Ingrained in the history of the Burdekin region as one of the largest construction projects to date, the Burdekin Falls Dam holds the prestigious title of existing as the largest dam in Queensland.

Situated approximately 100 kilometres south of Charters Towers, the Burdekin Falls Dam was completed in 1987 at a cost totalling $125 million to adequately contain the Burdekin River, a catchment area covering about 7% of the state.

The structure can hold a capacity of 1,860,000 mega litres, and historically, the dam has reached a mammoth capacity of 221.15% which was recorded on the 20th of February in 1991, with the dam’s lowest point of 29.83% recoded in early November of 1987 after its official completion.

More recently, the dam has been splashed across headlines following the reconfirmation of the Burdekin Falls Dam Raising Project where the dam’s capacity will increase by an additional two meters with works to begin in 2027. As outlined in the 2024-2025 Queensland Budget, $540 million in funding has been allocated for the project and as of the 24th of March, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process marked another milestone whereby the Coordinator-General stated a new project declaration lapse date of the 7th of April, 2027.

The Burdekin Dam Raising Project has been a contentious topic of discussion for quite some time now, and the structure itself continues to stir a world of conversation within the Burdekin community and beyond.

A post published in January of 2021 on a community social media page asked locals to recall the wild conspiracy theories they once believed (or may still believe) to be true about the infamous structure. Stories dating back to the dam’s construction of disappearing workers came to the forefront of many local’s minds as well as the tales of a witch calling the dam home alongside a monstrous crocodile.

With both a rich history and a wave of plans for future development, the Burdekin Falls Dam will undoubtably continue to stand as the most impressive and largest water storage asset in Queensland for years to come.

‍

The Burdekin Falls Dam is the largest water storage facility in Queensland (Photo Source: Sunwater)

$125 million was allocated to the dam's initial 1987 construction (Photo Source: William John Rolls)
The Burdekin Falls Dam near completion in 1987 (Photo Source: Fred Morris)

‍

The Burdekin Shire Council has announced that Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Precinct is now selling, offering businesses a prime opportunity to secure fully serviced industrial land in North Queensland.

Strategically located at the Bruce Highway and Craig Street, Ayr, the precinct provides excellent access to major transport links, including the Port of Townsville and Bowen Basin. It features highway frontage, underground power, wide roads, and off-street parking, catering to diverse industries.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the precinct’s strategic advantages, saying, “This precinct has been carefully planned to meet the needs of modern industry, providing businesses with access to essential infrastructure, a strategic location, and a thriving regional economy,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

Local real estate agent Nutrien Harcourts McCathies will manage the sale of land in Stage 1.

John Mottin, Principal Managing Director of Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, noted the increasing demand for industrial land in the region.

“The Industrial Precinct provides an opportunity for businesses requiring larger sites to establish themselves here in the Burdekin which will boost our local economy and can help diversify the local economy by supporting growth of different industries."

‍

Acts of kindness often go unnoticed, but one grateful mother took to social media to express her heartfelt appreciation for those who came to her son’s aid when his car broke down in Home Hill.

Shelli Hargrave shared a message of gratitude, thanking the generous individuals who stopped to help her son during his time of need. Their willingness to assist, both in person and later over the phone, made a meaningful difference.

“A shout-out and massive thanks to those who helped my son broken down in Home Hill today and the phone support later tonight. It’s appreciated more than you know. From a grateful Mum,” she wrote.

Her post resonated with many, highlighting the strong community spirit in the Burdekin. Whether offering roadside assistance, lending a phone, or providing reassurance, these small but significant acts of kindness turned a stressful situation into a reminder of the power of compassion.

At a time when people are often caught up in their own lives, this moment of generosity reinforced the importance of looking out for one another. Thanks to the kindness of these individuals, Shelli later shared that her son arrived safely in Cairns.

In a world that can sometimes feel disconnected, gestures like these prove that community spirit is alive and well.

‍

Young people in the Burdekin region are in for a fantastic time as the much-anticipated ‘Sound Waves – Youth Pool Party’ returns. Scheduled for Sunday, 6 April, from 4pm to 8pm at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre in Ayr, this free event welcomes those aged 12-18 for an evening of entertainment and socialising.

Organised by the Burdekin Youth Council as part of Queensland Youth Week, the event will offer an exciting atmosphere with music, activities, and opportunities to connect. Attendees can enjoy a live DJ, thrilling prizes, giveaways, and a complimentary sausage sizzle. The pool and water park will be open, providing a perfect way to cool off, and drinks will be available for purchase.

The Burdekin Shire Council is also pleased to introduce the 2025 Burdekin Youth Council Executive. Leading the team is Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni (Burdekin Library Trainee and 2025 Young Citizen of the Year), supported by Deputy Youth Mayor William Wiseman (Year 8, Burdekin Christian College) and Secretary Cecelia Cason (Year 12, Burdekin Christian College).

Comprising 20 enthusiastic young members, the Youth Council is dedicated to advocating for local youth and implementing fresh ideas that benefit the community.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort praised the new Youth Council, stating, "It is fantastic to see such a strong and engaged group of young leaders stepping up this year.”

For more details, contact the Council’s Community Development Team at 4783 9800.

What: Sound Waves – Youth Pool Party
Where: Burdekin Aquatic Centre, Ayr
When: Sunday 6th April, 4-8pm

‍

Police are appealing to anyone in the Bowen and Ayr areas who may have information in relation to an ongoing investigation into alleged sexual offences at massage businesses, to come forward.

A 54-year-old man was charged on 23 February 2025, with two counts of sexual assault alleged to have occurred at a massage business in the Burdekin between July 2024 and 17 February 2025.

On March 1, the man was further charged with one count of sexual assault in relation to an alleged incident at a massage business in Ayr on 14 January 2025.

Detective Inspector Emma Novosel said investigators have received further information to indicate persons in the Bowen area may also have information that could assist investigations.

“Detectives urge any community members in the Bowen area between 2009 and 2011, who may have information regarding incidents of this nature to come forward and speak to police,” Detective Inspector Novosel said.

“I want to commend the victim-survivors for their bravery in coming forward, as investigations continue.”

‍

Struggling with high energy bills? You’re not alone. With the cost of living soaring, many households are feeling the strain...but a new initiative could help. The Charge Up! Project, funded by the Department of Energy and Climate through the Enable Grants Program, is making energy management simpler and more accessible. And now, you can take advantage of it right at here your Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.

Access to energy is a fundamental necessity, yet many families find themselves overwhelmed by rising costs, confusing bills, and a complex energy system. These challenges hit low-income and vulnerable households the hardest, leaving many without the knowledge or resources to reduce their energy expenses.

Community service organisations play a crucial role in supporting struggling households, from helping them access energy concessions to guiding them through hardship programs. However, with the energy market often difficult to navigate, clear and practical information isn’t always easy to find. The Charge Up! Project is changing that, providing households with the tools to understand their energy use, read their electricity meters, improve efficiency, and access vital financial support such as concessions, rebates, and tariffs.

Maddy Darley, an Energy Educator for the program, has seen first-hand the impact of this knowledge. By applying what she learned, she managed to cut her own electricity bill from $900 in January to $700 in February. She emphasised that having the right information is key to making smarter energy choices and saving money.

By empowering people with the knowledge to take control of their energy use, the Charge Up! Project is helping Queenslanders ease the burden of rising costs—one bill at a time.

‍

Feral Pigs have become a scourge across Queensland with the region of Burdekin not being spared. Locally, the feral pigs have been the agents of chaos, wreaking havoc by uprooting crops, damaging irrigation systems and polluting water sources.

Their foraging leads to soil erosion and the spread of invasive plants which contributes further to land degradation. Adding to their impressive resume of crop destruction and environmental pollution, they also threaten local wildlife by preying on small animals and competing with native fauna for sources of food. The feral pigs also pose a biosecurity risk as they are the carrier of diseases such as Q fever, leptospirosis, Japanese encephalitis and foot and mouth disease which can harm both human and livestock.

All of these factors combine to create a significant burden on the Burdekin community. The pigs bring with them a hefty economic burden on farmers and the community in general due to agricultural and infrastructure damage and cost of the measures taken to mitigate said damage.

The Burdekin and Queenslanders in general have had enough. Five feral pig coordinators have been chosen across six regions, funded by the Queensland Pest Initiative, who will coordinate with local governments, farmers, rangers and graziers to initiate large scale control of the feral pigs. The strategies employed will include baiting programs, providing landholders with cameras and traps, and coordinated aerial culling operations.

The Burdekin community’s involvement is critical in the management of feral pig populations with landholders and the wider community encouraged to sightings and damages to aid in monitoring and strategising efforts. Local councils also offer support and resources for the implementation of control strategies on private properties.

‍

2025 marks a wonderful milestone in Clare State School’s history, and over the weekend, almost 500 members of the Burdekin community gathered together to celebrate the school’s 75th anniversary.

Despite the unfortunate weather conditions, Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti was beyond pleased with the weekend’s events, noting Saturday evening’s Twilight Feast & Timeless Talks was an occasion to remember.

“The weekend was very successful, especially considering the rainfall that we had experienced in the days prior,” shared Mr Patti.

A plethora of events were scheduled across the weekend including a nostalgic Roll Call led by Mrs McMullen, Meet and Greet, Friday Night Fete, and Time Capsule opening which were enjoyed by both past and present staff, students and members of the wider community.

“It was great to see past students and staff rekindling friendships from many moons ago,” Mr Patti recalled.

“We even had 2 students who enrolled in 1950 (the first year our school opened), John and Peter Shadforth, in attendance as well as our longest serving staff member, Mrs Maureen McMullen who is 95 years old and was a teacher at the school from 1955 – 1987.”

On Saturday evening around 300 guests enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall, where plenty of memories were shared alongside a beautiful anniversary cake which was cut by John and Peter Shadforth along with two current prep students, Coen Booth (a third-generation student) and Chad Brown.

“Hearing the many stories from the past staff and students was a highlight for all as well as everyone at the Memorial Hall being led by the current day students to sing our school song, “Let the Cane Fires Burn”,” Mr Patti added.

“The students stood on the stage and led everyone in singing the song.”

The 75th Anniversary of Clare State School will be remembered for years to come, and the momentous occasion was officially cemented into the school’s history with the unveiling of a magnificent monument listing the names of six families who have enrolled three generations at the school over the years.

“The response from the community has been very positive,” said Mr Patti.

“Huge congratulations are in order for the 75th anniversary committee, Parents and Citizens’ Association, school staff and community members who have all helped to make this a very successful event.”

“This has been a great event which has seen many members of the Clare community come together with each other and past residents.”

‍

The beautiful anniversary cake was cut by John and Peter Shadforth along with two current prep students, Coen Booth (a third-generation student) and Chad Brown. Photo supplied

‍

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The growing season rolls on, and the weather gods continue to throw curveballs to sugarcane growers.

After a relatively dry period following the February onslaught, the recent rain events may well cause a further downgrade in crop expectations.

The southern Wilmar crushing regions would appear to be a beneficiary of rain, however, the Burdekin and Herbert regions are looking for some sunshine to get the crop growing again.

With crop estimates released in early April, it is important for growers to cross-check that their GEI-nominated cane tonnes are aligned with their mill crush estimate.

The sugar market continues to find export support on price dips and scale-up trade selling on market rallies. This sideways trading pattern may well continue until the harvesters roll into the Brazilian crop in April.

In general, analysts are pulling back their forecast for Brazil as dry weather persists, and a delayed harvest will increase anxiety in the market as export stock levels are always low at this time of the year. The Indian harvest is nearing completion, with Wilmar estimates of 26.3M tonnes of sugar looking to be very close to final production.

The AUD continues to be bounced around by a gyrating USD reacting to the latest policy changes in the US. The risk of an escalated global trade war through reciprocal tariff hikes bodes poorly for the AUD. In addition, the recent Australian employment data suggests that the jobs market may be weakening, which could open the door for further rate cuts from the RBA. This should also keep the AUD under pressure.

In more positive news, we will be hosting information sessions ahead of the start of the 2025 crush to update growers on the sugar market and how marketing with Wilmar can benefit them.

Those attending will also get the opportunity to meet our new consultant, who will be taking over from Angus McKerrow in Plane Creek after his seven years of service to the region.

If you’re interested in attending an information session near you, please complete the registration form or contact your local consultant.

‍

Grower Marketing Consultant Angus McKerrow and Risk Manager Bevan Patterson presenting to growers at an information session in Plane Creek. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Ayr State School recently held its annual Badge Ceremony, a proud tradition where senior students step into leadership roles and pledge their commitment to guiding their peers and upholding the school’s values.

This year, Sage and Ruby were honoured as School Captains, with Sage also taking on the role of Cultural Captain and Ruby representing her peers as the Student Representative. Their dedication and enthusiasm are sure to inspire students throughout the year.

The House Captain roles were awarded to Xavier representing Kennedy, Emmet representing Oxley, and Jaxsyn representing Mitchell, who will lead their teams with spirit and determination during school events and competitions.

During the ceremony, each leader read and signed a pledge, vowing to serve their school community with integrity and respect. This signed pledge now resides in the main office, serving as a lasting reminder of their promise to lead by example.

A special highlight of the day was the cutting of the celebratory cake by School Captains Sage and Ruby, later joined by the Senior Class of 2025 — a sweet way to mark the beginning of their leadership journey.

The Ayr State School community is incredibly proud of all the students who stepped into leadership roles, and we look forward to seeing them grow and thrive throughout the year.

‍

Transitioning to secondary school is a significant milestone, and at Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), they are dedicated to making this journey both exciting and seamless for students and parents alike. With a strong sense of community, outstanding academic programs, and a commitment to student success, BCHS ensures that every child is supported as they take their first steps into high school life.

To help students feel at home, BCHS invites all Year 5 and 6 students from the Burdekin region to take part in our highly anticipated Taster Day—a fun-filled experience designed to introduce students to the high school environment in an engaging and supportive way.

What’s in Store for Your Child?

From the moment they arrive, students will be welcomed by our friendly staff and student ambassadors, ready to answer any questions and guide them through the day’s activities. The event is designed to give students a firsthand experience of high school, helping them feel confident and excited about their future.

Taster Day Highlights:

Welcome & Introduction – Meet our teachers and students in a warm, friendly environment.

‘Getting to Know You’ Games – Break the ice with interactive activities.

Guided School Tour – Explore our facilities and classrooms.

Hands-on Curriculum Activities – Engage in exciting projects across all learning areas.

Q&A Session – A chance for students to ask questions and gain insight from teachers and current students.

Educational Rotations – Experience the variety of subjects and opportunities available at BCHS.

Taster Day Schedule

Drop-off Time: 9:15 AM

Lunch: Pies, sausage rolls, and fruit

Afternoon Tea: Fruit, Zooper Doopers, and a small pack of chips/popcorn

What to Bring: Hat & water bottle

What to Wear: Current school sports uniform

Pick-up Time: 2:30 PM

This immersive experience is a wonderful opportunity for students to build friendships, explore new subjects, and gain confidence in a high school setting. BCHS is more than just a school—it’s a place where every student is encouraged, challenged, and supported to reach their full potential.

For parents seeking a school that fosters faith, learning, and personal growth, Burdekin Catholic High School provides an education that truly believes in every child’s ability to succeed.

Join us for an unforgettable Taster Day and experience the BCHS difference!

For more information or to register your child, contact the school office on 4782366.

‍

Hi Everyone,

I’m truly enjoying getting to know the Burdekin community and exploring the region as a whole.

Starting fresh in a new area can be a bit daunting, but I’ve been met with such warmth and kindness from everyone here.

Though change can feel challenging at times, I’ve found that stepping out of your comfort zone often leads to wonderful, unexpected experiences.

So far, I’ve discovered some new favourite lunch and dinner spots, met some incredible people with fascinating stories, and treated myself to a few pieces from the fantastic shops Burdekin has to offer.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’d love to meet as many of you as possible, while I am in Burdekin and share your stories.

Ruth

"If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." Wayne Dyer.

‍

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to take a moment to share a brief additional note this week, as we approach Ramon's funeral this Saturday. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family during this difficult time.

For those wishing to attend, his funeral notice can be found on page 19.

Last week, I mentioned that we were considering including a memorial piece on Ramon's life in this week's paper. I understand this would have provided an opportunity for many of you to connect and share in the grief.

However, after careful consideration, Ramon's family has expressed a wish for this not to proceed at this time. Out of respect for their wishes, we have decided to honour their request.

Our thoughts are with everyone in the community who knew Ramon and holds special memories of him. I can only imagine how deeply he will be missed.

Rach

‍

An historic increase in funding for state schools will help students catch up, keep up and finish school according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Mr Last said the additional $2.8 Billion in funding over 10 years was the biggest injection of funding ever delivered to Queensland state schools and was confirmation of the state government’s goal of delivering a better future for Queensland’s children.

“Education is about opening doors for students and the Crisafulli governing is committed to opening those doors as widely as possible and keeping them open,” Mr Last said. “This funding is another step in reducing the workload on teachers, so their focus is on what they do best, helping our children achieve their full potential.”

“We know that the earlier we identify challenges that a student faces, the better chance we have of delivering the right supports to assist that child to learn and participate better in school.

“It is all a part of the bigger picture of boosting the proportion of students leaving school with a Year 12 certificate, improving attendance and also improving NAPLAN results. From a teacher’s point of view, we are improving access to high-quality and evidence-based professional learning to provide them with support and ongoing learning opportunities.”

Mr Last said the funding was tied directly to specific targets which meant the improvements would remain a key priority for the government.

“Securing the funding took a considerable amount of work but it was a priority because every Queenslanders wants to see a better and brighter future for our children. The agreement we were able to reach in 5 months is something that the previous government had been unable to do in 10 years and that proves how important this is to the Crisafulli LNP government.”

“It really is a milestone because, for the first time, every single Queensland state school will be fully funded, ending uncertainty and delays when it comes to investing in our children.”

“When it comes to our children’s future, we all have a role to play."

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

‍

Member for Burdekin Dale Last standing with some local school children. Photo supplied

‍

With the Oriental fruit fly last detected on mainland Australia along the North Queensland coast in 1995, the risk of another incursion remains a serious threat to the Burdekin's fruit industry. The pest, which thrives in climates similar to our own, could devastate key crops such as bananas and mangoes—staples of both local farms and the broader Australian horticultural sector. With Burdekin and surrounding regions heavily reliant on these industries, another outbreak could have dire economic and environmental consequences.

A joint PNG-Australia expedition visited remote Treaty Villages in PNG’s Western Province last week to discuss and help manage one of the world’s worst horticultural pests. With just 6km separating the two countries, the project seeks to reduce the impact of fruit fly in PNG while also preventing a potentially catastrophic outbreak in North Queensland.

The last time the pest was detected on the Australian mainland, not far from Cairns, the eradication effort cost at least $33 million, with a further $100 million lost in trade and associated expenses. A future outbreak could have severe consequences for Queensland growers, making prevention a top priority.

Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity Justine Saunders said the project was critical for both countries.

“We already have Queensland fruit fly, but Oriental fruit fly would be much worse in terms of impact to production and trade, as recognised by its listing on Australia’s National Priority Plant Pest List," Ms Saunders said.

“This trip established foundational relationships with the village communities, which the team hopes to strengthen further on a return trip in May 2025. The next phase is to trial control strategies in the hope of reducing the number of fruit flies in the Treaty Villages to assist our neighbours with food security.

“The program has employed and trained more than 30 South Fly rangers since 2022 to trap the insects, collect samples and manage data. It builds on more than two decades of collaboration in plant health initiatives between DAFF and NAQIA. The results of this work could have benefits to share across PNG and with our neighbours in the Pacific.”

The Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) attacks more than 400 different plants, including key crops in North Queensland such as mangoes, pawpaws, bananas, and guavas.

The villages of Berr, Buzi, Jarai, and Mari, where the trial is proposed, rely heavily on the food they grow. Damage to crops has serious health and social implications for villagers. At the same time, stopping the pest at its source is vital to preventing another outbreak in Australia.

The delegation consisted of three officers from PNG’s National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA), three from DAFF, a PhD student, delivery partner INLOC, and the South Fly rangers.

INLOC and the South Fly rangers coordinated the trip’s logistics, which involved liaising with Treaty Village leaders and community members, long boat rides, camping, and unpredictable tides.

With so much at stake, the work being done in PNG is not just about protecting their crops—it’s also a frontline defence for North Queensland’s fruit growers.

A joint PNG-Australia team visited remote Treaty Villages in PNG’s Western Province to discuss strategies for managing the Oriental fruit fly, a serious threat to horticulture in both countries. Photo credit: Darrol Williams

‍

Flood-affected soybean growers in Queensland growing regions say the best way concerned Aussies can help growers get back on their feet is at the supermarket checkout.

For North Queensland soybean grower, Christian Lago, it has been a season of constant weather challenges and lots of uncertainty.

“Our soybean season in the Burdekin region has been a challenge from the start”, said Mr Lago.

“Before Christmas, we were struggling to get soybeans in the ground thanks to wet weather and a delayed cane harvest, and then, the paddocks we did plant have been through flooding rains in early February, followed by more heavy rainfall in late March,” he added.

“We’ve got about four weeks to go before we harvest and, to be honest, there’s a lot of uncertainty whether our soybeans will make it into the silo thanks to the vagaries of the weather.”

Soy Australia Industry Development Officer, Judy Plath, said growers in the Mackay region had also experienced difficulties getting soybeans planted before and after Christmas due to wet weather and the late cane season.

“There has certainly been a reduction in the area of soybeans planted in the Mackay region this year due to weather challenges,” she said.

Soybean grower, Paul Fleming, has heard reports of destroyed and damaged soybean crops throughout his district, and says the best way consumers can help soybean growers get back on their feet is by buying Aussie-grown when they shop.

“People wanting to help can support Aussie soybean growers by making sure they put Aussie-grown soybean products in their shopping trolley,” he said.

Mr Fleming, who is a Board member of the peak industry body for soybeans, Soy Australia, believes most people don’t realise that a lot of soy-based foods in the supermarket are made with soy ingredients imported from places like China.

“If consumers choose brands that support Aussie farmers, they can make a huge difference to local soybean growers and help us keep afloat during difficult times,” he added.

“Companies like Vitasoy, for example, buy a lot of soybeans from the Northern Rivers and exclusively use Aussie-grown soybeans in their soy milk and yoghurt range,” said Mr Fleming.

“In fact, Vitasoy are the only Aussie soy milk manufacturer using Aussie-grown soybeans in their milk.

“Other brands use clever marketing to stop consumers from realising they actually use imported soy in their milks.”

“When you see wording like 'made in Australia with 99 per cent Australian ingredients' on your soy milk, then you can be confident that the company is supporting Aussie farmers,” said Mr Fleming.

“The same goes for soy-based foods like tofu or tempeh.

“The ingredient list should be virtually 100 per cent Aussie.”

‍