A Christmas Message From Dale Last MP

2025 now sitting fairly in our tailwinds, this week will see many of us have a chance to come together for the festive season.

As the Member for Burdekin I have the privilege of witnessing the best of humanity in this community,
especially at Christmas time. Each year we see residents take the time to donate to our local
community organisations who provide hampers of non-perishable goods, toys for children or a hot
meal to enjoy on Christmas Day. We also see the generosity of this community in the simple acts- the
time we take to check in on our neighbours a smile or simple gesture of kindness to a stranger. It is
this level of generosity that we must continue to strive for beyond the festive season.

A year that started with much of our state facing significant flooding has brought with it challenges
and opportunities for the betterment of our community.

While our neighbours in the north bared much of the brunt of monsoonal rainfall in February, it is safe to say the Burdekin was not left unscathed. As flood waters receded and our community faced its
own clean-up we saw businesses step up to prepare extra meals and provide essential services while
our emergency services volunteers showed utmost dedication in our community’s darkest hours.

Our ability as a community to advocate for better access to health, improvement of our safety or
providing certainty for projects that matter to us has meant that in the Crisafulli Government’s first year the Ayr Hospital is looking forward to a new CT scanner, crime deterring measures are now in place in our CBD and major steps forward have been taken in the delivery of new facilities at Burdekin Netball.

Before we turn the chapter to 2026 and begin the rush of a new year I hope you and your family have
the chance to enjoy the festive season. Spend time with those you love and celebrate all that 2025
has had to offer while looking towards opportunities for the new year.

If you are packing the car and heading off on a road trip please drive safely and remember the fatal
five. With the festive season coinciding with the North’s severe weather season, it’s a timely reminder to ensure your home is prepared.

My office will be closed from December 22 and will re-open January 5.

Above all else, I’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.

Yours

Dale

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