With the sound of the final school bell on the afternoon of Friday 13 December 2024, a 48-year chapter will close for Mrs Linda Scott, a treasured educator and mentor who has touched the lives of the entire Burdekin region.

After completing her senior education, Linda was faced with the daunting question of, “what’s next?”.

Having taken an academic pathway throughout her schooling rather than a commercial one, Linda was left to think outside the employment box, leading her to pursue her passion for learning and become a primary school teacher.

Linda was successfully awarded a scholarship to attend the Townsville Teacher College (James Cook University) from 1972 to 1975, and upon graduation, she began her career at Mareeba State School where she taught from 1976 to 1978 before she was transferred to East Ayr State School. Over the course of twenty years, Linda taught a range of classes from year three to seven before becoming the Deputy Principal in 2000.

“The biggest lesson I have learnt is the importance of being flexible with an open mind and a desire to keep learning,” shared Linda.

“Being a lifelong learner is so important to ensure that you are exposed to new initiatives, new knowledge and learnings so that students in your care are given every opportunity to reach their full potential.”

With almost half a century of memories, Linda reminisces on a comedic Brisbane based Expo excursion mishap that saw her and her teaching partner lead a line of students in red jumpers (a supervision tactic) through pavilions and street performances to then earn the title of Mr and Mrs Red and the Red Family for the trip’s duration.

“We were at Expo for a couple of days, and became well known and would often hear, “here they are again – Mr and Mrs Red and the Red Family” – it was quite amusing,” explained Linda.

Above all else, Linda cherishes seeing how far her students have come from the beginning to the end of each school year, and the bond she shares with so many families, adding how much she enjoys speaking with past students to hear what they have gotten up to post primary school, and into adulthood.

With a well-earned retirement on the horizon, Linda’s daughter Miss Heather Scott will continue carrying her legacy as an educator herself.

“I don’t know if Mum was an inspiration in my teaching journey, maybe more of an influence - but like anything, if you are around something long enough, you are going to pick things up,” shared Heather.

Having been immersed in the world of teaching her whole life, Heather entered the profession aware of how rewarding, and how challenging the role of an educator can be, and welcomes this new, and unchartered era, explaining her family doesn’t know a life without her mum’s job in it.

“Watching Mum, I have learnt a few things that shaped some of what I do, but there is one thing that Mum and I are firmly aligned on, and that is why we do what we do,” added Heather.

“Everything we do within the profession has the students’ best interest in mind first and for most and not just the students at our respective schools but any student we have met along the way. 

“My journey thus far has been very different to that of my mother’s but like me and 100’s of educators far and wide, we have all gained a little from Mum, and long after she retires, she will continue to walk the halls through the practices and knowledge she has instilled in so many people in education.”

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The 1981 East Ayr State School Staff photo.
Linda graduated from the Townsville Teacher College in 1975.
Like mother like daughter, both Heather and Linda Scott have led successful careers in teaching.
Heather with her parents, Laura and Reno Pacchiardi on graduation day.
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Here in the Burdekin, we rely on the generous financial support of local businesses to keep our clubs, sports teams, and community events running. From youth sports to community events/festivals, these businesses are more than just local service providers—they’re the financial backbone that ensures our town’s social life continues to thrive.
A prime example of this vital support is Laser Electrical, whose recent sponsorship of the Ayr Golf Club event helped make it a great success. It’s these kinds of contributions that remind us how important it is to shop locally and support those who are supporting us.
It’s exciting to see the positive changes unfolding in our town, as new shops open their doors and existing businesses expand. These developments are a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of our community.
Christmas is coming!
As this is my last Councillor Column for 2024, I would like the take the opportunity to wish you all a very merry and safe Christmas. Hopefully by the 25th of December the crushing is well and truly over and those in the sugar industry can enjoy a much-deserved break.
Don’t forget the Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols event that kicks off at 5:30pm Sunday 8 December 2024 at the Home Hill State High School oval. Hope to see you all there!

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Recently, I came across a Facebook post that resonated deeply: “Big companies won’t notice your purchase over the next couple of months. But small businesses will, and it might even change their life.”
There’s a buzz in the air as new businesses open and others expand throughout our community. It’s wonderful to see the growing confidence in our region. This festive season, I urge everyone to think local first. Supporting our small businesses not only strengthens our economy but can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
The Christmas spirit is beginning to shine around the Burdekin. Shop windows are embracing the season, and our community Christmas trees will be up this week. Be sure to check out the festive events in Ayr and Home Hill and bring the kids along to meet Santa and capture some precious family memories.
The generosity shown towards the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal has been outstanding. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed. For those who haven’t yet, there’s still time—donations will be accepted until Wednesday 11 December 2024. You can find a list of accepted items on Council’s website, burdekin.qld.gov.au.
While many of us celebrate the joys of the season, it’s important to remember that some in our community are struggling. Your donations, big or small, make a world of difference.
Let’s spread kindness and support each other this festive season.
Stay safe and take care of yourself. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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The 2024 Annual General Meeting of South Burdekin Community Financial Services Limited was held on 20th November. Chairman Darren West reflected on the achievements of the Home Hill and Ayr Bendigo Community Bank branches during their twentieth year of operation and shared plans for the future.
The bank continued to grow, welcoming new customers and expanding its services. This growth has been driven by increased branch activity, which creates more opportunities for the bank to support the community. West highlighted the importance of keeping this momentum by encouraging more people to visit the branches and explore what the bank has to offer.
Supporting the community remains a top priority. At the annual grants event earlier this year, the bank provided funding to a wide range of groups, including sports clubs, health programs, and cultural initiatives. These grants reflect the bank’s commitment to giving back to organisations that support its work and to benefiting the wider community.
Shareholders were recognised for their patience and support over the years. In return, the board rewarded them with dividends and acknowledged their essential role in helping to create a bank that serves the local community.
Mr West also thanked the branch manager Chantel, the staff, and the Company Secretary and Treasurer Stacie Lovelady for their dedication. He praised the directors, partners, and others who have supported the bank’s success.
In closing, the Chairman encouraged shareholders to spread the word about the bank. By growing its customer base, the bank can increase profits and reinvest even more into the community for everyone’s benefit.

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Stacie Lovelady, Amanda Lowis, Paul Benvenuti, Con Christofides, Robyn Haller, Chantel Michielin, Jan Sterling, Darren West, Lou Loizou, David Catanzaro, Max Musumeci. Photo supplied

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As families look to start packing the car ahead of the festive holiday period a new advisory council for the Bruce Highway will be forming with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming the news for regional road users.
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s announcement of the re-establishment of a Bruce Highway Advisory Council would bring together key stakeholders and representatives from across all regions to deliver desperately needed upgrades to the Bruce Highway.
“For years we have seen Labor, including the Prime Minister turn a blind eye while our road toll climbs and our communities are left reeling,” Mr Last said.
“While it is a great time to be heading off on a holiday over the festive season there is no denying that as families are packing the car they are also left to consider what they need to do if they are left stranded due to flooding.”
“Bringing together representatives from all regions that intersect with the Bruce Highway is about ensuring projects that will address safety and flooding on our major highway are considered appropriately.”
Mr Last said expressions of interest were currently open for regional representatives with the first meeting scheduled for next month.
“The importance of the Bruce Highway cannot be understated and that is why the Minister is focussing on delivering a long-term upgrade plan to not only address issues we face now but ensure this national highway is able to continue to service our state into the future,” Mr Last said.
“We also know that without funding glossy documents and action plans won’t save lives on our roads and that’s why the Crisafulli Government are advocating for the return of the long standing 80:20 arrangement for the national highway.”

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Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
105,794
2,739,240
Pioneer
54,121
1,305,725
Kalamia
49,308
1,445,206
Inkerman
54,056
1,625,543
Burdekin
263,279
7,115,714
CCS
Invicta
14.12
14.40
Pioneer
14.31
14.35
Kalamia
13.35
13.88
Inkerman
13.67
14.12
Burdekin
13.92
14.22
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
52%
14.17
Q208
8%
13.40
KQ228
20%
13.20
Q232
4%
13.39
Q183
13%
14.98
WSRA17
2%
12.13
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just over 263,000 tonnes of cane for the week. This was below budget due to a wet weather event which impacted harvesting.
The season-to-date total is now 7.12M tonnes, which represents 87 per cent of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 13.92, which continues to trend below budget forecasts.
The highest CCS of 17.5, was from a rake of Q183 2R in the Mona Park (INV) productivity district.
Remember to stay alert, use your train brain and always give way to trains at road crossings.
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John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has announced a review of its Cane Analysis Program (CAP), following months of advocacy from Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). The decision marks the latest development in an ongoing debate over fibre testing practices at the Victoria and Macknade mills in the Herbert region, which had already drawn sharp reactions from grower groups.
QCAR have said that Wilmar has also agreed to review its CAP in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions.
The issue first came to light in 2023, when an independent sugarcane auditor allegedly raised concerns during a Herbert River mill tour. The auditor pointed to a clause in Wilmar’s 2017 CAP, which stipulated that fibre sampling was limited to cane from Herbert River District Cane Growers Organisation (HRDCGO) members unless a grower’s bargaining agent represented more than 11% of the district’s Cane Delivery Tonnes.
QCAR Herbert River district committee chairman Matthew Pappin called the clause “anti-competitive” and said it unfairly excluded growers outside the HRDCGO.
QCAR hosted a community meeting at the Station Hotel in Ingham last Friday.
Mr Pappin said he was thrilled to announce that Wilmar, in the hours following the meeting, agreed to review its CAP not only in Herbert, but also for the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions.
“This is about correcting the sins of the past,” Mr. Pappin said.
“We are fighting to ensure fair treatment for all growers, uphold good governance, and guarantee every farmer has the right to make a fair living from their crop.”
In a letter to grower collectives on Friday, Wilmar wrote grower representatives and individual growers not in a collective would get to “put forward changes for consideration during the review”.
“The CAP was last updated in 2017 and consequently contains references and requirements that are no longer relevant … we will be in touch again in coming weeks to tell you more about the timing of the review and how you can be involved,” the letter stated.
It was understood the CAP was due for review in 2022.
Canegrowers Herbert River had defended the integrity of Wilmar’s fibre testing process in a statement made on social media.
Canegrowers Herbert River Chairman Chris Bosworth said the process was outlined transparently in the Cane Supply Agreements, which Canegrowers negotiates to protect its members.
“QCAR’s rushed agreement with Wilmar shows a lack of due diligence,” Mr. Bosworth said.
“Despite boasting about how quickly they secured their deal, they failed to fully scrutinise the Cane Analysis Program and fibre testing aspects.”
Mr. Bosworth maintained there was no evidence of discrepancies in fibre testing and noted that any legitimate concerns should be addressed through appropriate channels, including legal advice.
“Canegrowers brings decades of bargaining power and experience to the table, securing critical protections for members. Our commitment remains steadfast: to ensure no Canegrowers member is disadvantaged,” he said.
A Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesman acknowledged QCAR’s concerns and said the company would continue to engage with grower representative bodies on issues raised.

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Australia’s investment in agricultural research and development has reached almost $3 billion in 2023-24, the latest ABARES release has shown.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry reported that this long-term commitment will lead to improvements in agricultural productivity, sustainability and modernisation.
The private sector accounts for the largest growth in investment in the sector, with a nearly 5 per cent annual growth rate from 2005-06.
ABARES Executive Director, Dr Jared Greenville, said ABARES’s latest data, Agricultural research and development (R&D) investment in Australia – 2023-24 update, found total agricultural R&D funding was increasing steadily, largely from the private sector.
“Agricultural R&D investment is what underpins innovation in the sector, and the flow-on benefits for farmers are considerable,” Dr Greenville said.
“We know that every $1 invested in agricultural R&D, generates an almost $8 return for farmers over 10 years, which is a great incentive for the private sector to make these important investments.”
According to ABARES, total agricultural R&D funding has continued to increase gradually, from $2.91 billion in 2022-23 to $2.98 billion in 2023-24.
“Overall, investment in agricultural R&D is increasing steadily, but we’ve seen the private sector just overtake the public sector as the main funder of agricultural R&D investment,” Dr Greenville said.
“There is a healthy mix of public and private R&D investment, reflecting a strong and robust innovation system with a good mix of long-term discovery research and practical commercialisation of technology.
“Private sector investment has the advantage of focussing on commercialising new technologies, so it has far-reaching benefits for Australian farmers.”
Dr Greenville said the strength of Australia’s agricultural R&D system was underpinned by the rural Research and Development Corporations (RDCs).
“The RDCs are a unique investment partnership between industry and government, and their funding has grown steadily over the years as productivity has increased,” Dr Greenville said.
“Each RDC delivers tangible, practical improvements for their industries, particularly in terms of productivity and sustainability.”

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Shaun Detenon, his wife, Katrina, and their son, Mick, have been running ‘About Town Bait & Tackle’ a highly successful fishing tackle shop, since 2001. They recently moved from Edward Street to their new, larger premises, at 203 Queen Street, Ayr, which now offers double the floor space.

Shaun, who originally ran a local service station where he used to sell bait and tackle, moved away from cars and petrol and into being a fully fledged fishing shop back in 2001, working alongside his brother.

“I had a service station, and we used to stock tackle in it, which went reasonably well,” he says.
But driven by a lifelong passion for fishing after seeing the success of selling bait and tackle from the service station, Shaun realised a dream and sold the servo to expand into fishing.

“I love fishing and it just made sense to focus on that side of the business rather than petrol. My brother helped me start the business before I eventually bought him out a few years later.”

About Town Bait & Tackle has only been at their new location at 203 Queen Street, for just over a week, but they’re already seeing the positives of the move.

“Firstly, we’ve much more room, just over double the floor size of the old place,” Shaun’s son, Mick declares. “Our new location is also more convenient given it’s right on the main road, plus we have ample car parking, so anyone that’s towing a boat could easily park here,” he adds.

They carry a wide range of fishing products, from entry-level gear right up to high-end equipment. And they still also sell a wide range of bait!

“We cover everything from start out gear, such as basic rods and reels that we sell for $30, and then we go right through to the top of the range for the serious fisherman. We’ve got something for everybody.”

The business has been family-run for over two decades, with Mick joining full time in 2011. The business is described as a special and meaningful venture for the family, highlighting the unique bond they share.

“They say family can't work together, but we've been doing it for over 10 years now, so that proves that some people can. We love what we do, and how we work together. In many ways, being family makes it easier,” Mick says.

About Town Bait & Tackle is currently advertising their new location and will have special deals leading into Christmas. Shimano, Daiwa, Abu, Penn, Jackall, Z-man, Dobyns, Chasebaits and Zerek are just a few of the big name brands you will find throughout the store. You will also find a large range of fishing shirts and other accessories, catering to a broad spectrum of fishing enthusiasts, from beginner to the expert angler.

About Town Bait & Tackle, love to inform the local community about their products and services, but also their fishing gear knowledge, as well tips to help you land your next trophy fish.

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Mick, Shaun and Katrina Detenon outside the new location of their retail store; About Town Bait & Tackle. Photo credit: Mark Rasmussen

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The Burdekin Community Association (BCA) is the worthy recipient of a $20,000 donation from the CommBank Staff Foundation’s 2024 Community Grants program, in its most significant funding year yet.

The Ayr organisation received funding from CommBank to help drive positive change and CEO of BCA, Debra Cochran, couldn’t be more delighted.

“It was fantastic, first to get nominated and then win. It was quite unbelievable because I thought, oh my gosh, our little place. We were amazed and very grateful. It means a lot,” Debra says.

The BCA was nominated for their Rural Health Centre and Rehabilitation Services. The centre employs five staff and serves around 60 clients daily, offering free rehabilitation for adults and children, including those recovering from cancer, strokes, and living with diabetes. The BCA also provides mental health services, tele-health, and hires out rooms to allied health professionals, ensuring local access to essential services.

Commonwealth Bank staff can elect to donate part of their wages to the CommBank Staff Foundation, which has been operating since 1917. The foundation provides annual and smaller grants to various organisations.

Becky Love (CommBank Agri Business Analyst), nominated BCA because, she loved what they do for the community.

“I'm living in a small town and I think sometimes they get forgotten or missed. I chose the Burdekin Community Association, because I know it, from people I know that work here, or have volunteered here,” Becky says.

“They have such a wide scope of services, from Centre for Rural Health, the Community Rehabilitation Centre, the information centre, and BCA Support Centre. It's not one thing. It has a very wide and big impact,” she adds.

“We’re all about keeping people as healthy as possible and helping them with all sorts of rehabilitation. The main aim is to keep them at home, not into hospital and keeping them out of residential care. With this grant, we can now do even more to achieve that,” Debra concludes.

Pictured left to right: Debra Cochran (CEO, Burdekin Community Association), Becky Love CommBank Agri Business Analyst), and Kim Brosnan (Commonwealth Bank Branch Manager)

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Margaret Taylor, recipient of the Moderator's Community Service Medal 2023, has dedicated her life to helping others. Nominated by her church minister, Malia Ma’u, Margaret’s contributions to the church and community have been recognised as exceptional.
Her work spans various areas of community service, including supporting school chaplains through fundraising and cooking, assisting youth groups at the Uniting Church and Community Church, and home visiting with the Burdekin Community Association. Margaret is also a familiar face at cake stalls and other community events. She recalls receiving the Australia Day Lifetime Service Award, which acknowledged over 30 years of dedicated service.
Margaret remains humble about her achievements, saying, “I just enjoy it. I get more out of it than I put in, helping the young ones that need a hand.”
Her passion for helping others extends internationally. Margaret participated in a Youth With A Mission (YWAM) medical boat trip to Papua New Guinea, where she assisted in providing eye and dental care to remote communities.
“You meet lovely people on the ship,” she shares. “You’re sitting beside an eye surgeon, and everyone is on the same level.”
Closer to home, Margaret is preparing for the Craft Spectacular and her annual tradition of baking Christmas cakes and puddings. Her journey into cooking began years ago when her husband, an ambulance officer, transitioned to making garden furniture due to ill health. To cover costs, Margaret started cooking, and her efforts have continued to grow.
Reflecting on her experiences, Margaret praises her church family, saying, “The people at the church are wonderful. If everyone just does a little bit, we’ll make the world a better place.”
Margaret Taylor is a shining example of how dedication, compassion, and community spirit can leave a lasting impact. Her story inspires others to find joy in giving and making a difference.

Margaret Taylor, recipient of the Moderator's Community Service Medal 2023. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Arts on The Avenue in Home Hill is embracing the festive spirit, thanks to the creative contributions of members Marge and Fred Morcom. For years, the couple has decorated their home with a stunning array of handmade Christmas decorations, and this year, their work has found a new home with the group.
With the help of eight dedicated volunteers, a working bee was held to set up the decorations. Fred crafted all the timber pieces, while Marge created the fabric elements, showcasing their remarkable talents. Some of these decorations are available for purchase, giving visitors the chance to take home a piece of their artistry.
To celebrate, Arts on The Avenue is hosting an Open Day on 30th November, complete with a car boot sale for visitors to enjoy. The group will also have a stall at the Craft Spectacular, providing more opportunities to explore their creative offerings.
The Morcoms’ contribution highlights the vibrant community spirit within Arts on The Avenue, bringing people together to spread holiday cheer. Visitors are encouraged to stop by, admire the decorations, and perhaps find the perfect festive addition for their own homes.
This display is not only a testament to the Morcoms’ skills but also to the power of community collaboration, making the holiday season even brighter in Home Hill.
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WHAT: Arts On The Avenue Open Day
WHERE: 170 Eighth Ave, Home Hill
WHEN: Saturday 30th November

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Members of the Arts on The Avenue group in Home Hill with the festive decorations

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The Burdekin Community Association is calling for the community to come together in support of their 2024 Christmas Appeal to help share the joy of Christmas this festive season. The appeal hopes to provide assistance to locals in need from families experiencing Domestic and Family Violence, to elderly residents experiencing loneliness.

Supporting the BCA’s appeal is simple, with the following items greatly accepted:
   • Bonbons
   • Festive decorations and tableware
   • Toiletries including women's hygiene products
   • Christmas books
   • Sparklers
   • Long life milk and long life custard
   • Tinned fruit and vegetables
   • Gravy
   • Jelly
   • Sunscreen and insect repellent
   • Breakfast cereal
   • Spreads and condiments
   • Tea and coffee
   • Pudding
   • Festive biscuits
   • Tinned protein including tuna, beans, and spam
   • Soft drink or cordial
   • Snacks including chips, nuts, and lollies
   • Pasta, rice and noodles

All donations can be dropped into the Support Centre, Burdekin Community Association at 130 Queen Street, Ayr. Please call or contact the BCA on 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au for more information.

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Donations of non-perishable items can be made at BCA’s Support Centre at 130 Queen Street, Ayr.

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Help us bring the joy of Christmas to the lives of locals this festive season. From families experiencing Domestic and Family Violence, to older persons alone, we are hoping to be able to provide assistance to locals needing a festive lift this holiday season.
 
We would greatly appreciate the following new items:
   • Bonbons
   • Festive decorations
   • Festive tableware 
   • Toiletries including women's hygiene 
   • Christmas books
   • Sparklers
   • Long life milk
   • Tinned fruit & vegies
   • Gravy
   • Jelly
   • Sunscreen/insect repellent 
   • Breakfast Cereal
   • Spreads and condiments
   • Tea
   • Coffee
   • Pudding
   • Long life custard
   • Festive biscuits
   • Tinned protein—Tuna, beans, spam
   • Soft drink or cordial
   • Chips, nuts, snacks, lollies
   • Pasta, rice and noodles
 
Donations can be dropped in to The Support Centre, Burdekin Community Association at 130 Queen Street, Ayr
Please call 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au for more information.

Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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Life is a journey filled with endings and new beginnings. Each stage gives us chances to grow and evolve, and how we deal with change is essential for our emotional health and personal growth.

Endings often bring a range of emotions, from sadness to relief. Acknowledging these feelings is essential, allowing us to reflect on our experiences and recognise the lessons learned. Accepting that endings are a normal part of life helps us appreciate what we have achieved while preparing for the future.

Each ending and new beginning provides a unique opportunity. When we accept these changes with an open mind and a positive attitude, we can experience significant personal growth and learn more about ourselves. Building resilience and a positive attitude helps us face life’s changes confidently and prepares us to seize the opportunities that come our way.

At the time of writing this column, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s team is going through their own endings and beginnings. We say goodbye to Jenny Cummings, our Community Development Officer, as she embarks on her own journey with the Burdekin Shire Council as Disaster Management Officer. Jenny started with the Centre in 2021 as a James Cook University student for her Master of Social Work Placement and continued to volunteer once her placement finished. She joined the team in November 2022 and has worked with us for the last two years.

The Neighbourhood Centre welcomes the opportunity to host students in their placements. It encourages our team to learn and grow through new ideas and fresh perspectives and presents opportunities for the students to learn in a natural working environment. Community Development is a two-way exchange of energy, and this is the first principle students learn on their journey with us.

Although we are sad to see Jenny go, we view it as the natural ebb and flow of people moving in and out of our lives or spaces without the need to cling to and restrain them. When we stifle this movement, we stop people from evolving, and we lose our opportunity to grow. We look forward to collaborating with the Disaster Management Team at the council and welcoming a new staff member sometime in the new year. Like the ripples of a pond, our circle expands outwards with each interaction with the community.

Until next time,
The Team - Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre farewelled Jenny Cummings this week as she moves to a new position with the Burdekin Shire Council.

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