major attractions at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day on Saturday, 10 May, will be the Walkers Engine No.1 Diesel Engine and Alternator Set.
Built around 1930 by Walkers Ltd in Maryborough, this impressive engine is based on a Mirrlees design. Rated at 220 horsepower at 300 rpm, it weighs 25 tonnes and drove a 150kW alternator. It features an air-blast start system and air-blast fuel injection — a method based on Rudolf Diesel’s original 1897 engine design. Several European companies, including Mirrlees, acquired rights to Diesel’s early designs.
By 1910, liquid fuel solid injection had been successfully developed, rendering air-blast fuel injection largely obsolete. As a result, the Walkers No.1 was already about 20 years out of date when it was built.
The Burdekin Machinery Preservationists believe only two operational air-blast injection diesel engines remain in Australia today.
During its working life at the Kalamia Sugar Mill, the Walkers No.1 Engine provided critical backup power when the mill’s steam alternators were offline or when the Townsville Regional Electricity Board (TREB) system was down. Its last operational use came during Cyclone Althea in 1971, when it helped power the mill during the emergency.
In 2015, Wilmar Sugar Mills generously donated the engine and alternator set to the Club. Work to remove the engine from the Kalamia Mill began soon after, and in March 2019, the engine was successfully fired up again at Brandon. The Club extends its thanks to Wilmar Sugar Mills for their ongoing support of this important community project.
In further good news, preparations for the Open Day are on track. "Main Man" Peter reports that the Austral will be up and running in time. Plumbing work was completed last Wednesday, engine testing began on Monday, and if the temperamental governor behaves, the Austral will be operating smoothly and on display in its full working glory.
Visitors are invited to experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of historic steam and diesel engines in action at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day, held from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday, 10 May, at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.
For more information, or to join the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists, contact Lex on 0488 366 443 or email burdekinmp@outlook.com.
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On April 26, the Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted its biannual Garage Sale to help raise funds for its ongoing activities and community contributions.
“What we sell at the garage sale is our main funding for the year,” said President Rob Ritchie. “We might have one or two a year, and we also sell stuff on Facebook.”
From 8am to 11:30am, customers were spoilt for choice, with a range of modern and antique household items, artworks, tools, gadgets and a host of other items available for purchase at bargain prices. Most of these items are donated, says Ritchie:
“People have stuff from a deceased estate, or they’re downsizing their house, or they’re having a garage sale of their own and the stuff doesn’t sell, and we go and pick it up.”
But beyond taking on these unwanted items, the Men’s Shed members apply their craftsmanship in order to restore, repair, or repurpose them, before offering them up at affordable prices, or simply giving them away to those that need them more.
“If we find there’s someone in town needing something and they’re finding it hard, we’ll give them something, if they can use it,” says Ritchie.
Any unsold items from the garage sale are still available for purchase during the Men’s Shed’s regular operating hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:00am to 11:30am.
The Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted its biannual Garage Sale to help raise funds for its ongoing activities and community contributions. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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