Across the Burdekin region, a lack of suitable transport services has left many elderly residents feeling isolated and struggling to access essential appointments and social activities.
The issue has become particularly pressing for those without family nearby or the ability to drive themselves.
June Bartlett, who cares for her husband aged in his 80s, highlighted the difficulties faced when transport is limited.
“When he became very ill and unable to do much, that’s when we really started to get stuck with transport,” she explained.
“From him needing so many appointments with physios, doctors, at the hospital, I started to meet a lot of older people in the area.”
As an involved community member and regular attendee of the Friends and Neighbours Craft Group, Ms Bartlett has noted firsthand that many in the community, especially older women who have lost their spouses, face similar challenges.
“Lots of people are facing transport problems in the future, not just because they can’t drive, maybe they don’t have a car or it’s broken down,” she said.
“There’s a great need for transport to be available at a lot shorter notice.”
Ms Bartlett acknowledged the “terrific” work of service providers including Burdekin Community Association (BCA), Bur-Del Services and Townsville’s TransitCare.
She also acknowledged the taxi and Uber services available in the Burdekin but cited technological and financial reasons for these not being suitable for everyone.
BCA CEO Debra Cochran said the organisation provides transport services to eligible people under the Home Care Packages Program, Commonwealth Home Support Program, Queensland Community Support Scheme and Burdekin Community Transport Service.
“We also provide transport to people not eligible for the programs, on a one-off basis, if we have a seat available on the bus and we are already transporting a client to the same destination,” she added.
BCA utilises two buses with wheelchair access that can carry eight passengers or, when there is a passenger in a wheelchair, four other passengers.
Bus transport is offered in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with the bus doing multiple trips to various locations around the towns for shopping, visiting, medical appointments, participation in events etc.
Bus Transport to and from Townsville is offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, the priority being to assist clients to access medical services that are not available at local public hospitals.
“We have capacity on our buses to provide transport to more people, eligible for the above programs,” Ms Cochran confirmed.
“Our capacity for Support Workers to provide additional Transport depends on the availability of workers.
“We’re not experiencing a demand to increase Transport services and we’d like to see more people from Home Hill, Brandon and Giru accessing services.”
TransitCare also does daily transport Monday to Thursday for over 65 and under 65 in Ayr, Home Hill and surrounding areas, transporting 30 to 40 clients per week mostly to medical appointments.
Despite this coverage of services, Ms Bartlett said an increase in appointments being booked later in the afternoon and on weekends leaves residents with few options.
“There needs to be a much more flexible and spontaneous system,” she said.
“When appointments get suddenly offered to you that day, it’s very difficult to get to things without having a well organised mind.
“Having an extra transport service here in the hours that the other ones don’t operate would be just terrific for all of the people who need to go to the hospital at 5 o’clock in the afternoon or need to get home from the hospital at 5 o’clock in the afternoon.”
Chrysse Theofanes shared her own struggles since losing her husband three years ago.
“When you lose your partner and there’s one person left in the house, you don’t go out, you don’t have friends, so if you’ve got to go to the doctor, I don’t know how you’re going to get there,” she said.
“Sometimes you don’t want to keep on asking for help; some people want to be independent and be able to do things when they’d like to do things.”
Christine Anderson, a nearly 75-year-old widow from Home Hill, relies heavily on her daughter for transportation.
“I can’t get into Ayr on my own and I can’t afford a taxi every time,” she said.
The weekly craft group is Ms Anderson’s only social outing each week.
“I think it’s very important, because otherwise I’d be sitting at home sleeping or watching TV or doing both at the same time.
“Having transport options is vital because otherwise people just don’t go.”
As Ms Bartlett concluded, "We must look after the people who made this country what it is today.
“People really do get stressed and worried about how they’re going to manage to get to things.”
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June Bartlett and Christine Anderson

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Future funding for the Mobile Black Spot Program has been abolished as per the Federal Government’s recent budget with no ongoing funding to be provided for other key regional communications infrastructure programs.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the axing of the Mobile Black Spot in 2026/27 is a major blow for regional communities, with zero dollars allocated for 2027/28.

“For the people of Dawson, there are whole communities that do not have access to mobile connectivity, and some people have to leave their home just to get reception,” he said.

“In 2024, how is this good enough?

“This isn’t just so people can call friends and family for a chat, we’re talking about real life emergency situations where people are getting stranded.”

The Government has also cut funding for the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which covers funding for a range of programs including on-farm connectivity and the Regional Tech Hub.

“It’s no wonder that people in regional Australian communities are feeling isolated,” Mr Willcox said.

“The Budget papers show Labor is going to ramp up funding for mobile connectivity just in time for the coming election year, before it falls away and then comes to a grinding halt.

Funding for the Better Connectivity Plan will more than double in the lead up to the election from $101.8 million in 2023/24 to $228.4 million in 2024/25. 

Funding for the Mobile Black Spot Program will nearly triple ahead of the poll day, from $17.5 million in 2023/24 to $45.9 million in 2024/25. 

But all three programs are to receive zero funding in 2027/28.

“Improving connectivity for people in both the bush and those living on the outskirts of major cities is critical and shouldn’t be at the whim of the Albanese Government’s political strategy,” Mr Willcox said.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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Opinion Piece
As the clock winds down to the rescheduled commencement of the 2024 sugar cane crushing season, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances that the Burdekin won’t be held to ransom during pay disputes.
Mr Last said the community deserved to know that the multinational milling company was fulfilling its commitment to the district it operates in.
“With forecasts of a bumper crop, it is vital the crushing gets underway on schedule," Mr Last said.
"My message to Wilmar Sugar is simple; negotiate in good faith and remember that you have an obligation to do the right thing.
“Obviously businesses must put profits as a priority, but they also need to make this community a priority.  
“The goodwill of the Burdekin community is an important asset for Wilmar so, even from a purely business perspective, it is vital they do the right thing.
“By ensuring there are no further delays, Wilmar has the opportunity to ensure that they, as well as the rest of the community, benefits as much as possible from the predicted bumper crop.  
“If they refuse to negotiate fairly they may have a short term win but at what long term cost?"
Mr Last said he wasn't calling for the multi-national miller to 'cave in' but that he expected leadership from the district's largest employer.
“Wages and conditions are about negotiating for the best outcome for all parties," he said.
"Wilmar must ensure a fair outcome for themselves but the community also expects a fair outcome for the workers and the wider community.
"The flow on effects of delays or standover cane in the paddocks at the end of the crushing ripples through the entire community.  
“Given recent profits it is incredibly easy to make the case that workers deserve a share of the prosperity.
"You only have to look at the big supermarkets to see that market dominance can have a negative effect.  
“This is Wilmar's chance to prove that, despite their monopoly, they are prepared to be a good corporate citizen that deserves the community's support.
“This situation cannot be another example of a multinational company the community to ransom.”

Wilmar’s Invicta Mill, Giru. Photo supplied

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A new program hosted by PCYC Burdekin is inviting those aged 55 and above to get active.
Healthy Active Bodies is a group fitness program tailored for mature adults aged 55 plus.
The program is based on progressive resistance training and incorporates aerobic exercise, balance and flexibility classes.
The classes are circuit based, allowing each participant to exercise at an intensity which is suitable to their needs.
“It’s very important, as we age, to keep as fit and healthy as we can,” said Ayr Health Service Senior Physiotherapist Sarah Searle.
“The stronger you are, the less likely you are to fracture anything if you were to have a fall.
“It’s got lots of great social benefits too, it’s a great way to make new friends and keep active in the community.”
The classes are run by local trainer Joanne Barbagallo and made possible through funding received from the Townsville Hospital and Health Service via the Rural and Remote Medical Benefits Scheme.  
Director of Nursing and Facility Manager at Ayr Health Service, Tracey Gabiola, said the local health service has been redirecting these funds for approximately the last five years to support these health promotion initiatives like Healthy Active Bodies.  
“The programs have a definite primary health care focus and support people across the life span from adolescents to aged persons,” she said.
“Many of the programs are specifically targeted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth which is vitally important for our Burdekin community.”
Burdekin PCYC Youth Club Program Manager Andrew Sherrington thanked the Townsville Hospital and Health Service for the funding.
“Burdekin PCYC is incredibly thankful to Townsville Hospital and Health Service for their ongoing support with funding to deliver this and other programs within the Burdekin community,” he said.
“Without the support of this funding, this program and many others would not be possible and we are forever grateful to Townsville Hospital and Health Service for their generous support.”
Classes are provided at no cost to the local community and are offered every Monday from 10am–11am and Friday from 9am–10am.
Contact Burdekin PCYC on 07 4783 1009 for more information.

The Healthy Active Bodies group with Senior Physiotherapist Sarah Searle (third from left) and Joanne Barbagallo (front)

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At 6.30pm on Saturday 11 May, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr. As a result, a 25yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .053. He was due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 27 May.  
At 1.00am on Sunday 12 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Beach Road, Ayr. As a result, a 23yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .155 and for unlicenced driving. She is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 June.
At 9.10pm on Sunday 12 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on McDesme Road, Ayr. The driver, a 51yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 22 July.
At 12.35am on Sunday 19 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Edwards Street, Ayr. As a result, a 58yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .099. He is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 June.
At 7.55pm on Sunday 19 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Wilmington Street, Ayr. The driver, a 31yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and possessing a dangerous drug. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 22 July.
At 1.25am on Friday 24 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. The driver, a 37yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and she is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 22 July.
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Contributed Snr Sgt Steve Barton
OIC Ayr

Home Hill Police have concluded an extensive investigation into several break and enters which have occurred at the Home Hill IGA between July 2023 and May 2024. Over the weekend, a 17-year-old juvenile was dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act for seven counts of Enter premises and commit indictable offence by break. A 16-year-old juvenile was also dealt with under the Youth Justice Act for five counts of Enter premises and commit indictable offence by break. Home Hill Police encourage member of the community to continue to report suspicious activity to Policelink 131 444.
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Contributed by Sgt Sam Pyke
OIC Home Hill

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A man has died in a quad bike accident on a rural property in the Burdekin.
A Queensland Police Service (QPS) spokesperson confirmed the man in his 30s was located deceased on a private property on Jack Road, Colevale, north of Brandon, on Monday, May 27.
QPS were engaged around 12:45pm on Monday afternoon.
“Police will prepare a report for the coroner,” the spokesperson said.
“The Forensic Crash Unit will assist in preparing that report.”

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It's common for many of us to plan for our physical assets after we're gone, but we often overlook our digital footprint. While some have prepared a list of online accounts and passwords for their loved ones, it's crucial to consider the broader impact of our digital presence. Should we vanish from the online world completely, or could our social media accounts serve as a platform for our friends and family to navigate their grief? These are important questions worth discussing.

Nowadays, many people of all ages use online platforms to live their lives. It makes sense that they might want to keep communicating even after they die. Some companies offer services for people who want to plan their online afterlives. Although it may seem farfetched and like they are taking advantage of people, giving closure to family and friends can be very comforting.

When someone passes away without organising their Digital Identity, it can cause problems for their family. It can be very difficult for loved ones to regain control of the person's online accounts with some companies. This can create a lot of stress for the family. After someone has passed, their Facebook and Twitter accounts can become targets for hackers, causing additional stress for friends and family or resulting in the family losing control of the account.

If you would like to know more about how to safeguard your Digital Identity, come along to our workshop. Please contact the team on 07 4783 4243 to reserve a spot at the workshop as soon as possible.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

WHAT: Digital Legacy Workshop with Guest Speaker Carly Crompton from nbn Australia  
WHEN: Thursday, July 6 from 11:30am to 12:30pm  
WHERE: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale St, Ayr  
COST: Free

Welcome to my first Councillor Column of the new term of Council. Welcome to our new Mayor and three new Councillors. It’s been a busy start and I’m sure an eye-opening experience for my new colleagues.
We recently had very well attended ANZAC Day ceremonies. I reflected on my forebears who served this country and those left behind to keep the wheels of society turning so we enjoy the freedoms of today. Their sacrifice gave me the privilege of living in this great nation and afforded me the opportunity of playing a part in democracy.
Thank you to those who voted to re-elect me and let me say it’s an honour to represent the Burdekin Shire on Council. Council can be challenging, especially when making ‘the hard’ decisions but I try to keep an open mind and rely on the facts/evidence presented.
I believe in the Burdekin and its people to keep thriving and building. For me it’s about the future. How will my decisions today benefit the community moving forward, what Burdekin community will my children and grandchildren want to live in.    
There is work to do and I’m sure my fellow Councillors, all from different backgrounds and life experience only want what’s best for the community. The differences of background/life experience of each Councillor will add to diversity of opinion.
The Burdekin has untapped potential moving forward but it relies on all of us taking part. Join an organisation, volunteer some time and be the society you want.
Wishing you health and happiness
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Cr John Furnell

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Did you know you can download the prospectus online for the Ayr Industrial Estate expansion project? This is an exciting opportunity for businesses and investors looking to be part of the region’s growth and development.
The Ayr Industrial Estate expansion is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering economic development and creating new job opportunities in the Burdekin region. With ample land and resources available, this expansion aims to enhance the industrial capabilities of our community and support sustainable long-term growth.
Interested parties can access the prospectus and submit their expressions of interest through Burdekin Shire Council's website. This is a unique chance to get involved in shaping the future of our region and contributing to its prosperity.
For more details or to download the prospectus, visit burdekin.qld.gov.au.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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On Monday, May 27, the Home Hill & Ayr Community Banks hosted their annual Community Grants Presentation Night, gathering the community to highlight the bank’s dedication to supporting local initiatives and celebrate significant milestones in their journey.
This year, 39 organisations received a total of $369,557 in grants, supporting areas like Youth Services, Sporting Facilities, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Community and Cultural Facilities, Environment, and Employment, on top of an additional $35,750 already distributed throughout the year.
South Burdekin Community Financial Services Limited Chairman Darren West opened the evening by recognising the contributions of his fellow directors, all volunteers, with three having served since the bank's inception.
He also acknowledged Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin, the dedicated staff of both branches, and special guests including Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, and Councillor John Furnell.
Mr West provided a brief history, recalling the bank's formation in 2003 when a group of community-minded volunteers initiated a steering committee to establish a Bendigo Community Bank in Home Hill.
Despite the challenges of the Global Financial Crisis, the bank steadily grew, gaining a loyal customer base and ultimately took over the last remaining major bank in Home Hill in 2011.
The bank's move to the new Home Hill location in 2015, within the IGA complex, significantly enhanced customer interaction.
In 2016, the bank acquired the Charters Towers portfolio, followed by the purchase of the Ayr branch in 2017, which brought in a diverse customer base.
In 2021, the bank expanded by taking on the Agribusiness portfolio for Ingham, and in 2022, it acquired the Bowen branch, further increasing customer engagement.
Highlighting the essence of a Community Bank, Mr West mentioned the first community contribution in 2008, a modest $1,075, which has since grown substantially.
“The whole idea of a Community Bank is to provide banking services to our communities, to generate profits that are then distributed back into those communities,” he said.
“We have injected a total of $1,491,554 into our community through grants, sponsorships, and dividends.
“This has only been made possible by the support from our Home Hill, Ayr and Bowen communities and those people and organisations that have decided to bank with us.”
Mr West concluded with a call to action, encouraging the community to bank with Community Banks to further increase funding opportunities.
“Imagine the volume we could create and how much extra funding we could provide to the community going forward,” he urged.
The evening then proceeded with the presentation of individual cheques to each organisation, with representatives sharing how the funds will benefit their projects and the community.

The community gathered for the presentation of Home Hill & Ayr Community Banks Community Grants earlier this week. Photo credit: Chantel Michielin

2024 Community Grant Recipients
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce
Ayr Golf Club
Burdekin Art Society Inc
RSL Sub Branch Home Hill
Burdekin Football Club
Millaroo State School P & C Assoc
Ayr Rifle Club
Lower Burdekin Landcare Association
Home Hill Cricket Club
NQ Employment
Burdekin School
Home Hill Tennis
Home Hill Golf Club
Brandon Bowls Club
Home Hill Choral Society
Ayr Pastoral, Agricultural and Industrial Assoc Inc
Home Hill Boat Club
Burdekin Sub Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Inc
Rita Island Progress Association
Zonta
Burdekin Netball Association
Burdekin Men's Shed Association Inc
St Stephen's Greek Community of Home Hill & Ayr
Burdekin Potters
Jarvisfield Primary P&C Association
Home Hill Community Kindergarten
Burdekin Artisan Community Association Inc
Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association
Burdekin Community Association
Burdekin Chaplains
Burdekin Junior Rugby League Football Club Inc
Home Hill State School P&C
Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club
Burdekin Brass Band
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Bowen Seagulls Rugby League
Bowen Netball Association
Ayr Tennis Association
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Recent law reforms by the Queensland Government have been by Australia’s foremost breeder of industrial hemp seedstock.
Hemp Farms Australia CEO Lauchlan Grout said “good sense” had prevailed when MPs passed the amendments to the Drugs Misuse Act on April 18.
Queensland’s Agriculture Minister Mark Furner introduced the changes, saying they support the continued growth of the state’s industrial cannabis industry.
“The bill will support the industrial cannabis industry in Queensland by clarifying that industrial cannabis seed may be supplied to a seed handler,” he said.
“The amendments also establish a power to enter into information-sharing arrangements with entities, including the Queensland Police Service, to improve the sharing of industrial cannabis industry information under the Act.”
Mr Grout said low-THC hemp does not present the same sort of challenges as medicinal cannabis.
“It is a workhorse product that supplies fibre for building construction and dietary seed for human nutrition,” he said.
“It is also a powerhouse in carbon cycling.
“Hemp possesses the extraordinary ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere at an astonishing rate.
“This, coupled with its rapid growth rate, renders hemp a formidable player in our fight against climate change.”
Potential benefits for producers include diversified revenue streams as well as improved soil fertility and less herbicide use, Mr Grout added.
“It is a multitasking marvel: not only does it sequester carbon, but it also undertakes the noble task of soil remediation, effortlessly removing heavy metals from contaminated soils.
“Its deep-reaching root system further enhances this process, enriching the soil and fortifying its structure for future agriculture.
“Peer-reviewed studies resoundingly support hemp's prowess in carbon sequestration and soil remediation.”
The benefits extend to mining, energy and water corporations, he added. “Hemp's ability to absorb heavy metals from soil and its potential for biofuel production positions it as a lucrative venture for eco-conscious corporations.
“By incorporating hemp into supply chains, corporations can bolster their sustainability credentials, tap into burgeoning markets and drive innovation in renewable technologies.
“The potential of industrial hemp to revolutionise our agricultural practices and combat climate change cannot be overstated.”

Hemp Farms Australia CEO Lauchlan Grout

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The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association is inviting kids to learn about the environment with its Junior Landcare Program, happening this Saturday, May 1 and the first Saturday of every month.
The program is aimed at showing kids the love and importance of the local environment while teaching how to cultivate future carers for the land through conservation.
The first Junior Landcare Program ran last month where kids, along with their parents and grandparents, were shown how to assemble a worm farm composting system.
They put together the farm, layered the bedding and introduced the worms before finishing off the morning with a sausage sizzle and cold drinks in the clubhouse.
This Saturday, the program will look at collecting native seeds and planting them to make tubestock, similar to those cultivated and sold in the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association nursery.
The program is totally free to participate and best suited to children aged 6-12, although anyone interested in growing a green thumb is welcome.

WHAT: Junior Landcare Program
WHEN: Saturday, May 1 from 9am to 10am
WHERE: Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Nursery on International Drive, behind the soccer fields
MORE INFORMATION: Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Inc Facebook page

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Last month, Junior Landcare Program attendees were shown how to assemble a worm farm composting system. Photos supplied

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The 2024 sugar production season will be delayed after a meeting with the Fair Work Commission on Tuesday, May 28 was unable to resolve an ongoing pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and its employees and union representatives.
A Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesperson confirmed the company is in the process of notifying growers of revised start dates, which, across Wilmar’s four regions, represent total delays ranging from two to nine days.
“Industrial action has already impacted our 2024 sugar production season, with work stoppages over the past two weeks forcing us to further delay the start of production at a number of our factories,” the spokesperson said.
“These start dates may push back even further if planned industrial action proceeds.”
Following Tuesday’s meeting, Wilmar Sugar and Renewables informed the Fair Work Commission that it would put a fresh proposal directly to employees covered by the enterprise agreement in a ballot planned for Monday, June 10.
Wilmar outlined a new EA package that included a $1,500 sign-on bonus (inclusive of superannuation), permanent jobs offers to 50 fixed-term and seasonal employees, and a $20 a week allowance for employees utilising an electrical licence.
The Commission is expected to report back on the outcome of the ballot and any other developments on Friday, June 21.
A similar offer was taken to ballot in December last year, which was comprehensively rejected by workers, with Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson calling the new offer “a slap in the face to every worker”.
“We will be voting down this deal once again and Wilmar will be back at square one, having angered the workers and cane growers and harmed their own profits,” he said.
“If this deal is voted down by workers, which it will be, the shareholders and executives of this company need to take action on the management of these mills.”
The ballot comes after what Mr Wilson described as an attempt to find a middle ground with Wilmar as workers put forward an ask of an 18% pay rise over three years – a 7% reduction from workers’ original ask of 25%.
“We did that in an attempt to get this resolved and not cause delays to the crush, but Wilmar weren’t interested, they’re just putting out the same agreement,” Mr Wilson said.
“We’ve moved down to significantly less than where we started, and where we started didn’t take us above what others are paying in the sugar industry, it took us to around the top.
“We are not asking for the world in terms of a pay rise, we just want our members to be compensated fairly for the work they do at a time where Wilmar is making record profits.
“This is a battle for our entire industry, and we aren’t giving in.”
Mr Wilson confirmed that industrial action will continue as of yesterday, Wednesday May 29 in the form of rolling stoppages and work bans across all mills, while the AWU, alongside the Electrical Trades Union and Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union, will run a ‘no’ campaign similar to the one run in December.
The industrial action that workers have voted for includes strike action of one hour, two hours, four hours, eight hours, 12 hours and 48 hours.
It also includes (but is not limited to) work bans on performing overtime, call outs and working with contractors.
“Union representatives would not agree to a request to suspend planned industrial action while the ballot was being conducted and employees were considering the new offer,” the Wilmar spokesperson said.
“We were notified this week of a raft of new work bans and stoppages planned at our sites through to, and including, 3 June.”
“We have written to employees confirming that they will not be paid for periods when they are on strike, or where partial work bans mean they do not perform their full work duties.
“We are grateful to employees who continue to work on completion of essential works ahead of the start of production.”

Growers have been informed of delays to the sugar production season

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Revised Crush Start Dates As Of May 28
   • Invicta Mill – 11 June (total delay so far = 7 days)
   • Pioneer Mill – 10 June (total delay so far = 6 days)
   • Kalamia Mill – 10 June (total delay so far = 6 days)
   • Inkerman Mill – 6 June (total delay so far = 2 days)

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Finding your dream home can be an exhilarating journey, filled with excitement and anticipation. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner looking for an upgrade, here are some top tips to guide you along the way:

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Define Your Needs and Wants: Start by creating a list of your must-have features versus those you desire. Consider factors like location, size, layout, amenities and style. Knowing what you truly need versus what you can compromise on will help narrow down your search.

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Set a Realistic Budget: Determine your budget early on and stick to it. Factor in not only the purchase price but also ongoing costs like mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Being financially prepared ensures you don't fall in love with a home that's beyond your means.

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Research Neighbourhoods: Explore different neighbourhoods to find the one that best suits your lifestyle. Consider factors like proximity to work, schools, shopping centres, parks, and public transportation. Take time to visit each area at different times of the day to get a feel for its ambiance and safety.

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Work with a Knowledgeable Realtor: A reputable real estate agent can be invaluable in your home search. They have access to a wide range of properties, understand market trends and can negotiate on your behalf. Look for an agent who is experienced, responsive and has a good understanding of your preferences.

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Attend Open Houses and Inspections: Take advantage of open houses and property inspections to thoroughly evaluate potential homes. Pay attention to details like the condition of the property, any necessary repairs or renovations and how the space aligns with your needs.
By following these top tips, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the real estate market and find the home of your dreams.

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An impressive abode overlooking Macmillan Street in Ayr, Zammit House recently hit the market for the first time, changing hands and allowing former owner and granddaughter, Giselle Lennox, to reflect on its incredible history.
The parcel of land at 113-115 Macmillan Street was originally entered into the Land Registry in 1883.  
It was purchased on April 6, 1933 by PJ Mellick and his wife, Nafley, Lebanese migrants for their daughter Lyla and husband Michael as a wedding gift.
The land was in prime location and surrounded by important and significant structures including the Masonic Lodge, Anzac Memorial Park, Ayr Shire Council, Ayr Post Office and Ayr Town Clock.  
“It was to be an impressive modern brick home placed in the centre of the half acre parcel”, Giselle shared.  
“Plans were drawn and building commenced.
“It was to be the Zammit family home.”
One of the first homes in Ayr to showcase architectural styles prominent to the early days of settlement, the Zammit home was designed in a classic English colonial style.
It stood as a brick and concrete building featuring imposing columns and a large wrap around veranda, the red coloured concrete floor of the veranda a modern application for its time.  
The original red and white chequered concrete walkways still lead and invite you into the home.
The entrance to the home is through a large welcoming front door or access from the veranda through the large silky oak French doors, leading you into the formal lounge and dining room.
The house features two generous bedrooms and one extra generous master suite with a particularly modern feature for its day: a connecting door directly into the family bathroom.
The 1930’s art deco styled bathroom still has the original mosaic tiled floor and pedestal basin and the tiled built-in rectangular bathtub would have been considered a luxury back in the day.
A large private kitchen still has the original tiled hearth and chimney.  
The back door from the kitchen allowed access to a similar smaller building that served as the laundry and staff sleeping quarters.  
Original pendant lights, wide pine floors and extensive silky oak detailed joinery all contribute to the classic and stately character of the home; qualities and craftsmanship original to the home and no longer found in contemporary houses.  
Lyla and Michael moved into the home in 1934 with their children, Josephine, Michael “Mickey” and Lorraine.
Michael had migrated from Malta in 1916, had purchased a cane farm in 1920 and also became a registered Bookmaker in 1926.  
He travelled extensively to attend race meets while Lyla was the homemaker and the children attended school.
Josephine was a boarder at St Patricks College Townsville and Mickey and Lorraine went to St Francis School in Ayr.
As the only grandchildren living in Ayr, Mickey and Lorraine spent a lot of time with their grandparents and also in the stores they owned.  
PJ Mellick had also opened a store in Home Hill.
In December 1940, Mickey, aged 10, went to spend time with his grandmother who was managing the store in Home Hill.  
“Always the prankster, he would pull out the seamstresses sewing machine cords when they left to attend the front of store,” Giselle said.  
“Unfortunately, this particular day, a horrible accident resulted, and Mickey received a fatal shock.  
“The family never recovered.”
Lyla was sent to a Sydney hospital to recover and Giselle’s mother, Lorraine, was sent to St Patrick’s College in Townsville to continue her education at the age of 9.  
Her sister Josephine had already finished school and was living in Sydney.
Michael visited Lyla in Sydney and eventually she returned home before they separated in 1944 and divorced in 1946.  
Lyla was awarded the family home and furniture, property and an alimony of 32 pounds per month.
Lorraine returned to Ayr in her 20’s and later married local Italian shoemaker Luigi Lazzarin before Giselle was born in 1965.
“Lyla’s House has been a home to the Zammit, Lazzarin and Lennox families for 90 years: four generations have lived in this house,” Giselle said.
“Lyla’s house was her home until she passed in 1989.
“My Grandmother loved her home and loved sharing it with her family and friends.
“Grandma loved her garden especially her roses and orchids.  
“She hosted bridge games and enjoyed playing her pianola for guests.
“No matter what time of the day you visited, there would always be someone that had just ‘dropped in’, sitting at her kitchen table or on her front veranda waiting for their tea to be poured.
“As the only grandchild and having spent a lot of time in the house growing up, I have wonderful memories of a very happy and beloved Grandmother” Giselle said.  
As the only grandchild, it was expected that Lyla’s house would be the last home Giselle would live in.
However, Giselle has made the decision to pass the house along and leave the Burdekin to be closer to her family, including her own little Granddaughter, Lyla.
“The Zammit House, Lyla’s House, has always had a strong and special association with the Burdekin community as a local landmark”, Giselle said.  
“Even in her 90th year, she is still a majestic and historical piece of the Burdekin and I hope one that will be truly appreciated and treated with the respect her history deserves”.

Michael, Lyla, Lorraine, Mickey and Josephine in front of Zammit House circa 1936

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