Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Member for Burdekin Dale Last is calling on residents to make their voices heard as community outrage grows over revelations local firefighters are battling exposure to toxic chemical compounds at the current facility. Mr Last said any hope that Labor was going to fund a new fire station for Ayr firefighters after it was found the site was contaminated with PFAS, had been hosed down in the 2024/2025 State Budget and instead replaced with another study. “Our firefighters are there for their comm
Read more
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, welcomes the opening of the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program Round 2. It is a significant initiative aimed at supporting the development, and delivering investment in infrastructure across Australia’s regional, rural and remote areas. The program provides funding of between $500,000 and $15 million to local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations for capital works projects. With $393 million available unde
Read more.JPG)
The Burdekin community recently gathered at Deep Creek Retreat to commemorate the Battle of Long Tan with a solemn ceremony. The event, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War, featured a performance by the Burdekin Brass Band, whose stirring melodies set a reflective tone for the proceedings. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort delivered a poignant address, emphasizing the importance of remembering the courage of those who served and the lasting impact of their s
Read more
The Burdekin Shire Council has successfully completed the first round of its Woody Weed Program, a key component of the Reef Guardian Council’s Program. This initiative, part of the broader “Activating Local Council’s Reef Action Plans” (2023-2026), is dedicated to removing invasive woody weeds that threaten the natural ecosystem and the Great Barrier Reef. The first round, completed in May 2024, involved 25 days of focused effort across five properties, resulting in the treatment of approximat
Read more
The Burdekin Shire Council is making significant strides in managing the region’s feral deer populations through its ongoing Feral Deer Program, which began in January 2024. This initiative, funded by the Activating Reef Guardian Council Action Plan grant, is a critical component of the council’s efforts to protect the natural environment, support local agriculture, and ensure public safety. The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has been instrumental in the program's initial stages,
Read more
Millaroo State School is gearing up to celebrate its 70th anniversary on Saturday, October 12, 2024, with a day full of activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event will honour the school's rich history, offering attendees a chance to participate in a roll call, enjoy a cake cutting, and explore displays of memorabilia that capture the school's journey since its establishment in 1954. Morning tea and lunch will be provided, making it a wonderful opportunity for former students, teachers, and com
Read more
On Tuesday night, 13 August 2024, the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrated the club’s 30th Birthday at the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club. The event was ably emceed by Cathy McDonnell, a past Zonta foundation member. Cathy shared with us her enjoyable experiences while a club member. Pierina Dalle Cort, Burdekin Mayor, and a past member of Zonta, opened the celebrations warmly welcoming current and past members and their friends. Current members were honoured with the presence of past members, Lyndy Mc
Read more
Elder abuse is more common than you might think, with 1 in 6 older Australians reporting abuse. It often occurs within families, particularly by adult children, and is frequently hidden and underreported, with 61% of older people not seeking help. Elder abuse can take various forms, including psychological, financial, physical, sexual, social abuse, and neglect. Signs may include behaviour changes or evidence of harm. If you suspect elder abuse, don’t wait for proof. Call the Elder Abuse Helpli
Read more
When driving in the fog, we reduce our speed and turn on our headlights to increase visibility, using the demister and windshield wipers as necessary. We maintain a safe following distance and are cautious at intersections. If visibility becomes extremely poor, we pull over to a safe location and wait for the fog to clear. When our brains become foggy and don't function as we want, they can make everyday tasks challenging and cause us to lose our train of thought during a conversation. This con
Read more.jpg)
Councillors recently undertook disaster training focussing on recovery. It’s a timely reminder to start thinking about the upcoming ‘cyclone season’. If you think back to Cyclone Kirrily, ask yourself “what can I start doing in the next few months to better prepare”, eg removing excess vegetation that could cause a problem, look for a portable radio etc. Prior preparation is the best way to survive any natural disaster. Since 2011, Queensland has experienced around 100 significant natural disast
Read more%20(1).jpg)
Last weekend’s accident on the Burdekin Bridge was a stark reminder of the need for a second bridge in our region. The current infrastructure, whilst serving us well for our growing north, is simply not enough to meet the demands of connecting our communities and visitors. I, too, have personally experienced the frustration of being stuck due to an incident on the bridge - an experience that took place over a decade ago. I remember having to walk the gravel path under the bridge in my sandals j
Read more.jpg)
Established in 1932, the Home Hill Golf Club stands as a 9-hole course situated in the cane fields just outside of Home Hill. The Club operates with a membership totaling just over 100 dedicated players with golf at the core of the business, and welcoming the occasional wedding, wake or party to the venue. The Home Hill Golf Club additionally holds a wildly successful Ambrose as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival Program, donating part of the proceeds to the Harvest Festival Committee. E
Read more.JPG)
Nestled in the heart of the community, Campbell’s Jewellery has been a shining beacon of quality and tradition for decades. The store's history is deeply rooted in its origins, dating back to the post-war era when "Les French" first opened its doors. Originally established as an optometrist, the store gradually evolved into a full-fledged jewellery store as Les introduced a small collection of jewellery that steadily grew, eventually becoming the store's primary focus. In 1960, the store change
Read more
Cane crushed This week Season to date Invicta 6,377 954,078 Pioneer 1,060 427,504 Kalamia 5,242 545,399 Inkerman 3,973 629,809 Burdekin 16,652 2,556,790 CCS Invicta 12.97 14.06 Pioneer 14.54 14.14 Kalamia 13.34 13.80 Inkerman 14.43 13.83 Burdekin 13.53 13.96 Weekly variety performance for region Variety % CCS Variety % CCS Q240 48% 14.54 Q208 7% 14.46 SRA23 18% 14.58 Q183 5% 13.86 KQ228 17% 15.05 WSRA17 5% 15.06 Comments: The Burdekin mills processed just under 17,000 tonnes of cane for the week
Read more
A rural charity has opened its annual photography competition to the public for its fifth year. Spirit of the Bush is an Australian-wide photography competition run by Rural Aid. Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the competition was a great way to get a glimpse into life on the land. “Our Spirit of the Bush competition is always very popular, attracting hundreds of entrants from across Australia,” Mr Warlters said. “The winning 12 photos are turned into a beautiful wall calendar.” “I
Read more
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and representatives of three unions met last week at the company’s request to discuss current positions in relation to their enterprise bargaining dispute. Wilmar suggested today’s meeting following discussions two weeks ago in Townsville facilitated by Fair Work Commissioner Bernie Riordan. Subsequent to those discussions, Commissioner Riordan recommended some potential solutions to a range of issues in dispute. A Wilmar spokesman said last week’s meeting estab
Read more
Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing Following a jam-packed July that was dominated by our international sugar trader roadshow, the Grower Marketing team has been busy compiling the first edition of our new grower newsletter – The Sugar Brief. In this new communication offering, we collate the range of activities we engage in that might otherwise go unnoticed. Wilmar Sugar and Renewables sponsors dozens of events within our sugar milling regions that are linked to cane growing, loca
Read more
Monday 26 August Why God Series Monday at 6.30pm This series continues for 3 weeks every Monday night and Wednesday night concluding on 14th September at Ayr Seventh day Adventist Church corner of Parker and Wilmington Streets Ayr Presenting the series is Pastor Laufili Ah - Yo Contact for more details on 0404196170. Ayr Seventh day Adventist Church Tuesday 27 August Bible Study Tuesday & Thursday 2pm If you would like to know what the Bible says and you would like to know more you are welco
Read more
Towards the end of World War II, Australia sought to expand agricultural land for returning soldiers. In the Lower Burdekin region, efforts began to develop farmland, especially for tobacco, which had been grown in Home Hill since 1909 by pioneers like Richard Bayliss. By 1948, land was being sold around Clare for tobacco cultivation, but water availability was a significant challenge. To address this, a weir was planned at the Gorge in the Leichhardt Ranges, upstream from the confluence of the
Read more.JPG)
On the 17th, the Home Hill Rotary Club hosted a successful barbecue at Funny Dunny Park in Wunjunga, bringing together locals and campers to celebrate the community's dedication to recycling and the environment. The event, held at the park just 2 kilometres from the peaceful spot known as "Wunjunga," was a warm gathering that highlighted the area's strong community spirit. The barbecue was organized to thank everyone who has supported the 10-cent cash-for-cans recycling program, a key initiativ
Read more.JPG)
Brielle Astorquia, was introduced to the role of ambassador for the Water Festival through Kari Ravizza from the festival committee. Brielle’s involvement began when she was approached at Nutrien Harcourts and McCathie’s Real Estate, where she was recruited for the ambassador position. The primary objectives of this year's Water Festival include boosting confidence, fostering friendships, and raising funds for the Charlie Teo Foundation. Additionally, the festival serves as a platform for local
Read more
DOB: 26/01/24 Sex: Female Breed: DSH Kid friendly: Soft hands only Cat Friendly: Yes Dog Friendly: Slow introduction Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors only Meet Marinette, a curious and playful young lady who loves to cuddle up on your bed at night. During the day, she transforms into a quirky ball of energy, always eager to voice her opinions. Marinette is a delight to have around her foster mum can't understand why she's still searching for her forever home. Adoption days are not Marinette
Read more
The Burdekin Roosters A Grade team put together a complete performance, much to the delight of coach Steve Lansley. Reflecting on his team’s 14-12 victory over Herbert River at Rugby Park last Saturday night. "We have been trying for some time to put things together for eighty minutes, and it was nice for the boys to see it finally happen,” said Lansley. The tightly contested match featured strong defence and smart attacking play from both sides. The Roosters and Herbert River each scored two
Read more
The Home Hill Cricket Association had an action-packed couple of days on as they hosted the NQ Schoolboys 10–12 years cricket trials on Sunday and Monday. The event brought together teams from across the region, including Townsville, Ingham, Charters Towers, and Bowen / Whitsundays, with the Burdekin schoolboys team enjoying a fantastic experience. A special mention goes to one of Home Hill's own junior players, Marshall Parker, who made it to the Possibles and Probables cut. Although he didn't
Read more
Local The Burdekin Panthers had a successful Ladies Day, winning all three home games. The Division One Funkies beat Saints Eagles South 2-0, the Premiers won 5-0 against the Rebels, and the Under 23s also triumphed 5-0. The Ladies had a bye. This week’s final round before the Finals features the Premiers, Under 23s, and Women Premiers playing away at MA Olympic on Saturday, while the Division One Funkies host Wulguru on Friday night. The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers secured a 5-0 win over the Rebels
Read more