Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is encouraging local chambers of commerce and industry representative groups to apply for funding to improve skills and service delivery in the region.

The Local Skills Solution program is aimed at leveraging ‘on the ground’ knowledge to identify gaps in currently available training and to fill those gaps with suitable training subsidised by the Queensland government.

“This a great opportunity for the retail sector and key industries to access subsidised face-to-face training,” Mr Last said. “And just as importantly, it is training that targets gaps identified locally by people directly affected.”

“In the past, industry groups and employers have been asked what is missing but their responses have never really been acted on. We will always encourage people to obtain qualifications but it’s undeniable that there is far more value in qualifications that are actually relevant.”

“With up to $250,000 available per project I know we can tackle training that usually would be out of reach, especially for a single business. This funding, for example, makes it financially viable to bring in a trainer from a major centre or even interstate where needed.”

“For some industries, highly valued skills can be skills that aren’t taught traditionally like customer service or even sales skills. That’s why we have included mentoring and learning support as options because we know there are skills that require practical hands-on guidance that can’t be learnt effectively from a book or a website.”

Mr Last said the state government had opted to take an individual approach, rather than a ‘cookie cutter’ approach, to ensure the best outcomes and said the additional work would be worth it.

“It’s very easy for government to offer funding for a training course but that investment doesn’t represent value for money if the training isn’t appropriate,” he said.

“The Crisafulli government gave commitments to work with industry and to ensure value for money for the taxpayer and we are doing exactly that with this funding.”

“The individual approach means that stakeholders can nominate training which may not normally be subsidised because they have identified a skill gap or an opportunity. It also means that, except where there are safety requirements, eligibility restrictions may not necessarily apply.”

“There is no doubt that issues like increased regulation and the growth in e-commerce has had a huge impact on a range of businesses. Instead of ignoring those threats, the Crisafulli government is helping businesses and industry to tackle those challenges because it’s the right thing to do for those individual businesses and their employees as well as our community and the state as a whole.”

“In the Burdekin retail and agriculture, for example, are industries that have been challenged but they are also industries that are vital to the economy and our future. Rather than just acknowledging the challenge we are working with industries to identify ways to overcome those challenges and prosper because that is what good governments do and it’s what Queenslanders deserve.”

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP at the Burdekin Shire Council Manufacturing Roundtable. Photo supplied

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This week we bring you more information about the historic Marshal Tractor that among other artifacts has been lovingly restored by the multi skilled artisans at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP).

This historic Marshall Colonial Tractor Model C2 was purchased by John Drysdale and brought to Pioneer Sugar Mill in 1914. Unfortunately, the machine did not live up to expectations and lacked power – “it wouldn’t pull the skin off a rice pudding”. So, the tractor was parked in Delta Iron Works for decades.

Finally, after a long and convoluted process, it was declared heritage significant, and restored by BMP at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

A similar 4 cylinder Marshall displayed at Ilfracombe has operational data showing the fuel consumption of 4 gallons per mile (well over 1000l per 100kms). Fortunately, fuel was cheap in those days. Our 2 cylinder Marshall has been running a bit rough of late and Treasurer Lex Kelly is concerned about fuel consumption. Vice President John Hanson has taken up the challenge to tune it up for better fuel economy.

The folks at BMP are proud of their achievements and welcome visitors to the Brandon Heritage Precinct 9am to 3pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. You will get an amusing and informative guided tour introducing you to the collection and share a few interesting stories about their history.

Recently the local and regional Visitor Information Centres were treated to a grand tour of the Brandon Heritage Precinct ensuring that they are fully up to speed and can pass on information about the amazing historically important collection on offer to entertain visitors.

Come and join in the exciting huffing and puffing of the historic steam and diesel engines at our Open Day from 9am to 3pm on Saturday 10th May at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

There’s something for everyone – the Iron Works Brewery will be open after 1pm - and the old Gardner Engine and furnace will fire up about 3pm!

For more information or to join the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists please call Lex on 0488 366 443 or email us at burdekinmp@outlook.com.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Club.

What: Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day

Where: Brandon Heritage Precinct

When: Saturday 10th May 9am to 3pm

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Marshal Tractor before being lovingly restored

Marshal Tractor after restoration

Vice President John Hanson explaining the history of the Marshal Tractor

Photos supplied

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The sound of swinging knives and the scent of scorched cane will return to Australia’s Sugar Cane Capital on Saturday, 31 May, as the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships take centre stage at this year’s Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.

The competition—a true test of strength, technique and endurance—will see men and women from across the region and beyond battle it out in the paddock, vying for thousands in prize money and the coveted title of AHCCC Champion.

Held from 11am to 5pm, with a range of age and skill-based categories, the event is one of the festival’s headline attractions, drawing crowds keen to witness the raw skill behind a trade that shaped generations of the Burdekin’s agricultural workforce.

For veteran competitor John Arrate, it’s a chance to honour the past and the people who built the industry.

“Without those cane-cutters breaking their back and being out in the sun all day, the industry wouldn’t be where it is today,” says Arrate.

“They’re the ones I take my hat off to. We just put on a bit of a display and at the end of the day we go home but those guys pick up the knife again the next day, and the next day, and the next day for six months sometimes.”

A familiar face around the paddock, John Arrate has competed in the championships for several years, even taking out the 55+ title in 2023. But it’s not just on the day that he makes his mark—John helps with cane preparation year-round, and facilitates the symbolic First Fire that kicks off the weekend’s festivities.

“Volunteers are the backbone of everything,” he says. “If you don’t do it, no one else is going to do it.”

This year, the competition takes on extra significance for the Arrate family, as John’s daughter Lily is set to make her debut in the Ladies Novice division.

“Dad’s obviously very passionate about it, so I thought why not give it a try,” she said. “It’s always a fun day… heaps of my family come as well and I think it’s just good to get involved and give it a try.”

The father-daughter duo represent both the heritage and the future of the event—a reminder that while hand cane cutting may belong to a bygone era, its legacy continues to evolve.

The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will be held at the Home Hill Showgrounds from 30-31 May. Book your tickets now at: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au

What: Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships

Where: Home Hill Showgrounds

When: Saturday, 31 May, 11am-5pm

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On Friday, April 25, the Burdekin community will come together to pay their respects to Australia’s past and present Service People, with local ANZAC services and parades to take place across the region.

In Home Hill, the Dawn Service will kick the day off, commencing at 5:25am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, followed by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute's silence at the Home Hill Cemetery Cenotaph.

Attendees will then return to the Burdekin Memorial Hall for the Gunfire Breakfast at 7:00am, with the March commencing at 10:45am on Tenth Avenue in front of the Ambulance Station. A solemn ceremony at 11:20am at Burdekin Memorial Hall will round off the morning.

The Dawn Service in Ayr will take place at Anzac Park, beginning at 5:30am, with the Service taking place at the same location at 9:20am.

School students are encouraged to gather along Queen Street, between Edwards Street and Parker Street, in preparation for the march. RSL members, Cadets, and other community groups will assemble on Parker Street, between Queen Street and Graham Street.

In Giru, commemorations will be held at Brolga Park, starting with a Dawn Service at 5:30am, followed by a morning Service at 9:30am.

Brandon residents will gather at the Spiller Street Cenotaph for an 8:00am Service.

Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs, and to reflect on the enduring spirit of service that continues to shape Australia today.

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With Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci

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It has been a busy time of year to say the least. I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Easter break. From all reports the crabbing was good, and the weather has turned nice, hopefully signalling the end of that humidity and rain.

I recently attended the 75th Anniversary Roll Call at the Clare State School. It was great concept that saw each decade of attendees called up for a class photo and I found it an amazing display of some generational families that have been to the school. Well done to all the organised and attended.

I also attended the 25th Anniversary of Sweet Fm 97.1. The celebration began with markets at the station which were very successful and well attended. Visitors were also treated to a tour of the radio station and the original Home Hill Court house.

The evening saw a dinner and presentation of the history of how and who got the station off the ground. I personally find this history fascinating and I commend and thank all those involved along the way.

This weekend is the Canefield Ashes. I have a soft spot for this event having grown up with the Pagotto Family. This event in memory of Eugene Pagotto continues to be a hugely popular event, with 40 Cricket teams participating and with several more teams on the waiting list every year.

Friday sees the teams warm up at with an Ambrose at the Home Hill Golf club. Saturday and Sunday will see cricket of all skill levels on display, and I dare say that Monday will see many like yours truly, that have overestimated their skill and body limits, lining up at the Physio!

Tomorrow is Anzac Day, a significant if not the most significant days of our year. This is the time for us as Australians to pay respect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of not just Australia but for the free world. It is a day where we pray for those families who have been affected by a loved one serving in the Australian Armed Forces. When the bugle plays the Last Post tomorrow let us pay respect to the Anzacs that embodied loyalty, selflessness and bravery. Lest we forget.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

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As we approach ANZAC Day, we pause to remember the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served - and continue to serve - our country. Their bravery, dedication, and resilience have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today, and it is our responsibility to ensure their legacy is never forgotten.

Sadly, as we reflect on the lessons of history, we are reminded that war and conflict still exist across the world. ANZAC Day is not just about remembering the past - it is also about acknowledging the ongoing struggles of those affected by war and striving for a future of peace and unity.

It is also a time to recognise the challenges that many veterans and their families continue to face. Their service does not end when they return home, and as a community, we must do our part to support them.

I encourage everyone to take part in an ANZAC Day service, whether in person or in spirit. Attending a dawn service or commemorative event is a powerful way to honour those who have served and to help pass this tradition on to younger generations.

Lest we forget.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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One of the state’s longest standing drive-in theatres lives right here within the Burdekin region, and soon enough, after many, many long months, the Stardust Drive-In Cinema will be back to creating long lasting open-aired memories for Queenslanders.

“It’s time, with the amazing new screen the Drive-In will come alive soon, and as we finish off the final details, we are preparing an opening for you, our Drive-In community, to experience,” shared Stardust Drive-In Cinema Manager, Suzzi Jerkic.

Just over a year ago, on the evening of Thursday, the 25th of January, 2024, Cyclone Kirrily tore through the Burdekin community and devastatingly, took the iconic outdoor screen of the Stardust Drive-In Cinema with it, leaving the community beyond heartbroken.

Suzzi recalled watching Cyclone Kirrily’s strong winds simply “peel” the silver screen off its sturdy supporting structure alongside her husband Frank last January, leaving the pair’s 360-car capacity drive-in theatre out of action for the past 14 months.

Suzzi and Frank have excitingly announced the community can expect to celebrate the debut of the cinema’s new outdoor screen on the 24th of May at 3pm sharp, and the pair have plenty of attractions planned to make the unveiling all the more special.

“Burdekin cruisers, Mustangs NQ, market stalls to wander through, food to enjoy, wonderful music and on the big screen will be the history of this iconic place,” added Suzzi.

"It is happening and I know you've all been waiting, but not as much as us here at the Stardust Drive-In - keep the date free and we will see you then.”

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Save the date! The Stardust Drive-In Cinema will light up again this May (Photo Source: Visit Burdekin)

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A Big Start to 2025 for Lower Burdekin Scouts

March and April have been busy months for the Lower Burdekin Scouts.

The Scouts started March with swimming nights, followed by a visit to the Burdekin Men’s Shed. Other activities were:

· A cooking night

· Fire Lighting night

· A night erecting tents in preparation for a camp to Magnetic Island.

· Knot tying night

· Harvey Norman BBQ stall

· Easter Raffle stalls

The cooking night involved making damper and creating handmade pasta with a tomato and mince sauce.

The Easter Raffle involved two days outside Harvey Norman Ayr and a day outside Woolies Ayr. The scouts would like to thank everyone that purchased tickets as they helped to raise around $1,000 towards camp costs and Scouting fees.

The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night, 5-7 years meet 4-00 to 5-00pm and 8-18 years meet 5-30 to 7-30pm. People can come along for four weeks free to Try Scouting by contacting Rikki on 0419 104 035.

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Becoming a Junior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador stands as a highly celebrated and unique opportunity for the region’s youth to take part in and in 2024, Cole Pontifex took full advantage of everything the amazing journey had to offer.

Eligible Junior Ambassadors, as part of the Burdekin Water Festival, are students aged 11 to 12 years of age who are currently enrolled in Year 6 or 7 within the Burdekin Shire. Clubs, schools, sporting groups and organisations are able to nominate an Ambassador for representation in the annual event and at the conclusion of the celebrations, both a Winner and Runner Up are crowned based on various determining factors.

In July of last year, Cole was introduced to the community as one of The Burdekin Academy’s 2024 Burdekin Junior Water Festival Ambassadors, an organisation he has been a valued member of since 2022. Cole initially set out on his journey with the hopes of meeting new people whilst inspiring other boys to join gymnastics and in reflecting on what he was able to achieve almost 12 short months ago, he cannot endorse the opportunity enough.

“Looking back on my Burdekin Water Festival journey, I feel very grateful for the opportunity as I am so proud of my time as an ambassador and have so many amazing memories,” Cole shared.

“My biggest takeaway was, take any opportunity that comes your way - no matter how big or small, take chances and give it a go!”

Cole was proudly awarded the title of the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner following on from the event’s conclusion in September of last year, and he hopes many more young people will put themselves forwards ahead of 2025’s Festival.

“To anyone thinking of becoming an Ambassador, put yourself out there and get involved,” enthused Cole.

“The Festival is not only a celebration of water in the Burdekin community but it is a way for junior and senior members to interact with the community and give back - you only get this opportunity once, and it is so much fun, so rewarding, and a great way to give back to your community organisation.”

Sarah Pontifex could not be prouder of her son’s achievements and after watching Cole’s self-confidence skyrocket over the course of his Ambassador journey, she hopes many more parents encourage their children to take part in the wonderful program.

“Cole’s time as a Junior Ambassador was such a positive experience as exposure to public speaking, interacting with community members, planning speeches, attending events, representing his organisation and fundraising all helped him learn and grow and he was so proud to represent and give back to the Burdekin Academy,” expressed Sarah.

“My message to other parents would be to encourage your children to participate - yes, it is a big commitment but overall, it is such a rewarding experience.”

“I am so proud of the young man Cole has become and his time as an ambassador has helped shape him as a person.”

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Cole Pontifex was named the Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner in 2024 (Photo Supplied)

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2025 Season Begins!

The Burdekin Community Garden will open for the 2025 season on Monday morning 12 May from 9am – 11am.

This year marks its fourth year of operation after it was initially established through generous donations from the congregation of the Burdekin Community Church in 2022.

The garden exists to grow fresh produce to share free of charge with the local community.

During the first three years of its existence the garden has produced a bountiful harvest of corn, carrots, snow peas, tomatoes, lettuce, zucchinis, silverbeet, potatoes, pumpkins, cucumbers, passionfruit, bananas, and pawpaw.

Much to the delight of many Pacific Island workers in our district the garden also produces cassava and aibika (commonly referred to as slippery or island cabbage).

Growing fresh fruit and vegetables is just the tip of the iceberg when considering the purpose of the garden. Providing a safe place for people to meet, have a cuppa and a chat and just enjoy the outdoors in the company of others is another very important function of the garden.

Over the last three years the garden has hosted Year 6 student groups form the Burdekin Christian College and Ayr State School as well as the graduating class from the Burdekin School.

In addition to school students the garden has been a wonderful meeting place for local people from all walks of life.

Everyone is welcome to come to the garden located at the rear of the Burdekin Community Church on International Drive. However, Monday morning from 9 am – 11 am is the best time to visit.

Every Monday morning, excluding Public holidays, garden co-ordinators Karina Lima, and Rhonda and Rodney Williams are present to show people around the garden.

They are more than happy to make visitors a free cuppa to share over a chat and some morning tea. Weeding and other garden work is always optional at the community garden.

Everyone is welcome to come and share in the camaraderie of the Burdekin Community Garden.

For more information find us on Facebook or contact us at burdekincommunitygarden@gmail.com

WHAT: Burdekin Community Garden 2025 Season Opening

WHERE: Burdekin Community Church, Lot 23, International Road, Ayr

WHEN: Monday 12th May from 9am – 11am

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The whole community is invited down to the Burdekin Community Gardens every Monday 9-11am from 12th May onwards. Photo supplied

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The State Government has secured hosting rights for the world’s premier conference for agricultural investors, cementing Queensland as the preferred investment gateway into Australia and surrounding regions.

Global AgInvesting is the world's longest-running and largest gathering of agriculture investment stakeholders.

Brisbane’s selection underscores Queensland’s ongoing global expansion and strategic positioning as a key player in international agriculture investment markets.

The conference boosts the State Government’s target to increase the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030, after it said that “primary producers were left high and dry under the former Labor Government.”

The event will facilitate connections between institutional investors, fund managers, and agribusiness leaders, providing them with new investment opportunities into agribusiness, AgTech, infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the event was a gateway to introduce billions of dollars in investment into Queensland’s primary industries.

“Queensland is the beating heart of primary industries in this country — we grow a quarter of Australia’s primary produce and are leading the way in AgTech adoption,” Minister Perrett said.

“The $30 million Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund is a testament to our commitment to continued investment in Queensland’s $23.4 billion primary industries sector.

“Brisbane has proven itself to be host of choice, having just successfully welcomed thousands of people in the agrifood innovation community at AgriFutures Australia’s evokeAG 2025 in February.

“The decision to have Global AgInvesting in Queensland is another vote of confidence that we are on the path to reach our target of $30 billion in primary industries production by 2030.”

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates described Global AgInvesting as a great opportunity to help Queensland continue to diversify its trade options.

“Having Global AgInvesting on our doorstep will create a vital opportunity to maintain close links with our various trade networks as we focus on remaining agile in the trade space,” said Minister Bates.

“This event will also give us a chance to remind our partners that our core trade values of stability, certainty and growth make Queensland a great place to invest.”

Global AgInvesting Portfolio Director Jonathan Levin expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the inaugural Global AgInvesting Australia event in Queensland.

“We are delighted to collaborate with the Queensland Government to introduce Global AgInvesting to Australia for the first time,” Mr Levin said.

“The selection of Queensland as the location for the inaugural Global AgInvesting Australia is highly appropriate, considering Queensland’s scale in primary industries across three climate zones and proximity to Asia-Pacific markets.

“With its state-of-the-art innovation in AgTech and strong commitment to sustainable production, Queensland offers an ideal platform for global investors interested in engaging with the region’s vibrant primary industries.”

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Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett has welcomed the arrival of the world’s premier agriculture investment conference to Queensland, describing it as a billion-dollar gateway to strengthen the state’s $23.4 billion primary industries sector. Photo source: Tony Perrett (Facebook)

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Two Burdekin water committees are urgently calling on the State Government to freeze irrigation prices and to exercise common sense and compassion for regional primary producers in the Giru irrigation area.

The Giru Benefit Area (GBA) Irrigation Committee, supported by the QCAR Water Committee, is appealing to the Queensland Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers, MP Ann Leahy, and her government, to immediately dismiss the Queensland Competition Authority’s (QCA) recommendation to slap a 100 per cent price increase on GBA irrigators. GBA Irrigation Committee Chairman Robert Stockham said the QCA bowing to Sunwater’s unreasonable and unsustainable demands would send many primary producers relying on the scheme spiralling into financial hardship.

“We need Minister Anne Leahy to step up to the plate and put our GBA producers’ sustainability and viability before profit,” Mr Stockham said.

“Sugarcane farmers and other primary producers are already hurting due to the significant damage to infrastructure, crops and pastures in last month’s substantial rain events – none of our rural businesses can stand up to the financial pressure of increased input costs that are effectively being doubled.”

He said the QCA’s apparent unjustified recommendation to double irrigation water prices, if accepted by the State Government, would come into effect on 1 July 2025 and remain through to 30 June 2029.

“This will cripple our GBA producers with tens of thousands of dollars being added to their annual expenses, when many of their businesses are already running on tight margins in addition to being battered through the recent tropical low rain events.”

The QCA’s recommendation formed a part of its report to the government following its five-year Irrigation Price Investigation 2025-2029, which reviews the irrigation pricing practices of Sunwater and Seqwater.

QCAR Water Committee Chair Kayleen Walsh said the reports and recommendations were delivered to the government on 31 January 2025 and published on 7 February 2025.

“We know the State Government is not bound to consider the QCA’s recommendations, but we cannot afford to sit and wait for the outcome without stating the dire outcomes for GBA producers should this staggering increase be accepted.

“We’ve met with everyone there is to meet with and stated our case, and we’ve written to Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and asked him to intervene in this decision-making process,” Mrs Walsh said.

“This recommendation is unacceptable and claims to prioritise ‘cost recovery’, well, we’d like to see the evidence that shows this doubling of input costs is fair and can be absorbed by our farmers without sending them to the wall.”

Ms Walsh said this recommendation appeared to have been made in a boardroom without consideration of the adverse implications to Giru area irrigators, all for the sake of a balance sheet.

“Both water committees are not opposed to equitable contributions, but this is neither fair nor sustainable and we stand together on this.”

She said the committees advocated for genuine consultation and invited further engagement to find a solution that was equitable to all parties, and specifically to include recognition of timing and circumstance.

“The GBA has been on a 50 per cent Target Price with low operator (Sunwater) inputs. The costs for these irrigators to access water is significantly higher than other schemes and they do not get the same service or access.

“While Sunwater can sit back and say everyone is now set up and got all their pumps and pipes and other necessary equipment sorted – well, half of that has gone missing or been damaged in the recent weather events, not to mention the additional costs for erosion restoration work.”

The Queensland Government is expected to make a decision in coming weeks.

“We are saying the same things we’ve said in meetings and in correspondence; we are imploring the Queensland government to maintain existing arrangements while we work together to find an equitable solution,” Ms Walsh said.

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Leahy and Last KW and MKern:

Attending a recent QCAR Water Committee meeting are, from left,  Queensland Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers, MP Ann Leahy, Member for Burdekin Dale Last, QCAR Water Committee Chair Kayleen Walsh and QCAR Chief Strategy Officer Michael Kern. The two water committees are urging state government representatives to ‘step up’ and immediately freeze a proposed 100 per cent irrigation water price increase for the stricken GIRU area irrigators. Photos supplied: QCAR

GBA1:

Giru area cane farmer Frank Scarabel inspects his washed out irrigation system at Healey's Lagoon in the Giru area. Recent flood waters have washed the banks away and re-bedding with rock will be required

GBA2:

QCAR District Manager Angelo Licciardello is doing the rounds with farmers to assist with disaster recovery assistance following the significant rain events across the Burdekin and other parts of Queensland last month

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It’s that time of year—hundreds of ducks, one stream, zero control. The greatest slow-motion race of the year is about to float into Plantation Park.

On Sunday, May 18, the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race will return for its annual splashdown, bringing thrills, spills, and a whole lot of rubber ducks to the Burdekin region for it’s 16th edition.

The event, one of the Rotary Club of Ayr’s major annual fundraisers, will raise funds for the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association and Burdekin Men’s Shed, promising a morning full of entertainment.

“It’s a great family day… It can get competitive, too,” says Stacey Koia, member of the Duck Race Committee.

The numbered ducks will be dropped into the creek by crane near the Don Moss Archway at 11am, navigating the artificially pumped creek waters until the designated finish line, 130 metres downstream.

Owners of the first five ducks to cross the finish line will all receive cash prizes, with the winner taking home $1000 and the 2025 Quack Cup.

There are also prizes for presentation, including $100 for best decorated duck—$30 for each runner-up—in addition to five $50 lucky duck draws. And, don’t forget to rock up in your best duck-themed outfit for a chance to win $50!

Food and drinks will be available, including sausages, hot chips, and soft drinks provided by Ayr Rotary, and an ice cream van. Entertainment includes children’s activities and a performance by the Burdekin Brass Band, as well as the race itself, says Duck Race Committee member John McVeigh.

“You could imagine all of the ducks coming down the creek and then crossing the line… it’s very entertaining,” he said. “I’ve seen a duck that's winning, winning, winning… just about to cross the line, and it gets caught and wins nothing. So it’s totally random!”

Ducks are available for purchase from Ayr Rotary members, at Burdekin Cleaners and Laundry on Queen Street, and at street stalls across the Burdekin. Ducks cost $50 each, with a buy three, get one free offer.

For more information, please visit the Rotary Club of Ayr Facebook page or contact John McVeigh at 0409 321 418.

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The greatest slow-motion race of the year is about to float into Plantation Park. Photo source: Rotary Club of Ayr

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April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the challenges faced by people living with Parkinson’s disease and the importance of community support. In the Burdekin, one group is doing just that.

The Parkinson’s Queensland Burdekin Support Group has become a vital connection point for not only locals navigating the realities of the condition, but anyone seeking to learn more about it.

Group Co-Ordinator Elvie Dickinson says the group aims to provide connection, understanding, and offer a place where no one feels alone in their journey.

“It’s about sharing and being together… just sharing different things. And it’s not only sharing the information about Parkinson’s—it’s sharing your togetherness.”

The group meets at 10am on the fourth Friday of every month between February and November in a warm, welcoming space at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.

The group meetings often include educational guest speakers—from Parkinson’s medication specialists to physiotherapists, and even the fire brigade. In other meetings, members can enjoy morning tea outings or supportive in-house chats.

Dickinson says the group has been her way of giving back to the community since it’s inauguration over 10 years ago.

“When I was first diagnosed, I went down to the library here and there was no information. I could see that other people would be in the same boat as I was, and I just thought that [starting the group] was one way that I could do something for the community.”

Including the Burdekin Region, there are over 18,000 sufferers of Parkinson’s disease across Queensland.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s range from subtle early signs like fatigue and slight tremors, to more noticeable issues such as muscle stiffness, slowed movement, balance problems, and changes in speech or facial expression.

Dickinson says that understanding Parkinson’s means recognising just how different the journey can be for everyone involved.

“Parkinson’s is such a diverse disease—we don’t all have the same symptoms. So, by sharing what you’re going through, it helps other people.”

And while the group provides vital support for people living with Parkinson’s, its doors are open much wider than that.

“It’s for anybody; it’s for family, it’s for friends, it’s for carers—it’s for anybody that wishes to come along.”

For more information about the Parkinson’s Queensland Burdekin Support Group, please contact Group Co-Ordinator Elvie Dickinson at 07 4783 1896 or the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 07 4783 4243.

WHAT: Parkinson’s Queensland Burdekin Support Group

WHERE: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

WHEN: 10am, 4th Friday of every month between February and November

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Group Co-Ordinator Elvie Dickinson says the group has been her way of giving back to the community since its inauguration over 10 years ago. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin, with its warm climate and fertile soil, is the perfect place to introduce kids to the joys of gardening. Whether you have a large backyard or a small space, there are plenty of simple projects to get kids excited about planting, growing, and caring for their own garden.

Here are some easy and fun gardening projects for kids that thrive in our local climate.

Planting Easy-to-Grow Veggies

North Queensland’s climate is great for growing vegetables, and kids love seeing their efforts turn into something edible. Start with fast-growing plants like tomatoes, beans, and sweet corn. These plants provide quick results to keep kids engaged.

How to do it:

Choose a sunny spot and prepare the soil by loosening it with a spade.

Let kids pick out their favourite veggies.

Show them how to plant seeds at the right depth and water them regularly.

Kids will not only learn how food is grown but will enjoy eating the vegetables they’ve grown.

Creating a Butterfly or Pollinator Garden

A pollinator garden helps kids learn about the importance of bees, butterflies, and other insects. In the Burdekin, a variety of pollinators are naturally attracted to the right plants.

How to do it:

Plant nectar-rich flowers like marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, and native plants such as Grevilleas.

Let kids help with planting seeds or seedlings in containers or garden beds.

Teach them about the role of pollinators, making it a fun scavenger hunt to spot visiting bees and butterflies.

This project is perfect for teaching kids about wildlife and the environment.

Making a DIY Herb Garden

Herbs are a great option for gardening with kids. They grow quickly, are easy to care for, and can be used in cooking. Herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary thrive in the Burdekin’s climate.

How to do it:

Use small pots or repurposed containers for an upcycled herb garden.

Help kids plant seeds or young plants like basil, parsley, and mint.

Teach them how to water and trim the herbs as they grow.

Kids will take pride in using their own fresh herbs in family meals.

Building a Simple Bird Feeder

A bird feeder is an exciting way for kids to observe local birds up close. It teaches them about the environment and encourages wildlife to visit the garden.

How to do it:

Create a basic bird feeder using a toilet paper roll, peanut butter, and birdseed.

Roll the peanut butter-covered toilet roll in birdseed and hang it from a tree branch or fence.

This activity helps kids connect with nature and learn about bird species common in the Burdekin.

Creating a Sensory Garden

A sensory garden is perfect for younger children. It engages their senses through plants with interesting textures, smells, and colours.

How to do it:

Plant fragrant flowers like lavender, plants with unique textures (such as lamb’s ear), and colourful flowers like marigolds.

Encourage kids to touch, smell, and describe the plants.

This project helps kids appreciate different textures and smells while enjoying the outdoors.

Gardening is a wonderful way for Burdekin families to bond and connect with nature. With our region’s ideal climate, there’s no limit to the projects you can try. Grab a spade and let your kids experience the magic of watching plants grow!

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