The latest Reef Water Quality Report Card (2021 and 2022) has been released.

The report shows progress towards targets being made in the Burdekin region to improve Reef water quality, with a 0.5% reduction in sediment recorded for the area.

The Burdekin catchment recorded a three per cent reduction in dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), one of the largest reductions across Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef catchments for the reporting period. 

The region also recorded good overall ground cover with 88 per cent of grazing lands having adequate ground cover in the late dry season in 2022, compared to 71 per cent in 2021 and 56 per cent in 2020. This result was largely due to the higher than long-term average rainfall in the Burdekin region in 2021 and 2022. 

The report card shows overall inshore marine condition was moderate in 2021-2022 with coral conditions remaining moderate, as recovery continues from Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

Inshore seagrass meadow condition improved from poor to moderate, with seagrass meadows showing high resilience, particularly in their capacity to recover from disturbances such as the large flood event in the Burdekin region in 2019.

NQ Dry Tropics Program Manager Sustainable Agriculture Rob Hunt said the report card demonstrated the reduction in sediment and nutrient loads as a result of the on-ground activities NQ Dry Tropics was funded to carry out across the region.

“NQ Dry Tropics and its delivery partners work directly with farmers to trial and validate farm management practices for improved farm production and water quality,” said Rob.

“We support Burdekin farmers to drive change from the ground up to identify, test and validate practices that can reduce their environmental footprint while also enhancing farm production and viability.

“The DIN result is positive - It reflects cane growers’ ongoing commitment to improve water quality through their management planning and practices while also ensuring business viability.

“Although the sediment reduction is small, major water quality programs were in their infancy during the reporting period.

“Greater progress is expected in meeting these targets as multi-year projects funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, as well as projects funded by the Queensland Government, are completed and reported.”

Mr Hunt said the Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting (Paddock to Reef) program provided the framework for evaluating and reporting progress towards Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan targets and objectives through the Reef Water Quality Report Card.

Photo Caption: NQ Dry Tropics Program Manager Sustainable Agriculture Rob Hunt.

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The Fair Work Commission has ordered three unions to suspend industrial action at the Queensland factories of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables for six weeks after hearing submissions from unions and the company.

In light of the Commission’s decision, Sugar and Renewables is planning to have all of its eight factories crushing cane again this week, as soon as harvesting resumes in the wake of rain that drenched all its districts from Sarina in the south to Ingham in the north during the past week.

A spokesman for the company said that, assuming no more rain fell in the regions, it expected to have cane supply enabling production at all Burdekin mills this week, starting with Kalamia and Inkerman mills tomorrow (Monday) followed by Invicta and Pioneer mills by Thursday.

“Further south, Proserpine Mill is also expected to commence crushing Tuesday and Plane Creek Mill at Sarina is looking promising for Tuesday or Wednesday,” the spokesman said.

The Macknade Mill in the Herbert region to the north was expected to be in production early this week with Victoria Mill following mid-week. Fair Work Commission Deputy President Dobson had been asked by Sugar and Renewables to issue suspension orders after unions notified intention to mount a series of stoppages over coming weeks, further threatening company attempts to continue with the annual sugar season.

The company gave extensive evidence to the Commission on the impact of bans and stoppages, including the effect on regional economies and third parties in the sugar supply chain, particularly cane growers. The Sugar and Renewables spokesman said the suspension of industrial action relieves the immediate risk to the annual crushing season, and provides clear air for negotiations with unions on the enterprise agreement.

“Everyone in the supply chain can now make the necessary preparations to get underway and begin making up for lost time,” the spokesman said.

Meanwhile, Wilmar received another blow last week, with two staff with more than 14 years of experience handing in their notice of resignation at Invicta Mill.

The AWU (Australian Workers’ Union) claims that these latest departures come as a direct result of Wilmar’s low wages and will leave Wilmar’s largest mill critically short-staffed.

The AWU reported that one Wilmar worker at Invicta, who asked not to be named for fear of repercussions, said the departing workers will lead to the mill struggling to maintain quality and reliability throughout the crush.

“I fear the process side at Invicta will suffer this year as managers are pushing new starters to get signed off with only 3-4 weeks training,” they said.

“They still haven’t filled all positions in the fugals, mills or lab, it is a sh*t show for coverage - people are burned out already.”

AWU Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson said these reports confirmed what workers, cane growers and the local community had been saying for some time.

“Wilmar’s greed is slowly strangling the sugar communities of our region,” said Mr Wilson.

“We have also heard that Wilmar has had to send a boiler operator and a boiler assistant from the Inkerman mill to Proserpine because they don’t have anyone trained to do the job down there.

“It’s time for Wilmar to send an adult into negotiations to get this resolved.”

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Invicta Mill’s startup commenced last month but production has been interrupted by industrial action and weather. Photo credit: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables

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For more than 20 years Elvie Dickinson has been Treasurer of the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.

As treasurer Elvie looks after the money of the neighbourhood centre, puts together the budget and oversees that everything is done correctly.

Elvie does more than volunteer her time at the Neighbourhood Centre, she is also the coordinator of a support group for people with Parkinson’s disease in the Burdekin.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease herself in 2011, she noticed there was no support group for people in the Burdekin.

“I just thought that it was something that was needed and we meet on the fourth Friday of every month,” said Elvie.

“Parkinson’s is the second most prevalent neurological disease after Alzheimer's, in Australia. There are 18 or 19,000 people in Queensland, with Parkinson's disease.

“We help by what I like to call, a talkfest but we also have guest speakers as often as we can, they talk about different aspects of Parkinson's or the different ways that
you can get help for Parkinson's.

“We have people that provide help for people living with Parkinson's, the different programs that can help people.  

Coordinator at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre Natalie Saroglia said Elvie has mentored her and that the neighbourhood centre would not be what it is today without her.  

“She has a huge heart and she’s here for the community and it's people like Elvie that make community organizations what they are.”  

Photo supplied

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How is the cost-of-living crisis affecting you? Where is it hitting you? And What would you like the government to do to help?


Doreen Man
“It doesn’t affect me because I live by myself and have two pensions. I'd hate to have a family I don’t know how I’d do otherwise, I’ve got a gold card, and free health and medical stuff. For those struggling minimum wage could be raised without having to tax more people and if they could keep some control over the supermarkets and the pricing of goods, I don't think they'll be able to do that, but it’d be good.”



Yasar Dolu
“I'm just a backpacker doing the visa here and working on the farm. I need to work more hours than I expected. Before I came here, I thought I would save more money. But now it's kind of just enough for the bill for my rent, groceries and transportation.”



Jane Goodchild
“It's very high and making it hard. It’s affecting me most at the grocery store and you know your living expenses, your fuel, your rates and your insurances and everything. If the government can help bring prices down on groceries if they can, and car registrations and other stuff really.”



Hayley Vidler  
“I guess we’re just more cautious when we go to the grocery store and more cautious with after-school activities. We don't eat out anymore, we eat at home a lot more. The government can help with petrol and food they are probably the two biggest factors. They really need to come down, that's getting out of control and more funding for private schools would be good too, that would be great.”

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The exceptional talents of the young Zaza Road Quartet will ignite the Burdekin Theatre this July as part of the 2024 Outreach Tour.  

Violinist Keven Hsu, cellist Mya Whatson, clarinettist Nathanael Duffy, and pianist Mai-Lien Olsson attended the Australian Festival of Chamber Music’s (AFCM) International Masterclass Program as students, and now will lead the Outreach Tour to Charters Towers, Ingham, Ayr and Townsville.

“They are the perfect example of what we aim to do in both programs – to nurture young musicians, and to share music and pathways with North Queensland students through our Outreach Tour & Workshops Program,” said AFCM Pathways Program Director Lloyd van’t Hoff.

Much more than performances, the tour will host workshops at the secondary schools throughout the region, one of which being Ayr State High School to provide mentorship and inspire students about the opportunities and careers in music.

“We are hoping that students of music, and related studies, will take part in the workshops and we encourage everyone to come and watch our performances and talk to us about our respective careers and what’s ahead, as well as how students in regional Queensland can pursue careers in music,” said Lloyd.

The AFCM Outreach program stands as an important part of the festival’s commitment to community engagement, access and development, and has been made possible with the incredible support of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

Wilmar Community Relations Manager Kylie Newman said the company was proud to partner again with the AFCM to support this year’s Outreach Tour & Workshops Program.
 
“We are pleased to welcome Lloyd and the Zaza Road Quartet back to North Queensland to share their talents with music lovers in our regional communities,” Mrs Newman said.

“We know there is a wealth of musical talents in the regional communities of North Queensland, and we hope the young people who attend the workshops are inspired to continue to peruse their music studies.”

The free AFCM Outreach Tour Concert will be held on Monday 22 July from 6pm at the Burdekin Theatre, and more information can be found online at afcm.com.au.

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What: AFCM Outreach Tour Concert.
When: Monday 22 July from 6pm.
Where: Burdekin Theatre.
More Information: Online at afcm.com.au.

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On Saturday 22 June, fifteen debutantes made their official debut at the Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s 2024 Debutante Ball.

The theme of the evening was “A Night Under the Stars” with gorgeous decorations, dresses and suits igniting the Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill.

Each debutante and partner shone bright for what was an amazing evening filled with both dancing choreographed by the talented duo, Eliza Worlein and Rory Jorgensen, and traditional dances debutante balls are known for.

Congratulations to all the debutantes.

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The Debutantes with dance teachers Rory and Eliza on either side.

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The Home Hill Harvest Festival has begun gearing up for what will be an amazing Parade and Street Party for the annually anticipated event.

The festival celebrates the rich agricultural industry within the Burdekin community and encompasses a range of events spread throughout the back end of the year from late September to early November. The Grand Parade, accompanied by a fantastic Street Party concludes the celebrations, and will run from 5pm at Eighth Avenue in Home Hill on Saturday 9 November. Set to bring extraordinary live entertainment, delicious food, wonderful merchandise stalls, and terrific carnival rides, it’s time to mark your calendars.

The unforgettable evening will follow the Home Hill Harvest Festival Street Parade and is now calling for stall holders to apply. Watson’s Green in Home Hill will become a lively hot spot for fun and excitement as the community comes together for a memorable 2024 celebration with the setting of the sun from 6pm.

Stall holders, travellers, and locals are all invited to enjoy an evening under the stars as the Home Hill Harvest Festival celebrated the bountiful harvest season for another year.

Applications will be accepted through the festival’s online form at www.hhharvestfestival.com.au. Those interested are invited to contact the committee via email at info@hharvestfestival.com.au.

What: Home Hill Harvest Festival Street Parade and Street Party
When: Saturday 9 November from 5pm
Where: Eighth Avenue Home Hill and Watson’s Green Home Hill
More Information: www.hhharvestfestival.com.au and the Home Hill Harvest Festival Facebook Page

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The Burdekin Potters have been busily creating beautiful pieces as part of an Underglaze Decorating Workshop under the experienced guidance of the talented duo, Maleny Potter, and Judy Gardiner.

The treat of a workshop had members expanding their pottery skillsets to colourful new heights. Each member was taught the technique of applying a gorgeous design to a raw, dry clay plate, and then adding vibrant colours and depth through the medium of ceramic paints or underglazes. After decorating their creations, the pieces underwent a first firing, followed by the application of clear glaze and then being placed back into the kiln for the final glaze firing.

The results were stunning, and all the potters attending the workshop were amazed and impressed with their own creativity, with most of the attendees looking to continue utilising their newfound techniques and talents into their future pieces.

The workshop instilled confidence in the attendees, proving you do not have to be an experienced potter to achieve great results. Most members of the Burdekin Potters have not been long on their journey with clay, making the results of the workshop even more fulfilling, and commendable.

Since the workshop, the members of the Burdekin Potters have been creating many more unique, and colourful pieces, and the group extends a warm thanks to the generous funding provided by the RADF, and to the Burdekin Shire Council for their support.

“The opportunity to gain this valuable knowledge for members, was only available through generous RADF funding and the continued support to the Pottery Club by the Burdekin Shire Council,” expressed Burdekin Pottery Club President, Debbie Ferraris.

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A marine choice for Sue.
Mara painted her pup Raff.
Lyn styles in black and white.
Kristy shows her self-portrait with tutor Judy Gardiner.

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On Wednesday 12 June, the Home Hill branch of the Burdekin Library hosted a fantastic showcase of the literary talents of Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers.  

The talented writers presented poems, and stories focusing both on the past, and looking towards the future along with stories filled with love, paired with stories sharing the tales of familial chaos.

Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers were joined by an audience of locals, and relatives, and once again, each story and poem transported listers far beyond the Burdekin and broke away from the regularities of everyday life – with each audience member being returned safely back to reality at the conclusion of the event.  

The Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology is now available to read at the Home Hill and Ayr branches of the Burdekin Library, and both Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers extend a warm thanks to the Burdekin Library for hosting the event.  

Thanks were also expressed to all those who attended and their contribution to making the showcase a success. George Venables was congratulated for being the driving force behind the Anthology, and his hard work and dedication to the publication of the book were acknowledged, with the groups expressing that its existence would not have been possible without him.

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Members from both Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers sharing their stories

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The Lower Burdekin Scout Group dedicated their time at the 2024 Ayr Show on Wednesday 26 June for another year, ensuring areas including parking ran smoothly.

The group managed the carpark from 8am to 8pm, along with one of the entry admission points to fundraise for their organisation, with some scouts providing families with information on the club and what Scouting entails.

The wet weather could not dampen the spirits of the scouts, with both youth and experienced members of the club fulfilling their duties efficiently.

Youth members of the club were stationed at the information table, offering the opportunity for members of the community to come along and try Scouting for free over a four-week period.

“This is a major fundraising event for our group, and we thank the show committee for allowing us to do it each year,” explained Group Leader Chris Berkery.

“This and the other fundraising events we undertake throughout the year provides Scouting at a lower cost to youth in the Burdekin.”

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Members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group ready to go at the Ayr Show. Photo supplied

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On 16 April 1958, a group of representatives from numerous local organisations gathered to create a committee to organise the first-ever Water Festival.  

The first official Water Festival Committee members, known as Office Bearers, were Chairman Cr E. W. Ford, Secretary Mr R. L. Weatherstone, Assistant Secretary Miss J. M. Kruckow, and joining them were committee members, R. Rossiter, M. Towers, C. Richards, H. Wade, W. Saxby, L. M. Stockham, and S. M. Green.  

The committee developed various ideas, and plans for the festival, and floated the idea of introducing a Queen Competition, where a “Mermaid Queen” who fundraised the highest total would be crowned at a ball held on the Friday following the street procession. The initial brainstorm as published by the original Advocate, also included “an ugly man competition”, as well as the traditions the community now adores like decorated floats, and shop window displays. Additional proposed ideas included a garden competition, decorative lights for an evening display, a water display, sporting tournaments, Choral Society entertainment, religious events and even a spear-driving competition.  

The date was set, and the first official Burdekin Water Festival was held in Ayr from 12 – 14 September. Described as “Brilliantly Successful” by The Advocate, the procession ignited Queen Street with thousands of locals in attendance. With spectacular shop window displays and even more spectacular floats lining the sides of the bustling street, the community enjoyed the festivities all throughout the day, and well into the night.  

The 1958 Water Festival Ball as organised by the Ayr Rotary Club, was held on Friday 19 September at the Caledonian Hall, and the celebrated crowing of the first festival queens took place. The Queens gathered at the Shire Chambers to meet with the official party and then proceeded to the Caledonian Hall where they met Mr and Mrs C. Dempsey – representatives of the Ayr Rotary Club. Miss Val Pegoraro, Kalamia Queen (nominated by the Kalamia Mill Suppliers Committee), was crowned the winner, with Miss Dawn Chapple, Pioneer Queen (nominated by the Lower Burdekin Junior Farmers Club) announced the Runner Up, and Miss Mary Blakoe, Sports Queen (nominated by the Ayr Rifle Club), taking third place.  

The Burdekin Water Festival holds a treasured place in the region, and the continuation of the event in 2024 holds great significance, and stands testament to the great dedication of the extraordinary members within the community.  

The man who first dreamed of establishing what has now become one of the most treasured events in Burdekin history was Mr Bob Saxby. In the words published by The Advocate in 1958, “What a splendid reality that dream turned out to be”.  

Caption: The crowning of the first Water Festival Queens, L to R Miss Dawn Chapple, Miss Val Pegoraro, and Miss Mary Blakoe.

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The time has come to nominate both Junior and Senior Ambassadors for the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival! With the theme announced, and preparations well underway, the committee is calling for ambassadors to join the 2024 Bring it Back event, and many locals have begun reminiscing on their time spent as a Water Festival Ambassador in previous years since the announcement.

Clubs, schools, sporting groups, and organisations are invited to nominate their Junior Ambassador who is 11 – 12 years of age in grades 6 or 7 within the Burdekin region.

As for the Senior Ambassadors, nominations can be made from clubs, organisations, and businesses as well as individuals who will be matched with a suitable club, organisation or business.  

All nominations can be made by emailing the Burdekin Water Festival Committee at info@burdekinwaterfestival.com.au or via messaging the Burdekin Water Festival Facebook Page.

The Burdekin Water Festival Committee looks forward to supporting both Junior and Senior Ambassadors on their journey in 2024 for what will be a spectacular revival of the much-loved, and treasured event.

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On Thursday the 20th of June, four students from the Burdekin PCYC’s Get Set for Work Program celebrated their official graduation.

The Get Set for work program is a skilling Queenslanders for Work program funded by the Queensland Government designed for those 15 - 19 years no longer attending school.

Reece Piva, Kyle Gudge-Bollman, Jhay Leamon, and Jak Hervey completed a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways over the duration of 10 weeks, engaging with and participating in the extensive program.

Having now graduated from the program, each student has the opportunity to progress their learning by electing to obtain a Learners’ Licence, Responsible Service of Alcohol Certification, First Aid and CPR Certification, and a White Card under the guidance of the Burdekin PCYC.

Each of the frou students completed employment enhancing activities to further advance their knowledge and understanding in numerous fields. The program supported the students in building resumes and cover letters in response to job advertisements and educated them on the details of budgeting, AOD Awareness, Road Safety and much more. Additionally, the students gained a further understanding of the historical and cultural knowledge of the Burdekin area.

Applications for the next season of the program are now open, and the Burdekin PCYC encourages those interested, or those who know of a young person who could benefit from this program to apply. The program will begin on Monday 8 July, and to apply, contact Rowan Scott or Tamara Kemp on 0448 686 648. 

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Reece Piva, Kyle Gudge-Bollman, Jhay Leamon, and Jak Hervey celebrating their graduation

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Finding your dream home can be an exhilarating journey filled with excitement and challenges. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, here are essential tips to help you navigate the process and land the perfect home:

   1. Define Your Priorities
Begin by making a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Consider factors such as location, neighbourhood, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, layout, and specific features like a backyard or garage. Knowing your priorities will streamline your search.

   2. Set a Realistic Budget
Determine how much you can afford to spend on a home, taking into account your income, savings for a down payment, closing costs, and ongoing expenses like property taxes and utilities. This will guide your search and prevent you from falling in love with a home that's out of your financial reach.

   3. Research Neighbourhoods
Explore different neighbourhoods that align with your lifestyle preferences. Consider factors such as school districts, proximity to work, amenities (parks, shops, restaurants), safety, and future development plans. Visiting neighbourhoods at different times of the day can provide valuable insights.

   4. Work with a Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent can be invaluable in your search for a dream home. They have access to exclusive listings, understand market trends, and can negotiate on your behalf. Choose an agent who specializes in the neighbourhoods you're interested in and who listens to your needs.

   5. Attend Open Houses
Open houses offer a firsthand look at properties and allow you to assess their condition, layout, and potential. Take notes, ask questions, and envision how each home aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

   6. Consider Long-Term Resale Value
Even if you plan to stay in your dream home for many years, it's wise to consider its resale potential. Look for properties in desirable locations with features that appeal to a broad range of potential buyers.

   7. Get a Home Inspection
Before making an offer, schedule a professional home inspection. This will uncover any hidden issues or necessary repairs that could affect your decision or negotiation process.

   8. Factor in Additional Costs
Beyond the purchase price, budget for additional costs such as property taxes, homeowner's insurance, maintenance and repairs, and possible homeowner association (HOA) fees. Understanding these expenses upfront helps you prepare financially.

   9. Trust Your Instincts
Finding your dream home is as much about emotion as it is about logic. If a property feels right and checks off most of your boxes, trust your instincts. Picture yourself living there and envision your future in the space.

Finding your dream home involves careful planning, research, and a clear understanding of your priorities and budget. By following these tips and working with experienced professionals, you can navigate the real estate market with confidence and find a home that fulfills your aspirations. Remember, patience and persistence are key to discovering the perfect place to call home.

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On Wednesday 26 June, the Burdekin Shire Council announced allocations as part of its 2024/25 Budget. Here is an outline of what you’ll find in the budget.

$16.4 Million for Road Reconstructions and UpgradesAn investment dedicated to both rural and urban projects, $16.4 million will be invested into initiatives in the areas of reconstruction, floodway, drainage and culvert upgrades, and footpath replacements. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said this investment is dedicated to a range of initiatives including road designs, renewals, and drainage construction project, carefully selected to address key areas of improvements for reliability and safety.

$3.2 Million for Industrial Estate Expansion
In the Burdekin Shire Council’s continued commitment to investing in the region’s economic development, expansion of businesses, and creation of jobs, $3.2 million will support the development of the Industrial Estate expansion, with Phase 1 set to be completed by the end of 2024. Complementing the existing Ayr Industrial Estate, Phase 1 of the expansion will deliver up to 25 new industrial lots in the short term, with a further 20 lots to be released in the future as part of Phase 2 of the expansion. Works will include; new roads, drainage, water, sewerage, and underground power infrastructure that are currently underway.

$2.9 Million for the Reconstruction of the Jerona Causeway
The Burdekin Shire Council has secured $2.9 million from the State Government to reconstruct the Jerona Causeway following damage to the structure in the 2023 flooding events. The successful tender for the construction of the new Jerona Causeway has been awarded to A. Gabrielli Constructions, with construction set to commence at the end of June.

$155,000 for Community Well-Being and Infrastructure
$155,000 will be invested into facilities throughout the shire, with plans to construct a new shelter to ensure the community can enjoy the pool while being protected from the sun. The Home Hill Pool, and the Millaroo community  pool have been included in Masterplan works with new developments set to take place.

World First Wastewater Facility
The Burdekin Shire Council has announced an exciting milestone with the world first Macro Algae Bioremediation Facility set to be commissioned in September. A joint initiative between Council and RegenAqua, the innovative facility will use native green algae to treat wastewater and remove nutrients such as phosphorous and nitrogen which are harmful to the Great Barrier Reef, and will also sequester carbon dioxide.  

Long Term Portable Water Supply
Long term portable water supply for the Ayr, Brandon, and Alva communities has been secured in the 2024/25 Budget, ensuring a safe and reliable source of drinking water well into the future. The construction of a new Water Filtration Plant is expected to begin in the coming months.

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Councillors and Mayor Dalle Cort announcing the 2024/25 budget on Wednesday morning

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