A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, the Kalamia still stands at its original location on Queen Street. Photo: Jacob Casha.

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It was 1926 when the Kalamia Hotel served its first beer.

The Burdekin looked a little different then. Queen Street was still dirt. The Silver Link was still about 27 years off.

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Yet, the region had its very own new pub at the end of Ayr’s main street.

A century, extensive renovations and multiple ownership changes later, it’s still perched there—a fixture of the region’s history, a monument of its evolution, and a modern-day favourite in its own right.

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Through all the changes, one thing has stuck.

“People come in here and they feel at home,” said Manager Kellie Elton.

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She knows that feeling better than most.

Kellie first came to the Kalamia as a customer before joining its staff, and has now spent a decade behind the scenes of one of Ayr's most recognisable pubs.

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She has watched it change, too.

Once known for its late-night party atmosphere and popularity with backpackers, the Kalamia has gradually become a more family-oriented venue, with its beer garden and function spaces now playing a much bigger role.

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But Kellie doesn't think becoming more modern means losing what made the pub special.

“The traditional front bar is the heart and soul of the pub—without that, it’s not really a pub in my eyes,” she said.

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“We also have staff that are down to earth, can take a joke, and dish a bit of banter. It’s just giving it that small-town country vibe, and not trying to make it something that it’s not.”

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The pub’s role in the community extends beyond its own walls.

Every Saturday, meat-tray raffles raise money that goes straight back into the Burdekin, helping support schools, sporting clubs and community groups.

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Returning the favour.

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“We’re in a position to give back to the community that has supported us for generations—so we do,” Kellie said.

“We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community, so we’re just so very thankful for their support.”

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The pub is now preparing to celebrate its centenary with those very locals.

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And while the milestone offers a chance to look back at a century of history, the Kalamia is already looking ahead, with major renovations set to begin next year.

But while the pub may continue to evolve, it will never stray too far from what it was when that very first beer was poured 100 years ago.

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A place where locals can pull up a stool at the front bar and feel at home.

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The Locals’ Local.

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CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF BREWS, BONDS, AND BLOODY GOOD FEEDS

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Kalamia Hotel is inviting the community to become part of its history this weekend as ‘The Locals’ Local’ celebrates a century in style.

The pub will welcome families, regulars, and everyone in between to its historic Queen Street venue on Saturday 29th August for a full day of free entertainment on the house.

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Kickstarting at 10am, the festivities open with a mega raffle giveaway that would make even Santa jealous. A massive lineup of 21 meat trays, six seafood trays, four $100 Kalamia vouchers, and exclusive merchandise will all be up for grabs.

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The action will move to the beer garden at 2pm for live music, kids' activities, and complimentary tastings.

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Representatives from Diageo, De Bortoli Wines, and Burdekin Rum will be pouring a selection of vodkas, rums, wines, and signature cocktail concoctions, while youngsters are kept busy by face painting, crafts, and colouring stations.

Local up-and-coming bands Makeshift and Tribute will supply the tunes until 6pm, when Joel Blacklock takes the stage for the headline set.

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Nearly a year in the making, Kalamia Hotel Manager Kellie Elton said the event would be a “relaxed family event” with something for everyone.

She said celebrating the historic milestone with locals would make it all the more sweet.

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“100 years for a pub to always be open and running is a major achievement—and it’s still going strong today,” she said.

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“It would mean so much to see the community there—to see that they care about the place as much as we do.

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“Come down, have a few drinks, listen to some live music, and have some prizes on us.”

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Commemorative stubby coolers will be available for $10 on the day, with limited-edition 100-Year shirts available to order.

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KELLIE ELTON

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Venue Manager | 10 years at the Kalamia Hotel

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What other positions have you held at the Kalamia?
I’ve worked as a casual front bar attendant, duty manager and assistant manager.

What work did you do before the Kalamia?
I worked in retail, banking and community services.

How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and did you know the Kalamia before joining?
I’ve lived in the Burdekin my whole life and had visited the Kalamia from time to time.

How did you join the Kalamia team?
I wanted a second job and was offered a position.

What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?
The team spirit, fun environment and seeing people enjoying themselves because of us.

What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?
Seeing the young local talent showcase their skills and seeing people come together.

What do you enjoy outside of work?
I actually enjoy my alone time on my days off.

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LUCAS HUTLEY

Apprentice Chef

What does your role involve?

Prep work and coming up with special ideas.

What work did you do before the Kalamia?

I worked at a Chinese restaurant, The Reject Shop and McDonald’s while I was at school.

How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you know about the Kalamia before joining?

I’ve lived in the Burdekin for 12 years. I’d heard the Kalamia was a good place to work.

How did you join the Kalamia team?

I knew people who worked here.

What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?

Serving good-quality food and learning skills to progress into fine dining.

What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?

I’ll just be doing my thing in the kitchen.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

Catching up with mates.

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KEIRAN NOLAN

Head Chef | 15 years at the Kalamia Hotel

What does your role involve, and what other positions have you held at the Kalamia?

Stock ordering, quality control and rostering. I started as a cleaner, then worked as a kitchen hand and apprentice chef before becoming Head Chef.

What work did you do before the Kalamia?

I worked in a butcher shop in Ireland and in my family’s tree-logging business in Ireland.

How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you think of the Kalamia before joining?

I’ve lived here for 15 years. I knew it would be a good place to work.

How did you join the Kalamia team?

I needed a job when I relocated from Ireland.

What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?

The staff morale.

What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?

Hopefully catching up with past and present staff.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I was a Muay Thai fighter in Ireland.

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MEGHAN-ROSE BEST

Duty Manager | 10 months at the Kalamia Hotel

What does your role involve, and what other positions have you held at the Kalamia?

Before becoming a Duty Manager, I was a Food and Beverage Attendant. My current role involves customer service, floor management, compliance and safety, administration and stock, shift supervision and team leadership. I’m also responsible for closing the venue at night and managing money.

What work did you do before the Kalamia?

I’ve worked in childcare and hospitality. Both have taught me responsibility, communication, teamwork and customer service.

How long have you lived in the Burdekin, and what did you think of the Kalamia before joining?

I’ve lived in the Burdekin for almost three years. My first impression of the Kalamia was that it had a great atmosphere when I came in for dinner.

How did you join the Kalamia team?

I handed in my resume, had a chat with the Venue Manager and started my training shifts that weekend. The Kalamia has lovely staff and great service, so I wanted to become part of the team.

What do you love most about working at the Kalamia?

I love the atmosphere, the team and, most importantly, the patrons.

What are you looking forward to most about the centenary?

I’m looking forward to being part of something so amazing. I’m so grateful and proud to be part of the Kalamia.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I love relaxing with a book, doing something crafty or simply watching movies.

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While President Uli Liessmann, Vice President David Jackson, and Treasurer John Woods retained their roles, local Lydia Flores stepped in as secretary following the departure of long-serving Robert Antoniazzi. Photos: Jacob Casha.

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce announced it will move forward with a refreshed executive committee following its Annual General Meeting last week.

The Wednesday meeting welcomed members to the Home Hill Community Sports Club as officials presented financial reports, recognised member achievements, and confirmed the incoming leadership.

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While President Uli Liessmann, Vice President David Jackson, and Treasurer John Woods retained their roles, local Lydia Flores stepped in as secretary following the departure of long-serving Robert Antoniazzi.

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Mr Liessmann said Mr Antoniazzi’s contribution would be missed, but expressed confidence in incoming Ms Flores.

Local business owners Scott and Candace Young of Salted Roots, along with Neil Machin and Patricia Thomas of Scrubby’s, filled the remaining executive roles for the year ahead.

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Despite reporting a marginal financial loss, Mr Woods said the Chamber had performed better than in the previous year. He also announced the organisation’s new website was live.

Mr Liessmann presented veteran journalist David Jackson OAM with a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the Chamber for his 11 years of commitment to Home Hill News.

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The meeting also heard from three guest speakers, beginning with local clay target shooter Joseph Rossato, who shared his experience representing Australia overseas and captaining the Queensland shooting team.

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Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Rangers detailed his group’s work and future plans, before Ms Young outlined ambitious plans to rejuvenate the streets of Home Hill (find out more on page 7).

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Visit the pharmacy at 101 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, to browse the meals on offer in-store. Photo supplied.

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The team at Alliance Pharmacy Home Hill knows how busy life in the Burdekin can be, but believes a full-on schedule shouldn't stand in the way of a nutritious meal.

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That’s why the pharmacy has joined forces with Farm Door, a family-run NSW kitchen, to bring delicious, affordable, ready-made meals straight to you.

With free delivery across the shire, Burdekin locals no longer have to make do with forgotten leftovers at the back of the fridge. Instead, they can explore a menu spanning everything from traditional comfort foods to flavours inspired by Asian, Middle Eastern, African and European cuisines.

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The range covers pork, chicken, beef, lamb, and seafood favourites, as well as a selection of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Meals come in 400g ‘main’ and 280g ‘petite’ portions, alongside soups and snacks, with many suitable for vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, high-protein and high-energy diets.

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Each dish is prepared using fresh, nutrient-dense produce in Farm Door’s Wagga Wagga kitchen, designed to save you time without compromising on quality or flavour. Now available at Alliance Pharmacy Home Hill, Burdekin locals can experience thatconvenience themselves.

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Visit the pharmacy at 101 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, to browse the meals on offer in-store, or head to the Farm Door website to explore the full menu and delivery options.

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Residents on a Support at Home (SaH) or NDIS package may also be eligible for subsidised meals, paying as little as 30 per cent of the cost. If you think you might qualify, contact your SaH or NDIS provider to confirm.

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Earlier this week, the government launched consultation on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel.

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Australia has reached a turning point in the push for a national biofuels industry, with CANEGROWERS joining industry leaders at Federation Mall today to build on the Federal Government’s cleaner fuels announcement and help ensure the opportunity delivers for growers. 

Earlier this week, the government launched consultation on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, including ethanol and biodiesel. 

“This is a big deal for growers, and CANEGROWERS is right at the heart of it,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said. 

“We’re helping lead the conversation and working alongside the milling sector and government to make sure improving grower profitability is central to what comes next.”  

“The Federal Government deserves credit for the consultation. It is the most significant development in national biofuels policy in decades. 

“Having grower representatives and millers here alongside biofuel producers, researchers, regional leaders and national security experts shows how seriously this opportunity is being taken.” 

CANEGROWERS is backing calls for a nationally consistent, enforceable and progressively increasing blending requirement on fuel wholesalers for Australian-made ethanol and biodiesel. 

It is also supporting calls to develop sovereign capability in sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and the manufacture of critical chemicals and materials from sugarcane. 

“We already have feedstocks, production capacity and expertise we can use today,” Mr Galligan said. 

“We should build on that now while developing the next generation of fuels and bioproducts. 

“For growers, the measure of success is straightforward – new markets for cane, more value from every tonne and more profitable farming businesses. 

“Biofuels policy cannot stop at the factory gate. The benefits must reach farming families and communities.” 

Mr Galligan said the consultation had created real momentum. 

“The industry is ready to work with government. Now we need to get on with it.” 

The Federation Mall gathering follows a week of meetings in Canberra, where Mr Galligan and CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens have put the grower case directly to federal ministers and senior officials.

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Burdekin residents experiencing domestic and family violence will now have access to around-the-clock crisis support following the launch of a new dedicated North Queensland service.

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The 1800NQSAFE phoneline will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing immediate assistance and connecting victim-survivors with local services across the Burdekin, Townsville, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island local government areas.

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The service forms part of the new North Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, backed by a $21 million Queensland Government commitment over two years.

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The hub will work across key pathways including police, hospitals, housing services and specialised domestic and family violence providers, with the aim of making it easier for people to access appropriate support when they need it.

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Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm said the service would provide greater access to local assistance across the region.

“We said we’d deliver this service in North Queensland and from today victims from Ingham to Ayr will be able to pick up the phone and receive the local help they deserve,” Minister Camm said.

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“Staff at UnitingCare, which is operating the 24/7 phoneline, know firsthand the complexity of domestic and family violence and understand that everyone who has the courage to make a phone call to seek help deserves to have that call answered.”

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UnitingCare is operating the new phoneline, with staff able to listen to callers, discuss their options, assist with safety planning and connect them with further services.

UnitingCare General Manager, Targeted Support, Family and Disability Services, Joanne Trentin said having assistance available outside traditional business hours was particularly important for people experiencing domestic and family violence.

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“Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there,” Ms Trentin said.

“Having support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means people can reach someone when they need to; someone who can listen, help them understand their options, support safety planning and connect them with the services they need.

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“1800NQSAFE is about making that pathway to support simpler and more immediate, so people experiencing domestic and family violence don't have to navigate those moments alone.”

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The new service sits alongside other Queensland Government domestic and family violence measures, including Police Protection Directions and the rollout of GPS monitoring that courts can impose on high-risk perpetrators.

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Burdekin residents needing support can contact 1800NQSAFE at any time, day or night.

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Burdekin tourism operators looking to develop new attractions and experiences could receive up to $300,000 through the latest round of the Queensland Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

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Applications have opened for round two of the $20 million program, designed to support new tourism products and infrastructure across regional Queensland.

For the Burdekin, the funding presents an opportunity for operators to develop experiences that encourage travellers to venture beyond the Bruce Highway and spend more time exploring the district.

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Eligible projects range from new attractions and upgrades to existing visitor facilities to glamping, alternative accommodation, eco-tourism, farm-gate experiences and other infrastructure that increases capacity or improves visitor access.

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With the district’s agricultural identity, coastal communities and natural attractions, the fund could provide opportunities to further develop the Burdekin’s agritourism and nature-based visitor offerings.

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Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the government wanted to support regional operators to bring new ideas to life.

“Queensland is the best place in the world to live, work and visit, and our regions are home to some of the most incredible tourism experiences anywhere in the country,” Mr Powell said.

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“The Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund is about backing Queenslanders with the support they need to turn great ideas into new attractions, better experiences and more opportunities for local communities.”

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Mr Powell said strengthening tourism infrastructure could encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more regional communities while generating economic benefits.

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“By investing in tourism infrastructure and experiences, we are backing local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening the regional economies that are the backbone of Queensland,” he said.

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Applications close on 9^th September.

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Ayr residents and motorists are advised to expect temporary road closures and changed traffic conditions during the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival on Saturday 5th September.

The closures will allow for the popular Water Festival Float Parade, food stalls, show rides and sideshow activities to take over the heart of Ayr.

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Affected areas will include sections of Queen, Edwards, Soper, Parker, Young and Macmillan Streets, with signage to be placed at relevant intersections to help motorists navigate the changes.

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Different closures will apply throughout the day depending on festival activities, with restrictions beginning from 6am on Saturday 5th September and some remaining in place until 1am on Sunday 6th September.

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Access along key surrounding streets will be maintained where possible, however motorists should allow extra travel time and follow all temporary traffic signs and directions.

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The road closures have been approved by the Queensland Police Service as part of the festival’s Special Event Permit.

Residents heading into Ayr on festival day are encouraged to plan ahead and keep the changed traffic conditions in mind while enjoying one of the Burdekin’s biggest community celebrations.

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This Saturday I’ll be at the Home Hill Newsagency from 8:30am to 10:30am, and I'd love the opportunity to meet with residents, answer questions and hear directly about the issues that matter to you. Whether you have a concern, a suggestion or simply want to have a chat, please feel free to stop by. I look forward to meeting members of our community and listening to your feedback.

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A matter currently receiving significant attention across Queensland is the future of disaster recovery funding arrangements. The Local Government Association of Queensland has made a submission to the Federal Government calling for the retention of current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), which play a critical role in helping local governments and communities recover following natural disasters.

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The submission advocates for the continuation of existing funding levels, appropriate activation thresholds, eligibility for Counter Disaster Operations expenditure, and the retention of Betterment funding provisions that allow infrastructure to be rebuilt stronger and more resilient. For regional communities such as the Burdekin, maintaining these arrangements is essential to ensuring we can recover effectively and continue delivering services when disaster strikes.

Across the Shire, Council continues to deliver projects that improve community spaces and essential infrastructure.

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At Memorial Park in Home Hill, Council is partnering with the Home Hill RSL to undertake improvements to the Cenotaph and War Memorial precinct. Funded through the Queensland Government's Honouring Our Veterans Program, works will include new garden beds, Indian Mast trees, rosemary plantings and electrical upgrades to enhance this important commemorative space.

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Residents will also start to see footpath replacement works commence in Mackenzie Street, Ayr, and bitumen upgrades undertaken on sections of Jerona Road as part of Council's ongoing infrastructure renewal program.

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Thank you for your continued support of our community, and I hope to see many of you at the Home Hill Newsagency on Saturday morning. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Back in the day, the “three ‘R’s’” were taught in schools…Reading, (W)Riting and (A)Rithmetic.  They were the foundation of our education system and were to stand us in good stead as we navigated the world.  In the education system todayhowever, there is a totally different curriculum and today’s “three ‘R’s’” need to be taught at home.  Respect, Responsibility and Repercussion.  Respect for others and their property, responsibility for one’s actions and repercussions for actions taken.  The onus for teaching this starts with parents and begins in the home.  How incredibly sad that we have youth in our towns who feel entitled to vandalize not only public property but private as well.  

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Once again, you can’t let the facts get in the way of a good tale.  Good old Social Media and the keyboard warriors strike again.  A teacher of mine from my Saint Colman’s Primary School days in Home Hill, a Nun, was fond of saying to us “Empty vessels make the most noise”.  People certainly don’t disappoint.  The Mayor has her phone number and email address in her Councillor Column every week, or you can find all the Councilor’s contact details on the Council webpage.  Pick up the phone and ask your question or voice your frustrations/concerns.  But that doesn’t get the desired public reaction does it?  Sad.

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On the positive side of Social Media, the Burdekin has been the hot topic in a number of Facebook groups; Hayden’s Hut Bowen, Australian Art Trails, Roadside Art Australia Group and Art by Lavinia.  Each of these groups sing the praises of the Burdekin, the beautiful murals and Living Lagoon as well as numerous other tourism features.  How very refreshing.  The Burdekin definitely has a lot to offer and word of mouth is the best form of advertising.

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held their AGM followed by their General Meeting last Wednesday night.  Congratulations to the new executive, Uli Liessmann, David Jackson, Lydia Flores and John Clark.  I was so happy that I attended as it meant the opportunity to hear from the proprietors of Scrubby’s Teahouse and Salted Roots Café, both new businesses to Home Hill.  Their investment is a great economic boost to the district and what wonderful, proactive ideas they have for the town!  (I’m lead to believe Scrubby’s scones are pretty good too).  Jump onto the Home Hill Chamber website and see when their upcoming social and networking meetings are, particularly if you have a business in Home Hill.  Come along and have a say in the future of Home Hill…they don’t bite.  

Saskia Volmer-Creek is putting together a book about “Growing up in Home Hill”.  If, like me you have fond memories of being a kid in Home Hill please email Saskia with your story on creekys@outlook.com.au.  Surely there are many wonderful stories out there.

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Lastly, the mobile Breast Screen van will be in Ayr from 17^th August to 18^th December.  Take a few minutes to look after your health and book your appointment by phoning 13 20 50.

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As always, you can contact me on 0427 827 386 with any concerns or queries.

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God Bless.

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Dawson MP Andrew Willcox joins Nationals colleagues in Canberra to address the media on the National Party’s push to repeal Labor’s new firearms laws and abolish the Federal Government’s proposed gun buyback scheme. Photo supplied.

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The Nationals are moving in Parliament this week to repeal Labor’s new firearms laws and abolish the Albanese Government’s National Gun Buyback Scheme.

Nationals MP and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud is introducing the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Repealing Unfair Gun Laws) Bill 2026, with Dawson MP Andrew Willcox seconding the Bill, to call on the Albanese Government to repeal its unjust firearms legislation.

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The Bill will reverse the federal firearms and importation laws rushed through Parliament by Labor earlier this year.

Mr Willcox said almost one million law-abiding firearms owners had been unfairly targeted by legislation that did not address the real problem of illegal firearms in the hands of criminals.

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“The Prime Minister needs to address the real issue, which is radical Islamic terrorism,” Mr Willcox said.

“I am proud to second David Littleproud’s Bill and stand alongside my Nationals colleagues in Parliament calling on Labor to repeal these terrible laws.

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“These laws target licensed, law-abiding Australians who have done everything right, while doing nothing to address the people who actually obtain and use firearms illegally.

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“The people who will comply with this buyback are the same people who already follow the law, licensed firearm owners with registered firearms.

“Does the Prime Minister seriously believe criminals are going to line up and hand their weapons in?”

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Mr Willcox said the cost of Labor’s buyback would ultimately fall on Australian taxpayers and have consequences for regional communities.

“This isn't just an issue for firearm owners. Every Australian taxpayer is being asked to foot the bill for a scheme that is unlikely to get illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals.

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“Farmers rely on firearms to protect livestock, manage feral pests and keep their properties safe. They use them responsibly because they are an essential tool of the job.

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“If you make it harder and more expensive for farmers to manage feral pests, those costs don’t simply disappear. They flow through to the cost of producing food and fibre, and ultimately to consumers at the checkout.”

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Mr Willcox said the Nationals would continue to stand up for responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and welcomed the Queensland Government’s decision not to participate in the Federal Government’s proposed buyback.

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“It is great to see the Queensland Government standing strong and refusing to join Labor’s scheme.

“That is what commonsense government looks like, listening to regional communities instead of imposing a one-size-fits-all solution from Canberra.”

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Mr Littleproud said the Nationals had led the fight against Labor’s firearms laws.

“Almost one million law-abiding Australians were blamed for a crime they did not commit. That was wrong.

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“The Bondi massacre was an act of Islamic terrorism. It had nothing to do with licensed firearm owners, and no evidence has ever linked them to it.”

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Mr Littleproud said the Nationals would continue fighting until the laws were repealed.

The Nationals’ Bill is backed by a petition with more than 71,000 signatures calling for Labor’s firearms laws to be repealed.

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The Federal Government’s proposed buyback remains stalled, with Queensland, the Northern Territory and Victoria declining to participate, while Tasmania is pursuing its own arrangements and South Australia has refused to change its laws.

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Only New South Wales and the ACT have committed to the Federal scheme.

Mr Willcox said he would continue to fight for law-abiding firearm owners in regional Australia.

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“I will always support responsible, law-abiding firearms owners.

“I refuse to support any agenda that spends taxpayers’ money on legislation that achieves nothing except punishing people who already follow the rules.

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“Labor should focus on keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals, rather than targeting the farmers, sporting shooters, hunters and collectors who have done nothing wrong.”

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The Bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives this week.

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Supplied by the Office of Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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The Burdekin community united to commemorate the Battle of Long Tan and honour the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War at a solemn ceremony last week. Photo: Rob Ritchie.

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The Burdekin community joined Australians across the country in commemorating Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan at a solemn ceremony last week.

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Hosted annually by the Vietnam Veterans Burdekin Sub-Branch at its Deep Creek retreat, the service welcomed veterans, dignitaries and families to honour the bravery and sacrifice of Australians who served during the Vietnam War.

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Among attendees was Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who addressed the crowd alongside VVBB President Richard Kelly after a parade opened proceedings. Attendees were then invited to lay wreaths, with a rendition of The Last Post and a bagpipe lament rounding out the service.

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Mr Kelly said he felt “honoured” to see so many people in attendance.

“It was great to see a lot of people come all the way in from Townsville and the Burdekin—it’s a fair way up there,” he said.

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“It was a great honour to have so many up there this year. It just goes to show that there are still a lot of local people who pay respects to our past figures.”

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Dale Last has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Queensland Police Service, receiving a National Police Service Medal at a special awards ceremony in Brisbane last week. Photos: Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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Dale Last has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Queensland Police Service, receiving a National Police Service Medal at a special awards ceremony in Brisbane last week.

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The Member for Burdekin was presented the medal by Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie, honouring his service from 1983 to 2008, which culminated in his role as Officer in Charge of Townsville Police Station.

The National Police Service Medal recognises ethical and diligent service by sworn police officers, with a minimum of 15 years’ service required for eligibility.

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Mr Last spent his police career at stations across regional and remote Queensland, including postings in Indigenous communities and smaller centres, before being appointed OIC of Townsville Police Station in December 2000.

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He remained in the role until leaving the QPS for local government in March 2008, saying his years as a police officer taught him lessons that continue to shape his work today.

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“Policing taught me a great deal about service, responsibility, and the importance of standing up for the communities you represent,” he said.

“I have been proud to carry those lessons through to my current role as the Member for Burdekin, as I continue to advocate for the services and infrastructure to support our community.

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“It was an honour to wear the uniform, and I’m grateful to receive this recognition of that service.”

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Council confirmed it is not closing the Groper Creek Caravan Park, but the Home Hill Boat Club has decided to surrender its caravan park licence, paving the way for Council to take control of the site. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.

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Burdekin Shire Council and the Home Hill Boat Club (HHBC) have stepped in to clarify the future of the Groper Creek Caravan Park, addressing closure rumours and clarifying that the HHBC has decided to surrender its caravan park license, paving the way for Council to take control of the site.

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The clarification comes after rumours circulated in the community that Council was preparing to shut the popular Groper Creek facility.

"The Groper Creek Caravan Park is operated by the Home Hill Boat Club, not Council," Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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"The Committee has advised that due to financial pressures it is no longer in a position to continue operating the facility."

The Boat Club has attributed their decision to surrender their license to mounting pressures of compliance demands.  

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The club say they received a Council report on the 8th of June outlining numerous areas of non-compliance with Council requirements, including issues relating to potable water, wastewater and ablution facilities.

The committee said it had since worked closely with Council to address the issues, but the scale of the financial and legislative requirements had ultimately proved unsustainable for the volunteer-run organisation.

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"Unfortunately, due to significant financial and legislative challenges that are beyond the capacity of the HHBC to resolve independently, a public meeting including stakeholders, park users, local residents and council was held," the committee said.

"The overwhelmingly majority in attendance supported the decision to relinquish the caravan park licence."

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The club said Council had advised the caravan park would be converted into a three-star community park under Council's control and maintenance.

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"The HHBC is very saddened with this outcome but due to the requirements and compliance imposed it is unsustainable for the club to continue to manage and operate the caravan park," the committee said.

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The parties said they would be working in conjunction to transition the site.

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Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied

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Burdekin residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice next month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer.

Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available.

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Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month.

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More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas.

Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes.

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“Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.”

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Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this year’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au.

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Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell with Federal Minister Kristy McBain and Treasurer Jim Chalmers at Cloncurry Airport. Photo supplied

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Cloncurry Airport could face an operational downgrade this wet season, potentially restricting FIFO aircraft and affecting mining operations across North West Queensland unless a further $10 million is secured for a permanent runway upgrade.

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Cloncurry Shire Council has warned heavier jet aircraft could be prevented from using the runway if conditions create the potential for a repeat of the major failure experienced earlier this year.

The airport sustained significant damage in January when heavy rainfall associated with a monsoon trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji damaged sections of the runway.

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Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell said safety would remain the priority.

“It's not a decision we want to make, but we need to ensure our facility is safe,” Cr Campbell said.

“The technical advice we are getting is that if we have a severe weather event like we had during this year's wet season, we will need to downgrade the airport to ensure we do not have another catastrophic failure of our key asset.

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“It’s critical that we protect our airstrip to prevent failure. The best solution would be to secure the required $10 million and have the upgrades completed prior to the wet season.”

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The Commonwealth and Queensland governments have committed $11.5 million through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, with approximately $2 million used for emergency repairs that restored the runway to near-normal operations.

However, Council says another $10 million is required to complete its broader $26 million rehabilitation program.

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Planning for the major upgrade began about four years ago after inspections identified the airport was approaching the end of its useful life.

The project would not only rehabilitate the runway but support Council’s plans to develop the site into a broader aviation precinct capable of accommodating larger aircraft.

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Cloncurry Airport serves as a major gateway for the North West’s resources sector, supporting mining operations including Ernest Henry, Dugald River, Eloise, Austral Resources, Eva Copper, True North Copper and Rocklands, alongside future projects such as CopperString.

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“We've been working towards doing a major upgrade to the airport for probably four years now, where it was getting to the end of its life,” Cr Campbell said.

“We were looking at growing our airport to be an aviation precinct.”

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Council had sought $14.5 million through the Federal Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, however its application was unsuccessful.

Cr Campbell said updating the application with market-tested tender prices was treated as a resubmission, moving the project from round two to round six of assessments and causing further delays.

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“The final advice that the CEO got gave us some confidence that we would be better off updating with the tendered prices,” he said.

“But that was considered a resubmission and pushed us back. Instead of us being in round two, we ended up being assessed in round six.”

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Council is now calling on either the Queensland or Federal Government to provide the remaining funding before another major weather event places the runway at risk.

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“We don't care if the funding comes from Canberra or Brisbane, but we need that extra $10 million to get the work done so we can continue to be a major contributor to the economy,” Cr Campbell said.

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Back (from left): Tracey Gabiola, Ainsley Ferrando, Helen Kross, Carolyn Bell, Dr Ben Lawry.

Front (from left): Tamika Crank & Rayf Pugh, Ayla Armstrong & Callie Armstrong, Chantel Ferrando & Maverick Rush, Stacey Butler & Remi Malaponte, Laura Cowan & Freya Cowan, Jessamy Nicolaides & Ava Nicolaides. Photo supplied.

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The Burdekin is booming with babies after six newborns arrived in less than four days at Ayr Hospital. The new Burdekinites are among 30 babies born at the hospital between May and July, making it the region’s busiest baby boom in more than half a decade.

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Baby Boom Sets Six-Year Record At Ayr Hospital

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A four-day birthing spree at Ayr Health Service has capped off the facility’s busiest maternity period in over five years, with six infants arriving in under 96 hours.

The maternity unit welcomed a total of 30 newborns between May and July, marking the highest three-month tally at the facility since 2020. The total represents eight more births than the local average for the same period over the past six years.

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Director of nursing Tracey Gabiola said she could not remember a time when the local maternity service had been as busy.

“While it has been an extremely busy time for our staff, particularly during a hectic few days at the end of May where six newborns arrived in less than 96 hours, staff enjoy working in a service where they can share in the joy of welcoming babies and supporting parents,” she said.

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“These are incredibly special moments, and we feel very privileged to be involved.”

Ms Gabiola commended the adaptability of the health service workforce.

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“Whether responding to an emergency or assisting with the delivery of a baby, the team always steps up and I am incredibly grateful to them for always rising to the challenge.”

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Local mother Stacey Butler, who gave birth to daughter Remi Malaponte during the May delivery cluster, said it was important to be able to give birth in her hometown.

“We are very fortunate to have the facility and the staff here so we can have our babies in our community,” Ms Butler said.

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“I really didn’t want to have to leave home and be away from my family and friends to give birth to my little girl.

“She is perfect, and it means the world to me that she was able to be born in her hometown and surrounded by her loved ones.”

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Cancer Council Australia’s Daffodil Day is returning this year for the 40th time, and no one in the Burdekin is embracing the occasion quite like Raelene Grantz and her Delta Diner team. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.

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Cancer Council Australia’s Daffodil Day is returning this month for the 40th time, and among those embracing the occasion in bright yellow is Raelene Grantz and her Burdekin Delta Diner team.

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Daffodil Day is held each August to raise money for cancer research, prevention and support services, with the daffodil symbolising hope in the ongoing fight against cancer.

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That fight is personal for Raelene. After being diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago—and watching her twin sister battle it around 12 years prior—Raelene has made a point of doing her bit to support the cause.

Her latest effort has seen the Delta Diner decorated in yellow over the last month as Daffodil Day approaches on the 20th.

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As well as posters and daffodils, Raelene has also put out a donation collection box with QR codes linking to a donation page.

She said the endeavour was her “little way of helping.”

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“Cancer has touched my husband, my family, myself and some of our staff members over the years,” she said.

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“It’s an ongoing [battle], and it’s not letting up. We just have to keep doing our little bit with fundraising and supporting people through their journeys, and this is our way of doing it.”

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Raelene said the support so far had been overwhelmingly positive and encouraged others to get behind the cause by making a donation at the store.

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CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan warns that Australia cannot wait until 2029 for action while overseas competitors race ahead. Photo: CANEGROWERS.

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Australia should start building its biofuels industry now—creating regional jobs, investment and fuel security at home instead of sending Australian dollars and opportunities overseas, CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan has said.  

Welcoming the Federal Government’s newly released consultation paper on a national demand mechanism for low-carbon liquid fuels, Mr Galligan called it the most significant step forward in national policy on this issue in decades.  

However, he also warned that Australia cannot wait until 2029 for action while overseas competitors race ahead.  

“Australia has talked about biofuels for decades, and it's been five years since the Federal Government released it first bioenergy roadmap, yet while we analyse and assess, other countries have built industries,” Mr Galligan said.  

“The decision by the Federal Government to consult on the implementation of a demand-side policy to support a low-carbon liquid fuel sector is warmly welcomed. The direction is right, but the pace matters. Investment decisions are being made now and industry needs certainty now.”  

The consultation paper proposes an initial national volume requirement for cleaner fuels, potentially commencing in 2029, before a proposed transition to a carbon-intensity system from 2035.  

Importantly, it proposes covering petrol and recognises ethanol as an eligible fuel. However, imported cleaner fuels could also satisfy the requirement, with no guarantee that the resulting demand would support Australian production.  

“If we move too slowly or allow the massive new global demand for low-carbon liquid fuels to be satisfied largely through imports, Australian dollars will help fund factories, jobs and regional development overseas while available capacity here remains underused,” Mr Galligan said.  

“We should not replace our dependence on imported fossil fuels with a new dependence on imported cleaner fuels. That risks leaving Australian families, businesses and essential industries exposed again when the next global shock disrupts supplies and drives up prices.”  

More than 90% of the liquid fuels used in Australia are either imported directly or refined locally from imported crude. Yet Australia has abundant agricultural feedstocks, established regional processing capacity and growers ready to play their part.  

The government’s paper identifies 360 million litres of operational ethanol capacity in Australia. The sugar industry processes around 30 million tonnes of sugarcane in a typical year, and industry estimates suggest it could ultimately produce more than 2.5 billion litres of ethanol a year – equivalent to approximately 14% of Australia’s petrol needs.  

“We are not starting from scratch,” Mr Galligan said.  

“Australia already has the feedstock, infrastructure, expertise and production capacity to make more bioethanol today. We should use what we have now while building what we need next.  

“Sugarcane is a major renewable biomass resource. It can make an immediate contribution through ethanol, while its biomass can also support the development of advanced fuels such as sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel.  

“It can deliver real fuel security, real emissions reduction and real regional jobs – but that will not happen without clear policy settings that create demand for Australian-made fuels.”  

Mr Galligan said Australia must learn from the past and keep more of the value created from its agricultural resources in the country.  

“For too long, Australia has exported raw commodities only to import the higher-value products made from them. We cannot repeat that mistake with cleaner fuels,” he said.  

“We need a national framework that gives investors confidence to build here, produce here and create value here. Australia has the resources, the growers and the regional capacity. What we need now is the policy certainty to get on with it.”  

Mr Galligan and CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens are in Canberra this week briefing federal ministers and senior departmental officials on the opportunities biofuels offer Australian agriculture, regional communities and national fuel security.  

Mr Galligan will also join leaders from the sugar, manufacturing, bioenergy and national-security sectors for a media stand-up at the top of Federation Mall, Canberra, at 2.30pm on Thursday, 20 August.

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Supplied by CANEGROWERS

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Burdekin residents and business owners will have the chance to chat directly with the nbn Local team when they visit Ayr on Thursday, August 27.

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The community drop-in session will run from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm at the Burdekin Plaza (116 Edwards Street, Ayr). The event offers locals a practical way to learn about regional connectivity upgrades, including nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) and Fixed Wireless services.

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Representatives will be available throughout the day to answer questions, assist residents in checking their eligibility for full fibre, and demonstrate how enhanced digital infrastructure can benefit local households and businesses.

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Many properties across Ayr, Home Hill, and Brandon may already be eligible to upgrade to full fibre. Transitioning to an FTTP connection unlocks access to faster, more reliable broadband—supporting seamless video calls, high-definition streaming, rapid downloads, and better performance across multiple connected devices simultaneously.

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The session is free to attend, with no prior bookings required. Locals are encouraged to bring their questions and find out what connectivity options are available at their address.

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Event Details

• What: nbn Local Community Drop-in Session

• When: Thursday, August 27 | 9:30 am – 3:30 pm

• Where: Burdekin Plaza, 116 Edwards Street, Ayr

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Burdekin Communications owner Paul Benvenuti (right) was named the first-ever Garmin Marine Hall of Fame inductee during Garmin’s annual training seminar at SeaWorld Resort. Photo supplied.

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A Burdekin local beat out stiff competition to claim an inaugural national award on the Gold Coast last month.

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Burdekin Communications owner Paul Benvenuti was named the first-ever Garmin Marine Hall of Fame inductee during Garmin’s annual training seminar at SeaWorld Resort.

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Mr Benvenuti earned the award ahead of hundreds of leading marine electronics specialists from around Australia. The honour recognises his long-standing service and commitment to the Garmin brand, having installed, serviced and maintained its GPS-enabled products for more than 30 years.

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Mr Benvenuti said he was “extremely proud” of the recognition.

“To be recognised by Garmin amongst such a respected group of people in the marine industry was both humbling and a very proud moment for me, my family and Burdekin Communications,” he said.

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While he admitted surprise at receiving the award, presenters said there was “only ever going to be one winner.”

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“When we were thinking about doing this award, there was always only ever going to be one guy that we’d be putting forward as the first recipient,” Garmin ANZ Manager Gordon Triplett said.

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“And yet, he was genuinely surprised that he got the award. He didn't think it would be him at all, and I think that’s a perfect measure of the guy.”

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Mr Triplett said the honour rewarded Mr Benvenuti’s strong sales, long-standing loyalty to the brand and positive customer feedback, describing him as “very easy to do business with.”

Although the sole recipient, Mr Benvenuti was quick to thank Garmin representatives, his customers, and his past and present staff for their role in his success.

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“An award such as this may be presented to one person, but it represents the efforts of many people who have contributed along the way,” he said.

“This award is something I am extremely proud of, but it is also a recognition I am very happy to share with everyone who has been part of the journey.”

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New facilities at the Redlands Research Facility will strengthen Australia’s fruit fly management and support the horticulture industry. Photo source: Pexels

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Australia’s horticulture industry is set to benefit from almost $5 million in new investment aimed at strengthening fruit fly management, protecting export markets and improving the nation’s ability to respond to exotic outbreaks.

The Australian and Queensland Governments are jointly funding new infrastructure at the Queensland Department of Primary Industries’ Redlands Research Facility, where the National Export Market Access Centre for Horticulture will be housed.

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The Australian Government is contributing $4.7 million through its Building Resilience to Manage Fruit Fly Package, with the overall investment expected to deliver new facilities to support research into fruit fly management and horticultural market access.

Fruit fly is considered one of the most significant biosecurity threats facing Australia’s horticulture industry, with outbreaks capable of affecting productivity and disrupting valuable international trade.

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The new infrastructure will include fumigation facilities, a netted orchard and dedicated pest management testing areas.

The facilities will support research needed to meet the requirements of international trading partners and help Australian growers maintain access to overseas markets.

The investment will also strengthen Australia’s capacity to respond to exotic fruit fly outbreaks and reduce the potential impact of fruit fly-related trade restrictions on growers and exporters.

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Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the investment formed part of the Albanese Government’s broader commitment to strengthening Australia’s biosecurity system.

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“The Albanese Government has delivered over $2 billion in additional biosecurity resourcing since coming to Government, because a strong biosecurity system underpins a strong horticulture and agriculture industry,” Minister Collins said.

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“Effective fruit fly management is critical to protecting growers, which is why we are supporting the sector to strengthen their resilience against the pest.

“This $4.7 million investment from the Albanese Government will strengthen Australia's fruit fly research capability and help ensure growers and exporters can continue to access valuable export markets.

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“By investing in the infrastructure and scientific capability needed to meet trading partner requirements, we are helping build a more resilient and competitive horticulture sector.”

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Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the project is ‘critical’ for growers.

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“This project is a critical initiative to protect Queensland’s horticultural industry and support our producers and exporters,” Minister Perrett said.

“It’s critical, home-grown research that is leading the way in securing and growing export markets for Australian horticulture and our fit-for-purpose facilities are ensuring that success.

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“This investment will help ensure the long-term future and prosperity for Queensland horticulture, strengthening biosecurity measures and safeguarding Queensland producers against the devastating impacts of fruit fly.”

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The new National Export Market Access Centre for Horticulture is expected to provide a dedicated national hub for research into fruit fly, pest management and the requirements needed to maintain Australia’s horticultural export opportunities.

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The investment is designed to strengthen the industry’s resilience while supporting growers and exporters to navigate the biosecurity challenges posed by fruit fly.

COMMITTED TO OUR CUSTOMERS, AND PASSIONATE ABOUT JOHN DEERE.

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HONEYCOMBES CELEBRATES FOUR FINALISTS IN PRESTIGIOUS JOHN DEERE TECHNICIAN AWARDS

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Honeycombes Sales and Service is proud to announce that four of their Ayr based team members have been named finalists in the 2026 John Deere Technician Awards, recognising excellence across the agricultural service and partsindustries throughout Australia and New Zealand.

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The Honeycombes finalists include Adam Patane, recognised for Apprentice Service Technician of the Year, Mark Cullen in the running for Service Technician of the Year, and Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson as finalists for Parts Technician of the Year.

The awards highlight the people behind the scenes who help keep the wheels of agriculture turning – the technicians and parts specialists who help farmers, contractors and businesses stay operational when every hour counts.

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“To have four Honeycombes team members recognised as finalists in the John Deere Technician Awards is an outstanding achievement and one we are incredibly proud of. Adam, Mark, Demi and Bradley are a great example of whatcan be achieved when we invest in local people - creating opportunities to build rewarding careers close to home, while developing the skills and expertise that give back to our communities and support the agricultural businesses thatkeep regional North Queensland moving.” said Mark Barrett, CEO.  

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We congratulate Adam Patane, Mark Cullen, Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson on being recognised among the industry’s best. We’re proud of your achievements and wish you every success at the Awards ceremony.

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PEOPLE LIKE THIS ARE BUILT HERE — YOU COULD BE NEXT.

World-class careers don’t have to start in the big cities. At Honeycombes, we’re developing the next generation of industry leaders right here in regional Queensland

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THEY STARTED WITH AN OPPORTUNITY. SO CAN YOU.

• Learn from some of the best in the industry

• Develop skills recognised at the highest level  

• Work with world-leading machinery and technology

• Build your career right here in regional Queensland

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ADAM PATANE

APPRENTICE SERVICE TECH REGIONAL FINALIST

For Apprentice Service Technician finalist Adam Patane, a career in agricultural machinery was a natural fit. Growing up on a third-generation family farm, Adam saw first-hand the impact machinery downtime can have on farming operations and developed a passion for keeping equipment moving.

Since joining Honeycombes as an apprentice in 2023, Adam has embraced every opportunity to learn, building his skills across diagnostics, hydraulics and diesel systems while earning a reputation for his positive attitude, attention to detail and strong work ethic.

“For me, it’s not just about fixing machines — it’s about making sure customers feel supported and confident,” Adam said.

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DEMI RUSSELL

PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

Demi Russell’s passion for the industry was shaped early by her mother, who spent more than 35 years in parts and taught her the value of hard work and strong relationships.

“After school, I would often help her, which instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic and building genuine customer relationships,” Demi said.

Now raising her family of four, Demi brings that same care and commitment to supporting customers and the agricultural community every day.

“I take pride in knowing that what I do helps keep machines in the paddock, supporting local businesses, strengthening the local economy, and contributing to a sustainable future for my family and community,” she said.

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MARK CULLEN

SERVICE TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

Over the past six years, Mark Cullen has become a trusted name among Honeycombes customers, recognised for his technical expertise, reliability and ability to find solutions when they matter most.

“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and getting them back up and running,” Mark said.

That passion began early while helping his father with truck servicing and repairs, sparking a lifelong interest in machinery and supporting the people who rely on it every day.

Whether in the workshop or out in the field, Mark is known for his calm approach, problem-solving skills and commitment to helping customers keep their operations moving.

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BRADLEY SIBSON

PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

For Parts Technician finalist, Bradley Sibson, helping customers minimise downtime is personal.

Having grown up on a cane and cattle property, Bradley understands the pressure farmers and contractors face when equipment isn’t operating as it should. That understanding drives the way he approaches his work each day.

“I understand how critical it is to keep machines running… I take pride in being someone customers can rely on,” Bradley said.

Customers consistently praise Bradley for his communication, responsiveness and determination to find solutions. Whether sourcing hard-to-find parts or exploring alternative options, he is known for going above and beyond.

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Scan the QR Code and explore career oppourtunities here

His decades-long passion for wildlife photography saw Graham spend hours, sometimes days, waiting for a bird to turn just the right way. Photos supplied

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Burdekin local Graham Cumming offered up a snapshot—or 100—of his award-winning photography work during an exhibition in Townsville last month.

Graham, 88, displayed around 116 self-captured birdlife photographs to his Arcare Aged Care neighbours and visitors, using the facility as a makeshift gallery from 13–19 July.

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The photographs depicted an array of North Queensland birdlife, with many taken decades ago in Ayr, where Graham used a makeshift darkroom in his shed to print them.

Arcare Lifestyle Coordinator Brooke Gottschling said the exhibition gave Graham a chance to showcase his decades of dedication to the craft, receiving glowing reviews in the process.

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“Graham wanted to showcase some of his talent … and to show people what he used to do,” she said.

“The residents all loved coming out and having a good look. We had a few family members come in as well, and they enjoyed walking around the facility and seeing the pictures.”

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His first exhibition of such scale, Graham called the experience “absolutely fantastic,” although admitted there was a hidden purpose to the display.

His decades-long passion for wildlife photography saw Graham spend hours, sometimes days, in his own purpose-built hide, waiting for a bird to turn just the right way.

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That dedication yielded not just award recognition, but a body of work comprising more than 200 photographs.

When he moved into his new Arcare residence not long ago, he quickly realised they couldn’t all fit on his wall.

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As a result, Graham made each piece in last month's exhibition available as a free keepsake, personally signing each one.

He said they were able to “get rid of a fair few,” capping off a fulfilling week.

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As Year 10 students across the region reach a pivotal crossroads in their secondary education, choosing the right environment for Senior School (Years 11 and 12) becomes one of the most significant decisions a family can make.

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At Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) the senior years are designed as a launching pad, empowering young men and women to step confidently into higher education, vocational training or direct pathways into the local workforce.  

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Combining strong academic offerings, practical vocational training, dynamic co-curricular activities, and a welcoming community atmosphere, BCHS continues to prove why it remains a choice for senior education in the Burdekin region.  

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Flexible Pathways Tailored to Every Student

Every student’s journey following high school is unique. BCHS provides diverse Senior Learning Pathways to suit individual goals, strengths, and ambitions:

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• ATAR Academic Pathway: Rigorous General subjects preparing students for university entry across Queensland and Australia.

• Vocational & Technical Education (VET): Hands-on training through Applied subjects, Certificate courses, and School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SATs), giving students a head start in trades, business, and health services.  There are industry standard facilities in trades and hospitality learning.

• Blended Pathways: Combining academic study with practical trade competencies to keep future career options wide open.

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BCHS has a dedicated Careers Advisor Teacher, Mrs Dalle Cort, offering one-on-one career guidance and accessible academic support.  Senior students receive the personalised attention needed to reach their full potential.

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The Marist Foundation: Community, Pastoral Care, and Values

Rooted in the Marist tradition, BCHS places equal emphasis on academic performance and character development. Built on core values of Family Spirit, Simplicity, Presence, Love of Work, and Love of Mary, the school ensures senior students are known, valued, and supported through the pressures of Years 11 and 12.  

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Pastoral care is integrated into daily school life. Through leadership opportunities, house competitions, retreat programs, and community outreach, BCHS fosters confident leaders ready to contribute positively to society.  

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Beyond the Classroom: Enrichment & Community Spirit

Senior life at BCHS extends well beyond textbooks. Senior students regularly participate in:

• Arts & Performance: Cultural events, drama visits (such as performances by Shake & Stir), and creative workshops.

• Sports & Health: Inter-house athletics, swimming, and regional school sport competitions.  Also, a top-tier representative sport program e.g. Rugby League Program, Basketball Program and Netball Program.

• Community & Leadership: Student leadership team, social justice initiatives, and regional and Marist networking events.

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Enrol Now for Senior School at BCHS

Whether your child is looking to transition from Year 10 into Year 11, or seeking a supportive move into a new school community for their senior years, Burdekin Catholic High School invites local families to discover the BCHS difference.

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Enrolment Prospectus and Principal tour bookings are available online or via the school office. Secure your child's spot for Senior School today!

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QRIDA is providing assistance to eligible primary production businesses affected by the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather between December 24, 2025 and April 24, 2026. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Burdekin primary producers affected by severe weather and tropical cyclone events earlier this year can access financial assistance to help rebuild and restore their operations.

The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is providing assistance to eligible primary production businesses affected by the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather between 24^th December 2025 and 24^th April, 2026.

Eligible businesses can access Disaster Assistance Loans of up to $2 million to help re-establish their primary production operations following the disaster.

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Producers may also be eligible for Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans of up to $100,000 to assist with essential working capital expenses.

The assistance is designed to help affected primary producers manage the financial impacts of the disaster and support the recovery and continuation of their businesses.

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Primary producers impacted by the disaster event are also encouraged to complete the Queensland Government’s Disaster Impact Survey.

The voluntary survey helps the Queensland Government understand the extent of damage caused by recent disasters and assess the need for additional assistance to support affected communities and businesses.

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Producers seeking information about disaster financial assistance available through QRIDA can visit the QRIDA website or contact the authority on 1800 629 946.

The Disaster Impact Survey can be completed through the Queensland Government’s Business Queensland website.

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Primary producers are encouraged to assess the assistance available and complete the survey to ensure the impacts of the disaster are captured as recovery needs are considered.

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Family law is an increasingly complex area requiring knowledge, experience and a practical approach. At Connolly Suthers, our Family Law team is committed to providing clear, personalised advice tailored to your unique financial, emotional and legal circumstances.

Below are some of the most common questions we receive about property settlements following a separation.

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When can I apply for a property settlement?

If you are married, you do not have to be divorced before negotiating or finalising a property settlement. A property settlement can generally be reached at any time after separation.

However, once your divorce becomes final, you generally have 12 months to commence court proceedings or seek Consent Orders if an agreement has not been finalised.

For de facto couples, the general time limit is two years from the date of separation to commence an application.

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Should I see a lawyer even if we already have an agreement?

Yes. Even if you and your former partner have reached an agreement, it is still important to obtain legal advice.

A lawyer can help ensure the agreement properly reflects your intentions and can assist in formalising it so that it is legally binding, enforceable and provides certainty moving forward.

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Will my superannuation be included in a property settlement?

In many cases, yes. Superannuation is generally considered "property" for the purposes of a property settlement.

However, how it is treated will depend on your individual circumstances and the overall division of assets.

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Need advice?

Every family law matter is different. Obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your options and ensure your rights are protected.

If you would like to discuss your circumstances with one of our experienced Family Lawyers, contact the Connolly Suthers Ayr office on (07) 4790 4790, email law@connollysuthers.com.au, or visit www.connollysuthers.com.au.

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Our Family Law services include:

• Property Settlements

• Children

• Collaborative Law

• Divorce

• Child Support

• Spousal Maintenance

• Domestic Violence

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Supplied by Connolly Suthers

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Burdekin Shire Council announced on Facebook that foundational infrastructure for an incoming water fountain at the site had been “ripped from the asphalt.” Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.

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A new near-million dollar pump track has become the latest victim of vandalism in the Burdekin just days after being unveiled.

Government officials cut the ribbon on the facility at Anzac Park earlier this month, after more than a year of planning and development.

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But within a week, Burdekin Shire Council announced that foundational infrastructure for a water fountain at the site had been “ripped from the asphalt.”

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A Council spokesperson said the damage has stalled the delivery of the fountain, with ratepayer funds redirected to repairs instead of improving other parks and facilities.

The incident is the latest in a string of vandalism cases reported across the region, with damage to war memorial signage at Charlie’s Hill, the destruction of public lavatory facilities in Alva Beach, and damage to public plant boxes all reported since last December, among other incidents.

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Council said it was “disappointed” by the damage to the newly opened pump track and urged residents to take greater care of public facilities.

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“We encourage everyone to take pride in our shared community spaces and help us keep them safe for everyone to enjoy,” the spokesperson said.

“Together, we can help protect the places that bring our community together.”

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Hundreds of jobs could be created in North Queensland after a $20 million investment was announced to help unlock one of the region’s largest undeveloped copper deposits.

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The investment in Aeon Metals’ Walford Creek Project, about 350km north-west of Mt Isa, is expected to support up to 200 construction jobs and 60 ongoing positions as the project progresses towards development.

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The site contains an estimated 75 million tonnes of resources including copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, silver and nickel.

The funding, through the Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, will allow Aeon Metals to undertake feasibility studies and resource expansion drilling as it works towards a final investment decision.

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Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the project demonstrated the potential of Queensland’s resources sector.

“Walford Creek has the potential to supply the copper and cobalt needed for advanced manufacturing, defence, and technology which is increasingly important for nation’s looking to secure their global supply chains,” Mr Last said.

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“The Crisafulli Government is backing our resources sector to attract investment, get projects moving and create long-term jobs and economic opportunities for regional Queensland.”

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The investment is one of the first from the State Government’s expanded $250 million Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, which received an additional $100 million in this year’s Budget.

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Aeon Metals Executive Chair Paul Harris said the funding would support key development work and help progress the project towards a final investment decision.

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Circle of Life.

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Last week we welcomed another grandchild. Healthy mum and bub, head full of hair—unlike Poppy J—starting a life that will bring challenges and opportunities that we may not even know of now.

The next day we attended a funeral of a man who led a long and fruitful life. A man who came from another country, worked hard, raised a family and gave back to the community. Whilst running a cane farm he was also volunteering as an ambulance officer for 20 years—a man who ‘gave’.

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To this end can we look at giving back to our community without seeking a reward. This may come in many forms such as school canteen, sporting teams, community groups and many others. Whatever time you can give I’m sure you’ll be rewarded in the contribution. Community groups are crying out for people to help, especially younger members of our community.

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I was recently on Sweet FM and spoke about the app ‘Snap Send Solve’. I know sometimes people express ‘what can I do when I see a problem ?’ I use Snap Send Solve when travelling around the Burdekin and you can too.

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If you notice a concern around the community, e.g. pot hole, gutter damage, overgrown council areas, etc., simply download the App. The free ‘Snap Send Solve’ app allows residents to take a photo, add a brief description and send it directly to Burdekin Shire Council at any time of day.

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Reminder: 2026/2027 Half Yearly Rates due by Monday September 7.

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Wishing you health & happiness.

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Last week, communities across Australia came together to commemorate Long Tan Day, also known as Vietnam Veterans Day. I had the privilege of attending the Burdekin service at the Deep Creek Veterans Retreat, a peaceful and fitting location to honour those who have served our nation.

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As General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Australian Army veteran and former Governor-General, said: “Lest we forget is not just a phrase. It is a promise.” These words remind us of our enduring responsibility to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia's veterans. We remember those who gave their lives, those who returned carrying the lasting impacts of service, and the families who have supported them every step of the way. Their courage, resilience and dedication will never be forgotten.

The weekend also showcased the vibrant spirit of our community, with two fantastic inaugural events taking place across the Burdekin. Motor Madness made its debut at the Burdekin Showgrounds, while the Water Festival Junior Ambassadors Fun Fair brought plenty of excitement to Silver Screens & Coffee Beans. Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering these successful events. Most importantly, thank you to the volunteers who generously gave their time. Without volunteers, many of our community events simply would not be possible.

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Burdekin Shire Council is inviting local grant providers to participate in a Community Grants Information Session. This initiative aims to connect organisations with funding opportunities and help strengthen grant applications across our region. I encourage interested organisations to register and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

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Finally, a reminder that Free Mulch Day returns on Sunday, 23 August, from 8am to 12 noon at the Ayr Transfer Station. With the beautiful weather we’ve been enjoying, it is the perfect time to get out in the garden and make the most of this free resource.

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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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Former Burdekin Library trainee Nicole Cervoni has been named Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards - North Queensland Region. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.

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Former Burdekin Library trainee Nicole Cervoni has been named Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards - North Queensland Region.

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Announced on 31st July, the honour caps off a stellar 12 months that has seen the Millaroo local make waves across the region through her dedication to community service, youth leadership and vocational excellence.

The Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award recognises outstanding achievement by individuals who have recently completed or are finalising a traineeship in Queensland.

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During her Certificate III in Business traineeship with Burdekin Shire Council, Nicole juggled her studies and Youth Mayor responsibilities with part-time work at the Library, where she quickly earned a reputation as the "girl with the best book recommendations.”

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She notably launched the State Library of Queensland’s Digital Mentors program locally—making Burdekin Library the first in the state to roll out the initiative—and delivered popular community Cricut workshops that fostered local connections.

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These milestones followed Nicole’s recognition as the Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year and TAFE Queensland's Business Trainee of the Year in 2025.

Despite her recent successes, she said her nomination for the Queensland Training Awards was already a shock, with her victory last month coming as a bonus.

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Her recognition in the North Queensland region means she now enters the running for the State Awards later this year.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is preparing to shine a light on the remarkable women who help keep rural communities strong with the launch of Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities.

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More than just a luncheon, Beyond the Gate will bring women from across the Burdekin and surrounding regions together to connect, share experiences and celebrate the many roles they play in shaping rural Queensland.

From women working on the land and running local businesses to those leading community organisations, supporting families and contributing behind the scenes, the event recognises that the strength of rural communities is built on people who are willing to get involved and make a difference.

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The event coincides with the International Day of Rural Women, celebrated globally on October 15, recognising the important contribution women make to rural communities, agriculture and regional economies.

Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said Beyond the Gate was an opportunity to acknowledge that contribution while also giving local women an opportunity to come together.

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“Rural women contribute so much to the strength and character of communities like ours, often balancing businesses, properties, families and community commitments,” Sally said.

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“Beyond the Gate is about recognising those women, giving them an opportunity to connect and celebrate what they achieve, and reminding them just how important their contribution is.”

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A highlight of the luncheon will be guest speaker Angie Nisbet, co-founder of Queensland business FarmHER Hands.

Based near Hughenden in North West Queensland, Angie and fellow founder Shona Larkin understand rural life firsthand. Their idea for FarmHER Hands began after a morning working in the paddock and a conversation about the need for stylish and practical hand protection for women.

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That simple conversation developed into FarmHER Hands and a range of UPF50+ sun protection gloves designed specifically with hardworking rural women in mind.

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Angie's story of identifying a need, backing an idea and building a business from rural Queensland reflects the resilience, ingenuity and determination that Beyond the Gate aims to celebrate.

Guests can also look forward to an “On the Couch” panel session, where a range of guests will share their experiences and perspectives, along with networking, a delicious lunch and drinks.

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For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the event is also an extension of its commitment to supporting the people who make the Burdekin and surrounding rural communities such special places to live and work.

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“When rural communities are strong, Queensland is strong,” Sally said.

“We see every day the contribution local people make through agriculture, small business, volunteering and community organisations. As a Community Bank, we want to do more than provide banking services—we want to support the people and communities that make our region thrive.”

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Beyond the Gate is intended to become an annual opportunity to celebrate rural women, build connections and recognise the leadership, resilience and heart they bring to their communities.

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Because sometimes it is worth stepping Beyond the Gate to recognise the extraordinary people who are helping rural Queensland move forward.

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Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP outside Ayr Fire and Rescue Station. Photo supplied.

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A stakeholder meeting to bring certainty to the future of fire services in the Burdekin community has been hailed as a positive step forward by Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.

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As preparations continue for the release of tenders for the new Ayr Fire Station, Mr Last said continued consultation had led him to call for the Commissioner to provide certainty to local firefighters.

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“The meeting held on Friday was an opportunity for community leaders and our firefighters to have an open discussion around ensuring our firefighters have the facility and resources needed to service this community,” Mr Last said.

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"Part of those discussions allowed the commissioner to outline what is taken into consideration before a fire station can move to a 24/7 model and what actions Queensland Fire Department have taken to support the current staffing model at Ayr Fire Station.”

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“As part of the process towards construction it is important that our firefighters’ views are taken into consideration by the Commissioner and the Queensland Fire Department to ensure our new fire station meets the needs of our community both now and into the future.

“It is now up to the Commissioner to take that information back to Brisbane and ensure that as we enter the following phases of planning and construction of the fire station those concerns are taken into consideration.”

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Mr Last also gave his assurances to the community and fire fighters that he would continue to support them and advocate for the resourcing and infrastructure they need.

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“I was proud to back our firefighters with the commitment to progress a new fire station in 2024 to not only address environmental concerns but provide a modern facility that our community and firefighters could be proud of," Mr Last said.

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“Our community relies on our firefighters during their hour of need and I know we are extremely grateful to them and proud of the work they do.”

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Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.

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Principal Craig Whittred, Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek and Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, were joined by Ayr State High School captains Caitlyn and Ayden to officially open the school's multipurpose hall. Photo supplied.

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Generational education infrastructure recently delivered in Ayr State High School has already proven its value as Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP joined Minister for Education and Arts John-Paul Langbroek to officially open the new hall last week.

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Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s delivery of the $13 million multipurpose hall at Ayr State High School has provided a modern facility for students, staff and the community to learn and come together.

“This facility is a great example of generational infrastructure, not only benefitting our school students but the entire community,” Mr Last said.

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“The fact the hall goes beyond providing an undercover multipurpose court with the capabilities to expand learning opportunities for students in an industry standard facility is a great news story for the Burdekin region.”

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The hall features: sports facilities, including a multi-purpose court for basketball, netball and volleyball; a kinesiology lab and gym for Health and Physical Education studies to inspire future careers in health, sport and exercise sciences; a kitchen and kiosk, supporting event catering; and a staff room and offices for teacher planning and collaboration.

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Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the new hall reflected the Queensland Government’s commitment to deliver generational education infrastructure for all of Queensland.

“State schools are the heart of communities, and this new hall at Ayr State High School is an investment in both community connection and student success. It provides a welcoming space to help young people explore future career opportunities,” Minister Langbroek said.

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“We are building Queensland’s future. Our $23.1 billion Education Budget in 2026–27 includes $276.3 million for school and early childhood education infrastructure that enhances education outcomes.”

Ayr State High School Principal Craig Whittred said staff, students, parents and the community were excited to see the hall officially opened.

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“Our school community is enjoying the benefits of this impressive new facility, which supports a variety of curriculum and sporting offerings as well as providing our Certificate III in Fitness students with an industry standard facility to learn in,” Principal Whittred said.

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“The new hall has already supported a number of events including the recent careers day, Semester 1 celebration assembly, parent teacher interviews and school fundraiser events, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback.

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“We look forward to the many possibilities this hall provides to strengthen our connection with families and local organisations as we continue to deliver a quality education for our students.”

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(From left to right) John Licciardello (Director of ML Partners), Kayleen Grasso (Partner of Fahey and Walsh), Peter McKaig (Director of ML Partners). Photo supplied.

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Three respected North Queensland businesses are coming together, marking an exciting new chapter for clients, team members and communities across the region.

Fahey & Walsh has recently joined ML Partners, strengthening its ability to support clients throughout the Burdekin and surrounding areas while preserving the personalised service and trusted relationships that have been at the heart of the business for more than 100 years.

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In a second milestone, ML Partners and Carey Group have agreed to merge, bringing together three well-established North Queensland businesses with a shared commitment to helping families, businesses and communities thrive.

For Fahey & Walsh Partner Kayleen Grasso, the decision was driven by a desire to ensure the long-term future of the business while maintaining the trusted relationships built with clients over generations.

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"Fahey & Walsh, ML Partners and Carey Group share the same values and commitment to client service," Mrs Grasso said.

"This partnership gives our clients access to broader expertise and resources while retaining the personalised service and trusted relationships they value."

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Importantly, there are no planned changes for Fahey & Walsh clients or team members.

"Most importantly, it's business as usual," Mrs Grasso said.

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"Our clients will continue working with the same team they know and trust, and I'm pleased to be continuing with the business as part of this next chapter to ensure continuity and maintain the longstanding relationships built within the community."

ML Partners Director John Licciardello said the alignment between the organisations became clear throughout discussions about the future.

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"The alignment between our organisations was clear from the outset," Mr Licciardello said.

"Together, we're building a stronger business that expands opportunities for our clients and team members while remaining committed to the communities we serve."

Joe Carey, Chairman and Partner of Carey Group, said the merger reflects a long-standing relationship and shared vision for the future.

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"We've worked alongside the ML Partners team for many years and have enormous respect for their people and values," Mr Carey said.

"Together, we're creating new opportunities for our clients, our people and our communities while preserving the relationships that underpin our businesses."

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The combined business will bring together approximately 180 professionals across accounting, audit, financial planning and business advisory services, strengthening the depth of expertise and resources available throughout North Queensland.

While the businesses are excited about the opportunities ahead, their focus remains firmly on maintaining the personalised service, trusted advice and strong relationships that have defined their success over many years. Clients will continue to receive advice from the people they know and trust, backed by the additional resources and expertise of a larger regional group.

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The merger represents a shared commitment to the future of North Queensland, ensuring individuals, families and businesses continue to have access to high-quality professional advice delivered by local people who understand the communities they serve.

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Burdekin’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.

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A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.  

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Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.

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In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.  

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So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!

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Two local auxiliary firefighters make their stance clear outside Ayr Fire and Rescue’s soon to be replaced Soper Street station. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.

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By Jacob Casha

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When Queensland Fire Department (QFD) officials signed off on 24-hour station designs for Ayr in January, local firefighters thought their years of advocacy and sacrifice had finally paid dividends.

Those plans went up in smoke when the Department instead decided to retain current staffing models in the district, leaving after-hours response on the shoulders of burnt-out permanent officers and an auxiliary workforce that is evaporating by the year.

“It's sickening,” Queensland Professional Fire Fighters Union Townsville Country Branch Secretary Peter Marten said.

“The community is not aware that if a fire happened tonight, or someone was trapped in a car tonight, they might have to wait 40 minutes for the first fire truck to turn up.

“I just don't understand how [the Department] could be willing to take that risk.”

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CHANGE OF PLAN LEAVES BURDEKIN FIRE COVERAGE UNRESOLVED

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Queensland Professional Firefighters Union (QPFU) officials have slammed the Queensland Fire Department’s decision to abandon plans for a long-awaited 24-hour fire station in Ayr.

The decision goes against years of advocacy from the Union, which raised concerns that all-time lows in auxiliary numbers have made the current mixed staffing model in Ayr unsustainable and dangerous.

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Ayr Fire and Rescue (AFR) representatives were informed of the Department's decision just months after then QFD Assistant Commissioner for the Northern Region, Michael O’Neil, signed off on designs for an FS6 station—a 24/7 permanently staffed facility—to replace its current Soper Street facility.

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Union representatives said Mr O’Neil’s signature followed 10 months of consultation between the Department and AFR, during which QFD Deputy Commissioner at the time, Kevin Walsh, also reportedly pledged to submit FS6 station plans with increased staff to upcoming estimates.

At the estimates last month, Mr Walsh and QFR Commissioner Steve Smith instead revealed that while the new station will still be built, it will operate under an FS4 daytime-only staffing model, deeming current arrangements sufficient for service delivery in the region.

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“We look at a whole range of factors such as … demographics, urban sprawl, frequency of responses, types of responses and response times,” said Mr Walsh.

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“Through that process, it was determined that an FS4 station matches the current service delivery … [with the] capacity for future expansion should the operational service change over time.”

Union officials argued the department’s assessment ignored severe operational realities on the ground, pointing to a collapsing auxiliary workforce and dangerous after-hours response delays.

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The station currently pairs rostered daytime permanent staff with on-call auxiliaries for overnight coverage, making it the only emergency service in the Burdekin without a 24/7 operation.

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QPFU Townsville Country Branch Secretary Peter Marten said permanent firefighters had been hiding the system’s blemishes for years, with permanent AFR firefighters forced to go on-call after hours to make up for a depleted auxiliary workforce.

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“For years, a broken system has been propped up by a permanent workforce who have very clearly told [the Department] that it cannot continue,” he said.

“They're not only covering Ayr now; they cover Giru, and they also had to start covering Home Hill … and a large group of them have become burnt out.”

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Mr Marten said the new station in Ayr, funded through the 2025/26 State Budget, was an opportunity for a clean slate.

“There is an opportunity with the new station to fix the problem going forward, but they’ve turned a blind eye to it,” he said.

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“If it's not going to happen now, it's probably not going to happen for quite a few years—and and the auxiliary models are going to be broken for all those years. Sooner or later, someone's going to get seriously hurt because of that.”

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Mr Marten said the permanent staff are now off-call following the Department’s decision, leaving after-hours response solely down to eight active auxiliary firefighters across the entire Burdekin shire.

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Auxiliary Captain Noel Mulcahy said Ayr’s roster alone had plummeted from 14 active members to four over roughly 20 years, three of whom are not qualified to operate pump equipment due to ‘Grade 1’ status.

As a result, Mr Mulcahy said after-hours calls without permanent assistance can face over 30-minute delays waiting for backup from Home Hill, or up to an hour when appliances must be dispatched from Townsville. He called the delay a matter of “life or death.”

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He also said low numbers have halted interior search-and-rescue operations altogether.

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“If we attended a structure fire and there were people reported inside, I wouldn't commit a crew to go in for search-and-rescue—I haven't got the numbers to go in and save them if something happens,” he said.

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“I don't want to stand in front of a coroner and try to explain why I sent them in with no back-up.”

A QFD spokesperson acknowledged the drop in auxiliary numbers, but defended the FS4 decision in a statement, arguing that infrastructure planning is informed by current and future demand.

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The Department did not directly respond to questions about what documents Mr O’Neil signed in January, what authority that sign-off carried, or what occurred between the approval of the FS6 designs and the subsequent decision to proceed with an FS4 station.

The spokesperson did reveal that Queensland Fire and Rescue had “undertaken targeted local auxiliary recruitment activities over the past 18 months to support continued service delivery in the area.”

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However, AFR statistics show a local 18-month drive launched in 2023 yielded nine applicants,  one of whom remains in the role today. Union members cited the ultimately unsuccessful drive as proof that a 24/7 station was the last remaining option.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the region deserves “nothing less.”

“My issue is the fact that it’s been promised, and that 90 per cent of our community would not even realise that, at the present time, we don’t even have a 24/7 manned fire station in the district,” she said.

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“Considering the size of our district and our population, having [a new station] built that is lesser than what we have is unacceptable.”

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OP-ED by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Every Australian family sitting around the kitchen table knows the reality, our standard of living is under severe pressure. Since the Albanese Labor government took office, Australians have experienced some of the steepest declines in living standards in the developed world. With national debt fast approaching $1 trillion and structural budget deficits locked in for a decade, Labor is spending more and taxing more, while households are forced to get by with less.

The challenge facing our nation is not just identifying these economic headwinds; it is putting forward a clear, constructive alternative. That’s why I’m often asked, what a Coalition government would do differently to steer the country back on track. The answer lies in structural economic reform that rewards hard work, protects aspiration, and respects the money you earn.

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At the heart of our plan is a landmark policy designed to end secret tax hikes, the Tax Back Guarantee.

Under the current system, when your wages rise to keep pace with inflation, you can easily be pushed into a higher tax bracket. This process, known as "bracket creep," allows the government to collect higher tax revenues every year without ever having to pass a law. It penalises workers for simply trying to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and power bills.

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It equally penalises businesses, too. Employers feel a genuine responsibility to increase wages so their workers can afford to live, yet these rising expenses drive up business overheads at a time when everyone is struggling to swim against a tide of high inflation fuelled by the Albanese Labor Government.

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The Coalition will fix this by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation. Starting in the 2028-29 financial year, we will index the bottom two income tax thresholds, a measure that will protect approximately 85 per cent of Australian income earners.

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By year three, that relief would climb to $1,200 a year: providing a substantial, ongoing boost to household budgets when families need it most. From the 2031-32 financial year, we will extend this indexation to the top two thresholds, ensuring that no Australian is penalised with higher taxes simply because of inflation.

This is a fair, simple, and honest reform. It forces the government to live within its means rather than relying on inflation to balance the budget.

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True economic recovery also requires us to scrap this new suite of toxic taxes that punish success and stifle investment. The Albanese Labor Government's approach is a direct assault on aspiration. It imposes higher taxes on housing, savings, investments, and small businesses.

This includes a 30 per cent tax rate on discretionary trusts, which acts as an inheritance tax by stealth on the family structures everyday Australians use to pass assets to their children.

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This is why a Coalition government will repeal this entire suite of toxic taxes. We will reverse changes to negative gearing that restrict housing supply, undo capital gains tax hikes that discourage investment, and protect small businesses from punitive tax structures.

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Furthermore, we will abolish the Safeguard Mechanism, removing a regulatory burden that inflates building material costs and drives local manufacturing offshore.

It is a basic economic reality that when you tax something, you get less of it.

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If you tax savings, housing, investment, and small business, you get less of all of them. The Coalition wants more aspiration, not less, which is why we will back the hard-working Australians who want to get ahead.

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By cutting these penalties on success, we are offering a positive, practical plan to restore home ownership, lower national debt, and secure Australia's economic future.

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All photos courtesy of Shay Kratzmann Photography.

Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Olivia Pabone (Feed Me Food), Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES QLD), (middle) Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), (front) Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dance Association), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School) Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School) and Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School)

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The 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors traded their usual festival duties for an afternoon of tea, treats and treasured conversations when they visited Ozcare Ayr for a special high tea.

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The Ambassadors played an active role throughout the morning, helping prepare and plate food, greeting residents, serving refreshments and, most importantly, sharing their individual talents and passions with the Ozcare community.

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While the visit is a much-anticipated highlight on the Ambassador calendar, it also forms an important part of the judging process, providing an opportunity for the Ambassadors to demonstrate how they work together, interact with residents and staff, and share their interests with others.

The group brought an impressive variety of talents to the afternoon, with Amara demonstrating how to toss a cast net, Aria and Evie sharing their singing talents, and Ashlyn and Edith showcasing their Highland dancing skills.

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Jaxsyn gave residents a glimpse into his passion for motorbike riding through a video, while Judah shared a video tour of the Burdekin. Lillea got creative by teaching residents how to draw flowers, while Mia shared her love of horses through footage of her riding and jumping.

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Blaize even set himself the ambitious challenge of completing 50 push-ups, with residents eagerly counting along and encouraging him every step of the way. Although he fell just short at 44 push-ups, the enthusiastic support from the room was enough to make the challenge a success.

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Ella spoke about her love of baking and prepared brownies for residents to enjoy, while Olivia brought some extra energy to the morning by teaching the other Ambassadors the ‘Hoedown Showdown’ from Hannah Montana, eventually getting the group up and dancing.

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Zylon rounded out the entertainment by playing guitar and singing for the residents.

The wonderful atmosphere was made even more special thanks to Ozcare’s Kristy, Amanda and Mel, who once again went above and beyond to transform the hall for the occasion.

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This year’s decorations celebrated the Burdekin’s iconic landscape and lifestyle, with photographs of local landmarks including the Burdekin Bridge, sugar cane flowers, blooms collected by Mel from along the Burdekin River and handmade cupcakes crafted by Amanda and decorated with prickly pear, cowboy hats, gum leaves and cowboy boots.

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Kristy welcomed residents, Ambassadors and their invited guests to the morning, highlighting the unique Burdekin lifestyle shaped by the Burdekin River and tying the celebration into this year’s festival theme, ‘River Country’.

The beautifully decorated hall was soon filled with conversation as residents and Ambassadors enjoyed a feast of freshly made sandwiches, sweets, cakes, quiche, sausage rolls, spring rolls and more.

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With the room buzzing with chatter and laughter, the morning once again highlighted the special connection the Water Festival Ambassadors have built with the region’s aged care community.

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The Burdekin Water Festival Committee extended its thanks to Kristy and the Ozcare Ayr team for their ongoing efforts in hosting the Ambassadors, as well as Sunwater for its continued sponsorship of the Ambassador Program.

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See more photos here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/burdekin-water-festival-ambassadors-share-joy-across-generations-at-ozcare

BWF Ambassadors (back) Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES QLD), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), (front) Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), and Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College). Photo credit: Kari Ravizza

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Over the weekend, Plantation Park became a hub of happiness as the community came together, four-legged members and all, in support of Feed Me Food Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Senior Ambassador, Olivia Pavone’s Dog Walk Fundraising Event!

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On the morning of Saturday 8th August, approximately 30 to 40 people, and over 20 pups filled the popular park as Olivia’s fundraiser kicked off, all in support of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue; a cause close to her heart.

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“I have always loved animals and the positive impact they can have on people of all ages,” said Olivia.

“Supporting BCPR with this event meant a lot to me because I was able to combine my love for animals with helping an organisation that does so much to support and care for them. BCPR were such an open, welcoming and loving organisation – it was really special to see everyone come together for the morning.”  

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Mel and Mario Pavone, Owners and Managers of Feed Me Food, could not have been happier with how the day ran, confirming the event raised over $560 to support the valuable work of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.

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“We fully supported Olivia’s choice to select Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, having experienced firsthand the incredible benefits a rescue dog can bring and recognising the importance of the work the organisation does,” Mel said.

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Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza was in awe of the morning, noting that all the pups were well behaved and made for a lovely morning stroll through Plantation Park’s Juru Walk, followed by a delicious brunch catered by Feed Me Food.

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“It was such a beautiful morning in the park and so lovely to see many of the community come out to support Olivia, Feed Me Food and the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue,” Kari enthused.

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See more photos here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/paws-for-a-cause

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Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES QLD), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), (front) Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School) and Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School). Photo credit: Kari Ravizza

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Ayr’s community spirit was on full display on the evening of Friday 7th August as the Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall came alive with laughter, friendly competition and a few celebratory bubbles in support of Rotary Club of Ayr’s Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Ella Pirrone.

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Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said the sold-out event was a wonderful reflection of the community support behind Ella, with local businesses also getting behind the fundraiser by donating prizes for the evening.

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“It was such a fun night, and Ella was overwhelmed with the support she received both from the community for attending and from local businesses supplying prizes for the lucky bingo winners!”

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Over 120 family, friends and community members gathered to attend the Bingo & Bubbles fundraiser, with a packed evening of bingo, raffles, food and drinks to celebrate Ella’s journey to date as a Senior Ambassador and raise over $3,000 to support the fantastic work of the Rotary Club of Ayr.

“I was so overwhelmed and grateful with how many people turned up on the night – it was so nice to see the community come together – and the thought that they were all there to support me felt really special,” said Ella.

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“Throughout my ambassador journey, Rotary Club of Ayr have always been there to help and support me. They are a very supportive community where nothing is ever too big or too small!”

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Rotary Club of Ayr President John McVeigh said the club could not be prouder of its 2026 Senior Ambassador entrant, with Ella making a real effort to remain connected with the club throughout her Ambassador journey.

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“The Rotary Club of Ayr has been incredibly proud to stand behind Ella as our Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador. She has represented our club with enthusiasm, maturity and genuine commitment, all while balancing her Ambassador duties with full-time study in primary education at JCU in Townsville,” John said.

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“Her hard work in organising the Bingo & Bubbles fundraiser was evident on the night, and to see the hall filled with family, friends, bingo players and community supporters was wonderful. It was a real credit to Ella, her extended family and everyone who helped bring the evening together.

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“As President, I felt very proud — not only of Ella, but of the way our club and the wider community came together to support her. For Ayr Rotary, it was deeply rewarding to see the community rally behind her, and we were delighted to be part of such a positive and successful event.”

2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassadors (back) Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), (front), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association), Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Amity Baxter (The Burdekin Academy), Amity Power (Campbell’s Jewellery), and Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School). Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography 

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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In another exciting instalment in the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF), this month will see the Junior Ambassadors join forces for the first time in BWF history to create one colourful afternoon of community fun, fundraising and friendly competition!

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The inaugural Junior Ambassador Fun Fair will be held on Saturday 15th August, from 3pm at Silver Screens and Coffee Beans, bringing together all 11 Junior Ambassadors to host a collaborative fundraising event in support of their chosen schools, community organisations and charities.

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Unlike previous years, where each Junior Ambassador organised an individual fundraising event, this year's ambassadors have combined their efforts to create one family-friendly celebration packed with games, treats, crafts and entertainment.

Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator, Kari says every Junior Ambassador has designed a unique stall, ensuring there’s something to entertain children and adults alike.

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“It's [Junior Ambassador Fun Fair] a great excuse to get the family together, have some fun and support some amazing young people,” Kari said.

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“Every activity has been planned and run by one of our Junior Ambassadors. They've put so much work into it, and it's exciting to finally see all of their ideas come to life.”

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Entry to the cash only Fun Fair is free, with individual activities individually priced to help each ambassador raise funds for their nominated organisation or charity. Visitors can also enjoy mini golf for $5 before settling in for a classic drive-in movie for $12.  

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Families can test their skills with magnetic fishing, Highland Games challenges, paper plane competitions and a gymnastics tumble track, get creative decorating dot cakes, flower pots and hair clips, browse 3D-printed toys and sensory fidgets, enjoy a slime station, photo booth, lucky dips and chocolate toss, or cool off with raspberry slushies, snow cones, fairy floss, popcorn and other sweet treats.

“Preparations are still well underway. It takes a lot of organising to bring a community event like this together, but it's all coming together really well and the ambassadors, their supporting organisations and our committee have all been working hard behind the scenes to make it a great afternoon for everyone," Kari said.

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"We'd love to see people make an afternoon and evening of it while supporting our Junior Ambassadors and the Burdekin Water Festival."

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The Fun Fair also provides the community with an opportunity to meet this year's Junior Ambassadors while supporting the schools, sporting clubs and community organisations they proudly represent, including The Burdekin Academy, Campbell's Jewellery, St Francis Catholic School, Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association, East Ayr State School, Ayr Motorcycle Club, Ayr State School, Burdekin Christian College, Burdekin Netball Association and BT Farms.

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Kari said bringing the ambassadors together for one collaborative event has created an exciting new fundraising opportunity while encouraging teamwork, friendship and community spirit among this year's cohort.

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"With such a large number of Junior Ambassadors this year, it made sense to bring everyone together for one exciting community event," Kari said.

"Bringing everyone together has also created a wonderful sense of teamwork. Instead of competing for crowds, the ambassadors are supporting and encouraging one another while representing their schools, organisations and charities. It's a great example of what the Ambassador Program is all about – building confidence, leadership and community spirit."

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Kari hopes the afternoon will celebrate not only the creativity and enthusiasm of the ambassadors but also the generosity of the local community, with every activity helping support worthy local causes.

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"I'm really looking forward to seeing the ambassadors cheering each other on. They've built some great friendships throughout the program, and it's been wonderful to watch their confidence and skills grow," Kari said.

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"I'd love to see a big crowd come along because they've all worked so hard to make their activities a success, and they deserve to see the community get behind them. If people come along, have a laugh, enjoy the activities, stay for the movie and head home with a smile, we'll know we've achieved exactly what we set out to do."

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With affordable activities, delicious treats, community spirit and a nostalgic drive-in movie rounding out the afternoon, the inaugural Junior Ambassador Fun Fair is shaping up to be one of the highlights of this year's Burdekin Water Festival.Additional details are available via the Burdekin Water Festival’s social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

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What: Junior Ambassador Fun Fair

When: Saturday 15th August, 3pm

Where: Silver Screens and Coffee Beans, Ayr

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This week I want to talk about two issues that are important to the future of our community.

Firstly, Burdekin Shire Council joins councils across Queensland in strongly opposing proposed changes to Federal disaster funding arrangements. Disaster recovery is not simply another political debate. These changes could have significant consequences for regional communities like ours.

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Every extra dollar Council is forced to spend on disaster recovery is a dollar that cannot be invested in roads, parks, community facilities and other essential services. In some cases, damaged infrastructure may not be rebuilt at all. Quite simply, it's a no dealfor the Burdekin.

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I am also concerned about the future of the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station. Our community has been promised a new 24/7 staffed station alongside the Ambulance Service on Chippendale Street. Recent discussions suggest we may receive a lesser standard of service than what is currently available.

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For a growing community that covers such a large geographic area, that is simply not good enough. Emergency services save lives, protect property and provide peace of mind to residents. The Burdekin deserves better. This is another no deal for the Burdekin.

On a community note, don't forget to complete your Census. The information collected helps governments make informed decisions about future services and infrastructure.

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By now, rate notices should have been received by all property owners. If you have not received yours, please contact Council's friendly Customer Service Centre on 4783 9800.

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Finally, a little piece of trivia. This year marks 60 years since Australia changed from pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents on 14 February 1966. I can still remember the catchy tune that helped Australians learn about the new currency!

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As always, thank you for your continued support of our community. You can also follow me on Facebook to keep up to date with what's happening across the Burdekin.

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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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If there is one sound that defines winter in the Burdekin, it’s the whistle of a cane train echoing across the district.

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With the crushing season now in full swing, our region is operating at full steam. Our local growers, harvesting crews, mill workers, and transport teams are putting in massive hours to drive the economy that keeps our towns thriving. It’s a huge effort, and it’s something our entire community takes great pride in.

But with millions of tonnes of cane moving across our district, it also means our local roads and rail networks are busier than ever.

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As locals, we drive past these tracks every single day. It’s easy to get comfortable or impatient when we're running late for school drop off or headed home after a long day at work. But a locomotive pulling loaded bin sets can weigh hundreds of tonnes and it can’t stop on a dime.

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Whether you're driving, riding a bike, or walking the dog, take that extra second to look, listen, and wait. Talk to your kids about staying away from parked cane bins and tracks, and remember to give our heavy haulage and farm machinery plenty of room on the roads.

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Let's look out for one another so everyone makes it home safe at the end of the day.

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"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill,” Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said. Photo supplied.

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Works to bolster two race clubs in the electorate have been given the green light with the Crisafulli Government awarding more than $450,000 in funding for vital infrastructure upgrades under the Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program.

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During the funding announcement this week Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said Burdekin Race Club and Bowen Turf Club’s success had ensured country racing remained at the heart of the Home Hill and Bowen communities.  

“Both the Burdekin Growers Race Day and the Bowen Cup have cemented themselves into the North’s social calendar drawing thousands of visitors to our regions and boosting local economies,” Mr Last said.  

“Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program provides support towards infrastructure repairs, maintenance and asset replacement to ensure our country race clubs can continue to host the race days that become calendar highlights each year.”  

"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill."  

The Burdekin Race Club will receive $365,000 while the Bowen Turf Club will receive $88,000 with clubs also investing co-contributions to bring the projects to fruition. The commitment forms part of the Government's broader commitment to the industry through The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.  

“The Bowen and Burdekin race clubs are among 33 country race clubs in regional Queensland to receive funding, delivering jobs, infrastructure improvements and community benefits in regional areas," Mr Last said.  

“Recent reports show the racing industry in Queensland has generated more than $2.5billion in value added contribution with more than 50 per cent directly benefitting regional economies. It is why I'm proud to back our local race clubs' initiatives to invest in the infrastructure and maintenance needed to continue to host our favourite local race days well into the future.”

Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP

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WOMAN CHARGED OVER 2023 AYR DEATH

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A 70-year-old woman has been charged with murder following a complex investigation into the death of a 56-year-old man in Ayr almost three years ago.

The Forest Lake woman was arrested by detectives on August 4 and charged with one count of murder (domestic violence).

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She appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on 5th August following her arrest, where the court heard she would not enter a plea until her defence receives the full brief of evidence, expected to be provided in about a month.

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Emergency services were called to an Alice Street residence at about 9.18pm on August 10, 2023, after the man was found unresponsive.

He was pronounced deceased at the scene, prompting police to establish a crime scene and launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The man was non-verbal and had Down syndrome.

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Detectives from the Crime Command Homicide Investigation Unit and Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch have since conducted extensive inquiries into the man's health, care and treatment throughout his life.

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Police said the investigation had been complex and involved extensive and thorough inquiries.

A thorough post-mortem examination previously found the man was experiencing serious malnourishment and weighed 29kg at the time of his death.

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The investigation has spanned almost three years.

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_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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APPEAL AFTER ALLEGED INDECENT EXPOSURE AT ALVA BEACH

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Police are appealing for information after a man allegedly exposed himself to a woman at Alva Beach last week.

The incident occurred about 9.15am on 23rd July, when a 25-year-old woman entered the beach via the walking track directly in front of Alva Beach Park and sat on the beach.

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A short time later, an unknown man allegedly entered the beach via a separate walking track to the south.

Police allege the man stood by a tree about 10 metres from the woman before exposing himself.

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He then allegedly began approaching the woman, who ran away via the southern walking track.

The man has been described as Caucasian, aged in his 50s and about 175cm tall, with grey hair.

He was wearing an old grey hoodie and cargo pants.

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Police said no further complaints had been received at this stage and the matter appeared to be an isolated incident.

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Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious, recognises the man depicted in the image, or has relevant video footage is urged to contact police.

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With hundreds of Australians already preparing to host Pink Ribbon Breakfasts this October, local residents are encouraged to help make a difference. Photo supplied  

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Residents are being encouraged to gather around the breakfast table with friends and family and transform a simple morning tea into a meaningful charitable contribution as National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) rolls out its Pink Ribbon Breakfast initiative during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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While the official Pink Ribbon Breakfast will be held on Thursday, 22nd October, hosts across the country can choose a date that suits them and organise a breakfast, brunch, morning or afternoon tea, or lunch from the comfort of their own home, workplace, community centre or local hospitality venue all to raise raising funds to support vital research aimed at helping save lives from breast cancer.

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With 56 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day, organisers are encouraging communities to come together to spark conversations, and help fund research into prevention, detection and treatment.  

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Getting involved is simple, with prospective hosts able to register for free via fundraise.nbcf.org.au/event/pink-ribbon-breakfast and receive a complimentary host kit containing resources to help get their event underway!

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A seven-year wait for a near million-dollar pump track officially ended last Friday as Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last cut the ribbon on the region's own “city-grade” recreational facility.

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ANZAC PARK PUMP TRACK OFF AND ROLLING

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Scores of Burdekin locals wasted no time in christening their new $770,000-plus pump track, marking both the asphalt and its official opening at Anzac Park last Friday.

Announced as part of the Anzac Park Precinct Master Plan in 2019, its opening ends a seven-year wait for a recreational facility Member for Burdekin Dale Last said rivals those of its city counterparts.

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“This facility is the equivalent of anything in Brisbane, I can assure you,” Mr Last said at the opening ceremony.

“I have absolutely no doubt that it will be a hive of activity over the coming weeks.”

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The facility features a seven-turn looped design with jumps, berms, rollers and platforms, catering for BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and mountain bikes.

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The project's eventual fruition follows years of advocacy from the community, most notably the Burdekin BMX Club. It was subsequently included in last year’s Council Budget as the centrepiece of a broader $2.8 million investment in parks and recreational facilities across the region.

The design process was heavily influenced by local input; construction works began in April this year after two community consultations.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the final product was an inclusive community facility built for everyone.

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“This facility is a reflection of what happens when community voices guide council planning,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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“Consultation and the help of residents shaped a design that is inclusive, acceptable, and built for all skill levels. Whether you ride a bike, scooter or skateboard, this track offers a safe, purpose-built space to be active, have fun, and enjoy the outdoors.”

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The facility was funded primarily by a State Government contribution of $760,000 as part of its Works for Queensland 2024–27 program.

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The pump track is the first stage of broader Anzac Park upgrades outlined in the precinct master plan, including an outdoor stage, basketball court and youth hangout zones.

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August has arrived and the mornings feel a little cooler. I had the opportunity to attend the Future Leaders evening with Councillor Furnell at Ayr High recently and listen to the students speak.

The topics covered taking a digital detox and from small things big things grow. They spoke of how important volunteers are in the community and how taking a break from social media and the perils of what it can do to a person’s mental health.

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One speaker told how simply saying yes to playing a sport she had never played, opened up her world to friends and travel. As a parent, it was hearting to hear that these young future leaders are thinking about these things so deeply. Well done and thanks for the evening.  

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NQ’S FIGHT AGAINST PROPOSED DISASTER FUNDING CUTS CONTINUES

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A Federal Government proposal to slash its share of disaster funding has provoked fierce pushback in North Queensland, where Burdekin Shire Council officials fear the move could spell an “enormous” rate increase and leave disaster-affected communities by the wayside.

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“The Federal Government has just come up with a way to balance their budget, rather than looking at the impacts of their decision. They’re not understanding the human cost in all of this,” said Council CEO Matthew Magin.

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“For a government that prides itself on being fair, this is grossly unfair.”

The Albanese Government announced its intention to split disaster funding costs 50-50 with state and territory governments in June, replacing previous Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) where the Commonwealth covered up to 75 per cent of those costs.

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The Government argued the proposed reforms were designed to shift disaster management towards risk reduction and faster response, with Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain describing the new model as “simpler and fairer for all Australians.”

Burdekin Shire Council officials called claims of faster disaster funding delivery a “misinformation campaign”, arguing existing arrangements already provide councils with upfront funding support during disaster recovery.

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They also argued the proposed cost sharing reforms would only muddy responsibility and increase the financial burden on regional councils in disaster-prone regions.

“No one really knows who's going to pick up the bill,” said Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Environmental Services James Stewart.

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“It's just the Federal Government is saying, ‘well, we're not picking it up’, leaving it down to state or local government to make up the remainder.”

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Based on previous disaster seasons, Mr Magin estimated that funding shortfall to be in the order of hundreds of millions of dollars in Queensland alone.

“Can the state afford to double their contribution? Probably not—so they're going to come knocking on the door of the 77 councils in Queensland, and that could have a massive impact on our ratepayers,” he said.

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Mr Magin said the current arrangements had been instrumental in the Burdekin’s recovery from the 2025 tropical low that shook the region.

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He speculated that, had the proposed reforms been in place at the time, a rate hike of up to 10 per cent was entirely plausible.

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“In the last disaster season, [the proposed arrangements] would have cost [Burdekin Shire Council] an extra $3 million,” Mr Magin said.

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“A 1 per cent rate increase for us is around $300,000. So if we had to pay $3 million, that's a 10 per cent rate increase—and that's without anything else we have to put rates up for.

“It's really quite scary.”

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Council also raised concerns over changes to disaster funding qualification thresholds.

The current arrangements allow individual councils to access federal assistance once eligible disaster costs exceed around $230,000. Under the proposed reforms, costs from all councils affected by a disaster event would instead need to accumulate to $2.7 million before the Commonwealth stepped in.

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Betterment funding would also be capped at 15 per cent per damaged asset, where the current systems allow access to a broader funding pool determined by the scale of each event.

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Mr Magin and Mr Stewart warned the combination of changes could have serious consequences for local infrastructure.

“There will be some councils that simply won't be able to repair the roads. They’ll be sitting there in disrepair, and the public will have to drive over them,” Mr Magin said.

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“If a particular road keeps getting washed out, people will ask: ‘why don't you repair it properly? Why don't you bitumen it? Why don't you put concrete in?’ That’s where councils used to have the ability to apply for that funding, but no longer can,” Mr Stewart added.

Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said towns would also be left looking “shanty.”

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She argued the reforms would leave North Queensland communities behind, stressing the implications extended beyond councils.

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“We're not feeling the love,” she said.

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“They're not just hurting us at council—they’re hurting the whole community, and putting more people in harm’s way.

“There are many pots of money out there that they should be drawing back on instead of disaster management.”

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Mayor Dalle Cort said her letters to the Prime Minister, federal ministers, and senators rebuking the proposals had garnered no response.

She appeared on the panel at July’s Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Coastal Leaders Forum in the Whitsundays as councils congregated to discuss regional issues, including the DRFA.

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The forum follows months of LGAQ-led pushback, including advocacy efforts at the Australian Local Government Association’s National General Assembly in Canberra, where councils called on the Commonwealth to reconsider the proposed changes.

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The matter remains ongoing, with the LGAQ preparing a statewide sector submission opposing the proposed changes. Feedback from Queensland councils will inform the submission, due to be lodged with the National Emergency Management Authority on the 19th August.

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Critical crime prevention measures have been bolstered as Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP welcomed the proactive support for local small businesses under the second round of the Secure Communities Partnership Program.

Four small businesses across the Burdekin Electorate were among 170 in the state to receive co-funding for vital safety and security infrastructure as part of the $2million state government investment.  

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“Small business owners targeted by crime, are often left at a significant financial loss whether it is repairing physical damage or replacing stolen assets, to the flow on effect of potential job losses,” Mr Last said.

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“We have seen the Burdekin Shire Council receive co-funding towards CCTV infrastructure in critical areas of the Ayr CBD in previous rounds so it’s fantastic to now see small businesses in our industrial estate reap the benefits of this program.

“To have a small business succeed in their application because they were looking to take proactive steps to secure their site to mitigate the risk of becoming a target for criminal activity is exactly what the Secure Communities Partnership Program is all about.”

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“This is a clear example of how the Crisafulli Government is able to support small businesses to take those steps and deter crime and provide a resource to support incident response.”

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Mr Last said with the third round of the Secure Communities Partnership Program opening soon, this announcement highlighted the variety of Burdekin small businesses eligible for the support.

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“We’ve seen local governments as well as tourism, manufacturing and grazing businesses from across the Burdekin electorate benefit from past rounds of this program which is a fantastic demonstration of its success.”

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The Crisafulli Government’s $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program co-funds critical crime prevention measures such as CCTV, alarm and security systems, lighting and fencing to make small businesses safer.

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Round 3 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program will be released later in 2026-27. For more information please visit https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/supportservices/financial/grants/secure-communities.

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

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For students from regional and remote Queensland, choosing a senior school pathway can often mean looking beyond what is available locally.

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At Tec-NQ in Townsville, students in Years 10 to 12 can complete their senior schooling while building practical trade skills, gaining industry exposure and preparing for apprenticeships, employment, further training or future study.

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For students like Brandon Pope, that pathway has opened the door to new opportunities.

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Brandon moved from Mount Isa to Townsville to attend Tec-NQ and boards at Tec-NQ House while completing his senior studies. Now a Year 12 Automotive student, he has completed work experience in truck repairs and has already been offered work for after school.

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“I found a job, signed up, and I’m good to go when I graduate,” he said.

Tec-NQ House plays an important role for families outside Townsville, providing access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school while students live in a supervised boarding environment.

Located in Rosslea, Tec-NQ House supports regional and remote students with routine, supervision, daily transport to the Douglas campus and support as they build independence away from home.

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For parents and carers, this means students can access a specialised senior school pathway without losing the structure and care they need during their final years of school.

Tec-NQ is an accredited senior school and Registered Training Organisation. Its model brings senior schooling, practical trade training, work placement and industry connection together, giving students a hands-on way to learn and a clearer view of where their education can lead.

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At the Douglas campus, academic subjects are connected to industry, workshops form part of the everyday learning environment, and students have opportunities to build confidence in practical settings.

Students work toward their Queensland Certificate of Education, learn from registered teachers and trade-qualified facilitators, and are supported by student wellbeing, boarding and industry teams.

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For Charlie Cobb, a Year 12 Automotive student from Chillagoe, the Tec-NQ pathway has also helped create a practical start in industry. After boarding for much of his schooling, Charlie has built experience through casual work and signed into an apprenticeship.

“If you’re thinking of doing a trade, this is your best start,” he said.

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Stories like Brandon’s and Charlie’s show how Tec-NQ can support students who are ready for a senior school environment with a stronger connection to work, industry and future direction.

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Families interested in learning more will have the opportunity to see Tec-NQ in action at Campus Open Day on Saturday 22 August.

The event will give prospective students, parents and community members the chance to tour the workshops, meet staff, speak with industry partners and learn more about Senior School, Tec-NQ House, work placement and Full Time Training pathways.

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For regional families considering boarding and senior school options for 2027, Open Day is a chance to understand how Tec-NQ connects the steps from school to work.

Families who are unable to attend in person can also speak with Tec-NQ’s enrolments team to learn more about senior school options, boarding, entry points and the pathway from learning to work.

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For students ready to learn differently and build a future beyond the classroom, Tec-NQ offers a practical, supported pathway with real direction.

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Supplied by Tec-NQ

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Burdekin SES will receive two replacement operational vehicles through the Queensland Government's accelerated SES vehicle replacement program. Photo source: Queensland State Emergency Service

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Burdekin SES volunteers are set to benefit from two replacement operational vehicles as part of the Queensland Government's latest investment in strengthening disaster preparedness across the state.

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The Burdekin Shire has secured funding of $53,768 and $93,988 for two replacement vehicles through an accelerated vehicle replacement program, which forms part of the Queensland SES Support Grant Program.

Statewide, almost $2.5 million is being invested through the 2026-27 Queensland SES Support Grant Program to deliver 35 projects, including new and upgraded SES facilities, backup generators, storage sheds, command buildings and replacement operational vehicles.

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An additional $875,000 has also been committed to fast-track the replacement of 12 ageing SES vehicles identified as high priority due to safety and age-related concerns, including the two vehicles for the Burdekin.

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Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the investment would strengthen Queensland's emergency response capability.

"Every Queenslander relies on our SES volunteers when disaster strikes, and we're making sure they have the facilities, vehicles and equipment they need to keep communities safe," Minister Purdie said.

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"This latest round of grants will deliver 35 projects across Queensland while fast-tracking the replacement of 12 priority SES vehicles, strengthening our emergency response capability right across the State.”

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Queensland SES Acting Chief Officer Danny Baade said the funding would help improve volunteer safety and operational capability.

"It's vital that our members are supported in disaster preparedness and response.

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"Whether it's floods, cyclones, or search and rescues, this funding will allow our units to be equipped to help Queenslanders when they need it most."

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The investment forms part of the Queensland Government's broader commitment to strengthening SES capability, with volunteer numbers increasing to 5,555 statewide alongside 216 staff.

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Since joining the branch as a Customer Service Officer, Jaz has quickly become known for her welcoming nature and genuine interest in building relationships with customers. Photo supplied.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to celebrate the promotion of team member Jaz Green to the role of Personal Banker, recognising her commitment to customer service and her passion for helping people achieve their financial goals.

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Since joining the branch as a Customer Service Officer, Jaz has quickly become known for her welcoming nature and genuine interest in building relationships with customers.

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Originally from Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Jaz has embraced the Burdekin community and says its friendly, diverse spirit is one of the things she enjoys most about living and working in the region.

Her promotion marks an exciting new chapter, allowing her to work more closely with customers as they navigate important financial decisions throughout their lives.

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"The Personal Banker role is a relationship driven role," Jaz said.

"It's not just transactional customer service; it's about partnering with customers to help them understand and secure the financial products they need to achieve their goals."

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Rather than simply assisting with day-to-day banking, Personal Bankers take the time to understand each customer's individual circumstances and provide guidance on the products and services best suited to their needs.

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"The benefit for customers is having someone who understands their financial journey, helps simplify complex decisions and ultimately saves them time," she said.

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Jaz is particularly looking forward to supporting customers through life's important milestones, whether they're purchasing their first home, growing their savings or planning for the future.

"I look forward to mentoring people through their financial milestones and guiding them towards the right products. I'm excited to build genuine relationships and see the positive impact my work can have in their lives."

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For Jaz, working at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is about far more than banking.

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"The most satisfying thing about working for a community bank is being part of something bigger than just a company. We help fuel local success and return 80 per cent of our profits back into the communities we serve,” she said.

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said Jaz's promotion reflects both her dedication and the bank's commitment to developing local talent.

"Jaz has embraced every opportunity since joining our team, and this promotion is thoroughly deserved,” the said.

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“Her caring approach, willingness to learn and genuine desire to help others make her an excellent fit for the Personal Banker role. We know our customers will benefit from the relationships she'll continue to build as she supports them through every stage of their financial journey."

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Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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QRIDA is offering disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible Burdekin primary producers restore their businesses after the 2025–26 severe weather events. Photo source: Pexels

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Eligible primary producers across the Burdekin region can now apply for disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to assist with rebuilding and restoring their operations following severe weather and tropical cyclone events earlier this year.

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The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is administering the Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants for primary producers affected by the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather between December 2025 and April 2026.

The Burdekin is among the Queensland local government areas eligible for assistance under the program whereby eligible producers can access an initial grant of up to $10,000 to support immediate recovery activities, with further applications available up to a combined maximum of $65,000, bringing the total funding available to $75,000.

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Grant funding can be used to support clean-up and recovery costs, including repairing damaged buildings and fencing, replacing crops and livestock, restoring essential machinery and equipment, purchasing fodder, employing additional labour and undertaking other reinstatement works required after the disaster.

The program is designed to help producers recover from direct physical damage and resume normal farming operations as quickly as possible.

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To qualify, applicants must operate an eligible primary production enterprise within the declared disaster area, hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), provide evidence of direct damage caused by the disaster and intend to continue operating their business.

QRIDA staff are available to assist producers through the application process, with personalised support and appointments available for those requiring additional guidance.

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Applications remain open until 6th January 2027. For more information, eligibility guidelines or to apply, visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or phone 1800 623 946.

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There are times in life when we wish we could turn back the clock, and for me, one of those moments was the recent opening of the Anzac Park Pump Track. Watching the excitement and enthusiasm of so many young riders brought back memories of carefree days spent on a bike. Seeing our community come together to enjoy this fantastic facility was a reminder of the importance of creating spaces where families can connect, be active and make lasting memories.

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Another important date on the horizon is Census Night on Tuesday 11 August. I encourage every household in the Burdekin to take part and ensure their information is recorded accurately. The Census is much more than a statistical exercise. Population data influences how funding is distributed across Australia, helping to support infrastructure, services and community wellbeing. It is important that our region is counted so the Burdekin receives its fair share of future investment.

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I was also honoured to attend the 60th anniversary celebrations of Lavarack Barracks in Townsville. The event included a live combat demonstration and a historical address originally delivered by Prime Minister Harold Holt when he officially opened the barracks on 29 July 1966. Interestingly, Townsville was not the only location considered, with Victoria's Mornington Peninsula also in the running. Today, Lavarack Barracks spans approximately 750 hectares. To put that into perspective, that's roughly the size of more than 1,000 rugby league fields, an impressive reminder of its significance to North Queensland and Australia's defence capability.

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As part of the visit, I also toured James Cook University, where we learned about innovative work being undertaken in civil engineering and robotics. It was fascinating to discover that students from more than 100 countries choose to study at JCU, highlighting the university's strong international reputation and contribution to our region.

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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DEFENDING LOCAL RETIREES: Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox listening to community concerns as he rallies support against rising health costs for regional seniors. Photo supplied.

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Opinion piece by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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Seniors who spent decades working hard, paying taxes, and saving to fund their own future have earned the right to stability and security in their retirement. You expect your government to respect that lifetime of contribution. You do not expect it to target your retirement savings the moment you turn 65.

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Yet that is the harsh reality facing tens of thousands of seniors across Dawson under a policy shift by the Albanese Labor Government as part of its latest budget cash grab.

Starting in April 2027, the government will abolish the extra private health insurance rebate built specifically to keep healthcare affordable for retirees on fixed incomes. Right now, older Australians receive a higher rebate tier to offset the loss of a regular wage. Labor is scrapping that support to help cover its own budget deficit.

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The financial penalty is severe. Support drops from 28.1 per cent down to 24.1 per cent for people aged 65 to 69; for anyone 70 or older, it plunges from 32.2 per cent to 24.1 per cent.

In real dollars, this decision forces a massive annual price hike on vulnerable members of our community on fixed incomes. On average, this adds up to around $807 more for singles and $1,614 more for couples on comprehensive cover.  

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Under a Labor-created cost of living crisis where the price of basic necessities are rapidly rising, adding around $1,600 a year to a retiree’s healthcare is not insignificant, it is a heartless and brutal blow to locals who are already struggling under record electricity, grocery, and insurance costs.

Labor ministers can spin this as a routine adjustment, but internal department documents obtained under Freedom of Information expose the ugly truth. Federal health bureaucrats knew exactly what this cut would trigger: pensioners skipping meals and medicines, downgrading their protection, or dropping private cover entirely to join endless public waitlists in severe pain for joint replacements.

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And while this policy directly punishes seniors for self-funding their healthcare, the fallout will be felt by every family in our region.

Nearly half of all Age Pensioners make significant personal sacrifices to maintain private health cover because prompt treatment matters. Forcing them out of private health does not make their medical needs vanish, a failing heart or damaged joint still requires surgery. The only difference is that these patients will be shifted directly into local public hospital queues, piling unsustainable pressure onto doctors, nurses, and beds throughout our hospitals in Dawson.

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The economics behind this decision are completely backwards. Independent analysis confirms that for every single dollar the Federal Government saves by stripping away this rebate, our public hospital system will absorb $1.20 in extra emergency admissions and surgeries.  

It is a short-sighted cost-shift that treats local retirees like cash machines, will push state hospitals to breaking point, and has the real potential to blow out surgical wait times across the region.

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The Coalition firmly believes that if you take responsibility for your own healthcare, your government should support you, not penalise you. Seniors who built our communities deserve dignity and stability in retirement.  

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I want to hear directly from you about how this budget decision will impact your household. I have set up an online petition to gather our community's voice: if you are able, please fill it out at http://lbr.al/89sk. If you cannot access a computer, you can contact my office directly on (07) 4944 0662 or pop in to see us at Level 2, 47 Gordon Street, Mackay.  

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The Coalition will fight this unfair health tax every step of the way in Parliament to protect our retirees and defend our regional health services.

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New funding will support regional councils in expanding recycling services and improving waste management infrastructure across communities such as the Burdekin. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

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The Burdekin could benefit from improved recycling services and waste infrastructure under a new $487 million Queensland Government investment designed to increase recycling rates and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.

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The newly launched Waste Reduction and Recycling Activation Fund forms part of the Government's Less Landfill, More Recycling 2035 strategy and will deliver funding over five years for councils and industry to expand recycling services and resource recovery projects across Queensland.

Among the key initiatives is an $11 million Regional Recycling Transport Fund, aimed at helping regional councils move recyclable materials to processing facilities and making recycling projects more financially viable.

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The package also includes funding for kerbside recycling, education campaigns, illegal dumping initiatives, recycling technology and new resource recovery infrastructure.

Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the investment would help strengthen Queensland's recycling sector.

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"Less Landfill, More Recycling 2035 is our plan, and this investment is how we're getting on with delivering it,” said Mr Powell.

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"We've already made strong progress by putting the right incentives in place so councils and industry can invest with confidence and deliver the recycling infrastructure Queensland needs."

Mr Powell said the funding would make it easier for councils to expand services while supporting regional jobs and reducing waste.

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Local Government Association of Queensland chief executive officer Alison Smith welcomed the return of transport funding for recycled materials.

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"Councils have been consistently calling for this transportation funding to be restored because it is key to increasing recycling rates and reducing the overall amount of waste going to landfill in a state as decentralised as Queensland," chief executive officer Alison Smith said.

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Burdekin motorists could return to spending up to $2.20 per litre for unleaded and up to $2.65 for diesel after the reinstatement of the full fuel excise nationwide.

The price hike will follow a four-month period during which the Federal Government reduced the fuel excise, saving some motorists up to $20 per tank.

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The government has now confirmed it will not extend the cut for a second time, with RACQ Principal Economic and Affordability Specialist Dr Ian Jeffreys predicting the change will reach bowsers by next week.

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“It normally takes around a week to 10 days for the higher excise to flow through to station prices, depending on when retailers purchase new fuel stock,” Dr Jeffreys said.

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“That means there will still be cheaper fuel available in the market in the coming days and motorists should continue looking for the best value.”

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He said that, amid the return of the full excise, uncertainty in global oil markets could see prices rise even higher.

“Unfortunately, we’ve also seen the global oil price jump from below US$80 per barrel to around US$90 in the past two weeks,” he said.

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“If renewed tensions in the Middle East remain high, we could see these increased oil prices persist and ultimately push bowser prices up further in Queensland.”

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Ministry Unit Warden Pam Ashworth (pictured) said that while the sale would spell the end of the building as it’s known today, it opens the door for “a new start” for the congregation. Photo: Jacob Casha.

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St. Helens Anglican Church in Home Hill has seen generations of love, life, and new beginnings unfold within its walls over the last 49 years.

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Ironically, it now prepares for its own new chapter.

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The church is among a group of properties owned by the Anglican Diocese of North Queensland earmarked for sale as the diocese works to meet its financial obligations to victims of historic child sexual abuse.

The diocese, which covers almost one-third of the state, was placed into receivership after facing millions of dollars in financial liabilities, with court-appointed receiver Michael Brennan now overseeing the sale of its assets in a bid to raise up to $18 million.

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According to an ABC report, Mr Brennan said the diocese had “too many churches, not enough priests, and probably not enough parishioners” to justify the cost of operating all of its properties.

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Eleven properties have subsequently been placed on the market, with a further 23 church assets across North Queensland awaiting court approval for sale, including St. Helens.

Ministry Unit Warden Pam Ashworth said that while the sale would spell the end of the building as it’s known today, it opens the door for “a new start” for the congregation.

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“Christianity still lives on,” she said.

“The church is an extension of our own families … and we have a wonderful group of people that, hopefully, will see it continue.”

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The St. Helens congregation has a history in the town dating back more than 100 years. Its current building on Fourteenth Street was built in 1977, hosting services and becoming a fixture of the town ever since.

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Home Hill local Kate Casswell, who was married at St. Helens, said she could understand—albeit regrettably—the decision to sell the Home Hill church, pointing to its close proximity to All Saints Church in Ayr.

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“One can see why it’s been slated for sale,” she said.

“We have to accept that times have changed. If Home Hill was established now, [the church] probably wouldn’t have been built in the first place; it’s really only 10-15 minutes across the river to All Saints.

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“But that doesn’t make [the sale] less sad. All the special memories made there will live on.”

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Church assets in Mackay, Proserpine, Bowen and Townsville are also among properties being sold as part of the diocese’s broader effort to resolve its financial liabilities.

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Mrs Ashworth confirmed that stocktaking procedures at St Helens were being undertaken in preparation for the church’s expected sale next year.

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She said the congregation would continue meeting at the building until a buyer was found, with discussions to determine where services would be held once the property changed hands.

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Judah and Mia's sausage sizzle attracted a steady stream of locals eager to enjoy lunch while backing a worthy cause. Photo: Kari Ravizza.

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Two Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassadors have turned sausages, raffle tickets and community spirit into much-needed support for vulnerable animals, raising hundreds for Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue last Saturday.

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Held outside Harvey Norman and proudly supported by Burdekin Christian College, Judah and Mia's sausage sizzle attracted a steady stream of locals eager to enjoy lunch while backing a worthy cause.

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Alongside sausage sandwiches, drinks and raffle tickets, the event also accepted donations of pet food to help care for foster dogs and cats through Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue.

By the end of the day, the community had helped the Burdekin Christian College students raise $828 for the rescue organisation, while also donating pet food for animals currently in foster care.

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Burdekin Christian College later took to Facebook to thank the staff, community members and Burdekin Water Festival Committee members who supported the fundraiser, paying special tribute to Mrs Knight and Amanda for their behind-the-scenes preparation and contributions.

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The successful event forms part of the Burdekin Water Festival program, which sees ambassadors host community fundraisers throughout the festival season while developing leadership, teamwork and community engagement skills.

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The Queensland sugarcane industry has launched a push to secure the evidence needed to restore paraquat access in cane production, with industry groups warning the herbicide’s removal could leave growers without effective weed-control options.Photo: CANEGROWERS.

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The Queensland sugarcane industry has launched a push to secure the evidence needed to restore paraquat access in cane production, with industry groups warning the herbicide’s removal could leave growers without effective weed-control options.

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Following the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority’s (APVMA) decision to remove sugarcane from revised paraquat and diquat labels, Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has joined Sugar Research Australia (SRA) and other agricultural groups in seeking a pathway for continued use.

The APVMA’s decision was based on an unresolved risk assessment relating to birds, while assessments covering residues, trade and mammals were resolved without issue.

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QCAR General Manager Tara Malapass said paraquat remained a key tool for early-season weed control in sugarcane.

“It remains one of the few effective options for early-season weed control, and its removal from in-crop use has significant implications for a farmer’s ability to manage weeds effectively and sustainably,” she said.

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Mrs Malapass said historical data on bird interactions with paraquat use in cane did not provide the specific evidence now required by the regulator.

“Generating that evidence is the core task ahead,” she said.

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QCAR has begun discussions with SRA to establish a cross-industry technical working group to investigate the APVMA’s requirements and develop the evidence needed to support continued paraquat use.

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The group will include specialists in chemistry, regulation, agronomy, ecology, spray technology and cropping systems.

QCAR said the work would involve collaboration with other industries, including grains, rice, potatoes and vegetables, which are facing similar challenges.

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Mrs Malapass said there was no guarantee the review process would result in paraquat’s continued approval.

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“What we can commit to is exhausting every viable avenue, working transparently with farmers and industry partners, and keeping members informed as this progresses,” she said.

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Outgoing president Eusebio Aguirre (pictured) is urging the community to step up and “help save the region’s business community”. Photo: Jacob Casha.

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A shortage of willing leaders has pushed the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce to the brink, with the longstanding business organisation calling a crisis meeting in a final bid to secure its future and preserve a key voice for the region’s business community.

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CHAMBER CALLS FOR NEW LEADERS AS CLOSURE LOOMS

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The Burdekin Chamber of Commerce has sounded the alarm, calling a public crisis meeting in an effort to keep the longstanding organisation from folding.

The move follows the resignation of its last remaining executive members, leaving every position vacant ahead of the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September.

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In keeping with its bylaws, if a president, secretary and treasurer do not step up by the AGM in a month’s time, the organisation will cease to operate.

The Chamber’s demise would spell the end of a decades-long legacy of business advocacy in the region. Its annual Burdekin Christmas Street Party has also become a beloved fixture on the Burdekin calendar, with the organisation estimating it generated more than $2 million for local businesses last year.

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As one final throw of the dice, the Chamber has announced an open crisis meeting at the Queens Hotel in Ayr at 5.30pm Thursday 6th of August.

Led by outgoing president and owner of ELA Solutions Eusebio Aguirre, alongside other former executive members, the meeting will outline each vacant role in a bid to drum up interest and fill the positions on the night.

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Mr Aguirre said the meeting was open to all local business houses, urging the community to step up and “help save the region’s business community.”

“I’m worried,” Mr Aguirre said.

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“We’ve built [the Chamber] up to be such a great thing—and for what?

“We just need people with passion to step in. We can’t let it fold.”

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Mr Aguirre admitted that these were not uncharted waters for the organisation, which held a crisis meeting three years ago for almost identical reasons.

The positions were ultimately filled after a small group of business owners, including Mr Aguirre himself, made a pact on the night to take charge of the organisation.

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After fulfilling his three-year term as president, he hopes next month’s meeting can produce a similar outcome.

“We all made a pact—‘if you do it, I’ll do it’. Then, more and more came onboard … everyone was talking about it, and it snowballed into something amazing,” Mr Aguirre said.

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“That’s what we’re hoping will happen this time.”

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If the Burdekin Chamber folds, it would follow a North Queensland trend which has also seen Charters Towers and Hughenden lose their respective Chambers of Commerce.

Mr Aguirre said the irony of the crisis was that it was not driven by financial distress.

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He said the new committee would inherit a “very financially viable” organisation which had increased its membership by almost 100 over the past year. The organisation has also maintained strong attendance across its monthly workshops and networking meetings.

However, Mr Aguirre said the membership support alone was not enough to save the Chamber.  

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He urged anyone interested in taking on an executive role to attend the 6th of August meeting at the Queens Hotel to learn more.

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More than 2200 Burdekin children have taken part in local sport through the Queensland Government’s Play On! Sports Vouchers program. Photo: Burdekin Roosters Rugby League.

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More than 2200 Burdekin children have taken part in local sport through the Queensland Government’s Play On! Sports Vouchers program, with the initiative helping families offset participation costs.

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The previous round of vouchers saw 2,256 redeemed through 50 sporting and activity providers across the Burdekin region, as clubs continue to welcome children across a range of summer and winter sports.

With the latest round of vouchers now open and local sporting seasons underway, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the timing provided an opportunity for families to access support.

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“Despite soccer, rugby league and netball holding the highest number of voucher participants across the state, with Burdekin’s 50 listed sport clubs, there are certainly plenty of opportunities for kids to get involved in a summer or winter sport,” Mr Last said.

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“Research shows a long list of benefits that come from kids playing sport and we want to make those benefits available to as many families as possible. Basically, if a child is aged between 5 and 17, and is named on a Medicare card then they are eligible.”

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Mr Last said the program would continue after the Crisafulli Government committed $62.5 million each year for the next four years.

“By providing this real cost of living relief, the Crisafulli Government is getting more kids playing sports and a continuation of the success the Burdekin has already seen on the national and international sporting stages.”

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“We have already seen a strong uptake of vouchers in regional areas of Queensland and we want that to continue which is why the Crisafulli Government has continued its dedicated allocation of vouchers for children living with a disability and for kids in regional and remote areas,” Mr Last said.

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“This is real cost of living relief that is getting kids active, supporting local clubs, and backing families in our community.”

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Creativity has always come naturally to local artist Monica Kupke, whose journey has taken her from painting murals at Ayr State High School to building a career as a tattoo artist. Photo supplied.

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Creativity has always come naturally to local artist Monica Kupke, whose journey has taken her from painting murals at Ayr State High School to building a career as a tattoo artist; transforming a childhood passion into a profession.

Ms Kupke fondly recalls spending countless hours throughout her childhood painting and sketching in the comfort of her room. By the age of 10, she had begun taking her craft seriously, dedicating herself to mastering realism through graphite and coloured pencils.

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"My pieces would end up being really detailed and very time consuming, but I always adored the final result," Ms Kupke said.

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During her time at Ayr State High School, Ms Kupke helped design and paint several murals that remain proudly displayed around the grounds today; a legacy she holds close, knowing future generations of students can continue to experience and engage with art during their schooling journey.

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"My experience with art class at Ayr State High School was one I'll never forget—it shaped me for the better in so many ways," she said.

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"Art is so special. It involves much more than just ink on a page. It can tell stories, involve science, history and so much more. I really hope the new generation keeps traditional art going, as it keeps us human. I hope I have inspired at least one person to pick up a pen and paper."

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Over the years, Ms Kupke has developed a style that blends realism with subtle elements of surrealism, and her graphite and coloured pencil works are known for their intricate detail and precision, while commissioned pet portraits have become a particular favourite.

That same versatility now extends to her tattooing, where she specialises in traditional, neo-traditional and fine line black and grey designs. Inspired by fellow artists, pop culture, gaming and the natural world, Ms Kupke said she enjoys creating pieces that are both distinctive and enduring.

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"Neo-traditional focuses on bold, colourful elements while still feeling modern and timeless, while fine line black and grey is challenging but incredibly rewarding," she said.

"Capturing light and shadow while incorporating softness and texture is something I really love."

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While pursuing a career in the arts can often be challenging, Ms Kupke found herself drawn to tattooing after discovering the craft online. Combined with her background in customer service and her love of connecting with people, it wasn't long before she pursued a tattoo apprenticeship.

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"I knew I wanted to do something creative while also being able to express my personality," she said.

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Now practising at a local tattoo studio, Ms Kupke said the support she has received from the community that raised her has been invaluable, describing the loyalty of Burdekin residents as "truly unmatched".

"I'm so grateful for the people who have trusted me to tattoo them—being able to help people bring their ideas to life brings me so much joy," she said.

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"In my tattooing career, I have met so many amazing souls that have changed my life, and having that close experience with an artist who brings your vision to life honestly makes it all worth it. I really do hope people can share that experience with me while getting tattooed—being comfortable and happy is all that matters to me when you're in my chair."

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Ms Kupke sees tattooing as far more than a way to create beautiful designs; she believes the process offers a sense of peace, connection and personal expression that resonates deeply with many people, including herself.

"It's the tattooing ritual and making art that keeps us down to earth and connected," she said.

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With an exciting future ahead, Ms Kupke hopes to continue refining her craft to grow as an artist, emphasising that learning is a lifelong journey and hopes to encourage aspiring young creatives to pursue their passions with an open mind.

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“Young creatives, don’t give up on your art form, keep working on it – being open to learning is something you should never shut yourself off from as it will keep you locked away from trying new things,” she said.

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“Grow, flourish, and watch the people around you – the world offers never ending inspiration, and the best piece of advice is do not be scared and doubt yourself; be you – keep practising and keep working hard – someone will appreciate your art for what it is.”

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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. 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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As a FriendlyCare member, you will 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 FriendlyCare App 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

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Police responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Edwards and Munro streets in Ayr last week. Photo: Facebook/Vicki De Non.

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Police responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Edwards and Munro streets in Ayr last week.

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The crash occurred at around 12.10pm on Thursday, July 23, leaving a 28-year-old female driver with a broken arm.

Nearby CCTV footage is assisting police with their ongoing investigation into the incident.

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Ayr Fire and Rescue crews also attended the scene.

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The crash follows a series of other incidents in the Burdekin region this month, including a truck rollover and fire near Clare that left the driver seriously injured before he was airlifted to Townsville Hospital.

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Dianna with her daughter. Photos supplied: Queensland Police.

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Nearly three decades after Bowen woman Dianne Angwin was murdered in her home, detectives have renewed their search for information, doubling the reward to $500,000 as a cold case review and new forensic testing breathe new life into the investigation.

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Dianne Angwin moved to Bowen from Victoria in 1995. Following the breakdown of her marriage, she moved in with her friend Edith “Edie” Lay.  

Just over 2 years later, around 12.30am on December 2^nd, Edie reported being woken by an unknown man standing over her bed with one hand covering her mouth and a knife in the other.

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Dianne appeared at the bedroom doorway before running from the intruder, who chased after her. Moments later, she was fatally stabbed in the neck. A neighbour rushed Dianne to Bowen Base Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.  

What followed was an investigation that saw police obtaining over 100 witness statements. A closer look at the home left police with no signs of forced entry or disturbance, with no property reported stolen.  

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The reward for information leading evidence for who might be responsible has increased from $250,000 to $500,000. Detectives from the Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team have begun new forensic testing on evidence collected from the scene and will re-interview witnesses and persons of interest in Bowen, Cairns and Victoria.

“Dianne’s housemate, Edie, died in 2022. As part of our review, police have identified witnesses who Edie confided in, confirming she knew the identity of the man and had not told police at the time of the offence as she was scared for her own safety,” Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said.

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“We would also like to speak to anyone who has information regarding a relationship Dianne was involved in with a local married man, who had been seen at her unit.

“Information suggests that around the time of Dianne’s murder, she was actively encouraging him to leave his wife so that they could overtly continue the relationship.

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“There are people out there with information. Relationships and loyalties change, and I would encourage anyone with information, big or small, to contact police.

Bowen residents with information relevant to Dianne’s Murder are encouraged to attend mobile police facilities and talk with investigators. Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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Under the new boundaries, Burdekin will gain the Charters Towers area from the former Traeger (now Flinders) electorate, including the Charters Towers township (pictured). Photo: Shutterstock.

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The Burdekin electorate will expand west and north to absorb the Charters Towers local government area and southern parts of the Townsville local government area ahead of the 2028 Queensland state election.

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The Queensland Redistribution Commission finalised its electorate redistribution last month, stating the changes would “unite areas which share a community of interest and improve enrolment in the district”.

Under the new boundaries, Burdekin will gain the Charters Towers area from the former Traeger (now Flinders) electorate, including the Charters Towers township, while also gaining Wulguru, Roseneath and parts of Stuart from Mundingburra.

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In exchange, the electorate will lose parts of the Isaac local government area, including Nebo, Coppabella, Moranbah and Clermont, to the Mirani and Gregory electorates.

The redistribution follows a submission from Charters Towers Regional Council which pushed for its inclusion in the Burdekin electorate.

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Charters Towers Regional Council Mayor Liz Schmidt welcomed the result, saying the decision would allow Charters Towers to “further strengthen regional partnerships with the Burdekin”.

“One of the key opportunities is the potential to further strengthen regional partnerships with the Burdekin on issues that affect both communities, including water security, transport infrastructure, agriculture, economic development, workforce attraction and emergency management,” Mayor Schmidt said.

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“There is already a strong relationship between our regions and this change has the potential to build on that foundation.”

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Mayor Schmidt acknowledged the differing views on the redistribution, citing concerns amongst residents who identify with inland communities about how their interests will be represented.

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However, she said the finalised boundaries ultimately “reflected existing regional connections.”

Member for Burdekin Dale Last also supported the change, calling it an opportunity to “rekindle” his relationships with communities set to join the electorate.

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“My working life has revolved around supporting people throughout regional Queensland as both a Police Officer, a Councillor on Townsville City Council and then as the Member for Burdekin,” Mr Last said.

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"I’m fortunate to have worked previously in the areas that have been added to the electorate, and I look forward to rekindling positive working relationships with those communities and building new ones.”

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Mr Last also noted the redistribution was required to address projected population changes, with the Commission finding Burdekin would fall outside the required enrolment range under its existing boundaries by 2032.

“The calculations undertaken by the Redistribution Commission showed that change was needed,” he said.

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“Whilst the new areas are not added to the electorate of Burdekin until the next election, I will be taking a keen interest in the issues that affect those areas and offering them my assistance, where needed, to ensure they receive the representation they deserve in the Queensland Parliament.”

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Several of the 14 survivors accommodated in Ayr, with Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Ayr Police Officer in Charge, Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right). Photo credit: Jacob Casha.

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Survivors of the Gumlu bus rollover, which gained national attention earlier this year, have sent a ‘touching’ letter of gratitude to the Burdekin community for its compassion in the aftermath of the fatal crash.

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Tragedy struck in May when a FlixBus heading from Cairns to the Whitsundays rolled off the Bruce Highway, claiming one life and leaving dozens injured and stranded.

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The incident prompted an immediate, triple-pronged response from the Burdekin community, with emergency services, Burdekin Shire Council officials and the local community rallying to coordinate emergency relief and accommodation to the shaken passengers.

14 survivors stayed in Ayr overnight and were then cared for at the Burdekin Theatre loft the following day, provided with meals and medication before continuing their travels south.

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Survivors lauded the Burdekin community's response at the time, particularly thanking Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort for her assistance.

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Months later, several of them have joined forces to reaffirm their gratitude, sending a card to Council Chambers containing heartfelt messages of thanks to the community.

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Among messages was one from Swedish traveller Anton, which read: “The circumstances were horrendous and it’s going to take a lot of time to process it, of course. Somehow, though, you made me feel at least a little bit at home in Ayr … [and] did what you could. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!”

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Another message from Chilean natives Hernan and Barbara said: “We want to thank all the people from Ayr … In a moment we felt so alone, you were the one to hold us and protect us, making sure we had all the necessary support. We hope there are more people like you in the world.”

Mayor Dalle Cort said the card was a “thoughtful gesture that meant a lot to everyone involved.”

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“Receiving the card from the Gumlu bus crash survivors was incredibly touching and greatly appreciated,” she said.

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“We are proud of the way our community came together to support those affected, and it's heartening to know that support made a difference during such a difficult time.

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“This message of gratitude really belongs to the entire Burdekin community.”

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Queensland has recorded its first suspected positive case of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza after a deceased petrel washed ashore on Moreton Island. Photo: iStock.

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Queensland has recorded its first suspected positive case of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza last Friday, after a deceased petrel washed ashore on Moreton Island.

The Department of Primary Industries confirmed initial testing at the state’s Biosecurity Sciences Laboratory returned a positive result for the H5 strain. Samples have since been dispatched to the CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness in Geelong for final confirmation, with official results to be released by the Federal Government.

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Authorities have stressed that the detection presents no immediate threat to commercial poultry or native wild animal populations. No further cases have been identified across the state, and there is no evidence of mass animal mortality.

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Department of Primary Industries Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Allison Crook said biosecurity teams were primed for the detection following previous cases in Western Australia, South Australia, and New South Wales.

“We have known that a H5 bird flu detection in Queensland was a matter of when, not if,” Dr Crook said.

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“The Queensland Government is well prepared to respond. This suspect positive result has not impacted our poultry sector or domestic wildlife. We are continuing our enhanced passive surveillance program throughout the state and would encourage the community and industry to continue to be vigilant.”

The Minister for Primary Industries reaffirmed that human health risks remain exceptionally low, noting that local food supplies are entirely unaffected.

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“The risk to human health remains unchanged,” the Minister said.

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“It is safe to continue to eat chicken meat or eggs, and I would encourage Queenslanders to purchase these products as they normally would. The Crisafulli Government remains focused on supporting the poultry industry during this time.”

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Australia recorded its first detection of this H5 strain on 20 June in Western Australia, with subsequent cases confirmed among wild marine birds in southern and eastern states.

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While commercial poultry operations remain clear, poultry keepers and landholders across regional Queensland are being asked to maintain strict biosecurity measures. Domestic flocks and their feeding areas should be kept strictly segregated from wild birds to prevent potential exposure.

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Members of the public who spot sick or dead wild birds or other wildlife are advised not to handle them.

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Millions of Australians received a loud emergency warning on their mobile devices this week as the nation's new AusAlert system passed its first nationwide test ahead of its official rollout in October. Photo: Adobe Stock.

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Millions of Australians received a loud emergency warning on their mobile devices this week as the nation's new AusAlert system passed its first nationwide test ahead of its official rollout in October.

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The 2pm test on Monday, 27th July, broadcast a “Critical Alert” across about 94 per cent of Australia's mobile towers, marking a major milestone in replacing the country's ageing SMS-based emergency warning system.

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Developed in response to the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements following the Black Summer bushfires, AusAlert uses cell-broadcast technology to deliver warnings instantly to compatible devices connected to mobile towers in an affected area.

Unlike SMS alerts, which can be delayed during network congestion, the new system broadcasts simultaneously, overrides silent mode with a siren-like alarm and full-screen message, and can continue alerting people who enter a danger zone after an emergency has begun.

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Townsville Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group chairperson Nick Dametto welcomed the successful trial.

"Living in Northern Australia means we're no strangers to natural disasters, so having a unified national warning system that works effectively across our region will be invaluable for our residents and visitors during extreme weather events," Cr Dametto said.

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While the national trial was considered a technical success, some older devices failed to receive the alert or displayed overseas warning labels such as "Presidential Alert”.

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Queensland emergency authorities will continue using the existing SMS warning system alongside AusAlert while refining operational arrangements before the new platform is introduced nationally in October.

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Inkerman Mill (pictured) recorded its strongest week of the season so far, processing 91,105 tonnes of cane. Photo: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

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Burdekin sugar mills have crushed more than 2.4 million tonnes of cane for the 2026 season, with the region recording another strong week of production despite several maintenance interruptions.

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The district’s four mills processed 356,626 tonnes of cane during week seven, ending Saturday, 18th July, taking the season total to 2,402,537 tonnes.

While weekly throughput was down on the previous week, Burdekin district cane supply remained above budget expectations, with average commercial cane sugar (CCS) reaching 14.95—almost one unit higher than budget.

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Inkerman Mill recorded its strongest week of the season so far, processing 91,105 tonnes of cane.

The mill’s performance was the standout among the district’s four facilities, with Invicta crushing 127,850 tonnes, Kalamia processing 74,107 tonnes and Pioneer handling 63,564 tonnes for the week.

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Invicta continues to lead the district in total cane crushed, reaching 922,154 tonnes for the season, followed by Inkerman on 520,296 tonnes, Kalamia on 491,916 tonnes and Pioneer on 468,170 tonnes.

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Season-to-date CCS across the Burdekin region sits at 14.34, with Invicta recording the highest average at 14.49.

The strongest individual CCS result for the week came from a rake of Q240 plant cane supplied from the Barratta productivity district, which recorded a CCS of 17.30.

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Q240 was also the leading variety across the region during week seven, accounting for 50 per cent of cane variety performance and averaging 15.02 CCS.

SRA23 recorded the highest CCS among reported varieties at 15.21, although it represented six per cent of the region’s variety mix.

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The week’s production was affected by several mill maintenance issues, with both Invicta and Pioneer undergoing scheduled cleaning intermissions.

Invicta Mill also experienced a bagasse conveyor choke, resulting in 28 hours of downtime, while Kalamia had an unplanned stop to allow repairs to its No. 1 mill.

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Despite the interruptions, Burdekin mills maintained a strong pace heading further into the season, with weekly production remaining ahead of expectations.

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This week I attended the Local Government Association of Queensland Coastal Leaders Forum, where mayors and local government leaders from across the state came together to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing our coastal communities.

I had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion focused on the Bruce Highway and the ongoing need for strategic investment in North Queensland transport infrastructure. It was an important conversation, and one I am passionate about as we continue to advocate for projects that will improve safety, connectivity and economic development throughout the Burdekin.

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One point that struck me during the discussions was the fact that many of the issues we are debating today were also being discussed more than two decades ago. Having been involved in the Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon Bypass Study in 2000, it is remarkable to see some of the same conversations continuing, particularly regarding the need for a second river crossing.

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While progress can sometimes feel slow, there are important improvements taking place. The raising of Plantation Creek Road is one example of infrastructure investment that will improve resilience and connectivity for our community. As your Mayor, I will continue working with all levels of government to ensure the Burdekin's priorities remain firmly on the agenda and that our region receives the investment it deserves for future growth and prosperity.

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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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Decades of future burial space have been secured across the Burdekin Shire following the unanimous adoption of a comprehensive Cemetery Masterplan by Council last month. Photo: Visit Burdekin.

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Decades of future burial space have been secured across the Burdekin Shire following the unanimous adoption of a comprehensive Cemetery Masterplan by Council last month.

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In effect since late May, the strategy addresses critical land shortages and historical record errors, extending the operational lifespan of both Ayr and Home Hill cemeteries to roughly 25 years without requiring immediate land acquisitions.

Council documents highlight that the framework gives local government a flexible roadmap to manage future interments while ensuring decisions are made “progressively in response to community needs.”

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Prior to the policy, Ayr Cemetery faced an operational life of just 7.3 years with 1,332 available plots, while Home Hill had roughly five years remaining with 289 plots. By rationalising internal roads and expanding into unused land pockets, Council will unlock 4,227 new plots, increasing total capacity to 11,972 plots at Ayr and 4,242 at Home Hill. Columbarium walls across both sites will also double.

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The plan builds on the June 2024 rollout of the OpusXenta digital platform, which ground-truthed grave locations to fix legacy mapping gaps and non-sequential numbering. The digital system allows interstate families to search records and view headstone photos remotely, providing “meaningful benefits to the community” on the go.

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Rolled out in three stages through to 2036 and beyond, initial works will focus on opening immediate plot space and improving physical signage before expanding footprints into Mackenzie Street. All new sections will remain non-denominational.

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I would like to highlight the valuable work of Burdekin Area Youth Watch (Baywatch), a non-for-profit community organisation dedicated to supporting local youth through sport, recreation and positive community engagement. By providing diversionary programs, Baywatch helps reduce youth involvement in the juvenile justice system while promoting confidence, healthy lifestyles, school attendance and personal development.

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Baywatch offers a range of activities including Touch Football, Basketball, Boxing, Fishing, Rugby League, Soccer, Tennis and fitness programs. As a not-for-profit organisation, it relies on donations and limited funding to operate three buses and deliver mentoring and support services to local youth.

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A small committee is also working to establish a drop-in centre for at-risk youth at the former racecourse building and is seeking donations of quality furniture and equipment, including lounges, bean bags, gym equipment, televisions, gaming equipment, bicycles, scooters and children's clothing.

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If you would like to donate items or make a financial contribution, please contact me at the Ayr Police Station. Thank you for supporting this important initiative and helping create positive opportunities for young people in our community.

Another great organisation is the The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre it was founded by a group of community-minded women.  The Centre has grown into a vital community hub, supporting around 10,000 people each year. The Centre is committed to fostering inclusion, community participation, and wellbeing by providing a welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and access support.

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Funded through the Queensland Government’s Community Support and Sector Development Program and Neighbourhood Centre Initiative, the Centre offers a range of services, including information and referral support, meeting spaces, social and support groups, lifestyle programs, free community legal advice, emergency relief assistance, and support for local initiatives.

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The Centre also hosts a variety of community programs, including Be Connected, My Aged Navigator, MyTime Burdekin, the Dementia Support Group, Seniors’ Computer Club, Parkinson’s Queensland Support Group, and a community crochet group. Through these services, the Centre continues to strengthen community connections and improve the wellbeing of people across the Burdekin region.

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“Superannuation is meant to be a private fortress for your retirement; it is not a quarry for a government to dig into and mine whenever they face a budget shortfall.” Photo supplied.

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Opinion by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

If you put your hard-earned cash into a locked safe every single week for decades, you expect the lock to hold. You certainly do not expect the federal government to turn up years later with a crowbar, trying to force it open. Yet, this is exactly the kind of financial trespass that people across our electorate are concerned about right now.  

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Superannuation is meant to be a private fortress for your retirement; it is not a quarry for a government to dig into and mine whenever they face a budget shortfall.

To understand why so many locals are worried, we need to look closely at the legislation that came into effect on 1 July: the Treasury Laws Amendment (Building a Stronger and Fairer Super System) Act 2026. This new law doubles the concessional tax rate from 15 per cent to 30 per cent for individuals with superannuation balances exceeding $3 million.  

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The government is playing standard class-warfare politics here, targeting a small percentage of wealthy people. Why this is concerning for everyday Australians, is that by breaking the promise that superannuation is sacrosanct, the government has set a precedent: if they can come after these high-balance accounts today, middle-class savings will be next on the chopping block when the deficit deepens. That is why the Coalition opposed this legislation.

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Even more concerning is the Prime Minister's recent language, where he explicitly branded our $4.5 trillion national retirement pool as a "national asset".  

This is outrageous, your superannuation does not belong to the federal government, it belongs to you. The government wanting to treat your private savings like a state-run bank account to fund their political pet projects is an abhorrent overreach.

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Look at the mess this Labor government has made of the economy; it is blindingly obvious they cannot manage money. Now, they are bringing that exact same financial incompetence to your private retirement savings. They have zero right to dictate where your money goes, but they are altering the official performance benchmarks anyway: they want to force big super funds to bankroll their ideological green energy projects.

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In other words, this Labor government wants to push your retirement money into an ideological net zero fantasy that is already costing an estimated trillion dollars.  

This experimental agenda cannot survive on its own merits; it has to be propped up with massive, ongoing subsidies just to stay afloat. Blind Freddy can see this is a terrible investment strategy that would likely destroy the compound returns of everyday workers.  

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Hard working Australians should not be subjected to this government’s woke ideology, and they certainly should not be gambling your retirement security on their unproven climate experiments.

Then there is the backdoor plan to tangle your private superannuation up with Centrelink. This is a massive shift being pushed by the original architect of the system, Paul Keating, after he sat down for talks with the Prime Minister.  

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They are trying to sell this to you as a simple tweak, claiming it makes sense to turn your super fund into the main shopfront for the Age Pension. This is a dangerous move to set up a massive data-sharing pipeline between the government and your private accounts. It forces corporate super funds to act as gatekeepers for public welfare, completely blurring the line between your own hard-earned savings and taxpayer-funded entitlements.  

Independent economist Dr Cameron Murray hit the nail on the head when he warned about the massive bureaucratic mess this will create.

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He said, "The superannuation network is already a highly complex, expensive apparatus that costs billions of dollars a year just to run. Attempting to integrate this private infrastructure with the public Age Pension system risks creating a massive bureaucratic web that compromises the economic efficiency of public welfare."

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Superannuation relies entirely on a promise of long-term stability. If you sacrifice your current lifestyle to build an independent future, you deserve to know your money is safe from political interference.  

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The Albanese Labor government must not rewrite the rules of superannuation to cover their economic failures. They want the power to pick winners and losers with your life savings, ensuring the government gets the good headlines while your retirement balance carries all the danger.

When Labor runs out of money, they come after yours.

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Burdekin rookie firefighter Parker Arboit has become Ayr Fire Station’s latest local recruit. Photo: Jacob Casha.

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Burdekin rookie firefighter Parker Arboit has become Ayr Fire Station’s latest local recruit, returning home to nurture a seed planted years ago by his father.

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“My old boy was an auxiliary [firefighter] back in the day, and he only had good things to say about the people he worked with … and the lifestyle,” Mr Arboit said.

“I decided I'd give it a crack, got through the whole process … now I’ve just got to keep my head down and keep learning.”

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Mr Arboit’s return to the region follows a years-long stint in Townsville with the family business, during which he simultaneously completed his firefighter recruitment phase despite initially being knocked back.

His persistence eventually prevailed, overcoming a series of physical and cognitive testing sessions—including a claustrophobia test and “nerve-racking” panel interview in Brisbane—before landing back in the Burdekin as an entry-level firefighter in May.

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After signalling Ayr as his preferred station on his application form, Mr Arboit said he was eager to return to the town and leverage his local knowledge in the new role.

“I wanted to get back to the hometown … it feels comfortable back here,” he said.

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“Knowing the rural areas around here and how to reach them, and all the back streets, helps us get around a lot quicker.”

Second Class firefighter at Ayr Station Lindsay Wilson said Mr Arboit’s integration with the crew had been seamless.

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“Local knowledge always goes a long way,” Mr Wilson said.

“He’s become part of the furniture … and has fit in with the crew straight away.”

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Mr Arboit joins a team of 13 at Ayr Station, one of nine members with roots in the region.

He now commences a four-year ranked progression period on his way to becoming a senior firefighter, which he called his ultimate goal.

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“I think it’s everyone’s goal to get to that senior firefighter rank,” Mr Arboit said.

“There’s a lot of work that goes into it; every time you progress, you’ve got to work for it. But that makes you prouder in what you’re doing and what you’re achieving.”

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Mr Willcox has signed up for the 2026 Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign, which gives young Australians aged 25 and under the opportunity to have their ideas delivered directly to Federal Parliament. Photo supplied.

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Young people across the Dawson electorate are being urged to have their say on the issues shaping their future, with Federal Member Andrew Willcox calling on the next generation to submit speeches for a national youth advocacy campaign.

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Mr Willcox has signed up for the 2026 Raise Our Voice in Parliament campaign, which gives young Australians aged 25 and under the opportunity to have their ideas delivered directly to Federal Parliament.

Participants are invited to submit a 90-second speech answering the question: "What is one big issue shaping your future, and what is one meaningful action you want Parliament to take?"

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The winning speech from Dawson will be read aloud by Mr Willcox in Canberra during Youth Voice in Parliament Week, held from 12 to 15 October 2026.

Mr Willcox said the campaign was an important opportunity for regional young people to influence the national conversation.

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"Last year, I had the immense privilege of standing up in the chamber to deliver an incredibly powerful speech by Wiremu Tairaki, a student from Proserpine State High School," Mr Willcox said.

"Wiremu spoke passionately about the distinct challenges facing country students … [noting] that while regional kids have the determination to defy limitations, gratitude for where we live shouldn't equate to limitation.

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"That is the raw, unfiltered truth of what it is like to grow up in regional Australia, and it is exactly why we need our next generation of Dawson leaders driving the conversation in Canberra."

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The campaign has previously reported strong engagement outcomes, with 92 per cent of participants saying taking part made them more likely to engage with politics in the future.

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Mr Willcox said young people could use the opportunity to raise issues ranging from local employment and apprenticeships to mental health support and regional housing.

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"Whether you are passionate about boosting local trade apprenticeships, improving youth mental health support, tackling regional housing costs, or creating more local job opportunities so you don't have to move away to the city, this is your golden opportunity to help shape Australia’s path forward," Mr Willcox said.

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"I am honoured to amplify the voices of Dawson's future leaders, and I cannot wait to read what this year's cohort brings to the table."

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Submissions for the 2026 campaign close on 7 August 2026. For more information, entry guidelines, and to submit a speech, visit https://raiseourvoiceaustralia.com.

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(L-R) Former Ayr Rotary president Carl List, Monica Licciardello, John Oar. Photo supplied. 

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A Burdekin local has become the first non-Rotarian in several years to receive one of Rotary’s most distinguished awards. 

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Monica Licciardello was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow at an Ayr Rotary meeting earlier this month, an honour described as a “meaningful tribute to generosity, fellowship, and humanitarian service”. 

The award recognised Ms Licciardello’s decades-long contribution to the region as a musician, teacher and prominent community figure, most notably through her long-standing involvement with the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company. 

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Ms Licciardello was invited to the 9th July meeting under the false pretence of being a guest speaker, with family and friends in attendance fully aware of the ceremony that was about to transpire. 

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“It really took me by surprise,” said Ms Licciardello. 

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She thanked the community for its ongoing support, which has pushed her to continue to “challenge herself” and give back through music. 

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“I remember when I was in grade 12, one of my teachers said, ‘your talent is your gift from God, and what you do with it is your gift back,’” she said. 

“It costs me nothing. You can do so much without getting anything in return. It's really rewarding in that respect.” 

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Ms Licciardello has dedicated more than 30 years to the Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company, where she was awarded Life Membership in recognition of her service. 

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Beginning as a young performer, she has since contributed as a teacher, producer and leader, helping the organisation grow into a major creative outlet for the region.

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“These kids learn discipline, they learn commitment, loyalty. It teaches them life skills that they need and prepares them for the future," she said. 

“We're creating confident people who also give back to the community.” 

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Ms Licciardello has also contributed to the Burdekin Catholic Parish for many years, providing music at Masses and school liturgies, as well as performing at weddings and funerals across the community. 

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Alongside her work as a teacher and Pastoral Leader at Burdekin Catholic High School, she continues to teach private music lessons and contribute to productions with the Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company. 

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Rotary Club of Ayr President John McVeigh said Ms Licciardello was chosen for the award by a small internal committee of members. 

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He said her work had been integral in providing opportunities for the next wave of young local performers. 

“Usually in small communities, a lot of people say you don’t have the opportunities. [Burdekin Singers] gives an opportunity for teenagers and primary school kids to get up on the stage and perform in public,” Mr McVeigh said. 

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“When you’ve got someone like Monica who’s willing to be involved in the teaching and production processes, it gives a wonderful opportunity for younger people. She came through that system and is now paying it back.” 

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TMR data identified multiple casualty crashes at the Bruce Highway/Giddy Road intersection, with Council arguing permanent infrastructure upgrades are needed instead of a speed reduction alone. Photo: Jacob Casha.

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A proposal to reduce the speed limit near the Bruce Highway/Giddy Road intersection has triggered a row between Burdekin Shire Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads, with a council report calling the measure “the cheapest option available”and an inadequate solution to one of the region’s most persistent road safety concerns.

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PROBLEM BURDEKIN INTERSECTION UNDER THE MICROSCOPE

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Burdekin Shire Council has pushed back against the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) recommendation to decrease the speed limit along a stretch of the Bruce Highway.

The recommendation, a response to mounting safety concerns surrounding the Bruce Highway/Giddy Road intersection, proposed a speed limit reduction from 100km/h to 90km/h along a 3km stretch spanning north of the Ayr Dalbeg Road intersection to south of Conlan Street, Ayr.

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It follows a TMR speed limit review prompted by a serious injury crash and subsequent road safety audit. The review examined crash data and driver behaviour at the location between February 2021 and February 2026, finding multiple casualty crashes and severe intersection collisions involving vehicles entering from adjacent approaches.

Video monitoring and a crash that occurred while the audit team was on-site led TMR to recommend the 10km/h speed reduction, ultimately reversing its own desktop review conducted last year that found the existing 100km/h speed limit was appropriate.

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A report authorised by Council Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Environmental Services, James Stewart, has slammed TMR’s proposal, arguing it “serves as a legal liability defence” and “fails to address the underlying deficiencies causing conflict at the intersection.”

Council’s report argued the review’s own assessments supported keeping the existing 100km/h limit, with the lower speed recommendation instead relying on an engineering variation aimed at addressing driver behaviour concerns.

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It identified the intersection’s design as a catalyst for safety concerns, citing nearby overtaking lanes that cause differing entry speeds, visibility issues caused by cane rail flashing signage, and the lack of dedicated acceleration lanes for traffic entering the highway.

The report concluded that a permanent infrastructure upgrade, such as the construction of dedicated acceleration and merge lanes at the intersection, would better serve as a long-term solution to underlying safety concerns.

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Its recommendation to request that TMR prioritise funding for detailed design and construction of the Giddy Road intersection upgrade was unanimously carried by councillors during an ordinary meeting last month.

Burdekin Shire Council Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Road Safety Committee, Max Musumeci, said Council had long made its objection clear to TMR.

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“Council has communicated its concerns … to TMR on multiple occasions and in strong terms,” said Mr Musumeci.

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“Council's position has consistently been that long-term safety improvements are more likely to be achieved through infrastructure investment rather than relying solely on reduced speed limits.”

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Despite consistently raising concerns with TMR at both officer and elected representative levels, Mr Musumeci said that, to date, the State Government “has not indicated that any significant upgrade works are planned for the intersection.”

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“Council's concern is if the underlying issues remain unchanged, the location may continue to result in near misses and collisions,” he said.

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“For this reason, Council continues to advocate for further investigation of infrastructure-based improvements that address the intersection's long-term safety performance … [and] remains hopeful that its ongoing advocacy … will ultimately be recognised and acted upon.”

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Mr Musumeci said any major upgrade would generally be funded through an 80/20 arrangement between the Queensland and Commonwealth governments.

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The Department of Transport and Main Roads was contacted for comment, but was unable to provide a response before deadline.

Scouting members from across the Lower Burdekin, Townsville, Charters Towers, and as far away as Mackay gathered in Townsville for this year's Kennedy Region Nighthawk Hike Challenge. Photo supplied.

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Scouting members from across the Lower Burdekin, Townsville, Charters Towers, and as far away as Mackay gathered in Townsville for this year's Kennedy Region Nighthawk Hike Challenge.

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Around 50 Scouts, aged 11 to 16, joined 25 adult volunteers for the overnight event, which featured 12 activity bases throughout Bicentennial Park. Participants arrived at 4pm to set up tents and shelters before sharing dinner and preparing for the evening'schallenges.

Traditionally held in remote bushland, this year's event took place closer to town while still providing the challenge of navigating and completing activities in the dark. From 6pm, 12 patrols, each made up of four to eight Scouts, set off at 15-minute intervals equipped with torches, compasses and backpacks.

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Each activity base tested a combination of leadership and technical skills, with patrols assessed on tasks including mapping, first aid and traditional Scouting skills.

At the closing morning parade, the highest-scoring patrols in each challenge were recognised before the overall winners were announced and presented with the event plaque.

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Lower Burdekin Scout leaders thanked the Scouts who participated and the adult volunteers whose support helped make the annual challenge possible.

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A free workshop aimed at helping Burdekin residents better understand and cope with loss and grief will be held at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre next month.

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Presented by CORES Queensland, the four-hour ‘Your Heart Will Heal: Understanding Loss and Grief’ workshop will take place on Tuesday, 11 August.

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The session is designed to provide participants with practical knowledge, strategies and resources to support themselves and others through experiences of loss and grief. Organisers say the workshop will help attendees build insight into the grieving process while developing skills that promote personal resilience and supportive care.

The workshop will cover topics including recognising the different types of grief, exploring the impact loss can have on individuals, learning how to support someone who is grieving, and developing personal self-care strategies.

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The workshop is open to community members and is free to attend. Organisers noted that while the session offers education and practical support, it is not a crisis service.

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The event forms part of CORES Queensland's ongoing efforts to strengthen community wellbeing by equipping people with the confidence and knowledge to better respond to grief and support those around them.

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Places are available by RSVP, with registrations now open online. Community members seeking further information can contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre by emailing coordinator@thebnc.org.au or calling 4783 4243.

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The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is located at 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr, with the workshop running from 9.30am until 1.30pm on Tuesday, 11 August.

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Elective surgeries to restore mobility, independence and quality of life will be delivered sooner as the Queensland Government continues its Surgery Connect program.

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Bolstered by a $247 million investment in the 2026/2027 State Budget the Surgery Connect program has already delivered more than 35,000 additional procedures to Queenslanders with the renewed funding adding 11 new service providers across regions including Mackay and Townsville.

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the addition of new service providers and bolstered funding was good news for anyone waiting on life changing surgery with thousands of additional procedures supported by the program.

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“Procedures like cataract surgery, joint replacements and ear nose and throat surgeries significantly improve a patient’s quality of life,” Mr Last said.

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“Research has proven that long delays waiting for these procedures means symptoms worsen, pain increases and there is an impact on the patient’s mental health.

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“This is why we are partnering with providers to ensure these patients can access these surgeries sooner.”

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Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s $1.8 billion investment in elective surgery had already provided positive results for patients with elective surgery wait list fell to 58,496 after a decade of Labor decline saw the list skyrocket year-on-year to a high of 66,632.

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“Since February 2025 more than 35,000 procedures have been delivered and in turn helped stabilise the Queensland elective surgery waitlist.”

“Besides the obvious benefits for patients, Surgery Connect reduces the pressure on our health staff who, through no fault of their own, have been forced to delay surgeries.”

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

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After 12 wonderful years at Ayr Physiotherapy Clinic, Rachel has made the exciting decision to begin the next chapter of her professional journey by establishing her own physiotherapy clinic. Photo supplied.

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After 12 wonderful years at Ayr Physiotherapy Clinic, Rachel has made the exciting decision to begin the next chapter of her professional journey by establishing In Flow Physiotherapy Clinic, with a special focus on pelvic physiotherapy.

While we are naturally sad to see her leave, we understand that there comes a time to follow your dreams and build something of your own. We are genuinely excited for Rachel as she begins this new venture.

Rachel first walked through our doors as a 21-year-old new graduate. Over the years, we have watched her grow into an exceptionally capable, compassionate and caring physiotherapist and, more importantly, into the wonderful person she is today.

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Between our two families, we have welcomed six children, celebrated many milestones, shared plenty of laughter and supported each other through the challenges of building a practice while raising young families.

Rachel has played an integral role in shaping Ayr Physiotherapy Clinic and has made an enormous contribution to our patients, team and community. We are deeply grateful for her commitment, friendship and dedication.

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Through In Flow Physiotherapy Clinic, Rachel will focus on women’s and men’s pelvic health, an area she is passionate about. We have no doubt she will continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of her patients.

We wish Rachel and her family every happiness and success. Rachel, you will always have a home with us.

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Supplied by Rod & Melinda Hidlebaugh, and Sherri Valle

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Keeping the Burdekin Moving

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While Rachel begins her exciting new chapter, Ayr Physiotherapy Clinic will continue providing experienced physiotherapy care for the wider Burdekin community.

Rod Hidlebaugh will remain available to treat sports injuries, musculoskeletal conditions, and his area of Advanced training, treating dizziness, vertigo and imbalance syndromes.

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Rod is currently developing a men’s exercise group focused on the “Farmer’s Back/Neck Program.” The program will aim to improve mobility, strength and physical resilience while providing practical strategies to help participants manage the demands of farm work and remain active.

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For many local farmers, long days spent bending, lifting, driving machinery and working in awkward positions can take a toll. That nagging back or neck pain may be common, but it does not have to be accepted as simply part of the job.

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Ayr Physiotherapy Clinic remains here to help keep you moving, working and doing the things that matter to you. Call today: 4783 4699.

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Linda Butler shared her decades-long journey through the graphic design industry with attendees. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce welcomed new faces and a sense of renewed optimism last Wednesday, with owners of the town's newest businesses among presenters at its latest social meeting.

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The 5:30pm meeting hosted a healthy turnout of around 20 at the Home Hill Community Sports Centre, with the new attendees signaling forward momentum for the organisation.

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Proceedings commenced with Ayr graphic designer and keynote speaker for the evening, Linda Butler, who shared her journey through the industry before landing back in Ayr.

After a career spanning decades, with notable stints in Sydney, Townsville, Gibraltar, London and Denmark, Ms Butler shared insights into the ever-shifting nature of graphic design and the implications of new-age technology, such as artificial intelligence, on the industry.

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“It’s been an interesting career, and I’ve enjoyed it … I’m just glad I’m near the end and can let the young ones take over,” she quipped.

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First-time attendee Candace Young, who opened Salted Roots on Eighth Avenue with her husband Scott this month, then shared the story of her business’s beginnings with the crowd.

The venture of the two Burdekin locals, who spent two decades away before returning home, offers a range of unique homewares, which Ms Young said had become popular amongst the local community.

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“Everyone thinks it’s the tourists behind us that are supporting us, but it’s actually the locals,” she said.

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“They’re coming in, and then the very next day, they’re coming back in right when you open.”

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Neil Machin and Patricia Thomas from Scrubby's Teahouse also praised the community support, saying their café had quickly become a popular meeting point for locals since opening next door to Salted Roots last month.

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“Food is an essential item, and so is socialisation,” said Ms Thomas.

“We wanted to develop an atmosphere where you can come in, sit down, relax, and watch the world go by.”

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The pair of entrepreneurial ventures have been credited with breathing new life into Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue, with locals eager to see if each business’s early success can help catalyse a sustained rejuvenation effort within the town’s CBD.

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The Home Hill Chamber’s next Social and Networking Event is pencilled in for next month, with local cane farmer and accomplished clay target shooter Joseph Roseate to serve as guest speaker.

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Invicta Mill (pictured) recorded the region’s highest weekly output, processing 157,646 tonnes of cane—its best weekly throughput for the season to date. Photo: Rory Ironside.

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Burdekin sugar mills have surpassed two million tonnes of cane crushed for the 2026 season, with throughput reaching its highest level to date during week six of crushing.

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The region’s four Wilmar-operated mills processed 391,241 tonnes of cane in the week ending July 11, taking the season total to 2,045,917 tonnes.

Wilmar said weekly throughput was well above budget and marked the strongest week of crushing so far this season.

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Invicta Mill recorded the region’s highest weekly output, processing 157,646 tonnes of cane—its best weekly throughput for the season to date.

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Pioneer Mill crushed 75,790 tonnes during the week, while Kalamia processed 78,184 tonnes and Inkerman crushed 79,621 tonnes.

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Sugar quality remained strong across the Burdekin, with the average weekly commercial cane sugar (CCS) level reaching 14.70, nearly one unit above budget.

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Invicta recorded the highest average CCS for the week at 14.78, followed by Pioneer at 15.16, Kalamia at 14.43 and Inkerman at 14.36.

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The highest CCS result for the week came from a rake of Q240 plant cane supplied from the Barratta productivity district, which recorded a CCS of 17.30.

Q183 was the strongest-performing variety for CCS across the region, recording an average of 15.29, followed by KQ228 at 14.77 and Q240 at 14.68.

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Season-to-date, Invicta has processed 794,310 tonnes of cane, Pioneer 404,606 tonnes, Kalamia 417,809 tonnes and Inkerman 429,192 tonnes.

Wilmar said favourable throughput and sugar quality results had helped maintain strong progress through the early stages of the crush.

Canegrowers Burdekin Limited (CBL), QCAR, and Kalagro among North Queensland organisations are set to meet with Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Anthony Chisholm when he arrives in North Queensland. Photo supplied.

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Burdekin grower organisations will have a seat at the table as the Federal Government reviews the future of the Sugar Code of Conduct.

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The review has now entered its consultation phase, with Federal Government officials visiting North Queensland this month to hear directly from growers and industry representatives about their priorities for the Code.

Introduced in 2017, the Code was established to promote fair and transparent trading between growers and millers. It is now undergoing a mandatory review ahead of its scheduled expiry in October 2027, with the process to determine whether it will be extended, amended or replaced.

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Public consultation attracted 283 submissions from across industry, demonstrating strong engagement with the review.

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The Federal Government is now consulting directly with grower collectives, with Canegrowers Burdekin Limited (CBL), QCAR, and Kalagro among North Queensland organisations set to meet with Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Anthony Chisholm when he arrives in North Queensland this month.

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Senator Chisholm said the discussions were part of the government’s commitment to ensuring the industry had the right regulatory settings to remain competitive.

“The sugar industry has played a huge part in our state’s history, and it will continue to play that role into the future,” Senator Chisholm said.

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“Sugar already supports thousands of regional jobs and contributes billions to our economy—we know with the right settings it can grow even further.

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“Sugar is vitally important to rural and regional Queensland, and the Federal Government wants to ensure that the industry has the right settings to thrive.”

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QCAR General Manager Tara Neill said any changes to the Code must recognise the industry’s transition into new opportunities, including renewable energy.

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“We're moving more and more into the renewable space and looking at other ways to add revenue, and that's what we would like to see included in the Code to ensure that growers are party to that discussion in the future," she said.

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“We need to make sure that the Code will be effective not only now, but in another 10 years' time.”

A major Burdekin Delta wetlands restoration project has entered its next phase, with scientists, land managers and Traditional Owners coming together to establish how improvements to local waterways will be measured over coming years. Photo: NQ Dry Tropics.

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A major Burdekin Delta wetlands restoration project has entered its next phase, with scientists, land managers and Traditional Owners coming together to establish how improvements to local waterways will be measured over coming years.

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The Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project recently held its first Steering Committee and Monitoring Advisory Group (MAG) meetings, bringing together project partners to guide the development of a long-term monitoring program.

Led by NQ Dry Tropics, the project is targeting wetlands across Sheep Station Creek, Kalamia Creek and Plantation Creek, with restoration works already underway to improve wetland health and reduce pollutants entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

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The newly formed groups will help oversee the project’s direction, with the Steering Committee providing strategic guidance and the Monitoring Advisory Group providing independent scientific and technical advice.

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NQ Dry Tropics said the meetings marked an important step in establishing a monitoring framework that will allow the environmental benefits of wetland restoration to be measured and modelled.

The project’s monitoring program will track changes across the restoration sites, helping determine how effectively wetlands can capture and process pollutants such as sediment, nutrients and pesticides before they reach the Reef.

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The meetings also included a field visit to project sites across the Burdekin Delta, allowing participants to view restoration areas and discuss future activities.

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The WWBD project is being delivered by NQ Dry Tropics in partnership with local stakeholders, including land managers and Traditional Owners, with funding through the Australian Government’s Reefwise Wetlands Program.

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You may have noticed changes to the rules surrounding e-bikes and e-scooters across Queensland. New e-mobility laws came into effect on 1 July 2026, introducing a range of measures designed to improve safety for riders, pedestrians and other road users.

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One of the key changes is a reduced speed limit of 12 kilometres per hour on footpaths, with riders also required to slow to 12 kilometres per hour when passing pedestrians on shared paths. Riders must continue to obey all signed speed limits and are reminded that personal mobility devices cannot exceed 25 kilometres per hour.

The new laws also introduce stronger penalties for unsafe behaviour, including increased fines for speeding, riding without a helmet and other dangerous practices. Police now have additional enforcement powers, including random breath testing of riders in public places.

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Importantly, new parking rules mean e-bikes and e-scooters must not be left in a way that obstructs pathways or creates hazards for pedestrians. Local government officers now have the authority to issue fines where devices are parked irresponsibly.

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These changes are aimed at ensuring everyone can safely enjoy our shared public spaces. I encourage all riders and families to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and help make our footpaths, parks and shared pathways safer for all members of the community.

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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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I quite often (unfortunately) read comments or hear talk of “what do we get for our rates?” or “our rates are higher than (insert much larger towns or cities)”.  Something to bear in mind is that all the hidden infrastructure; sewerage, water, waste, is something we all take for granted but come at a great cost.  

You turn on your tap, you expect water; you flush your toilet, the waste just disappears; you utilize the dump for green waste or other and think nothing of it.  The processes behind these services are complex and costly and the solutions will not suit everyone.  

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That being said, I am very disappointed with the removal of the dump facilities in Dalbeg.  In my opinion, people should not be penalized simply because of where they live.  

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These people will now have at 45km drive to the Clare dump or over an hour drive to the Ayr dump.  I can only hope they do the right thing and there will be no increase in illegal dumping.

If you’re travelling to Townsville or Giru along the Upper Haughton River Road, you will notice some extensive works being carried out between Malone Road and Norris Road.  The works will include lime stabilisation of the subgrade and a three-layer 450mm gravel pavement installation.  

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This is certainly a huge job and well overdue.  Council and contractors are also progressing through unsealed road grading programs approved under the Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements which are subsidised by both the Federal and State Governments.  

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Council workers, in general are a proud lot who do an exemplary job, often copping criticism and ridicule in the process.  I would like to say thank you to each and every one of them for their continued contribution to our Shire.

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I’d like to acknowledge the recent passing of Charlie Nucifora, an immigrant who along with his brothers Sam and Frank have contributed so very much to the Burdekin.  He, like so many others, had a story and it was beautifully told at his service by his daughter, Janine.  May he, and the other members of our community who have passed rest easy in the arms of God.  

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God Bless.

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Vice chair Kaylee Boccalatte (left), former Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens (left-centre), chair Amanda Hall (right-centre), and treasurer/secretary Cathy McDonnell (right). Photo supplied.

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The Burdekin’s inaugural Liberal National Party (LNP) Women executive committee has been officially announced, with local councillor Amanda Hall elected as the branch’s first chair.

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The new branch, which was formally approved by the LNP State Executive in May, held its first annual general meeting last Saturday, appointing Ms Hall to lead the group alongside former Burdekin Shire councillor Dr Kaylee Boccalatte as vice chair.

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Cathy McDonnell was appointed treasurer and will also serve as acting secretary until the secretary position is filled.

The formation of the branch followed strong local interest at an information meeting held in May, where women from across the Burdekin discussed the opportunity to establish a local arm of the LNP Women network.

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With the branch now formally established, Ms Hall said it would provide a platform for women across the region to raise issues and have their voices heard.

“If women want to have their say, if they want to have a voice, this is the place to do it in the Burdekin,” she said.

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The inaugural AGM was conducted by Northern Regional Chair of LNP Women Jean McCubben, with guest speakers including State Member for Mundingburra Janelle Poole and former Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last also addressed attendees, providing an update on current issues affecting the region.

Moving forward, Ms Hall said the branch would give local women a direct pathway to contribute to broader party discussions, particularly ahead of future state conventions.

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“If there are any particular issues that are concerning women, or just in general, we want to start having some meetings early so that we can prepare for the state convention, go down there with a strong contingent of women and make our presence felt,” she said.

Ms Hall said the branch would not necessarily meet on a fixed monthly schedule, instead aiming to hold discussions when there were meaningful issues or opportunities for members to engage.

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She said the group hoped to encourage involvement from younger women in the community to ensure a broad range of perspectives were represented.

“I'd really love to get some younger women involved … because I know there's a lot of issues that face young people at the moment,” Ms Hall said.

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“We want to hear the younger women's point of view because their opinions can differ quite substantially, and it's important to hear from everybody.”

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Women interested in joining the branch is encouraged to reach out directly to Ms Hall on +61 427 827 386.

A fire inside Invicta Mill’s compressor room (pictured) was contained by emergency crews on Tuesday afternoon, with no injuries reported and production temporarily halted. Photo: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ Invicta Mill was forced to shut down on Tuesday afternoon after a fire broke out in its compressor room, with emergency crews responding swiftly and bringing the blaze under control within about an hour.

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The incident was reported at the Giru site at about 2.20pm on Tuesday 21st July, prompting a response from Ayr, South Townsville and Home Hill fire crews.

Ayr Fire Station Acting Station Officer Luke Mulcahy said firefighters arrived to find smoke and fire coming from the ground-level compressor room, where the mill’s Emergency Response Team (ERT) had already deployed multiple hose lines in an effort to contain the blaze.

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Fire crews entered the area wearing breathing apparatus and used hose lines to suppress the fire and prevent it from spreading further.

Mr Mulcahy said the evacuation was successfully completed with no injuries to mill staff or emergency responders.

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He said the cause and origin of the fire remained unknown, but confirmed the blaze was contained to the area where it started.

Queensland Ambulance Service and Queensland Police Service also attended the incident.

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A Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesperson acknowledged the efforts of its ERT and confirmed the factory had been safely shut down, with production halted following the incident.

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The spokesperson said the company would provide further information when more details became available.

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Club members donate countless hours cutting fabric, sewing, stuffing and packaging each set, while annual "Stitch and Stuff" working bees bring together volunteers who share a common goal of supporting women through one of life's most challenging journeys. Photo supplied.

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When someone is facing breast cancer surgery, even the smallest act of kindness can make a world of difference.

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For many women across the Burdekin and North Queensland, that comfort comes in the form of a handmade breast care cushion set, lovingly created by the dedicated volunteers of the Zonta Club Burdekin.

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Each year, the club produces around 150 breast care cushion sets, which are provided free of charge to patients through the Breast Care Nurses at North Queensland Minimally Invasive Surgery and Townsville University Hospital. The sets support people recovering from mastectomies, lumpectomies, breast reduction surgery and melanoma procedures involving lymph node removal.

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Each carefully prepared set includes a specially designed crescent-shaped cushion that provides support and padding around the surgical area, helping to reduce discomfort while resting, travelling in the car or simply going about everyday activities. The sets also include practical tote and shower bags to discreetly carry wound drainage pouches, helping patients maintain both comfort and dignity during recovery.

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Behind every cushion is an extraordinary community effort. Club members donate countless hours cutting fabric, sewing, stuffing and packaging each set, while annual "Stitch and Stuff" working bees bring together volunteers who share a common goal of supporting women through one of life's most challenging journeys.

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This important community project is made possible with the ongoing support of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. Sponsorship from the community bank helps fund essential materials including wadding, fabrics, cottons and other supplies, ensuring the cushions continue to reach local families at no cost.

Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said supporting projects like this reflects the bank's commitment to investing back into initiatives that make a genuine difference.

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"One of the things that makes community banking unique is that our success is returned to the communities we serve," Sally said.

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"The Zonta Club Burdekin's Breast Care Cushion project is a wonderful example of local people caring for local people. Knowing our support helps provide comfort, dignity and practical assistance to women during their recovery is something we're incredibly proud to be part of."

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For Zonta Club Burdekin, the partnership allows volunteers to focus on what they do best—creating something with care that offers both physical comfort and emotional reassurance.

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It's another example of how community organisations, volunteers and Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continue to work together, creating positive outcomes that extend far beyond banking and into the lives of local people when they need it most.

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Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

“Superannuation is meant to be a private fortress for your retirement; it is not a quarry for a government to dig into and mine whenever they face a budget shortfall.” Photo supplied.

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Opinion by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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If you put your hard-earned cash into a locked safe every single week for decades, you expect the lock to hold. You certainly do not expect the federal government to turn up years later with a crowbar, trying to force it open. Yet, this is exactly the kind of financial trespass that people across our electorate are concerned about right now.  

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Superannuation is meant to be a private fortress for your retirement; it is not a quarry for a government to dig into and mine whenever they face a budget shortfall.

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To understand why so many locals are worried, we need to look closely at the legislation that came into effect on 1 July: the Treasury Laws Amendment (Building a Stronger and Fairer Super System) Act 2026. This new law doubles the concessional tax rate from 15 per cent to 30 per cent for individuals with superannuation balances exceeding $3 million.  

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The government is playing standard class-warfare politics here, targeting a small percentage of wealthy people. Why this is concerning for everyday Australians, is that by breaking the promise that superannuation is sacrosanct, the government has set a precedent: if they can come after these high-balance accounts today, middle-class savings will be next on the chopping block when the deficit deepens. That is why the Coalition opposed this legislation.

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Even more concerning is the Prime Minister's recent language, where he explicitly branded our $4.5 trillion national retirement pool as a "national asset".  

This is outrageous, your superannuation does not belong to the federal government, it belongs to you. The government wanting to treat your private savings like a state-run bank account to fund their political pet projects is an abhorrent overreach.

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Look at the mess this Labor government has made of the economy; it is blindingly obvious they cannot manage money. Now, they are bringing that exact same financial incompetence to your private retirement savings. They have zero right to dictate where your money goes, but they are altering the official performance benchmarks anyway: they want to force big super funds to bankroll their ideological green energy projects.

In other words, this Labor government wants to push your retirement money into an ideological net zero fantasy that is already costing an estimated trillion dollars.

This experimental agenda cannot survive on its own merits; it has to be propped up with massive, ongoing subsidies just to stay afloat. Blind Freddy can see this is a terrible investment strategy that would likely destroy the compound returns of everyday workers.  

Hard working Australians should not be subjected to this government’s woke ideology, and they certainly should not be gambling your retirement security on their unproven climate experiments.

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Then there is the backdoor plan to tangle your private superannuation up with Centrelink. This is a massive shift being pushed by the original architect of the system, Paul Keating, after he sat down for talks with the Prime Minister.  

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They are trying to sell this to you as a simple tweak, claiming it makes sense to turn your super fund into the main shopfront for the Age Pension. This is a dangerous move to set up a massive data-sharing pipeline between the government and your private accounts. It forces corporate super funds to act as gatekeepers for public welfare, completely blurring the line between your own hard-earned savings and taxpayer-funded entitlements.  

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Independent economist Dr Cameron Murray hit the nail on the head when he warned about the massive bureaucratic mess this will create.

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He said, "The superannuation network is already a highly complex, expensive apparatus that costs billions of dollars a year just to run. Attempting to integrate this private infrastructure with the public Age Pension system risks creating a massive bureaucratic web that compromises the economic efficiency of public welfare."

Superannuation relies entirely on a promise of long-term stability. If you sacrifice your current lifestyle to build an independent future, you deserve to know your money is safe from political interference.  

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The Albanese Labor government must not rewrite the rules of superannuation to cover their economic failures. They want the power to pick winners and losers with your life savings, ensuring the government gets the good headlines while your retirement balance carries all the danger.  

When Labor runs out of money, they come after yours.

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Students and community members will come together later this month to help restore local habitats and plant 1,000 native trees as part of Planet Ark's National Tree Day. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Planet Ark’s National Tree Day will soon offer opportunity for the community to come together, plant for the future and help protect the thriving, diverse ecosystem that makes the Burdekin Shire such a special place to live and visit.

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On Friday 24th July, students from across the region will roll up their sleeves for the event, helping kick-start a community effort to plant 1,000 native trees over two days. Later, on Sunday 26th July, as Burdekin Shire Council and the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association host the region's annual National Tree Day planting at 57 International Drive, Ayr.

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Since its inception in 1996, Planet Ark’s National Tree Day has flourished into the country’s largest community tree planting and nature care event. In the Burdekin Shire, the movement will focus primarily on the protection of rivers, wetlands and waterways, as well as the conservation of habitats for native animals.

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Over the past 30 years, volunteers have dedicated more than 10 billion hours to planting trees, restoring ecosystems and helping communities reconnect with nature. Although National Tree Day officially falls on the last Sunday of July, events are often tailored to local conditions, and, as Planet Ark reminds us, there's never a bad day to plant a tree.

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Residents are encouraged to RSVP via contacting Chris Gallyer on (07) 4783 9867 or visit nationaltreeday.org.au for more information.

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What: National Tree Day Planting

When: Sunday 26th July, 8:30am-11:30am

Where: 57 International Drive, Ayr

The life of well-known North Queensland business and golfing identity Wayne Haller was celebrated at an open-air funeral at his beloved Ayr Golf Club recently.

Over 200 friends, business associates and fellow golfers joined Wayne’s wife Lyn and their three sons – Kurt, Todd and Ryan – attended the gathering.

Lyn Haller, her sons and grandson delivered moving tributes. Family friends Peter Andersen, Ross Lewis and Alan Nelson also shared memories of their late mate.

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Wayne, 81, was born in Home Hill, the eldest child of Harold and Nancy Haller.  

He grew up on the family cane farm at Osborne with his sister Carol and late brother Kelvin where he learned values that stayed with him throughout his life – hard work, humility, honesty and respect for others.

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After finishing school, Wayne studied teaching at Kelvin Grove Teachers College before returning to North Queensland to teach at Home Hill.

It was there that he met the love of his life, local girl Lynette Melvin. They married on December 10, 1966, beginning a partnership that would last almost 60 years.

Wayne was often heard to say in later life that he had come to love Lyn more and in a different way as they got older than when they were first married.

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The young married couple were transferred to Julia Creek where their first son, Kurt, was born followed by Todd and Ryan.

Wayne made many friends in Julia Creek, including Ken Cooney, the local butcher at the time, who encouraged Wayne to leave teaching and begin a new career with the insurance and financial services company, AMP.

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Wayne took his friend’s advice, returned to Ayr and through hard work, genuine care and an ability to earn people’s trust, built one of North Queensland’s most respected financial services businesses that became known as Haller Wealth.

Wayne’s brother-in-law, Jim Melvin, who delivered the eulogy, said Wayne believed that success in life was measured by the difference you made in the lives of others.

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“His clients knew they could rely on him, not just because he understood financial advice but because he understood people,” he said.

“He celebrated their successes, stood beside them during difficult times and treated every client with honesty, compassion and respect.”

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Wayne’s success as a businessman and as a gifted public speaker led to many professional honours, including invitations to speak at conferences throughout Australia and overseas.

Success in business was only part of his busy life. His greatest fulfilment came through family, friendships, golf and serving his community.

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Golf, in particular, became a lifelong passion. He won countless local and regional events, both as an individual and in partnership with his late brother Kelvin.

He devoted countless hours to the Ayr Golf Club and in 1978 was instrumental in transforming the nine-hole layout into an 18-hole course.

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His contribution to the game extended well beyond Ayr. Through many years of service to the North Queensland Golf Association, he helped strengthen and promote golf across the region, earning Life Membership of both organisations.

One of the proudest moments of his life came in 2000 when he was selected as an Olympic Torch Bearer, an honour he shared with brother Kelvin.

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Retirement was simply an opportunity to devote more time to the things he loved most – family, friendships, serving his community and discovering new passions such as Rotary, travel, keeping fit and photography.

Family was everything to Wayne. He loved watching his children and grandchildren building successful and fulfilling lives.

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The successful husband, father, grandfather, businessman and golfer, made lifelong friends wherever he went and quietly left every community, every organisation and every person a little better for having known him.

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“Wayne Haller lived a remarkable life, a life that mattered,” said brother-in-law Jim Melvin.

“That is the measure of a life well lived.

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“May he rest in peace.”

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CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Gilligan says the organisation will be “paying close attention” as Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) takes over operation of the state’s bulk sugar terminals. Photo supplied.

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Queensland cane growers will be watching closely as Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) takes over operation of the state’s bulk sugar terminals, with industry leaders calling for transparency, fair access and reliable performance under the new model.

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The move, which took effect on July 1, ends a decades-long operating arrangement with Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL), which previously managed the terminals on behalf of STL, the infrastructure’s owner.

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While the change will be felt across Queensland’s sugar industry, Burdekin growers will be among those watching closely as the terminals remain a vital link between local cane production and international export markets.

While the change will be felt across Queensland’s sugar industry, Burdekin growers will be among those watching closely as the terminals remain a vital link between local cane production and international export markets.

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CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said growers had not forgotten concerns raised when STL announced its decision to bring terminal operations in-house, but the focus would now shift to how the new arrangement performed.

“Growers largely funded this infrastructure, so they have every right to expect it will continue to serve the industry it was built for,” Mr Galligan said.

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“From 1 July, STL will be responsible for both owning and operating the terminals. That means it will also be responsible for making sure they are run safely, efficiently and fairly.”

Queensland’s six bulk sugar terminals—located at Cairns, Mourilyan, Lucinda, Townsville, Mackay and Bundaberg—are key links in the state’s sugar export supply chain.

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Mr Galligan acknowledged QSL’s long record as terminal operator and said growers would expect the same standard of reliability to continue under STL’s management.

“QSL has operated these terminals for decades and played an important role in building the reliability Queensland sugar is known for,” he said.

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“Growers will expect that same level of reliability through the transition and into the future.”

Mr Galligan said growers would be closely monitoring the new arrangements, including terminal operations, maintenance, costs and access for all marketers.

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“They will expect reliable operations, appropriate maintenance, transparent low cost pricing and fair treatment for every marketer,” he said.

“No marketer should receive preferential treatment when it comes to storage, access, scheduling or pricing.

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“These are shared industry assets and they need to keep working for the whole sugar industry, not for the benefit of any one company or commercial interest.”

Mr Galligan said STL would also need to demonstrate that the efficiencies promised through bringing operations in-house were delivered and that benefits flowed back to the wider industry.

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“Growers will also expect clear reporting on costs, maintenance and terminal performance so they can see whether the new model is delivering what was promised,” he said.

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“We want the new model to work.

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“But growers will judge it on the results—reliable terminals, fair access, transparent costs and a clear commitment to keeping sugar first.

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Burdekin sugar mills have recorded their strongest week of the 2026 crushing season so far, processing more than 380,000 tonnes of cane in the week ending July 4. Photo: Website/Wilmar Sugar and Renewables

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Strong throughput and above-budget sugar content mark best week of the 2026 crush so far

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Burdekin sugar mills have recorded their strongest week of the 2026 crushing season so far, processing more than 380,000 tonnes of cane in the week ending July 4.

The region’s four mills crushed a combined 380,733 tonnes during week five, exceeding expectations and bringing the season total to 1.65 million tonnes.

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Throughput for the week was above budget and the highest recorded so far this season, while average sugar content also remained strong.

Kalamia Mill led the weekly improvement, processing more than 83,000 tonnes of cane, its highest weekly throughput of the season.

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Invicta Mill recorded the highest individual output for the week with 139,707 tonnes crushed, followed by Kalamia (83,196 tonnes), Inkerman (81,790 tonnes) and Pioneer (76,040 tonnes).

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Season-to-date, the Burdekin region has now processed 1,654,676 tonnes of cane.

Sugar quality remained above expectations, with the region recording an average commercial cane sugar (CCS) level of 14.40 for the week—nearly one unit above budget.

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Invicta recorded the highest weekly CCS among the mills at 14.56, followed by Kalamia (14.39), Pioneer (14.34) and Inkerman (14.18).

The strongest individual CCS result came from a rake of Q183 plant cane supplied from the Jardine productivity district, recording 17.60.

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Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi reminded harvesting groups to continue following cane siding procedures to protect workers and maintain efficient operations across the network.

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Harvesting operators are encouraged to ensure all workers have completed the mandatory siding induction, with procedures in place to safeguard users of the cane railway network.

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Lower Burdekin Meals on Wheels has waved goodbye to one of its longest serving volunteers, Betty Durrant, who leaves her post at the organisation after nearly 40 years of service. Photo supplied.

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Lower Burdekin Meals on Wheels has waved goodbye to one of its longest-serving volunteers, Betty Durrant, who steps away from the organisation after nearly 40 years of service.

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Ms Durrant’s decades-long service was celebrated last month during a morning tea at Meals on Wheels kitchen on Macmillan Street, Ayr, where she was formally thanked by her peers for her contributions both as a cook and as a delivery driver.

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Committee Business Manager Gail Minehan said Ms Durrant's presence in the kitchen would be greatly missed.

“Betty was a very valued volunteer,” she said.

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“We’re all going to miss the talks and the camaraderie that she brought to the kitchen. She dedicated her time to us, and we greatly appreciate her—and all our volunteers—for that.

“We wish Betty all the best after her 40 years, a huge milestone.”

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Ms Durrant’s passion for volunteering was born from her husband Arthur’s involvement with Rotary, which inspired her to take part in community fundraising efforts before eventually joining Meals on Wheels.

She first joined the organisation as a delivery volunteer before moving into the kitchen, a role she preferred and would ultimately spend most of her four-decade stint doing.

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Her dedication to community service was eventually recognised in 2025 with a Lifetime Service Award at the Australia Day Awards for her contributions to Meals on Wheels, Finlay’s and the Ayr Golf Club, of which she is a life member.

She said that throughout her years at the organisation, she had made “wonderful friends” and seen firsthand that the value of its work extended far beyond simply providing meals.

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“I’ve seen lots of changes in those years … and I met lots of wonderful people. That's the amazing thing about volunteering—it really is,” Ms Durrant said.

“It’s a great service for the people, and sometimes it’s the only people [customers] see all day—the person that delivers their meal.

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“You realise the need for it … and you keep at it because it's a service to the town and to the people. I like helping people, and I always have. To me, it's no effort.”

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She admitted it was difficult to leave knowing volunteers were needed, but acknowledged “you’ve got to pull the pin at some point.”

She now encourages community members to step up and help keep Meals on Wheels rolling.

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“If you find it’s not your thing, you don’t have to go … but just give it a try,” she said.

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Ms Minehan said volunteers of all ages and backgrounds were welcome, particularly following the recent departures of both Ms Durrant and another long-serving volunteer, Vanda, who was also recognised for her service.

“We appreciate all our volunteers, whether they’ve been here five minutes or 40 years,” she said.

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“We are grateful for whatever time anyone can spare, whether it’s one hour, two hours a week—it doesn’t matter how small.

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“Anyone who's looking to give something back to the community, whether in the kitchen or on delivery, is more than welcome to join our team.”

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Anyone seeking further information is encouraged to either email the organisation at mowayr@bigpond.com or drop into the kitchen at 109 Macmillan Street, Ayr.

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