Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to welcome Tracey Young to the team as a new Customer Service Officer, bringing with her a strong passion for people, community and helping customers with their everyday banking needs. Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Together they are raising their three children – Charlie, Mitchell and Henry – while embracing the close-knit lifestyle that makes the region so special. For Tracey, joining Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is more than simply starting a new role – it is an opportunity to work closely with local people and contribute to a bank that actively supports the wider community. “What I enjoy most is interacting directly with our customers every day,” Tracey said. “It is incredibly rewarding to solve their problems, help them with their day-to-day financial needs, and build real trust within our local community.” Outside of work, Tracey enjoys an active family life centred around horses, camping adventures, travelling to new places and spending quality time with her family whenever possible. Having spent more than a decade living in the Burdekin, Tracey says the welcoming spirit of the community is what stands out most. “Definitely the people and the small-town community spirit,” she said. “Everyone is willing to help each other out, whether it’s at a local sporting group, a not-for-profit organisation, the local school, a fellow Burdekin neighbour or even a traveller passing through. You will always be welcomed with a warm smile.” Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said the team was excited to welcome Tracey and the local knowledge and customer focus she brings to the branch. “Tracey’s warm personality and passion for helping people make her a wonderful addition to our team,” Sally said. “At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, we pride ourselves on delivering personal service and supporting the communities we live and work in, and Tracey reflects those values perfectly.” Customers visiting the branch are encouraged to stop by, say hello and welcome Tracey to the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr family. Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr CAPTION: Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Photo supplied
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Members of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association (BMSA) whipped out the barbie last Friday to raise funds for the Lower Burdekin Scout Group. The fundraiser, sponsored by Bendigo Bank, brought the aroma of a freshly cooked barbecue breakfast to Ayr’s Queen Street from 9am until around noon. BMSA President Rob Ritchie called it a “great opportunity to get out and face the community” while raising money for an important local group. “We’ve donated to national charities before, but the Lower Burdekin Scout Group is a great community group, and we’d rather see money raised stay in the community,” he said. “They’ve got to do every bit of fundraising themselves, so if we can help a little bit, all well and good.” BMSA member Chris Fox said the barbecue was the latest example of a mutual relationship between the two organisations that has spanned years. “They’ve done lots for us, so we do our best to reciprocate in kind,” he said. On top of the occasional fundraising barbecue, the BMSA meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00–11:30am for recreational activities, skills development and community projects. Anyone interested in joining the BMSA is encouraged to call 0467 083 502, email burdekinmensshed@outlook.com or visit the shed at 155-157 Young St, Ayr. CAPTION: The BMSA barbecue was delivered in conjunction with sponsor Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.
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Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox Every federal budget should be a structural blueprint for a nation’s future prosperity. Instead, Labor’s latest budget has delivered a grim ledger of broken promises, toxic taxes, and skyrocketing debt that leaves everyday Australians footing the bill. It confirms that Anthony Albanese is presiding over an incompetent executive and overseeing a country that is heading completely in the wrong direction. Since Labor was elected, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Because this government simply cannot manage money, they are aggressively coming after yours. Their record spending means the federal budget is now forecast to be in deficit for a decade, and total national debt is about to smash through the $1 trillion mark. To put that into perspective, the yearly interest bill alone on that debt will top $42 billion. That is a crushing $80,000 per minute leaking out of the budget, money that should be funding highways, veteran wellbeing and providing dignity to those in their twilight years. Rather than exercising restraint, Labor has locked government spending at its highest level in forty years, outside of a pandemic. To bankroll this spending spree, our economy is being burdened with $50 billion in higher taxes, including a massive $15 billion hit to personal income taxes. These toxic taxes are a direct assault on aspiration. They are locking young Australians out of the stable opportunities afforded to older generations, whacking punitive penalties on housing, savings, investment, and small businesses. This economic mismanagement is actively fuelling a homegrown inflation crisis. For communities across our region, this means interest rates will stay higher for longer. The human cost of this failure is devastating. A typical Australian family with a mortgage is now $32,000 a year worse off under Labor, when you take into account higher mortgage repayments and higher cost of living factors. At the same time, the actual buying power of your wages has declined by 3 per cent. You are working harder than ever, yet your pay packet buys less every single week. Australians do not have to settle for this managed decline, and people will rightly ask, what would your party do differently? The Coalition has put forward a comprehensive plan to restore our standard of living and protect our way of life. Our strategy will reward hard work, restore home ownership, and put Australians first. We have promised to axe Labor’s toxic taxes. At the heart of our commitment is a Tax Back Guarantee. We will end Labor’s insidious inflation tax by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation, ensuring workers keep more of what they earn. To secure our financial future, we will establish a Future Generations Fund. We will bank resource windfalls to systematically pay down debt and build the vital national infrastructure our regional communities desperately need. By returning 25 per cent of resource windfalls directly to their regions of origin, the Coalition will deliver an incredible boost to Dawson, ensuring the wealth generated in the Bowen Basin gets reinvested to boost investor and business confidence. This budget presents a fundamental choice for Australians to consider before this next election. It is a choice between a government that taxes your savings and shrinks your future, and a Coalition plan that rewards hard work, restores home ownership, and secures Australia’s future.
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Generations of lifesavers, families and supporters converged on the district at the weekend as the iconic Ayr Surf Life Saving Club marked a century of beach safety and mateship with a spectacular three-day centenary celebration. READ ON PAGE 3 CAPTION: A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and photography Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Marks Historic 100-Year Milestone CONTINUED FROM COVER More than 300 attendees flocked to the region at the weekend to mark one of the most significant milestones in local history as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club celebrated its 100th anniversary. The milestone was commemorated with a packed three-day program of events running from May 29 to 31, bringing together generations of members, families and supporters to reflect on a century of coastal protection and community spirit. A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations, complemented by a Friday night meet-and-greet at the Kalamia Hotel and a relaxed recovery gathering at the Alva Beach clubhouse on Sunday. Club President Dr Benjamin Lawry said the anniversary celebrations were a fitting tribute to the volunteers, members and community supporters who have sustained the organisation for a century. "Over the past 100 years, countless individuals have given their time, energy and commitment to ensure the safety of beachgoers and strength of our community," Dr Lawry said. "This weekend was an opportunity not only to celebrate our history, but to thank everyone who has played a role in building the Club into what it is today. "The stories shared throughout the weekend reminded us that while our uniforms, equipment and the beach itself have changed over the years, the spirit of service, friendship and community remains exactly the same." The club’s deep historical roots trace back to late 1925, following the tragic drowning of John Begg Donaldson while swimming at Lynch’s—now known as Alva—Beach. In the wake of the tragedy, Mr Donaldson's workmates at the Kalamia Mill raised funds and sent them to his parents in Scotland, who returned the money with the insistence that the local community use it. A meeting was subsequently convened at the Shire Chambers in October 1926, where the decision was made to form the Donaldson and Lower Burdekin Life Saving Club, which originally affiliated with the Sydney-based Surf Life Saving Association of Australia four years before a Queensland branch even existed. Now known as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, the institution stands proudly as one of Queensland's oldest surf lifesaving clubs. The club’s storied history was also honoured on the weekend by the official launch of a new retrospective book, 100 Summers: the story of the Ayr SLSC, written by author Martin Grandelis following months of exhaustive research, interviews and writing to document the people who shaped the club. Long-time members used the weekend to reflect on the profound personal impact of the local institution, including Club Patron Hockey Vernon, who joined the club as a cadet in 1959. Addressing the gala dinner, Mr Vernon delivered a heartfelt speech on how the club has shaped generations of local families over the decades. “From joining the Club in 1959 as a cadet, it quickly became much more than just a place to volunteer. It became a second family,” Mr Vernon said. “The mateship and camaraderie found down at Alva have been a constant and particularly meaningful part of my life. Seeing my children become part of the Club has been especially rewarding, and a testament to the lasting impact this community has on generations. “Sharing in the celebration of 100 years of the Club has been incredibly special. It has been wonderful to see so many familiar faces, past and present, come together to honour the history, achievements and spirit of this Club I call family.” CAPTION: Generations of lifesavers, families and supporters converged on the district at the weekend as the iconic Ayr Surf Life Saving Club marked a century of beach safety and mateship with a spectacular three-day centenary celebration. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and photography
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The Sugar Bowl’s little sister, the Cane Country Cup pickleball team event, will get underway this Sunday 7 June from 8am to approximately 3.30pm. A strong field of 29 teams will battle it out in Home Hill, making for one of the biggest editions of the event to date. The competition will be split into four divisions from Advanced through to Social as a result of an increase in numbers. Teams will compete across Men’s doubles, Ladies doubles and two Mixed doubles matches, taking on every team within their division. Competitors are travelling from as far as Cardwell to Cape Gloucester and everywhere in between. The Advanced division features players who have medalled at Queensland Pickleball tournaments this year, promising high-quality match-ups. Spectators should keep an eye out for Townsville’s Darren Hutchinson and his team “Pickle Me Dink”, while last year’s winners “Pickle d’Lulu”, led by Hannah Casswell, return to defend their title. Local interest will also be strong, with Home Hill’s Laurel Blucher, a multiple Home Hill Tennis Open winner in the 1980s, featuring in Leyton’s Larrikans. Home Hill is represented by six mixed teams, with a strong focus on camaraderie and enjoyment. Prizes will be awarded for best team spirit, recognising sportsmanship, teamwork and camaraderie on and off the court. Creative team names such as the Crafty Cassowaries, Cardwell Crocs, Gloucester Gherkins and Pickled Mangoes will add to the atmosphere. Visitors are welcome to attend and support the Home Hill Tennis event and discover the sport of pickleball. Contributed with thanks to HHTA Secretary Kate Casswell CAPTIONS: 1—Last year’s Home Hill representatives pose in front of the freshly unveiled Home Hill Tennis Association amenities block. Photo credit: Jacob Casha 2—A strong field of 29 teams will battle it out in Home Hill, making for one of the biggest editions of the event to date. Photo supplied
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A great break by Tyce Cursio and off-load to K J Zaro led to the smart five-eighth scoring the first of seven tries by the Burdekin Roosters as they overwhelmed the Herbert River Crushers at Bendigo Bank Park last Friday night 36 to 18 in Under 19s. The match was played as a catch-up to the round two match when the game was shifted to last Friday. The local boys, under the coaching of Alf Cantarella, turned it on especially in the first half in front of a big crowd to move into second place on the ladder behind Brothers but ahead of Centrals and Herbert River. Led by their forwards with Kenny Southwell, Mason Kiehne, Leylan Lampton and Jack Power standing out, the team was just too fast for the opposition River boys. Jack Power was just too quick and slippery for Ingham, cutting through for two great tries. Another who did not cross for a try but set up a couple with his elusiveness was lock Tyce Cursio, who caused the Ingham defence plenty of trouble. While the forwards paved the way, the backs made good use of the room, with half Chad Fraser one of the best on ground. Chad was well supported by K J Zaro, Kirk Viero, Riley Smith and Tyreece Trindle, with young fullback Logan Guglielmania chiming in. Coach Alf Cantarella said his team started the game well, putting points on the board. Alf said they did fall away a bit in the second half after leading 22–0 at the break, actually losing the second session 18 to 14. Herbert River received a few extra penalties in the second half and, with the extra ball, made good use of it. The local boys though did not panic and actually scored the last try. Alf said they used the game as a platform for other games coming up, with Herbert River winning their share against other recent clubs. Jack Power was awarded players’ player for his standout effort, but he would have been just ahead of Tyce Cursio and Joey Southwell. The coach also praised the effort of his fullback Logan, who was safe and dangerous in attack. BURDEKIN: tries by Jack Power (2), K J Zaro, Kirk Viero, Logan Guglielmania, Chad Fraser, Tyreece Trindle … Chad Fraser 4 goals. ................................................... No other games were played in the R L T D last weekend due to the round being classed as a contingency round. Club football will return this weekend with the Roosters in Ingham on Saturday afternoon playing Herbert River in three grades: Under 19 at 3, reserves at 4.30 and A grade at 6. There should be a good crowd in Ingham as it is their Ladies Day, the same as it was at Western Lions and then Charters Towers. In other matches Charters Towers will host Centrals in the western city, Norths will be visited by Western Lions and Souths will play Brothers, with those teams sitting one and two in A grade. .................................................. The Roosters will have their first home game after several weeks on the road when they play Brothers in three grades on Saturday June 13 at Bendigo Bank Park. That day is also a Super Saturday with some 20-odd junior league games being played. It is also Old Boys Day, with several Old Boys on ground for the games after a function at the Ayr Anzac Club. The club has also arranged for a huge jersey auction, with proceeds going to the Davenport Appeal. Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
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Home Hill tennis star Adam Walton has produced the biggest win of his career, defeating sixth seed Daniil Medvedev in a gripping five-set first-round clash at the French Open, 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 1-6, 6-4. The Australian wildcard, ranked outside the world’s top 90, started strongly, taking the opening set 6-2 as Medvedev struggled to settle on the clay. The Russian responded emphatically with a 6-1 second set, before Walton again wrestled back momentum with a dominant third set of his own. Medvedev levelled once more at two sets all, but Walton held firm in the decider, breaking at a crucial stage before serving out the match 6-4 to secure his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Read on page 30 CAPTION: Home Hill’s finest tennis export, Adam Walton, has continued his professional tennis ascent after beating sixth-seed Daniil Medvedev to claim his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Photo source: ATP Tour HOME HILL TENNIS STAR DEFEATS FORMER WORLD NO.1 AT FRENCH OPEN Continued from back cover Home Hill’s finest tennis export, Adam Walton, has continued his professional tennis ascent after beating sixth-seed Daniil Medvedev to claim his first career Grand Slam win over a top-10 opponent. Both players traded heavy blows across the French Open first round contest. Walton finished with 34 winners to Medvedev’s 54, but crucially kept enough control of the key moments to convert pressure into breaks when it mattered most. The pair had met twice previously, with the head-to-head level at one win apiece. Walton said his victory over Medvedev in Cincinnati last year gave him confidence heading into the fixture. “Anyone can beat anyone on a given day,” he said. “I had the belief that I could definitely go out there and beat him… and to get a first top-10 win at a slam is pretty epic.” He cited the heat as a potential advantage, given his upbringing in North Queensland’s dry tropical climate. “I grew up in the heat… I’d say I last better than the field in the heat,” he said. “I’m not the most talented player out there, so to be able to last in hot conditions is an important factor.” When asked about how he thought his victory would be received in Home Hill, Walton responded: “I haven’t been back there in a while, but I have so many connections with the local club there and I think it’s a pretty cool story to have been brought up in Home Hill, then move to Brisbane, then America and now playing pro—it’s pretty special.” Home Hill Tennis Association Secretary Kate Casswell called Walton’s victory a proud moment for the Burdekin community and beyond. “The Home Hill Tennis Club, the whole district and all of the northern tennis community are incredibly proud of Adam’s achievement,” she said. “The win shows us that anyone with the determination and effort, no matter where you come from, can achieve great things.” She said that his exploits on the main stage brought increased traffic to the club’s Facebook page, with a post on his win garnering over 70,000 views. She called it a testament to the huge amount of support out there for him. Walton has since bowed out of the French Open after suffering a 3-1 sets defeat to American Zachary Svajda. He now has his sights set on the Challenger Tyler tournament in the USA, where he’ll face Wu Tung-Lin in the first round. CAPTION: Adam Walton won his first ATP Challenger Tour title in 2023. Photo supplied: ATP Tour
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The familiar acoustic chords and unapologetic larrikin humour of Kevin Bloody Wilson are set to hit the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June, as his Aussie Icon Tour brings decades of irreverent pub comedy back to regional Queensland’s stages. Wilson, the stage persona of Bathurst-born comedian and singer-songwriter Dennis Bryant, emerged in the 1980s as one of Australia’s most recognisable exporters of blue-collar, deliberately provocative musical comedy. But that was never the original goal. “It all started with my mates,” Wilson said. “I started out by writing 40 songs for them—like ‘Mick, the Master Farter’—and they enjoyed it. They said, ‘you should record some of this stuff, it's bloody funny.’ So I did, and they were absolutely right. We sold s*** loads!” That same formula has carried him through decades of touring and releases including Kev’s Back (The Return of the Yobbo) and Born Again Piss Tank, alongside multiple ARIA nominations for Best Comedy Release. Now, he comes to the Burdekin with a show derived from over 20 albums, each with that same pub-born, no-filter humour that launched his career into the stratosphere. But for all the global tours and acclaim, he said it’s Aussies that resonate most with his material. “Here in Australia, a root’s a root, and a chook’s a chook. For American and Canadian audiences, you've got to explain it,” he said. “I'm an electrician by trade, and I just talk the way that all my mates do. I don't dolly it up or flower it up simply because it's in a song. I tell the story in the song the same way I tell it over a beer.” Joining Wilson on stage is his daughter Tammy-Jo Bryant (Jenny Talia), continuing a touring partnership that has taken her across Australia, the UK and Europe, including a 72-date run supporting her father. With a footprint in Nashville as a traditional country music artist, Tammy-Jo eventually made the switch to bawdy comedy after decades of exposure to her father’s work. Her first release as a comedian outsold her three previous country albums. The pair embark on a trip a coastal run of shows from Cairns down to Brisbane at the start of this month, a stretch that Wilson calls one of his favourite. “I'm not pissing in your pocket when I say I particularly love this route that we're on now, from Cairns down to Brizzy. It’s seriously, one of my favourite parts of the world,” he said. Wilson says he hopes the audience can leave with a “good belly laugh.” “It's cathartic, is the word that the audience usually tell me. It will always make you feel better, and it kicks in the endorphins that make you feel good,” he said. “Sometimes it's good to have a good belly laugh, and to laugh at s*** you're not supposed to be laughing at.” Catch Kevin Bloody Wilson’s Aussie Icon Tour at the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June 2026, from 7.00pm to 9.30pm. Tickets are available via www.burdekintheatre.com.au, with seats expected to move quickly for one of the region’s most in-demand comedy nights. CAPTION: The familiar acoustic chords and unapologetic larrikin humour of Kevin Bloody Wilson are set to hit the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June, as his Aussie Icon Tour brings decades of irreverent pub comedy back to regional Queensland’s stages. Photo supplied
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The award-winning concert series Between the Tides is back in July and has found a stunning new home on Ngaro Country at Airlie Beach along the sparkling Great Barrier Reef coastline. For three years, this one-of-a-kind event has brought together music, culture, and nature, and now it is stepping into an exciting new chapter. Find your rhythm on The Reef as some of Australia’s most celebrated musicians take to the stage against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coast. Headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies fill the air and lift across the foreshore, the music flows seamlessly from one performance to the next. Jem Cassar-Daley follows with soulful songs that drift over the sand, drawing you in with every note. Mid Drift carries the feeling onward with intimate, heartfelt melodies that seem to ripple with the waves. Tjaka sparks a surge of energy, blending beats, rap, and didgeridoo in a way that makes the crowd move together. Rounding out the lineup, local singer Kaylee West brings warm, folk-inspired songs shaped by the ocean and open road, perfectly in tune with the coastal setting. Guided by the custodians of the Ngaro Nation, this is more than a concert. Experience cultural performances, sand art, workshops, and knowledge-sharing, alongside locally crafted food, drinks, and art. Dance, share stories, and connect with the rhythms of this ever-changing coastal landscape. Feel the breeze off the Coral Sea, and let the music, culture, and coastal beauty carry you away. Between the Tides at Airlie Beach is a day to connect, to dance, to share stories, and to create memories you’ll never forget. Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your place now and be part of something truly unforgettable. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body. What? Between The Tides When? Saturday 4th July Where? 8 Airlie Esplanade Between the tides will be headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies will fill the air and lift across the foreshore.
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"As commemorations for 2026 QLD Day gear up, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is encouraging Burdekin residents to take the time to celebrate everything great about their community and our state. Mr Last said the Burdekin’s multicultural heritage, local legends and spanning industries meant there was plenty to recognise and celebrate on June 6. “I have always said the Burdekin Electorate punches above its weight and Queensland Day is another chance to shine a light on the people, places and the contributions our industries make to our state,” Mr Last said. “No matter where you are in this state, QLD Day is our chance to get together and celebrate what Queensland means to us and what it means to be a Queenslander.” “For me, Queensland Day is a chance to recognise those local legends in our community who step up to support others at times of hardship, our emergency services, volunteers and those we describe as local legends. We saw this recently when victims of a tragic bus accident were provided immediate support by members of our community.” Ahead of celebrations at the weekend, Mr Last congratulated those from all corners of the state who had been recognised in the QLD Day 2026 All the Best. “Queenslanders have backed their best fish and chip shop, beaches, cafes, bakeries and florists with some of our best small businesses appearing on the state’s stage,” Mr Last said. “The campaign was another way we can get behind our favourite small businesses and it’s fantastic to see finalists from right across the state, including the Burdekin Electorate.” QLD Day, held annually on 6 June, marks the date the state officially separated from New South Wales in 1859 and became an independent self-governing colony."
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Death is one of life's certainties, yet it remains one of the most difficult experiences we face. When we lose a loved one, it can feel as though our world has been turned upside down. In small communities like ours, however, grief is rarely carried alone. From funeral notices in the local paper to personal messages of condolence, there is a shared understanding that when one family is hurting, the wider community stands beside them. Earlier this week, Burdekin Funerals took to social media to acknowledge another tradition that continues to reflect the compassion and respect of the Burdekin community. "One thing we've always admired about communities like Ayr and Home Hill is the respect people still show during a funeral procession," they said. "Cars pull over. Businesses pause. People stand quietly out the front. "It's a simple gesture, but it means more than most realise to the families travelling behind that hearse, saying their final goodbye. "Sadly, not many towns still do this anymore. "Thank you for continuing to show kindness, patience and respect in moments that matter most." While seemingly small, these acts serve as a powerful reminder of what makes country communities special. In a world that often moves at a relentless pace, taking a moment to pause and honour someone's final journey speaks volumes about the values we continue to hold dear. It is a tradition of respect, dignity and community spirit - one that many hope will continue for generations to come.
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From Jasmin Lewis Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices As the 2026 harvest begins, the Wilmar AgServices team has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we are ready to support growers with their fertiliser needs throughout the season. We recognise that global events have affected the supply of some raw material inputs, creating uncertainty across fertiliser markets and raising concerns about product availability. We want to reassure growers that we are confident in our current supply position – both for our base Dunder stocks and key added inputs such as urea. Planning is also well advanced to ensure Bio Dunder liquid fertiliser applications can commence in line with harvesting operations. While our supply outlook is positive, the current supply environment remains dynamic. We encourage growers to confirm their fertiliser requirements early to help secure supply and enable our experienced local contractors to schedule applications efficiently across farms. Made in Sarina, Bio Dunder is an organic-based fertiliser trusted by generations of farmers. It delivers a comprehensive nutrient package of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur (NPKS), together with valuable organic carbon that supports long-term soil health. Our agronomists and contractors consistently see the best yield responses when Bio Dunder is applied straight after harvesting. That’s why we encourage growers to ‘follow the harvester’ with their Bio Dunder application. We know rising input costs are placing pressure on farming operations. Our sales agronomists continue to work closely with growers to optimise NPKS programs that help reduce fertiliser costs without compromising sugarcane yield potential. Our pricing remains competitive, particularly when considering the soil health benefits Bio Dunder provides. Call us on 1800 881 957 to confirm pricing and supply for the season. Alternatively, email AgServices@Wilmar.com.au We’re ready and able to support your fertilising needs throughout the 2026 harvest. AgServices agronomists Drew McGilchrist (left) and Marc Tanizar (right) chat with Mackay grower Lee Blackburn about the positive outlook for Bio Dunder supplies. Photo supplied
Read moreMeet some of this year’s QLD Day ambassadors, championing the essence and vibrance of Queensland. We know Queensland has produced no shortage of rugby league royalty. Wally Lewis AM – also known as “The King” – is the face of his state yet again as a 2026 QLD Day ambassador. “I’m a proud Queenslander, born and bred, and I’ve spent a lifetime representing this wonderful state,” Wally said. “I’m inspired by everyday Queenslanders, the people who show up for their families, their communities, and each other; that’s the real strength of this state.” One of rugby league’s greatest players, Johnathan Thurston AM; former three-time premiership winner for the Brisbane Broncos, Gorden Tallis; and captain of the Broncos, Maroons and Jillaroos, Ali Brigginshaw are also representing rugby this year. There must be something in the water, with our best swimmers diving in as ambassadors: eight-time Olympic medallist, Cate Campbell OAM; Paralympic gold medallist Alexa Leary OAM; and four-time Paralympic medallist Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson. Netball great Laura Geitz, raised in the Darling Downs town of Allora, joins Gold Coast AFL rising star Ethan Read. One of Australia’s most beloved tennis champions, Pat Rafter said he proudly wears the title of ‘Queenslander’, while he secretly loves having a stadium with his name on it. “I love being a Queenslander, I was brought up in Mount Isa, so I guess there is a fair bit of that country passion in me,” Pat said. “Having a stadium with my name on it is so cool. The Queensland tennis crowd is pretty respectful; they enjoy their tennis but appreciate good players with good attitude.” From the arts, didgeridoo virtuoso and composer William Barton sits alongside Pub Choir founder Astrid Jorgensen OAM, country music balladeer Lee Kernaghan OAM, and celebrity chef Alastair McLeod. Rounding out the line-up is veteran journalist and child-safety advocate Kay McGrath OAM, a Queensland Great, encouraging all Queenslanders to celebrate the unique spirit of the Sunshine State. “Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Kay said. What ties them together isn’t fame – it’s our state. Each ambassador’s story is rooted in a different patch of Queensland, from outback towns to coastal cities. Together, they paint a portrait of a state that’s as diverse as it is proud. QLD Day Ambassadors qld.gov.au/qldday
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The Government has launched a new funding round for its Future Drought Fund Drought Resilience Hubs program, creating opportunities to further strengthen drought preparedness across agricultural regions including the Burdekin. The national initiative will establish seven Drought Resilience Hubs across Australia, supporting farmers and rural communities with practical tools, knowledge and services aimed at improving resilience to future drought conditions. Following an independent review, the program has been redesigned to place greater emphasis on delivering on-the-ground outcomes and helping producers adopt proven drought-resilient practices. A total of $86.7 million will be invested nationally through to June 2032 to support the next phase of the program. The hubs are intended to act as regional connectors, linking producers with experts, innovations, research and support services while identifying local challenges and opportunities specific to their area. The program also aims to strengthen collaboration between industry groups, governments, research organisations and regional communities. Applications are now open for eligible organisations interested in operating the hubs, with funding expected to support activities from March 2027 through to June 2032. Applications will close on the 10th of August. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information. Farmer Inspects Soil Health Pasture Roots Stock Photo 2641806863 | Shutterstock CAPTION: Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock
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Ayr Police Station marked Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month with a dedicated morning tea at the Ayr PCYC on 27 May, aimed at uniting the public and local organisations to combat violence in the home. The morning saw members from local community support groups and local high school leaders come together for the annual event, established by local police as a proactive community engagement initiative. The event featured guest speaker Deb Mclean from Bowen, founder of Exercise Angels. Ms Mclean delivered a moving presentation, sharing her personal lived experience as a victim of domestic violence and detailing the vital coping mechanisms that helped her navigate her recovery. Key local advocacy and support groups were heavily involved in the proceedings, including representatives from the Burdekin Community Association (BCA), Zonta, and the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre. Organisers also encouraged school leaders from across the district to attend, equipping them to spread the message of awareness and safety throughout their respective high school networks. The primary goal of the morning tea is to educate and inform the public on the realities of domestic violence, highlighting how the community can work alongside police to prevent harm, safeguard victim-survivors, and ultimately reduce emergency calls for service. Ayr Police hope that by fostering open dialogue and education through initiatives like the morning tea, the community can join forces to successfully prevent violence in both homes and the wider Burdekin district. CAPTION: Ayr Police Station marked Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month with a dedicated morning tea at the Ayr PCYC on 27 May. Photo supplied
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Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) celebrated National Volunteers Week last week from 18-24 May 2026, for the vital role that our Volunteers contribute to the community. The theme for this year is, "Ignite Volunteering", highlights how volunteering creates connections, purpose, and positive changes and focuses on encouraging more people to give their time and talents. During NVW week, a Funday was held on Tuesday 19th May at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Volunteers were treated to a delicious morning tea and a few fun social bowl games. The BCA Volunteer Funday was enjoyed by all those who attended. Many thanks to Judy and Trevor Elton at the Home Hill Community Sports Club for providing a wonderful venue for any event. On Friday 22nd May a free luncheon was provided at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club. The luncheon was an opportunity for BCA to show our appreciation for all the good work that our Volunteers do for the organisation and the community. The BCA volunteer family is growing, building social and community connections, networking and providing new skills. At BCA we try to ensure that we provide a meaningful, welcoming and enjoyable experience for all of our Volunteers. If you or anyone you know is interested in volunteering for BCA, please contact Rita Quagliata, our Volunteer Service Manager on 4783 3744 or bca@bcaburdekin.org.au. CAPTIONS: 1—Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) celebrated National Volunteers Week last week from 18-24 May 2026, for the vital role that our Volunteers contribute to the community. 2— On Friday 22nd May a free luncheon was provided at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club. Photos supplied
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The Burdekin Shire Council is seeking over $53 million in state funding to unlock roughly 1,000 new residential lots in Ayr, in a bid to ease the region’s ongoing housing shortage. The proposal will be submitted under Round 2 of the Queensland Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which supports major infrastructure projects needed to open up new housing supply. If successful, the funding will deliver critical trunk infrastructure including roads, sewer networks, water supply upgrades and treatment plant expansions, targeting long-standing development constraints that have limited new housing construction in the area. Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the project would address one of the region’s key barriers to growth. “Council recognises that a lack of enabling infrastructure is one of the biggest barriers to housing growth in the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “Through the Residential Activation Fund, we are investing in the essential infrastructure needed to unlock new residential land, reduce development barriers and support future population growth.” She said the investment would also strengthen the local economy by improving housing availability for workers. “This project is not just about housing—it’s about strengthening our local economy, attracting workers and ensuring the Burdekin remains a great place to live, work and invest,” she said. Council data shows local housing construction has fallen by 41 per cent since 2021, a decline attributed to a shortage of affordable, development-ready land. High upfront development costs, flooding constraints, rising insurance premiums and a shortage of builders and trades have also contributed to the slowdown. The $53 million proposal targets infrastructure upgrades and extensions in growth areas including Craig Street, Chippendale Street and Beach Road. The figure includes construction costs, contingency allowances, contractor margins and indirect expenses. If approved, council expects enabling works to begin in July 2027 and be completed by December 2028, with housing development to follow as serviced land becomes available. The state government has already approved almost $994 million in projects under the Residential Activation Fund to unlock both infill and greenfield housing. Successful projects from Round 2 are expected to be announced from July 2026. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says the $53 million project would address the region’s key barriers to growth. Photo supplied
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The Burdekin community has rallied behind the Burdekin Touch Football Association, rapidly backing a new "Sponsor-a-Block" initiative to protect local sporting grounds following devastating damage last month. The fundraiser allows local businesses and residents to sponsor heavy concrete barriers recently placed around the Wickham Street complex, each block stencilled with the sponsor's name to serve as a permanent wall of advertising and security. A total of 60 blocks have already been sponsored as of 28 May, raising vital funds to secure what are regarded as some of the best in North Queensland. The immediate response from local businesses, families, individuals, and teams follows an incident where vandals tore through the complex, leaving four fields with considerable damage and forcing a four-week halt to all men’s, women’s, and junior competitions. Club President Peter Knapton said the widespread support highlighted local outrage over the vandalism. "The community is obviously sick of mindless damage and the obvious lack of respect for other people’s property by a small minority,” Mr Knapton said. “When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders.” The committee launched the initiative after discovering that standard rock barriers used by other councils were too expensive. While Ergon Energy initially offered used power poles, the club ultimately sourced the cement blocks from BQC Quarries to create a vehicle-proof barrier. The project, which carries a total cost of $10,000, is being funded through a combination of the block sponsorships and club funds. 56 blocks have been positioned at the complex so far, with a further 135 blocks still available for sponsorship. Anyone interested in sponsoring a block is encouraged to text Peter on 0427710500. CAPTIONS: 1—“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders,” says Club President Peter Knapton. 2—56 blocks have been positioned at the complex so far. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Fifty years since the formation of the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade was commemorated on Sunday, coinciding with National Volunteers Week. Formed on 24 May 1976, the brigade was presented with a Queensland Fire Department Certificate of Appreciation stating – “This milestone acknowledges the brigade’s longstanding commitment to protecting lives, property and the community through volunteer service, resilience, teamwork and unwavering dedication during emergencies and times of need”. Groper Creek Fire Brigade’s First Officer Dave Coplick accepted the recognition from Rural Fire Service Queensland Deputy Chief Officer Northern Region Tony Hazell, who travelled with Townsville Area Manager/Inspector Mick Thomson to thank volunteers for their ongoing service. “We couldn’t let the date go by without acknowledging the brigade’s 50 years of service to the community of Groper Creek and we would like to thank you for your ongoing commitment to fire safety and disaster management,” Mr Hazell said. Queensland has more than 27,000 RFSQ volunteers in the 1,400 rural fire brigades and 2,400 fire warden districts throughout the state. Brigade First Officer Dave Coplick thanked those who were able to join in the informal foreshore festivities, particularly RFSQ representatives and Dalbeg-Millaroo Brigade members who had travelled for the occasion. Groper Creek Brigade Secretary Jeanette Garvey paid tribute to those who had previously been involved in the brigade and current voluntary members, who continue to work behind the scenes. “The brigade has evolved from the initial ‘bush’ brigade when it was first formed in 1976 and we are continuing to evolve with the latest equipment, resources and support provided by the State,” Ms Garvey said. “Like many other community groups, we are always looking for more active hands-on volunteers, especially young and fit persons, to train and use brigade equipment. We also welcome all volunteers who are able to support in so many ways.” To find out more about joining the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade, contact Jeanette Garvey ph 0421 508 510.
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The Burdekin really is beautiful, and if you’re anything like local Barry Hewson, you just want to scream it from the rooftops. That’s why Barry spends his Mondays volunteering at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centre in Ayr. “I was born and brought up here in Ayr, so I know the place quite well,” he said. “There’s just a real sense of satisfaction that comes from promoting your district, promoting the Burdekin as a tourism destination. A sense of pride.” Barry, a volunteer at the centre for seven years, said each day comes with something different. His most popular query? “Where are all the crocodiles?” he said with a laugh. “I had a fella from Denmark who wanted to pat one in the wild! I said, ‘Oh, you'll get eaten if you pat a crocodile.’ He said, ‘Oh no, I watch Crocodile Dundee. I'm right.’” Barry enjoys sending tourists to different local pubs and cafes, local favourites like the Butterfly Centre, and the Burdekin’s underrated beaches. For Barry, volunteering at the Visitor Information Centre helps keep him on the go. “It keeps you busy, keeps your mind active. For anyone who wants to be a volunteer, I say go for it,” Barry said. For more information or to volunteer, contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au. CAPTION: “There’s just a real sense of satisfaction that comes from promoting your district, promoting the Burdekin as a tourism destination,” says Burdekin Visitor Information Centre volunteer Barry Hewson. Photo supplied
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A stunning blue sky winter’s day greeted happy attendees at the Rotary NQ Field Days Exhibition held at the Townsville Show Grounds on Friday and Saturday last week. Highlights included drone drop shows, chain saw demonstrations, the duck race and a robotic dog used to round up cattle. In particular, the robotic dog drew crowds with its playful personality and impressive repertoire of tricks, including standing on two legs and forming a heart shape with its forearms, delighting children who squealed with excitement. Mayor Nick Dametto officially opened the event at 10am on the Friday morning and crowds enjoyed exploring the engaging displays, petting the farm animals, learning more about bees and listening to the clickety clack of old machines from the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Society. Member for Burdekin Dale Last was present on the day, greeting constituents and enjoying everything the event had to offer. Members of the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Society. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
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Martha is a gentle young cat looking for a forever home and someone to love. Born 25 September 2022, Martha is a female cat who has been in foster care since 14 May 2026. She is cat friendly, good with children, and may suit a home with other pets, although her experience with dogs is currently unknown. Martha is known for her warm personality and strong bond with people once trust is established. She is quite talkative, happily responding when called by name, and is full of purrs, head bumps and affection. At night, she enjoys nothing more than curling up beside her foster carer for comfort and companionship. She came into care alongside her close companion Milah, and the pair share a strong and comforting bond. A joint adoption would be a special outcome, though Martha would also thrive in a calm, peaceful home where she feels safe and loved. Martha is a grazer, preferring small meals throughout the day, and settles best in a relaxed environment. Adoption fee is $210, which includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, and flea, tick and worm treatment. For a loving, gentle companion with personality and heart, Martha is ready to meet her match. Enquire about Martha here:https://angelpawsinc.com.au/forms/
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It was another busy and positive week across the Burdekin, with strong community engagement and continued progress on key initiatives. Over the weekend, I attended a number of community events, including celebrations for the 100-year milestone of the Burdekin Surf Life Saving Club and the 2026 Burdekin Domestic Violence Walk, which raised awareness for an important cause. These events highlight the strength of our community and recognise the ongoing contribution of volunteers who play a vital role in keeping our region safe and connected. We have also had some exciting news on the international stage, with Home Hill’s Adam Walton delivering an outstanding performance at the French Open. His success is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for the Burdekin, showcasing the talent that comes from our region. Congratulations to Adam on this remarkable milestone. Community participation was strong at the recent Free Mulch Day at the Ayr Transfer Station, with residents taking advantage of the opportunity to collect mulch and support sustainable waste practices. It is great to see the community’s ongoing involvement in initiatives that promote environmental responsibility. Across our operations, works programs continue to progress well, with road and infrastructure projects advancing across the Shire. Council will continue to keep the community informed as works progress. 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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There is no greater gift you can give to others than that of your time. There is no greater gift to yourself than the pleasure and satisfaction gained from helping others. We are all quick to complain - it’s human nature, but rather than expend that energy on social media, ring a Councillor. That’s our job and why we’re on Council. I’m pleased to say that I receive quite a few phone calls from people who have an issue, who need assistance or simply information and I get the greatest satisfaction from helping them resolve an issue or pointing them in the right direction. Those phone calls to say thank you mean more than you know and are truly appreciated. As always, my mobile number is 0427827386. Congratulations to Conway and Jo Ganderton of the Ayr and District Orchid and Allied Plants Society for stepping up in the co-organizing of the Plantation Park Markets with Ayr State Primary School. The ASPS Bush Markets are held on the first Sunday of each month, with the next one being held on 7th June from 8am to 12noon in Plantation Park. The Ayr and District Orchid and Allied Plants Society Markets are on the third Sunday of each month with the next being held on 21 June 8am-12noon at Plantation Park. As always, there will be a myriad of goods for sale with literally something for everyone. Stallholders can phone 4790 3333 or 4783 6627 to find out more information. People who volunteer their time for the many different organisations are such an invaluable part of our community. I had the pleasure of attending the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce general meeting recently where Margie Ryder was one of the guest speakers. Margie is Secretary of Volunteering NQ and she is indeed a pocket dynamo. Her effervescent energy and love of volunteering is captured in the phrase “Without volunteers NOTHING happens”. This is the absolute truth so thank you to all who volunteer in our community. Don’t forget to get your tickets for the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival which is on at the Burdekin Theatre Friday 5th June. We have some wonderfully talented young people in the Burdekin and this event, along with the recently held Burdekin Eisteddfod and Fast Track showcase these talents beautifully. I remember being involved as a student at Home Hill State High School, although I was more at home in the background doing props than centre stage. Tickets are $25.00. Lastly, should you require the services of a JP, you can find one at the Burdekin Library between 10am and 2pm each Tuesday. God Bless and take care.
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"The EV Pipe Dream vs. The Factory Floor There was a time when walking into an Australian garage meant standing next to something we actually built. For generations, brands like Holden weren't just names on a tailgate; they were proof that Australia possessed the sovereign grit to shape its own heavy industrial destiny. When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lamented over the death of the Australian-made car, calling it a national ""pity,"" he expects us to ignore the fact that his own government is standing over the body holding the smoking gun. But then came the political pivot. Speaking at an industry event, the Prime Minister confidently declared that ""there is no reason why we can’t make electric vehicles here."" The Prime Minister is banking on the idea that automation will solve everything, assuming that robots don't care about penalty rates or energy bills. But this completely misses the point. You cannot build a heavy automotive industry when the basic foundational costs of doing business in Australia are being driven through the roof. His theory is an absolute pipe dream, completely detached from the hard mechanical facts, the soaring input costs, and the real-world physics of actually building things on an Australian factory floor. I recently hosted a manufacturing roadshow in Mackay, sitting down with local engineering firms, component makers, and fabricators who operate on the frontlines of our regional economy. These are self-reliant operators who don't want taxpayer-funded corporate welfare or green subsidies to generate a good headline, they just want a fair go." "What they showed me is that this Labor Government is actively widening a sovereignty gap that punishes our local makers. The brutal truth is that any attempt to build sophisticated electric vehicles here will stall long before it ever reaches the assembly line. To understand why, you have to look past the political rhetoric and look at the basic physics of heavy automotive engineering. An electric vehicle is essentially an incredibly complex, high-voltage computer on wheels. You cannot run the factories of tomorrow on a fragile power grid. The advanced robotics required to assemble modern electric vehicles demand perfect, constant 24/7 power. A short drop in voltage, a mere blink that you wouldn’t even notice at home, is enough to trigger a total shutdown on an automated line. The machinery freezes, precision calibrations are lost, and thousands of dollars bleed out for every single minute the assembly track sits idle. Yet, Labor’s rushed, ideologically driven race toward its Net Zero fantasy is driving electricity prices through the roof and leaving the grid structurally vulnerable. There is also the glaring double standard embedded in our current trade settings. Right now, overseas competitors can buy Australian coal and raw minerals, ship them across the ocean, use them to fire up cheap baseload power, and then dump low-cost, substandard hardware right back into our market. Local engineering firms at our roadshow pointed out that fully imported Chinese components land in Mackay substantially cheaper per unit than those manufactured locally. How can we dream of manufacturing a 3,000-kilogram electric vehicle when our policy settings make it unviable to competitively produce the nuts and bolts that hold it together? Additionally, Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism acts as a carbon tax by stealth, slapping a financial handbrake on our heavy component producers and forcing international capital offshore to nations with cheaper, more predictable energy strategies. It is precisely why Australia’s share of global resource investment has plummeted from 40% to just 15% over the last decade. Capital goes where there is certainty, and right now, Australia looks like a high-risk zone because the regulatory goalposts change at the stroke of a pen. We need a government with the common sense to close the sovereignty gap. That means establishing a National Import Quality Taskforce to stop sub-standard foreign dumping, offering royalty discounts for companies that procure 100% Australian-made items, and overhauling the ""Australian Made"" logo fees so local workshops aren't charged a premium just to tell the world where their goods were built. Most importantly, we must restore sovereign confidence by scrapping the punitive Net Zero targets, removing the Safeguard Mechanism, and focusing heavily on delivering the cheap, stable baseload power that makes Australian industry competitive on the global stage. The Coalition has a clear plan to get our energy affordability back on track, back the regions, reward true technical efficiency, and protect the Australian dream for our workers. It is time to swap the green pipe dreams for reality on the factory floor."
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