Andy Pethybridge, the Queensland Police Services Emergency Management Coordinator, found himself in the Burdekin to help take care of the situation, explaining why the recent floods here in Ayr, is a high priority.

“This region is a priority due to its high population and isolation, with 16 out of 21 emergency management coordinators rotated through this area. It was considered higher risk with the high population being isolated for long periods of time, and also having a high risk with the Plantation Creek crossing, where medical supplies, supply lines, and all those things, we need to make sure they keep functioning and working,” Andy explains.

“I'm allocated to the Burdekin at present, and Charters Towers, Flinders, and Richmond. My role is to mentor, advise, and support disaster management groups that are chaired at the local level by the respective mayor.”

Recent events such as these floods, led to logistical challenges, including 40 trucks being turned back to the Northern Territory, as Andy continues.

“In Richmond, they recently went up to their activation status of stand up. Every one of the four I mentioned earlier are all currently at stand up due to the activation of the event. But up there, they had approximately 40 trucks that couldn't get through the flood waters in the outback, and they had to be turned around and go back to the Northern Territory,” he states.

“We try and keep an awareness because we want to keep our logistic roads open and making sure that our supplies are up there for people to tap into,” Andy adds.

“A good example is the current rail system with the bus that we've worked in with Queensland Rail, and we've got that up and running as quick as we could. It's operating and working well and helping communities get back up and running again.”

“In the Burdekin, I’m seeing a community that does a really good job here, but also a disaster management group doing good things behind the scenes. We just fill in the gaps at a time of need to make sure we can do everything we can,” Andy concludes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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I stand to be corrected, but I don’t believe we have ever seen as many visitors to our region as we have over the past week. We have welcomed visits from Premier of Queensland, the Hon. David Crisafulli MP; Queensland State Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrew Cripps, Leader of the National Party and Federal Member for Maranoa, the Hon. David Littleproud MP; Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP; Senator for Queensland and Shadow Minister for Resources, Senator Susan McDonald; and Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Hon. Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM.
These visits have provided an important opportunity to share firsthand the challenges our community has faced and to advocate for the support we need to recover and rebuild.
In times of hardship, it is crucial that we remain connected with all levels of government to ensure that the Burdekin community is not forgotten. The recent disaster has had a significant impact on many residents, and we must continue pushing for assistance, resources, and funding. My fellow councillors and I are committed to making sure our voices are heard and that we receive the support necessary.
I also want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible generosity of our community. During times of crisis, it is the people who truly make a difference. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible people in our community who went above and beyond, whether as volunteers or simply as neighbours lending a helping hand. The stories I have heard have truly touched my heart, and I am honoured to serve as your Mayor.
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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As a result of the flooding in the region recently, several patients at the nearby Ayr Health Hospital Service had to be transported by rail, while some nurses were flown in from helicopter to assist, after getting cut off from the rising waters.

Patients who required renal care were moved by rail via the rail-cart set up by the local council in conjunction with Queensland Rail, just so they could receive their daily dialysis treatment. A decision was also made by Ayr & Home Hill Health Services, which opted to fly in nurses who were left stranded, just so the hospital could run more effectively.

It proved to be a masterstroke, with the road closures lasting several days, which kept patients unable to attend critical appointments, or health workers able to get to work.

Since the rains from the recent tropical low weather system brought about flooding to the region, resulting in entire towns and communities being cut off, Ayr Health Hospital was no different, and like everyone else, they were affected in many ways, as Director of Nursing, Tracy Gabiola explains.

“The Ayr & Home Hill Health Hospital remained at capacity within our acute ward, but it’s been very hectic in our Emergency Department as usual, however, we also safely delivered six beautiful babies,” Tracy says.
 
“Ayr Service staffing had been impacted due to a significant number living rurally where the creeks prevented access to town. Additionally, the road between Ayr and Home Hill was closed last Saturday so our staff who live in Home Hill, were stranded and unable to come to work, and Home Hill staff who live in Ayr, also left stranded.”

“In conjunction with the Home Hill Acting Director of Nursing, Joanne McBow, we contacted the relevant staff and arranged change of shifts and secondment to work in the other facilities where they live, which was ongoing until the roads opened.” 
 
“With roster deficits, THHS supported us to use Townsville Helicopters to fly staff who were stranded at Jarvisfield, out. Plus Q-Rail also helped us transfer patients and staff across by rail due to the the road closure between Ayr and Home Hill,” she says.
 
“We have experienced weather events like this in the past and planning is done in advance, however, it is always a difficult time managing the communities’ expectations and supporting them with reliable information and updates. Stock of food, clinical consumables, medicines and vaccines etc is reviewed continually during our wet season.”
 
“I have again been amazed at the willingness of staff across all disciplines who have reached out and gratefully worked additional hours, swapped shifts, or moved out of their homes to ensure continuity of service.”

“I must also admit, however, that we are all ‘a bit over it now’ and just really looking forward to get back up and running to full capacity without interruptions,” Tracy smiles.

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Patients and nurses aboard the Q-rail cart. Photo: Supplied
Queensland Rail coming to the aid of Ayr & Home Hill Health Services. Photo: Supplied

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Progress!
QCAR is moving at its usual rapid pace on the QCAR integration with the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA) front.
As we have been saying, this is bringing two pro-active organisations who are, and will continue to, deliver a powerful and passionate voice for representation and advocacy for all sugarcane farmers and their industry.  
The super drivers behind the integration, the QCAR Board, had a vision to provide even more benefits and services across their ever-growing representative footprint through its local, on-the-ground district managers and local committees.
And so it comes to fruition bringing the local, state, and federal representation of QCAR to new heights via the long-standing and respected organisation ACFA.  
The QCAR Central District team has been contacting all ACFA members throughout the regions of Proserpine, Mackay, and Plane Creek in recent weeks to activate their dual membership.
One of the key messages from QCAR is that the dual membership comes at no additional cost – a win-win for all members with the additional advantages.
The current transitional period is expected to be finalised in 2025.
QCAR will soon be holding elections to establish the chairman, deputy chairman and committee members for each regional district, including QCAR Central.
Each district will then nominate the committee member/s they want to represent them on the QCAR Board. After that, the QCAR Board will select representatives to sit on the ACFA Board.
To make sure your vote counts in these upcoming elections, you will need to be registered as a QCAR member either by a new membership, in which you automatically become a member of both, or for ACFA members a simple one-pager taking up the offer of the dual membership. Easy peasy.
All our valued ACFA members – if you have not yet received a letter explaining the integration, please get in touch.
If you have any questions regarding the integration or how to take up the dual membership for QCAR – ACFA, please call:

   • QCAR Central District Manager Sonia Ball 0467 573 321 or email Sonia.ball@qcar.com.au
   • QCAR Central District Committee Chairman Steve McKeering 0439 088 654
   • QCAR Head Office: 4783 2111
TIME TO TALK?
Our far northern counterparts and Burdekin neighbours are in our thoughts as flood waters reside, cleaning up continues and damage assessed. While we have fared far better in our Central District, we are reminded that problems can sometimes seem insurmountable and long-lasting, and we may need to check in with our family and friends.
Going through a crisis or disaster can have significant impacts on our mental health, but sometimes it is the myriad of little things that build up over time and can play on our minds. It could be anything from financial, family and relationships to work, disaster, or illness.
It is important to remember that regardless of how big or small the issue is, the impact is wearing and tiring. Talking to someone can help.
Times are tough and sometimes it helps to talk. Whether you call someone, or whether someone call you – you will find that sharing often helps.
Please see our list of some suggestions of where you can find someone who can help. Stay safe and be kind to each other – QCAR Central District.

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
It has been a challenging time across our growing communities, with every region affected to various degrees by the recent rain event.
The Herbert region obviously bore the brunt of it with extensive flood damage, lengthy power outages, communication issues and prolonged supply issues.
In the Burdekin, we had floodwater through Invicta Mill at Giru twice in the space of one week, and the whole region was impacted by localised flooding, highway closures and access issues. Our Proserpine region had some local flooding and minor track damage while Plane Creek largely dodged a bullet.
As our Grower Marketing consultants live in the regions, they have been reaching out to our growers to check in on their general well-being as well as assessing crop status for this year’s harvest.
It’s too early to say what the impact will be on the 2025 crop. Suffice to say that we need a bit of clear weather to allow growers to get into fields to visually assess crop status – particularly in the Herbert.
A few days of sun will also allow us to do a detailed inspection of our Herbert rail network and get the job under way of assessing bridges and replacing ballast that was washed away by floodwater.
Our Grower Marketing team has also used this period of time to talk growers through the wash-up of pricing for the 2024 season.
Even with final deliveries and CCS being lower than estimates, there were very few hard washouts, which is a good result.
There is still a portion of pricing to be done for the tidy up of the 2024 season with growers hoping for a kick above $700/t to close out their orders. Growers appear to be targeting $650/t as the next level to fix some more 2025 Season GEI sugar exposure.
Interestingly, results from our survey of growers last year indicated that, among the things that keep them awake at night, sugar price volatility ranked number four while the weather came in at number seven.
A quick reminder for growers who may need a cash injection with the disruptions caused by the recent flooding. Our Pre-Season Payment allows for an advance of $5/t cane for all cane nominated to Wilmar.

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Repairing ballast washouts will be a key focus for Wilmar's Herbert cane rail network in the coming months.

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Kick back under the stars at the Burdekin Theatre on Friday, 28 March for a night of live music, great vibes, and good company!
Burdekin Theatre are kicking off their new regular outdoor concert series, FORECOURT FRIDAYS LIVE, with a special guest performer Adam Harvey on his "Let the Song Take You Home" Tour! With a stellar support act, delicious food & drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend your Friday night.
Join country music legend Adam Harvey for an unforgettable evening of classic country. With a career spanning over twenty years, half a million album sales, gold and platinum albums, and nine Golden Guitar Awards, Adam Harvey is one of Australia’s most popular & enduring recording artists.
Touring nationally to celebrate the release of his 17th studio album “Let The Song Take You Home” - the live show will feature classic country songs that are sure to bring back some memories plus songs from the new album and all of Harvey’s hits.
Along with a sensational live band featuring Gabi Louise (fiddle), Julia Day (drums), Liam Kennedy Clarke (bass) & Rod Motbey (guitar), this is a show not to be missed.
He says of the album “I have learnt how intertwined songs and memories are. You can listen to a song, and it will take you right back to where you were when you first heard it, or when the song was part of a special moment in your life”.
One of the best entertainers in the business, with a beautiful deep voice and sense of humour, this is country music at its finest. Adam will have you in fits of laughter and singing along all night. Do not miss this show!

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The 2024 cane crushing season finally wrapped up in mid-January 2025 after a long 32 weeks, leaving around 280,000 tonnes of cane unharvested in the district. CANEGROWERS Burdekin Ltd (CBL) has voiced disappointment over the extended season, especially given the shared goal between millers and growers of finishing by the third week of November to minimise productivity risks.
The delay was caused by a mix of factors, including wet weather, mill performance issues, and drawn-out enterprise bargaining negotiations. A long season doesn’t just hurt growers in the short term, it has financial consequences for seasons to come. While Wilmar continues to invest in its business, the benefits aren’t translating into better mill reliability. Something isn’t right, and CBL is pushing for improvements.
Compensation for unharvested cane
Eligible members who were unable to harvest their cane due to circumstances beyond their control (involuntary standover) should receive compensation from Wilmar under the CBL Cane Supply Agreement (CSA). In the 2022 season, eligible CBL growers received around $20 per tonne for 15,000 tonnes of standover. The specifics for 2024 are still being calculated, but given the larger volume of unharvested cane, the compensation per tonne will likely be lower – though still beneficial.
Burnt cane and wet weather protection
It wasn’t just unharvested cane left in the fields – there was burnt cane too. The CBL Water Perils Scheme is in place to protect members who are left with burnt cane in the paddock after wet weather events. Unlike other schemes, it doesn’t impose burning bans, instead promoting a practical approach within CSA guidelines to ensure a steady cane supply to keep crushing going.
Mill performance payments
The extended season may also trigger mill performance payments for growers. If mill performance falls below set benchmarks, growers are entitled to payments. The South Bank (Inkerman) mill is on track to qualify for the eighth consecutive year, while North Bank mills (Invicta, Kalamia, and Pioneer) have met the criteria six times in the past eight years. However, CBL’s priority is for Wilmar to improve mill performance rather than rely on compensation payments.
Preparing for the next planting season
CBL offers an in-house service to help members with their N&P Budgets. The prolonged 2024 season – combined with the current wet conditions – is making preparation for the planting season difficult. Collecting essential soil samples before planting will be especially challenging.
Disaster Assistance and Weed Management
Following the recent tropical low, CANEGROWERS successfully lobbied the government for Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants. The organisation is also pushing for changes to grant rules, so growers can use funds to replace lost crops and access fairer eligibility criteria.
Weed control is another issue after the heavy rainfall. CANEGROWERS secured approval to use MCPA for managing vines and has also obtained an amendment allowing the use of other registered products.
Join CANEGROWERS
If you’re not yet a member of CANEGROWERS – the peak body that truly leads the industry – get in touch with CBL on 4790 3600 to learn more about the benefits of membership.

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During the recent flooding here, stories come out of resilience, perseverance, and community spirit where people come to the aid of others. One such story is Dr. Tata and his Home Hill Surgery doctors who went over and above, to ensure the Burdekin had access to doctors so their medical needs were met.

After the roads were cut off, many patients were left stranded unable to attend their appointments, but so too were the doctors themselves. Rather than be forced to closed the surgery and have patients not get the attention they need, Dr. Tata and his team found viable solutions to ensure every patient was seen, which on one day, saw them attend to 100 patients!

“We were really scared, like everybody else, but we did not want to just close down, so we adapted to the flood conditions. Medicare lets us do 30 tele-health patients a day, and on Monday, when the roads closed, I rang the Department of Transport, and they said it will be closed for another three days. I was in Brisbane and had flown up to Townsville that day and rather than cancelling our patients, we hired a chopper to fly down. When we flew we saw a lot of water on the road. I thought that was the best choice we made, because otherwise we would have been stranded in Townsville for three days.” Dr. Tata says.

“We had two doctors here in Home Hill, and two doctors in Ayr. Dr. Dwija Karumanchi conducted home visits in Ayr, for around 20 patients. She actually came over on a tow truck, saw patients here, and then she’d go back on another truck. The day after that, they had the rail bus up and running, thanks to Queensland Rail.”

But it wasn’t just Dr. Tata and his team going the extra mile, he found the local community incredibly supportive of him and his practice also, as he explains.

“The community was very supportive and helped with sandbags and other flood preparations. Me and my wife, we went to fill sandbags, and I filled two, they filled 18, before I realised that the sandbags were already in place out front protecting the entrance. They also helped put up plastic at the entry way to better protect it. The local community was very helpful,” he says.

Despite the initial disruptions, the practice continued to serve patients effectively. It’s a testament to people’s spirit and ingenuity to ensure those who needed support most, got it!

“This is a very small community so to all those amazing people, the Burdekin community and Shire Council, the Disaster Management Group, and Queensland Rail, we are very thankful for the help and support.”

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Dr. Tata & Dr. Dwija Karumanchi about to fly out of Townsville by helicopter. Photo: Supplied
Dr. Tata about to board the rail-cart supplied by Queensland Rail, so he could continue to see his patients.

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Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, recently dropped into council chambers on Saturday, to give her thanks and gratitude to some of the workers and volunteers during the recent Burdekin floods.

The Governor and her husband, Professor Graeme Nimmo, congratulated a congregation of SES workers, fireys, volunteers, councillors, and the Mayor, on their great contribution in assisting and ensuring the community remained as safe as possible.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, spoke afterwards and thanked The Governor of Queensland for attending, showing her own gratitude.

“There is a lot to be done here and a lot for the future to work on, but we've got some good people in this community, so I take my hat off to all of them because they've made me look good. These people are doing an amazing job.” Mayor Dalle Cort expressed.

“We've still got a community cut off in Giru, and so we'll deal with that as we go along. But good things are happening,” Mayor Dalle Cort added.

“It's great to come out and see communities really working together and looking after themselves and looking at what's happened, while making sure that everyone's okay,” Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland expressed.

Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland (second from right, bottom row), next to her husband, Professor Graeme Nimmo (far right), with Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (on left), with some of the workers and volunteers during the recent Burdekin flood disaster.
The Governor listening to one of the flood stories.
The Governor of QLD and her husband, shaking hands and thanking each and everyone.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and QLD Governor Dr Jeannette Young.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with SES volunteer, Trevor.

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An empowering morning of socialisation and sophistication will grace the Masonic Heritage Centre on Sunday the 9th of March, with the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. International Women’s Day Brunch.

Annually, women within the Burdekin Shire look forward to attending Zonta’s International Women’s Day event and as the date for the 2025 event has been held since December of last year, feelings of anticipation and excitement have been shared across the community.

In 2024, the Club’s International Women’s Day event embraced the theme of
“En Blanc” and received an overwhelmingly positive sell out response. With a wonderful 2025 theme of “Dazzling Denim, Diamonds and Lace” March’s International Women’s Day Brunch deserves a place on every Burdekin woman’s calendar!

Zonta International has been committed to building a better world for women and girls since 1919, with clubs operating in most communities across the nation. The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. holds a treasured space within our community and regularly supports international and local initiatives to continue empowering the women and girls of the Burdekin through service and advocacy. This May will mark the 31st anniversary of Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. and more information on the amazing work the Club achieves in the community can be found online at burdekin.zontadistrict22.org.

What: Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. International Women’s Day Brunch
When: Sunday the 9th of March, 10:30am to 1pm
Where: Masonic Heritage Centre
More Information: visit burdekin.zontadistrict22.org or email bknzonta@gmail.com

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Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. members Linda and Kathy at 2024’s International Women’s Day High Tea morning
2024’s International Women’s Day event was enjoyed by many members of the community!

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Opportunities for students to extend and challenge themselves in the STEM areas are varied and vast at Ayr State High School. Ayr High’s strong tradition in STEM has been achieved over many decades of staff dedication and desire to give students access to opportunities that city schools take for granted.  
This year, so far, Sophie Robertson (Yr 12) has just returned from the prestigious 2-week National Youth Science Forum at the Australian National University in Canberra, where she had the opportunity to work with leading industry experts and academics. Sophie follows in the footsteps of many Ayr High alumni who also attended this forum.
Also, attending the Curious Minds summer camp in Adelaide over the holidays, was Year 10 student Evana Bello. Evana had an amazing experience visiting University of South Australia and was linked to her STEM Coach, who will continue to work with her on the STEM Coaching aspect of the program in the coming months. Like Sophie, Evana had the opportunity to form networks and participate in a range of interesting and fun STEM activities not normally available in a school setting.
Over the coming year there will be many more opportunities both at school and externally, that students at Ayr High will be able to participate in. We look forward to many more good news stories in the coming months.

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Sophie Robertson visits Canberra.

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Last week, in a heartwarming gesture of appreciation, the Year 12 students at Burdekin Christian College surprised teachers with a delightful Valentine's Day tribute that brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
As teachers worked diligently to finalise class deliveries from the St Valentine's Day stall, they were treated to a beautiful serenade by Jo Mau, filling the air with warmth and melody. Alongside the serenade, the Year 12 students presented flowers to each teacher, adding a personal touch that made the day even more special.
The St Valentine's Day stall, organised by the Year 12 students, was a resounding success. Thanks to the incredible support from students, staff, and the wider school community, the stall sold out entirely, with all proceeds going to a truly deserving cause: HeartKids. This organisation has provided essential support, resources, and advocacy for over 40 years to more than 250,000 Australians impacted by childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD).
The students’ thoughtful gesture not only lifted spirits on this special day but also served a greater purpose, as funds raised will directly benefit children and families impacted by CoHD.
The Year 12 students had a great time selling teddy bears, roses, lollipops, heart pencils, and even offering the occasional serenade to spread more joy. The total amount raised from the fundraiser was an impressive $1,104.58, which will be donated to the HeartKids foundation.
It was a day that beautifully combined the spirit of love and giving, exemplifying the generosity and compassion of the school community.
Burdekin Christian College extended its heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the stall, making it a complete sell-out. Their contributions will make a real difference in the lives of many.
Building on the success of the Valentine's Day stall, the Year 12 students are already looking forward to organising future fundraising events to continue supporting HeartKids and other worthy causes. Their dedication to giving back is an inspiration, and their commitment to making a difference is truly commendable.

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Jack Wassmuth with the cheque for HeartKids
Some of the lovely year 12 students who surprised their teachers
The fantastic Valentines stall that raised $1,104.58
A lovely Valentine's tribute
Students bought items from the stall
Photos supplied

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Phew! You have to love a North Qld summer. If it isn’t the aggressive precipitation, it is the persistent heat waves.

On behalf of all the team, we hope that community members are keeping safe and looking after each other. A huge thank you to our LDMG members and our emergency services, who have been out and about keeping us as safe as possible in the circumstances.

The recent weather has seen repercussions for a lot of individuals and families in the Burdekin region. The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre has been granted Emergency Relief money from the Qld Department of Communities to help community members who may be needing assistance.

Emergency Relief helps individuals in financial hardship by providing essential support. This support can include prepaid cards, fuel and transport vouchers, help with utility bills, or direct assistance like food parcels. For vulnerable Queenslanders, Emergency Relief offers immediate and practical help. It also promotes better health and well-being by connecting people with their families and communities. This connection happens through referrals to financial and social support services, including budgeting help, financial counselling, domestic violence support, and housing services.

If you need financial assistance, please contact the Centre to arrange a time to meet with one of our friendly team members. We can be contacted on 07 4783-4243; email: admin@thebnc.org.au or message us through our Facebook page.

In other news, the Centre welcomed our new Community Development Officer, Maddy, to the team this week. If you are in the Centre, please make her feel welcome. Maddy’s role will include facilitating and actively supporting projects that are designed with community members to benefit the whole community or group within the region. She will also be looking at facilitating projects by the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre that encourage and empower community members to become actively involved.

How can you help? Come in and chat with Maddy and the team – we need to hear from our community on what matters to you.

Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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The team and I at BCA have been busy helping the community and council with the initial disaster management response and community recovery, due to the recent Monsoonal Trough.  Please see information below regarding the Community Recovery Hubs currently open.

Community Recovery Hub Burdekin
Activated locations: Entire LGA

If you are suffering hardship or require emotional support as a result of the North and Far North Tropical Low event, help is available. You may be eligible for financial or other assistance to help you get back on your feet.

People are encouraged to apply for financial assistance grants online at www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp or by calling the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

Community Recovery hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship, unable to apply online or over the phone, or needing emotional or wellbeing support can visit for assistance.

Visit a Community Recovery Pop-up Hub
Community Recovery Pop-up Hubs are available to provide support, including assistance with grant applications and emotional well-being services.

Ayr Community Recovery Pop-up Hub
📍Location: Sacred Heart Parish Hall, 98 Edwards Street, Ayr
📅Dates: Daily until Friday 21 February 2025
⏰Operating Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm
Home Hill Community Recovery Pop-up Hub
📍 Location: Memorial Hall, 77-79 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill
📅 Date: Tuesday 18 until Sunday 23 February 2025
⏰ Operating Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm

For more information on available assistance and eligibility, please visit the Queensland Government's disaster recovery page: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/money-finance/eligibility-apply/nq-monsoon-trough-january-2025#hub
Emotional support
If you’re impacted by the severe weather and are experiencing emotional stress, the dedicated Community Recovery Lifeline Hotline is available.
Confidentially speak to a qualified disaster counsellor on 1800 116 671 for help. Available 24 hours.
Stay safe, and don't hesitate to reach out for support during this challenging time.
Community Support Services
The Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) is here to serve and providing community support services as always.
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975

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Community Recovery Hubs now open in Ayr and Home Hill, and offering support to those affected by the recent floods.

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Craig: “I came across about five days ago for a medical appointment from Ayr and bought the motor home, as I use it to recover in after treatment. But of course, I got trapped. I've just been patiently sitting here since waiting to get back across the river. There's so many people that have been caught out. There's a couple parked further up in a caravan that have just driven up from the Sunshine Coast. They've got a house in Ingham that they've lost to the floods up there and they can't get through either. I'm really fortunate to have a motor home, some people just have regular cars and like me, they’ve been stuck for days. Because I have a generator and power board, I actually put a post up on Facebook so that backpackers and travellers can charge up their phones and their laptops because there's nowhere to charge your phones around here. I’ve got to meet lots of different people from backpackers, to visitors travelling north, or people who live up that way. I've never seen the town so busy with cars. I'm looking forward to getting back to Ayr soon though, and having a bit of air conditioning. That’s the first thing I’ll do.”

Melissa: “We've been travelling Australia and we got a phone call on the weekend that we've got a couple of family members who are very ill. We’ve driven from Sydney to Home Hill in four days, and we've been here since Sunday. It’s been frustrating because we just want to get home before they pass away. We’ve also got a child with us who just wants to see his Nan before she does. He's eight, so he's been quite upset. I think the council and the police need to work together with the army in Townsville to produce a better system as to how to get vehicles across because there’s people here that have had their houses flooded in Ingham that are stuck here, people without medications I've spoken to that are stuck here, so it’s not just us. We've had this highway flood many times and the road has never been fixed because of politics. Something needs to be done. Hopefully we make it home soon because it's been very upsetting.”

Darryl & Louise: “We're on our way home to a flooded house at Taylor's Beach in Ingham. You can worry about it but it ain't going to change anything, so there’s nothing we can do. We'll just deal with it when we get home. But because we're here in Home Hill, you couldn't wish for a better place to be stuck as there's water access here, a dump point, and across the road is a laundromat, and a wonderful IGA, while everyone’s been super friendly here. I think we were more stressed yesterday when it was raining but then when the rain stopped, we realised there's no point worrying, so we might as well just enjoy the situation and that’s what we’ve done. I've always wanted to see the gem shop here, so I'll walk up later. On the flip side, however, the amount of times up north that gets cut off because of the roads, is absolutely disgraceful. All the way from Rocky there's potholes that’ll bust rims, yet they want to squander money on stuff down in the South East corner when we got a main road that gets blocked every time. We’ve been listening to the truckies on a two way and some are angry. They have to fix Plantation Creek, but there’s a lot more to do. It's a wakeup call!”

David: “I’ve come up from Sydney on a five-day deployment to help out the local S.E.S teams. We've mainly been around Townsville and Ingham, but we've come down to Giru and Ayr and now we're in Home Hill helping out with transport. We’ve been using the rail cart as there's really no other way of getting across. I think a lot of people are just pleased to see emergency services help them out. They're just happy to have the reassurance of being able to get supplies and if necessary, be transported to where they need to go. People are providing us food and drinks, they couldn't be more appreciative. For the last few days, we've also been flying crews into more remote towns like Giru. They obviously need support, and they're gonna need support for some time to come. I'd like to think that people would do the same if I was in a similar situation. I have to say though, here in North Queensland, we see really high levels of preparation. It's clear that people have been through similar situations a lot here before. While it’s a week off work unpaid, it’s been incredibly rewarding. It's great to be able to help the community out up here.”

Max: “When things were looking like hitting 12 metres there was a little bit of panic getting around, but the S.E.S were great. I went and helped fill sandbags for some businesses, and the S.E.S just kept dropping sand right on time. That was great. Everyone had a bit of banter while they were filling the sandbags, while a couple of kids came along and helped us load them. Since then, things have started to settle down but no one's getting complacent, which is great. We’ve been running this transfer of residents from Home Hill to Ayr with the help of Queensland Rail, who have given us a motor rail that carries up to 10-11 people. They’re running people back and forth over the bridge. Icomply also provided a bus for us to help ferry residents and workers to the designated rail stops. We started with essentials workers first: doctors, nurses, medical patients. If someone's got a medical appointment, they also get priority. We had a chemo patient have to go to Townsville for example. We also have care workers looking after the elderly, so we make sure they get across, too. Everyone's been really good, honest, and understanding, so I couldn't be happier with how everything's going. You know, we're Queenslanders, so we help each other. I think it's been very positive and everyone seems to be in high spirits.”

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Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Craig Kelly’s been stuck for five days yet been helping travellers charge their phones.
Melissa Atkinson is frustrated as she needs to get home to dying relatives.
Darryl & Louise’s house got flooded in Ingham, but they’ve been making the most of it.
S.E.S worker, David Gage, has been well received and happy to help the community.
Deputy Mayor, Max Musumeci, happy with how understanding people have been as he oversees the rail-cart.

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Monday 24 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February to stage the public speaking talents of students in Year 12! Call John on 0447 561 790 for more information.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Friday 28 February
BNC Burdekin Parkinsons Support Group
Friday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing Parkinsons in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Sunday 2 March
Clean Up Australia Day
Sunday All Day
Clean Up Australia Day has been helping keep Australia beautiful for over 35 years! Members of the Burdekin community can either check with local groups and organisations or create their own clean-up crew to keep our streets, parklands, beaches, and surrounding areas pristine. For more information, visit www.cleanup.org.au.
Burdekin Area

Sunday 2 March
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Friday 7 March
Creedence Clearwater Collective
Friday 7:30pm
The community is invited to a night of celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered to the songs they wrote for others. Tickets can be purchase on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 8 March
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Sunday 9 March
Zonta Celebrates International Women’s Day
Sunday 10:30am
The community is welcomed to help Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrate women’s successes to date at an Interntaional Women’s Day brunch commencing at 10:30am. Speakers are Sarah Chapman, STEM Changemakers Founder and Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator, JCU Master of Nursing. All funds raised will be used to support Zonta’s ongoing local and international projects.
Masonic Heritage Centre

Tuesday 11 March
Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee Live!
Tuesday 7:30pm
Anh Do’s bestselling book, The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh, and cry and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.” Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 16 March
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 19 March
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Tuesday 25th March
Apprenticeship / Traineeship / Cadetship Evening
5.30-7.30pm
The aim of the evening is to inform students about how to prepare and secure an apprenticeship, traineeship or cadetship. The format includes display tables with any upcoming or future opportunities, and a panel for questions and answers.
Ayr State High Resource Centre

Friday 28 March
Clare State School Open Classroom
Friday 12pm
Come along to Clare State School’s Open Classroom afternoon, Meet & Greet (4pm) and P&C BBQ Dinner (6pm) in celebration of the school’s 75th Anniversary!
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
Clare State School 75th Anniversary School Fete
Saturday 9am
A timeless tradition, Clare State School will hold a fantastic School Fete as part of their 75th Anniversary celebrations where the opening of the time capsule will take place.
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
75 Years of Clare State School Formal Dinner
Saturday 6pm
Join Clare State School for a twilight feast and timeless talks on the grounds of the old school yard to celebrate 75 years of education! The dress code is chic attire and tickets are available at www.clarestateschool75th.com.au.
Clare State School

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This week, Ayr Bowling Club members were fortunate to return to the green on Wednesday for bowls games after the recent wet weather, which had kept players off the green. Despite the weather, the club’s spirit remains strong.
In game news, nominations for the Men’s Club Championships have now closed for the Fours, A Grade Singles, and B Grade Singles events. The draw is posted on the board in the clubhouse. Nominations for the Country Pennants and Purple Pennants are also displayed on the clubhouse board. Members are encouraged to sign up for these fixtures, with selectors available for any questions.
Wednesday's games saw 18 players turn out, a good turnout considering the very hot weather. The club is especially grateful for the overhead cover during this time of year. Three games of triples were played, with the winning team consisting of Joe Papale, Vince Bettia, and Ron Soper, who defeated Cissco, Lachlan Grantz, and Col Essex.
Looking ahead, pending better weather, the Ladies will also be returning to the green for their bowling games. It is an exciting time for the club as both the men's and women's teams prepare for upcoming competitions.
Saturday's event was proudly sponsored by Phelans Pies, a valued sponsor for many years. The club extends its heartfelt thanks to Phelans Pies, as their sponsorship makes these events possible.
Saturday saw 30 players participate, which was fantastic, with five games of triples played. The results were as follows:
1st place: Linda Guimelli, Merle Nixon, and Anthony Bull, who defeated Bob Young, Lachlan Grantz, and Pam Power.
2nd place: Katarina Stuckler, Beryl Cornford, and Sam Caltabiano, who defeated Paul Vass, Joe Grabbi, and Sandra Stidston.
3rd place: Cissco, Barry Hewson, and Dot Cutting, who defeated Karen Shepherd, Lorraine Wolffe, and Maurie Power.
4th place: Donna Soper, Ron Smythe, and Ron Soper, who defeated Arthur Gauvin, Col Essex, and Wayne Coonan.
The club also continues to host Friday Roll-Ups, which take place every Friday afternoon from 3:00 to 5:30 PM. These casual sessions offer members the opportunity to hone their skills, receive friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink. It’s the perfect way to start the weekend and socialize with fellow club members.
For more information, visit Ayr Bowling Club or find us on Facebook.
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Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club.

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Saturday 22nd Of February: 1 to 5pm  ( Patrol Group B ) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson.

Sunday 23rd Of February: 9am to 5pm ( All Day Patrol Group E ) John Moloney, Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Isa Bella Moloney, Jane Jones, Gavin Jones, Sopia Moloney, Alissia Gibson, Billy Gibson, Shaize Christie, Emma Jones.

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A week of rain and a late Friday afternoon storm couldn’t stop Home Hill Cricket Club’s generation next as East Ayr State School came to the rescue on Friday afternoon.

Twelve Cricket Blast Challengers (aged 7-11) swapped the grass for the concrete of the school hall for an impromptu game that unleashed plenty of pent-up energy and some impressive skills.

With each batting pair enjoying two overs at the crease, Tait Parker and Oliver Wicks got the Heat off to a flier, blasting 21 runs between them as the team piled on 71 from their eight overs.

Aria Bryant bowled very well for the Stars in her step up from the Rookie-aged ranks (5-7), taking a wicket, while Marshall Parker also impressed in the field, having a hand in three runouts.

In reply, Everly Nicholas and Nicholas Marrinan batted very well to give the Stars a shot at running down the target, showing real improvement thanks to their commitment to training.

But the tight bowling of new player Nate Ryder (one wicket) and Corbett Cross (one wicket), in particular, meant it was the Heat who walked away victors by just seven runs.

Home Hill Junior Cricket express a huge thank you to East Ayr SS for giving their Challengers and Rookies (on Tuesday) the chance to play and train when otherwise the weather would have forced them to cancel.

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Antony Stewart with challengers

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Recent heavy and persistent rains over the last 1-2 weeks, culminated in floods which forced several road closures and disrupted the Burdekin community. Areas impacted most included Giru, Rita Island, and Plantation Park in Ayr. Roads, schools, hospitals, businesses, and transport were all affected.

Not since the flood of 2019 has Plantation Park and the Bruce Highway, been completely covered with water. As a result, the Burdekin Shire Council in consultation with police and emergency services, opted to close the road.

This had a domino effect, with several businesses, schools, Ayr Hospital, and residents from both sides of the Burdekin River, all caught out and cut off. While the road eventually opened to semi-trailers only, it left many scrambling and seeking alternative options.

To further compound the issue, the Burdekin Dam is currently running at over 203 per cent, exasperating problems and causing more havoc and headaches.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has advised that current moderate river levels are expected to remain with the Burdekin River at Inkerman Bridge currently above the moderate flood level and could reach over 11.20 metres.

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A truck drives through the flooded Bruce Highway near Plantation Park. Photo credit: Mark@BurdekinDrones

Rivers Rising, Flood Warnings, Communities Cut Off

As a result of the low tropical storm and the continual deluge, it left many communities without access, while others were forced to rethink plans and seek alternative options.

Many schools ran on skeleton staff and revised curriculums as a result, with both students and teachers being stranded on either side of the Burdekin River and unable to attend. Most resorted to online education, last implemented during covid practices in 2020.

Ayr Health & Hospital Service was forced to transfer some of their patients via Queensland Rail Service, to ensure who they received their daily dialysis.

Meanwhile transport ground to a halt, with trucks and other vehicles stretching up to three kilometres long in places, either side of the bridge. Eventually semi-trailers carrying much needed supplies were allowed to cross, but many other cars and 4wds were turned back.

While rains have currently eased, the BOM advised that major flooding is still possible for Giru and surrounding communities, while council and emergency services recommend keeping up to date via the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard for latest news and updates.

“The LDMG (Local Disaster Management Group) consists of multiple different agencies including Council members who have all been working tirelessly, and in collaboration, to support as best we can for the disaster event. The impact of this event extends beyond the Burdekin, affecting the broader North Queensland region and presenting unique challenges.” Burdekin Shire Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort said.

“The LDMG is monitoring conditions and are well prepared to act or respond accordingly. As the LDMG has many experienced people, they are assisting to deliver favourable outcomes for the community,” Mayor Dalle Cort assured.

“I urge all residents to stay informed through official sources, including the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard (disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au). Please continue to follow safety advice, check on your neighbours, and reach out if you need assistance,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort added.

Records of large floods at Ayr extend as far back as 1911, and since then 10 major floods have occurred. The most recent major flood was in February 1991, when the river rose to 12.53 metres at the Inkerman Bridge gauge.

At this stage, it appears those levels won’t be reached, however, with so much rain and catchment areas still filling up, residents and businesses are urged to stay vigilant and not become complacent.

Previous Flood Levels*
   • 10.5m – In the 2019 floods the Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek was impacted.
   • 11.28m – Water flowed over the bank upstream of Inkerman Bridge (Lago’s and Strano’s break) and moved towards farms and Home Hill township.
   • 11.58m – Historically, this level impacted lower business section of Home Hill, lower Jarvisfield and Rita Island farms.
   • 11.89m – Water commenced to overflow into Sheepstation Creek, which eventually cut Ayr Dalbeg Road and Bruce Highway between Townsville and Ayr. At least half the cane growing area flooded.
   • 12.19m – Historically, water came in Home Hill business section and outskirts of Ayr town.

*Information provided courtesy of Burdekin Shire Council and BOM.

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Bruce Highway at Plantation Park was swamped with water cutting access and causing massive delays. Photo credit: Mark@Burdekin Drones
The Burdekin River close to the underside of Inkerman Bridge. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The long line of trucks and vehicles waiting to cross, stretching almost 3 kilometres. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Burdekin River gauge showing the height of the river. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Photos of the flood waters.
Aerial shots taken by Mark@Burdekin Drones
Ground photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Aerial shot shows the flood water across Bruce Highway and Plantation Park
Iluka Rasmussen (3) standing in front of the very high Burdekin River
The 3km long line of trucks and vehicles waiting to cross
The Inkerman Bridge standing above the full Burdekin River
The Inkerman Bridge stands just above the rising full Burdekin River
Aerial shot shows the extent of the flooding
Fisheye photo from up high showing the extent of the floods
Truck braving the waters on a covered Bruce Highway at Plantation Park
Flood waters reaching far and wide
Bruce Highway at Plantation Park was swamped with water
Emergency workers and police on hand watch as trucks drive through the flood waters

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So, all that unrelenting rain for what felt like two weeks straight, finally caught up with us all and brought flooding to the region. While on the smaller side in comparison to up north, it still inconvenienced many, with almost no-one immune from road closures that separated towns from one another, disrupted transport routes, interrupted schools and businesses, and forced patients from Ayr hospital to be moved by train.

In fact, we almost didn’t make it home across the bridge ourselves on Saturday after a little venture to Townsville to get some items as we prep for our second baby. Had we come back an hour later, we would have been left on the other side of the bridge in Ayr looking for a place to crash.

“Plano” as I discovered it gets called, was submerged and resembled a big, muddy brown lake more than it did the beautiful Plantation Park precinct. While it made for a fascinating sight to view (as did the very full river), it brought traffic to a halt, with only semi-trailers allowed through.

What is evident, however, is that even with all the unrelenting rains, rising river levels, and daily disruptions, our community spirit remains strong.

While the Burdekin is not quite through it all just yet, the one constant I have been seeing, both on the ground and online, is the willingness of the local community to chip in and help.

Social media has been awash (sorry for the pun), with people going over and above to help their community, to even complete strangers, who like the rest of us have also been left stranded, too.

From a local hotel providing food for Giru residents cut off by floods, to a woman creating a tucker box for truckies, there’s been countless acts of generosity and kindness, and that makes all the difference.

While the rains and floods will eventually ease, long may this community spirit shine bright.

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Amid the floods and widespread road closures, truck drivers have become some of the most frequent victims of lengthy traffic jams.
Seeing the toll this took on drivers, Betina Wilks decided to step in. Every morning, she placed a box of snacks as a small gesture to support those stuck in long queues.
Not stopping there, she reached out to the local community on Facebook, asking for any donations of items to add to the box.
Teaming up with her neighbour, Christina Mosby-Na'awi, Betina went a step further, making 45 sandwiches and personally delivering them to the drivers passing by.
Individuals on Facebook thanked the pair for their thoughtfulness and generosity:
“From the wife of a truck driver I say THANK YOU for your beautiful gesture to help all truck drivers,” Leonie Curran stated.
“What I love about this community is the people are amazing,” Mark Vane added.
Betina expressed her gratitude to the truck drivers for their tireless efforts:

“Big thank you to all the truckdrivers for all that they do for us.”

“And not forgetting the emergency workers thank you.”

In trying times, sometimes little acts of kindness can go a long way, well done Betina and Christina.

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Betina and Christina handing out items to truckies.
The help yourself box!

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The people of Dawson are no strangers to natural disasters, having endured cyclones, fires and floods, but they are also extremely resilient, coming together in the face of adversity.
 
At the first opportunity when flooding subsided, I jumped in the 4WD and headed north, visiting towns in the Burdekin region including Gumlu, Home Hill, Ayr and Giru, then onto south Townsville at Cungulla and Nome.
 
Some areas were lucky to only have little to no flood water on their property, but some homes and businesses copped the worst, even though they were well prepared. 
 
Speaking with the locals and small business owners, I was blown away by their strength of character, with their efforts now turned towards the clean up process, knowing there could be further rain and flooding to come. I wanted to ensure my constituents, I was there to listen and offer any assistance, federal or otherwise.
 
I met with Mayor Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin, of the Burdekin Shire Council to discuss the impact of possible major flooding at Plantation Creek and other small creeks in the shire, and to understand the plans moving forward.
 
Arriving in Townsville, I attended the Disaster Relief Command Centre where I, along with other leaders and emergency workers, were provided updates on the weather system we were experiencing, before meeting with Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli. It was important that our Premier was made aware on areas of the Dawson electorate that had been affected by this catastrophic event.
 
Since having the second downpour, I stand ready to return to the Burdekin region, to talk to the people and offer what help I can. In the meantime, if there are questions or issues, I invite residents to contact my office Andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au, and myself and my team, who are more than ready to assist.

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Andrew Willcox meets the people affected by the floods to help clean up. Photo credit: Ben Mihan
Andrew Willcox with Burdekin Shire Council Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, highlighting flood affected areas and response plans. Photo credit. Ben Mihan
Andrew talking to emergency workers. Photo credit. Ben Mihan

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While the effects of weather are hard to predict, the willingness of the community to assist others is something that, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last, can be relied upon.  

Mr Last said emergency services, volunteers, businesses, and individuals had gone ‘above and beyond’ to help locals and visitors to the community as they prepared for and dealt with the effects of the weather event.  

“Across the Burdekin district, and beyond, there are everyday people who deserve our thanks,” Mr Last said. “The actions of those people have undoubtedly reduced the pressure on emergency services and helped to restore calm in uncertain times.”  

“The local emergency services have shown that their planning and commitment is another reason that we should be both proud of them and thankful for their efforts. We’ve also had staff coming in from other areas to support local staff and I am extremely proud of the way the community has welcomed them and supported them.”  

“Our SES volunteers have been extremely active responding to calls for help, helping to resupply isolated people and helping residents with sandbags. Especially considering they are leaving their homes and families to help others; you really need to take your hat off to them.”  

“We have also seen locals providing food and drinks to stranded motorists and even a local business providing free hot meals to the locals and emergency services in Giru during the cleanup. That sort of generosity is something you rarely see in many areas and it should be celebrated.”  

Mr Last said he expected volunteers to again come to the fore during the clean-up and recovery and reassured locals that the state government was fully committed to supporting those affected.  

“This is a widespread event, but support will be made available to those that need it. Even before the rain started, we had teams in place so that in the shortest time possible, the recovery could get underway and we have already seen the results of that forward planning.”  

“In addition to financial support for individuals, supporting our key industries is a high priority to ensure that people’s jobs are protected. The Premier has made it very clear that support will continue to be delivered to affected communities until the job is done.”  

“There will also be a review of this event in the same way that all disasters are reviewed. That process is about identifying opportunities to better prepare for future events and to ensure that any issues of concern are properly addressed.”  

Support for eligible residents in impacted areas is available via the Queensland Disaster Recovery website or by calling 1800 173 349. Packages to support eligible primary industry and small businesses are administered by QRIDA, who can be contacted on 1800 623 946.

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OPINION PIECE

Australia’s regional industries are the engine of this country. From sugarcane to prawns, mining, beef and tourism, they keep the lights on and the economy ticking. Where I come from, these industries don’t just generate profits. They sustain families, communities, and our way of life.
But as a new report from the Page Research Centre, A complex, costly web: The regulatory burden on Australia’s regional businesses highlights, every single one of them is up against it. Overregulation is strangling them, and Canberra needs to wake up.
Farmers are more efficient and resourceful than ever. They use million-dollar equipment and modern techniques to grow food for the nation and the world. These people aren’t wasteful. They’re meticulous. Every dollar spent is carefully managed. They don’t damage the land or water. They depend on it. And yet, farmers are treated like they’re the problem. They’re not. They’re the solution. They deserve respect, support, and the right to get on with their job.
In Dawson, we have the largest sugarcane industry in the country. Bowen’s horticultural sector is worth half a billion dollars. It produces the tomatoes, mangoes, and other fresh produce that end up on plates here and overseas. Our aquaculture sector exports live fish to Hong Kong and delivers prawns to Australian dinner tables. Cattle producers in the region supply some of the best beef in the world. In Mackay, the mining and engineering sector drives entire industries. This region is doing the heavy lifting for the national economy.
And what do we get in return? Layers of regulation. Federal, state, and local governments pile rules on top of rules. Compliance costs go up, delays drag on, and businesses suffer.
Environmental, Social, and Governance mandates are out of sync with global trends, making Australian businesses uncompetitive. Taxes and royalties hit industries like coal and mining so hard that investment dries up. Projects that could power entire regional economies are delayed or cancelled because of legal and regulatory roadblocks. It’s madness.
Small businesses are in the same boat. They’re the backbone of regional towns. They create jobs, provide services, and keep communities alive. I’ve been a business owner. I know what it’s like to make payroll, cover the bills, and stay afloat. These people are doing their best, but government interference is making it harder every day.
It’s time for change. Regulations need to be simplified. Federal, state, and local governments must coordinate to reduce duplication and cut costs. ESG mandates must be realistic and aligned with global trends. Taxes and royalties must be reformed.
Queensland’s 2022 coal royalty tiers need to go. Approval times for projects must be capped at 18 months. Public funding for Environmental Defenders Offices, which use legal loopholes to delay projects, must end. Environmental regulations should be straightforward and practical. These aren’t complicated decisions. They’re common sense.
Strong regions mean a strong country. When our industries thrive, we can take care of our seniors, support our veterans, and give young people a future. It’s about making sure everyone, no matter where they live, benefits from Australia’s success.
Australians have always worked hard. Farmers, miners, and business owners don’t need handouts. They need governments to get out of the way. They need Canberra to stop piling on the red tape, green tape, and black tape that make it impossible to get things done. This isn’t about the environment versus the economy. It’s about striking a balance that allows both to succeed.
When regional Australia is strong, the whole country is strong. That’s the bottom line. And it’s about time Canberra understood it.

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MP Andrew Willcox holding one of the many great resources in the region. Photo: Supplied.

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Flood-affected primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits in seven North Queensland areas can now apply for concessional loans to support recovery. The loans have been activated for the local government areas (LGAs) including the Burdekin, and are provided through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $250,000, and Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000, are available to eligible operators.

Disaster-hit primary producers, small businesses and not-for-profits, can now apply for concessional loans to assist with their recovery from the sustained rains and flooding, and will help re-establish operations by covering costs relating to:

   • Repairing or replacing damaged plant and equipment
   • Repairing or replacing buildings
   • Resupplying stock or livestock

Essential Working Capital Loans up to $100,000 are available to help operators carry on business operations, including paying salaries or wages, creditors, rent or rates.

Primary producers can also access freight subsidies up to $5,000 for the movement of stock, feed, machinery, fuel, water, and building or fencing materials.

“Today, I can announce that we are unlocking the support and the funding needed to assist all those communities that have been impacted by this current wet weather event, which as we know, has caused widespread damage all the way from Yarrabah to down here into the Burdekin,” Dale Last, member for Burdekin stated.

“We are absolutely committed to helping these communities get back on their feet, and we will be on the ground. The Premier has been up in affected areas talking with local governments, talking with impacted residents and businesses, to ensure that we're rolling out the support as fast as we possibly can, and to reaffirm the message, we will be doing everything we can to support our primary producers our small businesses, and our not for profits,” Mr Last said.

“We're here listening. We understand the impact right across the region, but in particular in this region where we're meeting with affected primary industries, be it horticulture, be it cane, be it any other industry that's directly impacted, because we need to be on the ground,” Tony Perret, the Minister of Primary Industries said.

“We understand by listening to those affected primary producers the impact that it's having and how government assistance then needs to flow to be able to make certain that their businesses remain viable in the long term, but particularly in the short term, to get the recovery.” Mr Perret said.

Christian Largo, Chairman of QCAR, (Queensland, Cane Agriculture and Renewables) was hopeful this announcement will give growers the confidence to pick up tools, get out of bed the next day, and start with the cleanup and look forward to their 2025 season.

“We've seen a lot of damage to capital and investments, but probably the main worry at the moment, and the immediate priority, is mental health. It's ensuring that farmers have the support they need to get up out of bed each morning and continue with their livelihoods,” Mr Largo said.

“This will be welcomed by the farming community. It just shows government are out there supporting their constituents and that's what we need from our government at this time,” Mr Largo added.

For loan applications visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or call 1800 623 946.
Primary producers interested in freight subsidies can contact Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries on 13 25 23 or via www.daf.qld.gov.au.

Dale Last, with Christian Lago, Chair of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR), and Tony Perrett MP, Minister for Primary Industries. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Ayr Anzac Memorial Club is inviting local sporting clubs, businesses, charities, not-for-profit organisations, and individuals, to apply for their sponsorships. For the 2025/2026 financial year the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club would like any of the above who require money in any way, shape or form, to make submissions to the club outlining their requirements.
A popular program, it’s not uncommon for the club to receive anywhere between 50-100 applications in any given year. Elmarie van der Schyff, the club’s Administration Manager, goes into details explaining what’s required, while offering up some good tips & tricks to better help your application.
“We usually get quite a lot of applications every year, which is lovely, but unfortunately we can't help everyone. We only have a certain amount that the club is able to allocate. We always encourage everyone to put in an application every year, even if you’ve previously been unsuccessful, as you never know you might be one of the lucky ones this time.”
“All those applications are forwarded to the April committee meeting, at which time the committee then look at all the applications and make their decision,” Elmarie states.
Applications must be mailed by March 31, and include all contact details for follow-up communication. Provided they make the cutoff date, there is no limit on the amount requested, but detailed proposals with quotes are preferred.
“If you need a big heap of money, we need to know what it's for, what you are planning on doing with it. Quotes are very helpful. The more detail you provide, the better,” she says.
This generous sponsorship program is only available to those within the Burdekin, while decisions are based on need and budget availability.
“This is a once-and-only opportunity to obtain sponsorship for the coming year.”
All applications need to be addressed to: John Robinson, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, PO Box 92, Ayr 4807. (No emails or hand-delivered requests will be accepted, no exceptions).

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Ayr Anzac Memorial Club Administration Manager, Elmarie van der Schyff, ready for many sponsorship applications.

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Burdekin Catholic High School was abuzz with excitement as they welcomed students back to school for the start of a brand-new school year. With a focus on fostering excellence, supporting student success, and living out Catholic values, the school has been ready to provide a nurturing environment for all learners.

Principal, Lorraine Wolffe, shared her enthusiasm for the year ahead, highlighting the school’s commitment to welcoming new students into the BCHS community.

“Starting a new school year is always a special time. We’ve been thrilled to greet our incoming students and their families and are looking forward to guiding them on this exciting journey. Our mission is to ensure every student feels supported and inspired to achieve their personal and academic goals.”

At BCHS, the staff pride themselves on their dedication and expertise. The team of highly experienced educators is prepared to deliver an engaging curriculum, combining academic rigor with a strong foundation in Catholic faith and values. Through individualised support, innovative teaching practices, and a focus on holistic development, the school aims to help each student reach their full potential.

This year, BCHS is placing an emphasis on fostering a sense of belonging, community, and resilience among students. A variety of programs, extracurricular activities, and pastoral care initiatives are in place to ensure all students feel supported, no matter their goals or interests.

As the school community came together for the start of the term, the excitement was palpable. From the energy of new beginnings to the shared commitment to learning and growth, Burdekin Catholic High School is poised to make 2025 a year of inspiration and success for all.

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BCHS classrooms are a hive of activity! Source: BCHS
Students and staff attended a Welcome Mass to officially commence the 2025 school year. Source: BCHS

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The recent tropical low that struck North Queensland, causing widespread flooding, has likely resulted in significant emotional and financial hardship for the local community.
To assist those affected, Community Recovery Hubs and State and Commonwealth grants are available for individuals who have been impacted by the disaster.
Two recovery hubs have been set up in the Burdekin district, offering support to residents facing hardship, those unable to apply online or by phone, or those in need of emotional and wellbeing assistance.
Residents are also encouraged to apply for State and Commonwealth grants, which provide financial aid to help with recovery from eligible disasters.
This version refines the flow and structure while keeping the key details intact.
Grants include:
Emergency Hardship Assistance
$180 per person (up to $900 for a family of five or more) for people who are unable to meet their immediate essential needs for temporary accommodation, food, essential clothing and medication. It can take up to five days for payments to reach your bank account.

Essential Household Contents Grant
One-off payment for households who are uninsured or unable to claim insurance as a contribution towards replacing or repairing essential household contents. Up to $1,765 for single adults and up to $5,300 for couples/families.

Essential Services Safety & Reconnection Scheme
To help owner/occupied households reconnect essential services that were damaged by a disaster. Up to $200 towards a safety inspection for each essential service needing reconnection (electricity, gas, water and sewerage or septic system) and up to $4,200 towards repair work.

Structural Assistance Grant
One-off payment towards the cost of repairs to uninsured, owner- occupied homes to ensure the home is habitable, secure and safe. Up to $80,000.

People are encouraged to apply for financial assistance grants online at www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp or by calling the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

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While sugarcane fields define the Burdekin’s landscape, it’s the region’s property market in 2024 that quietly cultivated sweet success across Regional Queensland.

In 2024, Regional Queensland's property market showed notable growth, with property values increasing by 12.1 per cent over the year. This trend was particularly evident in key regional hubs. According to The Australian Financial Review, Rockhampton led the way with a 9.2 per cent quarterly growth in values, followed by Townsville (8.34 per cent), Gladstone (6.74 per cent), and Mackay (6.19 per cent).

Closer to home, the Burdekin region reflected this upward trend. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, the Burdekin saw steady growth in property values, driven by the ongoing demand for regional lifestyle blocks and family homes. Real Estate Investar reported that Ayr, the region’s main centre, experienced an 8.5 per cent annual rise in median house prices, with increasing interest from both local buyers and those relocating from southern cities. The affordability and strong sense of community in towns like Ayr and Home Hill continue to attract buyers looking for a laid-back lifestyle close to vital amenities.

The demand for property in Regional Queensland was fuelled by several factors. The Australian reported that interstate migration from pricier markets played a key role, as did the appeal of a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle. Moreover, the expansion of business operations into regional areas contributed to the surge.

However, not all parts of Queensland experienced the same momentum. For example, The Courier Mail noted a 20.7 per cent drop in building approvals on the Gold Coast, reflecting challenges in the construction sector despite a broader statewide recovery. This decline is a concerning trend, especially given the ongoing housing shortage in the area.

Overall, 2024 marked a significant year for Regional Queensland's property market, with the Burdekin region standing strong amidst the broader boom. Strong demand, limited supply, and economic shifts played key roles in shaping the market’s positive trajectory.

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The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) is pleased to announce that assistance has been secured to help the community cross the Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek.
 
Queensland Rail will be deploying a 10-seater Rail Bus to assist the community after its successful use in Ingham. This service will help residents travel between Ayr and Home Hill while floodwaters impact road access.
 
Passengers will be bused from the Home Hill Comfort Stop to Mirrigan Road, railed across Plantation Creek, and dropped at Ayr Railway Station. From the station, another bus will transport passengers to Graham Street Bus Depot.

Parking is available at both Graham Street Bus Depot, Ayr, and Home Hill Comfort Stop.

Priority seating is given to patients with medical appointments, emergency services staff, healthcare workers (Hospital, Regis Aged Care, pharmacies), school teachers, and other staff required to attend their work place.

The rail cart will be operating until 8pm from Tuesday and Wednesday night, and on Thursday operating until 5pm and Friday as necessary.

Please ensure you meet at the designated departure points in Ayr and Home Hill to be allowed on the rail cart. Do not go to the railway stations, as you will not be permitted to board. 

Please consider limiting travel unless necessary.

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Wow, what a challenging fortnight for North Queensland. The constant rain tested a lot of us to different extents. The Burdekin certainly copped its fair share, to all of you thank you for the spirit you’ve shown, neighbours helping neighbours, strangers assisting strangers and many acts of kindness.
To the emergency services, local and those deployed in, it was reassuring to have you in the shire. To all other agencies who have taken part in the Local Disaster Management Group meetings, your input, practical advice and pertinent suggestions is assisting the Burdekin through the 2025 rain event. Burdekin Shire Council employees in all areas have gone above and beyond in their respective roles. Not wanting to single persons out, I must give a shout out to Eileen Devescovi for steering the Shires response.
With all emergency events there will always be learnings and this one is no different. The learnings will improve and make even more robust our systems in readiness for the next one, not too soon I hope. The important point is not to just build back but to ‘build back better’, to be more resilient in the future.
I want to make a call out to anyone contemplating volunteering. Our SES has stepped up once again, even though small in number they punched well above their weight. If you’re wondering about helping out call their experienced SES leader Warren Francis on 0476 781 902, male/female 18 years ( 16 but need parents permission ) upwards.
Check in on your neighbours/friends and even strangers you may come across. Remember there are agencies to help if you need something more eg Recovery Centres, Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Burdell, your local church, Salvos, Lifeline, Red Cross to name but a few.
Wishing you health, happiness and personal strength in this current challenge.
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Councillor John

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As we move into the second week of monsoonal rain and flooding, I know many of you are feeling the effects of isolation, low food supplies, and limited movement. It’s understandable that misinformation on social media can be confusing and a bit frightening, especially for our new residents. I encourage everyone to stay safe and stay informed. Please check out the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard for real-time updates and important information: disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Having access to accurate and reliable information is so important during these challenging weather events.
I want to take a moment to recognise our amazing Disaster Management team, Operations crews, Water and Wastewater staff, and all the Council employees who are working tirelessly. They’re doing everything they can to provide information, keep essential services running, update road conditions, and help keep our community safe. I’m so proud of the dedication and hard work they’ve shown during this difficult time.
I would also like to thank the Emergency Services and the many volunteers who have contributed and worked together, whether it be sandbagging, sharing information and resources or just being there when needed.
It’s heartwarming to see communities coming together. Many residents in isolated areas are checking in on each other, ensuring that those who can’t get out have the supplies they need. This is truly what community spirit is all about. My heart goes out to the Giru residents who have already faced flooding not once, but twice, and maybe three times.
We’ve also received reports of road signage being removed—please do not tamper with these signs. They are in place for a reason, to warn of hazards and keep everyone safe. Removing them puts peoples’ lives at risk.
Do NOT enter floodwaters—whether walking, driving, or swimming. Floodwaters are dangerous, unpredictable, and often contaminated. Ignoring safety warnings not only puts your life in danger but also the lives of emergency service personnel who may have to rescue you.
Let’s continue looking out for each other and making safety a priority.
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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Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr is committed to supporting local sports in the Burdekin region. Recently, the bank contributed to the Ayr Golf Club, at the time of their celebrations of the club’s milestone 95th anniversary this year.
The Ayr Golf Club is a cornerstone of the Burdekin community, boasting an 18-hole, 5,861-metre championship course. With a dedicated membership of 200, the club thrives on the generosity of volunteers who contribute their time and effort.
Last year the golf club applied for a grant with the Community Bank targeted at improving our community facilities by providing an on-course toilet block.
The Ayr Golf Club was thrilled to be awarded an $8000 grant from the Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, which will help uphold their shared values while the Club seeks to deliver a more up to date facility, improve player satisfaction and comfort, attract more players, and increase accessibility while providing physical and mental benefits to our community.
With significant distances between some holes and the clubhouse, having a toilet available on the course ensures that players don't have to trek back to the clubhouse if they need to use the facilities.
A spokesperson for the Ayr Golf Club, Angie Baxter, says the welfare of their members and visitors is paramount on the golf course. “Access to an on-course toilet enables players to drink enough fluids from the provided cold water cooler without worrying about being too far from restroom facilities. Provision of restroom facilities on the course enhances the overall experience for golfers by ensuring their comfort and addressing their basic needs.”
She also mentions it promotes good hygiene practices, which are important for the health and wellbeing of players.
“Without on-course toilets, golfers might resort to using natural areas as makeshift restrooms, which can have negative environmental impacts on the course, the surrounding areas, and a player’s self-esteem. Having designated facilities helps minimise this issue and preserves the natural beauty of our course.”, says Angie.
At their recent 95th Anniversary Gala Dinner, the Ayr Golf Club were honoured by the presence of one of their most celebrated players, seven-time Major Championship winner Karrie Webb.
Karrie was awarded an honorary membership as a token of gratitude and admiration for her achievements, including induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Her act of continued support and acknowledging the role a local sporting club had in the formative years of an astonishing career, inspires the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr in supporting community groups which can play a vital role for future success.

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Karrie Webb (left), with past president Peter Andersen, and club Treasurer Janet Trezise

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With Plantation Park and Bruce Highway affected by flooding most weekend and into Monday, several schools in the Burdekin were forced to take alternative action on account of their teachers and students unable to travel safely to and from school.

Trans North also advised that no school buses would operate in the Ayr, Giru, Woodstock, Rita Island, Airville, Brandon, Alva Beach, Osborne, Gumlu and Inkerman areas on 10 February as a result.

This left some schools with no option but to revert back to covid protocols to run some of their classes.

“With no buses running due to the floods, we’ve all been impacted,” says Sharon O’Neill, the Principal at Home Hill State High School.

“It’s unsettling for our students but we have Q-learn, our online learning portal, while teacher wellbeing is really important. We’ve encouraged anyone not to travel through the floodwaters and asked both our students and teachers to present to their nearest school, whether that’s in Ayr or Home Hill,” she declares.

Thankfully, Ayr State High School and Home Hill State High School, have both worked together to ensure no one misses out on their education or teaching, as Sharon explains.

“It’s been fantastic. All the principals have been in contact with each other and supporting one another. Being partner towns we share staff and support. As a result, we’re able to keep instructions going over all classes,” she adds.

With the constant rains over the weekend that continued Monday morning, many students and teachers were left on opposite sides of the bridge, affecting attendance numbers.

“We have four teachers who live this side in Home Hill, of about our 20 teachers all up. But we also have five Ayr State High School teachers with us and some teacher aides helping out. We then have some of our teachers who live on the north side, working direct out of Ayr State High.”

“It’s great to build a relationship, and keep things going for one another,” Sharon enthuses.

At Burdekin Christian College, Ashlee Butler, Student Services Officer & Marketing, assures it’s business as usual.

“We haven’t been too affected, thanks to our own private bus service and online portal. We’ve currently got students who weren’t able to attend, taking our online safety course, OnGuard. While any teachers unable to come in are conducting their classes in the online space. It’s similar to what we implemented during our covid,” Ashlee states.

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As north Queensland’s cane farmers face a disaster of unprecedented scale, CANEGROWERS is urging the State Government to align with other states by assisting growers with the cost of replanting lost crops.
Widespread flooding from Townsville to Cairns, including Australia’s largest cane growing regions around the Burdekin and Herbert River, is expected to decimate recently planted cane.
CANEGROWERS is working closely with the Queensland Government to ensure affected farmers receive the support they need as quickly as possible.
However, disaster recovery grants currently do not cover replanting costs – a critical gap that could leave many growers drowning in debt or out of business entirely as they face the prospect of being unable to meet production commitments for 2025.
“Sugarcane is a hardy crop, but it’s not indestructible. Multiple days submerged will kill recently planted crops, leaving growers with little choice but to start again from scratch,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
"In other states farmers can use disaster recovery grants to help cover the costs of replanting their crops, but successive Queensland governments have failed to implement a similar policy in this state.
"We lead the country in our expertise in disaster resilience and recovery. But for some reason this policy area is sadly lacking.
“Disaster recovery grants are only triggered for growers who can demonstrate significant impact and they are crucial in cleaning up farms. But the objective is to get businesses back up-and-running, and in farming that means getting crops back in the ground.
“We’re urging the government to act now and modify the grant rules to cover replanting so growers can rebuild their livelihoods."
The extent of the flooding has taken many by surprise, with some areas receiving six months' worth of rain in just a few days.
Ingham has been hit particularly hard, with thousands left without power and severe damage expected across the region’s cane farms.
While the rain is easing, floodwaters will take time to recede and the full extent of the damage may not be clear for days or even weeks.
“Growers are no strangers to heavy rain, flooding, and even cyclones, but this is a disaster on another level,” Mr Galligan said.
“In the immediate term we’re urging affected growers to stay safe, be patient, and assess the damage when it is safe to do so.
"CANEGROWERS and our members extend our appreciation to the community, emergency workers and government officials who are deployed across the north of our state working to assist us in assessing damage and recovering from this disaster."

Young cane may not recover after multiple days submerged in flood water

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Next month’s ABARES Outlook 2025 conference will be a unique event for the Australian agriculture industry, offering an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in cross-cutting conversations around agriculture’s productivity, sustainability, and the possibilities that are ahead.
Themed ‘Insights for Action: Fostering Growth in a Changing World,’ the conference will bring together influential Australian and international speakers, including industry leaders, government representatives, and experts, to discuss the future of agriculture in the face of global shifts.
Taking place at Hotel Realm Canberra and online on 4-5 March 2025, the conference will feature 12 engaging sessions, designed to foster knowledge exchange, debate, and deliver actionable insights.
Participants will explore key issues such as uncertainty around the future of trade, sustainable productivity and net zero, the evolving role of data, Indigenous agricultural enterprise, farm input security, capital investment, workforce – and more.
ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville will deliver the Economic Outlook for Australian agriculture on opening morning.
“The effects of climate change, resource scarcity, geopolitical instability, and changing market conditions mean we need to seriously consider our responsiveness and adaptability,” Dr Greenville said.
“Understanding economic trends and productivity hurdles is essential for developing resilient agriculture, fishery and forestry sectors and supply chains.”
Dr Greenville said this year also marks 80 years since ABARES was first established a research organisation.
“ABARES has a rich history and a wealth of expertise in applied economic and scientific research used to provide timely input to industry and government decision-making,” Dr Greenville said.
“Insights from ABARES will be shared at the conference alongside expert views from industry, government and academia to highlight some of challenges, evolving needs and solutions for the sector.”
For those unable to attend in person, the conference will be streamed online, allowing a broader audience of industry stakeholders to participate remotely.
For more details about the program, speakers and registration, visit ABARES Outlook Conference 2025 online.

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Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli are words sugarcane farmers worldwide would like to see eradicated; they are the scientific name for the bacterium responsible for ratoon stunting disease (RSD).
The bacterium’s potential to wreak havoc is the driving force behind Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR)’s venture to investigate the latest in technologies to combat the disease.  
Recently this involved a cohort travelling west of cane country to the city of Toowoomba consisting of QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan, Board Chairman and Burdekin farmer Christian Lago, Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella, Board Member and Burdekin farmer Dean Sgroi, and QCAR Herbert Member Michael Penna (also an AgForce Cane Board member).  
The team first visited AgForce’s office to discuss the management of weeds, pests and disease across grain and grazing industries before heading to AgEtal.  
Mr Di Bella, who, when not wearing his QCAR boots, is a Senior Agricultural Technical Officer and founder of Tropical Agricultural Services (TAS) with decades of research experience behind him, said AgEtal is a privately owned and totally independent agricultural seed, pest and disease testing company.
“It provides a wide range of specialist agricultural support and technical services across Australia,” he said.
“While there we toured AgEtal’s laboratory facilities and reviewed its latest research project that uses LAMP diagnostic methods to screen plants for RSD.”
Mr Di Bella said AgEtal had contracted TAS to undertake the field research component of the project and he would present results from the study at the ASSCT Conference in May.
“The new LAMP method allows farmers and agronomists to easily test sugarcane for infection at a significantly lower cost compared to qPCR methods and results are available within an hour of taking samples,” he said.
“We anticipate the LAMP test, when it is rolled out in coming months, will become a vital tool to managing RSD on farms.”
Next, the QCAR and AgForce crew travelled to the Lockyer Valley to meet with a world-leading expert in RSD and disease diagnostics, Associate Professor Anthony Young, at the University of Queensland in Gatton.
“Dr Young developed the LSB qPCR diagnostic method currently used by industry to detect RSD,” Mr Di Bella said.
“He has a keen interest in the evolutionary relationships that underpin symbioses, particularly those involved in plant diseases, and collaborates with international experts on research looking into how bacteria, fungi, oomycetes and viruses affect a range of plants.”
Finally, the team travelled to Brisbane to visit Sugar Research Australia’s (SRA) new labs in Acacia Ridge.
“They’re home to SRA’s tissue culture facilities, biosecurity labs (that include samples of RSD), molecular genetics research and more,” Mr Di Bella said, adding the facility would be adapted in the years to come to enable researchers to drive the sugarcane industry forward.
“Detection is only one method in the management toolkit to combat RSD.
“It is vital to plant disease-free material, practice good crop hygiene, and monitor crops using RSD detection technologies to control the disease.  
“This is why the agricultural industry must investigate novel approaches to better manage the disease, a direction QCAR is pleased to support in our commitment to create sustainable and profitable industry outcomes for our members.”

QCAR Herbert District Member and AgForce Cane Board Member Michael Penna, QCAR Board Member and Burdekin farmer Dean Sgroi, QCAR Board Chairman and Burdekin farmer Christian Lago, QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan, AgEtal owner and manager Ken Cunliffe, and QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella at AgEtal in Toowoomba. Photos supplied

QCAR Herbert District Member and AgForce Cane Board Member Michael Penna, QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan, Dr Heidi du Clou and QCAR Chairman Christian inside Sugar Research Australia’s new labs at Acacia Ridge in Brisbane

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Filipino native, Sisay McLearn, has been calling Ayr home for just on 15 years now. In that time, she floated between Townsville and Ayr, but has been running a successful kebab business in Ayr for the last five years.  

“Sometimes I go to Townsville, but my business is here in Ayr, which is close to five years old. But mostly I live here in Ayr and have done so for 15 years,” Sisay smiles.

Sisay, who’s also been married for 15 years, has one child and a one-year-old grandchild. She lived in the Philippines for 20 years.

“I lived in the Philippines for 20 years before I came here to Australia in 2005. It's beautiful here in Ayr compared to my country. It’s quieter and prettier in the Burdekin than in my home country.”

“Here it's nice in the Burdekin and the people, they’re really, really lovely. I enjoy their company, especially all my customers here, they are really good.”

Prior to living in Ayr, Sisay lived in Townsville for five years, but she’s also travelled to Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, and Canberra before setting up shop in Ayr and starting her business here.

“I don’t travel much now due to business commitments, but before, I visited Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and also Cairns. Nice places but I like it here in Ayr so much more,” she laughs.

What Sisay most loves about Ayr, is not just its beauty as a small country town, but the people. While she’s never faced any problems living here, she finds the people really help each other, especially given the recent rains and floods in the area.

“The people here in Ayr, and the Burdekin, are really nice. They are very helpful. You see it most in times like now with all the rain. I feel very lucky to be here,” Sisay says.

Sisay’s kebab shop is the only business open at night, which has proved to be a very popular spot for locals, as Sisay explains.

“We operate from 10am to 3am, where it is busy on Friday and Saturday nights. We are the only shop open during these hours on weekends. Our customers all come from the three pubs in the area. We enjoy the company of our customers, some I have even made many friends with,” she giggles.

Sisay McLearn, doing her thing for 20 years. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Apricot is an incredibly sweet and playful girl who loves to explore and have a little fun. At just 11 months old, she's already raised her adorable babies and is now ready to enjoy her own kitten phase in a forever home. Full of curiosity, Apricot will keep you on your toes with her lively antics.
Zoomies around the house are her absolute favorite, and she’s always up for a game of chase. If you’re looking for a mischievous feline who will keep you laughing with her playful personality, Apricot is definitely the one for you!
Does she sound too good to be true? Come see for yourself! To meet the gorgeous Apricot fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in adoption fee of $195, Apricot is DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, with up-to-date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

DOB: 01/02/2024
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Slow Introduction
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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Kevin Tuffin, a qualified truck mechanic and Sweet FM presenter for two years, discusses his journey in radio, starting with a Thursday night show introduced by friend Brian Giddy.

“I've been a presenter with the radio station for about two years now. You could say, I'm the ‘junior’ member of the team, or what do you call it, the apprentice,” Kevin jokes. “I was introduced to the station by my friend, Brian. He asked me if I wanted to do a show with him on a Thursday night. And I said, ‘Yeah sure, why not,’ I thought, we’ll give it a go. The rest is history,” Kevin grins.

Kevin's passion for music dates back to the 80s when a local youth disco called ‘Sound Shelter’ was run by a former pastor in the Burdekin.

“The Sound Shelter was formed by a local parish priest. I was in the YCW (Young Christian Workers) at the time, and so that's where it all started. It was on Young Street there in Ayr, and I was helping run that for a few years in the early 80s. We were a group of youngsters at that time, so I would have been 18 or 19, but then I was delegated to be one of the DJs. That was a lot of fun.”

“But I always loved playing music. I’ve always had an affection for playing music and watching others have a great time. And I love all types of music, including pop, rock, country & western, heavy metal, all that sort of stuff,” Kevin says.

He alternates hosting duties with Brian, playing a mix of 60s, 70s, and 80s music mostly.

“Sometimes he's (Brian) running it, sometimes me. We do a turnabout. One week, I'll be in the hot seat running the show and he'll be the offsider, where he’s the one looking if people request a song, looking it up etc. Then the following week, he'll be in the host’s chair, and I'll be the offsider. We try and alternate it to mix it up a bit,” Kevin enthuses.

Kevin also runs Tuff’s Mechanical, a business he started in 1985, which is now managed by his son.

“I've had a business for a while that I kicked off officially in 1985, what’s that’s, 40 years ago? I started it from nothing and we're still growing today. My son's virtually taken over the running of it now because I'm getting older,” he laughs.

Does Kevin see any similarities between running a business and running a music show?

“You wouldn’t think there is, but there is. You’ve got to be organised, know what you’ve got, and to be prepared. It’s the same with business. You’ve got to prepare for the day, and in that respect, there's similarities. You want to be efficient, aim high, and as in my business, provide good service.”

Kevin enjoys his role, valuing the community impact with the joy of playing music. He hopes they can attract younger audiences to radio, and into the presenter’s hot seat.

"If you want to get a young audience, you got to play modern music. They’re the future! If you want to keep it (radio) alive, you've got to get young blood in,” Kevin declares.

Listen in to Kevin on Thursday evenings from 7-10pm. If you’d like to join the station as a presenter, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.

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The “apprentice” Kevin Tuffin (68), still learning, and loving music. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Leeroy: “Listen to the radio so you can stay connected to the news, read the (online) newspaper or watch the television and just keep up to date with what's happening around, because I reckon that's the only way we can find out what's happening around us. There are people going to the communities, reporters and news agencies, and they are the people's eyes and ears, so I recommend everyone should keep their ears and their eyes to the TV and the radio. And first thing would be to take my torch for when it gets dark so I'll be able to see where I can go because I have kids. I'll take my kids and take them to a safe spot, maybe inland up to the mountains.”

Wolfgang: “Get information from the local council or the authorities and go and stock up on some bread and milk and essentials. Just keep an eye on what the weather is doing, and if you're a local, you're usually prepared for what's going to happen. Other than that, it's mostly common sense. Don't panic. Just be aware that if things start getting bad, you can always ask for help. As for the one thing, you have to take your mobile phone and charger, and maybe a grab bag if you keep your personal possessions like money and essential paperwork. If you're a local you usually know the high points, take your car to a high point and leave it there.”

Samantha: “What would I do? Well, I've just been watching movies. That's one thing I've been doing with all this wet weather. But what I also recommend and suggest to somebody if they're kind of new to the area or depending whether they're in low-lying areas and can see the floods are coming, then go to a friend or family if they've got any here, if not then evacuation centres. Actually, I don't know if there are any evacuation centres. I think there's one. The one item I’d take if I had to evacuate quickly, are photos.”

Melanie: “Probably stay out of the rain and stay safe, I reckon. Because honestly we don't get a lot of rain around here, so when it does rain, it's actually pretty nice. But yeah, stay out of the rain and stay safe. And the first thing? That’s a good question. Honestly, I'd probably help take my siblings because I'm one of 12, so yeah, there are a lot of us. Because I don't live at the same house if I was to up and leave, I've practically got nothing at my house, so I’d go straight to my parents, grab my siblings, and leave.”

Clifford: “I’d suggest probably finding someplace high up or going to the highest place possible you can find, where it’s safe. But also listen to the radio and if there's no power, then the best place to go is the evacuation centre. As for one thing to take in a hurry, I recommend taking your important personal belongings. For us foreigners, our passports and documents are important, so definitely those. Then also some first aid kits, and easy, consumable foods like in cans or something like that.”

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Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Leeroy Chung recommends listening to the radio and taking a torch.
Wolfgang Iwaszczyn likes information from authorities and having a phone and charger.
Samantha Wallace thinks going to friends or family, and grabbing your photos.
Melanie Aruba reckons stay out of the rain while helping with family.
Clifford Valenzuela suggests going someplace high and to take your passport.

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Recently crowned Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award winner at the Burdekin Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards, Jennifer Fotinos, not only excels in one sport – but three! She’s also represented both state and country in two of them. It’s a phenomenal effort for someone so young.

At just 20 years of age, Jennifer has achieved so much already and if her recent successes and attitude are anything to go by, she’ll achieve plenty more before she’s done.

While Jennifer first started playing soccer at age six, it’s her more recent sporting endeavours – futsal and boxing – where she has gone onto even greater heights. Representing Queensland and Australia in futsal (indoor soccer on a smaller pitch with less players), she was part of the team that won the Scottish Cup last year. A sport she only began playing four years ago.

In boxing, Jennifer again represented Queensland, winning state titles, and was set to box in the Australian national titles before that event clashed with her International futsal commitments.

So how did you a young woman go from soccer to futsal to boxing, then represent her state and country in them?

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Jennifer Fotinos, one accomplished, determined young woman with some of her boxing medals. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Meet Jennifer Fotinos: A Multi-Talented Sports Star

“I started playing soccer when I was six years old and have been doing it the longest at 14 years. Futsal was later on in life. I've only been doing that for four years, but because I was already playing soccer there were a lot of transferable skills from that to futsal,” Jennifer explains.

“Boxing is the newest sport I've done, which I’ve been doing for two years now. I only found out about boxing because my brother was doing it briefly here at Rock Solid boxing gym in Home Hill, where he dragged me along. Originally, I just went purely for fitness and to help me with my soccer and futsal, but then I just really enjoyed it and started growing a love for it. I got an opportunity to fight, and I haven't looked back since.”

If that wasn’t enough to make your head spin, Jennifer Fotinos also started doing Karate (Hwa Rang Do) at the age of six, continuing for eight years where she eventually earned a black belt. But it’s not all about sport either. Somehow, she balances her sporting commitments while studying a Bachelor of Education at Townsville University, where she finds studying to be harder and more intense.
“I'm studying to be a teacher and majoring in HP (Health and Physical Education) and English. I'm going into my third year now at University, and it’s harder than sports sometimes,” Jennifer chuckles.

Whether it’s sports or her educational career, no matter what Jennifer pursues you just know she’ll do very well. It’s in her nature, she’s driven, dedicated, passionate. Most of all, she’s got an incredibly mature head on her young shoulders, while keen to show gratitude.

“I would like to accredit the Burdekin Football Club for being an introduction for me to sport and thank all my coaches and volunteers throughout the years in helping build my foundational skills. I have experienced some real highlights with the club including Grand Final wins, and also winning women’s Player of the Year (2021).”

“And more recently Rock Solid Boxing Club with Scotty McLean who recently won Citizen of the Year Award. He uses boxing as a tool to instil important values such as discipline, respect and perseverance. This place, regardless of background or experience, everyone is welcomed and encouraged to develop not only in the sport, but also as individuals. He’s truly inspiring.”

Jennifer is now gearing to compete in the Australian boxing titles and continue her soccer and futsal careers.

“I don't try and think too far ahead. I always see myself improving and being better. But my dream when I was young was definitely to represent my country and to make a living playing sport, that is definitely my top aspiration,” she says with a smile.

“This year, I'm aiming to enter the Australian boxing titles at the end of this year, which will be held in Townsville. I want to compete and do the best I can and hopefully strive for an Australian title. As for soccer and futsal, I just want to keep playing in Premier League Soccer and at futsal, where I just competed at the Queensland nationals title. I want to keep training, stay fit, and compete at all the tournaments I can,” she adds.

In wrapping up, Jennifer has some final advice for any other young athletes in the Burdekin with their own dreams.

“If you find something you genuinely love and have purpose in, go and strive for it. You know, nothing good in life comes easy. So, if you genuinely enjoy what you're doing, don't think that anyone or anything will limit you, and just view obstacles and all the setbacks in your way as an opportunity to learn and grow.”

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Futsal champ, Jennifer (20), with the Scottish Cup in futsal. Photo: Supplied.
Soccer star Jennifer Fotinos, in action. Photo credit: Sharon Woodward.
Jennifer with two of her boxing medals. Photo: Supplied.
Jennifer being presented with the Sportsperson of the Year Award by Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Dr. Bob McGregor. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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What a week, huh? So much unrelenting rain I was beginning to understand what Noah must have felt like when he built his Ark. Thankfully, this region didn’t suffer like our cousins up north did, where there’s no signs of it slowing either with yet more rain forecast.

It’s a good reminder of what matters and what doesn’t when you see so much devastation.

Our sister paper, Hinchinbrook Life, up in Ingham however, lost power in the deluge and floods and will now run a special ‘Flood Edition’ late this week or early next weather permitting. It’s still touch and go whether we’ll be able to get this week’s issue of Burdekin Life out on time on account of our printer being based in Townsville, with some roads remaining cut off. (If you’re reading a printed copy of this on Thursday, you know we got through).

I’ve lived in several regions that suffer their own natural disasters, including three years in Mexico, which like Far North Queensland, has wet and dry seasons. At least in Mexico the rain stops after a few hours. The continual rain for days here beggars belief.

In between the big wet, I met MP for Dawson, Andrew Willcox for a sit-down chat. I’d always heard nothing but good things about him. A man of the people, and of his word. Anyone who speaks out on the Misinformation and Disinformation bill gets my vote. Crazy to think freedom of speech may not be a right.

Andrew’s a lot like many of you, a farmer by trade, he’s now taken to politics and cares about the things that matter in this region – agriculture, communities, roads, people. He was an easy bloke to talk with.

Lastly, we said goodbye to Miss Chelsea Ravizza, the local cadet journalist here who now ventures off on her big adventure overseas. A true rockstar within these pages, while she will be missed, I cannot fault her desire – I was the same age when I first headed off overseas. Good luck Chelsea, go blaze your own trail!

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A slow-moving low pressure system brought several days of widespread and heavy rainfall to the Far North Queensland during the week, with many sites recording daily rainfall totals between 200 and 700 mm, and in some locations, 7 day rainfall totals greater than 1000 mm.

Many sites across northern Queensland recorded their highest daily, or multi-day rainfall on record. Weekly rainfall totals greater than 300 mm were recorded across the Lower Burdekin districts.

Several days of significant rainfall, led to major flash and riverine flooding along the Queensland's tropical east coast, particularly between Tully and Ayr.

With so much heavy rain this past week, the inevitable floods that follow, happened. Thankfully, Ayr, Home Hill, Brandon, and the outlying regions of the Burdekin came away relatively unscathed. But with more rain forecast, residents are not out of the woods yet.

We’ve all seen the devastation up north in Townsville, and especially Ingham. With the Burdekin Shire Council, Federal MP Andrew Willcox, State MP Dale Last, and the police and emergency services all issuing warnings, now is not the time to become complacent.

If anything, it’s time to be more vigilant and ensure you have a safety and evacuation plan. Any of the aforementioned above have valuable information on how to do so, so look online. More importantly, be sure to check in on your neighbours, especially the elderly, who may be living on their own. A community is only as strong as its more vulnerable members. Be ready to help them.

With several roads cutoff, both north and south, supply lines have been diminished. Now is not the time to panic buy and rush an already understocked supermarket. Supply routes will open back up soon, so it won’t take long for the shelves to be fully stocked once more.

Police, emergency services, and council, are all urging caution. If you see a road covered in water, don’t drive through it. Be mindful of other road users, use your headlights at all times so you can be seen, and more importantly – use common sense during this period.

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Plantation Park was swamped with the recent deluge. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Bruce Highway covered in water in some sections. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The road to Inkerman sugar mill, virtually impassable. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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We’ve all experienced that dreaded sinking feeling when we suddenly realise we’ve forgotten something important, whether it’s a phone, keys, or wallet. For local resident Robyn Rose, it happened after a quick shopping trip when she realised she had left her handbag behind.
Losing a handbag can be an incredibly stressful and upsetting experience. For Robyn, it was no different. A handbag is not just a place to store belongings; it often holds important items like ID, credit cards, and cash. However, what could have been a far worse ordeal was made much easier by an act of kindness from a local stranger.
After Robyn left her handbag on a bench outside Woolworths, someone discovered it, and rather than taking it or ignoring it, chose to hand it in to the store. This thoughtful action meant that Robyn could recover her belongings safely, where the anxiety of the situation was alleviated.
In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, Robyn took to Facebook to publicly thank the person who had returned her handbag. She wrote:
“To the kind person who handed my handbag in to Woolworths after I left it on the seat outside, a million thank yous, I am so incredibly grateful and may you have a wonderful day from a very thankful pensioner.”
It’s easy to overlook the profound impact of simple, kind actions, but for Robyn, this small gesture of honesty and consideration made all the difference. In a time when so many are facing challenges, particularly with the ongoing flooding situation in the region, acts like this serve as a reminder of the power of community.

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Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that it is reinforcing its commitment to supporting local developers, property owners, and community members, with dedicated face-to-face consultation opportunities.

Starting Friday 31 January 2025, the last Friday of each month will be set aside for focused engagement with both the Planning and Development and Technical Services teams.

On these designated Fridays, their Planning and Development and Technical Services Managers will make themselves available for in-depth discussions, advice, and guidance related to property development and other technical inquiries. This initiative is designed to streamline the process for anyone needing assistance or information regarding property matters.

Council’s regular opening hours remain unchanged, and staff are available throughout the week to assist the community with a wide range of services. However, by freeing up their schedules on these Fridays, the Planning and Development and Technical Services Managers ensure their undivided attention for those who may require more tailored support.

This initiative underscores Council’s dedication to being open for business and supporting growth and development in the Burdekin Shire.

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800. Council’s Customer Service opening hours are Monday to Friday: 8:00am–5:00pm

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Technical Services and Planning and Development Managers, are open for your business. Photo: Supplied.

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What: Planning and Development Advice days
When: Last Friday of each month.
Who: Developers, property owners, community members with relevant inquiries.
Appointments: Council will take appointments, but walk-ins are welcome.

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As severe wet weather continues to hamper the Burdekin region, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has warned locals not to be complacent as multiple reports of motorists driving through flooded roads continues to occur.

Mr Last said despite multiple warnings from authorities to stay off roads, reports of people driving through flooded roads has left local emergency services and community members risking their lives to help.

“Make no mistake this is a significant weather event and, while the Burdekin has not seen the level of flooding that our friends further north have, there is still a significant number of roads impacted by floodwater throughout the region,” Mr Last said.

“As a former police officer it’s incredibly frustrating when locals become complacent during events like these and decide a sightseeing venture is more important that their safety or the safety of others in our community.”

“Lets not forget that behind every orange raincoat, blue uniform, or at the wheel of our fire appliances, is someone’s loved one who has had to bravely put their lives on the line for your safety.”

“While the rain continues to fall, the best way you can assist local services and fellow community members, is by staying update with the latest forecasts and taking advice and warnings from trusted sources like our local disaster management groups.”

Mr Last said while the district was still receiving significant levels of rainfall earlier this week, the clean up effort across the North Queensland region would be a mammoth task.

“Each time the Burdekin is faced with severe weather we not only see our emergency service volunteers go above and beyond for others, we also see neighbours and strangers rolling up their sleeves to help others with clean up efforts and I have no doubt those efforts will continue to ramp up in the coming days.”

“To those who have taken the time away from their own families to help others in the community, I’d like to offer my personal thanks. We know that our SES play an integral part of our disaster response each and every severe weather season and they deserve our gratitude and support.”

“Already the Crisafulli Government has announced grants are available to residents in impacted areas. For those interested, please visit the Queensland disaster recovery support website or call: 1800-173-349 to check your eligibility and apply.”

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Flooded roads are not only hazardous but dangerous for drivers and emergency service rescue workers alike. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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“I was due to fly to Canberra for the first sitting of Parliament this week but I have made the decision to remain here for now, to support the people and provide any Federal assistance I can through this devastating event,” The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

“The Townsville region is facing one of the most significant flood emergencies since the catastrophic events of 2019.

“Sadly a woman has tragically died after an SES rescue boat capsized during a rescue in Far North Queensland this morning.”

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who are now grieving the loss of a loved one.”

Authorities are bracing for the worst after the Bureau of Meteorology warned conditions still pose a life-threatening risk as homes and businesses continue to be inundated.

The Federal and State Governments have activated Disaster Relief Grants as this unfolding flood emergency continues in the electorate of Dawson.

Personal Hardship Financial grants, Emergency Hardship Assistance grants, Essential Household Contents grants and Structural Assistant grants are available for people living in the following areas: Balgal Beach, Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, Rosslea, Stuart, South Townsville and Burdekin.

“I would like to thank our emergency services and volunteers who are out in dangerous conditions making sure the community is safe as evacuations continue.”

“Please take care and regularly check your local disaster dashboard for a full comprehensive list of roads that are closed due to flooding.”

“The Bruce Highway remains closed in several places, and I ask people avoid unnecessary travel.”

“Townsville Airport has also been closed and passengers are being urged to contact the airline they are booked through.”

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The devastating floods in Far North Queensland. Photo: Supplied.
A flood map showing the effects of the flooded areas. Photo. Supplied.

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Are you passionate about improving healthcare in the Burdekin? The Townsville Hospital and Health Service is calling on community members to share their voices and make a difference by joining the Burdekin Consumer Advisory Network (CAN).

The Burdekin CAN offers a platform for locals to contribute ideas for improvement, highlight what’s working well, and advocate for the specific needs of the community. It’s an opportunity to play an active role in shaping hospital and health services that better serve the region.

If you’re eager to have your say and be a voice for your community, don’t miss this chance to get involved. Applications are open now and close on Friday, the 14th of February.

For more information or to apply, visit the Townsville Hospital and Health Service website today. If you have any questions about completing your application, please contact Ana Mooney on 4783-0815 or email THHS_BurdekinCAN@health.qld.gov.au.

Your input can help create meaningful change for healthcare in the Burdekin.

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Barbara and Fiona are members of CAN

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This is my first column for the year so welcome everyone to 2025. The weather has already reminded us we live in the North Queensland tropics as we experienced weeks of hot and humid over Christmas and the New Year.
The heatwave finally broke and it did so in a very wet way as I am listening to heavy rain and like many residents, am unable to leave my house as I write this.
We are fast approaching budget preparation at council, and although it is a big task, it is something I enjoy participating in. I feel it is the best opportunity to really make a difference in the community as we plan out the next financial year. I personally will be heading into the budget preparations with the same mindset as I did last year, which is maintain what we have and keep costs as low as possible. I don’t ever say that I am fighting for no rate rise as the council faces cost increases the same as we all do, and it is unrealistic. I will however be advocating to keep focusing on maintaining our critical assets such as water, sewerage and roads.
I think we already have so much to offer as a small rural community and we need to make sure we are looking after what we already have.
I am always open to suggestions on new innovations and ideas which help our communities grow, but with the current economic climate I really think keeping our costs to a minimum is our number one priority.
I hope everyone is starting to dry off and 2025 is a great year for all!

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Our thoughts are with the families and communities currently facing the floodwaters entering their homes. It’s a distressing time, with loss and uncertainty weighing heavily on many.
Our volunteers are the backbone of these efforts, often working long hours with little recognition and no pay. The number of volunteers continues to decline, and the reality is, they cannot do it alone.
This situation puts into perspective just how vital our volunteers are. From emergency response to recovery efforts, they play a crucial role in keeping our communities safe and supported, especially during the severe weather events. If you’ve ever considered getting involved, now is the time. Even the smallest contribution can make a significant impact.
I urge everyone to stay informed by following the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard for real-time updates and critical information, disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Accurate, up-to-date information is crucial during severe weather events. Please make sure you are accessing official sources.
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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At 3.00pm on Sunday 12 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Seaforth Road, Jarvisfield.  The driver, a 29yr old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) disqualified driving, driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 January.
At 4.00pm on Tuesday 14 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle Plantation Park, Ayr.  The driver, a 49yr old Townsville woman was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 March.
At 3.00pm on Sunday 19 January, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Melbourne Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 35yr 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 24 March.
At 5.45pm on Sunday 19 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle Jones Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 36yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court at a later date.
At 4.55am on Wednesday 22 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Gibson Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 41 yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for unlicenced driving (repeat offender), driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
At 8.10pm on Wednesday 22 January, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Edwards Street, Ayr.  As a result an 27yr old Townsville man was issued a NTA for drink driving, .157 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
Road Safety – School zones
With school recommenced for this term, just a timely reminder for parents who drop their children off at local schools.  
Drop off zones are exactly that, pull up and drop off your children then leave. If you intend on walking your child into school, park elsewhere. We don’t want to cause any traffic congestion during an already busy time of the day.
Don’t stop in the lane of travel waiting for vehicles that are parked picking up children, as this back up and congests traffic unnecessarily.
Also be aware of the school zone speed limits and drive cautiously.
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Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash
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Indicators – are they an optional extra??
Many drivers, by their lack of use of indicators, give that impression. However Regulation 45 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation explains what is changing direction. The list outlines the many instances where the use of indicators is required.
Remember indicators were often referred to as a ‘signal of intention’ and designed to alert other road users as to what you were doing. Correct use of your indicator can save misunderstandings.

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight. Locking your house and car & securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.  
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort. Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences. This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers. If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
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Inka is a sweet-natured and easy-going young pup who loves nothing more than lounging in the sun and watching the world go by. She enjoys playtime with her foster siblings and gets along wonderfully with a variety of animals in her foster home. With her friendly and gentle nature, she’s a perfect match for families with kids, and she especially loves splashing in the water and trying out new games.

Still a young pup, Inka is working on her training, but with her excellent listening skills, she’s proving to be an A+ student! If you’re looking for a playful and loving companion to brighten your days, Inka is ready to be by your side.

Adoption Details:
   • Fee: $450 (includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick/worm treatment & ProHeart)
   • DOB: 03/07/2024
   • Sex: Female
   • Breed: Bullarab X
   • Kid Friendly: Yes
   • Cat Friendly: Yes
   • Dog Friendly: Yes
   • Fence Requirement: 6ft
   • BIN: BIN0000268254643

Could Inka be the perfect addition to your family? Don’t miss your chance to meet this wonderful girl!

To meet Inka and start your forever adventure together, fill out an inquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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As Australia fights to protect its most vulnerable wildlife, the use of 1080 baiting remains a controversial yet critical tool in managing major threats to native species. While some conservationists advocate for its role in reducing predation pressure, concerns persist over its impact on non-target species and the need for alternative control measures.

Australia has some of the most unique wildlife and biodiversity in the world, but two invasive predators, feral cats and foxes, have already snuffed out 32 native animal species and are helping to drive over 200 more to extinction.

Together with the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, the National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordinator, Gillian Basnett, is sounding the alarm as misinformation surrounding sodium fluoroacetate (commonly known as 1080) undermines what she calls its critical place as a lifeline for native species.

“Effective 1080 baiting is the ‘thin green line’ that protects many of our threatened and other native species from extinction,” said Ms Basnett.

“The facts around 1080 are clear: native animals have a higher tolerance to this toxin than introduced predators. Native species that live in the south-west of WA, where more fluoroacetate-bearing plants naturally occur, have an even higher natural tolerance to 1080.”

As a result, only tiny amounts of the toxin are needed for effective feral cat and fox baits. If native animals such as eagles, goannas, brush-tailed possums or quolls ingest a bait, they will not receive a lethal dose.

“It’s important to remember that baits are not 100 per cent toxin and only authorised and properly trained operators are permitted to handle 1080 and prepare baits. Each bait is carefully developed to contain the minimum amount of 1080 required for the target species, in this case a feral cat or fox,” continued Ms Basnett.

She said that a fox bait contains 3mg of 1080 and a feral cat bait 4.5mg.

“For context, in eastern Australia, a wedge-tailed eagle would need to ingest at least 10 fox baits to be lethal, spotted-tailed quoll more than three fox baits, sand goannas more than 70, southern brown bandicoots between two fox baits and five (if they were in the south-west of WA).”

She added that research projects and targeted predator 1080 baiting control programs have demonstrated its advantages, with native wildlife not only surviving but thriving as the bait reduces predation pressure.

“It is also safe for the environment as bacteria and fungi found in water and soil break it down rapidly into harmless compounds.”

For some critically endangered species, even one or two feral cats or foxes can wipe them out.

“The low risk of an individual native animal consuming a lethal dose of 1080 is far outweighed by effectively controlling these predators.”

Nationally threatened mammals that benefit from 1080 baiting for foxes and feral cats include the endangered numbats, southern brown bandicoots, woylies, western and eastern barred-bandicoots and black-flanked rock-wallabies, and the vulnerable long-nosed potoroos, boodies, greater bilbies, greater stick-nest rats, western quolls, yellow-footed rock-wallabies and golden bandicoots.

“We have a choice to make, we either protect our native wildlife or we leave invasive predators like feral cats and foxes unchecked, to eat more precious wildlife into extinction,” said Ms Basnett.

The Centre's CEO, Shauna Chadlowe, endorses the use of 1080, stating it is currently the best control tool available. Along with advocating for best practice invasive species management using current methods, the Centre prioritises humaneness and is committed to collaborating with its partners to develop new and improved control tools.

“Techniques such as gene drive, for example, have great promise but are still in the developmental stage. There are no practical, effective alternatives to 1080 for predator control over large landscapes and rugged terrain,” said Ms Chadlowe.

“Without an ability to effectively manage these invasive predators, more unique Australian wildlife will be lost.”

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Precious native species like goannas and dunnarts are on the menu for feral cats and foxes. Image credit: Gillian Basnett

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The State Government has unveiled a 25-year blueprint to future-proof Queensland’s primary industries, reinforcing agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy.

With a strong vision for growth, the plan aims to increase Queensland’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.

By working in close partnership with farmers, industry leaders, and regional communities, the government aims to set a strategic direction complemented by five-year operational plans tailored to regional and sector-specific needs.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the initiative aims to ensure Queensland’s producers remain competitive, productive, and resilient in a rapidly evolving industry.

“The landscape of Queensland’s primary industries is changing rapidly, and we must act to ensure our industries and communities remain competitive, productive, and resilient into the future,” Minister Perrett said.

“By working together, we can co-design solutions that reflect local priorities and help Queensland meet its ambitious economic goals to ultimately grow the sector.

“This is a 25-year blueprint for a stronger future, and it’s all about unleashing new and exciting opportunities for Queensland producers in the years to come.”

The blueprint will address critical areas such as global megatrends, advancements in agricultural technology, diversification, advanced manufacturing, and expanding international trade opportunities. It will also integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations to ensure long-term sustainability.

A four-month consultation process will commence with a full-day forum on 26th February in Brisbane, bringing together key stakeholders to shape the blueprint's direction. The final strategy is set to be released in the next financial year.

For updates on the 25-year blueprint, visit the Department of Primary Industries website or call 13 25 23.

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Applications are now open for the 2025 Backing the Future program, which offers $50,000 grants to individuals in remote, rural, and regional Queensland. The funding is aimed at supporting people aged 18 and over who are working on innovative projects designed to improve the lives of young people aged 12-30 in these communities.

What sets the Backing the Future program apart is that it funds individuals, not just organisations. This removes one of the common barriers to accessing funding and gives people the freedom to develop new ideas that have the potential to make a lasting impact.

VFFF CEO Jenny Wheatley said the program offers a unique opportunity to back transformative ideas at an early stage.

“We have already supported 17 incredible community changemakers in QLD through previous rounds of this program, and we look forward to backing 10 new ideas that will create lasting impacts for young people in their communities,” she said.

The program focuses on projects that have been in development for fewer than three years, recognising that the hardest part of starting a new initiative is often securing funding for early-stage work, particularly in rural and remote areas. Backing the Future provides the resources needed to test and refine these ideas.

Past grantees have used their funding to launch new events, social enterprises, and even charities that continue to benefit young people in Queensland. One recipient, Jameson Harvey, used his grant to deliver robotics workshops to remote schools, giving students access to STEM education that would otherwise be out of reach.

FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton highlighted the program’s potential to provide new opportunities for youth in rural areas.

“We know that young people are the future of vibrant, resilient and sustainable rural communities. By providing opportunities that strengthen their connection and open doors to new possibilities, we can empower them to create transformative outcomes for themselves and their communities.”

Applications for the 2025 Backing the Future program close on the 17th of March. Those interested in applying can reach out to FRRR’s Youth Futures team for guidance or attend a webinar on the 5th of February to learn more. For further information or to apply, visit www.frrr.org.au/backing-the-future.

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Backing the Future 2022 NSW recipient Jae Brieffies (centre) with her Bright Generation team.

When the shelves at the supermarket run bare after a big storm or supply chain hiccup, there’s one place that never lets you down—your own backyard. Growing your own vegetables isn’t just about saving a few dollars or enjoying fresher produce; it’s about resilience, self-sufficiency, and knowing that when the world throws a curveball, you’ve still got food on the table.

If you’ve ever felt the urge to swap grocery store dependency for a greener, more reliable alternative, it might be time to dig in—literally. Home gardening, even in the smallest of spaces, provides not only a food source but also a sense of security and connection to nature. There’s something deeply satisfying about plucking a sun-ripened tomato from the vine or pulling crisp carrots straight from the soil, knowing they’ve come from your own hard work.

If you can’t find a local seed library, then visit a nursery or market, or reach out on a local community Facebook chat board to see if someone is happy to exchange some seeds or cuttings to get you underway.

Beyond the practical benefits, gardening is an act of sustainability. It reduces reliance on imported goods, ensures access to natural, untreated produce, and strengthens local food networks. Plus, there’s no better way to soak up sunshine and fresh air than tending to your own edible oasis.

So, whether it’s a balcony herb garden or a full-blown veggie patch, now is the perfect time to plant the seeds of resilience—because when life throws challenges your way, at least your backyard won’t let you down.

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Queensland Environment (Facebook)

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A sugar cane advocacy group is working with the Queensland Government's disaster preparedness team, as severe weather threatens cane-farming communities across the state's north.  
 
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan attended a government briefing last week to ensure the industry’s concerns were heard as authorities ramped up their efforts to prepare for and monitor the unfolding weather event. 
 
Heavy rainfall inundated large parts of the region, with cane-growing communities such as Gordonvale, Hinchinbrook and Burdekin experiencing significant flooding.  
 
At the time of the meeting, the situation was still developing, with several low-pressure systems hitting the coast and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warning of the torrential downpours.  
 
“With cane-growing regions directly in the firing line, it is crucial that growers know that their industry organisation is working directly with government to prepare for all eventualities,” Mr Galligan said.  
 
At the time of the meeting, before the worst of the weather had hit, Mr Galligan said that some sugarcane regions had already recorded between 600mm and 700mm of rainfall since the start of the week.
 
“CANEGROWERS is working closely with the government to ensure our members will have access to the resources they need.” 
 
At the time, the BOM’s seven-day forecast indicated that up to three tropical lows could intensify, posing further threats to the region especially on top of high tides in the region.  
 
CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate for assistance measures to support any affected growers. Growers are reminded that if they are affected by this event, it is wise to register the impact with the Qld Department of Primary Industries impact survey at this link:https://bit.ly/3SBca3U.

Photo credit: CANEGROWERS

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By Owen Menkens
CANEGROWERS Chairman

There’s something truly special and iconic about sugarcane. 

Grown along 2000km of Australian coastline, from Grafton in northern New South Wales to the fringes of the Daintree in the tropical far north, it’s been a cornerstone of Queensland’s identity for over 150 years.

In fact, so foundational is this industry that it even features on our state’s Coat of Arms.

Yet, as iconic as it is, sugarcane isn’t just part of our history – it’s a dynamic, future-focused industry that continues to evolve, innovate, and contribute to a more prosperous, sustainable Australia.

That’s why I’m excited about the release of CANEGROWERS’ new educational resources, One Plant, Many Products.

Developed with input from teachers and industry experts, these curriculum-aligned materials will bring the sugarcane story to life in classrooms across Queensland.

They’re packed with lesson plans, assessments, and engaging insights to help students and teachers explore the fascinating journey of sugarcane, from its humble beginnings to its current role as a leader in sustainability and innovation.

Sugarcane is so much more than just sugar. It can be a feedstock for renewable energy, a source of sustainable bioplastics, and even a potential ingredient in aviation biofuels.
The industry already provides green electricity to thousands of Queensland homes, but that’s only the beginning of what we can achieve if we take full advantage of this wonderful resource.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the industry also offers a world of career opportunities. Whether it’s agronomy, chemistry, logistics, or advocacy, sugarcane’s future is rich with possibilities for the next generation of Queenslanders.

And with the sector continuing to innovate, even more roles will emerge over time.
The One Plant, Many Products resources are designed to inspire students to see these opportunities and imagine their place in this remarkable industry.

Home Hill State High School teacher Louise Nicholas put it best, saying “these materials empower educators to showcase the science, sustainability, and career potential of agriculture”.

At CANEGROWERS, we believe that reconnecting young Queenslanders with this foundational industry is vital.

By sparking curiosity and highlighting the potential for innovation, we can ensure the sugarcane industry thrives for another 150 years.

So, here’s my call to action – let’s bring cane back to our classrooms and inspire the next generation to take part in shaping a sustainable future for Queensland and beyond.

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing

The wash-up of the 2024 season is all but done, with only a portion of growers still to price out the balance of their 2024 crop.

The recent recovery in prices following the dip due to India announcing 1 million tonnes of export quota is welcome. We still see tight trade flow for raw and whites into this quarter which may stretch into the second quarter depending on how quickly Brazil comes back online and the current Indian and Thai crop cut out.

Growers have until 18 April 2025 to finalise their 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing. We recently released our December quarterly Pool Performance and Comparative Outcomes for the 2024 season. Even with our forecasted pool returns pulling back, due to the fall in the sugar price, the performance of the allocation account is holding firm.

We continue to secure strong physical premiums for the balance of the sugar exported, which will flow back to growers though the net premium in the allocation account. Additionally, we have been able to export more sugar to the US market this season, which increases the percentage of grower’s GEI exposure priced by this lucrative market.

Contact your local Grower Marketing consultant for a copy of the December quarterly report and keep an eye out for our forward pricing analysis – there are some interesting insights for growers who use all mechanisms for GEI pricing. Focusing on the year ahead, we currently have the AUD sugar swap price pushing into the low 600s.

Looking across at our growers who use the Target pricing mechanism, we have a lower percentage of GEI sugar exposure priced than normal for this time of the year. Our current longer-term outlook for prices is not overly optimistic.

While the Indian crop may disappoint this year, we think that next year’s crop will be significantly larger.

Additionally, we have pencilled in another large Brazilian crop for 25/26 as the incentive to maximise sugar over ethanol production increases. If we do see 2025 season prices being dragged up by a rise in nearby prices, growers should have target levels in mind where they would be willing to increase their percentage of price hedging.

With cash flows tight at this time of the year, our Pre-Season Payment is proving useful. Growers who have nominated Wilmar as their GEI marketer for the upcoming 2025 season can take advantage of an advance payment of $5/t of cane. The payment is recouped as cane is delivered to our mills, with interest charged at 6%.

It’s a very easy process and you can nominate online via Wilmar’s GrowerWeb up until 10 May.

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The Lower Burdekin Scouts started 2025 early in January, when two members attended the Jamboree at Maryborough – a 10-day camp packed with fun and activities. This was followed by a night for our Group in Plantation Park, and a walk around Ayr to visit some of the Heritage sites.
A few days later, several of the Scouts and adults attended the Australia Day Awards ceremony at the Burdekin Theatre on Australia Day.
People aged 5 to 85 can come “Try Scouts” for four nights for free and begin to learn valuable Life Skills, explore the outdoors and develop lifelong memories.
People of all ages, even adults, join Scouting and develop such skills as resilience leadership, respect and confidence. It’s a great place to form friendships and share in a love of the outdoors.
Our Scouting program and badge-work is based around four challenge areas:
   • Community
   • Outdoors
   • Creative
   • Personal Development
The month of February program has an Aquatics theme, with three nights at local swimming pools and then a region swimming day in Townsville at the end of the month.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night at 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill (behind the swimming pool). Come join in the fun and be part of something special.
Ages 5-8 years 4-5pm
Ages 8+ Years 5:30-7:30pm

WHAT: Lower Burdekin Scouts
WHEN: Every Thursday
WHERE: 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill

Chris, Harper and Aaliyah, outside the 2025 Australia Day Awards.

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The 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets is now recruiting for 2025, offering young individuals an exciting opportunity to grow in confidence, leadership, and teamwork. If your child is turning 13 this year, in at least Grade 7, and under 15 years of age, this program could be the perfect fit for them.

Air Force Cadets is a youth-oriented organisation supported by the Royal Australian Air Force. Cadets engage in an array of activities, including aerospace training, field skills, survival techniques, and firearms safety. They also have the chance to fly, learn navigation, and participate in camps and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, all within a military-based framework.

Recruitment interviews commence on Friday, 31 January 2025, when the squadron resumes activities at the Tsimba Ridge Training Depot, 46 Little Drysdale Street, Ayr. Interviews will also be held every Friday night until recruiting closes on 31 March 2025.

To access additional details, visit www.airforcecadets.gov.au or contact the Commanding Officer on 0438 107 059.

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Recruitment has begun for the 109 Squadron Burdekin Air Force Cadets

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The Rotary Club of Home Hill is dedicated to making a positive impact in our Home Hill community and beyond. Through service projects, fundraising efforts, and community events, they work together to support local initiatives, assist those in need, and contribute to global humanitarian efforts.
Rotary is more than just a club—it’s a network of individuals who believe in giving back. Whether it’s supporting local schools and clubs, improving community facilities and ways of life, or raising funds for important causes, our members are committed to creating meaningful change.
Joining Rotary offers an opportunity to connect with like-minded people, develop skills, make friends and take part in rewarding service projects. The Rotary Club welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference. Even if you can’t commit to becoming a member, there are many ways to support their efforts. Attending fundraising events, volunteering for a project, or making a donation can help them continue their vital work.
By supporting the Rotary Club of Home Hill, you are investing in a stronger, more vibrant community. Together, we can tackle local challenges and contribute to a better future for all.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, we invite you to attend one of our meetings or reach out to us. Phone Alf on 0419-477-084 or Garry on 0408-441-055, or like our Facebook page facebook.com/rotaryclubofhomehill.
Your time and support can help change lives, starting right here in Home Hill. 
Get involved today and be a part of something bigger!
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Contributed with thanks by Rotary Club Home Hill

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The Arch Dunn Memorial Park playground, Home Hill, a Rotary Club Home Hill project. Photo: Supplied

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BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
 
The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
   • Food parcels
   • Toiletries
   • Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
   • Prepaid cards
   • Payment of third-party accounts
 
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
 
Burdekin Community Pantry
 
We are requesting donations for our Community Pantry. The items most needed are:
   • Fruit
   • Vegetables
   • Non-perishable food (e.g. canned vegetables or fruit, canned spaghetti or baked beans, long life milk, tea/coffee/sugar, pasta)
   • Sanity items
   • Toiletries
If possible, please deliver your donation to the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr.  Your help is very much appreciated.
 
Burdekin Community Recovery
 
Did you know that the BCA plays a significant role in Burdekin Community Recovery?  The team and I help to provide Human and Social community recovery planning and operations.  We work with council, state government agencies, other service providers and community groups to provide recovery assistance to affected members of the community during and post a disaster event.  This may include emotional, social and physical well-being services.  
 
Both the BCA Support Centre (130 Queen St Ayr) and Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (12a Chippendale St Ayr) are designated Burdekin Community Recovery Hubs.  Community Recovery Hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.
 
During and after the storm season we recommend that you prepare and stay up-to-date by monitoring the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management website, Bureau of Meteorology website, 630AM ABC radio and 97.1 SweetFM radio.
http://www.bom.gov.au/
https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/
 
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975

BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.
 
The Service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:
   • Food parcels
   • Toiletries
   • Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)
   • Prepaid cards
   • Payment of third-party accounts
 
Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment.
 
Burdekin Community Pantry
 
We are requesting donations for our Community Pantry. The items most needed are:
   • Fruit
   • Vegetables
   • Non-perishable food (e.g. canned vegetables or fruit, canned spaghetti or baked beans, long life milk, tea/coffee/sugar, pasta)
   • Sanity items
   • Toiletries
If possible, please deliver your donation to the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr.  Your help is very much appreciated.
 
Burdekin Community Recovery
 
Did you know that the BCA plays a significant role in Burdekin Community Recovery?  The team and I help to provide Human and Social community recovery planning and operations.  We work with council, state government agencies, other service providers and community groups to provide recovery assistance to affected members of the community during and post a disaster event.  This may include emotional, social and physical well-being services.  
 
Both the BCA Support Centre (130 Queen St Ayr) and Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (12a Chippendale St Ayr) are designated Burdekin Community Recovery Hubs.  Community Recovery Hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship can apply for grants and obtain emotional and wellbeing support.
 
During and after the storm season we recommend that you prepare and stay up-to-date by monitoring the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management website, Bureau of Meteorology website, 630AM ABC radio and 97.1 SweetFM radio.
http://www.bom.gov.au/
https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/
 
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bca1975

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How can we talk about anything else but the weather?  However, we would like to approach it from the perspective of resilience.

We send our thoughts to our regional communities who are baring the brunt of this weather event.

For seasoned Nth Qlder’s, a rainy summer is par for the course, a larger than normal downfall is always on the cards and to be prepared for.  We all have a duty to look out for each other and help where we are able.  

We also have a duty to ourselves to build our resilience.  Building resilience is essential for adapting to challenges and bouncing back from setbacks.

Here are some effective strategies to help develop resilience:

1. Develop a Strong Support Network: Cultivate relationships with family, friends, and community members. A strong support system provides emotional support and practical help when needed.

2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritise your physical and mental health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga.

3. Foster a Positive Mindset: Focus on positive thinking and self-talk. Practice gratitude by acknowledging the good things in your life, even during tough times.

4. Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into manageable tasks. Achieving small milestones can boost confidence and resilience.

5. Embrace Change: Accept that change is a part of life. Being flexible and adaptable can help you cope more effectively with unexpected challenges.

6. Learn Problem-Solving Skills: Improve your ability to approach issues logically and creatively. This will enable you to find solutions more effectively when problems arise.

7. Develop Emotional Awareness: Recognise and accept your emotions. Understanding how you feel can help you manage your reactions and respond more effectively to stress.

8. Seek Professional Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to counsellors or therapists. Professional support can be invaluable in building resilience.

9. Engage in Community Activities: Get involved in your community. Volunteering or participating in local events can strengthen your connections and sense of belonging.

10. Reflect on Past Experiences: Learn from previous challenges. Reflecting on how you coped with past difficulties can provide valuable insights and strengthen your resilience for future challenges.

Why are we writing about all of this?  At the Neighbourhood Centre we can help you along your journey to building your resilience – not only for weather events but for life in general!  Come in and chat to our friendly team!

Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Debra Harwood, a 57-year-old mother of three and grandmother to 14, has lived in Ayr and the Burdekin area for over 30 years. Originally born in Mackay, Debra, who works at the Ayr State Primary School tuck shop by day, and Woolies at night stocking shelves, is surrounded by children almost 24/7.

“I was a volunteer at the tuck shop for a couple of years first before I eventually took it over, but since then it’s just been me. Though, I’ve just handed over tuck shop duties to my youngest daughter, which is great as I also work at Woolies on night fill. That’s going on 18 years. Then I also run around after the grandkids, because I'm raising two,” Debra exclaims.

A woman that works days and nights, has three older kids, 14 grandkids, two of which she looks after, you’d think she must wear a superhero cape under her outfit, but no that’s not the case.

“Ha, no, no cape, I don't know, I just keep going doing what I do. It’s okay but it does tire me out sometimes. But yeah, I keep on keeping on,” Debra smiles.

Even the very best superheroes have off days, wearing their battle scars as badges of honour. In Debra’s case, she’s currently carrying a Plantar fasciitis ailment, but it doesn’t stop her. And just as Batman, the caped crusader is known to do in his comics, Debra’s getting by on minimal sleep.

“I'm suffering with my own little hassles and medical things, like most of us, and while this plantar fasciitis in my heels is killing me, I get by on just three to four hours of sleep each night,” she says plainly.

So, what’s Debra’s secret? How does she do it when so few struggle, and on much more sleep than she gets? Surely she has a secret or hidden superhero power of some kind?

“Na, I get support all over, so it’s not all me. I’ve been doing it for years, so you just get used to it.”

Debra has also not been static either. With four kids and 10 grandkids, how can you be? Just as our favourite superheroes and heroines invariably do, she’s also travelled far and wide.

“I've been to several places, such as Brisbane, Alpha, Jericho, and other places and interstate. I used to live out there in Alpha with foster parents for a time. The other places I’ve lived such as Brisbane, I was with my mum where I grew up for a while.”

Debra enjoys the quiet town life of Ayr and what the Burdekin offers, and despite one her daughter’s suggestion to move up Townsville to be closer to her, she has no plans to do so.

“You always have problems no matter where you go, but I like it here. I quite enjoy it really. I don't think I'll move,” Debra states.

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Debra Harwood, doing great things is a superhero for many. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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We all have our stories or adventures that we tell, but for Sweet FM’s historian, Glenis Cislowski, telling stories brings on a whole new level. You see Glenis goes back in time, getting lost among the old stories told from a bygone era and bringing them back into the now. It’s something she thrives on, and has done since she first became interested in the stories of others and their history.

Part of what was formerly called ‘Nostalgia Hour,’ these days you’ll find Glenis regaling listeners with ‘Those Were The Days’ on Mondays at 10am. So popular is her segment, she’s also branched out beyond the radio to share her incredible storytelling among these very pages at times.

She has written for various publications, including the Burdekin Advocate and the BCA newsletter since 2002, covering diverse topics such as cyclones, shipwrecks, and local infrastructure changes, Glenis is a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and little, fun, unknown facts that enlighten many.

“I present a bit of history of the area. It can be with people, it can be floods, it can be the irrigation that we have here. I do a bit on everything. Might be a ball or something that I've read in the paper, just to create an interest of what went on in the district over the years,” Glenis reveals.

Not only has Glenis been presenting at the station for nearly five years, but she herself, has a great personal history. Her ancestors came to the Burdekin in the 1890s, while she’s lived here all her life.

“I have always enjoyed listening to old people's stories and my grandparents' stories, and I just got interested in family history. It's amazing what history you get from family that you can then get the history of the place. I just like some of the stories around the place, they're really fascinating,” Glenis beams.

Glenis's passion for history, coupled with her personal experiences and community connections, make her a valuable local historian, and much loved Sweet FM radio presenter. At 76, there’s no slowing Glenis down, driven to discover and uncover many more stories and histories, of people, the Burdekin, and more.

“I just observe what is going on around me, and I love reading, particularly about this area. It’s amazing what was going on in this area, and how it’s not that much different today. I was reading in the 1920s in the Home Hill observer, that they were all whinging about the roads and how they were. And while I was reading it I was thinking, they’re still whinging about the same roads,” Glenis laughs.

Check out Glenis’ ‘Those Were The Days’ on Monday mornings from 10am. If you’d like to join the station as a presenter, contact Sweet FM on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.

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Glenis Cislowski, a woman full of history. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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With 11,000+ Visitors In 2024, What Would You Suggest Someone Visiting The Burdekin In 2025 Do Or See?

Robert: “The park down there in Ayr, Plantation Park, that’d be one place I really recommend a tourist go visit. It not only looks really nice with that small river system running through it, which also cascades but it’s very, very tropical. I’ve been there myself and enjoy it. Alva Beach is also a great place to go and see. You can go fishing out there or swim, it’s a good spot to visit if you go there as it’s a quiet little beach town. They'd be the two places I’d suggest new visitors go and see.”

Troy: “If someone was to come to Home Hill and Ayr and the Burdekin, I would recommend they go up and see Inkerman Lookout. That gives a great view right out over the area from high up there. It’s incredible. I also think the pool in Ayr with its water park, is a good spot to go when it’s hot and humid. And go fishing! There are lots of good fishing spots around. That and the beaches where you fish, that sounds good.”

Patricia: “Well, they could go and have a look at the Burdekin Bridge, which they can cross by foot, and get to stand directly over the Burdekin River. In Home Hill, there’s lots to have a look at there, because there's different plaques placed down into the concrete with information that highlights the area, the old buildings, early pioneers etc. Here in Ayr, there is a butterfly shop that's open on occasion, that’s lovely. There's also the gem place over at Home Hill, where you can look at all these beautiful and different gemstones, that’s nice. We have got a lovely picture theatre here that they're doing from a shed because the theatre got damaged. You can watch a full movie, have a beautiful meal, and the children can run around this little garden that's got all these gnomes. It’s like a little children's wonder garden. If you go to the information centres here, the volunteers will tell you everything else that can be found.”

Wendy: “The actual shopping precinct here is fantastic. We get a lot of women come shopping here from other towns such as Townsville, Charters Towers, those sorts of places, because we've got all the nice little boutique shops here. As far as tourist attractions, I really haven't been here long enough to answer that one. I know a lot of the people here have huts and stuff. They spend a lot of time fishing and enjoying some of the local beaches. Oh, we’ve been crabbing! That's pretty good. We go mud-crabbing in Plantation Creek, where we’ll go down early to the beach and go. It’s different but a lot of fun.”

Joseph: “If someone was coming here to visit the Burdekin, first, just say hi mate! Then they should they go to the lookout down past Home Hill, or go take a walk over the bridge. I would also recommend them to go and just see this area by walking around the two towns and check out stuff, you know. Like the beach, the river, the park, that kind of thing.”

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On Saturday 1st February, the Ayr Golf Club had planned a big day of golf and a 95th anniversary dinner at night. Weather conditions way out of our control cancelled the golf play during the day but the dinner went ahead as planned.
Not only was it an anniversary dinner, but the Ayr Club agreed at the annual general meeting to honour Karrie Webb, with Honorary Membership and it was presented at the dinner.
There was plenty of memorabilia on display from past members for guests to ponder over. It showed how far the Ayr Golf Club had come from starting as a 9-hole course in 1930 to an 18-hole course by 1980. The current clubhouse was opened in 1988. All this was achieved with members volunteering time and labour to accomplish a very impressive country Golf Club.
Included during the night was a question-and-answer interview with Karrie, and conducted by Peter Andersen, a past president of the Club. The people who were present at the dinner learnt firsthand how Karrie went from learning to play golf in Ayr to No. 1 in the world in 1999/2000. By the age of 25, she had earned her way into LPGA Hall of Fame and also the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Winning European Rookie of the year in 1995, then 1996 LPGA Rookie of the year, Karrie has won 41 LPGA tournaments, 15 on Ladies European tour, 13 on Australian LPGA, 3 on Japanese LPGA and 3 on other tours. She won 7 major tournaments in those wins.
Since 2006 Karrie has provided two scholarships for the top two female amateurs in Australia to gain experience overseas, and last year a scholarship was established with the help of Nippon Shaft, for the top female coach to add value to her coaching credentials.
In all, all guests that attended had an enjoyable night.

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Karrie Web with two budding juniors, Oscar and Evelyn Mahoney. Photo: Supplied
Guests at the Ayr Golf Club’s 95th Anniversary dinner. Photo: Supplied
Karrie Webb with Ayr Golf Treasurer, Janet Tresize, and Peter Andersen after presentation of Honourary Membership. Photo: Supplied

Contributed with thanks by Ayr Golf Club

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In late June of 2024, the Whittles family spent the night camping near the Burdekin River as part of their travels around Australia, and felt inspired to send up their drone to capture footage of the magnificent Burdekin Bridge.

“I’m not really one to find bridges all that fascinating, but there’s something about this bridge that intrigues me,” shared Mark Whittles.

“I’m not sure what it is that I find intriguing about it, it’s a big ugly metal structure, it is one of Australia’s biggest bridges, but it is absolutely PLAGUED with orb spiders!”

The Whittles have been travelling around the country for just over two years, capturing and sharing videos and photos of their adventures across various social media platforms. Along with these extraordinary photos, the Whittles shared a YouTube video of their adventures in both Bowen and the Burdekin region, which has attracted almost 4,000 views!

“I did learn it’s the only bridge in Australia to be built on sand, so that’s kind of interesting – either way, it made for something cool to take photos of!”

Hundreds of people have interacted with the post published on ‘Our Whittle Adventure’s’ social media pages, commenting their own experiences with the Burdekin Bridge, from both a local and travellers’ perspective.

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The Whittles family’s drone photos are nothing short of impressive

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As part of Clare State School’s 75th anniversary celebrations, staff have been dedicating their time to publishing a beautiful book to officially mark the milestone and acknowledge the school’s rich history.

One of the sections will list past and present Clare State School teacher aides, cleaners, and administration assistants, however the school has shared they are having difficulty locating the names of some people who previously worked in these roles.

Clare State School has kindly asked the community to email tpatt104@eq.edu.au or comment on the school’s recent Facebook post if you can help! The full list of names the school has accumulated to date can be found on their Facebook page.

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Clare State School as it stood in 1952

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1938, a year of historically significant headlines, including German troops marching into Austria (March), the signing of the Munich Pact (September), the birth of Judy Blume (February), and the release of Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (February).

A 1938 photo picturing an Ayr State School Grade 1 class has been shared online, with many reminiscing on the traditions of the time, noting how far the school’s uniform has evolved over the past 86 years. Can you name any of these students?

The Burdekin Life Newspaper thanks Jennifer Thomas for sharing this photograph.

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Who can you recognise?

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A sudden incident involving juvenile offenders has left the Burdekin community on high alert and extremely concerned following suspicions the area will continue to experience a frightening crime wave. 
 
In 2022 – 2023, 82,677 offenders were prosecuted against by the Queensland Police Service (QPS), a 2% increase from the previous yearly period, and the first increase since 2015. The quantity of car thefts, breaking and entering incidents, and traffic incidents that have circulated online over the past 12 months, has locals fearful of the impending 2024 Australian Bureau of Statistics report expected to be released next month. 
 
Last week’s incident occurred at approximately 5:30am on Tuesday the 21st of January, after police were called to Sandsdown Street in Alva Beach, following reports a white Hyundai hatchback had collided with an electricity pole.  
 
One adult and four juveniles were arrested at the scene and as of Wednesday the 22nd of January, charges were filed against all five parties as confirmed by a QPS spokeswoman.  
 
“The group of five allegedly left the scene on foot and attempted to evade police but were arrested a short time later at a local caravan park,” a QPS spokeswoman said. 
 
A 13-year-old Home Hill girl, a 14-year-old Home Hill boy, a 15-year-old Home Hill girl, and a 17-year-old Home Hill girl were all charged with one count of unlawful use of a motor vehicle – use in company and appeared in the Ayr Children’s Court on Wednesday the 29th of January. 
 
The fifth offender, an 18-year-old Home Hill man has been charged with one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle – use in company, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing utensils or pipes that had been used, and breach of bail offences. He is due to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on Monday the 10th of February. 
 
The vehicle was reported stolen from an address close to Home Hill State School the morning of Monday the 20th of January. Locals took to online platforms to demand harsher consequences for offenders with many members of the community saddened to learn the car belonged to a Home Hill grandmother. 
 
Reports have emerged of witnesses sighting the stolen vehicle driving recklessly at around 11pm on Monday night around Soldiers and Horseshoe Bay Road in Bowen, with locals warning their neighbours to take precaution and sharing CCTV footage online. 
 
“Warning Bowen residents – there is a stolen car from Ayr making its way around Bowen, a white hatchback, lock your cars and doors, police have been notified,” shared one concerned Bowen resident. 
 
The QPS advises car owners to consider a range of precautions to deter thieves from targeting their vehicles including parking in a secured location, installing a car alarm and other antitheft devices like steering wheel locks, install a GPS tracker to the vehicle, and promptly secure garage doors or front gates. 

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The car was left extremely damaged after the ordeal

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The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival (BRWF) was a festival unlike any other in the area. Drawing acclaimed Australian authors and a wide audience from both Queensland and interstate, tourism and local businesses flourished in the Burdekin as a result.

However, like most events in Australia and around the world, covid hit, forcing organisers to cancel the 2020 event, despite having several prominent writers who’d accepted and were keen to attend.

Before covid scuppered the 2020 BRWF, the festival had fired up the hearts & minds of authors and the Burdekin alike it seemed. The BRWF had been full steam ahead, lining up even more great authors and shaping to be a massive boon for the region again.

Then due to a lack of extra organisers to share the load, the 2022 event never quite got off the ground. Since then, despite repeated calls from authors, publicists, local businesses and council, along with plenty of interest from an eager public to return, the BRWF has been languishing since.

If no one picks up the baton, the festival, and the untold benefits it brings the Burdekin, cease.

Mickey McKellar (pictured) and The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival committee, ignited minds and fired up the Burdekin region. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

Reigniting The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival

Mickey McKellar, a member of the Burdekin Readers and Writers Association, discusses the association’s formation in 2013, which first got its start with an initial funding of $320.

“The formation of the festival came about from a group of ladies who were in a local book club that also morphed into a writing group. We used to travel each year to Brisbane to go visit the Brisbane Writers Festival,” Mickey says.

“Because I was also involved in the hotel industry, I was one of those people curious by other people's ideas, be it menus or festivals. They're all built on somebody else's concept. So I put it to the ladies, ‘You know, we could do a festival like this at home. You just work it in with your community and your facilities.’ Well, they all ducked for cover, except for two but that didn't stop us.”

“We finished up with eight ladies originally. Then to register as a not-for-profit organisation we needed money, so we popped in $40 each. With a grand total of $320, off we went,” Mickey laughs.

That first festival eventually kicked off in July of 2015. It featured eight authors, including David Hunt and Matthew Condon, and received significant local business support while being a win for the region.

“Because we were an unknown, the hardest thing of all was trying to attract authors. We had a list of would-be guests and we were going through them and having absolutely no success. But then David Hunt, who wrote Girt, well he was the first to respond and said he'd love to come. Shortly after followed Matthew Condon, a journalist with the Courier Mail, but also an author who wrote stories relating to crime and corruption in Queensland.”

“Then it all happened so quickly that I remember saying to one of the women, ‘It's like they've got a network. The minute one responds, another does.’ Before we knew it, we finished up with eight authors that first year,” Mickey extols.

“Amazingly, there'd never been a literary festival in this town before, but we got a good response from the local business community. It enabled us to pay for authors’ flights, accommodation, and give them a speaking fee. I know our fees were more than what ASA (Australian Society of Authors) recommended, but we knew that they'd have to take a couple of flights just to get here, so we went over and above what they expected to get.”

And it worked! Because at the very next festival (2016) the BRWF managed to secure around 12-14, authors, including kids book authors!

“The first festival was extremely successful, and Matthew Condon, who was still writing for the Courier Mail, contacted me about six weeks out from the 2016 festival and said he'd like to do a story. Honestly, what he put together about the first festival, as far as advertising goes, we would never have been able to achieve that. He didn't only write about the festival, he wrote about the community. It was very well done,” Mickey proclaims.

On the back of two highly successful festivals, someone recommended BRWF do it every second year, so they skipped 2017 and went straight to 2018. As a result the festival expanded to 20 authors and attracted over 3,500 attendees – a boon for both local businesses and the Burdekin as a result.

“For the 2018 festival we mixed it up and instead of the school kids coming to the Burdekin Theatre, we took the authors to them! That was a masterstroke. The authors did workshops, which was a great success thanks to a couple of committee members who were former teachers.”

With 20 authors, big attendances, 2018 was a smash, while the community fully came on board.

“The fact of the matter is that it costs a lot of money to run a festival. While we did get grants, the business community really supported us and came aboard. We got private sponsorship of about $28,000 that year, which was amazing,” Mickey exclaims.

The festival had fired up the hearts & minds of authors and the Burdekin alike it seemed. The BRWF were full steam ahead planning for 2020, lining up even more great authors… then covid hit.

“It was too risky for the committee to book flights not knowing if the authors would be able to fly or whether we’d be able get a refund if flights got cancelled. A not-for-profit can't exist on airline credit,” Mickey says.

Sadly, that’s where things ended. There hasn’t been another festival since, while the BRWF committee has remained in limbo.

“You lose momentum in so many ways, and that's what happened. We've thought about many things. We've got money in the bank, but what do we with do it? We've now got grandkids and the people who've been there since the beginning like myself, they're tired, they don't want to be doing it anymore. We're sort of in limbo at the moment.”

“I understand all of the people that want it to happen again, from council to community, authors and publicists, and maybe I shouldn’t go on record here, but I'm going to say it anyway. The suggestion for me to contact you came from the Mayor because she said the new journalist in town is an author. Then the former mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, also contacted me to say I should reach out. And I appreciate them thinking that, but just because someone new comes to town who is an author doesn't mean to say that it's going to happen again. They don't seem to understand that there's a lot of work involved. No one wants to give their time anymore.”

If no one picks up the baton and uses the incredible foundation that Mickey and her BRWF committee members have laid, the festival, and the untold benefits it brings the region, cease. It’s as simple as that.

In what shapes as a do or die moment come February 19, the BRWF committee may well be meeting for the very last time. They’re appealing to the public to attend and become part of something that means so much to the community.

“Whether it's a Writers Festival or a Water Festival, if you want them to continue, then get involved. I'm 77, you know. It's time for younger ones to step up otherwise we have to wind it up. It’s so much easier than when we started with nothing. We have community support, we have business support, we have council support, and most importantly, we have authors support. Everything works. As long as you approach it in the right manner, you can't go wrong,” Mickey concludes with a hopeful smile.

The BRWF are meeting at 11:30am, 19 February, at the Burdekin Library, Ayr. If you want to revive this popular festival, attend, participate, otherwise this once great festival is gone forever. For more info email Mickey: mck4247@bigpond.net.au

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Authors on a panel enjoying themselves during Burdekin Readers Writers Festival. Photo: Supplied
BRWF volunteers, were a core reason the festival was a success. Photo: Supplied
The BRW festival has plenty of local support. Photo: Supplied
The festival was attended by big crowds. Photo: Supplied
A novel Garden Party with author and attendees. Photo: Supplied
Professor Roly Sussex speaking at the Burdekin Theatre during the BRW festival. Photo: Supplied

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On Sunday, 26 January, The Burdekin Shire Council announced their Australia Day Award winners in front of a near full house at the Burdekin Theatre. The event, which was also open to the public, celebrated the achievements of many individuals and organisations, who have all benefitted the Burdekin in one form or another through significant contributions.

All the honourees, special guests, friends and family, waited in the foyer as the Burdekin Brass Band belted out beautiful tune after beautiful tune, before all made their way into the auditorium.

Once the flag presentation ceremony was done by the Air Force cadets, young talent, Alaya Magic, sang the national anthem, before Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort opened proceedings with the Australian Citizenship ceremony. The Burdekin welcomed five new Aussies into the fold, each presented with their certificates and swearing their oaths.

The Mayor then handed over to special guest, Australia Day Ambassador, Dr. Bob McGregor, who spoke of his own journey as an Australian, regaling those in attendance with keen observations as well as a funny story on how he met his wife.

Then the moment arrived – announcing the names of the Australia Day Award winners.

Junior Sportsperson of the Year went to Ashlee Colls, while the Senior Sportsperson of the Year was tied, with both Jennifer Fotinos and Kristy Wassmuth unable to be split.

Next came the Junior Cultural Award, awarded to popular, Jacob Machin, who would also go on to nab the Young Citizen of the Year Achievement Award as well. Community Event of the Year Achievement Award went to the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival’s 'Bring It Back’, while Community Event of the Year was taken out by Giru State School for their ‘100 Year Fete’.

Volunteer of the Year Achievement Award, was taken out by Mark Vass, with Volunteer of the Year be awarded to the Lawry family (Ben, Kellie, and Bella Lawry) for their tireless efforts at Alva Surf Lifesaving Club.

Lifetime of Service Silver Awards were handed out to: Joan Andersen, Shirley Gilmore, and Linda Scott. With Lifetime of Service Gold Awards being given to: Betty Durrant and Gwen Marshall.

Finally, after much applause for the worthy recipients, the big one – Citizen of the Year. Nicole Cervoni won the Young Citizen of the Year for actively promoting and participating in Arts events, including choir, vocal groups, drama performances, art exhibitions, and musicals, along with youth council.

Lastly, a surprised and very humble, Scott McLean, took out the main gong, winning Citizen of the Year. Scott, who has been a dedicated volunteer coach at Rock Solid Boxing Club in Home Hill, where he regularly travels across Queensland for tournaments and has been instrumental in NQ Games and Queensland Titles, mentors youth and adults. He proved a popular and worthy winner.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort closed proceedings before the crowd went out to celebrate with the winners and nominees, to enjoy a bit of Australia Day cake and recognition.

Well done and congratulations to all winners, nominees, and all special guests and attendees on the day, for making this year’s 2025 Australia Day Awards one to remember!

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2025 Australia Day Award winners and nominees, on stage celebrating so many achievements in the community. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Allan Darwen was working hard under the harsh Queensland sun last month, completing mowing and yard maintenance jobs just like every other workday, when one kind stranger decided to make this hot afternoon a little brighter.

“So this afternoon, a bloke pulls up while we (Allan and Simon) are doing a yard, and I thought, old mate will want a last minute mow… but nope,” shared Allan online.

“He said, mate, I’ve seen you on Facebook, and I see you two blokes around going hard, so I thought I’d shout you both a beer for Christmas!”

After another huge day at work, Allan and Simon were more than appreciative of the gentleman’s offer, and the three of them made their way to the local pub to enjoy a nice cold beer and a good old Aussie yarn together.

“So old mate, sorry I didn’t catch your name cause I was totally chuffed, thank you so much,” added Allan.

“We had a massive day, so they (the drinks) went down very well, thank you!”

Allan shared his heartwarming story online which was met with an overwhelmingly positive response, of over 7,000 interactions and hundreds of locals noting “not all heroes wear capes” and that this story of mateship perfectly captures the true meaning of what it is to be Australian.

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Allan and Simon enjoying a beer as shouted by a kind stranger

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This week I got a lot of calls – the most I’ve had since being the local journo here. Some people called to inform me about the native wildlife.

“There’s no crocs out there… or pigs!” the caller exclaimed. He was calling to express his thoughts about a street interviewee that he thought was incorrect, who mentioned crocs and pigs in Wujunga.

Then yet another one more ringing to tell me that the Telstra shop closing is not good and I should write about that, as well as putting in a story to get a second bridge.

I love it! Why? Because it means after two months, people trust me enough to share their views, whether getting passionate as they do or sharing some honest opinions. It’s terrific (and fun). Means, I’m making inroads.

On the flip side, I’ve also had people reach out with story ideas, some of which I’ve implemented eg: The Post Office turning 100. Keep ‘em coming!

I’ve also had people text or email to congratulate me on a piece I wrote and shared. My Editor’s Note from two weeks ago received a lot of praise for example.

While I can do nothing about the Telstra shop closure (I wish I could), what I can be is your eyes and ears in the hopes you feel seen and heard. Besides, if there’s one thing I’ve learned about big business, sadly, they don’t care about you, only your money. While I may have the power of the written word, you have the power to vote with your wallet.

Something I can do, however, is take on board what you say and act on it. Even though waving a magic wand to have a second bridge is beyond my powers within these pages, if enough people want it, I’ll write about it. A voice for many in the hopes to bring about change.

This isn’t my paper, it’s yours. Keep the calls, texts and emails flowing, and let’s see what we can achieve together.

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In what he describes as a win-win, both agriculture and the environment in the Burdekin will benefit from a funding boost to Regional Natural Resource Management groups according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Mr Last announced the funding, which delivers on an election commitment in his role as Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, but said he was equally as proud of what would be achieved within the Burdekin electorate.

“This funding confirms the Crisafulli government’s focus on ensuring great outcomes for the environment while protecting our landscapes,” Mr Last said.

“By working with the Natural Resource Management groups, we’ve identified and funded programs that find the balance between what is sometimes seen as competing interests.

“For example, programs based around controlling invasive species have an obvious environmental benefit but also play a part in improving grazing land to ensure food production for a growing population. By taking a balanced approach, we ensure more people support the work being done and that means better outcomes.”

Mr Last hailed the announcement as a ‘fresh start’ when it comes to cooperatively addressing environmental issues, while also ensuring the best value for taxpayers.

“Good government is about acting responsibly rather than picking sides or just throwing money at an issue,” he said. “The Crisafulli government committed to taking action within 100 days of the election and we have done that while ensuring real outcomes and accountability.

“This funding is a significant boost, but it is based on the proven track record of the regional Natural Resource Management organisations and tied to practical outcomes being achieved. We are also working with indigenous groups to boost programs like Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers in recognition of their connection with the land, and to create opportunities for future generations.

“We are taking a strategic approach that is based on the best available science and also recognises the know-how of landholders, who in some cases, have knowledge that stretches across multiple generations. That balanced approach where we focus on good outcomes for both the environment and primary industry means we have access to a wider pool of knowledge so that we can actually find suitable solutions instead of demonising primary producers like we saw under the previous government.

“We’ve taken the politics out of this issue because, especially in areas like the Burdekin, people want to see practical outcomes, not grandstanding. Too much time has been lost arguing over who is to blame and I look forward to seeing the positive results that this funding will have for our key industries and for our environment,” Mr Last concluded.

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Dale Last, announcing funding he describes as a win-win for the Burdekin.

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“I am honoured to have been endorsed once again as the LNP Candidate for the seat of Dawson.
It's a privilege to be entrusted by the local party members, with a unanimous vote of confidence, and I am ready to work hard and fight even harder for the betterment of our region and our country.”

“I understand my role is to represent the good people of Dawson in Canberra, and I am determined to fight for our fair share of funding and services.”

“The upcoming federal election is the most important one yet, where Australians will have the opportunity to elect a new and strong government, a Coalition government who will get Australia back on track.”

“No matter where you live in the electorate, if it’s in the southern part of Townsville, in the Northern Beaches of Mackay or some of the beautiful communities in between, I am committed to being a representative of the entire electorate of Dawson, and growing a stronger future for all.”

“I am not prepared to settle. Being the Federal Member is an important position to hold and if I am given the honour of continuing in this role, I will give my all to the community I call home.”

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Federal MP, Andrew Willcox re-endorsed by LNP. Photos supplied.
Federal MP, Andrew Willcox – your man for Dawson and The Burdekin

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The new school year offers many opportunities for growth and learning, it can also present many uncertainties. From children's mental health and wellbeing, to bullying and navigating difficult social situations, going back to school can be stressful for parents and children alike as anxiety mixes with excitement.
The Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) has put together six strategic points to help children and their guardians navigate negative social challenges such as isolation and bullying. When left unchecked the ripple effect is devastating, leading to long-term health issues. Carol Markie-Dadds, a Triple P Director lists these points as a way “To help kids cope, parents and carers play a vital role in helping their children develop resilience and the skills to deal with bullying and unhealthy friendships this school year.”
These strategies are listed as followed: Reinforce resilience and self-esteem, Have regular check-ins with your child, Learn to recognise the signs of bullying, Be a role model for empathy and social skills, Role-play or consider scenarios to teach healthy boundaries, and finally Reach out to the school if you have any concerns.
If your child is experiencing social challenges, it’s important for guardians to remember they are not alone in helping their children navigate them. There are resources available to help families navigate bullying-related issues, such as your school, therapists and counsellors, and Kids Helpline. Let your children know they are valued and loved, and help them when they really need it.

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What are they? Where have they come from? How did they get here? A strange device was discovered along the Alva Beach shoreline by Gavan Lamb last Wednesday, the 22nd of January and the community was left puzzled as to how an echo sounder satellite buoy made its way to the Burdekin.

“I often walk the beach which is where I found this buoy plastic thing,” explained Gavan.

“I dragged it home and pulled it apart and the batteries were corroded so it’s been floating around for a while, so it’s kind of nice to have that rubbish disposed of and not on the beach.”

Gavan discovered the M3i echo sounder satellite buoy was manufactured by Marine Instruments for commercial use to detect and attract fish for foreign fisheries in the South Pacific.

Gavan’s Alva Beach discovery was not a one off. Instead, he has seen echo sounder satellite buoys on multiple occasions both at Alva and Wunjunga Beach and conservationists are becoming increasingly concerned with the number of buoys washing up on Aussie shores.

The Tangaroa Blue Foundation actively works to prevent and remove marine debris from both oceans and beaches across the nation through the use of the Australian Marine Debris Initiative. Beachgoers and boaters who come across echo sounder satellite buoys are able to donate the devices to the foundation to aid in future data analysis and clean up projects. More information on the foundation can be found online at tangaroablue.org.

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Gavan shared a photo of his discovery online
Curious, Gavan opened the buoy to discover plenty of tech inside

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Hi Kids (and Big kids),
Terrylicious, Burdekin Life’s canetoad back again to announce the winners. Well, well, well, seems we had some eagle-eyed little (and big) detectives last week. Maybe I didn’t hide myself well enough? But I was glad to be found seen waving my little Aussie flag ahead in support of Australia Day, especially as no one found me last month.
Winners
Well done to the dynamic duo of Evie (8) & Jai (6) Giardina, who spotted me ahead of everyone else, including adults. This brother-sister sibling act were the first and the fastest, immediately reaching out to my minders to report they found me within one minute! What great little wildlife finders you two make. Thank you!
Both born here and going to East Ayr State School, they get the paper every week, and their fave part – looking at all the people in photos. Now you both get to look at your own photo in the paper. Congrats Evie & Jai!
Until next time, enjoy your Australia Day long weekend everyone. I’ll see you in a couple of weeks. For now, I’ve got some insects to munch on as I prepare to fatten myself up so I can sit and relax this long weekend.
Ribbet! Ribbet! Burp.
Terry

Dynamic duo, Evie & Jai Giardina, were the fastest to find me.

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The Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin team did a double rescue on the weekend within the space of 12 hours.
The first call was from a vessel that sent a triple zero call and had run aground on the beach in front of Plantation Creek. VMR sent a crew out in their RIB (rigid inflatable boat), but unfortunately, they got caught in the tide, so they had to wait for the tide to go out to be able to rescue them.  
The rescue helicopter found the two guys and left them with enough food and water until VMR was able to rescue them. They then safely towed them back to Plantation Creek.  
The second rescue was only a few hours after the first rescue was completed, when there an emergency activation call came in. A call came from town to the water police, that a vessel had broken down and was drifting out to sea.  
The rescue helicopter had a lot of trouble getting out there on account of the rain and heavy thunderstorms in the area. VMR got there first and saw that the people were okay. However, they were unable to get to the shoreline due to the low tide.  
The rescue helicopter was eventually able to get out there to the area with the help of VMR guiding them to the spot before the men were rescued as the poor weather conditions only worsened.  
It was a very successful weekend for Volunteer Marine Rescue Burdekin. In the space of approximately 12 hours, two rescues were conducted within the same vicinity. The outcome of both rescues was good, with all individuals rescued and safe and healthy.  
President Ian Sutcliffe said, “VMR was glad to help ensure the men got back home safely to their families over the Australia Day long weekend, in what was a busy but successful day for our team.
“And remember, if you run into trouble out on the water, don’t hesitate to call 000 and VMR on: 07 4783 1014. Your very life may depend on it!”

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Happy New Year to you all and I hope this finds everyone getting back into it for another year. School is back (thank goodness say some parents) and business will return to some normality.
The weekend saw us celebrate Australia Day and with that, my fellow councillors and I attended the Australia Day Awards Ceremony. Once again, we were privileged to see and hear what some of our residents have contributed to our community. We have sport stars that have represented us at state and international levels. We celebrated volunteers who have given their time for over 30 and 40 plus years to help clubs and help promote our wonderful Burdekin. We celebrated the events that took place in 2024 and with that the people who organise and run them so efficiently, maintaining the Burdekin’s reputation for putting on events of the highest calibre. The ceremony also saw us welcome five (5) of our residents becoming Australian citizens, in what is always a special occasion.
I would like to congratulate all the nominees for their achievements and their commitment to giving their time to making our community a better place. The stories of what these nominees, young and not so young have done and what they have achieved is truly inspiring. Thank you once again to you all for your contributions and thank you to the people who took time to nominate and give recognition to these people who are truly selfless and truly make our home, the Mighty and Bountiful Burdekin that it is.
Thank you.

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To all who became Australian citizens on Sunday, congratulations on choosing Australia as your home. Whatever the reasons that brought you to our beautiful country, I hope you feel proud to call it your own.
I was reminded of the stories my grandparents shared about their journey to Australia and the hardships they faced along the way. Having travelled extensively myself, I felt deeply grateful that they chose this wonderful nation as our home. I am, and always will be, proud to be an Aussie.
The 2025 Australia Day Awards provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible people who make the Burdekin such a vibrant community.
We are truly fortunate to have passionate individuals and groups dedicated to improving our region and enhancing the lives of those around them.
It was both a privilege and an honour to be part of the celebrations as Mayor of Burdekin Shire Council. As someone born and raised in this community, I deeply appreciate the hard work, commitment, and care each nominee showed towards their chosen sport, cultural endeavour, club, and the wider community.
Congratulations again to all our award nominees and recipients.
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 Burdekin Community Association Inc is seeking Expressions of Interest from people interested in participating in a Healing Waves Mental Health Peer Support Group.  Please refer to the following information and let us know if you are interested.
 
HEALING WAVES
MENTAL HEALTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
 
A friendly, warm and safe space to share experiences and support one another through the journey of mental health.
 
HEALING WAVES provides a safe space where group members can provide support and insight to one another through the sharing of their lived experience.
 
Group members will also learn about and discuss topics such as self-care, mindfulness, stress management and more.
 
** Now taking expressions of interest for attendance for 2025 **
 
For more information and to register for your place in this group, please call the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health on 07 4783 2711 or visit 12A Chippendale St, Ayr.

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Bendigo Bank is warning the community about remote access scams in which fraudsters gain access to individuals’ computers or devices under false pretences, often resulting in significant financial losses.

Australia-wide, more than $15 million was reported lost from 8,975 remote access scam reports in 2023, according to Scamwatch.

“Scammers will use every trick in the book with the aim of gaining access to your phone or computer,” said Head of Customer Fraud and Scam Protection, Jason Gordon.

“Once access is granted, scammers may install malicious software, steal sensitive information, or initiate unauthorised transactions, leaving victims and their bank accounts vulnerable,” he said.

‘If you did not originate the call and you’re being asked for information or to enable remote access, hang up!”

Almost half of all remote access scams reported to Scamwatch in 2023 were by phone, but these scams can also be via text, social media or email. Scammers establish trust by claiming to work for your bank, a utility company, delivery service, telecommunication services (such as NBN), or a government agency.

“Criminals are getting adept at carefully constructing often complex communications that convincingly mirror those of the brand they are impersonating,” Mr Gordon said.

“A recent scam case reported to the Bank detailed an account of a scammer claiming to be from a company the customer was familiar with. To legitimise the call and their alleged credentials, the scammer had created an authentic-looking LinkedIn profile and directed the victim to it in a successful effort to gain trust.”

“This kind of trickery, combined with other tactics like spoofing – when phone calls appear to come from legitimate numbers and SMS messages appear in the same conversation thread as genuine communications – make it extremely difficult for people to detect genuine communications.”

Bendigo Bank is committed to educating customers and the wider community to be especially wary of calls, text, emails about online banking in which there is a request to:

   • download programs or software that allow screen sharing to be enabled
   • reset your password after a recent series of scam attacks
   • purchase a new modem to fix your internet connection
   • update your account or device with new security features, or
   • provide personal details to verify your account activity.

“The Bank will never ask for your details, or to transfer money, download software or login via a link sent through email or SMS. Bendigo Bank has removed links from all our SMS messages, so customers who receive an SMS that includes a link should treat that as suspicious.” 

Mr Gordon’s advice to customers who may have fallen victim to a bank impersonation scam is to visit www.bendigobank.com.au/security immediately to report it and get support. 

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We wanted to start this week’s column off by wishing all the best to the kids of the district as they embark on a new school year and congratulating all the parents and caregivers for surviving the summer holidays!

Is there anyone else out there pondering the swift passage of January? We had envisioned a leisurely transition into 2025. However, it seems that plan has been swept aside, and now we find ourselves racing into February, slightly frazzled, yet we remain ever ready to greet you with a warm smile at the Centre.

This week, we had an opportunity to speak on ABC Radio about volunteering. Volunteering is a remarkable endeavour that brings countless benefits, not only to those who dedicate their time and skills but also to the organisations and clubs they support.

Did you know that the vast majority of activities that the Centre offers to our Burdekin community are facilitated by amazing local volunteers? Our social inclusion and support programming would not be possible without them. Empowering community members to share their talents and knowledge is at the core of our mission, and it makes for a great day to see the positive impact we can create together!

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is also run by a volunteer management committee. Currently, we are actively seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our team, particularly in the roles of secretary and vice-treasurer. If you possess a community-minded spirit and are comfortable navigating the digital landscape, we would love to hear from you.

We encourage those community members who are willing to think independently, strategically, and ethically to consider joining our governance committee. We need strong advocates to champion the needs of both the centre and our vibrant community. Your unique perspectives and individual life experiences are invaluable and play a crucial role in ensuring our services remain relevant and impactful.

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is known for its positive and friendly attitude to both people and services. We pride ourselves on being community builders rather than just service providers, fostering a true sense of belonging. We believe in collaborating with people, not merely working for them, and we are genuinely excited about the wonderful accomplishments that can emerge when we unite with our Burdekin community.

If you are thinking that volunteering might be for you, don’t hesitate to come into the Centre and have a chat with us.

Until next time,
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Welcome to 2025.
Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I’m sure everyone is refreshed after the break and are ready to embrace 2025.
I looked forward to attending the Australia Day Awards on Sunday 26 January 2025, at the Burdekin Theatre. The Burdekin is full of so many fantastic people, groups, sporting clubs, and community events, and it was rewarding to see them recognised at the 2025 Australia Day Awards. The Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards recognised members of our community who made an outstanding contribution through their exceptional achievements. There were several categories in the awards, ranging from Citizen of the Year to the Environment Award.
Just a reminder that from July 2024 Rates notices were changed from Yearly to Half Yearly. With the first sent out in August 2024 and the second notice to be sent out in February. The rates paid by property owners are vital in providing a wide range of services that enhance the quality of life in our community. These services include mandatory waste management, water and sewerage services, and the maintenance of our parks, beaches and trails.
Ratepayers can continue to prepay rates prior to the due date or can enter in a payment plan to pay weekly, fortnightly or monthly to get ahead of next year’s rates.

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The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)’s In a Good Place (IAGP) program is inviting applications for grants up to $20,000 for community-driven projects that strengthen the mental, social and/or emotional health and well-being of people living in remote, rural and regional places, particularly in farming communities.

This round, the IAGP program has $290,000 to support initiatives or activities that prevent or respond to mental well-being concerns.

Priorities include increasing mental health education and understanding to reduce stigma, supporting people to build connections and reduce social isolation, and encouraging, supporting and enabling people to seek help for their mental health.

Thanks to FRRR’s donor partners, community groups and not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) can apply for grants through two streams of funding:

1. Community wellbeing: for projects that focus on strengthening the general mental health and wellbeing of people in remote, rural and regional communities.

2. Farmers and farming communities: for projects specifically supporting the mental health and well-being of farmers and the communities they live in.

Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, said that while Australia’s farming communities are incredibly vibrant and resilient, even the strongest person needs help from time to time.

“There is a legacy of silence and perceived stigma around speaking up and seeking support for mental health issues. Thankfully, in rural communities, this narrative is shifting,” Ms Karena said.

“Together with our funding partners, we are supporting local groups to be part of that momentum and continue to challenge and positively shift perceptions about mental health in their remote, rural and regional communities.

“We want to fund initiatives that foster open and honest discussions around mental health, support the social and emotional well-being of vulnerable community members, and encourage farmers and other community members concerned with their mental health to seek support.

“We look forward to reading the project ideas put forward by community groups and not-for-profits across the country and to be inspired by their positive, proactive and community-focussed mental health initiatives,” Ms Karena said.

Groups seeking support must first lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), which is due 14 February.

Final applications from those shortlisted are due by the 11th of March.

Learn more at: https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/in-a-good-place/

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Members of the NQ Dry Tropics Traditional Owner Management Group (TOMG) took part in a recent workshop, focused on improving the quality of water flowing from the Burdekin catchments to the Great Barrier Reef.

Delivered by NQ Dry Tropics in partnership with Senior Scientist at C2O Consulting, Jane Waterhouse, the workshop provided an opportunity for group members to contribute their knowledge and priorities to the development of a new Burdekin Regional Water Quality Strategy, funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.

This workshop is the first step in an engagement process that will involve farmers, Traditional Owners, scientists, industry and government.

The Strategy will bring together regional goals, priorities and actions to improve reef water quality, and provide clear information to support investment and prioritise interventions to address land-based impacts, such as fine sediment, pesticides and dissolved inorganic nitrogen.

TOMG Chair and Gugu Badhun man, Richard Hoolihan, said the workshop provided an important opportunity to capture Indigenous perspectives on water systems.

He said group members wanted the Strategy to include actions that would translate into jobs on the ground for First Nations people.

“We would like to see the Strategy recommend building the capacity of Traditional Owner groups to deliver the kinds of activities that will improve water quality, such as water sampling, water testing and other fieldwork to inform these scientific processes," Richard said.

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Members of the NQ Dry Tropics Traditional Owner Management Group (TOMG) gather at a workshop to contribute their insights to the Burdekin Regional Water Quality Strategy, aimed at improving water quality flowing from the Burdekin catchments to the Great Barrier Reef. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The New Year has heralded an unwelcome change in global sugar price sentiment, initially prompted by the world market getting more comfortable that the first quarter supply of sugar was tight but manageable. This resulted in a gradual deterioration of the ICE #11 March 25 futures premium over the May contract.

The speculative money sensed the path of least resistance was down, so they had been getting increasingly aggressive with their short-selling strategies. This was being met with scale-down trade buying. Then the rumour – and now fact – that the Indian government is issuing export licences for 1 million tonnes of white sugar, broke the market to the downside.

India's choice to issue export licences at this time is puzzling. Wilmar has been revising down sugar estimates for the current harvest due to a poor growing season combined with an increase in crop disease, and an increase in ethanol production. This results in a low domestic stock position of what is an important base energy source for a large proportion of the population.

With this harvest approximately 50 per cent complete, production is running behind schedule, and the increased disease is resulting in poor cane quality. Indian domestic sugar prices have rallied and, at current levels, it appears there is no incentive for sugar to be exported. The notion that the government would subsidise exports is a possibility but there appears little incentive for that to occur.

The wrap-up of the 24 season for Brazil is all but done, with the final sugar production estimated to be just under 40mt. Rain in Brazil has been reasonable over the last couple of months so there is some alleviation from the dry growing season of 24.

The current forecast for Brazil's 25 crop is for a large 42.5m tonnes of sugar production. The increase is based largely on the assumption of a 52 per cent sugar to ethanol mix (24 season was 48 per cent).

So after a long period at the end of last year with minimal market news, the New Year has started with a flurry. How this plays out is yet to be determined. The structure of futures prices is relatively flat so the current consensus of the market is an each-way bet.

Fortunately, the AUD has weakened significantly over the past couple of months, which has dulled the impact of the falling futures market. However, at 62 cents, the AUD is at levels that historically have proven good buying, so it could be vulnerable to a rally on the back of USD weakness linked to the changing mood of Trump.

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International stage director and producer, Neil Gooding, recently came to town where he got to look in on proceedings of his smash hit musical, Back To The 80s. Written over 20 years ago, it’s been a trip back in time for this Burdekin native, who now calls New York home.

“I was born and grew up in Ayr and went to Ayr High School. During my time here, we did lots of shows at the Burdekin Theatre with the Burdekin Singers. Then at the end of year,12, I went to Brisbane to study law and commerce at university… and yeah, I never used those degrees,” Neil laughs.

“However, I was doing lots of performing at the time. So when I got my commerce degree, I moved to Sydney at the age of 20 and thought I was going to act. Then over the years I discovered that I loved directing and producing more,” he says.

After leaving Brisbane, Neil lived in Sydney for a number of years, where he worked for a big stage show company. It was here Neil cut his teeth working on many of their shows before the bright lights of New York beckoned.

“I was in Sydney for a number of years where I worked for Jacobsen, who were a big company at the time. I was directing and producing a lot of shows for them. But then I moved to New York in 2019, where I now mostly produce and have global shows that now top around the world.”

For a boy from the Burdekin to end up on the biggest stage of all, Broadway, may feel like a big leap for most. To think it all came about on the back of a simple idea Neil had when he wrote the stage play for then unknown show, Back To The 80s.

“I had this idea for a show that’s basically an amalgamation of every 1980s teen movie and TV shows like The Wonder Years. Shows I grew up watching. I didn't have to do much research because I knew all the stuff, they always had the same characters. All I needed to do is put those characters into a storyline. All the great music was already there. There's not that many shows where you get to sing Footloose or We Are The World, but that’s what keeps it ticking,” Neil smiles.

And tick along it does. Back To The 80s, has now been performed by 1000s of schools and amateur companies around the world since. So what does Neil attribute its success to?

“I think obviously the music and the fact that the ‘80s were far enough away, everybody could look back on them fondly. When I first started writing it, I don't think the 80s had had their resurgence, but I knew it was coming. It happened with the 60s, it happened with the 70s. After an era is done it becomes cool and retro again every 10 to 15 years afterward and that’s what happened. I just got the timing right,” Neil chuckles.

While it seems the 80s are now immortalised, for Neil, it’s full steam ahead. He has upcoming projects, including a production of Shirley Valentine in Melbourne, and roles as a producer on Broadway and the West End.

If he could sum up his experiences and share his wisdom for the kids of the Burdekin with dreams of their own, what would he say?

“You need to love what you do. As I’ve hopped into bigger and bigger ponds, you realise that it's not as different as you would think. When you grow up in the Burdekin, Brisbane seems a long way away, then Sydney, then New York. But it's not that different.”

“Coming back here I remember why I love doing it. Sometimes it's easy to forget. It's about having the fun,” Neil concludes.

To book tickets for Back To The 80s, contact Burdekin Theatre on: (07) 4783 9880 or visit their website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com

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Neil Gooding, outside where it all began. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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When Home Hill was founded in 1911 on the southern banks of the Burdekin River, it was difficult for settlers of Home Hill to do business, as that required the Services of the Court of Petty Sessions who were based in Ayr. With its unpredictable floods, crossing the river was a hit-and-miss affair.
In August 1923, approval was granted for a Court of Petty Sessions in Home Hill, with the Department purchasing Mr P. M. Jensen’s ‘Boot Palace’ building on the corner of 8th Avenue and 9th Street in June 1924. The building was then shifted next to the Police Station. By the end of August, the Courthouse was open for business.
The Court dealt with traffic infringements, drunkenness, illegal gambling raids, lawsuits for lost wages, defamation, whilst murders were sent to a higher court.
By 1936, it became obvious that a new building was needed. The new courthouse consisted of red bricks with a red tiled roof. The public and private offices were located at the front of the building, with the court room abutting the offices, and two corner rooms at the rear – one for the solicitors, the other the witness room. The new Home Hill Courthouse was officially opened in October 1937, while the old court house was converted into the police station, where it remained in use until 1962.
The new Court House was in use for 54 years before finally closing its doors on January 1, 1991.
The Burdekin Shire Council then began negotiations for the use of the facility and by April 1992 had secured a commitment from the Department for its use. Many photographic exhibitions were held in the court room, while the Burdekin Tourist Association also operated from it until shifting to the Home Hill Railway Station. The Court House was also used as a polling booth for various government elections.
A Certificate of Incorporation was granted in 1999 under the name Burdekin Development Council Inc, and was launched on 25 September 1999, broadcasting from the Shire Chambers. It was formed to be used as a station to broadcast into the district in times of emergencies such as floods and cyclones.
By February 2000 the station was installed in the Home Hill Court House in July 2000, when the defunct Burdekin Development Council Inc then became Radio 97.1, Sweet FM!
There were major renovations done to the building in 2020 by the State government, with further renovations by the Shire Council in 2021. Throughout that time, Sweet FM has been the custodian of the beautiful and historic Home Hill Courthouse.
Sweet FM will mark 25 years on air by holding an event on the front lawns in April, to celebrate. Stay tuned!
Contributed with thanks by Charlie Scuderi and Glenis Cislowski

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The beautiful and historic, Home Hill Courthouse: Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Courthouse now home to Sweet FM: Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Mr P. M. Jensen’s ‘Boot Palace’ building (the first courthouse): Photo. Supplied

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Vixen, a beautiful 15-month-old dog, has been patiently waiting for her forever home for over 400 days. This energetic and loving girl, weighing in at 25kgs, is ready to fill your life with joy and excitement. With her tall and agile frame, Vixen is the perfect companion for an active household that can match her spirited enthusiasm for toys, long walks, and playful activities.

A social dog, Vixen thrives on human interaction and loves to explore her surroundings. After burning off some energy with a few zoomies, she’s happy to curl up for a cozy cuddle session, making her the ultimate companion for those who appreciate both adventure and relaxation.

After such a long wait, it’s time for Vixen to find the loving home she deserves. While she may show initial excitement during a meet, with the right guidance, she’ll quickly settle in and provide endless love and loyalty in return. If you’re looking for an active, loving, and snuggly addition to your family, Vixen is the one! Come meet her and see why she’s ready to be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s make sure her wait is finally over!

To meet Vixen, please fill out a DOG and PUPPY Animal enquiry form with Angel-Paws at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Vixen's adoption fee is $300 and she will join your home DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, with up-to-date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART.

Adoption Details:
DOB: 12/07/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes - Older
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes - Very slow introduction
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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Burdekin Water Festival: “We won the Community Event of the Year Achievement Award, for the Burdekin Water Festival – ‘Bring It Back.’ We're very honoured to get it, considering they were going to shut it down, but it’s been a team effort for all of us. We've got quite a big committee, and they're all dedicated. The festival came together in only 13 weeks, so it was an actual achievement to get it off the ground and bring it back. So yeah, it's a real privilege to win.”

Nicole Cervoni: “This year I was honoured enough to win the Young Citizen of the Year award. It means a lot to me, because I think I have worked quite hard this year. I've put in a lot of effort, but I couldn't have gotten anywhere without all the people in Youth Council and the Millaroo social club, who helped me to do everything that I achieved this year. I also want to thank my mum for driving me to and from Millaroo to Ayr all the time to get me to youth council meetings. And to my entire family for supporting me, thank you.”

Shirley Gilmore: “I’m one of the recipients of the Lifetime of Service Silver Award category. Even though I feel humble about receiving it, it means a lot for all the beautiful women and the occasional men that I've met on my breast cancer journey, and being able to help them. I started the support group because we didn’t have breast cancer nurses like we do now. It was all a foreign thing for me. I still run the support group today on a smaller scale, but I’ve met some wonderful, wonderful women on their journey through this support group. To all of them, thank you.”

Kelly Lawry: “With my husband Ben Lawry, and our daughter, Bella, we won Volunteer of the Year award. It was actually a very proud moment to be up there with my family. Actually, we had five nominations from the Ayr surf club and all five people received an award today, so it was very nice to be recognised for the work we do in the community.”

Jennifer Fotinos: “I won the Senior Sportsperson of the Year award, and winning this award means a lot to me. Coming from the Burdekin, I've had to work a lot harder to reach the same opportunities as those from bigger cities, so this achievement is massive to me. But it's not just about me and my personal success. I think this award is also about being Australian and the values of Australia Day by being resilient, community, and hard work.”

Scott McLean: “I'm humbled to be honest to be presented with the Citizen of the Year Award among so many great people in this community that are deserving of it. It's a real honour to win and I really wasn't expecting to. It’s humbling and overwhelming at the same time. I try to hide away from the spotlight, so today was an emotional thing. I couldn't do it without my amazing wife, who does so much behind the scenes. There’s so many people here today that could have also won that award. To be selected is very humbling.”

Betty Durrant: “I won the Lifetime of Service Gold Award. It's an amazing achievement, really. I’m so proud as I just enjoy volunteering I’ve been doing it over 40 years, but I just love it. My husband is currently in hospital and nominated me without me even knowing, so he's quite shocked. Actually, I’m not sure who is more shocked, me or him? I’m just so grateful.”

Gwen Marshall: “I've amazingly received a Lifetime of Service Gold Award, and it's an incredible honour. I'm incredibly humbled and feel very privileged and very thankful. I am in awe of the wonderful group of people who were nominated, and just so very grateful for everybody's contribution into this community, a community that encourages that desire to commit. I’m also grateful for my husband, he’s such a great blessing. I couldn't do half what I do without his encouragement and wisdom.”

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Three of the Burdekin Water Festival committee. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Nicole Cervoni, Young Citizen of the Year. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Shirley Gilmore and her husband. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Volunteer of the Year winner, Kellie Lawry (middle) with husband Ben Lawry, and daughter, Bella. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Jennifer Fotinos, Senior Sportsperson of the Year. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Citizen of the Year award winner, Scott McLean. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Lifetime of Service Gold Award recipient, Betty Durrant. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Gwen Marshall, Lifetime of Service Gold Award recipient. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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