Another week, another organisation interviewed who like everyone else – desperately need volunteers. It’s been a common theme since I took up this role. Whether it’s  the SES, The Men’s Shed, VMR, or Sweet FM, volunteers are in short supply.

We do our best within these pages to support these organisations, whether it’s the above or Lions, Rotary, BNC, BCA, Scouts, etc by giving them exposure, highlighting the great things they do, hoping someone, anyone, walks through their doors to join. Sometimes it works.

I may not be able to give up much of my time (something Warren at the SES says is the greatest thing anyone can give you), to volunteer everywhere, but I can make a difference in other ways. Stay tuned for more on this down the track.

I have picked up the baton for one non-profit, though. The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival was struggling for volunteers when I wandered on up there, but I’m pleased to say it’s been reignited by an enthusiastic new bunch (myself included).

If you caught the story a couple of issues ago, I wrote my heart & soul into that piece. Being an author (outside these pages), it spoke to me on many levels. I’m excited for what’s to come.

I also spoke at the recent Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting, where I discussed my award-winning novel, and my own journey. For a relative newcomer, the turnout and support blew me away. For those who then bought my book on the night, humbled beyond words. Thank You.

Mark

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The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) has been active since the onset of the recent floods, providing support for community recovery, including funding for disaster operations and public asset repairs. Recovery is a complex process affecting not just infrastructure but also people's mental health.

Jake Ellwood, CEO of the QRA, was in the Burdekin recently. He discussed the organisation's role in disaster recovery, while giving a recovery timeline as he explains.

“I've seen the impacts from north to south, and people should understand it will be a big job. We think it's really important to make sure that there is a seamless transition from response into recovery. We're already looking at what recovery might look like during the event,” Jake says.

“For some it could be days if the impact is minor, for some weeks, for some others it could be months, while there will be others out there who have been impacted, whether economically or mentally, where it can take some people years to recover from. Additionally, some of those bigger pieces of infrastructure have to be replanned and then executed to roll out. Invariably, there will be some who will bounce back quickly, and some who recover slowly,” Jake emphasises.

Ellwood stresses the need for community support and a collaborative effort involving local councils, state, and federal governments, during this recovery timeline.

“This has been a very significant event. The QRA has been on the ground since the rain began. We make sure that we get appropriate support to communities. We make sure there are activations to provide counter disaster operations funding in a timely fashion, repair of essential public assets, and then we look at a range of measures that may help communities recover. And recovering is hard.”

“Often those who are surrounded by family and friends and community, they're the ones who invariably bounce back better. But if you're struggling, reach out to a friend, family member, council, a community recovery hotline where people are waiting to assist you. Don’t suffer in silence,” Jake stresses.

“From community to council to state and federal government. We only get through these events via a full team effort. Queenslanders are tough, and we will bounce back stronger.”

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CEO of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, Jake Ellwood, stresses not to suffer in silence, support is there for those affected. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr is very excited about celebrating International Women’s Day, by supporting Zonta Club Burdekin Inc IWD Brunch.

Zonta’s International Women’s Day Brunch, to be held at the Masonic Heritage Centre, MacMillan Street, Ayr on Sunday the 9th of March, is a day celebrated globally that recognises women’s achievements and raises awareness about gender equality.

Some more exciting news is that the event has sold out in one day of tickets being released. This brunch will bring together 150 people, including students from the four Burdekin High Schools and visitors to the region.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is the local Zonta club’s major fundraiser for the year, with the funds raised going towards the purchase of 1,000 birthing kits to send to developing countries as their international project.

This year Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr are gold sponsors for the event and will be presented on the day with certificates of appreciation from Birthing Kits Foundation Australia, in recognition for their support of the project and their staff’s assistance assembling the birthing kits. One birthing kit, valued at $5, has the potential to save two lives – both mother and baby.

The inspirational guest speakers include Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator of James Cook University’s Master of Nursing (Online), and Sarah Chapman, a former Ayr State High School student, Townsville Science Teacher, and recipient of the 2013 Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Science Teaching. She is the founder of STEM Changemakers, and has also helped build a team at Townsville State High School, which has become a magnet for parents and students who want to be prepared for jobs of the future.

Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrated their 30th birthday last year. On this IWD, Zonta International celebrates the power of women in STEM and their vital contributions to innovation and progress.

President for the Zonta Club Burdekin, Isabel Stubbs, says the region has great opportunities for women in the future.

“We are proud to support the next generation of female leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through the Zonta Women in STEM Award—empowering women to achieve full and equal participation in STEM fields.” Says Isabel.

The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc gives a STEM award annual to Year 10 female students at each of the High Schools to assist with their education.

The Burdekin community spirit shines at events such as these that unite a community for a common goal, while the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr can proudly participate, including staff and their children.

WHAT: Zonta Club of the Burdekin's International Women’s Day Brunch
WHERE: Masonic Heritage Centre, MacMillan Street
WHEN: Sunday 9th March

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Judy Mitchell Chair Zonta Club Burdekin Advocacy Committee, Helen Andrews Woman of Achievement Awardee, Therese Smith Zonta, Area 5 Directo. Photo: Supplied

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Jane Baltzars and Erin Brennan
Eusebio Aguirre (President Burdekin Chamber of Commerce), with Kari Ravizza (Treasurer) Burdekin Chamber of Commerce
Deputy Mayor, Max Musumeci, Councillor Amanda Hall, Peter Hall
Lisa Shepherd, Kate Casswell, Lyn McLaughlin, Norm Bethell
Belinda Mohr, Gwen Marshall all smiles.
Anthony & Carolyn Sturiale
Bryn Hicks, Jim Ashworth
Megan Hippler, Tracy Liotis

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Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) has long been a beacon of educational excellence in our community, and the recent 2024 Awards Night held on Thursday evening, was a testament to the outstanding learning and teaching that take place within its classrooms.

This prestigious evening celebrated the dedication, hard work, and achievements of both students and staff, showcasing the school's commitment to fostering academic success and personal growth.

The Awards Night recognised students who have excelled across various disciplines, from academic achievements to leadership, service, and cultural pursuits. The results from our 2024 graduates further highlight the school’s commitment to high-quality teaching and learning.

Many students have secured outstanding results, opening doors to university offers, apprenticeships, and promising career pathways. Their success reflects not only their dedication but also the unwavering support of BCHS educators, who continue to implement innovative, evidence-based teaching practices to ensure every student reaches their full potential.

Principal Lorraine Wolffe praised the hard work of students and staff, stating, “At Burdekin Catholic High School, we are committed to creating an environment where every student is encouraged to strive for excellence. Our teachers go above and beyond to provide engaging and effective learning experiences, and the success of our graduates is proof of that commitment.”

Beyond academics, BCHS fosters a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, ensuring that students develop holistically. The school’s focus on faith, values, and community engagement, continues to shape well-rounded individuals ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

As we celebrate the successes of our 2024 students and look to the future, Burdekin Catholic High School remains dedicated to its mission of providing outstanding education, empowering students to achieve excellence, and making a difference in the world.

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Year 7–Year 12 Duxes. Photo. Supplied
Year 11, Level 1 (Gold) Awardees. Photo. Supplied
Years 7–11 JCU Academic Excellence Awardees. Photo. Supplied

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It’s often the unsung heroes – the State Emergency Service (SES) – who are first to respond. First to rescue. First to clean up. First to help. First to support the community any way they can.

During the Burdekin's recent floods, they completed 140 jobs, a similar number to Cyclone Kirrily last year. While they receive plenty of praise, pats on the back, or free food and accommodation, what they need most is more volunteers. In a sign of the times, volunteering nationally is down 10% everywhere!

As the SES’s volunteer base has shrunk and current members are ageing (some are in their 80s), areas such as the Burdekin have some of the lowest turnout numbers in Far North Queensland.

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SES Call For Volunteers
Recent Flooding Event Highlights Need

“At Clare, we've only got three volunteers, but one's since left so that's back to two. Giru has two. Home Hill has six, however, we’ve just had the deputy local controller resign because of his age. He's 85,” states Warren Francis, local controller of the (SES) in Burdekin.

“It's a phenomena. It's something that's happening that we can't control. There are two separate enquiries going at the moment. One is a state level enquiry, and one is a national enquiry about volunteerism. Why can't we get volunteers? Why is it dropping? Why have we had a 10% decrease in volunteers in the last two years?” Warren says.

While it's something that's being looked into by both State and Federal governments, where it’s simply a case of ‘let's see what they come up with’ that doesn’t help the men and women of the local SES units. Whether it’s Ayr, Home Hill, Clare, Giru, or Rita Island, all could use a boost in numbers.

So what’s the answer? What can the community do to rally behind the volunteers in bright orange who do so much for the local communities of the Burdekin?

They’ve got all the latest equipment, from rescue boats, heavy rigid trucks, 4 wheel drives. They offer free training in over 20 courses. They’re backed by the council and government. And above all, they have camaraderie second to none.  

“All the training is free. If you stick around you can get a forklift license, a working at heights elevated platform ticket, Bobcat certification, etc. They're skills you can take anywhere. We try to emphasise that to younger people, that there's rewards and it's all free! They'll feed you, they look after you. If you need accommodation, they'll look after that too,” Warren expresses.

“Look, we really need some extra people. I get it, it's volunteering. It’s not for everyone and I won't tell fibs to people. I'll tell you honestly, when you get a job it's going to be at the worst, most inconvenient time. When you go and do the job, it's going to probably be wet and very uncomfortable. It's going to be miserable,” Warren asserts.

“But it's a great feeling, and it says something of a person that can volunteer their time, because there's nothing more precious than someone's time. If people are prepared to give you their time, that is the biggest thing that they can give you. That speaks volumes to me about the character of people who are prepared to come and do it for free, and do it so they can help their community.”

“We're just grateful for any time that people can give us, whether it's a little bit of time or a lot of time. We're grateful for anyone that can give us their time,” Warren declares.

Newest recruit, Ian Schwerin, didn’t need any convincing. When his boat was hit by a rogue wave and flipped over last year where he and his mate spent 23 long hours in shark infested waters, the first thing he did when he was rescued was walk straight into the nearest SES.

“I went for a weekend fishing trip over at the Cape, and I got hit by a rogue wave, which swamped my boat. My mate and I were stuck in the water for 23 hours and once we got found, I joined the SES to give back to the community for everyone that came looking for me,” Ian says.

While it shouldn’t take a rescue to convince you to join, perhaps a more sobering thought is what happens when the current members reach an age that they can no longer volunteer? Attend a flood or cyclone to lend a hand and clean up? What happens then? Who steps up to help when the helpers can no longer help?

“Burdekin has tremendous units, probably because we get so much work which is done by so few people that, you know, it creates a camaraderie. The satisfaction of helping the community is probably the biggest satisfaction anyone can do,” Warren concludes.

Be part of an organisation that makes all the difference. To join your local SES, simply drop in to your nearest SES branch, sign up, or visit: https://www.ses.qld.gov.au/form/become-an-ses-member and discover why there is no greater reward than helping and saving others.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last has hailed a boost in planning scheme funding coupled with the axing of stamp duty for first home buyers as a win in the region’s battle to address the housing supply.

As of May 1, eligible first home buyers looking to build a new home as well as those looking to purchase an existing home will save thousands of dollars with the abolishment of stamp duty after the bill was passed during the first sitting of parliament for this year.

Mr Last said the move to keep money in the pockets of first home buyers went hand in glove for the Burdekin with the Crisafulli Government’s recent announcement of additional funding to ensure the Burdekin’s local planning scheme is responsive to housing needs.

“At a time when the demand for housing is at a crucial stage, the Crisafulli Government has removed barriers for those looking to build a new home or purchase an existing home,” Mr Last said.

“The $100,000 in funding for Burdekin Shire Council will mean it is well positioned to deliver real solutions for this community’s housing needs.”

“Eligible first home buyers looking to purchase an existing home valued at up to $700,000 and those looking to build a new home won’t pay a cent in stamp duty providing a real leg-up for those looking to purchase their first home.”

Mr Last said the collaborative approach by the Crisafulli Government ensured Queensland was steadfast in reaching a target of building one million homes in the next 20 years.

“For years Queensland’s housing approvals were left in freefall which is why the LNP went to the October election with a 20-year housing plan to build homes for Queensland’s future.”

“This is part of our commitment to work closely with local councils including Burdekin Shire, to ensure local planning schemes are responsive to their local housing needs.”

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At just 17, Nicole Cervoni is making a remarkable impact on her community. Growing up in the small rural town of Millaroo, she has been actively involved from a young age, organising raffles and cent sales before joining the Youth Council, where she has served for the past year.

“I've only been at the Council for a year, but every time Tammy asked for volunteers, I said, ‘Yep, I'll do it,’ and I really enjoyed it,” Nicole shared. “It's an incredible experience for any young person.”

Her dedication was recognised when she was named Young Person of the Year at the 2025 Australia Day Awards, a moment that left her and her family in shock.

“I jumped up and down, I got a letter in the mail, and I was crying. I rang my grandma, and she was at a bus stop in Brisbane with my cousin, and she started screaming in the middle of Brisbane,” Nicole recalled. “This award is, I think, a reflection of all the people who helped me get to this point, more than it is of me, because I couldn't have done anything I did without my family’s support.”

Nicole credits her parents and the hardworking Millaroo community for inspiring her.

“I would not have done half the things I did without seeing my parents leading by example and without them allowing me to,” she said. “Half the volunteering I do is here in Ayr, which meant that my mum would have to drive me in and out of town about three times a week, which was very difficult on her.”

Despite the effort, Nicole finds joy in giving back.

“When I work at the library and I'm just talking with other people and we're having a conversation, it makes me happy to know that I've made a difference in someone else's day, that I've made something easier for them,” she said.

“I guess just knowing that I'm following in the footsteps of so many great people, like the people at Millaroo and a lot of my teachers at Burdekin Catholic High School (BCH).”

Nicole also expressed gratitude to Antonetta Dalle Cort, a careers teacher at BCH who helped her land her library job, and Elisa Regano, a drama teacher who dedicated her own time and money to putting on musicals for children.

Looking to the future, Nicole has been accepted to JCU to study Education, where she hopes to continue to make a difference to people's lives.

“I want to be a primary school teacher, and then a principal and hopefully get higher up into the Department of Education.

Nicole encourages all young people to get more involved in the community.

“What's the harm in giving something a go, giving back to the community, you never know what will happen, I didn't expect this award from what I did," she shared.

“I think just seeing inspirational people from such a young age made me want to help and follow in their footsteps.

“All these people giving back to the community and doing so much, but who was doing stuff for them?  and I wanted to be that person."

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Young Person of the Year Nicole Cervoni. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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In a joint press conference held at the still flooded Plantation Park, and standing next to the Bruce Highway, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, led calls for urgent road upgrades after North Queensland was again cut off from the rest of the state and country.

“With the recent rainfall events, we had major flooding on the roads where the Bruce Highway was cut in six different spots. It's simply not good enough,” Mr. Willcox stated.

“The flooding has affected a lot of people. We've had flood water go through houses, through busi-nesses, and disrupt essential services, but what we've really noticed is the dilapidation of the Bruce Highway.”

Nationals Leader David Littleproud, Senator Susan McDonald, and Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, also expressed their concerns, after Home Hill and Ayr were separated from one another for six days, affecting trade routes and food supplies.

“We've gotten 1000s of signatures to fix the Bruce. It highlights how bad this road is and now we need action,” Mr Willcox declared.

“Traditionally, the federal highway has always been funded 80% federally, 20% by state. Under the Labor Government, they slashed that to a 50/50 arrangement. That's why the work just simply is not getting done.”

“The current government has put $7.2 billion on the table. That's been matched by the coalition. I'm asking that some of that large chunk of $7.2 billion, be contributed to fix what's needed here most,” Mr Willcox added.

Local business owner, Richard Bonato, was left frustrated after numerous delays as he counts the cost of road closures.

“We had to helicopter our staff back and over with materials to get people going over there. People had no power. We've got all these stoppages along this Bruce Highway,” Richard Bonato said.

“This is 2025 and should not be happening”

“There's 3000 to 4000 people this side of this river, and there's another 6000 to 7000 that side. It's a disaster and needs to be fixed. Everybody's sick to death of it,” he added.

“Never before could you see a more compelling case to spend some of that $7.2 billion. We've got the Labor government to come with us on an 80/20 split on the Bruce but it's important that we don't put all the money down south to get people to the Sunshine Coast for a holiday faster,” Na-tionals Leader David Littleproud said.

“This is a very important arterial to feed our nation. Unless we invest and prioritise these parts of the road, then in times of disaster we are going to continue to face into these problems,” he added.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort echoed the statements.

"I agree with everything said. I was born and raised here, and I've seen this road cut off many times over my lifetime. Now is the time to move with all this devastation. It must be a high priority, be-cause too much was lost between Ayr and Home Hill alone with productivity, transport, schooling, and medical services. This road was shut down for six days,” Mayor Dalle Cort exclaimed.

(L-R) Senator Susan McDonald (back), Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Annette Swaine LNP candidate for Kennedy, Nationals Leader David Littleproud, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, stand at the road which was cut off for six days. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Caption 1: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Senator Susan McDonald, and Nationals Leader David Littleproud, hear from Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who pleads for actions to fix the problematic Bruce Highway. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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With the recent floods cutting access on the Bruce Highway between Home Hill and Ayr, many people were left marooned, finding themselves stranded on either side of the river. Doctors, nurses, patients, teachers, students, workers, didn’t matter – everyone was stuck!

After successfully implementing their rail-cart system during the Ingham floods, both Burdekin Shire Council with the aid of Queensland Rail, deployed it here in the Burdekin to great success as Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort explains.

“We had people caught out and for different reasons. From the medical side of things, we've tried to address that as quickly as possible for people with the assistance of Q-rail. They provided the rail-cart and they’ve been ferrying people back and forth as quickly as possible,” Mayor Dalle Cort says.

“People have been as patient as possible but having that Q-rail cart has made a big difference for people to move and connect with community again,” Mayor Dalle Cort added.

With the tropical low monsoon and the amount of rain and floodwater, the Burdekin was inundated with water, especially in Giru and at Plantation Creek by Plantation Park.

“I've never seen it [water] go over the railway track in my lifetime. It was touch and go there for a while. The roads here have been one of those things that’s been neglected in North Queensland for too long. But all these things will now be addressed with the Queensland State Disaster Recovery, which is now being coordinated.”

“There will be a lot of work under the disaster management recovery with regard to drainage issues that we have, that have been going on for some time. We need to have them addressed sooner than later instead of putting it off until the next time. It might be another 10 years before it next floods, but we'll certainly be looking at it from a Council's point of view and we'll be knocking on ministers’ doors for help and assistance,” Mayor Dalle Cort states.

Thankfully, in better news, the Mayor said life will get back to normal with the re-opening of the Bruce Highway.

“We’ve got some great people working in this community, getting things done and dusted.

“The road crew and the council will be going out inspecting roads, patching up what we can, and taking signage down to get back to everyday life. Then long term, trying to improve the roads. This is when we start talking to ministers and making sure that we can get allocation in their budgets.”

The Queensland rail-cart is a free service operating between daytime hours and allowing access to those who need it.

Caption. L-R: Megan Cannings (Safety & Community Coordinator), Andy Pethybridge (Queensland Police Services Emergency Management Coordinator), Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, John George and Stephen Winn (S.E.S), Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Eliza Lovell (Economic Development Coordinator). Photo credit: Mark T Rasmussen

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It’s over! The rains that persisted for nearly two weeks straight finally ended and the flooding has begun to subside in the Burdekin. And it’s about… fricken time! [I wanted to put something else but my editor won’t allow it] though I’m sure you all echo my sentiments regardless.

While some outlying areas are still affected, such as Giru and Gropers Creek, for the most part the flood waters have receded, the grey skies have given way to blue ones, and the wet season heat and humidity is sticking to our backs and upon us once more.

It’s been a wild, unpredictable ride the last fortnight, especially this last week after Plantation Creek spilled out over the Bruce Highway next to Plantation Park and cut us off from one another for a full six days. While the Burdekin Dam was at 217% (the record is 221%) – and a whopping six metres above the spillway! If anyone saw photos or videos online, it was truly extraordinary.

We could all easily point fingers and lay blame squarely at government for not doing enough to ensure roads in Queensland are raised and upgraded, but it’ll serve little to no point.

If you truly want change, then vote in the candidates that demand action happen! No point bemoaning this party or that party.

What we can do instead, however, is applaud the tireless volunteers, from the S.E.S, emergency workers, community support groups, council, and other associated organisations, and give ‘em all a big pat on the back.

Even though some of you may not agree with aspects of how this 2025 flood was handled, what we can agree on is the incredible contribution of some to keep the rest of us safe.

I don’t care what side of the political fence you sit on, in a time of crisis, it was great to see so many reach out and lend a hand in support. That’s what great communities do.

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With the recent floods cutting off Home Hill from Ayr, which left locals, travellers and northerners alike stranded, new resident and Home Hill transplant, Jennifer Rasmussen, resolved to do her bit to help those that got caught out and found themselves stuck.

“One day my husband came home from work and told me there’s a whole bunch of people waiting at the Comfort Stop here in Home Hill, many of them in cars with very little on them, including one lady who also had her cat and dog with her.”

“I’d already seen a few local people offering support to people, such as one woman I saw online who created a tuckerbox of free food for the truckies, and a hotel making food for residents isolated out in Giru.”

“So when he told me about those souls doing it tough in their cars with nowhere to go, I decided to whip up some cookies one arvo because I genuinely love baking, and then go hand them out that same day.”

By all account Jennifer’s bickies went down a real treat, with several people genuinely touched by her kindness.

“I wasn’t expecting people to be so moved by such a simple gesture, which took me no longer than about one to two hours to do. A few drivers were visibly affected, with one almost tearing up he was so grateful. It really hit me. I didn’t expect that but it made me glad I did it because it really seemed to make such a difference and lift their spirits.”

It’s in times of need that such a modest act of goodwill can mean so much.

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Newcomer to Home Hill, Jennifer Rasmussen, serving up her home baked bickies to those stuck by the floods as they waited it out at the Comfort Stop for days.

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As the clean-up and recovery efforts continue following devastating flooding in North Queensland, Member for Burdekin Dale Last calls on the community to nominate a local legend who has gone the extra mile to help their community during recent challenging times.

Recent weeks have seen community members across the district go above and beyond to ensure essential services were able to continue and vulnerable community members have the assistance needed to access medical supplies or a warm meal.

Mr Last said having seen the devastation caused and the community response as flood waters receded, he wanted to ensure the efforts of business owners, volunteers and everyday community members were recognised.

“Recent weeks have seen widespread impacts to our community yet there are everyday people whose actions have undoubtedly eased the pressure on emergency services and helped to restore calm in uncertain times,” Mr Last said.

“We’ve seen businesses prepare extra meals for flood damaged communities and provide essential services to those in need. We have seen our emergency service volunteers show utmost dedication in our community’s darkest hour. And we have seen everyday residents providing food and assistance to their neighbours.”

“I want to ensure those people who deserve it, receive our community’s recognition and thanks for their efforts, which is why I am calling on anyone who knows of someone who has gone above and beyond in recent weeks to nominate a community hero.”

Mr Last said the Premier’s recent visit to the Burdekin region had not only offered insight into the extent of the damage caused by floodwaters but also opportunities to build back better.

“Having the Premier meeting with flood affected residents in Giru and meeting emergency first responders who went well beyond the call of duty for that community was incredibly crucial, particularly when it comes to reviewing our disaster response,” Mr Last said.

“If you believe someone you know deserves our community’s thanks please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/THKXHL2 to nominate them as a community hero.”

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The Burdekin region has been left reeling from the devastating impact of recent flooding, with countless residents grappling to rebuild their lives amidst the widespread destruction. In the face of such adversity, however, a powerful sense of community spirit has emerged, providing a much-needed beacon of hope and resilience during this challenging time.
Among the many inspiring acts of generosity, the Country Ayr Motel has truly distinguished itself. Over the course of three days, the motel staff worked tirelessly to prepare and distribute 300 meals, offering vital support to those most affected by the floods.
Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli, even took to social media to publicly acknowledge the motel’s contribution, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and dedication shown by the staff.
“It just shows the sort of community spirit that exists,” David stated.
His message of thanks highlighted the critical role those local businesses, like Country Ayr Motel, play in supporting their communities during times of natural disaster.
Their motel’s efforts went far beyond simple hospitality—they became a lifeline for families struggling to cope with the aftermath of the disaster, ensuring no one in the community went without nourishment in their hour of need.
The selflessness and unwavering commitment of the Country Ayr Motel team have not only provided much-needed physical relief but have also served as a beacon of comfort and inspiration for many.
Their actions underscore the incredible power of local businesses banding together in times of crisis, demonstrating that, when faced with hardship, it’s the collective strength of communities that can make all the difference.

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The Premier, David Crisafulli (second from right) seen here with Dale Last (far right), and Burdekin Shire Council Mayor (second from left), publicly thanked Ayr Country Motel staff.

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What can I say about our wonderful community?  Despite some negativity late last year into early this year, the people of the Burdekin Shire have proven once again, that they are caring, generous and resilient.  During the recent flood event, the support for and kindness shown to our neighbors and visitors was simply astounding.  This is part of the reason I love our people and community so much.  “When the going gets tough, the Burdekin gets going.”  
We, as a Shire, were extremely privileged in the wake of the flooding to have Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Tony Perrett MP, Minister for Primary Industries visit us to assess damage alongside Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development.   Andrew Willcox MP, Federal Member for Dawson also showed his ongoing support for the people of the Burdekin Shire by visiting flood affected areas, while Premier Crisafulli and Senator Susan MacDonald stood alongside Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton in surveying the damage in Ingham.
Last Saturday, Council welcomed Her Excellency, the Honorable Dr Jeannette Young, Governor of Queensland to the Burdekin.  Dr Young wished to convey her appreciation to those involved in the Disaster Management during the flooding.  How wonderful to know that we, as a Shire, matter.  Now for future flood-proofing and “building it back better.”
Personal hardship financial assistance is available for Queensland communities impacted by the North and Far North Tropical Low event.  Grants include:
   • Emergency Hardship Assistance
   • Essential Services Hardship Assistance
   • Essential Household Contents Grant
   • Essential Services Safety and Reconnection
   • Structural Assistance Grant
To find out if you are eligible for assistance, visit:  
https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/money-finance/eligibility-apply/nq-monsoon-trough-january-2025
As we move on from disaster, let us all look forward to the many exciting events planned for the year.  One particular highlight being the special guest for Fast track 2025 which is proudly sponsored by Burdekin Motors, acclaimed actor and singer Hugh Sheridan.  How exciting is THAT?  I recently read a post on social media that encouraged people to be mindful of the dangers of negativity when posting and…
“Let’s be mindful, respectful and work together to build a better community.”
I couldn’t have said it better myself.   God Bless.

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