Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Burdekin region faces a potential financial headache as a vital federal funding stream, which has bankrolled major local upgrades from the Ayr Swimming Pool to the Burdekin Memorial Hall, is set to expire on June 30th. The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP), which has injected millions into projects across the state, will cease at the end of the financial year unless the Federal Government announces an extension in the upcoming May Budget. Burdekin Shire Council has joined the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) in an urgent advocacy campaign, warning that regional communities stand to lose the most if the program is not replaced. “Burdekin Shire Council supports LGAQ’s call for ongoing infrastructure funding that recognises the scale and importance of what councils deliver, particularly in regional areas,” Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Dalle Cort said. “This is about ensuring regional Queenslanders have access to the same opportunities, infrastructure and services as those living in metropolitan areas.” Burdekin Stands Up As Federal Funding Faces Cliff-Edge The Burdekin Shire Council is joining a statewide push for the Federal Government to extend a crucial infrastructure program due to expire on June 30th, warning that local councils face a significant funding gap without a new commitment in the upcoming May Budget. Locally, the original LRCIP funding—in effect since 2020—has been instrumental in delivering practical community assets. Significant projects supported by the program include the refurbishment of the Burdekin Memorial Hall entrance and the installation of a compliant disabled access ramp, upgrades to the Burdekin Water Park at the Ayr Swimming Pool complex, and the revitalisation of Spiller Street’s Brandon Park, which included new playground equipment and amenities. Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Shire relies on predictable funding to maintain the essential infrastructure residents use every day. “Councils across Queensland are responsible for infrastructure that communities rely on every day – from local roads and footpaths to sporting facilities and shared community spaces,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “Programs like LRCIP have allowed councils to deliver practical, community-driven projects that improve safety, connectivity and liveability while also supporting local jobs.” The LGAQ estimates the program has contributed roughly $668 million to the Queensland economy, supporting nearly 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs. Peak body leadership warns that without a replacement, the loss of this funding will create a "financial black hole" for local governments. LGAQ President Mayor Matt Burnett stated that regional equity is at the heart of the issue. “People living in regional Queensland should be able to access the same employment, infrastructure and service opportunities as those living in the cities,” Mayor Burnett said. “This program has been used to build roads, sporting grounds and other vital community facilities, and it’s our smallest communities who stand to lose most if funding isn't continued.” For the Burdekin, the uncertainty makes long-term planning difficult, says Mayor Dalle Cort, who emphasised that local councils are now facing “difficult decisions” that could impact the standard of services provided to residents. The LGAQ is pushing for a commitment in the May Budget that goes beyond the LRCIP, calling for an increase in untied Financial Assistance Grant funding to at least 1 per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue to improve long-term financial sustainability. Residents can learn more about the campaign at www.lgaq.asn.au.
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Communities across the Burdekin Shire will come together this ANZAC Day to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans, with a full program of dawn services, marches and commemorative ceremonies planned throughout the region. Early risers will have several opportunities to pay their respects, with dawn services commencing at 5:25am at the Memorial Hall in Home Hill, followed closely by 5:30am services at Brolga Park in Giru and ANZAC Park in Ayr. As the morning continues, smaller community services will take place across the district, including an 8am gathering at the Spiller Street Cenotaph in Brandon, before returning to Giru for a 9:30am service at Brolga Park. In Ayr, the annual ANZAC Day parade will step off at 9am, leading into the main service at ANZAC Park at 9:20am, while in Home Hill, the parade will begin at 10:45am, followed by a commemorative service at Memorial Park at 11:20am. The day’s events provide an opportunity for residents of all ages to reflect on the legacy of those who have served, while also reinforcing the strong sense of community across the Burdekin. Locals and visitors are encouraged to attend a service or parade, stand in silence, and take a moment to remember the sacrifices made in the name of peace and freedom.
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Little Leaves Nursery is set to enter an exciting new chapter, with owners Kirsten Loader and Chris Mann announcing they will take over Hotel Brandon, bringing the two much-loved businesses together in one dynamic space designed to create new opportunities for the community, rain, hail or shine. The pair said they had been searching for some time for a larger venue that could offer indoor seating, particularly during the peak heat of summer and periods of wet weather. “We have been looking to address this issue for a while and we’ve always wanted to provide a full breakfast and lunch – but unfortunately our little food van gets far too hot in summer,” Kirsten explained. The idea to purchase Hotel Brandon was first floated by the venue’s former manager; something Kirsten and Chris initially saw as a little far-fetched. Over time, however, the concept began to take root, eventually prompting the couple to take the leap. “We were very fortunate the owner wanted to keep the hotel in local hands, and so here we are,” she said. With plans still taking shape, the pair say they are keen to settle in and get a feel for the venue before making any major changes. In the short term, locals can expect a handful of updates, including the bottle shop transitioning from Star Liquor to Liquor Legends, along with the introduction of a fresh new menu. Looking ahead, Kirsten and Chris hope to undertake renovations to give the hotel a facelift and create a more family-friendly space; a vision shaped by Brandon’s shifting demographics, and they’re also exploring the possibility of a drive-through coffee and hot food service, catering to early risers in search of a quick bite on the go. “We are still working through how we can incorporate Little Leaves Nursery into the hotel without it losing the relaxed atmosphere we have worked so hard to create,” Kirsten said. “Since we opened Little Leaves Nursery, we have watched Brandon’s demographic start to change. We have noticed a lot of young couples and families starting to move into the area, and I think there’s a gap in the market to provide takeaway meals as well as a great in-house menu and kids’ play areas.” Little Leaves Nursey and Hotel Brandon will continue to operate as usual for now, with Kirsten and Chris buzzing with excitement for what’s to come. “We are grateful for the support of the staff who have remained with us at the venue, and we have a lot to learn from them, and from the locals before we make any big changes,” Kirsten said. “There are definitely big plans, and we think the hotel has a lot of potential and look forward to exploring that in the future!” CAPTION: Kirsten Loader and Chris Mann officially became the owners of Hotel Brandon on Monday, 18 April, opening a fresh new chapter for the popular establishment. Photo source: Little Leaves Nursery
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Police are urging Burdekin motorists to slow down and stay alert as students return to school this week, with increased patrols targeting dangerous driving across the region. The warning comes as the Queensland Police Service enters the final stretch of its statewide Easter road safety operation, with officers maintaining a visible presence on local roads during the busy back-to-school period. Drivers can expect a stronger focus on school zones, with police reminding motorists to obey reduced speed limits and watch for children, cyclists and pedestrians during peak drop-off and pick-up times. Statewide figures from the holiday crackdown, recorded 3 and 16 April, highlight ongoing concerns, with more than 10,600 traffic infringement notices issued, including about 4,000 for speeding. Police also conducted more than 75,000 roadside breath tests and 1,800 drug tests, detecting over 1,200 impaired drivers. In the Northern Queensland region, which includes the Burdekin, a total of 512 traffic infringements were recorded—the lowest of any region—with 212 related to speeding. Police conducted more than 5,000 roadside breath tests, detecting 59 drink driving offences, along with 29 drug driving offences from 62 roadside drug tests. Emergency Response and Coordination Command Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman said increased enforcement was critical in reducing risky behaviour on the roads. “Every decision made behind the wheel matters,” he said. “With more children back in school zones this week, we’re asking drivers to slow down, stay focused and drive to the conditions.” Police say patrols will continue throughout the week, with road safety a shared responsibility for all motorists. CAPTION: Police are urging Burdekin motorists to slow down and stay alert as students return to school this week, with increased patrols targeting dangerous driving across the region. Photo source: QPS
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Just three months on from Austin Dewar, Campbell Johnston and Brayden Rawlins’ mammoth fundraising efforts totalling just under $14,000 for men’s mental health, the boys have laced up their running shoes to continue spreading an important message.
Austin, Campbell and Brayden have each witnessed friends and family members experience the toll negative mental health can have, and hope to continue breaking down the stigmas surrounding men’s mental health, sharing the vital message, “It Ain’t Weak To Speak”.
In November of last year, the trio well and truly did just that, and successfully spread waves of awareness both locally within the Burdekin and across the state when they set out to run 180 kilometres each – one for each life tragically lost every month to suicide.
“After we raised $1,000 for men’s mental health and suicide prevention, all three of us knew the sky was the limit, and we wanted to see how far we could take this,” shared Campbell.
The trio knocked over hundreds of kilometres and put in the work from sunrise to sunset across the entire month and were beyond grateful when over 100 members of the Burdekin community joined them to tick off some of their final k’s at a Queen Street fundraising event last November.
“At the run we did in the Burdekin, all three of us were not expecting there to be more than 100 people there - I don’t think we even expected there to be even 50 people there,” explained Brayden.
“After the run, everyone got around and were talking to each other and to us, congratulating us on what we’re doing, and people were telling us that we’re doing a great job of spreading awareness and fundraising which for us was a real eye opener.”
Keeping the momentum, Austin, Campbell and Brayden shared a video which has since gone viral, explaining they’re not holding out until this November to jog on and instead are challenging themselves to complete 100 kilometres each this March to continue spreading their mission and encouraging conversations.
“The Shaka Project announced they’re running 100 kilometres in March for Run for Our Mates so all of us boys sat down and realised we want to push our message to show people that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes,” noted Campbell.
Campbell, Brayden and Austin will run 100 kilometers each this March (Photo Supplied)
Members of the Burdekin community are warmly encouraged to take part in an upcoming FREE Suicide Intervention Training session hosted by CORES Queensland at the Burdekin PCYC on Friday the 28th of March.
Suicide Intervention Training aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to identify early warning signs, offer support, and connect at-risk individuals with available services.
The upcoming workshop will cover essential topics including:
• Recognising the early warning signs of suicide
• Learning how to support someone in crisis
• Encouraging help-seeking behaviour before a crisis occurs
• Developing self-care strategies for those offering support
Held on occasion, each of the CORES Queensland Suicide Intervention Training sessions are completely FREE and open to all members of the local community, and RSVP’s can be made online at https://bit.ly/4gIL6bD.
By Amanda Wright
Tears of relief replaced weeks of frustration for North Queensland’s flood-affected farmers as the Federal and Queensland governments approved an increase in disaster funding, boosting grants for primary producers to $75,000.
The announcement, delivered by Senator Nita Green and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter on March 12, comes after weeks of intense advocacy from industry leaders, local politicians, and the farming community. The decision also increases funding for small businesses and not-for-profits to $50,000.
The announcement was made at the farm of CANEGROWERS members Michael and Zenan Reinaudo, whose family property suffered severe flood damage. Their experience mirrors that of many other farmers across the region.
Bob Katter, who has been at the forefront of the push for Category D funding, credited the win to relentless efforts from agricultural organisations and local representatives.
“This funding wasn’t handed down from the heavens—it was won by the fighters on the ground who never backed down,” Mr Katter said.
He singled out CANEGROWERS’ Leah Russo, AgForce Queensland’s Shane McCarthy, and QCAR’s Lawrence Di Bella for their unwavering efforts.
“Yes, we thank the PM and the Minister, but it’s because of this group of people with a tiger in their tank that the grants have finally been activated,” he said.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the increased support, emphasising that the original $25,000 grant was nowhere near enough to help growers rebuild.
“This increase reflects the rising costs of recovery for growers who have been hit hard by recent flooding,” Mr Galligan said.
“We’ve been clear from the beginning that the original amount was simply inadequate. This boost will make a real difference for those struggling to rebuild.”
QCAR General Manager Lawrence Di Bella described the funding boost as a step in the right direction, though challenges remain.
“This is a really positive step—it will rebuild our industry. Some of the damage is greater than $75,000, so we’ll still be looking for additional funding, but this is a great start,” Mr Di Bella said.
“The money that a farmer produces goes around our community multiple times. This is about rebuilding our entire community, not just individual farms.”
Mr Di Bella spoke of the sheer devastation farmers have faced.
“There were craters the size of swimming pools, tonnes of trash dumped on newly planted sugarcane, headlands washed away, trees uprooted, new creeks carved through fields, dead calves littering paddocks—the list goes on,” he said.
“Now there will be tears of relief with the release of Category D grants.”
AgForce Queensland General President Shane McCarthy agreed, calling the announcement a lifeline.
“This goes a long way to getting farmers back up and producing, which is what they need to do,” Mr McCarthy said.
“It’s not just this flood—it’s the accumulation of a few tough seasons. We need to get our producers back up and doing what they do best.”
Despite the funding win, industry leaders stress that further work is needed to ensure all farmers receive fair support.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan noted that current eligibility rules could leave some struggling farmers behind.
“We must now make sure the funding is fair and reaches those who need it,” Mr Ryan said.
Senator Nita Green reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting North Queensland’s recovery.
“This is all part of a bigger disaster recovery response from our two governments,” Senator Green said.
“We will continue to work with people on the ground to identify areas where funding or criteria can be improved.”
For Burdekin farmers, the funding boost brings hope after weeks of uncertainty. However, as industry leaders continue to advocate for further changes, the focus remains on ensuring all affected growers receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.
“This isn’t just about fixing damage—it’s about restoring livelihoods,” Mr Galligan said.
“Our growers have fought hard for this, and we’ll keep fighting to ensure they get the support they deserve.”
QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella, Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter, Cane farmer Robert Lyon, Director of CANEGROWERS Herbert River Leah Russo, Senator Nita Green, AgForce North Queensland Regional Director Michael Penny, Director Herbert River District Canegrowers Paul Marbelli, and Cane farmer Michael Reinaudo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Recently a beautiful and rare china tea set, which depicts the Ayr Council Chambers and the Ayr Post Office, made its way to a local radio station. The station is calling on any Burdekin historians or those who might be familiar with the family that donated them, to come forward and help solve a mystery.
“They were sent to Pat Lawson via Victor Cecchin. The Cecchin's had a service station back in the day before they sold it to Romeo motors. After that, I believe it was demolished to become Woolworths,” says Station Manager, Charlie Scuderi.
“These people now live in Sydney, and sent these pieces back up here because this is where they belong. The family doesn't have any emotional connection to them, and that's all we know.”
The fine tea set has now returned “home” to the Burdekin, but it has come with no clues, no answers. Sweet FM is hoping someone in the community can provide more information or context about the tea set as to their history.
“We're looking for somebody who might know the story behind them, such as where they came out, when they came from, and why.”
“Was it an anniversary for a 50 year celebration? Was it something the family had commissioned? If you know please help us,” Charlie pleads.
Two pieces depict the council chambers, the rest depict Ayr post office.
If you can solve the mystery behind this decorative commemorative china tea set, get in touch with Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.
The beautiful fine china tea set. Can you solve the mystery? Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Since 2013, Phil Derlagen, who owns Complete Health Pharmacy in Home Hill, has been servicing the community. This half Dutch, half Sicilian pharmacist, who graduated in 2010 from Townsville, doesn’t see any two days the same, with a typical one involving a whole range of varying aspects.
“You’ve got to be prepared to see lots of different things. People come in and ask questions that can be straightforward, and at other times it can be quite challenging. For example, trying to make sure that they understand something might be serious and that they need to take it to the doctor. That's probably one of the hardest things,” Phil expresses.
At just 39, Phil noticed changes in the way people now view healthcare, with many taking control of their health needs.
“People like to come to pharmacists because we're just so readily accessible and knowledgeable. After moving to this location near IGA in 2018, we renamed it Complete Health Pharmacy because I saw a shift towards a lot of natural based medicines,” Phil says.
“There are now a lot of people who swear by natural products and it's hard to dismiss. People are actually getting results from some of the treatments they’re doing. It’s a such a growing market. We do a lot of research into the products before we even stock them,” Phil adds.
Complete Health Pharmacy – the one-stop-shop for all your health needs where people go to get good, honest advice in the process.
Phil Derlagen, the pharmacists' pharmacist. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The floods may have subsided, but the spirit of community in Burdekin remains as strong as ever.
Amidst the devastation that swept through Ingham, a shining beacon of kindness emerged in the form of a man named Troy. When a couple travelling to Townsville became stranded at Plantation Creek on Saturday afternoon, it was the generosity of locals that turned their ordeal into a testament to human kindness.
Troy, a local business owner, offered them a meal and a place to stay for the night—an act of compassion that left them deeply grateful. Earlier in the day, a resident and her daughter provided them with a much-needed cup of coffee, while Suzie from the Drive-In made them a toastie for lunch.
After waiting most of the day for the road to clear, the couple made the difficult decision to leave their car behind. Fortunately, a kind-hearted truck driver offered them a lift all the way to Townsville, ensuring they made it home safely.
Though they eventually had to return to retrieve their vehicle, they remain overwhelmed by the kindness they encountered. They expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Plantation Creek community, describing them as “wonderful people.”
This heartwarming display of generosity serves as a reminder that even in challenging times, small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.
Making it the number one priority of his visit to the Burdekin last week, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, presented Vietnam veteran, Greg Walters, with a Certificate of Appreciation, recognising his service given in the Defence Force.
Mr Willcox also presented the Home Hill RSL with an Australian Flag, which was greatly appreciated and warmly received by the RSL. The members were also witness to Mr Walter receiving his honorary award, making it a notable occasion.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, was delighted to be able to express his gratitude to Greg Walters, and to do so in person after sacrificing so much for his country, was an honour as he handed over the certificate.
“I was pleased to present Greg with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service during the Vietnam War,” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.
“Greg’s willingness to put his life on the line for the sake of our country is greatly appreciated.”
Greg, who is now retired and no longer in the Australian armed forces, was both surprised and honoured to receive the award, as it was something he wasn’t expecting.
“It was a great day, and I have already found a spot at home to hang up the Certificate of Appreciation,” Greg said on the special day.
The recent visit, marks yet another occasion that Mr. Andrew Willcox has truly admired and been in awe of the local Burdekin community, many of which seem to always surprise him every time he stops to meet them.
“When I am not down in Canberra for Parliament, I get in the 4WD and hit the Bruce Highway and stop into Regional Queensland towns from Mackay to Townsville,”
“The thing I really love about being the Federal Member for Dawson is meeting incredible people each day and hearing their stories.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox with Greg Walters (left) holding his certificate of appreciation, in front of the donated Australian flag along with fellow RSL members in attendance. Photo: Supplied
The Burdekin Panthers teams had a successful weekend. The Ladies’ and Men’s Division One teams played in Townsville on Friday, with the Ladies winning 7-0 against Wulguru and the Men drawing 1-1 with Saints Eagles Souths. On Saturday, the Under 23s won 4-2 against Rebels, and the Premiers triumphed 2-1. The Premiers' win marked their first of the season, with Damien Casella and Ryan Scodellaro scoring to secure a 2-1 victory. The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves also fought hard for a 4-2 win, while the Austral Masonry First Division drew 1-1 against Saints Eagles Souths.
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies bounced back from a tough match against Brothers, defeating Wulguru 7-0. Ellyana Mugica, Tegan Johnson, Charley Ruskin, Sienna Lago, and Zandi Bonanno scored in the dominant performance. The Ladies will aim for more wins, facing Saints Eagles Souths next Friday.
In juniors, Round 1 kicked off with high spirits despite the heat. Registrations were higher than last year, and the club is working to reconfigure age groups. Masters also had a successful Monday match, with Fulham beating Manchester Utd 4-1.
Nationally, the Socceroos prepare for World Cup qualifiers against Indonesia and China in March. In the A-League, Auckland leads with a six-point advantage over Western Utd, while Melbourne City moved up to third. In the A-League Women, Melbourne City is top, followed by Melbourne Victory in second.
The Quote of the Week comes from Gordon Strachan, humorously commenting on Eric Cantona’s bizarre press conference: "If a Frenchman goes on about seagulls, trawlers, and sardines, he’s called a philosopher. I’d just be called a short Scottish bum talking crap."
My journey here at Burdekin Life has come to an end. Don’t cry. Don’t get angry. Don’t wonder why? Just laugh. That’s what keeps the rocking world going round. If I’ve learned anything in this life, it’s that we all need to laugh more. Life is already hard enough as it is to be taken so seriously all the time. Have a laugh, even at me. I don’t mind. Really, I don’t.
However, I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to each and every one of you who helped my time within, and outside these pages, so memorable.
I’ve met some truly remarkable people doing truly remarkable things. You’ve each shared your personal stories, struggles, triumphs and more, and put your absolute trust and belief in me. It has been my honour to retell those stories to the best of my abilities. I truly hope I did them proud.
My family and I have been incredibly grateful to be welcomed here into this wonderful community at a time when everything was in flux for us after returning home from 10+ years overseas. There’s a reason the Burdekin, and in particular, Home Hill, found us. And there’s more than enough reasons to want to stay. But it won’t be in the capacity of your local journo.
What’s next? The great unknown! That’s where the real magic is (and always has been). I’ve certainly ventured there many times before to always be surprised. Outside of having our second baby (and my third), the possibilities are infinite.
All I can say now is Thank You to each and every one you who made an impact in my world. I am forever grateful. For now, keep on truckin’.
Sincerely,
Mark T. Rasmussen
International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated on 8 March, is a global occasion that honours and commemorates the ongoing fight for women's equality and liberation, as well as the broader women's rights movement. The day highlights issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against violence and abuse towards women.
This year’s celebration was described as an inspiring event, filled with meaningful conversations, delicious food, and a shared commitment to ‘Accelerate Action’ for gender equality. Over 150 women gathered at a sold-out event, united in their support and solidarity for the cause.
Isabel Stubbs, President of the Zonta Club of Burdekin, was thrilled to be part of a special International Women’s Day event on 9 March at the Masonic Hall. The event, which featured a brunch and various prizes, sold out within a single day.
Caterina Larsen Burdekin Zonta's Secretary reflected on the success of the event, saying, "It was a very wonderful event, so we're extremely happy."
"Our committee did a debrief last night and we realised that there are some areas for improvement, but on the whole, we were very, very happy with how the day turned out."
The Zonta Club, which consists of 20 members, raises funds for vital projects such as birthing kits, priced at just $5 each, and Breast Care cushions, which are distributed both locally and internationally. The club also supports local STEM students and provides essential items to victims of domestic violence.
The club’s commitment to empowering women and girls has had a profound impact on the progress of women's rights, education, and leadership opportunities. The Zontians’ unwavering dedication continues to inspire and drive positive change in society, ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive and reach her full potential.
Membership to the Zonta Club involves international, district, and local fees, totalling approximately £240. Through their collective efforts, the Zontians are helping to build a brighter future for women and girls across the globe.
Find the social pics here! https://tinyurl.com/247ezhxw
13 promising young lifesavers from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club are heading south for the 2025 Queensland Youth Surf Life Saving Championships on the Gold Coast.
The Championships, which includes clubs from all across Queensland, are scheduled to take place at Tugun from Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th of March, with four action packed days of water, beach and lifesaving events.
This cohort of 13 nippers is one of the biggest groups to head to State Titles as part of the North Barrier Branch Youth Team, and includes: Isla Chapman, Bella Lawry, Zachary Dale, Briella Wassmuth, Cole Pontifex, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Mia Wicks, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Dale and Taylor Chapman.
To be selected in the NBB Youth Team members have to compete at regular Branch Carnivals including Branch Championships and the North Australian Championships, which were all held at the end of 2024, and qualify against other members from all clubs across the Branch.
This year the Branch team consists of 77 youth members from across the North Barrier (clubs from Forrest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville-Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina).
All members have continued a vigorous training program since being selected at Branch Championships in December and are ready and raring to give it their absolute all over the upcoming Championships.
Photo credit: Kellie Lawry
U14s and U15s: Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman, Briella Wassmuth and Bella Lawry
on their way to State Champs!
U11s: Charlotte Dale, Luca Lawry and Taylor Chapman
U12: Mia Wicks
U13: Milla Chapman, Emma Jones and Cole Pontifex
U13: Charlotte Lawry and Emilee Wassmuth
Thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of their parent & community committee (P&C), Osborne State School are pleased to announce that they will be completely fee-free for 2025!
Just a short 5-6 minute drive from Home Hill, this small but vibrant school not only creates a leaning environment where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive, but they can now attend for free thanks to their Fee-Free incentive.
“This year we wanted to do something that focused more on encouraging new students to enrol in our school, as well as supporting those already here. Coming out of Christmas and all the financial burdens that come at the end of the year, to then jump into January to pay school fees, well, we didn't want our parents to have to do that this year,” Carlene Muilwyk, President of P&C at Osborne State School says.
Everyone knows that school fees can be an added strain, and this initiative is Osborne's way of supporting both students and their families, especially those with multiple kids attending.
“We wanted to be able to give families that relief if they're sending more than one student to school. We also provide all stationery, books, a shirt and hat. We’re just trying to take that pressure off of parents so that schooling becomes something that is not a burden, because it shouldn’t be.”
Getting to Osborne State School has never been easier either, with a reliable bus service running from Ham Kelly Drive all the way to Home Hill High, ensuring students have a safe, convenient way to get to and from school each day.
With small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong sense of community, the school offers an education that goes beyond the classroom – fostering hands-on learning, exciting events, and opportunities for every child to shine.
“We have nine students to two teachers. We also have three teachers aides. This helps us to really engage one on one with students, while ensuring individual care to make sure that no one gets lost in the system,” Carlene says.
Described as a family school, to best illustrate that point, last year one of their students lost their home to a fire. Rather than be forced to face the devastation alone, the school gathered around them and got clothes and other items together.
If you're looking for a caring, high-quality education for your child, now is the perfect time to join. Come see why Osborne State School isn’t just a school, it’s a family.
“We're here to learn, but we're here to support each other in every way. When you enrol with us, you join our family,” Carlene concludes with a smile.
Enrolments for 2025 are open. For more information or to arrange a visit, contact Osborne State School on: (07) 4782 6254.
Billy Muilwyk, Alex Cullen and Mason Harvey, in front of the painted float for their Home Hill Harvest Festival parade. Photo supplied.
Osborne State School student Jake Cullen is all smiles. Photo supplied.
Anna Muilwyk and Isabella McGrath sitting in front of a Wilmar Cane train and can bins full of harvested cane. Photo supplied.
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Did you know that BCA is running a number of groups? The details of a few of them are below.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS GROUP (Free)
Come along to the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.
Wednesdays, 9.30am to 11.30am
Operating hours: 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
After going through a rigorous assessment process and a long wait time of over 12 months since getting a job offer, Dr. Masoud Torbatian, a GP with over 30 years of experience, has now joined the Home Hill Surgery.
“I have been working as a GP for more than 30 years. I’m a general practitioner with expertise in various fields of medicine like chronic disease management, older person’s health, child and women’s health. I have worked in clinics, but also in very busy hospitals, too,” Dr. Torbatian shares.
Dr. Tata, who had been advertising for a male doctor since February last year, is delighted to have another male physician join the clinic and share the load, knowing it’s something his male patients in particular have been eager for, as he explains.
“I advertised online in February last year. I was desperate after three of my male doctors suddenly resigned to pursue careers for themselves down south. From there, I left no stone unturned. I looked everywhere, so when Masoud applied online, it all moved forward from there” Dr Tata says.
“I wanted somebody with a lot of experience. He has a wealth of experience with over 30 years in general practice. While he is here to fill in some big shoes, I’m sure there's a lot of people that want to come and see him. I hope the community welcomes him with a big heart,” he adds.
With a liking for warm weather, and an enjoyment of running in wide open space, the Burdekin feels like a great fit for Dr. Torbatian.
“I like Australia, I’m familiar with this country, and so now I get to work as a GP here, which has been my ultimate goal,” Dr. Torbatian concludes.
Dr. Torbatian, who will officially start March 17 as they wait for his provider number, will now make the sixth doctor working out of Home Hill Surgery.
Meet Dr. Torbatian, Home Hill Surgery's new male doctor. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The State Recovery Coordinator’s visit to the Burdekin early this week is a significant step in both the recovery from the recent severe weather event and an indicator of the State Government’s commitment to build back stronger according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.
Mr Last said that meeting with stakeholders throughout the district would provide a comprehensive view of what still needed to be done to ensure the best recovery possible.
“The Crisafulli LNP government pulled out all the stops to support the community both during and after the weather event,” Mr Last said. “We had financial support, for example, available for families and businesses before the flooding had even subsided but we recognise recovery is not just about money.”
“Part of the State Recovery Coordinator’s role is to identify specific recovery needs in communities so ‘on the ground consultation’ is vitally important. A family in Giru, for example, may need assistance with repairs to their home while a family at Groper Creek may be more focussed on being better prepared for the next event.”
“It’s virtually impossible to undo all of the effects of weather events like this but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways that we can support our key industries and therefore, reduce the damage to the community’s and the state’s economy.”
“For the first time, farmers have been given financial support to replant crops because recovery needs to be about the medium term as well as immediate issues. There will always be room for improvement and that is another good reason for the State Recovery Coordinator to engage with residents, industry and business representatives.”
Mr Last said the appointment of a north Queenslander to the role would ensure a clear understanding of the challenges faced in the region and also ensure the government’s commitment was honoured.
“Andrew Cripps is a born and bred north Queenslander,” he said. “Hailing from Tully, the importance of the sugar industry and the role that industry plays in the community is second nature to him and that is vitally important for the Burdekin.”
“While centres throughout the north have their traditional rivalries, it’s great that we have someone who understands the importance of infrastructure. Roads for example, are a vital link to work, to family, and to health care because public transport simply isn’t an option.”
“The Premier has given his personal assurance that our recovery will remain a priority despite recent weather events in the South-East corner. By having a local in charge of our recovery, it ensures that we aren’t forgotten just because the TV cameras have moved on.”
“My commitment is the same as the Premier’s when it comes to the Burdekin and wider north Queensland. The recovery process will be thorough and will continue for as long as it takes because that is, quite simply, what we deserve.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
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