Rural Quip, a staple in the Burdekin community for over four decades, has been locally owned and operated since 1981. With deep roots in the region's agricultural landscape, Robert Oar’s experience and passion for farming has fuelled the success of the dynamic business. From their beginnings in engineering to becoming a key player in the industrial and farming supplies sector, Rural Quip has evolved while maintaining its strong community ties.

Robert’s background in engineering began as a boilermaker at Kalamia Mill, but his entrepreneurial journey truly took off when he purchased Andersen Engineering, later transforming it into Rural Quip. By joining the Australian Industrial Sales (AIS) National Buying Group in 1998, the business gained access to new suppliers and competitive deals, which allowed them to meet the demands of a broad customer base extending from Bowen to Woodstock and Giru.

As the business grew, so did its commitment to customer service. Robert takes pride in his team’s ability to fulfill customers’ orders swiftly, a hallmark of Rural Quip’s operations. Their shelves are stocked with products needed day-to-day, ensuring that customers can rely on the business to have the right tools and supplies on hand.

Notably, to celebrate Rural Women’s Day earlier this month, Rural Quip is proud to highlight the five women who play key roles in its operations, demonstrating the company’s support for women in rural business.

Rhonda Moretto (Office Manager), Karen Muguira (Purchasing Manager), Gabby Body (Despatch and Goods), Chloe Williams (Advertising and Warranty), and Deneal Kratzmann (Retail Sales Assistant).

With their dedication and expertise, the business continues to thrive, adapting to the evolving agricultural landscape while maintaining its focus on customer satisfaction and competitive pricing.

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
120,922
2,082,002
Pioneer
41,335
962,369
Kalamia
45,416
1,127,241
Inkerman
56,851
1,252,933
Burdekin
264,524
5,424,545
CCS
Invicta
14.34
14.32
Pioneer
14.29
14.30
Kalamia
13.74
13.91
Inkerman
14.20
14.06
Burdekin
14.20
14.17
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
53%
14.45
Q183
8%
14.81
KQ228
17%
13.89
Q208
8%
14.30
WSRA17
8%
12.89
Q232
5%
13.09
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 265,000 tonnes of cane for the week. Throughputs were down at all mills this week due to either wet weather impacts or unplanned stops. Inkerman experienced a significant stop following an Ergon power outage.
The season-to-date total is now 5.42M tonnes, which represents 66% of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.20, which is well below budget due to the wet event and subsequent burnt cane left in the paddocks.
The highest CCS, of 17.1, was from a rake of Q240 1R in the Leichardt (Inkerman) productivity district.
Remember to always use your train brain and give way to trains at road crossings.
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John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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Farmers are often considered the backbone of the Australian economy. Yet with long hours, high demands, and tough conditions it’s easy for them to put their health on the backburner. 

Now, new research from the University of South Australia hopes to provide farmers with a dedicated pain management resource, to help them better manage chronic pain.
 
Currently, there are no farmer-focused chronic pain management resources available to help Australian farmers better manage chronic pain.
 
UniSA PhD student Indika Koralegedera says the new resource will be designed in consultation with farmers and rural-based clinicians.
 
“Agriculture is one of the most perilous occupations due to its high prevalence of chronic diseases, suicide, work-related injuries and accidents, disability, and mortality,” Koralegedera says.
 
“But despite increased risks of injury and chronic pain, research shows that farmers often prefer to deal with problems on their own, rather than seeking professional help.”
 
Researchers are now calling for farmers who have experienced chronic pain (as well as rural pain health experts) to engage in up to three online video workshop discussions to establish and provide feedback on a pain management resource for farming and rural communities.
 
Koralegedera says the study hopes to deliver improved pain management supports for the farming community.
 
“Chronic pain has an immense impact on many communities, so finding ways to optimise pain-management techniques is imperative,” Koralegedera says.
 
“Gaining perspectives from farmers and regional health professionals is key to delivering a valuable support to better manage chronic pain.”

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By Angelo Licciardello, QCAR Burdekin District Manager

The QCAR Burdekin team welcomes all Burdekin Life readers to our first fortnightly column.
As a familiarisation exercise, I would like to introduce our expert team at the heart of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) head office at 142 Young Street, Ayr.
Melissa Boulter is our Office Manager, Lee-Anne Gelling is our Executive Assistant, and Bernadette Rehbein is our qualified Payroll Officer. This dynamic trio provide a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team, our members and our stakeholders.
Week 18 Crush: The unwelcome rain and recent QSL port issue has taken the gloss off a promising period of harvesting and crushing. With the wet season fast approaching we need a lot to go right to complete the harvest in full. Late finish, late harvest – data shows that production drops off significantly the following year on ratoons that are taken off beyond September. Personally, and I have never been a farmer, when do we look forward to or aim for early crushing starts and rotation crops as a way of managing this in our district. Having said that QCAR is here to help in any way we can. Sorry I cannot control the weather or drive a loco.

P & K Farm: Was ready to be harvested before the rain. 30mm @ School end, 34mm @ Castellanelli end. The plot closed 4 October 2024 as a plant source.
   • Plant Cane: Knockdown application of Rattler and 24D will control grass and vines.
   • Grub Control: Liquid Imidacloprid application into cutaway with contractor equipment.
   • Ratoons: Slashed for control.
Upcoming Events:
   • Grown in NQ 2024 Ag Innovation showcase 31 October/1 November – DAF Research Centre, 45 Warwick Road, Bowen
   • GRDC Grains Research Update, 26 November, Ayr Showgrounds
   • Inkerman BCAS Tour – 22 October 2024

ANGELO’S AGRONOMIC TIP:
If possible, add Carbon with Nitrogen. Animal manure is a good way to add both carbon and nitrogen. This will minimise the fast decomposition of soil organic matter.

QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello can be contacted on 0437 401 837 or email angelo.licciardello@qcar.org.au OR QCAR Head Office 4783 2111

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Melissa Boulter, Lee-Anne Gelling and Bernadette Rehbein

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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This week we released our first look at the comparative pool performances for the 2024 season.
Our quarterly Pool Performance and Comparative Outcomes report enables growers to compare our results and associated marketing fees with those of our competitor, QSL.
The latest report, published this week, is the first analysis to include 2024 season pricing.
It must be remembered that it is early in the 2024 season and there is much that can change, but the trend of Wilmar pools outperforming continues.
Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool is currently paying more than $20/t IPS than QSL’s Harvest Pool. When combined with the 70 per cent advance payment versus QSL’s 65 per cent for the first four months of the season, the cash flow boost Wilmar growers enjoy is significant.
Looking over a longer timeframe, the three-year analysis indicates that growers who use 70 per cent forward pricing are approximately $1.47/cane tonne better off using Wilmar grower marketing as their GEI exposure manager.
For a 15,000 tonne cane grower this equates to more than $22,000/year in your bank account for the last three years.
The superior returns to growers are achieved by keeping fees and charges low and maximising the premium generated from physical export sales.
This evidence is visible in the detailed breakdown of the Allocation Account performance published on the back page of our quarterly report.
You have until 31 October to finalise your choice for your GEI marketer for the 2025 season.
Remember, if you aren’t priced, you aren’t locked in. To make a change for 2025, contact a member of our Grower Marketing team.

Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool continues to outperform QSL’s Harvest Pool.

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If you have seen media reports, you will be aware that mental health is a very real challenge for us globally, but more importantly for all of us as individuals. Latest data shows around 1 in 4 will experience a significant mental health issue in any 12 month period, and 1 in 2 during their lifetime.
The Mental Health Australia – Report to the Nation revealed many things such as:
   • The 18 – 39, followed by 40 – 59 year age groups had the lowest levels of mental health, but for many, mental health issues first emerged during adolescence through to early adulthood.
   • The highest risk factor amongst all groups for having a mental health issue is having previously suffered a mental health condition.
   • Anxiety and Depression still head the list of most common mental health conditions.
   • Cost of living, cost of housing and worries of global conflict continue to impact mental health of many in the community.
   • Access to mental health services has continued to improve along with the feeling that we can ask for help anytime.
While statistics can tell us a story, there is another element to consider - wellbeing. The biggest protective factor against mental health crisis, is personal wellbeing. Wellbeing is the sense that we are purposeful, connected and belong. It is often coupled with a positive, helpful pro-active outlook on life. In this dimension, we are feeling less secure financially, but more of us are confident of getting help and more of us are willing to give it.
What can help?
Firstly, we can all do things that help support our wellbeing. Simple things that give us direction purpose and meaning in life, things that help connect us socially in positive ways. Health and fitness activities are good, but you can add the benefit of social connectedness to your personal wellbeing simply by playing community sport. Next, finding things that feed your soul, things that inspire awe are far healthier than things that give us short bursts of dopamine and lead to addictive patterns.
Thirdly, get help. Nationally around half of us will feel we need to get help or support for ourselves or someone else. But only 36% actually manage to reach out and get that help.
Workplaces and Schools are changing, we have all had to respond to the Mental Health challenge. At Ayr High, we have been teaching about Mental Health and Wellbeing topics for many years. Like many workplaces and businesses, we also support multiple events like Mental Health Week where there will be a variety of awareness raising activities for staff and students this week. These go along with No to Bullying, RUOK and other events throughout the year.
But maybe more importantly, what has continued to grow is the level of support available for students. The team of people available to support students directly with social/emotional needs including mental health and wellbeing includes a Psychologist, a School Based Youth Health Nurse, a Chaplain, Youth Support Worker, CEC (Indigenous Support), a Behaviour Support Specialist Teacher, as well as our Guidance Officers and a Head of Department (Support Services). The objective is to reduce the barriers to support by ensuring we have the right sort of support available for every student. For the Ayr High family, we want to change the statistic so that every person who needs support for their Mental Health, gets it!

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The Lower Burdekin Scouts and their leaders, along with some families, participated in the 2024 RUSH event in Charters Towers over the weekend of 12 to 13 October. They joined 78 other teams and hundreds of participants for a fun-filled weekend of adventure, challenges, and exploration.

The Scouts loaded their trailer early Saturday morning and made the trip to Charters Towers, stopping briefly for morning tea along the way. Upon arrival at the Charters Towers Scout site, they set up their tents and enjoyed lunch before setting out to explore the town and its local parks.

Back at the Scout grounds, the group played games before preparing dinner. After their meal, they relaxed with a screening of Wonka, then settled in for the night.

Sunday started bright and early with a pancake breakfast before heading to the Charters Towers Showgrounds, where the RUSH officially began. The day was packed with excitement as teams took on a variety of challenges, including hiking up to the lookout, navigating billy carts, knot tying, rock climbing, target shooting, CPR drills, and even a visit to the local cemetery. Teams also raced around Charters Towers, collecting information and completing tasks.

The event concluded at the showgrounds, where participants gathered to hear the results and celebrate a successful day. After lunch, the Scouts packed up their gear and returned home.

A big thank you goes out to the organisers and leaders for making this weekend of fun and adventure possible.

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkery.

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Lower Burdekin Scout members ready to start the Knot Tying Challenge!

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Hope In a Suitcase for Foster Children in the Northern Region.
In a world where stability can feel elusive for children in foster care, the "Hope in a Suitcase" initiative shines as a beacon of compassion and care. Supported by the Catholic Women's League in the Burdekin region, this heartfelt program replaces the cold, impersonal plastic bags often used for relocation, with colourful suitcases filled with comfort and essentials.
"Hope in a Suitcase" is a heartwarming initiative founded by Rachael Clancy, to support children in foster care. Rather than moving from home to home with a plastic bag, these children are provided with a suitcase filled with personal items such as pyjamas, a toothbrush, new clothing, and something to cuddle, offering them not only comfort but also a sense of dignity.
The Ayr Catholic Women’s Branch, along with the Home Hill Catholic Women’s League and the Burdekin Catholic Parish, have embraced this initiative as part of a broader CWL State-level effort launched by the Catholic Women's League in 2023. For two years, the campaign has focused on filling suitcases with essential and personal items for foster children. Local community members, including volunteers from the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, have contributed by knitting bibs and other items to add to the suitcases.
In September and October 2024, the initiative continues with a renewed call for donations such as reading books, colouring books, and pyjamas for children of all ages. The local Catholic League and its supporters are deeply grateful for the community's contributions so far. The effort resonates with many, as providing these suitcases gives foster children something they can call their own, a small but significant gesture in a challenging time.

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Catholic Women’s League, promoting the initiative of “Hope In A Suitcase” In The Burdekin. Photo Supplied

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As we continue to celebrate the milestones of businesses in the Burdekin, it’s a great reminder of the vital role local shops and services play in our community. This year McCathies Furniture Plus marked 50 years in business, a significant achievement for a family-run store that has grown from humble beginnings as second-hand dealers to a respected retailer of quality furniture. Their commitment to providing exceptional service and supporting local customers has helped them reach this remarkable milestone.
At the same time, Campbell's Jewellery recently hosted its annual spring sale, offering residents a chance to support another long-standing local business. These moments are not just about the businesses themselves, but about the people behind them—the families who’ve built them, the staff who’ve worked tirelessly, and the customers who’ve supported them over the years.
In times when online shopping is easy and big retailers dominate, it’s crucial for us to remember the importance of buying local. Our local businesses provide jobs, support community events, and contribute to the unique character of the Burdekin.
When we shop locally, we invest in the future of our region, ensuring these businesses remain a vital part of our community for years to come.
So, whether it was finding a new piece of furniture or picking up a special gift from a jeweller, let’s continue to support those who make the Burdekin a vibrant place to live and work.
If you are a local business celebrating a business milestone (big or small!) reach out to us and find out how you can run a feature in the paper.
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Miah

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The Burdekin Shire Youth Council's 30th-anniversary celebration was a heartfelt tribute to three decades of empowering young people across the Burdekin. Founded in 1994 under then-Mayor Beth Honeycombe, the Youth Council has played a vital role in shaping the community, contributing to projects like the Anzac Park Skate Park, Burdekin PCYC, and Burdekin Aquatic Centre.
Council has also hosted memorable events, including the Mayor's Disco, Battle of the Bands, and the Fast Track Talent Showcase. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort recognised its impact, stating, "For 30 years, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has empowered our young people to contribute meaningfully to our community."
Attendees enjoyed light refreshments and shared in the celebration of the council’s achievements. Following the formalities, guests joined the Connect & Celebrate wellbeing event in the Theatre forecourt, marking a day of reflection and community spirit as the Youth Council looks forward to its future successes.

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Burdekin Shire Youth Council enjoyed a delicious cake to celebrate their 30 year milestone. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
Deputy Mayor Councillor Max Musumeci speaks at the event
Eddie Jones, youth mayor speaks

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Burdekin Shire Youth Council
Shines At 30 Year Celebrations

Tammy Quagliata, coordinator of youth council welcomes everyone
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Chloe becke
Tracey Ahern
Jorja Ahern

Jorda Quagliata
Taliyah Lammon

Janine Laneyand Isabella Lando

Lois Hustonand Caitlin Schlieff (library staff)

Alexis Michael and Lindley Nicole Cervoni

Lyn McLaughlin shares her memories

Councillor John Furnell speaks

Burdekin Community Association hosted a stall

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At a time when having access to instant information is everything, a commitment to bring a public child sex offender register to fruition will be a key tool in ensuring the safety of our children, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.

Mr Last said the LNP announcement of a three-tiered system to be known as Daniel’s Law would give parents and carers access details of reportable offenders who have failed to comply with their reporting obligations on a public website, to the ability to inquire about a specific person with regular unsupervised contact with their child.

“As parents we do everything in our power to keep our children safe and part of that is having the information at our fingertips about exactly what threats are nearby, that’s why this system is crucial,” Mr Last said.

“The announcement of Daniel’s Law will also include new offences to prevent the misuse of information on the register, striking the right balance when it comes to keeping the public informed and our children safe.”

“Similar systems are already in place in other states across Australia, so the time has well and truly arrived for Queensland to prioritise the rights of victims of crime ahead of the rights of perpetrators.”

Mr Last said the introduction of Daniel’s Law had the potential to save the lives of Queensland’s most vulnerable residents, no matter where you live. 

“Sadly, across the last decade we’ve seen children harmed in some of the most horrific circumstances and alarmingly many of these circumstances have involved an offender known to the family or have regular interactions with the child,” Mr Last said.

“Every parent deserves the right to know the people who could potentially interact with their child are not high-risk sex offenders.”

“For years Labor has been called upon to take real action when it comes to keeping our children safe in the communities they live, learn and play in yet they have sat on their hands. As a former police officer I know just how valuable tools like Daniel’s Law can be when it comes to preventing these offences and saving little lives.”

The origins of the new law is driven by the parents of Daniel Morcombe who, in December 2003 at age 13, was abducted and murdered by twice-convicted paedophile Brett Cowan.

Since 2014, the Morcombe family has publicly supported and advocated for the development of a publicly accessible sex offender register in Australia – referred to as Daniel’s Law in honour of the Morcombe’s son Daniel.

Daniel’s Law would ensure the register is freely accessible to the community, federally funded, and understood more broadly as an educational tool.

Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Members of Daniel Morcombe’s family fighting to instigate Daniel’s Law. Photo supplied

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Northern Queensland Legacy held a well-attended Veterans' Health Week Lunch at Dal Santos Delicatessen, bringing together Legacy widows from Burdekin, Charters Towers, and Bowen for a day of connection and support. With the theme of 'Connection,' the event fostered friendships and provided a space for widows to bond over shared experiences.
CEO Nicole Hayes emphasised the importance of this event, stating, "Connection is at the heart of what Legacy does. Reducing isolation and financial disadvantage is crucial, but so is the need to connect with others who’ve been through similar experiences."

Legacy members holding a torch and connecting at the recent luncheon which was very well attended. Photo supplied

Widows Unite Thanks To Legacy Event

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The Northern Queensland Legacy Veterans' Health Week Lunch at Dal Santos Delicatessen was a vital part of supporting local widows in building lasting support networks within their communities.
Attendees, including Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, enjoyed a lovely lunch, and a presentation by NBNco providing critical tips on ‘Connecting Safely on the Internet,’ helping older attendees navigate the digital world safely.
Funded by a Department of Veterans’ Affairs grant, the event was an opportunity for Legacy to focus on community building without the usual pressures of fundraising. Hayes expressed gratitude for the grant, noting, “It allows us to focus more on our beneficiaries and the extra support they need. It’s a relief for our volunteers as we continue to provide these valuable events.”
Bravus, a local sponsor, was also recognised for its contribution, covering transport costs for 14 ladies from Bowen. Hayes added, “We’re very grateful for Bravus’ support, which made it possible for so many to join us.”
Nicole Hayes encouraged community members to consider becoming a Legatee, emphasising that the organisation is always looking for more volunteers to assist in its mission.
“If you want to be part of something meaningful, whether it’s as simple as having a cup of tea with someone or taking on a bigger role, Legacy offers many ways to get involved.”
For those interested in becoming a beneficiary or Legatee, Hayes urges you to contact Legacy’s Townsville office at 4772 7533.

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The legacy lunch was a lovely turnout. Photo supplied
Sandwiches with the Legacy members and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort. Photo supplied
Councillor John Furnell and legacy members smiling together. Photo supplied
Photos supplied

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The Burdekin Men’s Shed Association Inc. commemorated Queensland Mental Health Week with an event titled "Cuppa, Chat, and Chew" on 9 October. The gathering focused on this year’s theme, "Connect for Mental Health," encouraging participants to take proactive steps to nurture both personal and community wellbeing. Queensland Mental Health Week highlights the importance of connecting with people who support mental health through events and activities.
This year's theme emphasised four core areas: connecting with oneself, community, others, and nature. Attendees were urged to focus on self-care, building meaningful relationships, fostering inclusive environments, and spending time in nature to enhance their mental wellbeing.
Fifty people attended the event, which featured social connection opportunities, free tea, guest speakers, and a sausage sizzle. Burdekin Shire Councillor and Men’s Shed member John Furnell served as the event’s MC, introducing the guest speakers, including Dale Last MP, Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, and the keynote speaker, Leon Martin.
Leon Martin, the event’s main speaker, delivered an engaging 40-minute talk. He shared his personal experiences with bullying, mental health struggles, and his current work supporting youth in overcoming modern challenges. His heartfelt story deeply resonated with the audience, many of whom related to his journey. The audience praised Martin’s ability to connect through his experiences, providing a powerful example of overcoming adversity.
Charles Ford, secretary of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association, commented, “I found the speaker very good as he spoke about life that he had been through, and I could relate to his story.”
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Dale Last MP’s attendance underscored the importance of local leadership in supporting mental health initiatives. Both public figures were visible throughout the event and gave speeches, supporting the Men’s Shed and its efforts to foster mental health awareness in the region.
The atmosphere of the event was widely described as warm and welcoming, with attendees enjoying both the meaningful discussions and the fellowship provided. The combination of a supportive environment and inspiring speakers left participants reflecting on the importance of mental health conversations, especially in smaller regional communities like the Burdekin.
The Burdekin Men’s Shed’s "Cuppa, Chat, and Chew" event was a clear success, creating a space for community members to connect and engage in open conversations about mental health. The Shed continues to play a vital role in promoting mental health awareness, providing a safe and inclusive environment where these essential discussions can thrive. Events like this are crucial in smaller communities, where the need for support systems is often more pronounced, and the opportunity to connect with others is invaluable.

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Alvin and Edward cooking the sausage sizzle. Photo supplied
50 people were in attendance. Photo supplied
John Furnell and Dale Last shaking hands. Photo supplied

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Since 2005, Christine Wassmuth, along with two other hosts, has been running the Christian segment of a local radio station, sharing her passion for music and faith with listeners. Christine’s love for music initially drew her to the profession. "I like music; that’s what drew me," she recalls, highlighting the power of melody and lyrics in shaping her broadcasting journey.
The Christian music genre, with its profound messages, has influenced Christine’s career, offering a unique perspective on Christianity. "By playing the music and listening to the words, I think that puts a different perspective and a deeper understanding of faith," she explains. The ability to connect listeners with uplifting and meaningful songs is central to her mission, creating a shared experience that resonates beyond the airwaves.
One of Christine’s most memorable moments on air occurred when she received a heartfelt letter from a listener. "We don’t always know who’s listening. One letter said thank you; we were waiting for news of our father and brother who were out at sea. We were listening to the radio, and the songs you played really comforted us." This experience underscores the profound impact of music and radio on people’s lives, reminding Christine that her work reaches those in need of comfort and hope. "It’s something to think about—the fact that other people are listening, and you can be listening in the morning and it’s just the song you needed to hear," she reflects.
Preparation is key for a successful live show, and Christine approaches each broadcast with care. She spends time selecting music that aligns with the readings for her segment, using various internet sources to find songs on the chosen theme. "I try to get as many songs as I can on that theme and play songs we like. We have prayers too, along with service times." Although she has scripts to guide her, Christine remains flexible, adjusting the playlist on the fly as needed. "I’m organised, so I don’t feel stressed when I start because I’ve put the time in beforehand," she says.
For those aspiring to enter the world of radio hosting, Christine offers simple yet encouraging advice: "Give it a go. You’ve got nothing to lose. It’s great; you’re sharing music you love with people who enjoy listening to it." Her welcoming attitude makes it clear that anyone with a passion for music can succeed in radio.
Keeping the audience engaged during long segments is another aspect of hosting that Christine handles with ease. "I just try to have a bit of variety and not speak for too long in one segment. People aren’t hanging onto every word; most are multitasking while listening." Her segment serves as a comforting alternative for those unable to attend church, providing a sense of community and spiritual connection.
The most time-consuming part of her work, Christine admits, is choosing the right songs. "It takes me the longest out of everything I do, but it’s not necessarily challenging. The last thing I’ll give up is the radio because I really do love doing it." Her love for music and the joy of sharing it with others is what keeps her motivated. "It really speaks to the heart of our segment because you understand the reading and connect it with the music," Christine concludes, capturing the essence of her role as a radio host—bringing together music, faith, and community.

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Christine Wassmuth in her element. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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Burdekin residents will have the opportunity to dispose of waste for free on Sunday, 1 December, as part of the “Let’s Get Ready Burdekin” initiative, which aims to help residents prepare for the upcoming disaster season.
The Free Waste Disposal Day encourages locals to clean up around their homes, eliminating potential hazards and reducing the risk of damage during severe weather events like cyclones.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort emphasised the importance of this initiative in supporting the community’s disaster readiness.
"As we approach cyclone season, it is crucial we do everything possible to prepare for potential disasters,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“The Let’s Get Ready Burdekin - Free Waste Disposal Day allows residents to safely dispose of sorted waste and prevent debris build-up that could pose risks during severe weather."
She further highlighted that this day is not just about cleaning up but fostering community resilience.
“By clearing your property now, you're protecting not only your home but also your neighbours and the wider Burdekin community. I encourage everyone to participate."
Residents can bring sorted waste to Council’s Waste Transfer Stations and Landfills, with usual operating hours in place. To ensure smooth disposal, residents are encouraged to review the list of acceptable waste materials ahead of time.
For more information, including waste disposal guidelines and disaster preparedness tips, visit Council’s website or call Council’s Customer Service Centre at (07) 4783 9800.

WHAT: Free Waste Day
WHEN: Sunday 1st December

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