Gloria Brunner is a dedicated nurse and midwife who has spent her career serving the rural community of Ayr. Born and raised in Ayr, she moved to Townsville to complete her nursing course and gain experience at Townsville Hospital.

She then returned to her hometown, where she has worked ever since. "Rural nursing is all she’s known," her daughter Teagan shared, emphasising that Gloria was "born and made to be a rural nurse because it’s just such a diverse profession." Gloria also pursued a degree in midwifery while juggling the responsibilities of raising three children.

Working in rural health presents unique challenges, and Gloria has faced many throughout her career. The primary challenge is the lack of access to tertiary facilities, requiring healthcare professionals to rely on their broad knowledge and quick thinking.

"You have to make do with what you have at the time and be on your feet thinking and doing what you can," Teagan explained. Gloria often had to improvise and act swiftly without specialised support, showcasing her adaptability and dedication.

When Gloria was awarded the Rural Health Worker of the Year, her family was ecstatic. "We were all absolutely ecstatic," Teagan recalled. Her three daughters, including Teagan and Chloe, who also work as nurses at Ayr Hospital, were overjoyed and immensely proud.

"To see her passion and her love and respect and everything she gives to the community to be acknowledged is a surreal feeling," Teagan said.

Gloria's dedication to rural health has profoundly shaped her daughters' views on healthcare and community service. "She was my biggest driving factor to become a nurse," Teagan shared.

Known affectionately as "Mama Glor," Gloria offers comfort and support to both patients and colleagues. "She’s been there for people at the best and worst times of their life," Teagan noted. Her advice to aspiring rural health workers is simple yet profound: "At the end of the day, you are caring for people in your community."

When Gloria found out she won the award, she was humbled and gracious. "Mum was very humbled to even know that she’d been nominated for the award," Teagan said. This recognition highlighted her dedication to rural health and her role as a role model for her daughters and the community.

‍

Gloria Brunner standing with her two daughters. Photo supplied

‍

By Ruth Puddefoot

‍
Having Diabetes is a monumental task that many people do not even realise.
One person who truly understands this feat is Heather Andrews from Ayr. With 60 years of managing diabetes under her belt, Heather has an exceptional grasp of the condition.
On the 21st of July, Heather flew to Brisbane where she won a Gold Kellion Victory Medal, for 60 years of managing the chronic disease.
Heather’s journey with diabetes began when she was just eight years old, after her mother picked up that something was wrong.
After taking Heather to the doctor in search of answers, her mother picked up a Woman's Weekly from the waiting room coffee table. She noticed an article about diabetes and it suddenly occurred to her that this might be what Heather was experiencing. She brought the magazine with her into the doctor's office, and the diagnosis was confirmed.
Heather explained that her biggest challenge when she was diagnosed in 1961 was learning to self-administer an insulin needle, which, are very different to what you see now days, with big glass syringes and 1-inch-long needles.
“Totally different to today,” Heather emphasised.
Heather explained, how back when she was diagnosed in the 60s there wasn't a lot of help around, and it wasn't until the 80s that Heather started with a diabetes specialist.
Every diabetic is unique, and there is no set path to maintaining the condition:
“Really you are on your own with it, every diabetic is different”
Heather says what she thinks has helped her maintain Diabetes for so long is watching what she eats:
“You have to watch what you eat; you can have a certain amount of sugar, but about a teaspoon full a day.”
“You have also got to watch the fats.”
“I had to measure everything I eat, and weigh everything.”
“I don't need to weigh anymore as I can just look at something and know how much I can eat.”
It is important to have family and friends there to support you, and Heather says her life has been saved several times by her mother and husband:
“My mum has saved my life a couple of times and my husband now; he has saved my life a couple of times too!”
Heather explained how people close to you can often tell when your sugars are dropping low:
“My husband can tell by the way I talk or by the look in my eye, he knows straight away.”
“I also had a little dog that used to be able to tell when blood sugars were dropping low.”
Diabetes can be particularly dangerous when you lose the feeling of your blood sugar level dropping – this is called Hypo-unawareness. Heather sadly has got to this stage and has gone unconscious several times due to this. However, new medical advancements have helped:
“The new sensors that you wear on your arm tell you that your blood sugars are dropping low.”
“The medical side has come on leaps and bounds so people have a lot more support now.”
Heather says that while growing up with diabetes itself wasn't too challenging for her, the lack of understanding around the disease during her younger years were significantly more difficult to handle:
“People didn't understand diabetes back then, so kids wouldn't touch me at school.”
“Even the teachers, they used to put my desk right up the back corner and tell me to stay there.”
“I was the only one in town who had it, no one had ever had it before.”
Heather explained that managing diabetes is "very hard," which makes her achievements and the award she received all the more remarkable, especially considering she was told by doctors that she wouldn’t make it to 40 years old.
Heather wanted to reiterate that just because you have diabetes, doesn't mean you have to be limited to what you can do in life:
“With type 1 diabetes you can do anything you want; you can get out there and become prime minister if you want.”
“I've been watching the Olympic games and I've noticed that some of those people have the same sensor on their arm as what I'm wearing.”
Big well done Heather!

‍

Heather Andrews proudly holding her Gold Kellion Victory Medal

‍

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is about to embark on its annual farm survey program collecting data from hard-working producers across Australia.
The information collected each year is integral in supporting decision-making about the future of Australian agriculture.
Executive Director of ABARES Dr Jared Greenville said two surveys will be conducted – the Australian Agricultural and Grazing Industries Survey, and the Australian Dairy Industry Survey.
“The farm surveys are a core part of the evidence base that industries and governments across Australia use to provide a health check on the sector, develop policy and respond to challenges, such as drought and trade disruptions,” Dr Greenville said.
The interviews will cover questions about farm structure, land use and the production and economic profile of the farm business for the 2023-24 financial year. Selected estimates for 2024-25 will also be collected.
“The success of the survey, and hence its value to industry and government, depends on the cooperation of participants selected to represent their industry,” Dr Greenville said.
ABARES officers will be undertaking face-to-face interviews with about 1,900 selected farmers throughout Australia from mid-July to December. 
For more information, farmers can contact ABARES Survey Collection by telephone 1800 026 308 or email surveysabares@aff.gov.au.

‍

Farm survey collection officers

‍

In recent years, Australians in rural and regional areas have faced unprecedented challenges that have taken a toll on mental health and well-being. Factors such as inflation, cost-of-living pressures, climate change, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of mental health support, particularly for farmers and rural communities. Recognising the critical need for support, Zoetis has partnered with Beyond Blue to once again champion mental health initiatives in rural Australia.
With a commitment of $800,000 over the last eight years, Zoetis has been a steadfast supporter of Beyond Blue's vital services, which have seen more than 300,000 individuals reach out for assistance in 2023 alone. In 2024, Zoetis has set a goal to raise an additional $100,000 by the end of the year by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s livestock, pig, and poultry vaccines and drenches.
"Our partnership with Beyond Blue is more than just financial support," says Lance Williams, Zoetis Senior Vice President, Australia and New Zealand.
"It's about fostering a culture of hope and resilience, ensuring that those facing mental health challenges know they are not alone and that help is available."
Over 3.4 million people in Australia are dealing with anxiety or depression, and nearly half of the population will face mental health issues in their lifetime. Not only are Australians living in rural and remote areas disproportionately affected by stress and anxiety, but accessing services is significantly harder due to attitudinal, financial, and digital barriers.
Derek Schoen, a farmer and Beyond Blue board member, emphasises the importance of maintaining hope amidst adversity.
"Country people are resilient and tough, but the many challenges we face can take a toll on our mental health,” he said.
“The repeated extreme weather events we’ve seen at the start of this year have added to these stresses.  I would encourage people to not lose hope and to seek support early."
People can support the Zoetis initiative between 15 July and 31 October 2024. For each sale of the company’s livestock, pig and poultry vaccines and drenches Zoetis, will donate $5, up to $100,000, to Beyond Blue.
Mr Williams said, “The money raised goes directly to the Beyond Blue Support Service to continue helping people living in remote areas. To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, over 15,500 people have been able to get the support they need through the service.
“Together we have made strong progress in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of those who live in rural Australia, and we are passionate about helping again this year.”
For more information on how you can help Zoetis to raise vital funds to support mental health in rural communities through its partnership with Beyond Blue please visit www.zoetis.com.au. For more information about depression and anxiety, visit www.beyondblue.org.au.

‍

Applications are now open for the latest round of funding of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative (QFPI), dedicated to effectively managing feral pigs through innovative and diverse approaches.
Round 8b of the QFPI aims to support projects that will revolutionise feral pig control tools and techniques, ensuring a sustainable and effective approach to pest management across Queensland.
Applicants are being sought with projects focused on supporting Queensland communities, forming or strengthening partnerships, encouraging resilient communities and building capacity and capability throughout the sector.
A total of $1 million funding will be made available over three years.  
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said that round 8b of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative is a pivotal step towards revolutionising feral pig management.
“This funding will help develop integrated solutions for more effective and sustainable feral pig control.
"Supporting projects that promote partnerships, resilience, and community engagement, and playing a crucial role in shaping the future of pest management across our state.
"We are committed to aligning with Queensland's biosecurity strategies and enhancing the accessibility of tools to manage feral pigs, benefitting our communities long-term.”
The QFPI aims to leave a legacy by improving the accessibility and affordability of feral pig control tools and enhancing sustainable practices.
For further information and to apply, please visit the DAF website.

‍

The voices of 1000 rural women are being sought for a groundbreaking new documentary on Australia’s rural, regional and remote women.
Rural Daughters, the feature-length documentary by award-winning CheekyMac Productions, will follow the personal journeys of some of Australia’s most inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers, effect change and live a successful, purpose-driven life in the regions.
In addition to their stories, a nationwide 1000 Rural Women Survey has been developed to capture the experiences of rural women on a broad range of topics from natural disasters, health and domestic violence to societal attitudes, racial prejudice, Tall Poppy Syndrome, community life, leadership and female role models.
The documentary and survey is the brainchild of producer, director and writer Danielle McAlpine Johnson, herself a rural woman from Gippsland, Victoria. Mrs McAlpine Johnson aims to garner more than 1000 survey responses to provide a statistical snapshot of rural women.
Surveying 1000 rural women is a bold target, but we hope women take this opportunity to tell us about their lives and be a part of a collective voice in the Rural Daughters story,” she said.
“These women are the backbone of rural Australia and we are putting our heart and soul into telling their stories - how they overcome adversity, find purpose, break limitations and lead in their communities in the most unique and innovative ways.”
The survey has been developed by Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre, together with CheekyMac Productions - both organisations led by rural women. Commissioned by the Community Enterprise Foundation, the survey is expected to be the largest and broadest of its kind.
“Our involvement in this documentary is an opportunity to showcase that a regionally-based university can make a difference with regional communities and, in particular, advocate for rural women on issues that matter,” CERC Professor Joanne Porter said.
The documentary and survey results are expected to be used to inform policy and develop educational resources in Australian schools.
The survey is available online between August and September and available at cheekymac.com/rural-daughters
To request hardcopies, contact CERC@federation.edu.au

‍

Australian Farm Institute (AFI) has been awarded a $638,000 grant to support international collaboration on sustainable agriculture.

The grant will support advocacy towards sustainable agriculture trade standards and guidelines development that recognise Australian conditions are consistent with the Australian Government’s commitment to address climate change and support sustainable production.

Focusing on evidence-based sustainable agricultural practices; systems and standards will enhance sustainable productivity, support food security and minimise environmental impacts.

AFI will partner with other members of the Global Forum on Farm Policy and Innovation (GFFPI) engaging in collaborative research and outreach efforts progressing evidence-based sustainability approaches internationally.

AFI will also work with their Southeast Asian partners to share this knowledge and understanding that in turn supports sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Deputy Secretary of the Agricultural Trade and Regulation Group, Tina Hutchison, emphasised the importance of the grant she explained it will strengthen the relationships with their trading partners.

“Australia has a lot to offer Southeast Asian partners through trade, investment and a shared commitment to sustainable agriculture to meet the growing food needs across our region,” Ms Hutchison said.

“This initiative will boost collaboration and engagement between Australia and Southeast Asia in this vital area to support long-term sustainable agricultural development.

“Australia’s prosperity and security are closely linked to the prosperity and security of our neighbours, so it’s important we work together to support a strong future for all.” 

For more information please visit: farminstitute.org

‍

The Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) delivers a wide range of services for younger people with a disability, or condition that impacts their ability to live safely and independently, and their carers.  A few of the great programs offered by our Home Care Service are briefly outlined below.
 
Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS)
QCSS provides support to people under 65 or under 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who, with a small amount of help, can maintain or regain their independence, continue living safely in their home and actively participate in the community. Services include In-home Supports and Community Connection Support.
 
Burdekin Community Transport Program (BCT)
BCT provides community transport locally and to Townsville to access medical appointments, do the shopping, attend social activities and venues, visit others etc. Transport under BCT is available for people who experience transport disadvantage and are under 65 and unable to access or have limited access to other transport options including public or private transport. Unpaid carers can also travel in their role as a carer.  Please note that Transport services are also provided to seniors under our other programs such as HCP, CHSP, NDIS.
 
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
NDIS supports a better life for people with a significant and permanent disability and their families and carers. Services include assistance with daily personal activities (showering/bathing/medication monitoring etc), travel/transport arrangements, innovative community participation, life-development skills, household tasks, participating in the community, exercise physiology, personal training and psychological counselling.
 
Please contact the BCA Team to access services or obtain information on Ph 4783 3744, The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, bca@bcaburdekin.org.au, www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA).

‍

August 8th is Dying to Know Day.  It is an annual recognition day for the public health campaign of the same name.  

The focus for 2024 is on personalising final arrangements and building community.  Their mission is to help all Australians feel supported and inspired by their wishes for their final arrangements and help to dismantle the misconception that end-of-life planning must be a solitary endeavour.

We are all impacted by death in our lives – it might be for the people we love, or it might be our own.

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre has, for the past couple of years, been exploring and putting out more and more information about end of life and building up our community’s literacy around death, dying and grief.  
It is about breaking down the stigma and sense of awkwardness associated with conversations about death, dying and grief.

What we are interested in is hearing from our community members about what they feel is needed in our community regarding death, dying and grief.  
Some ideas from other communities are:
   • Death Cafes
   • Workshops
   • Education Sessions (face-to-face and online)
   • Casual Conversations
   • Support Groups

We would love to have a conversation with our community about this.  What is already happening in the Burdekin around this?  Can we come together and help make our community a compassionate one?
Please call into the Centre and have a chat with us or send us an email to admin@thebnc.org.au.  

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

‍

7483939Happy Thursday. How is August here already? 
Let’s talk road safety. 
It’s concerning to see that a lot of our traffic issues are arising from people being in too much of a hurry, not slowing down at intersections and all too familiar device addiction. We are all so busy these days and the volume of traffic is higher than ever.  However, taking time to do the little things and remembering the simple stuff won’t take you as long as you think and it’s certainly quicker than stopping to exchange insurance information in an accident. Having a child with his L-plates now has me saying lots of rules over and over again. Mainly, give way to your right. There’s lots of round abouts and intersections without signs in the Burdekin. Just remember to always give way to your right. Another favourite is STOP means STOP!! Take the time to stop and look both ways.

One big thing has become clear playing passenger with an L-plate driver. It gives me time to see the faces in the windscreens coming at us. Sad to say a lot of those faces aren’t watching the road but looking at devices. It so easy to see, it’s frightening. 
Please don’t see this as me claiming to be the world’s best driver. But I hope everyone reading this will use it as a bit of a refresher on road safety.

I feel this pledge says it well. It is from Road Safety Week that was held recently in May:

I pledge to drive as if my loved ones are on the road ahead.
I will remove all distractions and never use my mobile phone while driving.
I will not put other people at risk by speeding, driving while tired or under the influence of alcohol/drugs.
I will protect all vulnerable road users, especially those whose job places them in harm’s way, by slowing down and giving them the space they need to be safe.

Stay safe everyone. 

‍

As we approach the upcoming State elections, our focus within the Council remains committed to advocating for the needs of our community and securing essential funding to drive our priorities forward. The upcoming months present a unique opportunity for us to engage with state candidates, ensuring that our local issues are highlighted and addressed.
Our advocacy efforts are centred around key Council and community priorities that are critical for the growth and well-being of our community. These include infrastructure development, housing and community amenities. We will be actively engaging with various stakeholders to present our case and secure the necessary support and resources.
Ayr Industrial Estate Second Access: The development of a second access route to the Ayr Industrial Estate expansion area is crucial for improving transportation efficiency and safety. This project will facilitate better connectivity, support local businesses, and attract new investments to our region.
Burdekin Local Housing Action Plan: We are seeking multi-year funding for a Regional Housing Coordinator to assist with the implementation of the Burdekin Local Housing Action Plan. This initiative is vital for addressing housing shortages, supporting vulnerable populations, and ensuring sustainable growth in our community.
Ayr Health Services: Council is a strong advocate for Ayr Health Services, supporting funding for essential upgrades, including security, to the Ayr Hospital. These upgrades aim to provide local CT scanning services and improved emergency services, ensuring that residents receive quality healthcare closer to home.
Council will work collectively to ensure that our community continues to thrive and that our priorities are recognised and supported.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

‍

Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) Student, Casey Calligaro has prestigiously been presented with the 2024 Deus Caritas Est Award as presented by Townsville Catholic Education.

On Wednesday 10 July, BCHS proudly shared the news of their 2024 recipient, congratulating Casey on his celebrated achievement.

“Congratulations to Casey on this remarkable achievement,” shared BCHS.

The award recognises outstanding service guided by faith and draws inspiration from the encyclical "Deus Caritas Est”. Awarded to one student per school in the diocese, the Deus Caritas Est Award exists as the highest honour for a secondary student within Townsville Catholic Education.

Casey was officially presented with the Deus Caritas Est Award on Monday 22 July for the commencement of Catholic Education Week at a special liturgy at Townsville’s Sacred Heart Cathedral.

‍

Bishop Tim presented Casey with his award on Monday evening with his family, Mrs Wolffe and Mrs Dalle Cort also in attendance, showing their support.

‍

‍

On Wednesday 24 July, the Burdekin Early Childhood Network presented the highly anticipated Ready, Set, Go expo at Ayr State School. The colourful event stands as a celebrated under 5s expo to showcase the amazing services, organisations, and businesses available in the Burdekin region for families with young children.

A vibrantly successful day, 18 stalls were set up across Ayr State School’s oval including childcare centres, primary schools, playgroups, support services, a dance school, and the Burdekin Library.

Fuelling attendees and stallholders with a selection of delicious bites to eat and caffeine were local food vendors, Cat’s Coffee and Ice Cream Smiles, as well as a sausage sizzle run by the Lions Club.

Both QFES and QPS attended the event, and everyone enjoyed an entertaining and interactive performance from Rhythm Edge Dance Studio as well as a fantastic Storytime session.

Excitingly, Tim McKean from Townsville City Libraries’ early childhood sector ran the event, and the Burdekin Shire Council’s Children’s Services Library Officer, Kate Burke explained the event was highly successful, and all those who attended benefited greatly.

“The feedback was overwhelmingly positive from attendees, and they said their children had lots of fun, and they got valuable information from the stalls,” shared Kate.

‍

Tim McKean and Kate Burke delivering the expo’s entertaining Storytime session
Jaynai Slatcher from Rhythm Edge Dance Studio leading children in a dance number. Photos supplied

‍

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group recently joined fellow Scouts from Townsville and Charters Towers for an exciting weekend camp at Bluewater. The event brought together approximately 190 Scouts aged 5 to 25 years, along with 30 leaders and 30 adult helpers.

The camp's theme, "A Night at the Museum," inspired a variety of themed challenges such as History of Flight, The Art of Archery, The Rise of Civilisation, and The Wonders of Egypt.

Activities over the weekend included:
- Archery
- Fire lighting and campfires
- Navigation
- Kite and aeroplane making
- Flagpole construction
- Bark painting
- Obstacle course

Nighttime events featured a formal dinner followed by a screening of the movie "A Night at the Museum."

After a weekend filled with fun and activities, many participants returned home tired but happy, having enjoyed a memorable Scout camp experience!

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkery. 

‍

An enjoyable and educational camp, the Scouts engaged with a special flag ceremony with fire lanterns.

‍

Burdekin Catholic High School Year 10 Student, William Jones had the exciting opportunity to attend a week of work experience with Urbis Brisbane.

A multi-disciplinary practice specialising in the areas of planning, design, heritage, policy, valuations, transactions, economics and research, Will travelled to Brisbane to immerse himself in all the company had to offer.

Over the course of the week, Will learnt numerous design programs and visited several different sites, including the Queen’s Warf construction site where he was granted a guided tour of Level 7; the location which will soon see the opening of the largest on podium open lawn area in Brisbane. Level 7 additionally encompasses an outdoor cinema, jacuzzi, high-end infinite swimming pools, bars and restaurants, all overlooking spectacular views over the Brisbane River and onto Southbank.

Will met industry professionals from various disciplines and learnt the ins and outs of the design industry, understanding the important role urban designers and landscape architects hold within today’s society.

Work Experience stands as a highly valuable opportunity for students to gain an understanding of how their career prospects exist within the workplace. Will’s travels have left him feeling very thankful as he was able to experience “what its really like” in the real world.

‍

William Jones immersing himself in work experience with Urbis in Brisbane.

‍