Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Following a jam-packed July that was dominated by our international sugar trader roadshow, the Grower Marketing team has been busy compiling the first edition of our new grower newsletter – The Sugar Brief.

In this new communication offering, we collate the range of activities we engage in that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables sponsors dozens of events within our sugar milling regions that are linked to cane growing, local schools, sporting clubs and community activities.

Through July and August the Grower Marketing team sponsored the Ingham Tractor Pull Championship held at the Ingham Show and the Young Farmers section at the 2024 Proserpine Show cane exhibit.

As part of Wilmar’s corporate sponsorship of the North Queensland Cowboys, we are able to entertain growers at some of the local games. Unfortunately, the most recent of these corporate box events coincided with the Broncos bringing their A-game to the Townsville stadium.

Port tours and school education events are a regular activity for our team in the field, and we hope to get some mill tours under way once the season is more progressed.

We also intermittently hold shed meetings for interested parties, especially those who missed out on the trader roadshow.

On the Pricing and Pooling front, Wilmar’s results continue to outperform the competition. Our Production Risk Pool is tracking well ahead of QSL’s Harvest Pool as is our Managed Pool and US Quota Pool.

The all-important Allocation Account is currently forecast at approximately $42/t Actual which is effectively twice as much as the QSL shared Pool. Obviously it is very early in the 2024 season and forecast prices will move around with the market. However the established trend of the Pool and Allocation continuing to add significant value to growers who choose to market with Willmar looks to be repeating.

Remember you have until 31 October 2024 to finalise your 2025 season GEI marketing nomination. Even if you have already nominated, you are able to change your GEI marketer up until that date.

Feel free to contact one of our team members to talk about your marketing options.

‍

We were proud sponsors of the Tractor Pull Championship held at the Ingham Show

Port tours are a regular activity for our team in the field. Owen Richards (right) is pictured with growers at the Port of Townsville

‍

Towards the end of World War II, Australia sought to expand agricultural land for returning soldiers. In the Lower Burdekin region, efforts began to develop farmland, especially for tobacco, which had been grown in Home Hill since 1909 by pioneers like Richard Bayliss.
By 1948, land was being sold around Clare for tobacco cultivation, but water availability was a significant challenge. To address this, a weir was planned at the Gorge in the Leichhardt Ranges, upstream from the confluence of the Bowen and Burdekin Rivers. This weir would support the new agricultural settlements of Clare, Millaroo, and Dalbeg.
Construction of the weir, located about 80 miles from Ayr, began in July 1952, with roads and bridges being built to access the site. By August, the first concrete had been poured for a temporary weir. The project involved a substantial workforce, and by November 1952, detailed surveys and contour plans for the diversion dam were completed.
The dam was designed to store 6,600 acre-feet of water for use in the first stage of the development. The worksite employed around 100 men, and 53 tobacco farms were established in Clare, with additional farms planned once the weir was completed.
The project, overseen by Alf T. Taylor of the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission, faced challenges, including a crane accident on June 30, 1953. The accident seriously injured two workers, Reginald William Buckley and Lewis Chaffey, requiring a 160-mile round trip to the hospital. Despite setbacks, the weir was completed by November 4, 1953.
On December 6, 1953, the Gorge Weir was officially opened by the Minister for Lands and Irrigation, the Honourable T. A. Foley, alongside other dignitaries. The event attracted a large crowd from the Lower Burdekin District. After the opening, guests inspected the Millaroo Irrigation Pumping Station, which was still under construction, and then visited the township of Millaroo for afternoon tea.
The Gorge Weir, a gravity-type structure built at the mouth of the Gorge in the Leichhardt Ranges, measured 1,320 feet wide and varied in height up to 40 feet due to the uneven rock foundation. The weir included a section of hardwood drop-boards that were removable and allowed water to back up about six miles, storing approximately 6,600 acre-feet. Water was released through an 8-foot wide by 4-foot high gate to flow down to the pumping stations at Clare, Millaroo, and Dalbeg, which became operational in 1954-55. The weir's construction cost approximately £400,000, which was £91,000 below the original estimate.
The Gorge Weir was part of a broader plan outlined in the Burdekin River Irrigation Hydro-Electric and Flood Mitigation Project Report of December 1951 by the Burdekin River Authority.
This plan included several stages: Stage 1, which was the construction of the Gorge Weir; Stage 2, the building of the Burdekin Dam at the Burdekin Falls, completed between 1984 and 1987; Stage 3, the proposed raising of the Burdekin Dam to enable water recycling and hydroelectricity generation, which remains unfulfilled as of 2022; and Stage 4, the construction of the Leichhardt Diversionary Dam downstream of the Gorge Weir, which was intended to open up agricultural land on the east bank of the Burdekin River and divert water towards Bowen. However, Stage 4 was never realized.
Today, the Gorge Weir has been supplemented by the Clare Weir and a pumping station at Steepy Banks on the Burdekin River, which channels water into the Upper Haughton River and ultimately contributes to Townsville's water supply. The Gorge Weir, a key component of the region's agricultural development, remains a significant historical and engineering landmark.
For those interested in learning more about the Gorge Weir, additional information can be found by searching for "Gorge Weir on the Burdekin River" on Trove.
_{Townsville Daily Bulletin Wednesday 3 Oct 1951 p3, Saturday 23 Aug 1952 p1, Friday 4 Dec 1953 p2, Monday 7 Dec 1953 p2.
Cairns Post Wednesday 1 July 1953 p5
Brisbane Telegraph Saturday 10 Oct 1953 p18, Friday 27 Nov 1953 p25
Daily Mercury Mackay Friday 22 May 1953 p14, Wednesday 4 Nov 1953 p6
Queensland Time Ipswich Wednesday 4 Nov 1953 p6
Queensland Country Life Thursday 10 Dec 1953 p3 Warwick Daily News Friday 7 Nov 1952 p3
Report by The Burdekin River Authority on The Burdekin River Irrigation Hydro-Electric and Flood Mitigation Project.  December 1951}
 
Contributed with thanks to Glenis Cislowski

‍

On the 17th, the Home Hill Rotary Club hosted a successful barbecue at Funny Dunny Park in Wunjunga, bringing together locals and campers to celebrate the community's dedication to recycling and the environment. The event, held at the park just 2 kilometres from the peaceful spot known as "Wunjunga," was a warm gathering that highlighted the area's strong community spirit.

The barbecue was organized to thank everyone who has supported the 10-cent cash-for-cans recycling program, a key initiative that has helped maintain the park's cleanliness and beauty. The Rotary Club, known for its commitment to local causes, expressed its deep gratitude to those who have played a part in keeping Funny Dunny Park a welcoming space for both residents and visitors.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious barbecue and a selection of cakes, all provided as a token of appreciation for their contributions to the recycling efforts. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie as locals and campers alike shared stories, enjoyed the food, and reflected on the positive impact their actions have had on the park.

Funny Dunny Park, designed to be a haven for bushwalking and fishing enthusiasts, continues to serve as a vital community space. The park's amenities, including a water tank, rubbish bins, clean toilets, and the unique "Seat of Knowledge," provide visitors with comfort and convenience while they connect with nature.

The event was not only a celebration of recycling but also of the community's collective effort to preserve this beautiful spot. The success of the barbecue underscored the importance of community involvement in environmental stewardship and demonstrated the Rotary Club's ongoing commitment to enhancing local spaces.

As the sun set on the day, the smiles and laughter of those who attended the barbecue echoed through the park, reinforcing the strong sense of community that makes Funny Dunny Park more than just a place of peace—it's a place where the community comes together to support one another and the environment. The Rotary Club's barbecue was a fitting tribute to the shared efforts that keep Funny Dunny Park a cherished part of Wunjunga.

The Cash For Cans Project
Wunjunga Park
Karen Nagle and Mee-kah
Emma Rogers at the seat of knowledge
Mike Newton and Rod Alford cooking up a storm

‍

Brielle Astorquia, was introduced to the role of ambassador for the Water Festival through Kari Ravizza from the festival committee. Brielle’s involvement began when she was approached at Nutrien Harcourts and McCathie’s Real Estate, where she was recruited for the ambassador position.

The primary objectives of this year's Water Festival include boosting confidence, fostering friendships, and raising funds for the Charlie Teo Foundation. Additionally, the festival serves as a platform for local businesses to gain exposure. The festival’s theme, "Bring it Back," aligns with these goals by celebrating tradition and community involvement.

One of the highlights of this year's festival is the bowling event, which plays a significant role in fundraising and community engagement. Brielle shared that the event brought together both junior and senior participants, allowing them to mingle and showcase their support for the festival on social media. The event created a sense of unity and excitement, further emphasising the festival's community-focused spirit.

As for future plans, Brielle is excited about activities such as visiting Regis Home Care and the parade with floats, which promises to be a significant event. She is committed to preserving the festival’s original charm and looks forward to seeing future queens experience the same joy she has.

Brielle also reflects on her personal growth, having overcome the challenges of organising the bowling event in a short time. Her experience has fuelled her passion for the festival, and she hopes to continue her involvement, eventually joining the committee to guide future ambassadors.

Support for the Water Festival extends beyond attending events. Brielle encourages community members to participate in the parade, long lunch, and festival meetings, emphasising that everyone is welcome to contribute. The festival thrives on community spirit, and Brielle is grateful for the overwhelming support from local businesses and attendees. The success of the bowling event, which featured fun activities like bowling with non-dominant hands and a video from Charlie Teo, highlighted the importance of spreading awareness for brain cancer while bringing the community together.

Senior Ambassadors Brielle Astorquia, Mia Kelly, Sasha Previtera, Demi O’Shea
Junior Ambassadors Cole Pontifes, Dakota Dixon, Eden Godfrey, Stella Borellini, Francheisca Dela Cruz

Kayla Steiner bowls a spare
Cassie Mottin, John Mottin, Candice Dyball, Josh Dyball, Dale Hockey
Shane Reardon, Sam Nucifora, Joseph Nucifora, Arianna Nucifora, Maria McCoy
Warren Johnston, Lena Nucifora, Gina Calligaro
Brielle Astorquia

‍

DOB: 26/01/24

Sex: Female

Breed: DSH

Kid friendly: Soft hands only

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Slow introduction

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors only

Meet Marinette, a curious and playful young lady who loves to cuddle up on your bed at night. During the day, she transforms into a quirky ball of energy, always eager to voice her opinions.

Marinette is a delight to have around her foster mum can't understand why she's still searching for her forever home.

Adoption days are not Marinette’s favourite, if you would like to get to know her, a visit to her foster mum’s home is the best place to meet her.

Does Marinette sound like the perfect companion for you?

If the answer is yes, just fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html. 

Included in her adoption fee of $195 Marinette is desexed, micro-, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/intestinal worm treated.

‍

Meet Bruce Smith, a dedicated security control room operator who skilfully balances his full-time job with the demanding role of being an auxiliary firefighter.

As a shift worker with the council, Bruce spends his days ensuring the safety and security of the community, a responsibility that requires constant vigilance. Due to the nature of his primary job, he can only respond to fire calls during his off shifts. However, this limitation hasn’t dampened his passion for helping others—a passion that led him to join the State Emergency Service (SES) six years ago and become an auxiliary firefighter three years later.

Bruce’s inspiration to serve as a firefighter came from a deep desire to give back to his community. Although balancing these two demanding roles isn’t easy, the support of his partner and three children makes it possible.

“I’m not allowed to leave my primary job, so I’m only available on my days off. But it’s not too bad,” Bruce says, emphasising the importance of a strong family support system.

A typical callout for Bruce can range from smoke alarm activations to road traffic accidents and hazardous material incidents. The unpredictability of the calls, especially those involving children, can be stressful. However, the presence of a support system within the fire service helps mitigate the emotional strain.

Training is rigorous and ongoing, with sessions every Monday night covering everything from road crash rescues to electrical incident management. Bruce advises those considering the role to be prepared for the unpredictability of the job, including the possibility of missing personal events.

Outside of work, Bruce copes with the stress through hobbies like gaming, fishing, and camping—activities that offer a much-needed escape from the demands of firefighting. Despite the challenges, his commitment to helping others remains unwavering, making Bruce Smith a true community hero.

‍

Bruce Smith

‍

By day, he's a skilled cabinet maker, crafting cupboards and installing timber doors. By night, he's ready to jump into action as an auxiliary firefighter. For Brayden Arroita the balance between these two roles is a challenging yet rewarding experience.
From a young age, Braydon dreamed of becoming a firefighter:
"Ever since I was three, I always wanted to be a firefighter," he recalls.
When the opportunity arose, Brayden didn't hesitate to pursue his childhood dream. Now, he juggles his primary job with the unpredictable demands of firefighting, which can range from calm weeks to nights filled with multiple callouts.
His work as an auxiliary firefighter involves responding to various emergencies, from house fires to car crashes. The role comes with its challenges, especially when he faces the possibility of knowing the victims involved. However, a robust support system, including debriefs and counselling, helps him navigate the emotional toll.
One of his most memorable experiences was being deployed to the Tara bushfires early in his firefighting career. The experience, surrounded by seasoned firefighters, significantly impacted his growth and maturity in the role.
Despite the demands, Braydon remains passionate about both his jobs. His advice to anyone considering joining the ranks of auxiliary firefighters? "Just go for it—the sky’s the limit."

Brayden Arroita

‍

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is actively recruiting part-time auxiliary firefighters to join their dedicated team in the Burdekin Local Government Area, including stations in Ayr, Giru, and Home Hill. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to contribute to their local community whilst balancing other commitments.

Local Auxiliary Fire Fighters Brayden and Bruce. Photo supplied

‍

The CEO of Business Chamber Queensland, Heidi Cooper, highlighted the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by businesses across the state at a recent meeting during her visit to the Burdekin.

"We spend a lot of time listening to the Queensland business community because we want to ensure the business environment is the right one for them," she emphasised. This approach involves engaging with regional and North Queensland businesses to advocate for the best possible outcomes.

One of the key issues facing Queensland businesses is workforce management. "Workforce is the number one issue for Queensland businesses, about accessing and retaining the right staff," the CEO stated. She pointed out that businesses are struggling with high wages, energy costs, and insurance expenses. Housing availability also poses a significant challenge, making it difficult for businesses to employ staff without adequate living arrangements.

The Business Chamber Queensland offers various support programs to assist businesses of all sizes across the state. These programs include online services, help desks, and other resources to ensure accessibility regardless of location. A notable initiative is the EcoBiz program, which helps businesses implement sustainable practices. Heidi shared a success story from Cairns, where a tourism operator reduced energy and waste consumption, leading to cost savings and improved sustainability.

The chamber actively engages with regional communities through meetings, conversations, and surveys. "I encourage any regional businesses to get involved in our pulse surveys and election surveys on our website. The more engagement, the better we can advocate," Heidi urged. These surveys help address the specific issues businesses face, with workforce management being a primary concern.

To support workforce diversity and retention, the chamber has launched an initiative called Workforce Evolve. This program assists business owners in diversifying their workforce and provides HR support, particularly beneficial for smaller businesses. "We know that workforce is the biggest issue," Heidi reiterated, emphasising the importance of chamber membership for accessing these resources.

The chamber's core purpose, as an independent, not-for-profit organisation, is to support the Queensland business community. They host events, often in partnership with local chambers, to foster connections and address economic challenges. Despite low confidence levels across the state, Heidi remains optimistic about opportunities in regional Queensland.

"Our election platform focuses on bringing the voice of regional Queensland to state government, advocating for policies and regulations that enable business success," Heidi concluded. They encouraged business owners to join local chambers and the Business Chamber Queensland to benefit from a supportive network, emphasising that thriving businesses contribute to the overall prosperity of the community.

‍

David Jackson President of Home Hill Chamber of Commerce, Heidi Cooper CEO of Business Chamber Queensland and Leigh Kefford President of Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meet at Home Hill Newsagents for a Chamber of Business meeting. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

‍

Stephen Tunbridge, one of Burdekin’s local volunteer heroes, has been with Burdekin Community Association Inc for 7 years. During his time with BCA, Stephen has always been prepared to help with whatever is required of him, within the organization and the community.
Stephen originally was a business man and owned Shoelites Footware for many years.
When his shop closed down, he decided to become a volunteer and give back to the community and wanted to use his time helping others. Stephen has been a valuable asset for the residents and organizations within the Burdekin.
For 6 years Stephen volunteered 6 days a week for the Salvation Army however then he turned his attention to BCA and approached the BCA Volunteer Service Manager Rita Quagliata.
Stephen is warmly known and much loved and has brightened the lives of the elderly clients he visits as a visitor for the ACVVS Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme. He is a caring and compassionate man, a perfect person for this role. He provides companionship, laughter and has gained a strong rapport with all he meets. He always enjoys doing something for others. Stephen also does some fundraising for BCA and volunteers at the Community Information Centre two days a week.
Stephen uses his time each day to improve the quality of life of others and to embrace a sense of community.
Stephen is always ready to help and ‘yes’ is his favorite word.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Community Association Inc

Local Hero Stephen Tunbridge

Welcome to this edition of our newspaper, where we continue to bring you the stories that matter most to our vibrant Burdekin community. As I settle into my new role here in Home Hill, I’m filled with excitement and gratitude for the warm welcome I’ve received from residents, businesses, and community leaders alike.

Home Hill is a place where the sense of community is palpable, where people take pride in their town, and where traditions and innovations walk hand in hand. The Burdekin region, with its rich agricultural heritage and thriving local businesses, offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day dynamism. It's a place where stories abound, from the thriving community events to the serene banks of the mighty Burdekin River.

In this edition, we delve into the heart of what makes Home Hill and the wider Burdekin region so special. We feature stories that celebrate the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that define this area. Whether it’s highlighting the achievements of local heroes, exploring the challenges facing our region, or showcasing the cultural events that bring us together, we aim to reflect the diversity and richness of life here.

As I continue to get to know the ins and outs of this wonderful town, I’m eager to hear your stories and share them with our readers. After all, it’s your experiences, your challenges, and your triumphs that shape the narrative of our community. Please feel free to reach out with your ideas, news tips, or just to say hello.

Thank you for welcoming me into your community. I look forward to being a part of Home Hill and the Burdekin region for many years to come.

‍

OPINION PIECE
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has lashed out at the state government as seafood shop owners and marine businesses in the Burdekin are left as collateral damage in the government’s decision to gut the commercial fishing industry.
Mr Last said while the introduction of a heavily restricted commercial gillnet licence symbol NX, should have been an opportunity to allow our commercial fishers to continue to supply our state’s seafood consumers and support flow-on small businesses, its proven to be tied up in red tape and left fishers fearful to work under the new regulations.
“If the Minister had taken the time to listen to stakeholders at the rally in the Burdekin last year he would know the devastating flow-on effect the changes imposed on the commercial gillnet fishing industry would have on our marine businesses and seafood shop operators,” Mr Last said.
“Not only have we seen the livelihoods of commercial fishermen sent into turmoil, we are now seeing communities and the businesses that operate within them left as collateral damage.”
“While the Minister may have people think compensation packages are there to support impacted businesses, the harsh reality is the amount needed to diversify their small business would actually far outweigh the support being offered.”
Mr Last said already within the first months of implementing the new NX licences for commercial fishers, it was clear there had been no consultation with the industry around the conditions that would be forced upon them.
“Despite commercial gillnet fishers jumping through every hoop to obtain an NX licence, Labor is still insistent on treating them as criminals when the vast majority just want to ensure that seafood consumers still have access to locally caught produce.”
“It’s an absolute disgrace by both state and federal Labor that not only have they bound another primary industry in unworkable red tape but that they have been quite happy to turn a blind-eye to the wider impacts on those businesses that support local jobs and our community’s economy.”
“Just like we have seen with regulation imposed on our sugarcane farmers, once again this community and the small businesses that make its backbone are sacrificed in an effort for Labor to appease the Green vote.”
“If the Minister really was the ‘farmers friend’ he would be making every effort to work with our primary industries and the communities that rely on them, rather than standing by and watching small businesses shut shop at the hand of haphazard regulation.”
Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

‍

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is no stranger to the Bruce Highway and has launched a campaign, Back Our Bruce, Back Our People.
 
The section of the Bruce Highway that runs through the electorate of Dawson, from Mackay up into Townsville, has been identified as the most dangerous section of the entire highway, with the worst identified as the 100km stretch between Bowen and Home Hill.
 
“As someone who spends a lot of time on the Bruce Highway, travelling to meet with businesses and constituents in my electorate, I’ve experienced the dangers of the Bruce firsthand,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“How many fatal or near-fatal crashes must happen on the Bruce Highway before the State Labor and Federal Labor Governments start taking this issue seriously?

“They’ve cut the funding ratio from 80/20 being 80 per cent from the federal government and 20 per cent from the state to 50/50 which has never been done before, with no funding at all being allocated in the recently released budget and no future plans for the Dawson section of the Bruce Highway.
 
“While Labor is busy investing millions of dollars in the southeast corner to secure votes, innocent lives in my electorate are being lost, and frankly it’s disgusting.
 
“The lives of the people who live, work, and travel throughout the electorate and through this section of the Bruce Highway are just as important as those living in capital cities, and we deserve to be able to confidently travel on our roads and arrive at our destination, or home to our families, safely.
 
Mr Willcox said this is why he launched this campaign and urges everyone to visit his website and sign the petition.

“It doesn’t matter if you live in the electorate or if you’re a truckie or a tourist driving through, if you’ve travelled this part of the Bruce and experienced the appalling state of it, please join us in the fight to fix our highway,” he pleaded.
 
“The more signatures we have, the louder our voice and the stronger our message will be to those who currently have the power to do something about this and make the highway safer.
 
“This isn’t about politics or political agendas; this is about the safety of my people and of the people travelling through our region.
 
“Regional Queensland contributes enormously to our economy, through mining royalties and agriculture. I’m not asking for the moon; I’m simply asking for our fair share and to lift the standard of this section of the highway.
 
“Dawson deserves better,” Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox was joined at the launch by local transport business owner, John Warren, who travels the Bruce every day and is concerned for the safety of his drivers and the cost to his business from the damage the highway does to his trucks.

“For 32 years I have been driving this section of the Bruce Highway and the road was better back then than what it is now.

“I spend in excess of $40,000 per month in fuel tax and $12,000 per truck in road registration. We have to have road worthy trucks, how about some truck worthy roads,” Mr Warren said.
 
In a report released last week, it was revealed that the Bruce Highway failed basic safety ratings, sections in regional Queensland being ranked the worst danger zones, with the stretch between Bowen and Home Hill having the worst pothole density with 88 per 100 kilometres.
 
To sign the petition, visit www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce
 
“I encourage everyone to get involved and help support this campaign. If people have any experiences they’d like to share, please contact my office via either Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au or on 07 4944 0662,” Mr Willcox said.

‍

John Warren from Warren Transport and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox are fighting for federal funding to fix North Queensland’s horror stretches of the Bruce Highway

‍

The region is set to experience a significant boost to connectivity with the introduction of direct flights from Whitsunday Coast Airport to Adelaide launching on September 1st. This new route, developed in partnership with major airline Jetstar, is strategically designed to open the region to new markets while providing an affordable and convenient travel option for visitors.

The decision to add Adelaide as a direct destination was driven by the airport's goal to expand beyond traditional eastern coast markets like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. Director of Commercial Businesses for Whitsunday Regional Council, Craig Turner, highlighted that this move allows the entire region to reach a broader demographic, with the inaugural flight already seeing strong demand, evidenced by 156 bookings and expected to be fully booked.

The economic implications of this new route are substantial, especially following the loss of Bonza. The direct flights from Adelaide are expected to fill this gap, bringing in new visitors and creating fresh opportunities for local businesses. Craig emphasised that this influx of tourists would not only support hotels and restaurants but also generate jobs for residents, including recent school graduates.

Moreover, the new route offers residents easier and more affordable access to South Australia's attractions, such as the Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, and Kangaroo Island. This increased connectivity is expected to strengthen ties between the two regions, making it easier for people to visit family and friends.

Despite the potential increase in passenger traffic, Craig affirmed that the impact on airport operations would be minimal. The flights are scheduled to arrive at 6:20pm and depart at 6:55 PM, a timing that fits well within the airport's existing infrastructure. The route is expected to attract over 40,000 passengers annually, with load factors projected to exceed 80%.

This new service aligns with the airport’s broader strategic goals of identifying and establishing direct flights to new destinations. The airport has undertaken extensive data analysis and strategic planning to ensure the success of this route. According to Craig, decisions like these are not made lightly; they are backed by rigorous research and collaboration with airline partner Jetstar.

To promote the new Adelaide-Whitsundays flights, the airport has launched a comprehensive marketing campaign. This campaign, developed in partnership with Adelaide Airport, Tourism Whitsundays, and the South Australian Tourism Commission, includes newspapers, billboards, social media campaigns, and influencer collaborations, all of which are already showing positive results.

Passengers on the new route can look forward to a comfortable experience aboard Jetstar’s Airbus A320, with a flight time of approximately three hours. The airport is committed to maintaining high service standards to ensure a positive travel experience.

In terms of environmental responsibility, the airport is actively working with airlines to minimise the impact of increased flights. This includes ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions, such as maintaining extensive green spaces on the airport's 370 hectares.

The success of this new route will be measured by load factors above 80% and the overall economic benefits to the region. The airport is optimistic that this new connection will drive the Whitsundays' economy and is already considering potential future expansions based on the route's performance.

This new direct flight route strengthens the region’s ties with Adelaide, providing a direct gateway to one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations.

‍

Every year on August 18th, the Burdekin community comes together to honour the sacrifices and bravery of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan. This day, now synonymous with Veterans' Day in the region, has been a significant event for over 30 years.

The ceremony, initially held annually in Ayr, has found a more permanent home at Deep Creek Veteran’s Retreat, for the past two decades, welcoming many visiting veterans from out of town. The ceremony begins at 11 am, and members of the public are encouraged to join.

The Battle of Long Tan, which took place in 1966, holds a special place in the hearts of many, including those who arrived in Vietnam shortly after. "I got there in November 1967, more than a year after the battle. I didn't know much about it at the time, but it has since become very significant," reflects one veteran, Don Bailey.

The ceremony has evolved over the years, incorporating new elements to keep the remembrance alive and engaging. Traditionally featuring a parade and service by the creek, the event occasionally includes a catafalque party from the Townsville military or the local air cadets. This year, attendees can look forward to a performance by the Burdekin Brass Band, echoing the past where up to four buglers have played the Last Post, a tribute steeped in solemnity and respect.

Remembering the soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War, the ceremony is a poignant commemoration held on the anniversary of Long Tan. The involvement of the local veteran group from Deep Creek, though dwindling in numbers, remains steadfast. It is supported by associate veterans from other conflicts. However, engaging younger generations in these ceremonies has proven challenging. "We’ve been invited to schools a few times, but no one wants to take up the offer like the RSLs that have been invited," Don notes.

Despite these challenges, the ceremony's organisation faces minimal financial hurdles. The event, funded through modest means, includes snacks and drinks for attendees, sustaining itself with community support. Looking ahead, the hope is that the torch of remembrance will be passed forward, ensuring that this significant day continues to unite the community in paying respect to its veterans.

The Long Tan ceremony remains a vital tradition, a day for the community to gather, remember, and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served. As plans are made for future ceremonies, the commitment to preserving this legacy endures, reflecting the profound respect held for those who have given so much.

WHERE: Deep Creek Veteran’s Retreat
WHAT: Long Tan Ceremony
WHEN: 18th August, 11am

‍

Don Bailey in Vietnam
Catafalque Party at the Long Tan Ceremony in previous years

‍