Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony. The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life. Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears. Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain. The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year. CAPTION: Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied
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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen. The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations. Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia. The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent. Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”. eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate. Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours. The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act. eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users. The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront. For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike. CAPTION: The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock
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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users. Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover. “The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge. Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure. A Facility Built by Volunteers The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery. Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work. MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable. Election Promise and Handover In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club. As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million. In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland. Design Concerns and Infill Issues According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows. Those concerns, they say, were ignored. “Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said. “The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.” Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since. As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days. “All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.” Safety Concerns Escalate The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges. Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available. “Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge. In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out. After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route. A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety. “The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said. “The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.” Calls for Practical Solutions The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years. Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised. “There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge. “We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.” Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government. “The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said. “I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.” He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored. “Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.” Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy. “There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said. “Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access. “The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.” Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location. “The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.” He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed. “During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.” “In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open
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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg. Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen. “We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said. “I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.” The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began. Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet. Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen. Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen. “Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.” CAPTION: Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Leaders from the Lower Burdekin Scout Group, Chris Berkery and Narelle Timm, were presented with a generous $2000 cheque by Kerry Lowing, the Secretary of Bluey’s Thrift Shop, on Sunday 5th Jan 2025, at the Uniting Church in Home Hill.
This is the second generous cheque that Bluey’s has presented to the Lower Burdekin Scout Group. The previous donation in 2024 was used to provide scout camps and activities, leadership training for the Youth members, and small First Aid kits for all Scouts, along with some equipment.
“We’ll use some of this very money, which was generously donated from Bluey’s Thrift Shop, to purchase paint so we can brighten the outside of the Den, update some of the group camping and general equipment, and design a group ‘sun safe’ camp shirt,” a very grateful and enthusiastic, Chris says.
This donation will be used to provide 2025 Christmas meals for the homeless and lonely in the community, as well as reduce the cost of membership, camps and activities for the youth members and their families.
“The community supports our Scouts so now we will do this as another way to support our community,” Chris stated.
“On behalf of all our Lower Burdekin Scouts and their families, we would like to give a big thank you to Bluey’s Thrift Shop, for their continued support and all the great work they do in our community.”
Narelle Timm and Chris Berkery, receive their $2000 cheque off Kerry Lowing from Bluey’s Thrift Shop. Photo supplied
Jo Veneman, a director of North Queensland company Renewable Homes, was recently taken aback by a $1000 bill for her truck to cross the Burdekin Bridge, a key freight route between Ayr and Home Hill on the Bruce Highway. The bridge, which serves both road users and trains, has a unique design that forces full closures when vehicles larger than garbage trucks need to pass.
The Burdekin Bridge, managed by Queensland Rail and Transport and Main Roads, frequently experiences closures - up to 10 to 15 times per day. These closures occur to allow large vehicles to safely cross, with each closure typically costing around $66, adding up to approximately $361,350 annually.
Jo’s situation arose when one of her trucks, carrying a 6-metre wide and 5.2-metre-high load, required a crossing. Queensland Rail, unable to provide an internal track protection officer due to staffing shortages, contracted out the service to another provider. This resulted in a bill exceeding $1000 for the crossing.
Jo expressed frustration at what she sees as a lack of competition for track protection services, stating that with only one approved contractor handling these jobs, prices are inflated, describing the situation as "daylight robbery," highlighting the disproportionate costs for small businesses.
In response to the incident, Queensland Rail explained that safety is their top priority, and track protection officers are needed to ensure the safety of all parties, including the transport crew, rail staff, and infrastructure. While Queensland Rail aims to provide internal officers when given sufficient notice, they acknowledged that sometimes external contractors are necessary due to resource constraints. The cost of these services depends on factors like the size of the load and the required train planning.
Jo’s experience has sparked concerns over the high costs and limited options for small fleet operators, who are left to bear the brunt of the financial burden when crossing the Burdekin Bridge.
The Federal Labor Government’s backflip on funding for the Bruce Highway has been welcomed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last, just weeks after flooding cut the national highway.
Mr Last said the return of the 80:20 funding arrangement between state and federal governments for the East coast’s deadliest highway was welcome news for many communities in the Burdekin Electorate.
“In the time since Labor axed the 80:20 funding arrangement for the Bruce Highway, we have seen more blood shed, families torn apart, communities left reeling, and at times, travellers stranded due to flooding on our major highway,” Mr Last said.
“In the space of a matter of months since the October election, the Crisafulli Government have achieved what the former state government couldn’t, while the Federal Labor Government have been dragged kicking and screaming to reverse their decision and reinstate the 80:20 funding arrangement.”
“The sad reality is that quite often, the funding investment needed for upgrades on the Bruce Highway isn't about arriving at a location quicker, they are about actually arriving alive,” he said.
Mr Last said the return of the Bruce Highway Advisory Council by the Crisafulli government, went hand-in-hand to mark the start of bringing about a safer Bruce Highway.
“For years we have had to fight tooth and nail for any sort of funding to bring about a safer Bruce Highway, particularly here in the Burdekin Electorate,” Mr Last said.
“We know there is work to be done and already we have brought together strong voices from the regions to help deliver a long-term upgrade plan, which will bring the Bruce Highway up to safety standards,” he said.
Not even having a dialysis treatment, stopped this Santa from ensuring he was still able to deliver all those gifts over his busiest period ever, Christmas.
Even having dialysis during the hectic gift-giving season, didn’t deter Santa (Ross Whiley), who needed to have it leading into the holiday season last December. If anything, it revitalised him, giving this Santa an extra spring in his step so he could guarantee the children got their presents on time, much to the relief of parents the Burdekin over.
Dialysis is a type of treatment that helps your body remove extra fluid and waste products from your blood when your own kidneys are not able to do so normally, and which keeps safe levels of minerals in your blood, such as potassium, sodium, calcium, and bicarbonate, and also helps to regulate your blood pressure.
Dialysis was first used successfully back in the 1940's and became a standard treatment for kidney failure, starting in the 1970s. Since then, millions of patients have been helped by these treatments, even Santa.
Dialysis can be done in a hospital, a dialysis centre, or at home. In this Santa’s case, he chose the Home Hill Dialysis Unit, so he could continue his work locally within the Burdekin region.
Come Christmas morning, the results were there to be seen on the many faces of so smiling kids. Once back in the North Pole, this Santa recuperated, earning a much-needed break over New Years, before he does it all again next Christmas!
Santa (aka Ross Whiley) receiving dialysis ahead of his busy gift giving Christmas schedule. Photo: ‘Supplied'
Plenty of rainfall was experienced across the Burdekin to ring in the new year, and many locals noticed a sad looking Christmas Tree struggling to cope in the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt.
Almost poetic, the photo captured and shared on Wednesday the 1st of January 2025, attracted waves of attention with many members of the community noting it’s a sign to box up the festive season, and welcome in the new year.
Although a sore spot for some, other locals were able to make light of the situation, finding humour and understanding in the fact that storms and heavy rainfall can be expected at this time of year, and nature was simply helping with the “pack up process”.
As the sun shone on Thursday the 2nd of January, the Burdekin Shire Council promptly returned the beautiful new tree to its former glory.
The Christmas Tree in the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt during recent rainfall. Photo credit : Jacinta Watson
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The Federal Government has announced an additional $7.2 billion investment into the Bruce Highway, marking the single largest funding commitment in the highway’s history. This pledge aims to upgrade Queensland’s critical 1,673 km transport artery to a minimum three-star safety rating, with the Burdekin region poised to benefit from significant improvements.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the importance of the highway for connecting Queenslanders, tourists, and freight, stating, “Queensland deserves a long-term plan, and that is what my Government is delivering.”
The total investment now exceeds $17 billion, with the Bowen to Townsville section, identified as a priority for immediate upgrades.
Proposed projects include installing safety barriers, wider centre lines, and rumble strips to reduce accidents. Additional upgrades may feature wider shoulders, improved intersections, better signage, and enhanced sight lines. The plan also includes increasing rest areas and overtaking lanes to improve traffic flow and driver safety.
To address Queensland’s unpredictable weather, a “Build Back Better” strategy will focus on road resilience through resealing and rehabilitating surfaces, helping mitigate flood damage and ensuring accessibility during extreme weather events.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, who spearheaded the "Back Our Bruce" campaign, welcomed the funding but urged clarity on project details and funding distribution.
“This commitment is a step forward, but we need to ensure our region receives its fair share of the upgrades,” he said.
Mr Willcox also emphasised the community’s role in driving the issue to Canberra’s attention.
“The people of Dawson deserve credit for standing up and demanding change through the ‘Back Our Bruce’ campaign. Without their voices, we wouldn’t have seen this result.
“Let’s be clear, this 80:20 is only for this $7bn commitment. A coalition government will fully reinstate the historical 80:20 funding for all highway funding.”
He further highlighted the urgency of action, saying, “It’s about safety and saving lives.”
Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald expressed cautious optimism, stressing the need for transparency and immediate action. “Queenslanders deserve better than short-term vote-buying announcements,” she said, calling for detailed costings and timelines for the upgrades.
“Labor at all levels has shown scant regard for Queensland’s regional roads, and it’s sad that the only time Anthony Albanese cares about it is when there’s an election looming. I don’t blame people for treating this announcement with some scepticism.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, stands beside a worn section of the Bruce Highway, highlighting the urgent need for safety upgrades in the Burdekin region. Photo supplied
Schools, businesses, organisations and community groups across the Burdekin region will soon begin gearing up for Clean Up Australia Day, with many calling for locals to get involved in the fantastic initiative. Scheduled for Sunday the 2nd of March, 2025 will mark the 35th anniversary of the vital environmental event, which has been making a positive impact on Australia’s environment, one piece of litter at a time.
What began 35 years ago as a simple idea from Ian Kiernan who wanted to clean up his own backyard – has since grown into the country’s largest community-based environmental event. Held annually on the first Sunday in March, Clean Up Australia Day has seen over 22 million Australians volunteer their time to help reduce waste and conserve natural spaces across the nation.
In the Burdekin, Clean Up Australia Day provides a unique opportunity for the community to come together and make a real difference. Whether you’re a local school, business, or community group, your participation is vital to ensuring the region remains clean and beautiful for future generations with registration forms available online at www.cleanup.org.au!
What: Clean Up Australia Day 2025
When: Sunday 2 March
Where: Australia Wide
More Information: visit www.cleanup.org.au
Clean Up Australia Days in the past have seen more than 190kg of rubbish collected from Alva Beach.
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And so the new year begins. As this is my first Councillor column for 2025, I would like to reflect on the past year – and what a year it has been.
Having been overwhelmingly elected by people to represent them in Council, I have tried my best to do so, sometimes garnishing the ire of fellow Councillors and directors. So be it, I fight for what I believe in. It has been a steep learning curve, understanding correct protocol, local laws and Government legislation. It’s not as cut and dried as people may think, and you must work within the scope of it all.
Decisions have to be made. Sometimes coming to terms with those decisions and the backlash that ensues is cause for a headache. If people disagree with those decisions, I would encourage them to inform themselves as to why they have been made. Pick up the phone and ring a Councillor, our phone numbers are on the Council website. Attend a Council meeting. Become an involved community member.
Hopefully the district can dust itself off and recover from the debacle that was sugar cane harvesting season. Mill disruptions have had a devastating effect on those in the industry. Mill workers, contractors, and farmers, have all been impacted by the lengthy season through no fault of their own and this flows onto the economy of the Burdekin Shire. Government needs to recognise and understand this and act accordingly.
With that being said, I hope each and every one of us has had a happy Christmas with their family and friends. A new year brings new hope. A hope for positivity and kindness to our fellow man. A hope for change. God Bless.
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I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year, filled with relaxation, joy and time spent with loved ones. It’s great to see our businesses reopening after a well-deserved break and getting back into action.
As most of us return to work, it’s a good time to reflect on the year ahead. No doubt many of you set New Year’s resolutions, and perhaps a few have already been broken – we’ve all been there!
We are truly blessed that the holiday period was disaster-free, allowing us to enjoy the season in peace. Now, as we step into 2025, I’m excited and optimistic about what lies ahead. There’s much to look forward to, and I’m confident it’s going to be another fantastic year for the Burdekin.
Here’s to making 2025 a year of growth, success and community spirit. Let’s embrace the opportunities ahead and continue working together to make our region the best it can be.
Stay safe, stay positive, and let’s make this year a memorable one!
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.
Introducing the one and only Tones and I – or as her friends call her, Toni! This beautiful tabby with striking markings and captivating green eyes is ready to find her forever home. Despite facing challenges in her young life, including being a young mum, Toni is a resilient little fighter who’s determined to find the love and security she deserves.
Toni is a social and affectionate cat who loves food, attention, and playtime. She’s especially fond of feather wands and will happily engage in a playful chase. Whether it’s getting scratches at the base of her tail, full-body pats, leg rubs, or being picked up and coddled, Toni is always up for some love. Plus, she’s quite the chatterbox and enjoys carrying on a conversation with her humans!
Currently living in a foster home with other cats, Toni has a bit of “sassy little sister” energy and may prefer to be the solo queen of her domain. However, with a slow introduction, she might be open to sharing her space with a confident, friendly feline companion.
If you’re looking for a loving, chatty companion who’s ready to bring joy and affection into your home, Toni could be the perfect fit. Could you offer this determined little lady the forever home she craves?
Adoption Details:
• Adoption Fee: $195
• Included in the Fee: Desexed, Microchipped, Up-to-date Vaccinations, Flea/Tick/Intestinal Worm Treatment
• DOB: 01/04/2023
• Breed: Domestic Shorthair (DSH)
• Sex: Female
• Kid-Friendly: Yes
• Cat-Friendly: Yes (with slow introduction)
• Dog-Friendly: Untested
• BIN: BIN0000268254643
If you’re interested in meeting Toni and offering her the loving forever home she deserves, please submit an adoption enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Established in 2011, the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association (BMSA), is a not-for-profit organisation that has been a haven for men to keep up their skills in retirement, engage with others and learn about men’s health issues, while giving back to the community.
The BMSA meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8am-11.30, where they promote various activities that focus on recreation, skill building, and community projects such as making their popular kid’s toy boxes, and tables and chairs.
“We have five buildings and three workshops – one for woodworking, one for small items of craft, another for welding, metal fabrication and mechanics – and we have another front building where we run garage sales. We have a big stock of furniture and items up there. We also have our own chooks, so we can provide eggs for our members,” Charles Ford, Secretary of the BMSA says.
With monthly general meetings and committee meetings three times a year, the ‘Shed’ has felt like a home away from home for many men, making them feel part of something while offering a place to address health issues in a safe, supportive environment with other blokes.
“We get a guest speaker to come along who speaks about some form of men's health issue, which the guys find informative. After the meeting, we then have a sausage sizzle and drinks and a laugh. We also have monthly luncheons at six different venues within the Burdekin, which is for our members and friends to participate in, along with trips to other Men's Sheds in Far North Queensland,” Charles adds.
The BMSA is responsible for all their expenses, from council rates to site building maintenance and equipment repairs, insurance, electricity, printing and postage etc. However, that gets more difficult with the decline in membership numbers due to members passing on or moving. The BMSA once had 80+ members, today it’s dwindled to half that number.
“For the sustainability of the Men's Shed, we've got to look at trying to recruit younger members of the community, and members who will basically take a position on our management committee.
“It's a good place to be and we want them to come enjoy themselves, as so many do,” Charles adds.
A big selling point about the Men's Shed is that it offers a reprieve for men’s partners and family, instead of them being stuck at home looking up at the ceiling. Once families bring a man down to the Men's Shed, they can then do whatever they want for that short term the men are there.
“When a man comes, participates, and has enjoyed himself, he goes come home and talks about something new and exciting. We’ve seen a lot of benefits for men and their families,” Charles smiles.
Annual membership fees are only $50, but with all the incredible benefits for men’s overall health, well-being and their families, it’s hoped more men will join and contribute.
The Burdekin Men’s Shed Association, which relies on fundraising and grants to keep the lights on, welcome donations or sponsorships from businesses and companies, families, and individuals, who wish to support them in addressing men’s health (physical, mental, emotional, social well-being), within the greater Burdekin region.
For donations, sponsorship, or information, call: 0467 083 502, email: burdekinmensshed@outlook.com or better yet, go visit them at 155-157 Young St, Ayr.
Burdekin Men’s Shed Secretary, Charles Ford, and members, Antony, and carpenter, Steve Bridges. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Burdekin Men’s Shed’s only carpenter (at present), Steve Bridges, and BMSA Secretary, Charles Ford, outside one of their sheds.
New and improved agricultural levies legislation will replace the existing framework next year, making the levy system more user friendly for participants and making it easier for them to understand their obligations.
More than 50 pieces of legislation governing over 110 levies and charges – across 75 commodities and 18 bodies that receive levies – are being streamlined into five Acts and subordinate legislation.
Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, Matt Lowe, said the new legislation would make life simpler for those interacting with it from 1 January.
“From the start of 2025, the new legislation will make obligations clearer for levy payers, collection agents and bodies that receive levies, and better support industries seeking to pursue new or change existing levies," Mr Lowe said.
“More flexible and consistent, it will benefit current and future levy system participants and help industry to get the most out of the levy system.”
“The streamlined legislation will allow primary industries to continue to invest collectively in research and development, marketing, biosecurity activities and responses, and residue testing.”
“Our agricultural levy system is a long-standing, successful partnership between industry and government to facilitate industry investment in strategic activities, and the new framework will make it stronger and more effective,” he said.
Levies are collected from farmers, producers, processors and exporters, with any proposal for new, or changes to existing, levies requiring majority agreement among levy payers.
In 2023-24, the Research and Development Corporations, Animal Health Australia, Plant Health Australia, and the National Residue Survey, received just over $600 million in levy payments.
The Australian Government contributed an additional $470 million in matching funding for research and development activities.
Sugar cane growers in North Queensland are grappling with the dual challenges of rising electricity costs and restricted access to peak-time energy. According to irrigation specialist, Chris Doblo, of Farmacist Pty Ltd, the solution lies in smarter, more efficient practices. Drawing on his extensive experience, Mr Doblo shares practical strategies for growers to future-proof their operations and adapt to these mounting pressures.
One of the most critical steps for growers, Mr Doblo advises, is to evaluate their current irrigation systems. With potential restrictions cutting irrigation time by 20 per cent, it is essential to optimise systems to deliver more water in less time.
Automating For Success
Automation offers significant opportunities for growers to optimise their irrigation processes. With limited irrigation hours and ongoing labour shortages, automated systems can provide precise control over water application, ensuring efficiency and consistency.
“Automation has become more accessible and affordable,” Mr Doblo explains. “It’s an effective option for growers to overcome resource and time constraints.”
Features like automated scheduling and real-time monitoring allow water to be applied during off-peak energy periods, maximising cost savings.
Harnessing Solar Power
Solar energy continues to be one of the most practical investments for sugar cane growers. For pumps of 18.5 kW or larger, installing a solar array can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity, particularly during daylight hours when energy demand is highest.
Planning For Off-Peak Energy
Aligning irrigation schedules with off-peak energy tariffs, such as Tariff 34, offers growers immediate savings of up to 30 per cent. While these tariffs may face additional restrictions in the future, Mr Doblo emphasises their current value in reducing operational costs.
However, he warns growers to prepare for potential interruptions, as off-peak energy may eventually become a “switchable load” during peak demand periods. Diversifying energy sources and improving irrigation efficiency are essential to navigating these changes.
Adapting to rising electricity prices and shifting energy regulations is no easy task, but the solutions are within reach for North Queensland’s sugar cane growers. As Mr Doblo explains, “Investments in infrastructure, automation, and solar energy are not just beneficial—they are essential for the future of our industry.”
By adopting these strategies and embracing innovation, growers can overcome energy constraints and maintain sustainability.
Burdekin firefighters spent some time at Wilmar Sugar’s Pioneer Mill last month, to do a site familiarisation tour and begin planning a joint emergency exercise drill.
The site familiarisation was led by Operations Superintendent, Dean McNamara, and Safety Advisor, Ashley Corradi.
During the visit, new members of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) team were informed about site-specific risks and where fire safety equipment is located on-site.
They also met Manager Operations, Matt Norton, Emergency Response Team (ERT) Captain, Patrick Patterson, and ERT member, Ryan Taylor.
Ashley said the site famil was beneficial to both QFES and Wilmar Sugar and Renewables employees.
"It is important that new members of the QFES do these visits as it makes the site familiar to them, ensuring a quick response in the case of an incident,” she said.
QFES officers make site visits to our other factories on a regular basis. They also participate in mock emergencies with Wilmar's emergency response teams, Queensland Ambulance Service and Queensland Police Service.
Pictured during the familiarisation tour are, from left, Emergency Response Team Captain Patrick Patterson, Senior Firefighter Peter Felesina, Firefighter Lindsay Wilson, Firefighter Carter Dal Ponte, Station Officer Ash Ryder and Operations Superintendent Dean McNamara. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables
Social media has transformed the way we explore and share the natural world, but it has also had unintended consequences. Studies show that the rise of social media has contributed to habitat disturbances, impacting native species. Popular wildlife spots often experience increased visitor numbers, which can lead to habitat abandonment, changes in usage patterns, reduced breeding success, and altered feeding behaviours.
If you’re planning to photograph wildlife and share it online, here are some tips to ensure your actions contribute positively to conservation efforts:
Respect Your Surroundings
Be mindful of your environment. Avoid trampling sensitive vegetation or disrupting animals in their natural habitats. Every small action matters when it comes to preserving delicate ecosystems.
Say No to Flash Photography
When photographing nocturnal animals, avoid using flash. The sudden burst of light can startle them, disrupt their behaviours, or even lead to stress, which can have long-term impacts.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Keeping an appropriate distance from wildlife is essential to prevent causing stress or prompting animals to abandon their habitat. Use zoom lenses or binoculars to observe and capture them without interference.
Avoid Playback of Animal Calls
While it might seem like a harmless way to attract wildlife for the perfect shot, playing recorded animal calls can confuse or distress creatures. This can cause them to leave their nests or aggressively defend territory, putting them at risk.
Follow Local Regulations
Abide by local rules, including restricted access areas and opening hours. These guidelines are in place to protect both visitors and wildlife, ensuring a safe coexistence.
Don’t Mark or Promote Hidden Gems
Sharing the location of a special wildlife spot might seem harmless, but it can lead to over-visitation and increased disturbances. Enjoy these places quietly and leave no trace.
Queensland’s unique flora and fauna are worth celebrating, but it’s crucial to do so responsibly.
By being mindful of our actions, we can help ensure these precious environments thrive for future generations to admire.
Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation
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