While brainstorming ideas for this week's column, a casual remark sparked a discussion about the assumption that everyone is always in the loop. Our hectic schedules make it rare to be in the office simultaneously.

This week, we want to emphasise the value of personal connections. It is important to touch base with each other and reconnect with people you haven’t spoken with in a while, as these connections truly enrich our lives. Losing touch with others can affect our health and wellbeing and make us feel isolated, lonely and worthless.

How often have you thought, “I haven’t heard from … for a long time,” and then just gone about your business? We are all guilty of this. Next time you have that thought or speak those words, make the time to reconnect, as it may be the highlight of the other person’s day. When we make someone happy, it also makes us happy and improves our well-being.

When we experience these thoughts, it's a sign that our lives may be out of balance. It's important to pay attention to this feeling and make time to reconnect and restore harmony. As social and emotional beings, we naturally seek to build interpersonal connections. Our well-being thrives when we are surrounded by others. When these connections weaken, it can impede our ability to learn and understand, as our social and emotional bonds drive these capabilities.

So next time someone pops into your thoughts, pick up the phone and make time to catch up. It may well be the start of a wonderful journey of discovery for you both.

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Until next time,

Contributed with thanks to The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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There has been quite a bit happening around the area since my last column. Some of the events I have been lucky enough to attend are the Burdekin Grower Race Day, Burdekin Netball Association’s Burdekin Cup, Rotary Club’s Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, East Ayr State School’s under 8s Day, the Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast, and also made it along to the Burdekin Theatre to see Dreams – The Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Tribute Show. These types of events don’t happen in small towns like ours without the dedication, hard work and generosity of volunteers. We have been very lucky to have a community that is willing to give back. Hopefully this will continue into the future.
Fingers crossed, at the time this is printed, for the whole communities’ sake, the four Burdekin sugar mills are up and running. Let’s pray for a safe crushing free from unnecessary disruption.
A bit of salt to finish the column.
The day before the 1st Men’s State of Origin, Councillor Furnell pointed out that his team, the cockroaches, were one up. Obviously, he must have been talking about the NSW ladies winning game one of their series. Unfortunately for John, his cockroaches are now down two to one after QLD’s men and ladies' sides both getting wins. The next 2 games are home games also. Off to Townsville for the ladies and Melbourne (that’s in QLD) for the Men. QUEENSLANDER!

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Did you know approval is required to set up a street stall or raffle on Council roads, footpaths or other areas?
Council has a number of locations, mainly on Queen Street, Ayr and Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, where raffles and street stalls may be held.
For information on availability of dates and locations and to receive approval, please contact Council's Customer Service Centre.
If approved a copy of your current public liability insurance to the value of $10,000,000 is to be provided to Council.
When approving the request, consideration will be made of adjacent businesses for example a stall selling cakes may not be approved near a bakery. 
If you're looking to set up a street stall in the Burdekin, there's a straightforward process to follow. Street stalls, perfect for fundraising or promoting community events, require a permit from the Burdekin Shire Council. Here’s how it works:
   • Application Form: Complete the street stall application form available on the Council's website.
   • Submission: Submit the form at least ten days prior to the proposed date.
   • Approval: The Council reviews the application, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
   • Permit Issuance: Once approved, you’ll receive a permit detailing the conditions for your stall.
Street stalls are a great way to engage with the community and promote your cause. By following the proper steps, you ensure a smooth and successful event.
For detailed guidelines and to access the application form, visit Council's Street Stalls webpage.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce has stood proudly in the Burdekin community since the early 1930s. Committed to addressing local issues and fostering community spirit, the chamber boasts a diverse membership of 43, encompassing not only business leaders but also dedicated individuals passionate about the region’s prosperity.

The Chamber includes five Executive Committee members who, alongside its members, drive forward initiatives and outreach efforts.

Recently, the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce was honoured to receive a Bendigo Bank Community Grant amounting to $1,000, a testament to the organisation’s shared vision with Bendigo Bank in supporting local endeavours. This grant will directly fund the upcoming Ephemera Art Competition, alleviating financial strain and enabling the chamber to expand its reach within the community.

“We run the Ephemera Art Competition as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival, and it was very exciting to receive the grant as it will lighten the load for the Festival Committee,” explained Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Secretary, Robert Antoniazzi.

The involvement of local schools in past editions has not only enriched the event but also inspired young artists to explore their talents further.

“The grants are a wonderful initiative and mean that events involving local schools can continue,” said Mr. Antoniazzi.

“Students realise that there is something for them to give their artistic side an opportunity to develop and encourage them to continue their work.”

Beyond financial services, the Bendigo Bank’s commitment to community grants empowers organisations like the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce to cultivate local talent, foster community bonds, and drive positive change. The chamber expresses immense gratitude towards Bendigo Bank for their continued support and look forward to further collaborations.

The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce extends a warm invitation to Bendigo Bank board members to attend the chamber’s social events within the community, and see first-hand the work of the dedicated team. Both the Bendigo Bank board members and members of the local community are invited to attend the chamber’s meetings held every third Wednesday at the Home Hill Community Sports Club, Ninth Avenue, Home Hill at 5:30pm.

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Inkerman Lime and Gypsum stands as a celebrated business which has been operating in the region since 1932. In 2006, couple Joe and Rosetta Tama took ownership of Inkerman Lime and Gypsum, which has since become a family business with their son, Robert Tama now the manager, following in his parents’ footsteps.

“My father has always been interested in investing in projects that he believed had great potential,” explained Robert.

“When he saw the possibilities and benefits of Inkerman Lime and Gypsum in improving soil quality using natural-based products, he recognised the opportunity to help not only farming land but also soils in general in the district and surrounding areas.”

Robert began working alongside his father in 2018, whilst continuing to manage his family’s farm. A couple of years later, Robert assumed full control of Inkerman Lime and Gypsum, and continues to balance both the business and the farm.

“One of the best highlights over the years has been the opportunity to communicate with customers and build friendships, and interacting with customers who have years of experience and local knowledge has been a great way to learn and provide assistance,” expressed Robert.

“I believe that no matter how old we get, there is always something new to learn, and interacting with others allows us to gain new knowledge over time.”

Robert manages the business with a focus on delivering exceptional customer service and finds great fulfilment in witnessing the long-term results of improving their customer’s soil quality and yield.

Moving forward in his management position, Robert envisions Inkerman Lime and Gypsum entering a new era of growth and innovation over the next decade and believes the upcoming changes will honour their continued dedication towards enhancing soil health and maximising crop yields for their customers.

“We plan to upgrade our equipment, introduce innovative product blends, provide comprehensive staff training and will collaborate with local agronomists and our growers to elevate and upgrade our services further,” explained Robert.

“We invite everyone to join us on this journey towards better soil health and increased productivity.”

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The scheduled return for the Burdekin Water Festival has been celebrated across the region, with the festival set to ignite Queen Street on Saturday 7 September with the nostalgic theme, Bring it Back.

The theme, Bring it Back was decided at the Burdekin Water Festival Committee’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Monday 10 June where a group of dedicated members of the community put plans into motion for the 2024 event.

Drawing from Water Festivals of the past, the theme, Bring it Back aims to take locals on a trip down memory lane, and the committee encourages all businesses to decorate their shop fronts to capture their most treasured memories of the annual festival. In discussions with the Water Festival Committee, common memories amongst the group included extravagant floats and costumes, Angie Baby, candy being thrown from the floats, various local organisation’s mascots participating in the parade, Queen Street festivities, delicious food stalls, and awesome entertainment throughout the day and into the night.

The committee has begun calling for your support to ensure this much-loved event returns with a bang, and needs organisations, sporting clubs, dance and performance schools, community groups, businesses, primary, high schools and kindergartens, and ultimately everyone in the community to become involved in some way.

“We have a short time frame to get this underway, and we need as much support as we can, financially, and with volunteers, so if you can help in any way, please contact us,” expressed the Burdekin Water Festival Committee’s Media Advisor, Kari Ravizza.

Both junior and senior ambassadors from any organisation, businesses, groups and / or schools in the region are also strongly encouraged to come forward.

On the evening of last Monday’s AGM, the Burdekin Water Festival Executive Committee was announced, receiving extremely positive feedback from the community, acknowledge the event will be in safe hands. The esteemed president, Eusebio Aguirre will be joined by Vice President Frank Nucifora, Treasurer Debbie Szendry, Secretary Bruna Pearson, and Secretary Support, Colleen Harris.

With updates and calls for support being published on the Burdekin Water Festival’s Facebook page, Wednesday 12 June saw the committee excitingly secure Queensland Country Credit Union as one of their major sponsors.

The committee expresses its gratitude to the region for their support of their efforts to date and looks forward to organising an extraordinary comeback event for the much-loved Burdekin Water Festival.

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A visit to the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has given a group of Burdekin cattle producers an opportunity to learn more about the science behind water quality research.

It was organised by natural resource management group NQ Dry Tropics, working with Burdekin graziers on changed grazing practices to manage riparian zones and maintain end-of-dry season groundcover to improve water quality and farm production.

NQ Dry Tropics Paddock to Reef project officer Jade Fraser said the tour of the facilities was an opportunity to provide graziers with additional knowledge about how improved farming practices could benefit the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

“We’re trying to merge best-practice science with best-practice land management and come up with solutions that work for landholders, the government, and the Great Barrier Reef,” Jade said.

“If farmers are to be part of the water quality solution, they need access and communication lines to government, policymakers and scientists to help come up with solutions that complement their farm enterprise.

“Graziers had an opportunity to share how practices they’re putting in place are reducing their environmental footprint while also improving the viability of their farms, and scientists were able to talk about the research they’re doing and why it mattered.

“Scientists explained the implementation of the Paddock to Reef (P2R) Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting program in the Burdekin region, and how results provided evidence of links between land management activities, water quality and reef health.

“Monitoring is used to measure the on-ground change in land management practices and water quality at the paddock scale. This feeds into catchment models that track progress towards water quality targets through the Great Barrier Reef Report Card.”

Burdekin grazier Glen Duncombe said he found the visit informative.

“It was good to hear how scientists carry out monitoring to show impacts of environmental changes on marine ecosystems, and what corals can tell us about the occurrence and intensity of freshwater flood and cyclone events on the reef,” Glen said.

“Water quality going into the reef is, if not getting better, at least stabilising, and hopefully that’s got a bit to do with what we’re doing at home. If we’re all doing our bit, collectively it helps.

“We’re keeping cattle out of the rivers which means we don’t have the cattle pads into the river to cause erosion.

“We’re also improving groundcover and diversity of pastures, and that’s definitely making a difference in reducing run-off during the wet season.

“Hopefully that’ll make a difference to water quality in the long term.”

Grazier Jo Murphy said the visit highlighted the multitude and complexity of human and natural factors impacting the health of coastal waters.

“I live at the top of the Burdekin catchment and the country on our eastern side flows into the Burdekin, so it was interesting to hear about the sediment analysis,” Jo said.

“The data shows that if there’s a great rainfall event or big cyclone, or multiple cyclones in a season, the reef is going to get affected.

“It highlighted that those who manage large areas of agricultural land, need to do their best to control erosion and improve groundcover because it’s better for the country, the environment, grazing animals and livelihoods.

“This is also the case for other industries, coastal developments, and other disturbances. Improving water quality is a complicated and complex undertaking, and many graziers are committed to adopting practices to help with that.”
The Paddock to Reef program provides the framework for evaluating and reporting progress towards Reef 2050 water quality targets through the Great Barrier Reef Report Card.  The program is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments.

The AIMS visit was part of NQ Dry Tropics’ Herding Change Through Grassroots Recovery project funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

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Zoe O’Neill, left, with Laureen and Glen Duncombe. Photos supplied

Mandy Flintham inspects coral core samples at the AIMS Coral Core Archive Facility
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A tour of the National Sea Simulator, the world’s most advanced aquarium facility, provided an opportunity for cattle producers to learn more about the science behind water quality research
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Graziers Glen Duncombe, Eric Le Feuvre and Jo Murphy inspected SeaSim’s large seawater tanks

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Graziers Lauren Duncombe, left, and Jo Murphy

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The last of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ four Burdekin mills were on track to start crushing earlier this week, on Tuesday.
General Manager Operations Mike McLeod said he expected the first bin to be tipped at Pioneer Mill near Brandon just after lunchtime on Tuesday, and the first raw sugar to be produced by Wednesday.
This means half of Wilmar’s mills will be in full swing by Wednesday, making sugar, molasses and renewable energy.
Inkerman Mill in Home Hill was first to begin the crushing season for the Wilmar group on Monday, 10 June. Despite an unexpected shutdown because of industrial action, Inkerman has already crushed 66,000 tonnes of cane and produced about 8,100 tonnes of sugar.
Kalamia and Invicta mills started crushing on Thursday, 13 June – a week later than originally planned because of industrial action.
Mr McLeod said Wilmar’s other four mills – Victoria and Macknade near Ingham, Proserpine on the Whitsunday coast, and Plane Creek south of Mackay – are all expected to be in production early next week.
The Sarina Distillery has been operating since 1 June, producing bioethanol for fuel and industrial products.
Mr McLeod said crews had worked hard to maintain throughput at the sugar mills that are operating, so growers could continue harvesting while fine weather prevailed.
“Everyone in the industry has an eye on the weather at this time every year, so we can’t afford to lose any time,” he said.
“Our people have worked hard to recover from the earlier stoppages and delays and, with everything going our way, everyone will have a good season.”
Wilmar’s eight mills are expected to process 15.59 million tonnes of sugarcane this year, to produce more than 2 million tonnes of raw sugar.
Representatives from Wilmar and union bargaining agents will meet for another round of bargaining for a new Enterprise Agreement on Thursday (20 June).
The parties will report back to the Fair Work Commission on Friday (21 June).

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Wilmar’s Invicta Mill kicked off last on 13 June. This week, Pioneer Mill got underway, meaning half of Wilmar’s factories are now in production, despite hold-ups from industrial action
Manager Operations Harrison Slogrove on the first day of production at Invicta Mill, on 13 June
Pioneer Mill Operations Manager Matt Norton on the first day of production

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The Australian Idol country singing treasure, Trent Richardson, will ignite the Burdekin Showgrounds on Wednesday 26 June.

From growing up on an Emu Park camel farm to having his name up in lights, Trent’s musical talents have been broadcast across the nation as part of the 2024 season of Australian Idol earlier this year.

Since concluding his time on the talent series, Trent has continued singing and working on his talents with bigger and better plans in mind for the future.

“She’s been a wild ride, but it’s definitely where the heart wants to be and I’m just so grateful that I did it and gave it a chance to find out once and for all if I had something,” explained Trent.

“I threw myself in the deep end and the feedback that I got back from the Aussies was great, so I’ll definitely stick with it, and keep doing my hard bit of yacka!”  

When Trent stages his tunes in the region next Wednesday, this won’t be his first Burdekin Show rodeo! In fact, Trent has been an avid showgoer since he was young, accompanying his father in managing the infamous Burdekin Show Camel Rides!

“I’ve been there helping Dad with the camel rides since I was a little fella, and it’s funny that after all these years everyone has found out I can sing, so instead of walking the camels with Dad this year, I’ll be up there singing,” explained Trent.

Trent’s performance will have audiences dancing and singing along, and in an exclusive interview with Burdekin Life newspaper he shared his setlist plans!

“There will be a bit of Luke Combs, Morgan Wallan, and a few big country artists that everyone knows, a few classics too, and a couple of my originals but I won’t give too much away,” explained Trent.

“I’ll go up there, sing a few tunes, and hopefully everyone has a great time, and it’s good to be there getting paid to sing instead of walking camels!”

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Cecillia Cason has been honourably selected to attend the Pacific Honors Ensemble Program in November; a prestigious program held in the United States of America.

The program, as hosted by the Young Conservatorium (the pre-tertiary program for Griffith University) and the Western International Band Clinic, is held in Seattle, Washington annually with a small group of highly skilled honor band students selected to attend. Candidates are to audition for a position by performing a piece from a selection of music provided, and although Cecillia’s instrument of choice is not the trumpet, her talents prevailed, and she was prestigiously granted a spot in the 2024 Pacific Honors Ensemble Program.

“I was so very happy and excited about getting in, and when I auditioned, the music was on an instrument I’m not the best at, but I was so excited to hear I was accepted,” expressed Cecillia.

Earlier this year, Griffith University reached out to Cecillia, advising her of the opportunity and encouraging her to apply.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Cecillia, and she hasn’t achieved this by herself, it’s due to the help of everyone around her, including her tutors, which have made everything she has achieved possible, and I’m just so proud,” expressed Cecillia’s mother, Maria Cason.

Cecillia’s musical talents and abilities have garnered much attention over the past couple of years and have led her to accumulate many awards and attendance at various celebrated musical enrichment opportunities. Earlier this year, Cecillia attended the Queensland Band Association’s Youth Band Camp, where she was awarded the Leonie Marshall Scholarship, a significant award in recognition of a student’s passion for their community band association and dedication to musical excellence.

Cecillia is also a celebrated member of the Burdekin Brass Band, performing at regular community events as well as the Concert Band where she is currently attending rehearsals in preparation for Ayr State High School’s upcoming musical at the Burdekin Theatre. Next month, Cecillia will attend the State Honors Ensemble Program in Brisbane where she will continue to build upon her skills surrounded by like-minded peers under the guidance of industry professionals.

Cecillia’s talents and dedication to her musical practice are outstanding, and she certainly has a bright future ahead of her in the instrumental sphere.

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On the morning of Thursday 13 June, Ayr State High School hosted the Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast.

Chaplains from each school in the region came together to celebrate the work these amazing people do for the community and its students, with all funds raised re-directed to support the youth of the Burdekin.

The event ran from 7am and encompassed school staff, principals, business owners, and community members from across the community, along with Mayor Dalle Cort. All attendees have supported the Burdekin’s Chaplains over the years, and the breakfast provided a heartwarming environment where their support was thanked.

Brooke Sorbello, the Scripture Union manager for North Queensland, was deeply touched seeing the community come together in support of the young people of the Burdekin at the Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast and believes the chance to do so was beyond special.

“It was a chance to get these supporters together to say thank you as well as share stories around how their support is helping the young people of the community,” explained Brooke.

The event included guest speakers, one of which being Home Hill High School’s Chappy Jennie Dowie, who has been a celebrated chaplain in the Burdekin for over seventeen years. Chappy Jennie shared her experiences as a chaplain, explaining the important role chaplains have in student’s lives, from running programs in the areas of anger and anxiety management to simply being their friend.

"As a School Chaplain, I focus on prevention and support; helping students find a better way to deal with a range of issues from family breakdown, grief, peer pressure, loneliness, risk of disengagement, substance abuse, depression and anxiety - just to name a few,” expressed Chappy Jennie.

“I aim to provide a non-judgmental, accessible, listening ear and a caring presence for not only for our kids in crisis, but also for those who just need a friend.

“So today I want to thank you for your support of School Chaplaincy.

“I want to thank you because if it wasn’t for people like you, we wouldn’t have the opportunities that we have to support young people who often feel unseen, undervalued, misunderstood and powerless to change the life that they have been dealt with.”

Brooke would like to extend her gratitude to Ronda Williams, the Burdekin Chaplaincy Committee Chair, and for all her organisational efforts to fundraise for the chaplains in the community.

“In the chaplaincy structure, we’re given enough funding to support a chaplain for a day and half, whereas most of the Burdekin’s chaplains are in our schools for four, sometimes five days a week based on the community support,” explained Brooke.

“The presence of these chaplains is really powerful, and the continuity, and consistency makes a really big difference in the work that they can do for the students.”

The morning was emotional, powerful and inspirational, and stood as testament to the Burdekin community’s continued commitment to investing in and supporting the wellbeing and future of its youth.

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Creating inviting outdoor living spaces through DIY projects can transform your backyard into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area for relaxation and entertainment.

Here are several creative ideas to inspire your outdoor makeover:

Cozy Outdoor Lounge: Begin with comfortable seating options like DIY pallet sofas or repurposed wooden benches with plush cushions. Add a handmade coffee table using a reclaimed crate or an old trunk topped with a custom-cut piece of glass.

DIY Hammock Corner: Create a cozy retreat with a hammock hung between two trees or posts. Customise it with handmade pillows and a small side table for books or drinks.

DIY Fire Pit: Build a fire pit using bricks or stones arranged in a circle. Line the bottom with gravel for drainage and safety. Enhance the ambiance with string lights hung overhead or solar-powered lanterns for eco-friendly illumination.

Vertical Garden Wall: Utilise a bare fence or wall by creating a vertical garden. Install wooden pallets horizontally and fill them with small potted plants or herbs. This not only adds greenery but also maximises space.

Outdoor Dining Area: Construct a sturdy dining table from reclaimed wood or pallets. Pair it with DIY benches or chairs made from old wooden crates or tree stumps - complete the setting with a handmade table runner, lanterns and outdoor dinnerware.

DIY Pathways and Walkways: Define pathways using materials like gravel, flagstones, or recycled bricks. Create a rustic look by embedding old railway sleepers or wooden planks for a natural, earthy feel.

Repurposed Outdoor Bar: Convert an old kitchen cart or dresser into an outdoor bar by adding shelves for storage and a countertop for serving. Use reclaimed wood or tiles for the bar surface and decorate with potted plants and hanging glassware.

Outdoor Movie Theatre: Hang a white sheet or use a blank wall as a projection screen. Set up seating with floor cushions, bean bags or homemade pallet sofas. Install outdoor speakers and a projector for movie nights under the stars.

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Sunday 16 June hosted a celebratory milestone for Gumlu’s Biggest Morning Tea event, with community members flocking to the Molongle Creek Boat Club to attend the 10th anniversary of the fundraising gathering.

2024’s Biggest Morning Tea event raised an amazing total of $2,280 for the Cancer Council Queensland due to the outstanding generosity of the community, and Sunday’s fundraising efforts contributed to an overall decade total exceeding $10,000.

Regina Lequerica has been running and organising Gumlu’s Biggest Morning Tea events since 2014 and was blown away by the generosity of Sunday’s proceedings.

“The day went a lot better than anyone excepted, and we raised double the amount that we usually raise, and it was quite successful, people were very generous,” explained Regina.

After a decade of dedication, Regina looks forward to running the event each year, explaining this year went without a hitch.

“We’ve built up a little team with the four of us who get together to get the event all going, and this year I felt really relaxed planning the event,” said Regina.

Beginning at 9am sharp, over 50 attendees gathered to enjoy nibbles, trivia, an extensive cent sale, and raffles, with a large portion of the crowd being travellers staying at the Molongle Creek Caravan Park.

Along with regular fundraising initiatives, Regina and her team organised money boards, “first in best dressed” cent sales, guess the lollies jars, donation tins, and in a special decade celebration, Katrina Land made personalised T-shirts which were auctioned off to raise additional funds.

The event was highly successful in fundraising for the Cancer Council Queensland, and Regina thanks the community for their amazing support both for the 2024 event, and each event over the past 10 years.

“We’ve found that everyone enjoys what we do, and we’re so thankful for everyone’s support,” thanks Regina.

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Regina Lequerica, Katrina Land, Summer Gurd from Bowen, Savannah Land, Amy and Susann Pfingst, Thomas Harrington, Ella and Nadine Land

Thomas Harrington, Tony Battiston, Katrina Land, Regina Lequerica, Nadine Land, Susann Pfingst

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Congratulations to Tony Battiston, who celebrated his 70th birthday with family and close friends at the Bocce Club on Saturday. 
All were encouraged to dress as a movie character, with Tony donning a Jedi costume. He entertained everyone by sharing a few of his favourite riddles and after lunch, a game of bocce was enjoyed by all. 
Thank you to everyone who came, he had an awesome weekend, one not to forget.

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Tony with nephews:  Steven, David and Michael Lequerica

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The latest victim of severe staff shortages in the medical industry is the Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre which announced this week that it will close its doors at the end of June.

Over 200 GP clinics in Australia have closed down in the past year, many of them citing the same reason – they simply cannot get enough GPs.

Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre is operated by the Girudala Community Cooperative Society, which is a non-for-profit organisation which predominantly overseas the welfare of Indigenous and South Sea Islander community members.

Since 2010, Girudala has been operating the Medical Centre and they welcome all patients, with more than 2,000 people registered on their books.

When they close their doors on June 30, there will only be two other medical centres in Bowen, servicing a population of over 10,000 people.

Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre was also the last service to offer Bulkbilling to all patients.

The other Bowen GP clinics offer Bulkbilling to pensioners and children under 16, but there was a huge demand to fill the gap for vulnerable people that did not fit that age-bracket.

Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre filled that gap.

The closure of this much-needed medical Centre will put immense pressure not only on the other GP clinics but also Bowen Hospital.

A spokesperson for Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre, Jean Andersen, said they are appealing for help.

“It’s been a really hard decision to close the doors and we’ve been trying to reach out to the government for some kind of support,” she explained.

“We’ve gone through everything we can think of and now we’ve made the decision, our primary focus is to refer our patients onto other health services.

“I’m sure every rural and remote community is crying out for GPs as well; we are asking the government to help us in any way they can – is there any funding to attract doctors here?
“We need a resolution soon and I really hope we can find one.”

For several years, the Bowen Herbert Street Family Medical Centre has been surviving with locum GPs who work at the clinic for short periods.

A few years ago, they had two permanent doctors, but there are now no regular GPs to fill the huge demand and the service simply cannot cope anymore.

“This is a national crisis and governments are failing remote communities like Bowen, who simply cannot afford to pay for doctors,” stated Ms Andersen.

“The closure of Herbert Street will place extreme pressure on health services in the area and we’re calling on local governments, namely local, state and commonwealth to work together with us and with the community to develop a sustainable long-term and viable medical health solution.”

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