Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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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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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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 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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Despite the rainy weather, spirits were high as students and staff embraced the festive spirit of St Patrick’s Day by donning green attire. Burdekin Christian College hallways were filled with excitement as participants took part in various themed activities, bringing a touch of Ireland to the occasion.
Among those enjoying the celebrations was Miss Diamond, who was particularly delighted by the festivities, reminiscent of her homeland. The event was an opportunity for students to learn more about Irish culture and traditions while having fun.
One of the highlights of the day was the sharing of an old Irish blessing: “May your heart be light and happy, may your smile be big and wide, and may your pockets always have a coin or two inside.” The sentiment captured the joyful atmosphere of the day as students enthusiastically participated in games, crafts, and storytelling sessions.
The search for the elusive pot of gold at the end of the rainbow added to the excitement, with pupils eager to uncover hidden treasures around the school grounds. Staff also joined in the celebrations, making the day a memorable one for all involved.
The event proved to be a wonderful way to mark St Patrick’s Day, fostering a sense of community and cultural appreciation. As the festivities came to a close, students left with smiles on their faces and a greater understanding of the rich traditions of Ireland.
Happy St Patrick’s Day to all!
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Two local schools, Home Hill State High School (HHSHS) and Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) united to make the local iteration of the World's Greatest Shave a huge success. HHSHS expressed gratitude to key supporters, including BCHS Principal Mrs. Lorraine Wolfe, School Captain Harrison Lammon, and HHSHS Youth Support Worker Kellie Cooke. Special recognition was given to Kayli Betteridge and the brave students and staff who shaved or cut their hair to support those affected by blood cancer.
The annual Leukaemia Foundation campaign raises funds for research and patient support. This year’s event showcased incredible community spirit, with both schools surpassing their initial fundraising goal of $1,500, raising over $4,500. Their collective effort demonstrated the power of small communities coming together for a great cause. HHSHS and BCHS thanked all participants, donors, and supporters for fostering kindness, generosity, and unity while making a meaningful impact in the fight against blood cancer.
A special acknowledgment was given to Kayli Betteridge from BCHS and the courageous students and staff of both Home Hill State High School and Burdekin Catholic High School who took the brave step of having their hair cut to support this meaningful initiative. Their willingness to stand in solidarity with those affected by blood cancer highlights the spirit of generosity and compassion within both school communities.
The World's Greatest Shave is an annual fundraising campaign led by the Leukaemia Foundation, aimed at raising vital funds for research and providing essential support for individuals battling blood cancer. Each year, participants across Australia shave, cut, or color their hair to raise awareness and donations for this cause.
This year’s event was a remarkable demonstration of unity, as students, staff, and members of both school communities came together to make a difference. The event served as a powerful reminder that support for an important cause extends beyond the boundaries of individual schools, bringing people together with a shared mission to create positive change.
The impact of this collective effort was truly inspiring. With determination and teamwork, HHSHS and BCHS, along with their supporters, exceeded their initial fundraising goal of $1,500, raising an impressive total of over $4,500. This outstanding achievement reflects the generosity and commitment of everyone involved, proving that small communities can make a big difference when they unite for a common cause.
Home Hill State High School and Burdekin Catholic High School extend their gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, and supported the event. Their contributions have not only helped to fund essential research and support services but have also inspired a culture of kindness, generosity, and unity within both school communities.
Ahead of the transition from Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) to Marine Rescue QLD (MRQ), current members will no longer receive membership invoices as the local branch prepares to shift towards the new free service.
The official transition is expected to take place in the coming months, and VMR President Ian Sutcliffe says they have decided not to send out the annual invoices.
"Current members will simply be rolled over to the new free service," explained Mr Sutcliffe.
VMRs across Queensland have operated as a membership-based service for many years, but this new initiative will integrate them into Marine Rescue, a government-funded entity that provides the same services for free to the boating community.
Previously, members paid an annual fee of $100, which entitled them to one free tow per year, along with other services.
There are approximately 600 members in the local VMR, and all proceeds went toward maintaining facilities and operating the vessels.
This cost will now be covered by the government.
Ernie Rose, Claude Sutcliffe, VMR President Ian Sutcliffe, and Matt Patane, have been saving lives for decades. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
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It is crazy to think we are about to say goodbye to March and the first quarter of 2025 is coming to an end. We have already seen some good rain and the wet season is not done with yet as the forecast for the next couple of weeks is still very wet. Let’s hope we see the back of the wet season before Easter, so everyone has the chance to get outdoors and enjoy this great country we call home.If you haven’t got anything planned for the weekend, NQ Fastrack is happening at the Burdekin Theatre and the crew who put it all together have even managed to bring Hugh Sheridan to town for the event. Fast Track showcases up and coming talent from all over the region so don’t miss out on witnessing a future star. The heats run from 10am throughout the day before the Finals begin at 7pm. Good luck to all the contestants and I hope everyone has a great weekend.
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Last weekend, we had the privilege of hosting a BBQ to thank the incredible volunteers who stepped up during the recent flood event. It was fantastic to see over 50 people come together to recognise the tireless efforts of those who worked around the clock to support our community. We were also joined by our local representatives, Hon Dale Last MP (Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development and Member for Burdekin) and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, who showed their support for the Burdekin and the dedicated individuals who make a real difference in times of need.
Volunteers are the backbone of our community, and I can’t stress enough how important they are. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, I encourage you to check out local groups and see where you can lend a hand. You’ll not only be giving back but also meeting wonderful people and learning skills you never knew you had.
This Saturday, I’m looking forward to supporting NQ FastTrack Talent Showcase, a fantastic event that gives our young local performers a chance to shine. Showcasing youth talent is so important, and I can’t wait to see the next generation of stars take the stage.
Meanwhile, our Councillors are deep in budget discussions, ensuring we continue investing in the Burdekin’s future. It’s a busy time, but one that’s crucial for delivering the services and infrastructure our community relies on.
Have a great week, and as always, thank you to everyone who helps make the Burdekin such a wonderful place to live.
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.
A month after the waters have receded and roads have reopened, the response to the recent severe weather event has stepped up a gear with increased support for primary producers and businesses and a focus on preparing for future events for households.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said the changes delivered on the state government’s promise to community members and representative groups.
“In my role as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, I signed off on the boost to grants for primary producers and small business last week,” Mr Last said. “That addressed concerns raised with our government by representatives and follows the inclusion of re-planting (sugar cane) as an activity eligible for government support.”
“Authorising those changes was bitter-sweet because it meant one of our key industries had been severely impacted. At the same time, ensuring the funding was available meant that those industries would receive the support they need.”
“I’m not interested in making a song and dance of support for people affected by severe weather. I’d rather just make sure the support is actually available because those industries need results, not sideshows.”
“The weather event has also had a major effect on several areas in our river systems and work is underway now to identify the best response. I would encourage landholders to work with groups like the River Trust in an effort to ensure the betterment strategy is implemented when it comes to our rivers.”
Mr Last said that additional assistance for households in flood-prone areas would assist those who had suffered damage while also focussing on preventing future damage.
“There are areas in our region that are exposed to flooding quite frequently and the government is committed to include those people as we push towards betterment,” Mr Last said. “Relatively minor works can make a huge difference for those people when it comes to any future events.”
“Rather than replacing the same infrastructure and items over and over again, the Stronger Homes Grants allow homeowners to rebuild with confidence and break the cycle of repeated recovery costs. For example, raising the height of a switchboard or relocating appliances now means that when the next event occurs, the recovery is quicker and there is less of a financial impact.”
“The state government is 100% committed to betterment for homes, for primary industry, for small business and for infrastructure. The reason for that is simple; when we build back stronger, we not only focus on saving lives, but we also focus on saving livelihoods and key industries.”
“I signed off on the grants and loans because I believe, and the state government believes, our communities and our industries deserve the opportunity to not just survive, but to thrive.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Local manufacturers will have the opportunity to engage directly with the Queensland Government as the Hon. Dale Last, Minister for Manufacturing, participates in a roundtable discussion on the industry's challenges and future opportunities.
The roundtable, hosted by Burdekin Shire Council, will take place on Friday 28 March 2025, from 12:30pm to 2:00pm at the Ayr SES Building, 4 McCathie Street, Ayr. A virtual option will also be available for those unable to attend in person via Microsoft Teams.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort encourages local manufacturers to take advantage of this unique opportunity to share their experiences directly with the Minister and learn more about the State Government’s initiatives to support the sector.
"Manufacturing is a critical industry for the Burdekin and broader North Queensland region, providing jobs and driving economic growth," Mayor Dalle Cort said.
"This roundtable is a chance for our local businesses to have their voices heard at a State level and contribute to shaping policies that support industry growth."
Participants will have the opportunity to share their challenges and experiences with the Minister and gain insight into the Queensland Government’s plans to support the manufacturing sector.
A light lunch will be provided for attendees. Registrations are essential and must be completed by Wednesday, 26 March 2025, via www.trybooking.com/CZYGI.
For more information, please contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Economic Development Team on (07) 4783 9800
WHAT: Local Manufacturers Roundtable
WHERE: Ayr SES Building
WHEN: Friday 28th March
TIME: 12.30pm-2pm
An anonymous family of six recently asked the Burdekin community for support whilst starting over after living without a home for quite some time, sharing their story of homelessness on a local social media page.
With three children and a newborn under their care, the couple kindly asked if anyone in the community had any household furniture or appliances available for giveaway or at a low price, and the response was overwhelming.
In true Burdekin community fashion, the post received almost 100 comments where locals were offering up items of all shapes and sizes, from clothing to dining tables to help the struggling family find their footing.
Mattresses, dining suites, lounges, bedside tables, bedroom suites, slow cookers, plates, cutlery, linen, toys, children’s clothes, kettles, toasters, washing machines, and miscellaneous household items flooded the comments, along with plenty of advice from locals who had previously found themselves in similar situations.
Although in the instance of an unfortunate circumstance, many were touched to see the lengths the community would go to in support of one another, further highlighting what it means to live in such a wonderful community like the Burdekin.
Stock image, illustration only
On Saturday, Council hosted a special BBQ lunch to thank volunteers and staff involved in the recent flood event. Over 50 people attended, including local and state representatives, police officials, and Councillors. The event provided a meaningful opportunity to recognise the dedication of those who supported the community’s response and recovery efforts. Acknowledging the hard work of volunteers, especially those who travelled to assist, was a key focus. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the vital role volunteers play in times of crisis and encouraged others to get involved, emphasising the personal rewards and connections gained through volunteering.
Over the weekend, Council brought everyone together for a BBQ lunch in recognition of the volunteers and staff who supported the community during the recent flood event.
The occasion was fantastic, with over 50 people in attendance, and provided a heartfelt opportunity to express gratitude to those who worked tirelessly to support the community’s response and assist in the recovery process.
If ever there was a moment to feel proud of the Council team, the many volunteers, and the government agencies that mobilised without delay, this was it.
Local State Member Dale Last (also representing the Premier), Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Assistant Commissioner Virginia Nelson (QPS), Inspector Roger Whyte (QPS), along with the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Councillor John Furnell, all attended the event.
As with everyone, people appreciate being acknowledged for a job well done, and times of disaster should be no exception—especially when so many volunteers and support staff from out of town step in to assist and then return immediately to their regular duties.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort explained the importance of volunteers during stressful times:
"Volunteers are the backbone of our community, and I can’t stress enough how important they are. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, I encourage you to check out local groups and see where you can lend a hand."
"You’ll not only be giving back but also meeting wonderful people and learning skills you never knew you had."
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and Member for Burdekin Dale Last attended a special BBQ in honour of the emergency services, volunteers and frontline workers who helped during the recent flooding. Photo credit: Mel Napier Memories & Photography
The special BBQ saw a fantastic turnout of over 50 people
The SES played a crucial role in the flood recovery efforts. Photo credit: Mel Napier Memories & Photography
The Burdekin’s proud aviation cadet history will be celebrated as part of the Diamond Jubilee of No.1 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), marking 75 years since its formation. Generations of cadets who trained in Ayr and across North Queensland have gone on to serve in the Air Force, aviation, and other industries, with the milestone set to be honoured at a special event in May.
The Diamond Jubilee will be celebrated with a Cocktail Party on Saturday 17th May, 2025, at the Townsville RAAF Base.
Current and former staff of the AAFC, previously known as the Air Training Corps (ATC) and later abbreviated to AIRTC (to save confusion with Air Traffic Control) are encouraged to attend and share in the celebration.
No1 Wing began with the formation of No1 Flight in Townsville, which held its first parade on May 4th 1950. This was soon followed by the formation of No.2 Flight at the Townsville Technical College. In the following years, Flights (now termed Squadrons) were formed at Ingham, Mackay, Cairns, Mareeba, Innisfail, Ayr, Charters Towers, Bowen and Mt. Isa.
A recent snapshot of the Wing indicated a cadet enrolment of over 440 and an adult staff of more than 60 across the 10 Squadrons, and the Wing’s Headquarters.
Current and former staff can obtain further details and purchase tickets for the Cocktail Party by contacting aafc1wg@cadetnet.gov.au.
Commemorative ‘patches’ and coins have been approved and produced to mark the anniversary and will be available for purchase as a memento of the event.
A Wing activity is in the planning phase. In September this year, all currently enrolled cadets and staff will have the opportunity to participate.
Air Force Cadets gather in front of a C-130 Hercules, showcasing their dedication to aviation and leadership. Photo supplied
Clare State School recently celebrated the induction of its 2025 student leaders at a special Induction Parade held in the school library. The event brought together invited guests and members of the Clare community to witness the next generation of young leaders take on their new roles.
Students from Years 4 to 6 proudly presented their leadership pledges before hearing an inspiring address from Councillor Amanda Hall, who spoke about the importance of leadership and responsibility. Senior Constable Stephen Booy from Clare Police was also in attendance to officially present the Student Leaders with their leadership badges.
Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti, expressed his enthusiasm for the newly inducted leaders.
“The students have a wonderful opportunity to take some ownership of what happens at our school and have a positive impact on the school experience that all children have at Clare State School.”
With their badges proudly pinned, Clare’s young leaders are ready to make a meaningful difference in their school and community.
Clare State School’s 2025 Student Leaders are Letti Williams and Jackson Humphreys.
Clare State School’s 2025 Student Council members are Letti Williams, Jackson Humphreys, Alyssa Booth, Kenny Booth and Corbin Humphreys.
Contributed with thanks to Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti.
Back Row: Clare State School Principal Troy Patti, Senior Constable Stephen Booy, Councillor Amanda Hall. Middle Row: Jackson Humphreys and Letti Williams. Front Row: Kenny Booth, Alyssa Booth and Corbin Humphreys (Photo Supplied).
Over the weekend, many members of the community refreshed and revitalised their closets with Elli Pirrone’s magical Eleven Second-Hand Clothes Market!
Hosted at Eleven Body + Mind, Elli filled her Young Street studio from wall to wall with about 14 stallholders all reselling preloved items ranging from $2 upwards in the areas of accessories, shoes, bags and clothes. A hit within the community, Elli’s market creates a wonderful environment where locals come together to discover hidden treasures, vintage gems and trending pieces at affordable prices whilst practicing the art of recycling gently used clothing.
“I held the market twice in 2024 with a great response,” shared Elli.
“We always have a lineup outside the door at 9am and sell all the way until midday.”
In the interest of opening her space to cater for the wider community, last weekend’s market saw stallholders bring along ladies, men’s and children’s items to rehome, and with Cat’s Coffee fuelling the sustainable shopping spree, the event was another smashing success!
“It’s just a great way for locals to buy second-hand clothes without having to go to all the trouble of listing induvial items online,” added Elli.
“And we know this town has incredible style!”
To learn more about Elli’s plans for future markets you can reach her through emailing elliboatfield@gmail.com or checking out Eleven Body + Mind on Facebook.
Elli's market makes shopping sustainably simple! (Photo Supplied)
A weekend of fabulous family fun will ignite the Burdekin this April when the Ayr Family Carnival rolls into town for a non-stop showcase of adrenaline, sweet treats, and carnival nostalgia!
On both Saturday the 5th and Sunday the 6th of April, a magical world will come alive at the Ayr Showgrounds from 5:30pm right until 9pm for the entire family to enjoy. Attendees can enjoy unlimited ride armbands for the whole evening as well as FREE entry and a delicious selection of food vans serving up both showtime classics and soft serve delights including fairy floss, slushies, and premium ice cream.
As well as rides for all ages, the Carnival will host plenty of side show alley games where a range of awesome prizes will be up for grabs to keep the fun going well and truly into the moonlight!
The ticket box will be open and operational from 5pm onwards on both Saturday and Sunday to ensure the entire community can join in on the action.
Come one, come all! Gather your family and friends together for a weekend to remember!
WHAT: Ayr Family Carnival
WHERE: Ayr Showgrounds
WHEN: 5-6 April
A weekend of classic carnival fun will roll into town this April! (Photo Supplied)
Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
As the ground dries out and activity picks up on farm, so does the activity of our Grower Marketing team. We are in the process of organising our popular shed meetings where we come on farm and update growers on our recent results, the global sugar market and new products or services we can offer.
This will be followed up in June with a regional tour by our Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham to deliver an in-depth analysis of global production and consumption forecasts and consequent price expectations. If you’re interested in attending one of these events near you, please reach out to your local consultant to
register your interest.
While talking with growers, consultants have also been setting up the pricing mechanisms for the 2025 season and checking that GEI nomination estimates line up with initial crop estimates. For growers who want to control their pricing more closely we recommend using the Grower Managed
Production Risk Scheme (GMPRS) for the last third of your 2025 season crop over the Production Risk Pool.
While the Production Risk Pool has been performing well over the past few years there is no guarantee of gaining a higher return versus pricing yourself and we have seen many growers achieve above average returns. Those growers who don’t market with Wilmar are unfortunately missing out even further, with our Production Risk Pool currently forecast to pay more than $23 a tonne higher than QSL’s Harvest Pool for the 2024 Season.
A quick reminder for growers that all Call, Target and GMPRS pricing for the 2024 season needs to be completed by 18 of April. On a similar timeline, the set-up of Call and Target pricing for the 2025 season needs to complete by the end of April, so the GMPRS nominations can be opened at the beginning of
May. We are also getting plenty of enquiries about the opening of nominations for the 2026 season Managed Pool Plus, so stay tuned for further announcements on that opportunity.
When not helping growers with pricing and pooling information, the Grower Marketing consultants are out and about in the local communities. We are proud to have extended our sponsorship budget this year to include a range of sporting teams and community activities through the regions.
Recently several Wilmar Sugar and Renewables staff including our Burdekin Business Development Manager, Owen Richards, participated in an International Women’s Day Fun Run organised by Mater Chicks in Pink. The Sugar and Renewables team raised more than $1,200 for breast cancer research.
Ayr State High School proudly participated in this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations, with eight students and staff attending a special brunch hosted by Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. Zonta, a global organisation, is dedicated to building a better world for women and girls.
The school congratulates Year 11 students Caitlyn Cheyne and Tiana Cameron, who were honoured with STEM acknowledgement awards at the event. This recognition encourages and supports young women pursuing careers that make a difference in the world.
Guest speakers included Sarah Chapman, CEO of STEM Changemakers, and Dr Tracey Ahern, a nursing and women’s health advocate—both distinguished Ayr State High School alumni. Their inspiring stories provided valuable insights and motivation for the next generation of young women.
Contributed with thanks to Ayr State High School.
Tiana Cameron, and Caitlyn Cheyne were presented with STEM acknowledgement awards by Mrs Claire Brock (Photo Supplied)
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