Australia’s place in the US $20 billion global banana market has been safeguarded, according to the federal government, with a new genetically modified banana being granted approval for commercial release and consumption.

The QCAV-4 variety of the Cavendish banana has been developed by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to counteract the effects of Panama Disease or Tropical Race 4 (TR4), a fungal disease that starves bananas of their nutrients eventually killing the plant.

Following 20 years of development and rigorous scientific assessment to ensure it is safe for consumption, QCAV-4 received final regulatory approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) earlier this year.

The approval comes at an important time as the disease impacts banana industries across the world, including here in Australia which consumes around five million bananas per day.

With TR4 estimated to have the potential to impact 80 per cent of global banana production, Australian researchers have made a world-first breakthrough to protect local banana farms and secure our food production systems.

While there is no immediate demand locally to bring QCAV-4 to market due to our biosecurity system successfully keeping Panama Disease from devastating the Australian banana industry, there are a number of countries with an increasing need to find a sustainable, long-term solution to the ravages of TR4.  

Genetically modified labelling provisions would apply to food derived from QCAV-4, so consumers can make informed choices should the banana be commercially produced and sold.

The team behind its creation are now turning their attention to developing a non-genetically modified, gene-edited version of the product that can resist TR4 and other diseases, continuing to future-proof one of the world’s favourite fruits.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said this is an important milestone for researchers at QUT and a significant development in the fight against potential threats to Australian biosecurity.

“Panama disease has caused havoc in the Philippines and China, spreading quickly in South-East and south Asia, parts of Africa and now South America,” Minister Collins said.

“This has been a long process for the scientists at QUT, and the final approval is vindication of their work, skill and patience.

“This is a major Australian achievement worth celebrating.”

Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm added, “If TR4 were to spread extensively here, it would devastate our farming communities. That’s why it’s great to see Queensland researchers leading the way, yet again, to provide our producers with a scientific safety net for their crops.”

QUT Distinguished Professor James Dale said the QUT team has been working on developing and growing GM Cavendish bananas for more than 20 years.

“Apart from providing a genuine protection against Panama Disease TR4 for the world’s export industry, QCAV-4 is a safety net for Australia’s $1.3 billion industry.”

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CANEGROWERS is calling on Wilmar Sugar and unions representing mill workers to prove they are serious about resolving their long-running pay dispute by getting out of the way and letting the independent umpire decide a fair and reasonable outcome.
 
“After many months of fruitless and increasingly bitter negotiations, it’s time for both parties to step aside and let the Fair Work Commission decide,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
 
“It’s clear that the parties involved are either unable or reluctant to reach an agreement, despite the damage it’s doing to farming families, the sugarcane industry, or their own communities,” Mr Menkens said.
 
“We have said repeatedly that workers deserve to be represented and achieve a fair pay deal and milling companies must be financially viable. But this dispute has become increasingly hostile and there is no sign of a compromise on the horizon.
 
Mr Menkins said that CANEGROWERS has taken strong action.

“Our representatives have had several meetings with Wilmar officials and union senior officials.
 
“What we’re saying is, you’ve had your chance to reach a compromise acceptable to both sides and you’ve failed. This can’t continue indefinitely. It’s impacting the harvest, it’s impacting growers and contractors, it’s impacting families, it’s impacting the industry, and it’s impacting communities. 
 
“It’s time to admit you’ve reached an intractable stalemate, step aside and let an independent third party decide the issue.”
  
Mr Menkins added that the current rolling stoppages at Wilmar mills, which crush about fifty per cent of Queensland’s sugarcane, have already cost growers and contractors dearly, not just financially but also in terms of the stress and anxiety they’re experiencing.

“It’s already a difficult season, and if we’re to have any chance of success we need to start pulling in the same direction, working together to make up ground, not continuing to be hampered by strike action.
 
“For everyone’s sake, either do a deal now, or engage the Fair Work Commission.

“Let’s get this crop off and try to make the 2024 season a success.”

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
133,532
1,087,858
Pioneer
58,085
485,589
Kalamia
68,373
613,772
Inkerman
69,767
700,741
Burdekin
329,756
2,887,960
CCS
Invicta
13.71
14.01
Pioneer
13.91
14.11
Kalamia
13.45
13.76
Inkerman
13.92
13.84
Burdekin
13.74
13.93
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
50%
13.91
WSRA17
7%
13.69
KQ228
24%
13.63
SRA23
5%
13.02
Q183
8%
13.51
Q208
3%
13.72
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 330,000 tonnes of cane for the week. It was a slow start to the week with mills re-starting after a two-week stop due to wet weather. Throughput was also impacted by continuing industrial action.
The season-to-date total is 2.89M tonnes represents 35% of the Burdekin region’s revised estimate of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 13.74, which was well below budget due to the wet field conditions.
The highest CCS sample of 16.5 was from a rake of Q240-PL in the Inkerman (Inkerman) productivity district.
As always, please remember to take care as you approach cane rail crossings as mills are now back in full production.
John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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The newly established network of Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators will connect stakeholders with others in the industry and share information on sustainable agriculture practices.

The facilitators are employed by local Natural Resource Management organisations funded through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and will support the program’s broad climate-smart sustainable agriculture outcomes.

Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, Matt Lowe, said the $40.7 million investment in the network of facilitators, spread across 52 regions Australia-wide, ensures there is a designated point of contact for farmers, landholders and community groups.

“We understand there’s a lot of information out there and that support is needed on the ground to ensure everyone has access to the latest and most helpful information,” Mr Lowe said.

“The facilitators will provide one-on-one support for farmers and landholders, providing them with available information and funding opportunities, as well as connecting them with others in the industry.

“Our industry has made great strides in becoming more sustainable, and this network will further support us in achieving our climate-smart goal.

“The facilitators will work closely with our network of Regional Soil Coordinators, also funded through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

“Together, the facilitators and Regional Soil Coordinators will ensure our valued stakeholders on the ground have a point of contact on all thing’s climate, sustainability and soil.”

For more information, visit: agriculture.gov.au/climate-smart

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National Meals on Wheels Day was on Wednesday the 28th of August and thousands of Meals on Wheels volunteers served up care, connection and comradery to Australians in need.   

As part of the annual celebration Saint Andrews Meals on Wheels Lower Burdekin Committee has had a morning tea and has welcomed Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort to share in the festivities.

Each client received a small bag of chocolate chip biscuits as a special memento for the day.  
 
Lower Burdekin Meals on Wheels Services is available to service the frail and aged as well as younger people with disability, carers who are assisting people who are receiving Meals on Wheels, those recovering from surgery or illness and people who are unable to cook or prepare meals themselves. 
 
“We cater for all demographics and our service enables the people in the community to be able to have support to live independently and with dignity in their own homes,” said a local spokesperson.

“When receiving Meals on Wheels one of our friendly, happy volunteers greet them at the door and they have the comfort of knowing that someone is coming each day.”
 
Meals on Wheels is calling on anyone who wants to get connected by joining the volunteer ranks at their Meals on Wheels service. 

“It might be a few hours a week but the power of connection and the real benefits to the health and wellbeing of the vulnerable people of our community means our volunteers always get back more than they give.”
 
Please call the local Meals on Wheels today if you have a family member or someone who needs their service or if you want to come and join as a volunteer. 
 
Contact details:  Phone 0747832659 / Email mowayr@bigpond.com 

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Saint Andrews Meals on Wheels Lower Burdekin celebrates National Meals on Wheels Day. Photo supplied

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At 4.10pm on Friday 9 August, Ayr Police spoke with a male person on Norham Road, Ayr.  As a result a 37yr old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for possessing a dangerous drug.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 11.55pm on Friday 9 August, Ayr Police spoke with a male person at Alva Beach.  As a result a 45yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for possessing a dangerous drug.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 2.20am on Saturday 10 August, Ayr Police attended a street disturbance on Queen Street, Ayr.  As a result a 24yr old Burdekin man was charged with public nuisance and serious assault of a Police Officer.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 8.40pm on Saturday 10 August, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Wilmington Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 22yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 14 October. 

At 10.50pm on Saturday 10 August, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Ayr.  As a result a 43yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving and she is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 12.50pm on Wednesday 14 August, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Chippendale Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 30yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October. 

At 12.55pm on Wednesday 14 August, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Ayr.  As a result a 21yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for disqualified driving and he is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 2 September. 

At 7.55pm on Wednesday 14 August, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr.  As a result a 37yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .133 and is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 16 September. 

At 11.35am on Thursday 15 August, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Beach Road, Ayr.  The driver, a 19yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October. 

Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Steve Barton.

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DOB: 29/01/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Soft hands only.
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

Neema is a charming kitten and is still searching for her forever family after her siblings have all been adopted.

She enjoys snuggling with her foster sister and foster mum, showing off her affectionate nature.

Now her crazy siblings have gone, Neema has time to shine and has grown into a little talker who loves her food, enjoys playing with toys, and is well-behaved with the litter box.

Are you looking for a loving companion? Neema might be the perfect match for you! To meet her, fill out an inquiry form at angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in her adoption fee of $195.00 she is desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/intestinal worm treated.

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Representatives of the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club are returning triumphant following the Life Saving World Championships which took place in the Gold Coast this week.

Chris Wicks, Ross Rickards and Jimmy Hayllor, supported by teammates Ben and Kelly Lawry, took out fifth place in the Masters Men’s Beach Relay in their age category while Kristy Wassmuth came home with a silver in the 200-metre obstacle race.

Chris Wicks, Ross Rickards and Jimmy Hayllor win big at Worlds. Photo supplied

Returning Champions!

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Members of the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club are celebrating the efforts of their teammates this week as the returning heroes bring home tales of camaraderie, celebration and achievement following two successful bids at the Life Saving World Championships.

Chris Wicks, Ross Rickards and Jimmy Hayllor competed in the 110-129 year (an average of all their ages) category in the Men’s Beach Relay.

The trio came second in Australia and fifth in the world. Another Australian team came in first, followed by Brazil, Argentina, France and then – the boys from the Burdekin.

Local athlete, Kristy Wassmuth also succeeded in her division, bringing home a silver medal in the 200-metre obstacle race.

Teammate, Kellie Lawry said they were all thrilled with the result.

“The event only comes to Australia sometimes and the guys thought they’d give it crack,” she explained.

“It’s been a wonderful experience for everyone – the people we met were really friendly – Jimmy even swapped a pair of his budgies with someone from Argentina, it’s been so much fun.”

More than 5000 people came to the Gold Coast to compete in the Life Saving World Championships with various competitions taking place over the last three weeks.

The group of Burdekin representatives said they enjoyed meeting athletes from different countries and soaking up the camaraderie of the sport.

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Kellie Lawry, Jimmy Hayllor, Ross Rickards, Chris Wicks and Ben Lawry at the Life Saving World Championships which took place in the Gold Coast this week. Photo supplied

Kristy Wassmuth came home with a silver in the 200 metre obstacle race. Photo supplied

Branded Budgies for the Burdekin boys. Photo supplied

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As the Burdekin transitions from the cooler months into the warmth of spring, the change of season brings a fresh wave of energy and activity to our vibrant community. The longer days and blooming landscapes set the perfect backdrop for a range of seasonal activities and agricultural shifts that define this unique time of year.

For our farmers, this season marks a crucial period of preparation and planting. With the soil warming up, there's a renewed focus on cultivating the crops that will sustain our region and beyond. The fields, once dormant, now burst with life, reminding us of the deep-rooted agricultural heritage that powers our economy.

In town, the community comes alive with a series of events that capture the spirit of spring. From local markets offering fresh, seasonal produce to outdoor festivals that celebrate our culture and creativity, there's a sense of renewal in the air. Residents are seen enjoying outdoor activities, be it picnics by the river or weekend barbecues with family and friends, making the most of the mild weather before the summer heat sets in.

Looking ahead, the coming months promise an array of events that will bring us together—whether it’s the Burdekin Water Festival, the Home Hill Harvest Festival, local sporting events, or community fundraisers. As we embrace the changing season, let’s celebrate the opportunities it brings to connect, grow, and enjoy the best of what the Burdekin has to offer.

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Every week, the Federal Government allocates $2,600 to the Doorways Emergency Relief program, providing crucial support to individuals and local families facing hardship. These funds play a vital role in ensuring that those going through tough times have access to essential services and resources.

In the Burdekin region, Gwen Marshall spearheads this initiative through the Burdekin Community Association. Working closely with the Neighbourhood Centre, Gwen and her team are dedicated to helping those in need by providing immediate assistance, such as food vouchers, utility payments, and other essential items.

“This funding is a lifeline for many in our community,” Gwen Marshall said. “It allows us to offer real, tangible help to people who are struggling to make ends meet. Whether it’s someone who has lost their job or a family facing unexpected expenses, we’re here to support them through difficult times.”

The Burdekin Community Association building, along with the Neighbourhood Centre, serves as a hub for distributing these much-needed resources. The efforts of Gwen Marshall and her team ensure that the allocated funds are used effectively to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they assist.

For anyone in need of assistance or looking for more information, the Burdekin Community Association can be reached at 4783 3744.

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Gwen Marshall

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If you've driven by or visited us recently, you might have seen the temporary fencing and skip bin out front of the Centre. The Neighbourhood Centre is currently undergoing construction and renovations.

Phase one has been completed, and we now have a new storage building at the back of the centre. This has allowed us to move our filing archives and storage from the garage to the new building.

Phase two has just commenced, and we are currently converting the garage into a multi-purpose training/meeting/office space for the Centre staff.

We also have new, very stylish office furniture along with the renovations. It has been over twenty years since the furniture was last replaced, which has created quite a bit of excitement in the office.

The new furniture has allowed for more much-needed workstations, as the old layout meant staff and volunteers sometimes had to share desks. The new layout also creates a better flow for moving around the office, allowing us to centralise resources more efficiently.

The only thing that has not changed is the friendly faces who work at the Neighbourhood Centre: Susan, Marisa, Jenny, Kim, and Natalie. Thank you to all the staff for their perseverance in working in less-than-ideal conditions while these changes occur.

We would also like to thank our visitors and regular program participants who have supported us during this time and adapted to the many changes and interruptions.

BellMarc Constructions was awarded the construction tender through the Department of Communities/QBuild. We thank Marc, Sam, Ryan, and their team for the hard work they’ve put in and for being accommodating and easy to work with. The guys always have happy smiles and fit the vibe of the Neighbourhood Centre perfectly.

Please drop in and see us at the Neighbourhood Centre. We would be pleased to show you the progress being made and love to have a conversation with the community - this is where we get our best ideas. Are you looking for a social outing or group to join? We can help you find one. See us at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr or contact us at (07) 4783 4243.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Natalie from BNC with from L to R: Sam, Mark & Ryan from BellMarc Constructions. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Chamber, a key supporter of local businesses through initiatives like the Burdekin Gift Card scheme, is at risk of closing due to a lack of volunteers. For the past decade, the Burdekin Gift Card program has played a crucial role in keeping money within the community by limiting its use to local businesses. This "closed-loop" system has bolstered the local economy and become a popular choice for organizations such as Wilmar, social clubs, and the Burdekin Eisteddfod, who use the gift cards for prizes and gifts.

However, the Chamber's future is now in jeopardy, with three key positions—President, Secretary, and Treasurer—remaining vacant. If these roles are not filled soon, the current committee may be forced to close the Chamber, putting initiatives like the gift card scheme at risk.

The closure of the Chamber would be a significant blow to the Burdekin region. It has been instrumental in advocating for local businesses, organizing networking events, and providing essential resources to help businesses thrive. The Burdekin Gift Card scheme, in particular, has ensured that economic benefits remain within the community, supporting local businesses and keeping funds close to home.

Beyond its programs, the Burdekin Chamber has been a fantastic platform for local business owners to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. By fostering these connections, the Chamber has helped build a strong, supportive business community that benefits everyone involved.

The current committee is calling on community members to step up and take on these critical roles. Without new leadership, the Chamber’s ability to continue its mission of supporting local businesses and fostering connections within the Burdekin will be lost.

The Burdekin Chamber has been a cornerstone of the local business community for years, providing both practical support and invaluable networking opportunities. Now, it needs the support of that same community to continue its work. Filling these essential positions is not just about saving the Chamber—it's about preserving the economic and social fabric of the Burdekin region.

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Opinion Piece
North Queenslanders left to run the gauntlet in their daily commute on a substandard highway have been offered a clear picture about how little Labor cares about their safety, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Mr Last said despite an extensive campaign and multiple reports pointing to some of the deadliest sections of the Bruce Highway in North Queensland, the Prime Minister has failed to give locals a date as to when they could feel safe driving on the Bruce Highway.
“A plethora of safety concerns, a climbing number of deaths and a region at boiling point over the state of the Bruce Highway should have been more than enough reason for the Prime Minister to make a funding announcement this region is crying out for,” Mr Last said.
“Only weeks earlier we saw a 15-year action plan with no funding from Albanese’s state Labor mates, now we are seeing the same level of disdain for the safety of regional road users by the Labor Prime Minister.”
“In my electorate alone 18 actions were identified for the Bruce Highway, including sections that have cost multiple people’s lives in the last 12 months, so it was not as if the opportunities and priority areas for funding weren’t identified before the Prime Minister’s jet hit the tarmac in Townsville.”
Mr Last said regional Queenslanders deserved to know that their safety when they drive on the Bruce Highway in the north was just as valued as the safety of a driver on the M1 in the southeast- corner.
“We have to fight tooth and nail for any road funding in the north and the sad reality is that quite often, those upgrades aren’t about arriving at a location quicker, they are about actually arriving alive,” Mr Last said.
“Every time a community and first responders are left to pick up the pieces from another fatal accident on the Bruce Highway they are left to question just how much more blood needs to be shed before the road they rely on gets serious funding and it’s clearly a question this Labor government needs to start answering.”
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Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Home Hill's Anglican Church recently hosted a lively community event that brought together residents for a day of fellowship, food, and cultural celebration. The event featured an array of activities, including a series of addresses by various ministers who shared inspiring messages and led the congregation in prayer.

The atmosphere was one of warmth and camaraderie as attendees enjoyed a traditional sausage sizzle, which provided a delicious break between the day’s festivities. The aroma of grilled sausages filled the air, drawing in families and friends eager to share a meal together.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the Burdekin Choral Society delivered a stirring performance that captivated the audience. Their harmonious voices resonated throughout the church, filling the space with uplifting melodies that highlighted the community's rich musical talent.

One of the event's highlights was a special performance of Melanesian song and dance, which brought a unique cultural element to the day. The performers, dressed in traditional attire, captivated the audience with their rhythmic movements and soulful singing, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Melanesian people.

The event at Home Hill's Anglican Church was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of community, culture, and faith. It served as a reminder of the importance of coming together to share in the diverse traditions that make the region so unique.

Photo Captions:
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Bishop and Party after unveiling the Centenary Plaque

Bishop Heith and Warden Pam Ashworth  after unveiling Centenary Plaque on the wall.

Home Hill Choral Society

Pam Ashworth, Noel Condie, and Alf Shand cutting Centenary Cake.

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Flexi Queensland has proudly been recognized as 'The Most Exceptional Disability Support Services Team in Australia' at the prestigious Enablement Awards 2024, held in Brisbane on Friday, August 16, 2024. This accolade highlights the outstanding contributions of top performers across the Disability Care, Housing, and Services sectors throughout the year.

Winning this award is a testament to Flexi Queensland’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality support and care for individuals with disabilities. Their dedication to fostering inclusive communities and empowering their clients to lead fulfilling lives has set them apart in the industry.

The Enablement Awards serve as a platform to celebrate the achievements of organizations and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and innovation in the disability sector. Flexi Queensland’s win not only showcases their excellence but also highlights the important role that quality support services play in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities across the nation.

Flexi Queensland hopes to continue its mission of providing exceptional care and support, ensuring that every individual they work with has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their goals.

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