Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Burdekin community has rallied to support survivors following last Thursday’s tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. While emergency services managed the confronting crash site, local residents, council staff, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort coordinated immediate relief, providing accommodation, meals, and medical aid to the shaken passengers.Tragedy On Bruce Highway As Bus Rolls Near GumluA young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14 May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentina and Italy national, died at the scene. Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment. One passenger who survived the crash told Burdekin Life they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover. “I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times. The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt. They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin. Following the crash, passengers were accommodated in Ayr overnight before being cared for at the Burdekin Theatre loft the following day, where they were provided meals prior to continuing their journey south on another bus. Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community. The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident. The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives. Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response. “This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said. “Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].” Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital. He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway. “It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.” CAPTIONS: 1—A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken following a horror bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon. Photo source: Burdekin SES
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The Bowen Pipeline Company will launch its critical water sales program this week, marking the final major milestone before seeking federal funding for a $750 million generational water infrastructure project. Opening on 20 May and running until 24 June, the program will serve as the commercial validation required to secure a 50 per cent federal government construction grant. The privately funded project would involve the construction of a 182-kilometre underground pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen, running primarily along the Bruce Highway corridor. Once operational, the pipeline is anticipated to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water annually, securing a reliable supply for Australia’s largest winter vegetable-growing region. Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown said the water sales program was the culmination of nearly a decade of local advocacy. "This is essentially the final hurdle to be jumped prior to the lodging of our Federal Government construction grant application,” Mr Brown said. "For the Project to be considered by the Federals as a worthy recipient of funding, the region needs to demonstrate both large water demand volumes and significant numbers of water users." The company has set a minimum water volume of 20 megalitres, which can be shared between adjoining properties. "In effect, water users will be paying 2025 prices for water that will be delivered in 2030," Mr Brown said. The project is tracking towards ‘shovel-ready’ status by September 2026, ahead of a federal funding application. The company aims to secure a funding commitment in the May 2027 Federal Budget, with construction slated to begin in September 2027. Boasting a benefit-cost ratio of 1.27, the pipeline is projected to create 200 jobs during construction and 1,200 permanent roles upon completion. It is expected to drive a $300 million annual economic gain for agriculture and unlock up to $1 billion in additional investment through local green energy initiatives, such as sustainable aviation fuel and green ammonia. The infrastructure features several industry firsts, including Indigenous project equity and ownership, and a net-zero footprint supported by 30-megawatt solar farms utilising Australian-made Tindo Solar panels. Mr Brown credited local communities and political leaders, including Premier David Crisafulli, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, and local MPs and mayors, for progressing the project. "After 9 years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push," Mr Brown said. "This project is being built on the shoulders of the people who not only live in the region but all those who came before us." Public information and water sales presentations will commence at 4:30 pm at the DPI in Bowen on 20 and 28 May, and at the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club on 21 and 27 May. CAPTION: Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC). Photo supplied
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Growing up in Ayr, Queensland, Able Seaman Thomas Wiseman was torn between two paths: following in his father’s footsteps or pursuing a passion inspired by his mother. “I was going to join the Army because my dad was Army and my grandfather was Army. But my mum is a pastry chef by trade, and my real love of cooking I got from her,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. Luckily, he not only went to his parents for advice, but actually listened to them. “Dad suggested I join the Navy. He said in the Navy, chefs cook every day at sea and travel the world,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. As chef on board HMAS Toowoomba, over the past five months, he’s visited six of Australia’s regional partners and engaged in multiple exercises, activities and operations with allied nations, all while being trained to become a fully qualified chef. “I went straight from school to enlisting and it was the best decision I have ever made by far. In just two years in the Navy, I’ve visited six countries and done several deployments. I love it,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. While learning his trade through Navy, he doesn’t have to worry about the competitive, seasonal nature of the hospitality industry and the lack of job security that can sometimes go with it. “The pay is so much better. In the civilian world, I would be on an apprentice wage. In the Navy, you get paid more and you learn more skills,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. There’s also the additional duties that allow him to develop the skills and knowledge required to live a well-rounded, adult life. “On top of being a chef, we have all of our external roles as well. I am a member of the ship’s emergency medical team, so if there’s a medical incident, I could be one of the members to go and respond. It is a great responsibility,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. Every day, Toowoomba’s chefs produce four meals for the about 200-strong crew, ensuring all watches on board are fuelled to carry out their duties protecting Australia and its interests. “Without the stokers, the ship doesn’t go anywhere, without the watchkeepers keeping us safe, we can’t do much, so while us chefs are also important in keeping the ship going, the entire crew is one big team,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. His biggest thanks remain for his parents, whose wise words set him up for life. “I reckon if my mum saw this in the paper, she’d absolutely love it, frame it and hang it up on the wall,” Able Seaman Wiseman said. “They’re still up there in Ayr, so Dad, if you’re reading this, I took all the advice you’d given me, I am so glad you convinced me to go Navy, it was the best advice I ever had.” CAPTION: Able Seaman Maritime Logistics Chef Thomas Wiseman stands in the galley of HMAS Toowoomba as the ship sails through the Sulu Sea. Photo supplied
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Internationally recognised leadership consultant and wellness advocate, Robyn Taylor has worked across Australia, Africa, Europe and the United States, combining modern leadership practices with mindfulness and wellbeing strategies developed through her own personal health journey. In March, Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin invited Ms Taylor to speak at Council’s Women’s Health Day, reflecting the pair’s longstanding commitment to collaborating on projects across regional Queensland spanning a diverse range of industries and specialisations. “Workplace wellbeing carries more importance in our current times of uncertainty, everyday life seems to present more challenges,” said Ms Taylor. “A supportive workplace culture, recognising the current challenges, is demonstrated by employers who arrange programs such as the Women’s Health Day.” Mr Magin echoed Ms Taylor’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of prioritising staff wellbeing and fostering a positive workplace culture across regional organisations. “I agree that wellness programmes are hugely important for any and all employers to be organising for their staff,” he said. Ms Taylor said she was delighted to return to the region, fondly recalling previous visits to Ayr, including delivering an International Women’s Day presentation initiated by Lyndy McCathie and the Burdekin Zonta Club. Drawing on her own experience overcoming a diagnosis of advanced multiple sclerosis decades ago, Ms Taylor’s presentation at Burdekin Shire Council’s Women’s Health Day focused on resilience, mindset and personal wellbeing. She encouraged participants to take control of unhealthy stress patterns, embrace balance in both work and life, and recognise the value of community connection and regional living, resounding the quote, “it’s not what happens to you, it’s what you do about it” to reframe unbeneficial habits. “We can reprogram our perspective once we change the way we think about life and how we are managing our own situation,” she said. “Today are seeking relief from their daily pressures that can manifest in many ways, like feeling overwhelmed by current events, sometimes resulting in insomnia or deteriorating health. In this big picture, it is important that we find balance in the various aspects of our lives, including our jobs.” Ms Taylor also praised the “Can Do” attitude often found across regional Queensland and encouraged more women to become involved in community organisations such as Burdekin Zonta Club, saying purpose and connection play a vital role in long-term wellbeing. “I believe appreciating the value of regional life can be a major factor in finding the balance,” she added. “Ayr is such an attractive country town where living is without the pressures of sitting for hours in traffic, where one can consciously develop and incorporate an exercise program into the daily routine and where one can seek out like-minded people with whom to spend our very precious time. “Never underestimate the value of the business experience you are gaining in the Burdekin. With today’s expanding and ever- changing technology, regional business and regional careers are just as sophisticated as any to be gained in the crowded, frantic pace of a major city. “Appreciation and gratitude of our situation are major factors in finding balance. We can train our intellect to work with our perceived challenges and train our bodies with our exercise or gym program, but quite often we don’t realise how important it is to train the mind.” Ms Taylor said many of the leadership principles being discussed internationally were just as relevant in regional communities like the Burdekin Shire, particularly when it came to creating workplaces where people feel valued, fulfilled and supported. She also spoke about the importance of values-based leadership, mindfulness and wellbeing practices in helping people manage stress and maintain balance in both their professional and personal lives. Drawing on decades of experience in leadership coaching and wellness, including her internationally recognised Meditating Manager program, Ms Taylor encouraged people to prioritise reflection, self-awareness and personal growth alongside career ambitions. She said regional communities like the Burdekin offer unique opportunities to build meaningful careers while enjoying a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. “Be brave, be fearless, don’t allow anyone or anything to deter you in your pursuit of your career goals and ensure those goals are firm,” Ms Taylor advised. “I am absolutely ga ga about the power of goal setting. Goals will propel you forward to do things you never dreamt you would be able to achieve. Be prepared that the goals may change along the way.” CAPTION: International leadership consultant and wellness advocate Robyn Taylor joined Burdekin Shire Council staff for March’s Women’s Health Day, sharing insights on resilience, wellbeing and values-based leadership. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council
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Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has called on the Federal Government to fast-track approvals for a major new oil development in Queensland, describing it as a “generational opportunity” to strengthen Australia’s fuel security.
Speaking from the Taroom Trough, the first oil field developed in Australia in half a century, the Premier said the project would play a critical role in reducing the nation’s reliance on overseas fuel supplies.
“National fuel security is about drilling, refining and storing fuel locally,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“We’re determined to lead the country and make it happen.”
The Queensland Government has moved to accelerate the project through a newly established Taroom Trough Development Plan, aimed at streamlining approvals and cutting delays.
Mr Crisafulli said the state was now urging Canberra to match that approach by placing the project under the National Interest Fast-Track Assessment Pathway.
“We’re asking for it to be assessed under the National Interest Fast-Track Assessment Pathway to remove duplicated approvals and get fuel flowing to Australians quicker,” he said.
The Premier framed the development as a strategic necessity amid growing global uncertainty, warning Australia risks falling behind if it fails to act.
“This is a generational opportunity to ensure we’re not left at the end of a global supply chain,” he said.
If approved, the Taroom Trough project is expected to mark a significant shift in Australia’s domestic energy production, with the potential to bolster both economic growth and national resilience.
CAPTION: Premier David Crisafulli at Taroom Trough in South East Queensland on Wednesday. Photo supplied
A simple act of kindness on Margaret Street has left a sweet impression on the local community, and it all started with an abundance of lemons.
Last week, a resident took it upon themselves to share the surplus from their backyard tree, placing a box of fresh lemons out the front of their home for passersby to take freely.
The small gesture quickly caught the attention of locals, with many taking to social media to express their appreciation for the thoughtful act.
“Great gesture, waste not want not,” one resident wrote online.
In a time where cost of living pressures continue to bite, the humble box of lemons served as a reminder of the power of community spirit, and how even the smallest acts can brighten someone’s day.
Sometimes, it really is as simple as sharing what you have.
CAPTION: A vibrant moment of connection, generosity and neighbourly care blossomed on Margaret Street last week. Photo source: Shutterstock
Calls to strengthen Australia’s fuel security are gaining momentum, with Kennedy MP Bob Katter urging the Federal Government to invest in ethanol production as a way to support rural industries, including those in the Burdekin.
Mr Katter joined crossbench MPs from across the country to push for a suite of measures aimed at reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel, including expanding the use of domestically produced biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel.
For agricultural regions like the Burdekin, one of Australia’s key sugar-producing areas, ethanol presents a potential opportunity to add value to locally grown crops while strengthening fuel independence.
“For decades, governments have avoided the enforcement of meagre state mandates for Australian made biofuels and – unlike most other countries – have failed to implement a national mandate to secure our renewable supply of ethanol-blended petrol,” Mr Katter said.
He said Australia’s strong grain and sugar production base positioned the country to play a much larger role in biofuel manufacturing.
“The biggest oil crisis the world has ever seen impels the immediate enforcement, in full, of existing ethanol and biodiesel mandates in Queensland and New South Wales – along with urgent expansion to 10 per cent ethanol-blended petrol nationally – to ensure we use all that we grow in thriving regional industries, whilst reducing our dangerous reliance on dirtier, imported fuels that cost Australians dearly to deliver super-profits to our foreign overlords.”
Mr Katter also questioned why more action had not been taken, given ethanol’s current and potential contribution to national fuel supply.
“Ethanol can right now supply three per cent of Australia's demand. Additionally, four of the recently closed refineries can easily be recommissioned. Why, on these three obvious initiatives, has the Government done nothing?”
While the Federal Government has acknowledged locally produced fuel as part of its broader strategy, no firm commitment has yet been made on a national ethanol mandate.
Australia’s sugar industry has strongly criticised the outcome of the Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement, with CANEGROWERS warning the deal fails to deliver meaningful benefits for cane farmers.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan described the agreement as a major setback for the industry, particularly for growers across Queensland.
“This is a horrendous outcome for Australia’s cane growers,” Mr Galligan said.
“For the past decade we have made our needs abundantly clear to the Australian Government and they have not delivered. There is no meaningful commercial access for sugar in this deal.
“The market access Australia has achieved is extremely small – less than 2% of Europe’s import requirement and well below what Brazil and its Mercosur partners secured last year, which was around four times larger than Australia’s outcome.”
Under the agreement, Australia will receive an additional 35,000 tonnes of sugar quota access over three years, adding to an existing allocation of 9,925 tonnes. However, Mr Galligan said the increase falls far short of what is needed to create real commercial opportunities.
“These volumes are not economically meaningful. They will not shift the dial for growers or materially change Australia’s position in the European market.
“This is not what genuine market access looks like.”
He also criticised the lack of long-term growth opportunities within the agreement.
“Compounding this, the agreement delivers no growth, no pathway to expand access and effectively locks growers into a bad deal for the next generation.
“It’s a capitulation to protectionist European sugar interests, plain and simple.”
Mr Galligan said the outcome was particularly disappointing given Europe’s reliance on imported sugar.
“The EU is a net importer of sugar and must bring in significant volumes each year to meet domestic demand.
“Australia can help meet that demand with high-quality, sustainably produced sugar, but instead we have been locked out.”
He added that the deal does little to address the challenges faced by Australian producers, particularly exposure to volatile global prices.
“This deal does nothing to change that position.
“We support trade liberalisation, but it has to be meaningful. Growers need outcomes that create genuine opportunity, not agreements that deliver nothing now and take us backwards when it comes to trade liberalisation.”
CANEGROWERS said it will continue to review the full details of the agreement while advocating for improved global market access and fairer trading conditions for Australia’s sugar industry.
*Stock image from https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-spoonful-of-sugar-11477544/
Students from the geoscience faculty at James Cook University (JCU) recently headed to the Burdekin River for a hands-on field trip, gaining real-world experience studying the region’s unique geology.
The group spent the day examining igneous intrusions and striking magma mingling textures, with conditions requiring them to quite literally get their feet wet.
“We had to get our feet wet this year but it was another fantastic geology field trip to the Burdekin River to look at igneous intrusions and spectacular magma mingling textures,” said JCU Senior Lecturer in Geoscience, Helen McCoy-West.
Staff and students described the excursion as a valuable learning experience, offering the opportunity to see geological processes up close while exploring one of North Queensland’s key natural features.
“Thank you to the staff and students for a great day out!”
Primary producers across the Burdekin are set to benefit from a new climate tool designed to better predict the end of the northern wet season.
Developed through the Northern Australia Climate Program, the Northern Rainfall Retreat (NRR) tool identifies the date of the last significant rainfall before the wet season ends—critical information for farmers managing livestock and crops.
The timing of late-season rain can have a major impact on agricultural operations, influencing mustering, livestock transport, stocking rates and crop harvesting. Unseasonal rainfall events can also disrupt harvests, damage infrastructure and affect herd numbers if conditions become extreme.
The tool uses historical rainfall data and climate modelling to pinpoint when rainfall typically “retreats” at a specific location. By analysing cumulative rainfall anomalies from the start of the year, it determines the point when rainfall peaks before transitioning into the dry season.
Local natural resource management group NQ Dry Tropics is one of several organisations involved in delivering the program, alongside partners including the University of Southern Queensland and the Bureau of Meteorology.
The broader program focuses on helping the red meat industry manage drought and climate risk across northern Australia. For Burdekin producers, the NRR tool offers a practical way to reduce uncertainty and make more informed decisions as the region transitions out of the wet season.
Small businesses and community organisations across the Burdekin can now access increased financial support following recent severe weather events, with disaster recovery grants boosted to up to $50,000.
The expanded Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, administered by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority, are available to those directly impacted by the Queensland monsoon trough, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather from 24 December 2025.
The funding increase doubles the previous maximum of $25,000 and has also been extended to include non-profit organisations, alongside small businesses.
The grants are designed to assist with clean-up and reinstatement costs, including purchasing equipment and materials, hiring tradespeople for safety inspections, and disposing of debris or damaged goods.
Eligible applicants can either apply for an initial payment of up to $5,000 with proof of damage, before claiming further reimbursements as recovery progresses, or submit a single application for expenses up to the full $50,000 with evidence of completed works.
The Burdekin is among a number of local government areas included in the funding rollout, reflecting the widespread impact of recent weather events on regional communities and industries.
Applications remain open until 15 January 2027, giving affected businesses and organisations time to complete recovery works and submit claims.
QRIDA is also offering one-on-one support through its Connect service, with regional staff available to guide applicants through the process online or over the phone.
The grants form part of the jointly funded Commonwealth and Queensland Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, aimed at helping regional communities rebuild and recover.
Two students from Burdekin Christian College are helping shape the future of youth leadership in the region, following their election to key positions on the 2026 Burdekin Shire Youth Council Executive.
William Wiseman has been named Youth Mayor, stepping into the top role after four years of dedicated service on the Youth Council. His appointment follows a steady rise through the ranks, having served as Deputy Youth Mayor in 2025. Known for his consistent commitment to community involvement, William’s election reflects both his experience and leadership within the group.
Joining him is fellow Burdekin Christian College student Alicia Jansen Van Rensburg, who has been elected Deputy Youth Mayor. Despite being a relatively new face in the Burdekin after relocating from New Zealand, Alicia has quickly immersed herself in the local community and made a strong impression through her contributions to the Youth Council.
A Burdekin Christian College spokesperson praised both students, describing William as “an incredibly responsible and civic-minded” young leader and “a role model for those around him.”
“William is a role model for those around him and we know he will focus on doing good for the youth of the Burdekin,” they said.
Alicia was similarly recognised for “stepping up to take on this new role of responsibility.”
“With the future of the Burdekin youth in her hands we know it is safe! BCC is so proud,” the spokesperson said.
While the spotlight falls on the two BCC students, the executive team is rounded out by Secretary Jorda Quagliata of Ayr State High School, whose five years of experience on the Youth Council will provide valuable support behind the scenes.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort congratulated the newly elected executive, highlighting the importance of youth leadership in the region.
“Our Youth Council continues to demonstrate the passion, leadership and commitment of young people in the Burdekin,” she said.
With two of the three executive roles now held by Burdekin Christian College students, the school has reason to be proud in its students, who not just participate in community life, but actively helping lead it.
At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, banking is built on something deeper than numbers – it’s about people, trust, and being part of life’s biggest and smallest moments. For Personal Bankers Sally and Chris, their roles are not just about financial services, but about helping locals move forward with confidence.
Born and raised in Home Hill, Sally has a deep connection to the Burdekin community she proudly serves. Now in her sixth year with the bank, she brings both professional experience and genuine local understanding to every customer interaction.
For Sally, the most rewarding part of her role is being part of people’s milestones. “Whether it’s buying their first car, renovating their home, or planning a dream holiday, it’s a privilege to be part of their journey,” she says. It’s this sense of shared excitement and achievement that makes her role more than just a job.
Outside of work, Sally enjoys spending time with her husband Kent and their two children, Riley and Indiana, often escaping to their family holiday home at Cape Upstart. It’s a balance that reflects her strong focus on family and community – values she also sees reflected across the Burdekin.
“There’s a real sense of unity here. People genuinely support each other, especially in times of need.”
Alongside Sally is Chris, who brings two decades of experience to her role as a Personal Banker, having started with the Community Bank in 2005.
Born & raised in the Burdekin returning to the area 25 years ago, Chris has built lasting relationships with customers over the years, many of whom she has supported through different stages of their financial lives.
Chris shares a similar passion for helping customers achieve their goals.
“It could be a personal loan for a new car or simply reviewing their banking to better suit their needs – it’s about making sure they’re in the best position possible,” she explains.
Outside the branch, Chris enjoys creative pursuits including painting, puzzles, and her involvement with the Home Hill Choral Society – another example of the strong community spirit that defines the region.
For both Sally and Chris, the Burdekin’s greatest strength lies in its people. From everyday support to coming together during natural disasters, it’s a community built on resilience, connection and care.
At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, it’s this local understanding – combined with genuine care – that continues to make a difference in the lives of customers every day.
Former Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) CEO and current Powerlink Chair Craig Doyle has joined Queensland bioenergy player SKY Renewables as Senior Advisor.
With projects planned for North Queensland and the Central Highlands Region, Mr Doyle’s arrival flags an exciting development in SKY Renewables’ corporate leadership expertise.
Across a career spanning both government and industry, Mr Doyle has played a central role in major projects across northern Australia.
His work with NAIF saw billions of dollars of investment into strategic infrastructure projects across the north.
His experience will provide valuable insight to SKY Renewables.
Founder and CEO of SKY Renewables, Simon Yim, welcomed a leader of Mr Doyle’s calibre already joining a high-powered core team.
“Craig brings to our team extensive networks in business, government and the community”, said Mr Yim.
“His experience will be invaluable as we move from feasibility and planning towards project delivery”.
Mr Yim said the company’s projects in Queensland aim to strengthen regional economies while supporting the transition to lower-emissions fuels, particularly through the development of sustainable aviation fuel and other renewable energy products linked to the agricultural sector.
“SKY Renewables has been working closely with primary producers and industry stakeholders to explore opportunities to convert agricultural residues into high-value renewable fuels”, said Mr Yim.
Mr Doyle said he was excited to join SKY Renewables as it proceeds with its Queensland projects.
“SKY Renewables has done the hard yards since 2018, and stands alone in the sector by directly connecting primary producers with biofuels consumers”, Mr Doyle said.
“I’m thrilled to be joining a company that adds value to Queensland’s agricultural sector and is a first mover in producing sustainable aviation fuel right here in North Queensland.”
In addition to his roles at NAIF and Powerlink, Mr Doyle has senior leadership experience at Gladstone Ports Corporation, Mackay Regional Council and Wilmar International.
*Stock image from https://www.pexels.com/photo/landscape-of-a-wind-farm-15268778/
Applications are now open for Pacific Blue’s Sustainable Communities fund. Begun in 2019, the scheme invests in community initiatives supporting wellbeing, education, and sustainability.
Interested parties have until April 30th to submit their application, with community groups across Ayr, Brandon, Clare, Dalbeg, Giru, Home Hill, and Millaroo invited to apply for grants of up to $10,000.
Over 20 years, Pacific Blue has invested more than $6 million into community-led projects across the country, including over $500k right here in the Burdekin.
Recent recipients include the Burdekin Amateur Basketball Association, which received funding for new grandstand seating, and the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club, which upgraded its first aid and office facilities. The Zonta Club also benefited from new technology to support their vital community work.
Domenic Capomolla, CEO of Pacific Blue, highlighted the fund as a way to give back to the community that plays a vital role in Australia’s renewable energy transition.
"We are proud to see the positive impact it brings to the Burdekin region.” He said.
“The fund channels the benefits of our solar farm into projects that create lasting social, environmental, and economic outcomes for the regions that support our transition to renewable energy.”
Interested organisations are encouraged to review the Community Fund Guidelines to ensure their application aligns with the fund's criteria.
For more details or to submit an application, visit pacificblue.com.au
Recycling is something we should all take more seriously. While it may seem minor, what goes into the bin has a real cost to Council and, ultimately, to our community. Contamination increases processing costs and places an unnecessary burden on ratepayers. A small change in thinking can make a big difference.
As we approach Easter, I would like to spare a thought for communities in the North who are experiencing the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Narelle. Cyclones and heavy rainfall often result in road closures, which means supplies can be delayed or cut off altogether. For many children in those communities, something as simple as receiving Easter eggs may not be guaranteed, and Easter may look a little different for them this year.
Easter remains the most significant celebration in the Christian calendar and is also a time of reflection, family and generosity. If you are in a position to do so, please consider showing kindness and understanding to those who may be doing it tough this holiday period.
With school holidays now underway, many families will be travelling to their favourite destinations or exploring somewhere new. Wherever you are heading, please travel safely, look after one another on the roads, and enjoy time with loved ones. I wish everyone across the Burdekin a safe and Happy Easter.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
That was a great weekend! Once again the Canefield Ashes was upon us and it did not disappoint. I imagine that by now the chiropractors and physio’s have full waiting rooms. But it is worth it. Now in its 22nd year, this carnival continues to attract a bigger crowd, and it is always humbling to see how the volunteers all get behind still. All in honour to remember Eugene Pagotto with a game of cricket, a few drinks and a laugh. Well done to all that help bring this back every year.
I also participated in the Home Hill golf clubs opening day. It was great to see good numbers there and the club also recognised two life members for their contributions in the club’s life. Well done and thanks to Geoff Todman and John Power for all you do for this club.
I hope everyone else had a good weekend and I wish you all a happy and safe Easter.
Burdekin households and small businesses are set to see some long-awaited relief on their power bills, with electricity prices across regional Queensland forecast to drop by close to 10 per cent next financial year.
Under the latest draft determination from the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA), residential electricity prices for regional customers—including those in Ayr, Home Hill and across the wider Burdekin—are expected to fall by 9.7 per cent in 2026–27. Small businesses could see even greater relief, with prices projected to drop by 11.3 per cent.
The reduction is expected to be welcomed across the Burdekin, where residents and businesses have faced years of rising electricity costs.
The projected drop follows similar forecasts for South East Queensland under the Australian Energy Regulator’s Default Market Offer, which suggests power prices could fall by 10.1 per cent for households and 12.8 per cent for small businesses in metropolitan areas.
The State Government says the reductions are the result of its Energy Roadmap, which aims to balance maintaining existing infrastructure with investing in new energy generation.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said regional communities like the Burdekin deserved to see the same level of cost-of-living relief as their city counterparts.
“The Energy Roadmap is putting downward pressure on power prices, as we said it would,” Mr Janetzki said.
“Default power prices are set to drop by around 10 per cent throughout the state next financial year.
“The QCA’s draft determination aligns with the deal proposed for the southeast and would see regional Queensland get the cost-of-living relief they need.”
The Government has also pointed to its $1.6 billion Electricity Maintenance Guarantee, aimed at improving the reliability and performance of existing power stations, as a key factor in stabilising prices.
While the figures are still in draft form, the QCA will now undertake a period of public consultation before handing down its final determination, expected in late May or early June.
If confirmed, the price drop would mark a shift after years of rising electricity costs, offering some breathing room for Burdekin households and businesses heading into the next financial year.
FEDERAL Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has welcomed the Government’s decision to halve the fuel excise for three months; a move he describes as a hard-won victory for the Australian people and a direct result of the Coalition’s relentless pursuit of a "fair go" for motorists.
The announcement, which will see 26 cents per litre wiped from the price of petrol and diesel, follows intense pressure from the Liberal and National parties. Mr Willcox said this outcome proves what can be achieved when a strong Opposition holds a detached Government to account.
"We have heard you loud and clear,” Mr Willcox said.
“My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson.”
Mr Willcox said that for too long, the Labor Government ignored the reality of the bruising bowser, telling families to buy sixty-thousand-dollar electric cars while they were struggling to afford the drive to work.
“Today [30 March], the Coalition has turned the tide; trading the Prime Minister's lectures for actual action at the pump,” he said.
Mr Willcox noted that while the excise cut provides much-needed breathing space, the battle is not over. He emphasised that the current crisis is a dual challenge of both price and supply, and the Coalition remains focused on long-term energy security for the regions.
The Member for Dawson also issued a stern warning to fuel retailers and oil companies regarding the implementation of the tax cut.
"We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediatelyat the pumps,” he said.
“Labor must ensure the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is watching these companies like a hawk. There is no excuse for these savings to be pocketed by big corporations instead of reaching the pockets of our farmers, our small businesses, and our families."
The three-month excise reduction is expected to provide significant relief to the transport and agricultural sectors in North Queensland, where the tyranny of distance makes fuel a non negotiable cost of living.
"This is a win for common sense,” Mr Willcox said.
“We have forced a shift from ideology back to reality, and the Coalition will continue to fight to ensure that every cent of this tax cut reaches the people who actually keep this country moving."
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