Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign
Capability, Andrew Willcox, says Labor’s plan to drop regional speed limits leaves regional
Australia stuck in the slow lane.

The ‘roadblock to regional progress’ proposal would reduce the default speed limit on unsigned
roads outside of built-up areas, which is currently 100 km/h, down to as low as 70 km/h.

“Slashing speed limits isn’t road safety reform, it’s a lazy fix. Instead of patching potholes, Labor
wants to punish the people who drive on them,” Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox said Dawson communities are firmly opposed to the Government’s plan, describing
it as a “Canberra solution to a regional problem.”

“Country people want the Government to invest in fixing our roads, not let them deteriorate to
the point where speed limits have to be reduced, and later forcing councils and state
governments to pick up the tab when proper investment could prevent this.”

Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has cancelled, cut, or delayed more than $30
billion in infrastructure funding, leaving many regional projects in limbo.

Mr Willcox said the Government’s claims of restoring the 80:20 funding split for regional road
upgrades were misleading.

“People think the 80:20 funding model has been restored, but that’s just smoke and mirrors. It
only applies to the money pledged to the Bruce Highway, and we haven’t seen those funds flow
to regional areas either,” he said.

“The Prime Minister has targeted regional roads for spending cuts, reducing the
Commonwealth’s contribution from 80 per cent under the Coalition to just 50 per cent for many
upgrade projects.”

Mr Willcox said the proposal would only hurt regional productivity and safety.

“Out here, roads aren’t a luxury, they’re lifelines for farmers, truckies, and small businesses.
Lowering speed limits just slows regional Australia down,” he said.

“Locals don’t want slower roads, they want safer ones.

“Fund the repairs, back our councils, and stop treating regional Australia as an afterthought.”

He said Labor’s plan had even drawn criticism from within its own ranks.

Labor Senator Glenn Sterle told ABC Radio: “Absolutely no way do I support this. It is a
nonsense. It is just a nonsense that we would even entertain or put up something like this.”

“If the Government won’t even listen to one of its own senators, why would we believe it will
listen to feedback from rural communities?” Mr Willcox said.

“It’s time to make it clear, this plan must be scrapped.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox urges the Government to fix deteriorating regional roads in Dawson rather than imposing a 70 km/h speed limit. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin is mourning the loss of beloved resident and teacher Gavin McLean, who tragically passed away in a single-vehicle crash in Ayr earlier this month.

Mr McLean had relocated to the Burdekin with his wife, joining Burdekin Christian College in 2024. Despite being new to the region, he had quickly become a much-loved member of the school community, bringing extensive experience in STEM education, international learning partnerships and digital technologies, along with a reputation for calm guidance and genuine care.

Originally from Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, he was a devoted father to two sons and the proud owner of two miniature Fox Terriers, Bindi and Astro. Away from the classroom, Mr McLean was known for his love of music. A former professional guitarist and sound designer, he enjoyed sharing his gift at local venues and events.

In a statement, Burdekin Christian College paid tribute to their Technologies Head of Department, saying Mr McLean was “not only an exceptional educator, but a cherished colleague, mentor, and friend whose kindness, humour and unwavering dedication impacted countless lives.”

“Gavin’s presence, wisdom and generous spirit will forever remain a part of the heart of BCC,” they added.

The McLean family invited the community to honour Gavin’s life on Wednesday, 19 November, at 10.30am at the Burdekin Theatre. The College closed on the day to allow staff and students to attend and celebrate his legacy.

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Burdekin-born plumbing apprentice Scarlet Jenkins has taken out Apprentice of the Year at the TAFE Queensland Awards, held last month at the Townsville Pimlico campus—an honour she never saw coming.

Nominated by her teacher, Jenkins said the news came completely out of the blue. "I didn't even know about it... I just got a call one day and they said 'you've been nominated'," she said.

Now halfway through her four-year apprenticeship, she admitted the lead-up to the event had her on edge. "When they called my name I was shocked. I was like 'oh, God... I need to make a speech now!'"

Her efforts were recognised with a trophy, a photo frame, and a $500 voucher for Reece Plumbing in Townsville.

Originally, Scarlet had planned to become an electrician, but when that path didn’t come to fruition, she turned to plumbing, and hasn’t looked back. "I love it. It's just something different every day, getting out, meeting different people and learning stuff every day," she said.

Scarlet hopes to eventually work in the mining industry as a plumber, combining her skills with her love of hands-on work. Though for now, she's excited to see out her final two years of her apprenticeship at Ferguson Plumbing, where you'll see her on roofs or digging holes around town.

The award is a proud moment for the local community, highlighting the talent and dedication of young apprentices from the Burdekin region.

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Burdekin-born Scarlet Jenkins has been named Apprentice of the Year at the TAFE Queensland Awards. Photo supplied

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The District Finals of the annual R.O. & B.M. Colls Memorial Lecturette Competition were held on Monday evening, November 3, at the Home Hill State School Resource Centre.

This long-standing Burdekin tradition invites Year 6 students from across the district to research, write and deliver a persuasive speech on a factual topic linked to an area of school study. Each participating school selects two representatives, with thirteen talented finalists taking to the stage this year. Contestants were adjudicated on the quality of their content, language, and delivery.

The overall winner was Arden Jane Mitchell, representing St Francis Catholic Primary School, Ayr. Arden Jane captivated the audience and judges alike with her powerful and deeply moving speech titled “Sticks and Stones… and Tiny Graves,” which explored the confronting issues of childhood bullying and youth suicide.

Arden Jane’s courage and compassion shone through as she addressed this difficult but vital topic, earning her the prestigious Colls Lecturette Trophy, a particularly meaningful moment for her family as the trophy also bears the name of her uncle, Ben Brandon, who won the same award in 2003.

Arden Jane’s mother, Kady Brandon, said, “Arden spent hours preparing her speech and finding the courage to tackle such an emotional subject in front of her peers and community. She hoped her words might reach even one person that evening.”

The judges described Arden Jane as “a young lady going places”, praising her articulate, eloquent and mature delivery.

Arden also recently received an Academic Scholarship to Ayr State High School, where she will begin her secondary education next year. With her natural talent and determination, it seems clear that this young achiever has a bright future ahead.

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The judges described Arden Jane as “a young lady going places”, praising her articulate, eloquent and mature delivery. Photo supplied

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TBR Fun Run Returns This Sunday

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Once again, the community has been warmly invited to lace up and have a jog this weekend for another spectacular Three Blokes Running (TBR) Fun Run event at the Queens Hotel!

Scheduled for Sunday, the 23rd of November from 4pm, Austin Dewar, Campbell Johnston and Brayden Rawlins will lead the event for the second consecutive year all in the interest of raising much needed funds and awareness for the Movember Foundation, and men’s mental health.

The fun run itself will kick off at 5pm sharp from outside the Queens Hotel in Ayr, with the boys inviting anyone and everyone to come down for a walk or run regardless of experience levels.

In the inaugural year (2024) of TBR, Austin, Campbell and Brayden hosted a debut Fun Run event attracting an outstanding turnout exceeding 100 runners and raising an estimated $2,000 for the boy’s 2024 Movember Foundation team. The boys hope this weekend’s event will yield the same, if not better results!

“Join us for an arvo of beers, running, and raffles, all for a great cause! All proceeds will go towards men’s mental health awareness,” shared the trio.

As soon as the calendar flipped over to November, Austin, Campbell and Brayden reignited their Movember Foundation mission, amplifying the message “it ain’t weak to speak” far and wide. In an effort to continue spreading awareness and good vibes, day by day, the trio flip a card, and do a mystery challenge, which could be anything from clocking in for endless push-ups or a good old classic gym session.

With thousands of followers cheering them on, the boys have been comedically vlogging their challenges and sharing the videos online, attracting tens of thousands of views from across the state and beyond.

To follow along with the boys journey, search Three Blokes Running on social media and to donate to the TBR Movember Foundation team, jump online to https://movember.com/t/three-blokes-running.

What: TBR Movember Foundation Fun Run
When: Sunday, 23rd November, 4pm
Where: Queens Hotel, Queen Street, Ayr

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2024's TBR Fun Run saw over 100 locals rally behind the boys (Photo Credit: David Jackson)

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The Burdekin proudly celebrated its sporting talent at the recent North Queensland (NQ) Sportstar Awards, highlighting local athletes and volunteers who have excelled in their fields. Four finalists from the region were recognised for their outstanding achievements and dedication to sport.

Karin Thorburn claimed the prestigious Sporting Excellence Award, making history as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, reaching the milestone during the Magnetic 30 event on the Strand. Known for her relentless dedication, Karin continues to inspire the Burdekin community through her consistency and commitment to running.

The North Queensland Rifle Association F/TR team were named Senior Team of the Year runners-up. The team secured their first-ever national title in 2024 and followed up with victories in 2025, including F-Class Team Matches and the Long Range Trophy. Beyond competition, the team actively volunteers at local clubs such as the Ayr Rifle Club, contributing to the sport’s growth at the grassroots level.

Para-athlete Ainsley Hooker was a finalist in the Para-Athlete of the Year category. After competing in the Invictus and Warrior Games, Ainsley has established herself in para-athletics, holding Queensland F57 records in seated shot put, discus, and javelin, and claiming the F57 national discus title this year. She also mentors junior para-athletes and supports their families.

Sandra Danziger was recognised as a finalist for the Alan Ticehurst Memorial Service to NQ Sport Award. As Treasurer of the Burdekin Netball Association for 40 years, Sandra has guided the club through significant changes while supporting fundraisers, coaching, and umpiring programs, making her a cornerstone of local netball.

The Burdekin community congratulates Karin Thorburn for her award-winning achievement and applauds all finalists for their dedication, passion, and inspiration. Their efforts reflect the strength and spirit of sport in the Burdekin region.

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Karin Thorburn stole the spotlight, winning the Sporting Excellence Award. Karin became the first Australian to complete 500 marathons. Photo supplied
The North Queensland Rifle Association F/TR team were runners-up for Senior Team of the Year after back-to-back national titles in 2024 and 2025. Photo supplied

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Councillor Max Musumeci

School is all but done for 2025. I had the pleasure and opportunity to attend both the Home Hill and Ayr State High Schools academic awards nights and I was blown away. The academic achievements of our local children/teens are nothing short of impressive. Several students received early admissions to university and others received not one but multiple Dux awards. Well done to all our students and the future looks bright for you and for the Burdekin.

I also attended the Burdekin Football Club annual awards night recently. Listening to the achievements of all the players and hearing the speeches from captains and players, had this proud old Burdekin Panther reminiscing of the glory days. Congratulations to the Ladies Team who took out the Division1 Grand final earlier this year. By the sounds of the comradery and team spirit, I think they can go back-to-back next year! Congratulations to all the players who received awards. It was also great to see a club celebrate their volunteers and highlight those who embody that club spirit. Well done to all.

Congratulations to the Harvest Festival Committee for once again putting together an action-packed series of events. All the events were well organised and very well attended. It was great to see so much effort and pride go into the 38 floats that went down Eighth Avenue. Congratulations to all the winners of all the events.

It is Movember, and that means a month of Moustaches being sported to raise awareness of men’s health issues. What started as a small idea among friends in Australia, has grown into Movember, a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for some of the most pressing issues affecting men today. Such as, Prostate Cancer, Testicular Cancer, Mental health and suicide prevention. Movember is the time of year when growing a moustache is not only socially acceptable—it’s encouraged. So, raise funds, raise awareness, and raise the corners of your moustache proudly.

Grow a Mo. Save a Bro.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

We have had several important activities and community moments across the Burdekin Shire recently, and I’m pleased to share some of the updates with you.

On Monday 25 November, a mobile Telstra customer service van will be in the Burdekin from 9.00am to 4.30pm. This is a valuable opportunity for residents to receive face-to-face assistance with their Telstra accounts and services. No appointment is required, and the van will be conveniently located in the vacant block on Queen Street, between Vinnies and K-Hub. I encourage anyone needing support to drop in throughout the day.

We were also fortunate to welcome the Brisbane Broncos to the Burdekin as part of their trophy tour. Two of our local schools, East Ayr State School and St Colman’s School in Home Hill, were selected for the visit. The students’ excitement was truly wonderful to see, and they impressed the players with their thoughtful and entertaining questions. It was a memorable experience for everyone involved.

On 11 November, Councillors and I joined the community at Anzac Park in both Ayr and Home Hill to mark Remembrance Day. It was an honour to stand together as we paid tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our nation.

I would also like to remind residents in Ayr and Brandon that water restrictions remain in place as Council undertakes a critical stage of the South Ayr Filtration Plant Upgrade. Your cooperation during this time is greatly appreciated and helps ensure the work can be completed safely and efficiently.

As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss any Council matters, please contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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The Burdekin region has long been recognised for its strong sense of community, and that commitment continues to shine through the ongoing support provided by the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr to the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy.

Operated by a local board passionate about community wellbeing, the Community Bank has reaffirmed its support for school chaplaincy services across the region’s eleven state schools. Through dedicated funding and sustained advocacy, the bank is helping ensure chaplains remain a vital source of support for young people.

Acting Branch Manager Jade Bywaters said the board understands just how essential chaplains are in today’s school environment.

“Chaplains play a crucial role in helping students navigate both school life and personal challenges,” Jade said. “They create safe spaces, run programs that build connection, and offer support when students need it most. We’re proud to continue backing a service that delivers such genuine and lasting impact for local families.”

The Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy currently employs seven chaplains who run breakfast programs, lunchtime clubs, mentoring initiatives, and in-class support. They also provide one-on-one care for students facing social, emotional, or family challenges. Many of these services fall outside government funding and rely heavily on community partnerships to continue.

Operating under the umbrella of SU Australia (Scripture Union), the chaplaincy team provides opportunities for young people to build resilience, find connection, and discover hope through positive relationships and supportive programs.

This year, the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr announced a $30,000 grant to the chaplaincy program—an investment that will help ensure its long-term sustainability. The Chaplaincy Committee welcomed the funding, acknowledging that community-backed support is essential for keeping chaplains active in schools.

The Community Bank’s continued partnership reflects its core mission: returning profits to local causes and strengthening the Burdekin community from the ground up.

For more information about the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy or how you can support their work, please contact the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr or visit your local school’s chaplaincy committee.

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This year, the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr announced a $30,000 grant to the chaplaincy program—an investment that will help ensure its long-term sustainability. Photo supplied

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Whilst out exploring the region, residents have begun to notice several snake sightings in and around the Burdekin Shire, leading the Burdekin Shire Council to implement cautionary signage to warn the community.

With the school holidays and the festive season fast approaching, the community are being reminded to stay alert, especially considering the shire homes just over 70 diverse species of reptiles. As published by the Queensland Government Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the majority of the 73 species of reptiles within the Burdekin Shire are considered harmless, however, several venomous snakes are known to inhabit local bushlands, farms, creeks, and even residential backyards during the warmer months of the year.

The Eastern Brown Snake has been confirmed as a common specie in the area and has also been labelled as one of the country’s most venomous reptiles, with locals warned to stay alert near cane paddocks, open grasslands, and on rural properties for the fast-moving and defensive predator. Other common species include the Whipsnake, Green Tree Snake, Carpet Python, and Brown Tree Snake which can be found in gardens, roofs, and bushlands.

With the temperatures rising, snake encounters often become more frequent during this time of the year, and there are several steps you can take to keep you and your family safe these holidays such as:

1. Keeping backyards tidy.
2. Securing homes and sheds.
3. Wearing shoes outdoors.
4. Cautioning your children to never approach or touch a snake.
5. Keeping your pets on leads when walking near creeks or bushland.

If you spot a snake out and about, remember to keep your distance, and if necessary, contact North Queensland Wildlife Care on 0414 717 374 or Jeremy’s Reptile Relocations Townsville on 0403 187 712.

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A sign warning the community of snake sightings in the area has been put in place at Plantation Park (Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza)

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BURDEKIN artists and cultural groups are set to benefit from more than $24,000 in funding, approved by Burdekin Shire Council under Round 1 of the 2025/26 Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).

The RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Council, aimed at fostering creativity and cultural development across the region.

Six local projects received funding this round. The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association will run a Highland Dancing workshop, while the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company will stage the musical We Will Rock You at the Burdekin Theatre. The Burdekin Uniting Church will host the 2026 Gospel Music Festival, and the Burdekin Shire Youth Council will deliver the 2026 NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase and workshops. Additionally, the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association will hold a wood lathe workshop, and Burdekin Potters will offer beginners and intermediate Wheel Throwing workshops.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the funding highlights Council’s commitment to nurturing local talent.

“The RADF program is an important investment in our region’s creativity,” she said. “By supporting these projects, we’re helping artists and cultural groups develop new skills, share their talents, and deliver experiences that bring our community together.”

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New Kids’ Song Showcases Queensland’s Sweetest Crop

A catchy new children’s song celebrating Queensland’s sugar industry has taken off online, with Sugarcane Train, a collaboration between George the Farmer and CANEGROWERS, attracting more than 68,000 views in just three days.

The companion educational video, Learn About Sugarcane with George the Farmer, has also proved a hit, drawing over 65,000 views since its release on Friday.

The upbeat tune takes children on a playful journey “from paddock to packet,” showing how sugarcane is planted, grown, harvested and turned into sugar, fuel, electricity and even bioplastics. Designed to make learning fun, the project brings Queensland’s sugar story to life through music, animation and hands-on education.

“Sugarcane is one of Australia’s most vibrant, versatile and sustainable crops, and it’s great to see it come to life through George the Farmer’s unique storytelling,” said CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan.

“George’s new tune is fun, factual and might just get stuck in your head for days – and its incredible early success shows just how much kids love learning where their food and fibre come from.

It also continues CANEGROWERS’ long-standing commitment to helping students and teachers understand our industry and its people.”

The Sugarcane Train song and educational video mark the first instalments in a new suite of learning resources developed by George the Farmer in partnership with CANEGROWERS. A full set of curriculum-aligned STEM materials for Prep to Year 4 will be released ahead of the 2026 school year, featuring activities such as designing cane farms, building model harvesters and exploring environmental stewardship.

George the Farmer creator Simone Kain said the response from young viewers has been overwhelming.

“Kids can’t resist singing along – and Sugarcane Train is the perfect way to show how clever, creative and sustainable our farmers really are,” she said.

Teachers, parents and little growers can hop aboard the Sugarcane Train today:

• Watch the video on the George the Farmer YouTube channel
• Stream the song on all major platforms
• Learn more at georgethefarmer.com.au or canegrowers.com.au

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CANEGROWERS Education Project Co-ordinator, Shikira Kalatzis, Cairns Region cane farmer Celiamaree Zarins, the George the Farmer team, Shaun, George and Simone, and CANEGROWERS Cairns Region District Manager Joel Teirney (Photo Supplied)

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Glen Shane Galbraith was a man whose warmth, humour, and genuine care touched everyone who knew him. Known for his cheeky laugh, love of horses, devotion to family, and generous heart, Glen lived life on his own terms while leaving a lasting impression on the Burdekin community. He was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend—a quiet achiever whose kindness radiated in both grand gestures and everyday moments.

The following tribute article was sent to the newspaper by Glen’s brother, Paul, and has been lightly trimmed for publication.

"In the words of my Father, “Glen was the most wonderful son”.

In the words that have come forward over this past week from so many friends, family members, and the wider circle, the most repeated words to reflect on Glen are: ‘beautiful, gentle, funny and a happy human’… with a cheeky and unforgettable laugh!

In my words, it’s simple… “Glen was the most amazing younger brother and my closest mate”.
Words don’t seem to be enough to explain how many people have been deeply touched by Glen and his kind disposition over his 62 years.

Glen had a big heart and a genuine and honest soul. Never selfish, never judgemental, never a bad word to say about anyone. Glen was beautifully put together and the unique product of our wonderful parents; Don and Lexene. Glen grew up constantly surrounded by family, an abundance of friends, and embraced by good Burdekin people all of his life.

Mum and Dad – you should be so proud of yourselves for creating and nurturing this gift of light that became Glen Shane Galbraith, on the 25th of October, 1963. Equally, I can honestly say, that Glen was so proud to have Lex and Don as his incredible Mum and Dad. I have experienced and witnessed the unconditional love that was shared between the three of them over his lifetime.

No matter how busy, Glen stopped everything each evening at 7 pm to phone home, just to check in with Mum and Dad. Sometimes these conversations lasted five minutes or up to half an hour. Regardless of the length, this came from his loving and thoughtful nature. Glen was not selfish; it wasn’t duty—it was his care.

Being the youngest of three children, there were very few baby pictures of Glen in the Hillier Street home, so Peter and I often teased that he was adopted! As youngsters, Peter, Glen and I spent much of our time playing with matchbox cars under our Grandparents home at 8 Macmillan Street. Glen would shift the hose pipe to flood the dirt and make a mud pit.

Glen spent his childhood energy on sports—Soccer, Swim Squad, Tennis, Squash, Basketball, Table Tennis, and Nippers—but he was horse mad from a young age. I will never forget him running around the backyard with a leather strap in his hands, pretending it was reins attached to an invisible horse. One Christmas, he woke to a broken halter and horse poo at the bottom of the back stairs—Dad insisting his Christmas present had got away! Mum and Dad soon gave in and purchased his first pony, Happy, who became adored by all. Glen and Happy were the after-school Pied Pipers of the neighbourhood.

Glen joined the Ayr Pony Club and spent countless hours riding, competing, and caring for horses. His riding ability was noticed by the late Bob Bourke and his daughter Tracey, who invited him to ride show ponies. This began a lifelong bond with Tracey, a friendship of love, respect, and mutual support that endured across generations.

As a youngster, Glennie had an innocent baby face but a mischievous side. He stashed cigarettes, put sugar in Pete’s petrol tank, or prawn shells in hubcaps—all in the spirit of harmless pranks.

After school, Glen worked at Crowdies Bakery and developed a love for cooking. Later, he joined me in Brisbane, where he thrived in fashion retail and quickly became top salesperson at Tony Barlow’s Menswear, winning customers with genuine, friendly service rather than a pushy sales pitch.

Eventually, Glen returned to Ayr, working as Night Manager at Woolworths, then relocated briefly to Gympie to fulfill a childhood dream of building his own ranch. Returning to the Burdekin, he became Assistant Manager at Coutts Tavern Bottle Shop (now BWS), where his friendly smile and cheery wave became well-known to regular customers.

Glen’s home in Brandon was his pride and joy. Fiercely independent, he created a stylish, welcoming sanctuary, perfect for entertaining family and friends. Glen was often the glue that held family gatherings together, meticulously planning menus and events weeks in advance. He delivered an incredible speech at Dad’s 90th birthday—a first for him, yet done with ease, humour, and heart.

All Galbraith boys inherited the “Lexene Galbraith OCD clean freak” gene, but Glen’s obsession with cleanliness was legendary. He established his own commercial cleaning business, earning a solid reputation for professionalism and high standards.

Glen was also a wonderful uncle. He played an important role in the lives of nephews Jason and Aaron, and great nephews and nieces, as well as Tina’s children, Callum and Ella, whom he affectionately nicknamed Trevor Dag and Ruth Gumby. Glen’s nature, gentleness, and care touched countless lives.
All Peter and I ask from our Angel now, our little brother, is to look down upon us, wrap his arms around Mum and Dad, and keep their lights shining.

Sixty-two years of a fulfilled life which words seem insufficient to define. Glen was loved, liked, adored, and valued by all.

GLEN will remain with us always.

GLEN will remain forever young.

Rest in peace, our beautiful, beautiful boy.

Please remember, if you are struggling with mental health, you are not alone. Call LifeLine on 13 11 14.

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Burdekin Chamber of Commerce members gathered at the Burdekin Bowl on Tuesday, 11 November, for the organisation’s Annual General Meeting, which saw a mix of returning leaders and new faces stepping into key roles.

President Eusebio Aguirre of ELA Solutions retained his position, while Gary Roser of Harvey Norman moved into the Vice President role—his first leadership position within the Chamber. Former Vice President Frank Nucifora, owner of Delta Cleaners & Laundry, transitioned into the Treasurer position, and Kari Ravizza from McCathies Furniture Plus accepted the role of Secretary.

Aguirre said he and the team are energised for the year ahead and committed to listening closely to members’ needs.

"We're looking forward to working closer with the businesses, seeing what they want to do, and trying to accomplish something positive with the [trust] they're putting in us."

He also flagged increasing meeting attendance as a key priority, shifting the usual afternoon meetings to morning sessions, with the added incentive of a free coffee.

"Having more people at these meetings gives us a more diverse understanding of what the members want. The more people we have, the more we can come to a happy medium with our members. It's about them speaking up."

The Chamber’s leadership is confident heading into the new term, with at least five new members expected to join through the upcoming Christmas promotion.

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Executive Members Rose Papadimitriou and Jenny Papale, Treasurer Frank Nucifora, President Seb Aguirre, Secretary Kari Ravizza, and Executive Member Paul Benvenuti make up the part of the new leadership group. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Local schools are being encouraged to submit ideas to improve student travel safety, with nominations now open for the Queensland Government’s School Transport Infrastructure Program (STIP).

The Government has committed $4 million this financial year to support new or upgraded road and transport infrastructure around schools. Projects may include improved drop-off zones, shared pathways, pedestrian crossings and bus set-down areas. In its first Budget, the government has allocated $27.5 million over four years to ensure the program continues, following concerns it had been left without future funding.

Acting Minister for Transport and Main Roads Sam O’Connor said the program plays an important role in creating safe and accessible journeys for students.

"The former Labor Government left no ongoing funding for the School Transport Infrastructure Program, but we stepped in to ensure these critical upgrades can continue to be delivered at schools right across our state,” Acting Minister O’Connor said.

“This program delivers real, on-the-ground improvements making school travel safer and more accessible for our kids.

“I encourage school communities to jump online and put forward their ideas to the Department for Transport and Main Roads about how transport networks around their school safer could be improved.

“We have slightly extended the deadline for applications to 17 November to give schools and local governments a bit more time to complete their nominations.”

“I look forward to seeing these projects delivered across the state in 2026 and beyond, providing children with safe and secure journeys to and from school.”

Schools, community members and road authorities can submit ideas. Forms can be completed and emailed to STIP@tmr.qld.gov.au, with guidelines available through the School Transport Infrastructure Program.

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Funding is now open for government led safer school travel projects (Photo Source: Unsplash)

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