Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Owen Menkens CANEGROWERS Chairman There’s something truly special and iconic about sugarcane. Grown along 2000km of Australian coastline, from Grafton in northern New South Wales to the fringes of the Daintree in the tropical far north, it’s been a cornerstone of Queensland’s identity for over 150 years. In fact, so foundational is this industry that it even features on our state’s Coat of Arms. Yet, as iconic as it is, sugarcane isn’t just part of our history – it’s a dynamic, future-fo
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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing The wash-up of the 2024 season is all but done, with only a portion of growers still to price out the balance of their 2024 crop. The recent recovery in prices following the dip due to India announcing 1 million tonnes of export quota is welcome. We still see tight trade flow for raw and whites into this quarter which may stretch into the second quarter depending on how quickly Brazil comes back online and the current Indian and Thai crop cut out.
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Joining a club isn't just about exploring something you're passionate about or picking up a new hobby; it's also about connecting with others, building relationships, and immersing yourself in your local community. Clubs offer a unique opportunity to meet people who share your interests and values, and often, these connections can evolve into long-lasting friendships. A great example of this is The Burdekin Brass Band. By becoming a member, you'll not only be joining a community of like-minded
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Troy Everett, Cultural Venues Manager at the Burdekin Shire Council, recently discussed the significance of the Burdekin Theatre and Memorial Hall in fostering the arts in the region. Long considered a jewel in the crown, the venues are top-class. The Burdekin Theatre seats 475, while the Memorial Hall can accommodate 490. The Burdekin Theatre also has the extra bonus of being able to use the beautiful forecourt along with its foyer. The Theatre hosts anything from world-class shows, events,
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The Lower Burdekin Scouts started 2025 early in January, when two members attended the Jamboree at Maryborough – a 10-day camp packed with fun and activities. This was followed by a night for our Group in Plantation Park, and a walk around Ayr to visit some of the Heritage sites. A few days later, several of the Scouts and adults attended the Australia Day Awards ceremony at the Burdekin Theatre on Australia Day. People aged 5 to 85 can come “Try Scouts” for four nights for free and begin to le
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The 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets is now recruiting for 2025, offering young individuals an exciting opportunity to grow in confidence, leadership, and teamwork. If your child is turning 13 this year, in at least Grade 7, and under 15 years of age, this program could be the perfect fit for them. Air Force Cadets is a youth-oriented organisation supported by the Royal Australian Air Force. Cadets engage in an array of activities, including aerospace training, field skills, survival tech
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The Rotary Club of Home Hill is dedicated to making a positive impact in our Home Hill community and beyond. Through service projects, fundraising efforts, and community events, they work together to support local initiatives, assist those in need, and contribute to global humanitarian efforts. Rotary is more than just a club—it’s a network of individuals who believe in giving back. Whether it’s supporting local schools and clubs, improving community facilities and ways of life, or raising funds
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BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues. The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of: • Food parcels • Toiletries • Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport) • Prepaid cards • Payment of third-party accounts Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family vio
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How can we talk about anything else but the weather? However, we would like to approach it from the perspective of resilience. We send our thoughts to our regional communities who are baring the brunt of this weather event. For seasoned Nth Qlder’s, a rainy summer is par for the course, a larger than normal downfall is always on the cards and to be prepared for. We all have a duty to look out for each other and help where we are able. We also have a duty to ourselves to build our resilie
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Debra Harwood, a 57-year-old mother of three and grandmother to 14, has lived in Ayr and the Burdekin area for over 30 years. Originally born in Mackay, Debra, who works at the Ayr State Primary School tuck shop by day, and Woolies at night stocking shelves, is surrounded by children almost 24/7. “I was a volunteer at the tuck shop for a couple of years first before I eventually took it over, but since then it’s just been me. Though, I’ve just handed over tuck shop duties to my youngest daught
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We all have our stories or adventures that we tell, but for Sweet FM’s historian, Glenis Cislowski, telling stories brings on a whole new level. You see Glenis goes back in time, getting lost among the old stories told from a bygone era and bringing them back into the now. It’s something she thrives on, and has done since she first became interested in the stories of others and their history. Part of what was formerly called ‘Nostalgia Hour,’ these days you’ll find Glenis regaling listeners wit
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Robert: “The park down there in Ayr, Plantation Park, that’d be one place I really recommend a tourist go visit. It not only looks really nice with that small river system running through it, which also cascades but it’s very, very tropical. I’ve been there myself and enjoy it. Alva Beach is also a great place to go and see. You can go fishing out there or swim, it’s a good spot to visit if you go there as it’s a quiet little beach town. They'd be the two places I’d suggest new visitors go and s
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Thursday 6 February BNC Burdekin Senior Computer Club Thursday 9:30am The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an educational computer club to support seniors’ journey into the digital age. Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre Saturday 8 February Annual Alva Beach Golf Day Saturday Midday Get your teams together for one of Alva Beach’s most anticipated events of the year! With tee off scheduled for just after lunch, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club annually hosts an action-packed day to remember topp
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On Saturday 1st February, the Ayr Golf Club had planned a big day of golf and a 95th anniversary dinner at night. Weather conditions way out of our control cancelled the golf play during the day but the dinner went ahead as planned. Not only was it an anniversary dinner, but the Ayr Club agreed at the annual general meeting to honour Karrie Webb, with Honorary Membership and it was presented at the dinner. There was plenty of memorabilia on display from past members for guests to ponder over. I
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Saturday 8th Of February: 1pm to 5pm (Patrol Group F) Lisa Furnell, Jenny Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Sartori, Jake Sartori, Kat Sartori, Dave Sartori. Sunday 9th Of February: 9am to 5pm (All Day Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kelli Lawry, Zac dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.
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In late June of 2024, the Whittles family spent the night camping near the Burdekin River as part of their travels around Australia, and felt inspired to send up their drone to capture footage of the magnificent Burdekin Bridge. “I’m not really one to find bridges all that fascinating, but there’s something about this bridge that intrigues me,” shared Mark Whittles. “I’m not sure what it is that I find intriguing about it, it’s a big ugly metal structure, it is one of Australia’s biggest brid
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As part of Clare State School’s 75th anniversary celebrations, staff have been dedicating their time to publishing a beautiful book to officially mark the milestone and acknowledge the school’s rich history. One of the sections will list past and present Clare State School teacher aides, cleaners, and administration assistants, however the school has shared they are having difficulty locating the names of some people who previously worked in these roles. Clare State School has kindly asked th
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Last Friday was supposed to mark the start of the second half of the Home Hill Cricket Association's Junior Cricket season, but the North Queensland wet season had other plans. When the season does get underway, the programs cater to children as young as 5 years old and up. The youngest age group, Rookies, meet at East Ayr State School on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30 pm. These sessions are for 5-7 years of age and aim to teach the basics of cricket in a fun, engaging way using soft balls. Next i
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1938, a year of historically significant headlines, including German troops marching into Austria (March), the signing of the Munich Pact (September), the birth of Judy Blume (February), and the release of Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (February). A 1938 photo picturing an Ayr State School Grade 1 class has been shared online, with many reminiscing on the traditions of the time, noting how far the school’s uniform has evolved over the past 86 years. Can you name any of these students
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Across Australia in 2024, the number of registered players doubled, and the same trend is happening right here in Home Hill, where the club now regularly hosts 24 players each week. Recently, four more permanent pickleball courts were added, making it even easier for more people to join in. This fun, social sport is perfect for all ages. With a smaller court and a focus on reflexes instead of speed, it’s a low-impact and enjoyable activity for anyone looking to get active. Pickleball is played
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Golf enthusiasts, get ready to hit the greens! Ayr Anzac Social Golf will officially begin its 2025 season on Sunday the 23rd of February at the Ayr Golf Club. The 2024 season was concluded on a high note, with 85 players enjoying a game on the Ayr Golf Club green, while the highly anticipated social competition will continue throughout 2025, with games scheduled across both the Ayr and Home Hill Golf Clubs. Mark your calendars for the following dates: • Sunday the 9th of March, Ayr Golf C
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Bowen Polocrosse Club is celebrating its 36th year and is always excited to welcome new players of all ages. Whether you’re a first-time rider, an experienced equestrian, or someone returning to the sport, they’re here to help you have a great time on the field at their Fun Day on March 1st. Polocrosse – the thrilling Aussie sport that combines the best of polo, lacrosse, and netball. Played on horseback by both men and women, this outdoor team sport is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure that
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The 2025 preseason for the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads is officially kicking off on Tuesday, the 4th of February at Ayr’s Casalegno Fields! New and returning male and female players are invited to join the Canetoads for an exciting season ahead. Lace up and meet at 6:30pm - bring a friend along for the fun! What: 2025 Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Preseason When: Tuesday the 4th of February, 6:30pm Where: Casalengo Fields, Ayr More Information: email brucsecretary@outlook.com Caption: 202
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The Home Hill Tennis Association is gearing up to host the 2025 Home Hill Sugar Bowl, one of North Queensland’s most iconic tennis team events, from Saturday, the 3rd of May to Monday, the 5th of May. Held annually since 1981, this three-day competition takes place over the May Day long weekend and attracts over 40 teams from across the state. Known for its unique scoring system, the Sugar Bowl champions are determined by the highest number of games played across the weekend. Teams will compete
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The Burdekin Netball Association has excitingly set the date for 2025’s highly anticipated Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival for the weekend beginning Saturday the 24th of May. The 2024 Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival was hailed as the most successful in its history, with a record 60 teams competing in the two-day event. The carnival annually brings young netballers from across the region together for a fierce weekend of competition, camaraderie, and community spirit, cementing its place as o
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