Since 2018, Pacific Blue have held an integral role in the running of the highly celebrated Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival however, the work the organisation achieves in and around the Burdekin community extends far beyond sponsorship.

Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund was created to share the benefits of the Haughton Solar Farm with the wider community, providing long-lasting social, economic and environmental value extending beyond the life of the solar farm itself.

Lachlan Sturt, Pacific Blue’s Manager of Stakeholder Relations, believes in supporting local events like the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival and through introducing the Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund, Pacific Blue can continue to strengthen its close connections within the community.

“Since the commissioning of the Haughton Solar Farm in 2019, Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Community Fund has proudly supported 76 local projects with more than $462,000 in funding,” explained Lachlan.

“These projects span a wide range of initiatives, from upgrading essential community facilities to supporting local sports clubs, environmental sustainability efforts, and vital community services.”

Commissioned in 2019, the Fund has provided more than $300,000 to 52 local sustainable projects including those pioneered by the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, Lower Burdekin Landcare Association, Zonta Burdekin, and the Home Hill Tennis Association Inc. and in light of recent events, Pacific Blue has decided to adjust the terms of the 2025 Fund application process.

“To support the Burdekin’s recovery following this year’s devastating floods, Pacific Blue has brought forward our annual Community Fund, which is now open,” highlighted Lachlan.

“We know how resilient this community is, and we want to do our part to help local groups get back on their feet.

Eligible community groups are encouraged to apply for project funding up to $10,000 from a pool of $80,000 and are able to do so online at pacificblue.com.au or through the QR code.

“The response from the Burdekin community to the Haughton Sustainable Community Fund has been overwhelmingly positive and we’re incredibly proud of the strong relationship we’ve built with the Burdekin community,” Lachlan added.

“Sponsoring the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival aligns closely with Pacific Blue’s mission to leave the world a better place by celebrating the unique stories, traditions, and heritage of the communities we are part of.”

“Supporting events like Sweet Days, Hot Nights not only strengthens our bond with the Burdekin but also reinforces our shared dedication to preserving local heritage, fostering cultural appreciation, and driving regional prosperity.”

The Fund opened on Monday the 31st of March and will close on Friday the 9th of May and all successful recipients will be announced on stage at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships on Saturday the 31st of May.

“While our solar farm remains tucked away behind tall sugarcane fields, our presence in the community is well known - not just through our renewable energy projects, but through the partnerships and support we provide,” said Lachlan.

“The Burdekin is a place of resilience and warmth, and we’re both humbled and proud to call it home, standing alongside the community to support initiatives that make a lasting difference.”

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The Home Hill Tennis Association Inc. recieved an allocation from Pacific Blue's Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund in 2024 (Photo Supplied)

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CANEGROWERS Burdekin Ltd (CBL) recently welcomed a visit by Jo Martin, Policy Advisor, Water from the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) to discuss the issues and priorities related to the Lower Burdekin Rising Ground Water challenges.

The consequences of a rising water table and associated salinity issues have been compounding over decades, and unfortunately, the can has been kicked down the road for far too long. A clear position on what is required to make some significant progress on the development of a plan to resolve this long-standing issue is now urgent.

CANEGROWERS and QFF are working on this unresolved issue with a goal to supporting local growers to secure a long-term resolution.

Who Is QFF?

QFF’s members are agricultural peak bodies who collectively represent more than 13,000 farmers who produce food, fibre and foliage across the state. CANEGROWERS is the peak body for the sugarcane industry and is a tier one member of QFF. The peak body members come together to develop policy and lead projects on the key issues that are important to their farmer members and that supports a strong future for Queensland agriculture.

Who Did QFF Meet With in the Burdekin?

CBL arranged for Sunwater to provide a local update to QFF on the Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater Project, met with stakeholder and QFF member BRIA Irrigators to gain their feedback on the issue and a local grower directly affected by this challenge. CBL also arranged for a presentation from Burdekin Salt & Minerals Pty Ltd on the Burdekin Salt Project which is investigating the feasibility of using saline groundwater systems to produce crystalline salt and minerals.

Key Solutions and Priorities

The Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater issue is a complex problem which is going to take a range of multi-pronged solutions to address it over time such as; off and on farm groundwater extraction, approval on a Code of Practice to formalise parameters to enable groundwater export, incentivising growers to pump groundwater, water use irrigation efficiencies and scheme modernisation. Given the magnitude of the problem, the solution that will deliver the most bang for buck is groundwater extraction and the Government need to urgently facilitate the approval pathway to enable implementation of the dewatering solution.  Livelihoods are at risk if decisive actions are not implemented soon.

Where to Next

Farmers invested capital in good faith to purchase and develop land in the Burdekin River Irrigation Area and are now faced with detrimental impacts on their productivity and ongoing viability. QFF is actively engaging with government departments with the viewpoint of supporting tangible actions taking place that deliver meaningful outcomes to address rising groundwater and soil salinity in the Lower Burdekin region.

Join CANEGROWERS
If you’re not yet a member of CANEGROWERS – the peak body that truly leads the industry – get in touch with CBL on 4790 3600 to learn more about the benefits of membership.

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By Amanda Wright

The 2025 Federal Budget was never just about dollars and cents—it’s about the path Australia takes in the years ahead. Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ latest budget, handed down on 25 March, focuses on cost-of-living relief, housing, and a shift towards a more sustainable economy. But with an election now locked in for 3 May, the question is clear: does this budget lay strong economic foundations, or is it a political play designed to secure votes?

At the heart of the budget are income tax cuts, with the rate for incomes between $18,201 and $45,000 dropping from 16 per cent to 15 per cent in 2026, and then to 14 per cent in 2027. While this offers up to $536 in annual relief, the extended timeline has drawn scrutiny—structural economic planning or a carefully placed hurdle for future governments? Immediate relief measures include a $150 energy rebate for households and small businesses, reduced pharmaceutical costs under the PBS, and a 20 per cent reduction in HELP/HECS debts. These initiatives aim to ease financial pressure, but critics argue they fail to tackle the root causes of inflation.

For the Dawson electorate, the budget’s impact has drawn mixed reactions from the candidates vying for the seat.

2025 Budget Sparks Debate In Dawson

Labor’s View: A Budget for Cost-of-Living Relief

Labor candidate Mr Neil Wallace defended the budget as “centred on delivering cost-of-living relief”, arguing it would provide direct benefits to Dawson residents.

“Cost of living remains our number one focus, which is why the budget is centred on delivering cost-of-living relief,” Mr Wallace said.

“Every taxpayer will receive a new tax cut, and all 2.2 million households in Queensland will get an additional $150 in help with their energy bills, along with 216,000 eligible small businesses.

“The Government's investment in bulk billing is estimated to result in an additional 3.6 million bulk-billed GP visits each year in Queensland, and 940 practices moving to bulk billing all patients, which could save residents between $236 and $365 per year.”

Mr Wallace also pointed to healthcare and infrastructure funding as key benefits for Dawson.

“Dawson is a big beneficiary in our budget, with a new Urgent Care Clinic planned for Mackay. This will provide free, walk-in urgent care—but not for life-threatening conditions—over extended hours,” he said.

“Major infrastructure projects receiving additional government funding include $7.2 billion for the Bruce Highway to improve safety, which is the single largest investment ever made in the Bruce Highway. This is much needed for the people of Dawson.”

The Greens: A Missed Opportunity

Greens candidate Ms Paula Creen dismissed the budget as a “big disappointment and missed opportunity”, arguing that both major parties had failed to deliver meaningful relief.

“Labor’s tax cuts will barely scratch the surface for those struggling with cost of living, while the Coalition’s fuel excise policy will only last for one year,” Ms Creen said.

“Both the major parties continue to give tax cuts and handouts to big corporations and billionaires, while the average person gets next to nothing in cost-of-living relief.”

Ms Creen was critical of the temporary nature of relief measures, saying Dawson residents deserved permanent solutions.

“People in Dawson are hurting and need urgent and permanent cost-of-living relief, not more temporary measures that simply tinker around the edges,” she said.

“The Greens have a plan to make big corporations pay their fair share, so we can fund dental and mental health into Medicare, wipe student debt, freeze rents, and take strong action on climate change by investing in renewables and creating jobs in clean energy for our region.”

The Coalition: No Real Gains for Dawson

Sitting LNP MP Mr Andrew Willcox dismissed the budget as “short-term sweeteners” that fail to address the long-term challenges facing regional Australia.

“We can't afford another three years of Labor, and we certainly can't afford a Labor minority government with the Greens and Teals on the crossbench. That would just be diabolical,” Mr Willcox said.

“When I'm in Canberra, one of the big jobs I have is trying to talk to the other side about regional and rural Australia. They just don’t get it.”

He was particularly critical of the lack of new investment in Dawson, stating that the government had neglected major regional issues.

“This was obviously a rushed budget full of short-term sweeteners designed to win an election, but which will bake in huge debt and even more spending,” he said.

“There is nothing major in this budget specifically for Dawson. No commitment for flood-proofing roads, nothing for regional GP shortages.”

Mr Willcox was highly critical of the Bruce Highway funding, claiming the government had failed to follow through on essential upgrades.

“One of the things I bring up often is the Bruce Highway. It’s in a really bad state, as anyone who drives it would know.

“Along the 1600km stretch, Mackay to Townsville is rated the worst. We have the worst sections here in Dawson.”

He also rejected the tax cuts as inadequate, saying they would do little to help struggling households.

“The tax cuts will average about 70c a day for people and won’t kick in for another 15 months. The cost of living crisis is happening right now. This is an insult considering the cost of everything has gone up so much in the past three years,” he said.

“Another electricity rebate is really just Labor giving us back our own money to help pay for higher power prices they created with their renewables-only energy policy.”

“An elected Coalition government will provide relief from the get-go, cutting the fuel excise, saving Australians 15 cents for every litre bought”

“For a family with two cars, that’s an average of $1500 per year,” Mr Willcox said.

Election Showdown

Just three days after handing down the budget, Prime Minister Mr Anthony Albanese called the federal election, ensuring that the budget itself is now a political battleground.

Dr Amanda Nickson, representing Family First, and Michael Lockye for the Trumpet of Patriots were unable to be contacted prior to print for comment. However, our publication will endeavour to introduce their viewpoints to readers over the coming weeks.

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Hi Everyone,

It was wonderful visiting the region last week and meeting so many of you. Thank you for making me feel so welcome.

I especially enjoyed exploring the beautiful shops around Burdekin with our Sales Manager, Trish, who I am sure many of you know or recognise.

There is such a genuine sense of community spirit in the region, which feels quite rare these days. It was lovely to see how close-knit the community is and how passionate everyone is about the area.

If I did not get the chance to meet you last week, I will be in the region every Wednesday and Thursday. If you have any story ideas or something you would like to share, please feel free to reach out and I will do my best to pop in and see you.

Also, I am a big foodie, so if you have any recommendations for great places to eat in the region, I would love to hear them.

I am really looking forward to getting to know you all better and learning more about your amazing lives and stories as I begin getting used to the region.

Happy Reading!

Ruth

“Stop telling yourself you’re not qualified, good enough or worthy. Growth happens when you start doing the things you’re not qualified to do.” - Steven Bartlett

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Burdekin Christian College (BCC) took great pride in its core values of inclusivity and celebrating each child’s uniqueness.

A special event was recently held to raise awareness of Turner Syndrome — a condition that affects only females and occurs when one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing. The College community was encouraged to turn the campus into a sea of purple, the official colour of Turner Syndrome Awareness Day, in support of this important initiative and one of their own students who is affected by the syndrome.

Students also had the opportunity to create purple butterflies, which were proudly displayed throughout the College as a symbol of support. Those wearing purple were asked to bring a gold coin donation for the Turner Syndrome Foundation.

A special thank you was extended to the dedicated College Captains who organised the event, and to Mrs Smart for preparing a delicious purple cake enjoyed by all. The College looked vibrant and uplifting, decorated with the beautiful purple butterflies crafted by the students.

The fundraising effort was a huge success, raising an impressive $464 in support of the Turner Syndrome Association. The butterfly badges proved especially popular, selling out by morning tea as they quite literally ‘flew’ out the door.

The student in BCC, who suffers from Turners Syndrome, shared how seeing the College transformed into a sea of purple made her feel truly special and supported.

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What more could you possibly need than a 5.3kg Nugget!

Nugget is a sweet little companion who is ready to be your new best friend. Having lived a spoiled life alongside his previous owners, Nugget has enjoyed visits to coffee shops, Bunnings, and anywhere his family went — he went too.

Well-behaved both indoors and out, Nugget is a delightful small breed with many years of love still to give. His gentle nature and loyal personality mean he will fit beautifully into almost any home.

Nugget’s adoption fee of $1,000 includes desexing (when of appropriate age), microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea, tick, and intestinal worm treatment, and heartworm prevention or ProHeart protection.

If you’re interested in meeting Nugget and giving him the forever home he deserves, please complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Don’t miss the chance to welcome this little gem into your life!

DOB: 17/11/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: Toy Poodle
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 4ft

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Burdekin Shire Council Plans 'Nudging' Operation for Flying Foxes, Do You Have Experience With The Bats And What Is Your Opinion On The Situation?

Damien:
“I've had experience with bats over the past year, but haven't directly seen them causing issues for residents. Still, I support what the council is doing. If no action is taken, things will only get worse and harder to handle later. Unless they're actively moved, bats will keep returning. Nudging makes sense because there needs to be control. Without it, the flying foxes will keep multiplying, impacting more homes and making it tougher for people in the community to live comfortably.”
Bruce Bailey:
“I haven't had much direct experience with flying foxes, mainly because I've only been living in Burdekin for about a year. But from what I've seen, I don't think trying to remove them will help much, as they'll probably just return. Eradication isn't a realistic or ethical solution, so options are limited. That's why I don't agree with the council's nudging strategy—it seems ineffective and unlikely to provide a lasting solution to the flying fox problem in the area.”
Paula Tsasousis:
“We've seen plenty of flying foxes around our home, mostly just flying overhead, but they've been more of a nuisance in parks. It's definitely a problem that needs addressing because it affects public spaces that everyone uses. The council needs to act decisively. I'm not overly concerned about the specific method they choose, as long as it solves the problem. I fully support the nudging approach because it's essential for the comfort and safety of residents who use local parks regularly.”
Daryl:
“I'm unsure about the council’s strategy for dealing with the flying foxes. I grew up in Cairns, and there were always flying foxes because they were attracted to mango trees. It's pretty much the same situation here. Removing mango trees isn't realistic because practically every home has one. I doubt the nudging will work since flying foxes will just find new places with plenty of fruit. I think the council’s efforts probably won’t succeed because the environment naturally attracts them, and the population will just keep growing.”
Lisa Murray:
“I haven't personally had problems with flying foxes, and being an animal lover, I don't think they're a big issue. I know Charters Towers has struggled with them, but I didn't realize Ayr or Burdekin faced similar troubles. I'm sceptical about the council's nudging strategy because I'm not clear on exactly what they plan to do. My family loves animals, and we'd prefer more information about their methods before supporting any action that might negatively affect the flying foxes or local wildlife in general.”
Dawn:
“Yes, I've definitely experienced flying foxes first-hand. We used to live near a large colony and often made loud noises by banging tins and metal to scare them off, but that's not feasible anymore, especially in towns. So, I support the council's strategy. It's necessary because parks are important for children and families, and with too many flying foxes around, there are real health risks. The council needs to act to keep public areas safe for everyone, particularly kids who play there regularly.”
Suzanne Tallis:
“I'm not sure about this approach. It seems to me the council might be trying to push flying foxes away from their natural habitats more for political reasons than practical ones. My concern is about where these bats will go if they're moved. Without suitable places to relocate, the council's plan could end up creating more problems. Overall, I don't feel the nudging strategy is thoughtful or effective, and the council should consider a better plan that respects both wildlife and community needs.”

Sam Childers, an American preacher and international speaker from Pennsylvania, is coming to Burdekin Community Church to share his extraordinary journey of redemption and hope. His story is one of transformation, showing how God reached an outlaw biker, a drug dealer, and a man who once destroyed lives—and completely turned his life around.

This is more than just a story—it’s a message of inspiration and the power of redemption. Sam’s remarkable transformation from a troubled past to a life of purpose is a powerful reminder that change is possible for anyone.

In 1992, Sam's life was forever changed when, with the help of his first wife, he attended a revival meeting at an Assembly of God Church. That night, he gave his life to Christ, and during the service, his pastor prophesied that Sam would one day go to Africa—a prophecy that would lead to an incredible mission.

Sam’s first trip to Central-Eastern Africa in 1997 marked the beginning of a life spent rescuing thousands of children from unimaginable horrors. These children were torn from their families, forced into slavery, and subjected to unimaginable abuse by warlords like Joseph Kony. Over the course of nearly 30 years, Sam has been on the front lines of saving children in South Sudan and Northern Uganda, giving them a chance at life and freedom.

One moment stands out among many: In 1998, Sam witnessed the body of a child torn apart by a landmine in Sudan. Standing over that child, he made a vow: “God, I’ll do anything within my power to help these people.” That vow set him on a path to rescue thousands of children, creating a lasting impact on the lives of so many.

Sam's dedication and selfless work have earned him global recognition. In 2013, he became the first and only American to receive the prestigious Mother Teresa Memorial International Award for Social Justice in Mumbai, India. This honour recognises his tireless efforts in rescuing children from the Lord’s Resistance Army, placing him alongside humanitarian figures like the Dalai Lama and Malala Yousafzai.

When he’s not in Africa, Sam speaks around the world, inspiring audiences at churches, schools, businesses, and even prisons. He’s shared his story with organisations such as Daimler Benz, Warner Bros, Mitsubishi-Fuso, Harley Davidson, and Village Roadshow. Sam also runs schools, orphanages, trade-training centres, and farms across Africa, all focused on helping the children in need.

His life story was the inspiration behind the 2011 film Machine Gun Preacher, starring Gerard Butler, which portrays his journey from a drug-dealing biker to a man on a mission to rescue children from some of Africa’s most dangerous regions.

Sam believes that his story can inspire hope in anyone’s life: “If they just take a little bit of that story in… Just look deep into my story. If God can change me and use me… imagine what He can do for you.”

To quote the late actor Peter Fonda:

"One man can make a huge difference. Sam Childers certainly does."

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to hear Sam’s inspiring story firsthand. The evening will start with a meet and greet BBQ at 6pm, followed by Sam’s engaging talk at 7pm where you’ll hear all about his extraordinary life.

What: Sam Childers
Where: Burdekin Community Church
When: Friday 11th April 2025, 6pm start

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Burdekin Christian College (BCC) recently hosted a vibrant and engaging Harmony Week event, showcasing the talents and cultural awareness of their students. The celebrations included an impressive series of performances by the college's senior students, who danced in traditional styles from Fiji, Tonga, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The performances were a highlight of the day, and the students' passion for sharing their heritage was evident in every step.

As part of their commitment to promoting inclusivity, these senior students also visited the early childhood classes, where they led the young learners in activities focused on respect and diversity. Through song, art, and dance, the students fostered an understanding of cultural appreciation among the younger members of the school community. The college is immensely proud of the leadership and role-modeling displayed by these exceptional students.

The celebrations continued with a creative and hands-on experience for the Junior School students, as the senior students dedicated their lunch hour to face painting. The Junior School children embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, and the pride they felt in celebrating cultural diversity.

The Year 12 students played a key role in the event, taking charge of organising special cultural stalls designed to highlight various traditions from around the world. The stalls were met with great excitement from the younger students, who were eager to explore the displays and learn about different cultures. Special thanks were given to the parents and staff who contributed to the stall displays, further enhancing the learning experience.

A highlight of the day was the ‘Aussie BBQ’ hosted by the Year 12 students and their helpers. The group worked tirelessly to serve hundreds of sausages to the queue of students, accompanied by delicious lamingtons.The sea of orange across the school served as a powerful visual reminder of the college's core values of respect and courtesy for all cultures.

The celebrations also featured a variety of international dishes, thanks to the incredible efforts of BCC’s staff. With a diverse spread that included foods from India, Italy, Asia, Ireland, England, South Africa, and traditional Australian favourites, the ‘Taste of Harmony’ initiative was a true reflection of the college's commitment to embracing cultural diversity.

In every way, Harmony Day at Burdekin Christian College was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the students, staff, and community members. The college stated how they are incredibly proud of the spirit of inclusivity and respect demonstrated throughout the day, and looks forward to continuing to foster these values in the years to come.

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From cats perched on counters to guinea pigs and beyond, My Pets Rural is far more than just a pet and stockfeed supply store. It is a vibrant community hub, proudly dedicated to caring for both its customers and their beloved animals.

A much-loved local business, My Pets Rural has also earned well-deserved recognition beyond the region, recently being named Member of the Year at the Aiir and Tucker National Member Conference 2025.

Owners Ross & Tracy Tapiolas shared the team’s excitement and surprise at receiving such a prestigious award.

"As a small, local store competing against much larger businesses in Brisbane, winning this award is a huge achievement for us."

However, while the win was a proud moment, Ross also spoke of his disappointment at not being able to attend the awards ceremony in person due to the recent floods. Although they could have made the trip to the Gold Coast, Ross made it clear that their priority remained firmly with their customers.

"We had to stay here. We didn’t want to let our customers down, especially after the floods. People would be racing in to get served," he explained.

The community’s response was heartfelt, with staff and customers alike recognising the store’s loyalty and dedication.

"A few staff members and customers even came up to me and said, ‘No wonder you’ve won it, because you could have gone to the awards, but you stayed for your shop,’" Ross added.

This moment perfectly exemplifies My Pets Rural’s unwavering commitment to its community and exceptional customer service. No request is ever too great.

While the store stocks an extensive range of quality products, if you are after something specialised or specific, the team will always go above and beyond to source it for you or help find the next best alternative.

Beyond their strong customer focus, the team at My Pets Rural also brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. With staff who own a wide variety of animals themselves, they are passionate about pets of all shapes and sizes. Whether you have a question about nutrition, care, or products, they are always ready to offer friendly, expert advice to support you and your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.

Although My Pets Rural were unable to attend the awards in person, their impact within the local community and the wider region was undeniable. Their dedication, both in times of celebration and in times of challenge, highlights exactly why they are so cherished by locals and now recognised on a national stage.

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, believes two recent announcements herald a far better future for the Bruce Highway and will provide numerous benefits for the people of the Burdekin.

According to Mr Last the announcements mean projects that have been stagnant can now be kicked into
gear and that planning for upgrades can now begin in earnest due to increased funding.

“The re-introduction of funding for the Bruce Highway will see a return to normal levels, meaning
maintenance projects for example, are no longer hamstrung by funding,” Mr Last said.

“The additional $9Billion is purely about making the Bruce Highway safer, reducing travel time and improving flood resilience.”

“A mountain of work and negotiation was done to secure the additional funding from the federal
government and is proof that Queenslanders deserve better than a second-class highway. The return to
the previous funding model was, I think, more political given there’s a federal election not far away and the federal opposition had already committed to that.”

“While some minor projects have been announced, there is a long list of improvements that are needed as anyone who frequently travels the Bruce Highway knows. The Crisafulli state government’s Bruce
Highway Advisory Council will play a major role in ensuring this funding produces the biggest bang for our buck possible.”

Mr Last said that he expected to see the Bruce Highway in the Burdekin area receive its fair share following his advocacy and support from the community.

“Both the Premier and the Minister for Transport are well aware of the issues we face locally with the Bruce Highway,” he said.

“We have one of the most dangerous sections of the Bruce to the south of Home Hill and we have Plantation Creek that is a closure hot-spot that causes immense problems locally and cuts
the state in two.”

“The Premier was already aware of the issue because it is a problem I have highlighted numerous times
but, during his recent visit, the Premier got to see the problem firsthand and hear directly from affected people. That visit resulted in Premier Crisafulli flagging the need for flood-proofing at Plantation Creek as a priority, directly with the Prime Minister.”

“I would hope to see the new funding address both of those issues and there is a considerable amount of work currently underway to identify the best options that deliver the safety and resilience we need. As a government we have committed to betterment and a big part of that is doing the background work.”

“In both of those areas we need to keep the existing road as functional as possible during works for
transport of goods and freight both north and south. As we have seen recently, you also need to ensure you have adequate drainage.”

“I’m committed to fixing the Bruce throughout the electorate and, now that we have the funding available, we can really get to work to deliver on that commitment.”

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More than 180 people attended the most recent performance by the talented Home Hill Choral Society, which took to the stage in a flash of green for their Shamrock Shindig musical.

Themed for St. Patrick's Day, the event took place over the past two weekends, providing a wonderful opportunity for the whole community to come together.

Robert Antoniazzi from the Choral Society expressed his delight in seeing people attend who had never come to an event of this kind before.

"There were 14 to 16 people who had never been before," Robert shared.

"People we saw on the street, old school friends—everyone left saying the same thing: 'I never expected anything like this, please put us on the mailing list!'"

Accompanied by good food and plenty of merriment, the event was another fabulous success.

The Choral Society’s next performance will be at the Eisteddfod in Townsville, where they will showcase their talents once again, delivering two "Sacreds"—Celtic songs of thanks.

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With 65 years of dedicated service to the community, McKaig's Hiway Motors has built an unparalleled reputation, earning not only a wealth of experience but also the deep-rooted trust of locals. This family-owned business, which has been passed down through multiple generations, is now in the capable hands of Ray McKaig, who took over the reins from his father and brother. Ray, together with his wife, Karen McKaig, has worked tirelessly to maintain the business’s strong community presence while staying true to its core values.

McKaig's Hiway Motors is proud to be the only workshop in town authorised to issue roadworthy certificates, offering a unique service that sets them apart from competitors.

“We do all types of mechanical work, from vehicle servicing, air conditioning, repairs, and much more.”

Their commitment to excellence, combined with years of experience, has made them the go-to place for vehicle inspections in the area. Despite being a small team of just three, their impeccable reputation and dedication to providing reliable, personalised service have earned them a loyal and ever-growing customer base. This has been further bolstered by the influx of new residents to Home Hill, who have quickly come to appreciate McKaig's Hiway Motors’ exceptional service.

In a strategic move to better serve the community, McKaig's Hiway Motors recently relocated from 9 Eighth Avenue to a new premises at 90 Eighth Avenue, still within the heart of Home Hill. The decision to sell their old building was made with Ray’s future retirement in mind. By selling the property now, Ray has ensured that he won’t face the burden of managing or selling a large commercial property when the time comes to step back from the business.

The new premises boasts a larger workshop with ample outdoor space, making it the perfect setting for McKaig's Hiway Motors to continue providing high-quality service to both regular and new customers. The larger, more modern facility has already been set up and is ready to serve, ensuring that McKaig's Hiway Motors remains a vital part of the local community for years to come.

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Ray and Karen McKaig have moved Hiway Motors from 9 Eighth Avenue to a new premises at 90 Eighth Avenue, still within the heart of Home Hill. Photo credit; Ruth Puddefoot

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Home Hills' highly popular Canefields Ephemera Art Competition upped the ante this year, increasing the first place cash prize significantly from $1500 to an impressive $5000.

This sum does not include the People's Choice Award of $500, bestowed on the artist who receives the most votes on social media, bringing the total amount up for grabs to $5500, a grand jackpot sure to stir the competitive spirit of many artists.

This escalation is a reflection of the competition's evolution from a small community event to a major regional art showcase which will likely lead to a sharp increase in the pressure felt by the creative competitors.

Founded in 2017 and held annually as a component of Home Hill Harvest Festival, the Ephemera transforms Lloyd Mann Gardens into an open air art gallery from late September through to early November, providing a stunning spectacle for locals.

Artists display large scale pieces designed specifically to withstand exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as heat, strong winds and rain. The pieces are intended to be ephemeral, temporary dwellers of the garden, however some do end up becoming permanent residents such as the white question mark sculpture, the sardine can and the white arrow.

From 2017 until now local participation has grown significantly attracting artists from all corners of North Queensland.

The festival itself dates back to 1963, originally a celebration of the sugarcane harvest and Burdekin's agricultural heritage.

Community involvement is critical with festival goers encouraged to vote for their favourite artworks through social media, with the winner of the grand prize being determined by an anonymous assortment of judges who assess the entrees on originality, material use, viability, and overall visual impact.

The upping of the stakes is a symbol not only of the magnified prestige of the competition but also of the Burdekin community’s enduring commitment to uplifting local creativity and culture through this unique and ever evolving medium.

What: Home Hill Harvest Festival/ Canefield Ephemera Art Competition
Where: Lloyd Mann Gardens
When: 8th September to 9th of November

Katya Venter, a talented artist and art teacher from Townsville, claimed the top prize in the prestigious local sculpture competition last year. photo supplied

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Concerns about the dangers posed by the resident flying fox population in Home Hill were addressed by Council at a lively Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting last week.

Many locals attended to voice their frustration about the disruptive species, which not only defecate on children's play equipment but also cause noise and pose a potential risk of disease to nearby residents.

Some locals reported that children are unable to use the nearby playground due to the prevalence of these native pests.

For years, various measures have been implemented to relocate the flying fox roosts to less populated and public areas with some success, but this year, the population seems to be larger than usual.

To tackle the issue head-on, Council has enlisted the help of a flying fox expert who successfully implemented similar initiatives in the Hinchinbrook region. The expert has since moved to the Burdekin to share their knowledge and lead the department.

A representative of this department, Paul Day, Manager for Environment and Health Services at Burdekin Shire Council, addressed the Chamber meeting attendees to provide an overview of the department’s plans.

He assured the crowd that Council is well aware of the problem and has developed a staged plan to address the situation.

The flying fox population has spread to areas such as Kidby’s Gully, Memorial Park, Lloyd Mann Park, and 12th Avenue. Burdekin Shire Council has confirmed that it is actively monitoring these four designated sites in Home Hill.

The first stage involves targeted “nudging” — a method using noise and other techniques to encourage the bats to move on. Around eight to 10 Council staff will carry out this work over several days in the lead-up to Anzac Day. However, no activity will take place on Anzac Day itself, out of respect, as the process involves the use of firearms. The aim is to have the key areas looking presentable and as clear as possible for the day’s commemorations.

The second stage will see a larger, more intensive operation aimed at relocating the Flying Foxes from Home Hill entirely. This effort will require between 20 to 24 trained staff, with activities starting as early as 4 am. Given the nature of the work, staff involved in the initiative must hold gun licences, and Council is required to obtain special permits and additional equipment.

Council representatives stated that meetings are already underway to finalise the necessary paperwork and approvals, with applications expected to be submitted immediately. Once a date is confirmed for the large-scale operation, the community will be informed via local and social media channels.

However, Council has warned that despite careful planning, there is no guarantee the Flying Foxes will move as intended. Some may relocate to private properties, but Council has committed to working with affected residents to manage the situation.

Experts from Biodiversity Australia will also be involved, providing oversight to ensure the operation complies with legislation and animal welfare guidelines. Special consideration will be given to the presence of juvenile bats, making the timing of the operation critical.

Council reaffirmed its commitment to working with the community and experts to resolve the issue as quickly and carefully as possible, with residents growing worried that the Flying Foxes would not be removed before Anzac Day.

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