Ayr State High School students were among the standout achievers at this year’s Burdekin Show, earning recognition across a range of creative and practical categories.

Year 10 student Anastasia Craven-Wall took out Reserve Champion in the Graphic Design section, while Peppa earned second place in the same category. In textiles, JahDal Doyle secured first place in the Machine-sewing article section with a reversible bucket hat that impressed the judges. Meggan Laidlow and Jake Erquiaga also performed strongly, both earning second place for their handmade shorts and hat respectively. Meanwhile, Bailey Hudson and Shaynade Neilsen received highly commended awards for their entries.

The school congratulated all students involved and extended thanks to the Burdekin Show committee for continuing to provide opportunities for young people to showcase their talents. The event was a proud moment for Ayr High, reflecting the creativity and dedication of its students.

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Six decades of rich foundational history, strong values, and success will see Nutrien Harcourts McCathies in Ayr celebrate a momentous, 60th anniversary this year.

Founded in 1965 by Jack and Milly McCathie, Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, formally McCathies Real Estate, has seen waves of change, innovation and modernisation, yet continues to operate with the same values set by the pair all those years ago. Jack and Milly were a busy entrepreneurial couple, establishing businesses across the district specialising in transportation, retail, and of course, real estate.

As the years progressed, the business moved premisses from 132 Queen Street to 131 Queen Street to where it stands today at 262 Queen Street in Ayr and was passed exclusively through the McCathie family for 49 years before Paula and John Mottin joined as partners in 2014. Jack and Milly’s daughter, Janice and her husband Garry, alongside her brother John and his wife Lyndy, operated the family business for many years, adapting to the ever-changing real estate market and landscape.

In 2014, McCathies Real Estate joined the Landmark franchise, inviting John and Paula into the business and renaming the establishment to what it’s known as today, Nutrien Harcourts McCathies.

Seeing the business evolve from the days of hand printed for sale signs, to what it has now become, Lyndy stayed as partners alongside John and Paula for many years up until Lyndy officially retired at the end of 2021.

“I think the best memories are all the people that we connected with during the time, whether they be salespeople or owners’ tenants,” Lyndy reminisced.

In recent years, Paula and John have helped grow the business exponentially, welcoming in the sale of rural properties, and building upon the business’s history with past clients – an aspect of the job Paula loves the most.

“The best thing about real estate in a small town is you actually get a history of people and property, and especially over 60 years, you get to know the whole generations, it’s lovely,” shared Paula.

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, Rural Specialist, Auctioneer, and Clearing Sale Specialist John Mottin was born and raised in the Burdekin Shire, where he has spent his life deeply involved in the cane farming industry. Known for his strong work ethic, John prides himself on his honesty, transparency, and unwavering commitment to providing reliable, professional service. His dedication to his clients sets him apart in the competitive real estate market.

Originally from Mackay, Paula Mottin has called the Burdekin home since 1998, developing a deep connection with the town and its people. As a passionate real estate professional and co-owner of Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, Paula believes real estate is about more than just property - it’s about people. She is committed to delivering exceptional personal and professional service, grounded in honesty, open communication, and a genuine desire to achieve the best possible outcomes for her clients.

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Guided By Many Hands

A Snapshot Through Time

1965
After 22 years of marriage and numerous business ventures, Jack and Milly McCathie founded McCathies Real Estate at 132 Queen Street, Ayr. Although the building needed some TLC and essential renovations, the pair were far too busy to notice its flaws!

1966
Jack and Milly invited their daughter Janice and son-in-law Garry Jones to join the growing family business. As McCathies expanded, they relocated across the road to 131 Queen Street, Ayr.

Late 1960s – 1970s
McCathies diversified beyond real estate - taking on the TAA travel agency, becoming Elna sewing machine agents, and importing cane furniture. During this period, Jack and Milly’s son John and his wife Lyndy joined the family business. John managed Ayr Secondhand Dealers, while Lyndy supported the growing rental and property management side alongside Janice.

1978
Jack and Milly purchased the prominent corner building at 262 Queen Street, seeing its potential for expansion.

1979
McCathies Real Estate and Ayr Secondhand Dealers moved to 262 Queen Street, Ayr. The business also launched Jan & Lyndy’s Sewing World, adding a fabric and haberdashery shop to the thriving premises.

1980s
With no computers, all admin and bookkeeping were done manually including long nights writing cheques at the dining table. Despite retiring, Jack and Milly remained close by to lend a hand when needed.

1987
Jack and Milly officially retired, leaving the business in the capable hands of Janice, Garry, John, and Lyndy.

1991
McCathies purchased the rent roll from Burdekin Real Estate. With the rent roll growing rapidly, the business entered the computer age - marking a significant (and challenging) step forward in administration.

2002–2009
The Burdekin experienced a property boom. Out-of-town buyers started snapping up multiple properties, and the demand for rentals surged. McCathies launched its first website - mccathiesrealestate.com.au - leading to a flood of enquiries. The rent roll expanded rapidly, and prices began to rise after years of stagnation.

2014
John and Paula Mottin became partners with John and Lyndy McCathie. The business began trading as Landmark Harcourts McCathies, and Janice officially retired.

2015
Janice sold her shares to Paula and Johnnie and officially retired from the business.

2017
The company acquired the rental portfolio from Sugar Realty, expanding the rent roll significantly.

2018
Further growth came with the acquisition of Brandons Real Estate’s rental portfolio.

2019
The Landmark franchise rebranded as Nutrien, and the business adopted the name Nutrien Harcourts McCathies.

2021
John and Lyndy McCathie retired and sold their shares to Paula and Johnnie Mottin, officially passing the baton to the next generation of leadership.

Today
McCathies has grown from a small family-run real estate office to a full-service property agency, offering: residential, rural, and commercial sales, residential and commercial property management, storage unit management, body corporate management, property and chattel auctions and Airbnb management.

The Award Winning Legacy Continues

Over the years, the real estate agency has attracted plenty of praise and received an array of prestigious awards and titles including an Australian National Award, and 25 Nutrien Harcourts Awards.  More recently, the Mottins’ proudly announced that Nutrien Harcourts McCathies has been recognised as the leading office across the entire Nutrien Harcourts network—a title they carry with great pride. John Mottin has also achieved significant national acclaim, ranked as the fifth top-performing Sales Consultant in Australia among more than 1,000 Harcourts offices. Internationally, he holds an impressive 27th place ranking.

“It’s always nice to be acknowledged, but for me, it’s never really about the awards,” Paula shared. “What matters most is how you treat people and go about your work. That’s what truly makes the difference.”

Still managing residential properties, body corporates, commercial properties, storage units and now rural and farming properties, the team at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies are dedicated to serving their clients with the highest levels or professionalism, knowledge and expertise. Over the years, many people have had instrumental roles in the growth of the business including of course Jack and Milly McCathie, Garry and Janice Jones, John and Lyndy McCathie, John and Paula Mottin, Alan Davidson, Martin Poots, Geoff and Judith Keyse, Lyn Stenning, Neil Jensen, Rose Spelta, Sharon Hawkins, Louise Butler, Lisa Zabel, Delvene Di Bella and Sue Perry, to name a few.

Although times have changed and the days of endless pages of handwritten documents and records have passed, the business still continues to observe the values of putting people first, doing the right thing, being courageous and operating with fun and laughter in every professional endeavour. Locally owned and operated for 60 years, John, Paula and the team at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies look forward to what the future holds and hope to continue celebrating many more prestigious awards and meeting outstanding business milestones.

MEET THE SALES
SUPERSTARS

Amber Hornsby

Since joining Nutrien Harcourts McCathies in 2019, Amber has become an indispensable part of the team, known for her professionalism, industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.

Amber's journey began in customer service within the travel industry, where she developed a passion for helping people—something she carried with her into real estate. Starting on reception, Amber quickly demonstrated her capabilities and moved into the sales department, where she has flourished as a Sales Assistant for the past five years.

Her role has seen her work closely with a range of sales agents, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the local property market. She’s gained valuable insight into legislation surrounding both vacant and tenanted properties and sharpened her communication and negotiation skills—qualities that shine through in every client interaction.

Clients consistently praise Amber for her approachable nature, professionalism, and her ability to truly listen. She makes it a priority to understand each client’s unique needs and ensures they feel confident every step of the way.

Now a Licensed Real Estate Agent, Amber proudly represents Nutrien Harcourts McCathies and continues to pursue professional development. Her commitment to learning and growth is matched by her dedication to delivering top-tier service.

Amber Hornsby is more than just a Sales Assistant—she’s a trusted guide and a driving force behind the team’s success. Her passion, reliability, and integrity make her a standout in the real estate world.

Candice Dyball
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Since relocating from Toowoomba to the Burdekin in 2021, Candice Dyball has brought energy, professionalism, and strategic insight to the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team. With a background in high-level management roles, Candice quickly made her mark in real estate, beginning as a finance administrator where she developed a keen understanding of investor priorities and current market trends from both the sales and property management angles.
Eager to expand her industry expertise, Candice transitioned into the Commercial Leasing department. Starting in an administrative role, she rapidly advanced to become Commercial Leasing Manager—a role in which she refined her communication and negotiation skills, built a strong grasp of lease agreements, and kept up to date with evolving legislation.
Now, with three years of diverse real estate experience under her belt, Candice is embracing a new challenge as a Sales Agent. Her deep property knowledge and thorough understanding of real estate processes make her a trusted partner for clients navigating the buying or selling journey.
Candice’s approach is defined by strategy, empathy, and a genuine commitment to client success. Whether she’s assisting a first-time buyer or guiding a seasoned investor, her focus remains on delivering seamless, informed, and rewarding outcomes.
Candice Dyball is a true asset to Nutrien Harcourts McCathies—her drive, adaptability, and client-first mindset set her apart as she continues to grow and excel in the world of real estate.

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Lisa Sarri: Legal Expertise Meets Real Estate Excellence

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With a background as a former solicitor, Lisa Sarri brings a rare and valuable combination of legal acumen and customer-focused service to her role as Sales Assistant at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies. Her transition from law to real estate has proven to be a perfect fit, allowing her to support clients with precision, professionalism, and care.
Lisa’s in-depth understanding of property legislation gives her a distinct edge in the real estate world. She effortlessly navigates complex property matters, offering clients clear, accurate advice and ensuring that every step of the sales process is handled with confidence and clarity.
Known for her warm and approachable nature, Lisa creates a welcoming experience for every client she meets. Whether answering property enquiries, providing legal insight, or guiding buyers and sellers through the finer details of a transaction, Lisa’s genuine desire to help is always front and centre.
Her ability to combine a legal background with a strong commitment to service makes her an invaluable member of the team. Clients consistently feel supported, informed, and reassured under Lisa’s guidance.
Lisa’s professionalism and personable approach have helped her build trusted relationships with clients and colleagues alike. As a Sales Assistant, she continues to raise the bar—delivering not just results, but a real sense of ease and confidence to those navigating the property journey.
Lisa Sarri is a standout contributor to Nutrien Harcourts McCathies—smart, supportive, and always ready to go the extra mile.

Latoya Hartwell: A RisingTalent with Drive and Dedication

Since joining Nutrien Harcourts McCathies in 2022, Latoya Hartwell has quickly proven herself to be a vital part of the team. Beginning her real estate journey as a receptionist, Latoya stood out from day one with her enthusiasm, strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn.
Her dedication and quick adaptability saw her move into the role of Property Management Assistant, where she gained valuable insight into the real estate industry and began refining the skills that now define her success. With a strong foundation in both customer service and property processes, Latoya has since stepped into her current role as Sales Assistant—where she continues to excel.
Latoya brings a winning combination of excellent computer skills, a natural ability to connect with people, and a calm, organised approach to every task. Whether she's coordinating appointments, supporting sales agents, or assisting clients with enquiries, Latoya approaches each day with positivity and professionalism.
Her willingness to grow, paired with her approachable personality and strong communication skills, make her a dependable and trusted team member. Always ready to help and eager to expand her knowledge, Latoya is a shining example of what dedication and drive can achieve.
As she continues to build her career in real estate, Latoya Hartwell remains a valued and promising presence at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies—contributing daily to the team's success and leaving a positive impression on everyone she works with.

Amanda Tuffin: A Trusted Expert in Body Corporate and Commercial Leasing Management
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With over 14 years of diverse experience in property management, Amanda has built a reputation as a knowledgeable, adaptable, and highly professional member of the real estate industry. Her career began with Defence Housing in Townsville and Cairns, where she played a key role in managing a complex portfolio of more than 2,000 properties. Spanning a vast area—from Thursday Island to Mackay and as far west as Mt Isa—this role provided Amanda with invaluable experience handling a wide range of property matters across different markets and client types.

In 2011, Amanda relocated to Ayr and continued her career in real estate as a Property Manager. Her commitment to excellence, strong work ethic, and in-depth knowledge of the industry soon caught the attention of Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, who welcomed her to the team in 2017. Amanda’s role quickly expanded beyond property management to include responsibilities in financial and sales administration, where her attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities made her an indispensable part of the office.

Amanda’s personal experience as a buyer, seller, and property investor enhances her understanding of the real estate process, allowing her to connect with clients on a meaningful level and provide advice that is both practical and empathetic.

Stephanie Wilkie

Leasing and Business Development Executive
Stephanie Wilkie is a standout professional in the local real estate industry, known for her proactive approach, strong work ethic, and in-depth knowledge of the rental market. Her career began in property management, where she quickly distinguished herself through her ability to manage properties effectively and communicate clearly with both landlords and tenants.
Prior to entering the real estate world, Stephanie worked alongside her husband in their local plumbing business. This hands-on experience provided her with valuable insight into the practical side of property maintenance, including an understanding of compliance requirements, repair costs, and the importance of timely, reliable service. That background gave her an edge when she transitioned into property management—an edge she continues to use to her clients’ advantage today.
Over the past five years, Stephanie has immersed herself in the local rental market, building a deep understanding of legislation, tenancy requirements, and investor priorities. Her experience conducting countless property inspections has given her a sharp eye for detail and a clear picture of rental standards across the region.
Stephanie’s approachable nature, combined with her excellent problem-solving skills and analytical mindset, helped pave the way for her transition into dual leadership roles as Leasing Manager and Business Development Manager at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies. In these roles, she is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, maintaining strong client relationships, and ensuring a smooth, informed experience for both new and existing landlords.
Her strengths lie in building trust, resolving issues with care and efficiency, and helping clients achieve their investment goals. Stephanie’s strong communication and negotiation skills ensure every interaction is clear, productive, and professional.
Stephanie Wilkie continues to grow her profile in the real estate space, bringing a balance of industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and a genuine passion for helping people. She remains a vital member of the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team—committed to delivering top-tier service and real results for every client she works with.

Sabrina Thorne:Delivering Excellence in Every Aspect of Property Management

Sabrina Thorne is a highly efficient and dedicated Property Manager who continues to impress clients and colleagues alike with her exceptional ability to manage a broad and diverse portfolio of properties. Her strength lies in her keen attention to detail, exceptional time management, and her calm, professional approach to every situation.
Known for getting things done quickly and accurately, Sabrina ensures that day-to-day operations run smoothly for both landlords and tenants. Her strong organisational skills allow her to manage multiple properties and responsibilities simultaneously without compromising on the quality of service. From lease administration to coordinating repairs and inspections, she handles each task with confidence, care, and consistency.
What truly sets Sabrina apart is her unwavering commitment to customer service. She makes it a priority to provide a seamless and stress-free experience for everyone involved. Whether she’s resolving a maintenance issue, responding to tenant enquiries, or advising landlords on best practices, Sabrina brings a personal touch to every interaction. Her friendly and approachable nature builds trust, while her proactive communication ensures that all parties feel informed and supported.
Sabrina also excels in building long-term relationships with property owners and tenants, thanks to her reliability, professionalism, and solution-focused mindset. She doesn’t just manage properties—she creates positive experiences that lead to satisfied clients and well-maintained homes.
With a genuine passion for her work and a drive for excellence, Sabrina continues to be a standout performer in the real estate industry. Her dedication to delivering outstanding service and her ability to maintain order in the fast-paced world of property management make her an invaluable member of the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team.
Whether navigating a complex tenancy or simply ensuring routine matters are taken care of efficiently, Sabrina Thorne is a trusted name in property management—reliable, results-driven, and always ready to go the extra mile.

Maree Nielson: A Freshand Focused Force in Property Management

Since joining the real estate industry in 2024, Maree has quickly made a name for herself as a dedicated and highly organised Property Manager. Despite being relatively new to the field, her keen eye for detail and commitment to exceptional customer service have positioned her as a trusted professional among tenants and property owners alike.
Maree’s organisational skills are second to none. She ensures that every element of property management—from tenant communication and lease coordination to maintenance scheduling and problem resolution—runs efficiently and smoothly. Her proactive approach allows her to anticipate potential issues before they arise, giving clients peace of mind and preventing disruptions.
What truly sets Maree apart is her genuine dedication to building strong relationships. She listens carefully, communicates clearly, and ensures that everyone involved feels valued and understood. This empathetic approach has earned her praise from clients who appreciate her responsiveness and ability to navigate the often complex dynamics of property management with professionalism and care.
Her natural problem-solving skills mean she is quick to address concerns and find effective solutions that benefit both landlords and tenants. Maree’s focus on maintaining positive, collaborative relationships underpins her approach and contributes significantly to the success of the properties she manages.
Though new to the industry, Maree brings a fresh perspective and an unwavering dedication to excellence. She is rapidly becoming a vital member of the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team, helping clients navigate the challenges of property ownership and tenancy with confidence and ease.
Maree’s combination of organisation, communication, and customer service makes her a rising star in property management—one who is clearly here to make a lasting impact.

Madison Lamb: Finance Administrator:Versatile and Driven, Excelling Across Real Estate Roles

Madison brings a unique and diverse skill set to her real estate career, blending customer service, finance, and entrepreneurship experience to become a versatile and highly valued team member at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies. Before stepping into real estate, Madison ran her own Home Organisation and Cleaning Business, where she developed strong organisational skills and learned the importance of managing client relationships with care and professionalism.
Starting her real estate journey as a receptionist gave Madison a solid foundation and a broad understanding of the industry’s many moving parts. Motivated to grow her career, she obtained her real estate license and quickly moved into a Property Manager role. Here, Madison honed her communication skills, balancing the needs of investors and tenants alike to ensure properties were well managed and clients satisfied.
Madison’s keen interest in financial matters led her to embrace a new challenge in the financial administration department, focusing on trust accounting. Although this was a new area for her, she approached it with enthusiasm and dedication, quickly mastering the complexities of financial management within real estate.
Over her two years at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, Madison has proven herself adaptable, hardworking, and eager to learn. Her ability to juggle multiple responsibilities with exceptional organisation and time management skills has made her an indispensable part of the team.
Madison’s journey is a testament to her commitment to professional growth and continuous improvement. By drawing on her varied background and maintaining a positive, proactive approach, she consistently contributes to the ongoing success of Nutrien Harcourts McCathies and the satisfaction of its clients.

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Kaylah Cheney, A Welcoming Face And First Point Of Contact

Kaylah joined the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team as a school leaver, bringing with her a strong background in the catering industry and a natural talent for customer service. Her experience in fast-paced, client-focused environments has shaped her ability to communicate effectively and ensure every interaction is warm and professional.

Recently, Kaylah took an exciting step in her personal journey by purchasing her first home. This experience has given her valuable first-hand insight into the property buying process, deepening her understanding of real estate and the emotions that come with it.

As the welcoming face of our office, Kaylah is often the first point of contact for clients and visitors. Her approachable nature and commitment to delivering excellent service make her a valued member of the team and a key part of the client experience at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies.

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Clancie Johnson: Rising Through the Ranks with Dedication and Skill

Clancie embarked on her real estate career in 2024, starting as a receptionist where she quickly gained a solid understanding of the inner workings of the industry and the varied needs of clients. Her natural enthusiasm for delivering excellent customer service and her keen ability to learn enabled her to progress rapidly within the company.
Soon after, Clancie transitioned into a dual role providing support across both Commercial Leasing and Body Corporate operations, where she has continued to excel. In this capacity, she manages a diverse range of responsibilities—from coordinating commercial leases and assisting the leasing team with administrative tasks to supporting Body Corporate functions and communication. Her exceptional organisational skills and ability to juggle multiple priorities ensure that both areas run smoothly and efficiently.
Clancie is known for her approachable and professional manner, which fosters positive interactions with clients and colleagues alike. She consistently prioritises client satisfaction, making sure their needs are addressed promptly and thoughtfully. Her solid computer skills further enhance her ability to manage data and communications effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Despite being relatively new to the real estate sector, Clancie’s eagerness to expand her knowledge and improve her skills is clear. She remains committed to delivering high-quality results and providing exceptional support to the team.
With her combination of dedication, skill, and a client-focused mindset, Clancie has quickly become a valuable member of the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team, poised for continued growth and success in the commercial leasing arena.
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Charlotte Horsfall, Reception/Property Manager: The Friendly Face of Nutrien Harcourts McCathies
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Charlotte Horsfall is the warm and welcoming presence you’ll first encounter when visiting Nutrien Harcourts McCathies. With years of experience in customer service, Charlotte brings not only a friendly smile but also a genuine positive attitude to every interaction, making clients feel comfortable and valued from the very start.
Known for her exceptional patience and helpfulness, Charlotte handles each enquiry with care and professionalism. Whether she’s answering questions, guiding visitors, or providing essential support to the team, her approachable nature shines through. Clients appreciate her ability to listen attentively and respond thoughtfully, ensuring they feel supported throughout their experience.
Charlotte’s role at the front desk goes far beyond typical reception duties. She is often the first point of contact and sets the tone for client relationships, making her an invaluable asset to the Nutrien Harcourts McCathies team. Her dedication to excellent service helps foster a welcoming environment that keeps clients returning and builds lasting trust.
Charlotte has recently achieved her Property Management Certificate and will soon transition into a Property Management role, marking an exciting step forward in her career. While taking on new responsibilities in property management, she will continue to fulfil her important role at reception, providing valuable support to both clients and the team.

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Another perfect winter’s afternoon saw 28 players take to the green on 10 July, with a top temperature of 25 degrees.

Today’s winning team was Jo Roser, Wayne Newton, and Jeannie Thompson (pictured), who backed up for a second consecutive win. A singles game was played on Rink 3, though no details were received.

On Rink 1, Henry Hazel and Steve Doig blitzed Bruce McCullen and Phil Marsden, 30–8.
Rink 2 saw Maureen Marsden and Alex Bojack edge out Judy Elton and Hugh Montgomery in a close one, 21–18.
On Rink 4, Jos DeFranciscius, Elaine Young and Keith Roser proved too strong for Michael Young, Mick Murison and Bones Berryman, winning 33–14.
Rink 5 had Paul Vass, Margaret Linton and Col Ceating defeating Bob Young, Dino Poli and Yogi Bunn, 17–9.
No results were received from Rink 6.
Rink 7 saw Jeannie Thompson, Jo Roser and Wayne Newton come out on top over Des Chapman, Ron Smith and Trevor Elton, with Jeannie peppering the kitty all game.

In the raffle, a prawn tray was up for grabs and Des Chapman went home with the goods. Jo Roser claimed second prize — a bottle of wine.

The Monday morning fitness group and Tuesday Trimmers sessions are still going strong. The Wednesday morning Kraft group and Wednesday night bowls also continue to be well attended, while Thursday morning bingo and Thursday afternoon social bowls are attracting solid numbers.

Names for bowls should be in by 1pm (or earlier if possible) to help with the draw. Saturday afternoon bowls is also on, and still only $5 per game.

Good bowling until next week.

Story and photo by Stephen Doig.

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Another week, another milestone—my first Core Life deadline.

Core Life, if you're not aware, is a bi-monthly business and lifestyle magazine, also published by Life Publishing Group—the same team behind this very newspaper. For almost 15 years, it’s been fondly known as the local business networking and lifestyle publication.

One of my favourite parts of writing for the magazine—and, frankly, in general—is having the chance to spotlight the truly remarkable achievements of locally based individuals who might otherwise go unnoticed.

Exhibit A: Ren Pedersen. You may have already heard his story—maybe not. If you fall into the latter camp, I implore you to learn more. It’s truly extraordinary. Page 10 of this paper is a great place to start.

Then there’s Simon Yim of SKY Renewables. You might’ve been following his journey in here already, or heard about SKY’s work through local meetings and conversations. Although born and raised far, far from the Burdekin, he elected our beloved region as the site of a project that could change the cane farming industry forever. Stay tuned for his full story.

I know I’ve written more than once about the Burdekin’s outsized connection to world-beaters. If you’ve ever questioned the validity of that notion, here are two stories that should help to quell any reservations.

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As chilly mornings return to Home Hill, 92-year-old Hilda Frew is doing more than just staying warm — she’s giving back.

Each winter, Hilda sets up a humble table in the heart of town, offering her handmade “Cosy Bed Socks” to passers-by for just $5 a pair. But it’s not about the money — every cent goes directly to support School Chaplaincy Programs at local high schools.

Knitted while she enjoys her favourite TV shows, Hilda’s colourful socks are as warm in spirit as they are in wool. So far this year, she’s raised $100—and she’s not done yet.

She’s hoping to double that figure by the end of winter, and with her growing pile of neatly folded bed socks, she’s well on her way. On select days, you’ll find her outside Home Hill News & Coffee, bundled up with her display of bright, cosy creations, always ready for a chat.

Hilda isn’t alone in her mission to support the chaplains. She shares the space with fellow fundraiser Margaret Taylor, who runs popular cake stalls from the same spot. Margaret’s baking has raised thousands over the years—with some stalls bringing in over $1000 in a single day. Her next one is planned for August.

With every stitch, Hilda shows that even the smallest gestures can leave a lasting impact.

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With every stitch, Hilda shows that even the smallest gestures can leave a lasting impact. Photo source: Home Hill News

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Local Lions & Broader Community Help Raise $50,000 For New Car

After more than a year of tireless fundraising, the Wall Family’s dreams came true on June 25 when they received the keys to a brand new, wheelchair-accessible vehicle for six-year-old Ayden Wall. Diagnosed with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, Ayden requires 24-hour care—but thanks to the unwavering love of his mum, Tia, and over $50,000 raised by a generous community (including a $20,000 donation from the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club), Ayden now has safe, comfortable transport. This heartfelt milestone marks more than just a new vehicle—it’s a powerful reminder of what community spirit can achieve.

Local Family Receive Wheels Of Hope

On Wednesday, the 25th of June, the Wall Family’s world became so much brighter after receiving the keys to a brand new, wheelchair accessible vehicle for little Ayden Wall, following on from over twelve months of fundraising efforts.

Six-year-old Ayden Wall was diagnosed with quadriplegic cerebral palsy after a cranial bleed was discovered at a routine 32-week scan where medical professionals advised now mum of five, Tia Wall, of his unlikely survival. Yet, just over six years on, Ayden continues to defy the odds and will celebrate his seventh birthday next March.

Now in Year One at the Burdekin Special School, Ayden continues to bring joy to everyone in his life, and although he will never walk or talk, and will require 24-hour care for life, the love and support of his family and the wider community have helped him enjoy many of the simple pleasures every child deserves.

Tia’s unwavering devotion to providing Ayden with the best possible quality of life led her to a dead-end street earlier last year, and after exhausting every possible option, she created a Go Fund Me, turning to the community for help to fundraise for a wheelchair accessible vehicle to transport Ayden to and from appointments and outings.

“I don’t know where else to turn now to try to get help - I’m desperate to get any sort of help for this little boy, so here we are,” wrote Tia online.

After countless fundraising efforts, and hundreds of donations and messages of support from the wider community, the Wall Family were left speechless after the local Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club donated an amazing total of $20,000 to get the family over the line, and Ayden into his new set of wheels.

“I have known Tia for a little while, and when this came up, and I saw the wonderful work she was putting in to fundraise for the vehicle, I knew it was a worthy cause for the Lions to support in our community,” shared Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club’s Saraha Wiseman.

“With the wonderful work Tia and the community has done along with the $5,000 donation from our local Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club we were able to secure an additional $15,000 grant from the Australian Lions Foundation and it was amazing to see the look on not only her face, but the kids, when they picked the vehicle up!

“To know that we were able to bring this project to a reality for a family who was in need, is exactly why you often hear – where there’s a need, there’s a Lion.”

Over $50,000 was raised through the efforts of the Wall Family, with Tia sharing the news online a couple of weeks ago of the amazing outcome.

“We can’t thank you all enough for your help and support through all this, and helping make this possible for us,” expressed Tia.

“This will make getting to medical appointments easier, and we can go make memories with our precious little boy – we feel so blessed.”

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Andrew, Anastasia, Azaria, Tia and Ayden with their new set of wheels! (Photo Supplied)

Six-year-old Ayden Wall was diagnosed with quadriplegic cerebral palsy but he continues to defy the odds and will celebrate his seventh birthday next March. Photo supplied

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Queenslanders needing elective surgery are set to benefit from a major funding boost in the 2025‑26 State Budget after the Government announced its allocation of $1.8 billion set to roll out over the next four years.

The centrepiece is $1.27 billion for the Surgery Connect program, projected to deliver 30,000 additional procedures in 2025‑26 alone, including hip and knee replacements and cataract operations. The program has already shown results: in April the statewide wait‑list fell by 2,750 patients, the largest single‑month reduction in a decade, followed by a further drop of 1,495 in May.

Premier David Crisafulli said the funding is part of the Easier Access to Health Services Plan.

“This is more surgeries for more Queenslanders sooner, delivering the health services when they’re needed most,” he said.

“To heal Labor’s Health Crisis we’re delivering easier access to healthcare, reducing ambulance ramping, and providing more life‑changing elective surgeries.”

Health and Ambulance Minister Tim Nicholls added that the government is “continuing to work on stabilising the elective surgery wait‑list. The elective surgery wait‑list is Queenslanders waiting to receive life‑changing surgeries – and we’re delivering them sooner.”

Beyond surgery, the Budget funds a Hospital Rescue Plan that will add more than 2,600 beds, build three new hospitals and expand 10 others. Staffing will also grow, with a commitment to recruit 46,000 health professionals by 2032, including 4,500 in the next year.

Local patients and clinicians are hopeful the extra capacity will reduce waiting times and improve outcomes across the region.

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On the evening of Friday, the 4th of July, over 230 excited guests filled Queen Street’s Populin’s Hall to celebrate the official commencement of the wonderful 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.

The Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch event saw the iconic venue transform into a word-class hub of international delights and wonders, flying guests across oceans to destinations like Italy, Japan, and beyond! Pristine white, fluffy clouds were hung from the ceiling, as were globes and vibrantly coloured paper planes to further contribute to the evening’s magical, travel atmosphere whilst guests enjoyed snapping a picture or two in front of an “Adventure Starts Now” photo wall.

Throughout the night, guests were treated to an array of amazing entertainment like a talented hip hop performance from Rhythm Edge Dance Studio’s Reece Bradford whilst the sounds of the Burdekin Community Chruch’s nine-piece band filled the hall. Celebrated young musician, Cecillia Cason, also graced audiences with her talents by performing her national title winning tenor horn piece for all to enjoy on the grand stage. 2024’s Burdekin Water Festival Winners and Runner Ups, Demi O’Shea, Brielle Astorquia, Cole Pontifex and Stella Borellini were outstanding MC’s throughout the evening, keeping events running smoothly, and audiences entertained.

“The evening was a stunning showcase of the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival vision - Bon Voyage: roam the globe - brought to life in the most vibrant and inspiring way with the uttermost help from our community and outgoing committee,” said Demi.

“Our Ambassadors presented themselves with such exceptional passion and pride for not only the festival itself, but for their supporting organisations and they should feel immensely proud of the way they represented themselves and the spirit of the festival!”

The infamous Fashion Show was a highlight of the evening once again, and although some of the Junior and Senior Ambassadors were a little nervous to strut their stuff, Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator, Kari Ravizza, shared that by the third outfit change, each of the 12 Ambassadors were beaming with confidence and pride. Garments from Glen Dell, Swerve Surf & Ski and The Q Street Collective returned to the runway for another year along with the debut of Wild East, with the audience noting how well each of the businesses styled their Ambassadors.

“We were absolutely thrilled with how the evening went,” explained Kari.

As the night continued on and the main event rolled around, attendees were delighted to witness the official presentation of the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival sashes and hear speeches from each of the Ambassadors for the very first time.

“Some started off a little nervously, however, they all shared information about themselves, and spoke highly of their supporting organisations,” added Kari.

“The Burdekin Water Festival Committee are very grateful to George and Christine Populin for their generosity once again in support of the Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch and we wish to thank our amazing sponsors and the entire community for their support, and we look forward to what’s ahead!”

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Beyond excited to dive headfirst into the event’s exciting Ambassador Program, Asha Grasso will proudly represent East Ayr State School (EASS) as a Junior Ambassador in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.

“The aspect of the Burdekin Water Festival that excited me the most is getting to meet new people and hopefully gain some new skills and confidence,” explained Asha.

“I’m looking forward to being up on a float as my family have attended lots of Burdekin Water Festivals since I was little and I have always said I wanted to be the one up on a float one day, and now I get to fulfil one of my childhood dreams!”

In her free time, Asha can be found playing soccer in either the fullback or winger positions, however more recently Asha has picked up a new hobby under the guidance of her aunty.

“I love learning how to do different hairstyles, and my aunty is a hairdresser, and she has encouraged my learning by offering to enrol me into her online hairdressing course!”

Asha holds a strong love for her EASS community, and she’s eager to embark on this journey with the support of her school behind her.

“The Burdekin Water Festival is an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate our abundance of water, and raise money for our local organisations and charities,” Asha shared.

“It means so much to be able to represent East Ayr as it’s such a great school, with wonderful community spirit, so when the opportunity came up to nominate, I jumped at it!”

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Representing Burdekin Christian College

Giulia Sarri has felt nothing but gratitude and pride since she was selected to represent her school, Burdekin Christian College (BCC), as a Junior Ambassador in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.

A senior within BCC’s primary school, Giulia serves as a role model to younger students, leading prep duties on occasion. When she’s not serving her school community, she’s connecting with those who she loves the most.

“Family is very important to me,” shared Giulia.

“I love playing checkers with my mum, fishing with my dad, walking my dog with my sister, painting with my nanny, hanging out with my nonna, and watching magic shows with my nonno.”

Although Giulia’s journey as a Junior Water Festival Ambassador may just be beginning, she has watched the procession from the footpath for many years and has always had a deep love for the celebration.

“I have attended the Burdekin Water Festival for as long as I can remember, and the effort put into the floats each year always amazes me,” Giulia explained.

With several events scheduled to commence over the next few months, Giulia feels there’s plenty to be excited about, and she cannot wait to see what amazing floats debut in Queen Street this September.

“I’m hoping that by participating in the Burdekin Water Festival I will gain more confidence, improve my public speaking and try new things,” she added.

“The Mardi Gras definitely excites me the most, and as a Junior Ambassador, I am looking forward to attending all of my fellow Ambassador’s events and building friendships!”

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The Burdekin region homes a plethora of beautiful old buildings which inspired the work of photographer, Lido Paganoni, who used his talents to capture many nostalgic photographs that have been recently digitalised by the Queensland State Library.

Lido, born in Ingham in 1934 to Italian migrant parents, spent his childhood in both Ingham and Ayr. He later earned a PhD in industrial chemistry from Brisbane. With a diverse range of interests, Lido was passionate about velodrome and road racing, achieving some success in the sport, as well as geology and photography. He returned to North Queensland to work as an industrial chemist with Pioneer. Alongside his professional career, Lido also ran a photography shop in Ingham during the 1950s. Unfortunately, much of his photographic work and equipment were destroyed in the mid-1960s floods which eventually led Lido and his family to move to Brisbane in 1967. Lido’s photographs are undated, however its likely most of his photos were taken prior to 1967.

Although Queen Street looks a little different now, Lido’s photograph of the Tropix Cinema as captured in the 1950s, transports locals back in time, with many reminiscing on the memories they shared with the historic building. What are your fondest memories of Queen Street in the 50s?

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The Tropix Cinema as it once stood in Queen Street (Photo Credit: Lido Paganoni)

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Flu and COVID-19 case numbers continue to climb across Queensland, with health authorities urging residents to practise good hygiene and get vaccinated to help curb the spread of respiratory illnesses.

In the last week of June alone, over 2,800 flu cases were recorded — the highest weekly number this year. Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said hospital admissions remain high, with nearly 300 beds occupied daily by flu and COVID-19 patients.

“Around half of all flu hospitalisations and 65 per cent of COVID hospitalisations are among people aged 65 and over,” Dr Carroll said.

She noted that more than 90 per cent of hospitalised patients are not up to date with their vaccinations.

“Vaccination is especially important for anyone aged 65 years or older and people at higher risk of severe COVID-19. I encourage people to discuss their COVID vaccine and booster options with their vaccine provider,” she said.

“For influenza, nearly 3,000 people have been hospitalised this year with almost all of these hospitalisations (92 per cent) being among people who were not vaccinated.”

Children are also vulnerable, with nearly 450 hospitalised for flu so far in 2025.

“Children are more likely to catch and spread influenza contributing to transmission in the community, but also young children are vulnerable to serious illness from the flu,” Dr Carroll said.

Queenslanders are encouraged to wash hands, cover coughs, stay home when sick, and stay up to date with flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations.

For more details, visit www.health.qld.gov.au.

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We are excited to announce BCA’s new ‘’Active and Social Seniors Group’’ that commenced on the 1st of July 2025.

Eligible Seniors can participate in Individual Rehabilitation and Group Exercise sessions, delivered by our team of Accredited Exercise Physiologists, Exercise Scientists and Fitness Instructors, in our fully equipped and friendly Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

The Group is partially funded by the Older People’s Action Program (OPAP) and a fee of $7.50, payable by clients, will apply for each session.  Seniors aged 60 and over and First Nations Australians aged 55 and over are eligible for OPAP.

Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) supervise all AEP Program participants and provide best practice exercise prescription to ensure that everyone performs exercises that are safe and appropriate for their goals and health conditions.  Sessions are delivered face to face in Centre.

Our AEPs specialise in helping people to:
Manage a chronic disease or injury
Post-surgery rehabilitation support
Recover from a cardiac or cancer event
Improve strength and mobility
Reduce cholesterol
Manage/improve arthritis and joint pain
Maintain or reduce body weight

To sign up and secure your spot in the new ‘Active and Social Seniors Group’, please contact our Burdekin Centre for Rural Health team as soon as possible.

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Loved Ones Remember Missing Senior Sergeant Mick Isles

Two weeks ago, Senior Sergeant Michael “Mick” Isles would have celebrated his 74th birthday.

Instead of gathering to celebrate the life of a beloved husband, father, and community leader, those who knew and loved him were left with memories and questions that still linger 16 years after his mysterious disappearance.

On Wednesday, the 26th of June, family and friends quietly marked what should have been a joyful occasion — Mick’s 74th birthday. It was another bittersweet reminder of his absence, and of the case that remains unsolved since he was last seen in Ayr on Wednesday, the 23rd of September, 2009.

Fondly remembered as a kind, honest and humble man, Mick was a pillar of the Burdekin community and a highly respected Queensland Police officer. Known for his commitment to "old style" values and a deep sense of integrity, he dedicated over 35 years to the force, often taking the time to guide and support troubled youth.

He was also a devoted husband to Fiona, and a loving father to three children — a family he adored and protected with the same quiet determination that marked his career. To many, he was not just a police officer, but a friend, a mentor, and a man who always made time for those in need.

Mick was last seen leaving his Graham Street home at approximately 7:30am on the 23rd of September, 2009. He was driving a 2009 silver Toyota Aurion sedan — an unmarked police vehicle — bearing Queensland registration 060KVD. The car was later located roughly 80 kilometres from Ayr, hidden in bushland off an unsealed road on the way to Ravenswood.

Despite extensive searches and investigations, no trace of Mick has ever been found.

His disappearance has left a lasting hole in the hearts of his family and the wider community. Each milestone — like what would have been his 74th birthday — only serves to heighten the pain and the mystery of what really happened that day in 2009.

Those who knew Mick continue to seek closure and answers. As the 16th anniversary approaches later this year, they are again calling on anyone with information to come forward.

If you know anything that could help, please contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.

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Senior Sergeant Michael “Mick” Isles disappeared from the region without a trace on the 23rd of September, 2009 (Photo Supplied)

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By Jacob Casha

Ren Pedersen never planned to be involved in medicine. He never went to medical school. He never paid too much attention in science class.

But when he tragically lost his nine-year-old daughter Amy to Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) in 2009, he dove head-first into the medical world—not as a doctor, but as a father with a promise to keep.

"I promised my daughter that I would cure this,” says Ren.

“I just happened to pick the toughest fight in all of medicine.”

DIPG—also known as the deadliest childhood cancer—is an aggressive brain tumour that forms in the brainstem, affecting vital functions like breathing, movement, and heart rate. Most children diagnosed with DIPG survive only months.

No effective treatment exists. In fact, up until Amy’s death 16 years ago, no research into a cure for DIPG had ever been undertaken in Australia.

But where most saw an insurmountable challenge, Ren chose to fight tooth and nail for a cure that could save thousands.

A crane operator by trade and a Burdekin boy at heart, Ren grew up surrounded by small-town values—honesty, hard work, and doing what needed to be done. After losing Amy, those same values fuelled his leap into a world he never imagined stepping into. “I approached this with a blue-collar, crane driver’s mentality,” he says.

With an absence of fundamental DIPG research, it was up to him to get the ball rolling.

“We were really starting from scratch,” says Ren.

“They said, ‘We can’t do any research without autopsy samples.

“So the first thing I did was, with my contacts, I delicately approached the parents, and we consented to getting the children’s tumours debulked when the kids passed away.

“And so, for the first time ever in Australia, scientists had actual tumour samples to analyse.”

Thanks largely to Pedersen’s groundwork, Australia’s first DIPG tumour bank was created in 2011 at the Children’s Cancer Institute, under the leadership of Associate Professor David Ziegler.

Since then, the path has been all but linear, but made entirely possible thanks to Ren’s undying determination.

“I would literally go to the institutions and challenge the leading professors there,” says Ren.

“If the doctors said, ‘we can't do this or this’, I’d say, ‘well, what do you need to get this done?’”

Fast-forward to today, and Australian researchers have led the charge in DIPG research, with recent breakthroughs demonstrating that an accessible cure may be just over the horizon.

Despite promising updates, Ren knows the journey is far from complete.

“The next step is making sure these discoveries actually reach the kids who need them.”

His fundraising endeavour, ‘Ren’s Million Dollar Mission’, was born from this understanding. The charity aims to raise $1 million to support vital DIPG research at the Children’s Cancer Institute, focusing on apoptosis-targeting treatments and tumour microenvironment studies to develop new therapies.

“Once we get this million dollars up, we hope to gain momentum across Australia… and get this drug delivered into the mouths of these children, because helping parents save their children is what this is all about.”

Unfortunately, Ren couldn’t quite save Amy, but the OAM recipient says the journey for a cure has kept him connected to her, helping to fill the devastating void she left behind a decade and a half ago.

“This is like my child now,” says Ren.

“(I’ve watched) it grow and mature. We’ve nursed the baby up till it's about to walk, and now it's walking. We've just got to get the treatments that we've discovered to the bedside and watch the child blossom.”

And that’s the mission. Ren’s mission. Not an obligation, but a decision—to not only uphold his promise to Amy, but to ensure that children with DIPG can grow up to decide their own destiny, too.

You can play your part here: https://www.ccia.org.au/event/rens-million-dollar-mission/home

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Unfortunately, Ren couldn’t quite save Amy, but the OAM recipient says the journey for a cure has kept him connected
to her. Photo source: Facebook

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