Hope In a Suitcase for Foster Children in the Northern Region. In a world where stability can feel elusive for children in foster care, the "Hope in a Suitcase" initiative shines as a beacon of compassion and care. Supported by the Catholic Women's League in the Burdekin region, this heartfelt program replaces the cold, impersonal plastic bags often used for relocation, with colourful suitcases filled with comfort and essentials. "Hope in a Suitcase" is a heartwarming initiative founded by Racha
Read more.JPG)
As we continue to celebrate the milestones of businesses in the Burdekin, it’s a great reminder of the vital role local shops and services play in our community. This year McCathies Furniture Plus marked 50 years in business, a significant achievement for a family-run store that has grown from humble beginnings as second-hand dealers to a respected retailer of quality furniture. Their commitment to providing exceptional service and supporting local customers has helped them reach this remarkable
Read more
The Burdekin Shire Youth Council's 30th-anniversary celebration was a heartfelt tribute to three decades of empowering young people across the Burdekin. Founded in 1994 under then-Mayor Beth Honeycombe, the Youth Council has played a vital role in shaping the community, contributing to projects like the Anzac Park Skate Park, Burdekin PCYC, and Burdekin Aquatic Centre. Council has also hosted memorable events, including the Mayor's Disco, Battle of the Bands, and the Fast Track Talent Showcase.
Read more
At a time when having access to instant information is everything, a commitment to bring a public child sex offender register to fruition will be a key tool in ensuring the safety of our children, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP. Mr Last said the LNP announcement of a three-tiered system to be known as Daniel’s Law would give parents and carers access details of reportable offenders who have failed to comply with their reporting obligations on a public website, to the ability to i
Read more
Northern Queensland Legacy held a well-attended Veterans' Health Week Lunch at Dal Santos Delicatessen, bringing together Legacy widows from Burdekin, Charters Towers, and Bowen for a day of connection and support. With the theme of 'Connection,' the event fostered friendships and provided a space for widows to bond over shared experiences. CEO Nicole Hayes emphasised the importance of this event, stating, "Connection is at the heart of what Legacy does. Reducing isolation and financial disadvan
Read more
The Burdekin Men’s Shed Association Inc. commemorated Queensland Mental Health Week with an event titled "Cuppa, Chat, and Chew" on 9 October. The gathering focused on this year’s theme, "Connect for Mental Health," encouraging participants to take proactive steps to nurture both personal and community wellbeing. Queensland Mental Health Week highlights the importance of connecting with people who support mental health through events and activities. This year's theme emphasised four core areas:
Read more
Local and visiting anglers are invited to cast their lines and capture their best fishing moments with the launch of the Visit Burdekin Fishing Photo Competition. The contest offers participants the chance to win a $100 Burdekin Gift Card and have their photo featured on the cover of the Visit Burdekin Fishing Guide, an essential resource for anglers across the region. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the Burdekin’s reputation as a prime fishing destination, noting the variety of creek syste
Read more
Since 2005, Christine Wassmuth, along with two other hosts, has been running the Christian segment of a local radio station, sharing her passion for music and faith with listeners. Christine’s love for music initially drew her to the profession. "I like music; that’s what drew me," she recalls, highlighting the power of melody and lyrics in shaping her broadcasting journey. The Christian music genre, with its profound messages, has influenced Christine’s career, offering a unique perspective on
Read more
Burdekin residents will have the opportunity to dispose of waste for free on Sunday, 1 December, as part of the “Let’s Get Ready Burdekin” initiative, which aims to help residents prepare for the upcoming disaster season. The Free Waste Disposal Day encourages locals to clean up around their homes, eliminating potential hazards and reducing the risk of damage during severe weather events like cyclones. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort emphasised the importance of this initiative in supporting the comm
Read more
1: What key policies or ideals does the political party you’re running for have that you resonate most with, what are the reasons you align with them? 2: What is your main election promise and how are you going to ensure it actually happens if you are elected? 3: What policy/promise do you like from a competing party and how would you like to see it play out if elected? 4: What do you think about negative campaigning - do you think there is a place for it these days? 5: What is one thing unexpec
Read more
1: Fixing the cost of living problems, the power problems and the youth programs - I am experienced in all of them. 2: Simplify legislation so the average citizen can follow it, stop having legislation written by Lawyers. 3: I am running for One Nation and our policies. 4: There is no place for trash talking other parties, it is disrespectful to everyone 5: Being a large electorate, I would probably retrofit a caravan and take the office on the road to be accessible to all my constitu
Read more
1: Throughout its history, Labor has been a progressive force for workers and working families, especially for women, establishing many of the reforms and initiatives that continue to drive gender equality to this day. Without Labor, we wouldn’t have Medicare! I am a big believer in improving Healthcare without cuts. We need more hospital beds and more health workers, not less, plus returning Coal Royalties to region is the only way we are going to fix the Bruce Highway. I have already secured $
Read more
1: I am representing the Liberal National Party (LNP), just as I always have. Since joining the party and as Member for Burdekin I have consistently resonated with and upheld their ideals and policies. These ideals like having freedom of conscience and freedom of expression have been the foundation of my work as the Member for Burdekin, ensuring that no matter where you live or work in the Burdekin, there is an opportunity to raise your concerns, beliefs or desires with me. 2: My priority has
Read more
1: Unlike other political parties, the KAP is a values based party. We believe in fairness for all North Queenslanders and offer common sense solutions to serious problems such as crime, support for businesses and cost of living. 2: Our first priority is to address the crime problem we face in Queensland. This generates so much waste and suffering for individuals and organisations. 3: I like the promise from the liberal party that they will address the issue with youth crime but fear that the
Read more
The Millaroo State School P&C Association, a small but active group of five volunteers, has long been dedicated to supporting the students of Millaroo State School. Despite being a rural community, the P&C strives to give local students access to the same opportunities available to their urban peers. "Our mission is to provide our students with every opportunity despite living in a rural area," says Treasurer Anna Hoare. The association’s efforts, which rely on strong community support, focus o
Read more.jpg)
As is Murphy’s Law, everything seems to happen all at once. I was very fortunate to attend Home Hill State High School’s Awards night last Thursday night. On behalf of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, I had the honor of presenting the Dawson Medal to Jacob Machin. The Dawson Medal recognises a student who demonstrates both leadership and excellence in attitude and achievement, who is a strong and consistent participant in school and community activities and who exhibits a commitme
Read more%20(1).jpg)
This past week has been a testimony to the strength and spirit of our Burdekin community especially as we mark Mental Health Week. Firstly, I’d like to highlight the Men's Shed and the positive impact it is having on the community. With consistent attendance, this initiative continues to provide a safe space for connection, conversation, and support, reinforcing the importance of well-being in our community. There was a fantastic turnout for the Burdekin Shire Youth Council's 30th Anniversary, w
Read more
Over the October long weekend, the Lower Burdekin Scouts, along with Scout Leader Rikki, joined 52 other Scouts and 10 Leaders for an action-packed Pre-Jamboree camp held at Heatley Secondary School in Townsville. The camp was designed to prepare them for the upcoming Jamboree, which will take place in Maryborough from 6 to 16 January, 2025. The event will bring together 8,000 Scouts and 1,500 Leaders from across Australia, as well as hundreds of international Scouts. The Pre-Jamboree camp gave
Read more
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) is pleased to announce the securing of funds through the Regional Economics Future Fund for the Bowen Food Futures Precinct. The $2.1 million project is one of three announced for the Greater Whitsunday region focused on economic development, jobs and a renewable future. The Bowen Food Futures Precinct project will be delivered in two stages, beginning with a detailed business case and feasibility study, which will then inform the construction of a pilot
Read more
Burdekin Shire Council is seeking community input on the Draft Update of the Burdekin Sport and Recreation Plan, inviting residents to participate in the consultation process to help shape the future of local sports and recreational services. Following extensive consultations earlier this year, the draft plan has been completed, and Council is keen to ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of the community. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the importance of community engagement in this
Read more
Leaders of some of Queensland’s peak sugar industry bodies – CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) – have come together to discuss the industry’s future and compare their policy positions ahead of the upcoming state election. Representing both growers and millers, the organisations had a clear message for politicians hoping to lead the state from 26 October – the sugar industry, which employs over 20,000 Queenslanders and contributes $4.4 billion to the economy, demands u
Read more
Cane crushed This week Season to date Invicta 120,299 1,961,037 Pioneer 75,185 921,027 Kalamia 79,381 1,081,825 Inkerman 79,784 1,196,089 Burdekin 354,649 5,159,978 CCS Invicta 15.05 14.32 Pioneer 14.66 14.30 Kalamia 14.39 13.91 Inkerman 14.75 14.06 Burdekin 14.75 14.17 Weekly variety performance for region Variety % CCS Variety % CCS Q240 57% 14.90 Q183 6% 15.02 KQ228 15% 14.32 WSRA17 5% 13.90 Q208 6% 14.76 Q232 5% 14.49 Comments: The Burdekin mills processed just under 355,000 tonnes of cane f
Read more%20with%20Uncle%20Milton%20Lawton%20and%20Melanie%20Kemp%2C%20of%20Yarbun%20Creations.jpg)
A groundbreaking study by CQUniversity has revealed the promising antioxidant and cancer-fighting properties of Gumbi Gumbi (Pittosporum angustifolium), a native Australian plant used for generations in First Nations healthcare. This study, funded by the CQUniversity BHP Chair in Indigenous Engagement, showcases how modern science is backing up traditional medicine. Led by Dr. Mani Naiker from the Bioactive and Functional Foods Research Group, the project was conducted in collaboration with Ghun
Read more
Recently an article appeared in our local newspaper Burdekin Life (Thursday July 11 2024 The Treasured History of Populin’s Hall. This bought back some memories which we would like to share with you. The Ayr Water Festival decided to call this particular Festival in 2024, The Maria Populin Festival in Memory of Maria when Populin’s Hall was opened sixty years ago. Mr. Demetrio Populin and his wife Marie began their building construction business in Ayr in the late 1940’s. George his son has exp
Read more
Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing Wilmar Grower Marketing is excited to announce the launch of a new pool to help growers manage their GEI sugar price exposure in an increasingly volatile and uncertain world. The past 18 months have seen unprecedented volatility in the #11 sugar futures which has driven the AUD sugar price to historically high levels, only to rapidly plunge to new lows. Recent price fluctuations underscore the ongoing uncertainty in the sugar price outlook. We know ther
Read more