Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Three Burdekin hospital workers have clocked up 120 years of combined service to the Ayr and Home Hill communities. Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Rosemary began at Ayr Hospital in 1985 in the front office before moving into medical records, accounts payable, assets and finance. Janine started in the Home Hill Hospital kitchen and has since worked across kitchen, cleaning and laundry roles at both Ayr and Home Hill. She later became an orderly before moving into her current role as an assistant in nursing at Home Hill. Annemaree began her career at The Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane, working as an enrolled nurse for four years before completing her registered nurse training in Townsville. She returned to the Burdekin after the birth of her first child and now works across the dialysis unit and emergency department at Ayr. The three staff members said their connection to the community, colleagues and variety of work had kept them in the health system for four decades. “Your work colleagues and the friendships you make along the way keep you in the role,” Rosemary said. For Janine, working in her own community and caring for patients has been a key part of her career. “We’ve had some funny moments; just the other night one patient was disco dancing in the hallway with me,” she said. Annemaree said working across different areas had kept her career varied. “I work in dialysis, sometimes in the emergency department, and sometimes on the ward, and because I have always worked across multiple areas, I’ve never felt stuck in one place,” she said. The breadth of responsibilities is a common feature of working in rural hospitals, Ms Wone said. “You need to know lots of different things when you work in a rural or remote hospital setting, so we are very busy,” she said. “But even with how much we have all achieved, I can’t believe it’s been 40 years; it feels like it happened overnight.” CAPTION: Rosemary Bengoa, Janine Warcon and Annemaree Wone have each reached 40 years of service, with the milestone recognised at local staff thank-you events. Photo supplied
Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Photo: David CooperBurdekin community members, local dignitaries, and police gathered at Ayr's Burdekin Community Church on 29th September to commemorate National Police Remembrance Day. The solemn service honoured officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, featuring a wreath-laying ceremony and a reading of the Roll of Honour.Read more here: www.burdekinlife.com/article/burdekin-honours-fallen-officers-on-remembrance-day
Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered on Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. “Someone has to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Someone has to step into the disorder and work to restore order—and that is one of the responsibilities entrusted to our police,” he said. “Today, we honour those who stood. Some stood in circumstances that ultimately cost them their lives, and this day each year ensures that their courage will never be forgotten.” A Police Commissioner’s Address was delivered by Acting Inspector Megan Benson before local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty. Officers then lit memorial candles, before community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths. Among dignitaries were Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last, who called it a “privilege” to join local police in their commemorations. “As a former police officer, National Police Remembrance Day is an incredibly important opportunity to remember those officers who lost their lives while serving their community and to show our support to those who continue to keep our communities safe today,” Mr Last said. “Small regional towns like the Burdekin mean our police officers become involved in a variety of facets in our community and it is part of what makes these roles in our small communities so unique.” “It also means that chances to stand with our men and women in blue should not be overlooked.” A morning tea was held in the church hall following the service. CAPTIONS: 1—Burdekin police, dignitaries and community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honour officers killed in the line of duty. 2—Pastor Peter Holmes, who led the service, said it was a chance to pay tribute to the bravery and service of the fallen. 3—Held at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr, the service formed part of National Police Remembrance Day, observed each year on 29th September. 4—Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci laid a wreath on behalf of Burdekin Shire Council 5—Among dignitaries was Member for Burdekin Dale Last 6—Local officers read the Roll of Honour, commemorating police officers killed in the line of duty 7—Liaison Officers light memorial candles 8—Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields addresses the audience 9—Community groups joined police and dignitaries in laying wreaths Photos: Jacob Casha
New research into how nitrogen moves through soil could offer useful lessons for Burdekin cane growers; but Professor Mike Bell says findings from rainfed wheat country cannot simply be transferred to the district’s irrigated sugarcane systems.
Bell, from The University of Queensland, led a project through the Australian Government’s $20 million Soil Science Challenge Program examining nitrogen movement in clay soils used for rainfed grain production in southern Queensland. Bell said applying the findings directly to flood-irrigated cane would be “a fair stretch”, however, the research does provide insight into how soil type, water and nitrogen interact.
Nitrogen moves through soil with water, meaning the way it behaves can vary considerably depending on the soil. In freely draining soils, nitrogen can potentially move below the active root zone, while heavier clay soils can hold water for longer and create conditions where nitrogen is lost through denitrification.
Bell's research tested whether applying nitrogen to dry soil soon after a previous crop was harvested could improve nitrogen recovery in the following wheat crop, rather than applying it close to planting. Across two seasons, the approach produced better nitrogen recovery in a dry year without additional losses in a wetter year. However, Bell stressed that further testing is required before the approach becomes mainstream.
In the Burdekin, local agronomist Jayson Dowie said the research reinforced principles already relevant to cane production, while highlighting the differences between farming systems.
“There really isn't one nitrogen story for the Burdekin,” Dowie said, pointing to the district’s diverse soils and fully irrigated production system.
He said nitrogen use efficiency was influenced by more than fertiliser rates, with soil health, compaction, drainage, irrigation, weeds, crop establishment and seasonal conditions all affecting how effectively a crop could use available nitrogen. Dowie also pointed to local research into nitrogen timing.
“In one of our larger nitrogen trials we saw better crop responses where nutrition was applied after the first irrigation, and again with later application, compared with applying it immediately behind the harvester,” he said.
While the result raised questions around timing, Dowie cautioned against attributing the response to a single mechanism. He said later applications could also create additional labour and operational challenges, particularly where irrigation fluming needs to be moved. Irrigation itself remains an important part of the nitrogen equation.
On heavier soils, prolonged saturation can increase the potential for nitrogen loss through denitrification, while excessive water movement through lighter soils can increase the risk of nitrogen moving below the active root zone.
Dowie said the next challenge for local research was understanding how nitrogen and irrigation management could be better matched to individual soils and crops.
“The bigger question is how much better we can become at matching nitrogen and irrigation management to what the crop actually needs across the Burdekin's different soils and landscapes, while improving productivity and profitability.”
For Burdekin growers, the national research therefore provides useful evidence about the relationship between nitrogen, soil and water; but not a one-size-fits-all prescription. Further local testing will be needed to determine what strategies deliver benefits under the district’s specific soils, irrigation systems and commercial cane-growing conditions.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Burdekin manufacturers could be in line for a share of a $12.5 million Queensland Government funding round aimed at helping regional businesses invest in new technology and improve productivity.
Round Two of the Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grants Program is now open, with at least half of the available funding reserved for projects located in regional Queensland.
The Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development has confirmed Round One attracted 119 applications across Queensland, with 18 businesses receiving funding. Eleven of those recipients were based in regional Queensland, but the Department has not disclosed any Round One application or recipient figures specifically for the Burdekin.
The latest round offers eligible manufacturers grants between $100,000 and $1.5 million, covering up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs. Applications close at 1pm on 25th November.
The program is aimed at established small and medium-sized manufacturers looking to invest in advanced equipment or manufacturing technology, including robotics, automation, artificial intelligence and systems designed to improve production processes.
Businesses must have between five and 200 full-time equivalent employees, a majority of their turnover must come from manufacturing, and they must have operated in Queensland for at least three consecutive years.
For the Burdekin, manufacturing opportunities are closely tied to the region’s broader agricultural economy, including engineering, fabrication and businesses supplying equipment and services to primary industries.
The Townsville Manufacturing Hub, which services the Burdekin, has also been increasing its focus on technology and workforce capability.
In August and September, subsidised two-dimensional and three-dimensional computer-aided design training was offered in the Burdekin for the first time, including training at the Home Hill campus. The program was designed to help local manufacturers improve digital design capability, accuracy and product development.
The Queensland Government says Round One projects across the State are expected to create more than 300 new jobs and upskill more than 550 existing workers, although those figures are projected outcomes rather than jobs already created.
For Burdekin businesses, the next question will be whether local manufacturers put forward projects capable of competing for the funding.
Round Two is being delivered through a single-stage competitive process, with $12.5 million available and at least 50 per cent allocated to projects located solely in regional Queensland.
Women from across the Burdekin and surrounding districts are being encouraged to secure their place at Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities. Photo supplied
Contributed by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
With final tickets now available, women from across the Burdekin and surrounding districts are being encouraged to secure their place at Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities.
Hosted by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the luncheon will bring women together to connect, share their experiences and celebrate the resilience, leadership and contribution that help rural communities thrive.
Coinciding with the International Day of Rural Women, celebrated globally on October 15, Beyond the Gate recognises the many roles women play across agriculture, local business, community organisations, volunteering and family life.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said the strong response to the event demonstrated the value of creating opportunities for rural women to come together.
“We are delighted to see so many women embracing this event, and with only the final tickets remaining, we encourage anyone considering attending to book as soon as possible,” Sally said.
“Women make an enormous contribution to rural communities, whether they are working on the land, operating a business, leading a community organisation, supporting their families or quietly helping others behind the scenes.
“Beyond the Gate gives us an opportunity to recognise those contributions, strengthen local connections and enjoy a well-deserved celebration together.”
A highlight of the luncheon will be an inspiring presentation from Farm Angels, a national charity dedicated to supporting primary producers and farming families through some of their most challenging times.
Originally established as Drought Angels in Queensland in 2014, the organisation has expanded its support to farmers affected by drought, floods, fires and plagues throughout Australia.
Farm Angels has now assisted more than 4,700 primary producers across over 1,300 communities by providing tailored financial assistance, food hampers, care packs and mental wellbeing support.
Through personal phone conversations and on-farm visits, the organisation works directly with farmers to understand their individual circumstances and provide practical and compassionate support.
Its work recognises the considerable pressure carried by farming families and the importance of helping primary producers remain on the land. This support contributes not only to individual wellbeing, but also to the strength of regional economies, Australia’s food security and the social fabric of rural communities.
Sally said the work of Farm Angels closely reflected the values behind Beyond the Gate and Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s commitment to rural communities.
“Farm Angels understands that behind every farm is a person, a family and a story,” she said.
“Their work is a powerful example of what can be achieved when people genuinely care for one another and provide meaningful support when it is needed most.
“We are proud to welcome a speaker from Farm Angels and give our guests an opportunity to learn more about the important difference the organisation is making throughout rural Australia.”
Guests can also look forward to a special “On the Couch” panel session featuring a range of perspectives and personal experiences, along with valuable networking opportunities, a delicious lunch and drinks.
For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the event represents more than a single day of celebration. It is part of a broader commitment to recognising, supporting and investing in the people who sustain the Burdekin and surrounding rural communities.
“As a Community Bank, our connection to the region extends well beyond providing banking services,” Sally said.
“We want to support initiatives that bring people together, create stronger networks and recognise those whose efforts make our communities better places to live and work.
“Strong rural women help build strong rural communities, and we are committed to continuing to celebrate and support them.”
Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities will be held from 11am to 3pm on Friday, October 16, at Populins Hall.
Only the final tickets remain, making this the last opportunity to join an afternoon of connection, inspiration and celebration dedicated to the remarkable women at the heart of rural life.
Bookings through Humanitix - https://events.humanitix.com/beyond-the-gate-celebrating-the-women-at-the-heart-of-rural-communities
The Jim’s Mowing moniker has long been synonymous with freshly manicured lawns and inch-perfect hedges. In the Burdekin, its operation has evolved well beyond that.
Jim’s Window and Pressure Cleaning, one of the franchise’s latest ventures, has seen homes, offices and public spaces across the region look a little tidier.
Driven by the know-how of Gayl Campbell, a lifelong cleaner, and daughter Kayleen McKenzie, who brings years of pressure cleaning expertise with her from Perth, the service specialises in both interior and exterior property cleaning.
Now offering pressure cleaning for driveways and footpaths, the cleaning arm has grown into a comprehensive property maintenance operation, with free quotes available for regular and once-off work.
Although only 12 months old, the service has already taken on major projects for Burdekin Shire Council and multinational companies across the region, including Shell.
Franchise owner Geoff Campbell said it all grew out of a client demand and the same principles that had helped its other operations become successful.
“We would go to mow a lawn and people would ask, ‘can you clean our house?” he said.
“The whole success of everything has been down to paying attention to detail and quality of workmanship.”
The cleaning service complements the business’s trademark mowing work, which spans everything from lawn mowing and weed spraying to pruning, hedging, gardening, fertilising and rubbish removal.
Need a clean-up? Contact Jim’s Window and Pressure Cleaning on 131 546 for a free quote.
Contributed by selectability
With Queensland Mental Health Week (3-11 October) fast approaching, it's a good time to recognise the impact locals are making to build community and build wellbeing.
For regional coordinator Melissa, supporting people across the Burdekin is strengthened by her lifelong connection to the community she loves.
Born and raised in the region, Melissa joined selectability, bringing almost a decade of experience in the disability sector and a passion for ensuring regional communities have access to the support they need.
“I am passionate about helping people in regional and remote areas as it is often overlooked and assistance is needed,” said Melissa.
In her role, Melissa oversees the day-to-day operations of services across the Burdekin, supporting local employees and ensuring recipients receive high-quality, person-centred support.
While Melissa has only been with selectability for a short time, she has spent almost 10 years working in the disability sector and brings previous experience in childcare.
Taking on the regional coordinator position offered an opportunity to use her experience in a new way while continuing to make a difference close to home.
“I am excited to be challenged in a new role and helping people that need our support in a regional community.”
Having lived in the Burdekin her entire life, Melissa knows firsthand the value of the connections within a close-knit regional community.
“Everything is close and easily accessible, and everyone knows you and is willing to help.”
Since stepping into the role, Melissa says one of the biggest surprises has been discovering the breadth of support already available through selectability locally.
“I didn’t realise how much selectability had to offer in the Burdekin. “There is something for everyone that needs support.”
From NDIS supports to mental wellbeing programs and community connection, Melissa is looking forward to building her knowledge of selectability’s services and strengthening their impact across the region.
For those considering a career supporting others, Melissa says the opportunity to make a difference can be equally meaningful for the person providing the support.
“It is a life changing experience helping others.”
Meet Melissa and the team on Thursday 8 October at the Mental Health Hub, 182 Edwards Street, Ayr for their free community wellbeing event to celebrate Queensland Mental Health Week, learn more about local support and services and connect with the community.
There have been several important community events and opportunities across the Burdekin recently, and I’d like to take a moment to share some highlights with you.
On Tuesday, communities across Australia observed Police Remembrance Day, a significant occasion to honour the men and women of the police service who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It is a day to remember their courage, dedication and sacrifice, and to acknowledge the families, friends and colleagues who continue to carry their legacy. We thank all current and former police officers for their service and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Friday evening, I hosted a Catch Up with the Mayor at the Clare Club. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet with locals, listen to their concerns and discuss the issues that matter most to their community. I would like to thank everyone who came along and shared their thoughts and feedback. If you have never visited the Clare Club, I encourage you to stop by on a Friday night. The atmosphere, company and food were all excellent.
Finally, I’m excited to share news of a fun new initiative as part of the lead-up to the 2027 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival. We have launched the search for the first-ever Sweet Days, Hot Farmers Calendar - think firefighters’ calendar, but Burdekin style. We’re looking for local farmers, contractors and agricultural workers who help make our region the productive and vibrant community it is today. Men and women of all ages are encouraged to nominate themselves, or even nominate a mate, for the chance to become one of the twelve faces of the 2027 calendar. Entries are open until 18 October, and I encourage everyone to get involved and have some fun with this uniquely Burdekin project.
As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss any Council matters, please contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
It was an honour to attend the ‘National Police Remembrance Day’ at the Burdekin Community Church last Tuesday morning. The Remembrance Day is held to honour fallen officers who have served community since 1864. The solemn occasion drew local community members, public representatives and serving officers in the Burdekin. Local police work hard to keep the peace and maintain law and order, thank you for your service.
A reminder tickets are on sale for the ‘Seniors Expo and Luncheon’ on Friday 30th October at the Burdekin Memorial Hall. Join us and enjoy a roast lunch and desert whilst entertainment is provided. Tickets are only $20 and can be booked at the Burdekin Theatre Box office on 4783 9880.
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets take place this Sunday 4th of October, 8am – 12pm.
Some of our major sporting codes are coming to an end whilst others are starting up. The AFL was exciting to watch and I’m afraid Freo didn’t have a fairytale ending. It was shown that you need to play the game right to the end as the Lions came home with a strong burst to win the title. Newcastle Knights had a hard fought win over Penrith in the preliminary NRL final. It was unfortunate one of the game’s elite players, Nathan Cleary, sustained a compound fracture of his ankle.
Sport is a popular pastime in the Burdekin from the younger years to older. Sport espouses qualities of teamwork, cooperation, communication, respect and fair play to name just a few.
Play fair. Wishing you health & happiness.
The service on Chippendale Street, Ayr screened more than 1,710 local women during its last visit in 2024. Photo: Jacob Casha
Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS) has confirmed there are “no plans to reduce or withdraw” the BreastScreen Queensland mobile screening service in the Burdekin amid rumours it could be axed due to low usage.
A THHS spokesperson said the Ayr service is “secure” and “one of the most active mobile screening locations in the north Queensland region,” with more than 650 Burdekin women attending appointments since August.
The service will remain on Chippendale Street until mid-December.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort welcomed the news, calling the service “valuable for our community.”
“I make it a priority to have a screening every two years when the van visits the Burdekin,” she said.
“The appointment takes only around 15 minutes, it is free, and it could save your life.”
BreastScreen Queensland has screened more than one million Queensland women since 1991, detecting over 34,000 breast cancers.
The spokesperson encouraged eligible women aged between 50 and 74 to book their screening every two years.
Appointments can be made by visiting breastscreen.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 20 50.
Stronger Communities Programme—Andrew Willcox MP with students and sailing boat. Photo supplied
Community groups across Dawson can apply for a share of $150,000 in Federal Government funding for local projects.
Grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 are available through the Stronger Communities Programme for small capital and infrastructure projects that deliver social benefits to local communities.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the funding could help groups turn long-held plans into reality.
“Our communities are full of people with great ideas, but sometimes it is the funding that stands between a good idea and getting it off the ground,” Mr Willcox said.
“The Stronger Communities Programme is about backing those local ideas and helping community organisations deliver projects that will benefit the people they serve.
“That could mean new equipment, improvements to a community facility, creating a better shared space or a project that brings people together.”
Projects must cost no more than $50,000 and be completed by 31st March 2028.
Eligible organisations must have an Australian Business Number and meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
Funding can cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs for eligible applicants other than local governing bodies, which can receive up to 50 per cent and must provide matching funding.
Mr Willcox encouraged local groups to put forward projects that would benefit their members and communities.
“Local volunteers do an enormous amount with very little, and I know there are plenty of groups across Dawson with projects sitting on a wish list waiting for the opportunity to make them happen,” he said.
“This is a chance to move some of those projects from the wish list to the work list.”
Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on Sunday 25th October.
Police were parked on Graham Street at 4pm when a white Ford Falcon utility—carrying a dog in the tray—allegedly performed the burnout. Photo: QPS
A 45-year-old Ayr man is facing multiple traffic and animal cruelty charges after allegedly performing a burnout in front of an unmarked police vehicle on Sunday 20th September.
Police were parked on Graham Street at 4pm when a white Ford Falcon utility—carrying a dog in the tray—allegedly performed the burnout.
Officers intercepted the vehicle on Drysdale Street shortly after. The driver was breath-tested and returned an alleged blood alcohol concentration of 0.198.
He was subsequently charged with one count each of driving under the influence of liquor, wilfully making unnecessary smoke, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving an uninsured vehicle, unlicensed driving, and animal cruelty.
Police confiscated the vehicle's registration plates for 90 days.
Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields condemned the alleged actions.
“This is deliberate driving conduct that can put lives at risk and undermines community safety,” Senior Sergeant Shields said.
“The consequences of this dangerous behaviour can be catastrophic.
“Ayr Police are committed to targeting dangerous driving offences through high-visibility patrols and strong enforcement action.”
The man is scheduled to appear in the Ayr Magistrates Court on 19th October.
“They can see the potential in Australia. They’re keen, they're reliable, and they realise the opportunities they have here.” Photos: Ayr Backpackers
Regional communities across the country could be set to lose “millions” under a Federal Government shake-up of the backpacker visa system.
The proposal would introduce caps on second- and third-year Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa places, with applicants now needing to win a ballot—on top of fulfilling the existing regional work requirements—to extend their Australian visit.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who announced the proposal last month, said the changes are part of broader migration reforms that would deliver a “more orderly, fair, and targeted” system.
Ayr Backpackers hostel owner David Esler called them a “betrayal.”
“This is unfair to backpackers. It is damaging to employers. It is deeply harmful to regional communities,” he said.
"The deal was very simple and mutually beneficial. Now we’re telling backpackers, ‘go and do the work anyway, and you might get a spot.’
“We’ve canvassed our [hostel] guests—they’re not going to take that chance … [and] we will lose tens and tens of thousands of workers in regional areas across the country because of this change.”
The changes would cap second-year WHM visas at 45,000, down from about 57,000 last year, with third-year places plummeting from around 31,000 to 5,000.
The mandatory 88 days of work for a second year—and six months for a third—will remain in place, although will no longer guarantee an extension.
Swedish working holidaymaker Frida Dellhammar, a hospitality employee completing her regional work in the Burdekin, said her plans to extend for a third year were ultimately deterred by those odds.
“I love being in this country and I would do a lot of things to extend my visa,” she said.
“But once they [announced the ballot], I thought, ‘there's no way I would spend six months in a very remote place with only a possibility of getting a third year.’”
Ms Dellhammar is one of around 200 guests currently staying at Ayr Backpackers. According to Mr Esler, the hostel accommodates up to 1,200 travellers across a season, with each guest working in town or on surrounding farms.
Mr Esler said any reduction could leave an economic gap in the order of millions, citing Australian Tourism Export Council research that found WHMs spend “more than $32,000 in Australia” on average, with nearly a quarter of that expenditure occurring in regional towns.
Jim’s Mowing franchisee Geoff Campbell, who will have up to five backpackers on his books later this year, said the Burdekin workforce would also feel the backpackers’ absence.
Mr Campbell said his maintenance business, which was struggling to attract workers, was on the brink of demise before backpackers stepped in.
“I had to go to backpackers—I couldn't find any local staff. I’ve been through 75 people in four years,” he said.
“They can see the potential in Australia. They’re keen, they're reliable, and they realise the opportunities they have here.”
Speaking on the reforms, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke argued that no visa category could be exempt from efforts to reach the government’s target of reducing net overseas migration to 225,000.
He framed the WHM caps as a necessary step to ease nationwide housing pressures and give local infrastructure and housing supply a chance to catch up.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said good intentions would not negate the impact of the changes on communities like the Burdekin.
“These people need to get out of their four walls and come out to the real Australia," she said.
“This is not just about people entering our country. These are our workers.”
Ms Dellhammar added: “We’re contributing so much—it’s not like we're just taking and taking.
“We pay taxes. We help out. I don’t know who’s going to fill this void after it gets implemented.”
Ayr and Home Hill police, along with Ayr CIB, has charged six people with a total of 32 drug offences following an operation targeting drug offences across the Burdekin last week.
As part of the operation, police executed a search warrant at a Home Hill address on 20th September.
A 36-year-old man was charged with trafficking in dangerous drugs (methylamphetamine), 23 counts of supplying dangerous drugs and one count of unlawful supply of a firearm.
Police objected to the man's bail and he was remanded in custody.
On 24th September, police executed a search warrant at an Ayr address.
A 62-year-old man was charged with possessing dangerous drugs, supplying dangerous drugs, possessing utensils and possessing proceeds of crime after police located him with $15,000 in cash.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP says regional Australians feel fuel price spikes hardest, with long distances and limited public transport making affordable fuel essential for families, farmers and local businesses. Photo supplied
A Coalition proposal would halve fuel excise when global oil prices rise above a set threshold, with the party estimating the measure could reduce fuel costs by 27 cents a litre.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the proposed Fuel Price Shield would be triggered when the two-week average closing price of Brent crude rises above US$100 a barrel.
The Coalition estimates the measure would save motorists around $15 on a typical tank of fuel.
Mr Willcox said regional Australians could benefit from the proposal due to the distances often travelled between major centres.
“Fuel is not optional in Dawson. We have hundreds of kilometres between major centres, limited public transport and families who need their cars to get to work, school, medical appointments, the shops and everything in between,” Mr Willcox said.
“When fuel prices spike, regional Australians feel it first and feel it hardest. There is simply no easy alternative to driving when you live hundreds of kilometres from the next major centre.”
He said higher fuel costs also affected agricultural producers and businesses reliant on transport.
“Our farmers feel that pressure right through the supply chain. They need diesel to plant, harvest, irrigate, transport and get Australian produce to market. When the cost of fuel goes up, the cost of getting that food from the paddock to the supermarket goes up with it.”
Coalition Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor said the proposal was intended to provide temporary relief when international oil prices rose sharply.
“Fuel is not a luxury. Australians need it to get to work, take the kids to school and keep their businesses running,” Mr Taylor said.
“When global events send oil prices through the roof, Australians should know there is a clear automatic safeguard in place to provide temporary and targeted relief.”
“The Fuel Price Shield would provide certainty. When a serious oil shock hits, the tax comes down automatically. When oil prices return to more normal levels, the ordinary rate is restored.”
Leader of the Nationals and Queensland Senator Matt Canavan said higher fuel prices could also affect the wider economy.
“Higher fuel prices also flow through the entire economy. They increase the cost of moving food, freight and supplies around our country.”
“The Fuel Price Shield is designed to provide temporary relief when international oil markets experience an exceptional shock, while ensuring the ordinary arrangements return once that shock has passed.”
Mr Willcox said the proposal would also help address costs associated with transporting goods.
“This is about more than what people pay at the bowser. Fuel is an input into almost everything we buy in Dawson,” he said.
“It moves our food, our freight, our building materials and our tourism products. When fuel spikes, those costs don't disappear. They are passed through the economy.”
The Coalition has included the Fuel Price Shield and stronger fuel security as part of its broader economic policy platform.
Supplied by the office of Federal Member of Dawson Andrew Willcox
The service on Chippendale Street, Ayr screened more than 1,710 local women during its last visit in 2024. Photo: Jacob Casha
Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS) has confirmed there are “no plans to reduce or withdraw” the BreastScreen Queensland mobile screening service in the Burdekin amid rumours it could be axed due to low usage.
A THHS spokesperson said the Ayr service is “secure” and “one of the most active mobile screening locations in the north Queensland region,” with more than 650 Burdekin women attending appointments since August.
The service will remain on Chippendale Street until mid-December.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort welcomed the news, calling the service “valuable for our community.”
“I make it a priority to have a screening every two years when the van visits the Burdekin,” she said.
“The appointment takes only around 15 minutes, it is free, and it could save your life.”
BreastScreen Queensland has screened more than one million Queensland women since 1991, detecting over 34,000 breast cancers.
The spokesperson encouraged eligible women aged between 50 and 74 to book their screening every two years.
Appointments can be made by visiting breastscreen.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 20 50.
A field of 69 players took to the course, which greenkeeping staff and volunteers had prepared extensively throughout the week. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club
Ann Phelan and Dennis Mondin delivered outstanding performances to capture victory at the historic Clive & Olive Williams Memorial Day at Ayr Golf Club.
Both golfers carded impressive scores of 41 points to top their respective divisions and claim prestigious Honourboard titles.
A field of 69 players took to the course, which greenkeeping staff and volunteers had prepared extensively throughout the week.
In the Ladies competition, Phelan narrowly edged out runner-up Betty Durrant and third-place finisher Kathy Cortabitarte, who both posted solid rounds of 38 points. Sharon Bozzetto, Rhonda Martin, Pat Lawson, and Shirley Jones filled out the rundown.
In the Men's field, Mondin held off a tight challenge from Doug Gudge, who took second place with 40 points, while David McBride secured third with 39 points. Jackson Plate, David Christensen, Garry Spelta, Adam Eathorne, and John Kapeechkin rounded out the top men’s division leaderboard.
The tournament marked a remarkable milestone for the club, celebrating 58 years of continuous sponsorship from the Williams family. Family members Terry and John Williams attended the presentation, reflecting on the tradition honoring their late parents, Clive and Olive.
Ladies' pin shot prizes went to Janet Trezise, Sandra Wight, and Pat Lawson. The men's pin shots were awarded to Shane Power, Joe Spelta, Gerald Henaway, John Cockfield, John Reid, Garry Spelta, Joe Henaway, and Dennis Mondin.
The William Ross State High School Stage Band stopped at Maidavale State Primary School to perform for a combined audience of students from Maidavale State School, Airville State School and Brandon State School. Photo supplied
Contributed by Burdekin Small Schools
On Friday, 31st July, The William Ross State High School Stage Band travelled to Mackay to participate in the annual Central Queensland University Jazz Festival. On the way, the band stopped at Maidavale State Primary School to perform for a combined audience of students from Maidavale State School, Airville State School and Brandon State School, all small rural schools in the Burdekin area.
In a delightful outdoor setting under the huge rain trees in the grounds of Maidavale school, the William Ross Stage Band performed a selection of jazz pieces plus presenting introductions to the various instruments and what they sounded like to a very enthusiastic and attentive audience of students from prep to year six, along with staff from the three schools.
The William Ross students and staff were very positive about the event and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The concert also gave them the opportunity to experience an outdoor performance- the breezes, the wild birds in the background and the school’s pet chickens wandering over for a look!
The event was organised by passionate and dedicated advocate for The Arts, Ms Rose Rush, HOD of The Arts and Languages and Music Co-ordinator at William Ross High, (and former Maidavale student), to extend opportunities to experience live music for rural students and give band members real-life performance opportunities outside the usual, more formal settings.
Also, it is an opportunity to inspire young students to become involved in music as well as inspiring band members to use their music skills to bring joy to as wide an audience as possible and to continue their music studies as a lifelong skill.
The concert was led by Band Master Mr. Barrie Edwards and also playing with the band was Ms Kelly Clarke-Flesser. Both are Instrumental Teachers for the Townsville Cluster of which William Ross is part. Both are also passionate advocates and tireless workers for Music and The Arts in State Schools.
Many thanks for the keen support of the project by the principals of the small schools involved: Host Principal, Mrs. Erin Alloway, Principal of Airville, Mrs. Marian Bugeja and Principal of Brandon, Ms Annette Wellington. Also, many thanks to Brad Keioskie, Head of Curriculum for Small Schools who keenly supported the initiative and transported the Airville and Brandon students to the venue.
Thanks also to East Ayr State School for the loan of music stands for the event. William Ross is very keen to continue this initiative, and we are looking forward to them performing again for more Burdekin small schools on their 2027 tour.
The award recognised Mrs Todeschino's (right) work with Pre-Service Teacher Jennifer Fotinos (left). Photos supplied
Home Hill State High School teacher Lisa Todeschino was rewarded for “exceptional mentorship” at a James Cook University ceremony earlier this month, taking home a Site-Based Teacher Educator Award.
The award, presented at JCU’s Townsville campus on 11th September, recognised Mrs Todeschino's work with Pre-Service Teacher Jennifer Fotinos, who nominated the long-time educator and mentor after undertaking weeks of placement under her tutelage.
Mrs Todeschino said she felt “honoured” by the nomination, crediting her colleagues and close ones for the success.
“In my 32 years as a teacher, I’ve been fortunate to learn from and work alongside so many wonderful students, families, colleagues and mentors,” she said.
“I am also grateful for the support of my family and friends throughout my teaching career.”
She predicted a bright future in the industry for Ms Fotinos, describing her as “a pleasure to mentor.”
“[Jennifer] has the skills, dedication and enthusiasm to be a wonderful educator in what I believe is one of the most important professions on the planet,” Mrs Todeschino said.
“[She] worked hard to create a positive learning environment and build relationships with her students. Her thoughtful use of individual rewards and personalised parting gifts, including positive notes to inspire her students, reflected her genuine care for them and commitment to creating a supportive and encouraging classroom.
“She even baked cupcakes!”
HHSHS took to social media to express their pride and congratulate Mrs Todeschino.
“This special recognition reflects the genuine care, encouragement and professional guidance Mrs Todeschino provided throughout Jennifer’s placement,” a school spokesperson said.
“Mentoring the next generation of teachers is a powerful investment in the future of education, and Mrs Todeschino embraces this responsibility with incredible dedication and professionalism.”
Mrs Todeschino said she was “overwhelmed” by the comments of support beneath the school’s Facebook post.
Home Hill State High School students are getting hands-on experience in modern horticulture through a melon-growing project supported by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI).
The school has spent the past two years working with the DPI Protective Cropping Team as students and staff develop their use of the school’s CRAVO protected cropping facility.
The project has given students studying agriculture and Certificate II in Production Horticulture the opportunity to work with crops while learning about environmental conditions, fertigation, plant development and production data.
Home Hill State High School Agriculture Coordinator Louise Nicholas said the partnership had changed how students approached horticulture.
“DPI have helped us look at horticulture in a different way,” she said.
“They have encouraged us to ask questions, collect and interpret information, monitor our crops carefully and understand the relationship between technology, growing conditions and plant performance.”
DPI team members have visited the school, worked with students and teachers, provided technical advice and spoken to students as guest speakers.
The current melon project has also involved support from Melons Australia, with seed companies HM Clause and Rijk Zwaan allowing the school to trial their melon varieties.
Students can monitor the plants as they develop, identify issues and use information collected from the facility to inform decisions about the crop.
The school said the partnership had also provided opportunities for students from other schools, teachers, industry representatives and community members to see the protected cropping facility in operation.
Its community open day has allowed visitors to tour the facility, speak with students and teachers and learn about the technology being used to grow crops in a regional Queensland setting.
Ms Nicholas said the facility was developing into more than a school-based learning space.
“This is no longer simply a school greenhouse,” she said.
“It is becoming a shared regional education space between schools, industry and the community.”
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC) earlier this year. Photo supplied
Ministerial Infrastructure Designation approval provides greater planning certainty for proposed 182-kilometer North Queensland water pipeline
Contributed by Bowen Pipeline Company
Bowen Pipeline Company welcomes approval of the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) for the Bowen Pipeline Project by the Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development,
Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations, the Honourable Jarrod Bleijie MP.
The Decision Notice marks an important milestone for the project providing formal recognition for the proposed 182-kilometre water pipeline under Queensland’s infrastructure planning framework.
The Bowen Region produces 1/5th of Australia’s vegetables (over 250 million kilograms sold at the farm gate) and is Australia’s largest winter vegetable growing area supplying over 90% of some vegetables supplying Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and internationally. The region has no reliable, secure water supply relying on summer rains.
The approval provides greater planning certainty following extensive technical assessment,
stakeholder engagement and consultation with government, Traditional Owners, landholders,
growers, councils, industry participants and regional stakeholders.
Bowen Pipeline Company Chairman Carl Walker said the decision represented an important step forward for the project and recognised the considerable work undertaken to reach this point.
“This is an important milestone for the Bowen Pipeline Project and for the many people who
have contributed their time, knowledge and support along the way,” Mr Walker said.
“A significant amount of work sits behind this decision, from technical studies and planning
through to engagement with landholders, growers, Traditional Owners, government, councils,
industry and communities across the region.
“There is still work ahead, but the MID gives us greater planning certainty as we continue
progressing the remaining approvals, funding pathways and development work required to
move the project forward.”
The Bowen Pipeline Project is designed to transfer water from the Burdekin River south towards Bowen providing a reliable long-term water supply to support agriculture, industry, horticulture, aquaculture, citrus, algae, green energy and communities.
Mr Walker said the significance of the project ultimately lies in what greater water security could make possible for the region. The project’s broader economic case centres on using reliable water infrastructure to enable greater agricultural production, investment and industry development across the Bowen-Burdekin corridor.
Preliminary economic analysis cited by Bowen Pipeline Company indicates the project has the potential to support around $300 million in annual economic output and approximately 1,200 full-time equivalent jobs when operational across agriculture, industry and regional services.
“For growers, businesses and communities across the region, reliable access to water is
fundamental to planning for the future. Greater water security has the potential to support
agricultural production, encourage investment and create new opportunities for the region over
the long term,” Mr Walker said.
“That is what we are working towards, and this decision takes us another important step
forward.”
Early engagement with prospective water users has demonstrated strong interest in securing
future water allocations from the Bowen Pipeline Project.
Mr Walker said the response provided further confidence in the need for the project.
“Over recent weeks we have seen strong interest from prospective water users and new market entrants, reinforcing both the demand for greater water security and the confidence people have in investing in the future of this region.
“Their participation is an important part of building the commercial foundation required to
progress the project.”
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional
and Rural Development and Member for Burdekin Dale Last said reliable water supply could
unlock significant opportunities for the region.
“Where you have water, you have opportunities. It is those opportunities that are the reason I
support ensuring a reliable water supply for an area that offers so much untapped potential,” Minister Last said.
“There is 100,000 hectares of arable land in the Burdekin-Bowen-Collinsville area that could be
used for primary production if there was a reliable source of water. Whether you look at it from
a self-sufficiency or an export perspective, that is a lot of jobs that could be created and huge
financial benefit for the region.”
“The Crisafulli LNP government has set a target to boost Queensland’s primary production
output to $30 Billion by 2030. To take full advantage of Queensland’s potential when it comes
to primary production, we need to back the infrastructure the industry needs to turn potential
into reality.”
“Approving the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation is a clear sign that the project has received a positive result during public consultation. Whilst the approval does not signal the start of construction, it sends a strong message that the Crisafulli government recognises the potential benefits and has played its part in seeing the project move forward.”
As the days warm up and that familiar North Queensland humidity begins to creep into the air, we all know what lies around the corner. Storm season isn’t far off, and the best time to prepare for severe weather is always well before the first warning sounds.
A big part of getting storm-ready isn't just checking emergency kits; it’s clearing the yard. Loose sheet metal, overgrown palm fronds, forgotten tools, and odd bits of outdoor furniture quickly turn into dangerous missiles in a high wind. Taking a weekend now to clean out gutters, trim hanging branches, and tidy around the shed makes a world of difference when the skies turn dark.
If you’re staring down a pile of useful gear during your spring cleanup that’s too good to throw away, you have a timely solution. The Garage Sale Trail is coming up again in November.
Instead of making endless trips to the transfer station or letting good items sit in the weather, it’s a brilliant opportunity to declutter, make some pocket money, and keep usable goods out of landfill. It is a great community initiative that turns spring cleaning into a social event.
While you're cleaning up over the coming weeks, keep an eye out for elderly neighbours who might need a hand moving a heavy trailer load or securing their yard.
A little effort now keeps our properties tidy, our pockets a bit fuller, and our community safe for whatever the weather throws at us this summer.
The history of St Colman’s Church itself goes back even further, with the original timber church (pictured) dating to 1918. Photos supplied
The Burdekin Catholic Parish is calling on the community to dig through their family albums and keepsakes as it prepares to celebrate a piece of Home Hill history—the 100th anniversary of St Colman’s Parish.
All are invited to its celebrations on Sunday October 25th, which mark a century since the formal establishment of St Colman’s Parish and subsequent appointment of Father William O’Reagan as its first parish priest in January 1926.
The history of St Colman’s Church itself goes back even further, with the original timber church dating to 1918. The building, which cost £1100 and was relocated from Ravenswood, was eventually replaced by its current church in 1968.
In preparation for the celebrations, a small committee has begun researching the parish’s history and is seeking photographs, memorabilia, recollections and stories to help document its growth over the past 100 years.
The committee is particularly hoping to find photographs of former Parish Administrators Father Abraham Cheripuram, who served from 2016 to 2018, and Father Sibichan Kaippanplackal, who served from 2019 to 2021.
Photographs of baptisms or weddings involving either priest would be especially appreciated, while photographs from the parish’s early years between 1926 and the early 1950s are also being sought.
The committee hopes the material gathered will help tell the story of St Colman’s and the generations of families who have been part of the parish over the past century.
Anyone with photographs, memorabilia or memories to share is encouraged to contact the Burdekin Catholic Parish Office on 4783 2316.
A since-removed mobile CCTV trailer was redeployed to the Bruce Highway and Giddy Road intersection late July as part of an ongoing review of driver behaviour at the site. Photo: Jacob Casha
A Burdekin intersection responsible for regular “near misses" and "multiple casualty crashes” is back under the microscope as state authorities continue monitoring the notorious location.
A mobile CCTV trailer was redeployed to the Bruce Highway and Giddy Road intersection late July as part of an ongoing review of driver behaviour at the site.
It follows earlier video monitoring efforts which led the Department to recommend a 10km/h speed reduction around the intersection based on professional engineering judgement, contrasting with initial technical reviews that supported maintaining the existing 100 km/h limit.
Burdekin Shire Council Deputy Mayor and Road Safety Committee Chair Max Musumeci was quick to reiterate Council’s opposition to the speed reduction. Councillors instead unanimously passed a motion in June requesting that TMR prioritise funding for the detailed design and construction of an intersection upgrade.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) spokesperson has since clarified that “no recommendation has been endorsed” at this stage.
"All speed limit changes on the state-controlled road network go through a formal review and endorsement process by the local Speed Management Committee," the spokesperson said.
The regional committee comprises representatives from state transport authorities, Queensland Police, and the Burdekin Shire Council, with Council initiating the current speed review.
Investigations have identified driver behaviour as the primary safety issue—particularly gap acceptance, where a driver misjudges whether a gap in traffic is large enough to safely turn or merge, alongside failure to give way when entering the highway.
The spokesperson said data from the most recent footage will “contribute to the development of a range of treatments to improve safety at this intersection and its approaches.”
“As the review is still underway, TMR is not in a position to comment on potential outcomes,” the spokesperson added.
Queensland has passed new laws increasing penalties for dangerous driving, drink and drug driving, extreme speeding and other high-risk behaviour on the state’s roads. Photo: QPS
Queensland has passed new laws increasing penalties for dangerous driving, drink and drug driving, extreme speeding and other high-risk behaviour on the state’s roads.
The Criminal Code (Dangerous Driving) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026 will replace existing dangerous driving offences with a four-category framework covering motor vehicles and alternative modes of transport.
The reforms increase maximum prison terms to up to seven years for some offences where no death or grievous bodily harm occurs, and up to 25 years where death or grievous bodily harm results.
Minimum licence disqualification periods will also increase, with tougher consequences for serious, aggravated and repeat offending.
Mandatory imprisonment will apply in a broader range of circumstances for serious and repeat dangerous driving offences.
Separate changes under the Transport and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026 will also take effect from 1st December.
Drug-driving penalties will double, while combined drink and drug-driving offences will attract stronger penalties and minimum court-imposed fines.
Drivers caught travelling more than 40km/h over the speed limit will face an immediate six-month licence suspension.
Seatbelt enforcement will also change, allowing drivers to nominate adult passengers so responsibility can be assigned to the appropriate person.
Further changes in 2027 will streamline roadside drug testing and introduce a mandatory drug-driving education program for repeat offenders.
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the reforms targeted behaviours contributing to road deaths.
“Queensland’s road toll has been trending upwards for far too long, and our laws target the behaviours killing people on our roads,” he said.
Two people were taken to Townsville Hospital following a two-vehicle crash in Home Hill on Wednesday, 16th September.
The crash occurred about 2.50pm at the intersection of the Bruce Highway and Kirknie Road, with one vehicle rolling onto its roof.
Police said initial investigations indicated one of the drivers failed to give way, with inquiries into the cause of the crash ongoing.
Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and Queensland Police Service responded to the incident.
As of Monday, 21st September, Ayr Police were unable to provide further information about the injuries sustained by the drivers.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP met with veterans at Parliament House who travelled to Canberra to call on the Labor Government to scrap its proposed $5,000 cap on DVA allied health care. Photo supplied
The Federal Government has scrapped a proposed $5,000 annual threshold for veterans’ allied health services after consultation with the veteran community.
Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh announced the decision on 17th September, saying the Government had heard concerns about the proposal and would remove the threshold from its planned reforms.
The $5,000 threshold was announced in the 2026 Federal Budget alongside a $169.7 million investment to increase fees paid to allied health providers from July 2027. The original proposal would have replaced the existing requirement for veterans to obtain a new GP referral after every 12 allied health sessions with a review once treatment reached $5,000.
Mr Keogh said the Government would maintain its planned increase to allied health fees while consulting veterans and providers on another way to reduce administrative requirements and maintain oversight of treatment.
“We have been listening carefully and today, the Government is taking the proposed $5,000 threshold off the table,” he said.
“[The Government] has a deep respect for our veterans who have, and who continue to serve our country. Anyone who pulls on our nation's uniform to serve in our name deserves nothing less.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox welcomed the decision, saying he had spoken to veterans across the electorate about their concerns with the proposal.
“This is a win for our veterans,” Mr Willcox said.
“The message from veterans was simple... this cap should never have happened. Today, the Government has finally listened.”
The Coalition MP also criticised the Government for introducing the threshold and said the policy had created “worry and uncertainty” for veterans.
Mr Willcox called for Mr Keogh to stand down over the proposal, with Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and Nationals Leader Matt Canavan also welcoming the Government’s decision.
The Government said it would continue consulting with veterans and allied health providers on the revised arrangements.
The Back to School Boost has already provided more than $36.9 million in funding directly to primary school students so far this year. Photo: Ayr State School
Contributed by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last
As school students continue to soak up holiday fun, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has sounded a reminder for parents that it’s not too late to access school-based cost of living relief.
The Crisafulli Government’s Back to School Boost has already provided more than $36.9 million in funding directly to primary school students so far this year.
Mr Last said the $100 credit for each primary school student was able to be used right throughout the year for school-related expenses including uniforms, stationery and excursions.
“We’re providing real support for families with targeted funding relief while ensuring every child, no matter their circumstances, has the resources they need to succeed at school,” Mr Last said.
“This plan sees $330million in support for families across five years with the Back to School Boost set to increase by 50 per cent in 2027 to $150 per primary student.”
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s efforts to make sure every family had the chance to access the funding when they needed it meant there was not a ‘use it or lose it’ clause.
“While there is still time for families to use their $100 credit in Term 4 we know families face many of those school resourcing costs as we prepare to go back to school for the new year.”
“It’s why the Crisafulli Government has allowed for a students unexpended Back to School Boost to roll over, it means you have the control to use the funding when it benefits your family the most.”
“As we roll in to the final Term of the 2026 school year I want to wish students all the best and offer my thanks to our hardworking principals, teachers, teacher aides, cleaners, administration staff and groundskeepers for their dedication and hard work.”
The Burdekin could not get enough of online sensation ‘Catman’ as he pedalled his way into Ayr last week. Photo: Jacob Casha.
The Burdekin could not get enough of online sensation ‘Catman’ as he pedalled his way down Ayr’s Queen Street last week—the latest leg of a 9,000km journey around the country.
The alter-ego of Japanese traveller Kentaro Jin, Catman made headlines in March after pushing a wheelbarrow of his belongings from Carnarvon, Western Australia to Sydney, amassing over one million social media followers along the two-and-a-half-year hike.
After deciding he wasn’t ready for the expedition to end in Sydney, Kentaro set off once again in his trademark leopard-print onesie, this time cycling his way up the east coast before flipping the kickstand down in Ayr at 11am last Friday.
And it wasn’t long before locals noticed. Within hours of his arrival, Kentaro had been offered meals, drinks, and accommodation for the night in a showing of what he called “fantastic” community support.
“[The kindness] has been amazing,” Kentaro said, admitting he had already become a big fan of the town.
“I got to walk around a little bit, talk to children. It's really great.”
Ayrline Hotel Manager Melissa Hitchcock, who provided Kentaro a complimentary room, said locals had flocked to the site all afternoon to catch a glimpse of the social media star—and her “most famous guest.”
“When he arrived here [at around 1.30pm], we had like, a thousand people come in. Within five minutes, someone ran in and gave him some money and a balloon,” she quipped.
“My kids even rang me: ‘Mum, you’ve got Catman staying at the motel!’”
As a result of that demand, Ms Hitchcock announced a designated meet-and-greet opportunity at Queens Hotel that afternoon, which she said was well-attended.
She called Kentaro's willingness to interact with children “inspirational.”
“He’s just full of life,” Ms Hitchcock said.
"He was so happy to greet the kids … who were knocking on his door every 10 to 15 minutes. He's definitely an inspiration with the following he's got.”
Interestingly, it was the children he has encountered on his cross-country voyage that gave it a real purpose.
It’s an adventure Kentaro said began with no particular goal back in 2023. He arrived in Australia eager to satisfy a long-standing itch to travel, after his then-girlfriend broke off the relationship with him in Japan.
The devastation bred determination, and his aimless voyage across Australia became a fundraiser for childhood cancer research, inspired by the kids and families he met along the way. It has since raised more than $70,000.
Still active today, you can donate to Kentaro's cause here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/catman6701
Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin pipped a statewide field of local government leaders to ‘Manager of the Year’ honours. Photos supplied: Burdekin Shire Council
Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin pipped a statewide field of local government leaders to ‘Manager of the Year’ honours at a ceremony in Brisbane earlier this month.
Presented by Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA) at its Annual Local Government Conference on 10th September, the award recognised Mr Magin’s “outstanding leadership and management excellence” and contributions to the Burdekin community.
“Matthew is a highly deserving LGMA Manager of the Year Award winner… [and his] leadership sets a strong benchmark for Queensland local government,” an LGMA spokesperson said.
“He provides clear direction while remaining connected to the people who must deliver it. That is what makes his leadership credible and enduring.”
Having attended the previous 15 LGMA Annual Local Government Conferences with no silverware to show for it, Mr Magin described this year’s recognition as overwhelming, if not a “complete and utter shock.”
“I wasn’t even aware I was a nominee,” Mr Magin said, adding that a trio of nominators—whose identities were “sworn to secrecy”—revealed themselves after his victory.
“I go to these every year, listening to all the other nominations being read out. This year, it was fortunate that it was mine.
“To be up on the stage, looking out at all of the previous winners in the audience and knowing what good managers they are—to be included in that company was incredibly humbling.”
Mr Magin was appointed Burdekin Shire Council CEO in September 2024 after an earlier stint in the role from 2014-2016, with an eight-year spell as CEO of Balonne Shire Council in between.
The past year has seen him oversee the finalisation of the $55 million South Ayr Filtration Plant and the completion of the Anzac Park Pump Track.
However, Mr Magin said the award recognised the entire Council organisation and its engagement with the community rather than “just projects you can cut a ribbon for.”
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the recognition was “fitting and well-deserved.”
“Matthew leads with professionalism, integrity and a genuine desire to achieve the very best outcomes for our community. His leadership extends well beyond the workplace, and his impact can be seen across the community,” she said.
“Although he may not have grown up here, he has embraced the Burdekin as if he has been part of it his entire life. He treats our community with genuine care and respect, and that connection is reflected in everything he does.”
Brandon Bowls Club members Jayson Farry (centre), Jamie Woods (left) and David DeFranciscis (right) on the club greens. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
A whole community stood behind Jayson Farry and the Brandon Bowls Club last weekend as its charity bowls event more than tripled its $10,000 fundraising target. Inspired by Jayson Farry's recent brain cancer diagnosis, the event raised more than $30,000 for two prominent cancer foundations.
(L-R) Brandon Bowls Club members Leo Kenny, Jayson Farry, Jamie Woods, Ben Mills, and David DeFranciscis. Photo: Jacob Casha
A Brandon Bowls Club charity event raised more than $30,000 for cancer care last Saturday, tripling its original $10,000 target as guests enjoyed social bowls under the stars.
Around 300 people packed the club’s Toll Street venue for the event, bowling in support of club member Jayson Farry, who was diagnosed with brain cancer earlier this year.
Raised through gate fees, beanie and hat sales and a “hugely successful” auction, all proceeds will be sent to the Mark Hughes Foundation and Brighter Lives Townsville—the latter dedicating the funds to journals for cancer patients.
Event organiser and emcee David DeFranciscis said the event was one of the “biggest ever hosted by the club.”
“It was just the Burdekin at its best,” he said.
“It was also the atmosphere. Everyone was laughing and joking, everyone got on with everyone—it was just one big, special night.
David estimated 70 non-bowlers stepped up to the mat on the night, while others enjoyed the live music and social atmosphere.
The event also saw Brighter Lives Townsville representative Stephanie Norton deliver a special address; David said her words were instrumental to the success of the fundraiser and raising awareness for the foundation.
“I think a lot of people were surprised by Brighter Lives and what they do. Stephanie spoke very well and inspired everyone,” he said.
Despite smashing fundraising targets, David said night’s greatest success was bringing the community together for Jayson and his family.
“It was a little bit sad that we had to have a brain cancer diagnosis for everyone to get together,” he said.
“Wouldn’t it be nice if we did something like this just to get together as a community without a reason?”
He said the event’s overall success inspired the to make it an annual affair, although admitted Saturday’s edition set a high bar.
“We’re still recovering from the weekend,” David laughed.
"We will probably do something next year, but it probably won't be as big.”
Year 11 students at Burdekin Catholic High School took the lead on R U OK? Day, hosting a school-wide community BBQ breakfast. Photo: BCHS
Year 11 students at Burdekin Catholic High School took the lead on R U OK? Day on 10th September, hosting a school-wide community BBQ breakfast aimed at fostering connection and highlighting the importance of mental health awareness.
Held annually on the second Thursday of September, R U OK? Day is a national day of action encouraging Australians to connect meaningfully with people in their lives and start conversations that could save a life. The initiative highlights how simple, regular check-ins can support anyone navigating life's ups and downs.
The morning event brought BCHS students and staff together over fresh food, creating an open space to start the day with open dialogue.
“It was so much more than a breakfast,” a school spokesperson said.
"Our students took the time to check in with one another, have conversations and make sure people knew they were not alone.”
School leadership praised the senior students for their initiative, kindness, and leadership, noting that their efforts embodied the college's core values.
While R U OK? Day serves as an annual national benchmark, the school community encouraged everyone across the Burdekin region to make checking in on friends, family, and colleagues a regular habit.
Carla Healy earned her place on the week-long tour after topping Raine & Horne's “The Sky's The Limit” leaderboards, which recognise the network's highest-performing representatives. Photo supplied
Raine & Horne Ayr principal Carla Healy has returned from an exclusive study tour in Singapore after being selected as one of eight top performers from across Australia.
Carla earned her place on the week-long tour after topping Raine & Horne's “The Sky's The Limit” leaderboards, which recognise the network's highest-performing representatives.
The tour gave Carla the chance to explore Singapore's real estate industry, urban planning and property developments while connecting with other Raine & Horne representatives from across the country.
Hosted by Raine & Horne Executive Chairman Angus Raine and CEO Chris Nicholl, the group visited Singapore real estate company Hutton's to learn about local market trends, urban development and business growth.
They also visited the Urban Redevelopment Authority's URA Gallery, as well as developments including Aurea at Golden Mile and W Residences Singapore.
Carla said the experience provided an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day running of her Ayr business and gain a different perspective on the industry.
She described the tour as “an experience like no other”, and said she enjoyed celebrating the achievement alongside the wider Raine & Horne network.
The itinerary also included visits to Sentosa Island and Mandai Wildlife Reserve, along with a guided food and history tour through Geylang and a farewell lunch overlooking the city skyline at Level33.
Carla will now travel to Hamilton Island for Raine & Horne's national conference, joining representatives from across Australia for several days of speakers, events and networking.
“Now off to our Conference which is being held on the glorious Hamilton Island, which will be filled with guest speakers and R&H family Australia-wide,” she said.
“There’s lots to participate in with a celebratory cruise on the MY RASCAL to enjoy. Can't wait!”
Sixteen volunteers got busy sewing in Ayr last Sunday morning, hand-crafting 42 care packs for cancer patients during Zonta Club Burdekin's annual sewing bee. Photos: Jacob Casha.
Sixteen volunteers got busy stitching in Ayr last Sunday morning, hand-crafting 42 breast care cushion sets for cancer patients during Zonta Club Burdekin's annual sewing bee.
The group of volunteers—made up of Zonta members and Friends of Zonta—worked steadily from 9am to produce the sets, each containing a cushion, a drainage or totem bag, and a shower bag.
The sets will be delivered on demand to the Mater’s North Queensland Minimally Invasive Surgery (NQMIS) Consulting Suites and Townsville University Hospital, where they’ll be given to people with breast cancer or melanoma, or those who have undergone a mastectomy or lymph node removal from the armpit or groin.
Breast Cushion Coordinator Karen Clarke said the packs were about “spreading joy to those who are going through treatment.”
“Breast cancer affects everybody. This is just to provide that little bit of comfort,” she said.
“A woman leaves the hospital and she’s in pain. She needs a cushion to put under her arm when she’s watching the television or has a seatbelt on. So this is just a great personal aid.
Some packs this year were made with darker colours for men.
Karen said the packs were often felt well beyond Townsville.
“We often get thank you cards from people who have received them—some from as far as Weipa. It just touches everybody.”
(L-R) Clive Williams, Rita Zappulla, Brien Leibinger, John McVeigh. Photo supplied.
Contributed with thanks by the Rotary Club of Ayr
The Burdekin’s two Rotary clubs proudly welcomed Rotary International District Governor Rita Zappulla last Sunday for a special visit celebrating local service, fellowship and the inspiring contribution Rotarians make to their community.
During her visit, Ms Zappulla met individually with Ayr Rotary President John McVeigh and Home Hill Rotary President Clive Williams before joining a full combined meeting of 23 Rotarians from both clubs at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club.
As District Governor, Ms Zappulla supports 80 Rotary clubs and more than 1,800 members across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Timor-Leste. Her Burdekin visit allowed both presidents to share their clubs’ major projects, milestones and ideas for strengthening Rotary’s contribution to the Burdekin community.
Ms Zappulla said one of the greatest privileges of her role was representing the district and celebrating the remarkable work Rotarians were doing in their communities. She praised the dedication of Burdekin Rotarians and the strong local support helping both clubs turn their ideas into meaningful action.
“I’ve been so gratified by the generosity of Burdekin businesses and individuals who have contributed so handsomely to supporting their projects,” she said. “This community is the very best.”
Ayr Rotary expects three of its major fundraising initiatives—the Community Raffle, Burdekin Phone Book and Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race—to raise a combined $70,000 for local, national and international causes.
Because the club covers the raffle’s operating costs, local not-for-profit organisations keep every dollar from the tickets they sell. Ayr Rotary President John McVeigh said up to $50,000 would go to local sporting clubs, school P&Cs and churches.
“All 10,000 raffle tickets have been distributed,” he said.
“The raffle will be drawn on 14th November.”
Home Hill Rotary is working towards a $40,000 all-terrain vehicle that would help Home Hill and Ayr police officers reach remote areas across the Burdekin. President Clive Williams said the club was building on the successful 18-month tenure of lifelong Rotarian Alfio Musumeci.
“We’re coming home strong,” Mr Williams said.
“With the success of the Harvest Festival Mega Markets and Harvest Festival Queen Maddy Gallagher’s fundraising, we’ll make it.”
Residents who would like to meet new people, share their skills and make a practical difference in the Burdekin are warmly encouraged to connect with either the Ayr Rotary Club or the Home Hill Rotary Club.
With a strong focus on practical skills, industry experience, and employability, Burdekin Catholic High School’s Vocational Learning Program is helping prepare students for successful careers across a wide range of fields Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by Burdekin Catholic High School
Burdekin Catholic High School continues to lead the way in providing senior students with diverse opportunities through its Vocational Learning Program for Years 10–12. With a strong focus on practical skills, industry experience, and employability, the program is helping prepare students for successful careers across a wide range of fields.
The school offers a suite of dedicated vocational subjects, including Industrial Graphics, Industrial Technologies, Sport and Recreation, Hospitality and Business, which complement Essential English and Mathematics studies. These subjects provide a robust foundation in both academic and practical learning, ensuring students are equipped with the exact knowledge and capabilities needed beyond the classroom.
A key highlight of the program is the delivery of nationally recognised qualifications directly on campus. Students can undertake a CPC20220 Certificate II in Construction Pathways through the school’s specialised Trade Training Centre, gaining hands-on experience in a purpose-built facility. In addition, the SIT20322 Certificate II in Hospitality is delivered in the school’s industry-standard Hospitality Centre, preparing students for real-world careers in food service and hospitality.
Burdekin Catholic High School also strongly supports students pursuing School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs). Students are engaged in apprenticeships with local employers, combining their classroom learning with valuable workplace experience.
Beyond the school grounds, students benefit from strong regional partnerships. Many attend TAFE Queensland’s Home Hill campus one day per week to study specialised fields such as Automotive and Electrotechnology. These industry partnerships allow students to gain high-demand skills in sectors that are both locally significant and nationally vital.
Principal, Lorraine Wolffe said the Vocational Learning Program reflects the school’s deep commitment to catering to a broad range of post-schooling options.
“Our goal is to ensure every student leaves Burdekin Catholic High School confident in their abilities and equipped with skills that will open doors for their future, whether that be university, further training, or direct employment,” Mrs. Wolffe said.
With a strong blend of classroom learning, industry-standard training, and hands-on workplace experience, Burdekin Catholic High School is proud to provide pathways that prepare students not only for immediate employment, but for long-term, meaningful careers.
“We want our students to be curious, adventurous and willing to have a go.” Photo supplied.
Contributed with thanks by Ayr State School
At Ayr State School, we do things differently — and we are proud of that.
We are serious about learning. Reading is one of our highest priorities. We are committed to ensuring every child develops the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to become a successful reader. Our teachers continually strengthen their practice, use evidence and student data to guide teaching, and work together to make sure every student is supported to make progress.
But we also believe that a great education is about much more than what happens behind a desk.
It is about giving children experiences they will remember.
Recently, our 5/6 students swapped the classroom for fishing rods, campfires and an inflatable water park during an overnight camp at the Barra Fun Park. Earlier, our 3/4s camped at Billabong Sanctuary, getting up close with Australian wildlife and learning in an environment very different from their everyday classroom.
We want our students to be curious, adventurous and willing to have a go. We want them to experience their local and regional community whilst building memories alongside their friends and teachers.
Because some of the most important learning at school doesn't come from a worksheet.
It happens when a child catches a barramundi for the first time, overcoming their nerves and trying something new. When they help a friend, sit around a campfire together or discover an animal they have only seen in a book. They realise, I can do this.
These experiences build something that matters enormously to us at Ayr State: belonging.
We want every child to feel known, valued and connected. Camps, sporting opportunities, celebrations, excursions, house activities and the many other experiences we create throughout the year give students opportunities to form relationships and discover where they fit within our school community.
And when children feel that they belong, they are more willing to participate, take risks, persevere and learn.
That same philosophy sits behind our approach to reading. We don't want children simply to do reading. We want them to see themselves as readers. We celebrate their growth, explicitly teach the skills they need, provide support when learning becomes difficult and keep expectations high.
Our goal is not to create a school where every child has exactly the same experience.
It is to create a school where every child has the opportunity to succeed, to belong and to experience something extraordinary.
That means carefully planned, evidence-informed reading instruction as well as a fishing rod, barramundi or standing beside a crocodile at Billabong Sanctuary!
That's Ayr State School.
We learn. We belong. We have a go. And sometimes, we do school a little differently.
(L - R) – Shae Laidlow, Kirryn Laidlow, Kaydee Miller, Brayden Becke. Photo supplied
Opening doors to university, trades and employment, Ayr State High School is helping Burdekin students build bright futures.
The senior years represent an exciting chapter in a young person's education. Whether a student dreams of attending university, pursuing a trade, entering the workforce, or exploring an entirely different pathway, the right opportunities can make all the difference. At Ayr State High School, students can explore their interests, develop new skills and prepare for life beyond school through a diverse range of academic, vocational and employment pathways.
As a leader in STEM education, Ayr High provides outstanding facilities, specialist subjects and co-curricular opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom. Ayr High students are regularly selected for prestigious programs including SPARQ-ed’s Senior Research Immersion Program, the National Youth Science Forum, and STEM Girl Power Camp. These opportunities are complemented by Ayr High’s exceptional science facilities.
Ayr High’s modern, state-of-the-art science laboratories transform curiosity into understanding, turning lessons into discoveries. In bridging the gap between theory and practice, these facilities enriching learning and ignite curiosity by providing an inspiring environment for practical investigations, collaboration and hands-on learning,
The diverse range of academic learning opportunities on offer at Ayr High are enriched through partnerships with JCU and the Brisbane School of Distance Education. In addition to their suite of subjects and vocational courses, Ayr High also offers additional subjects through distance education. In 2027, senior students will also be able to get a headstart on their tertiary studies by undertaking first year university subjects via JCU Now.
The academic success of Ayr High’s students is reflected in their ATAR outcomes and first round QTAC offers. Our students’ academic achievements are already opening doors, with four Year 12 students recently receiving early university offers for 2027. Congratulations to these students on their outstanding achievement!
Ayr High is also future focused in its education to employment pathways. As a Gateway to Industry School, we offer a diverse range of learning pathways and experiences for students pursuing careers in the health sector. Ayr High is the only school in the Burdekin to offer a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance as part of its RTO arrangements. This qualification enables guaranteed entry into several JCU undergraduate courses as well as direct employment in the health sector. Currently, Ayr High has several Certificate III students undertaking traineeships with Queensland Health, combining study with valuable workplace experience.
As the Burdekin’s largest secondary school, Ayr High also responds to the needs of our local workforce through school-based apprenticeships, TAFE in Schools and traineeships. In another first for the region, we have created a pathway for students who wish to be teacher aides, with one of our students securing a traineeship whilst still at school.
At Ayr High, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to find their own path to success. By providing a range of senior school learning opportunities and pathways, Ayr High is preparing young people for the future.
A bright future for our students means a stronger future for the Burdekin—and that is something worth celebrating.
Dry conditions have helped keep the 2026 Burdekin crush moving, with Kalamia Mill expected to be the first Wilmar factory to finish the season. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia
Contributed with thanks by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables
The Burdekin sugar crush is powering towards an October finish, with predominantly dry conditions helping harvesting and transport crews maintain strong progress across the district.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables reported on September 11th that its eight North Queensland mills had processed 9.24 million tonnes of cane, representing about 66 per cent of its estimated 13.85 million tonne crop.
In the Burdekin, 15 weeks of predominantly dry weather have supported harvesting and cane transport, while sugar content has also been performing better than expected.
Season-to-date Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS), a measure of the recoverable sugar in cane, is tracking 0.51 of a unit above Wilmar's budget.
The stronger CCS result is providing some relief from reduced cane tonnages this season.
With the crush now well advanced, Kalamia Mill is expected to become the first of Wilmar's eight factories to finish for the year, with crush-out currently forecast for mid-October.
The Burdekin's remaining three Wilmar mills are expected to finish by the end of October.
Across Wilmar's other milling regions, conditions have produced mixed results.
In the Herbert, the crop is cutting at 97 per cent of the adjusted estimate, while weekly CCS has climbed to 14.35, more than one unit above budget for this stage of the season.
Further south, Proserpine Mill is approaching one million tonnes crushed, although persistent dry conditions have affected the crop, which is cutting at about 94 per cent of its adjusted estimate.
At Plane Creek, harvesting conditions have remained favourable and CCS is well above budget at a season-to-date average of 14.82. However, Wilmar reported the lack of in-season rainfall was contributing to a significant reduction in yield.
Wilmar expects its first factory to finish crushing in mid-October, with the final mill scheduled to finish by mid-November.
Rehabilitation work is underway along about 1.2 kilometres of eroded Burdekin River bank at Airville following major flooding in 2025. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
Work is underway to rehabilitate about 1.2 kilometres of eroded riverbank along the Burdekin River at Airville following major flooding in 2025.
The flooding caused significant erosion at the site and partially damaged an experimental pilefield structure that had been constructed in 2022.
The rehabilitation works are aimed at stabilising the riverbank, reducing further soil loss and helping limit the amount of fine sediment entering the Great Barrier Reef.
The project includes rock protection, reshaping of the damaged bank, revegetation and the installation of timber groynes.
Timber piles recovered from the failed structure are being recycled and used as part of the new works, helping protect the riverbank and surrounding riparian vegetation while making use of materials already on site.
The original pilefield was damaged when floodwaters exceeded its design specifications, highlighting the challenges involved in carrying out rehabilitation work within a dynamic river system such as the Burdekin.
Civil IQ completed the detailed design for the latest rehabilitation work, with input from the Burdekin Shire Rivers Improvement Trust, which is overseeing construction.
The works form part of the six-year Burdekin Landscape Repair project, which focuses on reducing fine sediment from Dry Tropics catchments through targeted gully and streambank repairs, along with improved land management practices.
The project is funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program.
Further updates are expected as the rehabilitation progresses, including before-and-after images showing how the site changes as the works take shape.
When Geoff Campbell became a Jim’s Mowing franchisee in 2022, he wanted to create something for his daughter Kayleen to sink their teeth into. Photo: Jacob Casha.
When an 80-year-old Geoff Campbell became a Jim’s Mowing franchisee in 2022, his goal was twofold; retire himself and his wife Gayl, and create something for his daughter Kayleen and her husband to sink their teeth into.
He never quite anticipated that four years on, he'd be handing them the keys to a multi-million-dollar operation spanning a large chunk of North Queensland, becoming something of a poster boy for the Jim’s franchise in the meantime.
And after a journey of rapid business growth and national media coverage, Geoff’s finally getting the retirement he originally set out for.
Kayleen and husband Stan joined Geoff in the Burdekin last month, leaving their life in Perth to take the reins of the franchise and finally give her parents a chance to step back.
“We literally packed up our whole life. My husband retired from trucking after 49 years, and now we’re here to try and retire the parents,” Kayleen said.
The couple now have the task of building on everything Geoff has created.
It began as a relatively modest Cannonvale franchise. Within a year, it had clients across Airlie Beach, Townsville and the Burdekin. All the while, Geoff, who had spent most of his life in mining and construction, had become one of Jim’s Mowing’s biggest success stories, appearing on Australian television to tell his story.
And his formula is simpler than you would imagine.
“I’ve never passed an exam in my life,” he quipped.
“Everything I've achieved is through respect, integrity, loyalty, and common sense.”
Kayleen added: “We’ve got big shoes to fill.”
“We’ll just keep it as it’s running and expand as we go. As long as we have [Geoff] still here, we’ll be fine!”
Kayleen steps into Jim’s Mowing with pedigree of her own, having previously run her own Perth cleaning business with 38 private customers before making the move east.
Her experience comes at a time when the business has expanded well beyond its mowing roots, now operating across the region under three Jim’s banners—Mowing, Handyman and, most recently, Window & Pressure Cleaning.
The team handles everything from regular lawn mowing, gardening, pruning and hedging to rubbish removal, weed spraying and gutter cleaning, as well as home and office cleaning and pressure cleaning.
But Kayleen said the business and its services are only as good as the people behind them.
“Our staff are our extended family,” she said.
“If we didn’t have the team we have now, we wouldn’t have the business.”
And with family now steering the ship, Geoff says the business is preparing for “quite a few developments” involving multinational companies.
But for now, he's just “really proud” to have his daughter onboard.
“What parent wouldn’t be?”
For more information on the business and its services, contact Kayleen on 0437 368 060 or Geoff on 0439 799 544
The Burdekin Aquatic Centre has reopened its doors to the public after major upgrades. Photo: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin Aquatic Centre has reopened its doors to the public after major upgrades, with Home Hill Swimming Pool now set to close for its own “critical refurbishments”.
The Ayr pool reopened on Saturday 12th September after an extended winter closure to accommodate the construction of a new amenities block among other upgrades.
The works—supported through the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program—saw the new amenities block relocated closer to the facility’s Macmillan Street entrance to improve accessibility and convenience for users.
The relocation was recommended in the Burdekin Aquatic Centre Masterplan after the new entrance and kiosk left the existing amenities at the opposite end of the site. Community feedback also supported moving the facilities closer to the entrance.
The new block is fitted with modernised male, female and unisex toilets, and leaves the door open for a grassed area along the Queen Street side of the facility.
The upgrade is the latest stage of a decade-long program of improvements at the aquatic centre, which has also included upgrades to its pump and filtration systems, the installation of a multi-million dollar water park and relocation of the primary entrance to Macmillan Street.
Meanwhile, Burdekin Shire Council has announced temporary closures for Home Hill Swimming Pool, which is set for its first major refurbishment since opening in the 1960s.
The pool will close from Wednesday 23rd September to Friday 4th December to allow contractors to “safely undertake a comprehensive program of upgrades to improve the facility's safety, functionality and amenity,” says Council.
The $1.2 million Works for Queensland-funded project will include repairs to the main and toddler pools, new handrails, entry steps and compliant fencing, as well as electrical and safety upgrades.
The works will also deliver a new gazebo and barbecue shelter, additional picnic areas and refurbishment of the pool surrounds and concourse areas.
Council said the project will help ensure the Home Hill pool “remains a safe, welcoming and functional community facility for years to come,” acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the temporary closures.
A major community project aimed at improving emergency response across the Burdekin is a significant step closer to becoming reality, thanks to a $15,000 contribution from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. Photo supplied.
Contributed with thanks by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
A major community project aimed at improving emergency response across the Burdekin is a significant step closer to becoming reality, thanks to a $15,000 contribution from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr.
The funding will support the Rotary Club of Home Hill's major 2026 project to purchase an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for local Queensland Police, helping officers reach rural and difficult to access locations across the district.
Rotary has set a fundraising target of $40,000 for the project, with the Community Bank contribution providing an important boost as the club moves closer to achieving its goal. The club hopes to present the ATV to local police during October.
Rotary Club of Home Hill President Clive Williams said the idea emerged after local police officers attended one of the club's weekly meetings and spoke about the need for an ATV.
Police had previously sought funding through normal government channels but had been unsuccessful due to budget constraints. Recognising the difference such a vehicle could make locally, Rotary decided it was a project worth getting behind.
The ATV would provide police with greater access during floods, disasters and other incidents, particularly in locations such as cane fields, beaches, river areas and other terrain that can be difficult to reach using conventional vehicles.
Mr Williams said having the equipment based locally was particularly important for the Burdekin.
“For me, it’s about having the right equipment here when our police need it, rather than waiting for an ATV to come from Townsville,” he said.
“The Burdekin has plenty of challenging terrain and, particularly during a flood or other emergency, having those wheels on the ground locally can make a real difference to response times and community safety.”
The project has the potential to benefit people right across the district.
For a community service organisation such as Rotary, Mr Williams said a $15,000 contribution represented an enormous step forward.
Not only does it provide considerable momentum towards the $40,000 target, but it also demonstrates the value local organisations and businesses can have.
The club continues to support local charities and organisations, youth initiatives including the RYDA road safety program, and community events such as the Mega Markets and Home Hill Harvest Festival Rotary Ball. Recent financial support has also been provided to CORES, St Vincent de Paul and the Burdekin Chaplaincy.
“There’s a real sense of pride in knowing that the money raised by local people and businesses stays here and is turned into something that makes a tangible difference to our neighbours, families and the wider community,” Mr Williams said.
With only a few thousand dollars now remaining to reach the target, Rotary Club of Home Hill is encouraging local businesses and community members who would like to support the project to contribute to its GoFundMe campaign.
For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, supporting the project reflects its commitment to ensuring money generated within the community continues to create benefits for the people who live there.
It was wonderful to attend the Giru Show last Saturday, which this year also celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Giru School of Arts Hall. Standing in a building with such a rich history certainly makes you reflect on the many memories created within its walls over the past century. From weddings and birthday celebrations to community events, the hall has played an important role in the lives of generations of local families.
The anniversary held special meaning for me. My parents were married in Giru, with their wedding reception held in the hall, and I also fondly remember attending the Giru Debutante Ball, which was one of the district's major social events in its day. Congratulations to the Giru Show Committee and all volunteers who continue to keep this wonderful community tradition alive. As I often say, these events simply would not happen without volunteers giving their time and energy for the benefit of the community.
Recently, I joined Regional Development Australia on a two-day road trip to Mount Isa. Along the way, we met with several mayors and discussed the opportunities and challenges facing regional communities. While every region has its own unique circumstances, many of the issues we are tackling are remarkably similar. It was encouraging to see the west looking so vibrant and prosperous, although the state of some roads certainly highlights the ongoing infrastructure challenges facing remote Queensland.
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the Flinders Discovery Centre in Hughenden. Learning that the centre welcomed more than 19,000 visitors in 2025 was a great reminder of the value tourism brings to regional communities. Compared to my last visit, the west is looking stronger than ever.
Finally, a reminder that our library team offers free one-on-one assistance for residents wanting help with their mobile phones, tablets or digital devices. Whether you're learning the basics or need help troubleshooting an issue, our staff are here to assist and are available by appointment on Mondays in Home Hill and Tuesdays to Thursdays in Ayr. Contact your local branch to book an appointment.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
The new Ayr industrial estate is officially open and I can’t be more thrilled. This is a great example of strategic planning for our Burdekin’s future. This was a very difficult project that was not without its engineering challenges that put some of our young engineers through their paces. What a great experience for them and a great outcome for the town. With some blocks under offer and plenty of interest in the remaining blocks, I’m certain that this new land will play host to some great new business and aid some existing businesses to grow and prosper. The Burdekin’s future is bright indeed.
“We cannot lose sight of the bigger issue facing this stretch of highway—flooding.” Photo supplied.
Opinion of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
I welcome the commencement of new overtaking lanes at Goorganga Plains, which will deliver
an important safety improvement for motorists travelling between Proserpine and Mackay.
I have been advocating for safety upgrades along this section of the Bruce Highway since my
time as Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, and I have continued that advocacy since
being elected as the Federal Member for Dawson.
There simply aren't enough safe opportunities to overtake between Proserpine and Mackay, so
these new lanes are a welcome step forward.
But we cannot lose sight of the bigger issue facing this stretch of highway, flooding.
The latest announcement confirms that while construction is underway on the overtaking lanes,
the major flood resilience works are still only at the design stage.
That is disappointing.
The proposed project would raise around 10.6 kilometres of the Bruce Highway, improve
drainage and deliver new bridges and intersection upgrades to keep this critical connection
open for longer during major weather events.
After years of flooding, closures and repeated repairs, we should be moving towards
construction by now, not still designing the solution.
Every wet season that passes means more disruption for local communities, more uncertainty
for freight operators and tourism, and potentially more taxpayer dollars spent repairing
infrastructure that we already know needs to be made more resilient.
We have known about the vulnerability of this section of the Bruce Highway for years.
How many more wet seasons do we have to go through before we get on with the job of
fixing it properly?
I welcome the investment in passing lanes, and I will continue to support practical safety
improvements along the Bruce.
But the Government needs to provide some clarity on the flood resilience project.
Why is it taking so long to get this critical upgrade from design to construction?
Dawson needs a Bruce Highway that is not only safer to drive on when the sun is shining, but
one that can keep communities connected when the rain comes.
We don't need another wet season of temporary fixes. We need the long-term
infrastructure investment this region deserves.
Ayr Police and Ayr CIB, with assistance from Home Hill, Giru and Clare police, have recently been targeting drug offences, with a number of people charged or diverted over the past fortnight.
11th September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]Police executed a search warrant at a residence in Conlan Street, Ayr, where methylamphetamine, cannabis and drug utensils were located.
The 35-year-old male resident was charged with possession of dangerous drugs exceeding schedule, possessing utensils and possessing a weapon.
He was released on bail to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19th October.
7th September — Wunjunga[Text Wrapping Break]A 38-year-old Townsville man was charged with drug driving after being intercepted by police at Wunjunga. The man tested positive to methamphetamine.
6th September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]Police intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr, and located drugs during a search.
A 50-year-old Home Hill man was drug diverted in relation to the matter.
5th-7th September — Ayr/Townsville[Text Wrapping Break]A house on Edwards Street, Ayr, was broken into on 5th September and a vehicle was stolen.
On 7th September, two youths were located in possession of the stolen vehicle in Townsville.
A 14-year-old girl was charged with burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, fraud, unlicensed driving and three counts of breach of bail.
A 15-year-old boy was charged with burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, fraud and one count of breach of bail.
Police opposed the youths' bail and both have been remanded in custody.
5th-6th September — Home Hill[Text Wrapping Break]A Home Hill business was broken into late on 5th September and items were stolen.
Police identified the suspects and, on 6th September, charged a 14-year-old Home Hill girl and a 12-year-old Ayr girl with entering premises and committing an indictable offence.
Both youths are now on strict bail conditions pending their upcoming court appearance.
3rd September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]Police observed a 26-year-old man doing a burnout on Queen Street, Ayr. He was subsequently intercepted and charged with drink driving and wilfully making unnecessary noise.
3rd September — Home Hill[Text Wrapping Break]Police intercepted a vehicle on Fourteenth Street, Home Hill. The 42-year-old male driver was charged with drink driving.
2nd September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]A 32-year-old Ayr woman was charged with 13 counts of supplying a dangerous drug, methylamphetamine. The alleged offending occurred between 19th July and 23rd August.
The woman is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 19th October.
2nd September — Brandon[Text Wrapping Break]Police intercepted a vehicle at Brandon and subsequently located drug paraphernalia during a search.
A 36-year-old woman was issued with a Notice to Appear in Court for possessing drug utensils and unlicensed driving.
1st September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]A couple reported the stealing of a bag containing personal property and $9000 in cash.
Police inquiries immediately identified possible suspects, resulting in an emergent search of a residence in Brisbane Street, Ayr, where the stolen property was located.
Two 45-year-old Ayr women were issued with Notices to Appear in Court for possessing stolen property and possessing a drug utensil.
A 31-year-old Townsville man and a 15-year-old Ayr youth were also located in possession of drug paraphernalia and accepted a drug diversion for possessing a utensil.
1st September — Alva Beach
Police executed a search warrant at an address in Alva Beach and located drugs and utensils.
A 32-year-old man was charged with five drug offences.
1st September — Ayr[Text Wrapping Break]A 57-year-old Sunshine Coast man was charged with drink driving after being intercepted for an RBT on Edwards Street, Ayr.
The Queensland Fire Department reported the roof and second floor of the pub had collapsed. Photo: Jacob Casha.
An Ayr Fire and Rescue crew responded to a blaze that left an unoccupied, heritage-listed Townsville pub partially collapsed last Friday.
The 125-year-old Great Northern Hotel—which had been closed since 2015—went up in flames at roughly 6am, with firefighters bringing the blaze under control by the afternoon.
The Queensland Fire Department reported the pub’s roof and second floor had collapsed, while Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed two people were taken to hospital in stable conditions.
Queensland Police Service is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, with Townsville District Detective Inspector David Barron not ruling out suspicious circumstances.
An Ayr Fire and Rescue spokesperson said the station had sent a single fire appliance as part of a “third-alarm response”.
A fire appliance from Ingham also attended the scene.
The spokesperson said off-duty permanent staff backfilled the Ayr station while the crew was in Townsville, later responding to a double-truck rollover in Guthalungra at approximately 2.20pm, where they cleaned up and mitigated a 200-litre diesel spill.
No injuries were reported in the Guthalungra incident.
Burdekin Shire Council will receive $270,000 through the Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program to strengthen local compliance, surveillance and enforcement. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.
Contributed by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP
Illegal dumpers in the Burdekin are being put on notice, with the Crisafulli Government funding a dedicated officer to help Burdekin Shire Council catch offenders and clean up the local community.
Burdekin Shire Council will receive $270,000 through the Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program to strengthen local compliance, surveillance and enforcement.
The funding will support a dedicated Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer focused on identifying illegal dumping, investigating incidents and building cases against offenders.
The three-year tenured position will provide a focused effort of preventing waste materials entering waterways in three main areas along the Burdekin River and Anabranch as well as the northern and southern boundaries.
It is part of a $13.7 million investment over three years by the government to support 52 Queensland councils in the fight against illegal dumping.
Across Queensland, councils cleaned up more than 13,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste last year—equivalent to more than 1,200 garbage truck loads.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said illegal dumping was a scourge on local communities across Queensland.
“Illegal dumping is a scourge on communities like the Burdekin. It damages our environment and leaves locals footing the bill to clean it up,” Minister Powell said.
“Queenslanders deserve to live in clean communities and enjoy the lifestyle that makes our State such a great place to live.
“If you think you can dump rubbish in the bush, on the side of the road or in the community and get away with it, think again.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said empowering Burdekin Shire Council to take proactive action on illegal dumping was a crucial step towards providing cleaner community spaces that everyone can enjoy.
“The new Illegal Dumping Compliance Officer will have the tools at their hands to properly investigate incidents and hold those offenders to account,” Mr Last said.
“It’s no secret the Burdekin is renowned for the lifestyle it provides especially when it comes to our beaches, creeks and river systems. By doing our part to mitigate illegal dumping we ensure our favourite spots to get outdoors with our family remain pristine for generations to come.”
What began as a modest fundraising goal has turned into an incredible show of Burdekin generosity, with $1,403.10 raised for Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Organiser Kaylee Boccalatte initially hoped the fundraiser might collect around $200, but support from across the community saw the final total climb to more than seven times that amount.
The funds could provide around a fortnight of accommodation for families needing a home away from home while their child receives care.
Community members supported the cause by donating, buying raffle tickets, visiting the fundraising stall and spreading the word.
Local businesses My Vibe Homewares and Slice of Europe also donated prizes, while Burdekin School lent a game board to support the fundraiser.
Kaylee credited the result to the community, saying while her team collected the funds, the generosity behind the $1,403.10 total belonged to the Burdekin.
A small idea, a big heart, and another beautiful example of locals looking out for others.
Hotel Pioneer will welcome locals young and old from 11.30am on Saturday, 19th September for a day of live music, food, beer, and Oktoberfest-themed activities.
We've all heard of Oktoberfest.
We know there's beer. We know there's music. We know there are rowdy Germans in jumpsuits.
While you might have to travel a few thousand kilometres to find the latter, the rest will be at Hotel Pioneer in Brandon next weekend as it celebrates the famous German festival.
The hotel will welcome locals young and old from 11.30am on Saturday 19th September for a day of live music, food, beer, and Oktoberfest-themed activities.
With tunes courtesy of local musician Chris Quagliata, guests will go head-to-head in keg rolling, pretzel-eating competitions and a host of other challenges, with prizes up for grabs in each.
And if you’re feeling extra German (or happen to have some Trachten lying around), rock up to the venue donning your best Oktoberfest outfit for a chance to be crowned “best dressed”.
There’s no pressure to compete at all, though. The event will cater to locals of any age and beer-tolerance, with children’s activities keeping kids busy while taps flow throughout the day.
Traditional German meals will also be available as part of an all-you-can-eat buffet.
While it won’t quite be Munich, Hotel Pioneer General Manager Kirsten Loader said the spirit will be there in full.
“I lived in Germany when I was younger. I wasn’t allowed to partake because I was quite young (laughs), but I’ve seen how much fun they are,” Kirsten said.
“We won’t have the big tents, but we’re going to have a live performer, games, beer, and lots of food, which I think is the main premise.”
Tickets for the event are already available online, each including a special Oktoberfest meal and a beer.
$15 commemorative Hotel Pioneer steins will also be available on the day.
Book now by visiting https://thepioneer.com.au/elementor-1030/ or calling 47 82 5255.
Australia’s agricultural production is forecast to remain close to record levels this financial year, despite challenging seasonal conditions and higher fuel and fertiliser costs.
Australia’s agricultural production is forecast to remain close to record levels this financial year, despite challenging seasonal conditions and higher fuel and fertiliser costs.
The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) has forecast the gross value of agricultural production will reach $99.4 billion in 2026-27.
The figure would be the second-highest on record, following agricultural production exceeding $100 billion in 2025-26.
When fisheries and forestry are included, the combined value of production is forecast to exceed $105 billion.
ABARES has also forecast the value of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry exports to reach $80.8 billion in 2026-27, which would be the third-highest result on record.
The forecast comes as producers face higher input costs and difficult seasonal conditions, with the Federal Government saying disruption linked to the war in the Middle East is also affecting fuel and fertiliser costs.
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the forecast demonstrated the resilience of Australian producers.
“This latest forecast shows that despite challenging seasonal conditions and disruption from the war in the Middle East which is impacting globally, our agricultural production value continues to remain strong,” Ms Collins said.
She said the Government would continue working with farmers and producers on trade opportunities and support measures.
Assistant Agriculture Minister Anthony Chisholm said producers were continuing to adapt to changing climate and geopolitical conditions.
The Government said it was investing more than $14 billion through its Strengthening Australia’s Fuel Resilience package, which includes measures aimed at securing fuel and fertiliser supplies.
It is also providing an additional $1 billion in concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation from this financial year.
According to the Government, farmers saved about $34 million in interest payments during the first half of 2026 through Regional Investment Corporation lending.
Mr Chisholm said the Government would continue working with industry to improve productivity, expand market opportunities and maintain Australia’s competitiveness in global agricultural markets.
In the last week of August, Ayr State High School turned purple for its annual Wear It Purple Day, supporting members of the school community who identify as LGBTIQA+ and recognising those who are respectful and supportive allies.
As well as rolling out the purple T-shirts and decor, members of Headspace Townsville and the Burdekin Community Association attended the event to share resources about mental health and wellbeing with students.
Co-founded in 2010 by Katherine Hudson and Scott Williams, Wear It Purple Day was established in response to concerns about bullying, exclusion and a lack of acceptance among young people. This year's theme, Colours of Courage, focused on the bravery involved in creating inclusive and welcoming spaces.
“This event focuses on celebrating diversity, inclusion and raising awareness so that every person who attends Ayr High feels safe, respected and supported, as receiving an education is important to future opportunities,” a school spokesperson said.
Beyond opening up important conversations among students, the annual initiative serves as a reminder that creating an inclusive community is a shared responsibility that begins with courage – a courage to stand up not only for yourself, but for others too.
John Winn has been recognised for 26 years of volunteer executive leadership with the Burdekin State Emergency Service as he steps back from his role as Deputy Local Controller. Photo supplied.
John Winn has been honoured for over two decades of voluntary executive leadership with the Burdekin State Emergency Service (SES) following his decision to step down as Deputy Local Controller.
John was presented with a special Certificate of Appreciation recognising his 26-year tenure in executive roles, which included nine years as Ayr Group Leader alongside terms as Acting Local Controller, Local Controller, and Deputy Local Controller.
Current Local Controller Cheryl Wade said the award was a rare gesture, presented to acknowledge his “above and beyond support as a volunteer”.
“John would jump at a call to serve and protect his community,” she said.
John has spent 38 years with the SES, joining in 1988 after Cyclone Charlie swept through his home community of Alva Beach.
Since then, he has responded to cyclones, floods, and search operations across Queensland, with deployments reaching as far north as Innisfail and as far south as Grantham.
As of November last year, John had logged 11,232 hours of volunteer community service—though he said the actual figure was considerably higher once after-hours calls, maintenance, and administrative work were taken into account.
That commitment is a family legacy. His wife Rosemarie has given 31 years to the SES, while their children Nathan, Brendan, and Megan have all served. Together with extended family, the Winn family’s total contribution to the Burdekin SES stands at 148 years of volunteer service.
John said the motivation behind those decades of service comes down to the reaction on the ground.
“Perhaps the best part of the SES is the ‘thanks’ you see on people’s faces when you and other SES members show up to assist them in what is their darkest hours,” he said.
While stepping down from his executive responsibilities, John will remain with the Burdekin SES Ayr Group as a Senior Field Officer. He encouraged community members to consider getting involved.
“There is always a role for anyone who wants to join,” he said.
“Everyone has something to give.”
Anyone interested in joining can attend a Burdekin SES Monday night meeting at 7pm at 4 McCathie Street, Ayr Industrial Estate.
(L-R) Leaders Ian Zaro, Gerald Henaway, Ollie henaway, and Mary-Anne Haller, in front of the organisation’s Cunningham Street hangout. Photo: Jacob Casha.
It all started with basketball and barbecues.
That was Gerald Henaway’s answer to the youth crime plaguing the Burdekin 40 years ago.
Gerald, a Burdekin local and youth worker at the time, recalled a period that saw nearly three break-and-enters a day. Meanwhile, illegal marijuana operations riddled the Burdekin River, property theft was running rampant, and the Indigenous community’s reputation was paying the price.
He knew something had to change.
“I saw all these indigenous kids getting involved in drugs and committing offences … and I wanted to make a difference,” Gerald said.
“The mayor, Townsville Police and local service providers—we all sat down to address the crime which was real bad at the time, and started with basketball and barbecues.
“We threw money out of our own pockets, and it all just grew out of that.”
Those efforts gave rise to BAYWatch—Burdekin Area Youth Watch—which, four decades later, has grown into an award-winning youth program supporting more than 100 Indigenous and disadvantaged local children.
And the mission hasn’t budged.
“We just want to see these kids bring real value to the community,” Gerald said.
He said the group is a way to keep children and young adults connected, educated, and active, prying them away from crime.
And if you’ve ever wandered past their Cunningham Street hangout in Ayr, you’d see they keep quite busy.
Led by Gerald, wife Ollie Henaway, daughter Geraldine Henaway, Ian Zaro, and Mary-Anne Haller, the program offers a six-day-a-week after-school program that engages children in everything from touch football and basketball to rugby league, tennis, soccer, hockey and ten-pin bowling.
It’s not just about sport, though.
From learning to drive and obtaining a licence to mowing lawns, fishing trips, camps and church activities, the group prides itself on giving children opportunities to learn practical life skills they might otherwise never have the chance to develop.
But this sustained effort, alongside recent cuts to government support, has made the program increasingly difficult to operate.
After relying on government funding for over 20 years, the organisation was asked to transition its service towards casework with a much smaller group of approximately 15 young people.
But Gerald refused to cull the network of children he was helping, knowing it meant a significant chunk of funding would be lost.
"We didn’t want to change what we were doing,” he said.
Now, the program relies solely on donations to help it cover running costs, including maintaining the three buses that transport kids to and from daily activities.
“I don’t think there’s anyone in Australia that does all these things with this amount of money,” Gerald said.
“I’ve had people and businesses come up to me and say, ‘If you weren’t doing all this, we’d have a lot more problems here.”’
After four decades of tackling youth crime at its grassroots, BAYWatch is asking the Burdekin to help it keep doing what it does best.
“The team is everything. They’re the people at the front of it,” says Peter. Photo: Jacob Casha.
Red Rooster might be a national brand, but for new owner Peter Walsh, the Ayr store is strictly local.
As he rolls out a series of storewide upgrades, the North Queenslander is determined to make that clear.
“The community deserves to have a nice place to come and eat,” Peter said.
“We're working on getting the right people, upgrading our service, and creating that family, community atmosphere.”
The plan is already in motion. With upgraded kitchen equipment and refreshed operational processes, Peter says locals are already seeing quicker service.
Those tweaks are part of a broader makeover for the Queen Street store, featuring fresh paint, general refurbishments and new digital kiosks to make ordering easier. Peter says the changes complement an already extensive menu designed to “cater for almost anyone.”
But according to him, just as important as any meal or upgrade are the people behind the counter.
“The team is everything. They’re the people at the front of it,” he said.
“We’ve got a funny bunch. They're very loyal, they’re very dedicated, and they want to be part of the journey.”
As the team strides forward, Peter says the mission remains what it always has been.
“We want to be part of the community,” he said.
“Previous owners did a lot for charitable organisations, sporting clubs, sponsorships, and the store had a really good community reputation. We want to build all that back.”
With operations expanding, the team is currently on the lookout for new members. To find out more about employment opportunities, pop into the store and hand in a resume.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said taxpayer-backed investment should not compete with farmers for agricultural land. Photo supplied.
The Coalition has pledged to prevent the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) from funding entities that acquire agricultural land to establish tree plantations for carbon offsets.
The proposed legislation would also abolish Labor’s net zero laws and end what the Coalition describes as more than $80 billion in government spending on the transition.
The announcement follows the sale of Tasmania’s 21,745-hectare Rushy Lagoon property to UK investment firm Gresham House. The CEFC is investing $69 million in the project, with about 9000 hectares planned for pine plantations.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said taxpayer-backed investment should not compete with farmers for agricultural land.
“We have farmers across Dawson working incredibly hard to put food on Australian tables, yet Labor is prepared to help foreign investment funds acquire Australian land for carbon projects,” Mr Willcox said.
He questioned whether agricultural industries including Bowen’s mango plantations, sugar and vegetable production could face increasing competition for land.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said food security should take priority over carbon projects.
“Families are already paying too much at the supermarket and the last thing we should be doing is weakening our ability to grow food by turning productive farms into carbon assets,” Mr Taylor said.
“It is extraordinary that taxpayers are being asked to help investment funds outbid farmers for Australian farmland.”
Nationals leader Matt Canavan said the Coalition would repeal Labor’s net zero laws and prevent taxpayer money being used to purchase farms for carbon projects.
Mr Willcox also linked the issue to the proposed expansion of Australia’s biofuels industry, arguing agricultural production would need to be protected to supply feedstocks.
“Labor is now telling us that sugar and other agricultural products can provide the feedstocks for a new Australian bioenergy industry, but you cannot build a biofuels industry without the farmers who grow the feedstock,” he said.
The Coalition said its proposed changes would prevent taxpayer funding from distorting the agricultural land market.
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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP’s annual school captains’ luncheon has opened proactive discussions around shaping the Burdekin’s future.
The luncheon, aimed at providing the chance for school captains to connect with their local State Member and have their say about the strengths and opportunities they see in their local community.
“These round-table events are invaluable in giving our next generation of leaders the chance to identify positive contributions they can make to their school and their community and receive the support to put those ideas into action,” Mr Last said.
“This year there was plenty of discussion around ideas to bring university opportunities to Burdekin students which is particularly prudent at the moment when these students are making big decisions around their future.”
“We know that the majority of the time those looking to undertake a university degree are faced with the decision to leave the Burdekin, however there also needs to be a working relationship between universities and our regional towns that enables students to make informed choices about their future studies. It is why I have worked closely with the Minister for Education as we look to grow this pathway, particularly in the Burdekin.”
Mr Last said the Burdekin should be proud of its student leaders who were not only looking at ways to support current Year 12’s but also those to follow in the coming years.
“I ask these students each year about what legacy they want to leave in their final year of schooling, not just in their school environment but in their wider community and each year their suggestions leave me feeling proud as their state member.
“By securing other universities to come to the Burdekin and share what they have to offer our school leavers, our students are offered better access to more information about study options available to them.”
Contributed by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP
Denise said the crash had “destroyed” her $37,000 front fence, while significantly damaging her car, barbecue, and a gazebo that was set to be converted into a cattery. Photos supplied.
Police are investigating a single-vehicle crash that tore through a Brandon front yard late last month.
Police say the driver of a white Nissan Navara lost control at around 2.45am on Friday, 28th of August, ploughing through two palm trees before colliding with the front of a Drysdale Street property.
The male driver reportedly fled the scene on foot with a dog, leaving two Bull Arab puppies inside the vehicle.
“Significant damage was caused to the resident’s fence, property and vehicle,” said Ayr Police Sergeant Daniel Dew.
“Thankfully, no persons or animals were injured.”
Homeowner Denise Hudd said she was readying herself for bed when the vehicle struck her fence, waking neighbours along the street.
“I’m laying in bed and I hear this loud ‘bang!’ Then I look out the window, and there's a car in my fence,” she recalled.
“I've never seen that many people out on the street at 3am.”
Denise said the crash had “destroyed” her $37,000 front fence, while damaging her car, barbecue, and a gazebo that was set to be converted into a cattery.
She said the cattery was intended to support her partner’s charitable work training cats to detect cancers.
“We don’t know what we're gonna do now. We’ve got four cats and two dogs that we can't let outside because there's no front fence,” Denise said.
Sgt. Dew said police have identified a suspect, who is yet to be named, and are considering charges for failing to provide particulars under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act.
Police are also investigating possible animal cruelty offences and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.
Sgt. Dew said the puppies involved in the crash were handed over to Burdekin Shire Council, which passed them on to Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue to be desexed, microchipped, and vaccinated.
A potential owner has already been vetted, with a ‘meet and greet’ scheduled this Sunday to rehome one of the puppies.
Sgt. Dew said two other dogs—believed to have been involved in the crash—were located by residents in separate areas of Brandon later that day.
It remains unknown whether either was the dog taken from the scene by the driver.
Anyone with information, dashcam footage or CCTV footage is urged to contact Ayr Police Station, PoliceLink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers.
Starting school is an exciting milestone, and giving children a strong and positive start can make a lasting difference to their confidence, learning and future success.
At Osborne State School, we believe a successful transition begins well before the first day of Prep. Attending playgroup, visiting the school and joining in school activities such as open days, movie nights, school dances and other community events are wonderful ways for children to become familiar with the school environment. These opportunities allow children to meet staff and other students, explore the school grounds and begin to feel that they belong.
Every child is different, and some children—and parents—may need a little more time to feel comfortable. Families are always welcome to arrange additional visits, ask questions and talk with staff about any concerns they may have before their child starts school.
Starting strong also means learning strong. When choosing a school, it is important to consider how the school approaches teaching and learning, particularly literacy in the early years. Developing strong foundations in reading, writing, phonics and oral language gives children the skills they need to access learning across all areas of the curriculum as they progress through school.
At Osborne State School, we have a strong focus on explicit and direct instruction. Learning is purposeful, structured and intentional, ensuring children are explicitly taught the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
Being a small school also gives our students the best of both worlds. Children have time to learn through play, creativity and hands-on experiences, while our small class environment provides high levels of staff support and opportunities for targeted teaching. Our staff know each child—their strengths, interests and individual learning needs.
Choosing a school is about more than choosing where your child will spend their first year. It is about choosing the foundations on which their future learning will be built.
At Osborne State School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to start strong, learn strong and build the foundations for future success.
Contributed by Osborne State School
After one year serving the Burdekin region, Zarraffa’s Coffee is proud to call Ayr home, bringing its signature coffee, fresh food and strong commitment to community to the heart of the Burdekin.
For the proudly Australian-owned and operated coffee brand, its presence in Ayr represents more than simply another location. It reflects Zarraffa’s ongoing commitment to regional communities and its passion for providing locals, workers and visitors with convenient access to the quality coffee, food and friendly service the brand is known for.
Located at 125 Edward Street, the Ayr store has been designed with convenience and accessibility at its core, catering to local customers as well as commuters and travellers passing through the region. The drive thru offers a quick and easy way for customers to pick up their favourite coffee and food on the go, whether they are heading to work, doing the school run, travelling through town or simply starting their day.
For those who prefer to take a little more time, the store also features a walk-up window and outdoor seating area, creating a welcoming space where customers can sit back, enjoy their coffee and connect with friends, family or the local community.
Customers can enjoy Zarraffa’s renowned range of signature coffee drinks, including familiar favourites alongside a selection of specialty beverages. The menu also features a variety of food options, including breakfast items, savoury and sweet snacks and the freshly baked in-store range, providing convenient options to enjoy alongside a favourite brew.
For Zarraffa’s, being part of a regional community means more than simply serving coffee. The brand has a strong focus on community connection and supporting the areas in which its stores operate. The Ayr team is proud to continue building relationships with local customers, businesses, community groups and organisations and to be a familiar part of everyday life in the Burdekin.
The Ayr store is also part of Zarraffa’s broader commitment to expanding its footprint across Australia and making its signature coffee experience accessible to more Australians, including those living in regional and rural communities.
Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr continues to be a convenient local destination for coffee lovers, offering a drive thru, walk-up window, outdoor seating, extensive coffee menu and fresh food range, while remaining focused on being an active and connected part of the Ayr community.
Zarraffa’s Coffee Ayr is located at 125 Edward Street, Ayr, QLD 4807.
Opening hours: 5am to 8pm Monday to Sunday, and 6am to 6pm on Public Holidays. For more information about Zarraffa’s Coffee visit www.zarraffas.com
Contributed by Zarraffa’s Coffee
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said the statewide numbers meant little to growers dealing with the reality on individual farms. Photo supplied by CANEGROWERS.
Queensland’s sugarcane crush is closing in on the halfway mark, with over 13 million tonnes of an estimated 27.4-million-tonne crop through the rollers—but that headline figure hides a season of extremes.
In the Burdekin, growers are already well beyond the midpoint. Elsewhere, rain and mill stoppages have cost weeks, while poor bin delivery is holding up harvesting crews – even in districts where mills are running better than they have in years.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said the statewide numbers meant little to growers dealing with the reality on individual farms.
“The average doesn’t mean much when you’re the grower sitting at 20% and watching the weeks tick by,” Mr Menkens said.
“The Burdekin was more than 64% through its crop by the end of August. A week earlier, Rocky Point was still below 20% and Innisfail was at around 25%. That’s how uneven this season has been.
“In the north, rain has been the main problem. District reports show South Johnstone has lost more than 350 hours to wet weather this season and Tully more than 500. Those hours add up to weeks of lost harvesting time.”
In parts of central and southern Queensland, drier conditions have kept harvesters moving, but lower yields and reduced cane availability have pushed crop estimates down.
In Plane Creek around 200,000 tonnes have been slashed off the estimate, while the Burdekin estimate has fallen from 7.92 million tonnes to 7.2 million tonnes.
Mr Menkens said growers in some districts were also seeing better mill performance than they had experienced in recent years.
“Credit where it’s due—some mills are running better, and growers notice that,” he said.
“But in some of those same districts, harvesting crews are still being held up because empty bins aren’t getting back to them quickly enough.
“Once a crew runs out of bins, everything stops. It doesn’t matter how well the mill is running if there’s nowhere to put the cane.”
CCS has been a bright spot across much of the industry, but Mr Menkens said it could only do so much.
“Good CCS helps, but it can’t replace tonnes that aren’t there,” he said.
“Crushing will continue through November across much of the industry and into December in some districts.
“From here, every available crushing hour matters. Growers need the mills running and the bins getting back to the paddock while the weather allows it.”
Contributed by CANEGROWERS
The past week has seen a number of important developments across the Burdekin, along with another outstanding community event.
Firstly, I would like to address recent commentary regarding the Home Hill Boat Club. It is important that information shared with the community is accurate and reflects the current situation. The present Home Hill Boat Club Committee has indicated its intention to step down, however an Annual General Meeting will be held in the coming weeks. Until that process has been completed, no formal decisions have been made regarding the future direction of the club. I encourage everyone to wait for the outcome of the AGM and support the volunteers who have contributed their time and effort to the club over many years.
On a more positive note, congratulations to the Burdekin Water Festival Committee, participants, sponsors and volunteers for delivering another spectacular weekend of celebrations. The street procession was one of the largest seen in many years and was a wonderful display of community spirit. Events such as the Burdekin Water Festival continue to showcase the pride we have in our region and would not be possible without the dedication of countless volunteers working behind the scenes.
Council is continuing its investment in community facilities, with refurbishment works at the Home Hill Pool scheduled from 23 September to 4 December. The temporary closure has been planned to coincide with the reopening of the Burdekin Aquatic Centre in Ayr, which is expected to occur in mid-September. While I understand this may cause some inconvenience for some residents, these improvements have been planned for a long time and will ensure the facility remains safe, modern and enjoyable for years to come. As I often say, no pain, no gain. I am confident the community will appreciate the finished result.
In Home Hill, Council is partnering with the Home Hill RSL to deliver upgrades at Memorial Park and the Home Hill Cenotaph and War Memorial. Funding through the Queensland Government's Honouring Our Veterans Program will support the installation of new garden beds, Indian Mast trees and rosemary plantings, along with electrical upgrades. These improvements will enhance the memorial precinct while ensuring it remains a fitting place of remembrance for future generations.
Road and drainage improvements are also continuing across the region. In Home Hill, drainage upgrade works will commence along the boundary of the Home Hill Race Club on First Street. During construction, access to the Bruce Highway from Ford Park will be closed, with a cul-de-sac arrangement in place for the duration of the works.
In Brandon, crews will undertake reconstruction of failed sections of roadway on Drysdale Street near the primary school, as well as at the intersection of Bannister and Spiller Streets. These works are being funded under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and will help improve road conditions and resilience for the community.
As always, thank you to our residents for your continued patience and support while these important projects are completed.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
I recently attended the official opening of the South Ayr Water Filtration Plant alongside the Mayor and my fellow councillors. The event provided an opportunity for invited guests to tour the facility and learn more about its important rolein delivering safe, reliable, high-quality drinking water to households and businesses across the region. This Queensland Government-funded $54.88 million investment will improve water quality, resolve longstanding discolourationissues, and help secure a safe, reliable water supply for the Burdekin into the future.
It was wonderful to see so many families and community members attending the Water Festival on Saturday. The strong participation in the parade, along with the fantastic range of market and food stalls, helped create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for families. The entertainment was also of an exceptional standard.
Congratulations to all the volunteers involved, and especially the committee, for their hard work in organizing such a successful event. It was a fantastic day for the community and a job well done by everyone involved.
I am often asked why I ran for Council. I wanted to help make a difference and address issues that I believed needed attention in our community.
Since being elected, I've learned that real change takes time. Rome wasn't built in a day, and lasting improvements require commitment and cooperation.
At Council, we are here for our community. We listen, advocate, and work hard to deliver positive outcomes for the people we represent. I'm proud to be part of that journey.
If you require any assistance or would like to discuss a local issue, please feel free to contact me on 0419 654 096.
A new $54.88 million filtration plant has been completed at South Ayr, promising more reliable and higher-quality drinking water for Ayr, Brandon and Alva. Photos: Jacob Casha
A $50 million-plus upgrade to the Burdekin’s drinking water supply, unveiled last Thursday, has become the latest development of a years-long shift away from contaminated water sources.
The $54.88 million South Ayr Filtration Plant—funded by the Queensland Government—will deliver clean drinking water to thousands of households across Ayr, Brandon, and Alva.
The opening marked the completion of Stage 1 of the plant project, actioned following the discovery of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination detected in the town’s primary Nelsons Lagoon borefield in 2018.
Speaking at its official opening on 3rd September, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort called the facility "one of the most significant” water infrastructure projects recently undertaken in the Burdekin.
“[This plant] strengthens our water security, improves drinking water quality and ensures our communities continue to have access to safe, reliable water,” she said.
“Water is one of our most valuable resources, and this facility will play a vital role in delivering safe, treated drinking water to our community for many years to come."
The new facility will use a multi-stage filtration process to remove iron and manganese from the South Ayr borefield.
It builds on previous upgrades to the South Ayr water network, including the construction of a 10 megalitre reservoir and the installation of new production bores.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy joined councillors and locals in unveiling the facility, the former calling it a "real difference-maker."
“Our local communities of Ayr, Brandon and Alva deserve access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water, and this new filtration plant will make a real difference to the quality of our supply,” Mr Last said.
“This is a major investment in the Burdekin’s future and I’m proud to see Government delivering the essential infrastructure our community has been calling for.”
The opening ceremony also saw engineering consultants GHD and head contractor Tallai Project Group recognised for their contributions, followed by a tour of the facility.
Back: (L-R) Senior Ambassador runner-up Ella Pirrone, Senior Ambassador winner Blaize Palmer.
Front (L-R): Junior Ambassador winner Edith Innes, Junior Ambassador runner-up Lillea Levitt.
Photo: Shay Kratzmann.
The Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program culminated in a Long Lunch last Saturday, with a cohort of young ambassadors—including two history-makers—farewelled in front of more than 230 guests.
Fifteen Burdekin Water Festival Ambassadors have taken their final bow, bringing months of fundraising and community events to a close at last Saturday’s QMN Manufacturing Long Lunch.
The annual event, which serves as the culmination of the Ambassador Program, brought more than 230 guests to Populins Hall for the Picnic at Populins-themed celebration, where Blaize Palmer and Edith Innes were crowned Senior and Junior Ambassador winners respectively.
Emcees Bronwyn Nucifora and Jasmine Delle Baite led proceedings, putting the Junior Ambassadors through a Q&A that saw both impress and entertain the crowd with their answers.
The Senior Ambassadors then reflected on their time in the program, highlighting the camaraderie they developed and the support they received from the community.
The occasion was particularly significant for this year’s cohort, with the Junior and Senior Ambassadors coming together at a single event for the first time.
Blaize Palmer and Zylon Dallecort also became the first male Senior Ambassadors in the program’s 68-year history.
Blaize then went one step further, becoming the first male Senior Ambassador to claim first place. Representing Burdekin Motors, Blaize was recognised for his successful touch footy fundraiser, which raised more than $1,000 for Uganda-focused charity 100% Hope Inc.
Senior Ambassador counterparts Olivia Pavone and Ella Pirrone rounded out the cohort, with Pirrone named runner-up following her successful dog-walking fundraiser last month.
In the Junior division, Edith Innes claimed top honours from a cohort of 11, with Lillea Levitt named runner-up.
The night also saw raffle winner Kari Ravizza walk away with a $5,000 ring generously donated by gold sponsor Campbell’s Jewellery.
Guests then took to the dance floor, with Sneaky Beats capping off the night’s entertainment.
The Long Lunch now sets the stage for the Water Festival’s finale this weekend, with the Mardi Gras and Street Parade to take over Ayr’s main road on Saturday.
Paedophiles will be forced to prove they deserve bail while mechanisms aimed at safeguarding children and vulnerable people will be brought under a single entity in a Queensland-first initiative welcomed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Proposed legislation introduced into parliament last week would see the establishment of the Queensland Protection Commission from February 1st 2027, consolidating the Reportable Conduct Scheme, Working with Children Check (Blue Card) Scheme and Disability Worker Screening Scheme.
Mr Last said the commission would better protect children and removed the information silos between each of the schemes to strengthen oversight and improve information sharing.
“As parents we rely on having a robust system to protect our children in a range of environments and that starts with having all the information to be able to proactively identify any risks of harm. By integrating that information sharing under the commission, we lay the foundations for a new intelligence hub and strengthen the safeguards around children and vulnerable people,” Mr Last said.
“This is about fulfilling our responsibility to protect children in our community and restoring confidence in the systems designed to protect children by increasing the penalties for those that don’t comply with information requests or knowingly provide false information to regulator.”
“Daniel’s Law emphasised the need to give parents the comfort and the ability to know who is in their community and this bill now continues that delivery with the ability to now ensure all the information is available to authorities to identify any potential risks to our children.”
Mr Last said by forcing serious repeat offenders and paedophiles to prove they deserve bail was reflective of community’s expectations of the justice system as the Crisafulli Government delivers the most significant bail reforms in the state’s history.
“I have long said bail is a privilege not a right and this legislation addresses that community expectation in our justice system where an offender is held accountable for their actions from the day they are charged,” Mr Last said.
“By changing the narrative and the belief that an offenders’ access to bail is above community safety, we send a clear message that in Queensland if you are granted the privilege of bail and you chose to offend again, you can expect to go to jail.”
Lifeline has officially shut its Ayr store, becoming the second Burdekin op shop in just over a year to close its doors permanently. Photo: Jacob Casha.
Lifeline has officially shut its Ayr store, becoming the second Burdekin op shop in just over a year to close its doors permanently.
The shop ceased trading on 14 August, announcing the closure through signage which read:
“To our customers, donors, volunteers and supporters, thank you for your loyalty and support over the years. It has been a privilege to serve the Ayr community.”
The reason for the closure remains unclear, with Lifeline contacted for clarity on the details of the decision.
The longstanding store has suffered the same fate as its charity counterpart, Salvos, which closed its Ayr store just over a year ago after three decades of operation.
The double-closure has raised eyebrows amid growing demand for second-hand goods across Australia.
A 2026 national reuse study found Australians reused around 390 million items in one year, saving households an estimated $2 billion.
The study found the reuse sector supports roughly 6,300 paid roles and 12,000 volunteer positions nationally.
The closures leave Vinnies as Ayr’s sole remaining major charity op shop.
Casie Scott- NBN Co, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort Photos supplied.
Burdekin residents and businesses had the chance to explore local connectivity upgrades when the nbn Local team hosted a community drop-in session at Burdekin Plaza in Ayr.
The free session saw the nbn team answering questions, checking upgrade eligibility and outline Fibre to the Premises and Fixed Wireless options available across the region.
nbn Local Regional Development and Engagement Manager Casie Scott said the upgrades could deliver meaningful benefits for households and businesses in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon.
“Full fibre gives eligible homes and businesses access to faster, more reliable broadband, helping people work, learn, run businesses and stay connected across multiple devices,” Ms Scott said.
“For regional communities, network resilience is also critical. Stronger connectivity helps communities remain connected during disruptions and supports recovery when reliable communications matter most.”
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort dropped in to the session, speaking with the nbn Local team and hearing about upgrades progressing across the district.
Ms Scott encouraged locals to check what was available at their address and speak with a preferred internet provider about suitable plans.
Contributed by nbn Local
When club member Jayson Farry (centre) was diagnosed with glioblastoma earlier this year, fellow bowlers Jamie Woods (left) and David DeFranciscis (right), who has also battled cancer, decided enough was enough. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.
Three Brandon Bowls Club members have put their heads together to devise a plan they hope will raise $10,000 for cancer care.
When club member Jayson Farry was diagnosed with brain cancer earlier this year, fellow bowlers Jamie Woods and David DeFranciscis, who has also battled cancer, decided enough was enough.
“It motivated us to get off our a***s and do something,” David said.
Now, the trio have teamed up with two prominent cancer foundations to deliver what they believe is the first event of its kind at the club.
Set for Saturday 19th of September, the event will welcome locals near and far to Brandon Bowls Club for an evening of barefoot bowls, live music, food, drinks, raffles and an auction.
A barbecue will kick off proceedings from 5.30pm, with teams of four bowlers taking to the greens at 6.30pm for social competition.
David, who will emcee the night, said non-bowlers should not be deterred.
“There’ll be something for everyone,” he said.
“Even if you don’t want to play, we’re having the drinks, the barbecue, the music. It doesn’t matter if you’ve only got $1—come out and show your support.”
Every cent raised from entry fees, food and beverages, raffle entries and general donations will support Brighter Lives Townsville Hospital Foundation's mission to provide a cancer journal to newly diagnosed patients at Townsville University Hospital.
The journal will help patients keep track of appointments, access medical information and record important contacts.
David said it was an idea he and his team were instantly onboard with.
“Once the doctor tells you you've got cancer, your mind goes blank. Your wife starts to cry. You go numb. You don't remember anything,” he said, reflecting on personal experiences.
“I've told every cancer patient that I've known the last seven years to bring a journal. So when Brighter Lives said to me, ‘we're looking at fundraising for free journals’, I said, ‘we're in.’”
David said the event has already garnered an “overwhelming” amount of support, with businesses across the region donating raffle and auction prizes and offering goods and services.
“[The support so far] has been overwhelming for the club. This was just started as a conversation with three guys having a beer,” he said.
“This is what the Burdekin should be about. It makes you feel proud to live in a town that is giving so much.”
With the event still two weeks away, David urged local businesses interested in helping the club hit its $10k goal to contact him on 0407 596 608.
Donations can also be made on the night, with beanies and caps supporting the Mark Hughes Foundation available for purchase.
Entry is set at $15 per person, with discounted beers set at just $5.
For Anne Moloney, real estate is less about houses and more about people.
That mantra is the culmination of decades of experience across different industries and a lifelong connection to the Burdekin.
Anne first entered real estate in the 1990s, selling house and land packages with Honeycombes New Homes under the mentorship of John Honeycombe.
Still young, she eventually stepped away from real estate to travel, becoming a parent shortly after and ultimately choosing to focus on raising her family.
As her three daughters became more independent, however, Anne realised she had unfinished business.
“I knew I wanted to return to real estate,” she said.
She succumbed to that pull in 2023, joining Explore Property in Ayr under Principal Kylie Lawson.
Returning to the industry after so long meant reacquainting herself with a profession that had since experienced something of a technological evolution.
But while the tools had changed, Anne soon realised the foundations of the job had not.
“I believe communication is everything,” she said.
“Building trust and strong relationships is at the heart of everything I do.”
Much of that people-centred approach was developed during her 10 years as administrator at Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, where she helped keep the club running behind the scenes while simultaneously volunteering as a patrolling member.
“Working in community service naturally complements real estate. Both are about people,” she said.
“I genuinely enjoy connecting with people and listening to their stories.”
And after spending much of her life in the Burdekin, Anne is eager to help others discover what makes the region such a special place.
“The Burdekin is an incredible place to call home,” she said.
“Watching my girls flourish here has made me even more passionate about our region, and I genuinely enjoy helping others discover everything our community has to offer.”
As a Home Lending Specialist, Jade has the opportunity to be part of some significant milestones in people’s lives. Photo supplied.
For Jade Bywaters, some of the most rewarding moments in her role at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr come when months – and sometimes years – of planning finally become a reality for a local customer.
As a Home Lending Specialist, Jade has the opportunity to be part of some significant milestones in people’s lives, from helping first home buyers take their first steps towards home ownership to supporting local families as their needs and circumstances change.
“The absolute best part of my role is getting to help our locals bring their property dreams to life,” Jade said.
“It is a true privilege to walk alongside our community members through every stage of their journey.”
Jade joined the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr team in 2019, bringing with her a strong connection to the region. Born in Portland, Victoria, she moved to Ayr when she was eight and has embraced the Burdekin as home.
It is that local connection that Jade believes is particularly important when working with customers during what can sometimes be an exciting, but also overwhelming, period of their lives.
For first-home buyers especially, Jade understands that there can be plenty of questions along the way.
“My priority is to turn that worry into excitement and confidence,” she said.
“It all starts with a friendly, open chat. I always make sure our customers know that there is no such thing as a silly question and that my door is always open.”
Rather than simply focusing on the financial details, Jade says one of the most important lessons she has learnt is the value of genuinely listening to the person sitting across from her.
“Our customers have taught me that real listening goes so much deeper than just looking at the financial details; it is about understanding the heart, the family and the dreams behind the numbers,” she said.
“A home loan application can show us someone's income, but it cannot capture their dream of hosting backyard family barbecues or building a secure foundation for their kids.”
For Jade, those conversations are what allow genuine relationships to develop. Keeping in regular contact, explaining each stage clearly and being a familiar local point of contact are all part of helping customers feel comfortable and supported.
And when the hard work eventually pays off, Jade gets to share in the celebration.
“Buying a home often represents years of hard work, saving and careful planning,” she said.
“To stand at the finish line with them and see the relief and joy on their faces is a wonderful privilege. When they finally hold those keys, it truly feels like a shared celebration.”
Outside the branch, Jade enjoys life in the Burdekin with her partner Shaun and daughters Kayley and Larah, along with the family’s much-loved collection of animals.
For Jade, being part of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is ultimately about people – getting to know local customers, understanding what matters to them and being there for some of the biggest moments in their lives.
Contributed by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
The Queensland Government is seeking community feedback on proposed updates to the management and harvest strategies for Queensland's coral fishery and marine aquarium fish fishery. Photo: Shutterstock.
The Queensland Government is seeking community feedback on proposed updates to the management and harvest strategies for Queensland's Coral Fishery (QCF) and Marine Aquarium Fish Fishery (MAFF).
Operating in approved areas of the Great Barrier Reef, the QCF and MAFF supply specialised aquarium markets in Australia and overseas.
The updates propose new harvest strategies as well as a severe event response plan, aiming to support the long-term sustainability of the fisheries while meeting Commonwealth export requirements.
The Queensland Government is inviting feedback on these proposals, which aim to strengthen protection of Great Barrier Reef resources, improve climate resilience, maintain access to export markets, and provide greater transparency and certainty for industry and the broader community.
DPI Deputy Director - General Fisheries and Forestry Pauline Jacob said the consultation was an opportunity for Queenslanders to have their say on the future management of the fisheries.
"Queensland's Coral Fishery and Marine Aquarium Fish Fishery operate in one of the world's most unique marine environments, and it's important our management arrangements continue to support both sustainability and industry viability," Ms Jacob said.
"Community feedback is an important part of the review process and will help ensure the final documents reflect the views of industry participants, stakeholders, researchers and the wider community.
"I encourage anyone with an interest in these fisheries to review the proposed arrangements and provide their feedback during the consultation period."
Consultation closes 24 September 2026.
Samples from a single deceased shearwater found on Castaways Beach (Sunshine Coast) tested positive for H5 bird flu 24th of August, during initial testing at the Queensland Government’s Biosecurity Sciences Laboratory (BSL). Photo: Shutterstock.
The Department of Primary Industries is responding to its second detection of H5 bird flu in Queensland.
Samples from a single deceased shearwater found on Castaways Beach (Sunshine Coast) tested positive for H5 bird flu 24th of August, during initial testing at the Queensland Government’s Biosecurity Sciences Laboratory (BSL).
Samples have been sent to CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness for confirmatory testing.
There remains no detection in poultry, nor evidence of large-scale deaths in any animals in Queensland.
H5 bird flu is not able to be eradicated in wild birds and is expected to remain an ongoing wildlife disease that will require continued monitoring and management.
Department of Primary Industries Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Allison Crook said the bird was found as part of Queensland’s enhanced H5 bird flu surveillance program.
“A member of the public saw this dead bird and immediately reported it. This is one of more than 3,000 reports in Queensland to the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline and I thank the public for their support,” Dr Crook said.
“If you find sick or dead wild birds or wildlife, avoid contact, keep children and pets away, record what you see, and report immediately to the EAD Hotline on 1800 675 888.”
Dr Crook said Queensland is well prepared to respond to this latest event and the Department of Primary Industries has an Incident Management Team that is responding swiftly, prioritising heightened surveillance, stakeholder engagement and regular public communication.
“We are continuing our enhanced passive surveillance program throughout the state and would encourage the community and industry to continue to be vigilant,” Dr Crook said.
Australia now has confirmed detections of H5 avian bird flu in wildlife across most states.
South Australia has also had mass mortality events in wild birds and for the first time in Australia, a confirmed detection in a marine mammal this week.
The community is being urged to continue to report sick or dead wild birds.
It’s all happening in the Burdekin, with plenty of community events and activities taking place across the region.
The Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch was held on Saturday and included the announcement of this year’s winners. It was fantastic to see a record number of Junior Ambassadors participate. I’m certainly glad I wasn’t one of the judges, as every entrant should be proud of putting themselves forward and taking on a leadership role.
This Saturday, Queen Street will come alive for the Water Festival Grand Procession. It’s always a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends, enjoy the atmosphere and celebrate one of the Burdekin’s most cherished traditions.
Congratulations also to Meals on Wheels on celebrating another anniversary. Organisations such as this are a reminder of the incredible contribution volunteers make to our community. As the saying goes, “Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, but they have the heart, and because they have the heart, they find the time.”
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to visit the Burdekin Theatre and enjoy the latest exhibition from the Burdekin Art Society. The display showcases the talent and creativity of local artists of all ages.
I’ve also been advised that the sugar cane crushing season is expected to finish around the end of October, which is earlier than many anticipated. We thank our growers, mill workers and everyone involved for their hard work throughout the season.
Finally, it was wonderful to meet with so many residents during my Coffee and Chat session in Home Hill on Saturday. Thank you to everyone who took the time to come along, share ideas and have a conversation about our community.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
With Minister Ann Leahy visiting the Burdekin this week to officially open our new water treatment plant, I welcome her to the district and thank her for taking the time to visit.
While the Minister is here, I would also like to again highlight the case for our new Ayr Fire Station to become a permanently staffed 24-hour station.
In 2024, Dale Last raised concerns in Parliament that across 318 callouts, a full crew of four auxiliary firefighters was available just once, while on 79 occasions no auxiliaries were available at all.
The Mayor and I recently met with the Queensland Fire Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, Dale Last, representatives from Minister Leahy's office and fire service representatives to discuss the issue.
I welcome the investment in a new Ayr Fire Station and appreciate there are competing priorities across Queensland. However, with the challenges surrounding auxiliary availability and after hours response, I strongly believe the caseexists for permanent 24-hour coverage in Ayr.
If we are building a station to serve our community for decades, I hope the opportunity to provide 24 hour staffing can be reconsidered.
I also want to clear up some misinformation circulating about Groper Creek Caravan Park. Council is not closing the park. The Home Hill Boat Club, which operates the park, has resolved to cease operating it from 1 January 2027 due to its own circumstances.
Council has been working constructively with the Club on compliance matters and remains willing to assist. The decision to cease operating the caravan park is the Club's, not Council's.
Opinion Piece by Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
Most Australians do not spend their days reading tax legislation. They are busy working, raising families, running businesses and trying to put something aside for retirement. That is precisely what the Federal Labor government is counting on, sneaking even more tax changes through in their 2026 Budget.
The Government promised its new capital gains tax changes would leave superannuation alone. Now the Financial Services Council is warning the fine print could expose $372 billion of Australians’ retirement savings to higher tax, potentially raising more than $55 million a year.
A hidden super tax.
There may be no bill in the letterbox, but Australians will still pay. And we all know under this Labor government there’s very little left in the household budget after paying the many taxes they enforce, and now they are coming after your hard-earned superannuation as well.
The impact could work its way through the investment structures used by super funds. Changes to the way capital losses are applied can mean some investments generate a higher tax bill than they would have, under the existing rules. The industry is warning that, ultimately, those costs can flow through to lower returns for Australians’ super.
That might sound like a technical argument.
It isn’t.
If your super earns less because more tax is being taken from its investments, you have less money for retirement.
You might be 35 and watching your super balance grow. You might be 55 and counting down the years until retirement. You might already be retired, relying on your savings to help pay the bills.
Every dollar that disappears from your retirement savings is a dollar that will not go towards paying for groceries, electricity or healthcare later in life.
This Labor Government is very good drumming up stories about what it hands out, and very quiet with what it takes. They love announcements and headlines of what Australians are getting, but behind the scenes, the taxes keep growing, giving with one hand, and taking more with the other.
The extraordinary part is that the Government has already told Australians that super would be carved out of these changes. If that is what they intended, then why hasn’t the legislation been fixed?
Do not force Australians to spend precious time reading the fine print to realise another promise made by the Prime Minister and Treasurer has been broken.
People deserve honest taxes made clear at election time with no surprises down the track.
Superannuation is not the Government’s money. It belongs to Australians who worked for it, saved it, and were told it would be there when they retire.
The Liberals and Nationals will keep fighting against these toxic taxes and hold this deceitful government to account.
Australians deserve to be able to keep more of what they earn and have confidence that the money they have saved for retirement will remain theirs.
Meals on Wheels Lower Burdekin marked National Meals on Wheels Day with a celebration at its kitchen on MacMillan Street, Ayr. Photo: Jacob Casha.
Meals on Wheels volunteers across the country were recognised last Wednesday for the resilience they showed during the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges that followed.
For the Lower Burdekin Committee, that meant a small gathering at its MacMillan Street kitchen in Ayr, where volunteers were joined by Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort in marking the occasion with a cake-cutting ceremony.
Saint Andrews Meals on Wheels Lower Burdekin has serviced the Burdekin region for more than 50 years, preparing and delivering nutritious meals to people requiring assistance at home.
As well as the Burdekin, Meals on Wheels operations across the country took a hit when COVID diagnoses came to light five years ago, with many volunteers aged 70 and over recommended to self-isolate, while younger volunteers stood up.
Now, Meals on Wheels Australia President, Sharyn Broer has thanked the 76,000 people who continue to volunteer for the organisation, ensuring older Australians remain nourished and safe at home, not only during a pandemic, but every day.
“We are so thankful for our volunteers,” Mrs Broer said.
“Regardless of the emergency—devastating bushfires, or in a pandemic, our volunteers continue to roll up their sleeves and deliver life-changing support.”
While Mrs Broer particularly commended the MOW Lower Burdekin Committee for their “immense resilience through the pandemic,” she said the ongoing sustainability of the service remains its biggest battle.
Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Senator Richard Colbeck acknowledged the inequitable distribution of funding and advised Meals on Wheels Australia of an upcoming funding review for meal service providers within the next 12 months.
“We are pleased the Government has recognised the problem,” Mrs Broer said.
“However, our concerns remain about the timing of the review and the impact this will have on services that are already struggling to remain financially viable.”
The Burdekin could be among the regional communities to benefit from a Coalition pledge aimed at unlocking thousands of new homes across rural Australia. Photo: alamy.
The Burdekin could be among the regional communities to benefit from a Coalition pledge aimed at unlocking thousands of new homes across rural Australia.
The Coalition has committed $1.5 billion of its proposed $5 billion Housing Infrastructure Fund specifically to regional, rural and remote Australia.
The fund would pay for foundational infrastructure like roads, water and sewerage needed to support development, with the Coalition saying its broader $5 billion commitment could unlock up to 400,000 homes nationally.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said regional communities needed greater support to accommodate growth.
“The regions are doing the heavy lifting for the Australian economy. We should not be told to grow, and then left to work out how to pay for that growth ourselves,” Mr Willcox said.
“We need houses, but we also need the roads, water, sewerage and other infrastructure that makes those houses possible.”
The pledge comes as the Burdekin continues to grapple with a shortage of housing and development-ready land.
Burdekin Shire Council has already identified infrastructure as a major barrier to housing growth, lodging a $53 million application through the Queensland Government's Residential Activation Fund to unlock about 1,000 residential lots in Ayr.
The proposed project would deliver trunk infrastructure to growth areas around Craig Street, Chippendale Street and Beach Road, including roads, water and sewerage.
Council is currently awaiting the outcome of its Round 2 RAF application, having previously secured more than $500,000 through the fund's first round for planning, hydraulic modelling and detailed infrastructure design.
While the Coalition has not yet outlined how its regional allocation would be distributed, Mr Willcox said investment in housing infrastructure would ultimately determine whether regional communities could continue to grow.
“If a nurse, teacher, tradesperson or young family cannot find an affordable place to live in Dawson, eventually they will look somewhere else,” he said.
“Businesses cannot expand if they cannot attract workers. Industries cannot grow if workers have nowhere to live.”
Registered nurse Katie Federici, registered nurse Sarah Morris, Jun Liu (patient), Donald McRae (patient), Wayne Ace (patient), Ambulatory oncology and medical infusion services acting clinical nurse Taija Kennedy, clinical nurse consultant Ainsley Ferrando, and clinical nurse consultant Eve Eynon (on screen). Photo supplied.
A new telehealth service means Burdekin cancer patients can now receive chemotherapy in Ayr, cutting hours of travel and easing the burden on patients and their families.
The service will see patients consult remotely with a doctor from the Townsville Cancer Centre and receive treatment under supervision from a trained nurse at the Ayr Health Service.
Burdekin local Wayne Ace, who was receiving treatment after having a cancer removed, called the service a godsend for him and his family.
Mr Ace previously had to travel to Townsville for treatment, meaning he could be out of bed by 5am and not home until after 6pm.
The trip involved blood tests, a doctor consultation and chemotherapy, while finding someone to accompany him could turn treatment into an exhausting full-day commitment for both.
Now, Mr Ace can receive his treatment in Ayr in just a couple of hours every fortnight.
“It’s relieved a lot of the stress and anxiety of needing to get the treatment which has been huge for my family and me,” he said.
Ambulatory oncology and medical infusion services acting clinical nurse consultant Taija Kennedy said the service was already proving successful despite being in its early stages.
“This is quality of life improvement for our Burdekin oncology patients and their friends and family,” Ms Kennedy said.
The service is currently limited in the number of patients it can treat each week, but Ms Kennedy said there was capacity for it to grow.
“A lot of work has gone on in the background to make this possible and it’s exciting to see this important service available for our patients in their hometown.”
Burdekin residents are being encouraged to lace up and take part in Lifeline’s Out of the Shadows Walk this September, helping remember Australians lost to suicide while raising funds for vital crisis support.
Held in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10th September, participants are challenged to walk nine kilometres; representing the nine Australians who die by suicide each day.
Participating in the challenge could not be easier, and the walk can be completed anywhere, anytime, either on 10th September or on a date that suits participants, making it an accessible way for individuals, families, workplaces and community groups to get involved.
All funds raised through the challenge will help Lifeline continue providing 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services across the country, supporting the 3,600 people who contact Lifeline’s crisis support line each day.
Participants can walk in memory of a loved one, as a personal tribute, or simply to show support for anyone experiencing emotional distress. Community members can register online via www.outoftheshadowswalk.org.au and are able to fundraise individually or form a team and walk together.
Close to 40 disadvantaged young people and job seekers will be given a head start in gaining the skills, confidence and support needed to secure sustainable employment in the Burdekin Electorate.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s $215,500 investment in the Burdekin PCYC’s successful Get Set for Work program and the $146,800 investment into WhitsundaySuccess Pathways’ Work Skills Traineeships program to be delivered in Bowen.
Included in the $46.2 million round of Skilling Queenslanders for Work Program, the two projects are among 166 across Queensland targeted towards skills shortages in priority industries in our community and region.
“The Burdekin PCYC’s Get Set for Work program has already proven a success in our community and this round will see a further 36 disadvantaged young adults receive skills industry-recognised training including First Aid, White Card, RSA, RSG and driver licensing support,” Mr Last said.
“By providing the additional wrap around support as part of both the Get Set For Work and the Whitsunday Success Pathways programs, disadvantaged young adults will receive a holistic experience tailored to each of their needs.”
“We have already seen the successful results in our community with past participants becoming the skilled workers we need in priority industries like construction, health, community services and hospitality.”
Mr Last said the state government funded program had the ability to provide real impacts on communities in regional Queensland that often faced significant skills shortages.
“In order to grow our local workforce and bolster our region’s economy, we need to be able to retain young adults in our community and that means ensuring there are positive career pathways available and the ability to obtain the skills needed in our towns,” MrLast said.
“Programs like Skilling Queenslanders for Work demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s focus of providing better outcomes for workers, employers and local communities.”
“This is a great outcome for Burdekin and Bowen communities whose economies ultimately benefit from the addition of skilled, local young workers.”
Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.
A draft 20-year plan released for North Queensland has pledged to protect the Burdekin's productive agricultural land while planning for new housing, infrastructure and economic growth.
Burdekin Shire is one of just five council areas directly covered by the North Queensland Regional Plan, meaning decisions made through the planning process will help shape the district's future development.
The draft plan is accompanied by a North Queensland Infrastructure Plan, bringing future land use together with planning for transport, water, energy, digital connectivity and social and community infrastructure.
For the Burdekin, where agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said protecting productive land must remain central to decisions about future growth.
“The Burdekin is an agricultural powerhouse and an important contributor to Queensland’s economy and protecting our productive land must remain a priority as the region grows,” Mr Last said.
“This draft plan provides an opportunity for local communities, farmers, businesses and industry to have their say on how North Queensland grows over the next two decades.”
The regional planning framework is particularly significant for agricultural communities because Queensland's planning system recognises priority agricultural and strategic cropping areas when managing competing land uses.
Alongside protecting established industries, the North Queensland planning process is focused on housing supply and economic development and will provide direction for future local planning and development assessment.
That gives Burdekin residents and industry an opportunity to weigh in on how growth should be accommodated while retaining the productive land and economic strengths already supporting the district.
Farmers, businesses, industry groups and residents can make submissions on the draft plan during the public consultation period.
Feedback closes on Tuesday 29th September.
Remembered by peers as a "true gentleman" and a stable, calm presence on the regional Lions cabinet, Max Tavasci devoted his final years entirely to service. Photo: supplied
Long before Max Tavasci became a fixture at Lions Club fundraisers and children’s eye screenings across Outback Queensland, he was a young North Queensland swimming star making Australian sporting history.
A 1970 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, former sugar cane farmer, and dedicated volunteer, Max passed away suddenly on the 29th of July while traveling out west with his caravan to bring vision screening to school children in Mount Isa and the Gulf country. He was 72.
Born and raised in Ayr to Italian farming parents, Battista and Margaret Tavasci, Max grew up on the family property. Encouraged by his mother to stay active, he developed into an elite swimmer alongside his siblings, training in local waters and rubbing shoulders with visiting athletes.
His hard work culminated in 1970 when he represented Australia at the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games, claiming a silver medal in the 1500m freestyle while his father served as a race timekeeper. His legacy endures in his hometown, where the 'Max TavasciTrophy' is still presented annually at the Ayr School Swimming Carnival.
Following his athletic success, Max worked on the family farm, laboured in Tasmania and Maryborough, and drove trucks before returning to North Queensland. Known for his love of colourful shirts, fast cars—which his son fondly noted he rarely drove fast—and Meat Loaf records, Max lived a full and colourful life.
"He had the heart of a champion, handed down from my dad," said his sister, Paula Dowson. "He died doing what he loved to do."
In the second half of his life, Max found a renewed sense of purpose through Lions Australia. Over 18 years of service with the Burnie City, Cleveland Bay, and Townsville Castle Hill Lions Clubs, he became a tireless community worker.
Alongside his partner of more than 20 years, former District Governor Michael MacLaren, Max traveled across Queensland conducting paediatric vision checks, running raffles for Lions Assistance Dogs, delivering meals for Eat Up Australia, and assembling disaster relief hampers for flood-affected regions.
Remembered by peers as a "true gentleman" and a stable, calm presence on the regional Lions cabinet, Max devoted his final years entirely to service.
"I feel Dad found himself and his place with Michael, Lions Australia and the church, evidenced by the lasting happiness he displayed over the last two decades,” said his son, Scott Tavasci.
Max is survived by his partner, Michael MacLaren; his son, Scott; his granddaughters, Scarlett and Eloise; his sister, Paula; and his extended family. His funeral was held at Kirwan Uniting Church on the 20th of August.
A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, the Kalamia still stands at its original location on Queen Street. Photo: Jacob Casha.
The Kalamia Hotel is turning 100, and it wants the Burdekin there to celebrate. After a century of beers, meals, friendships and memories, ‘The Locals’ Local’ is marking the milestone with a massive day of entertainment, music, prizes and family fun.
A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, the Kalamia still stands at its original location on Queen Street. Photo: Jacob Casha.
It was 1926 when the Kalamia Hotel served its first beer.
The Burdekin looked a little different then. Queen Street was still dirt. The Silver Link was still about 27 years off.
Yet, the region had its very own new pub at the end of Ayr’s main street.
A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, it’s still perched there—a fixture of the region’s history, a monument of its evolution, and a modern-day favourite in its own right.
Through all the changes, one thing has stuck.
“People come in here and they feel at home,” said Manager Kellie Elton.
She knows that feeling better than most.
Kellie first came to the Kalamia as a customer before joining its staff, and has now spent a decade behind the scenes of one of Ayr's most recognisable pubs.
She has watched it change, too.
Once known for its late-night party atmosphere and popularity with backpackers, the Kalamia has gradually become a more family-oriented venue, with its beer garden and function spaces now playing a much bigger role.
But Kellie doesn't think becoming more modern means losing what made the pub special.
“The traditional front bar is the heart and soul of the pub—without that, it’s not really a pub in my eyes,” she said.
“We also have staff that are down to earth, can take a joke, and dish a bit of banter. It’s just giving it that small-town country vibe, and not trying to make it something that it’s not.”
The pub’s role in the community extends beyond its own walls.
Every Saturday, meat-tray raffles raise money that goes straight back into the Burdekin, helping support schools, sporting clubs and community groups.
Returning the favour.
“We’re in a position to give back to the community that has supported us for generations—so we do,” Kellie said.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community, so we’re just so very thankful for their support.”
The pub is now preparing to celebrate its centenary with those very locals.
And while the milestone offers a chance to look back at a century of history, the Kalamia is already looking ahead, with major renovations set to begin next year.
But while the pub may continue to evolve, it will never stray too far from what it was when that very first beer was poured 100 years ago.
A place where locals can pull up a stool at the front bar and feel at home.
The Locals’ Local.
Kalamia Hotel is inviting the community to become part of its history this weekend as ‘The Locals’ Local’ celebrates a century in style.
The pub will welcome families, regulars, and everyone in between to its historic Queen Street venue on Saturday 29th August for a full day of free entertainment on the house.
Kickstarting at 10am, the festivities open with a mega raffle giveaway that would make even Santa jealous. A massive lineup of 21 meat trays, six seafood trays, four $100 Kalamia vouchers, and exclusive merchandise will all be up for grabs.
The action will move to the beer garden at 2pm for live music, kids' activities, and complimentary tastings.
Representatives from Diageo, De Bortoli Wines, and Burdekin Rum will be pouring a selection of vodkas, rums, wines, and signature cocktail concoctions, while youngsters are kept busy by face painting, crafts, and colouring stations.
Local up-and-coming bands Makeshift and Tribute will supply the tunes until 6pm, when Joel Blacklock takes the stage for the headline set.
Nearly a year in the making, Kalamia Hotel Manager Kellie Elton said the event would be a “relaxed family event” with something for everyone.
She said celebrating the historic milestone with locals would make it all the more sweet.
“100 years for a pub to always be open and running is a major achievement—and it’s still going strong today,” she said.
“It would mean so much to see the community there—to see that they care about the place as much as we do.
“Come down, have a few drinks, listen to some live music, and have some prizes on us.”
Commemorative stubby coolers will be available for $10 on the day, with limited-edition 100-Year shirts available to order.
KELLIE ELTON
Venue Manager | 10 years at the Kalamia Hotel
What other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
I’ve worked as a casual front bar attendant, duty manager and assistant manager.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked in retail, banking and community services.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and did you know the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin my whole life and had visited the Kalamia from time to time.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I wanted a second job and was offered a position.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
The team spirit, fun environment and seeing people enjoying themselves because of us.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
Seeing the young local talent showcase their skills and seeing people come together.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I actually enjoy my alone time on my days off.
LUCAS HUTLEY
Apprentice Chef
What does your role involve?
Prep work and coming up with special ideas.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked at a Chinese restaurant, The Reject Shop and McDonald’s while I was at school.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you know about the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin for 12 years. I’d heard the Kalamia was a good place to work.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I knew people who worked here.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
Serving good-quality food and learning skills to progress into fine dining.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
I’ll just be doing my thing in the kitchen.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Catching up with mates.
KEIRAN NOLAN
Head Chef | 15 years at the Kalamia Hotel
What does your role involve, and what other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
Stock ordering, quality control and rostering. I started as a cleaner, then worked as a kitchen hand and apprentice chef before becoming Head Chef.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked in a butcher shop in Ireland and in my family’s tree-logging business in Ireland.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you think of the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived here for 15 years. I knew it would be a good place to work.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I needed a job when I relocated from Ireland.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
The staff morale.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
Hopefully catching up with past and present staff.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I was a Muay Thai fighter in Ireland.
MEGHAN-ROSE BEST
Duty Manager | 10 months at the Kalamia Hotel
What does your role involve, and what other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
Before becoming a Duty Manager, I was a Food and Beverage Attendant. My current role involves customer service, floor management, compliance and safety, administration and stock, shift supervision and team leadership. I’m also responsible for closing the venue at night and managing money.
What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I’ve worked in childcare and hospitality. Both have taught me responsibility, communication, teamwork and customer service.
How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you think of the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin for almost three years. My first impression of the Kalamia was that it had a great atmosphere when I came in for dinner.
How did you join the Kalamia team?
I handed in my resume, had a chat with the Venue Manager and started my training shifts that weekend. The Kalamia has lovely staff and great service, so I wanted to become part of the team.
What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
I love the atmosphere, the team and, most importantly, the patrons.
What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
I’m looking forward to being part of something so amazing. I’m so grateful and proud to be part of the Kalamia.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I love relaxing with a book, doing something crafty or simply watching movies.
While President Uli Liessmann, Vice President David Jackson, and Treasurer John Woods retained their roles, local Lydia Flores stepped in as secretary following the departure of long-serving Robert Antoniazzi. Photos: Jacob Casha.
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce announced it will move forward with a refreshed executive committee following its Annual General Meeting last week.
The Wednesday meeting welcomed members to the Home Hill Community Sports Club as officials presented financial reports, recognised member achievements, and confirmed the incoming leadership.
While President Uli Liessmann, Vice President David Jackson, and Treasurer John Woods retained their roles, local Lydia Flores stepped in as secretary following the departure of long-serving Robert Antoniazzi.
Mr Liessmann said Mr Antoniazzi’s contribution would be missed, but expressed confidence in incoming Ms Flores.
Local business owners Scott and Candace Young of Salted Roots, along with Neil Machin and Patricia Thomas of Scrubby’s, filled the remaining executive roles for the year ahead.
Despite reporting a marginal financial loss, Mr Woods said the Chamber had performed better than in the previous year. He also announced the organisation’s new website was live.
Mr Liessmann presented veteran journalist David Jackson OAM with a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the Chamber for his 11 years of commitment to Home Hill News.
The meeting also heard from three guest speakers, beginning with local clay target shooter Joseph Rossato, who shared his experience representing Australia overseas and captaining the Queensland shooting team.
Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Rangers detailed his group’s work and future plans, before Ms Young outlined ambitious plans to rejuvenate the streets of Home Hill (find out more on page 7).
Visit the pharmacy at 101 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, to browse the meals on offer in-store. Photo supplied.
The team at Alliance Pharmacy Home Hill knows how busy life in the Burdekin can be, but believes a full-on schedule shouldn't stand in the way of a nutritious meal.
That’s why the pharmacy has joined forces with Farm Door, a family-run NSW kitchen, to bring delicious, affordable, ready-made meals straight to you.
With free delivery across the shire, Burdekin locals no longer have to make do with forgotten leftovers at the back of the fridge. Instead, they can explore a menu spanning everything from traditional comfort foods to flavours inspired by Asian, Middle Eastern, African and European cuisines.
The range covers pork, chicken, beef, lamb, and seafood favourites, as well as a selection of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Meals come in 400g ‘main’ and 280g ‘petite’ portions, alongside soups and snacks, with many suitable for vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, high-protein and high-energy diets.
Each dish is prepared using fresh, nutrient-dense produce in Farm Door’s Wagga Wagga kitchen, designed to save you time without compromising on quality or flavour. Now available at Alliance Pharmacy Home Hill, Burdekin locals can experience thatconvenience themselves.
Visit the pharmacy at 101 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, to browse the meals on offer in-store, or head to the Farm Door website to explore the full menu and delivery options.
Residents on a Support at Home (SaH) or NDIS package may also be eligible for subsidised meals, paying as little as 30 per cent of the cost. If you think you might qualify, contact your SaH or NDIS provider to confirm.
Earlier this week, the government launched consultation on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel.
Australia has reached a turning point in the push for a national biofuels industry, with CANEGROWERS joining industry leaders at Federation Mall today to build on the Federal Government’s cleaner fuels announcement and help ensure the opportunity delivers for growers.
Earlier this week, the government launched consultation on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel.
“This is a big deal for growers, and CANEGROWERS is right at the heart of it,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
“We’re helping lead the conversation and working alongside the milling sector and government to make sure improving grower profitability is central to what comes next.”
“The Federal Government deserves credit for the consultation. It is the most significant development in national biofuels policy in decades.
“Having grower representatives and millers here alongside biofuel producers, researchers, regional leaders and national security experts shows how seriously this opportunity is being taken.”
CANEGROWERS is backing calls for a nationally consistent, enforceable and progressively increasing blending requirement on fuel wholesalers for Australian-made ethanol and biodiesel.
It is also supporting calls to develop sovereign capability in sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and the manufacture of critical chemicals and materials from sugarcane.
“We already have feedstocks, production capacity and expertise we can use today,” Mr Galligan said.
“We should build on that now while developing the next generation of fuels and bioproducts.
“For growers, the measure of success is straightforward – new markets for cane, more value from every tonne and more profitable farming businesses.
“Biofuels policy cannot stop at the factory gate. The benefits must reach farming families and communities.”
Mr Galligan said the consultation had created real momentum.
“The industry is ready to work with government. Now we need to get on with it.”
The Federation Mall gathering follows a week of meetings in Canberra, where Mr Galligan and CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens have put the grower case directly to federal ministers and senior officials.
Burdekin residents experiencing domestic and family violence will now have access to around-the-clock crisis support following the launch of a new dedicated North Queensland service.
The 1800NQSAFE phoneline will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing immediate assistance and connecting victim-survivors with local services across the Burdekin, Townsville, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island local government areas.
The service forms part of the new North Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, backed by a $21 million Queensland Government commitment over two years.
The hub will work across key pathways including police, hospitals, housing services and specialised domestic and family violence providers, with the aim of making it easier for people to access appropriate support when they need it.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm said the service would provide greater access to local assistance across the region.
“We said we’d deliver this service in North Queensland and from today victims from Ingham to Ayr will be able to pick up the phone and receive the local help they deserve,” Minister Camm said.
“Staff at UnitingCare, which is operating the 24/7 phoneline, know firsthand the complexity of domestic and family violence and understand that everyone who has the courage to make a phone call to seek help deserves to have that call answered.”
UnitingCare is operating the new phoneline, with staff able to listen to callers, discuss their options, assist with safety planning and connect them with further services.
UnitingCare General Manager, Targeted Support, Family and Disability Services, Joanne Trentin said having assistance available outside traditional business hours was particularly important for people experiencing domestic and family violence.
“Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there,” Ms Trentin said.
“Having support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means people can reach someone when they need to; someone who can listen, help them understand their options, support safety planning and connect them with the services they need.
“1800NQSAFE is about making that pathway to support simpler and more immediate, so people experiencing domestic and family violence don't have to navigate those moments alone.”
The new service sits alongside other Queensland Government domestic and family violence measures, including Police Protection Directions and the rollout of GPS monitoring that courts can impose on high-risk perpetrators.
Burdekin residents needing support can contact 1800NQSAFE at any time, day or night.
Burdekin tourism operators looking to develop new attractions and experiences could receive up to $300,000 through the latest round of the Queensland Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
Applications have opened for round two of the $20 million program, designed to support new tourism products and infrastructure across regional Queensland.
For the Burdekin, the funding presents an opportunity for operators to develop experiences that encourage travellers to venture beyond the Bruce Highway and spend more time exploring the district.
Eligible projects range from new attractions and upgrades to existing visitor facilities to glamping, alternative accommodation, eco-tourism, farm-gate experiences and other infrastructure that increases capacity or improves visitor access.
With the district’s agricultural identity, coastal communities and natural attractions, the fund could provide opportunities to further develop the Burdekin’s agritourism and nature-based visitor offerings.
Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the government wanted to support regional operators to bring new ideas to life.
“Queensland is the best place in the world to live, work and visit, and our regions are home to some of the most incredible tourism experiences anywhere in the country,” Mr Powell said.
“The Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund is about backing Queenslanders with the support they need to turn great ideas into new attractions, better experiences and more opportunities for local communities.”
Mr Powell said strengthening tourism infrastructure could encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more regional communities while generating economic benefits.
“By investing in tourism infrastructure and experiences, we are backing local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening the regional economies that are the backbone of Queensland,” he said.
Applications close on 9th September.
Ayr residents and motorists are advised to expect temporary road closures and changed traffic conditions during the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival on Saturday 5th September.
The closures will allow for the popular Water Festival Float Parade, food stalls, show rides and sideshow activities to take over the heart of Ayr.
Affected areas will include sections of Queen, Edwards, Soper, Parker, Young and Macmillan Streets, with signage to be placed at relevant intersections to help motorists navigate the changes.
Different closures will apply throughout the day depending on festival activities, with restrictions beginning from 6am on Saturday 5th September and some remaining in place until 1am on Sunday 6th September.
Access along key surrounding streets will be maintained where possible, however motorists should allow extra travel time and follow all temporary traffic signs and directions.
The road closures have been approved by the Queensland Police Service as part of the festival’s Special Event Permit.
Residents heading into Ayr on festival day are encouraged to plan ahead and keep the changed traffic conditions in mind while enjoying one of the Burdekin’s biggest community celebrations.
This Saturday I’ll be at the Home Hill Newsagency from 8:30am to 10:30am, and I'd love the opportunity to meet with residents, answer questions and hear directly about the issues that matter to you. Whether you have a concern, a suggestion or simply want to have a chat, please feel free to stop by. I look forward to meeting members of our community and listening to your feedback.
A matter currently receiving significant attention across Queensland is the future of disaster recovery funding arrangements. The Local Government Association of Queensland has made a submission to the Federal Government calling for the retention of current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), which play a critical role in helping local governments and communities recover following natural disasters.
The submission advocates for the continuation of existing funding levels, appropriate activation thresholds, eligibility for Counter Disaster Operations expenditure, and the retention of Betterment funding provisions that allow infrastructure to be rebuilt stronger and more resilient. For regional communities such as the Burdekin, maintaining these arrangements is essential to ensuring we can recover effectively and continue delivering services when disaster strikes.
Across the Shire, Council continues to deliver projects that improve community spaces and essential infrastructure.
At Memorial Park in Home Hill, Council is partnering with the Home Hill RSL to undertake improvements to the Cenotaph and War Memorial precinct. Funded through the Queensland Government's Honouring Our Veterans Program, works will include new garden beds, Indian Mast trees, rosemary plantings and electrical upgrades to enhance this important commemorative space.
Residents will also start to see footpath replacement works commence in Mackenzie Street, Ayr, and bitumen upgrades undertaken on sections of Jerona Road as part of Council's ongoing infrastructure renewal program.
Thank you for your continued support of our community, and I hope to see many of you at the Home Hill Newsagency on Saturday morning. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Back in the day, the “three ‘R’s’” were taught in schools…Reading, (W)Riting and (A)Rithmetic. They were the foundation of our education system and were to stand us in good stead as we navigated the world. In the education system todayhowever, there is a totally different curriculum and today’s “three ‘R’s’” need to be taught at home. Respect, Responsibility and Repercussion. Respect for others and their property, responsibility for one’s actions and repercussions for actions taken. The onus for teaching this starts with parents and begins in the home. How incredibly sad that we have youth in our towns who feel entitled to vandalize not only public property but private as well.
Once again, you can’t let the facts get in the way of a good tale. Good old Social Media and the keyboard warriors strike again. A teacher of mine from my Saint Colman’s Primary School days in Home Hill, a Nun, was fond of saying to us “Empty vessels make the most noise”. People certainly don’t disappoint. The Mayor has her phone number and email address in her Councillor Column every week, or you can find all the Councilor’s contact details on the Council webpage. Pick up the phone and ask your question or voice your frustrations/concerns. But that doesn’t get the desired public reaction does it? Sad.
On the positive side of Social Media, the Burdekin has been the hot topic in a number of Facebook groups; Hayden’s Hut Bowen, Australian Art Trails, Roadside Art Australia Group and Art by Lavinia. Each of these groups sing the praises of the Burdekin, the beautiful murals and Living Lagoon as well as numerous other tourism features. How very refreshing. The Burdekin definitely has a lot to offer and word of mouth is the best form of advertising.
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held their AGM followed by their General Meeting last Wednesday night. Congratulations to the new executive, Uli Liessmann, David Jackson, Lydia Flores and John Clark. I was so happy that I attended as it meant the opportunity to hear from the proprietors of Scrubby’s Teahouse and Salted Roots Café, both new businesses to Home Hill. Their investment is a great economic boost to the district and what wonderful, proactive ideas they have for the town! (I’m lead to believe Scrubby’s scones are pretty good too). Jump onto the Home Hill Chamber website and see when their upcoming social and networking meetings are, particularly if you have a business in Home Hill. Come along and have a say in the future of Home Hill…they don’t bite.
Saskia Volmer-Creek is putting together a book about “Growing up in Home Hill”. If, like me you have fond memories of being a kid in Home Hill please email Saskia with your story on creekys@outlook.com.au. Surely there are many wonderful stories out there.
Lastly, the mobile Breast Screen van will be in Ayr from 17th August to 18th December. Take a few minutes to look after your health and book your appointment by phoning 13 20 50.
As always, you can contact me on 0427 827 386 with any concerns or queries.
God Bless.
Dawson MP Andrew Willcox joins Nationals colleagues in Canberra to address the media on the National Party’s push to repeal Labor’s new firearms laws and abolish the Federal Government’s proposed gun buyback scheme. Photo supplied.
The Nationals are moving in Parliament this week to repeal Labor’s new firearms laws and abolish the Albanese Government’s National Gun Buyback Scheme.
Nationals MP and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud is introducing the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Repealing Unfair Gun Laws) Bill 2026, with Dawson MP Andrew Willcox seconding the Bill, to call on the Albanese Government to repeal its unjust firearms legislation.
The Bill will reverse the federal firearms and importation laws rushed through Parliament by Labor earlier this year.
Mr Willcox said almost one million law-abiding firearms owners had been unfairly targeted by legislation that did not address the real problem of illegal firearms in the hands of criminals.
“The Prime Minister needs to address the real issue, which is radical Islamic terrorism,” Mr Willcox said.
“I am proud to second David Littleproud’s Bill and stand alongside my Nationals colleagues in Parliament calling on Labor to repeal these terrible laws.
“These laws target licensed, law-abiding Australians who have done everything right, while doing nothing to address the people who actually obtain and use firearms illegally.
“The people who will comply with this buyback are the same people who already follow the law, licensed firearm owners with registered firearms.
“Does the Prime Minister seriously believe criminals are going to line up and hand their weapons in?”
Mr Willcox said the cost of Labor’s buyback would ultimately fall on Australian taxpayers and have consequences for regional communities.
“This isn't just an issue for firearm owners. Every Australian taxpayer is being asked to foot the bill for a scheme that is unlikely to get illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals.
“Farmers rely on firearms to protect livestock, manage feral pests and keep their properties safe. They use them responsibly because they are an essential tool of the job.
“If you make it harder and more expensive for farmers to manage feral pests, those costs don’t simply disappear. They flow through to the cost of producing food and fibre, and ultimately to consumers at the checkout.”
Mr Willcox said the Nationals would continue to stand up for responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and welcomed the Queensland Government’s decision not to participate in the Federal Government’s proposed buyback.
“It is great to see the Queensland Government standing strong and refusing to join Labor’s scheme.
“That is what commonsense government looks like, listening to regional communities instead of imposing a one-size-fits-all solution from Canberra.”
Mr Littleproud said the Nationals had led the fight against Labor’s firearms laws.
“Almost one million law-abiding Australians were blamed for a crime they did not commit. That was wrong.
“The Bondi massacre was an act of Islamic terrorism. It had nothing to do with licensed firearm owners, and no evidence has ever linked them to it.”
Mr Littleproud said the Nationals would continue fighting until the laws were repealed.
The Nationals’ Bill is backed by a petition with more than 71,000 signatures calling for Labor’s firearms laws to be repealed.
The Federal Government’s proposed buyback remains stalled, with Queensland, the Northern Territory and Victoria declining to participate, while Tasmania is pursuing its own arrangements and South Australia has refused to change its laws.
Only New South Wales and the ACT have committed to the Federal scheme.
Mr Willcox said he would continue to fight for law-abiding firearm owners in regional Australia.
“I will always support responsible, law-abiding firearms owners.
“I refuse to support any agenda that spends taxpayers’ money on legislation that achieves nothing except punishing people who already follow the rules.
“Labor should focus on keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals, rather than targeting the farmers, sporting shooters, hunters and collectors who have done nothing wrong.”
The Bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives this week.
Supplied by the Office of Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
The Burdekin community united to commemorate the Battle of Long Tan and honour the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War at a solemn ceremony last week. Photo: Rob Ritchie.
The Burdekin community joined Australians across the country in commemorating Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan at a solemn ceremony last week.
Hosted annually by the Vietnam Veterans Burdekin Sub-Branch at its Deep Creek retreat, the service welcomed veterans, dignitaries and families to honour the bravery and sacrifice of Australians who served during the Vietnam War.
Among attendees was Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who addressed the crowd alongside VVBB President Richard Kelly after a parade opened proceedings. Attendees were then invited to lay wreaths, with a rendition of The Last Post and a bagpipe lament rounding out the service.
Mr Kelly said he felt “honoured” to see so many people in attendance.
“It was great to see a lot of people come all the way in from Townsville and the Burdekin—it’s a fair way up there,” he said.
“It was a great honour to have so many up there this year. It just goes to show that there are still a lot of local people who pay respects to our past figures.”
Dale Last has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Queensland Police Service, receiving a National Police Service Medal at a special awards ceremony in Brisbane last week. Photos: Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP
Dale Last has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Queensland Police Service, receiving a National Police Service Medal at a special awards ceremony in Brisbane last week.
The Member for Burdekin was presented the medal by Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie, honouring his service from 1983 to 2008, which culminated in his role as Officer in Charge of Townsville Police Station.
The National Police Service Medal recognises ethical and diligent service by sworn police officers, with a minimum of 15 years’ service required for eligibility.
Mr Last spent his police career at stations across regional and remote Queensland, including postings in Indigenous communities and smaller centres, before being appointed OIC of Townsville Police Station in December 2000.
He remained in the role until leaving the QPS for local government in March 2008, saying his years as a police officer taught him lessons that continue to shape his work today.
“Policing taught me a great deal about service, responsibility, and the importance of standing up for the communities you represent,” he said.
“I have been proud to carry those lessons through to my current role as the Member for Burdekin, as I continue to advocate for the services and infrastructure to support our community.
“It was an honour to wear the uniform, and I’m grateful to receive this recognition of that service.”
Council confirmed it is not closing the Groper Creek Caravan Park, but the Home Hill Boat Club has decided to surrender its caravan park licence, paving the way for Council to take control of the site. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.
Burdekin Shire Council and the Home Hill Boat Club (HHBC) have stepped in to clarify the future of the Groper Creek Caravan Park, addressing closure rumours and clarifying that the HHBC has decided to surrender its caravan park license, paving the way for Council to take control of the site.
The clarification comes after rumours circulated in the community that Council was preparing to shut the popular Groper Creek facility.
"The Groper Creek Caravan Park is operated by the Home Hill Boat Club, not Council," Mayor Dalle Cort said.
"The Committee has advised that due to financial pressures it is no longer in a position to continue operating the facility."
The Boat Club has attributed their decision to surrender their license to mounting pressures of compliance demands.
The club say they received a Council report on the 8th of June outlining numerous areas of non-compliance with Council requirements, including issues relating to potable water, wastewater and ablution facilities.
The committee said it had since worked closely with Council to address the issues, but the scale of the financial and legislative requirements had ultimately proved unsustainable for the volunteer-run organisation.
"Unfortunately, due to significant financial and legislative challenges that are beyond the capacity of the HHBC to resolve independently, a public meeting including stakeholders, park users, local residents and council was held," the committee said.
"The overwhelmingly majority in attendance supported the decision to relinquish the caravan park licence."
The club said Council had advised the caravan park would be converted into a three-star community park under Council's control and maintenance.
"The HHBC is very saddened with this outcome but due to the requirements and compliance imposed it is unsustainable for the club to continue to manage and operate the caravan park," the committee said.
The parties said they would be working in conjunction to transition the site.
Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied
Burdekin residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice next month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer.
Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available.
Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month.
More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas.
Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes.
“Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.”
Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this year’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au.
Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell with Federal Minister Kristy McBain and Treasurer Jim Chalmers at Cloncurry Airport. Photo supplied
Cloncurry Airport could face an operational downgrade this wet season, potentially restricting FIFO aircraft and affecting mining operations across North West Queensland unless a further $10 million is secured for a permanent runway upgrade.
Cloncurry Shire Council has warned heavier jet aircraft could be prevented from using the runway if conditions create the potential for a repeat of the major failure experienced earlier this year.
The airport sustained significant damage in January when heavy rainfall associated with a monsoon trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji damaged sections of the runway.
Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell said safety would remain the priority.
“It's not a decision we want to make, but we need to ensure our facility is safe,” Cr Campbell said.
“The technical advice we are getting is that if we have a severe weather event like we had during this year's wet season, we will need to downgrade the airport to ensure we do not have another catastrophic failure of our key asset.
“It’s critical that we protect our airstrip to prevent failure. The best solution would be to secure the required $10 million and have the upgrades completed prior to the wet season.”
The Commonwealth and Queensland governments have committed $11.5 million through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, with approximately $2 million used for emergency repairs that restored the runway to near-normal operations.
However, Council says another $10 million is required to complete its broader $26 million rehabilitation program.
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Planning for the major upgrade began about four years ago after inspections identified the airport was approaching the end of its useful life.
The project would not only rehabilitate the runway but support Council’s plans to develop the site into a broader aviation precinct capable of accommodating larger aircraft.
Cloncurry Airport serves as a major gateway for the North West’s resources sector, supporting mining operations including Ernest Henry, Dugald River, Eloise, Austral Resources, Eva Copper, True North Copper and Rocklands, alongside future projects such as CopperString.
“We've been working towards doing a major upgrade to the airport for probably four years now, where it was getting to the end of its life,” Cr Campbell said.
“We were looking at growing our airport to be an aviation precinct.”
Council had sought $14.5 million through the Federal Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, however its application was unsuccessful.
Cr Campbell said updating the application with market-tested tender prices was treated as a resubmission, moving the project from round two to round six of assessments and causing further delays.
“The final advice that the CEO got gave us some confidence that we would be better off updating with the tendered prices,” he said.
“But that was considered a resubmission and pushed us back. Instead of us being in round two, we ended up being assessed in round six.”
Council is now calling on either the Queensland or Federal Government to provide the remaining funding before another major weather event places the runway at risk.
“We don't care if the funding comes from Canberra or Brisbane, but we need that extra $10 million to get the work done so we can continue to be a major contributor to the economy,” Cr Campbell said.
Back (from left): Tracey Gabiola, Ainsley Ferrando, Helen Kross, Carolyn Bell, Dr Ben Lawry.
Front (from left): Tamika Crank & Rayf Pugh, Ayla Armstrong & Callie Armstrong, Chantel Ferrando & Maverick Rush, Stacey Butler & Remi Malaponte, Laura Cowan & Freya Cowan, Jessamy Nicolaides & Ava Nicolaides. Photo supplied.
The Burdekin is booming with babies after six newborns arrived in less than four days at Ayr Hospital. The new Burdekinites are among 30 babies born at the hospital between May and July, making it the region’s busiest baby boom in more than half a decade.
A four-day birthing spree at Ayr Health Service has capped off the facility’s busiest maternity period in over five years, with six infants arriving in under 96 hours.
The maternity unit welcomed a total of 30 newborns between May and July, marking the highest three-month tally at the facility since 2020. The total represents eight more births than the local average for the same period over the past six years.
Director of nursing Tracey Gabiola said she could not remember a time when the local maternity service had been as busy.
“While it has been an extremely busy time for our staff, particularly during a hectic few days at the end of May where six newborns arrived in less than 96 hours, staff enjoy working in a service where they can share in the joy of welcoming babies and supporting parents,” she said.
“These are incredibly special moments, and we feel very privileged to be involved.”
Ms Gabiola commended the adaptability of the health service workforce.
“Whether responding to an emergency or assisting with the delivery of a baby, the team always steps up and I am incredibly grateful to them for always rising to the challenge.”
Local mother Stacey Butler, who gave birth to daughter Remi Malaponte during the May delivery cluster, said it was important to be able to give birth in her hometown.
“We are very fortunate to have the facility and the staff here so we can have our babies in our community,” Ms Butler said.
“I really didn’t want to have to leave home and be away from my family and friends to give birth to my little girl.
“She is perfect, and it means the world to me that she was able to be born in her hometown and surrounded by her loved ones.”
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