Recently crowned Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award winner at the Burdekin Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards, Jennifer Fotinos, not only excels in one sport – but three! She’s also represented both state and country in two of them. It’s a phenomenal effort for someone so young. At just 20 years of age, Jennifer has achieved so much already and if her recent successes and attitude are anything to go by, she’ll achieve plenty more before she’s done. While Jennifer first started playing soc
Read the full storyWhat a week, huh? So much unrelenting rain I was beginning to understand what Noah must have felt like when he built his Ark. Thankfully, this region didn’t suffer like our cousins up north did, where there’s no signs of it slowing either with yet more rain forecast. It’s a good reminder of what matters and what doesn’t when you see so much devastation. Our sister paper, Hinchinbrook Life, up in Ingham however, lost power in the deluge and floods and will now run a special ‘Flood Edition’ late
Read the full storyA slow-moving low pressure system brought several days of widespread and heavy rainfall to the Far North Queensland during the week, with many sites recording daily rainfall totals between 200 and 700 mm, and in some locations, 7 day rainfall totals greater than 1000 mm. Many sites across northern Queensland recorded their highest daily, or multi-day rainfall on record. Weekly rainfall totals greater than 300 mm were recorded across the Lower Burdekin districts. Several days of significant ra
Read the full storyWe’ve all experienced that dreaded sinking feeling when we suddenly realise we’ve forgotten something important, whether it’s a phone, keys, or wallet. For local resident Robyn Rose, it happened after a quick shopping trip when she realised she had left her handbag behind. Losing a handbag can be an incredibly stressful and upsetting experience. For Robyn, it was no different. A handbag is not just a place to store belongings; it often holds important items like ID, credit cards, and cash. Howev
Read the full storyBurdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that it is reinforcing its commitment to supporting local developers, property owners, and community members, with dedicated face-to-face consultation opportunities.
Starting Friday 31 January 2025, the last Friday of each month will be set aside for focused engagement with both the Planning and Development and Technical Services teams.
On these designated Fridays, their Planning and Development and Technical Services Managers will make themselves available for in-depth discussions, advice, and guidance related to property development and other technical inquiries. This initiative is designed to streamline the process for anyone needing assistance or information regarding property matters.
Council’s regular opening hours remain unchanged, and staff are available throughout the week to assist the community with a wide range of services. However, by freeing up their schedules on these Fridays, the Planning and Development and Technical Services Managers ensure their undivided attention for those who may require more tailored support.
This initiative underscores Council’s dedication to being open for business and supporting growth and development in the Burdekin Shire.
For more information or to book an appointment, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800. Council’s Customer Service opening hours are Monday to Friday: 8:00am–5:00pm
Technical Services and Planning and Development Managers, are open for your business. Photo: Supplied.
What: Planning and Development Advice days
When: Last Friday of each month.
Who: Developers, property owners, community members with relevant inquiries.
Appointments: Council will take appointments, but walk-ins are welcome.
As severe wet weather continues to hamper the Burdekin region, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has warned locals not to be complacent as multiple reports of motorists driving through flooded roads continues to occur.
Mr Last said despite multiple warnings from authorities to stay off roads, reports of people driving through flooded roads has left local emergency services and community members risking their lives to help.
“Make no mistake this is a significant weather event and, while the Burdekin has not seen the level of flooding that our friends further north have, there is still a significant number of roads impacted by floodwater throughout the region,” Mr Last said.
“As a former police officer it’s incredibly frustrating when locals become complacent during events like these and decide a sightseeing venture is more important that their safety or the safety of others in our community.”
“Lets not forget that behind every orange raincoat, blue uniform, or at the wheel of our fire appliances, is someone’s loved one who has had to bravely put their lives on the line for your safety.”
“While the rain continues to fall, the best way you can assist local services and fellow community members, is by staying update with the latest forecasts and taking advice and warnings from trusted sources like our local disaster management groups.”
Mr Last said while the district was still receiving significant levels of rainfall earlier this week, the clean up effort across the North Queensland region would be a mammoth task.
“Each time the Burdekin is faced with severe weather we not only see our emergency service volunteers go above and beyond for others, we also see neighbours and strangers rolling up their sleeves to help others with clean up efforts and I have no doubt those efforts will continue to ramp up in the coming days.”
“To those who have taken the time away from their own families to help others in the community, I’d like to offer my personal thanks. We know that our SES play an integral part of our disaster response each and every severe weather season and they deserve our gratitude and support.”
“Already the Crisafulli Government has announced grants are available to residents in impacted areas. For those interested, please visit the Queensland disaster recovery support website or call: 1800-173-349 to check your eligibility and apply.”
Flooded roads are not only hazardous but dangerous for drivers and emergency service rescue workers alike. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
“I was due to fly to Canberra for the first sitting of Parliament this week but I have made the decision to remain here for now, to support the people and provide any Federal assistance I can through this devastating event,” The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.
“The Townsville region is facing one of the most significant flood emergencies since the catastrophic events of 2019.
“Sadly a woman has tragically died after an SES rescue boat capsized during a rescue in Far North Queensland this morning.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who are now grieving the loss of a loved one.”
Authorities are bracing for the worst after the Bureau of Meteorology warned conditions still pose a life-threatening risk as homes and businesses continue to be inundated.
The Federal and State Governments have activated Disaster Relief Grants as this unfolding flood emergency continues in the electorate of Dawson.
Personal Hardship Financial grants, Emergency Hardship Assistance grants, Essential Household Contents grants and Structural Assistant grants are available for people living in the following areas: Balgal Beach, Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, Rosslea, Stuart, South Townsville and Burdekin.
“I would like to thank our emergency services and volunteers who are out in dangerous conditions making sure the community is safe as evacuations continue.”
“Please take care and regularly check your local disaster dashboard for a full comprehensive list of roads that are closed due to flooding.”
“The Bruce Highway remains closed in several places, and I ask people avoid unnecessary travel.”
“Townsville Airport has also been closed and passengers are being urged to contact the airline they are booked through.”
The devastating floods in Far North Queensland. Photo: Supplied.
A flood map showing the effects of the flooded areas. Photo. Supplied.
Are you passionate about improving healthcare in the Burdekin? The Townsville Hospital and Health Service is calling on community members to share their voices and make a difference by joining the Burdekin Consumer Advisory Network (CAN).
The Burdekin CAN offers a platform for locals to contribute ideas for improvement, highlight what’s working well, and advocate for the specific needs of the community. It’s an opportunity to play an active role in shaping hospital and health services that better serve the region.
If you’re eager to have your say and be a voice for your community, don’t miss this chance to get involved. Applications are open now and close on Friday, the 14th of February.
For more information or to apply, visit the Townsville Hospital and Health Service website today. If you have any questions about completing your application, please contact Ana Mooney on 4783-0815 or email THHS_BurdekinCAN@health.qld.gov.au.
Your input can help create meaningful change for healthcare in the Burdekin.
Barbara and Fiona are members of CAN
This is my first column for the year so welcome everyone to 2025. The weather has already reminded us we live in the North Queensland tropics as we experienced weeks of hot and humid over Christmas and the New Year.
The heatwave finally broke and it did so in a very wet way as I am listening to heavy rain and like many residents, am unable to leave my house as I write this.
We are fast approaching budget preparation at council, and although it is a big task, it is something I enjoy participating in. I feel it is the best opportunity to really make a difference in the community as we plan out the next financial year. I personally will be heading into the budget preparations with the same mindset as I did last year, which is maintain what we have and keep costs as low as possible. I don’t ever say that I am fighting for no rate rise as the council faces cost increases the same as we all do, and it is unrealistic. I will however be advocating to keep focusing on maintaining our critical assets such as water, sewerage and roads.
I think we already have so much to offer as a small rural community and we need to make sure we are looking after what we already have.
I am always open to suggestions on new innovations and ideas which help our communities grow, but with the current economic climate I really think keeping our costs to a minimum is our number one priority.
I hope everyone is starting to dry off and 2025 is a great year for all!
Our thoughts are with the families and communities currently facing the floodwaters entering their homes. It’s a distressing time, with loss and uncertainty weighing heavily on many.
Our volunteers are the backbone of these efforts, often working long hours with little recognition and no pay. The number of volunteers continues to decline, and the reality is, they cannot do it alone.
This situation puts into perspective just how vital our volunteers are. From emergency response to recovery efforts, they play a crucial role in keeping our communities safe and supported, especially during the severe weather events. If you’ve ever considered getting involved, now is the time. Even the smallest contribution can make a significant impact.
I urge everyone to stay informed by following the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard for real-time updates and critical information, disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Accurate, up-to-date information is crucial during severe weather events. Please make sure you are accessing official sources.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
At 3.00pm on Sunday 12 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Seaforth Road, Jarvisfield. The driver, a 29yr old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) disqualified driving, driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 January.
At 4.00pm on Tuesday 14 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle Plantation Park, Ayr. The driver, a 49yr old Townsville woman was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 March.
At 3.00pm on Sunday 19 January, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Melbourne Street, Ayr. The driver, a 35yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 24 March.
At 5.45pm on Sunday 19 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle Jones Street, Ayr. The driver, a 36yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court at a later date.
At 4.55am on Wednesday 22 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Gibson Street, Ayr. The driver, a 41 yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving (repeat offender), driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
At 8.10pm on Wednesday 22 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Edwards Street, Ayr. As a result an 27yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .157 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
Road Safety – School zones
With school recommenced for this term, just a timely reminder for parents who drop their children off at local schools.
Drop off zones are exactly that, pull up and drop off your children then leave. If you intend on walking your child into school, park elsewhere. We don’t want to cause any traffic congestion during an already busy time of the day.
Don’t stop in the lane of travel waiting for vehicles that are parked picking up children, as this back up and congests traffic unnecessarily.
Also be aware of the school zone speed limits and drive cautiously.
------------------------------
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000. The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash
------------------------------
Indicators – are they an optional extra??
Many drivers, by their lack of use of indicators, give that impression. However Regulation 45 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation explains what is changing direction. The list outlines the many instances where the use of indicators is required.
Remember indicators were often referred to as a ‘signal of intention’ and designed to alert other road users as to what you were doing. Correct use of your indicator can save misunderstandings.
Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight. Locking your house and car & securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
Inka is a sweet-natured and easy-going young pup who loves nothing more than lounging in the sun and watching the world go by. She enjoys playtime with her foster siblings and gets along wonderfully with a variety of animals in her foster home. With her friendly and gentle nature, she’s a perfect match for families with kids, and she especially loves splashing in the water and trying out new games.
Still a young pup, Inka is working on her training, but with her excellent listening skills, she’s proving to be an A+ student! If you’re looking for a playful and loving companion to brighten your days, Inka is ready to be by your side.
Adoption Details:
• Fee: $450 (includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick/worm treatment & ProHeart)
• DOB: 03/07/2024
• Sex: Female
• Breed: Bullarab X
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Cat Friendly: Yes
• Dog Friendly: Yes
• Fence Requirement: 6ft
• BIN: BIN0000268254643
Could Inka be the perfect addition to your family? Don’t miss your chance to meet this wonderful girl!
To meet Inka and start your forever adventure together, fill out an inquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
As Australia fights to protect its most vulnerable wildlife, the use of 1080 baiting remains a controversial yet critical tool in managing major threats to native species. While some conservationists advocate for its role in reducing predation pressure, concerns persist over its impact on non-target species and the need for alternative control measures.
Australia has some of the most unique wildlife and biodiversity in the world, but two invasive predators, feral cats and foxes, have already snuffed out 32 native animal species and are helping to drive over 200 more to extinction.
Together with the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, the National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordinator, Gillian Basnett, is sounding the alarm as misinformation surrounding sodium fluoroacetate (commonly known as 1080) undermines what she calls its critical place as a lifeline for native species.
“Effective 1080 baiting is the ‘thin green line’ that protects many of our threatened and other native species from extinction,” said Ms Basnett.
“The facts around 1080 are clear: native animals have a higher tolerance to this toxin than introduced predators. Native species that live in the south-west of WA, where more fluoroacetate-bearing plants naturally occur, have an even higher natural tolerance to 1080.”
As a result, only tiny amounts of the toxin are needed for effective feral cat and fox baits. If native animals such as eagles, goannas, brush-tailed possums or quolls ingest a bait, they will not receive a lethal dose.
“It’s important to remember that baits are not 100 per cent toxin and only authorised and properly trained operators are permitted to handle 1080 and prepare baits. Each bait is carefully developed to contain the minimum amount of 1080 required for the target species, in this case a feral cat or fox,” continued Ms Basnett.
She said that a fox bait contains 3mg of 1080 and a feral cat bait 4.5mg.
“For context, in eastern Australia, a wedge-tailed eagle would need to ingest at least 10 fox baits to be lethal, spotted-tailed quoll more than three fox baits, sand goannas more than 70, southern brown bandicoots between two fox baits and five (if they were in the south-west of WA).”
She added that research projects and targeted predator 1080 baiting control programs have demonstrated its advantages, with native wildlife not only surviving but thriving as the bait reduces predation pressure.
“It is also safe for the environment as bacteria and fungi found in water and soil break it down rapidly into harmless compounds.”
For some critically endangered species, even one or two feral cats or foxes can wipe them out.
“The low risk of an individual native animal consuming a lethal dose of 1080 is far outweighed by effectively controlling these predators.”
Nationally threatened mammals that benefit from 1080 baiting for foxes and feral cats include the endangered numbats, southern brown bandicoots, woylies, western and eastern barred-bandicoots and black-flanked rock-wallabies, and the vulnerable long-nosed potoroos, boodies, greater bilbies, greater stick-nest rats, western quolls, yellow-footed rock-wallabies and golden bandicoots.
“We have a choice to make, we either protect our native wildlife or we leave invasive predators like feral cats and foxes unchecked, to eat more precious wildlife into extinction,” said Ms Basnett.
The Centre's CEO, Shauna Chadlowe, endorses the use of 1080, stating it is currently the best control tool available. Along with advocating for best practice invasive species management using current methods, the Centre prioritises humaneness and is committed to collaborating with its partners to develop new and improved control tools.
“Techniques such as gene drive, for example, have great promise but are still in the developmental stage. There are no practical, effective alternatives to 1080 for predator control over large landscapes and rugged terrain,” said Ms Chadlowe.
“Without an ability to effectively manage these invasive predators, more unique Australian wildlife will be lost.”
Precious native species like goannas and dunnarts are on the menu for feral cats and foxes. Image credit: Gillian Basnett
The State Government has unveiled a 25-year blueprint to future-proof Queensland’s primary industries, reinforcing agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy.
With a strong vision for growth, the plan aims to increase Queensland’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.
By working in close partnership with farmers, industry leaders, and regional communities, the government aims to set a strategic direction complemented by five-year operational plans tailored to regional and sector-specific needs.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the initiative aims to ensure Queensland’s producers remain competitive, productive, and resilient in a rapidly evolving industry.
“The landscape of Queensland’s primary industries is changing rapidly, and we must act to ensure our industries and communities remain competitive, productive, and resilient into the future,” Minister Perrett said.
“By working together, we can co-design solutions that reflect local priorities and help Queensland meet its ambitious economic goals to ultimately grow the sector.
“This is a 25-year blueprint for a stronger future, and it’s all about unleashing new and exciting opportunities for Queensland producers in the years to come.”
The blueprint will address critical areas such as global megatrends, advancements in agricultural technology, diversification, advanced manufacturing, and expanding international trade opportunities. It will also integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations to ensure long-term sustainability.
A four-month consultation process will commence with a full-day forum on 26th February in Brisbane, bringing together key stakeholders to shape the blueprint's direction. The final strategy is set to be released in the next financial year.
For updates on the 25-year blueprint, visit the Department of Primary Industries website or call 13 25 23.
Applications are now open for the 2025 Backing the Future program, which offers $50,000 grants to individuals in remote, rural, and regional Queensland. The funding is aimed at supporting people aged 18 and over who are working on innovative projects designed to improve the lives of young people aged 12-30 in these communities.
What sets the Backing the Future program apart is that it funds individuals, not just organisations. This removes one of the common barriers to accessing funding and gives people the freedom to develop new ideas that have the potential to make a lasting impact.
VFFF CEO Jenny Wheatley said the program offers a unique opportunity to back transformative ideas at an early stage.
“We have already supported 17 incredible community changemakers in QLD through previous rounds of this program, and we look forward to backing 10 new ideas that will create lasting impacts for young people in their communities,” she said.
The program focuses on projects that have been in development for fewer than three years, recognising that the hardest part of starting a new initiative is often securing funding for early-stage work, particularly in rural and remote areas. Backing the Future provides the resources needed to test and refine these ideas.
Past grantees have used their funding to launch new events, social enterprises, and even charities that continue to benefit young people in Queensland. One recipient, Jameson Harvey, used his grant to deliver robotics workshops to remote schools, giving students access to STEM education that would otherwise be out of reach.
FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton highlighted the program’s potential to provide new opportunities for youth in rural areas.
“We know that young people are the future of vibrant, resilient and sustainable rural communities. By providing opportunities that strengthen their connection and open doors to new possibilities, we can empower them to create transformative outcomes for themselves and their communities.”
Applications for the 2025 Backing the Future program close on the 17th of March. Those interested in applying can reach out to FRRR’s Youth Futures team for guidance or attend a webinar on the 5th of February to learn more. For further information or to apply, visit www.frrr.org.au/backing-the-future.
Backing the Future 2022 NSW recipient Jae Brieffies (centre) with her Bright Generation team.
When the shelves at the supermarket run bare after a big storm or supply chain hiccup, there’s one place that never lets you down—your own backyard. Growing your own vegetables isn’t just about saving a few dollars or enjoying fresher produce; it’s about resilience, self-sufficiency, and knowing that when the world throws a curveball, you’ve still got food on the table.
If you’ve ever felt the urge to swap grocery store dependency for a greener, more reliable alternative, it might be time to dig in—literally. Home gardening, even in the smallest of spaces, provides not only a food source but also a sense of security and connection to nature. There’s something deeply satisfying about plucking a sun-ripened tomato from the vine or pulling crisp carrots straight from the soil, knowing they’ve come from your own hard work.
If you can’t find a local seed library, then visit a nursery or market, or reach out on a local community Facebook chat board to see if someone is happy to exchange some seeds or cuttings to get you underway.
Beyond the practical benefits, gardening is an act of sustainability. It reduces reliance on imported goods, ensures access to natural, untreated produce, and strengthens local food networks. Plus, there’s no better way to soak up sunshine and fresh air than tending to your own edible oasis.
So, whether it’s a balcony herb garden or a full-blown veggie patch, now is the perfect time to plant the seeds of resilience—because when life throws challenges your way, at least your backyard won’t let you down.
Queensland Environment (Facebook)
A sugar cane advocacy group is working with the Queensland Government's disaster preparedness team, as severe weather threatens cane-farming communities across the state's north.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan attended a government briefing last week to ensure the industry’s concerns were heard as authorities ramped up their efforts to prepare for and monitor the unfolding weather event.
Heavy rainfall inundated large parts of the region, with cane-growing communities such as Gordonvale, Hinchinbrook and Burdekin experiencing significant flooding.
At the time of the meeting, the situation was still developing, with several low-pressure systems hitting the coast and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warning of the torrential downpours.
“With cane-growing regions directly in the firing line, it is crucial that growers know that their industry organisation is working directly with government to prepare for all eventualities,” Mr Galligan said.
At the time of the meeting, before the worst of the weather had hit, Mr Galligan said that some sugarcane regions had already recorded between 600mm and 700mm of rainfall since the start of the week.
“CANEGROWERS is working closely with the government to ensure our members will have access to the resources they need.”
At the time, the BOM’s seven-day forecast indicated that up to three tropical lows could intensify, posing further threats to the region especially on top of high tides in the region.
CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate for assistance measures to support any affected growers. Growers are reminded that if they are affected by this event, it is wise to register the impact with the Qld Department of Primary Industries impact survey at this link:https://bit.ly/3SBca3U.
Photo credit: CANEGROWERS
By Owen Menkens
CANEGROWERS Chairman
There’s something truly special and iconic about sugarcane.
Grown along 2000km of Australian coastline, from Grafton in northern New South Wales to the fringes of the Daintree in the tropical far north, it’s been a cornerstone of Queensland’s identity for over 150 years.
In fact, so foundational is this industry that it even features on our state’s Coat of Arms.
Yet, as iconic as it is, sugarcane isn’t just part of our history – it’s a dynamic, future-focused industry that continues to evolve, innovate, and contribute to a more prosperous, sustainable Australia.
That’s why I’m excited about the release of CANEGROWERS’ new educational resources, One Plant, Many Products.
Developed with input from teachers and industry experts, these curriculum-aligned materials will bring the sugarcane story to life in classrooms across Queensland.
They’re packed with lesson plans, assessments, and engaging insights to help students and teachers explore the fascinating journey of sugarcane, from its humble beginnings to its current role as a leader in sustainability and innovation.
Sugarcane is so much more than just sugar. It can be a feedstock for renewable energy, a source of sustainable bioplastics, and even a potential ingredient in aviation biofuels.
The industry already provides green electricity to thousands of Queensland homes, but that’s only the beginning of what we can achieve if we take full advantage of this wonderful resource.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the industry also offers a world of career opportunities. Whether it’s agronomy, chemistry, logistics, or advocacy, sugarcane’s future is rich with possibilities for the next generation of Queenslanders.
And with the sector continuing to innovate, even more roles will emerge over time.
The One Plant, Many Products resources are designed to inspire students to see these opportunities and imagine their place in this remarkable industry.
Home Hill State High School teacher Louise Nicholas put it best, saying “these materials empower educators to showcase the science, sustainability, and career potential of agriculture”.
At CANEGROWERS, we believe that reconnecting young Queenslanders with this foundational industry is vital.
By sparking curiosity and highlighting the potential for innovation, we can ensure the sugarcane industry thrives for another 150 years.
So, here’s my call to action – let’s bring cane back to our classrooms and inspire the next generation to take part in shaping a sustainable future for Queensland and beyond.
Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing
The wash-up of the 2024 season is all but done, with only a portion of growers still to price out the balance of their 2024 crop.
The recent recovery in prices following the dip due to India announcing 1 million tonnes of export quota is welcome. We still see tight trade flow for raw and whites into this quarter which may stretch into the second quarter depending on how quickly Brazil comes back online and the current Indian and Thai crop cut out.
Growers have until 18 April 2025 to finalise their 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing. We recently released our December quarterly Pool Performance and Comparative Outcomes for the 2024 season. Even with our forecasted pool returns pulling back, due to the fall in the sugar price, the performance of the allocation account is holding firm.
We continue to secure strong physical premiums for the balance of the sugar exported, which will flow back to growers though the net premium in the allocation account. Additionally, we have been able to export more sugar to the US market this season, which increases the percentage of grower’s GEI exposure priced by this lucrative market.
Contact your local Grower Marketing consultant for a copy of the December quarterly report and keep an eye out for our forward pricing analysis – there are some interesting insights for growers who use all mechanisms for GEI pricing. Focusing on the year ahead, we currently have the AUD sugar swap price pushing into the low 600s.
Looking across at our growers who use the Target pricing mechanism, we have a lower percentage of GEI sugar exposure priced than normal for this time of the year. Our current longer-term outlook for prices is not overly optimistic.
While the Indian crop may disappoint this year, we think that next year’s crop will be significantly larger.
Additionally, we have pencilled in another large Brazilian crop for 25/26 as the incentive to maximise sugar over ethanol production increases. If we do see 2025 season prices being dragged up by a rise in nearby prices, growers should have target levels in mind where they would be willing to increase their percentage of price hedging.
With cash flows tight at this time of the year, our Pre-Season Payment is proving useful. Growers who have nominated Wilmar as their GEI marketer for the upcoming 2025 season can take advantage of an advance payment of $5/t of cane. The payment is recouped as cane is delivered to our mills, with interest charged at 6%.
It’s a very easy process and you can nominate online via Wilmar’s GrowerWeb up until 10 May.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts started 2025 early in January, when two members attended the Jamboree at Maryborough – a 10-day camp packed with fun and activities. This was followed by a night for our Group in Plantation Park, and a walk around Ayr to visit some of the Heritage sites.
A few days later, several of the Scouts and adults attended the Australia Day Awards ceremony at the Burdekin Theatre on Australia Day.
People aged 5 to 85 can come “Try Scouts” for four nights for free and begin to learn valuable Life Skills, explore the outdoors and develop lifelong memories.
People of all ages, even adults, join Scouting and develop such skills as resilience leadership, respect and confidence. It’s a great place to form friendships and share in a love of the outdoors.
Our Scouting program and badge-work is based around four challenge areas:
• Community
• Outdoors
• Creative
• Personal Development
The month of February program has an Aquatics theme, with three nights at local swimming pools and then a region swimming day in Townsville at the end of the month.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night at 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill (behind the swimming pool). Come join in the fun and be part of something special.
Ages 5-8 years 4-5pm
Ages 8+ Years 5:30-7:30pm
WHAT: Lower Burdekin Scouts
WHEN: Every Thursday
WHERE: 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill
Chris, Harper and Aaliyah, outside the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
The 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets is now recruiting for 2025, offering young individuals an exciting opportunity to grow in confidence, leadership, and teamwork. If your child is turning 13 this year, in at least Grade 7, and under 15 years of age, this program could be the perfect fit for them.
Air Force Cadets is a youth-oriented organisation supported by the Royal Australian Air Force. Cadets engage in an array of activities, including aerospace training, field skills, survival techniques, and firearms safety. They also have the chance to fly, learn navigation, and participate in camps and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, all within a military-based framework.
Recruitment interviews commence on Friday, 31 January 2025, when the squadron resumes activities at the Tsimba Ridge Training Depot, 46 Little Drysdale Street, Ayr. Interviews will also be held every Friday night until recruiting closes on 31 March 2025.
To access additional details, visit www.airforcecadets.gov.au or contact the Commanding Officer on 0438 107 059.
Recruitment has begun for the 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets
The Rotary Club of Home Hill is dedicated to making a positive impact in our Home Hill community and beyond. Through service projects, fundraising efforts, and community events, they work together to support local initiatives, assist those in need, and contribute to global humanitarian efforts.
Rotary is more than just a club—it’s a network of individuals who believe in giving back. Whether it’s supporting local schools and clubs, improving community facilities and ways of life, or raising funds for important causes, our members are committed to creating meaningful change.
Joining Rotary offers an opportunity to connect with like-minded people, develop skills, make friends and take part in rewarding service projects. The Rotary Club welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference. Even if you can’t commit to becoming a member, there are many ways to support their efforts. Attending fundraising events, volunteering for a project, or making a donation can help them continue their vital work.
By supporting the Rotary Club of Home Hill, you are investing in a stronger, more vibrant community. Together, we can tackle local challenges and contribute to a better future for all.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, we invite you to attend one of our meetings or reach out to us. Phone Alf on 0419-477-084 or Garry on 0408-441-055, or like our Facebook page facebook.com/rotaryclubofhomehill.
Your time and support can help change lives, starting right here in Home Hill.
Get involved today and be a part of something bigger!
Contributed with thanks by Rotary Club Home Hill
The Arch Dunn Memorial Park playground, Home Hill, a Rotary Club Home Hill project. Photo: Supplied
BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
• Food parcels
• Toiletries
• Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
• Prepaid cards
• Payment of third-party accounts
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
Burdekin Community Pantry
We are requesting donations for our Community Pantry. The items most needed are:
• Fruit
• Vegetables
• Non-perishable food (e.g. canned vegetables or fruit, canned spaghetti or baked beans, long life milk, tea/coffee/sugar, pasta)
• Sanity items
• Toiletries
If possible, please deliver your donation to the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Your help is very much appreciated.
Burdekin Community Recovery
Did you know that the BCA plays a significant role in Burdekin Community Recovery? The team and I help to provide Human and Social community recovery planning and operations. We work with council, state government agencies, other service providers and community groups to provide recovery assistance to affected members of the community during and post a disaster event. This may include emotional, social and physical well-being services.
Both the BCA Support Centre (130 Queen St Ayr) and Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (12a Chippendale St Ayr) are designated Burdekin Community Recovery Hubs. Community Recovery Hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.
During and after the storm season we recommend that you prepare and stay up-to-date by monitoring the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management website, Bureau of Meteorology website, 630AM ABC radio and 97.1 SweetFM radio.
http://www.bom.gov.au/
https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975
BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
• Food parcels
• Toiletries
• Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
• Prepaid cards
• Payment of third-party accounts
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
Burdekin Community Pantry
We are requesting donations for our Community Pantry. The items most needed are:
• Fruit
• Vegetables
• Non-perishable food (e.g. canned vegetables or fruit, canned spaghetti or baked beans, long life milk, tea/coffee/sugar, pasta)
• Sanity items
• Toiletries
If possible, please deliver your donation to the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Your help is very much appreciated.
Burdekin Community Recovery
Did you know that the BCA plays a significant role in Burdekin Community Recovery? The team and I help to provide Human and Social community recovery planning and operations. We work with council, state government agencies, other service providers and community groups to provide recovery assistance to affected members of the community during and post a disaster event. This may include emotional, social and physical well-being services.
Both the BCA Support Centre (130 Queen St Ayr) and Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (12a Chippendale St Ayr) are designated Burdekin Community Recovery Hubs. Community Recovery Hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.
During and after the storm season we recommend that you prepare and stay up-to-date by monitoring the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management website, Bureau of Meteorology website, 630AM ABC radio and 97.1 SweetFM radio.
http://www.bom.gov.au/
https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975
How can we talk about anything else but the weather? However, we would like to approach it from the perspective of resilience.
We send our thoughts to our regional communities who are baring the brunt of this weather event.
For seasoned Nth Qlder’s, a rainy summer is par for the course, a larger than normal downfall is always on the cards and to be prepared for. We all have a duty to look out for each other and help where we are able.
We also have a duty to ourselves to build our resilience. Building resilience is essential for adapting to challenges and bouncing back from setbacks.
Here are some effective strategies to help develop resilience:
1. Develop a Strong Support Network: Cultivate relationships with family, friends, and community members. A strong support system provides emotional support and practical help when needed.
2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritise your physical and mental health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga.
3. Foster a Positive Mindset: Focus on positive thinking and self-talk. Practice gratitude by acknowledging the good things in your life, even during tough times.
4. Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into manageable tasks. Achieving small milestones can boost confidence and resilience.
5. Embrace Change: Accept that change is a part of life. Being flexible and adaptable can help you cope more effectively with unexpected challenges.
6. Learn Problem-Solving Skills: Improve your ability to approach issues logically and creatively. This will enable you to find solutions more effectively when problems arise.
7. Develop Emotional Awareness: Recognise and accept your emotions. Understanding how you feel can help you manage your reactions and respond more effectively to stress.
8. Seek Professional Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to counsellors or therapists. Professional support can be invaluable in building resilience.
9. Engage in Community Activities: Get involved in your community. Volunteering or participating in local events can strengthen your connections and sense of belonging.
10. Reflect on Past Experiences: Learn from previous challenges. Reflecting on how you coped with past difficulties can provide valuable insights and strengthen your resilience for future challenges.
Why are we writing about all of this? At the Neighbourhood Centre we can help you along your journey to building your resilience – not only for weather events but for life in general! Come in and chat to our friendly team!
Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Debra Harwood, a 57-year-old mother of three and grandmother to 14, has lived in Ayr and the Burdekin area for over 30 years. Originally born in Mackay, Debra, who works at the Ayr State Primary School tuck shop by day, and Woolies at night stocking shelves, is surrounded by children almost 24/7.
“I was a volunteer at the tuck shop for a couple of years first before I eventually took it over, but since then it’s just been me. Though, I’ve just handed over tuck shop duties to my youngest daughter, which is great as I also work at Woolies on night fill. That’s going on 18 years. Then I also run around after the grandkids, because I'm raising two,” Debra exclaims.
A woman that works days and nights, has three older kids, 14 grandkids, two of which she looks after, you’d think she must wear a superhero cape under her outfit, but no that’s not the case.
“Ha, no, no cape, I don't know, I just keep going doing what I do. It’s okay but it does tire me out sometimes. But yeah, I keep on keeping on,” Debra smiles.
Even the very best superheroes have off days, wearing their battle scars as badges of honour. In Debra’s case, she’s currently carrying a Plantar fasciitis ailment, but it doesn’t stop her. And just as Batman, the caped crusader is known to do in his comics, Debra’s getting by on minimal sleep.
“I'm suffering with my own little hassles and medical things, like most of us, and while this plantar fasciitis in my heels is killing me, I get by on just three to four hours of sleep each night,” she says plainly.
So, what’s Debra’s secret? How does she do it when so few struggle, and on much more sleep than she gets? Surely she has a secret or hidden superhero power of some kind?
“Na, I get support all over, so it’s not all me. I’ve been doing it for years, so you just get used to it.”
Debra has also not been static either. With four kids and 10 grandkids, how can you be? Just as our favourite superheroes and heroines invariably do, she’s also travelled far and wide.
“I've been to several places, such as Brisbane, Alpha, Jericho, and other places and interstate. I used to live out there in Alpha with foster parents for a time. The other places I’ve lived such as Brisbane, I was with my mum where I grew up for a while.”
Debra enjoys the quiet town life of Ayr and what the Burdekin offers, and despite one her daughter’s suggestion to move up Townsville to be closer to her, she has no plans to do so.
“You always have problems no matter where you go, but I like it here. I quite enjoy it really. I don't think I'll move,” Debra states.
Debra Harwood, doing great things is a superhero for many. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
We all have our stories or adventures that we tell, but for Sweet FM’s historian, Glenis Cislowski, telling stories brings on a whole new level. You see Glenis goes back in time, getting lost among the old stories told from a bygone era and bringing them back into the now. It’s something she thrives on, and has done since she first became interested in the stories of others and their history.
Part of what was formerly called ‘Nostalgia Hour,’ these days you’ll find Glenis regaling listeners with ‘Those Were The Days’ on Mondays at 10am. So popular is her segment, she’s also branched out beyond the radio to share her incredible storytelling among these very pages at times.
She has written for various publications, including the Burdekin Advocate and the BCA newsletter since 2002, covering diverse topics such as cyclones, shipwrecks, and local infrastructure changes, Glenis is a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and little, fun, unknown facts that enlighten many.
“I present a bit of history of the area. It can be with people, it can be floods, it can be the irrigation that we have here. I do a bit on everything. Might be a ball or something that I've read in the paper, just to create an interest of what went on in the district over the years,” Glenis reveals.
Not only has Glenis been presenting at the station for nearly five years, but she herself, has a great personal history. Her ancestors came to the Burdekin in the 1890s, while she’s lived here all her life.
“I have always enjoyed listening to old people's stories and my grandparents' stories, and I just got interested in family history. It's amazing what history you get from family that you can then get the history of the place. I just like some of the stories around the place, they're really fascinating,” Glenis beams.
Glenis's passion for history, coupled with her personal experiences and community connections, make her a valuable local historian, and much loved Sweet FM radio presenter. At 76, there’s no slowing Glenis down, driven to discover and uncover many more stories and histories, of people, the Burdekin, and more.
“I just observe what is going on around me, and I love reading, particularly about this area. It’s amazing what was going on in this area, and how it’s not that much different today. I was reading in the 1920s in the Home Hill observer, that they were all whinging about the roads and how they were. And while I was reading it I was thinking, they’re still whinging about the same roads,” Glenis laughs.
Check out Glenis’ ‘Those Were The Days’ on Monday mornings from 10am. If you’d like to join the station as a presenter, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.
Glenis Cislowski, a woman full of history. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
With 11,000+ Visitors In 2024, What Would You Suggest Someone Visiting The Burdekin In 2025 Do Or See?
Robert: “The park down there in Ayr, Plantation Park, that’d be one place I really recommend a tourist go visit. It not only looks really nice with that small river system running through it, which also cascades but it’s very, very tropical. I’ve been there myself and enjoy it. Alva Beach is also a great place to go and see. You can go fishing out there or swim, it’s a good spot to visit if you go there as it’s a quiet little beach town. They'd be the two places I’d suggest new visitors go and see.”
Troy: “If someone was to come to Home Hill and Ayr and the Burdekin, I would recommend they go up and see Inkerman Lookout. That gives a great view right out over the area from high up there. It’s incredible. I also think the pool in Ayr with its water park, is a good spot to go when it’s hot and humid. And go fishing! There are lots of good fishing spots around. That and the beaches where you fish, that sounds good.”
Patricia: “Well, they could go and have a look at the Burdekin Bridge, which they can cross by foot, and get to stand directly over the Burdekin River. In Home Hill, there’s lots to have a look at there, because there's different plaques placed down into the concrete with information that highlights the area, the old buildings, early pioneers etc. Here in Ayr, there is a butterfly shop that's open on occasion, that’s lovely. There's also the gem place over at Home Hill, where you can look at all these beautiful and different gemstones, that’s nice. We have got a lovely picture theatre here that they're doing from a shed because the theatre got damaged. You can watch a full movie, have a beautiful meal, and the children can run around this little garden that's got all these gnomes. It’s like a little children's wonder garden. If you go to the information centres here, the volunteers will tell you everything else that can be found.”
Wendy: “The actual shopping precinct here is fantastic. We get a lot of women come shopping here from other towns such as Townsville, Charters Towers, those sorts of places, because we've got all the nice little boutique shops here. As far as tourist attractions, I really haven't been here long enough to answer that one. I know a lot of the people here have huts and stuff. They spend a lot of time fishing and enjoying some of the local beaches. Oh, we’ve been crabbing! That's pretty good. We go mud-crabbing in Plantation Creek, where we’ll go down early to the beach and go. It’s different but a lot of fun.”
Joseph: “If someone was coming here to visit the Burdekin, first, just say hi mate! Then they should they go to the lookout down past Home Hill, or go take a walk over the bridge. I would also recommend them to go and just see this area by walking around the two towns and check out stuff, you know. Like the beach, the river, the park, that kind of thing.”
On Saturday 1st February, the Ayr Golf Club had planned a big day of golf and a 95th anniversary dinner at night. Weather conditions way out of our control cancelled the golf play during the day but the dinner went ahead as planned.
Not only was it an anniversary dinner, but the Ayr Club agreed at the annual general meeting to honour Karrie Webb, with Honorary Membership and it was presented at the dinner.
There was plenty of memorabilia on display from past members for guests to ponder over. It showed how far the Ayr Golf Club had come from starting as a 9-hole course in 1930 to an 18-hole course by 1980. The current clubhouse was opened in 1988. All this was achieved with members volunteering time and labour to accomplish a very impressive country Golf Club.
Included during the night was a question-and-answer interview with Karrie, and conducted by Peter Andersen, a past president of the Club. The people who were present at the dinner learnt firsthand how Karrie went from learning to play golf in Ayr to No. 1 in the world in 1999/2000. By the age of 25, she had earned her way into LPGA Hall of Fame and also the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Winning European Rookie of the year in 1995, then 1996 LPGA Rookie of the year, Karrie has won 41 LPGA tournaments, 15 on Ladies European tour, 13 on Australian LPGA, 3 on Japanese LPGA and 3 on other tours. She won 7 major tournaments in those wins.
Since 2006 Karrie has provided two scholarships for the top two female amateurs in Australia to gain experience overseas, and last year a scholarship was established with the help of Nippon Shaft, for the top female coach to add value to her coaching credentials.
In all, all guests that attended had an enjoyable night.
Karrie Web with two budding juniors, Oscar and Evelyn Mahoney. Photo: Supplied
Guests at the Ayr Golf Club’s 95th Anniversary dinner. Photo: Supplied
Karrie Webb with Ayr Golf Treasurer, Janet Tresize, and Peter Andersen after presentation of Honourary Membership. Photo: Supplied
Contributed with thanks by Ayr Golf Club
In late June of 2024, the Whittles family spent the night camping near the Burdekin River as part of their travels around Australia, and felt inspired to send up their drone to capture footage of the magnificent Burdekin Bridge.
“I’m not really one to find bridges all that fascinating, but there’s something about this bridge that intrigues me,” shared Mark Whittles.
“I’m not sure what it is that I find intriguing about it, it’s a big ugly metal structure, it is one of Australia’s biggest bridges, but it is absolutely PLAGUED with orb spiders!”
The Whittles have been travelling around the country for just over two years, capturing and sharing videos and photos of their adventures across various social media platforms. Along with these extraordinary photos, the Whittles shared a YouTube video of their adventures in both Bowen and the Burdekin region, which has attracted almost 4,000 views!
“I did learn it’s the only bridge in Australia to be built on sand, so that’s kind of interesting – either way, it made for something cool to take photos of!”
Hundreds of people have interacted with the post published on ‘Our Whittle Adventure’s’ social media pages, commenting their own experiences with the Burdekin Bridge, from both a local and travellers’ perspective.
The Whittles family’s drone photos are nothing short of impressive
As part of Clare State School’s 75th anniversary celebrations, staff have been dedicating their time to publishing a beautiful book to officially mark the milestone and acknowledge the school’s rich history.
One of the sections will list past and present Clare State School teacher aides, cleaners, and administration assistants, however the school has shared they are having difficulty locating the names of some people who previously worked in these roles.
Clare State School has kindly asked the community to email tpatt104@eq.edu.au or comment on the school’s recent Facebook post if you can help! The full list of names the school has accumulated to date can be found on their Facebook page.
Clare State School as it stood in 1952
1938, a year of historically significant headlines, including German troops marching into Austria (March), the signing of the Munich Pact (September), the birth of Judy Blume (February), and the release of Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (February).
A 1938 photo picturing an Ayr State School Grade 1 class has been shared online, with many reminiscing on the traditions of the time, noting how far the school’s uniform has evolved over the past 86 years. Can you name any of these students?
The Burdekin Life Newspaper thanks Jennifer Thomas for sharing this photograph.
Who can you recognise?
A sudden incident involving juvenile offenders has left the Burdekin community on high alert and extremely concerned following suspicions the area will continue to experience a frightening crime wave.
In 2022 – 2023, 82,677 offenders were prosecuted against by the Queensland Police Service (QPS), a 2% increase from the previous yearly period, and the first increase since 2015. The quantity of car thefts, breaking and entering incidents, and traffic incidents that have circulated online over the past 12 months, has locals fearful of the impending 2024 Australian Bureau of Statistics report expected to be released next month.
Last week’s incident occurred at approximately 5:30am on Tuesday the 21st of January, after police were called to Sandsdown Street in Alva Beach, following reports a white Hyundai hatchback had collided with an electricity pole.
One adult and four juveniles were arrested at the scene and as of Wednesday the 22nd of January, charges were filed against all five parties as confirmed by a QPS spokeswoman.
“The group of five allegedly left the scene on foot and attempted to evade police but were arrested a short time later at a local caravan park,” a QPS spokeswoman said.
A 13-year-old Home Hill girl, a 14-year-old Home Hill boy, a 15-year-old Home Hill girl, and a 17-year-old Home Hill girl were all charged with one count of unlawful use of a motor vehicle – use in company and appeared in the Ayr Children’s Court on Wednesday the 29th of January.
The fifth offender, an 18-year-old Home Hill man has been charged with one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle – use in company, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing utensils or pipes that had been used, and breach of bail offences. He is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on Monday the 10th of February.
The vehicle was reported stolen from an address close to Home Hill State School the morning of Monday the 20th of January. Locals took to online platforms to demand harsher consequences for offenders with many members of the community saddened to learn the car belonged to a Home Hill grandmother.
Reports have emerged of witnesses sighting the stolen vehicle driving recklessly at around 11pm on Monday night around Soldiers and Horseshoe Bay Road in Bowen, with locals warning their neighbours to take precaution and sharing CCTV footage online.
“Warning Bowen residents – there is a stolen car from Ayr making its way around Bowen, a white hatchback, lock your cars and doors, police have been notified,” shared one concerned Bowen resident.
The QPS advises car owners to consider a range of precautions to deter thieves from targeting their vehicles including parking in a secured location, installing a car alarm and other antitheft devices like steering wheel locks, install a GPS tracker to the vehicle, and promptly secure garage doors or front gates.
The car was left extremely damaged after the ordeal
The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival (BRWF) was a festival unlike any other in the area. Drawing acclaimed Australian authors and a wide audience from both Queensland and interstate, tourism and local businesses flourished in the Burdekin as a result.
However, like most events in Australia and around the world, covid hit, forcing organisers to cancel the 2020 event, despite having several prominent writers who’d accepted and were keen to attend.
Before covid scuppered the 2020 BRWF, the festival had fired up the hearts & minds of authors and the Burdekin alike it seemed. The BRWF had been full steam ahead, lining up even more great authors and shaping to be a massive boon for the region again.
Then due to a lack of extra organisers to share the load, the 2022 event never quite got off the ground. Since then, despite repeated calls from authors, publicists, local businesses and council, along with plenty of interest from an eager public to return, the BRWF has been languishing since.
If no one picks up the baton, the festival, and the untold benefits it brings the Burdekin, cease.
Mickey McKellar (pictured) and The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival committee, ignited minds and fired up the Burdekin region. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Mickey McKellar, a member of the Burdekin Readers and Writers Association, discusses the association’s formation in 2013, which first got its start with an initial funding of $320.
“The formation of the festival came about from a group of ladies who were in a local book club that also morphed into a writing group. We used to travel each year to Brisbane to go visit the Brisbane Writers Festival,” Mickey says.
“Because I was also involved in the hotel industry, I was one of those people curious by other people's ideas, be it menus or festivals. They're all built on somebody else's concept. So I put it to the ladies, ‘You know, we could do a festival like this at home. You just work it in with your community and your facilities.’ Well, they all ducked for cover, except for two but that didn't stop us.”
“We finished up with eight ladies originally. Then to register as a not-for-profit organisation we needed money, so we popped in $40 each. With a grand total of $320, off we went,” Mickey laughs.
That first festival eventually kicked off in July of 2015. It featured eight authors, including David Hunt and Matthew Condon, and received significant local business support while being a win for the region.
“Because we were an unknown, the hardest thing of all was trying to attract authors. We had a list of would-be guests and we were going through them and having absolutely no success. But then David Hunt, who wrote Girt, well he was the first to respond and said he'd love to come. Shortly after followed Matthew Condon, a journalist with the Courier Mail, but also an author who wrote stories relating to crime and corruption in Queensland.”
“Then it all happened so quickly that I remember saying to one of the women, ‘It's like they've got a network. The minute one responds, another does.’ Before we knew it, we finished up with eight authors that first year,” Mickey extols.
“Amazingly, there'd never been a literary festival in this town before, but we got a good response from the local business community. It enabled us to pay for authors’ flights, accommodation, and give them a speaking fee. I know our fees were more than what ASA (Australian Society of Authors) recommended, but we knew that they'd have to take a couple of flights just to get here, so we went over and above what they expected to get.”
And it worked! Because at the very next festival (2016) the BRWF managed to secure around 12-14, authors, including kids book authors!
“The first festival was extremely successful, and Matthew Condon, who was still writing for the Courier Mail, contacted me about six weeks out from the 2016 festival and said he'd like to do a story. Honestly, what he put together about the first festival, as far as advertising goes, we would never have been able to achieve that. He didn't only write about the festival, he wrote about the community. It was very well done,” Mickey proclaims.
On the back of two highly successful festivals, someone recommended BRWF do it every second year, so they skipped 2017 and went straight to 2018. As a result the festival expanded to 20 authors and attracted over 3,500 attendees – a boon for both local businesses and the Burdekin as a result.
“For the 2018 festival we mixed it up and instead of the school kids coming to the Burdekin Theatre, we took the authors to them! That was a masterstroke. The authors did workshops, which was a great success thanks to a couple of committee members who were former teachers.”
With 20 authors, big attendances, 2018 was a smash, while the community fully came on board.
“The fact of the matter is that it costs a lot of money to run a festival. While we did get grants, the business community really supported us and came aboard. We got private sponsorship of about $28,000 that year, which was amazing,” Mickey exclaims.
The festival had fired up the hearts & minds of authors and the Burdekin alike it seemed. The BRWF were full steam ahead planning for 2020, lining up even more great authors… then covid hit.
“It was too risky for the committee to book flights not knowing if the authors would be able to fly or whether we’d be able get a refund if flights got cancelled. A not-for-profit can't exist on airline credit,” Mickey says.
Sadly, that’s where things ended. There hasn’t been another festival since, while the BRWF committee has remained in limbo.
“You lose momentum in so many ways, and that's what happened. We've thought about many things. We've got money in the bank, but what do we with do it? We've now got grandkids and the people who've been there since the beginning like myself, they're tired, they don't want to be doing it anymore. We're sort of in limbo at the moment.”
“I understand all of the people that want it to happen again, from council to community, authors and publicists, and maybe I shouldn’t go on record here, but I'm going to say it anyway. The suggestion for me to contact you came from the Mayor because she said the new journalist in town is an author. Then the former mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, also contacted me to say I should reach out. And I appreciate them thinking that, but just because someone new comes to town who is an author doesn't mean to say that it's going to happen again. They don't seem to understand that there's a lot of work involved. No one wants to give their time anymore.”
If no one picks up the baton and uses the incredible foundation that Mickey and her BRWF committee members have laid, the festival, and the untold benefits it brings the region, cease. It’s as simple as that.
In what shapes as a do or die moment come February 19, the BRWF committee may well be meeting for the very last time. They’re appealing to the public to attend and become part of something that means so much to the community.
“Whether it's a Writers Festival or a Water Festival, if you want them to continue, then get involved. I'm 77, you know. It's time for younger ones to step up otherwise we have to wind it up. It’s so much easier than when we started with nothing. We have community support, we have business support, we have council support, and most importantly, we have authors support. Everything works. As long as you approach it in the right manner, you can't go wrong,” Mickey concludes with a hopeful smile.
The BRWF are meeting at 11:30am, 19 February, at the Burdekin Library, Ayr. If you want to revive this popular festival, attend, participate, otherwise this once great festival is gone forever. For more info email Mickey: mck4247@bigpond.net.au
Authors on a panel enjoying themselves during Burdekin Readers Writers Festival. Photo: Supplied
BRWF volunteers, were a core reason the festival was a success. Photo: Supplied
The BRW festival has plenty of local support. Photo: Supplied
The festival was attended by big crowds. Photo: Supplied
A novel Garden Party with author and attendees. Photo: Supplied
Professor Roly Sussex speaking at the Burdekin Theatre during the BRW festival. Photo: Supplied
On Sunday, 26 January, The Burdekin Shire Council announced their Australia Day Award winners in front of a near full house at the Burdekin Theatre. The event, which was also open to the public, celebrated the achievements of many individuals and organisations, who have all benefitted the Burdekin in one form or another through significant contributions.
All the honourees, special guests, friends and family, waited in the foyer as the Burdekin Brass Band belted out beautiful tune after beautiful tune, before all made their way into the auditorium.
Once the flag presentation ceremony was done by the Air Force cadets, young talent, Alaya Magic, sang the national anthem, before Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort opened proceedings with the Australian Citizenship ceremony. The Burdekin welcomed five new Aussies into the fold, each presented with their certificates and swearing their oaths.
The Mayor then handed over to special guest, Australia Day Ambassador, Dr. Bob McGregor, who spoke of his own journey as an Australian, regaling those in attendance with keen observations as well as a funny story on how he met his wife.
Then the moment arrived – announcing the names of the Australia Day Award winners.
Junior Sportsperson of the Year went to Ashlee Colls, while the Senior Sportsperson of the Year was tied, with both Jennifer Fotinos and Kristy Wassmuth unable to be split.
Next came the Junior Cultural Award, awarded to popular, Jacob Machin, who would also go on to nab the Young Citizen of the Year Achievement Award as well. Community Event of the Year Achievement Award went to the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival’s 'Bring It Back’, while Community Event of the Year was taken out by Giru State School for their ‘100 Year Fete’.
Volunteer of the Year Achievement Award, was taken out by Mark Vass, with Volunteer of the Year be awarded to the Lawry family (Ben, Kellie, and Bella Lawry) for their tireless efforts at Alva Surf Lifesaving Club.
Lifetime of Service Silver Awards were handed out to: Joan Andersen, Shirley Gilmore, and Linda Scott. With Lifetime of Service Gold Awards being given to: Betty Durrant and Gwen Marshall.
Finally, after much applause for the worthy recipients, the big one – Citizen of the Year. Nicole Cervoni won the Young Citizen of the Year for actively promoting and participating in Arts events, including choir, vocal groups, drama performances, art exhibitions, and musicals, along with youth council.
Lastly, a surprised and very humble, Scott McLean, took out the main gong, winning Citizen of the Year. Scott, who has been a dedicated volunteer coach at Rock Solid Boxing Club in Home Hill, where he regularly travels across Queensland for tournaments and has been instrumental in NQ Games and Queensland Titles, mentors youth and adults. He proved a popular and worthy winner.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort closed proceedings before the crowd went out to celebrate with the winners and nominees, to enjoy a bit of Australia Day cake and recognition.
Well done and congratulations to all winners, nominees, and all special guests and attendees on the day, for making this year’s 2025 Australia Day Awards one to remember!
2025 Australia Day Award winners and nominees, on stage celebrating so many achievements in the community. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Allan Darwen was working hard under the harsh Queensland sun last month, completing mowing and yard maintenance jobs just like every other workday, when one kind stranger decided to make this hot afternoon a little brighter.
“So this afternoon, a bloke pulls up while we (Allan and Simon) are doing a yard, and I thought, old mate will want a last minute mow… but nope,” shared Allan online.
“He said, mate, I’ve seen you on Facebook, and I see you two blokes around going hard, so I thought I’d shout you both a beer for Christmas!”
After another huge day at work, Allan and Simon were more than appreciative of the gentleman’s offer, and the three of them made their way to the local pub to enjoy a nice cold beer and a good old Aussie yarn together.
“So old mate, sorry I didn’t catch your name cause I was totally chuffed, thank you so much,” added Allan.
“We had a massive day, so they (the drinks) went down very well, thank you!”
Allan shared his heartwarming story online which was met with an overwhelmingly positive response, of over 7,000 interactions and hundreds of locals noting “not all heroes wear capes” and that this story of mateship perfectly captures the true meaning of what it is to be Australian.
Allan and Simon enjoying a beer as shouted by a kind stranger
This week I got a lot of calls – the most I’ve had since being the local journo here. Some people called to inform me about the native wildlife.
“There’s no crocs out there… or pigs!” the caller exclaimed. He was calling to express his thoughts about a street interviewee that he thought was incorrect, who mentioned crocs and pigs in Wujunga.
Then yet another one more ringing to tell me that the Telstra shop closing is not good and I should write about that, as well as putting in a story to get a second bridge.
I love it! Why? Because it means after two months, people trust me enough to share their views, whether getting passionate as they do or sharing some honest opinions. It’s terrific (and fun). Means, I’m making inroads.
On the flip side, I’ve also had people reach out with story ideas, some of which I’ve implemented eg: The Post Office turning 100. Keep ‘em coming!
I’ve also had people text or email to congratulate me on a piece I wrote and shared. My Editor’s Note from two weeks ago received a lot of praise for example.
While I can do nothing about the Telstra shop closure (I wish I could), what I can be is your eyes and ears in the hopes you feel seen and heard. Besides, if there’s one thing I’ve learned about big business, sadly, they don’t care about you, only your money. While I may have the power of the written word, you have the power to vote with your wallet.
Something I can do, however, is take on board what you say and act on it. Even though waving a magic wand to have a second bridge is beyond my powers within these pages, if enough people want it, I’ll write about it. A voice for many in the hopes to bring about change.
This isn’t my paper, it’s yours. Keep the calls, texts and emails flowing, and let’s see what we can achieve together.
In what he describes as a win-win, both agriculture and the environment in the Burdekin will benefit from a funding boost to Regional Natural Resource Management groups according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.
Mr Last announced the funding, which delivers on an election commitment in his role as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, but said he was equally as proud of what would be achieved within the Burdekin electorate.
“This funding confirms the Crisafulli government’s focus on ensuring great outcomes for the environment while protecting our landscapes,” Mr Last said.
“By working with the Natural Resource Management groups, we’ve identified and funded programs that find the balance between what is sometimes seen as competing interests.
“For example, programs based around controlling invasive species have an obvious environmental benefit but also play a part in improving grazing land to ensure food production for a growing population. By taking a balanced approach, we ensure more people support the work being done and that means better outcomes.”
Mr Last hailed the announcement as a ‘fresh start’ when it comes to cooperatively addressing environmental issues, while also ensuring the best value for taxpayers.
“Good government is about acting responsibly rather than picking sides or just throwing money at an issue,” he said. “The Crisafulli government committed to taking action within 100 days of the election and we have done that while ensuring real outcomes and accountability.
“This funding is a significant boost, but it is based on the proven track record of the regional Natural Resource Management organisations and tied to practical outcomes being achieved. We are also working with indigenous groups to boost programs like Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers in recognition of their connection with the land, and to create opportunities for future generations.
“We are taking a strategic approach that is based on the best available science and also recognises the know-how of landholders, who in some cases, have knowledge that stretches across multiple generations. That balanced approach where we focus on good outcomes for both the environment and primary industry means we have access to a wider pool of knowledge so that we can actually find suitable solutions instead of demonising primary producers like we saw under the previous government.
“We’ve taken the politics out of this issue because, especially in areas like the Burdekin, people want to see practical outcomes, not grandstanding. Too much time has been lost arguing over who is to blame and I look forward to seeing the positive results that this funding will have for our key industries and for our environment,” Mr Last concluded.
Dale Last, announcing funding he describes as a win-win for the Burdekin.
“I am honoured to have been endorsed once again as the LNP Candidate for the seat of Dawson.
It's a privilege to be entrusted by the local party members, with a unanimous vote of confidence, and I am ready to work hard and fight even harder for the betterment of our region and our country.”
“I understand my role is to represent the good people of Dawson in Canberra, and I am determined to fight for our fair share of funding and services.”
“The upcoming federal election is the most important one yet, where Australians will have the opportunity to elect a new and strong government, a Coalition government who will get Australia back on track.”
“No matter where you live in the electorate, if it’s in the southern part of Townsville, in the Northern Beaches of Mackay or some of the beautiful communities in between, I am committed to being a representative of the entire electorate of Dawson, and growing a stronger future for all.”
“I am not prepared to settle. Being the Federal Member is an important position to hold and if I am given the honour of continuing in this role, I will give my all to the community I call home.”
Federal MP, Andrew Willcox re-endorsed by LNP. Photos supplied.
Federal MP, Andrew Willcox – your man for Dawson and The Burdekin
The new school year offers many opportunities for growth and learning, it can also present many uncertainties. From children's mental health and wellbeing, to bullying and navigating difficult social situations, going back to school can be stressful for parents and children alike as anxiety mixes with excitement.
The Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) has put together six strategic points to help children and their guardians navigate negative social challenges such as isolation and bullying. When left unchecked the ripple effect is devastating, leading to long-term health issues. Carol Markie-Dadds, a Triple P Director lists these points as a way “To help kids cope, parents and carers play a vital role in helping their children develop resilience and the skills to deal with bullying and unhealthy friendships this school year.”
These strategies are listed as followed: Reinforce resilience and self-esteem, Have regular check-ins with your child, Learn to recognise the signs of bullying, Be a role model for empathy and social skills, Role-play or consider scenarios to teach healthy boundaries, and finally Reach out to the school if you have any concerns.
If your child is experiencing social challenges, it’s important for guardians to remember they are not alone in helping their children navigate them. There are resources available to help families navigate bullying-related issues, such as your school, therapists and counsellors, and Kids Helpline. Let your children know they are valued and loved, and help them when they really need it.
What are they? Where have they come from? How did they get here? A strange device was discovered along the Alva Beach shoreline by Gavan Lamb last Wednesday, the 22nd of January and the community was left puzzled as to how an echo sounder satellite buoy made its way to the Burdekin.
“I often walk the beach which is where I found this buoy plastic thing,” explained Gavan.
“I dragged it home and pulled it apart and the batteries were corroded so it’s been floating around for a while, so it’s kind of nice to have that rubbish disposed of and not on the beach.”
Gavan discovered the M3i echo sounder satellite buoy was manufactured by Marine Instruments for commercial use to detect and attract fish for foreign fisheries in the South Pacific.
Gavan’s Alva Beach discovery was not a one off. Instead, he has seen echo sounder satellite buoys on multiple occasions both at Alva and Wunjunga Beach and conservationists are becoming increasingly concerned with the number of buoys washing up on Aussie shores.
The Tangaroa Blue Foundation actively works to prevent and remove marine debris from both oceans and beaches across the nation through the use of the Australian Marine Debris Initiative. Beachgoers and boaters who come across echo sounder satellite buoys are able to donate the devices to the foundation to aid in future data analysis and clean up projects. More information on the foundation can be found online at tangaroablue.org.
Gavan shared a photo of his discovery online
Curious, Gavan opened the buoy to discover plenty of tech inside
Hi Kids (and Big kids),
Terrylicious, Burdekin Life’s canetoad back again to announce the winners. Well, well, well, seems we had some eagle-eyed little (and big) detectives last week. Maybe I didn’t hide myself well enough? But I was glad to be found seen waving my little Aussie flag ahead in support of Australia Day, especially as no one found me last month.
Winners
Well done to the dynamic duo of Evie (8) & Jai (6) Giardina, who spotted me ahead of everyone else, including adults. This brother-sister sibling act were the first and the fastest, immediately reaching out to my minders to report they found me within one minute! What great little wildlife finders you two make. Thank you!
Both born here and going to East Ayr State School, they get the paper every week, and their fave part – looking at all the people in photos. Now you both get to look at your own photo in the paper. Congrats Evie & Jai!
Until next time, enjoy your Australia Day long weekend everyone. I’ll see you in a couple of weeks. For now, I’ve got some insects to munch on as I prepare to fatten myself up so I can sit and relax this long weekend.
Ribbet! Ribbet! Burp.
Terry
Dynamic duo, Evie & Jai Giardina, were the fastest to find me.
The Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin team did a double rescue on the weekend within the space of 12 hours.
The first call was from a vessel that sent a triple zero call and had run aground on the beach in front of Plantation Creek. VMR sent a crew out in their RIB (rigid inflatable boat), but unfortunately, they got caught in the tide, so they had to wait for the tide to go out to be able to rescue them.
The rescue helicopter found the two guys and left them with enough food and water until VMR was able to rescue them. They then safely towed them back to Plantation Creek.
The second rescue was only a few hours after the first rescue was completed, when there an emergency activation call came in. A call came from town to the water police, that a vessel had broken down and was drifting out to sea.
The rescue helicopter had a lot of trouble getting out there on account of the rain and heavy thunderstorms in the area. VMR got there first and saw that the people were okay. However, they were unable to get to the shoreline due to the low tide.
The rescue helicopter was eventually able to get out there to the area with the help of VMR guiding them to the spot before the men were rescued as the poor weather conditions only worsened.
It was a very successful weekend for Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin. In the space of approximately 12 hours, two rescues were conducted within the same vicinity. The outcome of both rescues was good, with all individuals rescued and safe and healthy.
President Ian Sutcliffe said, “VMR was glad to help ensure the men got back home safely to their families over the Australia Day long weekend, in what was a busy but successful day for our team.
“And remember, if you run into trouble out on the water, don’t hesitate to call 000 and VMR on: 07 4783 1014. Your very life may depend on it!”
Happy New Year to you all and I hope this finds everyone getting back into it for another year. School is back (thank goodness say some parents) and business will return to some normality.
The weekend saw us celebrate Australia Day and with that, my fellow councillors and I attended the Australia Day Awards Ceremony. Once again, we were privileged to see and hear what some of our residents have contributed to our community. We have sport stars that have represented us at state and international levels. We celebrated volunteers who have given their time for over 30 and 40 plus years to help clubs and help promote our wonderful Burdekin. We celebrated the events that took place in 2024 and with that the people who organise and run them so efficiently, maintaining the Burdekin’s reputation for putting on events of the highest calibre. The ceremony also saw us welcome five (5) of our residents becoming Australian citizens, in what is always a special occasion.
I would like to congratulate all the nominees for their achievements and their commitment to giving their time to making our community a better place. The stories of what these nominees, young and not so young have done and what they have achieved is truly inspiring. Thank you once again to you all for your contributions and thank you to the people who took time to nominate and give recognition to these people who are truly selfless and truly make our home, the Mighty and Bountiful Burdekin that it is.
Thank you.
To all who became Australian citizens on Sunday, congratulations on choosing Australia as your home. Whatever the reasons that brought you to our beautiful country, I hope you feel proud to call it your own.
I was reminded of the stories my grandparents shared about their journey to Australia and the hardships they faced along the way. Having travelled extensively myself, I felt deeply grateful that they chose this wonderful nation as our home. I am, and always will be, proud to be an Aussie.
The 2025 Australia Day Awards provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible people who make the Burdekin such a vibrant community.
We are truly fortunate to have passionate individuals and groups dedicated to improving our region and enhancing the lives of those around them.
It was both a privilege and an honour to be part of the celebrations as Mayor of Burdekin Shire Council. As someone born and raised in this community, I deeply appreciate the hard work, commitment, and care each nominee showed towards their chosen sport, cultural endeavour, club, and the wider community.
Congratulations again to all our award nominees and recipients.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
The Burdekin Community Association Inc is seeking Expressions of Interest from people interested in participating in a Healing Waves Mental Health Peer Support Group. Please refer to the following information and let us know if you are interested.
HEALING WAVES
MENTAL HEALTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
A friendly, warm and safe space to share experiences and support one another through the journey of mental health.
HEALING WAVES provides a safe space where group members can provide support and insight to one another through the sharing of their lived experience.
Group members will also learn about and discuss topics such as self-care, mindfulness, stress management and more.
** Now taking expressions of interest for attendance for 2025 **
For more information and to register for your place in this group, please call the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health on 07 4783 2711 or visit 12A Chippendale St, Ayr.
Bendigo Bank is warning the community about remote access scams in which fraudsters gain access to individuals’ computers or devices under false pretences, often resulting in significant financial losses.
Australia-wide, more than $15 million was reported lost from 8,975 remote access scam reports in 2023, according to Scamwatch.
“Scammers will use every trick in the book with the aim of gaining access to your phone or computer,” said Head of Customer Fraud and Scam Protection, Jason Gordon.
“Once access is granted, scammers may install malicious software, steal sensitive information, or initiate unauthorised transactions, leaving victims and their bank accounts vulnerable,” he said.
‘If you did not originate the call and you’re being asked for information or to enable remote access, hang up!”
Almost half of all remote access scams reported to Scamwatch in 2023 were by phone, but these scams can also be via text, social media or email. Scammers establish trust by claiming to work for your bank, a utility company, delivery service, telecommunication services (such as NBN), or a government agency.
“Criminals are getting adept at carefully constructing often complex communications that convincingly mirror those of the brand they are impersonating,” Mr Gordon said.
“A recent scam case reported to the Bank detailed an account of a scammer claiming to be from a company the customer was familiar with. To legitimise the call and their alleged credentials, the scammer had created an authentic-looking LinkedIn profile and directed the victim to it in a successful effort to gain trust.”
“This kind of trickery, combined with other tactics like spoofing – when phone calls appear to come from legitimate numbers and SMS messages appear in the same conversation thread as genuine communications – make it extremely difficult for people to detect genuine communications.”
Bendigo Bank is committed to educating customers and the wider community to be especially wary of calls, text, emails about online banking in which there is a request to:
• download programs or software that allow screen sharing to be enabled
• reset your password after a recent series of scam attacks
• purchase a new modem to fix your internet connection
• update your account or device with new security features, or
• provide personal details to verify your account activity.
“The Bank will never ask for your details, or to transfer money, download software or login via a link sent through email or SMS. Bendigo Bank has removed links from all our SMS messages, so customers who receive an SMS that includes a link should treat that as suspicious.”
Mr Gordon’s advice to customers who may have fallen victim to a bank impersonation scam is to visit www.bendigobank.com.au/security immediately to report it and get support.
We wanted to start this week’s column off by wishing all the best to the kids of the district as they embark on a new school year and congratulating all the parents and caregivers for surviving the summer holidays!
Is there anyone else out there pondering the swift passage of January? We had envisioned a leisurely transition into 2025. However, it seems that plan has been swept aside, and now we find ourselves racing into February, slightly frazzled, yet we remain ever ready to greet you with a warm smile at the Centre.
This week, we had an opportunity to speak on ABC Radio about volunteering. Volunteering is a remarkable endeavour that brings countless benefits, not only to those who dedicate their time and skills but also to the organisations and clubs they support.
Did you know that the vast majority of activities that the Centre offers to our Burdekin community are facilitated by amazing local volunteers? Our social inclusion and support programming would not be possible without them. Empowering community members to share their talents and knowledge is at the core of our mission, and it makes for a great day to see the positive impact we can create together!
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is also run by a volunteer management committee. Currently, we are actively seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our team, particularly in the roles of secretary and vice-treasurer. If you possess a community-minded spirit and are comfortable navigating the digital landscape, we would love to hear from you.
We encourage those community members who are willing to think independently, strategically, and ethically to consider joining our governance committee. We need strong advocates to champion the needs of both the centre and our vibrant community. Your unique perspectives and individual life experiences are invaluable and play a crucial role in ensuring our services remain relevant and impactful.
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is known for its positive and friendly attitude to both people and services. We pride ourselves on being community builders rather than just service providers, fostering a true sense of belonging. We believe in collaborating with people, not merely working for them, and we are genuinely excited about the wonderful accomplishments that can emerge when we unite with our Burdekin community.
If you are thinking that volunteering might be for you, don’t hesitate to come into the Centre and have a chat with us.
Until next time,
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Welcome to 2025.
Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I’m sure everyone is refreshed after the break and are ready to embrace 2025.
I looked forward to attending the Australia Day Awards on Sunday 26 January 2025, at the Burdekin Theatre. The Burdekin is full of so many fantastic people, groups, sporting clubs, and community events, and it was rewarding to see them recognised at the 2025 Australia Day Awards. The Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards recognised members of our community who made an outstanding contribution through their exceptional achievements. There were several categories in the awards, ranging from Citizen of the Year to the Environment Award.
Just a reminder that from July 2024 Rates notices were changed from Yearly to Half Yearly. With the first sent out in August 2024 and the second notice to be sent out in February. The rates paid by property owners are vital in providing a wide range of services that enhance the quality of life in our community. These services include mandatory waste management, water and sewerage services, and the maintenance of our parks, beaches and trails.
Ratepayers can continue to prepay rates prior to the due date or can enter in a payment plan to pay weekly, fortnightly or monthly to get ahead of next year’s rates.
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)’s In a Good Place (IAGP) program is inviting applications for grants up to $20,000 for community-driven projects that strengthen the mental, social and/or emotional health and well-being of people living in remote, rural and regional places, particularly in farming communities.
This round, the IAGP program has $290,000 to support initiatives or activities that prevent or respond to mental well-being concerns.
Priorities include increasing mental health education and understanding to reduce stigma, supporting people to build connections and reduce social isolation, and encouraging, supporting and enabling people to seek help for their mental health.
Thanks to FRRR’s donor partners, community groups and not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) can apply for grants through two streams of funding:
1. Community wellbeing: for projects that focus on strengthening the general mental health and wellbeing of people in remote, rural and regional communities.
2. Farmers and farming communities: for projects specifically supporting the mental health and well-being of farmers and the communities they live in.
Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, said that while Australia’s farming communities are incredibly vibrant and resilient, even the strongest person needs help from time to time.
“There is a legacy of silence and perceived stigma around speaking up and seeking support for mental health issues. Thankfully, in rural communities, this narrative is shifting,” Ms Karena said.
“Together with our funding partners, we are supporting local groups to be part of that momentum and continue to challenge and positively shift perceptions about mental health in their remote, rural and regional communities.
“We want to fund initiatives that foster open and honest discussions around mental health, support the social and emotional well-being of vulnerable community members, and encourage farmers and other community members concerned with their mental health to seek support.
“We look forward to reading the project ideas put forward by community groups and not-for-profits across the country and to be inspired by their positive, proactive and community-focussed mental health initiatives,” Ms Karena said.
Groups seeking support must first lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), which is due 14 February.
Final applications from those shortlisted are due by the 11th of March.
Learn more at: https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/in-a-good-place/
Members of the NQ Dry Tropics Traditional Owner Management Group (TOMG) took part in a recent workshop, focused on improving the quality of water flowing from the Burdekin catchments to the Great Barrier Reef.
Delivered by NQ Dry Tropics in partnership with Senior Scientist at C2O Consulting, Jane Waterhouse, the workshop provided an opportunity for group members to contribute their knowledge and priorities to the development of a new Burdekin Regional Water Quality Strategy, funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.
This workshop is the first step in an engagement process that will involve farmers, Traditional Owners, scientists, industry and government.
The Strategy will bring together regional goals, priorities and actions to improve reef water quality, and provide clear information to support investment and prioritise interventions to address land-based impacts, such as fine sediment, pesticides and dissolved inorganic nitrogen.
TOMG Chair and Gugu Badhun man, Richard Hoolihan, said the workshop provided an important opportunity to capture Indigenous perspectives on water systems.
He said group members wanted the Strategy to include actions that would translate into jobs on the ground for First Nations people.
“We would like to see the Strategy recommend building the capacity of Traditional Owner groups to deliver the kinds of activities that will improve water quality, such as water sampling, water testing and other fieldwork to inform these scientific processes," Richard said.
Members of the NQ Dry Tropics Traditional Owner Management Group (TOMG) gather at a workshop to contribute their insights to the Burdekin Regional Water Quality Strategy, aimed at improving water quality flowing from the Burdekin catchments to the Great Barrier Reef. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
The New Year has heralded an unwelcome change in global sugar price sentiment, initially prompted by the world market getting more comfortable that the first quarter supply of sugar was tight but manageable. This resulted in a gradual deterioration of the ICE #11 March 25 futures premium over the May contract.
The speculative money sensed the path of least resistance was down, so they had been getting increasingly aggressive with their short-selling strategies. This was being met with scale-down trade buying. Then the rumour – and now fact – that the Indian government is issuing export licences for 1 million tonnes of white sugar, broke the market to the downside.
India's choice to issue export licences at this time is puzzling. Wilmar has been revising down sugar estimates for the current harvest due to a poor growing season combined with an increase in crop disease, and an increase in ethanol production. This results in a low domestic stock position of what is an important base energy source for a large proportion of the population.
With this harvest approximately 50 per cent complete, production is running behind schedule, and the increased disease is resulting in poor cane quality. Indian domestic sugar prices have rallied and, at current levels, it appears there is no incentive for sugar to be exported. The notion that the government would subsidise exports is a possibility but there appears little incentive for that to occur.
The wrap-up of the 24 season for Brazil is all but done, with the final sugar production estimated to be just under 40mt. Rain in Brazil has been reasonable over the last couple of months so there is some alleviation from the dry growing season of 24.
The current forecast for Brazil's 25 crop is for a large 42.5m tonnes of sugar production. The increase is based largely on the assumption of a 52 per cent sugar to ethanol mix (24 season was 48 per cent).
So after a long period at the end of last year with minimal market news, the New Year has started with a flurry. How this plays out is yet to be determined. The structure of futures prices is relatively flat so the current consensus of the market is an each-way bet.
Fortunately, the AUD has weakened significantly over the past couple of months, which has dulled the impact of the falling futures market. However, at 62 cents, the AUD is at levels that historically have proven good buying, so it could be vulnerable to a rally on the back of USD weakness linked to the changing mood of Trump.
International stage director and producer, Neil Gooding, recently came to town where he got to look in on proceedings of his smash hit musical, Back To The 80s. Written over 20 years ago, it’s been a trip back in time for this Burdekin native, who now calls New York home.
“I was born and grew up in Ayr and went to Ayr High School. During my time here, we did lots of shows at the Burdekin Theatre with the Burdekin Singers. Then at the end of year,12, I went to Brisbane to study law and commerce at university… and yeah, I never used those degrees,” Neil laughs.
“However, I was doing lots of performing at the time. So when I got my commerce degree, I moved to Sydney at the age of 20 and thought I was going to act. Then over the years I discovered that I loved directing and producing more,” he says.
After leaving Brisbane, Neil lived in Sydney for a number of years, where he worked for a big stage show company. It was here Neil cut his teeth working on many of their shows before the bright lights of New York beckoned.
“I was in Sydney for a number of years where I worked for Jacobsen, who were a big company at the time. I was directing and producing a lot of shows for them. But then I moved to New York in 2019, where I now mostly produce and have global shows that now top around the world.”
For a boy from the Burdekin to end up on the biggest stage of all, Broadway, may feel like a big leap for most. To think it all came about on the back of a simple idea Neil had when he wrote the stage play for then unknown show, Back To The 80s.
“I had this idea for a show that’s basically an amalgamation of every 1980s teen movie and TV shows like The Wonder Years. Shows I grew up watching. I didn't have to do much research because I knew all the stuff, they always had the same characters. All I needed to do is put those characters into a storyline. All the great music was already there. There's not that many shows where you get to sing Footloose or We Are The World, but that’s what keeps it ticking,” Neil smiles.
And tick along it does. Back To The 80s, has now been performed by 1000s of schools and amateur companies around the world since. So what does Neil attribute its success to?
“I think obviously the music and the fact that the ‘80s were far enough away, everybody could look back on them fondly. When I first started writing it, I don't think the 80s had had their resurgence, but I knew it was coming. It happened with the 60s, it happened with the 70s. After an era is done it becomes cool and retro again every 10 to 15 years afterward and that’s what happened. I just got the timing right,” Neil chuckles.
While it seems the 80s are now immortalised, for Neil, it’s full steam ahead. He has upcoming projects, including a production of Shirley Valentine in Melbourne, and roles as a producer on Broadway and the West End.
If he could sum up his experiences and share his wisdom for the kids of the Burdekin with dreams of their own, what would he say?
“You need to love what you do. As I’ve hopped into bigger and bigger ponds, you realise that it's not as different as you would think. When you grow up in the Burdekin, Brisbane seems a long way away, then Sydney, then New York. But it's not that different.”
“Coming back here I remember why I love doing it. Sometimes it's easy to forget. It's about having the fun,” Neil concludes.
To book tickets for Back To The 80s, contact Burdekin Theatre on: (07) 4783 9880 or visit their website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com
Neil Gooding, outside where it all began. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
When Home Hill was founded in 1911 on the southern banks of the Burdekin River, it was difficult for settlers of Home Hill to do business, as that required the Services of the Court of Petty Sessions who were based in Ayr. With its unpredictable floods, crossing the river was a hit-and-miss affair.
In August 1923, approval was granted for a Court of Petty Sessions in Home Hill, with the Department purchasing Mr P. M. Jensen’s ‘Boot Palace’ building on the corner of 8th Avenue and 9th Street in June 1924. The building was then shifted next to the Police Station. By the end of August, the Courthouse was open for business.
The Court dealt with traffic infringements, drunkenness, illegal gambling raids, lawsuits for lost wages, defamation, whilst murders were sent to a higher court.
By 1936, it became obvious that a new building was needed. The new courthouse consisted of red bricks with a red tiled roof. The public and private offices were located at the front of the building, with the court room abutting the offices, and two corner rooms at the rear – one for the solicitors, the other the witness room. The new Home Hill Courthouse was officially opened in October 1937, while the old court house was converted into the police station, where it remained in use until 1962.
The new Court House was in use for 54 years before finally closing its doors on January 1, 1991.
The Burdekin Shire Council then began negotiations for the use of the facility and by April 1992 had secured a commitment from the Department for its use. Many photographic exhibitions were held in the court room, while the Burdekin Tourist Association also operated from it until shifting to the Home Hill Railway Station. The Court House was also used as a polling booth for various government elections.
A Certificate of Incorporation was granted in 1999 under the name Burdekin Development Council Inc, and was launched on 25 September 1999, broadcasting from the Shire Chambers. It was formed to be used as a station to broadcast into the district in times of emergencies such as floods and cyclones.
By February 2000 the station was installed in the Home Hill Court House in July 2000, when the defunct Burdekin Development Council Inc then became Radio 97.1, Sweet FM!
There were major renovations done to the building in 2020 by the State government, with further renovations by the Shire Council in 2021. Throughout that time, Sweet FM has been the custodian of the beautiful and historic Home Hill Courthouse.
Sweet FM will mark 25 years on air by holding an event on the front lawns in April, to celebrate. Stay tuned!
Contributed with thanks by Charlie Scuderi and Glenis Cislowski
The beautiful and historic, Home Hill Courthouse: Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Courthouse now home to Sweet FM: Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Mr P. M. Jensen’s ‘Boot Palace’ building (the first courthouse): Photo. Supplied
Vixen, a beautiful 15-month-old dog, has been patiently waiting for her forever home for over 400 days. This energetic and loving girl, weighing in at 25kgs, is ready to fill your life with joy and excitement. With her tall and agile frame, Vixen is the perfect companion for an active household that can match her spirited enthusiasm for toys, long walks, and playful activities.
A social dog, Vixen thrives on human interaction and loves to explore her surroundings. After burning off some energy with a few zoomies, she’s happy to curl up for a cozy cuddle session, making her the ultimate companion for those who appreciate both adventure and relaxation.
After such a long wait, it’s time for Vixen to find the loving home she deserves. While she may show initial excitement during a meet, with the right guidance, she’ll quickly settle in and provide endless love and loyalty in return. If you’re looking for an active, loving, and snuggly addition to your family, Vixen is the one! Come meet her and see why she’s ready to be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s make sure her wait is finally over!
To meet Vixen, please fill out a DOG and PUPPY Animal enquiry form with Angel-Paws at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Vixen's adoption fee is $300 and she will join your home DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, with up-to-date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART.
Adoption Details:
DOB: 12/07/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes - Older
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes - Very slow introduction
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643
Burdekin Water Festival: “We won the Community Event of the Year Achievement Award, for the Burdekin Water Festival – ‘Bring It Back.’ We're very honoured to get it, considering they were going to shut it down, but it’s been a team effort for all of us. We've got quite a big committee, and they're all dedicated. The festival came together in only 13 weeks, so it was an actual achievement to get it off the ground and bring it back. So yeah, it's a real privilege to win.”
Nicole Cervoni: “This year I was honoured enough to win the Young Citizen of the Year award. It means a lot to me, because I think I have worked quite hard this year. I've put in a lot of effort, but I couldn't have gotten anywhere without all the people in Youth Council and the Millaroo social club, who helped me to do everything that I achieved this year. I also want to thank my mum for driving me to and from Millaroo to Ayr all the time to get me to youth council meetings. And to my entire family for supporting me, thank you.”
Shirley Gilmore: “I’m one of the recipients of the Lifetime of Service Silver Award category. Even though I feel humble about receiving it, it means a lot for all the beautiful women and the occasional men that I've met on my breast cancer journey, and being able to help them. I started the support group because we didn’t have breast cancer nurses like we do now. It was all a foreign thing for me. I still run the support group today on a smaller scale, but I’ve met some wonderful, wonderful women on their journey through this support group. To all of them, thank you.”
Kelly Lawry: “With my husband Ben Lawry, and our daughter, Bella, we won Volunteer of the Year award. It was actually a very proud moment to be up there with my family. Actually, we had five nominations from the Ayr surf club and all five people received an award today, so it was very nice to be recognised for the work we do in the community.”
Jennifer Fotinos: “I won the Senior Sportsperson of the Year award, and winning this award means a lot to me. Coming from the Burdekin, I've had to work a lot harder to reach the same opportunities as those from bigger cities, so this achievement is massive to me. But it's not just about me and my personal success. I think this award is also about being Australian and the values of Australia Day by being resilient, community, and hard work.”
Scott McLean: “I'm humbled to be honest to be presented with the Citizen of the Year Award among so many great people in this community that are deserving of it. It's a real honour to win and I really wasn't expecting to. It’s humbling and overwhelming at the same time. I try to hide away from the spotlight, so today was an emotional thing. I couldn't do it without my amazing wife, who does so much behind the scenes. There’s so many people here today that could have also won that award. To be selected is very humbling.”
Betty Durrant: “I won the Lifetime of Service Gold Award. It's an amazing achievement, really. I’m so proud as I just enjoy volunteering I’ve been doing it over 40 years, but I just love it. My husband is currently in hospital and nominated me without me even knowing, so he's quite shocked. Actually, I’m not sure who is more shocked, me or him? I’m just so grateful.”
Gwen Marshall: “I've amazingly received a Lifetime of Service Gold Award, and it's an incredible honour. I'm incredibly humbled and feel very privileged and very thankful. I am in awe of the wonderful group of people who were nominated, and just so very grateful for everybody's contribution into this community, a community that encourages that desire to commit. I’m also grateful for my husband, he’s such a great blessing. I couldn't do half what I do without his encouragement and wisdom.”
Three of the Burdekin Water Festival committee. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Nicole Cervoni, Young Citizen of the Year. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Shirley Gilmore and her husband. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Volunteer of the Year winner, Kellie Lawry (middle) with husband Ben Lawry, and daughter, Bella. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Jennifer Fotinos, Senior Sportsperson of the Year. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Citizen of the Year award winner, Scott McLean. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Lifetime of Service Gold Award recipient, Betty Durrant. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Gwen Marshall, Lifetime of Service Gold Award recipient. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
The sweet pea flower is known to symbolise loyalty and friendship – qualities that perfectly describe this loving girl!
Sweet Pea is a cuddly, affectionate cat who adores spending time with her human companions and gets along well with other pets. She’s been a devoted mother to her kittens, and now it’s her turn to be pampered and loved in a forever home.
Ready to meet Sweet Pea? Submit an inquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html and discover if this beautiful girl is the perfect addition to your family!
Adoption Details:
• Fee: $195 includes Desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, and flea/tick/intestinal worm treatment.
• Date of Birth: 01/12/2023
• Sex: Female
• Breed: Domestic Short Hair (DSH)
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Cat Friendly: Yes
• Dog Friendly: Yes
• BIN: BIN0000268254643
Sweet Pea is ready to bring endless love and joy into your life, so don’t miss out on the chance to meet her!
It’s official! The Burdekin Shire Council’s 2025 Australia Day Awards nominees have been announced, and there are some excited and very nervous candidates among them. When nominations closed on the 4th of December 2024, a total of 25 surprised recipients were nominated. But they’ll have to sit patiently until Australia Day to find out whether they’ve won.
Until then, they’re left to wait, some chewing their fingernails. However, for most, it's business as usual, and they take their nomination in stride, thankful for the recognition and honour.
The award categories include: Citizen of the Year Award, Young Citizen of the Year Award (Under 25), Lifetime Service Award, Volunteer of the Year Award, Community Event of the Year Award, Senior Sports Award, Junior Sports Award, Senior Cultural Award, Junior Cultural Award, and Environment Award.
The day includes a Citizenship Ceremony, presentation of the Australia Day Awards, and cutting of the Australia Day cake.
Special guest, Dr. Robert McGregor, will be the Ambassador for the 2025 Australia Day Awards Ceremony on the day, with the ceremony to take place on Sunday, 26th of January, 2025 at the Burdekin Theatre.
Read what the nominees think about being nominated…
Burdekin’s Australia Day Awards nominees are all smiles ahead of the upcoming ceremony. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
100! It’s a big number any way you slice it or break it down. 100 years is not just 10 decades, but approximately 36,525 days, where there are 76 common years and typically 24 leap years. That’s almost a full month of extra days!
So why am I discussing 100 years this week? Well, I was recently told about the Home Hill Post Office, which quietly, silently, celebrated 100 years (3 November, 2024) in her own hushed, inauspicious way with barely a mention or celebration held to acknowledge it anywhere. Quite staggering.
Then there was the Burdekin Race Club, which also recently celebrated 100 years in the community, who was at least recognised for its efforts to the community, which was marked by a visit from the mayor, and honoured with special memorabilia and birthday regalia for the event.
And more recently someone mentioned in passing to me that Crowdey’s Bakery in Ayr also turned 100! Though I wished the owners had reached out so we could run a story – we still can (hint hint).
It’s a phenomenal number of establishments reaching 100. I don’t ever recall being in a place with so many centenaries being reached so close to one another. While I’ve been in much older towns over my years (a certain 12th-century French wine region comes to mind), I’ve been blown away by the recent spate of so many 100s all at once.
It’s a truly remarkable feat and surely worthy of much greater recognition and acknowledgement than has befallen some to date. I’m positive there are many more establishments at, or nearing, 100. If so, please let me know.
As a relative new interloper into the area but someone curious by the world around me, I’m always fascinated by a town’s history. If we can celebrate Australia Day, then surely we can also commemorate organisations that turn 100 in the Burdekin, too?
Got a desire to paint the town red? Or white? Perhaps blue? Maybe purple, green and pink stripes, with yellow and orange polka dots? Then Home Hill is looking for budding artists young and old to get along to Lloyd Mann Park and refresh the current panels.
Anyone is welcome to attend, day or night, and create their own little bit of creative magic, all in the name of public art. The only request, no graffiti or obscenities. Other than that, the five panels that abut up against the fence by the rail line are your canvas to go completely wild and crazy on and have fun with.
It’s a great way for families to bond and connect with the community or some budding artiste or group of artists, to show off their extraordinary talents. Best of all, if you don’t like what you create, you can simply paint over it and start all over again.
Seen from the nearby Bruce Highway, and accompanying the Big Sardine Can, Lloyd Mann Park is a beautiful and friendly spot to stop, where many people go to have a picnic, rest up after a long drive from down south, or simply admire the parklands – and your art!
Whatever your heart and creative mind desires, anything’s possible.
So come contribute and be part of the community to make this public art space in Home Hill the envy of all. Bring your paintbrushes, spray cans, your vivid imagination, and enjoy yourselves.
A cornerstone within the Burdekin community, the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club’s extraordinary generosity, fundraising efforts and commitment to supporting the shire’s future generations underpins the success of many local organisations, individuals and events.
Over the past twelve months, the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club made valued donations to the Home Hill State High School’s Optic Minds Competition, Zonta Club Burdekin Inc., Movember Australia, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council’s Fast Track Talent Showcase, and supported an entrant and float in both the Burdekin Water Festival and Home Hill Harvest Festival.
One of the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club’s final efforts for 2024 was achieved in conjunction with the Rotary Club and the Home Hill Hospital Benefit Fund, whereby just over $6000 was donated to the Home Hill Hospital to improve facilities and the care provided to patients.
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club’s current executive consists of President Laurie Land, Secretary John Donald, and Treasurer Nyree Woods, who coordinate the efforts of 26 members in and around the Burdekin district.
Interested members of the community are more than welcome to become part of the fantastic Club through contacting John on 0447-561-790 or attending the Club’s regular meetings held on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 6:30pm at Home Hill’s Crown Hotel.
“We’re always looking for new members and membership is open from anyone aged 18 to 118,” shared John.
“We are chasing younger members to get young people’s ideas as many of us are starting to get a bit older, and you know what happens, you stay in your ways, so if we get younger people into the Club, they might give us a different direction.”
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February, whereby Burdekin students in Year 12 are encouraged to prepare a speech for judgement to eventually represent the district against neighbouring areas.
“The Youth of the Year Quest gives kids the chance to speak publicly in front of people they’ve never spoken to before, and meet the Lions Club members,” added John.
All meetings held by the Club are open to the public, and the Burdekin community is warmly invited to attend the first Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club meeting for 2025 on Monday the 10th of February from 6:30pm onwards at the Crown Hotel, as well as the Youth of the Year Quest on Monday the 24th of February at the same time and location.
What: The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club 2025 Debut Meeting
When: Monday the 10th of February, 6:30pm
Where: Crown Hotel, Home Hill
More Information: call John on 0447 561 790
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club members with 2024 Harvest Festival Entrant, Danelle.
Australia Day Award nominees will be celebrated in Ayr and Home Hill on Sunday 26 January, marking another year that brings the community together, recognising those who have made a lasting impact in the Burdekin.
“It’s great to be nominated for our 2024 Canefield Ashes. It was actually the 20th anniversary of the Canefield Ashes, so it feels really good to be nominated for a milestone event in our cricket club's history, Tiffany Olditch states, nominated for The Community Event of the Year.
Jennifer Fotinos, who is nominated for Junior Sports Person of the Year in three disciplines including futsal, soccer and boxing, and has competed for state, Australia, or both, appreciates the recognition, noting that she doesn't often receive such appreciation for her efforts.
“It’s not often I get appreciated or honoured for my efforts, so I'm pretty grateful to be nominated, to be honest. I feel so incredibly humbled. If I won it would mean a lot as this nomination really means a lot to me,” Jennifer says.
Scott McLean, a school chaplain and volunteer boxing trainer for 15 years, including for Jennifer above, is humbled by the nomination. He enjoys seeing people thrive in sports, including taking a few people to national titles and even winning a few over the years.
“I've been a volunteer boxing trainer for about 15 years, and enjoy what I do. It's pretty humbling to be nominated, but I really enjoy what I do and seeing people thrive in their sports. So yeah, from a little town like this with such a great community, it feels pretty good. While it's great to be acknowledged, I do it because I love seeing the changes in people,” Scott declares.
Gwen Marshall, nominated for the Citizen of the Year Award, finds it humbling to be nominated, expressing surprise and gratitude.
“If I won, I would be blown away because this community is full of so many wonderful contributors and volunteers. Like everyone here, I would be humbled if I were to be honoured in that way,” Gwen says with a smile.
Inez Larsen, a member of Zonta, is overwhelmed by the nomination, having been involved in various voluntary work for a number of years.
“I was pretty overwhelmed to be nominated. I've done voluntary work with Zonta for 11 years and I really love it. I have been doing volunteer tutoring for English as a second language, and I'm also starting up a conversational English group at the library just to bring people in our community together from other countries,” Inez says.
Joan Andersen, a volunteer with the Tourism Association for over 30 years, feels that there are many deserving people and would be lovely to win, especially for her children and grandchildren.
“Oh it'd be lovely if I won, but there are so many more deserving people. If I did win, my daughter and grandkids would think it was wonderful,” Joan says shyly.
“My husband nominated me,” smiles Betty Durrant. “I didn't even know he was doing it. I got two letters from the council, and I just thought that they were sending out double rate notices until I opened them,” laughs Betty.
If Betty won, it would be extra meaningful to her because not only has she been volunteering with Meals on Wheels for over 30 years, but her husband had a fall before Christmas and has been in hospital since.
Kelsey Shand, who helps organise the End of Harvest Golf Classic, highlights the event's success after also being nominated.
“We ended up raising over $32,000, which was our largest fundraising effort for suicide prevention and really humbling. We didn't know that we were going to be nominated for a community event. Unfortunately, I won’t be here if we win but it'd be very nice to get the phone call to say that we've been selected as the winner,” Kelsey expresses.
With many other nominees, some who couldn’t make it on the day, the 2025 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards are shaping up to be the best yet.
The Australia Day Awards honour the remarkable contributions and achievements of local residents while welcoming Burdekin’s newest Australian citizens with a special Citizenship Ceremony.
Tickets to the event starting at 9:30am are free, but bookings are essential. Simply visit The Burdekin Theatre website for more information.
Some of the happy and surprised Australia Day Award nominees ahead of this Sunday’s 26 January Ceremony. Photo credit: Mark T. Rassmussen
The Molongle Creek Boat Club has recently invested over $16,000 in surveillance cameras to enhance security around the trailer parking area, new clubhouse, and licensed café. These cameras are in place to ensure the safety of both club members and the public. The club reminds everyone that any inappropriate behaviour will be recorded and “you will be seen."
Additionally, members and visitors are urged to check that their trailers are properly secured when parked. There have been incidents where trailer ball catches were deliberately disconnected, posing a safety risk.
“The club’s cameras and people are watching,” warns the club, emphasising the importance of following all safety protocols. These measures aim to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all at Molongle Creek Boat Club. The club appreciates everyone’s cooperation in maintaining a safe environment.
The Molongle Creek Boat Club issued the security warning earlier this month
As communities across the electorate prepare to celebrate the extraordinary effort of everyday community members during Australia Day ceremonies, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has offered his appreciation to those who take the time to make their communities a better place to live, work and play.
Mr Last said with the heart of Australia beating firmly in regional and rural areas including the Burdekin, Australia Day was an opportunity to recognise our strength, diversity and generosity as Australians.
“Each and every Australia Day we take the opportunity to recognise the unsung heroes in our communities, the parents, the volunteers, and the sports coaches, whose efforts often go unnoticed,” Mr Last said.
“Whether it is someone who has volunteered at their local Meals on Wheels for years or a young member of our community giving their all on the sporting field, Australia Day ceremonies offer us the opportunity to recognise and connect with those members of our community.”
Mr Last said while the national day is a chance to come together and recognise those award winners, it was also a timely reminder that everyday heroes deserve our gratitude.
“Recognising those who devote their lives to improving our communities doesn’t have to be restricted to January 26,” Mr Last said.
“We all know or have known someone who, in our own eyes, epitomises what it means to be Australian, whether it is our frontline emergency services, our health staff or perhaps someone who has paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Mr Last said while the day was recognised with ceremonies and events across our nation, Australia Day has come to mean so much more to our nation.
“We are all shaped by our own experiences and as a nation, each Australia Day we come together to recognise and reaffirm that we live in a nation where everyone’s views, beliefs and contributions are valued.”
“It’s about who we are as a nation and what we aspire to be,” Mr Last said.
Looking for a way to make a real difference in your community in 2025? Join the Burdekin State Emergency Service (SES) and help Queensland communities before, during, and after emergencies. With over 5,000 volunteers across the state, the SES plays a crucial role in disaster response, and we need individuals like you to step up and support our efforts.
As an SES volunteer, you’ll respond to various emergencies, including storms, floods, cyclones, rescues, road/rail/air incidents, landslides, and missing person searches. Your skills will directly impact local, state, and national disaster management, helping protect lives, property, and the environment.
Volunteers come from all backgrounds and bring unique skills. Whether you’re quick-thinking, physically fit, or passionate about helping others, there’s a role for you. Volunteers develop emergency skills like flood boat operations, road crash rescue, land search, and more. We also provide ongoing training in first aid, map reading, and emergency operations.
To join, you must be 16 or older, committed to serving your community, and able to activate during emergencies. Volunteers over 18 will undergo a criminal history check and need to apply for a Blue Card to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals.
Ready to get involved? Register your interest online now at www.ses.qld.gov.au/form/become-an-ses-member, and start your journey toward becoming an SES volunteer.
Burdekin SES members regularly practise fundamental core skills for development and refinement of emergency response
On Saturday, January 11th, the Alva Beach community was stunned to hear a wave of sirens after the Queensland Police Service, Queensland Fire Department, and Queensland Ambulance Service were called to a single-vehicle traffic crash.
At approximately 3pm, a Subaru XV crashed into a tree on Torilla Street. The driver, a woman in her 70s, was then transported to the Ayr Hospital for treatment.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson has stated there have been no significant updates to the investigation at this stage.
At 2.45am on Saturday the14th of December, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. As a result, an 18-year-old Townsville man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for drink driving, .188 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 13 January.
At 6.50pm on the 2nd of January, a traffic crash occurred on Munro Street, Ayr, when a motorcycle collided with a parked car. As a result, the driver, a 44-year-old Burdekin man, was issued an NTA for driving whilst under the influence, unlicenced driving, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving an uninsured vehicle, possession of a dangerous drug (heroin) and possession of a controlled drug. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 24 February.
At 11.45pm on Saturday, the 4th of January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Eighth Street, Home Hill. The driver, a 51-year-old Burdekin man, was issued an NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 24 March.
At 12.05am on Sunday, the 5th of January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street Ayr. The driver, a 48-year-old Bowen man was issued an NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva, unlicenced driving and driving an unregistered vehicle. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 March.
On the 6th of January, Ayr Police located a 46-year-old Burdekin woman in relation to the alleged theft of a dog in late 2024. As a result, she was issued an NTA to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on one count of stealing on the 28th of January.
Vehicle Security
From time to time, vehicles are unlawfully entered with belongings stolen and sometimes vehicles are stolen.
Some easy steps will help avoid being a victim of these types of offences:
• Lock your car;
• Do not leave the key in the ignition;
• Do not leave valuables in the car.
Thieves don’t care whether you think you should have to lock up, they will just take advantage of any lax security.
Prevention and vigilance around your home and property can reduce these opportunistic thefts. In most cases, locking your vehicles, homes and sheds & securing your belongings appropriately will reduce these thefts.
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
------------------------------
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000. The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash
------------------------------
Did you know??
What is a safe distance when passing a bicycle rider??
Motorists passing a bicycle that is travelling in the same direction as the driver must stay wider of bicycle riders by giving a minimum of:
• 1m when passing a bicycle rider in a 60km/h or less speed zone
or
• 1.5m where the speed limit is over 60km/h.
Regulation 144A Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation 2009
Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight. Locking your house and car & securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000. The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash
The grand and iconic establishment that is the Home Hill Post Office, recently celebrated 100 years on the 3rd of November, and while a party was not thrown, she was, however, recently bought in July of 2024 by new owners keen to keep her tradition going.
Holding a prominent corner position in the heart of town, nestled on the main street at 58 Eighth Avenue, she is a true testament of character, strength, beauty, and time. Originally low-set, she was raised in 1947 to avoid flood levels, where she’s stood firm over the years. She once held the Postmaster's residence off to one side.
In the 1990s there were rumours that the post office would be closed. However, eventually the decision was made to privatise it in 1997, where she’s remained ever since.
Post offices remain one of the oldest continuous organisations in Australia. Several have been running for over 200 years, and other than modern conveniences like air conditioning and disability ramps, very little else has changed about them. It’s what makes the Home Hill Post Office special.
The place was once a home but was converted into a post office, where she remains an active member of the community to this day. A well-established and locally owned business, she is fully supported by all who use her. Her iconic beauty and majesty still dazzles visitors today, while contributing to the town in many ways. She is many things to many people.
The Home Hill Post Office’s services include:
• Banking, Billpay, Western Union International, express money orders,
• Retail Post Office stationery and assorted greeting cards,
• 2 Australia Post electronic terminals,
• 670 Post Office boxes.
100 years strong, here’s to 100 more long serving years. Hip Hip Hooray!
The plaque commemorating Home Hill Post Office’s opening. Photo credit: Mark T. Rassmussen
The glorious and magnificent Home Hill Post Office in all her glory. Photo: Photo credit: Mark T. Rassmussen
The Burdekin Shire’s Visitor Information Centres in Ayr and Home Hill, have closed the books on a successful 2024, welcoming more than 11,000 visitors to the region over 360 days of operation.
The centres saw their busiest month in August, with Ayr hosting over 900 visitors and Home Hill welcoming over 800 through the doors, highlighting the Burdekin as a popular stop for tourists.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Burdekin Tourism Volunteers play a vital role as ambassadors for the Burdekin.
“Our Visitor Information Centres (VICs) are often the first point of contact for travellers, and the dedication of our volunteers ensures that every visitor receives a warm welcome and tailored advice on what to explore in the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“The Burdekin truly has something for everyone, whether it’s relaxing on our beautiful beaches, exploring our rich history, or casting a line at one of the many fishing spots.”
“The Christmas and New Year period is one of the busiest times on our roads, with over 300 visitors stopping by our VICs. Hosting programs like Driver Reviver at our centres not only promotes road safety but also provides travellers with a convenient opportunity to rest and recharge with many visitors stopping to enjoy a free coffee, tea, water, and snack.”
“We’re excited to build on this momentum in 2025 and continue welcoming more visitors to our beautiful region.”
The 2024 visitor numbers at the Visitor Information Centres, highlight the Burdekin’s rising popularity as a destination that attracts not only locals but also interstate and international visitors.
The Burdekin Visitor Information Centres, operated by passionate and knowledgeable volunteers, continue to be a key resource for tourists, helping to boost the local economy and strengthen the Burdekin’s reputation as a welcoming destination.
The Silver Link (Burdekin Bridge, seen by over 11,000 visitors in 2024. Photo: Shutterstock
Lloyd Mann Gardens and the Big Sardine Can, Home Hill Photo: Shutterstock
The Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) Home Care Service delivers a wide range of services for seniors and their carers.
Home Care Packages Program (HCP)
The HCP Program provides support to older people with complex care needs to live independently in their own home. We can offer services to eligible seniors on a Level 1, 2, 3 or 4 package. Services include in-home support services, transport, home maintenance/repairs/modifications, access to allied health services and other care related services relating to the client’s health, safety and wellbeing.
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)
The CHSP is an entry level home help program to assist older people who can mostly, but not completely, live and cope on their own an don’t yet need high levels of support at home. Services include domestic assistance, social support (friendly visits/shopping/outings), personal care (showering/bathing/medication monitoring), respite care (support for the carer), transport and home maintenance (lawn mowing/whipper snipping/rubbish removal).
Please contact the Home Care Service Team to discuss services or obtain information on Ph 4783 3744, The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, bca@bcaburdekin.org.au, www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Welcome to 2025.
Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I’m sure everyone is refreshed after the break and are ready to embrace 2025.
I’m looking forward to attending the Australia Day awards on Sunday 26 January 2025 at the Burdekin Theatre. The Burdekin is full of so many fantastic people, groups, sporting clubs and community events, it will be rewarding to see they will be recognised at the 2025 Australia Day Awards. The Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards will recognise members of our community who have made an outstanding contribution to the community for their exceptional achievement. There are several categories in the awards ranging from Citizen of the Year to Environment Award.
Just a reminder that from July 2024 Rates notices were changed from Yearly to Half Yearly. With the first sent out in August 2024 and the second notice to be sent out in February. The rates paid by property owners are vital in providing a wide range of services that enhance the quality of life in our community. These services include mandatory waste management, water and sewerage services, and the maintenance of our parks, beaches and trails.
Ratepayers can continue to prepay rates prior to the due date or can enter in a payment plan to pay weekly, fortnightly or monthly to get ahead of next year’s rates.
Last week, I had the opportunity to get a bird's-eye view of our region, thanks to the River Trust. Flying over the area provided a fresh perspective on the beauty and complexity of our local landscape. I even spotted some large crocs sunning themselves along the riverbanks - a true reminder of the rich biodiversity we’re fortunate to have in the Burdekin. It was an incredible experience, and I’d like to extend my thanks to the River Trust for making it possible.
On another note, I was saddened to hear the news that the Telstra shop in Ayr will be closing down. While the internet has made it easier than ever to access goods and services online, the closure of a local store highlights the challenges that small communities face in maintaining essential services. Local businesses are the backbone of our region, and we must continue to support them wherever we can.
As we navigate these changes, it’s important to remember the resilience of our community. We’ve faced challenges before and come through stronger each time. I encourage residents to explore the digital alternatives Telstra is offering.
On a brighter note, we are gearing up for the Australia Day Awards Ceremony on Sunday at the Burdekin Theatre. This event is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the outstanding individuals and groups who contribute so much to our community. It’s also a chance to welcome our newest citizens and celebrate the diverse and inclusive spirit that makes the Burdekin such a special place to live.
I encourage everyone to join us to celebrate our community, its achievements, and its people.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Eyecare Plus optometrist and owner, Shannon Peckham, believes great eye health starts with a routine check up. Doing so can often detect potential eye health issues early on such as glaucoma, macular changes or on rare occasions ocular melanomas, and will help protect your eyes now so you can have your best chance at good eyesight for years to come.
With twenty years of experience as an optometrist, Shannon’s seen and taken care of many people’s eyes across Australia and now calls the Burdekin home. This passionate, warm and friendly optometrist is all for helping people with their vision needs, and the importance of conversations to understand their vision requirements. It’s something she prides herself on.
“I like helping people with their vision and their eyewear needs. Sometimes it's about having a simple conversation to uncover their optimal vision needs. It’s finding out more about the person and what they like to do with their eyes, to see how we can help them to see better, and thus improving their life,” Shannon says.
Shannon, who has been running Eyecare Plus for the last four years as the owner, does so from the most established and recognised optometry practice in the district. It’s a practice that dates back to the 1940s, making it the oldest in town.
“This place has been around since about 1940. When I first came in, we still had paper patient cards, some dating all the way back to the 40s, which was pretty interesting and cool,” she laughs.
This Mareeba born product who studied in Melbourne, earning a Bachelor of Optometry from the University of Melbourne, followed by a postgraduate certificate in ocular therapeutics from the Queensland University of Technology, and is involved with the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand, means that she is able to bring the best optometry services to rural areas such as the Burdekin, providing comprehensive eye care.
Not only does Shannon and Eyecare Plus take the very best care of adults eyes, but she also works with families for pre-school testing to ensure children's eyes are functioning well for learning and concentration.
“I check that their eyes are working at their optimum so that when they are in a learning environment they can concentrate and focus, which helps them perform to their best ability.”
“In older people, I deal a lot with cataracts and eye health issues, whereby I’ll do an eye health assessment for things like glaucoma, macular changes or diabetic retinopathy. We also perform driving vision assessments and I get a number of referrals from the GP’s and hospital in town, for foreign body removals such as metal shavings, mostly for farmers!” Shannon states.
Eyecare Plus currently has great promotions like discounts on second pairs and prescription sunglasses, with package deals starting at $149 for complete spectacles. Other promos include a free Mako cap with prescription Mako sunglasses.
“Comprehensive eye care services and the importance of regular checkups, are vital for maintaining good vision. I’d like to think I improve people's lives by helping them see better to do the activities they love,” she smiles.
For your all your eye care needs, be sure to phone: (07) 4783-1361 or email: ayr@eyecareplus.com.au or visit Shannon at 137 Queen Street, Ayr.
Eyecare Plus optometrist and owner, Shannon Peckham, believes good eye health starts with a check up. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
John Cattell, a 71-year-old who originally hails from Glen Innes, in New South Wales, has been living in Home Hill for about four to five years after being homeless in Townsville. After he was placed in a housing unit courtesy of his daughter, John’s been happy to be here ever since.
“I was homeless in Townsville for about three or four years before my daughter helped put me into a housing unit here in Home Hill, through Housing Services. It’s been both great and a big relief,” John says.
Although now retired, John still plans to do some cane hauling, however, he shows the hand where he lost a finger in a cane hook accident four years ago, which he explains further.
“About four years ago, the remote had four buttons but when I pressed it my finger got caught in a cane hook and took the end off of it,” John says. “But it don’t stop me any,” he adds with a grin.
Before retiring, John was a truck driver enjoying his work until a major truck accident forced a career rethink.
“It was just another day like any other when I had a major truck accident at 60… one that ended my career in trucking. I really liked driving trucks but had to move on. I was a senior technician at hospital, and before that was in the car radio game installing air conditioners and radios.”
As it turns out that’s a good background to have, because John needs to install a new air-con compressor for his car so he can go visit his family, all who live on the coast.
“I’ve got two kids – a daughter and a son – then I’ve got three grandkids and two great grandkids, some who I haven’t seen for nearly five years. I’m looking forward to visiting them soon,” he beams.
While John’s only been in Home Hill for five years, he enjoys it in the Burdekin, which he describes as good, despite the prevalence of some drugs in the region.
“Yeah, it’s good here. I stay safe, I obey the law, and above all, I do what I got to do to be happy, have fun, and to have a good time. That’s all anyone can do,” he adds.
John Cattell (71), down a finger but not down on his luck. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Australian sugar cane farmers will soon trade one tropical paradise for another as they explore first-hand the implications of Brazil being ranked number one and two in the world for sugarcane and ethanol production.
Queensland sugarcane farmer Paul Atkinson is embarking on the 10-day tour for a second time because he is interested in how Brazil’s harvest and mills operate.
“Brazil is our main competition,” Mr Atkinson said, adding its use of sugar to produce ethanol affected world sugar prices and thus Australia’s own sugarcane industry.
While sugar may be Australia’s second-largest export crop after wheat, with 3-4 million tonnes (MT) valued at $1.5 to $2.5 billion headed overseas each year, these figures are dwarfed by Brazil’s.
The South American nation produces about half of the world’s total sugar exports at more than 32MT per year, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), surpassing Australia’s total sugarcane production.
To put things further into perspective, for every tonne of sugarcane produced down under, Brazil produces about 22 tonnes, with about half of this sugar then being used to make ethanol thanks to the Brazilian government’s mandates on fuel mixes.
Stephen Ryan, the CEO of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA), said the Brazil tour would give Aussies opportunities to meet with Brazilian farmers, processors, researchers and more to learn about the dynamics of the agricultural giant’s sugar cane and bio-energy industries.
“Brazil, as of 2023, had 350 operational sugarcane plants, of which almost two-thirds produced both sugar and ethanol and almost a third were just for ethanol, USDA figures show,” Mr Ryan said.
“The country made 35.3 billion litres of ethanol in 2023-24, and the demand for biofuel is only likely to increase with the Brazilian government amping up incentives to also produce sustainable aviation fuel to curb the country’s CO2 emissions.
“But Brazil will be motivated to lean towards non-sugar alternatives like corn to meet the demands for biofuel as current world market prices make exporting sugar more commercially attractive.”
As Mr Atkinson explained, extra Brazilian sugar on the world market made Australia’s product less valuable as per the mechanisms of supply and demand.
The Cane Tour to Brazil itinerary includes visiting Sao Paulo, where innovation drives sugarcane cultivation and processing. Sao Paulo is home to the headquarters of Brazil’s largest sugarcane improvement company, the Sugarcane Technology Centre (STC).
The STC owns the largest germplasm bank in the world, is aiming to double Brazil’s average annual sugarcane yields from 75MT per hectare to 150MT per hectare by 2040 and is working to create a synthetic seed to scrap needing to use sugarcane cuttings for planting.
Other highlights of the tour, organised and led by Australian ex-pat Sally Thomson in collaboration with Nuffield Brazil Farming Network, include a trip to the world’s largest corn bioenergy plant, hearing from startups working on Brazil’s agribusiness problems, and an unforgettable down-day to relish Bonito’s pristine rivers and natural wonders.
The cost is $3440 per person, based on twin-share, which includes all domestic travel, accommodation, meals, and visits.
The tour, kicking off in late March, is limited to 20 participants to ensure a quality experience for all.
To register your interest, contact Shirley Norris by phoning 0447 608 158 or emailing farmers700plus@gmail.com
Sugarcane farmer and Australian Cane Farming Association (ACFA) member Paul Atkinson is travelling to Brazil for the second time to gain insights into the country’s agricultural sector, as it boasts being the number one and two in the world for sugarcane and ethanol production. Photo credit: Heidi Petith
Corn is a major feedstock around the world to produce ethanol. Sugarcane farmer Paul Atkinson toured Brazil in 2024, and will again in 2025, to gain insights from Brazil’s agricultural sector and how its ethanol production will impact on Australia’s sugarcane industry. Photo credit: Paul Atkinson
The open road became a classroom for early-career extension officers as they embarked on a two-week, cross-industry bus trip as part of the Agricultural Extension Work Placement Program (AEWPP). Hosted by the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), this unique journey was more than a road trip—it was an opportunity for trainees to deepen their understanding of Queensland’s diverse agricultural landscape, showcase their work, and build valuable connections across the sector.
The AEWPP places trainees with host agribusinesses or natural resource management organisations, assisting landholders in Great Barrier Reef catchments in implementing best management practices. Over the past nine months, trainees have worked with organisations such as Aglantis, AgriTech Solutions, Australian Banana Growers Council, Burdekin Productivity Services, Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG), and NQ Dry Tropics.
Throughout the bus trip, trainees showcased their organisations, the farming commodities they specialise in, and their regions to peers and QFF representatives. Stops included farms and industry organisations like TAFE Queensland’s Centres of Excellence, Sugar Research Australia, Tassal’s Proserpine Prawn Farm, Kalamia Sugar Mill, and the Department of Primary Industry’s South Johnstone Research Facility.
Alongside professional visits, the itinerary included iconic tourist attractions such as Tinaberries, Bundaberg Rum Distillery, Macadamias Australia, Airlie Beach, The Big Mango, and Big Crystal Creek, adding a touch of local flavour to the experience.
QFF Program Coordinator Tim Bradley described the trip as a dynamic opportunity for trainees to highlight their contributions to the agriculture sector while forging meaningful connections.
“The trip allowed each trainee to showcase their work, collaboration with local producers, and the unique attributes of their regions and host organisations,” he said.
One of the most valuable aspects of the bus trip, Tim noted, was fostering networking opportunities.
“These interactions often lead to the exchange of innovative ideas, exploration of new partnerships, and a broader understanding of the industry as a whole,” he added.
Since its inception in 2018, the AEWPP has graduated over 30 extension officers. The next cohort will commence in February 2025, offering another group of early-career professionals a 15-month placement to drive sustainable agricultural practices.
The AEWPP is funded by the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by QFF in collaboration with host organisations.
Left-to-right, back-to-front QFF General Manager, Policy and Projects, Adam Knapp, Extension Officer, AgriTech Solutions, Jake Moore, Extension Officer, Aglantis, Kaylaha Malaponte, QFF AEWPP Project Coordinator, Tim Bradley, Extension Officer, Burnett Mary Regional Group, Phoebe Holland, Extension Officer, NQ Dry Tropics, Claire Cornell, Extension Officer, Australian Banana Growers Council, Eleanor Sibree, Extension Officer, Burnett Mary Group, Asha Gould. Photo supplied
A new venture, Oxitec Australia, is taking on two of the deadliest virus-carrying mosquitos in the Pacific region—Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus —to fight the spread of diseases like dengue, Zika, and yellow fever, which claim hundreds of thousands of lives globally each year.
Oxitec Australia is a collaboration between CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and UK-based Oxitec Ltd, the leading developer of biological solutions to control pests.
The new venture leverages Oxitec's proven biological Friendly™ platform where genetically engineered male mosquitoes carry a self-limiting gene that ensures only non-biting males survive, reducing pest females and overall mosquito numbers through sustained releases.
Professor Brett Sutton, Director of Health & Biosecurity at CSIRO, said Oxitec Australia is now seeking partners to accelerate its activities and product development in Australia.
“Oxitec Australia offers a unique opportunity to help combat the growing threat of invasive and exotic pests, some of which are on mainland Australia’s doorstep like Aedes albopictus,” Professor Sutton said.
“Factors like warmer weather cycles and growing pesticide resistance will only bring greater challenges to the health of Australians and our region via vector-borne diseases.”
“By investing in new and innovative solutions that complement existing control programs, we can reduce the public health impacts of these exotic and invasive mosquito species.”
“This technology platform could also be used to develop solutions for a wide spectrum of pests that threaten livestock and crops and our food systems.”
Subject to government and regulatory approvals, Oxitec Australia’s first solution will be a “just-add-water” product using the Friendly™ Aedes aegypti mosquito technology.
This innovative product allows for the rapid production of Friendly™ non-biting male mosquitoes following the addition of water.
Oxitec Australia is also developing a solution for the Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) with funding from the CSIRO to help prevent a major invasion risk to mainland Australia.
The new venture is already working with local communities in the Torres Strait affected by these mosquito and dengue outbreaks. Once completed, it aims to deploy this technology in impacted regions.
Grey Frandsen, CEO of Oxitec, said, “In collaboration with Indigenous communities, leading scientific institutions, industry partners, and farmers, we’re committed to transforming how pest threats to health, food security, and ecosystems are addressed. In doing so, we aim to not only protect lives, livelihoods, and biodiversity but also empower Indigenous communities.”
Oxitec Australia is also working to address pests threatening crops, such as the fall armyworm caterpillar.
With an update to the Burdekin Show committee and some positional changes, President Christopher Lyne, is confident that this year’s show will be the biggest and best yet.
“We've got one new member, Stacey Koir, who joined the committee this year, while we've had a few changes. Meghan Wilson has gone from committee member to Vice President, and Brendan Kolb stepped down from Vice President to committee member,” Chris announces.
“We're seeing fresh ideas come to the show, and every year we add something, but we now have the manpower to be able to execute those fresh ideas and make them happen,” he says excitedly.
In 2024 the Burdekin Show introduced a mini ring with a Dachshund race that proved very popular. This year they’re hoping to add to that with a whip cracking competition, while adding even more to the mini ring, including the Townsville Lawnmower Club who are bringing their junior members.
“Last year we had a stage with some performers but we’re also looking to change that around, so it’s more of a community stage. We’re aiming to get local performers come and perform, which will be great for the region,” Chris enthuses.
“We’re also negotiating with the Showman's Guild to expand Sideshow Alley,” he beams.
With brand new attractions and extensions to existing ones, it’s bound to be the Burdekin Show’s best ever, as they aim to surpass their record attendance of 5500.
“We started off with the bare minimum to run a committee, but each year we seem to add someone, without losing anyone. With a fresh burst of youth or energy, we're looking at the biggest and best show yet,” Chris smiles.
Come 25 June, be sure to get along and support The Burdekin Show. For more information, visit their Facebook page for updates for more exciting news.
Sharon Kenny (committee), Fina Towler (Treasurer), Chris Lyne (President), Pam Christensen (Secretary). Front L-R: Meghan Wilson (Vice President), Carole Harness (committee), Marilyn Hutley (committee). Absent: Brendon Kolb & Stacey Koir (committee) Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Vixen, a beautiful 15-month-old dog, has been patiently waiting for her forever home for over 400 days. This energetic and loving girl, weighing in at 25kgs, is ready to fill your life with joy and excitement. With her tall and agile frame, Vixen is the perfect companion for an active household that can match her spirited enthusiasm for toys, long walks, and playful activities.
A social dog, Vixen thrives on human interaction and loves to explore her surroundings. After burning off some energy with a few zoomies, she’s happy to curl up for a cozy cuddle session, making her the ultimate companion for those who appreciate both adventure and relaxation.
After such a long wait, it’s time for Vixen to find the loving home she deserves. While she may show initial excitement during a meet, with the right guidance, she’ll quickly settle in and provide endless love and loyalty in return. If you’re looking for an active, loving, and snuggly addition to your family, Vixen is the one! Come meet her and see why she’s ready to be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s make sure her wait is finally over!
To meet Vixen, please fill out a DOG and PUPPY Animal enquiry form with Angel-Paws at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Vixen's adoption fee is $300 and she will join your home DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, with up-to-date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART.
Adoption Details:
DOB: 12/07/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes - Older
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes - Very slow introduction
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643
Thalie: “Well, I have a lot of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander friends, so we don't celebrate Australia Day, but we gather and we tell stories. And in fact, probably my husband and I are probably going to be at home by ourselves that day. But we aim to share stories that reflect their heritage and values and stories of where we're from, and stories of connection, and stories of what's important to us, as all of us are Australians. We view the day as a time for connection, reflection, and hope, discussing potential future changes to the day, such as a name or date change. This practice has been ongoing for six or seven years.”
Jake: “I'm gonna go down to Wunjunga Beach, which is about 35 minutes south of Home Hill and go down to the beach with my family, and my friends. We're gonna spend the day down there. We're gonna go fishing, catch crabs, and probably gonna go hunting for some pigs, too. It’s a beautiful beach down there but it’s full of crocs, so you wouldn't want to sit there too long. But yeah, just hang out with my family and friends for the day.”
David: “Australia Day, obviously, we (my wife and I) support that. It's not a problem. I love the idea of Australia Day. I believe we will relax because we're going back to work at school on Monday. I'll probably just take it easy and enjoy it with a couple of friends. I also plan to fly the Aussie flag because in the past that’s what we did, proudly displaying the Australian flag. I think there’s a growing weariness in the country with divisive issues and I welcome the push for unity on Australia Day. I'm just a bit over all the stuff so it's great that the politicians are now coming out and actually insisting that we come together instead of finding reasons to be pulled apart all the time. It suggests a renewed sense of obligation to participate in the celebrations.”
Kelly: “Well, this year we're fortunate that it's my sister in law's birthday, so we're going down to Airlie Beach, and spend a lot of time looking at the ocean, and hopefully having a few cocktails. We’ll be taking the kids, spending a bit of time with them, and hopefully a little bit of time without them, too. The kids love getting the flags and getting involved with Australia Day ideas but we're probably a little bit more low key traditionally. What we've done before is gather around my parents pool and invite friends over. So yeah, a bit of a relaxed time by the beach with family before the start of school, celebrating a birthday and Australia Day.”
Richard: “To celebrate Australia Day, I reckon just some casual plans for the day, which include having a coffee, smoking, walking around, and possibly going for a drink at the pub. Not too much you know, just happy. I’m happy, for Australia, happy to be here, and happy to celebrate in my own easy way. I have flags in my house. I have an Australian flag. I have a Southern Cross flag. And I have an Australian animal flag, that’s on the side of my house. For me, it's just being around friends.”
Thalie. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Jake Harvey (17). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
David Keyes (66). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Connie (6) and mum, Kelly Lund (42). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Richard Minojlovich (51). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Born and bred in the Burdekin, Sweet FM presenter, Carol Betteridge, has been with the station for a decade now. She started her show after leaving a long-term job and has been hosting Wednesday morning country music shows ever since.
“I lived out of town about eight kilometres south of Home Hill. I lived there until I moved to town 35 years ago, where I've been ever since. Even though I’ve travelled the world, including Ireland, the UK, South Africa, New Zealand (five to six times), and I’ve travelled Australia, Home Hill is always home,” Carol announces.
“I left a job that I had been in for a while, and I was looking for something to occupy my time. So when I left the BCA, I saw Merle Scott, the former station manager here at the radio station. She recruited most of us oldies,” Carol laughs.
“Merle got me into country music because that's what she was doing. I could do her show when she wasn't available on a Wednesday but then I was also doing a Friday night show with general everydaymusic but then I got a shift job. So the Friday night went out the door.”
Carol, 60, has never married nor had children, but used to run the shoe and dress shop in Home Hill called Carol B’s before giving that up. While her current auditor role at Invicta sugar mill bears no resemblance whatsoever to her radio station presenting gig, both jobs started around the same time. As with most long term roles, it has its good days and bad days.
“I started the radio station in September of one year, and then I started auditing in July of the year after that. Some days I play songs and I'm sort of going, ‘That didn't do it for me today.’ But other days I just love it. I love those days where you feel the music” she smiles.
Having grown up in the Burdekin all her life, she recalls how vibrant the area used to be, sharing a fondness for one burger shop in particular.
“Back in the day there were so many great shops here. It had everything you could get, everything you could want. Great Lolly shops, cafes, butchers. And then there was Burger Bills. When I was a little kid, Burger Bills was the burger place in Home Hill. I could go in and order for the whole family, and Bill was so impressed because this little girl could come in and tell him the full order. I loved that place,” Carol says smiling.
While her approach to her radio show involves playing music she feels like listening to on that day, she’s also happy to takes requests from listeners. Carol also encourages others to volunteer at the radio station, emphasising the ease of presenting on radio.
“Consider volunteering because it’s such a rewarding experience. I can assure anyone that presenting on the radio is not as daunting as it might seem. I compare it to talking into a microphone at home and playing music you enjoy. I just love it,” she says excitedly.
Check out Carol’s Country Music Show on Wednesday mornings from 9am to 12pm. If you’re keen to join Carol as a presenter, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.
Carol Betteridge, a woman who loves country music, being a presenter, and Home Hill. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Founded in 1971 by a group of local Burdekin boaties and fishermen keen to look after each other, as well as visitors to the region, in a time when private vessels doubled as rescue vessels and the radio building was nothing more than a caravan towed to Alva Beach, Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin (VMR) has been going strong for over 50 years ever since.
Now a more formal volunteer organisation, VMR has dedicated rescue boats, while operating out of two modern buildings that house their radio facilities, rescue boats, vehicles, and equipment. They’ve come a long way from their early days.
Legends of their first rescue boat, the famed ‘Tonya Leigh’ still echo around the Burdekin today. Stories still describe her exceptional performance and reliability during some of the roughest sea rescues in the region, such was her awe and aura.
54 years of hard work and commitment by a small band of dedicated volunteers, has seen VMR Burdekin go from strength to strength.
However, they will soon be taken in by Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ). So what does this mean for VMR Burdekin moving forward?
L-R: Long-time members, Ernie Rose, Claude Sutcliffe, VMR President Ian Sutcliffe, and Matt Patane, have been saving lives for decades. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Founded in 1971 by a group of local Burdekin boaties and fishermen keen to look after each other, as well as visitors to the region, in a time when private vessels doubled as rescue vessels and the radio building was nothing more than a caravan towed to Alva Beach, Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin (VMR) has been going strong for over 50 years ever since.
Now a more formal volunteer organisation, VMR has dedicated rescue boats, while operating out of two modern buildings that house their radio facilities, rescue boats, vehicles, and equipment. They’ve come a long way from their early days.
Legends of their first rescue boat, the famed ‘Tonya Leigh’ still echo around the Burdekin today. Stories still describe her exceptional performance and reliability during some of the roughest sea rescues in the region, such was her awe and aura.
54 years of hard work and commitment by a small band of dedicated volunteers, has seen VMR Burdekin go from strength to strength with some 600 volunteers on their books. However, VMR will soon be taken in by Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), a state government sea rescue branch. So, what does this mean for VMR Burdekin moving forward? Even their president, Ian Sutcliffe, is unsure.
“We think we will be renamed, ‘Marine Rescue Queensland Burdekin’, but as yet, we haven’t even been told that. So, it’s all a bit of an unknown to us right now,” Ian declares.
A boilermaker by trade at Inkerman mill, Ian, who has been around the group since his dad was skipper of the rescue boat in the early days, has come a long way when he was just a kid and out fundraising for VMR. Now President, he’s both excited by joining forces with MRQ and sceptical.
Excited, because it will mean a lot of the money issues and responsibility of raising funds, will now rest with MRQ. And sceptical because there has been very little consultation or interaction to discuss what the relationship will look like, and how it will work moving forward.
“As far as I know, MRQ are going to be paying for a lot of the repairs on the boat, and they’re also going to pay for all our running costs. But I'm not too sure whether they'll also cover the repairs on the truck. I hope they do, because trucks cost money as well,” Ian says.
He speculates, however, that with a lot of VMR’s funding being taken care of, this will invariably free up more time for volunteers, noting that it will reduce the need for fundraising.
“Volunteers have to work for a living as volunteering doesn't pay. If the government can pay for a lot of stuff to get done around the place, then it just frees us up a lot more. You'd be surprised just how much is involved. If anyone wants to do a fundraising day or something, they ring me, and then I have to coordinate amongst volunteers and set it up. So having government support is a very good thing,” Ian says with relief.
During rescues, VMR Burdekin coordinates with police and other rescue organisations for missions.
“As far as rescues go, a lot of our jobs are police activated. They're the ones that call in other rescue organisations as to who they deem they want. We also have a duty phone, and that is the first point of contact for VMR Burdekin. Someone will ring and say, ‘Hey look, my husband's overdue. He's out at the reef. Can you go and find him?’ So, we'll organise a crew and head out and find them.”
“Last April, two guys went missing out in the bay. We were the first ones called to go and start looking for them. Water police then contacted Bowen VMR and also Townsville Coast Guard. Between all three organisations, we did eventually find them,” Ian shares.
While the water police are always in charge of a rescue operation, when it comes to specific areas, the police rely strongly on local knowledge, and cede responsibility. For example, if it's in VMR Burdekin’s area, then they’re in charge of that area.
While the group has 600 members, only a fraction (maybe 50) participate and contribute their skills and time on a regular basis. With membership costing only $100 annually, which includes one free tow and offers new members the chance to complete shipboard safety skill set, the real value comes, however, in the form of decades of boating wisdom from their older members, who are all too keen to share their expertise and knowledge. That in itself is priceless!
It’s easy to attend a VMR Burdekin meeting, where you can learn more about them the volunteer opportunities they have, training such as man overboard drills, and fire and motor exercises.
“If we're coming to rescue you, you need to be confident that we know what we're doing,” Ian states.
VMR Burdekin is always looking for new and younger members to join. Members all say, ‘It’s a great, fun place to volunteer,’ and many lifelong friendships are formed. Best of all, you get to save people’s lives.
“The importance of saving lives at sea and the gratitude expressed by those being rescued is unparalleled. There’s an enormous sense of satisfaction knowing you’ve saved a life and helped a family and a community. When there's no one else around to help them out, they are incredibly grateful.”
“Our role is to save lives at sea, that's our motto,” Ian smiles.
If you’re keen to become a volunteer for the VMR, email: burdekin@marinerescueqld.org.au or call Ian on: 07 4783 1014. They’d love to have you aboard!
L-R: Older members, Ernie Rose, Claude Sutcliffe, VMR President Ian Sutcliffe, and Matt Patane, have been saving lives for decades. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
VMR volunteers in front of their insignia. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
L-R: Two rescue boats, 54 years of service, countless lives saved. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
You may have noticed some beautifully decorated rocks popping up around the Burdekin shire. These colourful stones are part of the ‘Kindness Rocks Project’, a heartwarming movement where people—along the East Coast and beyond—paint rocks with uplifting messages and vibrant designs to spread positivity.
The project began in 2015, when Megan Murphy of Cape Cod left a rock on a beach with the message "You've got this." Her simple act of kindness sparked a viral trend that quickly spread. Soon, others began painting rocks with words of encouragement, motivational phrases, or just beautiful artwork, and leaving them for strangers to discover.
What started as a small, local gesture has now blossomed into a widespread movement, with painted rocks appearing all over the coast and beyond. People often share stories of finding these little gems, and some even collect them, carrying them far from where they were originally placed.
The Kindness Rocks Project continues to touch lives and remind us that a small, thoughtful gesture can make a big difference.
When you are next on your daily stroll, make sure to keep an eye out for these lovely painted rocks and their heartfelt messages or beautiful artwork, or if you want to spread a bit of kindness create your own rock message and place it in the Burdekin community somewhere where it will be found.
Some of the rocks found in the region
Kindness rocks
Spreading kindness in the community
The Federal Government’s $7.2 billion pledge to upgrade the notoriously dangerous Bruce Highway has already hit its first set of potholes.
Federal Finance Minister, Katy Gallagher, contradicted the Prime Minister’s claim that funding will be delivered this year. Instead, the Finance Minister admitted the funding won’t be available until after the forward estimates, leaving the region of Dawson waiting until 2028 for crucial upgrades.
“The Prime Minister and the Finance Minister cannot both be correct. The Dawson community deserves to be told the truth,” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said.
“Some 43 lives have been lost on the Bruce Highway over the past year, and it feels like the Prime Minister was more focused on buying votes instead of getting to work and fixing the highway.
“It is time for the Prime Minister to come clean and release the full timing schedule for release of the promised Bruce Highway upgrade funds.
“I am also very concerned that one of the worst sections of highway in my electorate was not deemed a priority by the Albanese government. I will continue to fight for our fair share of funding to get the road fixed.” Mr Willcox said.
The Coalition has promised they will match the funding pledge and reinstate the 80:20 funding split with the State Government if elected, when Queenslanders go to the polls by May 2025.
Prime Minister vs Finance Minister on timing of $7.2 billion Bruce Highway funding: Wednesday 8 January 2025 – Finance Minister on ABC 7.30 Report:
Laura Tingle, 7.30 Report: “When was that [Bruce Highway] decision taken and will it actually involve any change in the budget bottom line?”
Finance Minister Katy Gallagher: “Well the costs for that will be reflected in the next budget update as they come into those forward estimate years. Um, so that decision was taken in the normal way through the Cabinet and our own internal processes, um, but it’s...
Tingle: “It’s included in the MYEFO bottom line at the moment?”
Gallagher: “Well the, I think the funding will be come outside of those forward estimates years, um, because it’s a long term project...”
Monday 6 January 2025 – PM interviewed on Radio 4BC:
Reporter: Prime Minister, we know the what, can you tell us the when?
Prime Minister Albanese: Good afternoon. Well, as soon as we can. The funding will be available from this year... we want this to be done as soon as possible, so the funding is available.
Monday 6 January 2025 – Prime Minister’s Press Conference, Gympie (announcing the funding):
Prime Minister: “...We had to get those measures in place and it's that discipline that we showed in those budgets that have allowed us to come to the position in MYEFO, we've provisioned for this.”
“So what is the truth?” asked Mr Willcox.
Federal MP, Andrew Willcox inspects the Bruce Highway. Photo supplied
My attention this week turned to Los Angeles, ablaze with severe (out of season) bushfires, with several upscale neighbourhoods turned to nothing but ash, including Pacific Palisades and parts of Malibu.
What’s L.A got to do with the Burdekin? Well, there are more similarities than seem obvious at first glance.
I lived in L.A for 4-5 years between 2012-2016. It’s also where I met my wife, so it holds a special place in my heart. To see it go up in flames is tough, especially as we have friends and family there. My wife was also born in Hollywood, and while not a star, to me and our son, she’s the whole galaxy of stars.
So, what’s L.A have to do with the regional sugar cane town, Home Hill, which feels a million miles from the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown? More than you think.
We were in L.A for three days last year en route to Australia, and this once fantastic city is in serious decline. When I lived there, it was a fab place to be. Big, wide, clean beaches, canyons and roads that remain my fave to this day, along with the stunning Griffith Park, the biggest city park in all of the United States.
However, in recent years, once thriving strip shops are seeing very little business or worse, closed and boarded up. While the (in)famous ‘Skidrow’ – a homeless tent city so big (and getting bigger) – it could easily have its own postcode.
While on a smaller scale, the same things exist here. Shops closed, boarded up, or seeing very little custom. Homeless drifting around, though not in numbers like L.A, but rising.
In talks with locals, Home Hill used to be a thriving country town with five cafes, four butchers, two supermarkets, drapery and clothing shops and more. “A great place to live,” many long-term residents tell me.
A few decades on from its glory days, its grandeur has faded.
Will we see Home Hill rise again? I believe so but it’s going to take grit, ingenuity, and belief.
Queensland’s waterways are home to one of nature’s most formidable predators: the crocodile. Since gaining protection in 1971, crocodile populations have steadily increased, making these prehistoric creatures a vital part of the ecosystem. However, they also pose risks to residents and visitors, including those in the Burdekin region.
Crocodiles are an iconic part of North Queensland’s identity, but their presence often sparks debate. Sightings along the coast highlight the challenge of balancing coexistence with managing their potential dangers.
Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter MP, has advocated for crocodile culls, citing concerns about rising populations putting human lives at risk. Others emphasise education and responsible behaviour, noting that many attacks result from human actions, such as feeding crocodiles or approaching the water’s edge too closely.
Regardless of one’s stance on crocodile culling, recent statistics show a growing number of crocodile sightings across Queensland.
The Burdekin, known for its vibrant fishing culture and outdoor lifestyle, is not immune to these challenges. A recent report from the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation, highlights the importance of remaining vigilant. While only one sighting was reported in the Burdekin recently, nearby regions like Townsville and Cairns recorded 31 and 43 sightings, just in the past 30 days, according to the crocodile sighting dashboard.
Stay Croc-Safe
The Queensland Government’s "Be Croc-wise" initiative provides important guidelines to reduce the risk of crocodile attacks:
• Stay at least five meters from the water’s edge and use barriers like logs or eskies if needed.
• Dispose of food scraps and bait properly to avoid attracting crocodiles.
• Keep pets on a leash and away from the water.
• Avoid using small watercraft in crocodile-prone areas.
• Swim only at patrolled beaches, where crocodiles are less likely to be present.
To report a sighting, use the QWildlife app, visit the website, or call 1300 130 372. In emergencies, dial 000 or 112. By staying alert and following these guidelines, residents and visitors can contribute to the safe management of crocodile populations.
This figure initially represents the number of cases (based on sighting reports received) that have been active in the last 30 days or have been declared as problem crocodiles. Image source: Queensland Government, Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
A saltwater croc cruising the waters. Photo credit: David Clode, (Unsplash)
Crocodiles can present a problem for unsuspecting locals and visitors who aren’t croc-wise. Photo: Supplied
At 88, Dorothea (or Thea to her friends), has led an amazing life when she moved to the Burdekin in 2012. Originally from Mareeba, 68 kilometres north of Cairns, Thea is the youngest of nine children, when she first discovered her love of travel.
“My father had a tobacco farm just outside Mareeba, where I grew up. We had one teacher in our bush primary school. When I finished school, I went nursing in Atherton for four years and after training, my sister and I moved down to Innisfail. I worked in the hospital for a few months before I got infected with the wander-bug,” Thea confesses.
“We went down to Wagga Wagga, worked in the hospital there before going fruit picking. We ended up hitchhiking around Tasmania, before I came back to the mainland to work at the Heidelberg Military Hospital, in Melbourne,” she exclaims.
While working in Melbourne, she went to a party at a friend's place, where she met her future husband. They remained married for 60 years before he passed away nine years ago.
“We lived in Melbourne for about six months but my husband always wanted to go north because he'd been born in Bendigo, Victoria, and hated the cold. We rode in big semis all the way up to Brisbane, before we caught the train from there to Cairns, where he got work.”
Looking for better jobs, they moved around a lot before having kids, which still didn’t stop them. Thea had eight, but lost two. Her children are scattered across various locations, including Cairns, Gladstone, the Darling Downs, Bundaberg, and America.
“I quit nursing when I started having children. With kids, I had enough patients,” Thea laughs. “We went down to St George, NSW, then back up to Mackay before going over to Darwin. As a family we moved around frequently, always looking for better opportunities,” she explains.
Once the kids were old enough and left the coop, Thea and Jim didn’t slow down, instead continuing their adventures, this time by boat and bus!
“After he took an early retirement, we bought a 40-foot yacht and went sailing for 10 years up and down the coast. We had a mooring in Cairns, and we’d say, ‘Where's the cyclone going to be this year?’ That’s when we’d decide where to go. After that, I had to have a hip replacement because it's a bit awkward getting around a boat on crutches.”
“We sold the boat, came to shore in Bowen, lived on a mango farm, then got a bus. We did it up and travelled all over Australia. We went to every state, including Tassie. We were doing that right up until Jim was too sick to travel,” Thea reflects.
She’s now been in Home Hill and the Burdekin since 2012, where she’s content.
“It was a strange town when I first came here, because if you weren't three or four generations Burdekinites, they sort of looked at you a bit weird. But it's lovely now. It's been tidied up and still has got great potential,” she enthuses.
With a life lived and well-travelled, Thea remains active by reading, doing puzzles, and attending church with friends.
“I read, and do a lot puzzles now that I don’t travel much. I know the paper’s free but if you take that puzzle out of your newspaper, I won’t buy your newspaper,” Dorothea jokes.
Thea McQualter (88), endless wanderluster and puzzler. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is calling on small businesses in the Burdekin to make their voices heard as the state government embarks on a project designed to unlock the growth potential of the vital sector.
Reducing red tape and providing an improved dispute resolution service, are key elements of the Crisafulli’s government’s aim to ensure small business spends more time providing service to customers rather than servicing government.
“In the Burdekin district 97.3% of local businesses are small businesses,” Mr Last said.
“By supporting small and family business, we not only support existing jobs and creating new ones, but also driving innovation.
“The Premier has made it clear that feedback from small and family business will form the basis of how we reduce red tape. I think the fact that businesses will identify the improvement, means we tackle the actual challenges rather than government claiming to have all the answers.”
Mr Last said that the Small Business Commissioner’s commitment to delivering on the government’s election commitments meant small and family businesses had an even stronger team supporting them.
“The Small Business Commissioner has a vital role in supporting small and family business both in helping them to grow and when they need assistance. Commissioner Lamb has an enviable track record when it comes to the retail sector, so her support of the government’s initiatives means we are on the right track,” he said.
“As a government, one of our goals is to get out of people’s way and one of the best ways to do that is to reduce unnecessary red tape. We took a comprehensive plan for small and family business to the election, and we are delivering on that plan.
“In communities like the Burdekin, the people behind small and family businesses are more than employers and business owners. Ridding them of unnecessary red tape, means they can spend more time with their families and supporting community or sporting groups, so it’s a win-win for the entire community.”
Mr Last said it was important to recognise that reducing red tape was only one of the government’s commitments when it came to supporting small and family business.
“This is the first step, but we recognise that we need to make it easier for small business to work with government when it comes to the delivery of goods and services. Initiatives like our commitment to paying small businesses faster and reducing the size of contracts to allow more small business to work with government has the potential to supercharge the sector, and that is great news for the Burdekin.”
Dale Last on Queen Street in Ayr. Photo supplied
Detectives from the Crime and Intelligence Homicide Investigation Unit and Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch are continuing to investigate the death of a 56-year-old Down syndrome man, Isaac Oar, in Ayr in August 2023.
Around 9.18pm on Thursday,10th of August, 2023, emergency services were called to an Alice Street residence after Isaac, also known as Ikey, was located unresponsive.
He was pronounced deceased at the scene. Due to the circumstances, police commenced a suspicious death investigation, and a crime scene was established.
Investigations into the death of Isaac, who has Down syndrome and was non-verbal, have been complex, with detectives conducting extensive and thorough inquiries into his health, care and treatment throughout his life.
Extensive investigations and forensic medical examinations were conducted, including a thorough postmortem, which revealed Isaac was experiencing serious malnourishment weighing just 29kg at the time of his death.
Detective Inspector Jason Shepherd from the Townsville District Crime Services wanted to assure the public that this is a complex and ongoing criminal investigation.
“We will continue to investigate all aspects of Isaac Oar’s family dynamics, health, care and treatment in the weeks, months and years leading up to his death,” Detective Inspector Shepherd said.
“Detectives are not satisfied that this investigation is complete and will continue to investigate all circumstances surrounding the death of Issac.
“I urge anyone who had contact with Issac or his family over in the months leading to his death to contact police. Any piece of information, no matter how small, can have a significant impact on our investigation.”
Queensland has experienced its deadliest year on the roads in 15 years, with 302 lives lost in 2024. This marks a tragic 25-person increase over 2023 and a 33-person rise compared to the five-year average. The state’s worst road toll since 2009 has prompted calls for drivers to be more vigilant, especially as the summer holiday period brings increased traffic.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, The Honourable Brent Mickelberg, emphasised the need for caution.
“At this time of year, we know people typically spend more time on the road than usual,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“There is still no excuse to speed, lose focus, not wear a seat belt properly, or drive when you’re affected by drugs or alcohol – it’s just not worth the risk.”
The major contributing factors to road fatalities remain the Fatal Five: speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink and drug driving. Speeding continues to rise as a key factor, particularly among motorcyclists, who made up 77 of the fatalities, a 25.5% increase from the five-year average.
Young drivers aged 16 to 24, who make up 13% of the state’s licence holders, were involved in almost 30% of fatal crashes, while senior drivers accounted for 98 deaths, a 32% increase from previous years.
Regional Queensland, particularly the Southern region and North Coast, saw the highest number of fatalities, with more than 60% of the state’s fatal crashes occurring outside urban areas.
Minister Mickelberg also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including advocating for increased federal funding to upgrade the Bruce Highway.
To access more information on road safety, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/.
With much talk in the media about upgrading the Bruce Highway, the motorists of today would have much more to complain about if the conditions of the past are anything to go by. Enjoy this historic account shared by local Burdekinite, Glenis Cislowski, and written by William Langford Penny back in 1931.
William Penny was 25 when he and his friend, Raymond Becker (22), departed from Sydney in a Singer Junior 8 h.p. motor car, on Monday 2 February 1931, headed for Townsville.
Nicknamed Rastus, the Singer was overloaded with six large suitcases including auto tent, stretchers and camping equipment. They took the New England Tableland route to reach Brisbane on 17 February, covering 970 miles on 27 gallons of Shell spirit, averaging 36 mpg. Up until then, the road was good to Brisbane and the journey easy.
However, the roads were bad from Brisbane, where they went to Rockhampton via Esk, Nanango, Kingaroy, Goomeri, and Gympie, before arriving at Maryborough, on Monday 2 March. William and Raymond left for Childers Wednesday 11 March. The trip from Childers to Rockhampton took 16 days owing to rainy weather and flooded creeks.
Passing through Bundaberg, Gin Gin, and Gladstone, they didn’t reach Rockhampton until Friday 27 March. They left Rockhampton on Good Friday, 3 April headed for Townsville.
After getting bogged in St Lawrence, they reached Ilbilbie at dusk under heavy rain showers to find the track slippery. With no accommodation and feeling hungry, they pressed onto Koumala, only to crash into a concealed boggy washaway. The two men camped on soaked stretchers under the stars and endeavoured to sleep with mosquitoes for company.
The Patterson family, who were travelling in a Ford and returning to Rockhampton, gave them breakfast and loaded them with cheese, cakes, guavas and lemons, before helping them out of the bog. Their Singer car arrived in Mackay Easter Sunday, 5 April.
The intrepid travellers left Mackay, Easter Monday for Bowen. The car had no brakes, and because it had small wheel tracks, was very hard to navigate on the track. After Bloomsbury, the difficulty of crossing the flooded O’Connell, Andromache, and Thompson Rivers, became a problem where once again they got bogged and needed two draught horses to pull them out.
They camped the night in a shed at the homestead of a gentleman residing on the river bank. Smouldering cow manure helped to keep the mosquitoes at bay. William and Raymond stayed at Proserpine and left for Bowen, Wednesday 8 April at 2pm.
They arrived at Home Hill about 7.00pm that night. They spent about a few hours in Ayr before making an uneventful run to Townsville, arriving at 5.00pm, Thursday 9 April.
They would then make the long, arduous return trip all the way back to Sydney. By the time they were done, their 1930 British Model Singer Junior, an 8 horsepower vehicle, had covered 12,000 miles, on the original retread tyres with no punctures, averaging 50 miles per gallon.
Upon being met by Shell Company representatives, the pair described the Bruce as deplorable on account of it being wet season, with William advising anyone, ‘To think twice before undertaking the trip, and on no account use the road during rain or soon after rain.’
Next time you’re on the Bruce Highway, spare a thought for the men and women who travelled it frequently back in the day, taking days, weeks and sometimes months, to reach their destinations, getting bogged, or finding it completely impassable.
Cane toads are everywhere in Queensland, especially in the Burdekin, and with the breeding season upon us action needs to be taken to remove them. The Watergum Cane Toad Challenge is back again for this year’s Great Cane Toad Bust event with over 50,000 toads removed last year. They hope to match that number and even surpass it this season with your help.
Cane toads are prolific breeders producing up to 30,000 eggs at a time and can live up to 10 years. Being toxic in all stages of their life cycle, when ingested the toads’ skin and poison glands can kill many native animals. They also have a voracious appetite that will devour anything as they are extremely resourceful omnivores, easily destroying ecosystems.
The Great Toad Bust aims to put a stop to their spread, and one day remove them from Australia. You can register your efforts now and join the thousands trying to protect their own communities from this invasion.
The Watergum Cane Toad Challenge website has many helpful tips on how to trap and humanly euthanize the toads, and you can see how others are doing with the seasons total tally updating live.
Studies show control efforts like specialised traps, can remove up to 47% of cane toads from localised populations, which includes in the Burdekin region. If you want to help your local wildlife thrive again or to just keep your own farm’s dam clear from these pests, sign up today for the challenge and receive a free info pack and ID guide at Watergums website: watergum.org/greatcanetoadbust. Happy toad busting Burdekin!
Cane Toads are a big problem in Queensland and the Burdekin.
Australia Day celebrations in Ayr and Home Hill on January 26th each year bring the community together to recognise those who have made a lasting impact.
The Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards are an opportunity to celebrate local residents who have demonstrated exceptional community spirit and significant achievements across various fields.
"Australia Day is a time to reflect on what it means to be Australian, and part of that is acknowledging the incredible contributions of those who work tirelessly to enhance the lives of others in our community," said Mayor Dalle Cort.
Nominations for the awards is now closed, but the award categories include:
Citizen of the Year Award
This award recognises outstanding achievement and leadership in the local community, including selfless commitment, dedication, and involvement in activities that promote the welfare and wellbeing of the community throughout 2024. Nominees must be 25 years or older on January 26, 2025.
Young Citizen of the Year Award (Under 25)
Recognises young individuals for outstanding achievements and leadership in the community, along with demonstrated commitment and involvement in activities benefiting the community during 2024.
Lifetime Service Award
Awarded to those who have made a significant contribution in a voluntary capacity, with a minimum of 20 years of voluntary service.
Volunteer of the Year Award
Acknowledges significant contributions in a voluntary capacity during the 2024 calendar year.
Community Event of the Year Award
For the most outstanding community event staged by a regional person or group during 2024.
Senior Sports Award
Recognises significant achievements and contributions in non-professional sport during 2024.
Junior Sports Award
Recognises achievements and contributions in non-professional sport by a young person during 2024.
Senior Cultural Award
Awarded for significant achievement and contributions in the arts, or involvement with an organisation that fosters the development of arts, culture, and entertainment throughout 2024.
Junior Cultural Award
Recognises achievement and contribution in the arts by a young person or their involvement in an arts or cultural organisation during 2024.
Environment Award
Acknowledges outstanding achievement and contributions in environmental initiatives during 2024.
These awards offer an important opportunity to honour those who make a difference in the community and offer locals to come together to celebrate Australia Day.
Qualified mechanic and diesel fitter, Raymond Reynolds, has been in and around cars and engines for decades. If there’s something wrong with your car, he’s the go-to guy in the Burdekin to get you back on the road in a jiffy.
Prior to taking over at Burdekin Automotive, Ray spent three successful years in Innisfail. He only came up to Ayr after he found out that former owner, Robert Timms, had passed away in July last year.
“The most recent owner, Robert Timms, shifted over from West Toyota to be here, and he had it going quite well. He was due to sign a new lease the week he sadly passed away.
“Since we've taken over ownership in late October, we've also added hire cars as well, that because they’re older vehicles, they're budgeted to price. Primarily though, we do mechanical servicing, mechanical repairs, auto electrical repairs, and mobile auto electrical services. That’s our main business,” Raymond says.
While they have the car rental hire ticking over quite nicely, their main focus is, and always will be, automotive repairs.
“At Burdekin Automotive we do servicing, repairs, brakes, shock absorbers, battery replacement, and wheel alignments. But come March, we will also be selling brand new tyres. It’ll be a one-stop-shop for all your automotive needs,” Ray adds.
For the past 20 years, Ray has been his own boss where he’s seen and done a lot in his time. Originally from Brisbane, Raymond spent time in Papua New Guinea, where he was the manager for Lae Port services, which is the second largest Port in PNG. He’s also done a stint in Afghanistan.
“Basically, I was teaching armoury and mechanical repairs in Afghanistan back in 2014. But then I came back to Australia, where I worked the cane season. From there, I went up to Cairns airport, doing electric hydraulics and all their ground equipment before I started my own business in Innisfail, as a mobile auto electrician,” Raymond smiles.
“It’s been the best thing I ever did,” he declares.
“From the turnover of vehicles we get, to the attitude of customers here, they don't mess around. They know what they want. They pay without any hassles, and away they go, happy and very satisfied with our work.”
Open Monday to Friday from 8am in the morning till about 6-7pm, and 8am-2pm on Saturdays, and on-call Sundays (if a customer is desperate), Burdekin Automotive has fast built a great reputation among its many customers. Raymond attributes it to two key factors.
“We have good staff, and we have great customers who know what they want and appreciate our advice and expertise.
“Soon, I’ll have two more boys coming in to help – one that’s a Toyota specialist, the other an auto electrician.”
With customer satisfaction at an all time high and business booming, be sure to get on down to Burdekin Automotive for any car issues. Raymond and his boys will take great care of you and your car’s needs – guaranteed!
Raymond Reynolds, the man to see for your car. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Well, the silly season is over. Happy New Year to all.
I am not sure if the crushing will be finished by the time this prints which is very sad. So much money that families in this community miss out on. Left in the paddock due to a few different contributing factors, but one main contributor, and it wasn’t the rain.
We are going into our second calendar year for this term of council. February means we start working on the budget again. I would like to hope that during budget, the cost-of-living pressures should be in the minds of every councillor and officer at all times. I know it will certainly be in mine. We still need to deliver the best service we can for our community, but not if it means a family is forced to reduce their grocery bill to afford rates.
I am hoping that now we are getting more comfortable with each other and in our roles, we can knuckle down and work as a team for our community.
As we gear up for Australia Day celebrations, I’d like to remind everyone about the importance of protocol for this significant day. It is the established practice set by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to display the three flags - the Australian National Flag, the Aboriginal Flag, and the Torres Strait Islander Flag - at Australia Day events. This serves as a symbol of respect and inclusivity, acknowledging the rich cultures and histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples alongside the broader Australian community.
This year, our celebrations will once again include the naturalisation ceremonies, one of the highlights of Australia Day. I’m looking forward to officially welcoming our newest citizens as they take this important step to join the Australian community.
Meanwhile, many of us are still winding down from the Christmas break, with more employees returning to work and routines resuming. It’s also worth noting that the crushing season has unfortunately dragged on longer than expected. While the recent showers have been a welcome relief in dampening the ground during this extreme heat, I hope it doesn’t impact the remainder of the crush.
Speaking of heat, it’s a timely reminder for everyone to prioritise their well-being. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, taking breaks in the shade, and looking out for vulnerable members of our community, especially the elderly. Let’s all do our part to stay safe and support one another during this challenging weather.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
As rates stayed firmly on hold throughout 2024, Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist, David Robertson says a gradually but steadily improving domestic economy is likely in 2025.
Mr Robertson said Australians can expect rates to start easing in the early part of 2025 as inflation is tamed, forecasting:
• The RBA to deliver interest rate relief by May,
• The unemployment rate to edge higher, mildly,
• That trading conditions and geopolitical tensions will remain tense and potentially even more volatile as US tariffs are imposed, but Australia should be less impacted than almost anywhere.
“While there’s been a growing chorus of opinion encouraging earlier rate cuts and suggesting the RBA is unnecessarily holding rates too high, this view seems to overlook two crucial factors.”
“Firstly, the RBA were later than our peers in hiking rates back in 2022 and the RBA increased rates to a less restrictive level. A neutral cash rate in Australia (where we will likely return to next year) is estimated at 3½%, so we are less than 1% into restrictive territory, unlike other comparable economies.”
“Any earlier cuts to rates could have jeopardised the ongoing fight against inflation,” Mr Roberson said.
“Secondly, those advocating for earlier cuts to help with cost-of-living pressures also ignore the root cause of the cost-of-living shock, which is inflation itself, so any sustainable solution to these pressures lies in thoroughly taming inflation.”
“Nevertheless, we are getting closer to winning the war on prices with core inflation down to 3.5%, and the next two quarterly reads (on January 29 and then April 30) should give the RBA the evidence it needs to cut in May.”
Mr Robertson also said the latest GDP data confirms that restrictive interest rates are reigning in demand.
“GDP growth in the third quarter picked up marginally from 0.2% to 0.3% (and is at least still growing) but we remain in a per-capita recession and annualised growth is only 0.8%, its slowest pace since the 1991-recession, outside the pandemic.”
“The fact that growth is so slow and only being propped up by public spending and population growth isn’t in itself a reason to cut rates now, but it is a reminder that monetary policy is doing its job and that rate cuts next year can help the private sector to recover, taking the reins from government spending,” Mr Robertson concluded.
Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist, David Robertson. Photo & story credit: Bendigo Community Bank
Ron: “When we get heavy downpours here drainage is a real issue. On New Year’s Day we got a big, heavy downpour all day, and across the road over there, there was a lot of water. Some parts of it were completely cut off. So definitely more drainage would be good. Outside of that, I'd like to see another bridge built or if it’s possible, widening the exisiting one. The current Burdekin bridge is showing its age and become inadequate with lots more trucks and wider loads. It’s not uncommon for many people to miss appointments or be late for work.”
Bella: “We need more advancements in healthcare here in this region. I think the Ayr hospital needs a CT machine so people can easily have CAT scans. These machines are crucial in modern medical diagnostics and are widely used in hospitals around the world. Having a CT machine would help a lot of people, as you'd be able to treat more people in Ayr, rather than having to send them up to Townsville or down to Mackay or Brisbane. That could result in better outcomes for patients, while also keeping them here locally with their family and friends.”
Kristian: “It’d have to be the drainage situation first, then probably better housing, but I don't know where a housing development would go. Somewhere where there's vacant land for the government to put houses on it as there's a lot of homeless people around here. But mainly I think the drainage, because the other side of the Bruce always floods, and from the post office down to the end of us at the Burdekin Motor Inn, there's only one drain which holds all that water, and it just backs up all the time. I think if they did that then a lot of people would start opening shops back up across the road. Oh, and something fun and interesting for the kids to go, like a new park with a better playground, or a water park. A free water park in Home Hill would be fantastic for kids in this area.”
John: “Well, the Bruce Highway definitely needs some attention with a bit of an upgrade. We’ve just driven on it to get here and there are some pretty bad potholes and broken pieces of road and stuff like that. It's something that the Bruce highway up and down this part of the coast would benefit from for sure. It's not in great condition. We’ve just come from Brissy, and the road from Brisbane to Gympie is fantastic. Double lane freeways, barriers, smooth roads, but the Bruce, well, that needs work. That would help people access the local areas and shops better here. It’d provide better infrastructure with all the transport that you need to get your goods in and out of the area, along with more tourists.”
Gladys: “Well, we're looking for a second bridge to handle the extra traffic and more trucks and their big, wide loads. But also when they're doing works on the bridge, or something's happened on the bridge like an accident, you know what, we're delayed on both sides of it. It gets to be annoying after a while. They’re always doing road works and even though most of the time they do try to them it at night on the bridge, still, you’ve got to plan your travels around that you know if you want to come over to here or vice versa. I thought I heard something about a second bridge, but I probably won't be here when that finally happens.”
Ron Clive (77). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Bella Linton (18). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Kristian Bellamy (50). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
John Hamilton (52). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
Gladys Sgarbossa (68). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen
A university-led research initiative is tackling a rapidly spreading pathogen that poses significant challenges to the Australian poultry industry.
The microorganism, Enterococcus cecorum (EC), is a contagious bacterium responsible for severe health issues in poultry. One of its most debilitating effects is spinal cord compression, commonly referred to as "kinky back," which can lead to paralysis and increased mortality rates in affected flocks.
The research, titled “Integrated Investigation of Enterococcus cecorum Prevalence, Transmission Routes, Predisposition Factors, Pathogenic Mechanisms, and Mitigation Strategies in Broilers,” is supported by the AgriFutures Australia Chicken Meat Program. Led by Central Queensland University’s Institute for Future Farming Systems (IFFS), the study aims to explore every aspect of EC’s impact on poultry health and develop strategies to mitigate its effects.
IFFS Molecular Microbiology Cluster Leader, Professor Dana Stanley, highlighted the growing threat of EC to the industry.
“This pathogen has serious implications for the health of birds and the profitability of the industry,” Professor Stanley said.
“We’re working to uncover the role of coinfection and microbial communication, how it spreads, how it causes disease, and, most importantly, how we can stop it.”
The project is leveraging 16 interconnected studies to create the most comprehensive dataset on poultry microbiota ever compiled. Artificial intelligence-assisted prediction and analysis models will be employed to provide an in-depth understanding of EC outbreaks.
“Our work goes beyond identifying the pathogen—we’re uncovering its full genomic blueprint. This is critical for designing interventions that are not only effective but also sustainable in the long term,” Professor Stanley explained.
The research involves advanced techniques, including genomics, molecular typing, and co-culture experiments using a continuous culture gut simulator fermentation system.
“The gut simulator allows us to test how EC behaves in the presence of other bacteria and additives like probiotics and prebiotics. This is vital for identifying co-infection mechanisms and designing targeted interventions,” Professor Stanley said.
The ultimate goal of the research is to develop effective solutions such as improved biosecurity practices, probiotics, prebiotics, and phytogen-based strategies to ensure the sustainability of broiler farming.
“We’re committed to translating our findings into practical strategies that improve animal welfare, reduce industry losses, and ensure sustainability,” Professor Stanley said.
“This research represents a significant step forward in combating EC. By understanding its behaviour and interactions at a molecular level, we can provide producers with the tools they need to protect their flocks and their livelihoods.”
Professor Dana Stanley. Photo source: CQUniversity
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has estimated more than 1.27m tonnes of cane remains unharvested across Australia’s sugarcane mills, resulting in forecast losses to farmers of more than $83M.
QCAR CEO, Stephen Ryan said most mills had closed the doors on the 2024 crushing season except for Wilmar Sugar’s Pioneer and Invicta mills in the Burdekin, with Mackay Sugar Limited advising on Sunday it would no longer accept bins at its Marian Mill past 6pm Monday, 13 January.
“This amount of standover cane is unacceptable,” Mr Ryan said.
“It’s exasperating that for numerous seasons now, farmers have paid the price for poor milling performance,” Mr Ryan said.
“This is so disappointing for growers, and significantly worse considering for some milling regions this is the third and fourth consecutive year for late finishes and poor mill performance resulting in staggering accumulative costs and losses for our growers.”
Mr Ryan said the impacts to growers, contractors, and millers, from wet weather, mill performance, late starts and finishes, and industrial action in Wilmar Sugar mills, would be felt well into 2025.
QCAR Central District Committee Chairman Steve McKeering, said Mackay Sugar had noted, that with more widespread rain forecasted across the Mackay region and a diminishing supply and quality of cane, it was unviable for the factory to continue crushing.
“This is disappointing, but it means Mackay Sugar can launch straight into maintenance works, and hopefully, we can look forward to vastly improved 2025 crush,” Mr McKeering said.
Burdekin grower and Chairman of QCAR Christian Lago, said he was just one of many families feeling the pressure of longer seasons, and the wearing effects of having to work through Christmas and New Year in tough and wet conditions.
“You want to have a break but you can’t,” Mr Lago said.
“You’re tied to the farm just in case there is a window of opportunity to harvest, you want to give yourself every opportunity to get this year’s crop off.
“It’s taken a toll on the whole industry, not only farmers but contractors as well.”
Mr Lago said consequences of longer seasons included extra stress on harvesting machinery, and an inability to get plough-outs off, plant fallow crops early, or fertilise effectively.
“It’s put farming rotations totally out of whack, and we can’t lay the foundations for a strong 2025 season.”
QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello, said there was around 400,000 tonnes of 2024 sugarcane still standing in the Burdekin. He said the angst of the longer seasons and struggling to work in wet conditions was being felt across the region.
“Mills starting up just a week later than they should at the beginning of the season would more than likely translate into up to two months of delays at the other end,” Mr Licciardello said.
In the Herbert region, QCAR District Manager Lawrence Di Bella, said his committee was pulling out all stops to prevent a similar disastrous season from occurring again by calling on Wilmar Sugar to start the Herbert River mills by no later than 3 June for the 2025 season.
In the Central District alone (Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek), there was estimated to be up to 750,000 tonnes of unharvested 2024 season cane. QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball, said the closure of the Mackay Sugar 2024 season had resulted in a collective sigh of relief to most growers, contractors, and mill workers in the district.
"There is no doubt 2024 is amongst the longest and toughest seasons we've seen for a while,” Ms Ball said.
The Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) had in May forecast for the 2024 season a crush of 31.24 million tonnes of sugarcane. By November, this had dropped to just shy of 30 million tonnes, and as of November 24, it reported mills had crushed just more than 25.76mt or 85.9 per cent. Mr Ryan said farmers, harvesters, and mill staff, had all persevered through a difficult 2024 season that need not have been that way.
“QCAR will be fighting tirelessly to end the calamities resulting from subpar milling performances, which have greatly strained the sugarcane industry as a whole.”
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan, said it was exasperating that farmers have had to pay the price for poor milling performance. Photos supplied
The 2024 crush season overlapped with the heavy rains of Queensland’s wet season
On December 23, 2024, Syngenta Australia Pty Ltd (ACN 002 933 717) initiated a voluntary recall for specific batches of GRAMOXONE® 360 PRO Herbicide, sold by agricultural retailers between October 1 and December 20, 2024. The recall was made under Section 106 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code, as part of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994.
Reason for Recall: The recall concerns the 20L containers from batches 389865 and 389866, which were found to have not met the required durability specifications. These containers may not be sufficiently robust for handling and use, leading to a potential safety hazard.
Hazard: The affected 20L containers of GRAMOXONE® 360 PRO Herbicide have been identified as having reduced strength. Under certain stress conditions encountered during storage, transport, and use, there is an increased risk that the containers may rupture, posing a hazard to individuals handling the product.
What to Do: If you possess 20L containers from batches 389865 or 389866, it is essential that you do not use the product. These containers should be quarantined in a locked, bunded pesticide storage area to prevent access. Affected customers should contact Syngenta Customer Service for further instructions on the collection and refund process.
For Further Information: If you have any questions or require further details regarding this voluntary recall, Syngenta urges customers to contact their Customer Service team at 1800 022 035.
If you have been following Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s articles, you may recall our passion for “Compassionate Communities” and our commitment to fostering a better understanding of and support for death, dying, and grief within our beautiful Burdekin community.
We are excited to kick off 2025 with a community chat featuring Jane, the Bereavement Coordinator for the Specialist Palliative Rural Telehealth (SPaRTa) Grief and Bereavement Service from Townsville Hospital and Health Services.
We invite all community members interested in an interactive educational session to explore what grief looks like, learn how to support someone who is grieving, and discover ideas for self-care.
Jane will provide handouts and will be available for conversations and discussions following her presentation.
Details of our community chat are as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 29th January 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, AYR
Grief, mourning, and bereavement are deeply personal and natural responses to loss. While we logically understand that all life has a 100% mortality rate and that we cannot escape death, we often experience a wide range of emotions, thoughts, and feelings related to this universal truth.
The SPaRTa Grief and Bereavement Service offers support to those who are recently bereaved. Additionally, they provide guidance to General Practitioners, nurses, allied health practitioners, and other clinicians who are assisting bereaved individuals and families in their local communities.
We hope you can join us and Jane as we continue our journey toward building a more compassionate community in Burdekin.
Until next time,
The team at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Gaming has become a significant part of young people’s lives, offering a mix of benefits and challenges. On the positive side, gaming fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and social connection through online communities.
However, there is a downside. Excessive gaming can negatively impact physical and mental health, disrupt sleep patterns, and interfere with academic performance or personal relationships. During school holidays, when routines are more relaxed, young people often have more time for gaming, which can lead to prolonged screen time and unhealthy habits.
As parents and caregivers, it’s essential to monitor gaming habits and strike a balance. Encouraging young people to diversify their activities during the holidays can help prevent gaming from becoming excessive.
We’ve gathered some expert tips from Headspace to help guide young people toward healthier gaming habits while supporting their mental health.
So how can you recognise unhealthy gaming?
Headspace advises to keep an eye out for significant changes that last longer than you might expect (at least a few weeks), such as:
• Less interest and involvement in activities they would normally enjoy
• Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
• Increased irritability or anger
• Decline in performance at school, TAFE, university, or work
• Engagement in risky behaviours they would usually avoid, such as taking drugs or drinking excessively
• Difficulty with concentration or motivation
• Unusual stress, worry, feeling down, or crying for no apparent reason
• Expression of negative, distressing, or out-of-character thoughts
As a general rule the following are good boundaries to set around screen time:
• Limit screens in bedrooms and turn them off at least one hour before bedtime to avoid disruption to sleep. Encourage activities like reading, journaling, or drawing instead. If using e-devices for reading, ensure 'night mode' is activated.
• Get up and move regularly to prevent back, neck, and wrist issues. Incorporate simple stretches and consider optimising your setup for comfort.
• Avoid screens during meal times to promote mindful eating and encourage valuable family interactions.
• Ensure screen time does not interfere with essential or enjoyable activities. Schedule time for these activities before gaming or extended internet use.
By being proactive and maintaining open communication, parents can help young people navigate the challenges of gaming, ensuring it remains a positive part of their lives.
Meet Thomas, a super smoochy tabby who loves to meow and cuddle. If he’s not chatting away to you, you’ll find him purring happily, hoping for some lap time to snuggle up. Thomas is currently in foster care and winning the hearts of all the household with his sweet and fun nature.
He shares his foster home with four other cats and a few dogs, including a few playful puppies. He gets along well with other cats, but is still a little unsure about the dogs. That won't stop him from running on up to you with his tail high if you mention anything about food though.
Thomas is primarily an indoor cat, but does enjoy spending time in a sunny outdoor ‘catio’. He’s laid-back enough to try out a harness if you want to take him on small supervised trips about the garden.
Fill out an inquiry today to come meet him, and he’ll be sure to give you some gentle grooming with his raspy tongue. All his vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatments, are up to date and he can’t wait to play with you in his new forever home.
Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Website: angelpawsinc.com.au
Rehoming fee: $195
Age: 1 year, 3 months
Sex: Male, Desexed
Breed: Domestic Short Hair Tabby
Other cats: Very friendly
Other dogs: Wary but not scared
Children: Very friendly
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoors
Thomas the cat with his favourite toy. Photo: Supplied by Angel Paws Dog & Cat Rescue.
Robert Turner, the presenter of ‘Classic Hits & Memories’ on Sweet FM, has been behind the radio mic since 2019. His popular Saturday afternoon show plays from 2 to 4pm, where he’ll play a mix of music from the fifties through to the nineties.
Robert’s been with the station for nearly six years, and his radio show receives quite a lot of requests on the day. He retired in 2007 after 42 years as a shift supervisor at Inkerman Sugar Mill, before he got started with the station after someone mentioned they were looking for presenters.
“Someone told me that they were looking for presenters. I was down at the paper shop and I thought, ‘Well, I got plenty of time now that I'm retired,’ so I thought I'd give it a go. I came down here, introduced myself, and they gave me an afternoon radio slow. I've been doing it ever since,” Robert states.
During his ‘Classic Hits & Memories’ program, it’s common for him to play a vast variety of music styles except rap. He’ll happily play country and western and rock, through to general top 40 songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. He occasionally plays music from the 90s and beyond.
“I like to play most styles of music for variety. The only style of music I won't play is rap. Sorry, I'll play anything but that,” he states categorically.
Robert reveals that he doesn’t prepare his playlist in advance like other presenters. Instead, he prefers to decide on the day of the show so that it sounds more natural and spontaneous.
“I come down here and don't even know what I'm going to play that day. Unlike other presenters, who put in many hours, for me, I just go through my list and go, ‘Oh, that sounds all right, haven’t played that for a while.’ So, I play it. I also get plenty of requests, so I try to fit in as many as possible,” he adds.
Robert also likes to do some trivia during his show talking about the history of the songs he plays. For example, when it came out, who wrote it if it’s not the artist singing, or if it’s a cover version.
“Sometimes people think that the song they’re hearing is written by that artist, but more often than not that’s not the case. I really enjoy digging in and finding out for myself,” he says excitedly.
Robert's been at the station for nearly six years and has always presented his programs solo but is open to co-presenting. He supports other people who’d like to present (or co-present) their own show, to come in and give it a go.
“I encourage any aspiring presenters to come down to the station and learn. There's a lot of people here that are prepared to help you out and show you the ropes. You learn how to talk clearly and fluently, plus it helps build character, which boosts self-esteem,” he smiles.
Check out Robert’s Classic Hits & Memories on Saturday afternoons from 2-4pm. If you’re keen to become a presenter for the station, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.
Robert Turner, a man happy to be behind the mic playing what he loves. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen