Burdekin Shire Council is seeking community input on the Draft Update of the Burdekin Sport and Recreation Plan, inviting residents to participate in the consultation process to help shape the future of local sports and recreational services.
Following extensive consultations earlier this year, the draft plan has been completed, and Council is keen to ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort highlighted the importance of community engagement in this process.
“Sport and recreation play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of residents of all ages,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “This draft plan provides a strategic vision for enhancing our facilities, programs, and services to better serve everyone. Now is the time for residents to have their say and ensure the final plan aligns with their expectations.”
Residents are encouraged to review the draft plan, available on Council’s website at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au, and provide feedback through an online survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/DraftSportRecPlan. Hard copies of the draft plan are also available for viewing at the Council Chambers, as well as the Burdekin Library Ayr and Home Hill Branches.
The consultation period will remain open for two weeks, providing a valuable opportunity for residents to offer their insights and help shape the future of sport and recreation in the Burdekin Shire.

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Leaders of some of Queensland’s peak sugar industry bodies – CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) – have come together to discuss the industry’s future and compare their policy positions ahead of the upcoming state election.
 
Representing both growers and millers, the organisations had a clear message for politicians hoping to lead the state from 26 October – the sugar industry, which employs over 20,000 Queenslanders and contributes $4.4 billion to the economy, demands urgent government action.
 
“Sugar is the economic lifeblood of regional communities, from north of Cairns down to the Queensland border and beyond,” said Mr Ash Salardini, CEO of the ASMC.
“While politicians talk about a future manufacturing base, sugar is already here – manufacturing essential products right now.”
 
CANEGROWERS, which represents 70 per cent of Queensland’s sugarcane growers, outlined its election priorities, including reduced electricity and water costs, less red tape and regulation, and the development of bioenergy, including biofuels, through the existing sugar supply chain.
 
“Our industry is essential to regional Queensland, but for growers to remain competitive and seize future opportunities, we need policies that deliver real outcomes,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
 
“Affordable electricity and water are critical. But we also need stronger research and development, smarter and more collaborative environmental programs, and biofuels policies that will provide new opportunities for the sugar industry.”
 
Both organisations emphasised the critical link between the success of mills and growers, with the recent closure of the Mossman Mill providing a stark reminder of the risks involved.
 
“We need a viable, dependable sugar milling sector,” Mr Galligan said. “We need to learn the tough lessons from the Mossman Mill closure.”
 
The peak bodies are calling on the Queensland Government to invest in our people and our essential infrastructure, beginning with the cane rail network and workforce development.
 
“CANEGROWERS supports the ASMC’s call for investment in our cane rail network and ensuring the sugar supply chain has the skills and workforce necessary for the future,” Mr Galligan added.
 
The ASMC echoed the importance of a reliable cane-growing sector.
 
“Without a reliable supply of cane, we have our backs to the wall,” said Mr Salardini. 

“That’s why we fully support CANEGROWERS’ call for affordable, reliable electricity and water, which are fundamental to Queensland’s cane-growing future.”
 
While acknowledging they may have their differences, both organisations have committed to building a stronger, collaborative future for the whole industry.
 
“The opportunities and challenges we face go well beyond any election cycle,” said Mr Salardini.
“That’s why we’re showing the incoming Queensland Government that we mean business and that the sugar industry is ready to lead.”
 
While collaboration is essential, both organisations will continue to fight for their members’ interests, Mr Galligan said.
 
“Make no mistake – millers and growers won’t always see eye to eye. But today, we are focusing on common ground. We are telling the Queensland Government that the sugar industry stands united and determined to thrive.”
 
CANEGROWERS and the ASMC are sending a clear message: Queensland’s sugar industry is ready for action, and it expects the same from our state government.
 

Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
120,299
1,961,037
Pioneer
75,185
921,027
Kalamia
79,381
1,081,825
Inkerman
79,784
1,196,089
Burdekin
354,649
5,159,978
CCS
Invicta
15.05
14.32
Pioneer
14.66
14.30
Kalamia
14.39
13.91
Inkerman
14.75
14.06
Burdekin
14.75
14.17
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
57%
14.90
Q183
6%
15.02
KQ228
15%
14.32
WSRA17
5%
13.90
Q208
6%
14.76
Q232
5%
14.49
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just under 355,000 tonnes of cane for the week. Equipment failure at the Townsville Sugar Terminal caused lengthy stops at Pioneer and Invicta. Despite this, Pioneer still exceeded the budgeted throughput.
The season-to-date total is now 5.16M tonnes, which represents 63% of the Burdekin region’s crop forecast of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.75, which is still slightly below budget but improving with the ongoing dry conditions.
The highest CCS, of 18.2, was from a rake of Q240 1R in the Mulgrave (Invicta) productivity district.
Remember to always use your train brain and give way to trains at road crossings.
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John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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A groundbreaking study by CQUniversity has revealed the promising antioxidant and cancer-fighting properties of Gumbi Gumbi (Pittosporum angustifolium), a native Australian plant used for generations in First Nations healthcare. This study, funded by the CQUniversity BHP Chair in Indigenous Engagement, showcases how modern science is backing up traditional medicine.
Led by Dr. Mani Naiker from the Bioactive and Functional Foods Research Group, the project was conducted in collaboration with Ghungalu Elder Uncle Steve Kemp. Uncle Steve provided Gumbi Gumbi samples from across Ghungalu Traditional Lands in Woorabinda, a key part of the research. The results, presented at a CQUniversity workshop in June 2024, highlighted the chemical makeup of Gumbi Gumbi leaves and fruit, showcasing potent antioxidants and promising cytotoxicity against cancer cells.
For Uncle Steve, Gumbi Gumbi has been a lifelong part of his culture and heritage. “I first learned about the plant from my father. These findings are going to benefit everyone: people who could use these treatments, and the community at Woorabinda, knowing this knowledge comes from our People,” Uncle Steve shared.
Traditionally used to treat a range of ailments, from cancer and high blood pressure to diabetes and dandruff, Gumbi Gumbi has long been regarded for its medicinal qualities by Indigenous Australians. Now, thanks to CQUniversity’s research, the plant’s potential for wider medical use is gaining attention.
Dr. Naiker explained that CQUniversity’s new native plant hub, based at the Central Queensland Innovation and Research Precinct, is continuing research into the benefits of Gumbi Gumbi. Future clinical trials will explore its cancer-fighting potential, alongside ongoing analysis of sugar content and glycaemic response for potential natural blood sugar control.
The research also delves into how the plant's potency is affected by factors such as harvest time and drying methods. "This study brings both scientific validation and commercial potential to Gumbi Gumbi and other native foods," said Dr. Naiker.
The workshop attracted growers, investors, and locals interested in Indigenous plant resources, underscoring the potential for these native foods to benefit not only First Nations communities but the broader Australian population as well.
CQUniversity researchers are also investigating other native plants, including Australian ginger and Burdekin plums, further advancing knowledge on the commercial and health benefits of native Australian flora.

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Uncle Steve Kemp (centre) with Uncle Milton Lawton and Melanie Kemp, of Yarbun Creations. Photo source: CQUniversity

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Recently an article appeared in our local newspaper Burdekin Life (Thursday July 11 2024 The Treasured History of Populin’s Hall.  This bought back some memories which we would like to share with you. The Ayr Water Festival decided to call this particular Festival in 2024, The Maria Populin Festival in Memory of Maria when Populin’s Hall was opened sixty years ago.
Mr. Demetrio Populin and his wife Marie began their building construction business in Ayr in the late 1940’s. George his son has expanded the business from the Burdekin to Townsville. By the 1960’s Maria had a dream with her husband to build a function hall that could be used by the people of Ayr and the surrounding district catering for all occasions.  Where the shops and Populin’s Hall are today in Queen Street, there were some old shops and a muddy watercourse.  This land and old shops were acquired by Demetrio and Maria.  The shops were demolished and building began with foundations for five new shops and above the shops a function hall, in 1960. Sadly, Maria died in 1963 but Populin’s Hall and shops were built and opened for business in that year.
Populin’s Hall consisted of two stairways entrances from Queen Street and one set of stairs from the lane from Edwards Street.  The back stairs led into a small room on the right wall of the building which consisted of a sink with a bench along the wall and a table.  There were toilet facilities on the left side of the building with a small balcony along the back of the building.  There was a vast dance floor which would be used for weddings, balls, and functions. The vast room had doors that opened onto a balcony that overlooked Queen Street.  This balcony has been used for crowning the Queens of the Water Festivals. The two stairwells from Queen Street were on the left and right of the building.  The left stair well had yellow vinyl tiles for décor and the right stairwell had red vinyl tiles which is still the case in 2024. Mr. George Populin informs us that there is a future upgrade to the floors of the foyers, sometime in the future. The rear entrance to the hall is by a lane from Edward Street between Harvey Noman and the service station.
Some of the shops underneath were Buchan’s Cycles, Singer Sewing Machine, Ryan’s Dress Shop and Kaye’s Shoe Shops. There would be others shops here later. By 1964, at a meeting consisting of nineteen clubs and organizations was held and they formed The Burdekin Entertainment Committee which would hold dances on a Saturday night for the young people of the district. The hall would also be used for Weddings and Concerts, and the secondary school functions.  Mr. Populin kindly donated hall free for the opening function. Rent on the hall was on a weekly basis for a trial period. It would appear that the first function to be held was in early February. By June 1964 The Burdekin Entertainment Committee was holding Dancing Classes and seventy-three lads and lasses were learning to dance.
The Burdekin Entertainment Committee consisted of members of the community.  There were sporting clubs appointed to run the dancers with each club rostered to work the Saturday Night venue.  Five of those associations were Pony, Ski, Tennis, Aero, BMX and maybe a sixth sporting associations. (Maybe someone can enlighten us).  Every few months each of the clubs received a monetary donation for their efforts.   The dancers were entertained by local, Townsville Bands and artists. Bands included The Elite 5 (Norm Adcock, John McCathie, Bill and Russel Williamson and David Atzeni), John and Alan Sinclair, Peter Wheeler, Ron and Micky Odgers.  Some of the bands from Townville were The Shadows, The Squares and The Legends (the Voss Brothers) There are others who played.  Some of the people associated with the Burdekin Entertainment Committee were Mrs. Caddis Mrs. Roxborough, Rajah Reed of the Commercial Hotel opposite Populins Hall, (It was he who decided that the stairwell on the right of the hall would be used as this was the entrance closest to his Hotel), Mr. Col Stewart and his wife along with Mr. Stan Hughes and his wife and Merl of the Pony Club, Mr. Ray Conley and his wife of the Ski Club, Mr. Walter Elliott representing the Tennis and Aero Club. Mr. Tony Viero and Harold Cislowski of the Aero Club and Mr. Frank White, Mr. Fred Zable and Frank Ravizza. There would be many others who worked with this committee.  Many young ladies and men met and married from these dances. Sadly, these dancers closed down in the mid 1970’s, as the young folk found cabarets which were held at the hotels became the place to be.
Sometime in the 1970’s, Mr. Fred Zable and Mr. Fred Guerra formed a partnership and opened Fred’s Furniture Shop.  A lift to carry furniture up to hall was installed near the left-hand door, facing Queen Street. This business operated for some years until it closed down. The hall returned to being used for weddings and other social functions. By 1998 there was and upgrade done to the building and a kitchen was installed along with the toilets. By 2005, with the advent of more schools, weddings and social functions as well as Water Festival events being held at Populin’s, the kitchen was renovated and extended, along with the toilets.  The back entrance consisted of two sets of stairs.  Provision was made for a lift to be added to in the future.  The old set of stairs was renewed and widened and a second set of stairs built around the lift well.  It was not until 2017 that the lift was installed.
This year for 2024, the Water Festival was named the Maria Populin Water Festival to honour Marie, (her dream of having a community hall for the Ayr District.)

Some memories of the 1960’s.  
Stephen and Bob Gray with their wives ran a convenience store in Edwards Street along with a butcher shop, Courtney’s, and a fish and chip shop and Tommy Ties.  They were burnt down and while the Grays waited for the shop to be rebuilt, they rented a shop under Populin’s Hall in the 1960’s.  They opened on a Saturday night till about 9.00pm.  Bob said it was awful because of the bands playing and the dancing from above, and the ceiling vibrating, made it very hard to hear and think as well as work.
One never to be forgotten memory of mine, circa 1967.  The Saturday night dance had closed down and the rostered club on, was stacking chairs, sweeping the hall and tidying up and a band including a female singer, from Townsville were gathering their musical instruments to return home.  Some local Ayr lads erupted up the stairs and began chasing the Townsville band around the hall, yelling and screaming.  Some blood was drawn. The Committee stood against the wall, aghast, with our mouths open wondering if we were going to be hit too.  The Band and the local lads, eventually all ran down the stairs. We followed to see what happened. Someone must have called the police and waiting at the bottom of the stairs, was Helpful Harry, the local motor cycle policeman with his baton and the Black Maria Van. All of the miscreants were bundled into the Black Maria and those hurt were taken to the hospital. All we ever found out that there had been some bad blood with the Townsville Band and the Ayr lads in the weeks before and the local fellows were out for revenge. Just imagine the hue and cry today regarding police batons and the public.
Another night while on the dance floor one of the female dancers had a blackout and fell to the floor.  The ambulance was called and it was very difficult to get the patient on the stretcher down the steep narrow back stairs into the lane. She should have been taken down the front stairs into Queen Street. It would have been easier.  All I can say as the song goes “Those were the Days my Friends”
I wish to thank Mr. George Populin of Townsvill and Mrs. Napier of Ayr for without their assistence this piece of history could not be written.
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Glenis Cislowski

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
Wilmar Grower Marketing is excited to announce the launch of a new pool to help growers manage their GEI sugar price exposure in an increasingly volatile and uncertain world.
The past 18 months have seen unprecedented volatility in the #11 sugar futures which has driven the AUD sugar price to historically high levels, only to rapidly plunge to new lows. Recent price fluctuations underscore the ongoing uncertainty in the sugar price outlook.
We know there are many growers who want some forward price certainty but are unable to dedicate the time to watch the market closely. So we’ve developed a longer-term pooling product called the Managed Pool Plus to meet this market demand.
The Managed Pool Plus is a joint exposure pool that allows growers to focus on growing the crop while we focus on the sugar market. Kicking off in the 2025 season, it will be an actively traded pool looking to exploit short and long-term price movement in the futures and currency markets separately, to maximise the pool return.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables will seed the pool with 30,000 tonnes of MEI and accept up to 30,000 tonnes of grower nominated GEI to create a joint exposure to the pool outcome.
Our consistent superior performance in the Production Risk Pool underlines our proven pool management ability and we want growers to share in this expertise over a longer timeframe.
The Managed Pool Plus combines the expertise of the grower and the miller to maximise sugar returns by actively managing market risks over an 18-month period. This partnership allows growers to focus on farming, while Wilmar trades the market on their behalf, leveraging our global trading team’s expertise to achieve better pricing outcomes.
Here are some key reasons you should be involved in the Managed Pool Plus:
Shared success: Experience joint exposure to the sugar market, where both growers and Wilmar have a stake. Together, we share the gains and manage the risks, aiming for higher returns.
Expert management: Let Wilmar’s experienced team take charge of price exposure. By actively trading the market over 18 months, we optimise market conditions and strive to lock in the best price for the sugar exposure.
Less stress: Take the weight off your shoulders. With the Managed Pool Plus, you won’t need to worry about pricing your sugar exposure. Focus on what you do best – growing – while we handle the pricing strategies.
Maximise over time: With an 18-month timeframe, we have the flexibility to take advantage of market movements in both futures and currency, ensuring a strategic, long-term approach aimed at achieving the highest returns.

Grow your knowledge: Not only do we manage the pricing, but we also provide education on risk management. Learn how pricing works and gain confidence in your financial decisions, without the pressure of managing the market yourself.
The Managed Pool Plus is open to anyone who has nominated, or nominates, Wilmar Grower Marketing as their GEI marketer for the 2025 season.
Register your interest before 31 October this year by contacting a member of our Grower Marketing team.

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Ayr State High School is joining the state-wide celebration of Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW) from 15 to 17 October. This annual initiative highlights the importance of mental health and wellbeing, encouraging the community to raise awareness and promote positive mental health practices.

Throughout Week 3 of Term 4, the Ayr High Hawks came together to host a series of engaging activities for both students and staff during the first break each day. The events were designed to foster an open conversation about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote help-seeking behaviours. These activities provided a fun way for the school community to take time for their mental health and wellbeing.

Starting strong, Tuesday 15 October saw students and staff showcase their oddest socks for Odd Sock Day! The day stood as a symbol of “stomping out” the stigma surrounding mental health with the school community enjoying fun activities like pickleball, giant beach ball games, and a giant parachute.

A community breakfast kicked off Wednesday with staff and students enjoying a wonderful Chappy’s Breakfast to empathise the importance of starting your morning right to benefit both your body and mind. First break saw plenty of music, and stalls by local organisations, along with a range of fun games like giant Jenga, ball game races, bottle flip challenges, and Zooper Dooper treats.

To conclude the celebrations, Thursday hosts a “Paint with Me” activity, where the school students and staff will be treated to the musical talents of Leeroy! Students will have the opportunity to express their creativity by participating in a watercolour painting session with Aunty Bernice - learning new techniques and creating beautiful art pieces. The day will wrap up with a live music performance by Leeroy, ensuring a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for everyone.

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The Journey Coordinator is a new BCA service aimed at     providing more timely mental health care to Burdekin adults and children. The program is funded by the North Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN).
The Journey Coordinator works with you as an independent    partner in your care journey and can assist with the following:
Capacity Building
Referrals to local supports and services that meet your needs
Advocacy support
Delivering group mental health education sessions
The Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (BCRH) is open Monday to Saturday from 9.00am to 4.30pm.
Referrals to the Journey Coordinator Program can be made be contacting the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health.
12A Chippendale St, Ayr.  Ph: 4783 2711
E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
People can also refer by contacting the Head to Health Phone Service on 1800 595 212. 

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“When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” - Alexander Graham Bell.
This quote, or a variation, is frequently used to motivate us during difficult times when we need encouragement to keep going. It reminds us not to dwell on the past, but to focus on a potentially brighter future.  It may be that the time you were retrenched from your job allowed you to find another job with better pay or more opportunities to progress.
If you've missed out on opportunities, reflecting on the past and using those experiences to open new doors is important. For instance, if you've previously discussed a business idea and someone else took advantage of it, making a substantial profit, you might want to be more cautious about sharing your ideas.
At times, the door remains open, allowing us to revisit the positive aspects of our past and build upon them. If you leave a job on good terms to pursue a better opportunity within the same industry, you can retain access to the valuable network you've established.
“If a door closes, quit banging on it. Whatever was behind it was not meant for you. Consider that perhaps the door was closed because you’re worth so much more than what was on the other side.” – Karen Salmansohn.
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre has an open-door policy. We have an automatic door that opens as you approach, invites you in, and then closes behind you. But don’t worry; that closed door will stop the negative thoughts from following you into the Centre. When you are ready to leave, the door will open as you approach it again.
Why not come into the Centre and see what opportunities lie within? You may be surprised. Drop on in at 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr and meet the staff. Stay for a cuppa and a chat.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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DOB: 21/01/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: Staffy X
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

Narvi is a loving 8-month-old Staffy cross searching for a patient, kind family to help her continue exploring the world.

She’s still gaining confidence but is sure to thrive with the right support.

Narvi is currently in a foster home with children, and she enjoys attention from her humans and looks to them for reassurance.

Included in adoption fee of $450 Narvi is desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/intestinal worm treated. Narvi is also on heartworm preventative.

If you're looking for a loyal and affectionate companion, Narvi could be the perfect fit.

Could you be the one to give her a forever home?

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The annual Harvest Festival Students’ Ball in Home Hill was a night to remember, showcasing local youth dressed to impress. The prestigious titles of Belle and Beau of the Ball were awarded to Zoe Bonanno and Ryan Kennedy, with Blaize Palmer and Emily Leek taking home the Runners Up titles.
Special mentions were given to Ezra Henaway, Rudie Laubscher, Ponhila Finau, Cooper Raitelli, Tianee Bolam, Sophie Parker, Charlie Conway, and Payton Rogers for their standout performances and style.

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Centre: The Belle and the Beau of the Ball Zoe Bonanno and Ryan Kennedy. Credit: Hayden Menso Photography

STUDENTS’ BALL A SUCCESS

The event was filled with excitement as participants enjoyed a night of elegance and celebration, with the community coming together to honour the students.
The Student Ball continues to be a highlight of the Harvest Festival, bringing the community closer and showcasing the vibrant spirit of Home Hill’s youth.

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1 – 14: photos supplied. Credit: Hayley Oats
15-17: Belle and Beau of the ball with judges, Beau Ryan Kennedy, Belle - Zoe Bonanno. Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
18: Belle and Beau Runners Up Blaize Palmer, Emily Leek Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
19-23: Special Mention Boys, Special Mention Girls, Ezra Henaway, Rudie Laubscher, Ponhila Finau, Cooper Raitelli, Tianee Bolam, Sophie Parker, Charlie Conway, Payton Rogers.
Best Dressed Couple - Georgia Tomasetig & Angus McMullen, Sass- Ella Dabelstein, Swagger - Sioeli Mau
24-26: Red Carpet Arrivals. Credit Hayden Menso Photography
27: Belle and Beau arrival. Credit: Hayden Menso Photography
28-29: Harvest Festival Queens with Judges. Photo Credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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This morning I woke to the sound of two distressed Magpies! What was troubling them I could not tell. Until I saw a Baby Magpie on the Ground underneath the Big Old Footpath Tree!  
I thought the Baby was dead but mum and dad Magpie did not give up hope as they sat patiently by, squawking at the baby to try to fly away from cars, cats, and other predators!  
It’s not easy being a Magpie in today’s world it seems! Sadly, I see so many dead ones flattened by speeding cars. Or having to cope with the loss of their habitat due to chopping down of big old trees and the spread of urbanization!  
Fortunately, this little bird was in safe hands once Matt from NQ Wildlife Care arrived within five minutes to rescue the little guy.  
With ladder in hand, a new bird’s nest, bravery (I offered him an umbrella lest he be pecked).  
But no, mum and dad Magpie were very happy for Matt to carefully lift the baby and place him in his new home sweet home!  
Safety at least for now and a mouth to feed after such an ordeal.
So, after a little settling in, the very proud and happy Magpie parents went to get food!  
There was also one very happy and relieved resident thanks to Matt at NQ Wildlife!  
Thanks again Matt and to you all at NQ Wildlife for all that you do to protect and care for our Wildlife!

Contributed with thanks to Alexandria L.

Matt from NQ Wildlife Care is holding a Wildlife Care & Rescue workshop at the Neighborhood Centre on 19th October

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In this issue, we’re excited to spotlight one of the region’s most treasured traditions—the Home Hill Harvest Festival. This week, the elegant Students’ Ball had students lighting up the evening with their style and excitement, marking the beginning of another wonderful celebration in the Burdekin. This long-standing event continues to be a highlight for our younger generation, showcasing their pride in our community’s rich heritage.
As the festival season unfolds, the anticipation builds for the much-loved Town of Origin, an event that celebrates local pride and brings our community together through friendly competition. It’s always a highlight on the calendar, where sporting talent and community spirit shine.
Derby Day is also on the horizon, promising its usual mix of fashion, fun, and excitement. With its trackside energy and festive atmosphere, it’s no wonder this event has become such a favourite, drawing crowds who love the thrill and camaraderie it offers.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival truly embodies the heart and soul of our community, from the opening celebrations to the upcoming events. Let’s come together to support, celebrate, and enjoy this unique time of year that reflects the spirit, tradition, and shared joy of the Burdekin.

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Earlier this week, almost 30 Council workers participated in industrial strike action outside Burdekin Council Offices.
Jim Wilson from the Australian Workers Union took the decisive step to initiate the stop-work action, which was deliberately timed to coincide with the local government council meeting.
The move aimed to push forward the ongoing negotiations and secure a favourable outcome for council employees who are currently in dispute for better working rights.
The current agreement that covers working conditions expired in June and negotiations are in place to replace that.
The main issue of contention is the rate of pay, with the unions asking for a $1.90 increase per hour.
Jim Wilson said that members attended the council meeting and were polite in requesting more pay to keep their heads above water.
The stop-work action involved several unions, including the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU), the Plumbers and Pipe Trades Employees Union, the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), and the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU).
These groups have been deeply involved in the bargaining process, advocating for fair wages, working conditions, and employee benefits.
Wilson emphasised that the goal is to reach an agreement that supports fair treatment and proper compensation for all workers. “The goal is a positive outcome that benefits everyone, including council workers across different sectors,” he stated.
Burdekin Shire Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Magin, acknowledged the frustrations of staff and the negotiating team.
“As we continue EBA negotiations, I understand the frustration felt by many staff, just as it is for our negotiating team. While we haven’t yet reached an agreement, I want to reassure everyone that the Industrial Relations Commission will be involved at the end of the month to help move past this roadblock,” said Magin.
He also encouraged ongoing dialogue, adding, “Some staff have taken industrial action, and I fully respect and support their right to take this step. However, I urge everyone to encourage their industrial advocates to return to the table. The only way we can resolve this is through continued dialogue.”
Magin expressed confidence that an agreement would soon be reached, allowing staff to support and vote for it. "I am more than willing to meet and talk so we can resolve this quickly and return to business as usual—delivering services to the residents and ratepayers of the Burdekin Shire."
Both sides are hopeful that a resolution will be reached soon, ensuring that the needs of workers are met while maintaining essential council operations.

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Workers strike out the front of Burdekin Council Chambers

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More than 100,000km of driving in the electorate, five state budget replies and 45 sitting weeks have wrapped up Member for Burdekin Dale Last’s third term as a member of parliament with the dissolution of the 57th parliament taking place in the recent week.
Mr Last said with the writ being issued last Tuesday, there was an opportunity to reflect on the advocacy for issues faced in the north and the recognition of the people who called the Burdekin home.
“I have said it plenty of times but the Burdekin electorate is a powerhouse for the state’s economy from our agriculture and tourism industries in the east to our coal mines in the west and that needs to be supported so that it is in the best position to thrive well into the future,” Mr Last said.
“That support means we not only are able to recognise the achievements of people within our community like young Billy Hearn and the Burdekin Theatre or the Burdekin Water Festival committee but we are able to advocate and raise awareness for issues we face here in the north.”
“At the heart of our role as members of parliament is the people who make up our electorates and ensuring everyone is well represented and advocating for projects like a new CT scanner at the Ayr Hospital or a new home for our firefighters has been my priority right across my ten years in parliament.”
Mr Last said the need for the Burdekin to continue to have a strong level of advocacy and support going forward will ensure that small businesses, major industries and communities in the electorate will have a voice for road upgrades, service resourcing and infrastructure investments it needs.
“For me standing in parliament and speaking on your behalf has been just as crucial as meeting you on the street and while at times it has meant I have driven up to 10,000kms a month, having the opportunity to speak with small business owners, our future leaders and celebrate milestone birthdays have been some of the greatest highlights of my job.”
“While the 57th parliament may have dissolved this week, my role as your Member for Burdekin isn’t and I look forward to meeting with you as I travel around the electorate in the coming weeks.”

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