Long-time Ayr business owner Kristy Oar, alongside husband Callan, has embarked on an exciting new venture that is sure to bring a fresh approach to workwear and western fashion to the Burdekin.

Earlier this year, Kristy and Callan, who collectively have run local businesses for more than 20 years, purchased and rebranded the well-known Sibby Savers store. Now called Wild East, the retail business specialises in western and workwear apparel, offering a unique blend of fashion and functionality for customers.

Kristy, who has built a solid reputation for customer care and dedication in the hairdressing industry, brings her passion for service to Wild East. Reflecting on the transition, she expressed gratitude to the store’s former owners, Rosemary and Mark Rickards, for their invaluable support during the handover process.

“I’m really appreciative of Rosemary and Mark, not just for helping with the transition, but for the lasting legacy of excellent customer service they and Sibby have created here,” Kristy said. “I’m committed to maintaining that high standard while also expanding the product range and enhancing the store’s overall look.”

There are some exciting plans in place for the future of Wild East. One of Kristy’s main goals is to expand the western wear range, bringing in more options for those who are drawn to and live by the style. There are also future renovation plans to expand the space and accommodate the growing stock range, reflecting the new identity of the store.

“I want customers to feel welcome and excited every time they walk in. We’ll be making some updates, but I’ll always keep the heart of the business - great service, quality products, and a friendly atmosphere.”

Wild East remains a staple for those in need of durable workwear or western-inspired fashion, and under Kristy’s leadership, it’s poised for an exciting new chapter.

The store is now open and Kristy and her team welcome customers to explore what Wild East has to offer.

“At the end of the day, it’s about continuing to provide the friendly, personal service that locals have come to appreciate,” she said.

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Hi Everyone,

By the time you read this, I will have had the opportunity to attend and present at the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meeting, and I’d like to extend my thanks to Kari and the team for their kind invitation.

We really enjoy attending both the Burdekin and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meetings. They’re fantastic opportunities to connect and network with our local business community.

I strongly encourage everyone in the area to join their local chamber. If you're unsure which one to choose, I recommend going with the chamber closest to where you live or work. The great thing is that both chambers now work closely together, so as a member of one, you’re always welcome to attend events hosted by the other. It’s a great way to maximize the value of your membership and expand your networking opportunities.

At tonight’s event, I’ll be sharing details about our new Chamber Connections package. This offers members a special opportunity to be featured in our monthly Business Buzz section in the paper, as well as be part of Core Life Magazine’s dedicated annual Burdekin Business Feature.

For those who didn't already know, we also publish Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine, bi-monthly publications distributed from Mackay through to Hinchinbrook. Core Life has been serving local community news for almost 14 years, and last year we expanded into the Burdekin region, with Hinchinbrook joining us this year.

By participating in the Chamber Connections feature, Burdekin businesses will have the chance to raise their profile across multiple regions along the coast. And, as always, the more businesses that sign up, the greater the visibility for everyone.

If you weren’t able to attend tonight’s event but would like more information, please feel free to reach out to our Sales Manager Trish at 0499 500 406, and she’ll be happy to assist.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success" (Henry Ford)

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With a wonderful long weekend holding space on our calendars this April, there’s truly no better way to spend the coming, long autumn days than enjoying the smorgasbord of free activities, locations and events on offer within our own backyards!

Burdekin Library’s All Day Drop-In
Ahead of the Easter long weekend mayhem, the Burdekin Library has designed an awesome program to keep your little bunnies busy and entertained these school holidays, from Monday the 7th of April right up until Friday the 18th of April.

In the first week, both the Home Hill and Ayr branches will host an enriching and explorative APT Kids on Tour all-day activity, where children can engage in hands-on digital and creative experiences until the day is done.

As the second week rolls around, both branches will host an all-day Craft Corner activity for all to enjoy until the Good Friday public holiday closure.

Bookings are essential for some of the Burdekin Library’s programs and can be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

Catch the Action at Rugby Park
One of North Queensland’s largest junior rugby league football carnivals will roll into town over the weekend, with hundreds of young athletes set to put it all on the field from the 11th of April. With games scheduled across the weekend from sunrise to sunset, why not pack some snacks and head on down to Wickham Street’s Rugby Park to cheer on the Under-12 Burdekin Junior Roosters?

Create Your Own Easter Egg Hunt
With an abundance of gorgeous local parks to choose from, pop on over to www.visitburdekin.com.au to pick out a space that tickles your fancy and begin planning an egg-citing Easter egg hunt for the whole family to enjoy! From Ayr’s Plantation Park to Home Hill’s Arch Dunn Memorial Park, the Burdekin is truly your oyster.

Searching for something a little sandier? Alva Beach and Wunjunga Beach are calling your name – just be sure to slip, slop, slap!

Walk the Weekend Away
Grab the dog leads and lace up your joggers to explore the walking hotspots of the Burdekin this long weekend. Catch the gorgeous sunrise while you waltz along the shores of Alva Beach, hike your way up mighty Mount Inkerman, or stroll across the Burdekin Bridge Walk to kick off your weekend the right way.

As the afternoon rolls in and the temperatures cool, pop over to www.visitburdekin.com.au to download Burdekin Shire Council’s Burdekin Be Active Trail Map and close out your day with some extra steps.

Reel It In!
It’s no surprise that fishing enthusiasts travel from far and wide to visit the Burdekin’s creek systems and public boat ramps in search of a top catch – so why not try your luck this long weekend?

Pack a picnic and head to Barratta Creek, Ocean Creek, Plantation Creek, Hell Hole Boat Ramp, Groper Creek, Wallace Creek or Cromarty Boat Ramp for a day on or alongside the water, surrounded by friends, family, and of course, sunshine and good vibes.

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Plan an Easter Egg Hunt to remember at one of the Burdekin's wonderful parks or beaches
School holidays are the perfect time to cast a line and reel in some fun!
Anzac Park certainly deserves a visit this long weekend
Catch the sunrise at the top of Mount Inkerman to start your day the right way. Photos Sourced: Visit Burdekin

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Bendigo Bank officially welcomed Rural Bank customers to Australia’s most trusted bank today in a transition that provides a seamless and consistent experience for the Bank’s agribusiness customers. Bendigo Bank Agribusiness offers a bigger, better banking experience, fully backed by Bendigo Bank’s digital capability and services, along with an improved lending and product offering.

Bendigo Bank Agribusiness customers will feel even more at home with Australia-wide coverage from agribusiness specialists who truly understand their business, alongside the familiarity and reach of the nation’s second largest regional network of branches. 

Bendigo Bank Chief Customer Officer, Business Bank and Agribusiness, Adam Rowse said this important alignment means the Bank can now better meet evolving customer expectations to power a more adaptable, sustainable and productive future for Australian farmers. 

“For almost 25 years, Rural Bank has stood side by side with Australian farmers through every season, helping them stay on top of challenges and cultivate opportunities, while investing in the communities in which they live and work,” Mr Rowse said. 

“Bendigo Bank too, has a long, proud history of contributing to a better future for farmers and strengthening rural communities by feeding into prosperity - and it is with this unique blend of heart and heritage that we’re excited to formally introduce Bendigo Bank Agribusiness,” he said. 

Bendigo Bank Agribusiness will continue to share insights, industry-leading information, research and analysis so that farmers can stay up-to-date with the latest developments in agricultural commodity markets, exports, farmland values, business performance and other topical agricultural issues.   

“We know farmers want an agribusiness specialist who understands their business and with the ability and insights needed to meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture,” Mr Rowse said. 

“With more than 150 specialist bankers positioned to provide the personal service our customers have come to expect, we look forward to partnering with Australian farmers in an exciting new era for our Agribusiness division and to cementing our title as Australia’s most trusted agribusiness bank,” Mr Rowse concluded.  

The transition is part of the concluding stage of the Bank’s current six-year transformation program and will, by the end of 2025, see just two primary facing consumer brands, Bendigo Bank and Up, operating on a single, core banking system.

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By Amanda Wright

Calls to list a productive agricultural plant as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS) are "misinformed" and risk undermining a crucial feed source for Australia’s livestock industry, the National Farmers’ Federation has warned.

NFF Sustainable Development and Climate Change Committee Chair, Mr Angus Atkinson, said buffel grass was a key asset for grazing operations—carefully managed by producers for its resilience and value in supporting livestock.

“It is a high-yielding plant renowned for its resilience in arid regions," he said.

"It also provides significant environmental co-benefits, including land rehabilitation and erosion mitigation which is conveniently ignored by environmental groups."

Mr Atkinson said its members would much rather see it listed as a Feed of National Significance.

“WoNS status should only be reserved for where there is consensus for listing, national coordination or assistance for eradication. There is no consensus on buffel grass, farmers do not support this," he added.

“Farmers want to have a process for contentious plants, this needs to be different to a WoNS process which inadequately acknowledges the economic value of plants like buffel.”

Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has also voiced strong opposition to the proposed listing of buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS), highlighting its vital role in Australia's beef industry, urging the government to abandon the proposed listing.

"Buffel grass wasn't brought here by accident – it was introduced because it's one of the best options we've got. It holds the soil together and keeps the cattle fed even during drought," Mr Katter explained.

Mr Katter stressed that a WoNS listing could impose legislative restrictions, mandate removal efforts, and initiate biological control research aimed at eradication. Such measures threaten one of Australia's most vital pasture species, which underpins the livelihoods of countless Aussie farmers and sustains production of beef that is essential for domestic and international food security.

"Buffel grass is essential to the northern cattle industry, and to label it as a weed would be counter-intuitive, turning all of the North into a weed-infested dust bowl," Mr Katter emphasised.

"Talk to any northern cattle farmer and they will tell you it is not just good cattle fed, buffel grass protects soil, cools the ground, sequesters carbon, and supports native fauna. Its deep-rooted resilience has dramatically improved rainwater efficiency and environmental sustainability across Australia.

"Buffel grass is not some noxious weed—it's an improved pasture grass. It holds the soil together, soaks up the rain, and has improved sustainability while reducing erosion," Mr Katter said.

"Meanwhile, terrible invasive species like lantana, prickly acacia, rubber vine, and feral cats and pigs, should be demanding our attention. Why on earth are we wasting our time even talking about this?"

AgForce Queensland Cattle President Lloyd Hick said, "This is not an isolated issue. It is part of a broader pattern of decisions being made without industry input, with disastrous consequences for agriculture and Australia.

"If the beef sector does not push back hard on this, it will be taken as a win and another critical pillar targeted next.

"Producers are increasingly frustrated as time and energy that should go into food production is spent pushing back against agenda-driven ideas and re-educating city-based decision makers who think they understand the land—but don't."

Shadow Minister for Northern Australia, Senator Susan McDonald also agreed, saying “Declaring buffel grass a weed would be catastrophic to graziers across Australia who rely on it for crucial fodder to keep their operations going.

“It also reduces erosion and dust storms.

“There is no justification for this move and I encourage everyone affected to make their thoughts known to the Federal Agriculture Minister, as I will be.”

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MP Bob Katter stands among cattle and buffel grass in North Queensland, backing farmers in the fight to protect the vital feed source from being listed as a Weed of National Significance. Photo supplied: Office of Hon Bob Katter MP

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It’s hard to believe that April is already here. It certainly doesn’t feel like it if you wander anywhere outside of air-conditioning.The council is currently deep in budget discussions. Hopefully, we can all agree on a sensible, customer-first budget.At the end of March, Council’s Economic Development staff organised a round table meeting at the Ayr Industrial Estate that gave manufacturers the chance to sit down with the Honourable Dale Last, Minister for Manufacturing. I was lucky enough to attend this meeting and would like to thank Eliza and the Economic Development staff for putting this together. The event was well attended and while we can’t solve all the industry's problems in a one-hour meeting, I believe some good things will come from it.Over the weekend, Sweet FM held their 25-year reunion dinner at the former Masonic Hall. It was great to hear some of the history of our local station. It’s always a good feeling when you see these volunteer run organisations continuing to provide great service to the community. Congratulations to everyone at Sweet FM.I would like to take this opportunity to inform you all that Pacific Blue’s 2025 Haughton Sustainable Community Fund is now open for applications until 5pm on Friday 9 May. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for eligible groups and organisations from a pool of $80,000. I encourage all eligible community groups to apply.Happy Easter to all!

It’s been a week of community spirit and celebration across the Shire.We were honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeanette Young, Governor of Queensland, to our region. Her Excellency visited both Ayr and Home Hill hospitals and took the time to engage with local community groups over morning tea - a wonderful opportunity to showcase the passion and care that exists in our community.Our local radio station, Sweet FM 97.1, opened its doors for a fun and informative fête, giving residents a behind-the-scenes look at how radio magic happens. It was fantastic to see so many people curious about the inner workings of this important community voice.The Sweet FM 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner was a standout event - celebrating not just the years gone by but the spirit that continues to drive our region forward. I want to take a moment to recognise the early visionaries behind Sweet FM, former Mayor Beth Honeycombe and former Councillor Chris Hyden. From humble beginnings right here at Council, before relocating to Home Hill, their passion laid the foundation for the beautiful and vibrant service we enjoy today. Without pioneers like them - and the tireless volunteers who keep the station running - we wouldn’t have the joy of hearing our stories told in our own voices. Thank you to each and every one of you.Finally, a quick word of caution: please remember to empty out any containers, buckets, or anything else that can hold water around your home. These can become prime mosquito breeding grounds, and we want to keep our families and neighbours safe from mosquito-borne diseases.Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Wonderful crops of happy sugarcane have well and truly begun sprouting across the region as Burdekin’s Sweetest School Competition continues to foster the shire’s next generation of farmers and agricultural enthusiasts.

Sponsored by Canegrowers Burdekin, the unique competition works to highlight the agricultural talents of both students and teachers within the area whilst fostering a strong sense of community spirit and collaboration. The friendly initiative also provides students with the opportunity to learn more about the world of agriculture whilst they nurture their own cane crop and Canegrowers Burdekin are passionate about sharing such valuable education with the next generation.

“The competition encourages schools to engage in hands-on learning experiences, promoting environmental awareness and a deeper understanding of the farming process,” shared Canegrowers Burdekin.

“Students get to witness the growth of sugarcane firsthand, from planting to harvesting, and develop a greater appreciation for the hard work and dedication required in agriculture.”

Industry experts will judge each of the school’s crops in May as part of the infamous Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival, and the triumphant school with the best plantation will be awarded $1,000 and a celebratory trophy.

Which school will come out on top!?

WHAT: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
WHERE: Home Hill Showgrounds
WHEN: 30th to the 31st of May
TICKETS: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au

Canegrowers Burdekin Limited Director, Rian Swindley provided an overview of the Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition as part of February's launch (Photo Source: Burdekin's Sweetest School)

Burdekin Catholic High School have established an additional interschool competition for extra excitement (Photo Source: BCHS)

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Celebrating its 6th anniversary, the Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s Burdekin Rags to Runway event will ignite the region this July to spotlight some of the shire’s most talented seamstresses!

Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s President Sandi Milani and Secretary Desley Jackson cannot wait to launch 2025’s showcase.

“We have six categories this year including an exciting new addition of Budget Evening Wear,” explained Sandi.

“Budget Evening Wear was on the wish list of some of our previous year’s entrants and we feel this category will add to the audience’s enjoyment as well as push the entrants to be more innovative under budget while creating a stunning entry.”

The event debuted in 2019 in conjunction with the annually celebrated Home Hill Harvest Festival and then transformed into a standalone showcase raising valuable funds for the Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s member run Art Space located in Home Hill.

The showcase fosters sustainability and creativity through recycling pre-loved tablecloths, sheets, curtains, clothing, and miscellaneous items to craft something wearable and stylish. Entrants are encouraged to visit local op shops and rummage through their own cupboards to discover discarded gems in desperate need of a new lease on life and spin their internal wheel of creativity to craft something magical.

In runways of the past, fashions have spotlighted at Home Hill’s netball courts and Greek Hall where many members of the community gathered to appreciate the talents of the region, with all enjoying an evening of socialisation and rejuvenation.

Sandi and Desley are also excited to debut printed booklets for 2025’s Rags to Runway event to provide audiences with a glimpse into each entrant’s artistic process and how the “rags” were ultimately transformed into “runway”!

“Attendees will be able to see what each entrant started with plus their description of what their inspiration was and then they’ll have the finished outfit paraded in front of them,” added Sandi.

“We are looking forward to another successful event for 2025!”

All entries are to be finalised by the 30th of May and the pair invite those interested in registering to collect a form from the Art Space (170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill) or reach out via email; artipeople99@yahoo.com to learn more about entering the fantastic event.

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Entries are now open for the Burdekin Artisan Community Association’s Burdekin Rags to Runway!

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Burdekin Christian College (BCC) recently hosted a vibrant and engaging Harmony Week event, showcasing the talents and cultural awareness of their students. The celebrations included an impressive series of performances by the college's senior students, who danced in traditional styles from Fiji, Tonga, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The performances were a highlight of the day, and the students' passion for sharing their heritage was evident in every step.

As part of their commitment to promoting inclusivity, these senior students also visited the early childhood classes, where they led the young learners in activities focused on respect and diversity. Through song, art, and dance, the students fostered an understanding of cultural appreciation among the younger members of the school community. The college is immensely proud of the leadership and role-modeling displayed by these exceptional students.

The celebrations continued with a creative and hands-on experience for the Junior School students, as the senior students dedicated their lunch hour to face painting. The Junior School children embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, and the pride they felt in celebrating cultural diversity.

The Year 12 students played a key role in the event, taking charge of organising special cultural stalls designed to highlight various traditions from around the world. The stalls were met with great excitement from the younger students, who were eager to explore the displays and learn about different cultures. Special thanks were given to the parents and staff who contributed to the stall displays, further enhancing the learning experience.

A highlight of the day was the ‘Aussie BBQ’ hosted by the Year 12 students and their helpers. The group worked tirelessly to serve hundreds of sausages to the queue of students, accompanied by delicious lamingtons.The sea of orange across the school served as a powerful visual reminder of the college's core values of respect and courtesy for all cultures.

The celebrations also featured a variety of international dishes, thanks to the incredible efforts of BCC’s staff. With a diverse spread that included foods from India, Italy, Asia, Ireland, England, South Africa, and traditional Australian favourites, the ‘Taste of Harmony’ initiative was a true reflection of the college's commitment to embracing cultural diversity.

In every way, Harmony Day at Burdekin Christian College was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the students, staff, and community members. The college stated how they are incredibly proud of the spirit of inclusivity and respect demonstrated throughout the day, and looks forward to continuing to foster these values in the years to come.

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The value of agriculture in 2025-26 is expected to be the third highest on record at $91 billion.

Including fisheries and forestry, The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) expects the sector to reach $98 billion, according to Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville.

“While this is slightly down on an exceptional 2024-25, particularly strong results are forecast for livestock and livestock products – expected to reach a new record value of $40 billion,” Dr Greenville said.

“Demand for red meat is reflected in both strong export volumes and rising export prices, which has led to the total value of meat exports expected to hit $22 billion this financial year.

“Agricultural exports are also looking healthy next year, with the value forecast to remain relatively steady at $72 billion – or $77 billion if we include fisheries and forestry.

“On the cropping front this year, national winter crop production is estimated to have increased to 59.8 million tonnes in 2024–25, 27% above the 10-year average and the third largest on record."

Dr Greenville said that summer crop production is predicted to fall slightly in 2024–25 but will remain 28 per cent above the 10-year average at 4.7 million tonnes.

“Conditions for winter crops were favourable across most of New South Wales and Queensland with timely rainfall in Western Australia," he said.

“Based on the back of these cropping trends, average farm financial performance is estimated to increase for broadacre farms.

“On average, national broadacre farm cash income is forecast to rise by $89,000 in 2024–25 from $124,000 to $213,000, mostly driven by higher livestock prices and greater crop production.

“Next financial year average farm incomes are expected to increase further, to $262,000 per farm as input costs ease and higher prices support both crop and livestock receipts."

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Sibby Saitta started his clothing business in Queen Street, Ayr 72 years ago in 1952. It commenced trade as a basic tailoring shop of which there were several in town at that time. Sibby tailored made-to-measure men’s suits, trousers and other basic apparel, all made from scratch.

As time passed, ready made clothing and fashions became more readily available, so the shop evolved into a retail outlet selling men’s fashions of the day. Work clothing soon became available from factories in Brisbane and Sydney. Women’s wear was introduced as well and at that point the stock was so vast it had outgrown the Queen Street premises. Put simply, the shop was too small to accommodate all this stock.

Almost 50 years ago, it was decided to purchase a shop in Graham Street to house the growing work clothing business. All the work clothing stock was transferred to this shop and the business was named Sibby’s Savers.

Corporate wear and western wear were added to the stock profile eventually.

The Sibby’s Savers Graham Street building was extended around 1990 to house Sibby’s suit hire business.

Although the suit hire business was closed many years ago, the Sibby’s Savers business continued to operate.

The end of an era has arrived with the sale of the Sibby’s Savers business to Kristy and Callan Oar. Previous owners, Rosemary and Mark Rickards wish them all the best with their new enterprise. The pair state that "Kristy has drive and enthusiasm, and she has a beautiful personality to boot, so the business is definitely in good hands." The store has been renamed to Wild East Western and Workwear.

Rosemary and Mark would like to thank their many valued customers for their patronage over the last 72 years and encourage them to continue supporting the new owners as the business will continue to operate with the same friendly and helpful service.

They would also like to thank their employees for their efforts during 72 years of business. Which they have stated are too many to name, however their efforts are truly appreciated.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, announced this week that an elected
Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $500,000 to upgrade facilities at the
Home Hill Community Sports Club.

“Home Hill Community Sports Club is a cornerstone of the community, offering
members of all skill levels the chance to enjoy lawn bowls and croquet,” Mr Willcox
said.

“Currently members don’t have much protection from the sun, which is why I am
pleased to commit $500,000 towards new shade to cover the entire playing surface.

“This important upgrade will enhance the facilities, provide a safer and more enjoyable
environment for players, and help the club to continue to grow into the future.

“The LNP is committed to supporting small regional sports clubs, like the Home Hill
Community Sports Club, which play a significant role in keeping our communities
healthy and active.”

Home Hill Community Sports Club President, Trevor Elton, said, “since taking over the
club I have seen the club grow to have around 100 members and this funding will make
a huge difference.

“It’s fantastic news from the Federal Member for Dawson which will make a huge
difference to be able to get new shade covers over the bowling green. Once complete,
this shade upgrade will allow more sporting events and tournaments to be played all
year round.

“The future is looking bright, and we already have a meeting coming up with a local High
School in a bid to attract more junior players.”

“On behalf of all the members I would like to thank Andrew Willcox and the Coalition for
backing small regional sporting clubs like here ours.”

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Ingrained in the history of the Burdekin region as one of the largest construction projects to date, the Burdekin Falls Dam holds the prestigious title of existing as the largest dam in Queensland.

Situated approximately 100 kilometres south of Charters Towers, the Burdekin Falls Dam was completed in 1987 at a cost totalling $125 million to adequately contain the Burdekin River, a catchment area covering about 7% of the state.

The structure can hold a capacity of 1,860,000 mega litres, and historically, the dam has reached a mammoth capacity of 221.15% which was recorded on the 20th of February in 1991, with the dam’s lowest point of 29.83% recoded in early November of 1987 after its official completion.

More recently, the dam has been splashed across headlines following the reconfirmation of the Burdekin Falls Dam Raising Project where the dam’s capacity will increase by an additional two meters with works to begin in 2027. As outlined in the 2024-2025 Queensland Budget, $540 million in funding has been allocated for the project and as of the 24th of March, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process marked another milestone whereby the Coordinator-General stated a new project declaration lapse date of the 7th of April, 2027.

The Burdekin Dam Raising Project has been a contentious topic of discussion for quite some time now, and the structure itself continues to stir a world of conversation within the Burdekin community and beyond.

A post published in January of 2021 on a community social media page asked locals to recall the wild conspiracy theories they once believed (or may still believe) to be true about the infamous structure. Stories dating back to the dam’s construction of disappearing workers came to the forefront of many local’s minds as well as the tales of a witch calling the dam home alongside a monstrous crocodile.

With both a rich history and a wave of plans for future development, the Burdekin Falls Dam will undoubtably continue to stand as the most impressive and largest water storage asset in Queensland for years to come.

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The Burdekin Falls Dam is the largest water storage facility in Queensland (Photo Source: Sunwater)

$125 million was allocated to the dam's initial 1987 construction (Photo Source: William John Rolls)
The Burdekin Falls Dam near completion in 1987 (Photo Source: Fred Morris)

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The Burdekin Shire Council has announced that Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Precinct is now selling, offering businesses a prime opportunity to secure fully serviced industrial land in North Queensland.

Strategically located at the Bruce Highway and Craig Street, Ayr, the precinct provides excellent access to major transport links, including the Port of Townsville and Bowen Basin. It features highway frontage, underground power, wide roads, and off-street parking, catering to diverse industries.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the precinct’s strategic advantages, saying, “This precinct has been carefully planned to meet the needs of modern industry, providing businesses with access to essential infrastructure, a strategic location, and a thriving regional economy,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

Local real estate agent Nutrien Harcourts McCathies will manage the sale of land in Stage 1.

John Mottin, Principal Managing Director of Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, noted the increasing demand for industrial land in the region.

“The Industrial Precinct provides an opportunity for businesses requiring larger sites to establish themselves here in the Burdekin which will boost our local economy and can help diversify the local economy by supporting growth of different industries."

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