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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A day out on the tranquil sands of Horseshoe Bay turned into a harrowing emergency for an Ayr family, when their nine-year-old granddaughter Olivia was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish.

Chris Richardson, Olivia’s grandmother, is now sharing the family’s story to raise awareness about the dangers of Irukandji stings.

On Monday 2nd February, the family spent their morning teaching Olivia to fish in the shallows – even though, as Chris jokes, the seagulls got 90% of the bait. At lunchtime, Olivia suddenly stated her skin felt really itchy, all over her body.

Thinking it was just sea lice, Chris sent Olivia for a shower, but when she returned feeling worse, she decided to take her home to see a doctor.

But quickly, the symptoms progressed, with Olivia complaining of pain, her skin now hurting all over.

Chris admits she initially wondered if Olivia was exaggerating, joking that her granddaughter has a flair for dramatics and will request a bandage for the lightest scratch.

But then, Chris asked Olivia to pinpoint the pain, and Olivia said, “it feels like it's in my chest and it's going around my back.”

Straight away, alarm bells sounded.

A former nurse, Chris recognised the symptom as an indication of heart distress, which presents this way in women — very different from the crushing chest pressure more commonly described by men.

Instead of driving home to Ayr, Chris and Olivia’s Grandfather, Bob, made a decision that likely saved Olivia’s life, choosing to head straight to Bowen Hospital’s emergency department.

According to the treating doctor, had they attempted the longer drive home, Olivia may have gone into cardiac arrest in the car.

On arrival at the emergency department, Olivia had begun going into cardiac fibrillation. Staff moved quickly, administering antivenom and magnesium — a treatment used to reduce pain and protect the heart from dangerous rhythm disturbances associated with Irukandji syndrome.

Seeing Olivia in such pain was incredibly difficult for Chris and Bob, with Bob also treated for shock.

Chris credits the staff at Bowen Hospital for their exceptional service, keeping calm, and treating her granddaughter with an astounding level of care — from the receptionist at the front desk to the emergency nurses and the attending doctor.

Praising Doctor Luke, she said, “He’s got three daughters himself, which helped him relate to Olivia. He spoke to her very gently and held her arm while she was crying, explaining everything they were going to do and why.”

Later, Chris joked to her husband, “If I ever get sick, you bring me down to Bowen Hospital.”

Olivia was kept in hospital for two days on an intravenous drip before being discharged. While the physical side effects — tingling skin and fatigue — eased within days, the emotional impact has lingered, with Olivia going through occasional bouts of tears as she processes what she experienced.

“She kept crying out, “I’m not going to die. Nanny, don’t let them make me die”,” Chris explained.

Thankfully, Olivia has now made a full recovery. The family hope the experience won’t keep her from enjoying the ocean — now equipped with a new understanding of Irukandji risks and safety precautions.

If you suspect an Irukandji sting, call 000 immediately. When in doubt, treat it as Irukandji and seek urgent medical attention.

1. 9 Year Old Olivia overcame a nasty Irukandji sting. Photo supplied
2. The brave girl spent 2 days in Bowen Hospital, receiving exceptional care. Photo supplied.

A Watch and Act warning for Burdekin Falls Dam remains active after Sunwater confirmed the catchment had begun spilling significant quantities of excess water into the Burdekin River since Sunday, 22 February.

Over the past month, Burdekin Falls Dam capacity levels have continued to rise, and with plenty more heavy rainfall forecast to hit the region in the coming weeks, Sunwater are urging the community to stay informed and alert to the possibility of localised flooding.

Officially known as the largest water storage asset across the state, capacity levels of the Burdekin Falls Dam has been increasing rapidly since Sunday, 15 February, with data indicating the catchment jumped from 107.29 per cent capacity to 145.55 per cent capacity in just seven days.

Sunwater recorded the highest spike in the Burdekin Falls Dam capacity level just a few hours before confirming the catchment had begun spilling excess water, highlighting the catchment increased by 12.19 per cent overnight from Saturday, 21 February to Sunday, 22 February.

As of the morning of Tuesday, 24 February, Burdekin Falls Dam was sitting at 158.73 per cent capacity and still spilling concerning levels of water into the Burdekin River as widespread rainfall continued to impact catchments across the region. Sunwater confirmed current overflows at Burdekin Falls Dam are approximately 655,000 megalitres a day, and it’s expected the dam will continue to spill for a number of weeks.

Several surrounding dams have also begun spilling, including Eungella Dam and Julius Dam, while Kinchant Dam commenced planned releases of excess water last week.

“Sunwater’s thoughts are with any communities in Queensland who may be experiencing flooding due to extreme weather,” said a Sunwater spokesperson.

“Due to recent rainfall across North and Central Queensland, several Sunwater dams are spilling or close to capacity. Sunwater is closely monitoring conditions across dam catchments and liaising with Local Disaster Management Groups as necessary.

“We will continue to provide updates regarding individual dams as per Emergency Action Plan requirements. We would urge the community to remain vigilant near rising water courses and listen to advice from councils and emergency services - and if it’s flooded, forget it.”

In accordance with information released via the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard, the Burdekin River at the Burdekin Bridge had reached 7.25 meters, exceeding the minor flood level of 7 meters, and was rising rapidly as of 8am on Tuesday, 24 February.

As of Monday, 23 February, several roads and access points have been impacted, with the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) warning residents of Rita Island to prepare for possible isolation, and to prepare essential supplies like food, drinking water, medications and pet food, to last over five days.

In response to the current river levels, dam releases and forecast conditions, Burdekin LDMG moved to lean forward earlier this week, assuring the community that agencies are continuing to closely monitor conditions.

“We are urging residents to remain alert, monitor conditions closely, and be prepared should conditions change,” advised Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort.

“The Burdekin LDMG is monitoring this closely and will continue to provide updates to the community. Please avoid floodwater, obey road closures, and rely on official sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology and Council’s Disaster Dashboard for the latest updates.”

Multiple unplanned power outages were also confirmed over the past few days, including the loss of supply to three customers in Giru, and the loss of supply to almost 100 customers in Home Hill due to severe damage and fallen power lines. Residents are advised to refer to Ergon Energy’s Outage Finder website via www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder for updates.

Authorities warned the increased flows of the Burdekin River and forecast surges may contribute to flooding over the coming weeks and predicted the river would exceed the minor flood level this week. Sunwater urges the community to monitor the levels of the Burdekin Falls Dam via bit.ly/BurdekinFallsStorageLevels, tune into ABC North Queensland 630 AM, and check local updates, road closures and evacuation information via the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard via disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

1. Excess water began spilling into the Burdekin River from the Burdekin Falls Dam over the weekend. Photo credit: Rellie May Photography
2. The view of the Burdekin River flowing beneath the Burdekin Bridge as seen from Macrossan Bridge. Photo credit: Di Zee Photography
3. The Burdekin River reached a height of 7.25 meters at the Burdekin Bridge on Tuesday morning. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The industrial engine room of North Queensland has secured a direct line to the heart of the Opposition’s economic strategy following the re-appointment of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, to the Shadow Ministry.

As part of the new-look Coalition frontbench announced yesterday by Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, Mr Willcox returns to his role as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. He will work in close partnership with the Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Hastie, to drive a national agenda focused on domestic production and economic resilience.

The reshuffle follows a historic period of renewal for the Coalition: marked by a newly codified agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room and ensures regional voices are protected in the decision-making process.

Mr Willcox said he is eager to build on his existing work in the portfolio alongside Mr Hastie.

“I am honoured to continue my work in this space as part of the refreshed team led by Angus Taylor,” Mr Willcox said.

“Andrew Hastie and I are a determined duo: he understands the global strategic threats to our nation, and I understand the industrial muscle required here at home to meet them. Together, we are focused on a common goal: ensuring Australia is a nation that makes things again.”

Mr Willcox added that Paget, in the electorate of Dawson, is critical to both manufacturing and sovereign capability in our nation.

“It is where the engineering and maintenance expertise for the Bowen Basin is born; however, our local manufacturers are being pushed to the brink by the 13th interest rate rise under Labor and energy costs that are simply unsustainable.

“My return to this role is about standing up for those workshops and ensuring they have the competitive environment they need to thrive.”

Mr Willcox said he is excited by the new energy within the Coalition.

“The bond between the Liberal and National parties has never been more robust.

“We have moved past a period of internal challenge to emerge with a formal, written agreement that puts regional Australians in the driver’s seat.

“We have a more cohesive structure in place that ensures our policies are formed with common sense and a clear understanding of the challenges facing the people of regional Australia.”

Mr Willcox added that under the leadership of Angus Taylor, the Coalition is unified and ready to lead.

“We are tackling the cost-of-living crisis head-on and developing the practical, evidence-based policies required to move Australia forward.

“We aren’t just an opposition; we are a government-in-waiting that is ready to manufacture a stronger, more secure future for all Australians.”

Mr Willcox confirmed that a key priority for the coming months will be his planned  manufacturing roundtable in Mackay: providing a direct platform for local industry leaders to brief the Shadow Ministry on the challenges of foreign dumping and escalating production costs.

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

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is proud to be re-appointed as Shadow

Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. Following the announcement of the new-look Coalition shadow ministry by Angus Taylor, Andrew is back in the portfolio and focused on backing the industries that build our nation. Photo supplied

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One of Queensland’s most destructive pest animals are being targeted under a new management action plan and more boots on the ground with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming news that Burdekin farmers and landholders will also benefit.

Mr Last said the release of the draft Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026 –2031 was a chance for landholders, stakeholders and industry to have their say on the state’s coordinated approach to tackling feral pigs.

“In the space of one year it was estimated feral pigs caused $95 million of production losses and direct control costs and among those losses is the destruction of sugarcane yields and damage to on-farm irrigation infrastructure,” Mr Last said.

“The damage these animals and risk to human health can cause cannot be understated which is why it is crucial we have a feral pig management plan that recognises the individual needs of each region, including the Burdekin.”

“Feral pigs do not just damage crops, they have been known to degrade waterways, carry infectious diseases and kill lambs and native fauna.”

Mr Last said the draft plan had been developed through regional workshops, consultation and stakeholder input but now was the chance for local landholders and industry groups to also have their say.

“Having a management plan is about delivering real solutions with the funding needed to take meaningful action on the population of feral pigs across Queensland and in the Burdekin,” Mr Last said.

“Already the Crisafulli Government is delivering an additional 100 biosecurity officers added to the front line and investing in innovative techniques and control tools within six priority regions.”

“The better the engagement now, the better the outcome for everyone so it’s important every stakeholder takes the time to have their say. By working with landholders, regional groups and industry we ensure this plan actually works effectively on the ground.”

Contributed with thanks to the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last

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Rain, rain, go away…

In my first eight months up here, we had barely enough to fill a mug.

Now I guess the heavens are levelling the scores.

It makes for perfect pink noise at night. By day, though, the region turns into an outdoor sauna.

But as the Burdekin Dam continues to overflow and river levels rise, flood events like the one currently upon us can carry implications far more serious than mere muggy conditions.

Rural roads become unreliable, and local businesses feel the strain. Emergency services and volunteers are stretched thin, responding to call-outs and monitoring conditions all while managing the impacts on their own homes and families.

So if you haven’t already heard it from every authority in North Queensland, try your best to remain safe and vigilant during these times.

One thing I’ve learnt about this community is that when things get tough, so does our bond. So let's continue to stick together as we, in the most literal sense, weather this storm.

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Recently, several residents of the Burdekin Shire have rallied together in support of a GoFundMe campaign for a woman many describe as the definition of community spirit.

The fundraiser has been launched to help Betina, a 60-year-old local on a Disability Support Pension, raise funds for urgent roof repairs to her home after storm damage in December 2024. Despite holding insurance, Betina has been left without cover, and the cost of repairs — quoted at $40,000 — is well beyond her means.

For years, Betina has quietly supported others without asking for anything in return.

During the January–February 2025 floods, when truck drivers were stranded in Ayr, she helped feed them and provided support wherever she could. She has also made Christmas hampers for those experiencing homelessness or loneliness, opened her home to people in need, cared for animals during flood events, and regularly helps neighbours with transport, food and practical support.

Living with chronic pain caused by compressed discs in her neck and back, Betina now finds herself needing the same kindness she has always shown others. A government resilience grant may cover part of the repairs, but a $15,000 funding gap remains.

Locals are now hoping the community can return the favour. Every donation or shared post brings Betina one step closer to a safe, secure home once again. To make a donation or learn more, visit; https://gofund.me/ee9f8128e.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

February feels as though it has come and gone in a blur — done and dusted. Already, Council has commenced discussions on the 2026/2027 Budget. Every request and every need raised is important, however we must balance those needs with what is achievable and ensure we prioritise responsibly for the benefit of the whole community.

The weather certainly continues to keep us on our toes. While many people are understandably weary of the continued rainfall, our farming community is seeing the benefits. I was jokingly told the other day that Ergon might be heading for liquidation — our farmers would certainly be pleased with their power bills at the moment. It has been quite remarkable to see so much water lying around the district this year.

That said, we are not out of the woods yet, with more rain forecast. I encourage everyone, particularly those in our outer areas, to remain prepared, monitor conditions closely and ensure you have essential supplies on hand in case access is impacted. Please continue to keep up to date through Council’s Disaster Management channels.

This month also marks an important milestone with the Centenary celebrations of Canegrowers Burdekin Ltd. Our community has been built on sugarcane, and it remains at the heart of who we are — the Burdekin truly is the sugar capital of Australia. My grandparents were cane farmers, as was my father, and even today I still feel a sense of excitement watching the cane fires.

When we reflect on how far the industry has come — from the days of manual planting and hand-cutting to the advanced machinery we see now — it is a testament to the strength and innovation of our farming community. I still remember spending school holidays with my family, stripping cane to help with planting — something families don’t do anymore, but memories that speak to the strong connection between our people and the land.

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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Councillor Michael Detenon

As your local Councillor, I spend a lot of time talking about roads, rates, and rubbish. But this week, I want to swap the tie for some sun-safe gear and talk about something close to my heart—and the hearts of many fishers in our district.

This Sunday, the Burdekin Fish Restocking Group will be out at the Burdekin Falls Dam for our latest release of barramundi fingerlings.

To some, it might just look like releasing a few thousand tiny fish into a massive body of water. But for the Burdekin, it represents so much more.

I am incredibly proud to serve as the President of the Fish Restocking Group. It is a volunteer-run effort that relies on the passion of locals who want to see our natural assets thrive. It’s a reminder of the "can-do" spirit that defines our Shire—if we want a world-class fishery, we don't wait for someone else to do it; we roll up our sleeves and get the job done ourselves.

There’s also a practical side to this. Healthy populations of native Barra help keep our waterways balanced. They are a natural way to manage pest species and ensure that the Burdekin Dam and River remains a healthy, vibrant environment for generations to come.

If you’re interested, head out to the Dam this Sunday morning (the fish are expected to arrive sometime between 10 and 11am), come throw a few baby barra in the water and grab a snag on bread afterwards. It’s a great day out for the family and a chance to see firsthand how we are working to keep the Burdekin the best place in the North to live, work, and—most importantly—fish.

See you at the Dam!

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Burdekin State Emergency Service volunteers were called into action earlier this month to help Ergon Energy reach a flooded work site at Mt Surround after road access was cut.

Burdekin SES was contacted after floodwaters blocked access to one of Ergon’s transmission towers.

“With all the rain we had earlier, the dam had overflowed and the road they normally use was flooded,” Burdekin SES Local Controller Warren Francis said.

“The only way they could access the tower was by boat.”

Mr Francis visited the site on Friday, February 6, to assess conditions and determine whether assistance was possible. After deeming the area safe, SES flood boat crews were deployed on Tuesday, February 10, and Thursday, February 12, to transport Ergon personnel and their equipment to the tower site.

The team ferried workers to the site, where essential maintenance was carried out over two days with the support of a helicopter.

“It’s critical infrastructure,” Mr Francis said.

“It supplies the mill at Giru and all residents, and goes back up as far as Townsville.

“The community needs to be really grateful for the work Ergon puts in. We’re very grateful that they’re in our community to be able to maintain our lifestyle with electricity.”

Despite challenging conditions, including extreme heat and humidity, the operation was completed successfully.

Mr Francis praised the dedication of his volunteer crew.

“It was extremely hot, extremely humid. It was just reassuring to see the quality of what the SES guys put in. It makes you proud to be part of this community,” he said.

Ergon Energy expressed its sincere gratitude to the SES for their timely support, which enabled the project to be completed efficiently and without unnecessary delay.

Burdekin State Emergency Service volunteers were called into action earlier this month to help Ergon Energy reach a flooded work site at Mt Surround after road access was cut. Photo supplied

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More than 6,200 homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to full fibre via nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

Upgrading to full fibre can enable access to a faster, more reliable nbn broadband service, delivering a range of benefits, including smoother, higher-resolution video calls, enhanced streaming, faster downloads, and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously.

“Households are consuming more data than ever for the things they love, like streaming 4K on multiple devices, online education, next-level gaming, conference calls, and uploading and downloading large files for work,” said Head of nbn Local Qld, Kylie Lindsay.

“Australians deserve access to fast, effective broadband, regardless of whether they live in a major city or a country town.”

With the recent introduction of speed boosts for higher-tier plans and multi-gigabit speed plans available, there’s never been a better time to consider upgrading to nbn fibre.

In Australia, data demand and usage have doubled in the last five years, with the average household consuming 443 gigabytes per month across 22 internet-connected devices, which is a significant increase from 40 gigabytes of monthly data use across approximately seven internet-connected devices, on average, 10 years ago.

To find out more about the benefits of nbn full fibre and to check your eligibility for other nbn services and preferred retail service providers, visit www.nbn.com.au/CheckRegional.

More than 6,200 homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to full fibre via nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP). Photo supplied

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Students at Burdekin Christian College swapped uniforms for pyjamas last week as the school held its annual Pancake and Pyjama Day. From onesies to slippers, the relaxed dress code set the tone for a morning of community and breakfast fun.

Pancakes were served to students of all ages, providing a chance for them to enjoy a meal together in a casual setting. Teachers and the Student Representative Council assisted throughout the morning, helping the event run smoothly.

“Days like this remind us that school is not just about learning—it’s about connection, community and creating memories that make everyone excited to be here,” said a BCC spokesperson.

“An enormous thank you goes out to our incredible SRC members and awesome teachers that helped out all morning.”

The event proved a hit, with students enjoying the chance to relax, share a laugh, and start the day on a sweet note.

A strong turnout of Burdekin business owners marked the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce’s first networking meeting of 2026 last Wednesday night.

The meeting, hosted by the Home Hill Community Sports Club, saw business people from both Home Hill and Ayr congregate for what was an evening of storytelling, local updates, and conversation.

Most notably, the event saw guest speakers Matthew Oar of Leadsafe Plus and Casie Scott of NBN address the crowd. Oar gave a personal insight into the importance of safety in business and everyday life, while Scott announced that homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to faster, more reliable NBN broadband service.

Home Hill Chamber President Uli Liessmann said he was pleased with the turnout for the meeting, hoping it sets the tone for future meetings.

“It always makes it more interesting the more people that are there,” said Liessmann.

“It all revolves around people. If we don’t have enough people, it’s gonna fall flat on its a**.”

Liessmann said guest speakers would become a regular fixture of future meetings, creating a more engaging and insightful experience for members.

“When you’re in business, you always think it’s just you going through certain things. I think we all like to hear what someone else is doing,” he said.

The Chamber looks forward to a year of connection, collaboration, and community growth.

1—Matthew Oar gave a personal insight into the importance of safety in business and everyday life

2—Casie Scott announced that homes and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill & Brandon are now eligible to upgrade to faster, more reliable NBN broadband service.

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group has appointed a new Leader, with Shantelle officially making her Scout Promise last Thursday.

Based in Ayr, Shantelle balances her role as a business owner, a mother of five, and a member of the local school P&C. She is now training as a Scout Leader and participating in the group’s adventurous activities.

The Lower Burdekin Scouts welcome volunteers aged 18 to 88, with roles ranging from Youth Leaders to Adult Helpers. Leaders typically commit around three hours a week, plus occasional weekend activities, while Adult Support and Helpers contribute less time.

Volunteering at Scouts provides opportunities to mentor young people, develop skills, and build strong community connections. Adults involved help guide Youth Members in setting goals, learning new skills, and fostering teamwork.

Adults can support the local Scout group in many ways, from maintenance, fundraising and equipment management to roles such as treasurer, secretary and Coffee & Chat coordinator. Volunteers can also help with transport, camping, badgework and activities, or take on a larger role by becoming a Leader and mentoring local youth.

The group meets Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at 57–59 Twelfth Avenue, Home Hill, behind the swimming pool. For more information about volunteering, contact Rikki on 0419 104 035.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group has appointed a new Leader, with Shantelle officially making her Scout Promise last Thursday.

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Ayr Police are investigating a spate of counterfeit currency offences across the Burdekin, with several suspects wanted as part of an ongoing operation targeting fake banknotes in the region.

Police have recorded at least six completed offences since October 2025, involving counterfeit $50 and $100 notes being passed at businesses in Ayr and Home Hill. Several suspects have been identified and are currently wanted, while one person has already been charged.

Police are also progressing an attempted incident from January, with a suspect expected to be charged.

The incidents have left the local business community on high alert, highlighting the ongoing risk of counterfeit notes in circulation.

Ayr Police Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields said police are working closely with local retailers and community groups to keep Burdekin businesses safe.

“Officers have been speaking with local business staff to educate them on how to identify counterfeit notes, what action to take and how to report matters to police,” said Sergeant Shields.

Police have also delivered presentations to Burdekin Shire Council and the local Chamber of Commerce in recent weeks, says Sergeant Shields.

Police are urging businesses and residents to check notes carefully. Counterfeit notes can look genuine at a quick glance, but closer inspection may reveal issues such as poor print quality, illegible text, unusual markings like “props,” or a smoother feel that doesn’t spring back when scrunched, with a full detection guide available on the Reserve Bank of Australia’s website.

Anyone who suspects they have received counterfeit currency should handle the note as little as possible, record any relevant transaction details, and report the matter immediately via Policelink (131 444) or anonymously through Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000).

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A Watch and Act warning remains in place after SunWater confirmed Burdekin Falls Dam began spilling significant volumes of water into the Burdekin River on Sunday, 22 February, as catchment levels surged following widespread rainfall across the region.

As of Monday morning, 23 February, the dam was sitting at 148.42 per cent capacity and continuing to spill, with authorities warning increased river flows may contribute to localised flooding in the days ahead.

According to the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard, the Burdekin River at the Burdekin Bridge reached 6.05 metres and was rising slowly. Forecasts indicated the river may reach around 7.50 metres on Monday, exceeding the minor flood level of 7 metres, with further rises possible depending on rainfall.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Council is urging residents to remain vigilant as flood warnings continue across the region.

“While river levels in some locations have eased slightly, a Minor Flood Warning remains current for the Burdekin LGA, and further rainfall is forecast over the coming days,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“Please avoid floodwater, obey road closures, and rely on official sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology and Council’s Disaster Dashboard for the latest updates.”

The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has advised residents of Rita Island to prepare for possible isolation, urging households to ensure they have essential supplies — including food, drinking water, medications and pet food — to last more than five days.

Over the past week, Burdekin Falls Dam has experienced a rapid and dramatic rise. Since Sunday, 15 February, storage levels jumped from 107.29 per cent to 145.55 per cent in just seven days. SunWater recorded the largest single increase overnight, with capacity climbing 12.19 per cent between Saturday, 21 February and Sunday, 22 February, just hours before the dam began spilling.

Several surrounding dams have also been affected, with Eungella Dam and Julius Dam spilling, while Kinchant Dam commenced planned releases last week before returning to normal operations on Sunday.

Floodwaters have already impacted multiple roads across the Burdekin region. As confirmed on Monday morning, affected roads include:

• Ayr Ravenswood Road / Deighton Street / McMullen Road (TMR closure)

• Woodstock Giru Road (TMR closure)

• Five Ways Road, Airville

• Kilrie Road and Rita Island Road, Jarvisfield

• Clevale Road and Kelly Road, Brandon

• Kirknie Road to Home Hill–Kirknie Road, Osborne

• Ayr Dalbeg Road, Airville

• Chippendale Street and Adelaide Street, Ayr

• Coppo Road and Groper Creek Road to Mount Alma Road, Inkerman

• Sexton Road, Barratta

• Waterview Road, Airville and Mount Kelly

• Jerona Road, Jerona

• Allen Road, Barratta

• Davidson Road, Clare

• Barratta Road, Upper Haughton

Unplanned power outages were also reported on Monday morning, with supply lost to three customers in Giru and nearly 100 customers in Home Hill due to damaged and fallen power lines. Residents are advised to monitor updates via Ergon Energy’s Outage Finder; www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder.

Authorities are urging the community to remain alert, monitor conditions closely and stay informed through official channels. Updates are available via SunWater’s dam level tracker; bit.ly/BurdekinFallsStorageLevels, ABC North Queensland 630 AM, and the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard; disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that North Queensland families are being pushed to a financial breaking point following today’s decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates to 3.85 per cent.

The 25-basis-point hike is the first in over two years and signals a deepening cost-of-living crisis that is being directly fuelled by the Albanese Government’s inability to control its own spending.

Mr Willcox said the rate rise is a devastating blow for mortgage holders who have already seen an extra $21,000 stripped from their pockets since Labor took office. He noted that while the Prime Minister promised Australians that "life would be cheaper" under a Labor government, the reality in Dawson is an unsettling erosion of the family budget.

For many families, the "Australian Dream" is being replaced by an economic nightmare, a daily struggle to balance the books as inflation continues to act as a silent thief. The pressure is particularly acute for those who have young families, navigating the Christmas credit card and "back-to-school" expenses.

Recent data shows that education costs have surged by 5.4 per cent, while childcare fees have exploded by an incredible 11.2 per cent.

“It is a disgrace that in a country as prosperous as ours, a childcare place can now cost as much as a year at an elite private boarding school,” Mr Willcox said.

“These are barriers preventing parents from returning to work, making this cost-of-living nightmare even harder on families.”

Mr Willcox argued that these rising costs, combined with higher mortgage repayments and a saturated rental market, are making it nearly impossible for working parents to get ahead.

“This economic pain is not an accident, but a direct result of Labor’s record-breaking spending,” Mr Willcox said.

New budget data has revealed an unbelievable $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months; a rate of more than $200 million per day.

“While families are being forced to make hard decisions and cut back on essentials, this Labor Government continues to pour fuel on the inflationary fire with taxpayer money,” he added.

The Member for Dawson has supported Senator Matt Canavan in calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Senator Canavan initiated the call in the Senate today, following revelations of a staggering $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months, a rate of more than $200 million per day.

“I am standing with Senator Canavan in saying enough is enough. “Jim Chalmers has overseen the biggest spending blowout in Australian history, and it is hard-working families who are settling the bill,” Mr Willcox said.

Senator Canavan noted that if a CEO in the private sector presided over a $100 billion blowout, they would be sacked on the spot.

“We should expect the same standard of accountability for the person holding the nation’s chequebook,” Mr Willcox said.

“This crazy level of spending is exactly why interest rates went up today. You cannot pour $200 million of taxpayer money onto the fire every single day and not expect inflation to burn.”

Mr Willcox warned that the rate hike would not only hurt mortgage holders but would also place even more pressure on an already suffocating rental market.

“It’s never easy under Albanese.

“Every time the Treasurer spends, the families in Mackay, the growers in Bowen, the tourism operators in the Whitsundays, the soldiers in Townsville and the workers in the Burdekin pay the price.

“My team and I will continue to fight to hold this Government to account for every dollar they waste and every promise they break.”

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Meet Pupperoni

Pupperoni is a beautiful boy with a kind heart and lots of love to share. He loves his toys and wants to share all of the fun with you. He loves to be your little shadow and is 100% invested in everything you do. Pup is very intelligent, already knowing how to sit, shake, drop, roll over, spin and wait. He is great with other dogs and would love a home where he could share it with someone who matches his energetic nature, but would also adjust well to being an only dog (he loves being the centre of attention). Pup is toilet trained, learning to walk nicely on a lead and is not destructive—just make sure he has a toy nearby. He is super affectionate and loyal, come and meet him and it will be love at first sight!

Pupperoni is a male Cane Corso mix, born 14/08/2025, who is kid-friendly, good with other dogs, untested with cats, toilet trained, and learning to walk nicely on a lead; he would thrive in a home with a 6ft fence, and comes desexed, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations, treated for fleas, ticks and worms, and protected with ProHeart—all included in his $495 adoption fee.

If you’re interested in meeting Pupperoni, complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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Hello from Mexico! Much to my family’s concern, and after a very quick visit back to the BDK, I’ve set off overseas again — this time to Latin America!

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been jumping around the country and have now made my way down to Puerto Escondido to continue chasing the sun and surf along the southwest coastline. I’m absolutely loving my travels so far, Mexico’s UNREAL, and I’m eyeing off crossing over into Guatemala within the next few weeks.

Oh, and although proof-of-life photos have been sent and phone calls have been dialled, a quick “she’s fine” for my mum and grandma when you see them would be greatly appreciated!

Recently, I’ve been chatting with several members from the Molongle Creek Boat Club to put together a story covering tidal access issues in the Molongle Creek channel. Although the situation has such a deep and complex history, I’m very pleased with how my piece has come together so far, so keep your eyes peeled for that one in publishments to come!

If you have any information to share regarding the issue, or any story you believe should be told, please feel free to shoot an email over to me at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com!

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With state-of-the-art equipment, outstanding service and a hands-on approach to every project, LiquaForce continue to prove they are shaping the future of fertilising across North Queensland. Servicing the region from Mackay to Mossman, the locally based, family-owned business has built a reputation grounded in reliability, innovation and genuine care for the communities it supports.

For years, LiquaForce has worked alongside local growers, understanding that success in agriculture is not just about products, but about people. Their commitment extends beyond paddocks and production figures, with a strong focus on supporting farming families, regional employment and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural industry. This close connection to the community has helped establish deep trust and lasting partnerships throughout the sugarcane and horticulture sectors.

LiquaForce has consistently delivered results by providing tailored liquid fertilising solutions designed to meet the specific needs of North Queensland soils and conditions. Their proven ability to service the agricultural and liquid fertilising requirements of the region has positioned them as a dependable partner during both challenging and prosperous seasons.

Following the acquisition by listed company RLF AgTech Limited in 2024, LiquaForce now offers an expanded range of advanced products and the capacity to support a broader variety of crop types. This growth strengthens their ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the local knowledge and community focus that define the business.

LiquaForce fertilisers deliver measurable benefits, including increased yields, improved sugar production, reduced labour demands and optimised nutrient efficiency. By minimising leaching and downtime, they help growers maximise outputs while protecting their land for future generations, reinforcing LiquaForce’s ongoing commitment to both productivity and community resilience.

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Our newspaper is thrilled to announce two special giveaway competitions, thanks to a generous anonymous donor!

Competition 1: The donor has gifted four tickets to each home game of the Cowboys this season. Tickets will go to different winners for each home round, giving more people the chance to experience the excitement live.

Competition 2: In addition, the donor will be providing a $100 grocery voucher each month for the next 10 months, intended to assist those who could use a little extra help.

To nominate someone for either prize, send an 80-word blurb explaining why your nominee deserves or needs it to jacob@lifepublishinggroup.com. Both competitions aim to reach those who need them most, whether it’s someone who’s never been able to attend a game or a family needing extra help with essentials.

Winners will be contacted directly with further details. Don’t miss the chance to bring a little joy and support to someone who truly deserves it. Start nominating today!

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At Burdekin Catholic High School, excellence in learning and teaching is not an aspiration, it is a deliberate and sustained commitment. Each year, our community witnesses the outcomes of that commitment in the achievements of our students, the professionalism of our staff, and the strength of the pathways our graduates pursue.

Our recent academic awards celebrations once again highlighted the depth of talent and dedication within our school. Student success at BCHS extends beyond individual awards; it is reflected in consistently strong senior results, diverse post-school destinations, and the growth demonstrated by students at every stage of their learning journey. Graduates continue to secure university placements, apprenticeships, traineeships, and direct employment, clear evidence that our educational model prepares young people not just for examinations, but for life beyond the school gate.

Central to this success is a relentless focus on high-quality teaching practice. Our staff engage in ongoing professional learning, data-informed instruction, and evidence-based pedagogies that ensure every lesson is purposeful and responsive. Differentiation, explicit instruction, formative assessment, and targeted feedback are embedded across subject areas. This strategic approach ensures that high-achieving students are extended, developing learners are supported, and every student is challenged appropriately.

Principal Lorraine Wolffe emphasised that excellence is intentional and community-driven.

“At Burdekin Catholic High School, excellence in learning is never left to chance. It is built through expert teaching, high expectations, and genuine care for every young person entrusted to us. Our staff are deeply committed to evidence-informed practice and continuous improvement, ensuring that each student is both supported and challenged to achieve their personal best. When our students succeed, whether through academic results, apprenticeships, university offers, or personal growth, it reflects the strength of our partnership with families and the dedication of our educators.”

Equally important is the culture that underpins our classrooms. At BCHS, learning is grounded in high expectations, mutual respect, and strong relationships. Students are known, valued, and encouraged to take ownership of their growth. Academic rigour is balanced with pastoral care, ensuring that wellbeing and performance develop hand in hand.

Our Catholic identity further shapes the distinctive character of teaching and learning at BCHS. Faith, service, and our Marist values are integrated into the educational experience, forming graduates who are not only capable students but compassionate contributors to the wider community.

Excellence is never accidental. It is the product of strategic leadership, dedicated educators, supportive families, and students willing to strive. As we look ahead, Burdekin Catholic High School remains firmly committed to continuous improvement, innovation in pedagogy, and the pursuit of outstanding outcomes for every learner.

In partnership with our local community, we will continue to ensure that BCHS is a place where educational excellence is lived daily — and where young people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to flourish in an ever-changing world.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Catholic High School.

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Burdekin Shire Council hosted a Stakeholder Engagement Meeting at the Ayr Aerodrome on Wednesday, 11 February, providing an opportunity to engage directly with aerodrome lessees, users and other interested stakeholders.

The meeting enabled Council to share updates on current activities at the aerodrome, gain a clearer understanding of how the facility is being used, and discuss potential opportunities for the future.

The session was intended as an open and constructive forum for information sharing, rather than a decision‑making process.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Council values the opportunity to meet directly with those who use the aerodrome and to hear firsthand about their experiences.

“The Ayr Aerodrome is an important community asset with a lot of untapped potential, and it’s important that Council takes the time to understand how it’s being used now and where there may be opportunities into the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

Council recognises the importance of managing its assets in a practical and business‑minded way, balancing operational needs with long‑term sustainability and community benefit.

The stakeholder meeting was not about making decisions or commitments, but about sharing information, hearing a range of perspectives, and building a clearer picture of the aerodrome’s current role and future potential within the region.

Feedback received during the meeting will help inform Council’s ongoing considerations regarding the Ayr Aerodrome and how it is viewed and used now and into the future.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Shire Council

The meeting enabled Council to share updates on current activities at the aerodrome, gain a clearer understanding of how the facility is being used, and discuss potential opportunities for the future. Photo supplied

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The Zonta Club of Burdekin Inc is set to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with its much-anticipated annual Afternoon Tea, bringing together community members for an inspiring afternoon dedicated to women, leadership and connection.

To be held on Sunday, 8 March at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, the event will feature two outstanding guest speakers whose work and lived experience reflect this year’s message of empowerment, resilience and service; journalist and advocate Kathleen Noonan and educator and agricultural leader Louise Nicholas.

This year’s theme, Cruise with Zonta, promises a relaxed and uplifting afternoon celebrating women, friendship and community spirit. Guests are invited to arrive from 1.30pm for a 2pm start, where they will enjoy a delightful afternoon tea, inspiring presentations and a range of engaging activities, all while supporting Zonta’s ongoing mission to build a better world for women and girls.

Kathleen Noonan’s journey began just south of the Burdekin, growing up on a cattle and sugar cane farm at Glenella near Farleigh in the Pioneer Valley outside Mackay. Her career in journalism has spanned three continents, beginning as a cadet with the Mackay Daily Mercury before progressing to roles as a news reporter, sub-editor, chief-of-staff and senior features writer in Australia, the United Kingdom and South Africa.

During her time in South Africa, Kathleen reported on the final years of apartheid and the release of Nelson Mandela. After relocating to Brisbane, she became a weekly columnist for The Courier-Mail, with her work syndicated nationally for 17 years. Her writing explored topics ranging from music and running to rural life and the quiet beauty of everyday moments.

In 2011, a chance meeting with renowned feminist scholar Dr Dale Spender AM led Kathleen to join the Second Chance Programme; a volunteer-run organisation providing essential support to women and children escaping poverty and domestic violence. For more than 25 years, the group has worked alongside housing services and specialist networks across Queensland to deliver practical assistance that helps women regain safety, dignity and independence.

Joining her is Louise Nicholas, a highly respected Senior Secondary Agricultural Science teacher and Agricultural Coordinator at Home Hill State High School. Louise is recognised for her leadership in strengthening agricultural education and building meaningful school-to-industry pathways for young people in regional Queensland.

Raised on the land and shaped by extensive field experience, Louise currently serves as Vice President of the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association and is a member of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Alumni. She is deeply committed to ensuring students understand the importance of food and fibre production, while opening doors to diverse and rewarding careers within agriculture through innovation, partnerships and community collaboration.

The work of both guest speakers closely aligns with recent Zonta Club Burdekin Inc initiatives, particularly those addressing family and domestic violence, homelessness affecting women and children, and the transformative power of education; all issues of growing importance within the local community.

Tickets for the popular event went on sale at 8am on Monday, 9 February, with organisers encouraging early bookings as the Afternoon Tea traditionally sells out quickly.

The Zonta Club of Burdekin Inc invites community members to mark the date, gather friends and join in celebrating International Women’s Day in a warm and welcoming setting, while gaining valuable insights from two women whose stories embody the power of giving and the impact individuals can have in shaping a better future for women and girls.

What: Zonta Club Burdekin’s International Women’s Day Celebration

When: Sunday, 8 March 2026 from 1:30pm

Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall

1. Kathleen Noonan, journalist and President of Second Chance Programme. Photo supplied
2. Louise Nicholas, Senior Secondary Agricultural Science teacher and Agricultural Coordinator. Photo supplied

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Young book lovers in the Burdekin are being invited to turn the page on a new after-school adventure at Ayr Library with the Library Legends Reading Club.

Carefully designed for primary school-aged children, Library Legends runs as a fun and friendly monthly hang-out for kids who love stories, imagination and sharing a good book with others. The club brings young readers together to discover exciting tales, make new friends and build confidence through reading, all in a relaxed library setting.

The reading club runs on the first Monday of each month, from 3.30pm to 4pm, at Ayr Library, making it the perfect stop after school. Whether your child is a confident reader or just starting to find their reading groove, Library Legends encourages kids to explore books at their own pace and enjoy the magic of stories together.

Library staff say the club is all about creating positive reading experiences and helping kids see the library as a welcoming, fun space, not just a quiet place for books, but somewhere adventures begin!

Parents and carers are encouraged to get in touch with Ayr Library via phoning 4783 9970 for more details or to register their child and come along to the next Library Legends Reading Club on Monday, 2 March!

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A wave of nostalgia has swept through the community with the return of the iconic vessel Distraction to the Burdekin Shire, rekindling memories of an ambitious backyard build that became part of local maritime history.

The mighty catamaran was originally constructed over nearly four years, with work beginning in 1994 and culminating in a celebratory launch in December of 1997. The project was led by local boatbuilder Chris Cannavan, alongside his sons Lee and Murray Cannavan, with frequent help from friends.

The vessel’s name, Distraction, was chosen with a smile. The build proved to be a constant diversion from farm work, something Chris often joked about. True to its grassroots beginnings, the design process involved no formal plans. As Chris famously said, “It was a very successful boat build for a toe-in-the-dirt idea,” referring to his habit of sketching concepts in dirt or dust to bring them to life.

The story of Distraction is closely tied to an innovative piece of equipment built a year earlier. In 1993, Chris constructed a custom six-metre press in his shed, using concrete, railway tracks and earth-moving rams, after discovering there were no such facilities north of Brisbane. That press went on to shape several Cannavan-built vessels, including some of the largest ever produced locally.

Among them was Ocean Karma, a 13.8 metre catamaran completed by Lee Cannavan in 2011. Still owned and operated by Lee, the vessel gained international attention after featuring as a water taxi in the 2022 film Ticket to Paradise, starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts.

Other notable builds include Popeye, a 14 metre catamaran named after Chris’s father, Arthur. Remarkably, Chris continues work on the vessel at 80 years old. At 15 metres, however, Distraction remains the largest of the Cannavan-built boats.

In December 2004, Distraction was sold to a resident of Bowen, where it was lovingly maintained as a pride-and-joy vessel for many years.

On 1 February, 2026, the story came full circle when Distraction was purchased back by Lee and Jane Cannavan, returning the vessel to the family and the region where it was born.

The homecoming carries deep sentimental value, not only for the Cannavans but also for residents of the Burdekin who remember the boat and the extraordinary effort behind its construction. With a range of modifications and improvements planned, the family hopes to see Distraction back on the water within the next two years; a fitting next chapter for a vessel that has always been more than just a boat.

Photos curtesy of Jess Cannavan.

1. The day Distraction left the Cannavan shed with Chris hoping she floats!
2. Excitement filled the air when Chris launched Distraction in December of 1997
3. Distraction touched the water for the first time on 13 December 1997
4. The build took around four years to complete
5. Back in the family! Lee and Jane Cannavan celebrated the purchase of Distraction in Bowen
6. Distraction was launched in Groper Creek to a lively audience of spectators
7. After just over two decades, Distraction is now officially back home

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Clare State School was awash with red last week as students and staff proudly showed their support for HeartKids by participating in Sweethearts Day, a special event focused on raising awareness and funds for children living with congenital heart disease.

Students arrived dressed in red, symbolising care, kindness and compassion, and took part in a range of meaningful classroom activities. One of the highlights of the day was the creation of vibrant, multicoloured foil hearts, which were proudly displayed around the school. The shimmering hearts served as a visual reminder of the importance of healthy hearts and the strength of children supported by the HeartKids Foundation.

Throughout the day, teachers led age-appropriate discussions to help students understand the role of HeartKids and why fundraising efforts like Sweethearts Day matter. Students learned how the foundation supports children and families affected by heart conditions through advocacy, education and care programs.

“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to not only be creative, but also to develop empathy and an understanding of how they can make a positive difference in the lives of others," said Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti.

The event encouraged a strong sense of community, with students enthusiastic about contributing to a cause greater than themselves. By combining learning, creativity and generosity, Clare State School demonstrated that even small actions—like wearing red and making a heart—can have a big impact.

Funds raised from Sweethearts Day will go towards supporting the vital work of HeartKids, helping ensure that children with heart conditions and their families continue to receive the care and support they need.

Contributed with thanks to Clare State School

Clare State School was awash with red last week as students and staff proudly showed their support for HeartKids by participating in Sweethearts Day. Photo supplied

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An established school with a proud 140-year history, Ayr State School is entering an exciting new chapter, with significant infrastructure upgrades underway to support growing enrolments and enhance learning and play for today’s students.

The project includes a new blue basketball court, a senior playground designed in a dynamic ninja-course style, and four fully refurbished classrooms. While construction is well advanced, the full suite of upgrades is expected to be completed in Term 2, marking an important milestone in the school’s continued growth.

The new basketball court, finished in blue to reflect the school’s colours, will provide students with a vibrant, high-quality space for physical education, organised sport and recreational play. The court is designed to encourage teamwork, resilience and healthy lifestyles, creating a hub of activity and connection throughout the school day.

The senior playground has been designed with older students in mind and takes the form of a ninja-course style play space. Featuring climbing, balancing and movement-based challenges, the playground promotes strength, coordination and problem-solving while encouraging confidence, perseverance and positive risk-taking in a safe and engaging environment. The design supports both physical wellbeing and social connection, recognising the importance of active play for students of all ages.

Inside the school, four refurbished classrooms have been transformed into modern, flexible learning spaces. These upgrades support contemporary teaching practices and allow staff to cater for diverse learning needs through differentiated and collaborative approaches. The refreshed classrooms ensure the school can continue to deliver high-quality education while welcoming an increasing number of students.

Principal Nikki Schell said the upgrades balance respect for the school’s long-standing history with a strong focus on the future.

“For 140 years, our school has been at the heart of this community,” she said.

“These improvements honour that legacy while ensuring we are ready to welcome new families and provide learning environments that reflect our commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and excellence.”

As the project moves toward completion in Term 2, the new facilities represent both a celebration of the past and a confident investment in the next generation of learners.

The project includes four fully refurbished classrooms. Photo supplied

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Last week, Ayr State High School (ASHS) celebrated Sweethearts Day, the school’s own take on Valentine’s Day, filling the campus with colour, music and plenty of joy.

Students and staff embraced the spirit of the day as gifts were exchanged, donations were made, and serenades echoed throughout the school grounds. From heartfelt messages to musical performances, the ASHS community came together to share a little extra kindness and fun.

A big thank you was extended to all staff and students who supported the Sweethearts Day stall and helped make the event such a success. Special recognition went to Tiana and her dedicated “band of sweethearts” who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, organising deliveries, running the stall and performing serenades.

The school also acknowledged Mr Dunk for capturing the day as official photographer, along with ASHS School Captain, Ayden Barnett and ASHS School Vice Captain, Charlie Shears, who took on the role of serenading troubadours and brought smiles to many faces.

With hearts well and truly full, Sweethearts Day proved to be a joyful celebration of community spirit at Ayr High.

Photos courtesy of Ayr State High School.

1. Several students dressed to impress and spread the love last week at Ayr High!
2. ASHS School Captain, Caitlyn Cheyne led several serenades as part of Sweethearts Day
3. ASHS School Vice Captain, Charlie Shears treated staff and students to an acoustic guitar serenade
4. Students frolicked around the school grounds, sprinkling love wherever they went
5. Mrs Vicky Bromham and Mrs Nyree Woods enjoying the magic of Sweethearts Day

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Residents of the Burdekin Shire recently took to social media to voice concerns about the lingering stench that coated the streets of Ayr last week, with all signs pointing to mill mud as the source.

A nutrient-rich byproduct of the sugar cane milling process, mill mud consists of residues left over after sugarcane juice has been clarified and filtered. It is commonly used as a soil conditioner and organic fertiliser to improve soil structure and boost plant growth due to its high nutrient content.

Mill mud has a distinct, often pungent odour, largely because it contains high amounts of organic matter such as bagasse and fibre that begin to decompose, producing a swampy or earthy smell. While the smell can be strong, it is generally considered a normal aspect of the product’s composition.

Wilmar Sugar Australia defines mill mud as a compost or fertiliser byproduct of the sugar extraction process and notes that it is not classified as hazardous under Safe Work Australia criteria. In the past, the company has conducted trials to develop best-practice guidelines for the use of mill mud and mill ash, concluding that mill mud maximises sugarcane yields while minimising the loss of nutrients from farms.

The company also stresses that the product is widely used across the region and is an important contributor to sustainable sugarcane production, despite the occasional odour concerns raised by local residents.

1. Composted mill mud is commonly purchased by farmers. Photo credit: Cass Dotty
2. Despite the occasional odour, mill mud provides essential benefits to the local sugar cane and farming industry. Photo credit: Cass Dotty

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As 2026 gets underway, many Burdekin primary producers are looking ahead with cautious optimism. However, for some, the year has begun under difficult circumstances following Tropical Cyclone Koji and the associated flooding event late last year.

Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Regional Area Manager for North Queensland, Angelo Rigano, said he has spent recent weeks visiting properties across the region to help producers begin their recovery journey.

“Sadly, I know not everyone has had a smooth start to the year,” Mr Rigano said.

“If you’ve been impacted, it’s okay not to be okay, and I strongly encourage anyone who needs support to reach out for help — including mental health services.”

QRIDA is currently administering disaster financial assistance for eligible primary producers affected by the North Queensland Monsoon Trough, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji and severe weather from 24 December 2025. The assistance is aimed at helping producers cover clean-up and reinstatement costs and get back on their feet as quickly as possible.

Eligible producers can now apply for low-interest loans and other disaster recovery support through QRIDA, with guidelines and application forms available on the QRIDA website.

Mr Rigano encouraged producers to regularly check the site as assessments continue and new information becomes available.

“As the government gains a clearer understanding of what communities need, additional assistance may be announced,” he said.

To help fast-track recovery applications, QRIDA has also shared five practical steps for producers affected by Cyclone Koji or recent flooding:

1. Photograph the damage
2. Complete the Disaster Impact Survey
3. Stay informed
4. Prepare key documents
5. Ask for help

In further positive news, the application deadline for Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 has been extended until 14 August 2026.

“This extension gives producers who have faced multiple disaster events more time to complete clean-up and recovery works,” Mr Rigano said.

Early assessments following Cyclone Koji indicate many North Queensland farms — including those in the Burdekin — have avoided significant damage, with encouraging signs emerging across several agricultural sectors heading into 2026.

Mr Rigano said QRIDA remains committed to supporting Burdekin producers, not only through disaster recovery, but also by helping them improve productivity, expand operations and prepare for future droughts.

“I’m looking forward to catching up with more producers across the region in the coming weeks,” he said.

“QRIDA is here to help — whether that’s recovery, growth or planning for what’s ahead.”

For more information or assistance, producers are encouraged to contact QRIDA directly or complete the Department of Primary Industries’ Disaster Impact Survey if they were affected.

Dark storm clouds developing in the Burdekin during property visits over the past month. Photo supplied

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They say experience is the best teacher. For Burdekin local and keen traveller Joan Andersen, more than 30 years spent helping visitors around the region has proven exactly that.

After helping establish the Burdekin Tourism Association decades ago, Joan now volunteers at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centre in Ayr, a role she says is equal parts hearing unique stories, learning about North Queensland and beyond, and showcasing what makes the Burdekin special.

“I like meeting new people. I enjoy talking to them, finding where they come from, what they do,” said Joan.

“You're learning just as much as they are from you.”

While many travellers pass straight through the region, Joan sees it as her purpose to encourage them to explore the region.

“A lot of people would bypass us because we’re just a little town. We’re not on the seaside, we’re not a beach resort or anything like that… But we’ve got a lot of hidden gems, and I always enjoy telling people how unique we are.”

But between curious visitors, Joan finds ways to quench her own inquisitiveness.

“I like to take new brochures, skip through them and check what's in there," she said

“There’s so much to learn, not only about Queensland, but the other states as well.”

Council is now encouraging more locals with a passion for the Burdekin to consider joining the Tourism Volunteer team at the Visitor Information Centres in Ayr and Home Hill.

For Joan, the role has provided a flexible and social way to give back to her community while continuing to meet new people and learn about the region.

She believes it would suit anyone who enjoys talking to people and has an interest in local tourism.

“If you’ve got spare time and are looking for something interesting, it’s a great way to learn and expand your enthusiasm for travelling,” she said.

“You help the town, you help the district, and you help the businesses in the town as well. It's much more interesting than sitting and watching your shows on television!”

Residents interested in becoming a volunteer at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centres can contact Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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A heartwarming show of community spirit was on full display in the Burdekin Shire earlier this month, as hundreds of locals banded together to reunite a much-loved dog with his family after more than a week on the run.

Ayr resident Machelle Slatcher raised the alarm on social media on 5 February after her border collie–kelpie cross, Rusty, went missing from Lisa Drive.

“MISSING in Ayr 4807. Border collie x kelpie went missing yesterday from Lisa Drive. Rusty is extremely friendly,” she wrote, sparking an outpouring of support.

What followed was an extraordinary community effort. Hundreds of people shared posts, phoned in sightings and kept watch along roadsides, paddocks and riverbanks, many for a dog they had never met, but were determined to help bring home.

As updates rolled in, Rusty was spotted across several locations, with Machelle regularly posting updates to keep the search going.

“He loves a ball, so he’ll become your best friend immediately,” she wrote.

Despite days passing and sightings becoming less frequent, the community didn’t give up. Then, in the early hours of 13 February, the message everyone had been hoping for arrived.

“STOP LOOKING!!! Rusty is home safe,” Machelle posted.

“I want to thank everyone and I mean everyone, literally half of the Burdekin has been out looking for him. I can’t thank you all enough, people I don’t even know have been contacting me and have been out and about. I can’t successfully put into works how grateful I am. I am so blessed to be living in such a caring community - thank you from the bottom of my heart!”

After eight days and an incredible community-wide effort, Rusty is now safely home, and his family are determined to keep it that way!

“He’s currently soaking up the aircon in the house, and I’m glad he’s stopped making that movie,” Machelle joked.

“GPS tracker is on its way- he’s not going on an eight-day journey ever again!”

CAPTION: Rusty is now home safe and sound. Photo credit: Machelle Slatcher

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The countdown is on to the Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum, with the event now just weeks away in the Burdekin and Herbert regions on 3–4 March.

Co-organisers Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Aglantis are urging attendees to register, with limited spots remaining — including only five seats left on the dedicated bus from Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

“The clock is ticking for next-gen farmers, new-to-industry farmers and anyone else interested in the advances in technology, innovation and systems in the sugarcane sector,” Aglantis event spokesperson Luke Malan said.

As Managing Director of Aglantis and co-organiser of the event, Mr Malan said he was excited to help revive a platform dedicated to promoting the future of farming, with a strong focus on practical application.

"This is about giving our nation’s growers real-world examples; helping them to see and pave the way to what the future of sugarcane farming could look like," Mr Malan said.

The forum has attracted significant backing from industry-leading sponsors, reinforcing a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and profitability of Queensland’s sugar industry.

Mr Malan said the strong industry support had enabled a high-calibre program featuring practical, on-farm demonstrations of automated irrigation and precision agriculture tools.

“Our incredibly supportive sponsors allow the showcasing of advanced agricultural technology, directly supporting the next generation of sugarcane farmers,” he said.

Among the key highlights for 2026 will be smart and automated irrigation systems, offering growers the chance to see efficiency-driven technology operating in real time. Precision agriculture and GPS technology will also take centre stage, with a focus on how these innovations translate into real-world profitability.

Carbon and reef compliance — an increasingly important consideration for emerging industry leaders navigating a changing regulatory landscape — will form a critical part of the discussion.

“Over the past year we’ve seen something powerful happen when farmers are simply given the space to come together. Conversations around dinner tables turn into real practice changes on farm, ideas shared on bus trips sparked new trials and connections made between growers can lead to lifetime friendships,” Mr Malan said.

He said the momentum behind the forum would not have been possible without the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and its investment through the RP84 Peer to Peer Farming Groups program.

“Their support backed ‘farmers backing farmers’ — creating opportunities to explore new technology, challenge thinking, and building confidence to adopt practical improvements. We are incredibly grateful to DPI for recognising the value of grower-led learning and for investing in stronger, more connected farming communities across Queensland.”

QCAR Chair Russell Hall said the forum was specifically designed to deliver hands-on, boots-on-the-ground value.

“While we’ll have industry veterans in attendance sharing their wealth of experience, the program focuses on the high-level innovation and practical technology required for modern farming,” Mr Hall said.

QCAR’s Senior Technical Agriculture Officer and event co-organiser Lawrence Di Bella said the event was about bringing the industry together and putting the tools of tomorrow into growers’ hands.

“We could not be more proud or more excited to be bringing this event back to the industry,” Mr Di Bella said.

“By combining high-level innovation with practical field trips, we are making sure our next generation of leaders can see how new technology translates to profitability and sustainability."

The program includes immersive on-farm demonstrations, site visits to progressive farms, and direct insights into how ag-tech tools can improve yield while managing environmental footprints. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers from the Burdekin, Herbert, Proserpine and Mackay regions, as well as experts who can help navigate the complexities of modern farming.

Event schedules and ticket details are available via the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis Facebook pages or by calling (07) 3496 9555. Tickets are also available at https://nextgen2026.eventbrite.com.au.

CAPTIONS:

1. Luke Malan, Managing Director Aglantis and Event Co-Organiser. Photo supplied
2. Lawrence Di Bella, QCAR Senior Technical Agricultural Officer and Event Co-Organiser. Photo supplied
3. Aglantis will host an in-field demo of its solar-powered smart valve actuator, shown here operating flood irrigation in the Burdekin. The system fits onto existing valves, allowing farmers to remotely control water without cables, power, or complex installation. Photo supplied
4. SwarmFarm Robotics will have their automated tractors, pictured here with a broadacre boom attachment, at the 2026 Next Gen Cane Forum. Photo supplied

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Recreational and commercial fishers across the Burdekin Shire are being urged to take note of upcoming seasonal fishing closures, with the annual Spanish mackerel closed season set to affect local waters later this year.

The Burdekin falls within Queensland’s northern Spanish mackerel management zone, which applies to east coast waters north of latitude 22 degrees south, slightly north of Stanage Bay. As a result, popular local fishing areas will be subject to extended closures aligned with new moon periods.

In 2026, northern Spanish mackerel closures will run from 8 October to 29 October, followed by a second closure from 6 November to 27 November. During these periods, Spanish mackerel must not be taken, possessed or sold.

The closures are part of Queensland Fisheries’ seasonal management strategy aimed at protecting fish stocks during key breeding periods and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Several other closed seasons will also apply throughout the year. Barramundi will be closed on the Queensland east coast from 1 November to 31 January, while snapper and pearl perch will be off-limits from 15 July to 15 August.

Additional restrictions include two five-day coral reef fin fish closures in October and November, a tropical rock lobster closure from 1 October to 31 December, and a spanner crab closure from 1 November to 15 December in managed areas.

Fishers are reminded to check closure dates and boundaries before heading out, as penalties apply. With Spanish mackerel a prized local catch, fishers are encouraged to plan ahead and target alternative species during closure periods.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to the Burdekin region through its ongoing support of local rugby league at Bendigo Bank Park.

For generations, rugby league has played a vital role in bringing Burdekin families together. From juniors lacing up their boots for the first time, to parents volunteering on game day and grandparents cheering from the sidelines, local sport is woven into the fabric of the community.

As a community owned bank, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr understands the importance of backing initiatives that keep regional towns connected and thriving. Supporting rugby league is about far more than what happens on the field — it’s about investing in opportunities for young people, strengthening family bonds, and building pride across the district.

Through its sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park and support of the Burdekin Roosters, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is helping ensure the long-term sustainability of the sport locally. This support assists with facilities, programs and the continued development of players and volunteers who dedicate countless hours to keeping the game strong.

The Club of Origin, held in November last year, showcased the very best of local rugby league, uniting over 100 players both men and women, volunteers, sponsors and families from across the Burdekin region for a full day of community connection and club pride. The event delivered quality facilities, professional operations, live entertainment, and recognition for players, referees and support staff, reinforcing rugby league as a positive, well-run focal point for community involvement and future regional rugby league development. The winners of the competition were Colts who beat Brothers in the Grand Final.

Spokesperson for the Community Bank said supporting grassroots sport aligns strongly with the bank’s purpose.

“Our Community Bank exists to make a real difference locally,” she said. “When we invest in sport, we’re investing in young people, families and the long-term wellbeing of the Burdekin.”

“Local clubs rely on community support to survive and grow. We’re proud to play a role in helping rugby league remain strong for future generations.”

By standing alongside local sporting organisations, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to reinforce its commitment to building a stronger, more connected Burdekin—on and off the field.

CAPTION:

The Club of Origin, held in November last year, showcased the very best of local rugby league. Photo supplied

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With a portfolio overflowing with exceptional achievements across academia, sport and community service, 2026 Young Citizen of the Year Grace Ogomeni was recently recognised for her humble contributions to the local community at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Award Ceremony.

“Hearing my name announced, followed by the applause, was overwhelming in the most heartwarming way. I felt incredibly grateful and proud, not just of myself, but of the community that supported me and has given me so many opportunities to get involved – this moment meant a lot to me because it reinforced my sense of belonging and connection to the Burdekin community,” she explained.

“I hope that people understand my achievements and involvements were not done to receive recognition - I hope everyone sees instead that they are a reflection of my values and my commitment to make a positive difference wherever I can.”

In the past year alone, Grace’s resume of success welcomed several prestigious titles including Home Hill State High School Valedictorian, House Captain, School Captain, Burdekin Secondary School Athletics Age Champion, Lloyd Memorial Sportswoman of the Year, as well as several Subject Dux honours.

“I would say leadership came naturally to me; however, I still learnt and developed many leadership skills through leadership programs and personal experiences,” Grace said.

“Staying organised and knowing what needs priority at different times helped me manage academics, sporting commitments and community service - when my motivation dipped, I reminded myself why I was doing what I did – for example the goal of getting into medicine really pushed me to stay focused.”

Grace’s dedication to crafting an efflorescent future will see her commence medical studies at James Cook University this year.

“I am very excited to start studying medicine at JCU, especially for the chance to go on placement in rural and remote regions,” Grace enthused.

“In the future, I hope to make a positive impact by helping close the gap in healthcare access for rural communities like the ones I grew up in. I want to make sure people in these often-overlooked towns have the care and support they deserve.”

Grace credits the local community for shaping her into who she has become, explaining how the interconnectedness and small-town nature of the Burdekin Shire was instrumental in her upbringing.

“Growing up in the Burdekin shaped my values of community, belonging and kindness. In a small town you see the impact of community-wide support,” she explained.

“Through school, sport and community activities, I felt a sense of belonging, which made me want to make sure others felt the same. These experiences inspired the path I want to take in medicine, where I can continue to give back.”

CAPTION: Grace Ogomeni was named Young Citizen of the Year at the 2026 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Photography

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The vital skills and job-ready training opportunities of apprenticeships are being brought to the fore during National Apprenticeships Week with Member for Burdekin Dale Last echoing the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to backing apprentices and their employers.

Boasting more than 200 enrolments in the local TAFE facility in 2025 and more than 1000 technicians and tradespeople in the district, Mr Last said the State Government’s investment in apprentices was vital in supporting essential trades and services relied on by the Burdekin’s major industries.

“Our major industries rely on our tradespeople every day in the Burdekin to keep machinery running, pumps operational and for the supply of everyday goods and services. It’s incredibly important the people who want to take up a career in sectors like manufacturing or construction are afforded every opportunity to do so,” Mr Last said.

“Having the opportunity to earn and learn through an apprenticeship without having to leave your hometown is crucial to securing the future of our local industries here in the Burdekin and that’s why the Crisafulli Government is backing them.”

Mr Last said National Apprenticeships Week ran from 9 to 15 February and marked a total investment in training the tradies of tomorrow of $270 million.

“Investing in our apprentices and the small businesses backing them means we are not only supporting our key sectors now but fostering growth for the future of our industries right across the state,” he said.

“The Crisafulli Government knows it is a serious decision to take on an apprentice with plenty to consider, which is why we are supporting small businesses with apprentice wage costs under a $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program.

“$40 million in 2025-2026 has been invested into programs supporting apprentices as part of the Crisafulli Government’s broader focus on strengthening skills, supporting employers and increasing workforce participation.”

Contributed with thanks to the Office of State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

CAPTION: Dale Last MP recently discussed traineeships and apprenticeships opportunities locally at QMN Manufacturing. Photo supplied

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By Jacob Casha

Two Burdekin teenagers, stung by Irukandji jellyfish earlier this month, were reunited with the Marine Rescue Queensland Burdekin (MRQ Burdekin) team whose quick actions helped save them.

Teens Recover After Cape Upstart Irukandji Ordeal

What began as a routine day trip to Cape Upstart quickly became a race to the hospital after two Burdekin teenagers were stung by Irukandji jellyfish on Sunday, 1st of February.

Guardian Dan Horan, son Hudson Horan, 14, friend Tanner Cole, 13, and two others set sail from Molongle Creek to the Cape at around 9am, eventually anchoring the boat and snorkelling just off the shore.

At around 10:30am, Tanner and Hudson emerged from the water with red marks after feeling a mild stinging sensation.

Hudson recalled, “I got hit… then about five seconds later Tanner got got hit on the leg.”

Tanner said the sting initially didn’t feel serious.

“It was just itchy and that was it, really,” he said.

Within minutes, however, the boys’ conditions worsened.

“By the time we got to the boat, Tanner was really sick and started vomiting, and Hudson said he had stabbing pains in his legs and his back down into his feet. He couldn't feel his feet, and he was starting to shake,” Dan recalled.

They soon realised their symptoms were consistent with Irukandji syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction to the venom of Irukandji jellyfish.

Initial attempts to call Triple-0 were unsuccessful due to lack of mobile coverage, and tensions on deck began to heighten.

“I was very panicked… obviously your brain goes to the worst-case scenario,” said Dan.

“I'm thinking, are we gonna have to stop? Should I Just stay here? Am I gonna have to resuscitate them?”

Dan turned to the boat’s VHF radio system and contacted MRQ Burdekin, where volunteer Dawn Ordorica answered and organised for emergency services to be contacted within minutes.

Through the radio, fellow MRQ Burdekin volunteer Paul Quagliata coordinated with Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) to meet the group at the boat ramp.

“I was able to talk to Dan on the radio while I had the dispatcher and QAS on the phone, so we were able to relay that information quite quickly so they [QAS] knew what they're dealing with when they got there,” recalled Quagliata.

Within five minutes of Dan pulling up at the ramp, paramedics were on scene.

Quagliata said the quick coordination between MRQ Burdekin and QAS likely prevented a longer ordeal.

“I think we saved the boys probably 40 minutes of more agony.”

Paramedics immediately administered first aid on-site before providing pain relief and transporting the teenagers to Ayr Hospital, where doctors confirmed the stings were consistent with Irukandji jellyfish.

The pair was monitored until their symptoms subsided at around 5am the next morning.

A relieved figure, Dan lauded the efforts of emergency services in handling the situation.

“The fact that they [MRQ Burdekin] were able to have the ambulance there in five minutes of us pulling up the ramp, was a big, massive relief for me, and also the boys,” he said.

Quagliata said the situation served as testament to the importance of volunteer-led emergency services like MRQ Burdekin.

“It just goes to show what we're about in times of need and what we're capable of doing,” he said.

Cover—Dan Horan, Hudson Horan, and Tanner Cole with MRQ Burdekin volunteers Paul Quagliata and Dawn Ordorica, who coordinated their rescue. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

2— “The fact that they [MRQ Burdekin] were able to have the ambulance there in five minutes of us pulling up the ramp, was a big, massive relief for me, and also the boys,” said Dan Horan. Photo supplied

The Burdekin Shire Council has announced changes to the Clare Transfer Station’s operating days following a six‑month trial and clear community feedback on opening times.

Councillors received a report at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday 10 February 2026, reviewing the trial conducted between 4 July 2025 and 2 January 2026. During the trial, the facility’s schedule shifted from weekly Sunday openings in 2024/2025 to a fortnightly Friday service in 2025/2026.

According to a council media release, the trial aimed “to assess community usage patterns, determine whether Friday openings were more convenient for residents, and identify any potential operational efficiencies.”

Community feedback was collected via email submissions, Customer Request Management entries, and a QR code feedback tool. While the number of responses was limited, the council reported several consistent themes. Feedback showed a clear preference for Sunday operations, with only a small number of residents advising that Friday openings suited their needs. No feedback opposed the facility operating on a fortnightly basis.

Comments also highlighted the comparative suitability of Sundays versus Fridays, and the need for clearer signage and better communication to help residents know which fortnight the site is open.

Friday 13 February 2026 was the final Friday opening. From 1 March 2026, the Clare Transfer Station will return to Sunday openings on a fortnightly schedule, coinciding with the same fortnight that yellow‑lid recycling bins are serviced.

Residents seeking further information are encouraged to contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

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I love Home Hill.

I’ve lived here for the last, what… 10 months now? And can wholeheartedly say that I’ve not regretted a single second.

But what I’ve come to realise is that, according to most locals, it’s a shell of what it once was—and the signs were staring me right in the face the whole time.

The boarded-up shops are perhaps most telling. Everyone I talk to says that where these barren shopfronts on Main Street now lie, businesses used to bustle. Streets full. Lines out the door.

Then, naturally, I ask them, “What happened?”

That’s where answers begin to diverge, and breed more questions.

Does this business drop-off correlate with the issues pertaining to volunteering that I discussed last week? Or do they merely coincide? Can community spirit thrive in any meaningful sense if the local business sphere is compromised?

I think they go hand in hand. As good as Home Hill is in its current form, country towns need economies to sustain themselves both financially and socially.

But what do I know? I’m no local.

So, as I embark on this quest to uncover the why—and potential antidotes—please do get in touch with any helpful information or observations.

And on that note, if you have any story you think deserves to be told in our paper, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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By Jacob Casha

Trevor Elton has lived his whole life in Home Hill.

Born and raised, true blue.

That’s why, when he caught wind that the town’s beloved community sports club was on the brink of demise at the turn of the decade, he knew he had to step in.

And that, he did.

Faced with dwindling numbers, unpaid rates, and the looming threat of closure, the Home Hill Community Sports Club had been one of the big losers when COVID struck in 2019.

The stream of travellers had run dry, membership had fallen to single digits, budgets were evaporating, and the greens of the near-century-old venue were in complete disrepair, often doubling as a makeshift soccer pitch.

“The club was pretty much on its knees,” said Trevor.

But he never remembered it that way.

For decades, the club had been the steady lifeblood of the community; a haven for locals from all corners to connect and unwind, and often the venue of everyone’s special occasions.

When Trevor took on the role of club president five years ago, he vowed it would see these days again, not only for the sake of its members, but the community as a whole.

“It was never about any kind of personal applause,” he said.

“It was about keeping alive something that means so much.”

The road to revival began with the club bus.

Costly to maintain and no longer viable, it was sold, freeing up much-needed financial wiggle room and giving the struggling club its first real breath of life in years. From there, the snowball began to pick up momentum.

With the proceeds, Trevor moved quickly to clear outstanding debts and steady the club’s finances, laying the foundation for a broader revival.

From that foundation, he spearheaded working bees to restore the grounds, applied for and secured a $200,000 grant to rebuild the green, and transformed the hall with new carpet, air-conditioning, and aesthetic upgrades that gave the club a new lease on life.

With that, members began to pour back in, with numbers soon eclipsing triple digits. The club grew stronger by the day, and the venue once again began to reflect its local stature as a storied pillar of the community.

And even as the club continues to surpass anything it had ever been before, Trevor refuses to rest. His current pursuit? A brand new cover for the greens, which he admits is a mammoth task, but given his history, more a matter of when rather than if.

His exploits saw him awarded Volunteer of the Year at this year’s Australia Day Awards at the Burdekin Memorial Hall; an award he said was a bonus rather than the end goal. Characteristically, he was quick to acknowledge the role of the team behind him, giving special credit to wife Judy.

“It was a proud moment—for myself and for my wife, who’s always backing me up and being there with me. It’s just as much hers as it is mine,” he said.

“These clubs rely on volunteer work, and I'm only just part of the club The award I got wasn’t my award—it was everybody's award, and if you look around the Burdekin, there are so many other people out there who deserve it.”

When Trevor took on the role of club president five years ago, he vowed it would see its glory days again, not only for the sake of its members, but the community as a whole. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage following a fatal traffic crash in Ayr on Tuesday, 3 February.

Investigations indicate that around 3.05pm, an orange Yamaha motorcycle was travelling along Rutherford Street when it collided with the rear of a Kia Sorrento that was turning into a driveway.

The rider of the motorcycle, a 40-year-old man, was transported to Townsville University Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The male rider has since died from his injuries.

The 35-year-old female driver of the Kia Sorrento was not physically injured.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact police.
Investigations are ongoing.

Quote this reference number: QP2600221205

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

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The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage following a fatal traffic crash in Ayr on Tuesday, 3 February. Photo source: QPS

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Ayr State School teacher Shanoa Young has been nationally recognised for her teaching excellence this month, pipping thousands of contenders to Twinkl’s inaugural Aussie Teacher Legend award.

Part of Twinkl’s Aussie Teachers Gratitude Awards, the accolade honours teachers who ‘go above and beyond’ each day, with 10 of the nation’s most-loved educators celebrated as winners.

Young, one of the 10 winners, said her emotional reaction was equal parts pride and surprise.

"When my name was announced, I was honestly shocked,” said Young.

“I didn’t even know… I had been nominated. I felt overwhelmed, excited, and genuinely so honoured that I had even been considered, let alone selected.”

The award carried a deeper meaning for Young, who had been juggling full-time work, studying, and raising a family before the victory.

“This recognition feels like the icing on the cake—a reminder that the effort, dedication, and long hours have been seen and valued. It’s very affirming both personally and professionally,” she said.

A teacher at Ayr State School since June 2025, Young credits her students and colleagues for much of her success.

“The support from parents, students, and colleagues has been absolutely essential. Teaching is never a solo effort—it’s a team journey,” said Young.

"I love how unique and diverse my students are, and I truly believe I learn just as much from them as they learn from me.”

Principal Mrs Nikki Schell said the award was a deeply deserved recognition of an educator who leads with heart, purpose and authenticity.

“She is the kind of teacher who makes students feel seen, valued and safe—someone who shows up every day with kindness, humour and an unwavering belief in her students,” said Mrs Schell.

“We are incredibly proud of the impact she has already made at Ayr State School, and this recognition is a wonderful celebration of the care and passion she brings to our school community.”

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Ayr State School teacher Shanoa Young has been nationally recognised for her teaching excellence this month, pipping thousands of contenders to Twinkl’s inaugural Aussie Teacher Legend award. Photo supplied

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It was when Janet Hughes began caring for dementia patients decades ago—while her own mother was also affected—that she experienced firsthand the toll the disease takes, not just on those living with it, but on their carers as well.

Since then, she has dedicated herself to ensuring carers receive the support they need.

Drawing on decades of experience in dementia support groups across the region, Hughes now serves as the facilitator of the Burdekin Dementia Support Group—a meeting point for dementia sufferers and carers alike to bond over shared experiences.

Meeting at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 10am on the first Tuesday of every month, the group comes together to connect, converse, and learn, says Hughes.

“Caring for someone with dementia is a 24/7 concern. Even a short break is valuable,” she said.

“The group is meant to provide a comfortable space for people to relax. If they need to shed a tear, they can. Even just learning about the disease itself and its different aspects—‘this works for me, it might work for you’—helps tremendously.”

The group often welcomes guest speakers and draws on resources and educational programs created by Dementia Australia to provide carers with guidance and support.

But Hughes said that while the need for such support is growing, groups around the nation are struggling to attract attendees.

“Ours is a small group, but I don’t mind if only one person shows up. If I can help one person, that’s okay by me,” said Hughes.

She emphasised that the group is open to anyone, no matter where they are in their journey.

“Even if you’re grieving the loss of a loved one or your loved one has moved into permanent care, you’re still welcome,” she said.

“The stresses don’t end just because your role changes.”

The group also enjoys a morning tea each meeting. Anyone interested in learning more about the Burdekin Dementia Support Group is encouraged to contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 07 4783 4243.

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The Burdekin Men’s Shed Mental Health Week Event proved a great success, connecting groups from Townsville, Rollingstone, and Vincent.

Men’s Shed members offering a helping hand at the AGnVet Rural
Annual BBQ.. Photos supplied.

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Since opening its doors in 2011, the shed on Young Street in Ayr has been a place for local men to gather, share skills, and look out for one another. A place where modest, unassuming conversation can mean the difference between isolation and connection.

The brainchild of a group of community members, health workers, and local government officials, the idea first took form at a public meeting in 2010. Men in the region wanted a space where they could tackle health issues together, away from the pressures of daily life. The response was overwhelming, and by June 2011, the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association was officially born.

From the beginning, the focus has always been on connection, says BMSA Secretary Charles Ford.

“I call it health without a pill,” he said.

“Men come along, and instead of regurgitating their illness at home, they come here… and by the time they’re talking to somebody else, it disappears.”

The ‘shed’ is home to five separate spaces, hosting workshops, mentoring sessions, and meet-and-greets several mornings a week, serving as a connection point where like-minded men of all ages can make new friends, share their skills, and pick up new ones while looking after their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.

2025 was another big year for the shed. Members hosted an Inter-Shed visit with groups from Townsville, Rollingstone, and Vincent, sharing ideas and learning from each other. Others attended the North Queensland Zone QMSA President’s Conference in Townsville, connecting with fellow leaders and exploring new programs and funding opportunities.

Closer to home, members lent a hand wherever it was needed, repairing and repainting four Zonta Club bench seats to raise awareness of domestic violence, mentored local students, hosted workshops for Scouts, and cooked at the annual Christmas AGnVet Rural barbecue. Their Mental Health Week “Cuppa, Chat and Chew” event brought the community together to connect, discuss wellbeing, and celebrate Seniors Week.

The Men’s Shed is hoping for another fruitful year ahead, with plans to continue to strengthen the school mentoring program, welcome new and younger members, and continuing to improve facilities and activities.

The group is always welcoming new faces; men looking for a place to share a cuppa, learn new skills, and reconnect with community. With five sheds, regular meet-and-greet mornings, monthly luncheons, and guest speakers, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Membership is open to men aged 18 and over, with a $10 joining fee and $50 annual membership. Application forms are available at the shed or through Secretary Charles Ford on 0417 401 303 or charlesford@iinet.net.au.

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Stanley Walter Simpson, fondly known as Stan, passed away on Thursday, 8 January 2026, leaving behind a lasting legacy of community service and a lifelong commitment to supporting the younger generation.

Mr Simpson grew up in Charters Towers and moved to the Burdekin Shire in 1944 where he met his late wife, June, and had three children, Stanley Jnr, Collette and the late Rachelle.

After completing his schooling at Ayr State High School, Mr Simpson worked alongside his father as a motor mechanic before joining a fertiliser company, where he was employed from 1969 to 1971. He later ventured into the automotive industry, spending many years in both new and used car sales before retiring in 2000. Retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter, with Mr Simpson hosting a news program on Sweet FM for six years while continuing to dedicate himself to a range of community and media endeavours, most notably his passion for mentorship.

Mr Simpson’s quest for knowledge and vested interest in the proper use of language saw him take to the stand for the first time at the Ayr Apex Club where he went on to win several speaking competitions. After retiring at the compulsory 40-year age limit with Life Membership honours, Mr Simpson joined the Home Hill Choral Society and wrote several Theatre Restaurant acts for the organisation.

In 1968, Mr Simpson joined Rostrum Club 18 (Ayr) and held the position of Club President for over a decade. Mr Simpson was elevated to Freeman of Australian Rostrum in 2009, and his dedication to coordinating Rostrum Voice of Youth (RVOY) within the Burdekin Shire ensured its survival for half a century.

Mr Simpson held a deep passion for seeing young people thrive, a commitment that became a defining part of his legacy through his coordination of RVOY workshops across the Burdekin Shire and the education of Burdekin Junior Water Festival Ambassadors.

Through this work, he championed the values at the heart of Rostrum; “for those who desire to improve themselves in the practice of effective speaking, and who hold that freedom of speech, loyalty to truth, clarity of thought, and a love of the English language are of utmost value to the community.”

Over the course of his public speaking career, Mr Simpson was awarded two Rostrum Australia Bronze Medallions for outstanding service beyond the duties undertaken and was runner up in the 2011 Arch Williams Memorial “Speaker of the Year”.

In 2011, Mr Simpson first delivered a tuition paper on public speaking to ASHS students, and with the cooperation of Mrs Linda Attard in 2014, a high number of students began to enrol in RVOY.

“There were many facets to Stan’s life… his family, his business, his passion for orchids, his musicality, just to name a few, yet he still found the time to inspire and motivate the Ayr High family, through another of his passions – public speaking,” said Mrs Attard.

“Through Stan’s belief about the importance of public speaking, a connection was forged with Ayr State High School that spanned over a decade.”

Mr Simpson’s passion and enthusiasm for seeing students succeed saw him become a beloved mentor to the youth of the shire.

“Stan would generously share his wisdom among our group of enthusiastic students who had nominated for the public speaking competition,” Mrs Attard recalled.

“He spoke to the students about what the adjudicators were looking for in a persuasive speech, the do’s and don’ts of public speaking, how to structure and deliver speeches and how to involve the audience.”

In addition to ASHS, Mr Simpson became heavily involved in several schools across the district in the years to follow, including Burdekin Christian College (BCC) and Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), where he voluntarily ran several youth developmental programs like RVOY, and Burdekin Toastmasters Club as well as conducting personalised public speaking and tutoring classes.

BCC Principal, Miss Debra Creed, recounted the tremendous impact Mr Simpson had on her students, recalling how affective he was in mentoring the younger generation to find a voice and stance on current world issues.

“The wonderful Stan Simpson had a massive impact for the better with our students – he would always appear with the brightest smile, and his support and efforts were never ending,” said Miss Creed.

“The staff and students at BCC are heartbroken to hear that Stan has passed, he was an icon of the Burdekin and will be greatly missed.”

In 2023, an inaugural award was introduced to ASHS’ Voices of the Future competition, known as the Stan Simpson Encouragement Award, which is presented to a student who has shown outstanding commitment, courage, and improvement in their speaking skills.

ASHS has committed to continue recognising Mr Simpson and his strong advocacy for public speaking within the school community as well as his unwavering support to generations of students.

“Stan has left a lasting legacy at Ayr High and his passion and dedication for public speaking will live on, not only through the award, but also for future generations of Ayr High students who participate in the Voices of the Future competition,” Mrs Attard said.

“The Ayr High family extend our deepest condolences to Stan’s family and friends.”

Mr Simpson led a life filled with generosity and passion for learning. Photo source: Stanley Jnr
Mr Simpson with ASHS RVOY students, Clara Hutton, Ryan Kastner, Mrs Linda Attard, Sarah McDonnell, and Lauren Raitelli. Photo source: Mrs Linda Attard
ASHS welcomes Mr Simpson to the school regularly for RVOY workshops and competitions. Photo source: Mrs Linda Attard
Mr Simpson also led RVOY workshops with BCC students. Photo source: Miss Debra Creed

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Burdekin Boars and Barras made its highly anticipated return to Clare on Friday, 6th February, with three days of fierce competition culminating in a well-attended final weigh-in on Sunday.

The biennial event, running since 2014, saw competitors battle it out over a range of hunting categories, with Sunday’s weigh-in drawing hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of music, activities and the final awards presentation.

Event coordinator Sarah Hollywood said the impressive turnout made this year’s iteration of the event was one to remember.

“We were very, very happy with all the community support,” said Hollywood.

“We are very fortunate to have such a supportive community in Clare, the wider Burdekin, and even outside of the Burdekin supporting the event.”

Read more on page 25

Tribute to Jaiden Booth Highlights Big Weekend

Continued from cover

This year, the Senior Heaviest Barra award was dedicated to the late Jaiden Booth, a long-time participant in the competition who is remembered for his passion, resilience and the joy he brought to fishing and the wider community.

Hollywood said the tribute was especially meaningful for the club and Jaiden’s family.

“It meant a lot, not just for his whole family, but for the community as well,” said Hollywood.

“Hopefully, it's something we can keep going, because Jaiden loved the event—he was a big part of it.”

The winner of the award, Nick Malone, graciously opted to donate the $1,000 prize money back into the club.

The Clare Sports & Recreation Club’s hallmark fundraiser, the event was vital in bringing the community together and supporting the club’s ongoing operations, said Hollywood.

“The Clare Club is majority volunteer-run. Whatever we make with the club goes straight back into the club,” she said.

“Without events like this, and without the volunteers that we are very fortunate to have, we wouldn't have a community club.”

Results:

Senior Categories: Heaviest Barra—$1,000 & $416 COSTA Sunglasses—Nick Malone (15.86kg)

Secret Weight Barra—$500—Brayden Jaques (6kg)

Heaviest Mangrove Jack—$250—Brodyn Cosalegno (2kg)

Biggest Catfish—$250—Ashley Hiscox

Junior Categories:
Heaviest Barra—$500—Dani Broadhead (11.64kg)

Secret Weight Barra—$250—Matt Laidlow (2.28kg)

Heaviest Mangrove Jack—$150—Keaton Jarvis (1.06kg)

Biggest Catfish—$150—Lexi Widderick (4.36kg)

Open Categories:
Heaviest Boar—$1000—Joshua Russell (101kg)

Heaviest Sow—$700—Cooper Lennox (88.7kg)

Heaviest Crab—$250—Zac Begg (1.43kg)

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Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Cover—The Senior Heaviest Barra award was dedicated to the late Jaiden Booth, a long-time participant in the competition. Winner of the award, Nick Malone, graciously opted to donate the $1,000 prize money back into the club. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
1—Junior Heaviest Barra winner Dani Broadhead
2—Junior Biggest Catfish winner Lexi Widderick
3—The biennial event, running since 2014, saw competitors battle it out over a range of hunting categories, with Sunday’s weigh-in drawing hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of music, activities and the final awards presentation
4—Attendees watch on in anticipation as the crab race kicks off
5—Crab race bidding was a huge hit!
6—Senior Secret Weight Barra winner Brayden Jaques
7—Junior Heaviest Mangrove Jack winner Keaton Jarvis
8—Senior Heaviest Mangrove Jack winner Brodyn Cosalegno
9—Junior Secret Weight Barra winner Matt Laidlow
10—Open Heaviest Boar winner Joshua Russell
11—Open Heaviest Sow winner Cooper Lennox
12—Senior Biggest Catfish winner Ashley Hiscox
13—Open Heaviest Crab winner Zac Begg
14 – Brody Ferguson placed a bid in the crab auction

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Up to 100 plants have been stolen or damaged from planter boxes in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon in recent months, prompting Burdekin Shire Council to call on the community to help stop ongoing vandalism in CBD areas.

Council’s Parks team, which installs and maintains the planter boxes to beautify local shopping districts, has faced a growing number of incidents—in some cases occurring daily.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the behaviour was disappointing and placed unnecessary pressure on staff and resources.

“Council’s Parks team takes great pride in maintaining our CBD planter boxes, and it is disheartening for staff to see their efforts repeatedly undone,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“Within the last two months, officers have estimated up to 100 plants have needed replacement. Replacing these plants and repairing the damage caused is not only costly for Council – it also takes time away from the many other important tasks carried out across the Shire.

“Residents looking to enhance their own gardens are encouraged to visit the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association, where a wide range of locally suited plants are available for purchase.”

Council is urging residents, business owners and visitors to stay alert and report suspicious activity around planter boxes and public landscaping.

Incidents can be reported to Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800 or to Queensland Police via Policelink on 131 444.

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By Chelsea Ravizza

Whether you’re an ardent lover of gardening or are simply searching for a new hobby, members of the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. warmly invite and encourage locals to come along to experience the serenity of this passionate community group!

Since October of 1958, the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. has been growing and blossoming within the Burdekin Shire. Riding the wave of the highly successful Orchid and Foliage Show at the inaugural Burdekin Water Festival in April of 1958, 24 interested members of the community came together to host a meeting on 16 October to officially form the organisation and elect office bearers, and the society’s first President, Mr H. Williams.

Now, almost seven decades later, the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. exists as a tenacious community-based group focused on the cultivation, education and enjoyment of orchids and related plants.

“We welcome enthusiasts of all skill levels, from beginners to experts,” explained Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. Treasurer, Josephine Ganderton.

Collectively, the group works to provide a supportive environment for growing orchids within the local climate and gathers regularly to offer networking opportunities where attendees can share knowledge with one another on the diverse range of cosmopolitan plants.

In the past, the membership base of the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. has continued to shift, with a historic high of 80 members. Currently, the group regularly welcomes around 30 members to attend meetings and events held at Howie’s Hall at 118 – 120 MacMillan Street in Ayr.

Jo hopes 2026 will see an influx of new members, welcoming locals of any age to attend the group’s monthly meetings held at the hall on the first Sunday of every month from 2pm onwards, with the next meeting set for 1 March.

“We encourage anyone to come along, young or old, and if you love gardening – we have members who are experts on growing orchids in the Burdekin,” said Jo.

“We would love to see some young people attend the meetings!”

Members often bring along any orchids they have in flower for others to admire, providing attendees with the perfect opportunity to learn new tips and tricks from one another! Within the Burdekin Shire specifically, the warm climate has proven ideal for growing Cattleya orchids, which are often referred to as the queen orchid flowers, however, members often find gratification in growing the plants, and quickly develop a small collection of blossoming beauties.

“Once you start growing orchids, you need to have more than one,” added Jo.

“I love seeing all the beautiful flowers that members bring each month for display!”

To find out more information on the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. email Jo, jo.donaldson@bigpond.com or call President Conway Ganderton on 0425 325 040.

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Several members gathered to celebrate a successful year at the society’s 2025 Christmas Dinner. Photo source: Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc.

Monthly, members bring along orchids for display. Photo source: Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc.

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Hello,

One of the main reasons for running for Council was to help make the Burdekin a safer place. I am happy to say that with the help of some special staff at the Burdekin Shire Council and Police working together I have accomplished that goal.

The Council was successful in applying for funding with the Secure Communities Partnership Program. The funding provides security camera in the CBD areas of Ayr and Home Hill.

This will be a big step in assisting with crime prevention and help to keep the residents of the Burdekin Safe.

But there are things you can do at home to help reduce your own risk of break and entry.
Here are some points to assist you:

· Ensure doors are always locked with a key even when you are home.

· Ensure that all external doors, including your garage, are solid and fitted with
quality deadlocks.

· Always ensure car keys and house keys, together with mobile phones, handbags and wallets, are stored out of sight.

· Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow visibility to your property and your house number is clearly visible.

· Lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders.

· Always keep your garage or shed door closed and locked with a key.

· Consider installing perimeter security lighting including sensor lights.

I will certainly support any further opportunities of funding that comes our way at the Burdekin Shire Council to further support security.

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Project work at a local health service will be given a clear pathway forward under the Crisafulli Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming the announcement.

Left as underfunded and with no clear plan under the former Labor Government, the Home Hill Hospital will now be the subject of a detailed business case ensuring development at the facility is fit for purpose and meets patient demand.

Mr Last said the commitment from the Crisafulli Government ensured patients in Home Hill continued to receive access to health care they deserve close to home.

“The Home Hill Hospital provides an invaluable service to its community, ensuring aged care, rehabilitation and renal dialysis patients are able to access the health care they need without travelling 100km down the highway,” Mr Last said.

“Over the years the community have backed the Home Hill Hospital and advocated to continue the services they need so I am proud to see our government backing that campaigning with the infrastructure to support it.”

“Having the proper planning will enable the Minister to consider proper budgeting, resourcing and most importantly, make sure the community can have confidence in the facilities that are constructed.”

Mr Last said the funding would be delivered under the Hospital Rescue Plan which saw Home Hill listed among 20 hospital and health service projects in rural and remote Queensland signed off by the Health Minister this week.

“Under the former Labor government, projects including Home Hill Hospital were announced without completed business cases, leaving costs wildly underestimated and communities without certainty,” Mr Last said.

“The Crisafulli Government is taking real action to ensure no matter where you are you can access health care when you need it most, whether it’s progressing the delivery of a CT scanner in Ayr or creating a clear plan for the future of the Home Hill Hospital.”

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