Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Australia’s sugarcane industry facing critical fuel shortages, with growers reporting access to only ~5% of required supply ahead of harvest Fertiliser availability also uncertain, threatening both current and next season’s production Report by CANEGROWERS highlights widespread concern across QLD and NSW Up to 98% of growers worried about rising costs and supply shortages Nearly 25% unable to secure enough fuel; ~90% already changing farm operations
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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Customer Service Officer Lynda Potter highlights the importance of community-focused banking Joined the team in 2021 after moving from Mackay Values the bank’s model of reinvesting profits back into local community projects and initiatives Role involves assisting customers with daily banking needs and building strong local relationships Finds purpose in contributing to positive outcomes for the Burdekin region
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Local PhD researcher moves to Spain for pioneering computing research Burdekin-raised researcher Dr. Ben Walters is set to take his cutting-edge computing work to Europe this June, investigating spiking neural networks for predictive maintenance in Spain. The former Home Hill High student is making the move following a successful PhD at James Cook University in Townsville. His new role will focus on spiking neural networks that can be utilised for real-time predictive maintenance of assets, with potential use in medical fields.
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A simple act of kindness at a local business has captured the hearts of the Burdekin community, with a heartfelt social media post continuing to gain attention online. In true Burdekin spirit, where locals proudly support locals, resident Renee Louise shared her gratitude after receiving exceptional service during a visit to Mitre 10 earlier this week. Renee said she was impressed by a young staff member who went above and beyond to help her find what she needed, turning a routine shop into a memorable experience. “Thank you so much for your customer service, such a fantastic experience, its workers like you that keep us buying local,” she wrote. The post quickly resonated with the community, prompting a response from the employee’s proud mother, Esther Rush. “Thank you for the lovely words to my daughter. Precious is her name and she was the only girl that was rostered on today. I will pass on the nice words to her as she doesn’t have Facebook yet.” Since then, other locals have chimed in, sharing similar experiences and praising the friendly, helpful nature of staff across the region. “I have had the same experience on many occasions. I'm a bit limited in movement and they are more than happy to help and carry heavier things to my car. It's a pleasure as where I came from to move here that kind of service was rare. Well done,” wrote one resident. “Yes, the young lady that served me was lovely, I would be proud to have her working for me,” said another. The story serves as a reminder of the power of small gestures and the strong sense of community that defines the Burdekin, where kindness, connection and supporting local truly go hand in hand.
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Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads are recruiting new players for the North Queensland season (April–August). Men’s squad seeking key positions (prop, halfback/fly-half, centre), with all roles welcome; women’s team open to all levels. Club promotes strong country rugby pathway with competitive regional competition in Townsville. Emphasis on lifestyle appeal for locals and travelling/working holiday players (community, fishing, outdoor living).
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Easter Saturday, 4 April 2026 saw the Home Hill Community Sports Club host its annual Easter Fours bowls tournament, with 64 players in attendance. On arrival at the club, visitors were greeted by our mascot, a ’35 Grey and Gold Belly Ferguson tractor—a machine built between 1956 and 1958 and widely used to help build the sugar industry in the Burdekin. Not to mention, the grounds were looking a picture. The tournament comprised three games of sixteen ends over the course of the day. Teams from Wangaratta, Bowen, Collinsville, St Townsville, Jubilee, Suburban, Alligator Creek, Ayr, Brandon, and Home Hill were represented. Looking over the green, spectators were delighted to witness the array of club and team colours. Jamie Woods’ Chicken Bin shirts were a standout—good job, boys. Like any tournament, competitiveness and camaraderie were clearly evident. Winning teams on the day were: First – Will Johnson (St Townsville) Second – Sandie (St Townsville) Third – Jamie Woods (Brandon) Congratulations to you all. The club wishes to extend its sincere thanks to our event sponsors: Coral Coast Electrical, Home Hill Prawn Shop, Home Hill Tyrepower, Inspiration Paints, Burdekin Printers, and K & S Wright. Your generosity ensured the event’s success. To our visiting clubs, we also extend our sincere gratitude for the commitment shown by all, especially considering the distance travelled under difficult financial times. Within the club, these sorts of days don’t just happen without the support of members such as kitchen provider Judy Elton and her team of ladies, Ron Smith and Bruce McCallum on the barbecue, Mick Olsen and Michael Young on the scoreboard, and Belinda, Shantel, and Precilla on the outdoor esky bar—not forgetting our President working the bar. Good job to all. In summary, the entire day turned out to be a huge success—bring on 2027! Wednesday night numbers remain steady, with 20 players taking to the green, enjoying the stars above and the friendly atmosphere prior to a sausage sizzle. Names in by 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start. Visitors welcome. Ph: 0478 642 515. Home Hill Hot Shots continue to attract good numbers for Wednesday night darts and Friday night snooker games, both starting at 6.00pm. Ph Scott: 0480 208 335. Thursday club bowls saw 22 players take to the green to compete in three games of triples and one game of pairs. The overall random winning team went to Paul Vass and Hugh Montgomery, who had a very close win over Katarina and Gary Nosworthy, with one shot the difference. Congratulations to you both. Raffle winners were again the Giru boys, Steve Mutu and Geoff Taylor. Well done and well deserved, gents—your support for the club goes without saying. Club Weekly Activities Monday – 9.00am: Gentle Exercise Class Tuesday – 9.00am: Trimmers Wednesday – 9.00am: Craft group Thursday – 9.30am: Bingo Contributed with thanks to Bob Pickard. CAPTION: Players and spectators enjoy a vibrant day on the green at Home Hill Community Sports Club’s annual Easter Fours tournament. Photo supplied
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Local Seniors What with Easter and School holidays, there are no fixtures now until 17th April. Junior Junior soccer has now paused for the school holiday break, giving players and families a well-earned rest after a great start to the season. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the fields after the holidays, refreshed and ready to go again. Here’s hoping for some beautiful weather when we return so the kids can enjoy their games and training to the full! Masters The Masters had another good turnout, and in perfect conditions, Leeds and West Ham fought out a relation battle. West Ham won 9-3 after going 0-2 down. Man of the Match was Fengil with a hattrick. The Masters will be happening on Easter Monday. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off. National and International In the World Cup department, the Socceroos, under Coach Tony Popovic, have just one more match, a friendly against Mexico, before the squad of twenty-six players is announced by 1st June. The Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena. The final World Cup playoffs have now been decided, and Turkey beat Kosovo to make it to Group D. Australia’s group games are now versus Turkey on 13 June in Vancouver, USA on 19 June in Seattle and Paraguay on 25 June in Santa Clara. In England, the EPL has seven rounds to go, and Arsenal is nine points ahead of Manchester City, who have a game in hand. ManU is in third place a further six points adrift and Aston Villa is another point behind. In the FA Cup quarter-finals Southampton beat Arsenal 2-1, Manchester City beat Liverpool 4-0, Chelsea thumped Port vale 7-0 and Leeds defeated West Ham on penalties. In Germany, the Bundesliga has six rounds to go. The top three teams all won, and Bayern continues to lead Dortmund by nine points. Leipzig and Stuttgart are a further eleven points behind. At the foot of the table Heidenheim and Wolfsburg look doomed and St Pauli could well join then in relegation. In Spain there are still eight rounds to go. Only three of the top six teams won and with Real Madrid losing against relegation threatened Mallorca, Barcelona is now seven points clear of Real and eighteen points ahead of third placed Villarreal. In the relegation zone, Oviedo and Levante are struggling and Elche could be joining them. In Italy’s Serie A with seven rounds left, Inter thumped Roma 5-2 to stay nine points clear of AC Milan with Napoli a further point behind. Como is in fourth place. Juventus drew and stays in fifth place. At the foot of the table, for Pisa and Verona it looks like Goodnight Luigi, and Cremorne or Lecce could be joining them. Finally, in France, PSG beat Toulouse 3-1 and with Lens losing, has a four point lead with a game in hand. Lille are third a further nine points away with Marseille fourth. At the foot of the league, it looks like Au Revoir for Metz and Nantes and Auxerre could be joining them in Ligue Deux. In the A League, with just three rounds left, Newcastle lost 2-3 to Macarthur but is still three points ahead of Auckland who drew 1-1 away to Adelaide, who stay in third place. Melbourne Victory missed their chance of moving up into third place after losing at home to Wellington. The Roar drew 0-0 at home to Sydney FC and remains in tenth place. Western Sydney and Perth Glory continue to hold up the table. In the A League Women, with three rounds left, three of the top four teams won. Melbourne City won 2-1 at Newcastle to stay six points clear of Wellington who beat Adelaide 2-0. Canberra lost 1-2 away to Brisbane but hangs onto third place on goal difference from the Roar. Sydney FC and Western Sydney are still holding up the table. The Soccer Quote of the Week is from ex- Manchester Utd and Ireland Star Roy Keane. “People say 'go with the flow' but do you know what goes with the flow? Dead fish.”
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Ayr Golf Club has marked another successful Mona Coburn & Di Oats Day, with 23 players taking to the course for the much-loved annual event. Held on Wednesday, the day was a celebration of both competition and community, honouring the lasting contributions of two important figures in the club’s history. The event was made even more special thanks to the continued sponsorship and support from the families of Mona Coburn and Di Oats. Club members were pleased to once again welcome Bruce Coburn and Sandy Oats, who attended the day and presented prizes to the winners on behalf of their families. Ayr Golf Club said it was an honour to have them present, acknowledging the ongoing role both families play in supporting the event and preserving its significance within the club. The annual day serves as a reminder of the strong sense of tradition within the club, with many family members continuing to stay involved and contribute to its success. Club representatives said they were grateful to have such dedicated support, noting that events like these highlight the important legacy left by past members and the community spirit that continues to thrive today. Congratulations were extended to all prize winners, with the club also offering a heartfelt thank you to Bruce Coburn, Sandy Oats and their families for their ongoing and generous support. CAPTION: The annual event continued to honour club legends while bringing members together on the course. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club
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Netball excitement is growing as teams from across Queensland get ready to compete in the 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships, which will be held in Townsville this year. The annual championship is one of the biggest events on the Queensland netball calendar. It brings together associations from all over the state for four days of intense competition. In 2025, the tournament saw an impressive 210 teams participate, showing how large and popular the event has become. Burdekin’s teams have been preparing for months, with many players starting their training late last year. Through weekly sessions, trial matches and fitness work, athletes and coaches have been working hard to build connections and improve their skills before the major competition. The tournament offers a great chance for players to challenge themselves against some of the best talent in Queensland while also showcasing the strength of regional netball. Players, coaches, and supporters are excited to travel north and represent the Burdekin community. With plenty of determination, teamwork, and the unmistakable Burdekin spirit, the teams look forward to taking the court in Townsville and giving their best effort. The championships promise four days of high-quality netball, good sportsmanship, and community pride as Queensland’s top young athletes come together for one of the state’s key netball events. Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Netball Association Publicity Officer, Kelli Loizou. CAPTIONS: Burdekin Netball Association’s U17/18s team; (front) Lola Carmicheal, Isla Chapman, Riley Sartori, Lacey Catanzaro, Aja Olsen, (back) Ali Balin (Manager), Jayel Gibson, Georgia Thygesen, Indy Macdonald, Pascal Crooks, Jorja Bapty, and Kristy Penisi. Photo supplied Burdekin Netball Association’s U16s team; (front) Tahlia Lammon, Shilah Horan, Emma Wilkie, Lisa Keryk, (back), Chloe Steel (Coach), Ruby Prescott, Amaya Caspanello, Mya Mitchell, Maya Mahoney, Gemma Keihne, and Clodagh Liessman. Photo supplied Burdekin Netball Association’s U15s team; (front) Ebony Moul, Zara Scovazzi, Emma Jones, Milla Chapman, Eden Godfrey, (back) Sarah Butterworth (Coach), Emily MacDonald, Maggie and Addy Chandler, Lily Ahern, Paityn Coleman-Blakoe and Alicia Butterworth (Manager). Photo supplied
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The Burdekin Roosters are set to start the season this Sunday, meeting Brothers in what promises to be a strong test for the squad. After two years of steady development, the Roosters enter the new season with a sense of confidence built on continuity and local talent. A big portion of this year’s A Grade side has come through the club’s junior development, highlighting the strength of the Burdekin Junior Rugby League. The long-term priority is now paying dividends, with those juniors developing into A Grade football. Much of the core squad has been together for the past two seasons, allowing combinations to develop. The Roosters are expecting a tough contest with Brothers, who are always the benchmark of the RLTD. There are signs the blend of new players with the younger brigade will be strong. New players Jake O’Brien, Nash Beck, Cooper Fletcher, Wilson Selei and Mitch Brown will blend in with talented local youngsters headed by Jonea and Hayde Munro, Jye Olsen, Adam Camer and Jai Starr, alongside experienced players Tate Brombal, Nemia Nawave, Lachlan Shepherd and Ethan Hagarty. The team is: Jake O’Brien, Nemia Nawave, Jones Munro, Jai Starr, Adam Camer, Mitch Brown, Jye Olsen, Tate Brombal, Nash Beck, Cooper Fletcher, Ethan Hagarty, Lachlan Shepherd, Hayde Munro, Kurtis Cox, Wilson Selei, Jack McQueen and Dylan Doak. The match will be at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville on Sunday afternoon. The Burdekin reserves will also play and should be a side with plenty of experience, led by Dylan Doak, John Zaro, Terry Connors, Harvey Horan and Caleb Noah. They will meet a team who were reserve grade premiers last season and well drilled. High hopes are held for the Roosters Under 19 team, a squad of players who reached the preliminary final in Under 18 last year, only to go out mainly due to injuries. The team is spearheaded by KJ Zaro and Cherharne Taiters, who are exciting to say the least. The talent doesn’t finish there though, as they are strong right across the paddock, with Harrison Lammon, Leylan Lampton, Mason Kiehne, Jack Power, Chad Fraser and Riley Smith capable of scoring tries. Joey Southwell is expected back after missing the 48 to 6 trial win over Norths, while Jett Castello is still recovering from a knee injury. Brothers are always strong in this grade, but the local boys are expected to give them a good one. Unfortunately, the Ladies team will not be playing, as it appears the numbers are not there, with injuries the main problem. Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes. CAPTION: Local juniors and fresh talent combine as Burdekin Roosters teams prepare for a tough opening clash against Brothers. Photo source: Burdekin Roosters
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Clare State School hosted an Adults vs Students hockey match 🏑 Students used skills learned in PE and started the game strongly Adults (staff, parents and community members) took control, leading 2–0 at halftime and extending to 4–0 Students fought back with two late goals, showing strong teamwork and effort Final result: Adults won 4–2 Match was played in great spirit with plenty of fun and no injuries
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Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority has increased disaster recovery grants to up to $50,000 Support covers small businesses and not-for-profits impacted by recent severe weather events Funding can be used for clean-up, repairs, equipment replacement and recovery costs Burdekin Shire is included as an eligible disaster-affected region
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On Thursday, 2 April, concerned local resident Matthew Russell came across an unexpected visitor paddling through Nelsons Lagoon on Adelaide Street, Ayr. In a post shared online, Mr Russell alerted locals to the presence of a small freshwater crocodile, with many community members remarking on how unusual it was to spot a crocodile in the park, particularly so far from larger waterways. Unlike saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocodiles are smaller, shy and slender-snouted, typically feeding on fish, frogs and insects. They are not considered a significant threat to humans. Nonetheless, Mr Russell followed Queensland Government regulations, taking the initiative to report the sighting to the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) via the QWildlife app. Sightings can also be reported through DETSI’s online portal or by calling 1300 130 372. “We encourage you to report any crocodile you have concerns about – even if it’s deceased,” a DETSI spokesperson said. “If you are not concerned about a crocodile you have seen, you can still report it. This information can help us keep track of the movements and behaviour of crocodiles in the area.” No waterway in Northern Queensland can ever be considered crocodile free. DETSI reminds residents who come across crocs in the wild to keep a safe distance, stay away from the water’s edge, report the sighting immediately and remain croc-wise at all times. CAPTION: Mr Russell spotted the croc last week and immediately took action. Photo credit: Matthew Russell
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Women in business across the Burdekin are being encouraged to log on and level up, with a free online webinar set to deliver practical financial skills to help local enterprises grow with confidence. Hosted by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Future Makers webinar is tailored for women small business owners and entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey, whether just starting out or looking to scale. The session, held on Friday, 10 April from 9:30am to 10:30am, will explore key financial topics including pricing strategies, cash flow management, and understanding financial reports, all delivered in a practical, easy-to-apply format. Participants will hear from an expert panel, including Ada Wang, Tish Bhagwandeen and Sarah Parkinson, with the discussion moderated by Heidi Cooper. The webinar aims to build confidence in financial decision-making, help business owners better understand their obligations, and provide clear, actionable steps to strengthen long-term financial security. Importantly for regional participants, the online format means Burdekin women can access expert advice without needing to travel, helping bridge the gap between regional and metropolitan business support. The session is free to attend, with a recording also available afterward for those unable to join live. Registrations are now open via the ACCI Future Makers website. What: Future Makers Webinar When: Friday, 10 April 9:30am to 10:30am Where: Online
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Ayr State High School will be under round-the-clock security surveillance these school holidays following a recent spike in vandalism. In a public notice shared with the community, SRW Security Services confirmed a 24/7 presence at the school, with two security officers rostered on every shift to monitor the site. “Due to a significant amount of damage caused in recent weeks, SRW Security Services will now have a 24/7 security presence at Ayr State High School for the duration of the school holidays,” the post read. The increased security aims to protect public assets and deter further incidents, with a clear message directed at potential offenders. “This is about protecting community assets and putting a stop to ongoing vandalism. If anyone is considering trespassing or causing further damage — don’t. You will be dealt with accordingly by QPS.” The move comes amid growing concern from locals about damage to public facilities, particularly during school holiday periods when sites are more vulnerable. Authorities are also reminding residents of the importance of community vigilance through the School Watch program, which encourages locals to report suspicious after-hours activity at schools. Empty schools can become targets for unlawful entry, arson, theft, graffiti and property damage, particularly during holidays, impacting not just repair costs, but the wider community. The program, a partnership between the Department of Education and the Queensland Police Service, provides a direct way for the public to report concerns, even if they seem minor. On average, more than 700 calls are made to School Watch each year. Residents are urged to “Look, Listen, Report” by calling School Watch on 13 17 88, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. SRW Security Services said the update was also shared in response to community questions about the visible security presence at the school. “We appreciate the community’s support,” the post continued, encouraging residents to share the message and help protect local infrastructure. The added security is expected to remain in place throughout the holiday period as efforts continue to prevent further damage and maintain safety at the site. CAPTION: Additional 24/7 security has been put in place at Ayr State High School. Photo source: SRW Security Services
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On Tuesday 7th April ‘Backpacking Poms’ Joe Taylor and Isaac Hirsch arrived in Ayr, passing through the Burdekin on their epic mission to raise funds for Talk2MeBro, a charity dedicated to improving men’s mental health through connection, conversation, and education. The two young Brits started their journey in Newcastle and will be cycling 17,000 kilometers around the Australian Coastline, sharing their adventure online and raising awareness and money for their cause – one close to both of their hearts. “We’ve seen how many men are taught to “tough it out,” to bottle things up, and to keep moving no matter how heavy life becomes,” the pair shared. “We’ve seen friends, family members, and people we admire fight unseen battles — and tragically, some have been lost far too soon.” “We don’t want men to feel like they have to fight alone anymore. This ride is our way of proving that vulnerability is strength, not weakness. That speaking up takes courage. That connection can save lives.” Joe and Isaac are forthcoming about their own struggles with mental health, and how meaningful the challenge is to them. For Joe, “On the outside, everything may have looked fine — but internally there were battles that felt constant and exhausting. Feelings of emptiness, pressure, and not knowing how to properly express what was going on.” “Like many men, it often felt easier to stay quiet than to speak up. To push through instead of opening up. But staying silent only makes the weight heavier.” Isaac’s own battle came when he lost multiple close family members and was shook deeply by the loss, finding he didn’t know how to process or deal with his grief. That’s why the mission was founded. The two backpackers wanted to help others where they themselves struggled and get conversation going surrounding men’s mental health. “For most of our lives, neither of us have truly felt fulfilled,” they stated. “Deep down, we’ve always known we were meant for something bigger than ourselves — a challenge that would push us physically, mentally, and emotionally to our absolute limits. “That’s why we’ve decided to take on one of the toughest adventures we can imagine.” Joe and Isaac have seen huge support from locals so far on their journey, being fed and housed, and even offered a free boat trip down the road in Airlie Beach. You can follow along, reach out, or donate to the cause on the pair’s socials: @the.bikepackingpoms 1- Isaac Hirsch (left) and Joe Taylor (right) were seen off a Talk2MeBro representative in Newcastle on March 1st. Photo source: LinkedIn
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A major road safety operation is underway across Queensland, with authorities ramping up enforcement as school holiday travel begins. Operation Easter Break has been launched by the Government and the Queensland Police Service (QPS), targeting unsafe and fatigued drivers during one of the busiest periods on the state’s roads. The initiative will see a high-visibility police presence statewide, with a particular focus on the “Fatal Five” risk factors known to contribute to serious crashes. The campaign comes amid ongoing concerns about road trauma, with 20 lives lost on Queensland roads during the 2025 Easter period alone. Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the operation aimed to address dangerous driving behaviours and improve safety outcomes. “Too many Queenslanders are being impacted by trauma on our roads and waterways, and the trend has been going in the wrong direction for a long time - that’s why we’re focused on stronger enforcement and safer behaviour this Easter,” Minister Mickelberg said. “These campaigns send a strong message that dangerous behaviour, whether on the road or on the water, will not be tolerated - I urge everyone travelling this Easter to drive to the conditions, never speed or drink and drive, and if you’re heading out on the water, slow down and wear a lifejacket.” QPS Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said officers would be out in force, particularly targeting fatigued drivers. “We’re doing our part to make Queensland safer, but we all must also take responsibility - slow down, rest when tired, and make safe choices to protect themselves and others this Easter.” Authorities are urging all Queenslanders to plan ahead, take regular breaks, and prioritise safety both on the road and on the water this holiday season. CAPTION: High-visibility patrols will be conducted on highways, regional roads, and major travel routes over the coming weeks. Photo source: QPS
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Burdekin Shire Council grants now open for community groups and sporting clubs Up to $3,000 available (cash or in-kind support) Supports events, festivals and grassroots community projects Open to eligible not-for-profit organisations Applications open 1–14 April Projects must show clear community benefit and participation
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Small businesses across the Burdekin Shire are set to benefit from a statewide push to strengthen regional economies with the return of Queensland Small Business Month this May. Just last week, several Event Delivery Grants were awarded to Chambers of Commerce, industry groups and councils across 28 shires, aimed at helping small and family businesses build resilience and embrace new opportunities. While no funding was allocated locally, Burdekin Chamber Secretary Kari Ravizza said it was encouraging to see the government prioritising small businesses in regional and remote communities. “Initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month are extremely important in regional areas like ours, especially as they help to bridge the gap between regions and cities, and bring skills, resources and expertise into regions that don’t normally have easy access,” she said. Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, said the initiative plays a vital role across the state, particularly in regional communities. “Queensland Small Business Month is an opportunity to remind Queenslanders of the importance of small business and to thank the people who, quite often, put everything on the line to provide services and employ locals,” he said. Mrs Ravizza said local businesses continue to face a unique set of challenges, including rising freight and logistics costs, increasing insurance premiums, workforce shortages and ongoing skills gaps in areas like digital marketing. “In regions like the Burdekin, there’s also a heavy reliance on agricultural cycles — when farmers are doing it tough, flow-on effects are felt right across the local business community,” she said. Mr Last said reducing barriers for small business remained a key focus for the government, highlighting the establishment of the Small and Family Business Ministerial Reference Group, which brings together representatives from a range of industries and regions across Queensland to directly inform policy and provide advice to the Minister. “Having run a small business myself, I know that one of the biggest obstacles is red tape, and that’s why I am proud to be part of a government that is actively reducing unnecessary barriers for small businesses.” He said the government was also supporting small businesses through initiatives targeting cybercrime, grants to improve safety, and measures to make it easier to employ apprentices, alongside tailored training and increased opportunities to secure government work throughout the year. Mrs Ravizza added that while initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month are valuable, there is a need for more targeted, practical support. “More funding for local workshops, digital tools, staff training, as well as support around freight and insurance, would make a real difference for small businesses in our region,” she said. Queensland Small Business Month is a dedicated, state-wide initiative held annually to celebrate, support and connect more than 508,000 small and family-owned businesses across the state. CAPTION: Burdekin businesses are calling for greater support, highlighting rising costs and skill gaps as major challenges amid statewide push. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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