Recycling is something we should all take more seriously. While it may seem minor, what goes into the bin has a real cost to Council and, ultimately, to our community. Contamination increases processing costs and places an unnecessary burden on ratepayers. A small change in thinking can make a big difference.

As we approach Easter, I would like to spare a thought for communities in the North who are experiencing the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Narelle. Cyclones and heavy rainfall often result in road closures, which means supplies can be delayed or cut off altogether. For many children in those communities, something as simple as receiving Easter eggs may not be guaranteed, and Easter may look a little different for them this year.

Easter remains the most significant celebration in the Christian calendar and is also a time of reflection, family and generosity. If you are in a position to do so, please consider showing kindness and understanding to those who may be doing it tough this holiday period.

With school holidays now underway, many families will be travelling to their favourite destinations or exploring somewhere new. Wherever you are heading, please travel safely, look after one another on the roads, and enjoy time with loved ones. I wish everyone across the Burdekin a safe and Happy Easter.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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That was a great weekend! Once again the Canefield Ashes was upon us and it did not disappoint. I imagine that by now the chiropractors and physio’s have full waiting rooms. But it is worth it. Now in its 22nd year, this carnival continues to attract a bigger crowd, and it is always humbling to see how the volunteers all get behind still. All in honour to remember Eugene Pagotto with a game of cricket, a few drinks and a laugh. Well done to all that help bring this back every year. 

I also participated in the Home Hill golf clubs opening day. It was great to see good numbers there and the club also recognised two life members for their contributions in the club’s life. Well done and thanks to Geoff Todman and John Power for all you do for this club.

I hope everyone else had a good weekend and I wish you all a happy and safe Easter.

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Burdekin households and small businesses are set to see some long-awaited relief on their power bills, with electricity prices across regional Queensland forecast to drop by close to 10 per cent next financial year.

Under the latest draft determination from the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA), residential electricity prices for regional customers—including those in Ayr, Home Hill and across the wider Burdekin—are expected to fall by 9.7 per cent in 2026–27. Small businesses could see even greater relief, with prices projected to drop by 11.3 per cent.

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The reduction is expected to be welcomed across the Burdekin, where residents and businesses have faced years of rising electricity costs.

The projected drop follows similar forecasts for South East Queensland under the Australian Energy Regulator’s Default Market Offer, which suggests power prices could fall by 10.1 per cent for households and 12.8 per cent for small businesses in metropolitan areas.

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The State Government says the reductions are the result of its Energy Roadmap, which aims to balance maintaining existing infrastructure with investing in new energy generation.

Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said regional communities like the Burdekin deserved to see the same level of cost-of-living relief as their city counterparts.

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“The Energy Roadmap is putting downward pressure on power prices, as we said it would,” Mr Janetzki said.

“Default power prices are set to drop by around 10 per cent throughout the state next financial year.

“The QCA’s draft determination aligns with the deal proposed for the southeast and would see regional Queensland get the cost-of-living relief they need.”

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The Government has also pointed to its $1.6 billion Electricity Maintenance Guarantee, aimed at improving the reliability and performance of existing power stations, as a key factor in stabilising prices.

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While the figures are still in draft form, the QCA will now undertake a period of public consultation before handing down its final determination, expected in late May or early June.

If confirmed, the price drop would mark a shift after years of rising electricity costs, offering some breathing room for Burdekin households and businesses heading into the next financial year.

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FEDERAL Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has welcomed the Government’s decision to halve the fuel excise for three months; a move he describes as a hard-won victory for the Australian people and a direct result of the Coalition’s relentless pursuit of a "fair go" for motorists.  

The announcement, which will see 26 cents per litre wiped from the price of petrol and diesel, follows intense pressure from the Liberal and National parties. Mr Willcox said this outcome proves what can be achieved when a strong Opposition holds a detached Government to account.  

"We have heard you loud and clear,” Mr Willcox said.

“My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson.”  

Mr Willcox said that for too long, the Labor Government ignored the reality of the bruising bowser, telling families to buy sixty-thousand-dollar electric cars while they were struggling to afford the drive to work.

“Today [30 March], the Coalition has turned the tide; trading the Prime Minister's lectures for actual action at the pump,” he said.

Mr Willcox noted that while the excise cut provides much-needed breathing space, the battle is not over. He emphasised that the current crisis is a dual challenge of both price and supply, and the Coalition remains focused on long-term energy security for the regions.

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The Member for Dawson also issued a stern warning to fuel retailers and oil companies regarding the implementation of the tax cut.

"We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediatelyat the pumps,” he said.

“Labor must ensure the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is watching these companies like a hawk. There is no excuse for these savings to be pocketed by big corporations instead of reaching the pockets of our farmers, our small businesses, and our families."

The three-month excise reduction is expected to provide significant relief to the transport and agricultural sectors in North Queensland, where the tyranny of distance makes fuel a non negotiable cost of living.

"This is a win for common sense,” Mr Willcox said.

“We have forced a shift from ideology back to reality, and the Coalition will continue to fight to ensure that every cent of this tax cut reaches the people who actually keep this country moving."

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Major steps forward in addressing a decade-long problem plaguing irrigatorsin the Burdekin have been welcomed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

This week’s tour of the Burdekin region by the Sunwater board comes as preparatory works to remediate rising ground water reaches its final stages.

Mr Last said the progression of the project was significant for growers who had battled rising ground water levels for several years.

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“Having the board visit the Burdekin and consult directly with growers about critical issues they need action on is invaluable,” Mr Last said.

“Mitigating rising ground water has been a long-standing issue that, as the Member for Burdekin, I have fought alongside our growers to bring about meaningful action.”

“The completion of the Code of Practice will see stage 1 of the dewatering project commenceas part of Sun water’s $25.5 million Lower Burdekin Rising Groundwater Mitigation Project.”

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“The progression is a long-awaited milestone for our growers and demonstrates our government’s commitment to balancing the needs of our irrigators with the environment to which they operate in.”

Mr Last said tackling the issue of rising ground water had seen a whole of government approach with departments and Sun water working cohesively to benefit not only irrigators but the surrounding water ways and communities they support.

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“Under Labor this project had no progression leaving farmers to languish with the consequencesbut under the Crisafulli Government we haven’t shied away and have taken decisive action to tackle rising ground water,” Mr Last said.

“Sun water anticipates dewatering will commence in April this year and I know that will be welcome news for our growers as we step into another approaching harvesting season.”

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“This project is a real demonstration of what a whole of government approach can achieve when it backs its primary industries. The Crisafulli Government is not leaving our farmers to languish in their challenges and is committed to boosting our state’s primary industries for decades to come.”

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A new AI-powered crocodile detection system is set to be trialled in northern Queensland, marking a potential breakthrough in public safety and wildlife management.

The project is a collaboration between James Cook University and the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI), combining advanced camera technology with artificial intelligence trained to identify crocodiles in the water.

Mounted on a mobile, trailer-based platform, the system has been designed for easy transport and flexible deployment across a range of high-use recreational areas.

DETSI Senior Conservation Officer Daniel Guymer said researchers analysed thousands of hours of footage to train the system to distinguish crocodiles from other objects.

“The aim is to create a reliable detection system that could be deployed on fixed or mobile infrastructure in high recreation-use areas,” Mr Guymer said.

“This is a significant step forward as we continue looking at innovative ways to improve public safety in areas where crocodiles also live.

“If successful, this technology could revolutionise how we monitor crocodiles, providing real-time data to help us manage crocodiles as effectively and efficiently as possible.”

Project lead Tao Huang said early testing had already shown promising results.

“This is a huge benefit for community safety, and we now need to check that it can detect crocodiles in the water in real time,” Dr Huang said.

“If the program is successful, it could lead to the technology being used at public locations such as boat ramps or in marinas.

“Our aim is to detect crocodiles, while also considering future extensions of the AI technology to estimate their size, which could assist wildlife rangers in investigating sightings.”

The trial will assess the system’s real-world performance, with hopes it could play a key role in improving safety while supporting crocodile conservation across Queensland.

CAPTION: JCU has partnered with DETSI for an AI-driven crocodile detection system, configured as a trailer. Photo source: JCU

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A vibrant new mural perfectly capturing and celebrating the heart of the Burdekin Shire has recently been unveiled, with locals and travellers already adoring the piece’s striking display of identity, bold hues and creative storytelling.

Award-winning artist Lavinia Letheby created the large-scale artwork to capture several defining elements of the Burdekin Shire’s identity, carefully weaving together illustrations of hand cane cutting, an iconic cane train, the glow of a cane fire, the famous Burdekin Bridge, and an abundance of locally grown produce.

“I carefully incorporated each aspect in a creative and visually engaging way, and together, these elements tell the story of the region’s rich agricultural heritage, and strong community spirit,” she explained.

“It was an honour to bring these ideas to life, and create an artwork that reflects the identity, history and pride of the community as for me, murals like this are about honouring everyday people whose work shapes a place, even though their stories aren’t always told in traditional ways.”

Lavinia’s paintbrushes have coloured the region multiple times in recent years, with each piece created to celebrate the people, stories and identity of the area. One of her most celebrated projects in the shire was commissioned by George Populin as a tribute to his parents, Maria and Demetrio Populin, and can be seen on Beach Road in Ayr.

“The mural honours Maria and Demetrio Populin’s journey from Visinale, Italy to building a life in Ayr, reflecting both their Italian heritage and the lasting impact they had on the local community,” she said.

“It’s a deeply meaningful piece that connects family history with the town they came to call home.”

Lavinia has led a lifetime of creativity and cannot recall a time when she didn’t have a love for painting, alongside a passion for creating large-scale art.

“Art was always something I naturally gravitated toward growing up, and over time, it became something I couldn’t imagine not doing, and murals happened quite organically - once I painted my first large wall, I realised how powerful public art can be,” she enthused.

“A painting on a canvas might be seen by a handful of people, but a mural becomes part of the everyday environment. It transforms spaces, starts conversations, and creates landmarks within a town – that scale and impact is what really drew me into mural work.”

With each piece she creates, Lavinia hopes her murals will stand the test of time and become part of a region’s identity and story.

“It’s incredibly special and meaningful when you create a mural as people walk past it every day, take photos with it and it becomes a small part of their lives,” she said.

“Public art has such power to transform spaces, and I’m passionate about continuing to create works that communities feel proud to call their own.”

CAPTIONS:

1. This piece is the latest in a growing collection of murals Lavinia has completed across the Burdekin, each deeply rooted in local history and community. Photo supplied
2. Lavinia recalls the casual conversations she would have with locals as they came across her in action. Photo supplied
3. Lavinia’s previously completed mural on Beach Road in Ayr of Maria and Demetrio Populin. Photo supplied

Ringo is a young American Bulldog with presence, personality, and just enough cheek to keep life interesting.

At first meeting, he can come on strong with big energy, big enthusiasm, and a clear belief that everyone is already his best friend. Give him a few minutes (and ideally a treat or two) and he quickly softens into a loyal, affectionate companion.

His foster carer lovingly describes him as “a bit of a boof” when excitement kicks in. For this reason, Ringo is not suited to homes with small children, even though his intentions are always gentle.

On the lead, Ringo is generally steady and willing, but he shows his best self in quieter environments where he isn’t overwhelmed by noise and movement. Busy streets and high stimulation can distract him, so continued training and calm exposure will help him build confidence and focus.

He is highly food motivated, which makes him a quick learner during training sessions. However, this also means portion control and supervision around food will be important.

Ringo is currently working on his manners, including waiting patiently for meals and taking treats more gently. With consistency and guidance, he is improving every day.

What Ringo needs now is a patient, kind and committed owner willing to continue his training and help him grow into his best self.

In return, he offers loyalty, charm, and a whole lot of personality packed into one wagging, hopeful package.

Ringo’s adoption fee is $600 and includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatment, and heartworm prevention (or ProHeart).

Contact Angel Paws Inc. on 07 4420 3276 for further information.

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Major safety upgrades along Queensland’s Bruce Highway are continuing to gather pace, with 22 new contracts released under the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program.

The latest package includes five construction procurement and 17 design contracts, covering key sections of the highway between Gympie and Cairns. Works will deliver more than 100 kilometres of wide centre line treatments, 50 kilometres of pavement strengthening and overtaking lanes, and five narrow bridge upgrades in North Queensland.

The program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis, is already underway, with eight projects completed, 17 in progress and a further 13 construction projects set to roll out in 2026.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the latest contracts marked significant progress.

“This latest activity signals significant progress in delivering the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program,” Minister King said.

“The Australian Government is proud to be funding 80 per cent of this $9 billion program, because improving safety on the Bruce Highway will help save lives and support the communities and industries that rely on this critical route.”

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the State Government was focused on delivering safer roads.

“The Government is getting on with the job of delivering safer roads for Queensland,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“We’re keeping the momentum up with 22 new contracts moving to market to boost safety along the Bruce Highway.

“We told Queenslanders we are committed to fixing the Bruce and works are already making a real difference for motorists, regional communities and freight operators between Gympie and Cairns."

Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm said the investment would benefit communities along the entire corridor.

“The Government is delivering record investment to build a better Bruce Highway for Queenslanders,” Senator Chisholm said.

“From here in Burdekin and all the way up to Cairns, we are accelerating the delivery of intersection upgrades, rest area improvements, wide centre line treatments and pavement strengthening.

“These works will make a real difference for drivers, freight operators and regional Queenslanders, and form part of a long-term pipeline of upgrades that will squarely benefit the people who live here.”

Assistant Minister for Northern Australia Nita Green said the upgrades were critical for regional connectivity.

“Regional Queenslanders know just how critical the Bruce Highway is for connecting our communities, supporting our industries and getting people home – these upgrades will help ensure safety,” Senator Green said.

“The Government is connecting and protecting the Queenslanders who drive the Bruce every day.”

State Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the investment was focused on regional needs.

“With every dollar in this program invested outside the South East Corner, we are building the infrastructure regional Queensland needs to support our growing population,” Mr Last said.

“We said we would deliver an upgraded Bruce Highway in an 80:20 split with the Commonwealth, and we are getting on with delivering it.”

State Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the upgrades would improve safety for all road users.

“These upgrades represent a major boost for North Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.

“Strengthening the Bruce Highway means safer trips for locals and visitors alike, and it’s great to see real investment backing the growth of our region and helping keep people safe.”

Contractors are expected to be appointed progressively from April 2026, with construction to follow as the program continues to expand.

CAPTION: The $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program will deliver major safety upgrades along Queensland’s Bruce Highway. Photo supplied.

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Disaster volunteers across Queensland will be able to respond faster in times of crisis, following changes to insurance arrangements aimed at removing long-standing barriers.

The government has introduced a new annual WorkCover agreement, ensuring volunteers are automatically covered for personal injury when activated during declared disasters.

Previously, insurance had to be arranged for each individual event, often causing delays when communities needed urgent help. The new system streamlines the process, allowing volunteers to be deployed more quickly and efficiently.

Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said the reform was about better supporting those who step up in times of need.

“The Government is delivering on our promise to empower volunteers and cut unnecessary red tape," Minister Leahy said.

“Disaster volunteers step up when Queenslanders need them most, and they deserve a system that back them in, not holds them back. This reform is about certainty for the volunteer sector.”

Minister for Community Recovery Amanda Camm said the changes would strengthen disaster response efforts statewide.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our disaster recovery efforts, and the insurance changes delivered by my department reflects our commitment to protecting and empowering them,” Minister Camm said

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The owner and manager of Arcade Eats in Ayr when it flooded in May of 2023, Amanda Wassmuth was left in a tough spot.

Come October, she was putting her decades of experience in admin and hospitality to use in her new role of Office Administrator at Raine & Horne Ayr, a role she’s held ever since.

“The hospitality experience has definitely been good for my customer service skills, especially as the first point of contact at the office" she said.

She’s now poised to take another giant step, this time into a relatively new space—Sales Assistance.

The step up will see Amanda take on expanded responsibilities across the sales support function, including assisting agents with listings and coordinating client communications, while continuing to oversee key back-office payroll and compliance duties.

She called the opportunity “exciting but nerve-racking,” but remains confident with the support of her team.

“It's like a family," she said.

“Everyone gets along, we all communicate great, and it just makes dealing with things easier on the day-to-day. Everything works itself out 90-per-cent of the time.”

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time on the family farm with her loved ones. She also enjoys cooking, an interest nurtured during her time in hospitality.

“I’ve never been able to cook for one person, so the girls at work get a lot of food," she said.

In her new role, she’ll continue to bring plenty to the table in more ways than one.

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The Federal Government has announced a temporary fuel excise cut set to save motorists up to $20 per tank over the next three months, amid a nationwide surge in fuel prices.

The measure is expected to ease cost-of-living pressures in regional areas, including the Burdekin, with Ayr previously reported as one of the worst-affected towns for fuel prices in the state.

Burdekin locals have been shelling out up to $2.60 per litre for petrol, with diesel prices eclipsing the $3.30 mark.

The excise cut, which takes effect from 1 April, will reduce these prices by about 26c per litre.

“I'm glad that's happened, because there are people who simply can't afford it at the moment, but still need it to go to work. It's as simple as that,” said one Burdekin local.

“If the government or whoever can make it cheaper, that's good!”

Robyn Sherwood of Home Hill said that while the cut is a step in the right direction, more must be done.

"I live out of town, so I've stopped going places that I would normally just jump in the car and go to,” Ms Sherwood said.

“[The cut] will help a little bit, but with the price of everything about to go up, [fuel prices] need to go back to where they were.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, welcomed the Government’s decision to halve the fuel excise, describing it as a “hard-won victory” for Australian motorists.

“This is a win for common sense,” Mr Willcox said.

Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, said action should have been taken sooner.

“The LNP Queensland government has … been consistent in raising concerns on behalf of Queenslanders and, frankly, this is a step that should have and could have been taken weeks ago,” Mr Last said.

“The federal government needs to ensure that the full price reduction is passed on to consumers, especially in regional areas. If that means the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) needs more resources, then those resources must be in place.”

Fuel costs remain a key concern for the Burdekin’s sugar industry, the region’s leading economic driver, as the harvesting season approaches.

CANEGROWERS Burdekin chair Glenn Betteridge said while any relief at the bowser was welcome, the cut would have limited direct benefit to growers, who already claim back diesel excise on-farm.

He said diesel was already pushing towards $4 a litre in some cases, with fuel availability and security a bigger concern ahead of harvest.

“The industry needs around 90 million litres between now and November and currently has less than a tenth of that in storage, making availability and fuel security the critical issues,” he said.

“That’s why CANEGROWERS is calling for a national biofuels mandate and the expansion of a domestic biofuels industry – ethanol, biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel – because every litre produced here is one less litre we need to import.”

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The Queensland Government has opened the second round of its Residential Activation Fund, making $500 million available to councils and landowners to help deliver infrastructure needed for new housing developments across the state.

The funding forms part of the government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which aims to support the construction of new homes by ensuring essential infrastructure such as roads, water, sewerage and power are in place to enable residential development.

To date, the program has helped unlock land for approximately 98,000 homes across Queensland through a combination of construction and planning projects.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the funding would help accelerate housing supply by supporting the infrastructure required for new developments.

“More homes across the State are needed and fast, and a key way we can play our part is to unlock land and break down barriers that have been holding back councils and the industry,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“The Residential Activation Fund is literally making inroads, by providing funding to get the foundations right and generational infrastructure like roads, water, sewerage and power in place, so builders can get building and more Queenslanders have a place to call home.

“Queensland is open for business and we call on councils and landowners to come to us with their projects.”

Local Government Association of Queensland CEO Alison Smith encouraged councils to apply for the funding to help accelerate housing supply in their communities.

"Councils are playing their part to increase housing supply through zonings and approvals, but infrastructure is often the missing ingredient," Ms Smith said.

"Councils had called for enabling infrastructure funding, and the creation of this Residential Activation Fund is helping to meet council needs. Round One has already proven to be a gamechanger that is helping councils to tackle this infrastructure 'gap' and we applaud the State Government for this initiative.”

The second round of funding is open to councils and landowners seeking support for infrastructure that will enable residential developments and support growing communities across Queensland.

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Queensland’s warming climate could bring a surge in serious food-borne illness, with new research linking rising temperatures to an increase in dangerous Salmonella infections.

The study, led by James Cook University PhD candidate and infectious diseases physician Dr Naveen Manchal, analysed a decade of health and climate data to better understand how heat impacts disease patterns.

“We investigated the link between rising temperatures and heatwaves across Queensland and cases of Salmonella and Campylobacter that had progressed to the bloodstream, a condition known as bacteraemia,” Dr Manchal said.

While both bacteria commonly cause gastroenteritis, bacteraemia is far more severe and often requires hospitalisation. Researchers examined more than 1,000 Salmonella cases and 234 Campylobacter cases recorded between 2010 and 2019.

The findings revealed no strong link between temperature and Campylobacter. However, Salmonella infections showed a clear and concerning trend.

“In Southeast Queensland, each 1°C rise in mean temperature increased the risk of Salmonella bacteraemia by 8 to 20 per cent. Maximum temperatures showed a similar pattern, with the risk rising up to 16 per cent,” Dr Manchal said.

“The effect was even stronger in the Tropical North, where a 1°C increase in mean temperature was associated with an 18 per cent rise in cases, peaking at 27.2°C. When maximum temperatures climbed above 28°C, the risk jumped sharply, increasing by 11 to 105 per cent for each additional degree.”

Heatwaves further intensified the risk.

“During extreme heat events, Salmonella bacteraemia rose by 31 per cent for every degree increase in maximum temperature,” Dr Manchal said.

Researchers warn that as temperatures continue to rise, Queensland’s health system may face increasing pressure, highlighting the need for stronger food safety and climate adaptation measures.

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Two new constables have joined the force at Ayr Police Station, officially beginning their policing careers last month.

The pair, 21-year-old Samuel Bostock and 32-year-old Joe Singer, arrive in Ayr as part of a cohort of 19 first-year constables deployed to stations across the Townsville and Mount Isa districts.

Bostock, originally from Beaudesert, joins the station as a General Duties Constable. Inspired by friends in policing, he enters the force eager to “challenge myself and pursue a career where I could make a difference.”

“I’d love to foster as many positive community relationships as I can during my time here,” Bostock said.

“People should feel like police are approachable and ready to assist, so implementing that sense of safety and security is important to me.”

Singer, originally from England and living in Townsville since 2006, will also serve as a General Duties Constable. A dream since he was a child, he hopes to make a difference in his newfound role as a first-year constable.

“I want to build trust with [the community] and be a visible, positive presence in the town. I would like to show that the police make a difference and can be relied on,” he said.

Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields, Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station, said the Burdekin would offer the pair a unique policing experience.

"The Burdekin is a fantastic place to begin a policing career and the community plays a big part in that experience,” she said.

“Small town policing is unique. It can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. You get to form close connections with residents and see firsthand the impact of your work.”

Bostock and Singer arrive with extensive academy training, selected from a cohort of 123 recruits who graduated from the Oxley Academy in Brisbane in February.

Chief Superintendent of Queensland Police, Chris Lawson, said the first year constables would transition from academy training into operational policing with the close supervision and support of experienced officers.

“These officers have already demonstrated strong dedication throughout their academy training and now begin the next stage of their policing journey here in the Northern Region,” Chief Superintendent Lawson said.

“They will work alongside experienced frontline teams who will mentor them on shift and guide them through the practical realities of operational policing and the nuanced aspects of the communities they will be based in.

“Through a mix of frontline response, community engagement and proactive operations, they will quickly develop the skills, confidence, and judgement required for a long and successful policing career.”

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Burdekin-born Ren Pedersen OAM has dedicated his life to finding a cure for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), one of the deadliest paediatric cancers, after losing his daughter to the disease in 2009.

Last month, he and Home Hill native Megan Law represented the Burdekin at the official opening of the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre (MCCCC) in Sydney, a major cancer research centre that marks a significant step in his long-term mission.

Officially opened on 12 March, the government-funded facility brings clinicians, researchers and educators together under one roof in an Australian-first model designed to integrate childhood cancer research with clinical care.

Personally invited to the event by the Children’s Cancer Institute, Pedersen said the facility will be crucial in bringing cures to the bedsides of children across the country more quickly.

“The Children’s Cancer Institute’s stunning new facility unites the world’s best scientists with invested clinicians to expedite new treatments for North Queensland children,” Pedersen said.

“We are witnessing Australia’s entrance into the epicentre of brain cancer.”

Founder of Ren’s Million Dollar Mission, Pedersen has spent the last year travelling across Australia asking 1,000 individuals and businesses to donate $1,000 each in hopes of raising $1,000,000 that will go straight toward brain cancer research.

“We don’t fund bricks and mortar—that’s been done by the government and other entities. Our donation is going to empower our researchers to act in a better, more wholesome environment,” he said.

“People can now know that if they donate to our cause, it will be going to the premium product in cancer research on the planet.”

Pedersen’s efforts have already yielded over $500,000, with the latest $1,000 arriving courtesy of Home Hill Cricket Association, announced at last week’s Canefield Ashes tournament.

Pedersen said the support from the Burdekin region has been inspiring.

“Donations have primarily been from the Herbert-Burdekin region,” he said.

“In just a year, we’ve been able to crack half a million dollars. That’s largely thanks to fantastic community organisations like the Home Hill Cricket Association, the Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Dalle Cort… and the Burdekin locals as well.”

With his sights set on eclipsing the $1 million mark this year, Pedersen is encouraging the Burdekin to maintain its momentum.

“It’s about finding a cure so we can allow future children to sit and have a drink or a hot dog with their families and play cricket. That’s the whole ethos of Ren’s Million Dollar Mission,” he said.

“We’re just calling upon businesses to tap their credit card and give a tax-deductible donation of $1,000 for children who are dying.”

To support the campaign, visit https://www.ccia.org.au/event/rens-million-dollar-mission/home.

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Amid a nationwide lull in volunteering, the Rotary Club of Home Hill has welcomed three new members, giving the longstanding community club a timely boost.

Peter Macaway, Meryl Clarke and Don Clark were sworn in during an intimate ceremony at the Crown Hotel in Home Hill, each receiving a certificate and badge to mark their official entry into the club.

Part of Rotary International, Home Hill Rotary supports local projects, charities, and community initiatives. Club president Alf Musumeci said the additions are invaluable in carrying out the club’s duties, bringing much-needed support to the organisation that has served the Burdekin for decades.

“New members bring new ideas and they are essential to our club's work,” Musumeci said.

“Welcoming new members into our club means we can continue the ideals of Rotary and continue our donations to [Burdekin] entities… and charities. It’s all about giving back to the community.”

The new members will help spread the load within the club, helping with raffle ticket sales, running the club's mega markets, and helping out at events like RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness).

Musumeci hopes the club can continue to build momentum off the back of the new additions.

"We are a club of older members and we need to attract younger members to learn and eventually become knowledgeable and continue our work in the community,” he said.

“We are constantly on the lookout for new projects to help the community where we can. If you have a plan or an idea, put it to us and we can consider it and take it from there.”

The club recently announced its flagship fundraiser of the year, aiming to raise about $40,000 for a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for local police. With added hands, the club is hopeful of reaching that target.

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1—President Elect Clive Williams, new member Peter Macaway, Club President Alf Musumeci at the swearing-in ceremony.

2—Clive Williams and Alf Musumeci with new member Meryl Clarke.

3—Clive Williams and Alf Musumeci with new member Don Clarke.

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce and its members congregated at the Home Hill Community Sports Club in ordinary fashion as the organisation hosted its monthly social networking meeting last Wednesday.

The Chamber’s third meeting of the year saw the evening’s guest speaker, Burdekin Community Association (BCA) CEO Debra Cochran, share insight into the Burdekin’s underlying issues of homelessness, domestic violence, and declining volunteer rates, among others.

Home Hill Chamber Secretary Robert Antoniazzi said the presentation served as a “real eye-opener” for guests.

“Debra gave a great presentation and fielded a lot of questions from the floor," Antoniazzi said.

“When she began presenting all the figures and statistics, people began realising how bad things are and how much the BCA does in our community.

“What they do is great, but it’s unfortunate that there’s still a big need for them in our community.”

The session reinforced the Chamber’s role as a forum for discussion and knowledge sharing, a goal Antoniazzi says has also helped boost attendance.

“My aim in getting speakers is so that we can educate ourselves,” he said.

“Since we started bringing guest speakers in, our meeting attendance has gone from a dozen to 25-30.”

The Home Hill Chamber’s next social networking meeting is set for 15 April, where guest speaker Owen Menkens, President of the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers (WABCG), will present to the gathering.

CAPTION: Guest speaker Debra Cochran with Burdekin Shire Councillor John Furnell. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin’s next generation of farmers, horticulturists, and agronomists are stepping up to shape the region’s agricultural future, having gained hands-on insight through the recent Future Fields Agriculture Inspirations and Horticulture Immersion Program.

From 9th–13th March, 35 students from Charters Towers State High School, Home Hill State High School, Burdekin Catholic State High School, and Ayr State High School took part in the five-day program, designed to expose them to careers in the region’s food and fibre industries.

Students visited farms and local businesses, engaging in hands-on horticulture activities and garnering industry know-how from career sessions with producers, agronomists, and other agricultural professionals.

Through the program, students developed practical skills such as working safely, following procedures, managing equipment, and understanding production systems, while also building reliability, teamwork, resilience, and a willingness to learn, all qualities valued by industry.

Louise Nicholas, Agricultural Science Teacher at Home Hill State High School, said such practical experience is essential for students.

“First-hand experience allows students to see the reality of agriculture beyond classroom,” she said.

“It helps students connect theory to real-world applications, builds confidence, and allows them to develop skills such as problem solving, responsibility, and communication.”

The program highlighted career opportunities close to home, which Nicholas says are crucial both for young locals and the Burdekin’s agricultural industry.

“These programs help young people see that there are meaningful careers available right here in our region… When students feel connected to their local area and can see real opportunities for their future, they are more likely to stay, train, and work locally,” she said.

“We hope students gained a better understanding of how many different careers contribute to the food and fibre industry and that they now see themselves as part of the future of the Burdekin.”

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1—Students listening to Heidi Wiggenhauser from the DPI about the protective cropping structure.

2—Students listening intently to Luke from Aglantis take about the future of Ag Tech.

3—Students from Charters Towers State High School in the HHSHS greenhouse after a busy week of career education.

4—Students observe Coral Coast Barramundi Farm

5—Home Hill, BCHS, Ayr SHS students in the Greenhouse after a busy morning session learning about soils from NQ Dry Tropics.

6—Panel members – Rob Milla (BPS), Damien McKenzie (Muirs), Elizabeth Stockton (Lindsay Rural), Kaylaha Malaponte (Aglantis) and Heidi Wiggenhauser (DPI).

Photos supplied.

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Queenslanders are being encouraged to play a role in the future of the state’s fisheries, with nominations now open for a series of advisory working groups.

The Queensland Government is calling for expressions of interest from stakeholders to join fishery working groups, which provide operational advice on the management of fisheries across the state.

These groups play an important role in bringing together a wide range of voices and helping guide sustainable practices within the industry.

Pauline Jacob said the department was seeking a diverse mix of representatives.

“This is a real opportunity for Queenslanders to play a vital role in the sustainable management of our fisheries, so they continue to grow and thrive,” Ms Jacob said.

“We are looking for people to join 11 working groups, including commercial and recreational fishers, charter operators, seafood marketers and processors, conservation representatives and First Nations peoples.

“While these working groups are not decision-making bodies, we rely on the advice of these groups to improve community engagement, prioritisation and our own decision-making,” she said.

The working groups aim to ensure Queensland’s fisheries are managed effectively, both now and into the future.

Nominations are open until 5pm, Tuesday 31 March 2026, with application details, guidelines and terms of reference available online via the Department of Primary Industries engagement hub.

Queenslanders with an interest in fisheries, sustainability or the marine environment are encouraged to apply.

CAPTION: The Queensland Government is seeking expressions of interest from stakeholders to join fishery working groups. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The future of the Burdekin’s energy workforce is looking bright, with local apprentices among those recently inducted into Ergon Energy Network’s Northern Stars Class of 2026.

The new cohort officially began their journey at the Townsville Training Centre, marking the start of their apprenticeships and a hands-on career in the energy sector.

“These faces represent the future of energy across a vast region, including Bowen, the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Cloncurry, Ingham, Innisfail, Mount Isa and Townsville,” Ergon Energy Network said.

The Northern Stars program brings together apprentices from across regional Queensland, equipping them with the technical skills and on-the-job experience needed to support and maintain essential energy infrastructure in their local communities.

For the Burdekin, where reliable power is critical to both agriculture and everyday life, the program represents an important investment in the region’s future workforce.

The apprentices will undergo a combination of classroom-based learning and field training, preparing them for roles that help keep homes, farms and businesses powered.

Ergon Energy Network encouraged the community to get behind the new recruits as they begin their careers, adding: “We wish them all the very best for their apprenticeship and beyond.”

CAPTION: Several Burdekin apprentices were among Ergon Energy’s recently inducted Northern Stars Class of 2026 cohort. Photo source: Ergon Energy Network

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Queensland women looking to re-enter the workforce are being encouraged to apply for the second round of the Government’s Women’s Career Grants, with up to $5,000 available per applicant.

The $20 million program is designed to ease the financial burden of returning to work, covering costs such as childcare, training, recertification, workwear, transport, tools, technology and even relocation.

Following strong demand in the first round, which supported more than 1,000 women, applications have now reopened, offering further opportunities for women across the state to rebuild their careers and improve their economic security.

Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security Fiona Simpson said the grants were helping remove barriers that often prevent women from returning to employment.

“Our Women’s Career Grants are breaking down barriers and providing cost-of-living relief to help women with the essentials to get back into work,” Minister Simpson said.

“Having travelled throughout the State listening to women, we’re investing in those who are seeking to re-enter paid work because we recognise that taking some time out of the workforce for whatever reason can be a real barrier.”

The program, delivered in partnership with Future Women, has already seen strong uptake in areas such as training, technology and recertification.

Future Women founder Helen McCabe said many applicants face similar challenges when returning to work.

“Every story is unique, but there are similarities we see often. Highly capable women who took time out of work to raise a family, or because of caring responsibilities or health issues,” she said.

Applications are now open, with full eligibility details available online via  womenscareergrants.com.au.

CAPTION: Round two of applications are now open for Women’s Career Grants. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Communities across Queensland are being encouraged to start planning their NAIDOC Week celebrations, with funding now available to mark a major milestone — 50 years of NAIDOC.

The Crisafulli Government has opened applications for its 2026 NAIDOC Grants program, offering eligible organisations up to $2,500 to host events and activities that honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

This year’s theme, “Fifty Years of Deadly,” celebrates five decades of cultural pride, resilience and achievement, with National NAIDOC Week set to run from 5 to 12 July.

The grants can support a wide range of community events, including cultural performances, workshops, educational programs, sporting activities and yarning circles, helping communities come together to celebrate the world’s oldest continuous living cultures.

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the funding would help make this year’s milestone celebrations especially meaningful.

“NAIDOC Week is a time for all Queenslanders to come together to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Minister Simpson said.

“The Crisafulli Government's NAIDOC Grants will empower communities to host meaningful events and activities which showcase the world’s oldest continuous living cultures during a very special 50 anniversary this year.”

A total of $145,000 is available statewide, with additional flexibility for communities impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle to ensure they can still access funding.

Reflecting on the milestone, the Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders-in-Council Aboriginal Corporation said NAIDOC Week represents a powerful legacy.

“It honours the voices of those who walked before us, the wisdom they carried, and the responsibility we hold to continue caring for country, culture and community,” the Board of Elders said.

Applications close on 10 April 2026. Visit www.qld.gov.au/naidoc for more information.

CAPTION: Ayr State High School hosts a large celebration for NAIDOC Day each year. Photo source: Ayr State High School

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The world of space and aviation has long beckoned Ayr local Sophie Robertson, an obsession born from gazing at the Burdekin night sky with her mother as a child. Last month, she took another significant step toward a career in the field, officially commencing her aeronautical engineering studies at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra.

"I've had my eyes set on this specific program from Year 10 onwards, and it's just so rewarding to now be able to study something that I'm passionate about and have always wanted to learn more about,” Robertson said.

Her official admission into ADFA, a prestigious military academy geared toward training and educating the next generation of military officers, follows the completion of the Academy’s Year One Familiarisation Training.

The demanding five-week induction program introduces new cadets to military life, leadership, and discipline, culminating in the Chief of Defence Force Parade, where the entire intake is formally reviewed by the Chief of Defence Force.

Robertson now begins the full academic and military program at ADFA, which fuses honours aeronautical engineering studies covering the mechanical systems of aircraft and spacecraft with daily intensive physical and military training.

For Sophie, this marks the beginning of a long-held ambition to work in the field of space, specifically with Defence Space Command.

"My mum began introducing me to astronomy when I was probably five years old. She would always buy me these books, and we'd go outside and just watch the night sky together on the farm and… over time, I just became more fascinated,” Robertson said.

“Space is still largely unexplored, so the opportunity for research in this industry is immense. I want to help make the unknown, known in my career… to at least solve one piece of the puzzle that we don't have right now regarding what's out there in space.”

Robertson says her motivation has always been the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution, not only to the field of aviation and space, but to the Burdekin community she credits with nurturing her.

“The Burdekin community is actually the reason why I joined the ADF… the opportunity to give back to my community, whether that's during wartime or through humanitarian assistance,” Robertson said.

“I think there's a unique advantage in the fact that we're able to build a really strong sense of community [in the Burdekin].

“Growing up, they've invested so much time and energy in me, and so I feel like the only way that I can show them my gratitude is through the ADF.”

CAPTION:

1—Robertson now begins the full academic and military program at ADFA, which fuses her honours aeronautical engineering studies with intensive physical and military training.

2—ADFA trainee officers during the Chief of the Defence Force Parade, Canberra, ACT.

Photos supplied

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The Burdekin Shire Youth Council has seen a change at the helm, with William Wiseman stepping into the role of Youth Mayor after a successful spell as Deputy Youth Mayor in 2025.

Announced last week, Wiseman will be joined by Alicia Jansen Van Rensburg as Deputy Youth Mayor and Jorda Quagliata as Secretary, forming the council’s executive team for the year ahead.

Wiseman, a student at Burdekin Christian College, has been involved with the Youth Council for four years. Now Youth Mayor for the first time, he hopes to represent the Burdekin youth and encourage more young people to get involved in local initiatives.

“I [put my hand up] to encourage more people join the youth council, and to get more ideas or changes for the youth in our community,” Wiseman said.

“I would like more people help contribute to the next generation.”

Wiseman says he’s hoping to oversee an uptick in community activities aimed at youth.

“We have bowling, but that’s mainly it apart from the sports. I would like to change that by adding more youth-based activities,” he said.

Deputy Youth Mayor Van Rensburg, also a student at Burdekin Christian College, has quickly become an active member of the Youth Council since moving to the Burdekin from New Zealand. She has already made a positive impact on local community projects and initiatives.

Jorda Quagliata, a Year 11 student at Ayr State High School, has been a Youth Council member for five years. Elected Secretary, she brings experience, dedication, and strong organizational skills to support the council’s activities throughout the year.

The newly elected team will lead the Burdekin Shire Youth Council through the year, driving projects and initiatives that give young people a voice in the community.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort congratulated the new Youth Council executive and highlighted the importance of youth leadership in the region.

“Our Youth Council continues to demonstrate the passion, leadership and commitment of young people in the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“William, Alicia and Jorda should be very proud of their election, and I look forward to seeing the positive contributions they will make alongside the members of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council.

“The Youth Council plays an important role in ensuring young voices are heard, and Council is proud to support opportunities that help develop future leaders within our community.”

CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Youth Council’s new executive: Youth Mayor William Wiseman, Secretary Jorda Quagliata, and Deputy Youth Mayor Alicia Jansen Van Rensburg. Photo supplied

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Volunteers at NQ Wildlife Care are calling on the community to lend a helping hand, one piece of fabric at a time.

Behind the scenes, dedicated volunteers are busy sewing essential items such as bedding, pouches and bat wraps, all designed to keep injured and orphaned wildlife warm, safe and comfortable during their recovery.

To continue this important work, the organisation is seeking donations of suitable fabric. Items must be clean, freshly washed and in good condition, with natural fibres like cotton or linen preferred. Larger pieces, ideally bigger than 30 centimetres by 30 centimetres, are most useful for sewing.

Synthetic materials, heavily worn fabrics, very small scraps or dirty items unfortunately cannot be accepted.

Donations can be dropped off at the group’s shop on Aitken Street in Aitkenvale, which is open on Sundays from 10am to 1pm. Those unsure whether their fabric is suitable are encouraged to get in touch via email for guidance.

Every contribution, no matter how small, helps volunteers continue their hands-on care for North Queensland’s native animals, offering them comfort, protection and a better chance at recovery.

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Burdekin’s reputation as a breeding ground for young talent held true at the 2026 North Queensland Fast Track Talent Showcase, with 39 performers taking to the stage at the Burdekin Memorial Hall.

Acts travelled from as far as Darwin to compete in this year’s iteration, with Townsville’s Lola Lombardi taking top honours. Local performers Milla Licciardello and Alaya Mugica also featured among the major winners, with Mugica earning a career development opportunity through Yoyo Music Management.

More than $7,000 in prizes went to performers on the night, which climaxed with a headline set by global star and special guest Conrad Sewell.

Fast Track Spotlight Falls on Burdekin’s Emerging Talent

Young performers from across North Queensland and beyond touched down on the Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday, 21 March, as the 2026 Fast Track Talent Showcase brought 39 unique acts to the local stage.

With competitors travelling from as far as Darwin, the event once again drew a diverse mix of singers and musicians, some as young as just four years old.

10-year-old Townsville native Lola Lombardi claimed first place for her rendition of Never Enough, impressing judges to secure the $1,000 prize.

Burdekin local Milla Licciardello, 16, was awarded runner-up with a soulful performance of Gone by Lianne La Havas, accompanying herself on keyboard.

Another local, 15-year-old Alaya Mugica, was awarded the ‘Fast Track to Fame’ prize, which includes a development opportunity with Yoyo Music Management. Her performance of I Will Survive stood out for its creativity, beginning with a stripped-back guitar arrangement before building to a high-energy finish.

Mugica’s showing drew praise from guest judge and multi-award-winning artist Conrad Sewell, who offered the budding talent a one-on-one songwriting workshop as part of her prize.

Co-Founder of Fast Track and Director of Yoyo Music Management, Ben Brazil, said the showcase continues to highlight the depth of regional talent.

“The NQ Fast Track was another huge success this year, showcasing a wealth of regional and local talent. Our team was thrilled to see so many fresh faces on the stage,” he said.

“We gave away some brilliant prizes this year—worth over $7,000—thanks to our amazing sponsors.

“Conrad Sewell was a highlight for the region, and well done to the team at Burdekin Shire Council for continuing to support the arts and providing upcoming performers with a world-class showcase to be proud of.”

Saturday’s program opened with a performance from local artist Rene LeFeuvre, before Sewell closed the night with a set featuring Firestone, Healing Hands and Start Again.

Now in its 11th year, Fast Track continues to provide a platform for emerging performers, reinforcing the Burdekin’s standing as a hub for developing creative talent.

CAPTIONS:

Cover—Young performers from across North Queensland converged on the Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday, 21 March, as the 2026 Fast Track Talent Showcase brought 39 acts to the local stage. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

2—Guest judge Conrad Sewell closed the night with a set featuring Firestone, Healing Hands and Start Again. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

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Amid a nationwide lull in volunteering, the Rotary Club of Home Hill has welcomed three new members, giving the longstanding community club a timely boost.

Peter Macaway, Meryl Clarke and Don Clark were sworn in during an intimate ceremony at the Crown Hotel in Home Hill, each receiving a certificate and badge to mark their official entry into the club.

Part of Rotary International, Home Hill Rotary supports local projects, charities, and community initiatives. Club president Alf Musumeci said the additions are invaluable in carrying out the club’s duties, bringing much-needed support to the organisation that has served the Burdekin for decades.

“New members bring new ideas and they are essential to our club's work,” Musumeci said.

“Welcoming new members into our club means we can continue the ideals of Rotary and continue our donations to [Burdekin] entities… and charities. It’s all about giving back to the community.”

The new members will help spread the load within the club, helping with raffle ticket sales, running the club's mega markets, and helping out at events like RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness).

Musumeci hopes the club can continue to build momentum off the back of the new additions.

"We are a club of older members and we need to attract younger members to learn and eventually become knowledgeable and continue our work in the community,” he said.

“We are constantly on the lookout for new projects to help the community where we can. If you have a plan or an idea, put it to us and we can consider it and take it from there.”

The club recently announced its flagship fundraiser of the year, aiming to raise about $40,000 for a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for local police. With added hands, the club is hopeful of reaching that target.

CAPTIONS:

1—President Elect Clive Williams, new member Peter Macaway, Club President Alf Musumeci at the swearing-in ceremony.

2—Clive Williams and Alf Musumeci with new member Meryl Clarke.

3—Clive Williams and Alf Musumeci with new member Don Clarke.

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Students from Ayr and Home Hill have gained a hands-on look at the science behind agriculture, taking part in an interactive Agricultural Careers Day hosted at Home Hill State High School.

Delivered by NQ Dry Tropics staff, the workshop introduced Year 10–12 students to the fundamentals of soil health and its role in sustainable farming across the Burdekin.

The session moved beyond theory, with students rolling up their sleeves to take part in real-world soil testing activities. They compared soil types, explored how to interpret soil test results and learned practical conservation techniques used across the region.

At interactive stations, students conducted soil dispersion tests, examined soil texture using the “ribbon test” and tested pH levels — all key skills for understanding how land can be managed more effectively.

NQ Dry Tropics Soil Conservation Officer Bernie Claussen said building this knowledge early was essential for the next generation of farmers and land managers.

“Healthy soils have a structure; this means that much of it is air; spaces for plant roots and millions of micro-organisms to live in, all the while fertilising the soil," she said.

“Healthy soils grow healthy crops and pastures while using less inputs. These living soils erode less and improve the long-term resilience of agricultural production systems."

The event formed part of the school’s Future Field Immersion Program, giving students insight into career pathways in grazing, cropping, agronomy and environmental science.

CAPTION: Students get hands-on experience tasing soil pH. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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Heavy rainfall and the impact of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle have pushed the Burdekin River to capacity, with floodwaters now running bank to bank across the region.

Earlier this week, Sunwater confirmed the Burdekin Falls Dam had reached 112.44 per cent capacity, underscoring the scale of inflows across the vast catchment.

Stretching more than 800 kilometres, the Burdekin River is one of Queensland’s most significant waterways, draining an area of approximately 130,500 square kilometres. Its extensive system, fed by tributaries including the Suttor, Bowen and Star Rivers, plays a critical role in supporting agriculture across North Queensland.

For the Lower Burdekin, the river is the lifeblood of one of Australia’s most productive farming regions. Intensive irrigation supports a thriving sugarcane industry, which generates an estimated $160 to $180 million annually and delivers the highest cane yields per hectare in the country. The river system also underpins cattle grazing operations further upstream.

As floodwaters continue to move through the system, the Burdekin once again highlights both the strength and complexity of one of Queensland’s most important agricultural regions.

The Burdekin Dam has dropped to an approximate capacity of 112 per cent. Photo credit: Lachlan Allegri

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More than 500 small businesses across Queensland have already benefited from a new apprenticeship support program aimed at strengthening the state’s construction workforce.

The Queensland Government’s $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program was launched in October and has so far supported 526 small and family-owned businesses employing 579 apprentices in training.

The initiative is designed to help small construction businesses train and retain skilled workers by providing wage subsidies while apprentices attend formal training. Under the program, eligible businesses can receive a subsidy covering 50 per cent of wages for first and second-year apprentices and 25 per cent for those in their third and fourth years during training periods.

The pilot program aims to support up to 2,000 apprentices across the state, with a strong focus on regional Queensland. About one-third of registrations so far have come from small construction businesses located outside south-east Queensland.

Carpentry currently represents the largest share of registrations at 26.3 per cent, followed by electrical trades at 25.3 per cent and plumbing at 15.7 per cent.

Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the program also supports small businesses taking on apprentices.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and this is another example of the Crisafulli government putting Small and Family Business first to ensure they have the support they need to take on apprentices and contribute to critical infrastructure projects across the state,” Minister Minnikin said.

“I encourage small construction businesses to apply to secure funding.”

More information is available online at business.qld.gov.au/apprentice-pilot.

CAPTION: Apprenticeships in plumbing, painting, construction and locksmithing are among several eligible for the Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program. Photo source: Next Gen Building Co.

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Wilmar Sugar Australia has developed a 3D printed model of a crushing mill to support hands-on training for trades and operational employees working across its sugar factories.

The model is the first in a planned series designed to help workers better understand equipment components and key operational settings used within the milling process.

Wilmar’s design team began by creating a generic 3D model of a crushing mill using AutoCAD, ensuring it included all the necessary elements for training while remaining suitable for 3D printing.

A Townsville-based 3D printing company was then engaged to produce the final model.

The completed training tool features 75 individual parts connected using rare earth magnets, allowing it to be easily taken apart and reassembled. Despite being designed for repeated use in training environments, the model is also robust enough to withstand long-term handling.

The mill was printed using Polylactic Acid Plus, a plant-based material made from renewable resources including sugarcane.

Wilmar said the model is intended to improve practical learning by giving employees a clear, hands-on understanding of how mill components work together.

Following the success of the project, the company is now considering producing additional 3D printed models of other critical equipment used in sugar processing, including shredders and mud filters.

CAPTION: Design Draftsperson Paris Ogden and Cadet Draftsperson Grace Bach reassembling the printed mill at Pioneer Mill. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited

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Natural resource management officers from across North Queensland recently gathered in Townsville and Ayr to take part in workshops focused on improving the effectiveness of environmental monitoring programs.

Hosted as part of the Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring Modelling and Reporting Program, the sessions brought together field officers and delivery partners to ensure they remain up to date with the latest tools and processes used to track the impact of land management practices on the Great Barrier Reef.

The program relies on data collected in the field to help inform modelling that guides future environmental initiatives while also monitoring the effectiveness of current projects.

Representatives from Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation led the workshops, which were delivered across the state to support extension officers, project managers and delivery partners involved in reef protection work.

Adam Northey, Principal Agribusiness Development Officer for the Paddock to Reef program with the Department of Primary Industries, said the workshops were designed to strengthen knowledge and connections within the sector.

"It's also to refresh personal connections and keep communication channels open," he said.

NQ Dry Tropics field officers attended the grazing-focused workshop in Townsville and a similar session in Ayr centred on the sugar industry.

Information collected through the Paddock to Reef Program helps guide environmental management strategies and shape future projects while supporting progress toward the Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan targets.

In addition to Townsville and Ayr, workshops were also delivered in Bundaberg, Cairns, Mackay and Rockhampton as part of the statewide initiative.

1. DPI Project Officer Paul Humphreys and Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Principal Scientist Mel Shaw at the sugar P2R workshop in Ayr. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
2. Tiffany Hut, Marian Davis, Rob Millaa and Jasmine Girgenti at the sugar P2R workshop in Ayr. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
3. Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Propject Manager Meg Bickle with Farmacist's Augustin Agote at the sugar P2R workshop. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
4. DPI officers Kathryn Fisher and Joe Connor and NQ Dry Tropics Grazing Field Officer Hugh Morton at the grazing P2R workshop. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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Burdekin Catholic High School’s basketball teams have delivered an outstanding performance at the recent CSBQ North Basketball Carnival, with both the boys’ and girls’ Bears teams showcasing skill, resilience and teamwork across two exciting days of competition.

The BCH Division 2 Boys produced a tremendous campaign, finishing runners-up after a series of impressive performances. The boys secured strong wins against Northern Beaches State High School and Annandale Christian College, demonstrating composure and determination throughout the tournament.

Despite extremely hot conditions and limited rest between games, the team maintained a high level of intensity and teamwork. Their ability to compete under demanding circumstances highlighted both their physical endurance and mental toughness, making their second-place finish a fantastic achievement for the Bears.

Meanwhile, the BCH Girls’ Bears delivered a remarkable tournament of their own, ultimately being crowned DIVISION 1 CHAMPIONS.

The girls recorded impressive wins against Ryan Catholic College, Ayr State High School, and Southern Cross Catholic College, but it was their thrilling clash with Ayr High that provided one of the most memorable moments of the carnival.

Trailing for the entire game, the Bears girls showed incredible composure and belief under pressure. With just 0.7 seconds remaining on the clock, Andy Eathorne produced a stunning pull-up buzzer-beater to snatch the lead and secure an unforgettable victory.

The success of both teams reflects not only the dedication of the players but also the commitment of those who support them behind the scenes.

A special thank you goes to Lauren Roncato and Brett Eathorne, the volunteer coaches who generously give their time to develop the teams and help the Bears shine on the court. Their guidance and passion for the game continue to inspire the students.

Gratitude is also extended to team managers Annitta Boland and Lee-Anne Eathorne, whose organisation and support ensured the teams were able to focus on their performances.

The Bears’ success is a testament to the school’s strong sporting culture and the commitment of players, coaches and supporters alike.

With a Division 1 championship for the girls and a Division 2 runner-up finish for the boys, the future of BCH basketball is looking bright. Go BCHS Bears!

Students at Clare State School have been wished the very best as they begin their NAPLAN testing earlier last week.

The school shared a message of encouragement ahead of the national assessments, acknowledging the efforts students have already put into preparing for the tests.

“Good luck to all of the students who are commencing their NAPLAN testing today,” the school said.

Across Queensland, thousands of students are sitting the annual literacy and numeracy assessments, with those in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 taking part between 11 and 23 March.

For Clare State School, the focus remains on supporting students to feel confident and do their best.

NAPLAN provides an opportunity for schools and families to better understand student progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.

As testing gets underway, the Clare State School community has rallied behind its students, encouraging them to approach the exams with confidence and a positive mindset.

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At Ayr State School, a love of reading sits at the heart of everything we do. We believe that reading opens the door to opportunity, confidence and lifelong learning. That’s why developing strong readers is one of our highest priorities. Our teachers work closely together to ensure every student is supported to become a capable and confident reader, using evidence-based approaches that build both word reading and comprehension.

This commitment to literacy has seen Ayr State School selected as one of only 26 schools across Queensland to take part in the Reading Accelerator Program. Being chosen for this initiative recognises the school’s strong focus on improving reading outcomes and allows staff to work alongside experts to further strengthen teaching practices and support student success.

While reading is a key focus, learning at Ayr State School extends far beyond the classroom. Students have access to a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities, particularly in the arts, where creativity, expression and performance are celebrated. These experiences allow students to explore their interests, build confidence and develop important skills such as collaboration and communication.

The school also places a strong emphasis on sport and physical activity. Students participate in a variety of sporting opportunities throughout the year including track, field and running events, as well as swimming lessons provided twice each year to help build water confidence and important life skills. These programs encourage teamwork, resilience and healthy, active lifestyles.

The school environment itself is also evolving. Over recent years, Ayr State School’s facilities have undergone extensive refurbishment, creating bright, modern and welcoming learning spaces for students.

Exciting developments are continuing, with construction currently underway on a brand-new basketball court and a ninja-style playground, providing students with even more opportunities to stay active, challenge themselves and enjoy their school environment.

Staff are proud of the strong culture that exists within the school community—one where high expectations, strong relationships and a focus on student success guide everything that happens each day.

With a clear focus on reading, rich opportunities in the arts and sport, and ongoing improvements to facilities, Ayr State School continues to provide an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr State School

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Students at Ayr State High School recently stepped beyond the classroom and into the world of work during a special session with local industry representatives.

The school’s Year 11 cohort welcomed visitors from businesses across the Burdekin for an engaging discussion about life after school and the pathways available to young people entering the workforce.

The event gave students the opportunity to hear firsthand about different careers, workplace expectations and the personal qualities employers value most. From communication and teamwork to resilience and reliability, the message from industry guests was clear: success often comes down to attitude, effort and a willingness to keep learning.

Throughout the session, students asked questions, shared ideas and gained valuable insights into what working life can look like beyond the school gates.

Teachers said the visit provided an important chance for students to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, helping them build confidence as they begin thinking about future careers and training opportunities.

School staff also expressed their gratitude to the local businesses and representatives who gave up their time to speak with students and share their experiences.

The visit highlighted the strong connection between the school and the local community, while giving students a fun and practical introduction to the many possibilities that await them after graduation.

CAPTION: Ayr State High School’s Year 11 cohort was pleased to welcome visitors from businesses around the Burdekin. Photo source: Ayr State High School

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There was plenty of excitement, cheering and school spirit at the annual Interhouse Swimming Carnival at Ayr State High School, with Cook House making a splash by claiming the 2026 championship title.

Cook secured the win with an impressive 890 points, marking their third consecutive victory at the carnival. The competition was tight throughout the day, with Macquarie House leading early before Cook surged ahead to take the top spot.

Final standings saw Cook finish first on 890 points, followed closely by Macquarie on 888 points. Banks placed third with 763 points, while Phillip finished fourth with 639 points.

While Cook celebrated the overall swimming honours, Banks House was awarded the Spirit Stick, recognising their outstanding enthusiasm and support throughout the event.

The carnival featured a full program of races and events, with students competing across age groups as well as taking part in popular activities like the dash for cash. Age champions, record breakers and Max Tavasci Trophy winners were also recognised for their strong performances in the pool.

Beyond the results, the day was filled with teamwork, friendly rivalry and plenty of encouragement from the sidelines, reflecting the strong house spirit that defines the school’s sporting events.

Staff congratulated all students who competed, cheered on their teammates or helped behind the scenes to make the carnival a success, showcasing the vibrant community spirit that continues to make the event a highlight of the school calendar.

CAPTION: Cook was victorious at Ayr State High School’s 2026 Interhouse Swimming Carnival. Photo source: Ayr State High School

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Burdekin children aged 9 to 15 will get a hands-on introduction to the latest digital technologies during school holidays, thanks to a partnership between Burdekin Shire Council and the State Library of Queensland.

Two workshops will be held at the Burdekin Library in Ayr on Wednesday 8 April. The Drones & Programming session runs from 10:00am to 12:00pm, followed by 3D Design & Printing from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Red Dirt Robotics will be a special guest presenter, giving students practical experience with real-world technology.

“By partnering with the State Library of Queensland, Council is able to bring exciting, future focused learning experiences to our community,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.

“These workshops encourage creativity, problem solving and confidence with technology—skills that are increasingly important for both young people and adults.”

Places are limited, ensuring each student can get personal attention and fully explore the technology during the two-hour sessions.

The partnership also offers opportunities for local business owners, with free Digital Marketing for Business online workshops running throughout March. Each two-hour session explores how digital platforms such as Google, Facebook, Instagram, email marketing, and online reviews can help businesses connect with customers.

Sessions are scheduled on 9, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, and 20 March, providing flexible options for local business owners to participate.

The workshops are delivered through the State Library of Queensland’s Regional Digital Development project, supported by the Department of Customer Service, Open Data and Small and Family Business, as part of a broader initiative to improve digital skills in regional Queensland.

Registrations are now open. Bookings for youth workshops can be made at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents. Business owners can register via the Digital and You app at www.digitalandyou.com.au/app or Eventbrite at https://bit.ly/4cnomiT.

CAPTION: Two workshops will be held at the Burdekin Library in Ayr on Wednesday 8 April. Photo source: Adobe Stock

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Volunteer Coordinator, Burdekin Visitor Information Centre, Ayr

What inspired you to volunteer?

“My husband and I moved up from Victoria after we retired, and I was volunteering and participating in a few local groups. I met this lady there, and she talked me into trying the information centre. I said, 'Look, I wouldn't know anything’, and she said ‘Oh, you'll learn.’ 15 years later, here I am coordinating the place!”

What’s a typical shift like?

“Once we open, clean up, and top everything up, we wait for tourists to come in and show them around. If they need help, we give advice, provide maps, and suggest things to do in the area. It’s important to make visitors feel welcome and show them around without taking over the conversation. We let them talk, listen to what they want, and help them plan where they’re going.”

What do you enjoy most?

“I just really enjoy meeting people and the tourists that come through. We’ve got a lot of knowledge to share along with the brochures, and it’s just nice to see visitors leave thankful and smiling. It makes you feel really good inside, and it helps give the town a great reputation.”

What makes a great volunteer?

“I think volunteers should be outgoing and very welcoming, and able to get on with people. That’s really all you need. It also helps to be honest and tidy—keep things clean and organised—because visitors notice those details.”

Why should someone give volunteering a try?

“Just come and give it a go. Volunteers don’t have to stay if it’s not for them, but it’s worth trying. We usually pair new volunteers with someone they’ll get on with, so everyone feels comfortable. Most people end up loving it!”

For more information or to volunteer, contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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FEDERAL Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, has welcomed the election of Senator the Hon Matt Canavan as Leader of The Nationals; asserting that the new leadership team will deliver the straight talk and fiscal discipline Australians are crying out for.

Mr Willcox said he is pleased to see a fellow Queenslander at the helm who shares his passion for regional Australia.

"Matt Canavan is a man of conviction and a proud Queenslander who understands that our country is at a crossroads. We have a fantastic working relationship; I know he will fight to ensure that regional industries, from our miners to our farmers, are never again treated as an afterthought by the city-centric Labor Government."

The change in leadership signals a shift toward a 'More Australia' policy: an unapologetic focus on Australian jobs, Australian resources, and Australian families. Mr Willcox noted that this is not new thinking for The Nationals, but rather a return to the conservative roots that the party has always championed.

"For too long, the 'all or nothing' approach to renewables has been bankrupting this nation and driving up the cost of living. We want practical environmental protection: an energy grid that uses the best models in the world by blending a solid base load of power with renewables. To drive down inflation, we must have real fiscal responsibility and reliable, affordable energy; not a reckless rush that leaves our manufacturers and families in the dark."

Mr Willcox, who remains the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, said the 'More Australia' approach is vital for the survival of local industry.

"If we want a future made in Australia, we have to reduce the crippling energy costs that are killing our factories. We also need to get serious about sovereign capability by stopping the dumping of cheap, finished steel products from overseas. Our manufacturing sector needs to be restored and revived; as Matt Canavan says, it is time to go 'hyper Australia' and bring back Aussie-made goods."

Beyond the halls of Parliament, Mr Willcox emphasised that the role of a Federal Member is about looking after the vulnerable on the ground.

"National policy is only one part of the job. My priority remains helping the people of Dawson navigate the complex systems of the NDIS, the ATO, Aged Care, Centrelink, and more. When people vote, they are looking for a representative who has their back when they are struggling with the bureaucracy.

“Only a Coalition government has the structure and the heart to hold Labor to account while providing that high level of direct assistance to the shopkeepers, the salary earners, and the families who are the bedrock of our nation."

Mr Willcox also paid tribute to the outgoing leader, David Littleproud MP, describing him as a mentor and a mate.

"David is proud by name and by nature. He has been a strong force in steering the Nationals and was a fierce voice within the Coalition; particularly in his campaign to abandon net zero and put the interests of the bush first. He has earned the right to return his focus to his family and his electorate of Maranoa, and I thank him for his years of dedicated service."

Mr Willcox congratulated the broader leadership team, including Deputy Leader the Hon Darren Chester MP and Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie, who continues her vital role as Leader of The Nationals in the Senate.

"This is a team of patriots who will listen to the people we represent, whether it is fashionable in the city or not. We are here to defend what we believe in and to put Australians first.”

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP

Caption: L-R: Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, Nationals Leader Senator the Hon Matt Canavan, and Deputy Leader the Hon Darren Chester MP; the team focused on delivering a hyper Australia that prioritises regional families, restores sovereign manufacturing, and brings back reliable, affordable energy.

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Copper thieves who risk lives by cutting telecommunications and plunging deadly intersections into

darkness could now face life in jail under proposed new legislation welcomed by Member for

Burdekin Dale Last.

Public consultation has now opened as the Crisafulli Government works to tackle rising metal thefts,

including copper wire, which have seen criminals not only endanger their lives, but the lives of others

in the community.

Mr Last said the proposed legislation demonstrated how seriously the Crisafulli Government was

taking the theft of copper wire.

“We’ve seen drivers forced to navigate pitch black intersections on some of the deadliest

intersections of our highway while copper cabling has also been cut from emergency generators and

telecommunications infrastructure in these despicable acts,” Mr Last said.

“Under the proposed legislation criminals who target essential key infrastructure where the life or

health of a person is endangered or the conduct occurs during or in the lead-up to a natural disaster

will face up to 25 years imprisonment.”

“As the Premier said earlier this year these are the lowest of acts and our government is taking action

with penalties to reflect the seriousness of these crimes and the cost they impose to taxpayers to

undertake repairs.”

“Make no mistake if you commit these low acts that have the potential to endanger other community

members, particularly in their hour of need or when they are driving home after dark on a national

highway, you should face the full weight of the law.”

Mr Last said following the introduction into parliament the proposed legislation was now up for

consultation and encouraged anyone affected by these crimes to make their voices heard.

“As with any new legislation it’s important the mechanisms and outcomes achieve what our

communities expect which is why we encourage anyone affected by these sorts of crimes to make

their voices heard during the public consultation process.”

ENDS – Media Contact: Mikayla Colquhoun (07) 4767 0500

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The Rotary Club of Home Hill has officially launched one of its biggest fundraisers to date, aiming to raise approximately $40,000 for a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that will help local police patrol every corner of the community.

Unveiled at last Tuesday’s club meeting, the fundraiser will be the Rotary Club of Home Hill’s flagship community project for 2026, aimed at providing local police with a locally-based ATV they had sought funding for on multiple occasions.

“This is a practical and high-impact project that will immediately benefit the community,” said Alf Musumeci, President of the Rotary Club of Home Hill.

“Our police do an outstanding job, and this is our chance to thank them for the great work that they do, and increase their ability to respond quickly across challenging terrain.”

The ATV—a Yamaha ‘Wolverine RMAX4’—will be stationed in Home Hill and serve both Home Hill and Ayr Police stations. The modern four-seater, equipped with police technology, has received strong support from local officers.

Home Hill Police Senior Constable Will Stewart said the ATV will serve a critical function for the Burdekin, giving officers immediate access to remote areas such as Wunjunga Beach, Alva Beach, and river beds.

“It can take up to two days for ATVs to get here from Townsville… so having these wheels on the ground straight away will make a big difference.”

Given the need for the vehicle, the Rotary Club of Home Hill is urging the region to help make the project a reality.

“We’re calling on the community, local businesses, and grant partners to get behind this important initiative,” said Musumeci.

The project will amalgamate community events, raffles, and corporate partnerships to raise the funds needed to purchase the ATV.

Fundraising efforts kick off with a $5 raffle for a Bushranger Battery Powered Multi-Tool and Lawn Mower pack from Burdekin Motorcycles, with the winner to be drawn on 30 June.

Community members and local businesses can support the Rotary Club of Home Hill by donating online at facebook.com/rotaryclubofhomehill or contacting the Club via email at home.hill@rotary9560.org. Stay updated on upcoming events and raffles through the Club’s Facebook page.

1—Clive Williams and Club President Alf Musumeci of the Home Hill Rotary Club, Home Hill Police Senior Constable Will Stewart, and Alyssa and Dave Muir of Burdekin Motorcycles. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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As as Queensland accelerates toward its renewable energy targets, residents in one small North Queensland community are asking a simple question: why here?

The quiet rural locality of Mount Fox, inland from the Hinchinbrook Shire and within the broader landscape bordering the Burdekin, has unexpectedly become the centre of a broader debate unfolding across the state; how to rapidly expand renewable energy while protecting some of Australia’s most ecologically valuable landscapes.

While the proposed development sits outside the Burdekin Shire, the ecological systems of North Queensland do not stop at council boundaries with scientists claiming the forests, ranges and waterways surrounding Mount Fox form part of a wider environmental network that supports biodiversity across both the Hinchinbrook and Burdekin Shires.

What’s Actually Proposed

The discussion centralises around the proposed Mount Fox Energy Park (MFEP), a project currently progressing through the proposal and assessment stage.

MFEP plans to construct a two-stage initiative set to yield around 290 megawatts of wind energy, reinforced by a 300- or 600-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System designed to help stabilise the North Queensland electricity grid.

With final approvals yet to come, the project currently proposes an estimated 47 turbines across a temporary disturbance footprint of up to 242 hectares.

Although large in scale, MFEP says the development will prioritise environmental management and implement ecological benefit programs aimed at reducing potential impacts on birds, bats and other wildlife.

“Our commitment extends beyond energy generation,” the company states.

“We're dedicated to safeguarding and rejuvenating over 800 hectares of land, battling invasive weeds and pests, with a particular focus on lantana. Simultaneously, we're replanting native species to provide increased habitat for local wildlife.”

At present, environmental assessments and planning processes are still underway. The project has not yet been approved, and no construction has begun.

Why the Site is Controversial

Mount Fox sits within a landscape known for its ecological richness, with the broader region neighbouring habitat corridors connected to the Wet Tropics, supporting a wide variety of wildlife including species sensitive to habitat disturbance.

Environmental researchers often stress the importance of these corridors, which allow animals to move between forests, uplands and lowland habitats in search of food, breeding areas and cooler climates.

As ecosystems stretch across regional boundaries, changes to landscapes in areas such as Mount Fox can potentially affect wildlife movement and habitat connectivity across neighbouring areas, including parts of the Burdekin.

Conservation groups say developments in intact ecosystems can sometimes have impacts beyond the immediate project footprint, highlighting fragmentation of habitat, disruption of wildlife corridors and the cumulative effect of multiple developments across a region are issues commonly raised in environmental planning discussions.

Groups such as Rainforest Reserves Australia say developments in ecologically complex areas require careful scrutiny, arguing the concern is not ideological but ecological.

The Community Voice

Keep Mount Fox Beautiful, a local community group made up of residents and conservation-minded supporters, has become a focal point for those seeking more information about the project.

Members say they are not opposed to renewable energy itself, but want greater transparency around site selection and potential environmental impacts.

“This isn’t about stopping renewables,” one campaign message states.

“It’s about putting them in the right places.”

What Happens Next

Whilst the Mount Fox proposal remains under consideration, all eyes will be on MFEP to deliver updates on the initiative as the project progresses through the planning process.

Whatever the outcome, the discussion unfolding in the Hinchinbrook Shire may prove influential beyond its borders and could signal how North Queensland navigates the balance between climate ambition and conservation.

Additional information can be found online at www.mtfoxenergypark.com.au, as well as a contact form to speak directly with an MFEP representative.

CAPTIONS:

1. The proposed location of the Mount Fox Energy Park project is located approximately 100 to 120 kilometres of the Burdekin. Photo source: MFEP
2. Mount Fox homes both tropical rainforests and open woodlands. Photo source: PeakD

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Starlight Children’s Foundation (Starlight) is calling on Australians to share their favourite kids’ jokes to help bring joy and laughter to seriously ill children in hospital.

Ahead of Starlight Day on 19 May, Starlight is inviting the community to share a joke that could help brighten the day of a child facing the challenges of serious illness.

“At Starlight, we know laughter really is the best medicine. A simple joke can turn a scary or stressful hospital moment into one filled with joy, which is why we’re asking everyone to get involved,” said Kathryn Tohill, program manager, digital entertainment and creative collaborations, Starlight Children’s Foundation.

As Australia’s broadestreaching children’s charity, Starlight delivers positive distraction and fun through Starlight Express Rooms - medicalfree spaces in every major children’s hospital nationwide, and through inhospital play and entertainment provided by Captain Starlight.

For mum Sophia Kersten, those moments of joy made an enormous difference to her daughter Ella, now six. Ella was born with laryngomalacia and tracheomalacia — a floppy windpipe and vocal cord paralysis — and has undergone multiple surgeries since birth.

“There were times Ella wouldn’t laugh for weeks,” Sophia said.

“But the moment we walked into the Starlight Express Room, Captain Starlight’s silly jokes and games brought her giggles back. The joy they bring melts away the anxiety and stress of hospital so kids like Ella can just be themselves again.”

Participants can submit their favourite kids jokes to help put a smile on the face of a seriously ill child at ​www.starlight.org.au​.

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Last year, in the span of just a month, Ayr resident Norman Bethell lost two of his close friends to suicide. Shaken, he made it his mission to ensure no one else would have to suffer in silence.

Building Bonds On The Greens

Norman Bethell was hit hard in the middle of last year. After losing two friends to suicide within the span of a month, the 78-year-old saw firsthand the toll loneliness and mental health struggles can take, and felt compelled to act. That action became ‘Funday Tuesdays’.

Coined and hosted by Bethell at the Home Hill Community Sports Club, Funday Tuesdays are a weekly community gathering aimed at tackling loneliness and supporting mental wellbeing.

"It's so that someone doesn't do what happened to my friends," Bethell said.

“I thought, ‘No one else normally is going to [start a group], so just get up and stand up on your own—do something about it.’”

The first Funday Tuesday meeting, held earlier this year, saw just one person attend. While many called it a failure, Bethell saw a silver lining.

“One was better than none!” he said.

Now, each event sees up to 20 people connect over lawn bowls and other activities, devoid of stipulations.

“There's no, ‘You got to do this’ or ‘You got to do that’—there're no rules. It's a fun day, and when you have a fun day, you do whatever you want to do,” Bethell said.

“It’s all about community. It’s for people who would usually rather walk past each other than say hello, and breaking down that barrier down—meeting somebody new so they don't feel go back home and feel so lonely.”

That impact has been felt by regular attendees, who say Funday Tuesdays offer a haven of connection rather than merely a meeting point.

“I enjoy the people, and it’s good to get to know something that is different,” she said.

“I’m mostly with my group, but the more that we're together, the more like family we become."

Bethell encourages anyone to drop by and see what Funday Tuesdays are all about.

"Don't be shy. If you feel like you're a bit on your own, walk in the gate and visit. Be brave and make the first step, because only you can do it. I can’t do it for you,” Bethell said.

The group meets every Tuesday morning at 10am at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. For more information, contact Norm on 0455 994 775.

CAPTIONS:

1—Each event sees up to 20 people connect over lawn bowls and other activities. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

2— The group meets every Tuesday morning at 10am at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Photo supplied

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Women are worth celebrating every day, although over the weekend, the Burdekin had the chance to celebrate the women that help the region tick in a special way.

I had the privilege of attending Zonta’s International Women’s Day celebrations on Sunday and, boy, what a turnout.

As the afternoon rolled on and I sat there, camera in hand, I began to feel a sense of gratitude for the women that have played pivotal roles in my life.

First that sprung to mind was my mum. Honestly? I’m not sure where I’d be without my mum’s care, love, and genuine desire to see me succeed. She has been a role model in so many ways, even if not always obvious.

Love ya, mum.

Then I thought of my high school teachers, who never let me settle for ‘good enough’. The colleagues who make my job as seamless as possible. The friends who have been my anchors.

Their fingerprints are everywhere.

I think we should make a habit of appreciating the work women do every day, not just once a year… But for now, here’s to women.

Because without the women in my life, I definitely wouldn’t be anywhere close the person I am today.

My cortisol levels would probably be much lower, though.

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The Burdekin community “cruised” into celebrations for International Women’s Day on Sunday, 8 March, with a whopping 175 people packed into the Memorial Hall to celebrate the region’s women, making it the best-attended iteration of the event in recent history.

Hosted by Zonta, the afternoon featured a “Cruise with Zonta” theme, which saw guests and hosts alike donning cruise-themed outfits and accessories.

Long-time Zonta member Inez Larsen said the organisation was pleased by the amount of support on the afternoon.

“This year’s turnout was fantastic; we were a bit overwhelmed, honestly,” said Larsen.

“The community support and interaction, especially dressing for the theme, really made the afternoon fun.”

The afternoon saw presentations from guest speakers Kathleen Noonan, journalist and Second Chance Programme volunteer, and Louise Nicholas, Senior Secondary Agricultural Science teacher and Agricultural Coordinator at Home Hill State High School, both sharing messages on community support, education, and addressing issues such as family violence and homelessness.

Larsen said she hopes guests were able to gain something from the afternoon.

“The UN theme was “give to gain,” and our speakers really encompassed that within their in their presentations,” she said.

“I think the key message was the importance of support, community support, family support, and the importance of respect within our community and within ourselves.”

Larsen thanked the event’s sponsors, particularly Burdekin Readers & Writers, and the local community for their support and enthusiasm in making International Women’s Day a spirited celebration.

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Lower Burdekin cane growers have the opportunity to boost irrigation efficiency and reduce farm costs through a new project aimed at modernising irrigation systems.

The Burdekin Tailored Automation project, delivered by NQ Dry Tropics, is encouraging growers to register their interest in upgrading to automated irrigation systems, with incentive grants of up to $30,000 available to help fund the transition.

The three-year project aims to improve irrigation practices across the region by ensuring crops receive the right amount of water at the right time. By automating irrigation infrastructure, growers may be able to reduce input costs, labour and water usage while maintaining crop yields.

Project Officer Michael Hobbs said inefficient irrigation systems were one of the main drivers of nutrient and pesticide runoff from farms.

Excess irrigation water can carry dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), pesticides and other nutrients into nearby waterways, where they may eventually reach the Great Barrier Reef.

“That excess water provides no production benefit to the farmer and can wash valuable nutrients and pesticides away from where they’re needed in the paddock,” Mr Hobbs said.

“By applying the correct amount of water needed by the crop, it’s possible to reduce that runoff pathway while also improving the farm’s bottom line.”

Improved irrigation efficiency can also help address rising groundwater levels in some parts of the Lower Burdekin and may reduce issues such as waterlogging that can impact crop growth.

The project forms part of the Australian Government’s Reef Trust Reefwise Farming Program, which aims to improve water quality flowing to the reef while supporting farm productivity.

Places are limited and growers are encouraged to submit an expression of interest as soon as possible.

CAPTION: NQ Dry Tropics are giving local canegrowers with the opportunity to take their irrigation regimes to the next level, reducing input costs, and labour while maintaining yields. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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After a century of ardent advocacy, CANEGROWERS remains one of the strongest voices for growers in the Burdekin and beyond. Yet despite the many hard-fought victories of its illustrious past, the organisation now finds itself confronting a new era of challenges, making its current work more critical than ever.

The headwinds are already gathering. With global sugar prices softening and input costs rising, growers in the region are entering an increasingly uncertain market. In some cases, the squeeze is already being felt on the ground.

But despite the seemingly gloomy picture of the current sugar market, CBL Director Owen Menkens says there are answers for growers, and that they may be closer than we think.

“The big buzzword at the moment, obviously, is ethanol,” Menkens says.

"Along with ethanol, there’s sustainable aviation fuels, both of which are very exciting… But if the biofuels industry is going to happen in Australia, it has to happen now.”

Menkens has led a years-long push for biofuel mandates across the country in hopes of opening a reliable revenue stream for Australian growers beyond traditional sugar crystal.

Up to now, those calls have fallen on deaf ears. However, CBL Manager Greg Watson anticipates real steps forward over the next decade, if not sooner.

“There have been many false dawns with different uses for our sugar cane, and a lot of people have come into the district promising all of these wonderful products which just haven't gotten anywhere,” said Watson.

“But from what we've seen the last couple of years, the momentum is building, and the pace of that momentum is just increasing considerably. We can see the bio economy providing a tremendous growth transition path to take industry to the next level within the next five to 10 years.”

“All it will take to turn the light from red to green… is a stroke of the pen from government to implement and enforce biofuels mandates to provide investors with certainty to then allocate capital to kickstart this opportunity for the future.”

Menkens stressed that, in the meantime and beyond, farmers would need to embrace the rapid technological advances reshaping the industry in order to help navigate current and future markets.

“We have to stay ahead of technology," said Menkens.

"The margins are getting smaller, so you just have to be able to do it cheaper and better.”

He says that while innovation can help growers survive today’s pressures, the bigger picture is about preparing the industry for those who will inherit it, with initiatives like ‘Burdekin’s Sweetest School’ competition typifying that stance.

“I only do this job for the next generation,” said Menkens.

“It's a difficult time at the moment for growers, but hopefully we can band together and come up with solutions.

"The industry needs to survive; it needs to be profitable; it needs to be viable for farmers. That's what we've got to try and do, however which way we can.”

CBL Chair Glenn Betteridge said now is the time for growers to unite as Canegrowers charts the path forward.

“Our doors are always open to anyone who's interested in coming in, whether it be as a member or a Director,” he said.

“We're a broad church. We’ll work with anybody who shares our vision and values for the benefit of the industry.”

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Populin Enterprises – Automatic Billet Planter

In the early 1970s, Home Hill cane farmers and brothers Lui and Peter Populin (deceased) reshaped the global cane planting industry with a world-first innovation: the single-row automatic billet planter.

Before their breakthrough, cane planting was a labour-intensive process requiring large crews to manually place cane billets into the ground. The Populin brothers’ invention mechanised the process, dramatically reducing labour requirements and increasing efficiency.

The prototype was first used on the Populin family farm on Groper Creek Road, where it quickly proved its value in real farming conditions. Demand from growers soon followed. In 1973, the brothers introduced an improved two-row semi-mounted model capable of carrying two tonnes of chopper-harvested plant cane and planting at a rate exceeding two acres per hour.

Their design was officially patented on March 16, 1976. Manufactured locally through Populin Enterprises in Home Hill, the planters were sold across Australia and exported to major sugar-producing regions including Brazil, the United States and Hawaii. Modern billet planters still trace their design back to the Populin brothers’ original concept.

Ray Menkens – Lay-Flat Plastic Fluming System

In the mid-1960s, Burdekin cane grower Ray Menkens began experimenting with new irrigation methods that would ultimately transform water management across the sugar industry.

Seeking an alternative to traditional open earth drains and pipe systems, Menkens trialled yellow lay-flat plastic for irrigation fluming. The early material proved unsuitable for North Queensland conditions, melting in the sun and lacking durability.

Determined to improve the concept, Menkens travelled to Sydney to work directly with a plastics manufacturer’s engineer. Together they developed a far more robust black lay-flat fluming capable of withstanding the region’s harsh climate. To encourage adoption, the product was released with a 25-year guarantee.

Early versions included screw-in cups moulded into the plastic, but practical field experience led to further refinement. With input from the Rubiola family, the system evolved to the cup-insertion method widely used today. Graeme Haller later designed a specialised fluming roller, improving efficiency again. By the mid-1970s, lay-flat plastic fluming had become widely adopted, delivering major labour savings for irrigation across the sugar industry.

A Cannavan & Sons – Self-Propelled Over-the-Row Cane Harvester

In the late 1950s, Burdekin innovator Arthur Cannavan (deceased) set out to mechanise one of the most physically demanding tasks in the sugar industry: harvesting cane.

With a clear vision and the support of his family, Cannavan approached a local blacksmith’s workshop in 1959 to help bring his ideas to life.

The result was a pioneering self-propelled over-the-row cane harvester that introduced a completely new approach to harvesting. Cannavan developed a system using augers and rollers to feed cane into a cutting mechanism, combined with his distinctive “chop and throw” method that cut the cane into billets and delivered them directly for transport.

The machine proved its worth quickly. In 1961, Cannavan’s harvester delivered the first chopped cane to Inkerman Mill, marking a significant milestone in the mechanisation of the industry.

Many of the fundamental concepts he developed, including the use of augers, rollers and billet chopping, remain core features of modern cane harvesters, cementing Cannavan’s place as a pioneer of mechanised harvesting.

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In another universe, Steve Pilla is roaming hospital halls. In this one, fate led the Giru native back to cane farming after a brief stint in nursing, and he hasn’t looked back since.

After dipping his toe in the world of healthcare in the late 1980’s early 1990s, Pilla returned to the family farm in Giru, continuing a story that began when his grandfather arrived in Australia in 1939 and bought the property a decade later. It was a path that felt inevitable in hindsight.

“I grew up always wanting to be on the farm,” Steve says.

A third generation cane farmer, Steve went into business with his father in 1998. When his father passed away in 2015, it was left to Steve to guide the farm forward.

And he did just that.

In the meantime, he would join the CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited Board as a Director in 2013, eager for answers in what was a rocky period for the local industry. Seeing the organisation’s extensive work for farmers first-hand kept him on the board for another 13 years and counting.

Despite the work of CANEGROWERS, Steve says the industry’s real strength lies in the steadfastness of farmers themselves.

"It isn’t looking good as far as low prices and sugar at the moment, and looks like our inputs are going to climb this year… But growers always seem to show resilience, and the industry seems to pull through challenging times,” he said.

“I'm looking forward to us getting through this low spot again and getting on the other side and being both environmentally sustainable  and financially viable moving forward.”

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Owen Menkens grew up surrounded by farming, even if he briefly looked beyond it.

A fourth-generation cane farmer from Home Hill, Owen spent his holidays working on the farm his great-grandfather first purchased decades ago. Despite that early exposure to the industry, he initially opted for a cooler, more predictable career, heading to university to study accounting.

Though eventually, the pull of the land proved stronger.

“It’s in your blood,” says Menkens.

“I went through periods where I didn't want to [farm]… but it was always there.”

With that epiphany, by the late 1990s, he was back in the paddock. Nearly 30 years later, he’s still there, now growing around 36,000 tonnes of cane each year while representing growers from the Burdekin to the global stage.

Menkens joined the CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited board as a director in 2010. From that platform, he promptly climbed the ranks, now holding the chairmanship of both CANEGROWERS Queensland and CANEGROWERS Australia.

Reaching the top was never the endgame for Owen, but rather an added bonus.

“At the end of the day, whether you're a director of [one of the branches], or where I am, it’s all about just trying to get good results, and trying to make the industry better,” Menkens says.

That drive has kept him at the forefront of the industry, involving legal disputes, landmark sugar marketing legislation, and the introduction of the code of conduct that have given growers more control and better tools to manage risk.

Those experiences have given Menkens a reason to believe in the future of the industry.

“As long as we stay at the cutting edge of technology and keep ourselves open to new ideas, we'll always keep going.”

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Although not a farmer in the conventional sense, Greg Watson has a passion for the sugar industry.

Born and raised in Home Hill, Greg grew up surrounded by cane fields. His grandparents used to own a farm, his parents worked as cane harvesting contractors, and Greg spent much of his childhood helping with the family’s harvesting contract.

But his early career took him down a different path.

After finishing high school, he studied commerce at James Cook University before embarking on a career in banking, first in business, then agribusiness. A decade later, he switched to financial planning, eventually becoming self-employed in a practice for 13 years.

Eventually, though, his roots in the sugarcane industry drew him back to the heart of it.

He would go on to serve as Executive Officer for the CRC for Sustainable Sugar Production, followed by a role as Grower Relationship Manager for QSL in the Burdekin and Herbert River regions, before returning to the Burdekin as Manager of CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited in 2020.

This time, however, he returned to the Burdekin with decades of experience in financial services, along with his home-grown passion for the region and the personal approach that defines his work today.

“I'm just always somebody who really enjoys helping people where I can,” says Greg.

“I try not to say no, which is probably a downfall in some respects, but I just try my best to deliver services to growers and assist them when in need.”

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Farming has always been in Glenn Betteridge’s blood.

A third-generation cane farmer from Home Hill, Glenn has spent his whole life in the region surrounded by the cane crop he goes to battle for today.

“I was born in Home Hill Hospital, and will probably be planted in the Home Hill cemetery!” Glenn quipped.

His connection to cane farming began with his grandparents, who owned a small farm on Home Hill’s southern side. His father and uncles cut cane by hand, eventually upgrading to full stick loaders and harvesters, marking the family’s shift into mechanised harvesting.

After leaving school, Glenn completed an apprenticeship as an electrician at Inkerman Mill in 1991, a role he credits with giving him an understanding of the processes behind milling.

But once he finished his apprenticeship, he was drawn straight to the paddock.

He and his brothers would purchase a small parcel of land in 1994, and over the next three decades, he not only operated the machinery but managed the harvest, gradually taking ownership of his own operations.

Today, his son oversees the harvesting group, while Glenn’s five-year-old grandson has already started accompanying his father, hinting at a fourth generation ready to carry the family’s tradition forward.

The step back allowed Glenn to focus on his role as Chair of CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited (CBL). Serving on the CBL board since 2019, he says his priority lies in securing the future for the next generation of farmers.

“I’d like to try and secure the future of our industry,” he said.

“I believe in our industry. With sustainable fuel sources, we can be the leaders in that area if we can get the right support from government.”

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By 1921, Wilmar’s Invicta Sugar Mill had been constructed, completing the quartet of Burdekin mills that still stand today. Its arrival signalled ambition and growth, cementing the Burdekin’s position early as one of Australia’s leading sugarcane regions.

But as the industry surged into the future, growers themselves found they were not sharing equally in its success—a sentiment shared up and down the state.

At the time, Queensland cane farmers were largely independent operators, working within an industry where their commercial freedoms were heavily dictated by mill owners. For all the cane they grew, and every backbreaking season spent in the fields, they rarely reaped the rewards they believed they deserved.

This frustration eventually led to an epiphany that would reshape the industry forever.

“Our farming forefathers and mothers realised that the industry is bigger than individuals,” says CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited (CBL) Chair Glenn Betteridge.

“That’s something that still rings true today.”

That collective understanding gave rise to what would eventually become CANEGROWERS.

Born from necessity rather than mere ambition, the organisation emerged in Mackay in 1926 as a collective voice. One that could advocate strongly for farmers in pursuit of equity, bound by a steadfast, unifying conviction.

A voice that would ultimately sustain the organisation, and the sugarcane industry alike, for a century.

“If we didn't have a system of negotiation that was based on solid principles and proper governance, the industry would probably have fallen over,” said current Queensland CANEGROWERS Chairman and CBL Director Owen Menkens.

“I think the whole industry was working better because of working together. Working together to look at problems, come up with solutions, and make our industry better.”

Today, the team of staff and directors at CBL lead an operation grounded in those same values.

Since officially becoming CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited in 2005, the company has overseen major wins for local farmers, from negotiating one of the districts best cane supply agreements to securing fair transport arrangements, fighting each battle united in stance and shared purpose.

Yet perhaps more importantly, the byproduct of these battles, regardless of outcome, has become the catalyst of something far grander than legal victories. It birthed a community.

A family.

“Things like [the 100-Year Anniversary Ball], and the grower meetings… it's good for growers. It's good for getting together with other growers and making fun of them in the spirit of mateship,” said Menkens.

“It's good for their mental health, and especially as we head into low prices. You need someone to gather everyone together.”

CBL Manager Greg Watson says fostering this sense of family is at the heart of how the organisation operates.

“Our Directors and staff in most cases have grown up with our members over many decades. We go over and above what we are here to do to develop strong personal relationships with our members, because we see them as part of a bigger family,” says Watson.

From stepping out of sugar industry related matters, to helping growers find specialist appointments, to sorting internet connections, arranging home security installations, or places to see on holidays, the organisation has always been there, looking out for its people where we can.

“Sometimes we can't get the outcome they want, but the fact that we sit down, we listen to them, and we have a go and try… growers really appreciate that.”

Now more than ever, as the industry faces low prices and ongoing challenges, the value of sticking together remains paramount. With a century supporting growers, building community, and protecting livelihoods, CANEGROWERS enters the next century with the same spirit of unity and commitment that has always defined it.

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Burdekin Shire residents are being urged to remain vigilant around local waterways after a recent crocodile sighting at Mosquito Creek raised fresh safety concerns.

The sighting was reported by a young fisherman who said the crocodile appeared to head directly towards him while he was fishing from the creek bank, prompting renewed reminders for locals to stay “crocwise”.

Several residents responding to the report online said crocodiles have been seen regularly in the broader Groper Creek area, a popular fishing spot and home to a well-frequented caravan park.

One local said crocodiles had been present in the waterway for decades.

“Me and a mate camped right on the creek in swags a few years ago and there was a couple stalking us at night. We just sat at the fire watching it – it never came out of the water at us but was within 10 metres,” the resident wrote.

Another person said they had also recently spotted a crocodile in the area.

“Seen this one there last weekend on the sounder. Been there for at least 40 years.”

With local waterways rising and forecasts predicting continued rainfall across the region, residents are being reminded to take extra care around creeks, rivers and coastal areas where saltwater crocodiles may be present.

The Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation urges people living and visiting Queensland’s Croc Country to follow safety guidelines and remain alert near the water.

Queensland law makes it illegal to feed or interact with crocodiles, with penalties ranging from $483 to more than $26,000 depending on the offence.

In 2024, the Queensland Government introduced tougher penalties and additional offences aimed at improving public safety. These include prohibitions on discarding food near public areas such as boat ramps, jetties, pontoons and camping grounds, as well as knowingly remaining close to crocodiles on land.

The rules complement existing laws that prevent people from approaching or disturbing crocodiles within 10 metres.

Conservation officers also have the authority to direct people to move away from crocodiles if necessary to prevent potentially dangerous interactions.

Leanne Linard, Queensland’s Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, said the measures were designed to reduce risks associated with people deliberately interacting with crocodiles.

“People may think feeding crocs or interacting with them is fun or harmless, but experience shows that doing so increases the risk to public safety,” Minister Linard said.

“The government is investing more than $4.9 million in crocodile management, and we will continue to work with experts and the community to manage our crocodile population safely and effectively.”

Authorities are reminding residents and visitors to always remain alert near waterways, keep a safe distance from the water’s edge and report crocodile sightings to the relevant authorities.

Large Saltwater Crocodile Resting Her Mouth Stock Photo 2155865611 | Shutterstock

CAPTION: Queensland law makes it illegal to feed or interact with crocodiles, with penalties ranging from $483 to more than $26,000 depending on the offence. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Late last year, young Burdekin local Elenna Savorgnan sadly lost her battle with brain cancer at just three years old after a valiant, year-long fight.

Now, in what would have been Elenna’s birthday month, her mother Maria is honouring her memory by taking on the 86K for a Cure challenge, carrying with her the legacy of a little girl who filled the world around her with warmth and love.

“Elenna brought so much love into our lives,” Maria said.

"If sharing her story helps bring us closer to a cure for childhood cancer, then her legacy continues to make a difference.”

The 86K for a Cure challenge sees participants walk, run or move 86 kilometres throughout March, with the distance representing the 86 children diagnosed with cancer each year in Australia. The initiative raises funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute, supporting vital research into childhood cancers.

For Maria, it’s an opportunity to help ensure “no other family has to endure what we did.”

“We know we want to continue supporting the fight to cure childhood cancer, and participating in the 86K challenge felt like a positive way to honour her and continue that effort,” she said.

“If Elenna could go through everything she did and still manage to smile, then I can certainly walk 86 kilometres.”

She will be joined on her journey by friends Natasha Stevenson, Wilmee Stockdale, Chloe Biffanti, Jessica Pucciarmati, Bree Dwyer, Kiri Woods, Karen Driver, and her sister, Melissa Tapiolas.

“Having them beside me for this challenge means the world,” Maria said.

“They have supported us so much throughout everything and continue to show Elenna so much love.”

It was in 2024 that Elenna was diagnosed with Group 3 Medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood brain cancer. After fighting through brain surgery and intensive treatment, she sadly passed away late last year, months shy of what would’ve been her fourth birthday.

“March 13 would have been Elenna’s birthday, so this month will always be a meaningful time to us,” Maria said.

“I love the little memories that pop up all the time – the cute things she would say, her beautiful smile, and how much she loved dancing to music. She also had the most beautiful, contagious, heart-melting laugh."

While life without Elenna has been incredibly difficult, Maria said the support of the Burdekin community has been an unwavering source of strength.

“The kindness and support we’ve received has meant so much to our family and we could never truly put into words how grateful we are,” Maria said.

Members of the community can continue to support Maria’s walk by donating, sharing the fundraiser, or following the links on her Facebook page to contribute.

https://www.facebook.com/donate/1579522309979483/?fundraiser_source=external_url

1—Maria Savorgnan is joined by friends and family as they take on the 86K for a Cure challenge in honour of her late daughter, Elenna, raising funds and awareness for childhood cancer. Photo supplied

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A 40-year-old Ayr man has been charged with deliberately setting a house and shed on fire on Cameron Street, while two others face drug and stolen property charges following a separate police operation on Rita Island.

At about 8.30am on Friday, 6 March, police and the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) responded to reports of a fire in Cameron Street, Ayr, where a house and shed were alight, with a caravan inside the shed fully engulfed.

No one was home at the time, and QFES extinguished the fires, which caused moderate damage to the house and shed.

Police declared the scene a crime scene, and a scientific examination completed on Saturday revealed “a number of separate seats of fire on the property, indicating it was deliberately lit.”

On 8 March, the 40-year-old Ayr man was arrested and charged with allegedly Endangering Property by Fire. Detectives from the Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch opposed his bail, and he appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court the following day.

He has been remanded in custody until his next appearance on 22 April.

“This incident provides a timely opportunity to remind residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour,” said Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields.

“Community awareness and timely reporting play an important role in helping police keep our community safe.”

Separately, police attended Rita Island on the afternoon of 5 March following public reports of a sighted stolen trailer. Upon arrival, police declared a crime scene.

A 36-year-old Alva Beach man was charged with Possess Dangerous Drugs and Possess Utensil after allegedly being found with 3.2 grams of methylamphetamine and a glass pipe.

A 30-year-old Ayr man was charged with two counts of Possess Dangerous Drugs and Possess Utensil after allegedly being located with 20 grams of cocaine, 1.6 grams of methylamphetamine, and a glass pipe.

Both men were also found in possession of a stolen vehicle, which has been seized. Investigations into the vehicle and trailer are ongoing.

Members of the public are encouraged to contact Policelink on 131 444 to report suspicious activity. If a serious or life-threatening situation is occurring at the time, please call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Anyone with information about the house fire is urged to contact Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Burdekin Life is excited to launch two special community giveaway competitions designed to spread a little joy and support across the region.

The first competition will see four tickets to every North Queensland Cowboys home game this season given away to lucky winners. A different winner will be selected for each home round, giving multiple people the opportunity to experience the thrill of game day live.

In addition, the donor will also provide a $100 grocery voucher each month for the next 10 months to help support individuals or families who may need a little extra assistance.

Community members are encouraged to nominate someone deserving for either prize by submitting an 80-word blurb explaining why their nominee deserves the opportunity.

Nominations can be sent to jacob@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Both competitions aim to support those who may benefit most, whether it’s someone who has never had the chance to attend a Cowboys game, or a household that could use a helping hand with everyday essentials.

Successful nominees will be contacted directly with further details.

Start nominating today and help brighten someone’s day!

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In the city, a spike in fuel prices is a frustration; a reason to grumble at the dinner table or perhaps cancel a weekend drive. But in the regions, and specifically here in Dawson, fuel isn't a luxury or a lifestyle choice. It is the lifeblood of our economy.

Right now, that lifeblood is under threat, and it’s time we had a serious conversation about what is happening. We are currently facing global volatility, domestic supply rationing, and a federal government that seems content to watch from the sidelines, while our primary producers are pushed to the brink.

Our farmers in the Burdekin, the Whitsundays, and Mackay are some of the most resilient people you’ll ever meet. They deal with droughts, floods, and cyclones. But there is one thing they cannot work their way out of: a dry fuel tank.

A harvester doesn’t operate on hope. A tractor preparing a paddock for the next crop doesn’t run on good intentions. They run on diesel. And when fuel wholesalers begin rationing supply, or cuts it off altogether, it creates a terrifying ripple effect. If a farmer in Bowen or Gumlu can’t get a quote for a forward delivery, or if their regular supplier suddenly stops mid-week because the "big four" oil companies are tightening the taps, the work stops.

When the work stops on the farm, the clock starts ticking in the supermarket.

Most people don't see the journey their food takes. It starts with fuel in a tractor to grow the crop. It needs fuel for the truck to get it to the processor and then onto market , and more fuel for the semi-trailer to deliver it to the shelves in town.

If you break any one of those links by making fuel unavailable or unaffordable, you don't just get higher prices; you get empty shelves.

This is a fundamental food security issue for every Australian. Under Labor, we are seeing a return to a 1940s-style rationing mentality that has no place in a modern, "lucky" country like ours.

The Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, has done nothing other than deflect, while regional wholesalers are being told not to send their trucks to the ports because there is nothing for them.

The Albanese Government claims there is "plenty of supply," but the reality on the ground in Dawson tells a different story. We are hearing that the major oil companies are prioritising their own retail outlets and hedging their bets against price shifts, leaving the secondary wholesalers, the ones who actually service our farmers and truckies, left holding an empty hose.

The Minister has the power under the Petroleum and Other Fuels Reporting Act to step in, identify the gaps, and ensure our essential industries are prioritised. Why isn't he using it?

On top of the supply crisis, we are seeing blatant price gouging. As I’ve said before, it takes nearly two weeks for global wholesale price changes to hit our local bowsers. Yet, we have seen prices jump up to 40 cents in an afternoon. That isn't market forces, that is war profiteering, and the ACCC needs to be instructed by the Treasurer to show some teeth and prosecute those doing the wrong thing.

Australians are already living through a Labor-created cost-of-living crisis. Adding a fuel security crisis on top of that is a recipe for disaster.

Our farmers and truckies are vital in keeping our nation running and fed. They are the ones who ensure that when you walk into a shop, there is bread, milk, meat, fruit and veggies on the shelves. They deserve a government that treats fuel security as a national priority, not a political inconvenience.

It’s time to stop the talk, unlock the supply, and ensure that the engines of North Queensland keep turning.

Because when the tractors and trucks stop, Australia stops.

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As crushing season in the Burdekin rapidy approaches, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has joined sugar industry representatives to celebrate its past and reaffirm the Crisafulli Government’s support for the Burdekin’s major economic driver.

During his keynote speech at the weekend’s 100-year celebrations of Canegrowers, Member for Burdekin Dale Last not only acknowledged the century of representation within the sugar cane farming sector but noted challenges remained.

“Canegrowers has played a pivotal role in towns like the Burdekin where the successes they have celebrated when representing our sugarcane sector have set in motion success for our community and ultimately our state,” Mr Last said.

“Under the Crisafulli Government, concerns our farmers continue to hold about their industry and securing its future are being considered utilising a whole-of-government approach, rather than being left in the ‘too hard’ basket.”

“We are seeing positive steps in addressing rising ground water, an issue that has been affecting our sugar cane growers for far too long and is proof our government has accepted there are challenges, but that inaction is not an option.”

Mr Last said the celebration of Canegrowers’ centenary aligned with the upcoming release of the results from a wide-ranging inquiry into the challenges and benefits of sugarcane bioenergy.

“The Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland provided an opportunity to explore industry growth and find solutions to problems that are, or could, hold back future growth,” Mr Last said.

“Across the public hearings we already heard a genuine consensus that realising the opportunities within the sector had the potential to benefit the wider community as well as the sugar sector itself.”

“By providing a whole of government approach to supporting sugar industry we are following a blueprint aimed at sustainably fostering growth in our primary industries and boosting our state’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.”

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By Jo Sheppard, CEO, Queensland Farmers’ Federation

Energy is an essential farm input, alongside water, that underpins much of the agricultural sector across North Queensland. Decisions around water and energy use have the potential to significantly impact farm profitability, productivity and, in turn, long-term farm business sustainability.

In Northern Queensland’s horticulture and sugarcane growing regions, irrigation represents one of the largest energy inputs for producers. Electricity prices, pump efficiency, water delivery systems and emerging automation technologies all influence operational costs. For many producers, even small improvements in efficiency can deliver meaningful gains.

At the same time, energy systems are changing. New energy technologies are emerging on farm, and large-scale energy infrastructure continues to expand across regional communities.

For the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), ensuring farmers and regional communities have access to reliable and up-to-date information is essential, so they can understand the opportunities and challenges, and make informed decisions about their businesses, their land and their future.

In 2023 QFF launched the Queensland Renewable Energy Landholder Toolkit to help farmers and regional communities begin to better understand the opportunities and risks in relation to hosting renewable energy developments on their land.

To help farmers continue to navigate these conversations around utility-scale renewable energy, as well as other topics such as energy tariff selection, and emerging energy technology options, the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) delivers the Energy Information Service for Landholders (EISL). EISL is a free, independent phone-line service providing practical, up-to-date support for farmers and landholders, which can be accessed Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm on 07 3329 7500.

The service connects landholders with reliable information about energy tariffs, emerging technologies, government and industry programs, landholder hosting arrangements, coexistence considerations, and consultation processes. It ensures producers understand both the opportunities and risks and helps them know who to contact when new projects are proposed in their region.

EISL is complemented by The Queensland Ag Energy Hub, a website which provides industry-specific resources tailored to Queensland agriculture. The Hub includes case studies from sectors such as cane and horticulture farms, guidance on energy efficiency upgrades, and practical tools to help producers assess their own energy use. You can visit the Hub at https://www.qldagenergyhub.com.au/

Later this month, QFF’s Energy Engagement and Education Advisor (EEEA), will attend the Queensland Community Energy Forum in Proserpine. The forum will bring together landholders, community members, industry and government to discuss energy developments in the Whitsunday region.

Through the EEEA role, QFF works with our peak industry members, including CANEGROWERS, Cotton Australia and Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers, and regional producers to strengthen engagement between the energy sector and agriculture. Early consultation is essential if productive agriculture and reliable energy infrastructure are to co-exist in regional communities.  

QFF is committed to working with our members, industry and regional communities to advance agriculture, supporting on-farm water and energy decision making and driving sensible policy decisions to ensure farmers are supported to continue growing world class food, fibre and foliage across Queensland.

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A new initiative has ignited the literary scene once more in the Burdekin, with a bold aim to discover, promote, and celebrate local authors. The Local Burdekin Author initiative is designed to elevate the voices of those who call this vibrant part of Queensland home.

“It’s been truly exciting and humbling,” says Mark Rasmussen, the initiative’s founder.

“I wasn’t sure if the public would get behind this scheme but they’ve eagerly jumped aboard. The response has been astonishing. Every title is flying off the shelves.”

The initiative showcases a stunning variety of books across fiction and non-fiction. From a gripping debut novel to an intrepid memoir, the collection offers something for everyone.

“Each book is so different. There’s a dark suspense novel that’s one of the most phenomenal books I’ve read. We also have an adventurous, fun and candid memoir, along with an impactful part memoir/part poetry/part devotional, which has sold really well. The last book is an award winning literary/adventure novel that takes readers on their own journey,” Mark says.

“All four titles are being bought, which vindicates the decision to undertake this ambitious venture.”

Among the featured authors is Doug Sockhill, who expressed gratitude for the initiative’s support.

“It’s a great gesture by the local businesses to willingly support local writers. We very much appreciate their generosity. I'm honoured to be part of it,” says Doug.

The support from both the public and local businesses, has breathed new life into the local literary scene. Cara Trindle, manager of the Home Hill Post Office, agrees.

“When I was approached, it was a no-brainer for me. It’s not only great for the four authors currently featured, but for the Burdekin as a whole,” Cara says.

The commitment shown by the businesses to showcase these authors extends beyond merely displaying local authors stories, as Cara explains.

“We’re not taking any money from the authors. For us, it’s all about displaying their talent, while highlighting the amazing writers we have in this region,” Cara states.

This collaboration between authors, businesses, and the community, highlights just how vital supporting local can be. The initiative’s success has far surpassed initial expectations.

“We’re stoked at how well this has been received and it’s only been up and running for over a month,” says Mark.

The initiative’s impact goes beyond just books; it’s about creating a lasting cultural legacy. Plans are already in motion for a fifth local author to join the initiative, and one of the current authors is gearing up to release their first ever children’s picture book. While one to two other local businesses have shown interest to participate.

“We're not just fostering individual talent – we're cultivating a community that values storytelling as part of its culture,” Mark says.

“It’s my hope that once word spreads, more authors will rise up so we can have a rotation of different writers and books so that it always feels fresh.”

Books can be purchased (cash sales only) from Home Hill Post Office, Home Hill News & Coffee, and Chill cafe in Ayr.

If you want to be part of the Local Burdekin Author initiative or know any published authors, contact Mark via: mark.rasmussen72@gmail.com.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Rasmussen.

CAPTION: Local Burdekin Authors Initiative founder, Mark Rasmussen, with Home Hill Post Office manager, Cara Trindle. Photo supplied

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Residents in regional communities across the country are being encouraged to step into the spotlight following a recent casting call for the next season of Australian Survivor.

In 2021, the Burdekin’s own Janelle Durso appeared on the popular reality show, competing as part of the Brawn Tribe in the sixth season’s Brains v Brawn, filmed in Cloncurry. During her time on the show, she won three challenges before her journey in the competition came to an end after five days.

“People from regional areas aren’t shown much on the telly. We are a different breed,” Janelle said.

“We’re the backbone of Australia with our resilience and hard work ethics. It’s always great to see someone you can see yourself in representing your area.”

Janelle said growing up in the Burdekin helped prepare her for some of the challenges of island life.

“The Burdekin lifestyle of fishing and hunting helped. This wasn’t aired, but I was able to make a fish and yabbie trap from sticks and vine,” she said.

“It caught yabbies for the tribe, and that’s always a positive.”

She said the behind-the-scenes reality of filming the show was what surprised her most.

“The interviews, photo shoots and the 100-plus crew watching your every move – it’s a crazy experience,” she said.

“It surprised me how much it took. Having to go to the bathroom in front of 100 crewmembers is something I’ll never forget!”

Interested in becoming a contestant yourself? Australian Survivor casting directors say they’re looking for everyday Australians with the strength, personality and determination to handle the extreme challenges of the game.

Applicants must be physically and mentally resilient, capable of enduring harsh outdoor conditions while competing in demanding challenges. Contestants also need to be confident, engaging and comfortable living closely with strangers while forming alliances and navigating group dynamics.

Casting is open to men and women from all backgrounds and locations, with producers keen to showcase a wide mix of personalities and life experiences on the island.

To apply, hopeful contestants must complete an online application at www.survivorcasting.com.au, submit two photos and record a short video explaining why they believe they have what it takes to become the next Sole Survivor. Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents, aged 18 or over, and able to swim.

“My advice for anyone wanting to apply is to be honest and be yourself,” Janelle said.

“Make sure you’re in your best possible shape – and maybe practise puzzles!”

CAPTION: Burdekin’s own Janelle Durso competed in Australian Survivor in 2021. Photo source: Australian Survivor

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Burdekin growers mark 100 years of advocacy and unity

100 years ago, cane grower representatives from across Queensland met in Mackay to challenge an industry that had long been stacked against them. Last month, hundreds of CANEGROWERS directors, members and associates came together in the Burdekin to celebrate the organisation’s enduring legacy and the achievements it has facilitated since that inaugural meeting.

Centenary Night Honours Growers and Their Legacies

CANEGROWERS marked 100 years on Friday, 28 February, bringing together generational farmers, dignitaries and organisational leaders to celebrate a century spent fighting—and winning—battles for fairer outcomes for Queensland growers.

Addressing the crowd at Populins Hall, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the 100-year milestone was a testament to the organisation’s enduring work.

“The pathway that the sugar industry has travelled in the last 100 years, from those humble beginnings, to where it is today, didn’t occur by accident. It occurred through a lot of advocacy; through a lot of hard work; because of organisations like CANEGROWERS,” Mr Last said.

To mark the occasion, inaugural ‘Innovation Awards’ were handed out on the night, honouring three Burdekin farmers credited with innovations that have been influential in local industry practices.

Home Hill farmer Lui Populin was recognised for the early-1970s invention of the first single-row automatic billet planter, developed with his late brother Peter. Arthur Cannavan received an award for his Self-Propelled Over-the-Row Cane Harvester, while Ray Menkens was honoured for his Lay-Flat Plastic Fluming System.

CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited director Owen Menkens said on the night that innovation would continue to shape the industry’s future, particularly as new opportunities emerge, making the organisation’s work now as important as ever.

“The question for our generation is the same as it was for those growers a century ago: will we shape the future of the industry, or will we leave it to others?” Mr Menkens said.

“Standing together still matters. Membership still matters. Representation still matters. 100 years ago growers in districts like this made a decision to organise. Tonight, we celebrate that decision, and we carry it forward.”

1—Michelle Cvjetanovic, Raymond Cvjetanovic, and Paul and Jackie Kratzmann

2—Mark and Karen Castelanelli, Ian and Patricia Haigh, and Frank and Kay Scuderi

3—Jenna Koppen, Katlyn Radunz, David Radunz, Kieran Koppen, and Elliot Phillips

4—Rae Scuderi, Steven Marbelli (Chairman of CANEGROWERS Herbert River), and Leah Russo (Deputy Chair of CANEGROWERS Herbert River)

5—Deklan Menkens, Christian Populin, Erica Dickinson, Sarah Menkens, Owen Menkens, and Kirsty Swindley

6—Max and Shannon Musumeci

7— CANEGROWERS marked 100 years on Friday, 28 February, bringing together generational farmers, dignitaries and organisational leaders to celebrate the feat

8— Addressing the crowd at Populins Hall, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the 100-year milestone was a testament to the organisation’s enduring work

9—CANEGROWERS Burdekin Limited director Owen Menkens said innovation would continue to shape the industry’s future

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Ayr was full of wagging tails and tiny paws on 28 February, as Pets Domain hosted another Bowen/Collinsville Pet Rescue puppy meet and greet.

Held monthly, these events give Burdekin locals a chance to meet adoptable puppies—this time, 11 adorable pups strutted into town.

Bowen/Collinsville Pet Rescue member Bronwyn said that despite a quieter turnout than usual, one puppy found its forever home, while another could soon follow.

“It gives our animals and organisation a wider audience, and it's a chance for the community to hear their stories,” she said.

“People often think rescue pets are broken, but they’re not—they’re just bruised.”

Bronwyn encourages anyone interested in adopting, fostering, or joining the organisation to reach out via Facebook at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. or email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

A year after floodwaters tore through the Burdekin Shire, cutting roads, isolating communities and testing the resilience of the region, locals are reflecting not only on the scale of the disaster, but on the strength, cooperation and recovery that followed.

In early February 2025, days of torrential rainfall saw the Burdekin River surge to peak capacity, inundating roads and bridges and bringing traffic to a standstill across North Queensland. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the event remains one of the most significant flooding events ever recorded in the Burdekin, alongside major floods in 1958, 1974, 1991, 2008, 2009 and 2019.

An active monsoon trough and multiple tropical lows produced prolonged heavy rainfall across northern Queensland, leading to major flooding throughout the upper and lower Burdekin River system. Water levels reached 19.27 metres at Sellheim on 3 February and peaked at 11.30 metres at Inkerman Bridge on 12 February.

The Burdekin River basin drains a vast catchment of around 130,000 square kilometres, with floodwaters converging from the Burdekin and Belyando rivers before flowing past Ayr and Home Hill and into the sea. Downstream of the Burdekin Falls Dam, communities experienced flooding caused by both upstream flows and intense rainfall below the dam; a combination that left Ayr and Home Hill particularly vulnerable.

Road closures quickly followed, including the Bruce Highway at Plantation Park, the Macrossan Bridge on the Flinders Highway, and multiple regional roads linking Giru, Rita Island and Clare. Charters Towers was temporarily cut off, freight ground to a halt and long queues of trucks stretched up to three kilometres on either side of the river crossings.

As conditions worsened, emergency services carried out swift water rescues, helicopters were used to transport stranded motorists, and essential supplies were flown across floodwaters to isolated communities. Residents were urged to monitor conditions closely as the Burdekin Falls Dam spilled excess water, reaching more than 200 per cent capacity at its peak.

At the height of the event, major flood warnings were issued across multiple river systems, while residents in the Lower Burdekin region were advised to prepare five days’ worth of food, water and medication as renewed rises remained possible.

Despite the widespread disruption, coordination between emergency services, councils and community groups proved critical.

“The LDMG (Local Disaster Management Group) consists of multiple different agencies including Council members who have all been working tirelessly, and in collaboration, to support as best we can for the disaster event. The impact of this event extends beyond the Burdekin, affecting the broader North Queensland region and presenting unique challenges,” Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.

“The LDMG is monitoring conditions and are well prepared to act or respond accordingly. As the LDMG has many experienced people, they are assisting to deliver favourable outcomes for the community.

“I urge all residents to stay informed through official sources, including the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard (disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au). Please continue to follow safety advice, check on your neighbours, and reach out if you need assistance,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort added.

Schools shifted to skeleton staffing or online learning, hospitals reorganised services, including transporting dialysis patients by rail, and farmers worked around the clock to save livestock and infrastructure. The kindness of residents shone brightly as several locals opened their hearts to support stranded truckies offering refuge and free warm meals to those in need.

Records show that Ayr has experienced 10 major floods since 1911, with the most recent before 2025 occurring in 1991 when the river reached 12.53 metres at Inkerman Bridge. While those levels were not exceeded in 2025, the intensity of rainfall and volume of water moving through the system placed extraordinary pressure on the region.

Just weeks later, the recovery phase was already underway.

By late March 2025, 95 per cent of small and family businesses across the Burdekin had reopened, supported by joint State and Commonwealth Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Grant assistance was doubled from $25,000 to $50,000, with additional funding directed toward tourism recovery and regional marketing.

“We promised no daylight between response and recovery, and it’s pleasing to see a significant amount of work has already been undertaken to get many small and family businesses back on their feet,” Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said.

A year on, the Burdekin stands as a powerful example of regional resilience, shaped by floodwaters, but defined by community spirit, preparedness and determination.

While memories of submerged highways, roaring rivers and isolated towns remain vivid, so too does the collective effort that carried the region through one of the most challenging chapters in its history.

1. Slings were used to move goods by chopper from one side of the Burdekin River to the other in communities across the region. Photo credit: Lily Nothling
2. The Flinders Highway was cut at the Macrossan Bridge by the floods. Photo credit: Baz Ruddick
3. The tropical low rain event has caused extensive disruptions to freight. Photo credit: Baz Ruddick
4. Trucks were driving through the flooded Bruce Highway near Plantation Park. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones
5. Plantation Park flooded during February's downfall, disconnecting the Burdekin from neighbouring communities. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones
6. The Burdekin River’s extreme levels left residents speechless. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones
7. At 6 meters over the spill level, the Burdekin Dam was roaring in February of 2025. Photo credit: Phil Copp
8. When the Burdekin River floods, Home Hill feels the effects first. Photo credit: Melissa Anne

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Primary producers impacted by recent flooding in northern Queensland can now access concessional disaster loans of up to $2 million, following a joint announcement from the Federal and Queensland Governments.

The loan cap has been lifted from $250,000 to $2 million under the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), recognising the severe impact of the North Queensland Monsoon Trough and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

The increased loans are available to eligible producers in flood-affected areas and can be used to repair or replace damaged equipment and buildings, restock livestock, replant crops and cover essential business costs such as rent and rates.

Disaster assistance has now been activated for primary producers in the Barcaldine and Cassowary Coast local government areas. Support has also been expanded to producers in Central Highlands, Livingstone and Whitsunday, who can apply for Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 for clean-up, repairs and resupply.

Freight subsidies of up to $5,000 are also available in activated areas, along with additional industry and wellbeing support programs.

Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said supporting farmers was critical to regional recovery.

“The work of Queensland farmers is central to food security and a strong economy, for both the state and our nation,” Minister McBain said.

Queensland Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett encouraged producers to contact the Queensland Rural Industry Development Authority for guidance on available assistance. More information is available at qrida.qld.gov.au or by calling 1800 623 946.

Sugar Cane Field Flooded After Heavy Stock Photo 1670363425 | Shutterstock

Primary producers across North Queensland are encouraged to apply for Federal and Queensland Government funded concessional disaster loans. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Australian sugarcane growers and industry partners are invited to attend an upcoming online presentation examining the key challenges limiting crop productivity across the industry.

The webinar, titled Agronomy Constraints to Sugarcane Productivity, will be delivered by leading sugarcane agronomist Dr Barry Salter and will explore factors contributing to the yield plateau currently evident in the Australian sugarcane sector.

Topics to be covered include soil compaction, waterlogging, marginal soils, and observations about soil fertility following a recent industry-wide leaf and soil survey. The session will conclude with a live question-and-answer segment, giving participants the opportunity to engage directly with Dr Salter.

Dr Salter, Manager Translation Research at Sugar Research Australia (SRA), has worked as a research agronomist in sugarcane for more than 20 years. His work has focused on farming systems including fallow cropping, minimum tillage, row configurations, nutrient use efficiency, enhanced efficiency fertilisers and interactions with varieties.

The webinar will run from 2pm to 3pm on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Growers and industry stakeholders can register online to attend via https://lnkd.in/ggfyVWPM.

SRA’s Dr Barry Salter will lead the webinar. Photo source: SRA

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The Burdekin has been recognised as one of Queensland’s most productive and environmentally diverse regions, with three new projects announced under the Natural Resource Management Expansion Program to strengthen the long-term health of local landscapes.

Spanning fertile farmland, vital wetlands and coastal ecosystems, the Burdekin plays a crucial role in supporting the state’s economy, biodiversity and the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Delivered in partnership with NQ Dry Tropics, the projects will work directly with landholders to improve environmental outcomes while supporting productivity and protecting natural assets.

One of the initiatives, Fighting Invasive Species Together, will support landholders in the Townsville Offshore and Lower Burdekin catchments to improve native vegetation condition and increase resilience to wildfire through targeted weed and pest management.

The Climate-Ready Coastlines in the Lower Burdekin project will focus on protecting coastal and wetland ecosystems from threats including invasive species, fire and human impacts, helping safeguard sensitive environments along the region’s coastline.

Meanwhile, the Climate Resilient Rangelands project will assist landholders with threat mitigation strategies to improve grazing land, native vegetation and wetlands across the Burdekin’s rangeland areas.

Together, the projects aim to build resilience from the rangelands to the coast, demonstrating how collaboration between landholders and natural resource managers can deliver practical, long-lasting benefits for both the environment and the community.

Three new projects under the Natural Resource Management Expansion Program will strengthen the long-term health and resilience of the Burdekin Shire. Photo source: Land Queensland

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The importance of strong regional natural resource management partnerships was front and centre at the first meeting of the Gudjuda Rangers Country Working Group, held last week on Bindal Country at the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

The meeting brought together Gudjuda Rangers and NQ Dry Tropics team members alongside Traditional Owners, land managers and representatives from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the Queensland Rural Fire Service and Firesticks.

All groups will work collaboratively to deliver NQ Dry Tropics’ Fighting Invasive Species Together project, a new three-year, $1.9 million initiative designed to protect biodiversity and agricultural land across North Queensland from the growing threat of invasive weeds and pests.

Planning is well underway, with the project set to build on existing local partnerships while strengthening the capacity of Land and Sea Ranger groups to improve fire regimes and manage invasive species on the ground. Gudjuda Rangers will play a leading role in planning and coordinating works in the Lower Burdekin.

Participants at the meeting acknowledged the value of cultural knowledge in land management and expressed a shared commitment to working across different land tenures to achieve stronger, long-term environmental outcomes.

The Fighting Invasive Species Together project is funded through the Queensland Government’s $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program.

CAPTION: Back row, left to right: Rullington Zaro (Gudjuda Ranger), Andrew Blair and Sherry Cullen (AIMS), Karen Vidler (NQ Dry Tropics), Paul Anderson, (Acting Senior Ranger, Lower Burdekin, QPWS), Rosie Kidman, Jaeda Lenoy, Trinity Georgetown (all NQ Dry Tropics), Anita Dwyer (Manager, Bushfire Mitigation, Regional Fire Service, Qld), Holly Zaro (Gudjuda Ranger), Ian Clarke (Bushfire Mitigation Officer Regional Fire Service, Qld), Joe Jess (Ranger in Charge, Townsville, QPWS), Mohit Deolankar Research Manager, QPWS). Front row, from left: Victor Steffensen (Firesticks Co-founder), Russell Butler (Bandjin and Warrgamay Traditional Owner), Eddie Smallwood (CEO, Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation). Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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When Ruralquip began searching for the right hands to carry it forward in 2025, it refused to settle for just anyone.

Long-time owner Robert Oar had turned down multiple offers, determined the company’s next chapter would be led by someone local. Someone invested not just in the business, but in the region itself.

Enter, Shannon Musumeci.

Up to that point, she had thrived on familiarity.

She’d spent her entire life in the Burdekin. Over two decades working in the accounting industry.

But when she and her husband Max, as part of a consortium of local investors, purchased the company last year, a sense of duty to her community tugged her into the uncharted waters of leading a business as General Manager.

And she’s gone from strength to strength ever since.

After 21 years of working as a tax accountant, the move wasn't exactly a small pivot for Shannon, trading the structured world of tax returns and financial forecasts for supplier negotiations, stock movement, and the day in, day out unpredictability of running a regional business.

It was a transition from advising companies to carrying the weight of one.

“I’ve embraced the opportunity to grow in new areas such as leadership, operations, and team development,” Shannon says.

“For me, stepping into the role… wasn’t just a career choice—it was a commitment to our family business and the community we live in.”

The shift from professional services into hands-on operations represented a significant shift, albeit one underpinned by similar foundations.

“My career in accounting gave me a strong foundation in financial management, business strategy, and problem-solving, as well as the discipline and attention to detail that come with working in a professional services environment,” she said.

“[The transition] has allowed me to bring those skills into a more hands-on, operational setting.”

As part of her role, Shannon currently oversees all areas of the business, from supplier relationships and product selection to team leadership and long-term planning.

In her short time at the helm, the business has already expanded its product range, strengthened supplier relationships and refined internal systems that have helped maintain the personalised service locals are accustomed to.

She attributes this swift, tangible success to a philosophy made up of three parts; resilience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to community.

“In a regional business, resilience is essential. You have to adapt, stay steady, and keep showing up,” says Shannon.

“Integrity is just as important. Being honest, consistent, and fair builds trust, and trust sustains a business over time.

“I also believe that investing in your community strengthens everyone. When the region thrives, so do the businesses within it.”

But just as importantly for Shannon, it’s about striking a balance between hard work and enjoying the simple things.

Outside of work, she enjoys music and values time spent socialising with friends, often over a cold beer after a busy day. She calls her husband and two sons, Jonas and Dallas, her “greatest motivation.”

“No matter how busy life gets, they’re my priority—and the reason I work hard to build something meaningful for the future.”

Looking ahead, Shannon says she's focused on continuing to strengthen her leadership as she guides the company into its next phase.

“For me, it’s not just about the size of the business in five years, but about building something stable, sustainable, and well-respected.”

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Honouring the legacy of a family business established long before she was born, Kari Ravizza has spent the past 13 years as Managing Director of McCathies Furniture Plus, though in many ways, she has been part of its story her entire life.

Born and raised in Ayr, Kari grew up immersed in the rhythms of small business. After graduating from Ayr State High School, she initially followed a different calling, pursuing a Bachelor of Education at James Cook University in Townsville and embarking on a career as an Early Childhood Teacher.

“I had grown up in the family business, but I followed my passion for teaching straight after high school,” Kari said.

Teaching was a career she loved deeply, shaping her people-first approach to leadership. However, in 2011, an opportunity arose that would bring Kari and her husband Rob back to the Burdekin and into the family business.

The couple had always considered the Burdekin home, regularly returning with their children, Chelsea and Jye, to visit family. When the chance came to buy into McCathies Furniture Plus, the decision felt natural.

“At the start of 2013, we bought into the business, moved our family home, and I took leave from teaching to begin my career as a business owner,” Kari said.

McCathies Furniture Plus was first established in 1974 by Kari’s grandparents, Jack and Milly McCathie, before passing to her parents, John and Lyndy McCathie, in the 1990s. Today, Kari and Rob proudly lead the business as third-generation owners.

Throughout her 13 years managing the business, Kari has experienced many highs and lows, with the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 standing out as both one of her greatest challenges and most unexpectedly rewarding periods.

“We went from fearing the worst to being the busiest we had ever been,” Kari recalled.

“With families spending more time at home, people began investing in their living spaces. Demand skyrocketed. It was exhausting — but incredibly rewarding.”

Yet for Kari, the most meaningful moments of business have never been about growth alone; they have always centred on people.

One moment from her early days in the business remains especially close to her heart.

“I remember helping a woman who had a terminal illness choose a mattress she would spend much of her remaining time on,” Kari said.

“It wasn’t about making a sale. It was about making sure she was comfortable and felt cared for.”

“That’s when I realised I’m not just selling furniture,” she said.

“I’m supporting people through some of the most important — and vulnerable — moments of their lives.”

That philosophy underpins everything Kari does. She believes business can be personal without losing professionalism and values genuine connection with staff, customers and the wider community.

Like many small business owners, Kari wears many hats — from managing staff and ordering stock to delivering furniture and sweeping floors.

Beyond the business, Kari is deeply involved in the local community, and she currently serves as Secretary of the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce and as the Ambassador Co-ordinator for the Burdekin Water Festival.

Outside of work, Kari enjoys audiobooks on her morning runs, playing the piano and singing (mostly in the shower). Yet, family remains at the centre of her world, and she and Rob are proud parents to Chelsea and Jye. The family also adores their beloved fur babies; Minus, a 17-year-old Pomeranian cross Chihuahua, and Holly, a 13-year-old Toy Poodle.

Looking ahead, Kari describes 2026 as a year of growth and change for McCathies Furniture Plus.

“I hope the risks we’re taking now have paid off,” she said, “and the business continues to be successful, well supported, and still supporting others in return.”

Compassionate, determined and genuine, Kari Ravizza’s leadership reflects not only the strength of a family legacy, but a deep commitment to people, community and purpose.

Q: Looking back, what do you wish your younger self understood about building a career or business as a woman?

A:  Looking back, I wish my younger self understood that where you are now is not always where you will be in the future. Things change, you grow, and opportunities come along that you never expected.

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Chantel Michielin leads North Queensland Region 436 as Regional Manager for Bendigo Bank Home Hill & Ayr, guided by a belief that long-term success is built from the inside out. While technical skills have their place, Chantel says true leadership is grounded in three essential qualities: resilience, empathy and authenticity.

“Resilience is the engine that allows you to absorb shocks, learn from failure and persevere. It turns challenges into opportunities for growth,” Chantel said.

Empathy, she explains, can be equally vital, not only for customers, but for teams as well.

“A genuine understanding of your customers’ pain points is the bedrock of any great business,” she said.

“Internally, empathy fosters loyalty and collaboration. It’s something women leaders often bring naturally to the table.”

Authenticity ties it all together.

“In a crowded market, people connect with genuine leaders. Being authentic builds trust — it means leading in a way that’s true to your values, not someone else’s idea of what a leader should be.”

Chantel’s career in banking began with a passion for helping clients navigate their financial journeys. As she stepped into leadership, that focus expanded.

“What I truly love about my role is helping others build confidence, develop their capabilities and take ownership of their career growth,” she said.

“Contributing to someone else’s development is incredibly fulfilling.”

Born and raised in Ayr, Chantel describes herself as local “through and through.” After gaining valuable experience with NAB and spending several years living and working in Mount Isa, she made the heartfelt decision to return home 15 years ago. Today, she lives in Ayr with her husband and their three children, deeply connected to the community she has always called home.

“In 2011, we made the decision to move back home, and it felt like the perfect opportunity to bring the skills and experience I'd gained back to the community I care so much about, and I haven’t looked back since,” she said.

“Being able to contribute to the place I've always called home has been incredibly rewarding.”

In her day-to-day role, Chantel credits one non-negotiable habit as key to her success: protecting her “off switch”.

“In our always-on culture, the ability to disconnect is a superpower,” she said.

“I have a firm end-of-day ritual where I close my laptop and put my phone away for a designated period. Creating that boundary between work and personal life is essential for preventing burnout and fostering creativity. That protected time with family or hobbies is what recharges me for the next day.”

Chantel describes witnessing the growth of the Community Bank in Home Hill and Ayr as “an absolute privilege,” saying the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

In the beginning, the foundation was built on a powerful idea that a local bank could be more than a provider of financial services; it could be “a cornerstone for community growth and resilience” and establishing trust and demonstrating genuine commitment to the people of Home Hill and Ayr were early priorities.

Over time, that vision has grown into a thriving local institution, yet for Chantel, success isn’t measured purely in financial terms, but in the tangible impact made across the region of local businesses expanding, community groups bringing projects to life, and families achieving their dream of homeownership.

One pivotal milestone was reaching the bank’s first major community investment target.

“Seeing the first significant sum of money go back into a local project was proof that our model was working,” she said.

“It was no longer just a concept; it was a tangible force for good right here in our community.”

Equally meaningful have been the individual success stories; a young farmer growing their operation, a sporting club upgrading its facilities, families building stability for the future. During floods, droughts and periods of economic uncertainty, the community’s unwavering support further reinforced what makes the model special.

“It highlights that we are truly in this together,” Chantel said.

Today, she believes the bank’s greatest achievement is how deeply it has become woven into the fabric of Home Hill and Ayr; “a testament to what can be achieved when a community decides to back itself.”

Looking ahead, Chantel remains focused on her current role, with aspirations to step into a more senior strategic position in the coming years, helping shape long-term direction and mentoring future leaders.

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Carla Healy never expected to be a business owner. She'll even tell you that she was more than happy to remain a sales assistant.

But when things lined up for the Burdekin local to purchase Raine & Horne Ayr in 2024—the company she’d worked at for almost a decade up to that point—she took an uncharacteristic leap into the unknown.

For better, or for worse? Well, it would depend on when you asked her.

The purchase marked a momentous milestone, but where champagne should have flowed, tears did instead.

“I cried for the first week," recalls Carla.

“I thought, ‘what the hell have you done? What were you thinking? You're an agent. You're not a business owner.'”

She had no formal training. No bona fide experience in business ownership.

But she had one asset that overrode every one she lacked.

Sheer determination.

“I’m not a quitter—never have been,” she said.

“There were definitely days I wanted to in those times. A lot of times it crossed my mind…

But pride never let me.”

And with that attitude in her sails, there was nothing that could stand in the way of her subsequent success.

With each passing day, she became increasingly at home in the position.

“I remember one day towards the end of 2024, driving to work, pulling up to the office, looking at it, walking in and going, ‘Yeah. I do love what I do. You do love what you do, Carla—and it's only going to get better from here,” she said.

And that, it did.

In her near two year stint at the helm, Carla has led the office to levels it hadn't previously known. The branch was recognised with four different awards at the 2024 Queensland/Northern Rivers State Awards, and then a further six at this year’s iteration just last month.

Personally, Carla has hit milestones of her own—most notably Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions in the state, as well as becoming Ayr and Home Hill's top-rated real estate agent on RateMyAgent for the second year running and the Top Agent for Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon with RealEstate.Com.

But for all the tangible recognition, she derives the most pleasure from helping people make one of the most important decisions of their lives.

“You're fulfilling people's dreams,” she said.

"You’re matching the right person to the right property. People entrust you to sell or buy their most valuable asset—their home. Seeing them all happy, that’s all the reward needed.”

Although technically the owner and Team Principal, she never truly left her post as a sales agent, still attending to calls, appraisals, and handling clients directly—just as she did in her formative days at Andersen Real Estate before it franchised to Raine & Horne in 2019.

“I didn’t take the boss’s office—I’m one of them [the sales agents], just with a different title underneath me,” she says. “It still doesn’t click to this day—Principal/Owner.”

Behind the scenes, her husband Keith is her anchor, and, in her words, her “biggest fan.” Retired, he manages the home, allowing Carla to tackle the volatility of a real estate day head-on.

“He always believed I could when I didn’t," she said.

"For once, I listened."

As she continues to grow the business, she remains optimistic for the future.

“We've just started. We’ll keep powering on, doing what we're doing,” she said.

"I’m always of the opinion that if it’s working well, you don’t fix it!”

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Competing against some of Queensland’s largest metropolitan agencies, Raine & Horne Ayr proved size isn’t everything, collecting six awards at last month’s Queensland/Northern Rivers State Awards in Brisbane.

Held annually, the ceremony brought branches from across the state to The Star to recognise excellence across a range of performance-based categories in sophisticated fashion.

The Ayr office was one of the night’s standout performers, collecting second place for Top Office Regional Sales GCI, fourth for Top Office Number of Sales Transactions and 10th for Top Office GCI.

Team principal Carla Healy also secured a string of individual honours, including Chairmans Club Salesperson – Platinum (the highest level, awarded to only two principals for 2025), first place for Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions and fourth for Top Principal Sales GCI.

Carla said she was proud of her team’s success, describing the recognition as a bonus rather than the end goal.

“It’s not about winning the race, but when you do win the race, it’s nice to know your hard work has paid off,” she said.

“We just make sure that whatever we do, we do it 150 per cent, and the rest of it falls into place. Anybody in the real estate game knows that every day is a Monday. There’s no stopping—it just continues, and if you want to succeed, you’ve got to be there, every day.”

She said the results meant even more given the size of the office compared to its metropolitan counterparts.

“I knew we were in the running for a couple of awards, but I didn’t think we’d bring home six!” she said.

“We’re a small office. We’re in a small area, and we’re competing with offices with mega, mega commissions. So for our office to come 10th overall is just a fantastic feeling, for sure.”

“It says everything about our team. My team is my family—I love my team to death, and I’d be lost without them. They’re all brilliant at what they do.”

Reflecting on her individual achievements, Carla said she was particularly pleased to claim Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions, edging out friend and mentor Michael Skuse of Raine & Horne Innisfail, who claimed the title last year.

“We have this friendly rivalry. I told him, ‘I’ll knock you off your perch this year,’ and I did. Now I’ve got bragging rights till this time next year,” she said.

“But he’s a great mentor. He’s a man I ask a lot of questions to, because he’s been there, done that—he’s been in real estate for an exceptionally long time. So it was wonderful to celebrate and catch up with him.”

Carla’s performance throughout 2025 also earned her an invitation to Raine & Horne’s International Conference on Hamilton Island in August, though she was quick to credit her team for her individual success.

“Success is only the people around you,” she said.

“It’s not and never is one person.”

Looking ahead, Carla said it would be business as usual for the Ayr office, sticking to the formula that has served the team well since she took the reins in June 2024.

“We’re just going to keep doing what we do and do what we do well,” she said.

“I’m always of the opinion that if it’s working well, you don’t fix it!”

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A 41-year-old Ayr man has been charged with multiple drug offences after police stopped his vehicle for a roadside test in Ayr on Saturday morning.

Officers intercepted a grey Mazda sedan on Lando Street about 11am on February 28 for the purpose of a random breath test.

It will be alleged that, following a search of the vehicle, police located a quantity of drugs and drug utensils, including methylamphetamine and cocaine.

Police will further allege the driver returned a positive roadside drug test before he was taken into custody.

The man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of possessing property obtained from supplying dangerous drug, possessing anything used in the commission of a crime, and possess pipe that had been used.

He was refused police bail and is due to appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on March 2.

Detective Sergeant Dave Imhoff, Officer in Charge of Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch, said the seizure was significant for the local community.

“Our officers are acutely aware of the destructive impact ‘ice’ has on families and the community, and we’re committed to removing any quantity of the drug we can,” he said.

“In this case, we’re talking about approximately 1000 individual ‘uses’ of the drug, which is a considerable number for a relatively small community and would have fuelled a high degree of public harm,” he said.

“The arresting officers did a spectacular job detecting and seizing this amount of ice.”

A 41-year-old Ayr man has been charged with multiple drug offences after police stopped his vehicle for a roadside test in Ayr on Saturday morning. Photo source: QPS

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At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, banking is about more than transactions – it’s about relationships, trust and being part of something bigger. For staff members Jasmine Green and Jade Bywaters, working at the local branches isn’t just a job. It’s a genuine connection to the people and community they call home.

For Jasmine Green, who joined Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr in 2026 as a Customer Service Officer, being part of a welcoming team has made her transition into the Burdekin an easy one. Originally from Port Macquarie, NSW, Jaz comes from a big family – she has four siblings and is the youngest child and granddaughter on both sides. She has also been with her partner Locklan for four years, and values the strong family foundation that has shaped who she is.

Jaz says what she enjoys most about her role is the atmosphere. “It’s such a welcoming and comfortable environment,” she shares. “You feel supported straight away, and that makes it easy to support our customers too.”

Outside of work, Jaz loves to draw, listen to music, try new foods and explore new places. Since moving to the region, she’s been struck by what makes the Burdekin special. “It’s such a diverse community,” she says. “Everyone smiles and says hello, even if you don’t know them.”

Customer Relationship Manager and Home Lending Specialist Jade Bywaters brings a similar passion for people to her role. Born in Portland, Victoria, but moved to Ayr when she was 8, Jade joined the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr team in 2019 and quickly embraced the Burdekin way of life.

For Jade, the most rewarding part of her role is helping customers achieve their goals – whether that’s purchasing their first home, upgrading to the next, or securing their forever home. “Supporting my customers to achieve their goals while at the same time giving back to the community is what I love most,” she explains.

When she’s not working, Jade enjoys spending time with her partner Shaun and their daughters Kayley and Larah, all born and raised in the Burdekin, along with their animals.

Together, Jaz and Jade represent what makes Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr unique – local people, investing in local futures, and strengthening the community they proudly serve.

The Burdekin Shire is being urged to stay informed as a developing tropical low in the north threatens to intensify into a cyclone later this week, adding to already saturated conditions across Queensland.

After weeks of heavy rain and flooding across the state’s north and east, attention has turned to a system in the Gulf of Carpentaria being closely monitored by the Bureau of Meteorology. Tropical Low 31U, currently moving over Gulf waters, has a low chance of developing into a cyclone in the coming days, though forecasters say conditions could shift quickly.

Another system, Tropical Low 29U, forming in the Coral Sea, is forecast to move west later this week and could track towards the Queensland coast between Lockhart River and Mackay before potentially moving inland. While the exact path remains uncertain, communities across Northern Queensland, including the Burdekin, are being advised to monitor updates closely.

Locally, the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has transitioned back to ALERT status as a precaution. The Australian Warning System message for the Burdekin Local Government Area currently sits at “Advice – Stay Informed”.

Minor flooding has continued along the Burdekin River, with Sunwater confirming the Burdekin Dam was sitting at 3.75 metres and steady above the minor flood level of 3 metres as of Monday, 2 March. At the Inkerman Bridge gauge, river levels are holding at 7.45 metres, also above minor flood level. Both are expected to remain elevated through Thursday and Friday.

Currently, no communities are isolated, and no major impacts have been reported. However, further showers and thunderstorms forecast across the catchment could trigger additional river rises in the coming days. Residents of low-lying areas, including Rita Island, are being reminded they may become isolated if water levels increase.

“With cyclone season still underway, this is a timely reminder for households across the Burdekin to make sure they are prepared,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.

“While there is still uncertainty around this system, being prepared early makes a real difference. I encourage residents to check their emergency plans, ensure their kits are ready, and stay informed through official sources.

“Council’s Disaster Dashboard and emergency management pages on our website provide reliable, uptodate information, and are the best places to find advice as conditions change. Visit disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au”

Authorities are urging residents not to be complacent. Roads and access points could quickly become impassable, and drivers are reminded never to enter floodwaters. “If it’s flooded, forget it” remains the standing advice.

Emergency services are encouraging households to take practical steps now while conditions are stable. Preparation starts with understanding your risk, knowing how flooding or cyclonic winds could impact your home, access roads, workplace and children’s schools.

Residents should review or create a household emergency plan, ensuring all family members know evacuation routes, emergency contacts and meeting points. An emergency kit should include at least five days’ worth of drinking water, non-perishable food, medications, pet supplies, torches, batteries and important documents in waterproof packaging.

Now is also the time to secure loose outdoor items, trim overhanging branches and check that gutters and drains are clear. Farmers and business owners should consider contingency plans for livestock, equipment and stock.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard, tune into local radio Sweet FM 97.1, and check the Bureau of Meteorology website for the latest warnings. Road closures can be found via QLD Traffic or by calling 13 19 40.

For SES assistance during floods or storms, call 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).

With Queensland no stranger to extreme weather, preparation remains the strongest defence. While the cyclone threat is still developing, authorities stress that communities who act early are best placed to weather whatever the coming days may bring.

All information published was current as of Tuesday, 3 March.

BOM predicts systems will continue to form over the weekend. Photo source: BOM

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A new statewide police operation targeting break-ins, robberies and stolen vehicles will begin this week as the government steps up efforts to reduce crime across Queensland.

The operation, known as Operation Forge, will officially commence on Friday, February 27, and will involve high-visibility policing across the state aimed at tackling property crime and high-risk offenders. The initiative is being rolled out in partnership with the Queensland Police Service and follows a reported 7.2 per cent reduction in the number of victims of crime in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Operation Forge will be led by district police, with support from specialist units including the Criminal Investigation Branch, Child Protection and Investigation Unit and tactical crime squads. Resources such as POLAIR, forensic services, surveillance operations and digital intelligence teams will also be deployed.

The government says the operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety and addressing what it describes as Labor’s “Youth Crime Crisis”. The crackdown will also focus on serious repeat offenders, following a 17 per cent reduction in repeat offending over the past year.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the operation would target the state’s most serious offenders.

“Operation Forge will target the worst of the worst as we continue to turn the tide of Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis and give our police the laws and resources they need to do their jobs,” Minister Purdie said.

QPS’ latest operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety. Photo source: QPS

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Tec-NQ House in Rosslea, Townsville accommodates up to 40 boys completing Years 10–12 at Tec-NQ. With a deliberately unique approach to high school, students explore vocational pathways aligned with their career goals while completing their Senior School Certificate.

Through work experience programs across north and west Queensland, students get to test out different industries to see what suits them best. Many students go onto secure school-based apprenticeships where they are paid to learn, before transitioning to full time apprenticeships once they graduate.

Caleb’s Tec-NQ House journey took an exciting turn this year through his placement at Dan’s Automotive in Currajong. Quiet by nature, he arrived eager to learn but still building confidence. That quickly changed.

“When Caleb first started, he was quiet… but now his confidence has grown, and he is a valued member of our team,” said Dan, the owner. Dan’s Automotive has long supported Tec-NQ students, including one former school-based apprentice who is now a tradesman.

Caleb began his placement doing the basics: cleaning, sweeping and passing tools. Through commitment and curiosity, he quickly progressed. Today, he’s operating the hoist, changing oil and completing full services under the supervision of the tradespeople. His growth has been impossible to miss.

“Caleb has really shown us what he’s made of—I plan to offer him an apprenticeship very soon,” Dan said.

Head of Boarding Luke Papworth says this is exactly the opportunity Tec-NQ House is designed to support. “Boarding gives young people the structure and independence to step into real work environments with confidence. When students like Caleb take these opportunities seriously, the transformation is remarkable.”

With the steady support of Tec-NQ House and the hands-on guidance of local industry partners, Caleb is building a strong future in automotive. From quiet beginnings to earning the trust of a professional workshop, he’s proving what dedication and the right environment can achieve.

For a unique senior school and boarding solution that delivers a real-world trade start, you can’t look past Tec-NQ.

Contributed with thanks to Tec-NQ

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Nine dedicated members of the Burdekin unit of the State Emergency Service Queensland were recognised on Monday night, as Area Controller John Forde presented Emergency Response Medals at a ceremony held at the Ayr SES depot.

The newly introduced SES medal is awarded in recognition of emergency service deployment of five or more days during declared events since the transition to Queensland Police Service on June 3, 2024.  The medal acknowledges the commitment and endurance demonstrated by SES members during extended operations.

The medals were presented to members who deployed to Brisbane and Ipswich during Tropical Cyclone Alfred in February 2025, where they assisted communities impacted by severe weather and flooding.

Recipients included Local Controller Warren Francis, Deputy Local Controller John Winn, Ayr Group Leader Paul Haller, Ayr Deputy Group Leader John George Jr, Giru Group Leader Matt Tapp, Rita Island Group Leader Ben Barbagallo, Rita Island Deputy Group Leader Deb Calligaro (not pictured), Iane Schwerin and Cheryl Wade. Life Member Donn Thomson, along with Don Baillie, received their five-year citations.

Francis said the awards provided well-deserved recognition for the recipients’ efforts throughout disaster season.

“There's not a lot we can do to reward volunteers—we don’t get paid, we do terrible work, and we do it quite happily,” he said.

“When our members wear these medals, the community will know they’ve done the hard yards.”

Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended the evening, along with representative of Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, David Cooper, in support of the local volunteers.

Mr Last said the Burdekin SES had continued to provide an invaluable service across the wet season.

“While the majority of us are hunkered down in our homes during times of severe weather, these men and women in our local orange army are out in force,” Mr Last said.

“Whether it's in flood boat operations, tarping roofs, providing sandbags or assisting in the clean-up efforts following an event, our SES volunteers deserve our utmost gratitude for the work they do to keep our community safe.”

The ceremony highlighted the vital role SES volunteers play in supporting communities during times of crisis, with each recipient commended for their service, dedication and willingness to step forward when called upon.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is calling for community organisations to lace up their boots and prepare for the 2025-26 Volunteer Grants. With expressions of interest now open, Andrew is looking to support the local legends who keep our region in the winning circle.

These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, provide the home-ground advantage for

community groups to purchase equipment and support the diverse team of volunteers that make Dawson thrive. The program is designed to strengthen our social fabric by backing the people who give their time for the benefit of others.

Mr Willcox said it is time to give our community champions the support they deserve.

"Volunteers are the absolute MVPs of our region: they are the ones who show up early to set the field and stay late to pack it down. However, even the most legendary team needs the right gear to succeed.

“These grants provide a fantastic opportunity for our local groups to upgrade their equipment and ensure their volunteers have the tools they need to perform at their peak.”

Mr Willcox said he is looking for entries from every corner of the community.

“If your group relies on the power of people to make a difference, you are a star player in my book.”

The 2025-26 Volunteer Grants feature two key categories to help local groups score big:

• Category 1: Communication and Safety. This supports essential IT items such as

mobile phones, laptops, and software to help your group connect better; additionally, it

covers critical safety and operational expenses like insurance premiums and internet

fees.

• Category 2: Community Support and Activity. This category is dedicated to items and

activities that directly benefit specific groups: including children’s development, people

with disabilities, and unemployed locals looking to upskill.

"From language classes to sporting events, these grants ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you are running programs for children or providing vital support for our veterans, these grants are here to help you go the distance.”

Expressions of interest for the Dawson electorate will be accepted until 5.00pm, Friday 20 March 2026. To request an EOI application form and a copy of the guidelines, please contact the Office of Andrew Willcox MP via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au or visit www.grants.gov.au for further information.

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP.

Local legends such as Volunteer Marine Rescue Midge Point and the Burdekin

Woodcrafts Association have already demonstrated the value of these grants: proving just how much of a difference this support makes for our regional volunteers. Photos supplied

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After seven years of service, including two and a half as Local Controller, the Burdekin State Emergency Service is farewelling one of its steady hands, with Warren Francis officially stepping down from the role.

Mr Francis and his wife Jenny, also a committed member of the Burdekin SES, are relocating to Warwick after she secured what he described as a “tremendous job opportunity,” with the move meaning both will step away from their local duties.

For Mr Francis, the decision is bittersweet.

“The thing that makes me smile is the support,” he said.

“I've been absolutely blessed to have such wonderful people working in this unit, absolute legends, every last one of them.”

His departure caps off a significant chapter for the Burdekin SES. During his tenure as Local Controller, volunteership doubled to more than 50 members across the Burdekin branches, strengthening the unit’s capacity to respond to the region’s frequent emergencies. On average, the unit now responds to about 160 jobs a year from storm damage and flood response to search and rescue operations.

Before leading the SES locally, Mr Francis brought with him 37 years of experience as a Queensland police officer, much of it spent as a search and rescue specialist in Brisbane and as far north as the Torres Strait. In that time, he worked closely with SES crews and Marine Rescue Queensland volunteers.

“I was probably one of the biggest users of SES and Marine Rescue Queensland in the state in those days… and I just felt I should pay back,” he said.

Beyond his SES leadership, Mr Francis also worked with Burdekin Shire Council as a disaster management officer, further embedding himself in the region’s emergency response framework and strengthening coordination between agencies.

Deputy Group Leader of Rita Island SES, Deb Calligaro, said his impact on the organisation would be lasting.

“Warren Francis has been an amazing leader as the Local Controller for Burdekin SES, and is a great mentor, supporter, and friend,” she said.

“I have been so lucky to have worked with Warren and I have learnt valuable skills and life lessons from our SES training.”

“Warren & Jenny have become lifelong friends of mine and they will both be sadly missed—not just by me, but also the wider Burdekin Community.”

While the Burdekin loses a respected leader, Mr Francis made it clear his commitment to service isn’t ending, but is simply changing postcodes.

After seven years of service, including two and a half as Local Controller, the Burdekin State Emergency Service is farewelling one of its steady hands, with Warren Francis officially stepping down from the role. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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I was under the impression that imposter syndrome was a myth until I sat in Populins Hall on Saturday for Canegrowers’ 100-year birthday celebration.

Dignitaries to my right. Generational cane farmers to my left.

”What am I even doing on the guest list…?" I thought.

Followed quickly by, "Oh, shoot—I’m meant to be taking photos of all this."

When I wasn’t looking through the lens, it was genuinely heartwarming to see so much support for such an important organisation in the region.

Just sitting there, learning its history, hearing the stories, and seeing the role it’s played in shaping the Burdekin was eye-opening, especially for a fella who barely even knew what cane was a year ago.

But it was a momentous night in many ways. Not only did it celebrate an organisation that has served farmers so well for over a century, the evening also shone a light on some of the true trailblazers of the industry, nurtured right here in the Burdekin.

Stay tuned for next week’s multi-page celebratory Canegrowers feature, where we’ll dive deeper into the people, the stories, and the legacy behind the milestone.

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Several pivotal environmental groups will come together to host an Alva Beach Clean Up on Monday, 9 March from 10am to 2:30pm.

Tangaroa Blue, in collaboration with Reef Clean, Reef Trust, and Australian Marine Debris Initiative, are kindly asking residents to spare some time on Monday to join the Reef Clean project and help prevent marine debris from entering the Great Barrier Reef.

“During this monitoring event, you’ll be helping clean our beautiful beaches whilst also gathering important information for the Australian Marine Debris Initiative,” said a Tangaroa Blue spokesperson.

“No prior experience is necessary; our friendly team leaders will teach you everything that you need to know on the day.”

All volunteers are asked to meet at the Alva Surf Life Saving Club and advised to wear enclosed shoes and adequate sun protection gear, bringing along a reusable water bottle. Tangaroa Blue have advised they will provide all equipment and drinking water top-ups throughout the day.

Registration for the event is essential. Email Matthew at matthew@tangaroablue.org.

What: Tangaroa Blue Alva Beach Clean Up

When: Monday, 9 March from 10am to 2:30pm

Where: Alva Surf Life Saving Club

1. Previously organised clean ups by Tangaroa Blue have removed hundreds of kilograms of rubbish from our beaches. Photo source: Tangaroa Blue
2. Volunteers are always amazed with what they find washed up on our beaches! Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

Abandoned and homeless pets across the Burdekin have received a much-needed helping hand following a significant donation to the pet rescue charity servicing the region.

Life Publishing Group met with Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue at Foxtail Boarding Kennels in Ayr last week, where Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith presented a cheque for $8,000 to the charity.

The moment marked a significant milestone for Life Publishing Group, the independently owned umbrella company of Life Newspapers, including our local Burdekin Life Newspaper.

Stephanie Thomas from Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue with Editor in Chief for Life Publishing Group, Rachael Smith at the Foxtail Boarding Kennels last week. Photo credit: Trish Jandt

Charity Boost Helps Rescue Pets Find Forever Families

Ms Smith explained that the money was raised through kind donations from local businesses and individuals who attended the company’s inaugural charity event, held in October last year.

The Enchanted Garden event raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities — Trudy Crowley Foundation, My Hospital Foundation (formerly known as Mackay Hospital Foundation), Orange Sky, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and the Townsville Spinal Unit.

“At Life Publishing Group, we are here to serve the community in every way we can. For almost 15 years, this has been through our free publications, both magazines and newspapers, and we hope they have brought joy to many,” Ms Smith said.

“Raising this money for these worthwhile charities represents a significant moment for us, a moment where we use the platform we have built over the years to give back to those who need it most.

“It has been an incredible few weeks with our team delivering cheques to the different charities, and the gratitude from all the recipients has been wonderful to witness.

“A huge thank you to all the local businesses and individuals who donated on the night, and to everyone in our team who contributed to the success of our first charity event.”

Stephanie Thomas from Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue was in Ayr on the day to receive the cheque and expressed her gratitude to the local businesses and individuals who donated at the charity event.

“Thank you to everyone who donated,” she said.

“Every cent helps us work towards our main goal of getting animals out of the pound and into loving homes, giving them a second chance at life.”

Ms Thomas added that the funds will directly support the charity’s private foster carers, who look after the animals while they wait for permanent homes.

“The money goes towards buying food for the animals, vet care, vaccinations, microchipping and desexing,” she said.

Ms Thomas also provided insight into the adoption process, explaining that it is much simpler than many people realise.

The process includes an initial phone call, a short adoption questionnaire, an adoption contract and payment of an adoption fee, and then you can welcome your new pet home.

Alternatively, community members can become a foster carer, with full details available on the Bowen & Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page.

Imagine the joy of seeing a scared, lonely animal transform into a happy, healthy companion all because you offered a temporary place in your home and heart.

Why Foster?

• Save Lives: The charity does not have a physical shelter and relies entirely on foster carers. Your home can be the safe haven a pet needs to thrive.
• Comprehensive Support: Foster carers receive all necessary supplies, veterinary care and guidance from the team.
• Make a Difference: Experience the joy of helping a pet find its forever home.

Imagine the joy of seeing a scared, lonely animal transform into a happy, healthy companion all because you offered a temporary place in your home and heart.

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Police are seeking urgent public assistance to locate a 14-year-old boy reported missing from Home Hill since Tuesday, 24 February.

The boy was last seen about 8pm at a Fifth Avenue address and has not been seen or heard from since.

Police and family hold concerns for the boy’s welfare due to his young age.

The boy is described as First Nations, approximately 160cm tall, with a slim build, brown eyes and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black singlet, a black hoodie and Raiders-branded shorts.

Investigators believe he may be in the Ayr region or travelling towards Townsville.

Police are appealing directly to the boy, or to anyone who may have information about his whereabouts, to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Policelink on 131 444 and quote reference number QP2600397256.

If the boy is sighted or if anyone is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

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Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony.

The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life.

Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears.

Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain.

The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year.

Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied

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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen.

The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations.

Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia.

The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation.

Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent.

Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”.

eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate.

Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours.

The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act.

eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users.

The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront.

For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike.

The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock

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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek.

The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users.

Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover.

“The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge.

Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure.

A Facility Built by Volunteers

The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery.

Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work.

MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable.

Election Promise and Handover

In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club.

As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million.

In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland.

Design Concerns and Infill Issues

According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows.

Those concerns, they say, were ignored.

“Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said.

“The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.”

Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since.

As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days.

“All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.”

Safety Concerns Escalate

The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges.

Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available.

“Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge.

In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out.

After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route.

A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety.

“The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said.

“The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.”

Calls for Practical Solutions

The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years.

Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised.

“There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge.

“We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.”

Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government.

“The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said.

“I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.”

He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored.

“Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.”

Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy.

“There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said.

“Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access.

“The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.”

Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location.

“The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.”

He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed.

“During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.”

“In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open. Such a project would require a long-term engineering solution rather than relying on temporary measures.”

Mr Willcox said while boating infrastructure was primarily a State responsibility, there was scope for federal involvement once preliminary work was completed.

“While boating infrastructure is primarily a State Government responsibility, there is an opportunity for federal advocacy once the preliminary work is completed.”

“Once the State Government has finalised a design and secured the necessary Council and State approvals, I am prepared to facilitate discussions with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) which falls under federal jurisdiction to expedite the permits and approvals that are required to undertake the work.”

He said he would pursue federal funding once a design and costings were finalised.

“Once a design and a plan have been costed, I will investigate all available federal funding opportunities to support the upgrades. My priority is to ensure that this facility remains a safe and reliable marine access point for everyone in our region.”

Mr Willcox also acknowledged the advocacy efforts of the Molongle Creek Boat Club.

“The Molongle Creek Boat Club is a proactive organisation and I am committed to assisting it in achieving a long-term solution.”

Local State Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, was contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.

MSQ Acknowledge Challenges

A spokesperson for Maritime Safety Queensland confirmed the channel continues to be impacted by natural processes.

“The Molongle Creek access channel continues to experience sand shoaling from natural flood flows,” the spokesperson said.

“Maritime Safety Queensland is developing long-term management options in consultation with stakeholders.”

Community Patience Wearing Thin

Members of the Molongle Creek Boat Club, the broader Cape Upstart community as well as residents within the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires understand the issues surrounding the channel have evolved to no longer be focused on future planning, but about honouring the promises already made.

After more than six decades of volunteer stewardship and a multi-million-dollar asset handover, locals say they are simply asking for what was agreed to; a safe, reliable all-tide access channel.

As one member of MCBC put it, “We carried this facility for decades. Now we’re asking the government to carry out its commitment.”

1. Community members say repeated sediment build-up has left the Molongle Creek channel unusable at low tide. Photo credit: Epic Pics
2. Sediment infill is visible in the Molongle Creek access channel as illustrated in drone footage captured on 3 February. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club
3. Drone footage captured on 3 February illustrates the significantly reduced tidal access. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club
4. “Disappointing to say the least,” says Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge, about the channel’s current condition. Photo credit: Epic Pics
5. Molongle Creek Boat Ramp is located approximately 30-35 kilometres southeast of Ayr. Photo source: Molongle Creek Boat Club

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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025.

The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg.

Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen.

“We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said.

“I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.”

The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began.

Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet.

Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen.

Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen.

“Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.”

Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Brandon’s Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP) are inviting locals and visitors to their Open Day at the Brandon Heritage Precinct on Saturday, 9th May 2026, running from 9 am to 3 pm.

Visitors will have the chance to observe an impressive collection of historic machinery, including a steam traction engine and the rare 1911 Marshall Colonial tractor, the only one of its kind remaining in Australia. The Tait Steam Gallery will operate from 9 am to 1 pm, with engine alternator sets from Kalamia and Inkerman Mills running at 10 am, 11 am, noon, 1 pm, and 2 pm.

The precinct also features the Alf Shand Blacksmith Shop, the Fielding Engine Shed, and the Old Brandon Church, giving visitors a full glimpse into the region’s industrial heritage. Machinery enthusiasts can enjoy a sausage sizzle and drinks, and car and motorcycle clubs are encouraged to bring their vehicles for display.

The Iron Works Brewery, located on-site, will open for lunch from 1 pm, and visitors can view the historic blast furnace and Gardner engine from 3 pm. The event also welcomes visiting machinery clubs from Townsville and Mackay.

BMP President Bruce Munro encourages anyone with an interest in machinery or local history to attend. The club also offers guided tours on Mondays (except December), Wednesdays, and Saturdays (April–September), with entry by gold coin donation.

For enquiries, call 0488 366 443, email burdekinmp@outlook.com, or visit burdekinmp.com.au.

Visitors will have the chance to observe an impressive collection of historic machinery, including the rare 1911 Marshall Colonial tractor, the only one of its kind remaining in Australia. Photo supplied

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Home Hill is set to benefit from statewide improvements to Queensland’s health system, with new data showing ambulance ramping has fallen to its lowest level in five years and planning underway for future hospital upgrades in regional communities.

New quarterly health data shows ambulance ramping across Queensland dropped to 37.3 per cent in the December 2025 quarter — the lowest rate recorded since December 2020. While the figures are statewide, they have important implications for regional towns like Home Hill, where timely access to emergency and hospital care remains a priority.

As part of the Government’s fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, Home Hill has been included in the next stage of the Building Rural and Remote Hospital Program. Business cases have been approved to progress planning for hospital projects in selected rural centres, aimed at strengthening local healthcare capacity.

Premier David Crisafulli said the data showed Queensland’s health system was beginning to turn a corner.

“Queenslanders deserve a world class health system, and that’s why we are building the health infrastructure our growing state needs to help overturn a decade of delayed ambulances and soaring elective surgery waitlists,” he said.

“We are delivering easier access to health services for all Queenslanders, no matter where they live.”

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said regional communities like Home Hill were a key focus moving forward, with continued investment needed to deliver stronger, more reliable local healthcare.

Home Hill Hospital will benefit from the Government’s fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Practical, on-ground weed management is playing a key role in protecting the long-term success of earlier environmental restoration works across several local sites.

Crews from Narburra Water Services and Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation recently carried out targeted weed control across three locations, focusing on reducing pressure on native vegetation and improving ecosystem health.

The works included cutting invasive rubber vine and lantana close to the root system, as well as removing dead plant material that was smothering young trees and restricting canopy growth. Rapidly spreading weeds such as prickly acacia and chinee apple were also controlled to protect surrounding native species.

At Molongle Creek, dense gamba grass was brush-cut to improve visibility and safety for crews working on site. The cut material was then reused as mulch, helping to stabilise soil and address areas affected by land degradation.

Weed control methods were carefully selected to suit site conditions while minimising disturbance. At Tabletop and Molongle Creek, Narburra Water Services used basal barking to manage chinee apple and prickly acacia. This low-disturbance and time-efficient method prevents regrowth and seedling emergence and was applied using a backpack sprayer with an oil-soluble herbicide and oil-based carrier at correct ratios.

Meanwhile, at Majors Creek, Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation employed a cut-stump treatment, applying Vigilant II Herbicide to freshly cut stumps to prevent regrowth.

Beyond improving site conditions, the works also strengthened crew skills in plant identification and practical weed management. Together, these efforts are helping to protect ecosystem health, stabilise erosion-prone areas and ensure earlier restoration investments continue to deliver lasting environmental benefits for the community.

Photos supplied by NQ Dry Tropics NRM.

Burdekin growers and industry representatives are invited to attend a Weed Research Management Update next week, bringing the latest research, trials and regulatory updates to the region.

The half-day session will be held from 8am to 12pm on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at the CANEGROWERS Hall, 68 Tenth Street, Home Hill.

The update will feature Sugar Research Australia weed scientist Emilie Fillols, who will present research findings on significant weeds in the Burdekin. Topics will include pot trial results, effective pre- and post-emergent herbicide applications, current herbicide regulations for vine management, and an update on the paraquat review.

Also presenting will be Department of Primary Industries Extension Officer Jack Robertson, covering drone spraying practices, chemical selection and restrictions, strategies to minimise spray drift from drones and ground rigs, and recent herbicide trial updates.

The event is delivered by Sugar Research Australia in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries, with special thanks to Burdekin CANEGROWERS for providing the venue.

More information is available online at: https://lnkd.in/d_nX4Wtn.

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By CANEGROWERS Australia Chairman, Owen Menkens

There’s a slow shift happening in the global sugar market – and Queensland cane growers are right in the thick of it.

Around the world, major buyers are no longer just looking at price and quality. Increasingly, they want proof. Proof that the sugar they’re buying has been produced responsibly, with strong environmental practices and credible verification behind it. That pressure is coming from consumers, investors and governments alike, and it’s reshaping how commodities are traded.

We’re seeing that demand clearly in markets like Japan and the UK, where sustainably sourced ingredients are fast becoming the baseline rather than the bonus. For Australian sugar, that means sustainability credentials are no longer a “nice to have” – they’re becoming essential for maintaining and growing market access.

This is where Smartcane BMP comes into its own.

Developed by growers for growers and delivered by CANEGROWERS, Smartcane BMP is a practical, on-farm system that helps growers demonstrate best practice across soil health, nutrient management, water use, biodiversity and more. Importantly, it’s independently verified – giving confidence not just within the industry, but right along the supply chain.

What’s really encouraging is how strongly growers have embraced it. Almost half of Queensland’s cane is now grown under Smartcane BMP accreditation. That represents over 800 farming businesses, covering 175,000 hectares of cane land, who have voluntarily stepped up, invested time and effort, and backed their practices with evidence.

Those efforts are starting to pay off. Recent exports of sustainably verified Queensland sugar to Japan show how farm-level BMP accreditation can translate into real-world outcomes. While growers might not see the full value immediately, these shipments send a powerful signal to global markets that Australian sugar can meet the highest sustainability expectations.

This isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about future-proofing an industry that underpins regional Queensland – and keeping Queensland sugar competitive not just today, but for the next generation of growers.

Markets will keep tightening their requirements, and buyers will keep asking tougher questions. Thanks to Smartcane BMP, Queensland cane growers are in a strong position to answer them – confidently, credibly and on their own terms.

Almost half of Queensland’s cane is now grown under Smartcane BMP accreditation. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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Burdekin families are being encouraged to help shape the future of local maternity services, with residents invited to attend community forums hosted by the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.

The Pregnancy Care Community Forums will be held at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 9 March, giving parents and families the chance to share their experiences and ideas for improving maternity care in the region.

The sessions aim to capture what the community values most about local pregnancy and postnatal services, as well as identify areas for improvement.

Ayr maternity co-design principal project officer Lauren Lambert said the forums were vital to ensuring services met the needs of rural families.

“We want to hear directly from the people who use or have used these services,” Ms Lambert said.

“The forum will bring together women, families, and maternity staff to engage in open discussion and co-design activities aimed at shaping the future of maternity care in our community.”

Ms Lambert said feedback gathered during the sessions would directly inform the co-design process for maternity services across the district.

“This is about more than just a conversation; it’s about giving our local parents a seat at the table to help us decide what the next chapter of maternity care looks like in the Burdekin,” she said.

For more information or to RSVP, residents can email lauren.lambert@health.qld.gov.au or phone 0413 726 156.

Lauren Lambert is encouraging Burdekin families to share their experiences and help shape the future of local maternity services. Photo supplied

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After a year guiding Burdekin’s youth through a busy calendar of community projects, Burdekin Shire Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has officially called her final meeting, stepping down from the role with a string of achievements behind her.

The Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year in 2025, who spent a year on the Youth Council before being elected Mayor in February 2025, oversaw several successful events across the year—achievements she says she is particularly proud of.

“My council and I have achieved so much throughout my term as Youth Mayor,” said Cervoni.

She highlighted helping organise the Fast Track Talent Showcase, supporting the Youth Week Sounds Wave Pool Party, and participating in the Stand Up Sleep Out – Youth Against Homelessness event in the community as key milestones.

Cervoni recently relocated to Townsville to study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at James Cook University. She said that while her time with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has ended, she will carry forward valuable lessons.

"I learnt so much as Youth Mayor, made so many connections and made countless memories,” she said.

"As I embark on this new adventure, I will take with me the public speaking skills I have learnt through delivering speeches and chairing meetings," she said.

Her time as Mayor also offered the Millaroo native a deeper perspective on the Burdekin community.

“I was fortunate enough to interact with so many other community organisations and volunteers, which allowed me to see just how much work people are doing in our shire and view how fortunate I am to have grown up in such a kind and giving community,” she said.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort praised Cervoni’s dedication and growth during her term.

“Nicole took on her role as Youth Mayor with such passion and dedication,” Dalle Cort said.

“She is a very passionate young lady and always went above and beyond in her role. She volunteered at almost every event she could, wasn’t shy to have her say and raise ideas, as well as listen to others.”

“She ensured a very inclusive Youth Council during her time as Youth Mayor and although she was working as a trainee, she continued her involvement and dedication to the young people in the Community.”

Cervoni said she hopes her successor will benefit from the role as much as she did.

“Advice I would give to the next youth mayor would be to just enjoy every minute of it and take every opportunity,” she said.

The next Burdekin Shire Youth Council Mayor will be elected at the council’s next meeting on March 16.

After a year guiding Burdekin’s youth through a busy calendar of community projects, Burdekin Shire Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has officially called her final meeting, stepping down from the role with a string of achievements behind her. Photo supplied

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