Community News

Home Hill Entrepreneur Making His Mark In Fashion  How Jonathan Caspanello Built Caspa Collective

Home Hill Entrepreneur Making His Mark In Fashion How Jonathan Caspanello Built Caspa Collective

By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied

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Max Musumeci - Councillor Column

Max Musumeci - Councillor Column

It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.

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Tax, Tax, Tax

Tax, Tax, Tax

Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP

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Burdekin Council Locks in $106.9M Budget for ‘Sustainable Growth’

Burdekin Council Locks in $106.9M Budget for ‘Sustainable Growth’

Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Community Focused, State Recognised

March 27, 2025

From cats perched on counters to guinea pigs and beyond, My Pets Rural is far more than just a pet and stockfeed supply store. It is a vibrant community hub, proudly dedicated to caring for both its customers and their beloved animals.

A much-loved local business, My Pets Rural has also earned well-deserved recognition beyond the region, recently being named Member of the Year at the Aiir and Tucker National Member Conference 2025.

Owners Ross & Tracy Tapiolas shared the team’s excitement and surprise at receiving such a prestigious award.

"As a small, local store competing against much larger businesses in Brisbane, winning this award is a huge achievement for us."

However, while the win was a proud moment, Ross also spoke of his disappointment at not being able to attend the awards ceremony in person due to the recent floods. Although they could have made the trip to the Gold Coast, Ross made it clear that their priority remained firmly with their customers.

"We had to stay here. We didn’t want to let our customers down, especially after the floods. People would be racing in to get served," he explained.

The community’s response was heartfelt, with staff and customers alike recognising the store’s loyalty and dedication.

"A few staff members and customers even came up to me and said, ‘No wonder you’ve won it, because you could have gone to the awards, but you stayed for your shop,’" Ross added.

This moment perfectly exemplifies My Pets Rural’s unwavering commitment to its community and exceptional customer service. No request is ever too great.

While the store stocks an extensive range of quality products, if you are after something specialised or specific, the team will always go above and beyond to source it for you or help find the next best alternative.

Beyond their strong customer focus, the team at My Pets Rural also brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. With staff who own a wide variety of animals themselves, they are passionate about pets of all shapes and sizes. Whether you have a question about nutrition, care, or products, they are always ready to offer friendly, expert advice to support you and your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.

Although My Pets Rural were unable to attend the awards in person, their impact within the local community and the wider region was undeniable. Their dedication, both in times of celebration and in times of challenge, highlights exactly why they are so cherished by locals and now recognised on a national stage.

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Increased Funding A Clear Path To A Better Bruce

March 27, 2025

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, believes two recent announcements herald a far better future for the Bruce Highway and will provide numerous benefits for the people of the Burdekin.

According to Mr Last the announcements mean projects that have been stagnant can now be kicked into
gear and that planning for upgrades can now begin in earnest due to increased funding.

“The re-introduction of funding for the Bruce Highway will see a return to normal levels, meaning
maintenance projects for example, are no longer hamstrung by funding,” Mr Last said.

“The additional $9Billion is purely about making the Bruce Highway safer, reducing travel time and improving flood resilience.”

“A mountain of work and negotiation was done to secure the additional funding from the federal
government and is proof that Queenslanders deserve better than a second-class highway. The return to
the previous funding model was, I think, more political given there’s a federal election not far away and the federal opposition had already committed to that.”

“While some minor projects have been announced, there is a long list of improvements that are needed as anyone who frequently travels the Bruce Highway knows. The Crisafulli state government’s Bruce
Highway Advisory Council will play a major role in ensuring this funding produces the biggest bang for our buck possible.”

Mr Last said that he expected to see the Bruce Highway in the Burdekin area receive its fair share following his advocacy and support from the community.

“Both the Premier and the Minister for Transport are well aware of the issues we face locally with the Bruce Highway,” he said.

“We have one of the most dangerous sections of the Bruce to the south of Home Hill and we have Plantation Creek that is a closure hot-spot that causes immense problems locally and cuts
the state in two.”

“The Premier was already aware of the issue because it is a problem I have highlighted numerous times
but, during his recent visit, the Premier got to see the problem firsthand and hear directly from affected people. That visit resulted in Premier Crisafulli flagging the need for flood-proofing at Plantation Creek as a priority, directly with the Prime Minister.”

“I would hope to see the new funding address both of those issues and there is a considerable amount of work currently underway to identify the best options that deliver the safety and resilience we need. As a government we have committed to betterment and a big part of that is doing the background work.”

“In both of those areas we need to keep the existing road as functional as possible during works for
transport of goods and freight both north and south. As we have seen recently, you also need to ensure you have adequate drainage.”

“I’m committed to fixing the Bruce throughout the electorate and, now that we have the funding available, we can really get to work to deliver on that commitment.”

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Shamrock Shindig! Choral Society Goes Green For St Paddy's Day

March 27, 2025

More than 180 people attended the most recent performance by the talented Home Hill Choral Society, which took to the stage in a flash of green for their Shamrock Shindig musical.

Themed for St. Patrick's Day, the event took place over the past two weekends, providing a wonderful opportunity for the whole community to come together.

Robert Antoniazzi from the Choral Society expressed his delight in seeing people attend who had never come to an event of this kind before.

"There were 14 to 16 people who had never been before," Robert shared.

"People we saw on the street, old school friends—everyone left saying the same thing: 'I never expected anything like this, please put us on the mailing list!'"

Accompanied by good food and plenty of merriment, the event was another fabulous success.

The Choral Society’s next performance will be at the Eisteddfod in Townsville, where they will showcase their talents once again, delivering two "Sacreds"—Celtic songs of thanks.

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Trusted By Locals For 65 Years

March 27, 2025

With 65 years of dedicated service to the community, McKaig's Hiway Motors has built an unparalleled reputation, earning not only a wealth of experience but also the deep-rooted trust of locals. This family-owned business, which has been passed down through multiple generations, is now in the capable hands of Ray McKaig, who took over the reins from his father and brother. Ray, together with his wife, Karen McKaig, has worked tirelessly to maintain the business’s strong community presence while staying true to its core values.

McKaig's Hiway Motors is proud to be the only workshop in town authorised to issue roadworthy certificates, offering a unique service that sets them apart from competitors.

“We do all types of mechanical work, from vehicle servicing, air conditioning, repairs, and much more.”

Their commitment to excellence, combined with years of experience, has made them the go-to place for vehicle inspections in the area. Despite being a small team of just three, their impeccable reputation and dedication to providing reliable, personalised service have earned them a loyal and ever-growing customer base. This has been further bolstered by the influx of new residents to Home Hill, who have quickly come to appreciate McKaig's Hiway Motors’ exceptional service.

In a strategic move to better serve the community, McKaig's Hiway Motors recently relocated from 9 Eighth Avenue to a new premises at 90 Eighth Avenue, still within the heart of Home Hill. The decision to sell their old building was made with Ray’s future retirement in mind. By selling the property now, Ray has ensured that he won’t face the burden of managing or selling a large commercial property when the time comes to step back from the business.

The new premises boasts a larger workshop with ample outdoor space, making it the perfect setting for McKaig's Hiway Motors to continue providing high-quality service to both regular and new customers. The larger, more modern facility has already been set up and is ready to serve, ensuring that McKaig's Hiway Motors remains a vital part of the local community for years to come.

Ray and Karen McKaig have moved Hiway Motors from 9 Eighth Avenue to a new premises at 90 Eighth Avenue, still within the heart of Home Hill. Photo credit; Ruth Puddefoot

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Burdekin's Biggest Arts Competition Raises The Stakes

March 27, 2025

Home Hills' highly popular Canefields Ephemera Art Competition upped the ante this year, increasing the first place cash prize significantly from $1500 to an impressive $5000.

This sum does not include the People's Choice Award of $500, bestowed on the artist who receives the most votes on social media, bringing the total amount up for grabs to $5500, a grand jackpot sure to stir the competitive spirit of many artists.

This escalation is a reflection of the competition's evolution from a small community event to a major regional art showcase which will likely lead to a sharp increase in the pressure felt by the creative competitors.

Founded in 2017 and held annually as a component of Home Hill Harvest Festival, the Ephemera transforms Lloyd Mann Gardens into an open air art gallery from late September through to early November, providing a stunning spectacle for locals.

Artists display large scale pieces designed specifically to withstand exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as heat, strong winds and rain. The pieces are intended to be ephemeral, temporary dwellers of the garden, however some do end up becoming permanent residents such as the white question mark sculpture, the sardine can and the white arrow.

From 2017 until now local participation has grown significantly attracting artists from all corners of North Queensland.

The festival itself dates back to 1963, originally a celebration of the sugarcane harvest and Burdekin's agricultural heritage.

Community involvement is critical with festival goers encouraged to vote for their favourite artworks through social media, with the winner of the grand prize being determined by an anonymous assortment of judges who assess the entrees on originality, material use, viability, and overall visual impact.

The upping of the stakes is a symbol not only of the magnified prestige of the competition but also of the Burdekin community’s enduring commitment to uplifting local creativity and culture through this unique and ever evolving medium.

What: Home Hill Harvest Festival/ Canefield Ephemera Art Competition
Where: Lloyd Mann Gardens
When: 8th September to 9th of November

Katya Venter, a talented artist and art teacher from Townsville, claimed the top prize in the prestigious local sculpture competition last year. photo supplied

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Nudge Off! Council Embark On Series Of 'Nudging' Efforts To Remove Flying Fox Roosts

March 27, 2025

Concerns about the dangers posed by the resident flying fox population in Home Hill were addressed by Council at a lively Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting last week.

Many locals attended to voice their frustration about the disruptive species, which not only defecate on children's play equipment but also cause noise and pose a potential risk of disease to nearby residents.

Some locals reported that children are unable to use the nearby playground due to the prevalence of these native pests.

For years, various measures have been implemented to relocate the flying fox roosts to less populated and public areas with some success, but this year, the population seems to be larger than usual.

To tackle the issue head-on, Council has enlisted the help of a flying fox expert who successfully implemented similar initiatives in the Hinchinbrook region. The expert has since moved to the Burdekin to share their knowledge and lead the department.

A representative of this department, Paul Day, Manager for Environment and Health Services at Burdekin Shire Council, addressed the Chamber meeting attendees to provide an overview of the department’s plans.

He assured the crowd that Council is well aware of the problem and has developed a staged plan to address the situation.

The flying fox population has spread to areas such as Kidby’s Gully, Memorial Park, Lloyd Mann Park, and 12th Avenue. Burdekin Shire Council has confirmed that it is actively monitoring these four designated sites in Home Hill.

The first stage involves targeted “nudging” — a method using noise and other techniques to encourage the bats to move on. Around eight to 10 Council staff will carry out this work over several days in the lead-up to Anzac Day. However, no activity will take place on Anzac Day itself, out of respect, as the process involves the use of firearms. The aim is to have the key areas looking presentable and as clear as possible for the day’s commemorations.

The second stage will see a larger, more intensive operation aimed at relocating the Flying Foxes from Home Hill entirely. This effort will require between 20 to 24 trained staff, with activities starting as early as 4 am. Given the nature of the work, staff involved in the initiative must hold gun licences, and Council is required to obtain special permits and additional equipment.

Council representatives stated that meetings are already underway to finalise the necessary paperwork and approvals, with applications expected to be submitted immediately. Once a date is confirmed for the large-scale operation, the community will be informed via local and social media channels.

However, Council has warned that despite careful planning, there is no guarantee the Flying Foxes will move as intended. Some may relocate to private properties, but Council has committed to working with affected residents to manage the situation.

Experts from Biodiversity Australia will also be involved, providing oversight to ensure the operation complies with legislation and animal welfare guidelines. Special consideration will be given to the presence of juvenile bats, making the timing of the operation critical.

Council reaffirmed its commitment to working with the community and experts to resolve the issue as quickly and carefully as possible, with residents growing worried that the Flying Foxes would not be removed before Anzac Day.

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Football Matters with Cyclops

April 9, 2025

Local

All four Burdekin Panthers teams should have been in action last weekend but because of the very wet weather, all NQ Football fixtures were called off. Hopefully, this week’s fixtures will go ahead as planned.

The Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates on Saturday and the Division One and Ladies are both away on Friday night. The Division One team travel to JCH and the Ladies meet Ingham at Paradise Park in Townsville.

Juniors

No junior fixtures due to the rain and wet fields. Let’s hope the kids can play this weekend.

Masters

Monday Night Masters had to be called off last week as the grounds were too wet. This week’s Master’s has been postponed.

National and International

The Socceroos played Indonesia in Sydney last Thursday in the third round of qualifying games for the 2026 World Cup. They won 5-1 and now play China in Hangzhou on Tuesday night. The Socceroos stay second in the Group one point ahead of Saudi Arabia who beat China 1-0 last week.

The Matildas have two games against South Korea coming up. The first is on 4 April in Sydney and the second game is three days later in Newcastle.

The A League Men had the weekend off as it was another International Week. Normal fixtures should start again this weekend.

In the A League Women, Melbourne City is still top, two points clear of Victory after Victory beat Newcastle 4-3. Adelaide beat Brisbane 3-1 and stay in third place ten points clear of Western Utd and Brisbane drop to sixth spot. Western Sydney Wanderers continue to hold up the table.

The Nations League continues in Europe with some surprising results. Germany beat Italy 5-4 on aggregate and Spain had to. go to penalties to beat Holland. France beat Croatia on penalties. Meanwhile in World Cup Qualifiers England won 2-0 against Albania!

The Quote of the Week is from England Manager Ron Greenwood “Bryan Robson, well, he does what he does and his future is in the future.”

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A Lively Chamber Of Commerce Event

March 27, 2025

The Home Hill Bowls Club was a hive of activity last Wednesday night, with more than 40 people attending the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting, eager to hear from two engaging speakers.

First up was Paul Day, Environmental and Health Officer for Burdekin Shire Council, who outlined the Council’s plans to "nudge" the flying foxes away from their roosting sites near the park in Home Hill.

Members of the audience were eager to ask questions about this historically important issue, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort reminded everyone that while it was a vital initiative, it was also a costly investment for the Council.

Next in the spotlight was Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who took the time to offer the audience an insight into his experiences in Canberra, sharing his strong work ethic.

He also mentioned that while attending Parliament to voice the issues of his electorate takes up almost half of his time as a representative, he is equally committed to being on the road, visiting his electorate at every possible moment.

With the Federal election approaching in May, Willcox was a charismatic speaker who instantly connected with the local crowd, ensuring he spent time listening to the people.

Also in attendance that night were Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Councillor Amanda Hall, Councillor John Furnell, and Councillor Fina Vasta.

Representatives from the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce included Vice President Uli Liessman, Secretary Robert Antoniazzi, and Treasurer John Clarke.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with his wife Raylene and Burdekin Shire Council Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci

Councillor Amanda Hall, Peter Hall, CEO of Council Matthew Magin, Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Kari Ravizza, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Trevor Tune

CEO of Council Matthew Magin with guest speaker Paul Day, Environmental and Health Officer for Burdekin Shire Council

Councillor Amanda Hall and Councillor John Furnell

Ruth Puddefoot, Burdekin Life Newspaper journalist, Mayor Pierina Dalle Court, Home Hill Chamber Vice President Uli Liessman, and Burdekin Life Newspaper Editor in Chief Rachael Smith

Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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Tile Trends 2025: Stylish Choices For Burdekin Living

March 27, 2025

Tiles have become a preeminent feature of Australian households, and 2025 has seen the emergence of thrilling new tile trends tailored perfectly to the Burdekin lifestyle. Burdekin homeowners have been emphasising designs which harmoniously connect indoor and outdoor areas, creating cohesive living areas well suited to our tropical climate.

The indoor tile scene has witnessed the dominance of large format tiles, which are praised for their minimalist style, simple and easy maintenance, and roomy feel.

Earthy hues such as terracotta, sage, and sandy neutrals reign supreme, reflecting our coastal environment and adding a touch of warmth to homes.

Moroccan-influenced Zellige tiles are also rising stars amongst Australian homeowners, bringing handmade charm and subtle textures into the equation. Porcelain timber look-alike tiles continue to remain a staple, blending the beauty of wood with waterproof durability, a good choice for busy family spaces.

The outdoor tile scene trends towards porcelain pavers which imitate natural stone or timber, delivering beauty and practicality in one package.

They also come with the added benefit of being slip resistant, algae resistant, and easy to maintain—perfect for patios and pool surroundings. Travertine continues to occupy a top spot in Hinchinbrook, keeping cool underfoot even on the most scorching days and bringing a touch of elegance to outdoor entertainment spaces.

In the selection of tiles, functionality and style are essential considerations. Matte or textured finishes offer safety in wet areas, and durable materials like porcelain are desirable for high traffic zones. Natural materials and lighter shades handle the tropical humidity better, remaining cool in the Burdekin heat.

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Editor's Note

March 27, 2025

Hi Everyone,

A big thank you to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce for welcoming our team to the recent Chamber meeting at the Home Hill Bowls Club.

It’s always so energising to be surrounded by such passionate individuals who are unafraid to voice their thoughts on so many important local issues!

During the evening, I had the privilege of chatting with Chamber Secretary Robert Antoniazzi, who shared a truly moving story about the Choral Society’s most recent event.

Though he didn't name names, Robert recounted how, on three separate occasions, individuals mourning the recent loss of a loved one found a brief moment of solace at the Shamrock Shindig.

Each of them described feeling a sense of relief—a breath of fresh air, the comforting embrace of community spirit, and an overwhelming sense of peace. For the first time in a long while, they were able to focus on something other than their grief.

As our community comes together this week to mourn the sudden passing of a man who was widely respected and loved, I hope we can all find strength in each other.

The loss of anyone, especially someone taken too soon, is truly devastating. The team at Burdekin Life Newspaper extends our deepest condolences to all of his family and friends. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

With the family’s permission and guidance, we will be publishing a special tribute to Ramon Oar in next week’s edition.

If you would like to send a message of remembrance or share your thoughts about this great man, please reach out to us.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life" (Unknown)

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Paying It Forward

March 28, 2025

Sometimes it’s the smallest acts of kindness which have the power to make a world of difference in someone’s day and just last week, one Burdekin resident was beyond delighted when their day was brightened.

Gary Pappalardo shared a post on a local social media group detailing how surprised he was when his morning coffee was paid for ahead of him by one kind stranger.

“A big thank you to the kind person who paid forward a coffee at Little Leaves this morning,” Gary wrote.

“I was the lucky recipient of such a kind act, so I decided to do the same.”

Gary’s post has received just over 100 interactions from members of the community who were also touched by the simple gesture of a kind stranger with one posting, “little acts of kindness go a long long way.”

The art of paying it forward more often than not creates a contagious ripple effect of generosity where people feel empowered to perform an act of kindness without expecting anything in return, further spreading positivity throughout the community.

Whatever inspired the kind stranger who visited Little Leaves before Gary encouraged him to spread a little extra generosity last Monday morning, and in sharing his story online, a chain of kindness was created and carried across the rest of the week and beyond.

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Calling All Burdekin Stallholders Ingham's Markets at the Mosaic Wants You!

March 27, 2025

One of Ingham's most infamous street market events will soon kick off for the new year and a warm invitation has been extended to Burdekin stallholders to join in on the action!

Markets at the Mosaic ignites Ingham's Mercers Lane on the third Saturday of each month and will officially commence for 2025 on Saturday the 17th of May. Stallholders flock to the area to retail everything from homemade treats and delights to keychains, candles and clothing.

"At Markets at the Mosaic, we are only about handmade, home grown, home designed and hand built," shared market organisers.

"So if you've got your own little side hustle going with your own creativity on show, we'd love to see you!"

To be part of Markets at the Mosaic stallholders are encouraged to email the organisers directly at admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au to receive all the relevant information and paperwork.

"We're welcoming so many new stalls this year - we're so excited - if you would like to be part of our MATM family, just reach out!"

What: Markets at the Mosaic
When: Saturday the 19th of April from 8am to 12pm
Where: Mercer Lane
More Information: email admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au

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Home Hill’s “Mini Tornado” Remembering the Devastating Storm of 2001

March 27, 2025

In January of 2001, a memorable weather event tore through the Burdekin, leaving a devastating footprint on the Home Hill community which many locals still recall to this day, almost 25 years later.

Homes were left without rooves and trees were uprooted from street to street as hail fell and thousands of lightning strikes ignited the green washed horizon. Many recall the fear they felt when winds lifted tiles of rooves, snapped power poles like matchsticks and trees toppled over as well as the sorry sight that was “the bakery house” after the building feel victim to an airborne roof from a home nearby.

Reports published online detail Home Hill experienced 26,200 lightening strikes within an hour and locals recall the terrifying ordeal being labelled “a mini tornado” despite the Beaure of Meteorology’s (BOM) inaccurate and untimely warnings.

Crops and sugar cane fields were terribly damaged as were resident’s sheds, trailers, boats and other items left outdoors and many felt frustration with the BOM, noting if they were issued a storm warning earlier in the day, they would have been able to take proper precautions in preparation for the impending event.

“It came out of nowhere, and we had no warning until after the storm had passed,” recalled locals.

“It was certainly a terrifying couple of hours, and I have never seen anything like it since.”

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National Award for Bendigo Bank

March 27, 2025

The Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr have acknowledged the recent announcement of a national award for Bendigo Bank.It is official that Bendigo Bank home loan customers are the most satisfied in Australia, a survey of more than 45,000 Australians across the nation’s 10 largest banks has found.New findings released by Roy Morgan show Bendigo Bank had the highest home loan customer satisfaction rate in the six months to December last year, sitting at 87.7%.In the announcement, Roy Morgan credited the achievement to the Bank’s “strong focus on customer service.”Chief Customer Officer for Consumer Banking at Bendigo Bank, Taso Corolis, said the result was a credit to the hard work Bendigo Bank team members put in every day to deliver great outcomes for customers.“Whether you are buying your first home or purchasing an investment property or perhaps refinancing, quality products and personalised service matters. That’s why we are so pleased to be recognised as having the most satisfied home loan customers,” Mr Corolis said.Mr Corolis said the result is particularly heartening at a time when overall customer satisfaction among Australia’s top banks had declined 0.6% from the same time the previous year, according to the data that analysed the six month period to December 2024.In addition to having Australia’s most satisfied home loan customers, Bendigo Bank is also Australia’s most trusted bank, and is consistently voted one of the top 20 most trusted brands nationwide.“Our staff are very excited with this announcement as our focus has always been about the customer experience,” says Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin.“We thrive on building a relationship with customers as the purchase of a new home can be very stressful time,” says Chantel.Home Loan Specialist for Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, Jade Bywaters, says you should feel good about who you bank with.“Delivering what local customers want, in the way that they want it, has helped us gain the trust of customers,” says Jade.

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Brushstrokes Of The Burdekin A Colourful Journey Through Local Street Art Awaits

March 27, 2025

Appreciating the finer details in each and every day has been made simple by Visit Burdekin’s exquisite Burdekin Art Trail visual map available at www.visitburdekin.com.au!

The map outlines the plethora of artistic gems displayed around Giru, Brandon, Home Hill, Groper Creek and Ayr to help locals and visitors alike spot and learn more about the region’s beautiful street art collection.

With 30 gorgeous installations to appreciate, exploring the entire list may just be the perfect way to spend your weekend!

Beginning in Giru, there are two works to spot, one titled “Crocodile Fishing” on the corner of Drysdale and Brookes Street, and a steel sculpture known as “The One That Didn’t Get Away” located in Brolga Park on Carey Street.

As you drive into Brandon, keep your eyes peeled for both Memorial Park’s “First World War Soldier” and Spiller Street Park’s “Cat and Mouse” installations to appreciate a mix of playful fun and 1924 history.

Travelling along to Ayr there’s plenty to see including the “Ayr Nature Display” at 119 Wilmington Street. However, one piece which has recently attracted almost 900 interactions online sits at 202 Queen Street and was carefully painted by Jon Electros Avocado in 2021. “Green Tree Frog on Sunflower” depicts a joyful green tree frog holding an umbrella to symbolize the amphibian’s love for singing in the rain which is often heard across the region and beyond following a spot of rainfall.

Jon’s paintbrush touched the Burdekin region many times in 2021. Some of his works include “Liquid Gold” on MacMillan Street, “Goanna” on Edwards Street, “Brolga” at 178 Queen Street, and “Carpet Python” which can be seen on the side of Graham Street’s Salvation Army Store.

Continuing on through Ayr the infamous “S.S Yongala” can be seen at 83 Queen Street which can be closely related to the 1994 “Yongala Memorial” which can be seen as you enter the Burdekin Theatre foyer. The Burdekin Theatre and Burdekin Library are home many extraordinary sights including “Burdekin Dancers” (neighbouring the theatre), “The Painting of Life”, “Stained Glass Window”, “The Scotsman”, and of course the forecourt’s “Living Lagoon” which as glistened in the area since 1985.

Now it’s time to motor on down to Home Hill and enjoy the wide selection of sights installed along the Bruce Highway and into the community’s side streets. As soon as you conclude your journey along the mighty Burdekin Bridge, look to your left and appreciate the Burdekin Diorama’s “Hand Cane Cutter” which was carved from timber by Matty George in 2021.

Lloyd Mann Gardens impressively features the work of Home Hill’s own Uli Liessmann. Visitors can spot four of his remarkable sculptures installed periodically from 2017 through to 2023, titled “The Point Is…”, “Gateway to Home Hill”, “That Is The Question” and “Open To New Ideas”.

The Home Hill Backpackers’ “Party Time”, Eighth Avenue’s “Home Grown”, “The Country Sunset”, “Burdekin Snow” and “Sweet Days Hot Nights”, Sixth Avenue’s outstanding “Canecutters Memorial” and “Wallaby & The Sugarcane Man” on the corner of Seventh Street and the Burce Highway also deserve plenty of love on your artful journey.

Finally, pop on over to Groper Creek to appreciate Jon’s work once again on the wall of Groper Creek’s Public Toilet Block titled “Groper Creek” which pictures a colourful Rainbow Lorikeet as well as the area’s iconic phone booth.

With a world of art to see across the Burdekin region, Visit Burdekin invites the community to set aside a couple of hours to truly explore and appreciate the area’s evolving range of splendid street art!

The Burdekin Theatre's "Living Lagoon" was installed by Stephen Walker in 1985 (Photo Source: Visit Burdekin)
Jon Electros Avocado's "Home Grown" was painted on the wall of 126 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill in 2019 (Photo Source: Visit Burdekin)

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