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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing Brazil remains front and centre in global sugar market movements. The latest UNICA report for the first half of June shows sugar production continuing to outpace ethanol. While sugar output dipped slightly in the fortnight, it still accounted for 51.5% of cane crushed, nudging the year-to-date figure to 50.5%—up from 48.3% in the previous season. However, cane quality remains a concern. The ATR is hovering below 12%, prompting analysts to downgrade f
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The Queensland Government has announced a significant shift in fire ant eradication efforts, confirming that treatments will now be carried out year-round — including through the cooler months — to better protect the state’s biosecurity and agriculture sectors. For the first time, eradication treatments are being conducted during winter, following promising scientific trials by the National Fire Ant Eradication Program. The research confirmed that fire ants continue to forage and consume bait e
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For the fourth year running, local Service Technician Karl Moschella from Honeycombes Sales and Service in Ayr has been named as Regional Finalist in the prestigious John Deere Technician Awards. As one of 5 nationally recognised finalists in the Agricultural Service Technician of the Year category, Karl’s 23 years of dedication has made his name synonymous with John Deere expertise in the North Queensland region. Karl’s path to becoming one of Australia’s top agricultural John Deere technician
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By CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens It’s early days for the new Queensland Government, but I’ll say this — the first six months have brought some practical decisions that are making a real difference for cane growers. The recent State Budget struck a few important notes for agriculture. We’re not expecting miracles, but it’s encouraging to see a stronger focus on things that matter — especially biosecurity and rural resilience. With more movement of people and goods across borders, the threat
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Local fishers across the Dawson region are expressing growing concerns over the future of both commercial and recreational fishing, citing a range of challenges including regulatory changes and economic pressures. Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox and Federal Shadow Minister for Fisheries Senator Ross Cadell this week called a meeting with local fishers at Mackay Reef Fish Supplies. It's part of a 2-day Regional Qu
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It was 1988 when Stephen Scuderi took a solo leap into the world of panel beating—a move built on the foundations laid by his parents, Sam and Tina Scuderi, who, despite coming from a farming background, encouraged their sons to pursue trades and instilled in them the drive to build something of their own.
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Personalised Learning Just 10 Minutes from Home Hill Families seeking a supportive, high-quality education close to home are encouraged to consider Osborne State School — a small rural school delivering big results just ten minutes from the centre of Home Hill. Set among the cane fields of the Burdekin, Osborne State School offers a nurturing and personalised learning environment where every student is known by name, supported in their individual growth, and encouraged to thrive. With a stron
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After the slower pace of school holidays, getting your child motivated for the second half of the school year can be a challenge. But with the right support, they can ease back into routine and find the energy to thrive in Term 3. Start by re-establishing structure a few days before school resumes. This means bringing back regular bedtimes, waking hours, and meal times. A well-rested child is more alert, emotionally balanced, and better equipped to tackle the school day. Encourage your child t
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Beat the Bug: Top Remedies To Keep Cold & Flu At Bay As winter sets in, so does cold and flu season. But the good news is there are plenty of simple, effective ways to help strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick. First and foremost, good hygiene is key. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after being in public places. Avoid touching your face, particularly your nose, mouth and eyes, where viruses can easily enter. Staying well-rested is anothe
Read moreWhen you’re recovering from a cold or flu, what you eat can make a big difference in how quickly you bounce back. Nourishing your body with the right foods helps rebuild strength, support your immune system, and ease lingering symptoms. Soups and broths are excellent choices when you're unwell. Not only are they easy to digest, but they also help keep you hydrated. Chicken soup in particular has anti-inflammatory properties and can help clear nasal congestion. Fruits high in vitamin C—
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Nine Burdekin writers read their stories and poems to a small but appreciative crowd at the Home Hill Library on Wednesday, 2 July 2025. “To stand in front of an audience and share something you’ve created takes guts,” said writer Megan Hippler. “I’m proud of everyone who was brave enough to read.” The event was a collaboration between the Burdekin Creative Writers, the Burdekin Night Writers, and Burdekin Libraries, celebrating the 2024 Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology. From heartfelt poet
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Four members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group recently attended the 2025 LEAP Camp, held from June 29 to July 5 at Bluewater, north of Townsville. They joined 140 Scouts aged 9 to 18, along with 40 adult leaders from Scout Groups stretching from Cairns to Mackay to Brisbane, for a week focused on Leadership, Empowerment, Adventure. Throughout the week, the Scouts worked together in teams (called Patrols) of 5–6, cooking meals, camping in tents, and supporting one another through a series of ha
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Saturday 12 July Rags to Runway 07:30 PM - 10:00 PM The Burdekin Rags to Runway event encourages competitors of all ages to revamp new or second-hand clothing items into a wearable runway outfit within a strict budget. Entrants are required to purchase items either from second-hand organisations, local dress salons’ throw out racks or their own closet and to redesign them into a wearable runway worthy item, you'd be proud to wear. St Stephen's Greek Orthodox Hall SATURDAY 12 JULY 97.1 Sweet FM
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The Ayr Bowling Club has had a brilliant week on the greens, with members embracing the cooler weather and enjoying a mix of competitive and social games. Spirits have been high as players continue to show enthusiasm and support for the game, reinforcing the club’s strong community spirit. With momentum building and winter conditions ideal for play, members are looking forward to another exciting month of bowls and camaraderie. Our Ladies’ Social Tuesday Afternoon on the 1st July was very enjoy
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A crew of Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads hopped their way up north a couple of weekends ago to play in Townsville’s Queensland Country Champion Competition on the 28th and 29th of June. Closing out the month with a bang, seven players and celebrated coach, Rowland Holmes, represented the Canetoads with pride both on and off the field, with the club praising each of the players for their skills and sportsmanship. “Well done to our incredible men and women who participated in the QLD Country Cha
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The year 2025 marks ten years since the Burdekin Roosters last won an A Grade premiership in the then Townsville District Rugby League. Originally appointed as A Grade coach that season was Chris Perry, but he had to withdraw early, making way for Glenn Brock — a familiar face in local league circles, having coached many Burdekin junior sides. Brock brought in Carl List as assistant coach, and with several Bowen-based players in the squad, Bowen’s Brent Stocker joined the coaching team. Gary We
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Another difficult weekend for the Panthers, winning two and losing three matches. On Sunday, in Townsville against Saints Eagles Souths, the Premiers lost 2–3 but the Reserves won 3–2. On Friday, also in Townsville, the Ladies beat Warriors 6–1, but the Division 1 Men lost 1–5 to Ingham and the Division 2 Men lost 1–3 to Brothers. This Saturday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Olympics—the Premiers at 7:00 and the Reserves at 5:00. The Ladies and Division 2 Funkies are playing in Towns
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A total of 28 players turned up for another perfect winter’s afternoon of bowls, with a top temperature of 24 degrees. A warm welcome to our visitors: Cisco from Ayr; Keith and Jo Roser, and Charlie Cheetham from St Georges Basin; and Jeanie Thompson and Col Ceating from Ulladulla, NSW. A big thank you to today’s sponsor: ALLRIG Townsville. Five games were played — four games of triples and one of pairs — with plenty of friendly competition across the rinks. Today’s winners, on Rink 3, were S
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4 July 2025 Sixteen bowlers took to the Brandon greens on Friday night, 4 July, under lights and in near-perfect conditions. Two games of triples and one game of pairs were played, with all matches tightly contested. Triples Results: Dave Sheehan, Ben Mills, and Joe Yipnazar defeated Deon McIntosh, Rob Jorgensen, and Lyn Storrie. Margaret McLaughlan, Zeek, and Jamie Woods got the better of Joe Darragh, Emma Woods, and Ross McLaughlin. Pairs Result: Brad McIntosh and Gary Pearce defeated Damian
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Burdekin Catholic High School’s Confraternity Rugby League team has made an unforgettable debut at the 2025 Confraternity Carnival in Rockhampton, finishing 3rd in the Division 4 Classic Competition and proudly flying the BCHS flag throughout an action-packed week of school rugby league. The week began with the team’s safe arrival and participation in the beautiful Opening Mass and Ceremony at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Rockhampton. They joined schools from across Queensland Catholic and Independen
Read moreBy CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens It’s early days for the new Queensland Government, but I’ll say this — the first six months have brought some practical decisions that are making a real difference for cane growers. The recent State Budget struck a few important notes for agriculture. We’re not expecting miracles, but it’s encouraging to see a stronger focus on things that matter — especially biosecurity and rural resilience. With more movement of people and goods across borders, the threat
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The Story Behind CORES Queensland CORES Queensland has been saving lives in the Burdekin for over 16 years. The organisation—run largely by volunteers—offers a wide range of mental health and suicide prevention services, quietly operating as the heartbeat of the community. Though, if you ask CORES Queensland Coordinator Ross Romeo, he’ll tell you it’s the other way around. “The Burdekin community are the backbone of our program,” he says. “They are the reason we’ve survived all these years—we’r
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A group of enthusiastic Year 5 and 6 students from St Colman’s Catholic School recently stepped out of the classroom and into the heart of the Burdekin’s agricultural landscape, visiting Rocks Farming Company in Mona Park for an immersive learning experience. Held on Wednesday, the 18th of June, the excursion was made possible through a collaboration with CQUniversity’s Agri-Tech Education Officers, Lilly and Grace. The visit offered students a rare, hands-on insight into one of Australia’s lar
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Unlocking nostalgic memories across the nation, Jack Hodgins has set out on a mission to publish a book detailing the golden era of Hoadley’s Battle of the Sounds and he’s confident the residents of the Burdekin Shire have plenty of stories to tell. The contest captured the attention of Australians from 1966 to 1972, and at its peak, held 60 heats across the country where young bands would compete for a chance to win a place in a state country final, and ultimately the national grand finale. “
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Small changes are making a big difference across Queensland, and the Burdekin Shire is proudly playing its part. Through a smart partnership with Containers for Change QLD (COEX), more than 600 outdoor recycling units have now been installed in parks and public spaces across 13 participating councils, including the Burdekin Shire Council. The initiative, supported by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), aims to make recycling more accessible while creating lasting social and
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