The value of agriculture in 2025-26 is expected to be the third highest on record at $91 billion. Including fisheries and forestry, The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) expects the sector to reach $98 billion, according to Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville. “While this is slightly down on an exceptional 2024-25, particularly strong results are forecast for livestock and livestock products – expected to reach a new record value of $40 bil
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Sibby Saitta started his clothing business in Queen Street, Ayr 72 years ago in 1952. It commenced trade as a basic tailoring shop of which there were several in town at that time. Sibby tailored made-to-measure men’s suits, trousers and other basic apparel, all made from scratch. As time passed, ready made clothing and fashions became more readily available, so the shop evolved into a retail outlet selling men’s fashions of the day. Work clothing soon became available from factories in Brisban
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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, announced this week that an elected Dutton Liberal National Government will provide $500,000 to upgrade facilities at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. “Home Hill Community Sports Club is a cornerstone of the community, offering members of all skill levels the chance to enjoy lawn bowls and croquet,” Mr Willcox said. “Currently members don’t have much protection from the sun, which is why I am pleased to commit $500,000 towards new shade to cover t
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Saturday 5th of April 1.00pm t0 5.00pm ( Patrol Group G ) Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickard, Jedd giddy. Sunday 6th of April 9.00am to 1.00pm ( Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth. Sunday 6th of April 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa bella Molone
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Ingrained in the history of the Burdekin region as one of the largest construction projects to date, the Burdekin Falls Dam holds the prestigious title of existing as the largest dam in Queensland. Situated approximately 100 kilometres south of Charters Towers, the Burdekin Falls Dam was completed in 1987 at a cost totalling $125 million to adequately contain the Burdekin River, a catchment area covering about 7% of the state. The structure can hold a capacity of 1,860,000 mega litres, and his
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The Burdekin Shire Council has announced that Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Precinct is now selling, offering businesses a prime opportunity to secure fully serviced industrial land in North Queensland. Strategically located at the Bruce Highway and Craig Street, Ayr, the precinct provides excellent access to major transport links, including the Port of Townsville and Bowen Basin. It features highway frontage, underground power, wide roads, and off-street parking, catering to diverse industries
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Acts of kindness often go unnoticed, but one grateful mother took to social media to express her heartfelt appreciation for those who came to her son’s aid when his car broke down in Home Hill. Shelli Hargrave shared a message of gratitude, thanking the generous individuals who stopped to help her son during his time of need. Their willingness to assist, both in person and later over the phone, made a meaningful difference. “A shout-out and massive thanks to those who helped my son broken down
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Young people in the Burdekin region are in for a fantastic time as the much-anticipated ‘Sound Waves – Youth Pool Party’ returns. Scheduled for Sunday, 6 April, from 4pm to 8pm at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre in Ayr, this free event welcomes those aged 12-18 for an evening of entertainment and socialising. Organised by the Burdekin Youth Council as part of Queensland Youth Week, the event will offer an exciting atmosphere with music, activities, and opportunities to connect. Attendees can enjoy
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Home Hill Tennis is excited to announce that the upgraded amenities block is nearing completion and will soon be officially opened. What started as a simple idea has become a reality through dedicated planning, hard work, and strong community support. The project took a major step forward in 2023 when the club secured a $250,000 grant from the Queensland Government to upgrade the amenities, enabling Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities. Careful consideration went into
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Police are appealing to anyone in the Bowen and Ayr areas who may have information in relation to an ongoing investigation into alleged sexual offences at massage businesses, to come forward. A 54-year-old man was charged on 23 February 2025, with two counts of sexual assault alleged to have occurred at a massage business in the Burdekin between July 2024 and 17 February 2025. On March 1, the man was further charged with one count of sexual assault in relation to an alleged incident at a massa
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Struggling with high energy bills? You’re not alone. With the cost of living soaring, many households are feeling the strain...but a new initiative could help. The Charge Up! Project, funded by the Department of Energy and Climate through the Enable Grants Program, is making energy management simpler and more accessible. And now, you can take advantage of it right at here your Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre. Access to energy is a fundamental necessity, yet many families find themselves overwhelm
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Feral Pigs have become a scourge across Queensland with the region of Burdekin not being spared. Locally, the feral pigs have been the agents of chaos, wreaking havoc by uprooting crops, damaging irrigation systems and polluting water sources. Their foraging leads to soil erosion and the spread of invasive plants which contributes further to land degradation. Adding to their impressive resume of crop destruction and environmental pollution, they also threaten local wildlife by preying on small
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2025 marks a wonderful milestone in Clare State School’s history, and over the weekend, almost 500 members of the Burdekin community gathered together to celebrate the school’s 75th anniversary. Despite the unfortunate weather conditions, Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti was beyond pleased with the weekend’s events, noting Saturday evening’s Twilight Feast & Timeless Talks was an occasion to remember. “The weekend was very successful, especially considering the rainfall that we had exp
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The 2025 rugby league season is set to officially begin this weekend in the R L T D competition, with Brothers and Centrals' A-grade teams not in action. Centrals will face Bowen in Bowen, but the home side does not have an A-grade team, meaning no game will take place. Brothers are having a bye this round. In other matches, the Western Lions will host Charters Towers on Saturday, while the Roosters will play Norths at Rugby Park, and Souths will face Herbert River in Townsville. Norths will br
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Local Once again, all four Burdekin Panthers games had to be called off because of the wet weather. In fact, all NQ Football fixtures were called off. There is now a three week break for the Premiers and Under 23s until they play Brothers at home on 26 April! The only fixture this week is the Division One Ladies who are down to play Warriors in Townsville this Friday night. Weather permitting. Juniors The Juniors fixtures were once again called off due to the ongoing wet weather. Hope the ki
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Backpage: ** The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships began at North Kirra on the Gold Coast, with the Nipper and Youth Championships on 29-30 March. Harsh weather led to water event cancellations and a reduced beach program. Ayr Surf Club’s seven youth competitors performed well despite event limitations. Bella Lawry & Briella Wassmuth and Charlotte Lawry & Emilee Wassmuth placed 6th in their R&R finals, with Bella & Briella as the top Queensland team. Other members excelled in beach
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After persistent rain, bowlers finally had their chance to return to the green at Brandon, with competitive action kicking off on Friday night. The A & B Pairs final saw Jayson Farry and Jamie Woods prove too strong for Gary Pearce and Lloyd Shepherd, securing a decisive victory. Saturday 29th March – A Grade Singles Championship events continued on Saturday with a highly anticipated second-round A Grade Singles clash between two powerhouses, Peter Lejarraga and Vince Beitia. The match was fin
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The heavens opened again which made it impossible for playing the last week of Junior Cricket games of the 24/25 season. The breakup and presentations went ahead at the Nutrien Ag Solutions cricket clubhouse though. Players from the youngest Rookies to the Challengers, along with members of the Blue and Gold groups and their families, gathered for the end-of-season celebration last Friday night. A free sausage sizzle was provided for all players and their siblings before the presentation of gift
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The weather gods were not smiling on Home Hill Cricket this week, with the grand final game between Peto Marine and the Rookies, and the playoff for third between Alliance Pharmacy and the Crowned Mongrels being washed out. Despite the rain, presentations and a small celebration of the 2024/25 cricket season were held on Sunday afternoon. Winners from the season were: Minor premiers - Peto Marine Most runs - Lee Watts (210 runs for the season) Batting average - Lee Watts (average 70 runs) Hig
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The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated another excellent week on the greens despite the rain, with members coming together for a mix of club Championship games and engaging social matches. The atmosphere and enthusiasm around the club remains high, as members are gearing up for Ladies Division 1 Pennants. With Ayr Bowling Club hosting the event from 26th – 29th April, 2025. We encourage members and anyone who has an interest in bowls to come and support our ladies during this prestigious event. Our
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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing The growing season rolls on, and the weather gods continue to throw curveballs to sugarcane growers. After a relatively dry period following the February onslaught, the recent rain events may well cause a further downgrade in crop expectations. The southern Wilmar crushing regions would appear to be a beneficiary of rain, however, the Burdekin and Herbert regions are looking for some sunshine to get the crop growing again. With crop estimates releas
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Ayr State School recently held its annual Badge Ceremony, a proud tradition where senior students step into leadership roles and pledge their commitment to guiding their peers and upholding the school’s values. This year, Sage and Ruby were honoured as School Captains, with Sage also taking on the role of Cultural Captain and Ruby representing her peers as the Student Representative. Their dedication and enthusiasm are sure to inspire students throughout the year. The House Captain roles were
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Transitioning to secondary school is a significant milestone, and at Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), they are dedicated to making this journey both exciting and seamless for students and parents alike. With a strong sense of community, outstanding academic programs, and a commitment to student success, BCHS ensures that every child is supported as they take their first steps into high school life. To help students feel at home, BCHS invites all Year 5 and 6 students from the Burdekin regi
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Hi Everyone, I’m truly enjoying getting to know the Burdekin community and exploring the region as a whole. Starting fresh in a new area can be a bit daunting, but I’ve been met with such warmth and kindness from everyone here. Though change can feel challenging at times, I’ve found that stepping out of your comfort zone often leads to wonderful, unexpected experiences. So far, I’ve discovered some new favourite lunch and dinner spots, met some incredible people with fascinating stories, and
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Ladies Day Out The Home Hill ladies enjoyed Saturday afternoon bowls. Home Hill Bowls Club is growing and are seeing a fantastic growth and support from the ladies bowlers, with everyone taking the advantage of the sun before the predicted rains come back again. Home Hill Open Easter Fours: The Home Hill Bowls & Sports Club will be sponsoring an attractive fours carnival over the Easter Saturday and Sunday, flyers have gone out already to all bowler club. We are hoping to make this an annual
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