Member for Burdekin and Shadow Minister for Rural & Regional Affairs Dale Last stands next to the Bruce Highway in 2024.

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Five narrow bridges north and south of Ayr are set for replacement as part of the next stage of the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program.

The Federal and Queensland governments this week announced 52 new tenders for design and construction works along the Bruce Highway, with projects affecting more than 200 kilometres of roadway across the state.

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Among the North Queensland works slated for the coming year are bridge replacements at Palm Creek, St Margaret Creek, Emmett Creek, Mackenzie Creek and Alligator Creek between Ayr and Townsville, alongside further safety upgrades, pavement strengthening and overtaking lanes.

The announcement comes as 11 projects under the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program have now been completed, while work continues on another 46 projects. A further 10 projects have recently commenced, with almost 60 more expected to begin progressively from 2026.

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Over the next 12 months, the program will deliver more than 300 kilometres of wide centre-line treatment, more than 145 kilometres of pavement strengthening, 23 intersection upgrades and two new rest areas.

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Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the release of 52 additional tenders demonstrated the scale of the program.

"The Albanese Government is committed to improving safety on the Bruce Highway, and these latest tenders represent another significant step in delivering upgrades that will help save lives and support regional communities and industries,"Ms King said.

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Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the next wave of projects showed the program was continuing to move ahead at pace.

"We told Queenslanders we are committed to fixing the Bruce and works are already making a real difference for motorists, regional communities and freight operators between Gympie and Cairns," Mr Mickelberg said.

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The Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program is jointly funded by the Federal and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis and is expected to deliver projects through to 2030.

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Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said AgForce’s report estimates the regulatory cost per business for referral and annual compliance could be as much $139,000 per referral. Photo source: Facebook/Senator Matthew Canavan

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Queensland farmers are facing billions in new costs, with the next phase of Labor’s land clearing laws due to come into effect on July 1.

A new report by peak body AgForce, ‘Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Reform Impacts on Queensland Agriculture’, shines a light into the enormous burden farmers will face under the changes.

Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said AgForce’s report estimates the regulatory cost per business for referral and annual compliance could be as much $139,000 per referral. This is an ongoing cumulative cost of $3.5 billion on Queensland agriculture alone, per year.

The report also estimates a $5.87 billion in permanent reduction of Queensland farmland value, due to the changes in the continuous use exemption, with 1.1 million hectares of Category X land captured and more than 4.3 million hectares of total land captured.

Senator Canavan said Labor’s confusing and rushed EPBC Act reforms has resulted in poorly designed regulation not always delivering better environmental outcomes.

“The EPBC framework was originally designed to assess one-off development proposals, not the cyclical and ongoing land management activities that occur as part of normal agricultural production,” Senator Canavan said.

“Farmers are extremely concerned they are unintentionally breaking the law, with limited to no information to assist in making decisions. It has resulted in genuine fears farmers could get taken to court and be put out of business.

“If this is just Queensland, imagine the impact on the rest of the nation. This also comes after Senate Estimates revealed the impacts, costs, nor environmental outcomes of the EPBC reforms haven’t been modelled, after a last minute deal with the Greens.”

AgForce general president Shane McCarthy said AgForce is concerned a regulatory impact statement into how the changes could affect farmers, regional communities, food security and food sovereignty was not conducted.

“Producers should be encouraged to actively manage weeds, invasive regrowth, fire risk and land condition,” Mr McCarthy said.

“If regulation creates uncertainty around those activities, there is a real risk of achieving outcomes that are worse for both the environment and agricultural productivity.”

Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said in the 2026-27 Budget, the government committed to reducing regulatory burden by $10.2 billion each year, which includes the implementation of the EPBC Act reforms.

“Labor must explain, how does this figure account for the increased regulatory burden on agriculture, and will the regulatory burden on agriculture be costed each year?” Mr Chester said.

“The fact that many farmers still cannot determine with confidence whether routine agricultural activities trigger federal requirements demonstrates the framework is not yet fit for purpose.

“At a time when our farmers are facing increased input costs, it is madness for the Albanese Government to make it harder for Queensland's farming families.”

Shadow Minister for the Environment Andrew Bragg said effective policy should build on that stewardship rather than creating barriers to active land management.

“Landholders could be forced to obtain permission for something as simple as managing weeds and invasive regrowth on private property,” Senator Bragg said.

“Australian consumers expect farmers to be growing food, not navigating legal uncertainty. Every dollar spent on unnecessary approvals, referrals and compliance is a dollar that cannot be invested in food production, environmental stewardship or regional communities.

“This is why the Coalition will improve the operation of the EPBC Act, including cutting green tape to provide certainty for stakeholders. We will focus on protecting the environment, while safeguarding the livelihoods and prosperity of Australians.”

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Supplied by Office of the Hon Senator Matthew Canavan

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Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (second from left) is excited to meet with growers and share insights into global sugar markets during Wilmar's Global Traders Roadshow this week. Photo supplied

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By Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing, Simon Hood

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June is shaping up to be a busy month, and we look forward to catching up with growers across our milling regions through a range of events and activities.

This week, our Global Traders Roadshow returns, bringing together Wilmar's global trading experts and local Grower Marketing team to discuss the latest developments in sugar and currency markets. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the people monitoring global markets every day, while also asking questions about pricing options and current market conditions. We are looking forward to connecting with those of you who have put their name down to attend.

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We're also reminding growers that nominations for the 2027 Managed Pool Plus close on 30 June. If you've been considering the pool, now is the time to act.

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The Managed Pool Plus is designed for growers seeking a longer-term approach to pricing in volatile markets, with active management across both sugar and currency markets. The 2025 season has highlighted the value of this strategy, with the pool delivering a result above the seasonal average, demonstrating the benefits of disciplined pricing over an extended window rather than relying on short-term market movements. While past performance is never a guarantee of future returns, the result reinforces the value of having experienced market specialists actively managing price risk through changing market conditions.

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If you'd like to learn more before nominations close, speak with your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager or catch us at one of the Global Traders Roadshow events.

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Beyond the markets, we're proud to continue supporting the local communities that support our industry. Throughout June, Wilmar Grower Marketing is once again sponsoring several regional events, including the Sarina Tractor Pull, Proserpine Cane Awards and Ingham Tractor Pull.

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These events celebrate the people who make our industry what it is and provide a great opportunity for families, growers and the wider community to come together. We look forward to seeing many familiar faces, celebrating another season and continuing the conversations that matter most to our growers.

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We hope to see you at one of our roadshow sessions or community events over the coming weeks

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Burdekin region sugar mills crushed just over 346,000 tonnes of cane in Week 3 of the 2026 crushing season, taking the season-to-date total to more than 900,000 tonnes.

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The weekly throughput, ending 20 June, was above budget expectations, according to Burdekin Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi, reflecting steady early-season performance across all four mills.

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Invicta led weekly production with 129,947 tonnes, followed by Pioneer (78,843 tonnes), Kalamia (76,682 tonnes) and Inkerman (61,179 tonnes). Season-to-date totals now sit at 350,719 tonnes for Invicta, 183,432 tonnes for Pioneer, 186,631 tonnes for Kalamia and 179,596 tonnes for Inkerman.

The overall regional average Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) for the week was 14.23, well above the budgeted figure of 12.98 and slightly higher than the season-to-date average of 13.97.

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Kalamia recorded the highest weekly CCS at 14.86, while individual mill results remained strong across the board, with Invicta and Pioneer both recording 14.31.

Variety performance data showed Q240 as the dominant variety, making up 40 per cent of the crush at an average CCS of 13.83, followed by KQ228 at 31 per cent (14.51 CCS) and Q183 at 15 per cent (14.88 CCS).

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SRA23 recorded the highest CCS of the minor varieties at 14.73.

The region also recorded a peak CCS of 17.30 from a rake of Q183 plant cane supplied from the Mulgrave productivity district.

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Operationally, Invicta and Inkerman mills completed their first cleaning intermissions for the season last week, while Kalamia and Pioneer are scheduled to undergo cleaning on Tuesday 23 June.

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With the school holiday period approaching, growers and industry representatives are also urging families to reinforce safety awareness around the cane rail network.

Locals and visitors are being reminded to “train their brain” and always give way to cane trains near rail crossings and track corridors.

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The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its commitment to reduce landfill and boost recycling with a $343,520 investment in projects that will slash landfill and supercharge recycling in Burdekin and surrounds.

The Resource Recovery Boost Fund – Round 1 – supports council projects across Queensland, from material recovery facility upgrades to distributing larger household recycling bins.

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The first round is supporting 26 projects across Queensland, which will divert more than 150,000 tonnes of waste from landfill and save councils around $17 million annually on waste levy costs.

In the Burdekin, that means 419.2 tonnes of waste saved from landfill and approximately $40,662 saved on waste fees.

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Queensland is the most decentralised state in Australia and stakeholders consistently told the Government that Labor’s one-size-fits-all approach failed to reflect the different challenges faced by communities across the State.

The Crisafulli Government has introduced a new set of practical targets including a statewide recycling target of 65 per cent by 2035, alongside dedicated targets for both South East Queensland and regional Queensland.

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Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was delivering on its plan to reduce landfill and boost recycling.

“This is about getting waste out of the ground and backing practical solutions that turn it into value,” Minister Powell said.

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“This investment means less going into landfill, more being reused and recycled, and real savings for local councils.

“We’re supporting councils with the infrastructure they need to manage waste smarter and keep their communities clean and sustainable.

“We are doing what we said we would do - cutting landfill, increasing recycling and investing in the infrastructure Queensland needs for the future.

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“After a decade of decline under Labor, Queensland now has the second lowest recycling rate in Australia, and we’re getting on with the job of fixing the system and delivering better outcomes for Queenslanders.”

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Crisafulli Government’s investment would deliver practical improvements for residents while supporting better waste outcomes.

“This funding is all about building smarter, more sustainable infrastructure that keeps pace with our rapidly growing region, Mr Last said.

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“These upgrades will make a real difference on the ground - creating jobs, improving how materials are recovered, and ensuring our community has the facilities it needs both now and for future generations.

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“By investing in modern infrastructure, we’re making it simpler for households to recycle, while helping drive down costs and strengthening long-term sustainability in the Burdekin electorate and surrounding areas.”

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Supplied by Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP’s office

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2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES QLD), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), and Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), (front) Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association), Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School), Amity Power (Campbell’s Jewellery), Amity Baxter (The Burdekin Academy), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), and Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College). Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography

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Continuing a tradition that has brought the community together for almost 70 years, the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival season was officially launched on Friday 19th June, kicking off a new year of celebrations under the theme River Country, Burdekin Style.

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Held at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, the Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch marked the official beginning of this year’s Festival program, bringing together community members, families, sponsors and supporters for an evening of entertainment and celebration.

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The 2026 Festival will also make history, with several significant milestones achieved within the Ambassador Program. For the first time since the Festival began in 1958, two male Senior Ambassadors have been introduced, marking a major moment in the program’s long-standing history. This year has also seen a range of new community organisations joining as first-time supporters, strengthening the program’s ties across the Burdekin region.

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Read more here: www.burdekinlife.com/article/2026-burdekin-water-festival-community-launch-draws-strong-turnout

See all photos from the event here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/2026-burdekin-water-festival-community-launch-draws-strong-turnout

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is pleased to welcome a new face to the team, with Mikayla Giddy recently joining the branch as a Customer Service Officer.

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Born in Townsville and raised in Ayr, Mikayla is no stranger to the Burdekin. Growing up alongside her brother and surrounded by family deeply connected to the local community, she has a genuine appreciation for the region and the people who call it home.

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Now stepping into her new role at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Mikayla is excited to build relationships with customers and become part of a team that is dedicated to supporting local people and businesses.

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“The thing I enjoy most about my role is being able to interact with the customers who come into the branch and getting to know them,” Mikayla said.

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“It’s great meeting different people every day and helping them with their banking needs.”

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Away from work, Mikayla enjoys spending time with friends, travelling and indulging in a little retail therapy. Her friendly personality and enthusiasm for connecting with people make her a natural fit for a customer-facing role.

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Having grown up in the Burdekin, Mikayla understands the unique sense of community that makes the region special.

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“We’re a tight-knit community that’s always looking out for one another,” she said.

“There are always special events happening that bring people together and create opportunities for people of all ages to connect and enjoy themselves.”

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said Mikayla’s local knowledge and approachable nature have already made a positive impression on both customers and staff.

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“We’re delighted to welcome Mikayla to the team,” Sally said.

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“Being a local, she understands the values that are important to our customers and the wider community. Her enthusiasm and willingness to help make her a wonderful addition to our branch.”

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As Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues its commitment to delivering personalised service and investing back into the local community, team members like Mikayla play an important role in ensuring customers feel welcomed and supported every time they walk through the door.

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When we talk about Council’s budget each year, it’s easy to think of it as just numbers on a page. But in reality, it’s about the everyday things that keep our community running.

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It’s the roads we travel on each day, the drainage that protects our homes during the wet season, and the parks, pools and public spaces where families come together. It’s the essential services we often don’t think twice about - until they’re not there.

This year’s budget is guided by the theme “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow,” and that really speaks to what we’re trying to achieve for the Burdekin - making sure what we have today continues to serve us well into the future.

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The 2026/27 Budget continues our focus on maintaining what we have while planning carefully for the future. It’s about making sure our infrastructure is reliable, our services are consistent, and our community remains a great place to live, work and raise a family.

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Council also recognises that many households and businesses are continuing to feel the pressure of rising living costs. That has been front of mind in shaping this year’s budget, with a strong focus on balancing what our community needs now with what we must plan for into the future.

A lot of Council’s work happens behind the scenes. From water and sewer systems to drainage networks and asset maintenance, these are the foundations that support daily life in the Burdekin. While they may not always be visible, they are critical to our community’s health, safety and long-term sustainability.  

Council is continuing to invest in the infrastructure that matters most, while also supporting the community spaces and facilities that contribute to our lifestyle. Because maintaining liveability is just as important as maintaining roads and services.

Importantly, this year’s budget is about balance. It’s about delivering what our community needs today, while planning responsibly for tomorrow.

That’s what sustainable growth looks like - making considered decisions now that will support a strong, connected and resilient Burdekin into the future.

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As always, I encourage residents to stay engaged, take an interest in Council’s work, and continue to be part of what makes our community so unique.

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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.

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Meet Amara Boccalatte - Representing BT Farms

For the first time, BT Farms will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Amara Boccalatte proudly stepping into the role.

Amara said she was excited to become an ambassador and embrace the opportunity to meet new people, challenge herself and be part of one of the Burdekin's most cherished community celebrations.

As part of a local family farming business, Amara already has a close connection to the organisation she is representing, and she enjoys helping her dad with jobs around the farm, learning about the sugar industry and seeing firsthand the work that goes into growing one of the region's most important crops.

"My favourite part is getting to see all the people my dad works with and riding on the tractor," Amara shared.

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Outside of farm life, Amara keeps busy with dance, piano, singing, art and athletics, while also holding a special love for animals.

Amara has nominated Ronald McDonald House Townsville as her chosen charity for the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.

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Meet Jaxsyn Pearce - Representing Ayr State School

Junior Ambassador Jaxsyn Pearce is proud to represent Ayr State School in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, embracing the opportunity to meet new people and showcase his school within the wider community.

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Jaxsyn currently serves as House Captain of Mitchell Kookaburras, a leadership role that allows him to encourage school spirit and represent his fellow students. He is especially proud to be representing Ayr State School during a significant milestone year, as the school celebrates its 140th anniversary.

Home to students from a wide range of backgrounds, Ayr State School has long been an important part of the Burdekin community and continues to provide opportunities for students to learn, grow and achieve.

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Outside of school, Jaxsyn enjoys motorbike riding, machinery and gaming. He has a keen interest in aerodynamics and hopes to one day pursue a career as a mechanic or even compete as a MotoGP racer.

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Meet Amity Baxter - Representing The Burdekin Academy

Junior Ambassador Amity Baxter is ready to flip into this year's Burdekin Water Festival, proudly representing The Burdekin Academy.

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Amity nominated to become an ambassador to meet new friends, get involved in the community and enjoy the exciting experiences the festival has to offer. As a passionate gymnast, she is also proud to represent the club that has been a big part of her life since she was five years old.

A dedicated member of The Burdekin Academy, Amity enjoys competing at gymnastics competitions and meeting athletes from clubs across the region and beyond. The academy has been providing gymnastics opportunities for local children for more than a decade, helping young people develop confidence, skills and friendships in a fun and supportive environment.

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When she isn't training in the gym, Amity enjoys staying active through athletics and soccer.

As a 2025 Junior Ambassador, Amity is looking forward to making new connections and celebrating everything that makes the Burdekin community special.

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Meet Blaize Palmer - Representing Burdekin Motors

For the first time, Burdekin Motors will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Senior Ambassador Blaize Palmer proudly taking on the role.

Blaize said he was inspired to nominate by a friend and saw the ambassador program as an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, kindness and respect while becoming more involved in the community.

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A Year 1 apprentice light vehicle mechanic, Blaize works as a technician within the Burdekin Motors team and is building a career in the automotive industry. Burdekin Motors Group is a well-known local business, offering vehicle sales, servicing, repairs and detailing to customers across the region.

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Away from work, Blaize enjoys staying active through a range of sports, including basketball, touch football and rugby league. He is also passionate about helping young people and regularly participates in community activities through the PCYC.

Blaize has nominated 100% Hope as his chosen charity.

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Meet Evie Totorica - Representing Ayr Motorcycle Club

For the first time, Ayr Motorcycle Club will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Evie Totorica proudly taking on the role.

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Evie said she was excited to represent both the club and the sport she loves, while becoming more involved in the local community through the ambassador program.

A talented junior rider, Evie competes in the 65cc class and regularly races against boys at club, state and national levels. She proudly represents Ayr Motorcycle Club at events across Queensland and Australia.

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Based at Brandon Sports Reserve, Ayr Motorcycle Club is a grassroots dirt-track and speedway club built on local volunteers, community spirit and a shared passion for motorcycle racing.

When she isn't on the track, Evie enjoys singing, netball, camping, boating and fishing. She is looking forward to meeting new people and sharing her passion for motorcycle sport throughout the Water Festival journey.

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Meet Aria Fiamingo - Representing St Francis Catholic School

Junior Ambassador Aria Fiamingo is eager to embrace new opportunities, meet new people and make a positive impact as she proudly represents St Francis Catholic School in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.

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Aria nominated for the ambassador program because she sees it as a chance to learn, grow and give back to the community. Passionate about fundraising and helping others, she is excited to support worthy causes while sharing new ideas and perspectives throughout her ambassador journey.

A natural leader, Aria serves as both a Grade 6 leader and Sport Captain at St Francis Catholic School. In these roles, she encourages younger students to do their best, participate and enjoy school life while leading by example. She also enjoys representing her school at community events and has proudly taken part in Anzac Day commemorations since Prep.

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Outside the classroom, Aria enjoys dancing, singing, playing guitar, sport and art, with a particular love for contemporary dance and country music. Reliable, enthusiastic and community-minded, she is looking forward to making the most of her ambassador experience.

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Meet Olivia Pavone - Representing Feed Me Food

Feed Me Food will make its Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program debut this year, with Olivia Pavone proudly stepping forward as the business's first-ever Senior Ambassador.

For Olivia, the opportunity is particularly meaningful. Having always dreamed of being involved in the Water Festival, she was thrilled when approached to represent the family-owned business and jumped at the chance to become more involved in the community she loves.

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Working alongside her parents, Olivia is part of the team behind Feed Me Food, a familiar sight at local markets, festivals and community events. Known for serving fresh food with a smile, the business has built a reputation for bringing people together while supporting events across the region.

Away from work, Olivia enjoys travelling, singing, attending community events and spending time with family and friends. She is looking forward to meeting new people and embracing every part of the Water Festival journey.

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Meet Amity Power - Representing Campbell’s Jewellery

Junior Ambassador Amity Power is excited to represent Campbell’s Jewellery in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, an opportunity she eagerly accepted when asked by her grandmother, the business owner.

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Having grown up watching her grandmother and staff assist customers, Amity has developed a keen interest in the jewellery industry and hopes to one day work at the store herself. In the meantime, she is learning about gemstones and diamonds while gaining a greater understanding of the family business.

Originally owned by Kevin and Meryl Campbell for more than 50 years, Campbell’s Jewellery has remained a trusted part of the Burdekin community since Amity’s grandmother took ownership in 2013.

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A soccer player who enjoys baking, shopping and spending time with her younger cousins, Amity is looking forward to meeting new people, attending events and taking part in the Water Festival parade.

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Meet Judah Donald - Representing Burdekin Christian College

Junior Ambassador Judah Donald is looking forward to stepping outside his comfort zone and building his confidence as he represents Burdekin Christian College in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.

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A Year 6 student and House Captain for Mark House, Judah is proud to represent his school and the values it promotes throughout the community. He sees the ambassador program as an opportunity for personal growth while meeting new people and developing valuable leadership skills.

Burdekin Christian College provides education for students from Prep to Year 12 and has become a well-respected part of the local community, offering a faith-based learning environment that encourages students to reach their full potential.

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Outside of school, Judah enjoys spending his free time gaming and swimming. He has nominated Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue as his chosen charity and is eager to support the important work the organisation does throughout the region.

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Meet Ella Pirrone - Representing the Rotary Club of Ayr

With fond memories of her time as a Junior Water Festival Ambassador in 2018, Ella Pirrone is excited to return to the program as a Senior Ambassador, proudly representing the Rotary Club of Ayr.

Currently studying Primary Education at university, Ella saw the ambassador role as an opportunity to build confidence, connect with the community and meet new people while revisiting an experience that left a lasting impression on her.

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Although not a Rotary member herself, Ella said she is honoured to represent a club that has been serving the Burdekin community for more than 70 years. Through initiatives including the Community Raffle, Rotary Phone Book, Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race and Sugar Rush Breakfast, the Rotary Club of Ayr continues to support important local causes and community projects.

Outside of her studies, Ella enjoys playing and umpiring netball, baking, fishing and spending time with family and friends.

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Meet Ashlyn Pearce - Representing Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association

For the first time, the Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association (LBCDA) will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Ashlyn Pearce proudly taking on the role.

Ashlyn was thrilled when she was invited to become an ambassador and is looking forward to meeting new people, making new friends and celebrating one of the Burdekin's most-loved community events.

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A dedicated Highland dancer, Ashlyn is actively involved with the association, attending classes, performing at community events and competing throughout the year. Alongside her family, she also volunteers at annual events hosted by the club.

The LBCDA promotes Highland and Irish dancing throughout the Burdekin, providing opportunities for dancers to learn traditional Scottish dances while building strong community connections.

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Outside of dancing, Ashlyn enjoys trips to the beach, swimming, knee boarding, riding her quad bike and attending art classes after school.

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Meet Mia Bojack - Representing Burdekin Christian College

Junior Ambassador Mia Bojack is looking forward to meeting new people and building her confidence as she represents Burdekin Christian College in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival.

A Year 6 student at the college, Mia is excited to embrace the opportunities that come with the ambassador program while proudly representing her school and the wider community.

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Born and raised in the Burdekin, Mia lives on a farm surrounded by animals, including dogs, horses, cats and even a cow. Her greatest passion is horse riding, a hobby she has enjoyed for the past six years. A competitive show jumper, she spends much of her time training and competing, developing skills, discipline and confidence along the way.

Mia is eager to make the most of her ambassador journey and create new friendships throughout the festival.

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Meet Zylon Dallecort - Representing Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES Queensland

In a first for the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES Queensland have joined forces to sponsor a Senior Ambassador, with Zylon Dallecort proudly representing both organisations.

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While initially hesitant about taking on the role, Zylon said learning more about the opportunities involved quickly changed his mind, and he is now looking forward to becoming more involved in the community through the festival.

The two organisations share a commitment to strengthening community wellbeing. Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre focuses on building connections and supporting local needs, while CORES Queensland delivers suicide prevention education and awareness programs across the state.

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Many locals will recognise Zylon from his performances with the Burdekin Singers. When he is not on stage, he enjoys playing guitar, painting and working with people in the community. He is also a passionate fan of superheroes, particularly those from the Marvel universe.

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Meet Lillea Levitt - Representing Burdekin Netball Association

Junior Ambassador Lillea Levitt is excited to represent the Burdekin Netball Association in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, with the opportunity to meet new people and celebrate her club among the highlights of the experience.

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A dedicated netball player since the age of six, Lillea has developed a strong connection to the sport and the association that has supported her throughout her sporting journey. She is proud to represent an organisation that encourages young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence and always strive to do their best.

The Burdekin Netball Association provides opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to learn and enjoy the game in a welcoming and supportive environment, helping foster both teamwork and sportsmanship.

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Outside of netball, Lillea enjoys playing touch football and volleyball, as well as fishing, shopping and spending time with her friends.

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Meet Edith Innes - Representing East Ayr State School

Junior Ambassador Edith Innes is excited to step outside her comfort zone and represent East Ayr State School in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival.

Having attended East Ayr State School from Prep to Year 6, Edith is proud to showcase the school community that has played such an important role in her life. She said becoming an ambassador has always been something she wanted to do, with the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills and build confidence making the experience even more special.

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Currently serving as East Ayr State School Captain, Edith is passionate about giving back to her school and highlighting the many opportunities available to students, from music and performing arts to sport and leadership programs.

Outside of school, Edith plays soccer and is a Highland dancer with FC Caledonia. She also plays the alto saxophone and has a keen interest in science, with dreams of becoming a biologist or zoologist in the future.

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Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. Photo supplied

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If you have ever walked past the membership sign at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and wondered whether it was really worth ten dollars, the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, for most local families it pays for itself within the very first visit.

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FriendlyCare Pharmacy is a not-for-profit, community-owned organisation that has been serving the Burdekin region and beyond for over 100 years. Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. That means better pricing for members, and community sponsorships and donations that support the groups and events that matter to Ayr residents.

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It starts with ten dollars

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Membership costs just $10, and when you sign up you receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store straight away. Effectively, your membership pays for itself on the spot.

From that point forward, you receive member-only pricing on just about everything in the pharmacy. That includes pharmacy medicines, vitamins and supplements, and all your favourite health and beauty brands. The savings quickly add up, especially for families who rely on their pharmacy regularly.

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Earn CarePoints every time you shop

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FriendlyCare Membership also includes access to the CarePoints rewards program. Every dollar you spend in-store or online earns you CarePoints, which you can then redeem to get money off future purchases.

It is a simple way to be rewarded for the shopping you are already doing. The more you spend, the more you save over time. CarePoints work alongside your member-only discounts, so you are benefiting in two ways every time you visit.

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Member-only offers and exclusive extras

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As a FriendlyCare member you will be the first to hear about promotions, member-only email offers, and exclusive competitions. These are not available to general customers, and they are sent directly to you, so you never miss out.

Members also have access to the FriendlyCare App, which helps you manage your medications, request prescription repeats from home, set medication reminders, and stay connected to your pharmacy team without needing to call or come in.

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You are supporting your community

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Perhaps the most meaningful part of FriendlyCare membership is what it represents beyond the savings. As a not-for-profit, community-owned organisation, FriendlyCare does not send profits offshore or to shareholders. When you become a member and shop with FriendlyCare, you are helping to sustain a local business that gives back to the community.

It is the kind of pharmacy model that is rare in Australia today, and Ayr is fortunate to have it.

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How to join

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Signing up takes just a few minutes. Simply visit our friendly team in-store at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and they will get you set up on the spot. You can also join online at friendlycare.com.au.

As a FriendlyCare member, you’ll receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store immediately; exclusive member-only pricing on most products; CarePoints earned on every dollar spent, redeemable for rewards; exclusive member email offers and competitions; and access to the FriendlyCareApp to manage your medications.

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Join today and start saving for the rest of your life. Pop in and see the team at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr or visit friendlycare.com.au to sign up online.

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Supplied by FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr

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Tangible cost of living relief will be delivered for north Queenslanders who have borne the brunt of soaring power costs as prices fall for the first time in a decade.

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The Queensland Competition Authority’s (QCA) final determination has confirmed electricity costs will drop by up to 6.9 per cent for regional households and 8.1 per cent for small businesses from 1 July.

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Having advocated for a better deal for regional power customers as the local Member, Burdekin MP Dale Last has hailed the reduction in electricity prices a win for the region’s families and small businesses.

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“I have long called for Queensland’s regional power customers to receive a better deal and I’m proud to see the Crisafulli Government deliver the price cut our families and small businesses need,” Mr Last said.

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“Following the Queensland Competition Authority’s final determination, our government took action to direct Ergon Energy to pass on the savings in full to regional households and small businesses.”

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“It’s only right that if the cost of energy falls, bills should too and now couldn’t be a better time with the national affordability crisis putting pressure on Queenslanders’ hip pocket.”

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The QCA notes higher availability of Queensland coal generators, lower gas prices, and growing investment in batteries and renewables are driving down power bills for Queenslanders.

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Mr Last said the concerns from families and small businesses around the increase in power prices under the previous Labor government had been heard loud and clear with the Crisafulli Government now delivering.

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“This is real structural cost of living relief that we are delivering to Queenslanders no matter where you live in this state.”

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“Under the previous Labor Government households bore the brunt of a 28.7 per cent increase in their power prices, in contrast the Crisafulli Government is bringing down prices with our Energy Roadmap.”

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Supplied by the office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

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A Facebook post from a concerned daughter has prompted an overwhelming response from the Ayr community, with more than 30 people offering support to her terminally ill father.

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The woman shared that her father, who lives in Ayr, is struggling with everyday tasks such as preparing meals and washing dishes due to declining health. She explained that he falls into a “grey area” where he is unable to access certain funded health or aged care services, while his children all live out of town and cannot provide daily assistance.

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Describing her family as “desperate, exhausted and heartbroken”, she asked the community for advice after unsuccessful attempts to find private help.

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The response was immediate.

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Dozens of residents commented on the post, offering practical assistance, recommending local services and sharing their own experiences navigating the health and aged care systems. Some community members even volunteered their time to help with meals, household chores and regular welfare checks.

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The outpouring of support highlighted the caring nature of the Burdekin community, with many residents determined to ensure the family did not face the challenge alone.

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What began as a desperate plea for help quickly became a powerful reminder of the strength of community spirit and the willingness of locals to rally around those in need during difficult times.

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Executive Members Rose Papadimitriou and Jenny Papale, Treasurer Frank Nucifora, President Seb Aguirre, Secretary Kari Ravizza, and Executive Member Paul Benvenuti, elected at last year's AGM. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

The Burdekin Chamber of Commerce is seeking new executive committee members, with leaders urging fresh volunteers to step forward as key positions become vacant.

The call comes after the recent resignation of secretary Kari Ravizza, with president Seb Aguirre also set to step down from his role at the end of his three-year term in September.

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Mr Aguirre said the positions must be filled in the coming months to ensure the future of the organisation.

“We need someone to step up,” he said.

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“It's too viable, and our membership is amazing. We can’t let all those people down.”

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According to Mr Aguirre, the Burdekin Chamber found itself in a similar position three years ago, when a lack of interest in executive roles nearly led to its demise.

Membership has since grown from about 70 to 121, with the organisation’s flagship Christmas Street Party injecting millions of dollars into local businesses over the last two years.

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Mr Aguirre said that although membership had seen a steep uptick, interest in the vacant positions had been virtually non-existent.

Despite the concerns, Chamber Vice-President Gary Roser said he remains “optimistic” about the organisation’s future.

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“I don’t think we’re at the stage where it’s going to fold. I think people will step up and it will continue to exist, but to what capacity will be the difference,” Mr Roser said.

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He said fresh hands at the helm could help to strengthen the organisation moving forward.

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“We need a changing of the guard to help solidify what we’ve got, and then help take it to the next step,” he said.

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“I’d hate to see it not bigger and better every year. It’d be disappointing for all the hard work that has been done by many people.”

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Anyone interested in learning more about vacant executive roles is encouraged to contact either Seb on 0499 197 671 or Gary on 0408 076 064.

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Recent Order of Australia awardee Bill Lowis (right) with wife Trish (left) and daughter Kirsten (centre). Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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A lifetime spent simply “doing his bit” has seen William “Bill” Lowis awarded an Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours this month. The former mayor says the award, more than 60 years after his first national recognition, brings his journey full circle.

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Former Burdekin Mayor’s Lifelong Service Earns National Honour

By Jacob Casha

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A lifetime of unfaltering dedication to his beloved hometown has culminated in an Order of Australia award for Home Hill local William “Bill” Lowis.

The honour comes almost 60 years after his first Governor-General's Award in the Royal Australian Navy, tying a perfect bow on more than half a century of service to the community he calls home.

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“It just felt like a full circle moment,” said Mr Lowis.

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The former Burdekin Mayor was listed alongside 141 other Queenslanders on the King’s Birthday Honours List earlier this month, recognised for his “service to local government, and to the community of the Burdekin Shire.”

Mr Lowis said he was “totally surprised” by the recognition, but described it as a proud moment.

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He said that while the recognition was satisfying, it was never the motivation.

“It’s just about being part of the community,” Mr Lowis said.

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“We’ve raised our family here, and I’ve just taken part in what I can to keep the town itself, Home Hill, and the Burdekin district in a wider sense, going.”

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Born in Home Hill Hospital in the 1940s, Mr Lowis has called the Burdekin home for nearly eight decades.

After a 12-year stint in New South Wales with the Navy, Mr Lowis returned to the Burdekin where he built a career as a builder, educator, water and environmental leader, and community volunteer.

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He spent 18 years as General Manager of the South Burdekin Water Board, was a foundation member of Burdekin Landcare, and contributed across an array of organisations including Rotary, the SES, Rural Fire Service and the RSL.

Following a period of retirement, Mr Lowis was urged by local residents and community leaders to stand for local government. At age 65 he obliged, and was subsequently elected Mayor of the Burdekin Shire in 2012.

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Mr Lowis’s tenure was responsible for the construction of the Burdekin Shire Cyclone Shelter, his flagship initiative during a term that focused on disaster resilience, infrastructure and community development.

He eventually stepped down at the end of his term in 2016.

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Mr Lowis now continues to live in Home Hill with his wife, Trish, whom he married at the Home Hill Catholic Church in 1969.

The couple have four kids, all of whom were raised and have remained in North Queensland.

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Both daughter Kirsten Lowis and wife Trish said they were proud of Mr Lowis for his recognition, calling it fitting for a man who had spent decades serving others without ever seeking praise for it.

“He’s always been so humble … and I think he was a wonderful Mayor,” said Trish.

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“I think when he gets to heaven that they’ll say, ‘Saint William, it’s time to come through!’”

When asked how important his family had been along his journey, Mr Lowis replied: “Everything.”

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Daughter Kirsten echoed that sentiment.

“This award is about mum, too, because the two of them are the best team. Dad would not be dad without mum, and mum would not be mum without dad,” she said.

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“Dad’s a builder; both by trade and by heart. Mum and dad have been building this community, building their own houses, building our houses, our businesses and our lives.”

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Primary producers in the Burdekin are set to benefit from a Queensland Government investment aimed at strengthening biosecurity preparedness and improving responses to potential agricultural outbreaks.

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The Government has allocated $75,000 through the Biosecurity Boost Grants Program to support industry-led simulation exercises designed to test emergency responses to real-world threats.

The program will bring together key industry organisations including Cotton Australia, the Australian Lot Feeder’s Association and NRM Regions Queensland to simulate potential biosecurity risks affecting agriculture and livestock industries.

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Biosecurity remains a key concern for Queensland’s agriculture sector, with pests and disease outbreaks identified as one of the most significant risks to production, exports and regional economies.

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Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the investment was about ensuring industry and government were prepared to respond quickly and effectively to emerging threats.

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“Biosecurity underpins Queensland's ability to grow and produce clean, healthy and nutritious local food,” Mr Perrett said.

“Strong biosecurity is the linchpin of a productive primary industries sector and regional and rural communities.”

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He said preparedness exercises were essential to minimising the impact of any future outbreak.

“The simulations conducted by our industry partners are critical investments in prevention and preparedness, to ensure swift, effective responses that significantly limit impact on individuals and entire industries,” he said.

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Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the exercises would help industry better understand outbreak response pathways.

“Boll weevil is one of the top threats to the cotton industry, and it has the capability to cause significant damage to crops, so it’s important to understand how to respond should an outbreak occur,” Mr Kay said.

NRM Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said the funding would strengthen preparedness across regional sectors.

“These exercises are a great opportunity for the NRM team across the state to simulate real-world scenarios and ensure we’re prepared to assist on any biosecurity threats where we can,” he said.

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Farmers across the state are set to benefit from a new land rent cap aimed at easing cost pressures on the agriculture sector. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Agricultural producers in the Burdekin are among those set to benefit from a new Queensland Government cap on land rent increases for eligible primary production tenures.

The cap will limit increases to 10 per cent in the 2026–27 financial year and is expected to deliver more than $75 million in rent relief across the state for farmers, graziers and rural producers.

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The measure applies to eligible leases, licences and permits and will automatically come into effect, with the government saying it is designed to provide stability in the face of rising land valuations.

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Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the policy would help ease pressure on primary producers dealing with higher costs and global market uncertainty.

“At a time when producers continue to face higher input costs, market volatility and global economic shifts, this measure delivers certainty and will take some pressure off the cost of doing business,” Mr Last said.

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He said the government was backing the agricultural sector as a key driver of Queensland’s economy.

“Queensland farmers and graziers are not just the backbone of our regional communities, they are a foundation stone of the wider economy,” he said.

AgForce President Shane McCarthy said the announcement would help producers make longer-term decisions with greater confidence.

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“Having certainty around land rent costs helps producers make informed business decisions, invest with confidence and focus on running productive sustainable operations,” he said.

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“A strong agricultural industry underpins regional communities, supports jobs, and contributes significantly to Queensland’s economy.”

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The rent cap will apply from the 2026–27 financial year.

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Opinion of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP

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There is a moment in life when private health insurance ceases to be an optional expense and becomes an absolute lifeline. For over three million older Australians, that moment is now. Yet, in a cynical act of budget manoeuvring, the Albanese Labor government has chosen this exact point of vulnerability to launch a targeted raid on the health security of our seniors.

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Buried within the federal budget is a directive that strips away the long-standing, age-based Private Health Insurance rebate safeguards for citizens aged 65 and over. From 1 April 2027, the vital support seniors rely on to maintain their health cover will be dismantled.

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If you are aged 65 to 69, your rebate is being cut from 28.1% to 24.1%. If you are 70 or older, the hit is even heavier, with your rebate slashed from 32.2% all the way down to that same 24.1% baseline.

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This is a trap, plain and simple. The government waited until our seniors left the workforce and locked themselves into fixed retirement incomes, before pulling the rug out from under their health security.

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Our seniors spent decades working hard, paying their taxes, and making immense personal sacrifices to secure their retirement. They did everything right. To change the rules of the game on them now is a complete insult: it forces older Australians to play a game of economic Monopoly where the rules are rewritten at halftime simply because the banker ran out of money.

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Labor is treating the hard-earned health security of older generations like they just stumbled across a giant sack of cash by the river, trying to spend it as fast as they can to plug their own budget deficit before the public finds out.

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This betrayal delivers a massive blow to household budgets. Maintaining private health cover is already an expensive struggle, with premiums climbing sharply year after year. Forcing older Australians to bear this extra burden ensures that health security will be priced too far out of reach for many who need it most.

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This means ordinary, fixed-income couples holding comprehensive Gold-tier cover will see their out-of-pocket bills surge by more than $1,600 a year. For thousands of seniors in our community who view health insurance as a necessity, this is a financial eviction notice from their own health funds.

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This budget raid sends a dangerous message to everyday Australians. If you work hard, save your money, and try to be self-reliant, this government will just punish your success.

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To defend this as a sensible budget reform is a total delusion. The government claims they are redirecting these "savings" to fund aged care, but it is a classic false economy.

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Independent actuarial modelling shows these changes may reduce rebate expenditure by around $482 million, but they will dump approximately $547 million in additional costs onto our public hospitals.

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When escalating costs force older Australians to drop or downgrade their private coverage, their complex health needs do not vanish into thin air. Instead, those chronic conditions and surgical requirements are dumped straight into our public emergency wards, exploding wait times and fracturing a system that is already on its knees.

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We all know the empty promise that a Medicare card is all you need, but out here in regional communities like Dawson, finding a bulk-billed doctor or securing a local specialist appointment is already rarer than hen’s teeth.

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Pushing thousands of elderly patients onto public waiting lists will choke regional healthcare access and threaten the viability of the local private hospitals our communities rely upon to survive.

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Our seniors have paid their dues. They have earned their peace of mind, and they deserve certainty, dignity, and respect; not an overnight raid on their health security.

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It is time to say enough is enough and tell the federal government to keep their hands off our health cover.

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If you are ready to stand up against this betrayal and protect the health cover our seniors have earned, join me in sending a clear message to Canberra by emailing me at andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au

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Burdekin Shire Council CEO Matthew Magin has warned a proposed overhaul of federal disaster funding arrangements could come at an "enormous cost to ratepayers" if passed in its current form.

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The new Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), announced by the Albanese Government last week, would split disaster recovery costs 50/50 between the Australian Government and state and territory governments.

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Under previous arrangements, Commonwealth funding typically covered about 64 per cent of disaster recovery funding.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the change could increase pressure on already stretched council budgets, with concerns some costs may ultimately flow through to ratepayers.

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“While we acknowledge the intent to streamline funding and improve response times, there is a real concern that local governments will be left to carry more of the financial burden, which could impact how quickly and effectively we can rebuild after future events,” she said.

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“It’s essential that funding arrangements recognise the scale and frequency of events we face, so we can continue to rebuild stronger and support our communities when they need it most.”

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North Queensland leaders have slammed the proposal, with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox calling it a “direct hit to the heart of North Queensland.”

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"Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival,” Mr Willcox said.

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He said the new arrangement could leave communities “dangerously exposed.”

“Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone,” Mr Willcox said.

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"To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal.”

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Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said the proposed arrangements will streamline funding channels to communities in recovery.

"Our reforms will create certainty about the support available to communities and ensure it flows as quickly as possible,” she said.

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“I look forward to working constructively with jurisdictions to deliver a system that is simpler and fairer for all Australians.”

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The Burdekin has experienced several major floods dating back to 1911, and as recently as 2025, with floodwaters periodically cutting major roads, isolating communities and disrupting key transport infrastructure across the region.

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Mayor Dalle Cort said past funding arrangements had been critical in restoring key Burdekin infrastructure like roads, bridges, and other transport links after major weather events.

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She confirmed a letter had been sent on Thursday to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister McBain, urging the Government not to proceed with its proposal.

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Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has returned from a week-long STEM Girl Power Camp in Brisbane, where she was one of just 60 Year 10 girls selected from across Queensland to take part in the hands-on program. Photo supplied

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Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has returned from a week-long STEM Girl Power Camp in Brisbane, where she was one of just 60 Year 10 girls selected from across Queensland to take part in the hands-on program.

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The camp immersed students in a range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics experiences, including university visits, laboratory work, and interactive exhibitions designed to showcase future study and career pathways.

Jorja said she was “incredibly grateful” for the experience and eager to apply her newfound knowledge.

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“The camp was a wonderful opportunity to explore a range of STEM fields as well as meeting like-minded students, build new friendships and creating unforgettable memories," she said in the Ayr State High School newsletter.

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"I am incredibly thankful for the chance to be part of such an inspiring and empowering experience, and look forward to applying what I have learnt for National Science week and future STEM activities.”

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Ayr High teachers commended the way Jorja represented the school and “embraced the incredible opportunity."

Across the week, Jorja took part in activities ranging from designing a model water dam and visiting a pathology lab where students observed real-life organs, through to exploring QUT and UQ campuses.

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The program also included excursions to the planetarium, the Museum of Brisbane and SparkLab, where students engaged with interactive science displays, including Tesla coils.

The program is designed to encourage young women into science, technology, engineering and mathematics pathways.

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Jorja was officially selected for the camp last December, continuing the trend of Ayr High student representation after Bella Lawry took part in 2025.

The experience is expected to further support her involvement in school STEM initiatives and future study pathways in science and technology.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with participants and mentors from the Young Digital Mentors Program. Photo supplied

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Young Burdekinites are helping senior residents build confidence with technology through the Young Digital Mentors Program, an initiative aimed at improving digital literacy while strengthening community connections across the Burdekin.

Facilitated by Burdekin Library, the program pairs young mentors with senior participants to provide one-on-one support with everyday technology, including smartphones and tablets.

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Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the program demonstrated the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.

“Programs like Young Digital Mentors not only build valuable digital skills, they also bring generations together in a meaningful way,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

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“It’s fantastic to see our young people stepping up to support others, while also developing confidence, leadership and communication skills of their own.”

The Young Digital Mentors Program was originally developed by the State Library of Queensland in 2025 and was first piloted in the Burdekin, making the region the first location in Queensland to deliver the initiative.

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This year's program continues to be delivered by Burdekin Library with support from the State Library of Queensland and the eSafety Commissioner. Training for the young mentors was provided in partnership with Creative Bytes.

Senior participant Inez Larsen said the experience had improved her confidence in using technology.

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“Participating in the Young Digital Mentors Program has been a rewarding experience,” Ms Larsen said.

“I really appreciated the way Andria shared her knowledge in such a supportive, respectful and approachable way.

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“As a result of the program, I have come away feeling more confident and using more fully the capabilities of my iPhone. Thank you Burdekin Library staff and young digital mentor, Andria.”

The program aims to improve digital inclusion by helping older residents develop practical technology skills while giving young people the opportunity to build leadership, communication and mentoring experience.

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This year's young digital mentors were Thomas Lindley, Alexis Lindley, Andria Reinke, William Wiseman, Addison Bonato and Fletcher Sgroi.

Senior participants included Liz Schmidt, Robert Ritchie, Alvin Thomas, Inez Larsen, Margaret McLucas, Michael Irving, Sheron Gaston and Beverley Matthews.

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Burdekin Shire Council has encouraged residents to stay connected with Burdekin Library for information on future programs designed to strengthen digital skills and community connections.

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The Burdekin’s 2026 sugarcane crush season has opened with more than 183,000 tonnes processed in the first week, as all four local mills move through commissioning and settle into full production. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin’s 2026 sugarcane crush season has opened with more than 183,000 tonnes processed in the first week, as all four local mills move through commissioning and settle into full production.

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The week ending 6 June saw Invicta, Pioneer, Inkerman and Kalamia mills collectively crush 183,526 tonnes of cane, marking a solid start to the season after operations began on 2 June, with Kalamia following shortly after.

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Invicta led weekly throughput with 72,574 tonnes, followed by Inkerman on 40,989 tonnes, Pioneer on 38,498 tonnes, and Kalamia on 31,465 tonnes.

Sugar content across the region also tracked strongly in the opening week, with the Burdekin average Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) recorded at 13.59. Individual mill results ranged from 13.24 at Kalamia to a high of 13.92 at Invicta.

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Wilmar Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi noted the opening week is typically focused on commissioning plant and equipment, with factories now beginning to stabilise after the seasonal ramp-up.

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Dry and cool conditions leading into the crush were also credited for supporting the strong early CCS results, which have come in above budget expectations.

The highest CCS recorded for the week was 16.4, from a rake of KQ228 cane supplied from the Haughton productivity district.

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Variety performance data showed Q240 dominating supply at 50 per cent of cane crushed, delivering an average CCS of 13.34. KQ228 accounted for 31 per cent of supply and returned a stronger CCS of 13.90, while Q183 made up 11 per cent at 13.54. Smaller contributing varieties included SRA23 at 4 per cent (13.07), WSRA17 at 1 per cent (12.98), and Q208 at 1 per cent (13.01).

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With the crush now underway across the region, mills are expected to move further into steady-state production in the coming weeks.

Motorists are also being reminded that cane trains are operating around the clock, seven days a week, as the harvest intensifies.

Mr Scovazzi urged road users to remain alert around rail crossings and “use your train brain” by always giving way to cane trains.

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The Ayr Industrial Precinct is nearing completion, with new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region. Photo supplied

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Burdekin Shire Council is continuing to support local economic growth, with the Ayr Industrial Precinct nearing completion and new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region.

The Ayr Industrial Precinct represents a major milestone in the region’s economic development, offering fully serviced, competitively priced industrial land in a strategic location ideal for manufacturing, logistics, trade services and emerging industries.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the time has never been better for businesses to consider establishing or expanding their operations in the Burdekin.

“The Ayr Industrial Precinct provides the kind of well-connected, serviced industrial land that businesses are actively looking for,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

Stage 1 lots are now available from $50 per square metre plus GST, with a range of lot sizes to suit different business needs.

Council has also introduced a new Economic Stimulus Policy for Development Incentives to help reduce barriers to development and support business growth.

“Council understands that development costs can be a challenge, particularly for businesses looking to grow or relocate,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“This policy provides a clear and streamlined pathway for developers and business owners to seek reductions in fees and infrastructure charges.

“We want businesses to know we’re here to work with them.”

The Economic Stimulus Policy reinforces Council’s strategy to foster innovation, attract investment, and support long-term economic sustainability in line with the Burdekin Shire Council Corporate Plan 2025–2030.

Businesses interested in securing land or learning more about the development incentives available are encouraged to download the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Supplied by Burdekin Shire Council

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As I speak with many in our community approaching retirement, I often hear plans of more time on the water - more fishing, more time enjoying life. But all too often, the years pass and that boat never leaves the shed. Retirement is a wonderful opportunity, but staying active and connected is just as important for your health and wellbeing.

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One of the best ways to do that is through volunteering. Across the Burdekin, there are so many opportunities to get involved and give back. Whether it’s helping deliver Meals on Wheels, lending a hand at the Men’s Shed, supporting the SES, joining the Fire Brigadeor contributing to the Burdekin Community Association - there truly is something to suit everyone.

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The Burdekin Water Festival Launch is coming up this Friday night, and I encourage everyone to get along and support our entrants. These events are a wonderful way to showcase our young people and celebrate what makes our region so special.

We’ve also been fortunate with the weather in recent weeks, providing perfect conditions to get outdoors - whether that’s heading to the beach or enjoying a spot of fishing. At the same time, the sugar cane season is well underway. While not everyone enjoys the “black snow,” I see it as a reflection of the wealth and history that underpin our community.

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I’m also pleased to share that the Main Hall at the Ayr Showgrounds has received a much-needed refurbishment with stage 1 of the renovations now complete. This is a well-used and valued community asset, hosting everything from weddings and birthday celebrations to expos and major events. The improvements will ensure it continues to serve our community for many years to come.

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As always, I encourage you to stay connected, get involved, and take the time to enjoy all that the Burdekin has to offer.

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.

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On Wednesday 3rd June, I attended the Pathways and Possibilities night at the Burdekin Theatre. What a fantastic event. The information and displays on offer were outstanding, and it was clear a great deal of effort had gone into providing meaningful opportunities for our young people.

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I saw many parents and children having genuine conversations about future pathways, asking questions and exploring the wide range of options available. It was valuable for parents to have so many opportunities presented in one place, helping them support their children in making informed decisions about their future.

Events like this play a critical role in connecting education, training and career pathways, and in encouraging our young people to think confidently about their future. Congratulations to all the organisers, schools and industry representatives involved—well done on delivering such a successful and impactful evening.

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It was also great to see such a strong turnout at the Chaplains Breakfast at Ayr State High School on Thursday. The atmosphere reflected the strong connections within the school community and the important role chaplains play in supporting our young people.

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It was clear the work of the chaplains has a meaningful impact on the wellbeing and resilience of students. Many young people have benefited from their guidance, support and encouragement, both within the school and across the broader community.

I would like to acknowledge and thank the chaplains, school staff and volunteers for the incredible work they do. Their ongoing commitment makes a real difference in the lives of children and families in our community.

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Come along to the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday 25th June from 4pm to 6pm, where you can have a chat with the Mayor and Councillors. This will be relaxed and informal opportunity for residents to connect directly with their Councillorsfocusing on building relationships, also hearing what the community priorities are.  Please feel free to come along  

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Zonta Club Burdekin has assembled more than 1,000 birthing kits in a single morning, with 53 volunteers taking part in a community effort aimed at improving maternal health in underserved regions.

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The assembly day, held at the Samaritan Centre at St Francis Catholic School last week, brought together local community groups, schools and service clubs to prepare the kits, which will be distributed to women in remote, displaced or post-conflict settings where access to trained medical care is limited.

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“These have the potential to save two lives—mother and baby—so it’s really gratifying,” Zonta Burdekin Correspondence Secretary Inez Larsen said.

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Each kit includes plastic sheeting, gauze, string, gloves, soap and a razor, providing basic sterile equipment to support safer childbirth in low-resource environments.

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Community groups involved included the Ayr–Home Hill Lions, Rotary, Burdekin Shire Council, as well as students and staff from Ayr State High School, Home Hill State High School and Burdekin Christian College.

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Ms Larsen said Zonta members were “proud” of the strong community support for the project.

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“We were over the moon. The atmosphere was just so nice,” she said.

“People stayed on for morning tea, there were a lot of laughs—it was a lovely morning.”

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Burdekin Shire Councillor John Furnell described it as an “honour” to take part, praising Zonta members for the organisation behind the event.

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The Zonta Birthing Kit Project began in 1999 and has since distributed more than three million kits across 30 countries. Australian Zonta clubs account for approximately 65 per cent of global kit production.

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Burdekin Zonta contributed about $5 per kit, covering materials and distribution costs. The kits are set to be transported to Birthing Kits Australia in Adelaide before being dispersed overseas.

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From a $2,000 ute and a toolbox to a Burdekin industry mainstay, Hayward Hydraulics marks 30 years built on reputation, innovation and community.

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Not every business starts with a blueprint.

For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one.

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Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business.

But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare.

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Until he received a call.

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Then another… and another.

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Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded.

With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck.

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And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper.

“As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another…

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“Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’”

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His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years.

He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third.

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By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics.

That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars.

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Growing with the industry

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“I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk.

Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow.

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It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader.

“I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said.

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“You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.”

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Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry.

With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology.

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He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself.

“I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said.

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Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today.

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“I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said.

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“The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.”

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Doing it the right way

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Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught.

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Care.

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And he makes sure his staff do, too.

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“I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said.

“So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’”

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When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension.

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When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said:

“No.”

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“I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said.

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“My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.”

With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way.

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As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing:

“We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.”

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Family and community at its heart

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For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club.

Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company.

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“The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said.

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“The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.”

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Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force.

“I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said.

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“But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything.

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“It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch.

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“She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.”

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Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing.

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As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages.

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“I still love what I do,” he said.

“The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it.

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“I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years.

“When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’”

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And that, he did.

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See more images here: https://www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/hayward-hydraulics-celebrates-30-years

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Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down.

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Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment.

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In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family.

Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations.

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“Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said.

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“They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.”

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The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April.

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Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye.

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Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour.

He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side.

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In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations.

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Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family.

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“(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said.

“It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.”

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Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link, or scan the QR Code:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-davos-and-little-rowen?attribution_id=sl:75c20475-06e5-4752-8e11-d1b7a07c7728&lang=en_AU&ts=1779705595&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

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FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied

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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget.

The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

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The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model.

This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations.

Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery.

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"This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said.

"Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal.

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"During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks.

Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain."

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Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines.

"The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said.

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"Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work.

By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons.

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"It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time.

“This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election.

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"This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.”

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Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard.

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Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community.

“Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said.

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“I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.”

Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives.

“A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said.

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“If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible

Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.”

Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review

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Former Army Sergeant Matthew Reid was formally awarded the prestigious jaguar brevet at a ceremony held at Jezzine House, Jezzine Barracks in Townsville last week. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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A local Ayr police officer has received formal military recognition for becoming the first Australian soldier to pass one of the toughest jungle warfare courses in the world.

Former Army Sergeant Matthew Reid was formally awarded the prestigious jaguar brevet at a ceremony held at Jezzine House, Jezzine Barracks in Townsville last week.

The event marked the official endorsement for recipients to wear the brevet on their formal Army ceremonial dress.

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The recognition comes after Mr Reid made history in 2024, becoming the first Australian to successfully complete the gruelling eight-week Jaguar Course in French Guiana, run by the French Foreign Legion.

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The elite course, notorious for its extreme physical rigours, put participants through endurance, combat, and survival tests in a dense jungle environment.

The experience proved a true test of resilience for NSW-born Reid, compounded by a severe foot infection that caused swelling and intense pain throughout the training.

"It was probably one of the hardest things I've done throughout my military career. But I enjoyed it a lot," Mr Reid said.

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After two months of intense field training, which saw him struggle through a casualty transport emulation in armpit-deep mud, Mr Reid would pass the course ranking 18th out of 35 students.

He recalled feeling a mix of nervousness, relief and pride as he awaited his results at the ceremony.

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“The staff and instructors over there don't really give you too much feedback, so you don’t really know where you sit. But it was definitely a massive weight off the shoulders (when I passed),” he said.

“It felt good to represent Australia, the Army, and the unit that I came from.”

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Following a ten-year military career, which included eight years in Townsville and two years in Tully, Mr Reid would eventually transition into civilian law enforcement.

He graduated from the police academy and was stationed at the Ayr Police Station last November, where he’s been learning the ropes ever since.

Mr Reid said that, despite few similarities between the Jaguar jungle course and the Ayr climate, his military background has facilitated a smooth transition into policing.

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“Not so much from (the Jaguar Course) applies, but from the army in general, there’s definitely a lot of discipline and resilience that carries over to this job,” he said.

Now six months into his policing career, he says he has embraced the slower pace of the Burdekin, drawing parallels with his coastal hometown of Jervis Bay.

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"It's a nice place to start policing. It's a bit slower in pace compared to the bigger cities … so you get to understand the processes and policies (a bit easier). The community has also been quite friendly,” he said.

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Looking ahead, Mr Reid is eager to focus on mastering his new role in Ayr.

For many of us, the start of the crushing season is one of the clearest signs that another year is moving forward in the Burdekin. The locos are running again, harvesters are in the paddocks, and the familiar "black snow" has started to drift across the district.

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While growers continue to face challenges from low sugar prices and rising input costs, the start of the season always seems to bring a sense of optimism. The sugar industry remains the backbone of our local economy and supports countless businesses, jobs and families throughout the region.

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It has also been pleasing to see local success recognised recently, with Burdekin Shire Council receiving recognition at the 2026 LGMA Awards for Excellence for the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility. Congratulations to the staff involved in delivering a project that has attracted attention across local government.

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Community creativity is also being encouraged through the Regional Recycled Art Competition, which is open to schools, community groups, and individual artists. Entries close on 6 July, with details available on Council's website. As one of the judges, I look forward to seeing the innovative ways local residents transform recycled materials into artwork.

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As harvest ramps up across the district, I wish everyone a safe and productive season.

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It has been another busy week across the Burdekin, with a number of great events highlighting the talent and opportunities within our community.

I recently attended the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival, which was held on Friday night. It was wonderful to see the performances from all our local high schools and the level of talent on display.

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There are also some important dates ahead, including Men’s Health Week from 15 to 21 June. I encourage everyone to take the time to look after their health and wellbeing — it’s important not just for yourself, but for those around you.

We also had a visit from Bob Katter, Member of the Australian House of Representatives, who dropped into Council. It’s always valuable to have open doors and conversations across all levels of government as we continue to advocate for our region.

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Another highlight was the Pathways & Possibilities event, which was a rewarding experience for those who attended. Education and career opportunities are so important, and it was encouraging to see the range of pathways available to support people in making decisions about their future.

These events are a strong reminder of the opportunities that exist within our community and the importance of continuing to support one another.

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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.

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Photo Credit: Natalie Saroglia

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Over 150 Burdekinites marched through Plantation Park on May 31^st in solidarity with victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.

The DV Prevention Walk brought local families, community groups, councillors, and service providers to Ayr’s Plantation Park before a purple-and-orange convoy set off along the Bruce Highway, up to Kirlie Road, and back to the park.

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Marchers held high signs calling for an end to violence, before signing a banner pledging their commitment to safer families and communities.

Burdekin Community Association CEO Debra Cochran, emcee of the event, told the crowd before the march that preventing domestic and family violence was a responsibility shared by the entire community.

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“Violence and abuse in any relationship is unacceptable. Preventing it requires all of us to step up, call out disrespect and at times, have tough conversations with our friends and loved ones,” Ms Cochran said.

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“Every step you take today is a step toward a culture where everyone feels safe, equal and respected. Let’s walk with purpose and carry the energy of today forward into what we say and do every day.  

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“We say NO to violence.”

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Officer in Charge of the Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields also addressed attendees on the morning.

Police and DFV Service providers manned information stalls, with a free barbecue breakfast provided by the Network and free sweets courtesy of Sweetsville.

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SweetFM also brought music, rock painting, and badge making activities to the park.

Ms Cochran described the event as “very successful and impactful.”

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“We fulfilled the main purpose of the event, which was to raise awareness about domestic and family violence within the community while creating a visible message of support for victim-survivors,” she said.

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“It was an opportunity for community members to come together in solidarity and demonstrate a shared commitment to promoting safety, respect, and healthy relationships within the Burdekin community.

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“We hope the event encourages ongoing conversation.”

Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue across Australia and Queensland.

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According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in four Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner since the age of 15.

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In Queensland, there were 27,857 domestic and family violence protection orders initiated in 2023–24, according to latest Queensland Courts data.

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Ms Cochran said the walk reinforced the importance of community support for victim-survivors of one of the State’s most pressing social issues.

“We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them,” she said.

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The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far seen wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks cleared of invasive weeds. Photo credit: NQ Dry Tropics

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Restoration work is underway across three Burdekin Delta creeks as part of a major wetlands project aimed at reducing pollutants entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far cleared invasive weeds from wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks as part of broader efforts to reduce fine sediment, dissolved inorganic nitrogen and pesticides reaching the Reef.

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According to the Australian Government’s 2024 Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report, the Burdekin River catchment is the largest individual contributor of fine sediment, delivering about 3.7 million tonnes. It also contributes significant particulate nitrogen and phosphorus loads.

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NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader Scott Fry said combining on-ground works with monitoring, modelling and training would help the WWBD project deliver measurable reductions in pollution and improve wetland health.

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“Waterways in the Burdekin Delta are both productive agricultural systems and vital ecological assets,” Mr Fry said.

“Healthy, well-functioning wetlands are naturally able to capture and process pollutants before they reach the Reef.

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“We aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of scalable, long-term management practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental outcomes.”

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Work will employ a multi-step “treatment train” approach which focuses on improving wetland health, increasing water use efficiency to reduce excess flows into creeks, and trialing new water treatment methods.

It will also involve harvesting aquatic weeds to remove stored nutrients and improve fish and bird habitat, revegetating creek banks with native plants and improving fire management practices.

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Weeds harvested will be turned into compost for use on local farms.

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The WWBD project will be delivered in conjunction with Lower Burdekin Water, Burdekin Shire Council and Bindal Traditional Owners, with funding from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program.

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It will complement work with Burdekin Delta cane growers to improve irrigation efficiency under NQ Dry Tropics’ Burdekin Tailored Automation project, a broader endeavour which aims to reduce agricultural runoff to waterways while improving farm efficiency.

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The proposed $750 million Bowen Pipeline Project has entered a critical phase, with project leaders extending their water sales program as they work towards securing federal funding and delivering what they describe as a "generational" piece of infrastructure for North Queensland.

The privately funded project would see a 182-kilometre underground pipeline constructed from the Burdekin River to Bowen, delivering up to 100,000 megalitres of water annually to one of Australia's most productive horticultural regions.

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Project proponents say the pipeline would provide a secure and reliable water source for the Bowen-Gumlu region, which produces around one-fifth of Australia's annual vegetable crop and generates approximately $750 million in fresh produce each year, despite relying largely on seasonal rainfall.

Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said community interest in the project's water sales program continued to grow, prompting the extension of its Locals First water investment policy until 14th July.

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“Our water sales program is tracking nicely with interest steadily increasing from the local communities," Mr Brown said.

“Having said that, it is most interesting to see that demand is intense from those regions that have experience in water trading and water markets generally.

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"They understand that water is an asset, like land, and is a strong enhancement for any investment portfolio, particularly on the driest continent on earth.

“Our desire is for the local community to benefit from the ownership of water and as such we will keep the Locals First water investment policy open for another four weeks. After that the water will be allocated to all parties.”

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Mr Brown said community information sessions had generated strong interest from local residents keen to better understand water markets and the long-term value of water ownership.

“Attendees at our presentations have been delighted with the knowledge they acquire about how water trading is done, the water asset value increases over time, pressures for delivery and the pricing of the water,” he said.

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The company has also expanded its local employment and procurement commitments, linking water ownership opportunities with potential construction jobs.

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“Our Locals First employment and supply policy is resonating strongly in the community,” Mr Brown said.

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“In fact, we have expanded the policy whereby local water purchasers will be given priority consideration for employment opportunities during the construction phase, where suitable.”

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To strengthen its case for federal funding, the project must demonstrate both significant water demand and a substantial number of users. The minimum purchase volume has been set at 20 megalitres, which can be shared between neighbouring properties.

Project leaders are aiming to achieve shovel-ready status by September 2026 before lodging an application seeking federal funding for half of the construction costs.

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“After nine years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push to make this $750 million generational Project a reality,” Mr Brown said.

If successful, the company hopes to secure funding through the May 2027 Federal Budget and begin construction in September 2027.

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A fundraising breakfast held last week raised $35,000 for Burdekin Chaplains, headlined by a $30,000 donation that surprised even organisers.

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The Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast, hosted annually by the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team, welcomed a crowd of around 70 to Ayr State High School grounds on Thursday 4^th June to support local chaplaincy over a free breakfast.

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Several guest speakers addressed the audience, including Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Chairman Darren West, who was met with a roar of applause as he presented a cheque for $30,000 to the host organisation.

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“We know the chaplains have done it tough for funds at times over the years, so we’re pleased to be here today to present this cheque,” Mr West said.

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Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team Co-Chair Kylie Webley said the organisation was “not expecting to receive such a generous donation.”

A number of other contributions made up the $35,000 total, including one from Margaret Thorne of Bluey’s Thrift Shop in Home Hill which was also presented on the morning.

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Ayr State School Principal Nikki Schell addressed the breakfast, delivering a gripping speech that used the Burdekin River as a metaphor for the role chaplaincy plays in local schools and communities.

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“Just as the river breathes life into our region, chaplaincy breathes life into our schools and into our communities,” Ms Schell said.

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“Not life in the physical sense, but life in the things that matter most: hope, belonging, connection, joy. The confidence to keep going when things feel hard, the courage to ask for help, the comfort of knowing that someone cares.”

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Scripture Union manager for North Queensland Brooke Sorbello also delivered a speech at the event, while former Burdekin Chaplaincy Committee Chair Ronda Williams was acknowledged for her years of service to the organisation.

Ms Webley said the morning was an important opportunity to bring local chaplaincy to the forefront, calling the community support “invaluable.”

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“Without the support, Burdekin Chaplains would not have the same reach across our schools, and our community may not understand the needs and challenges facing our young people today,” she said.

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“It’s also important for chaplains to feel supported in their work.”

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The Burdekin's seven school chaplains provide social, emotional and pastoral support across 10 local schools, working with students, staff and families.

Their role includes mentoring, wellbeing programs and helping young people navigate challenges ranging from bullying and anxiety to family breakdown.

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Funds raised from this year’s breakfast will help keep chaplains at local schools and assist with the needs of students.

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Community members seeking more information or ways to become involved are encouraged to contact Kylie or Joanne Ballin of the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team at: burdekinlcc@gmail.com.

See more photos from the event here: https://www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/fundraising-breakfast-raises-35-000-for-local-chaplains

Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Photo supplied

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to welcome Tracey Young to the team as a new Customer Service Officer, bringing with her a strong passion for people, community and helping customers with their everyday banking needs.

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Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Together they are raising their three children – Charlie, Mitchell and Henry – while embracing the close-knit lifestyle that makes the region so special.

For Tracey, joining Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is more than simply starting a new role – it is an opportunity to work closely with local people and contribute to a bank that actively supports the wider community.

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“What I enjoy most is interacting directly with our customers every day,” Tracey said.

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“It is incredibly rewarding to solve their problems, help them with their day-to-day financial needs, and build real trust within our local community.”

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Outside of work, Tracey enjoys an active family life centred around horses, camping adventures, travelling to new places and spending quality time with her family whenever possible.

Having spent more than a decade living in the Burdekin, Tracey says the welcoming spirit of the community is what stands out most.

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“Definitely the people and the small-town community spirit,” she said.

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“Everyone is willing to help each other out, whether it’s at a local sporting group, a not-for-profit organisation, the local school, a fellow Burdekin neighbour or even a traveller passing through. You will always be welcomed with a warm smile.”

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said the team was excited to welcome Tracey and the local knowledge and customer focus she brings to the branch.

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“Tracey’s warm personality and passion for helping people make her a wonderful addition to our team,” Sally said.

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“At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, we pride ourselves on delivering personal service and supporting the communities we live and work in, and Tracey reflects those values perfectly.”

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Customers visiting the branch are encouraged to stop by, say hello and welcome Tracey to the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr family.

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Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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The BMSA barbecue was delivered in conjunction with sponsor Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.

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Members of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association (BMSA) whipped out the barbie last Friday to raise funds for the Lower Burdekin Scout Group.  

The fundraiser, sponsored by Bendigo Bank, brought the aroma of a freshly cooked barbecue breakfast to Ayr’s Queen Street from 9am until around noon.

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BMSA President Rob Ritchie called it a “great opportunity to get out and face the community” while raising money for an important local group.

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“We’ve donated to national charities before, but the Lower Burdekin Scout Group is a great community group, and we’d rather see money raised stay in the community,” he said.

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“They’ve got to do every bit of fundraising themselves, so if we can help a little bit, all well and good.”

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BMSA member Chris Fox said the barbecue was the latest example of a mutual relationship between the two organisations that has spanned years.

“They’ve done lots for us, so we do our best to reciprocate in kind,” he said.

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On top of the occasional fundraising barbecue, the BMSA meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00–11:30am for recreational activities, skills development and community projects.

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Anyone interested in joining the BMSA is encouraged to call 0467 083 502, email  burdekinmensshed@outlook.com or visit the shed at 155-157 Young St, Ayr.

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Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Every federal budget should be a structural blueprint for a nation’s future prosperity. Instead, Labor’s latest budget has delivered a grim ledger of broken promises, toxic taxes, and skyrocketing debt that leaves everyday Australians footing the bill.  

It confirms that Anthony Albanese is presiding over an incompetent executive and overseeing a country that is heading completely in the wrong direction.  

Since Labor was elected, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Because this government simply cannot manage money, they are aggressively coming after yours.  

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Their record spending means the federal budget is now forecast to be in deficit for a decade, and total national debt is about to smash through the $1 trillion mark.  

To put that into perspective, the yearly interest bill alone on that debt will top $42 billion. That is a crushing $80,000 per minute leaking out of the budget, money that should be funding highways, veteran wellbeing and providing dignity to those in their twilight years.  

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Rather than exercising restraint, Labor has locked government spending at its highest level in forty years, outside of a pandemic. To bankroll this spending spree, our economy is being burdened with $50 billion in higher taxes, including a massive $15 billion hit to personal income taxes.  

These toxic taxes are a direct assault on aspiration. They are locking young Australians out of the stable opportunities afforded to older generations, whacking punitive penalties on housing, savings, investment, and small businesses.  

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This economic mismanagement is actively fuelling a homegrown inflation crisis. For communities across our region, this means interest rates will stay higher for longer.  

The human cost of this failure is devastating. A typical Australian family with a mortgage is now $32,000 a year worse off under Labor, when you take into account higher mortgage repayments and higher cost of living factors.  

At the same time, the actual buying power of your wages has declined by 3 per cent. You are working harder than ever, yet your pay packet buys less every single week.  

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Australians do not have to settle for this managed decline, and people will rightly ask, what would your party do differently?  

The Coalition has put forward a comprehensive plan to restore our standard of living and protect our way of life. Our strategy will reward hard work, restore home ownership, and put Australians first.  

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We have promised to axe Labor’s toxic taxes. At the heart of our commitment is a Tax Back Guarantee. We will end Labor’s insidious inflation tax by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation, ensuring workers keep more of what they earn.  

To secure our financial future, we will establish a Future Generations Fund. We will bank resource windfalls to systematically pay down debt and build the vital national infrastructure our regional communities desperately need. By returning 25 per cent of resource windfalls directly to their regions of origin, the Coalition will deliver an incredible boost to Dawson, ensuring the wealth generated in the Bowen Basin gets reinvested to boost investor and business confidence.  

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This budget presents a fundamental choice for Australians to consider before this next election. It is a choice between a government that taxes your savings and shrinks your future, and a Coalition plan that rewards hard work, restores home ownership, and secures Australia’s future.  

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A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and photography

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Generations of lifesavers, families and supporters converged on the district at the weekend as the iconic Ayr Surf Life Saving Club marked a century of beach safety and mateship with a spectacular three-day centenary celebration.

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Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Marks Historic 100-Year Milestone

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More than 300 attendees flocked to the region at the weekend to mark one of the most significant milestones in local history as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club celebrated its 100th anniversary.

The milestone was commemorated with a packed three-day program of events running from May 29 to 31, bringing together generations of members, families and supporters to reflect on a century of coastal protection and community spirit.

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A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations, complemented by a Friday night meet-and-greet at the Kalamia Hotel and a relaxed recovery gathering at the Alva Beach clubhouse on Sunday.

Club President Dr Benjamin Lawry said the anniversary celebrations were a fitting tribute to the volunteers, members and community supporters who have sustained the organisation for a century.

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"Over the past 100 years, countless individuals have given their time, energy and commitment to ensure the safety of beachgoers and strength of our community," Dr Lawry said.

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"This weekend was an opportunity not only to celebrate our history, but to thank everyone who has played a role in building the Club into what it is today.

"The stories shared throughout the weekend reminded us that while our uniforms, equipment and the beach itself have changed over the years, the spirit of service, friendship and community remains exactly the same."

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The club’s deep historical roots trace back to late 1925, following the tragic drowning of John Begg Donaldson while swimming at Lynch’s—now known as Alva—Beach.

In the wake of the tragedy, Mr Donaldson's workmates at the Kalamia Mill raised funds and sent them to his parents in Scotland, who returned the money with the insistence that the local community use it.

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A meeting was subsequently convened at the Shire Chambers in October 1926, where the decision was made to form the Donaldson and Lower Burdekin Life Saving Club, which originally affiliated with the Sydney-based Surf Life Saving Association of Australia four years before a Queensland branch even existed.

Now known as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, the institution stands proudly as one of Queensland's oldest surf lifesaving clubs.

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The club’s storied history was also honoured on the weekend by the official launch of a new retrospective book, 100 Summers: the story of the Ayr SLSC, written by author Martin Grandelis following months of exhaustive research, interviews and writing to document the people who shaped the club.

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Long-time members used the weekend to reflect on the profound personal impact of the local institution, including Club Patron Hockey Vernon, who joined the club as a cadet in 1959.

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Addressing the gala dinner, Mr Vernon delivered a heartfelt speech on how the club has shaped generations of local families over the decades.

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“From joining the Club in 1959 as a cadet, it quickly became much more than just a place to volunteer. It became a second family,” Mr Vernon said.

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“The mateship and camaraderie found down at Alva have been a constant and particularly meaningful part of my life. Seeing my children become part of the Club has been especially rewarding, and a testament to the lasting impact this community has on generations.

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“Sharing in the celebration of 100 years of the Club has been incredibly special. It has been wonderful to see so many familiar faces, past and present, come together to honour the history, achievements and spirit of this Club I call family.”

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As commemorations for 2026 QLD Day gear up, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is encouraging Burdekin residents to take the time to celebrate everything great about their community and our state.

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Mr Last said the Burdekin’s multicultural heritage, local legends and spanning industries meant there was plenty to recognise and celebrate on June 6.

“I have always said the Burdekin Electorate punches above its weight and Queensland Day is another chance to shine a light on the people, places and the contributions our industries make to our state,” Mr Last said.

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“No matter where you are in this state, QLD Day is our chance to get together and celebrate what Queensland means to us and what it means to be a Queenslander.”

“For me, Queensland Day is a chance to recognise those local legends in our community who step up to support others at times of hardship, our emergency services, volunteers and those we describe as local legends. We saw this recently when victims of a tragic bus accident were provided immediate support by members of our community.”

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Ahead of celebrations at the weekend, Mr Last congratulated those from all corners of the state who had been recognised in the QLD Day 2026 All the Best.

“Queenslanders have backed their best fish and chip shop, beaches, cafes, bakeries and florists with some of our best small businesses appearing on the state’s stage,” Mr Last said.

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“The campaign was another way we can get behind our favourite small businesses and it’s fantastic to see finalists from right across the state, including the Burdekin Electorate.”

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QLD Day, held annually on 6 June, marks the date the state officially separated from New South Wales in 1859 and became an independent self-governing colony.

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Death is one of life's certainties, yet it remains one of the most difficult experiences we face. When we lose a loved one, it can feel as though our world has been turned upside down.

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In small communities like ours, however, grief is rarely carried alone.  

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From funeral notices in the local paper to personal messages of condolence, there is a shared understanding that when one family is hurting, the wider community stands beside them.

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Earlier this week, Burdekin Funerals took to social media to acknowledge another tradition that continues to reflect the compassion and respect of the Burdekin community.

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"One thing we've always admired about communities like Ayr and Home Hill is the respect people still show during a funeral procession," they said.

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"Cars pull over. Businesses pause. People stand quietly out the front.

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"It's a simple gesture, but it means more than most realise to the families travelling behind that hearse, saying their final goodbye.

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"Sadly, not many towns still do this anymore.

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"Thank you for continuing to show kindness, patience and respect in moments that matter most."

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While seemingly small, these acts serve as a powerful reminder of what makes country communities special. In a world that often moves at a relentless pace, taking a moment to pause and honour someone's final journey speaks volumes about the values we continue to hold dear.

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It is a tradition of respect, dignity and community spirit - one that many hope will continue for generations to come.

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AgServices agronomists Drew McGilchrist (left) and Marc Tanizar (right) chat with Mackay grower Lee Blackburn about the positive outlook for Bio Dunder supplies. Photo supplied

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From Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices

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As the 2026 harvest begins, the Wilmar AgServices team has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we are ready to support growers with their fertiliser needs throughout the season.  

We recognise that global events have affected the supply of some raw material inputs, creating uncertainty across fertiliser markets and raising concerns about product availability.  

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We want to reassure growers that we are confident in our current supply position – both for our base Dunder stocks and key added inputs such as urea. Planning is also well advanced to ensure Bio Dunder liquid fertiliser applications can commence in line with harvesting operations.  

While our supply outlook is positive, the current supply environment remains dynamic. We encourage growers to confirm their fertiliser requirements early to help secure supply and enable our experienced local contractors to schedule applications efficiently across farms.  

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Made in Sarina, Bio Dunder is an organic-based fertiliser trusted by generations of farmers. It delivers a comprehensive nutrient package of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur (NPKS), together with valuable organic carbon that supports long-term soil health.  

Our agronomists and contractors consistently see the best yield responses when Bio Dunder is applied straight after harvesting. That’s why we encourage growers to ‘follow the harvester’ with their Bio Dunder application.  

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We know rising input costs are placing pressure on farming operations. Our sales agronomists continue to work closely with growers to optimise NPKS programs that help reduce fertiliser costs without compromising sugarcane yield potential. Our pricing remainscompetitive, particularly when considering the soil health benefits Bio Dunder provides.  

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Call us on 1800 881 957 to confirm pricing and supply for the season. Alternatively, email  

AgServices@Wilmar.com.au  

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We’re ready and able to support your fertilising needs throughout the 2026 harvest.  

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Meet some of this year’s QLD Day ambassadors, championing the essence and vibrance of Queensland.

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We know Queensland has produced no shortage of rugby league royalty. Wally Lewis AM – also known as “The King” – is the face of his state yet again as a 2026 QLD Day ambassador.

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“I’m a proud Queenslander, born and bred, and I’ve spent a lifetime representing this wonderful state,” Wally said. 

“I’m inspired by everyday Queenslanders, the people who show up for their families, their communities, and each other; that’s the real strength of this state.”

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One of rugby league’s greatest players, Johnathan Thurston AM; former three-time premiership winner for the Brisbane Broncos, Gorden Tallis; and captain of the Broncos, Maroons and Jillaroos, Ali Brigginshaw are also representing rugby this year.

There must be something in the water, with our best swimmers diving in as ambassadors: eight-time Olympic medallist, Cate Campbell OAM; Paralympic gold medallist Alexa Leary OAM; and four-time Paralympic medallist Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson. Netball great Laura Geitz, raised in the Darling Downs town of Allora, joins Gold Coast AFL rising star Ethan Read. 

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One of Australia’s most beloved tennis champions, Pat Rafter said he proudly wears the title of ‘Queenslander’, while he secretly loves having a stadium with his name on it. 

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“I love being a Queenslander, I was brought up in Mount Isa, so I guess there is a fair bit of that country passion in me,” Pat said.

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“Having a stadium with my name on it is so cool. The Queensland tennis crowd is pretty respectful; they enjoy their tennis but appreciate good players with good attitude.”

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From the arts, didgeridoo virtuoso and composer William Barton sits alongside Pub Choir founder Astrid Jorgensen OAM, country music balladeer Lee Kernaghan OAM, and celebrity chef Alastair McLeod. 

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Rounding out the line-up is veteran journalist and child-safety advocate Kay McGrath OAM, a Queensland Great, encouraging all Queenslanders to celebrate the unique spirit of the Sunshine State.

“Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Kay said.

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What ties them together isn’t fame – it’s our state. Each ambassador’s story is rooted in a different patch of Queensland, from outback towns to coastal cities. Together, they paint a portrait of a state that’s as diverse as it is proud.

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QLD Day Ambassadors qld.gov.au/qldday 

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CELEBRATING INCREDIBLE PEOPLE WHO MAKE OUR STATE GREAT

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The QLD Day Awards shine a spotlight on the Queenslanders who go above and beyond – the community volunteers, local legends, young achievers and those shaping our state’s future. 

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From grassroots changemakers to everyday heroes, these awards celebrate Queenslanders from all walks of life who make Queensland a better place. Announced on QLD Day, the winners reflect a proud tradition of service, generosity and community spirit that has defined our state since 1859. 

Jane Hedger, CEO of Volunteering Queensland, said the awards recognise the Queenslanders who often work behind the scenes to support others.

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 “The QLD Day Awards shine a light on those Queenslanders who quietly make the world go round and give us an opportunity to say thank you,” she said.

For Catherine Lamb, a Meals on Wheels volunteer from Ashgrove, Brisbane, giving back is simply part of who she is. 

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“It’s about the simple things – how good you feel doing something good, and how much it means to the person on the other end,” Catherine said.

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This year’s recipients continue a strong legacy of community champions, following in the footsteps of the 2025 QLD Day Local Legends – all shining examples of the Queensland spirit in action.

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To meet this year’s QLD Day Award winners, visit qld.gov.au/qldday

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Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Government has launched a new funding round for its Future Drought Fund Drought Resilience Hubs program, creating opportunities to further strengthen drought preparedness across agricultural regions including the Burdekin.

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The national initiative will establish seven Drought Resilience Hubs across Australia, supporting farmers and rural communities with practical tools, knowledge and services aimed at improving resilience to future drought conditions.

Following an independent review, the program has been redesigned to place greater emphasis on delivering on-the-ground outcomes and helping producers adopt proven drought-resilient practices.

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A total of $86.7 million will be invested nationally through to June 2032 to support the next phase of the program.

The hubs are intended to act as regional connectors, linking producers with experts, innovations, research and support services while identifying local challenges and opportunities specific to their area.

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The program also aims to strengthen collaboration between industry groups, governments, research organisations and regional communities.

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Applications are now open for eligible organisations interested in operating the hubs, with funding expected to support activities from March 2027 through to June 2032.

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Applications will close on the 10^th of August. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.

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Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says the $53 million project would address the region’s key barriers to growth. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Shire Council is seeking over $53 million in state funding to unlock roughly 1,000 new residential lots in Ayr, in a bid to ease the region’s ongoing housing shortage.

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The proposal will be submitted under Round 2 of the Queensland Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which supports major infrastructure projects needed to open up new housing supply.

If successful, the funding will deliver critical trunk infrastructure including roads, sewer networks, water supply upgrades and treatment plant expansions, targeting long-standing development constraints that have limited new housing construction in the area.

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Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the project would address one of the region’s key barriers to growth.

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“Council recognises that a lack of enabling infrastructure is one of the biggest barriers to housing growth in the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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“Through the Residential Activation Fund, we are investing in the essential infrastructure needed to unlock new residential land, reduce development barriers and support future population growth.”

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She said the investment would also strengthen the local economy by improving housing availability for workers.

“This project is not just about housing—it’s about strengthening our local economy, attracting workers and ensuring the Burdekin remains a great place to live, work and invest,” she said.

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Council data shows local housing construction has fallen by 41 per cent since 2021, a decline attributed to a shortage of affordable, development-ready land. High upfront development costs, flooding constraints, rising insurance premiums and a shortage of builders and trades have also contributed to the slowdown.

The $53 million proposal targets infrastructure upgrades and extensions in growth areas including Craig Street, Chippendale Street and Beach Road. The figure includes construction costs, contingency allowances, contractor margins and indirect expenses.

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If approved, council expects enabling works to begin in July 2027 and be completed by December 2028, with housing development to follow as serviced land becomes available.

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The state government has already approved almost $994 million in projects under the Residential Activation Fund to unlock both infill and greenfield housing. Successful projects from Round 2 are expected to be announced from July 2026.

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“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders,” says Club President Peter Knapton. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin community has rallied behind the Burdekin Touch Football Association, rapidly backing a new "Sponsor-a-Block" initiative to protect local sporting grounds following devastating damage last month.

The fundraiser allows local businesses and residents to sponsor heavy concrete barriers recently placed around the Wickham Street complex, each block stencilled with the sponsor's name to serve as a permanent wall of advertising and security.

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A total of 60 blocks have already been sponsored as of 28 May, raising vital funds to secure what are regarded as some of the best in North Queensland.

The immediate response from local businesses, families, individuals, and teams follows an incident where vandals tore through the complex, leaving four fields with considerable damage and forcing a four-week halt to all men’s, women’s, and junior competitions.

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Club President Peter Knapton said the widespread support highlighted local outrage over the vandalism.

"The community is obviously sick of mindless damage and the obvious lack of respect for other people’s property by a small minority,” Mr Knapton said.

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“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders.”

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The committee launched the initiative after discovering that standard rock barriers used by other councils were too expensive. While Ergon Energy initially offered used power poles, the club ultimately sourced the cement blocks from BQC Quarries to create a vehicle-proof barrier.

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The project, which carries a total cost of $10,000, is being funded through a combination of the block sponsorships and club funds. 56 blocks have been positioned at the complex so far, with a further 135 blocks still available for sponsorship.

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Anyone interested in sponsoring a block is encouraged to text Peter on 0427710500.

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Fifty years since the formation of the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade was commemorated on Sunday, coinciding with National Volunteers Week.

Formed on 24 May 1976, the brigade was presented with a Queensland Fire Department Certificate of Appreciation stating –

“This milestone acknowledges the brigade’s longstanding commitment to protecting lives, property and the community through volunteer service, resilience, teamwork and unwavering dedication during emergencies and times of need”.

Groper Creek Fire Brigade’s First Officer Dave Coplick accepted the recognition from Rural Fire Service Queensland Deputy Chief Officer Northern Region Tony Hazell, who travelled with Townsville Area Manager/Inspector Mick Thomson to thank volunteers for their ongoing service.

“We couldn’t let the date go by without acknowledging the brigade’s 50 years of service to the community of Groper Creek and we would like to thank you for your ongoing commitment to fire safety and disaster management,” Mr Hazell said.

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Queensland has more than 27,000 RFSQ volunteers in the 1,400 rural fire brigades and 2,400 fire warden districts throughout the state.

Brigade First Officer Dave Coplick thanked those who were able to join in the informal foreshore festivities, particularly RFSQ representatives and Dalbeg-Millaroo Brigade members who had travelled for the occasion.

Groper Creek Brigade Secretary Jeanette Garvey paid tribute to those who had previously been involved in the brigade and current voluntary members, who continue to work behind the scenes.

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“The brigade has evolved from the initial ‘bush’ brigade when it was first formed in 1976 and we are continuing to evolve with the latest equipment, resources and support provided by the State,” Ms Garvey said.

“Like many other community groups, we are always looking for more active hands-on volunteers, especially young and fit persons, to train and use brigade equipment. We also welcome all volunteers who are able to support in so many ways.”

To find out more about joining the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade, contact Jeanette Garvey ph 0421 508 510.

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It was another busy and positive week across the Burdekin, with strong community engagement and continued progress on key initiatives.

Over the weekend, I attended a number of community events, including celebrations for the 100-year milestone of the Burdekin Surf Life Saving Club and the 2026 Burdekin Domestic Violence Walk, which raised awareness for an important cause. These events highlight the strength of our community and recognise the ongoing contribution of volunteers who play a vital role in keeping our region safe and connected.

We have also had some exciting news on the international stage, with Home Hill’s Adam Walton delivering an outstanding performance at the French Open. His success is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for the Burdekin, showcasing the talent that comes from our region. Congratulations to Adam on this remarkable milestone.

Community participation was strong at the recent Free Mulch Day at the Ayr Transfer Station, with residents taking advantage of the opportunity to collect mulch and support sustainable waste practices. It is great to see the community’s ongoing involvement in initiatives that promote environmental responsibility.

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Across our operations, works programs continue to progress well, with road and infrastructure projects advancing across the Shire. Council will continue to keep the community informed as works progress.

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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.

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There is no greater gift you can give to others than that of your time.  There is no greater gift to yourself than the pleasure and satisfaction gained from helping others.  We are all quick to complain - it’s human nature, but rather than expend that energy on social media, ring a Councillor.  That’s our job and why we’re on Council.  I’m pleased to say that I receive quite a few phone calls from people who have an issue, who need assistance or simply information and I get the greatest satisfaction from helping them resolve an issue or pointing them in the right direction.  Those phone calls to say thank you mean more than you know and are truly appreciated.  As always, my mobile number is 0427827386.

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Congratulations to Conway and Jo Ganderton of the Ayr and District Orchid and Allied Plants Society for stepping up in the co-organizing of the Plantation Park Markets with Ayr State Primary School.  The ASPS Bush Markets are held on the first Sunday of each month, with the next one being held on 7^th June from 8am to 12noon in Plantation Park.  The Ayr and District Orchid and Allied Plants Society Markets are on the third Sunday of each month with the next being held on 21 June 8am-12noon at Plantation Park.  As always, there will be a myriad of goods for sale with literally something for everyone.  Stallholders can phone 4790 3333 or 4783 6627 to find out more information.

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People who volunteer their time for the many different organisations are such an invaluable part of our community.  I had the pleasure of attending the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce general meeting recently where Margie Ryder was one of the guest speakers.  Margie is Secretary of Volunteering NQ and she is indeed a pocket dynamo.  Her effervescent energy and love of volunteering is captured in the phrase “Without volunteers NOTHING happens”.  This is the absolute truth so thank you to all who volunteer in our community.

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Don’t forget to get your tickets for the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival which is on at the Burdekin Theatre Friday 5^th June.  We have some wonderfully talented young people in the Burdekin and this event, along with the recently held Burdekin Eisteddfod and Fast Track showcase these talents beautifully.  I remember being involved as a student at Home Hill State High School, although I was more at home in the background doing props than centre stage. Tickets are $25.00.

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Lastly, should you require the services of a JP, you can find one at the Burdekin Library between 10am and 2pm each Tuesday.

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God Bless and take care.

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The EV Pipe Dream vs. The Factory Floor

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There was a time when walking into an Australian garage meant standing next to something we actually built.

For generations, brands like Holden weren't just names on a tailgate; they were proof that Australia possessed the sovereign grit to shape its own heavy industrial destiny.

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When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lamented over the death of the Australian-made car, calling it a national "pity," he expects us to ignore the fact that his own government is standing over the body holding the smoking gun.

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But then came the political pivot. Speaking at an industry event, the Prime Minister confidently

declared that "there is no reason why we can’t make electric vehicles here."

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The Prime Minister is banking on the idea that automation will solve everything, assuming that robots don't care about penalty rates or energy bills. But this completely misses the point. You cannot build a heavy automotive industry when the basic foundational costs of doing business in Australia are being driven through the roof.

His theory is an absolute pipe dream, completely detached from the hard mechanical facts, the soaring input costs, and the real-world physics of actually building things on an Australian factory floor.

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I recently hosted a manufacturing roadshow in Mackay, sitting down with local engineering firms, component makers, and fabricators who operate on the frontlines of our regional economy.

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These are self-reliant operators who don't want taxpayer-funded corporate welfare or green

subsidies to generate a good headline, they just want a fair go.

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What they showed me is that this Labor Government is actively widening a sovereignty gap that punishes our local makers. The brutal truth is that any attempt to build sophisticated electric vehicles here will stall long before it ever reaches the assembly line.

To understand why, you have to look past the political rhetoric and look at the basic physics of heavy automotive engineering.

An electric vehicle is essentially an incredibly complex, high-voltage computer on wheels.

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You cannot run the factories of tomorrow on a fragile power grid. The advanced robotics required to assemble modern electric vehicles demand perfect, constant 24/7 power. A short drop in voltage, a mere blink that you wouldn’t even notice at home, is enough to trigger a total shutdown on an automated line. The machinery freezes, precision calibrations are lost, and thousands of dollars bleed out for every single minute the assembly track sits idle.

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Yet, Labor’s rushed, ideologically driven race toward its Net Zero fantasy is driving electricity prices through the roof and leaving the grid structurally vulnerable.

There is also the glaring double standard embedded in our current trade settings.

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Right now, overseas competitors can buy Australian coal and raw minerals, ship them across the ocean, use them to fire up cheap baseload power, and then dump low-cost, substandard hardware right back into our market.

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Local engineering firms at our roadshow pointed out that fully imported Chinese components land in Mackay substantially cheaper per unit than those manufactured locally. How can we dream of manufacturing a 3,000-kilogram electric vehicle when our policy settings make it unviable to competitively produce the nuts and bolts that hold it together?

Additionally, Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism acts as a carbon tax by stealth, slapping a financial handbrake on our heavy component producers and forcing international capital offshore to nations with cheaper, more predictable energy strategies.

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It is precisely why Australia’s share of global resource investment has plummeted from 40% to just 15% over the last decade. Capital goes where there is certainty, and right now, Australia looks like a high-risk zone because the regulatory goalposts change at the stroke of a pen.

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We need a government with the common sense to close the sovereignty gap. That means establishing a National Import Quality Taskforce to stop sub-standard foreign dumping, offering royalty discounts for companies that procure 100% Australian-made items, and overhauling the "Australian Made" logo fees so local workshops aren't charged a premium just to tell the world where their goods were built.

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Most importantly, we must restore sovereign confidence by scrapping the punitive Net Zero targets, removing the Safeguard Mechanism, and focusing heavily on delivering the cheap, stable baseload power that makes Australian industry competitive on the global stage.

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The Coalition has a clear plan to get our energy affordability back on track, back the regions,

reward true technical efficiency, and protect the Australian dream for our workers.

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It is time to swap the green pipe dreams for reality on the factory floor.

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The annual Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness Walk will return to its original home at Ayr’s Plantation Park on 31 May. Photo supplied

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Burdekin residents are being urged to lace up their shoes and wear purple this Sunday to help take a stand against domestic and family violence.

The annual Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness Walk will return to its original home at Ayr’s Plantation Park on 31 May, following years of pandemic disruptions and weather setbacks.

Organised by a host of local organisations, the inclusive event aims to bring locals together to spark crucial conversations, reduce stigma, and show solidarity with victim-survivors.

BCA Chief Executive Officer Debra Cochran said the walk was intentionally designed for maximum visibility to spread its vital message.

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"The DV awareness walk was originally started to encourage greater community engagement and bring people together to raise awareness and gain access to information about domestic and family violence," Ms Cochran said.

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"We intentionally chose a walking route that could be completed safely while also providing strong visibility to the wider community, particularly along the highway where passing traffic can clearly see the event and its message."

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First held in May 2018, the event built strong momentum before COVID-19 restrictions and last year's flooding at Plantation Park disrupted its format. Ms Cochran said the BCA hopes this year's edition will help rekindle momentum and leave a lasting impression on participants.

"We hope attendees leave the DFV Walk with a greater understanding of the impact domestic and family violence has on individuals, families and the wider community," Ms Cochran said.

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"We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them."

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The free community event kicks off from 8:15am on Sunday 31 May at Plantation Park, Ayr, with the walk officially commencing at 9:00am. Participants can enjoy a free BBQ breakfast and kids' activities throughout the morning.

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The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has recorded its strongest Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea yet, raising more than $2,300 for the Cancer Council.

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The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has recorded its strongest Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea yet, raising more than $2,300 for the Cancer Council and smashing previous fundraising totals in a show of local generosity that surprised even organisers.

Held on Thursday, 21 May from 10am to 12pm, the annual event drew more than 70 community members to the centre, with organisers saying this year’s turnout and donations marked a clear step up in both engagement and giving.

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The morning featured a generous spread of morning tea options alongside a Lucky Door Prize, Mega Raffle and Special Raffle, with most prizes kindly donated by local businesses and community members.

Attendees shared conversations while MC Councillor John Furnell facilitated the event that featured "plenty of laughter and community spirit” throughout.

said the strong turnout and fundraising result reflected the growing support behind the annual event and its purpose.

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"The main purpose of the event was to bring the Burdekin community together to raise vital funds and awareness for people affected by cancer through the work of the Cancer Council, while encouraging community connection and fundraising by providing a welcoming space, raffles, and food for attendees to enjoy together,” Ms Darley said.

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She said the overwhelming support continued a pattern of overwhelming community generosity that the BNC sees each year.

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“The BNC is absolutely astonished each year by the generosity shown by the community, local businesses, and everyone attending our morning tea event—whether in person or through online donations—to help support anyone affected by cancer," she said.

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“We hope attendees took away a sense of community connection, compassion, and support, while knowing that their attendance, donations, and participation helped make a meaningful difference to people affected by cancer.”

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The BNC extended its thanks to all local businesses and community members who supported the event, including those who contributed food, vouchers, raffle prizes, and other assistance in any form.

The organisation encourages any businesses interested in being involved in the 2027 event to contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on  

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Journalist Jacob Casha was awarded Best Young Journalist of the year at the Queensland Country Press Awards

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Burdekin Life’s young journalism duo took home gold and silver at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on the Sunshine Coast.

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Life Publishing Group Brings Home 3 Gold And 3 Silver State Awards

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Burdekin Life’s young journalism duo has come away from the Sunshine Coast with gold and silver honours after a strong performance at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on Friday, 22 May.

Jacob Casha was announced as Best Young Journalist of the year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist, while Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.

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Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith said the awards are a strong result for the young journalists and the organisation.

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“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Ms Smith.

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“Our journalists learn the ropes fast, attending community events, forming connections and networks, writing and reporting on every aspect of news from sports to events – it is a big job that sets the tone for a dynamic career.

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“To think that two members of our team took out the two top spots in this category is incredibly humbling – and an example of the calibre of writing all our journalists are striving towards.  

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“This was capped off by Jacob receiving a silver award for Best Single Story — it’s fantastic to see him recognised in his first year alongside seasoned journalists who have spent years refining their craft.”

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The editorial achievements rounded off one of Life Publishing Group’s most successful years at the QCPA event, where it also won a further three advertising awards on the night.

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A highlight was receiving gold for Best Print Community Advertising Promotion for the Life Publishing Group Enchanted Garden Charity Event which raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities.

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A second gold was awarded for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement of the year and was followed by silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign of the year.

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“It makes life easy when you know you have a great team to back you up,” said Hinchinbrook Life Sales Manager Sherie Hensler Adams.

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“At Life Publishing Group, our incredible creative team designs each ad from scratch, working closely with our clients to bring out the best in their business.  

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“We truly care about every client, and you can see this clearly in the love that goes into the design of all the ads and all the pages in every paper.”

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There are more than 60 independent news media publishers registered with Queensland Country Press Association.

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“In 2024 we were thrilled to bring home Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for our sister publication Mackay and Whitsunday Life,” shared Rachael Smith.

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“This was a huge honour, and one we are looking forward to achieving again as we grow our other publications, especially here in Hinchinbrook.

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“2026 represents a year where we have solidified our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.

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“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”

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Director of Infrastructure Planning & Environmental Services, James Stewart, provided an overview of the Burdekin Shire Council’s push for a slice of the $55 million Residential Activation Fund (RAF). Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Major infrastructure projects designed to unlock residential land and secure water access took centre stage at the Burdekin Industry Breakfast last Wednesday.

The event, held at the Burdekin Theatre on 20 May, brought together developers, landowners, and agricultural stakeholders to discuss investments shaping the region's economic future.

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Topping the agenda was the Burdekin Shire Council’s push for a slice of the $55 million Residential Activation Fund (RAF). The council has officially applied for Round 2 funding to construct crucial trunk infrastructure, aiming to open up fresh housing developments across the Ayr township, specifically targeting the Beach Road, Chippendale, and Craig Street areas.

Council had already secured Round 1 funding to complete the detailed design work for the infrastructure, positioning the project for immediate progression if the secondary funding application is successful.

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Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown also provided an update on the $700 million Bowen Pipeline Project, a privately funded 182-kilometre water pipeline running from the Burdekin River to Bowen along the Bruce Highway corridor.

Designed to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water to a region historically reliant on unpredictable summer rainfall, the project hit a major milestone just days before the breakfast, with water sales officially commencing on 18 May.

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Local agricultural prospects are also set for a further boost via the North Queensland Food Futures Precinct Project in Ayr.

Spearheaded by the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) using Regional Economies Future Fund grants secured in 2024, BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery said the pilot food processing facility will focus on converting the 30 per cent of fruit and vegetables that fail tomeet market standards into shelf-stable products.

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The breakfast also detailed how the new facility will serve as an innovation space, giving local growers access to specialised commercial processing equipment to value-add their produce.

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It was a privilege to attend the Regional SES Awards Ceremony and 50th Anniversary Celebration over the weekend, recognising the dedication of our SES volunteers. It was great to see members of our Burdekin unit alongside crews from Townsville, Hinchinbrookand Magnetic Island, all coming together to support award recipients.

The SES plays a vital role in keeping our community safe, particularly during severe weather events, and they are always looking for new recruits. I encourage anyone interested to get involved, it’s a meaningful way to give back while learning valuable skills.

Another milestone event this weekend is the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club’s 100th anniversary. This club is defined by its people. While I was not a member, many of my family were, as have generations of Burdekin families. From Nippers and competitions to patrolling Alva Beach, the club has long upheld the values of surf lifesaving.

As Mayor, I see the impact this club has on our region. It builds responsibility, teamwork and courage, brings families together, and keeps our coastline safe. To everyone who has contributed over the past century, this milestone is yours. Here’s to 100 years of service, and to the next 100.

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Council continues to deliver important infrastructure works. Upgrades have commenced at Wunjunga Road and Beachmount Road, along with a new cattle grid installation. Construction of a concrete floodway on Bahr Road is also underway to improve resilience during severe weather.

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I encourage young people and their families to attend the Pathways and Possibilities event on Wednesday 3 June at the Burdekin Theatre Foyer from 5pm. This event will be a great opportunity to hear from local industry speakers, explore real career pathways, and connect directly with employers, training providers and support services.

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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.

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Community helping Community creates great outcomes.

I had the privilege of attending two events recently where it was an honour to see the spirit of giving to others. The first was when I was MC for ‘Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea 2026’, Burdekin style, organised by the ‘Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’ to support the work of the ‘Cancer Council’, Australia’s leading cancer charity. Around 150,000 Australian’s are diagnosed with cancer every year, if you or others need advice call 13 11 25. I counted thirty four local businesses as well as private citizens who donated prizes, thank you to them all. This is why it’s important to support our local businesses, who are often asked for donations, that support community events.  

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Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall was toe tapping and dancing to ‘Rock The Decades’ by Attori on Saturday night. Rick Romeo and friends donated their time and talent for Burdekin School, whose P&C were raising funds for the school community. Once again Burdekin community members building a better Burdekin.

This weekend sees Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club celebrating 100 years, a milestone of another tremendous voluntary organisation locally and throughout Australia.  The weekend kicks off Friday with a Meet n Greet and book launch at the Kalamia Hotel, Gala Dinner Saturday at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, concluding with a Community Fun Day at the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club. The weekend will see past and present members, friends and community come together for celebration and sharing of stories.

The Cowboys had another fine win over the Bunnies without two of their best, Tom Dearden and Reuben Cotter. The game has rallied together after one of South’s best, Jai Arrow, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. The Community Raffle raised over fifty thousand dollars to help Jai and his family with his battle.            

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Wishing you all health & happiness

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The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that would expand repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.

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Released last Thursday, the discussion paper proposes extending Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, alongside improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.

The current scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice.

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According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had contributed to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.

Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce delays during critical planting and harvest periods.

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The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms would give farmers more choice and support regional repair businesses.

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“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most,” Ms Collins said.

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The consultation period is open until Friday, July 3, 2026.

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New Burdekin apprentices, from left Jack Power (electrical), Nicholas Ellis (electrical), Connor Onaindia (electrical), Caileb Jerkic (diesel fitting), Riley Smith (fitting and turning), Benjamin Forman (electrical), Jayden Lehmann (boiler making), and Dylan Thorley (electrical). Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has welcomed 18 first-year apprentices across its operations this year, with the new recruits already settling into roles spanning electrical, fitting and turning, boilermaking and diesel fitting trades.

The apprentices officially commenced in February and are now working across the company’s Sugar and Renewables division as part of one of Queensland’s largest apprenticeship programs.

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Group Manager Mechanical Engineering Tienie van Blerk said the new apprentices had adapted well to their roles and embraced the company’s workplace values.

“They've integrated really well into the business and are demonstrating the values of teamwork and passion in their day-to-day work,” Mr van Blerk said.

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“I'm really impressed by how keen they are to learn from our experienced trades and become the best they can be.”

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Group Manager Electrical Instrumentation and Control Chris Pickering said apprentices at Wilmar benefited from exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies and industrial systems.

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“The sugar industry is known for turning out really well-rounded apprentices and our factories have some of the most advanced technological platforms available,” Mr Pickering said.

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“Our electrical trades are working with advanced automation and control systems, modern power generation and distribution systems, and smart instrumentation. Most electrical apprentices only get exposure to a narrow range of equipment. Ours are trained across a large range of industrial plant.”

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General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said the apprenticeship program played an important role in the company’s long-term workforce development and retention strategy.

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“We have one of the largest and most successful apprenticeship programs in Queensland,” Mr Torok said.

“Not only do we have a very high completion rate, but we have a high retention rate among our newly qualified tradespeople. These first-year apprentices will become the highly-skilled tradespeople we rely upon to keep our factories, locos and mobile fleet running efficiently. They'll also become mentors for future generations of apprentices at our sites.”

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables currently employs around 120 apprentices across the business.

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Applications for the company’s 2027 apprenticeship intake will open on 9 June.

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If you would like to be part of continuing this important support and helping chaplaincy remain strong in our schools, you are warmly invited to join a local Chaplaincy Support Team. Photo supplied

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As Chaplaincy Week approaches from May 31 to June 7, the Burdekin community is being encouraged to celebrate and support the local school chaplains helping students, staff, and families across the region.

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For almost two decades, the Burdekin community has benefited from the vital work of dedicated school chaplains.

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The Burdekin currently has seven school chaplains supporting the holistic wellbeing of 10 of our school communities. Through one-on-one support, running small groups, and connecting with staff, students, and families, our Chappies make a much-needed impact.

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School chaplains provide social, emotional, and pastoral support to school communities. They are in the prevention and support business, helping students find better ways to deal with issues such as peer relationships, mental health challenges including anxiety and depression, bullying, educational support needs, and family breakdown.

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They provide a listening ear and a caring presence for children and young people in crisis, as well as those who simply need a friend. They also provide support for staff and parents within school communities. Chaplains also run evidence-based programs including social and emotional support, mentoring, educational support, and community development.

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Our Chappies are funded in part by the government and their schools, but the shortfall is required to be made up through the fundraising efforts of local Chaplaincy Support Teams.

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We would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank the Burdekin community for the ongoing support shown towards school chaplaincy over many years. Through donations, fundraising efforts, volunteering, sponsorship, and attendance at community events, local individuals, businesses, churches, and organisations continue to play a vital role in ensuring chaplains can remain present in our schools.

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If you would like to be part of continuing this important support and helping chaplaincy remain strong in our schools, you are warmly invited to join a local Chaplaincy Support Team. Throughout the year, there will also be several opportunities for our community to support chaplaincy, beginning with the Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast during Chaplaincy Week, followed by the Water Festival and Harvest Festival.

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Your support is greatly appreciated in helping maintain the wide reach of chaplaincy in Burdekin schools.

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Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team

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Home Hill’s Pioneer Avenue has been given a fresh lease on life, with Burdekin Shire Council completing restoration works on the memorial plaques that honour the district’s founding families. Photo supplied

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Home Hill’s Pioneer Avenue has been given a fresh lease on life, with Burdekin Shire Council completing restoration works on the memorial plaques that honour the district’s founding families.

The project has seen all plaques along the avenue carefully refurbished and reinstalled in their original locations, preserving a feature that has stood since 1998, with additions made in 2011. The upgrade replaces deteriorated timber posts with durable recycled plastic supports, ensuring the display can withstand time and weather while maintaining its appearance and accessibility.

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Burdekin Shire Council said the works were about more than maintenance, describing the project as an effort to safeguard a tangible link to the region’s early settlers and their contribution to the community’s development.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Pioneer Avenue remains an important part of the Burdekin’s shared identity.

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“Pioneer Avenue holds a special place in the Burdekin’s history, recognising the families who helped shape our region into what it is today. This restoration ensures their stories continue to be honoured for generations to come,” she said.

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She said the use of more durable materials would help protect the site into the future while keeping it safe and presentable for residents and visitors.

The restored avenue also forms part of Home Hill’s broader appeal as a place where local history is visible and accessible, with Council noting its value to both tourism and community pride.

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Council has thanked residents for their patience during the works and encouraged locals and visitors alike to take a walk along Pioneer Avenue to view the refreshed plaques and reflect on the town’s pioneering legacy.

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Stepping into the role of Acting Branch Manager at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is a proud moment for local Burdekin woman Sally Smith, whose journey with the community bank has been built on passion, dedication and a genuine love for helping people. Photo supplied

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The Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr pride’s itself on local connections and a recent appointment has reinforced this philosophy.

Stepping into the role of Acting Branch Manager at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is a proud moment for local Burdekin woman Sally Smith, whose journey with the community bank has been built on passion, dedication and a genuine love for helping people.

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Having grown up in the Burdekin and now raising her own family in the region, Sally says the opportunity to lead the branch for the next six months is both exciting and deeply meaningful.

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“My journey with Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr began nearly seven years ago,” Sally explained.

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“I started as a Customer Service Officer with no prior banking experience, but I had a strong desire to learn and a real passion for giving back to the local community.”

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Since then, Sally has progressed through several roles including Senior Customer Service Officer and Personal Banker, with each position strengthening her connection to local customers and community organisations.

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Now, as Acting Branch Manager, she is focused on continuing the branch’s strong community-first approach while supporting staff and customers alike.

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“Community is the heartbeat of this branch,” Sally said.

“I’m looking forward to building new connections, supporting our team and ensuring we continue to provide exceptional service to the people and businesses that make our region thrive.”

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Sally says one of the most rewarding parts of working with the community bank is seeing firsthand the impact local banking can have across the Burdekin.

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“Over the years, I’ve seen the difference the community bank makes through sponsorships, donations and support for local clubs, events and organisations,”she said.

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“Whether it’s supporting local sporting groups, community events or charities, knowing we’re helping strengthen our region is incredibly rewarding.”

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She also acknowledged the leadership and support of outgoing Branch Manager Chantel Michielin, saying she feels privileged to continue the work that has been built over recent years.

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“I’m incredibly grateful for Chantel’s guidance and support throughout my journey with the bank,” Sally said.

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“I look forward to continuing the amazing work she has done while also developing my own leadership skills under the example she has set.”

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Outside of work, Sally remains actively involved in local clubs and volunteer activities, something she says keeps her grounded and connected to the community she proudly calls home.

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“What makes the Burdekin so special is its people,” she said.

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“We have such a strong and generous community spirit here, and I’m proud to be part of an organisation that gives back to the place we all love.”

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Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox with Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins OAM. Supplied

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has labelled the Australian Government’s budgetary decision to cap the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) allied health services to an annual limit of $5000 “a profound betrayal of the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation.” 

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The Australian Government stated that the cap was instated to support a larger investment in Veteran health, pledging $169.7 million over five years from 2025–26 (and $58.8 million per year ongoing), to increase allied health provider fees for Veteran Card holders from 1st July 2027. 
 
They call it “the largest investment in veteran allied health provider fees in more than 20 years,” which “will improve choice and availability of services for veterans and families of veterans.” 

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According to the DVA, the cap will redistribute funds, whilst aiming to target overservicing from providers. 
 
“Under this arrangement, Veteran Card holders will continue to access the treatment they need, while ensuring they are not taken advantage of by providers looking to increase profits through overservicing,” the DVA published.  

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“DVA is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans and recognises that health care needs are individual and can change over time. That is why this measure includes flexibility for DVA to fund allied health services above $5,000 amount where there is a valid clinical need, ensuring veterans receive the care they require.”  

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Mr Willcox has spoken out about the change, calling the cap a “cruel cost-shifting measure.” 
 
“Getting regular help from an exercise physiologist or a psychologist is a massive part of preventing veteran suicide,” he said.  
 
“It gets men and women sorted before they hit rock bottom. Keeping veterans well on the frontline saves lives, and it stops them needing much more expensive medical treatment down the track."  

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“To see this critical funding degraded is deeply disappointing.” 

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The vital role small businesses play in the Burdekin’s economy has been celebrated during Small Business Month with businesses able to seize opportunities amidst global uncertainty.

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said Small Business Month had been a chance for residents to show support for the best florists, cafes and pubs as well as industries at the backbone of our region.

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“Small business month in Queensland has been a chance to offer a pat on the back to those people willing to take the risk and offer a service benefitting their local community,” Mr Last said.

“While we know our district is largely built on our sugar industry, our small businesses in trades such as manufacturing, retail, mechanical and construction provide the support our major sector needs to keep machinery operational and foster innovation.”

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“No matter what corner of the state our small businesses operate in, accessing the tools, knowledge and support they need to grow and adapt means they have the confidence to invest in our communities.”

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As a former small business owner, Mr Last said he recognised the unique challenges faced by business owners in the current climate of rising costs and shortage of skilled workers.

“Small Business Month may be over for 2026 however there is always opportunities to support our small businesses in town by shopping local where you can. After all it is many of these small businesses who we look to when our local sporting teams or community groups need sponsorship.”

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“At a time when fuel security and the costs of doing business are increasing, supporting our small businesses through grants targeted at industries, business security and innovation demonstrates our support as a state government,”

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“There are still plenty of grant opportunities available including the Secure Communities Partnership Grant which offers small businesses grants to improve surveillance and security infrastructure at their premises.”

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Fore more information on what support is available visit https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/support-services/financial/grants/secure-communities

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right) with survivors following the tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. Photo: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin community has rallied to support survivors following last Thursday’s tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. While emergency services managed the confronting crash site, local residents, council staff, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort coordinated immediate relief, providing accommodation, meals, and medical aid to the shaken passengers.

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Tragedy On Bruce Highway As Bus Rolls Near Gumlu

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A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14 May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side.

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The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.

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Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentina and Italy national, died at the scene.

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Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment.

One passenger who survived the crash told Burdekin Life they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover.

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“I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times.

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The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt.

They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin.

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Following the crash, passengers were accommodated in Ayr overnight before being cared for at the Burdekin Theatre loft the following day, where they were provided meals prior to continuing their journey south on another bus.

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Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community.

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The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.

The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives.

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Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response.

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“This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said.

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“Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].”

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Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital.

He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway.

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“It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.”

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, President of BGGA, Carl Walker, BPC Director Sean Brown, and Whitsundays Mayor Ry Collins (WRC). Photo supplied

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The Bowen Pipeline Company will launch its critical water sales program this week, marking the final major milestone before seeking federal funding for a $750 million generational water infrastructure project.

Opening on 20 May and running until 24 June, the program will serve as the commercial validation required to secure a 50 per cent federal government construction grant.

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The privately funded project would involve the construction of a 182-kilometre underground pipeline from the Burdekin River to Bowen, running primarily along the Bruce Highway corridor.

Once operational, the pipeline is anticipated to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water annually, securing a reliable supply for Australia’s largest winter vegetable-growing region.

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Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown said the water sales program was the culmination of nearly a decade of local advocacy.

"This is essentially the final hurdle to be jumped prior to the lodging of our Federal Government construction grant application,” Mr Brown said.

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"For the Project to be considered by the Federals as a worthy recipient of funding, the region needs to demonstrate both large water demand volumes and significant numbers of water users."

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The company has set a minimum water volume of 20 megalitres, which can be shared between adjoining properties.

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"In effect, water users will be paying 2025 prices for water that will be delivered in 2030," Mr Brown said.

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The project is tracking towards ‘shovel-ready’ status by September 2026, ahead of a federal funding application. The company aims to secure a funding commitment in the May 2027 Federal Budget, with construction slated to begin in September 2027.

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Boasting a benefit-cost ratio of 1.27, the pipeline is projected to create 200 jobs during construction and 1,200 permanent roles upon completion. It is expected to drive a $300 million annual economic gain for agriculture and unlock up to $1 billion in additional investment throughlocal green energy initiatives, such as sustainable aviation fuel and green ammonia.

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The infrastructure features several industry firsts, including Indigenous project equity and ownership, and a net-zero footprint supported by 30-megawatt solar farms utilising Australian-made Tindo Solar panels.

Mr Brown credited local communities and political leaders, including Premier David Crisafulli, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, and local MPs and mayors, for progressing the project.

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"After 9 years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push," Mr Brown said.

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"This project is being built on the shoulders of the people who not only live in the region but all those who came before us."

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Public information and water sales presentations will commence at 4:30 pm at the DPI in Bowen on 20 and 28 May, and at the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club on 21 and 27 May.

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Able Seaman Maritime Logistics Chef Thomas Wiseman stands in the galley of HMAS Toowoomba as the ship sails through the Sulu Sea. Photo supplied

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Growing up in Ayr, Queensland, Able Seaman Thomas Wiseman was torn between two paths: following in his father’s footsteps or pursuing a passion inspired by his mother.

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“I was going to join the Army because my dad was Army and my grandfather was Army. But my mum is a pastry chef by trade, and my real love of cooking I got from her,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

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Luckily, he not only went to his parents for advice, but actually listened to them.

“Dad suggested I join the Navy. He said in the Navy, chefs cook every day at sea and travel the world,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

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As chef on board HMAS Toowoomba, over the past five months, he’s visited six of Australia’s regional partners and engaged in multiple exercises, activities and operations with allied nations, all while being trained to become a fully qualified chef.

“I went straight from school to enlisting and it was the best decision I have ever made by far. In just two years in the Navy, I’ve visited six countries and done several deployments. I love it,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

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While learning his trade through Navy, he doesn’t have to worry about the competitive, seasonal nature of the hospitality industry and the lack of job security that can sometimes go with it.

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“The pay is so much better. In the civilian world, I would be on an apprentice wage. In the Navy, you get paid more and you learn more skills,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

There’s also the additional duties that allow him to develop the skills and knowledge required to live a well-rounded, adult life.

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“On top of being a chef, we have all of our external roles as well. I am a member of the ship’s emergency medical team, so if there’s a medical incident, I could be one of the members to go and respond. It is a great responsibility,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

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Every day, Toowoomba’s chefs produce four meals for the about 200-strong crew, ensuring all watches on board are fuelled to carry out their duties protecting Australia and its interests.

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“Without the stokers, the ship doesn’t go anywhere, without the watchkeepers keeping us safe, we can’t do much, so while us chefs are also important in keeping the ship going, the entire crew is one big team,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

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His biggest thanks remain for his parents, whose wise words set him up for life.

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“I reckon if my mum saw this in the paper, she’d absolutely love it, frame it and hang it up on the wall,” Able Seaman Wiseman said.

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“They’re still up there in Ayr, so Dad, if you’re reading this, I took all the advice you’d given me, I am so glad you convinced me to go Navy, it was the best advice I ever had.”

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International leadership consultant and wellness advocate Robyn Taylor joined Burdekin Shire Council staff for March’s Women’s Health Day, sharing insights on resilience, wellbeing and values-based leadership. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

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Internationally recognised leadership consultant and wellness advocate, Robyn Taylor has worked across Australia, Africa, Europe and the United States, combining modern leadership practices with mindfulness and wellbeing strategies developed through her own personal health journey.

In March, Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin invited Ms Taylor to speak at Council’s Women’s Health Day, reflecting the pair’s longstanding commitment to collaborating on projects across regional Queensland spanning a diverse range of industries and specialisations.  

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“Workplace wellbeing carries more importance in our current times of uncertainty, everyday life seems to present more challenges,” said Ms Taylor.

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“A supportive workplace culture, recognising the current challenges, is demonstrated by employers who arrange programs such as the Women’s Health Day.”

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Mr Magin echoed Ms Taylor’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of prioritising staff wellbeing and fostering a positive workplace culture across regional organisations.

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“I agree that wellness programmes are hugely important for any and all employers to be organising for their staff,” he said.

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Ms Taylor said she was delighted to return to the region, fondly recalling previous visits to Ayr, including delivering an International Women’s Day presentation initiated by Lyndy McCathie and the Burdekin Zonta Club.

Drawing on her own experience overcoming a diagnosis of advanced multiple sclerosis decades ago, Ms Taylor’s presentation at Burdekin Shire Council’s Women’s Health Day focused on resilience, mindset and personal wellbeing.  

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She encouraged participants to take control of unhealthy stress patterns, embrace balance in both work and life, and recognise the value of community connection and regional living, resounding the quote, “it’s not what happens to you, it’s what you do about it” to reframe unbeneficial habits.

“We can reprogram our perspective once we change the way we think about life and how we are managing our own situation,” she said.  

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“Today are seeking relief from their daily pressures that can manifest in many ways, like feeling overwhelmed by current events, sometimes resulting in insomnia or deteriorating health. In this big picture, it is important that we find balance in the various aspects of our lives, including our jobs.”

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Ms Taylor also praised the “Can Do” attitude often found across regional Queensland and encouraged more women to become involved in community organisations such as Burdekin Zonta Club, saying purpose and connection play a vital role in long-term wellbeing.

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“I believe appreciating the value of regional life can be a major factor in finding the balance,” she added.

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“Ayr is such an attractive country town where living is without the pressures of sitting for hours in traffic, where one can consciously develop and incorporate an exercise program into the daily routine and where one can seek out like-minded people with whom to spend our very precious time.  

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“Never underestimate the value of the business experience you are gaining in the Burdekin. With today’s expanding and ever- changing technology, regional business and regional careers are just as sophisticated as any to be gained in the crowded, frantic pace of a major city.

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“Appreciation and gratitude of our situation are major factors in finding balance.  We can train our intellect to work with our perceived challenges and train our bodies with our exercise or gym program, but quite often we don’t realise how important it is to train the mind.”

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Ms Taylor said many of the leadership principles being discussed internationally were just as relevant in regional communities like the Burdekin Shire, particularly when it came to creating workplaces where people feel valued, fulfilled and supported. She also spoke about the importance of values-based leadership, mindfulness and wellbeing practices in helping people manage stress and maintain balance in both their professional and personal lives.

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Drawing on decades of experience in leadership coaching and wellness, including her internationally recognised Meditating Manager program, Ms Taylor encouraged people to prioritise reflection, self-awareness and personal growth alongside career ambitions.

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She said regional communities like the Burdekin offer unique opportunities to build meaningful careers while enjoying a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

“Be brave, be fearless, don’t allow anyone or anything to deter you in your pursuit of your career goals and ensure those goals are firm,” Ms Taylor advised.

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“I am absolutely ga ga about the power of goal setting. Goals will propel you forward to do things you never dreamt you would be able to achieve.  Be prepared that the goals may change along the way.”

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The St Francis Prep A class took out two first places. Photos supplied.

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St Francis Catholic School walked away aggregate winners of the Primary Choral Speaking section at the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod (BJE), pipping schools from around the region to the prestigious honour.

St Francis students competed across a range of genres, with every class performing both a choir piece and a poem, and students from Years 1–6 also taking part in the Novelty performance.

Students claimed gold in Year 1&2 Choral Novelty/2-Part Primary Schools; Year 3&4 Choral Novelty/2-Part Primary Schools; Prep Choral Novelty/2-Part Primary Schools; Primary Rock Band Group; Prep Choir Novelty; Years 1&2 Choir (Unison); Years 3&4 Choir (Unison); and Primary Vocal Ensemble.

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School officials said the BJE success was a testament to the students’ dedication.

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“We are extremely proud to have won the Aggregate—an outstanding achievement that reflects the collective effort, talent, and dedication of our whole school community,” said the spokesperson.

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“This was a huge undertaking for staff and students alike, and the level of preparation was evident in every performance.”

The result caps off a standout showing for the school, which continues to be a strong presence across Burdekin performing arts competitions.

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The Burdekin School is a local state school that supports children from the Burdekin district who have intellectual and multiple disabilities. These children have numerous difficulties in accessing learning and education outcomes and often require specialised assistance and/or equipment to aid them in their education journey.

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In support of these extra needs, the Burdekin School P & C Association are running a fundraising event that is aimed at raising much needed funds while providing the Burdekin District with a showcase of music over the decades donated by local Ricki Romeo and his talented Attori Entertainers.

The doors will be open at 6:00pm with the show starting at 7.30pm at the Burdekin FC Junior Soccer Hall on Beach Rd. There will be live music, dancing, table seating, disabled access, bar service and nibbles.

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The Burdekin School Principal, Claire Cheyne appreciates the support that the Burdekin School P & C Association offers the school and its students, and she welcomes the generous donations by Attori for their Rock the Decades performance and the Burdekin JC for the use their hall facilities.

“Rock the Decades is such a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate great music and support the incredible students of Burdekin School,” she said.

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“Every day our students show resilience, courage and determination, and events like this help us continue creating opportunities for them to thrive."

There are still plenty of tickets available online at www.trybooking.com/DLN, at the Burdekin School office, 159 Young St, Ayr, or on the night via cash or card. Please support this worthwhile event.

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Contributed with thanks to Burdekin School P & C

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2026 ASHS School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne is inspiring other young people through her passion for STEM, leadership and community involvement. Photo supplied  

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Driven by a passion for helping others and creating positive change, Caitlyn Cheyne has dedicated herself to giving back to her community while inspiring other young people to do the same.

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Caitlyn has worn many hats over the years and currently serves as a 2026 Ayr State High School (ASHS) School Captain, STEM Ambassador and active member of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council (BSYC); a group she was inspired to join after hearing about the opportunities and community impact from her peers.

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“Since being in the BSYC I have volunteered a few times and have had so much fun with it,” said Caitlyn.

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“It’s [BSYC] such a kind and welcoming community of young people all interested in a root cause – to give back to our community and show our community that young people and their opinions shouldn't be ignored. Youth Council has allowed me to have a voice in our world and give back in ways I didn't know I was able to.”

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Alongside her community involvement, Caitlyn has also immersed herself in a range of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) opportunities and leadership programs offered internally through ASHS. Caitlyn’s passion for volunteering and leadership began long before joining BSYC, first flourishing when she became involved in ASHS’ Interact Club in Year 7.

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“This was honestly a space where I learned how to handle money, work in teams, and saw how fulfilled I could be when working with my community. I continued in both Interact and the Student Council through my entire schooling and I don't regret any of it, it has been amazing!”

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A self-described “STEM lover through and through”, Caitlyn first stepped into the space as a Year 10 student after being selected for the Department of Education’s STEM Girl Power Camp, earning the role of her school’s STEM Ambassador.

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“It was the place where I learned there was a community of supportive people all interested in everything I love,” she said.

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Since then, she has participated in the SPARQ-ed biomedical science program at the Translational Research Institute in Brisbane and attended the prestigious National Youth Science Forum earlier this year.

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Outside of academics, Caitlyn has remained heavily involved in the community through the Lower Burdekin Scout Group and of course, BSYC, with some of her favourite volunteer work involving local children’s programs and hands-on STEM activities.

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“I am very passionate about community involvement, inclusion, and providing support for people,” Caitlyn said.

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“As a neurodivergent young person, I know that sometimes getting the help you actually need isn't as easy as some might think and its very important to me that young people with disabilities, mental health concerns, or anyone struggling is given the tools to succeed.”

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After years of balancing leadership, volunteering and STEM opportunities, Caitlun hopes to inspire other young people to back themselves, and give new experiences a go, no matter what.

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“Apply for everything! You will never know unless you try! It’s better to try and fail, then to have never tried at all,” she said.

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“The only reason I have been able to do all the things I have done is because I threw my name into the hat. I am so happy I have given everything I have wanted a go!”

However, Caitlyn said it’s equally important for young people to recognise their limits and avoid overcommitting themselves.

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“Don’t overload yourself,” she said.

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“It’s something I have always struggled with – trying to juggle 100 different things when I reached capacity at 70. If you overwork yourself, you can’t do all the amazing things you’re capable of.”

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With a strong passion for environmental conservation, community advocacy and lifelong learning, Caitlyn hopes to study ecology and teaching at university in the future, while continuing to pursue opportunities such as the National Youth Parliament to further expand her knowledge and create positive change.

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Families considering their child’s secondary education are invited to experience all that Burdekin Catholic High School has to offer at the upcoming BCHS Twilight Open Evening on Monday 25 May from 4.00pm to 6.30pm.

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Choosing the right high school is one of the most important decisions a family can make, and Principal and staff at BCHS encourage parents and students to take the opportunity to visit schools in person before making that decision.

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“A website or brochure can only tell part of the story,” Lorraine Wolffe, Principal said.

“Walking through the school, meeting our staff and students, and experiencing the atmosphere firsthand helps families understand what makes a school the right fit for their child.”

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The Twilight Open Evening will provide families with the opportunity to tour the school, explore specialist learning areas and facilities, and speak directly with teachers about academic programs, student wellbeing and co-curricular opportunities.

Current BCHS students will also lead guided tours throughout the evening, giving prospective families an authentic insight into daily life at the school. Families will be able to hear directly from students about their experiences, friendships, learning opportunities and school spirit.

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Principal presentations during the evening will outline the vision and values of BCHS, as well as the school’s commitment to supporting every student to grow academically, spiritually and personally.

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The event is open not only to families with students entering Year 7 next year, but to anyone considering a high school pathway at any stage of their child’s education.

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“We warmly welcome all families who may be exploring schooling options now or into the future,” the Principal said.

“Our doors are always open to those wanting to learn more about our community.”

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BCHS prides itself on providing a supportive and inclusive environment where students are known, valued and encouraged to achieve their personal best.

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The Twilight Open Evening will be held on Monday 25 May from 4.00pm to 6.30pm at Burdekin Catholic High School. Families are encouraged to attend and discover firsthand what makes BCHS a thriving learning community.

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Contributed with thanks to BCHS

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Tec-NQ delivers specialised training across a range of trade and vocational areas, like carpentry and construction. Photo credit: Tec-NQ

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Tec-NQ is a leading provider of senior education, vocational training, and boarding opportunities in North Queensland, creating pathways for students to succeed both in the classroom and in industry. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, Tec-NQ offers students the opportunity to gain practical skills while completing their education in a supportive and industry-focused environment.

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Located in Townsville, Tec-NQ delivers specialised training across a range of trade and vocational areas including engineering, automotive, plumbing, construction and electrical. The organisation prides itself on preparing students for real-world careers by working closely with local industries and employers to create work experience, apprenticeship, and employment opportunities.

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It’s home to a growing boarding community, welcoming students from regional and remote areas across Queensland. The purpose-built boarding facilities provide students with a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment while they pursue their education and training goals.

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Beyond the classroom and workshops, Tec-NQ places a strong emphasis on community involvement, student wellbeing, and personal growth. From sporting teams and leadership opportunities to community events and industry partnerships, students are encouraged to build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills.

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With a commitment to innovation, opportunity, and student success, Tec-NQ continues to empower young people to achieve their goals and build successful futures.

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For nearly two decades, Direct Wholesale Tyres has built a solid reputation as one of North Queensland’s leading suppliers for the transport and construction industries. Photo supplied

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For nearly two decades, Direct Wholesale Tyres has built a solid reputation as one of North Queensland’s leading suppliers for the transport and construction industries.

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Established in 2007, the business supplies and fits tyres for trucks, trailers, earthmovers, agricultural machinery, 4x4s, passenger vehicles and mowers etc.As well as the supply of tracks. It operates on a straightforward model focused on quality products, quality service and realistic prices.

Operating from three key locations—Roseneath, 29–33 Curley Circuit in the Townsville Distribution Precinct; Charters Towers, 4 Moores Street Mosman Park; and Cloncurry, Lot 3 Hensley Drive. Its distribution network of bulk delivery includes west to Mt Isa, north to Mareebaand south to Emerald and surrounding areas. Supporting fleets where downtime is not an option.

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The Roseneath facility features triple road train access, fitting of all tyres and wheel alignments for cars, 4WDs and light trucks up to 8 tonnes. Charters Towers also provides wheel alignment services for cars and 4WDs.

Fleet support and service fitting remain central to the operation, with the capacity to manage large orders efficiently while keeping vehicles on the road and downtime to a minimum.

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Carrying trusted brands including Jinyu, Hankook, Toyo, Michelin, Longmarch, Aplus, Triangle etc. Direct Wholesale Tyres continues to position itself as a dependable regional supplier supporting industry across northern Australia.

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Northern Heavy Machinery can help you find the right machine for your job. Photo supplied

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Northern Heavy Machinery is a Townsville-based heavy equipment supplier and service provider working across North and Central Queensland. The team supports industries such as construction, mining, agriculture and earthmoving by providing machinery, parts and servicing that help keep operations running smoothly in tough regional conditions. At its core, the business is focused on practical support, reliability and building long-term relationships with customers who rely on their equipment every day.

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Rather than simply selling machinery, the team takes a hands-on approach, helping customers find the right equipment for the job and backing it up with servicing, repairs and parts support. This includes everything from heavy earthmoving machines through to smaller utility equipment, with a focus on keeping downtime to a minimum and productivity high.

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Northern Heavy Machinery is also looking forward to connecting with the community at the Rotary NQ Field Day 2026, where the team will be on site to meet attendees, answer questions and showcase a range of their machinery. It is a chance for local operators, contractors and farmers to see the equipment up close, talk directly with the people who service and supply it, and get practical advice tailored to their needs. Having machines on display also gives visitors a clearer understanding of what is available and how it performs in real working conditions.

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With a strong regional presence and a commitment to supporting North Queensland industries, Northern Heavy Machinery continues to focus on being a trusted partner both on the job site and within the wider community.

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed start dates for the 2026 sugar production season, with mills across the Burdekin, Proserpine and Plane Creek regions preparing to begin crushing in early June.

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The company’s four Burdekin mills; Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, along with Plane Creek Mill at Sarina, are scheduled to begin operations on 2 June. Proserpine Mill and the Herbert region’s Victoria and Macknade mills will follow on 9 June.

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General Manager Operations James Wallace said the start dates were determined by crop forecasts, factory readiness and expected paddock conditions.

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“We've got a bigger crop than last year, and we're keen to get the season under way to minimise the risk of a late finish and the associated challenges of pushing into the wet season,” Mr Wallace said.

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“Our goal is to have all of our factories crushed out by mid-to-late November.”

Wilmar is forecasting a statewide crop of 15.19 million tonnes for the 2026 season, almost one million tonnes higher than last year’s total throughput of 14.23 million tonnes.

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Regional estimates include 7.97 million tonnes in the Burdekin, 1.67 million tonnes in Proserpine and 1.45 million tonnes at Plane Creek.

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General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said maintenance and upgrade works across factories, rail networks and rolling stock were nearing completion ahead of the season start.

General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said loco driver training was already under way and reminded motorists to remain vigilant around cane rail crossings.

“We’re reminding residents and visitors to take extra care on the roads and look out for cane trains,” Mr Zeller said.

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Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.

The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.

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Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.

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“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.

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“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”

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Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.

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“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.

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“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.

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“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.

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“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”

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Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

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“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.

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“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”

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Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.

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“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.

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Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.

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“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.

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Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.

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Cattle fitted with electronic neckbands as part of the NQ Dry Tropics–DPI virtual fencing trial in North Queensland. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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New technology is helping reshape the future of grazing management in North Queensland, with a long-term virtual fencing trial exploring how producers can manage cattle and pasture with greater precision.

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NQ Dry Tropics is partnering with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries on the Long Term Virtual Fencing Trial, which is investigating how electronic neckbands can support more responsive and adaptive grazing systems.

The technology allows producers to control where and when cattle graze using virtual boundaries managed from a mobile phone, reducing the need for traditional fencing in some areas.

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According to NQ Dry Tropics, the system aims to improve grazing distribution across landscapes, reduce pressure on preferred grazing areas, make better use of available pasture and support groundcover and soil health outcomes.

The trial is currently being conducted at the Spyglass Beef Research Facility, where pasture conditions are regularly monitored and grazing plans adjusted in real time to respond to seasonal conditions and pasture availability.

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NQ Dry Tropics Climate Adaptation Coordinator Justin Macor said the technology represented a major step forward for producers looking to improve flexibility and long-term land management.

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“This is about giving producers more flexibility and control — the ability to respond quickly to what’s happening in the paddock and being able to manage grazing pressure more effectively,” he said.

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“It’s a practical step forward in improving productivity while supporting long-term landscape health.”

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The trial forms part of broader efforts to explore innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation across North Queensland grazing systems.

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Australian farmers are set to benefit from an additional 90,000 tonnes of fertiliser secured by the Government to support food production and supply chains. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Albanese Labor Government has secured approximately 90,000 tonnes of agricultural grade urea to support Australian farmers and help maintain the nation’s food supply chain amid ongoing global uncertainty.

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The additional fertiliser shipments were secured through Export Finance Australia in partnership with CSBP and Incitec Pivot and mark the first shipments obtained under the Government’s new Strategic Reserve powers.

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The move forms part of broader efforts to help Australia’s agriculture sector manage the impacts of conflict in the Middle East, with more shipments expected in the coming weeks.

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The new supply builds on the 250,000 tonnes of fertiliser previously secured with Indonesia through PT Pupuk in partnership with Incitec Pivot.

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The Government said the extra fertiliser would provide greater certainty for farmers as they make planting and growing decisions while supporting both domestic food production and export supply chains.

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Government was focused on supporting Australian farmers during a period of global disruption.

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“We’re backing Australian farmers and producers during this time of global uncertainty,” Mr Albanese said.

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“We know how critical fertiliser is for the sector, which is why we’re securing important additional shipments like this.”

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Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell said the Government was providing practical support to farming communities facing supply challenges.

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“This is another example of the Government providing practical and timely assistance to Australian farmers at a time of intense global supply disruptions,” Senator Farrell said.

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“Our hard-working farming communities can be assured that we will leave no stone unturned to help secure the inputs needed to keep them moving and produce the best food and fibre in the world.”

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Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Julie Collins said securing fertiliser supplies was essential for food security.

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“Underwriting additional shipments of fertiliser is about ensuring our farmers can continue producing the food we all love and rely on,” Minister Collins said.

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“This is positive news for our farmers and means they can continue planting with confidence during this current season and know that additional supply is on the way for the future. Having access to critical inputs like fertiliser underpins the food security of Australia and the countries we export to, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, which is why we’ve been working day and night with industry to get fertiliser to our farmers.”

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The Government has also announced a $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility to support supply and storage, alongside measures to streamline fertiliser imports and strengthen food security partnerships internationally.

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So far, the Albanese Government says it has secured more than 450 million litres of additional diesel and 100 million litres of additional aviation fuel under new financing arrangements.

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What a spectacular week it has been to live in the Burdekin. If there is one thing our region knows how to do better than anyone else, it’s coming together to celebrate our lifestyle, our community spirit, and our local industries.

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We saw that in full force over the weekend at the Home Hill Race Club for the annual Burdekin Growers Race Day.

As one of the biggest highlights on our social calendar, it never fails to impress. It’s an incredible credit to the Burdekin Race Club committee, volunteers, and local growers who pull out all the stops to make this event happen. Seeing thousands of locals and visitors dressed to the nines, enjoying the racing, and walking away with a signature box of world class, locally grown Burdekin produce is something truly unique to our shire. It’s an event that pumps huge energy and tourist dollars into our towns, and it reminds us all why we are so proud to call this place home.  

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This coming Saturday is also World Fish Migration Day, which NQ Dry Tropics is celebrating with an event at Hutchings Lagoon from 9am to 1pm. The Free family event will feature lucky door prizes, barramundi fingerling releases, aquatic weed control demonstrations and much more. See you all at the lagoon!

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A lot can happen in a week - and sometimes even in a single day. You may have seen in the news the tragic highway accident that claimed a young life. It’s a sobering reminder of how quickly things can change.

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Sadly, last week was marked by the loss of a young life on our roads. It was a difficult time for all involved. Once again, however, the Burdekin community showed its strength and compassion, rallying to support the young people affected during their time here.  

I spent time with some of the group who were able to continue their journey on to Airlie Beach, and they were incredibly grateful for the kindness and assistance extended by our community. As someone who has travelled extensively, I understand how important it is for families to know their loved ones are safe. It was reassuring to see that support provided so readily here in the Burdekin.

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Earlier in the week, the Council’s CEO and I travelled to Brisbane to advocate for Stage 2 of Council’s Residential Activation Fund package. These opportunities are important as we continue to push for investment that supports housing and growth in our region.

Closer to home, Plantation Creek Park was a hive of activity on Sunday. Between the local markets and Rotary’s annual Norm Perry Duck Race the area was full of energy. Rotary, as always, did a remarkable job, raising funds for worthy causes. I would also like to acknowledge that organisations like Rotary rely on volunteers, and without them, many of the events we enjoy across the Burdekin simply wouldn’t happen.

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Another fantastic volunteer-led event over the past fortnight was the Burdekin Eisteddfod. It was my privilege to present awards to so many talented young performers, with plenty of proud smiles on display.

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Council is also pleased to announce the completion of the Pioneer Avenue Restoration Project in Home Hill. This important project helps preserve a piece of our region’s history while ensuring this community asset is maintained for future generations. Pioneer Avenue holds a special place in the Burdekin, recognising families who helped shape our region, and this work ensures their stories continue to be honoured.

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In other good news, the regional recycling competition is now underway, encouraging everyone to get involved and do their part. It has also been pleasing to see some recent easing in fuel prices - something that will be welcomed by many in our community.

While the weather has been favourable, Council crews are continuing with the resealing of roads and maintenance of footpaths across the Shire to keep our network in good condition.

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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.

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Hosted at Wild East and delivered in partnership with the Burdekin Chamber, the breakfast session brought together business owners, industry representatives and community leaders to hear forecasts on the economy, workforce pressures and future opportunities across North Queensland. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Warnings of global economic turbulence were balanced with optimism for the Burdekin’s long-term future at last week’s State of the Region Roadshow in Ayr.

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Hosted at Wild East and delivered in partnership with the Burdekin Chamber, the breakfast session brought together business owners, industry representatives and community leaders to hear forecasts on the economy, workforce pressures and future opportunities across North Queensland.

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Regional Economic Advisory director Matt Kelly told attendees the global economy was entering uncertain territory after years of rapid post-COVID growth.

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“Be prepared,” Mr Kelly said.

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“It’s going to be a bumpy ride over the next six to 12 months.”

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Mr Kelly said rising fuel costs, inflationary pressures and global instability were placing strain on households and businesses, while warning the world economy appeared to be nearing “the end of the cycle”.

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“Every major global oil shock going back past the 70s has ended in a recession,” he said.

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Despite the warning signs, Mr Kelly said the Burdekin remained well-positioned due to its affordability, employment opportunities and strong agricultural base.

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He said regional areas like the Burdekin were increasingly attractive compared to capital cities facing soaring housing costs.

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Jobs North Queensland’s Emma Dobbins said workforce shortages and population trends would dictate the region’s future over the next decade.

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She said the Burdekin and broader North Queensland would need stronger skills attraction and migration pathways to meet demand, particularly in construction and infrastructure sectors.

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“We have more people in the next 10 years that are going to retire than we do coming into the workforce,” Ms Dobbins said.

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“We need adequate skills attraction that are relevant to the jobs that we need, because we do have significant shortages in particular areas.”

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Ms Dobbins said projected overseas migration would continue driving regional population growth, while youth unemployment and workforce retention remained key concerns.

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Panel updates were also delivered by representatives from NBN Co., Telstra, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility and the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, focusing on infrastructure and investment opportunities across the region.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP and Coalition Leader Angus Taylor in Canberra prior to the delivery of the Coalition’s 2026 Budget in Reply. Photo supplied

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox says a new Coalition plan aims to restore living standards, ease cost-of-living pressures and “protect the Australian way of life” through a suite of economic and social reforms targeting tax, housing, migration, fuel and defence.

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The announcement comes amid ongoing political debate over inflation, housing supply and government spending, with the Coalition arguing Australians are worse off after four years of Labor in office.

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Mr Willcox said the Coalition was offering a “comprehensive plan to restore living standards, reward hard work, and protect the Australian way of life”, arguing the current economic direction had undermined household prosperity.

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“Labor’s Budget is a collection of broken promises that effectively sells out regional Australia: and by doing so, it sells out the future for every Australian,” Mr Willcox said.

“In a country as lucky as ours, we should be able to guarantee the next generation a life that is wealthier and healthier than our own.

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“That is the social contract Australians have lived by for generations, yet this Budget breaches that trust.

“Our extraordinary economic success has always been built on our natural resources. The wealth generated in regional Australia is the springboard that will provide a better future for everyone.”

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The Coalition’s plan is built around seven key measures: a “Tax Back Guarantee”; a migration cap linked to housing construction; restrictions on welfare access for non-citizens; a Future Generations Fund; expanded fuel security measures; a permanent small business instant asset write-off; and increased defence spending alongside a national security strategy.

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Under the “Tax Back Guarantee”, income tax thresholds would be indexed to inflation from 2028–29, with the Coalition saying it would prevent workers being pushed into higher tax brackets due to cost-of-living pressures. A full indexation of thresholds would follow in later years.

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Housing and migration would be tied under a new pledge that caps net overseas migration to the number of homes completed each year, alongside a $5 billion infrastructure fund and changes to construction regulations aimed at reducing building costs.

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Welfare and future NDIS eligibility would be limited to Australian citizens from 2028, while existing recipients would be grandfathered.

The proposed Future Generations Fund would bank resource revenue windfalls, with 80 cents in every dollar directed towards debt reduction and infrastructure, including regional investment.

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Fuel policy changes include expanded fuel storage, higher minimum stockholding levels and regulatory reforms aimed at improving domestic supply and reducing price volatility.

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Small business measures include a permanent instant asset write-off of up to $50,000 for businesses with turnover under $10 million, designed to encourage investment in equipment and expansion.

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On national security, the Coalition is proposing a whole-of-government strategy alongside a target to lift defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP.

Mr Willcox said the overall plan was designed to restore opportunity and reduce cost pressures.

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“It is about letting Australians keep more of what they earn, backing our small businesses, and securing our fuel supplies,” Mr Willcox said.

“Labor’s Budget was one of broken promises, higher taxes, more debt, fewer homes and lower living standards.

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“Government does not grow the economy, private enterprise does. The job of government is to get the big things right, get off people’s backs and back Australians to build, invest, work and succeed.

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“Our plan is about lower costs, stronger borders, and a fair go for Australians who work hard and want to get ahead.

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“We will restore Australians’ standard of living and protect our way of life.”

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The federal budget has sent a clear message to regional Queensland and the Burdekin’s major industries that they were simply the nation’s cash cow, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Mr Last said the Burdekin’s farmers, motorists, resource workers, families and small businesses had every right to feel disappointed with the 2026/2027 Federal Budget.

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“The Burdekin’s major industries have been economic powerhouses, not only for our state but our nation and the hardworking men and women in those sectors have every right to feel like they have been treated like cash cows,” Mr Last said.

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“Looking across the state, there is no new infrastructure funding and an attempt by the federal government to turn their backs on a funding agreement to provide the crucial safety upgrades we need for the Bruce Highway.”

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“The Crisafulli Government fought hard to reinstate the 80-20 funding deal with the federal government for the nationally recognised highway after it fell by the wayside under the former Labor state government.”

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“The Bruce Highway is an artery to the beating heart of industries that drive our nation’s economy and in the North we have called for a co-ordinated approach to back the investment that artery needs, yet the federal budget fell short of this.”

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Mr Last said the hit for regional communities didn’t stop at the highway with $21.4 million cut from regional communications and a key federal program supporting feral pest eradication projects stripped of funding from 2027/2028.

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“Our major industries deserve to have federal government support reflecting the contribution they give to our nation’s economy, be it funding to manage biosecurity risks, having reliable communications or safer roads to connect our paddocks to export markets.

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“At a time of uncertainty rather than showing leadership, the federal government has placed more pressure on our essential services, our housing and current infrastructure, leaving Queensland to do more with less.”

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Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP’s office

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Volunteers from the Burdekin SES are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo source: Burdekin SES

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Thousands of volunteers across Queensland have been recognised as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, with the Crisafulli Government shining a spotlight on the vital role community volunteers play in regional areas like the Burdekin.

More than 49,000 volunteers were recognised through this year’s awards program, which celebrated 21 finalists, eight recipients and 275 nominations across six categories.

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Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers remained the backbone of communities across the state.

“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.

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In the Burdekin, volunteers play a critical role across sporting clubs, emergency services, youth organisations and community events, with many local groups relying heavily on community support.

“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state,” Minister Leahy said.

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CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to support communities despite increasing pressures.

“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.

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The Queensland Volunteering Awards have been running since 2016 and aim to celebrate individuals and organisations making meaningful contributions to their communities.

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Stock image used

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A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight.

According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side.

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Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.

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As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital.

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Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service.

There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr.

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The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu.

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This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024.

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On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic.

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The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction.

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A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident.

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The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty.

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Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police.

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Investigations are continuing

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The Ayr Seventh-day Adventist Church will mark a significant milestone on 16 May 2026, celebrating 100 years since the official opening and dedication of its original church building. While a small congregation of Seventh-day Adventists had been meeting in members’ homes throughout the early 1920s, the anniversary specifically commemorates the opening of the church building dedicated on Saturday, 15 May 1926.

The church’s history reflects the determination and faith of the early Burdekin Adventist community. In 1925, land was purchased on the corner of Parker and Wilmington Streets in Ayr, where the church still stands today. Soon after, members located a former blacksmith’s shop in Charters Towers that was suitable for conversion into a church. The building was dismantled, transported to Ayr by rail, and re-erected during March 1926 before its official opening two months later.

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A weekend of celebrations is planned to honour the centenary. Events begin on Friday evening, 15 May, with a meet-and-greet and soup and buns in the church hall. Sabbath celebrations on Saturday will include a history presentation, worship service, and guest speaker Pastor Simon Gigliotti, President of the Northern Australian Conference. Following lunch, attendees will share memories and witness the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Celebrations conclude on Sunday morning with a pancake breakfast at Ayr Anzac Park.

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Church members say the congregation continues to play an important role in the Burdekin through worship services, Bible study groups, health and wellbeing programs, community food assistance, and disaster relief support through ADRA. All are welcome to attend the centenary celebrations.

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CANEGROWERS says Queensland’s growing biofuels industry could create major new opportunities for Burdekin cane growers. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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Queensland’s push to kick-start a domestic biofuels industry could unlock significant new opportunities for the Burdekin’s sugarcane sector, according to CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan.

Mr Galligan welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s recent $25 million investment into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, describing it as an important first step towards building a stronger and more resilient economy while paving the way for future growth across regional industries.

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“While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said.

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Queensland’s sugar industry has long advocated for the expansion of a domestic biofuels sector, with the potential to significantly increase ethanol production, generate more green electricity through sugar mills and eventually produce advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel.

With the Burdekin recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing regions, Mr Galligan said local growers could play a major role in helping power Queensland’s renewable fuel future.

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“This is about more than cleaner energy – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment,” he said.

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“It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.”

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Mr Galligan said ensuring sugarcane remained central to future biofuel production would be critical to delivering the industry at scale and strengthening long-term opportunities for regional Queensland communities.

The announcement comes amid growing national discussions around fuel security, regional manufacturing and reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel supplies.

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In recent weeks, the Queensland Government announced plans to strengthen the State’s fuel security through expanded local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additional infrastructure opportunities at ports across Queensland.

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Official expressions of interest have also opened under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry proposals for fuel refining and storage projects on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane.

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Member for Burdekin, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the focus was now on future-proofing the industry and creating long-term opportunities.

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"We know what the challenges are and I’m looking at the opportunities going forward, because that's where we can make the greatest change and get the most benefit," Mr Last said.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said recent fuel shortages had exposed critical gaps in Australia’s fuel storage capacity, particularly for regional and agricultural communities.

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“This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.

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“We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.”

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CANEGROWERS said it would continue working with government and industry partners to ensure momentum in the biofuels sector translates into practical outcomes for growers and regional communities across Queensland.

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Built on the reliable Toyota Hiace Commuter platform, the van is a spacious and versatile solution tailored to your specific needs. Photo supplied

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Be Empowered Disability Services believes mobility should never be a barrier to independence. Whether it’s a weekend escape, essential medical appointments, or a long-awaited family road trip, accessible transport can make the difference between staying home and staying connected.

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BeEmpowered Disability Services provides a wheelchair-accessible van hire service designed to deliver comfort, flexibility, and confidence on the road.

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Built on the reliable Toyota Hiace Commuter platform, the van is a spacious and versatile solution tailored to your specific needs. It features a flexible seating configuration and is equipped with a heavy-duty hoist,designed to accommodate extra-large width manual or motorised wheelchairs of up to 350 kilograms.

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Despite its specialist equipment, the vehicle remains simple to operate, featuring automatic transmission and requiring only a standard car licence.

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The van comes equipped with a disability parking permit, and has no kilometre limits. Rates start at just $150 per day, while those planning a longer trip are offered a “seven-day block” for $900, effectively providing one day free for longer bookings. For extended needs, BeEmpowered is happy to discuss long-term hire rates by negotiation.

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Experience the comfort and reliability of Be Empowered Disability Services and get where you need to go with less hassle.

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Queensland’s construction sector is seeing a rise in apprenticeship commencements as the State Government looks to address ongoing skills shortages across regional areas including the Burdekin. Photo source: Burdekin TAFE

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Queensland is seeing a surge in construction apprenticeships, with the State Government claiming new figures show progress in addressing long-standing workforce shortages impacting major infrastructure and housing projects across regions including the Burdekin Shire.

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According to the Government, more than 10,000 new apprentices have begun training across Queensland so far this financial year, including almost 3,000 in construction trades — representing a 27.4 per cent increase in the sector.

The State has also recorded a high number of apprenticeship completions in 2025, with nearly 13,000 Queenslanders now qualified and ready to enter the workforce.

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The increase comes as Queensland continues to prepare for a major pipeline of infrastructure and construction projects in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, alongside ongoing demand for housing and regional development.

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Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the figures were encouraging but acknowledged more work was still needed to address workforce shortages.

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“Labor left us a skills shortage with a predicted peak the size of an empty Suncorp Stadium but there are promising signs we’re getting the workforce back on track and building a pipeline of tradies who’ll help deliver our generational infrastructure program,” Minister Bates said.

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“We are delivering the initiatives and incentives to draw more young Queenslanders into trades and taking the CFMEU’s boot off the construction industry’s throat so future workers feel safe going to work.

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“Whether it’s infrastructure for the 2032 Games, health projects or the thousands of homes we’re unlocking for Queenslanders, we are building the Queensland of the future and creating the pathways for anybody who wants to help us do so.”

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The government said programs like the free Career Taster initiative through TAFE Queensland are also helping introduce Year 10 students to priority industries including construction and healthcare.

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2025 season Sugar Swap prices highlight the volatility experienced by growers over the past three-and-a-half years. Image supplied

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Simon Hood

Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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The completion of 2025 season pricing has once again shown just how important it is for growers to have a clear pricing strategy in place when markets become volatile.

Over the past few years, growers have experienced some of the biggest price swings seen in recent seasons. Those using long-term pricing strategies had opportunities to lock in prices above $600/t at different points throughout the pricing window, while prices also spent periods trading much lower. It has been a reminder that sugar markets can move quickly and unpredictably, influenced by everything from global supply and demand to oil prices, currencies, and geopolitical events.

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Different pricing approaches delivered different outcomes this season. Some growers benefited from taking pricing opportunities over a longer period, while shorter-term pricing options were more exposed to weaker market conditions later in the season. Importantly, it reinforces that no single pricing mechanism will outperform every year.

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One of the clearest lessons from the 2025 season is the value of diversification. Spreading pricing decisions across different timeframes and mechanisms can help reduce risk and avoid relying too heavily on trying to pick the “top” of the market. Having a disciplined approach and staying engaged with pricing opportunities over time can make a significant difference to overall returns.

The strong performance of the Managed Pool Plus this season also highlighted the benefits of having a dedicated and actively managed pricing strategy working on behalf of growers through changing market conditions.

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With this in mind, nominations are now open for the 2027 Season Managed Pool Plus. The pool was designed to help growers navigate volatile markets by spreading pricing decisions across a longer timeframe and combining disciplined risk management with active market oversight. Following the positive outcomes achieved in the 2025 season, interest in the 2027 pool is expected to be strong.

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Growers wanting to better understand their pricing options, risk exposure and payment choices are encouraged to speak with the team about which approach may best suit their business goals and appetite for risk.

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Congratulations to the Pirrone Brothers — what an incredible achievement for a local Burdekin family. Their hard work and innovation have paid off, with their zucchini flower vodka taking out Gold at the World Drinks Awards and being named Australia’s Best Botanical Vodka for 2026. It’s fantastic to see a product grown right here in the Burdekin gaining international recognition and putting our region on the map.

Closer to home, it’s great to see the 2026 Road Reseal Program progressing well, with numerous roads currently being resealed across the Burdekin. Letter drops have been delivered to residents who may be affected, and I encourage the community to view the full works schedule on Council’s website.

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It’s also been wonderful to see the Arch Dunn Playground upgrade now complete and already being enjoyed by local families. Council is committed to maintaining safe and modern spaces for our community, and this is a great example of that in action. If you haven’t been down yet, I encourage you to take the kids along and have a look.

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Looking ahead, I encourage parents and carers to attend the upcoming Pathways & Possibilities information evening. This free event will be held on Wednesday, 3 June from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at the Burdekin Theatre. Delivered in collaboration with Burdekin Shire Council, Jobs Townsville North Queensland, the Department of Education and Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland, the session is designed to support families in guiding young people through future career and study decisions.

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Supporting our young people into training, study and local employment opportunities is something I am very passionate about, and this session will help families better understand the pathways available.

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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.

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The time certainly does fly and no doubt it’s because there is so much happening each and every week in the Burdekin. The weekend just gone saw the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club celebrate 100 years. That is a remarkable milestone and congratulations to everyone involved. Thank you for keeping the water safe and thanks to all those who have volunteered their time over the years.

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The Home Hill Golf club hosted the women’s and men’s opens. 150 players took part. The ladies played Saturday so they could have Mother’s Day off on Sunday (hopefully there was no crossover for the Dad’s). Chloe Armstrong from Townsville won the ladies and local legend Scott Sibson won the men’s. Thanks to the volunteers who keep this club going. Growers race day this weekend. I’ve been to the Everest and I’ve been to the Melbourne Cup, so I can tell you this Race Day rivals them for its organisation, fashion and pure fun.  

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Have a great weekend everyone and stay safe. 

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Recent Queensland Government fuel security initiatives are being welcomed as Burdekin businesses face rising fuel costs and ongoing energy uncertainty. Photo supplied

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Amid growing concerns over rising fuel costs and ongoing energy uncertainty impacting regional businesses across the Burdekin Shire, the Queensland Government has continued rolling out a series of fuel security initiatives aimed at strengthening the State’s long-term fuel supply and storage capacity.

Building on recent announcements including the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, the Queensland Fuel Security Plan and a $25 million investment into renewable diesel production at Ampol’s Lytton refinery, on Saturday 9th May the State Government announced plans to fast-track BP’s lease extension at its Bulwer Island facility in Brisbane.

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The move is expected to unlock up to $100 million in additional fuel storage investment, forming part of broader efforts to improve fuel security, stabilise supply chains and reduce pressure on transport and freight-reliant industries across regional Queensland.

Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Secretary Kari Ravizza said rising fuel prices were placing significant strain on businesses throughout the region, particularly within retail, agriculture and freight-dependent industries.

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She explained that regional communities often faced fewer transport alternatives and less pricing competition than metropolitan areas, while many suppliers had introduced fuel surcharges and more frequent price adjustments, making already tight business margins increasingly unpredictable.

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“Across regional areas, rising fuel costs aren’t just an inconvenience—they’re compounding pressure across every part of operations,” explained Mrs Ravizza.

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“Businesses are facing a tough choice: absorb the cost or pass it on, both of which have consequences in smaller communities where customers are already cost-conscious.”

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Member for Burdekin and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said BP’s latest announcement demonstrated what could be achieved when governments were genuinely committed to strengthening Australia’s fuel sovereignty and long-term energy resilience.

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“We’re the only state taking fuel security seriously and making the decisions that will return energy sovereignty to our state,” said Mr Last.

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“Never again do we want to be at the end of a supply chain that sees Queenslanders suffer because they can’t get the fuel they need to do their job.”

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Mrs Ravizza said rising fuel prices were also beginning to impact tourism and consumer confidence across the wider North Queensland region.

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“Our members [Burdekin Chamber of Commerce] have observed reduced visitor numbers during periods of high fuel costs, softer retail trade, lower hospitality turnover, and increased uncertainty when planning events or seasonal campaigns,” she said.

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“Operationally, businesses are adapting where they can—consolidating deliveries, limiting travel, and tightening budgets—but there are limits to how much efficiency can offset rising costs.”

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As conversations continue around renewable fuels and regional energy resilience, attention has also turned towards the potential role of locally produced ethanol through Queensland’s sugar industry.

Mrs Ravizza said the Chamber believed ethanol production could form part of a longer-term solution for regions like the Burdekin Shire, particularly if locally produced fuel solutions are linked to the sugar industry.

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“In a region like the Burdekin, where sugar production is a key economic driver, ethanol presents an opportunity to add value to an existing industry, support regional jobs and investment, and potentially provide more stable and locally influenced fuel pricing over time,” she said.

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“While there are challenges—including infrastructure, investment, and policy considerations—this is the type of forward-thinking solution that aligns with regional strengths.”

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As regional businesses continue navigating rising operating costs and ongoing fuel uncertainty, many across the Burdekin Shire are hopeful that greater investment in fuel security, local infrastructure and renewable fuel opportunities could help strengthen long-term economic resilience for both industry and the wider community.

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Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, is encouraging visual artists from across North Queensland to apply for the Australian Parliament House Artist-in-Residence program. Photo supplied

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Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, is encouraging visual artists from across North Queensland to apply for the Australian Parliament House Artist-in-Residence program.  

The initiative, delivered by the Department of Parliamentary Services, offers a unique opportunity for artists at any stage of their career to go behind the scenes at the national heart of democracy.

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Mr Willcox said the program provides a rare vantage point where politics, history, architecture, and art meet.

"This is a fantastic initiative to highlight the work of a selected artist and give them the opportunity to see the inner workings of Parliament House," Mr Willcox said.

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"It is important that we support the arts. This program provides a rare opportunity for Australian artists to grow their practice and showcase our democracy through their own creative lens.”

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The architects of Parliament House, Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp, intended art to be integral to the architecture and function of the building. The artwork within the building enlivens the working environment and reflects the diversity of Australia’s identity, culture, character, and landscape.

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The successful artist will receive an artist fee for the Research Stage of $10,000; an additional Commission Fee for new work of up to $30,000; a travel and accommodation allowance of up to $15,000; and access to a workspace within the Parliamentary Library.

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"I would love to see a talented artist from our region take up this residency," Mr Willcox said.  

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"Dawson has a rich cultural identity; this is the perfect platform to present a fresh, regional perspective on one of our nation's most iconic environments.”

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Applications for the program are now open and will close at 11:00 am on 16 June 2026.

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For further information and to apply, please visit the official website:  

https://www.aph.gov.au/Visit_Parliament/Art/Parliament_House_Artist-in-Residence

Contributed with thanks to Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox’s office

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Burdekin’s peak agricultural industry is being assured by Member for Burdekin Dale Last they have not been forgotten by the Crisafulli Government as concerns remain around fuel security during a critical time of the year.

From immediate relief to securing supply and long-term certainty, the Crisafulli Government’s release of its Queensland Fuel Security Plan outlined actions to make a real impact, especially with the approach of sugarcane crushing season.

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Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s five-point plan was about providing short, medium and long term surety so Queenslanders, its industries and small businesses are never again at the mercy of global supply chains.

“Our sugar industry is the backbone of our economy here in the Burdekin and without the fuel it needs to keep harvesters, haul outs and machinery going, we risk the sector being brought to a grinding halt,” Mr Last said.

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“We know when our agriculture sector is able to thrive, the benefits flow right through to the communities that surround them, which is why the Crisafulli Government is taking steps to make sure the fuel our farmers need is affordable and available when it’s time to fuel up.”

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“Striking oil at the Taroom Trough is just one piece of the puzzle with expressions of interest now open for the industry to bring forward fuel refining or storage proposals on Government owned sites and ports across Queensland including Abbot Point.”

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“We're not stopping there, the Crisafulli Government has also announced we are removing state taxes on fuel price rises, delivering the savings families and our farmers need right now.”

Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s active steps to drill, refine and store fuel in Queensland meant our farmers and the industries that support them could have the confidence to prosper for years to come.

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“We are living in uncertain times and recent events show just how susceptible we are to impacts of overseas conflicts. It is up to governments of all levels to show leadership and do what is needed to provide the certainty Queenslanders need, no matter whether you are fuelling a tractor or the family car,” Mr Last said.

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“We’re playing our part by unlocking the land these facilities will be built on as well as providing the fastest pathway possible to getting them going – now we’re asking the Federal Government to play their part.”

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A young Burdekin woman has been praised for doing the right thing after accidently damaging a car in the Woolies’ car park. Photo source: Shutterstock

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A simple act of honesty in a Burdekin supermarket car park has sparked an outpouring of praise online, after a young local woman took responsibility for accidentally damaging another person’s car and stayed behind to make things right.

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The story was shared to the Burdekin Community Hub Facebook page by local resident Jennie Fabbro on behalf of the car owner, quickly attracting more than 400 reactions and dozens of supportive comments from the community.

According to the post, the young woman accidentally hit a parked car at the Woolworths car park and rather than driving away, immediately reported the incident to the Woolworths service desk.

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“The young ones of today are often frowned upon, but I’d like to share a story of a very caring, genuine young lady,” the post read.

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After a public announcement failed to locate the car owner, the young woman reportedly waited beside the damaged vehicle until they returned from shopping.

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“She didn’t just drive off – she reported it to Woolworths Service Counter,” the post stated.

The writer explained the young woman was visibly shaken and, despite not having insurance, still offered to pay for the repairs.

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“I am very happy to say that she arrived at our doorstep, as promised, and presented us with the payment,” the post continued.

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“We are so VERY grateful for your honesty and willingness to help make this right. Please stay the lovely, caring person that you are.”

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The heartfelt story resonated strongly with locals, many praising the young woman’s integrity and the values she had clearly been taught.

“Lovely to hear a good news story about young people,” one commenter wrote, while another described the act as “refreshing” and “rare and genuine.”

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Others commended the young woman for taking responsibility and showing maturity beyond her years, with many saying the story restored their faith in the younger generation.

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Deep tyre tracks have left three local sports fields unplayable and caused an estimated $5,000 in damage. Photo credit: Luke Bozzetto

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Deep tyre tracks have left three local sports fields unplayable and caused an estimated $5,000 in damage, leaving the Burdekin Touch Football Association to face a months-long recovery effort.

The extensive vandalism to the Wickham Street grounds in Ayr was discovered early Wednesday morning, sparking a police investigation into whether a recently stolen vehicle was involved.

‘The worst I've seen it’

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Burdekin Touch Football Association President Peter Knapton was notified of the destruction at 6am on Wednesday.

“I thought, 'not again!’" Mr Knapton said.

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“It’s happened before, but this is the worst I’ve seen it.”

Groundskeepers estimate repairs will exceed $5,000, with deep ruts and possible sprinkler damage expected to take months to restore.

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Mr Knapton expressed deep frustration over the disrespect shown to the club's volunteers, who spend countless hours maintaining the facility.

“I know the amount of hours that our groundskeepers put into this field,” Mr Knapton said.  

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“When we developed field five, they spent days and hours pulling out every bullhead, every bindi, every weed… it’s so disappointing, not just for me, but for all of us.

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“People don’t have respect for other people’s property anymore. It’s sad that you have to accept that these things are going to happen, and you’ve got to put in such extensive measures to mitigate and repair any damage to your property.”

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The Wickham Street complex is a popular community hub, hosting touch football, junior rugby league training, junior touch and organised fitness training each week. Mr Knapton described its fields as “the best in North Queensland.”

He noted that the facility's open accessibility makes it a social pillar for the community, but leaves it susceptible to incidents like Wednesday’s.

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He said the club had explored remedies to prevent illegal vehicle access, with most involving costs the club could not afford.

Ayr Police have launched an investigation into the vandalism, with officers looking into whether a utility vehicle, stolen from an Ayr address on the same morning, was involved in the incident.

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Sergeant Lisa Shields, Officer in Charge of Ayr Police, condemned the damage, calling the incident "extremely disappointing" given its widespread impact on the local community.

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“Police are appealing for public assistance in identifying the persons responsible for this careless act,” Sgt Shields said.

“I urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or may have relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Ayr Police Station, Policelink, or Crime Stoppers.

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Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that refurbishment works at the Burdekin Theatre have now been completed, with the venue officially back in operation.

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Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that refurbishment works at the Burdekin Theatre have now been completed, with the venue officially back in operation.

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The recently completed upgrades included a full refurbishment of the theatre stage and a complete upgrade of the dressing rooms, delivering modern, functional backstage facilities for performers and production crews.

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Both the stage and dressing rooms were original to the theatre and had not been refurbished since the venue was constructed in 1982, making these improvements a significant milestone for the facility.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the completion of the works marked an exciting new chapter for the Burdekin Theatre.

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“These upgrades ensure the Burdekin Theatre can continue to support local performers and visiting productions for many years to come,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said.

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“With modernised backstage facilities and a newly refurbished stage, performers will benefit from a safer, more functional environment that reflects the high standard of talent we see in our community.”

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The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, which commenced on Tuesday 5 May, will be the first major event to utilise the upgraded facilities, with hundreds of local and visiting competitors taking to the stage in the coming weeks.

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Council is proud to support the strong performing arts culture in the Burdekin and looks forward to seeing the refreshed theatre continue to host a wide range of performances, events and community activities.

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Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Shire Council

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Ringo is a young American Bulldog with presence, personality, and just enough cheek to keep life interesting.

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At first meeting, he can come on strong with big energy, big enthusiasm, and a clear belief that everyone is already his best friend. Give him a few minutes (and ideally a treat or two) and he quickly softens into a loyal, affectionate companion.

His foster carer lovingly describes him as “a bit of a boof” when excitement kicks in. For this reason, Ringo is not suited to homes with small children, even though his intentions are always gentle.

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On the lead, Ringo is generally steady and willing, but he shows his best self in quieter environments where he isn’t overwhelmed by noise and movement. Busy streets and high stimulation can distract him, so continued training and calm exposure will help him build confidence and focus.

He is highly food motivated, which makes him a quick learner during training sessions. However, this also means portion control and supervision around food will be important.

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Ringo is currently working on his manners, including waiting patiently for meals and taking treats more gently. With consistency and guidance, he is improving every day.

What Ringo needs now is a patient, kind and committed owner willing to continue his training and help him grow into his best self.

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In return, he offers loyalty, charm, and a whole lot of personality packed into one wagging, hopeful package.

Ringo’s adoption fee is $600 and includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatment, and heartworm prevention (or ProHeart).

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Contact Angel Paws Inc. on 07 4420 3276 for further information.

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