Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. “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.” 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. “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. “May he rest in peace.”
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. 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. 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. 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. “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. 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. “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. “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. “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. “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. “We want the new model to work. “But growers will judge it on the results—reliable terminals, fair access, transparent costs and a clear commitment to keeping sugar first. CAPTION: 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.
Strong throughput and above-budget sugar content mark best week of the 2026 crush so far 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. 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. 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). 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. 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. Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi reminded harvesting groups to continue following cane siding procedures to protect workers and maintain efficient operations across the network. 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. CAPTION: 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
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. 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. 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. “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.” 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. 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. “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. “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.” 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. “If you find it’s not your thing, you don’t have to go … but just give it a try,” she said. 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. “We are grateful for whatever time anyone can spare, whether it’s one hour, two hours a week—it doesn’t matter how small. “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.” 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. CAPTION: 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.
Council is preparing to commence important road reconstruction works on Upper Haughton Road between Malone Road and Norris Road. The project will involve reconstruction of approximately two kilometres of roadway, including subgrade stabilisation and asphalt replacement where structural improvements are required. Construction is expected to commence in mid-July, with a side track to be provided to ensure traffic can continue to flow safely throughout the works. These upgrades are part of Council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving our road network for residents and industry.
This week, I also wanted to highlight the importance of recycling and responsible waste management. Waste disposal is one of the significant costs faced by local government and ultimately by our community. While many people still believe that all waste ends up in landfill, there are extensive recycling and resource recovery processes in place that help divert valuable materials away from landfill and reduce environmental impacts.
Over the years, waste management practices have changed significantly. Gone are the days when rubbish could simply be burned or buried in a backyard. Today, waste is carefully managed through regulated processes designed to protect public health and the environment. By reducing waste, reusing materials and recycling wherever possible, each of us can play a role in helping to create a more sustainable future for the Burdekin.
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.
Now that Council has adopted its 2026/27 budget, I thought I would briefly explain one question that comes up every year – rates.
Like everyone else, Council continues to face increasing costs. Fuel, electricity, materials, insurance and wages all continue to rise. While nobody enjoys paying higher rates, those same costs affect the services Council provides every day.
I often hear people ask why rates increase when Council has cash in the bank. The simple answer is that much of that money cannot be used to fund everyday operations. It is committed to areas such as grant funded projects, water and sewer services, and reserves set aside for the future replacement of Council infrastructure.
General rates help pay for the services we all expect, including maintaining local roads, parks, drainage, waste collection and community facilities. If rates don't keep pace with rising costs over time, councils are generally left with two choices – reduce services or allow infrastructure to deteriorate.
On another positive note, construction of the new pump track is progressing well and, weather permitting, is expected to be completed by the end of the month. I look forward to seeing another community facility come to life for local families to enjoy.
I've noticed the Deputy Mayor has already started polishing up his trusty Mongoose. I can only assume he's quietly preparing to challenge the Mayor to the first (and completely unofficial) pump track race.
Gracie Hosie hopes to spark meaningful conversations that lead to lasting improvements in healthcare access for regional and remote Australians. Photo source: LinkedIn
When Gracie Hosie stood before government leaders and decision-makers at this year's Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) Youth Summit, she wasn't simply delivering a speech. She was sharing the reality of growing up in regional Queensland, where accessing healthcare often means travelling hundreds of kilometres, taking time away from work and school, and carrying financial and emotional burdens that many city families never have to consider.
Her speech, Regional Families, Invisible Costs, drew on her family's own experience supporting her younger sister Amelia, who was born prematurely after being diagnosed with human parvovirus at just 25 weeks in the womb.
"Hospitals were part of her [Amelia] everyday story, but because we grew up in regional Queensland, hospitals were never just down the road," Ms Hosie told the summit.
Ms Hosie recalled how for her family, specialist care often meant travelling from Ayr to Townsville or Brisbane, with appointments becoming part of everyday life, and when Amelia underwent major back reconstruction surgery for severe scoliosis, herfamily's life revolved around hospital stays, flights, long drives and difficult decisions about who would stay by her side.
"Airports became normal, and goodbyes became routine. Recovery did not just happen in the children's hospital down the road; it happened in fragments across distance, across phone calls, across exhaustion,” said Ms Hosie.
"It’s the emotional cost of watching your sister in pain and knowing that help is far away. It’s the physical cost of fatigue of parents running on empty of children doing homework in hospital rooms, of bodies sitting in cars for hours because there is no alternative."
While Ms Hosie's family carried the weight of these challenges, they knew countless other regional families were navigating the same reality.
“My family’s story isn’t unique, and I think that’s exactly why it needed to be told.”
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, people living in rural and remote communities experience higher rates of disease, injury and potentially avoidable deaths than those in major cities, while access to specialist healthcare declines significantly with remoteness. The National Rural Health Alliance has also consistently reported rural Australians face higher out-of-pocket healthcare costs while receiving less health funding per capita than metropolitan residents.
"We talk about universal healthcare in Australia, but universality should not dissolve at the city limits," Ms Hosie said.
"This is not about blaming individual doctors or nurses or healthcare workers, as many are doing extraordinary work in under-resourced settings. This is about structural distribution, funding models and political priority."
Since moving from the Burdekin to Brisbane, Ms Hosie has embraced opportunities to amplify her voice, sharing her family's story while advocating for the countless regional families facing similar challenges every day.
“If telling our story helps even one decision-maker better understand what regional families go through, then it’s a story worth telling,” she said.
Set to begin a Master of International Relations, Ms Hosie has long been passionate about politics and public policy, and she saw the QFCC Youth Summit as an opportunity to introduce herself, share the values that drive her, and begin building connections within the sector she hopes to one day work in.
“Being able to speak in that room felt like the beginning of the kind of advocacy I hope to continue throughout my career, [and] most importantly, it was an honour to make sure the Burdekin, and regional Queensland had a voice.”
As regional populations continue to grow, Ms Hosie hopes her speech will encourage decision-makers to recognise that healthcare inequality extends far beyond the walls of hospitals, encompassing the everyday barriers regional families face in accessing essential care and support.
"Rural families should not have to choose between being together and being able to afford care. They should not have to measure recovery in kilometres travelled, in shifts missed or the quiet toll it takes on everyone in the car,” she said.
“I hope we can start looking beyond short-term assistance and towards long-term solutions that improve access to specialist healthcare closer to home, while ensuring support schemes evolve to reflect the true cost of seeking care today. Everyone deserves timely, affordable healthcare, regardless of their postcode.”
Since performing her speech, Ms Hosie has been met with a number of other young advocates from across the state who are also passionate about improving healthcare access in regional and remote communities.
“We’re all seeing many of the same challenges [and] there’s real strength in knowing this isn’t one person’s story, it’s a statewide issue.”
Driven by a passion for creating meaningful change, Ms Hosie has taken the initiative to create further opportunities to advocate for regional healthcare. She has been in contact with Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls, and is preparing to launch a dedicated website and public petition calling for improved healthcare access for regional and remote communities across Australia.
“It’s important that this conversation isn’t simply “had” it’s prioritised,” said Ms Hosie.
“I don’t want my speech to be the end of the discussion. I want it to be the beginning of sustained advocacy that keeps regional healthcare on the agenda until meaningful change happens.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox celebrated the 100th birthday of Burdekin local Domenica, highlighting her journey as a young Italian migrant as a shining example of the dedication and integration that built regional Queensland.
When managed with care and vision, migration does not just grow an economy; it truly enriches our nation.
It weaves new threads into our national fabric, bringing fresh ideas, vital skills, and a rich heritage that communities display proudly across regional Queensland. From the Italian and Maltese pioneers whose grit developed the region’s cane farms to the industrious international workers supporting our local agricultural sector, regional Australia understands the immense value of a targeted, functional immigration system.
However, a successful immigration program has to be matched to the country's capacity. Under the Albanese Labor Government, this delicate balance has collapsed into absolute chaos. Labor’s migration numbers have been far too high, while their entry standards have been far too low. By allowing a record 1.4 million people into the country since being elected, the government has created a massive shortfall of roughly 400,000 homes, an infrastructure deficit the size of Canberra's entire population.
Worse still, by dropping the ball on compliance, Labor has failed to protect our social cohesion. The Coalition is committed to restoring integrity to our borders by enforcing a strict, permanent red light to radicals and ensuring visa overstayers are promptly sent home. Moving forward, compliance with the Australian Values Statement will be a universal visa condition; we will ensure everyone we welcome fully commits to our culture, respects our laws, and integrates into our way of life.
This is not a criticism of migrants; it is a rejection of an out-of-control system running blindly ahead of the homes, roads, hospitals, and schools Australia can realistically provide. Every weekend, young Australian couples face the real-life consequences of this policy failure, turning up to rental inspections with dozens of other people while prices skyrocket.
The Coalition's Migration and Housing Pledge is a common-sense solution to this crisis. Our guiding principle is straightforward: Australia should only bring in as many people as it can house. For the first time, net overseas migration will be legally tied to the number of new homes completed. If Australia builds the homes, we can welcome the people; if we do not, we cannot keep bringing people in at an unsustainable pace.
But ending mass migration is only half the battle; we must also aggressively boost housing supply. The Coalition will tackle the root causes of the supply crisis by establishing a $5 billion Housing Infrastructure Fund to get essential last-mile infrastructure, such as water, sewerage, utilities, and access roads, into the ground. Crucially, 30 per cent of this fund will be locked directly into regional areas, ensuring our local councils can unlock up to 400,000 new homes nationwide without being strangled by bureaucracy.
Furthermore, we will make homes cheaper to build by slashing the over-compliance and regulatory wish lists embedded in the National Construction Code. By making costly, radical 2022 energy and accessibility mandates optional, we will hand choice back to the buyer and strip up to $70,000 from the cost of building a new home, unlocking an estimated 120,000 homes over the next decade.
We will also ensure taxpayer-funded housing support prioritises Australian citizens and we will maintain the strict ban on temporary residents buying existing dwellings.
An immigration system must serve the nation, not strain it.
By restoring integrity to our borders and cutting the bureaucratic red tape that halts construction, the Coalition will put a fair go back at the centre of our housing market and ensure that the Australian dream of home ownership is once again a practical reality for local families.
Andrew Willcox, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability and Federal Member for Dawson.
Burdekin police are urging motorists to remain vigilant after responding to five crashes during the final week of school holidays, including a truck rollover and fire near Clare last Wednesday that left the driver seriously injured before he was airlifted to Townsville.
The crash marked a confronting day on Burdekin roads, with a second serious collision occurring on the Bruce Highway near Inkerman just hours later.
Emergency services first rushed to Old Clare Road at approximately 7:15 am on 8 July, following reports that a fully loaded cane haul-out truck had crashed.
Police reports indicate the driver, a 49-year-old male, lost control of the vehicle while travelling north. The truck tipped onto its driver's side and slid for roughly 50 metres before slamming into a concrete support on top of a culvert.
A passing motorist attempted to assist the trapped driver before police arrived to find the vehicle had caught fire. Officers used handheld fire extinguishers to suppress the flames until the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) arrived to fully extinguish the blaze.
QAS, QFD and QPS crews worked together to stabilise the driver before removing him from the cabin approximately 15 minutes later.
The driver was transported to Ayr Hospital in a stable condition with serious leg injuries, before being airlifted to Townsville Hospital shortly after for further treatment. An official update on his current condition has not been released.
Old Clare Road was closed for several hours while the Forensic Crash Unit (FCU) and Workplace Health and Safety (WH&S) processed the scene.
While finalising the scene at Clare, police were called away to a second high-speed impact on the Bruce Highway near Inkerman.
Upon arrival, officers found a white Toyota Corolla with significant front-end damage blocking the northbound lane, alongside a Toyota LandCruiser towing a caravan.
According to police, the LandCruiser was travelling north when it slowed down behind a tractor that was travelling in the same direction at approximately 80 km/h. Shortly after, the Corolla crashed into the rear of the caravan.
The driver and single occupant of the Corolla was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Ayr Hospital as a precaution. The Corolla sustained severe damage and had to be towed, while the caravan sustained minimal damage and was able to be driven away. The driver and passenger in the LandCruiser were unharmed.
Police investigations into the highway crash are ongoing, with initial indications suggesting driver inattention may have been a contributing factor.
Following the string of incidents, local police are urging the public to exercise increased caution.
(Left to Right) – Wiliam Weaver – Sunwater General Manager of Operations, Dale and Aaron Elphinstone – Sunwater Operations Manager. Photo supplied.
A new $1.3 million water treatment plant is now fully operational in Clare, replacing the township’s 40-year-old facility and providing increased capacity and reliability for the community’s drinking water supply.
The Sunwater facility was officially commissioned on July 10 following the completion of a multi-year upgrade project, replacing the previous plant after it reached the end of its service life.
The upgraded facility can treat up to 400 kilolitres of water per day and features improved monitoring systems, allowing Sunwater staff to remotely track operations and identify potential issues before failures occur.
Minister for Natural Resources and Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the project would help ensure Clare residents continued to have access to a reliable drinking water supply.
“Every Queenslander deserves access to a safe and secure drinking water, and the new treatment plant ensures locals will continue to receive high-quality water for their families and businesses,” Mr Last said.
“Projects like this strengthen water security and help ensure communities such as Clare have the infrastructure they need to thrive and grow.”
The plant treats raw water drawn from the Burdekin River through a multi-stage process incorporating filtration, ultraviolet disinfection and chlorine dosing before distribution to the township.
Sunwater Burdekin Whitsunday Operations Manager Aaron Elphinstone said the facility will improve operational efficiency and reliability.
“Sunwater partnered with specialised water treatment contractors Protex Water and Jacobs to deliver a modern facility that improves operational efficiency and reliability for our customers,” Mr Elphinstone said.
“The plant can be monitored and operated remotely and includes an innovative electro-chlorination system that produces disinfectant on site, removing the need to transport and store bulk chemicals for safer and more productive operations.”
Construction was carried out alongside the existing plant while it remained operational, ensuring Clare’s water supply continued uninterrupted throughout the works.
The project also provided work opportunities for contractors and suppliers from the Burdekin and Townsville regions, who contributed to civil, electrical, plumbing, concrete and materials supply works.
A Burdekin Catholic Parish fundraiser has shown community spirit can extend well beyond the walls of the church, with more than 130 people, including many non-churchgoers, gathering in support of a local institution.
The bingo night fundraiser at Ayr Parish Hall last Friday raised funds to assist with ongoing maintenance across the parish’s four Burdekin churches, supporting the continuation of the its work in the region.
Parish priest Father Manoj described the turnout as an “absolutely stunning” display of community support, with attendees travelling from as far as Townsville to take part in the evening.
“There was a lot of fun, plenty of food … and a lovely ambiance in the hall,” he said.
The event was organised by a six-person fundraising team comprising Kaylene Rinella, Lisa Sarri, Chrissa Di Bartlo, Mary Pattinson, John Furnell and Robert Tomarchio, with the Country Women’s Association (CWL) assisting with bingo calling duties.
Father Manoj said one of the most encouraging aspects of the night was seeing people from across the community support the parish, regardless of their religious affiliation.
“It was important to me that even people who are not practicing religion came to support people who are,” Father Manoj said.
“People might not [ascribe] to a particular religion, but they can still show the expression of love for the events in the community and support people who are practicing religion.
“It was a good sign of people living together in harmony.”
The evening featured bingo, a sausage sizzle, licensed bar, tea and coffee, with Father Manoj thanking attendees and those who contributed food and support towards making the fundraiser a success.
He said the strong response had encouraged the parish to consider holding similar events more regularly in the future.
“We’re looking forward to having this event in the future a little more often,” he said.
Chris Hudson of Huds Pythons (left), Candace Young of Salted Roots (left-centre) and Neil Machin (right) and partner Patricia Thomas (right-centre) of Scrubby’s Teahouse pose outside the revitalised shopfronts on Eighth Avenue. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Since the turn of the millennium, regional town centres have come face-to-face with a global pandemic, the meteoric rise of online shopping and subsequent commercial volatility. But a cluster of new businesses on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue has given rise to a renewed sense of confidence about the future of its CBD.
The foundations of a promising new commercial era have been laid on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue, where three entrepreneurial ventures have given a row of dormant storefronts a new lease on life.
Newly established businesses Salted Roots, Scrubby’s Teahouse, and Huds Pythons and Food recently opened their doors on the town's main street, renovating and occupying commercial spaces that had sat vacant for up to 12 years.
The trio of openings has injected fresh activity along the stretch, prompting questions about whether the investment represents a broader shift in confidence for Home Hill’s town centre.
Candace Young, owner and operator of Salted Roots, said she and her husband Scott saw Home Hill’s supportive community and favourable lease rates as key drivers in their decision to back the town.
“Home Hill has sort of been forgotten about when it comes to shops and new things. Everyone goes to Ayr because they know they're going to have that foot traffic pretty much straight away,” she said.
“When we opened, people were telling us it’s so good that something’s finally coming to Home Hill and bringing something different—bringing the town to life.”
The business officially opened its doors last Saturday, welcoming customers to browse a wide, curated range of homewares, artisan foods and lifestyle goods.
Ms Young said local support would be integral to the future of the business.
“[The business] is not just mine and my husband’s, it belongs to [the community], because they’re the ones that are supporting us,” she said.
Meanwhile, Neil Machin from neighbouring Scrubby’s Teahouse said the roast beef rolls he and partner Patricia Thomas serve have already become a town favourite.
"People are using the word ‘famous' already,” he quipped.
The business officially opened last Saturday after several weeks of limited trading. Alongside its popular beef rolls, the cafe offers mash potato rolls, bacon and scrambled egg rolls, and coffee, while specialising in tea.
Mr Machin described the venture as “something different” after years of work as a builder.
“We were very uncertain at first, but the building industry was in its own turmoil at the time, so it made sense to open when we did,” he said.
“We thought the town needed something. A couple people were playing with the idea, but no one was committed, so we thought, ‘let’s have a crack at it.’”
Christopher Hudson, owner of Huds Pythons and Food, said the arrival of Scrubby's and Salted Roots two doors down had already brought a significant uptick in foot traffic along the strip.
Opened four months ago, Mr Hudson’s business—which he also calls his “hobby”—houses and sells a unique range of reptiles, 90 per cent of which he bred himself.
He said that with the arrival of the neighbouring establishments, his own store had experienced an almost tenfold increase in daily visitors.
“When I was just the only one here, we used to get maybe half a dozen people come through. Now, it’s nothing to get 50 people a day,” Mr Hudson said.
“I’ve been getting all the grey nomads coming through, and have even had a bloke through the other day from Denmark, who’s a keeper over there … You get so many people through, and it's just phenomenal.”
Burdekin Shire Council Deputy Mayor and Home Hill local Max Musumeci said the recent openings were a clear sign of growing business confidence in the area.
"Opening a business requires a significant commitment of time, money and effort, so it's not something people generally do with only the short term in mind,” Mr Musumeci said.
“While every business journey is different, these openings are certainly an encouraging sign that investors and entrepreneurs believe in the future of our community.”
He said their establishment marked a positive step forward for the community.
“I remember when the street was full of thriving businesses, and it was sad to see some shopfronts become vacant over the years,” he said.
“To now see new businesses opening and investing in the town … creates optimism for the future and reinforces what many of us already know—that Home Hill, and the whole of the Burdekin Shire, is a great place to live, work, play, visit and invest.”
Former Burdekin Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has added another accolade to an already fruitful year, being named one of three Trainee of the Year finalists in this year’s Queensland Training Awards. Photo supplied.
Former Burdekin Youth Mayor Nicole Cervoni has added another accolade to an already fruitful year, being named one of three Trainee of the Year finalists in this year’s Queensland Training Awards.
The recognition caps an outstanding 12-month period as a Burdekin Library trainee, during which she became an important part of the team on her way to being named as Burdekin’s Young Citizen of the Year in the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
She will now attend the North Queensland Regional Final in Townsville later this month, which will bring together high-achieving individuals within Queensland’s vocational education and training (VET) sector.
The youngest finalist in her division, Ms Cervoni admitted any further success would be a bonus for an already “exciting” achievement.
“I got the phone call, and I was very excited—but very surprised,” she laughed.
“The other finalists in my category are amazing, and they’ve done so much to deserve it … I’m just really excited to put the Burdekin in that mix as a little girl from Millaroo.”
The former Burdekin Catholic High School student joined the Burdekin Library team in 2025, and was the public face of a number of projects from her position at the library issue desk.
Early that year, Burdekin Library became the first library in Queensland to deliver the State Library of Queensland’s Digital Mentors program. The program paired young volunteers with older residents to help build confidence with everyday technology, from smartphones to online services.
Ms Cervoni was a major part of the program’s success, coordinating sessions, communicating with participants and troubleshooting problems. Meanwhile, her Cricut courses had become a community hit, teaching participants new skills while facilitating friendships and connections.
As part of her traineeship, Nicole also studied a Certificate III in Business through TAFE Queensland alongside her work at the library. Despite also juggling Youth Mayor responsibilities, she completed the course two months ahead of schedule.
Ms Cervoni said that while finalist recognition for her efforts was rewarding, the traineeship itself had already proved a dream come true.
"I have wanted to work at the Burdekin Library since I was little. I had been going there since I was a baby, doing Baby Rhyme Time and everything, and I just loved it,” Ms Cervoni said.
“I was doing work experience at the library before I even got the job [last year], and my mum drove me there every day—an hour drive each way.
“I’ve now learned so much as a person through this job … [and] got to give back to those that supported me, that wanted to see me succeed, and those that still always stop my mum in the street asking, ‘what’s Nicole up to nowadays?’”
Ms Cervoni now studies primary education in Townsville, where she balances her studies with work.
She looks ahead to this month's North Queensland Regional Final, where success in her division will earn her entry into the state awards later this year.
Image from Pexels
Honeycombes Sales and Service is proud to announce four Ayr-based team members have been named finalists in the 2026 John Deere Technician Awards which recognises excellence in agricultural service and parts technicians throughout Australia and New Zealand.
The Honeycombes’ finalists are Adam Patane, Apprentice Service Technician of the Year, Mark Cullen, Service Technician of the Year, and Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson Parts Technician of the Year.
The Awards celebrate the talented Service and Parts Technicians who are dedicated to supporting farming communities, keeping the wheels of agriculture turning – farmers, contractors and businesses to be operational when every hour counts.
Adam Patane, Apprentice Service Technician Regional Finalist, felt a career dedicated to servicing and repairing agricultural machinery was a natural fit for him.
Growing up on a third-generation family farm, Adam saw first-hand the impact of machinery downtime on farming operations. Whether helping his father with repairs or spending time tinkering with tractors and equipment, he developed an appreciation for the role skilled technicians play in keeping agriculture 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 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.
Customers have praised Adam's attention to detail, commitment to safety and eagerness to learn, describing him as a young technician of the future with impressive technical knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for the industry.
Over the past six years, Mark Cullen, Service Technician Regional Finalist, has become a trusted name among Honeycombes’ customers, known for his technical expertise, reliability and commitment to finding solutions when they're needed most.
Whether in the workshop or out in the field, Mark is recognised for his ability to tackle complex issues and help customers get back to work quickly. Customers regularly highlight his willingness to go the extra mile and his determination to see a job through to completion.
“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and getting them back up and running,” Mark said.
It is a passion that began at a young age, helping his father with truck servicing and repairs. What started as curiosity soon became a career built around supporting the people who depend on their machinery every day.
“That’s where my interest really started – I liked figuring out why something wasn’t working and getting it back up and running. Over time, that interest has grown into a real passion for agriculture machinery and supporting customers who rely on their equipment to do their job.”
This August marks 13 years with Honeycombes for Parts Technician Regional Finalist, Demi Russell, whose connection to the industry began long before she started her career.
Demi credits her mother, who has a career spanning over 35 years in the automotive industry, with introducing her to parts interpreting and teaching her the importance of hard work and customer 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.
Today, those lessons continue to shape the way she works. Living in Ayr and raising her own family of four with her husband, Demi understands the important role agriculture plays in supporting local livelihoods and regional economies.
“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.
Known for her reliability, product knowledge and ability to build lasting relationships, Demi has become a trusted advisor for many customers who know they can depend on her to find the right solution when it matters most.
Bradley Sibson, Parts Technician Regional Finalist, is passionate about helping customers minimise downtime and keep their operations running smoothly.
Growing up on a cane and cattle property, Bradley acutely understands the pressure farmers and contractors face when equipment isn't operating as it should. It is this understanding that 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 to help Honeycombescustomers keep their operations moving.
“For me, it is personal – and I want to be that person that makes a difference just as we had people that made a difference for our farm.’
Mark Barrett, Honeycombes CEO said the achievement reflects the high calibre of people within Honeycombes, and the passion they bring everyday to achieve the right result for customers.
“Being named a finalist is a significant achievement and reflects the commitment, professionalism, technical capability, and customer focus these team members demonstrate every day,” Mr Barrett said.
Honeycombes has a long-standing commitment to developing skilled service technicians and parts professionals through training, mentoring and career development opportunities. By investing in its people, Honeycombes supports regional employment opportunities that strengthen local communities while helping team members build rewarding careers, grow professionally and achieve their career goals. Honeycombes is proud to see its people recognised among the industry's best, earning accolades at regional, national and international levels, and being named among the top technicians and parts professionals across Australia and New Zealand.
Established in 2021, the John Deere Technician Awards recognise and celebrate the important role technicians play in supporting Australia's agriculture, construction and forestry industries. This year, 78 nominations were received from across Australia and New Zealand, making selection as a Regional Finalist a significant accomplishment.
The 2026 John Deere Technician Awards Gala Ceremony will be held in Brisbane on Thursday, 3 September, where winners will be announced.
Honeycombes congratulates Adam, Mark, Demi and Bradley on this outstanding achievement, and thanks them for their passion and commitment to excellence. Honeycombes wishes them every success at the Awards ceremony.
The ‘Frog Hotel’ was expertly designed and constructed by several Junior Landcare members, gathering on Saturday morning to build the apartment block from top to bottom. Photo source: Facebook/Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Inc
Burdekin frogs have been thrown a lifeline amid local housing shortages through rent-free housing courtesy of Lower Burdekin Landcare Association’s youngest green thumbs.
The ‘Frog Hotel’ was expertly designed and constructed by several Junior Landcare members, gathering on Saturday morning to build the pint-sized accommodation from the ground up.
Young builders made use of a pot, stones, and open-ended pipes to bring the project to life, with all works completed on the day.
The Frog Hotel now stands at the Lower Burdekin Landcare nursery on International Drive, awaiting its first amphibian tenants.
The organisation took to Facebook to share its delight with the efforts of all involved.
“The kids did such an amazing job,” it shared.
“[We] can’t wait for our first little visitors to come and sleep over.”
The Junior Landcare program is nurturing the region's next generation of land carers.
The group meets on the first Saturday of every month, giving children aged 6 to 12 hands-on experience through activities including building frog habitats, planting vegetable seeds and tending their own gardens.
Interested parties can find more information on the organisation’s website: https://www.lowerburdekinlandcare.com/contact-us
A $1.2 million funding package aimed at strengthening Queensland’s volunteer sector could help local organisations address declining participation and volunteer hours, with Burdekin groups among those facing ongoing challenges rebuilding their ranks. Photo source: Burdekin Domestic & Family Abuse Prevention Network
A $1.2 million funding package aimed at strengthening Queensland’s volunteer sector could help local organisations address declining participation and volunteer hours, with Burdekin groups among those facing ongoing challenges rebuilding their ranks.
The State Government announced the funding as part of its 2026-27 State Budget, with the investment to support the development of a 10-year volunteering plan, strengthening partnerships across the sector and identifying ways to reduce administrative barriers for volunteers.
The announcement comes as community groups across the Burdekin continue to recover from significant declines in volunteer participation following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Lions Club of Ayr, which had served the community for 60 years, closed in 2020 after membership fell to just four remaining members.
The Burdekin Community Association (BCA) has also experienced a drop in volunteer numbers, falling from more than 100 members before the pandemic to 64 today.
While BCA’s volunteer numbers have stabilised at around 60 in recent years, the organisation has recorded a decline in the number of hours contributed by volunteers, with a nine per cent reduction between the 2024-25 financial year and the previous year.
The State Government said the new funding would support 18 initiatives developed in response to recommendations from the Parliamentary Inquiry into Volunteering, with the aim of making it easier for Queenslanders to participate.
Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said the investment would help strengthen the sector and support organisations that rely on community contributions.
“Volunteers are the backbone of Queensland communities and we’re backing them with increased funding to the volunteering sector,” Ms Leahy said.
“This year’s Budget support will enhance the ability of volunteer organisations to build resilient, connected communities and encourage more people to get involved and stay involved.”
The funding will also support the creation of a 10-year volunteering plan intended to provide a long-term framework for the sector.
Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger welcomed the commitment, saying stronger partnerships and reduced barriers would help create a more accessible volunteering environment.
“The renewed commitment to a 10-year volunteering plan, strong sector partnerships and removing government barriers to participation will contribute to a more sustainable and accessible volunteering landscape,” Ms Hedger said.
The State Government’s announcement follows concerns from community organisations across regional Queensland about the challenges of attracting and retaining volunteers.
The Burdekin’s volunteer sector supports a wide range of community services, sporting clubs and not-for-profit organisations, with many groups relying on a small number of dedicated members to continue operating.
The funding package forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s stated commitment to supporting Queensland’s volunteer workforce, which it describes as critical to the strength of local communities.
One of the highlights of my week was receiving a heartfelt thank you card on behalf of the community from those involved in the recent serious crash. It was a touching gesture that reminds us of the strength and compassion that exists throughout the Burdekin. In times of adversity, our community consistently comes together to support one another, and while no recognition is ever expected, it is always appreciated.
We are incredibly fortunate to live in a region renowned for its fresh produce and agricultural excellence. Whether it's roadside stalls operating on honesty boxes or locally grown fruit and vegetables available throughout the district, the Burdekin continues to showcase the best of country living. Fresh really is best, as my grandparents often reminded me.
I recently visited the outstanding Agricultural Department at Home Hill State High School, where students are gaining valuable hands-on experience in horticulture, aquaculture and sustainable farming practices. Programs like these are helping to develop the next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders. Some of the produce raised by students is available through the popular Prawn Shop in Home Hill, providing a great example of practical learning and community connection.
Last week I attended the 2026 State Budget Address in Townsville with Queensland Treasurer Hon David Janetzki MP. It was encouraging to see mayors from across North and North West Queensland gathered together to discuss the priorities and opportunities ahead for our regions. There is a strong sense of optimism about the future of North Queensland, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for outcomes that benefit the Burdekin and the broader 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.
Clive Williams (left) has taken charge of the Rotary Club of Home Hill, hoping to continue recent momentum following the successful 18-month tenure of lifelong Rotarian Alfio Musumeci (right). Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin cane farmer Clive Williams has stepped into the top job at the Rotary Club of Home Hill, taking over from longtime Rotarian Alfio Musumeci following the latter's successful two years at the helm.
Mr Williams was officially announced as president at Tuesday’s club changeover event at the Crown Hotel, during which outgoing Mr Musumeci presented him with a presidential badge and frame.
Despite a nationwide decline in volunteering, Mr Musumeci’s term witnessed steady growth for the club, which attracted three new members this year. The Home Hill local also oversaw last October’s Harvest Festival Gala Ball, which raisedroughly $7,000.
Under his leadership, the club distributed significant financial contributions to several community organisations, including CORES, St. Vincent de Paul, Burdekin Chaplains, and the Davenport family.
Addressing the changeover, Mr Musumeci expressed his gratitude toward the executive committee and members alike, before wishing Mr Williams well in his new role.
“Thanks to all of our members who have supported me and the ideals of Rotary, embracing what it means to be a Rotarian. To Clive, congratulations and best wishes to you for a successful year,” he said.
Mr Williams steps into the presidency after roughly a year-and-a-half with the club, carrying on a family tradition of Rotary service that includes his father, a member for 50 years, and his grandfather.
With his presidential role, he assumes the task of helping the club reach its ambitious $40,000 fundraising goal, which was announced earlier this year.
The funds will go towards purchasing an all-terrain vehicle for the Home Hill and Ayr Police stations, giving officers immediate access to remote areas across the region.
Mr Williams said the project, along with the support of the club’s members, would be central to his presidency.
“These past 18 months have seen us go through some up-and-down times, but with our new ATV project onboard, we’re coming home strong,” he said.
“I hope that with [member’s] help and guidance, I can lead this club to maintain its presence in the community and continue to give assistance to the groups and people who need our hope.”
Mr Williams confirmed on the evening that chairman Robert Marshall, secretary Kellie Williams, and treasurer Desley Musumeci would all retain their executive roles.
The new president also formally announced Maddy Gallagher as the club’s new Harvest Festival queen. She follows in the footsteps of last year’s club representative Eden Betteridge, who claimed Personality Queen honours.
The Queensland Government has announced a new phase of its youth crime crackdown, with repeat young offenders who commit serious offences while on bail set to face mandatory sentences under proposed “Breach Bail, Go to Jail” laws. Photo source: Facebook/David Crisafulli MP
The Queensland Government has announced a new phase of its youth crime crackdown, with repeat young offenders who commit serious offences while on bail set to face mandatory sentences under proposed “Breach Bail, Go to Jail” laws.
The reforms will expand the State Government’s Adult Crime, Adult Time legislation, with the new offence applying to young offenders who commit serious crimes while on bail.
The announcement comes amid ongoing community concern about crime across regional Queensland, including in the Burdekin, where a petition calling for additional police resources and funding for private security patrols attracted 3,562 signatures in 2024.
The petition followed a period during which Member for Burdekin Dale Last claimed entry charges in Home Hill had increased twelvefold over a 12-month period, while Ayr recorded a fourfold increase over three months.
Under the proposed “Breach Bail, Go to Jail” reforms, young offenders who commit an Adult Crime, Adult Time offence while on bail would face a new offence carrying a minimum mandatory sentence.
The Queensland Government said the reforms would build on the first three phases of Adult Crime, Adult Time, which cover 45 offences and have contributed to a 7.2 per cent reduction in victim numbers following significant increases in previous years.
Premier David Crisafulli said the next stage of the laws would hold repeat youth offenders accountable.
“Breach Bail, Go to Jail is the next phase of Adult Crime, Adult Time, which is holding youth offenders accountable for the first time in a long time,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“We’ve heard from Queenslanders who are telling us to keep going, and we will with reforms to Labor’s weak bail laws.”
Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said the Government’s focus was on improving community safety through stronger laws, more police, early intervention and rehabilitation.
“Bail is a privilege, not a right and if repeat offenders are breaching it, they should and will go to jail under this next phase of Adult Crime, Adult Time,” Ms Gerber said.
The Government said the legislation would be introduced following further consultation, with the reforms expected to become law by the end of 2026.
Dalbeg residents may now face more than an hour’s drive to dump their waste after the local skip bin service was shut down.
Burdekin Shire Council’s decision to discontinue the Dalbeg disposal service follows a six-month trial period, during which seven customers used it across two collection events held in March and May this year.
The trial, introduced in late 2025, replaced a permanently available skip bin at Dalbeg Hall, which had been removed due to ongoing misuse.
The revised model provided scheduled, supervised waste collection days on a quarterly basis, with a user-pays component for selected waste items.
Mayor Dalle Cort said it had become an “unjustifiable" use of ratepayer funds, citing both “very low” community utilisation and increased operational costs.
“Council has a responsibility to provide services that are fair, efficient and sustainable for the entire community,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“However, the results of the trial clearly show that the service is not being used at a level that justifies the cost to Council.”
Clare-based Councillor Amanda Hall rebuked the decision, fearing it could leave remote residents behind.
“We can’t continue losing services out here. The population isn’t there for the constant usage, but that doesn’t mean that people don’t use it,” she said.
“[Services] do have to be cost-effective … and I can appreciate managers trying to reduce costs, but people still pay rates, and they pay a lot of rates out here.
“It’s very disheartening for the people that live in the further areas.”
Residents of Dalbeg and Millaroo must now make use of waste facilities in Clare, Ayr, Home Hill and Kirknie.
Cr Hall said this could mean drives up to “an hour and a half” long to facilities in town.
“[People] won’t travel that far. [Rubbish] will be dumped illegally on the side of the road, and then how much is that going to cost council?”
Council acknowledged the risk of illegal dumping following the removal of the service.
Mayor Dalle Cort urged residents to continue to dump waste responsibly.
“We understand this change may be disappointing for some residents, and we encourage the community to make use of the available waste facilities to ensure waste is disposed of responsibly,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has welcomed Burdekin Shire Council's decision to reduce the sugarcane rate in the dollar as part of its 2026/27 budget, describing the move as welcome relief for local growers facing ongoing financial pressures.
Earlier this year, Burdekin QCAR members raised concerns about rising land valuations and the impact higher rates would have on cane farming operations across the district.
In response, QCAR submitted a community impact assessment to Burdekin Shire Council on behalf of its members and the wider community, outlining the financial challenges facing the sugar industry following several difficult seasons.
The organisation said the assessment also highlighted the industry's broader economic contribution, noting that every dollar generated through on-farm activity returns an estimated $6.40 to the local economy, while the sugar industry supports almost one in three jobs across the Burdekin.
Under the 2026/27 budget, Burdekin Shire Council reduced the Category D (Sugar Cane) rate from 3.508 cents in the dollar to 2.866 cents, representing an 18.3 per cent decrease.
QCAR said the reduction demonstrated the council had listened to the concerns raised by local growers and recognised the pressures currently being experienced across the agricultural sector. The organisation said the lower rate would help offset the impact of increasing land valuations across the Burdekin, particularly at a time when some neighbouring local government areas, including Townsville, have announced rate increases.
QCAR thanked Burdekin Shire Council for supporting sugarcane farmers and the wider community as the region continues to navigate a challenging year.
CANEGROWERS and Sugar Research Australia (SRA) will seek a one-year emergency permit from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) allowing growers to purchase and use paraquat in sugarcane. Photo source: Website/CANEGROWERS
The Australian sugarcane industry’s peak grower and research bodies have joined forces in a bid to prevent a critical weed-control tool disappearing from cane farms before practical alternatives are ready.
CANEGROWERS and Sugar Research Australia (SRA) will seek a one-year emergency permit from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) allowing growers to purchase and use paraquat in sugarcane under the previous label conditions, subject to appropriate restrictions.
The APVMA’s recent decision removes sugarcane from revised paraquat labels because the allowable rates are well below those required for effective use in cane.
Products carrying labels approved before the decision can still be used until 22 June 2028, but growers will be limited to the finite supply of old-label stock already in circulation.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the permit would provide a practical bridge while alternative weed-control options were developed.
“This is not about using up old drums already sitting in sheds,” Mr Galligan said.
“We are seeking a one-year permit that would allow growers to buy new stock and use it under the previous conditions, with appropriate safeguards in place.
“Paraquat is an important part of minimum-tillage farming because it controls weeds without repeatedly disturbing the soil. Right now, there is no replacement that works across every farming system.
“Growers need more than an assurance that alternatives are coming. They need a workable option for the season ahead, and that is what this application is designed to provide.”
SRA is working with chemical companies to develop alternative knockdown herbicide strategies for consideration to be registered by APVMA.
“We respect the APVMA’s role and understand the application will need to address its concerns,” Mr Galligan said.
“But the practical reality is growers cannot switch overnight to alternatives that are not yet available.
“A short-term permit would give the industry breathing room to make that transition properly.”
Grower leaders will also raise the issue directly with APVMA officials when they address the CANEGROWERS Policy Council later this month.
“That meeting will give APVMA officials the chance to hear directly from growers about how paraquat is used and what losing it would mean on farm,” Mr Galligan said.
“We are looking for a sensible short-term solution that gives growers a workable option while the next generation of weed-control tools is brought forward.”
Supplied by CANEGROWERS
Martha is a gentle young cat looking for a forever home and someone to love.
Born 25 September 2022, Martha is a female cat who has been in foster care since 14 May 2026. She is cat friendly, good with children, and may suit a home with other pets, although her experience with dogs is currently unknown.
Martha is known for her warm personality and strong bond with people once trust is established. She is quite talkative, happily responding when called by name, and is full of purrs, head bumps and affection. At night, she enjoys nothing more than curling up beside her foster carer for comfort and companionship.
She came into care alongside her close companion Milah, and the pair share a strong and comforting bond. A joint adoption would be a special outcome, though Martha would also thrive in a calm, peaceful home where she feels safe and loved.
Martha is a grazer, preferring small meals throughout the day, and settles best in a relaxed environment.
Adoption fee is $210, which includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, and flea, tick and worm treatment.
For a loving, gentle companion with personality and heart, Martha is ready to meet her match.
Enquire about Martha here:https://angelpawsinc.com.au/forms/
"School chaplains provide a trusted, caring presence for young people, helping them navigate challenges, build resilience and develop confidence.” Photo supplied
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the wellbeing of young people across the Burdekin, announcing a $30,000 contribution to the Burdekin School Chaplaincy program.
The announcement was made during the Annual School Chaplaincy Breakfast last month, where Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr board members and staff joined local educators, volunteers and community leaders to celebrate the vital role chaplains play in the lives of local students.
Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said the breakfast was a powerful reminder of the positive impact chaplains have in schools every day.
"Listening to the stories shared at the breakfast highlighted just how important this service is for our community," Ms Smith said.
"School chaplains provide a trusted, caring presence for young people, helping them navigate challenges, build resilience and develop confidence. Their work often extends beyond the classroom, supporting families and strengthening our entire community."
The $30,000 funding commitment will help ensure chaplaincy services continue to be available across local schools, providing students with someone to turn to during difficult times and creating opportunities for meaningful connections.
As a Community Bank, supporting initiatives that improve the wellbeing of local residents is central to its purpose. Through the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, profits generated locally are reinvested into projects, organisations and programs that make a lasting difference throughout the Burdekin.
Ms Smith said investing in young people was one of the most important ways the bank could contribute to the future of the region.
"Our young people are the future of the Burdekin, and it's important they have access to support that helps them thrive both personally and emotionally," she said.
"We're proud to stand alongside the Burdekin Chaplains committee and everyone involved in delivering this valuable program. Their dedication has a positive ripple effect that reaches students, families and the wider community."
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr also acknowledged the many volunteers, schools, churches and supporters whose ongoing commitment ensures the chaplaincy program continues to make a meaningful difference.
By investing in initiatives that strengthen resilience, connection and community wellbeing, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a stronger future for the Burdekin—one where local success creates lasting local impact.
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
How good is the weather at the moment, cool enough to have a break from air-cons, cooler mornings/evenings and beautiful days. The “crush” is underway with increased traffic on the roads, let’s stay safe and be aware of vehicles around us.
The Burdekin continues to shine in volunteerism, from the local footy, service clubs to the SES. A new Local Controller, Cheryl Wade has taken over the reins of the Burdekin SES, congrats and welcome to the wonderful SES volunteers.
Works continue around the Shire, if you see something that needs attention, pot hole/damaged sign etc simply fill out a ‘Snap Send Solve’. If not on your mobile go to your App Store and download. Otherwise send an E mail to enquiries@burdekin.qld.gov.au or call 4783 9800.
‘Cirque Nouvelle’, “a new evolution of circus” is on at the ‘Burdekin Theatre’ tonight 6pm. “After sell out shows across Australia, this internationally acclaimed all-star cast are back and ready to present a truly unique and versatile production”
The ‘Millaroo Catfish Competition’ is on this Saturday 11th July. Any enquiries go to millaroopandc@outlook.com or call 0427 652 387.
The State of Origin has been ‘run and won’ for 2026, congrats to the competitive spirit shown by both teams. The Cowboy v Panthers game was the best game I’ve seen since the 2015 Grand Final, not just for the game but to celebrate JTs 300th. To see the Tongan princess and Prime Minister acknowledge JTs achievement along with the NRL was very special. What I admired most was players of both teams stayed around long after the game to take pictures and sign autographs which endeared them to the many fans, especially the young kids from the Laurie Spina Shield who saw they’re idols.
Wishing you health & happiness
Cr John
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Critical infrastructure needed to foster new homes in the Burdekin has been backed by the Crisafulli Government in a boost Member for Burdekin Dale Last has hailed as a win for the region.
Under the 2026/2027 State Budget, the Crisafulli Government will deliver a $720,000 duplicated water main at Home Hill to improve reliability of the town water supply and support sustainable growth.
Mr Last said backing local councils with the funding they need to bolster critical infrastructure demonstrated real steps towards unlocking more land for new homes.
“By investing in Home Hill’s water infrastructure, the Crisafulli Government is delivering for current residents while ensuring our regional towns are able to meet the current demand for housing,” Mr Last said.
“We know attracting the skilled workforce we need for services in our town, starts with ensuring they have a place to live which is why the Crisafulli Government is removing as many barriers as possible for both new and existing homes.”
“We’re delivering on our commitment to work closely with councils including the Burdekin who play a crucial role in unlocking home ownership.”
Mr Last said delivering the duplication of Home Hill’s water main was just one way the Crisafulli Government was delivering a place to call home for more Queenslanders.
“More than 3500 first home buyers have already benefitted from the Crisafulli Government’s abolishment of stamp duty while more than $70 million has been budgeted to assist first home owners with $30,000 First Home Owner Grants,” Mr Last said.
“This Budget backs aspiration and strengthens the foundations for continued growth in our regional communities.”
The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that the Albanese Labor Government's heavy-handed rollout of new environmental laws on July 1 will paralyse local agricultural production, leaving regional sugar cane farmers trapped in a compliance nightmare and threatening the viability of local mills.
From tomorrow (July 1), the Federal Government’s newly established National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) officially begins operations. Armed with expanded auditing powers and the ability to issue immediate 14-day "stop work" orders, this new federal body has the ability to enforce massive new financial penalties under a radically altered Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, with corporate fines skyrocketing up to $16.5 million.
The upcoming enforcement push follows intense scrutiny by the Coalition, alongside peak industry groups. Modelling from AgForce highlights the staggering scale of the threat, revealing that the complex federal self-assessment and referral process is expected to drain up to $3.5 billion annually from Queensland agriculture alone, with roughly 30 producers already trapped under aggressive federal compliance investigations.
Mr Willcox said local sugar cane farmers are already experiencing the suffocating effects of a bureaucratic hold by the federal environment department. Landowners trying to clear Category X land, which is freehold land explicitly classified as cleared or exempt under state vegetation laws to allow for routine farming, are being stopped in their tracks by federal authorities.
"Our local cane farmers are being forced into a bureaucratic nightmare by a government completely detached from the realities of food production," Mr Willcox said.
"I have local landowners coming into my office who are trying to manage and expand their crops on Category X land. They have done the right thing, yet they are being bullied by federal department officials who tell them their land is 'under investigation' without providing a single solid reason why. It is an absolute joke.
"Labor has rushed these laws through to secure a political win with the Greens, completely altering the 'continuous use' exemption. Now, if a farmer has regrowth older than 15 years, or if they are within 50 metres of a watercourse in the Great Barrier Reef catchment, routine activities like clearing scrub, putting in fencing, or building firebreaks are suddenly treated like a potential federal offense."
To combat this broader federal assault on regional productivity, the Coalition has announced it will lodge a coordinated Notice of Motion in both the Senate and the House of Representatives to disallow the Carbon Credits Methodology Determination 2026. This urgent legislative push aims to stop Labor from using multi-million dollar corporations and carbon credit schemes to permanently lock up productive land and destroy regional jobs.
Mr Willcox warned that this strategy of locking up agricultural land to appease a box-ticking carbon offset agenda represents a dangerous precedent, running alongside Labor's broader plan to lock up an additional 39 million hectares of land, nearly twice the size of Victoria, to meet its 2030 targets.
"Locking up this land completely destroys its productivity, abandoning active land management and turning prime agricultural acreage into a weed-ridden haven for feral pests, like wild pigs, to breed and spread unchecked onto surrounding properties," Mr Willcox said.
"Blocking farmers from utilising their own land poses a direct, existential threat to the region's sugar milling infrastructure.
"Our local sugar mills are already locked in a severe battle against block encroachment, which is steadily reducing the total hectares of cane being grown in our region.
"A sugar mill requires a strict, massive volume of cane to remain operationally and financially viable. If our farmers are stopped from clearing their Category X land to open up new cane blocks, the total tonnage will drop below that critical threshold, and the mills will simply close.
"The profit margins for our cane farmers are incredibly slim. If a local mill shuts down, it becomes entirely cost-prohibitive to transport harvested cane to a mill further away. The transport costs alone will wipe out any return, meaning all the surrounding sugar cane farms will have to stop farming completely.
"Hundreds of landowners across this country are facing this exact same bureaucratic freeze, and it is stifling production, damaging local economies, and threatening national food security.
“Our farmers need practical support and regulatory certainty, not a centralised, Canberra-based environmental police force strangling their productivity.”
Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
What could have been a stressful roadside ordeal became a heartwarming reminder of the kindness found in the Burdekin community for father Clinton Condren Snr and his son last week.
Travelling south between Ayr and Townsville, the pair experienced car trouble just past Giru before fellow motorist Carol Philo noticed they were stranded and stopped to see if they needed help.
Mr Condren said Ms Philo's kindness made all the difference, with a tow truck arriving soon after to get them back on the road within the hour.
Grateful for the support, Mr Condren wanted to publicly thank Ms Philo for taking the time to stop and lend a hand, saying her simple act of kindness turned a worrying situation into one with a happy ending.
(L-R) Sam Harris, Lisa Corica, Rhondda Ware, Lynn Hutchings, Dan Bawden, Chris Goodwill and John Donald. Photo credit: Jenny Donald
While most Burdekinites were in weekend mode last Sunday, a group of Ayr-Home Hill Lions volunteers spent several hours at the Lions Fruit Park in Home Hill giving the mango trees a much-needed trim.
Volunteers Sam Harris, Lisa Corica, Rhondda Ware, Lynn Hutchings, Dan Bawden, Chris Goodwill and John and Jenny Donald worked steadily throughout the day, carrying out the first major prune the trees have had in years.
By day’s end, seven trailer loads of off-cuts were transported to the local dump for disposal.
The surrounding lawns were also mowed as part of the manicure, leaving the park noticeably refreshed.
“We all agreed that the fruit park looks a lot better after the trim and mow,” a club spokesperson said.
The working bee concluded across the road at the Lions Diorama, where volunteers enjoyed celebratory scones and coffee.
The work represents one of the many voluntary efforts carried out by the longstanding local service club across the region.
NQ Dry Tropics Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager Rob Hunt directing people onto the bus to begin the forum. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
More than 60 scientists, farmers, Traditional Owners, conservationists and industry representatives gathered in Home Hill this month to explore new ways of protecting waterways, strengthening agricultural resilience and improving water quality flowing to the Great Barrier Reef.
The 2026 Burdekin Regional Water Quality Science Forum, hosted by NQ Dry Tropics, highlighted the importance of strategic planning, collaboration and targeted investment to address environmental challenges while supporting productive farming systems.
A field tour showcased practical projects already delivering results, including streambank restoration at Molongle Creek, where almost 4,000 timber piles were installed after severe flooding to stabilise the creek bank and encourage natural regeneration.
Forum delegates also visited Mt Alma Organics near Inkerman, where the Spotswood family is working alongside NQ Dry Tropics to restore more than 60 hectares of wetland through long-term landscape management.
Chief Scientific Officer from the Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Carl Mitchell said long-term thinking was becoming increasingly important in water quality planning.
"We need to think strategically about how the program would be used in, say, 20 years from now," he said.
Collaboration between landholders, scientists and Traditional Owners was another key focus, with discussions highlighting the growing use of cultural burning as a land management tool.
NQ Dry Tropics Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager Rob Hunt said collecting the right information was essential to improving environmental outcomes.
"We really need to know what we're measuring," he said.
"Whether it's to make sure our models are right, or to ensure a project is delivering what it's meant to deliver, or properly understanding the co-benefits arising from a project, we need to be able to map those out and understand what we're measuring."
Senior Scientist and principal at C2O Consulting Jane Waterhouse said investment also needed to be carefully prioritised.
"We also want managers and investors to think about protecting the areas in good condition ensuring we are taking action if necessary to maintain good water quality," she said.
The forum also examined emerging opportunities in carbon emissions reduction, with researchers and industry leaders discussing how changes to fertiliser use and farming practices could improve productivity while creating future carbon market opportunities.
The event was funded through the Australian and Queensland governments' Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting Program.
It has been another wonderful week in the Burdekin, filled with community spirit, celebration and important milestones for our region.
The Burdekin Singers Debutante Ball was once again a standout event, with 23 debutantes presented alongside their partners. It was a truly special evening, marking an important moment in the lives of these young people as they step forward into a new chapter. Seeing them so poised and confident was inspiring - leaders in the making, full of potential and optimism for the future. Congratulations to all involved in delivering such a beautiful and well-run event.
The Burdekin Show has also come and gone for another year, and what a fantastic event it was. We were fortunate to enjoy fine weather, which made for a great day out for families and visitors alike. It was especially pleasing to meet a group of young backpackers taking a well-earned day off to enjoy the Show.
They spoke so highly of our community - our openness, friendliness and lifestyle, and it is always encouraging to hear how much people appreciate what we often take for granted here in the Burdekin.
Council has now handed down its 2026/27 Budget, which takes a practical and forward-looking approach to the future of our region. We are proud to report that our general rates remain among the lowest in the State. This Budget reflects our commitment to the theme “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” - investing in the infrastructure our community needs now, while carefully planning for the years ahead.
We recognise that many households are facing financial pressures, and Council has been mindful to strike a balance between affordability and maintaining essential services. Flexible payment options and support are available for those who may need assistance, and I encourage residents to reach out to Council if required.
With school holidays now underway, I encourage families to take advantage of the many local activities on offer. Our libraries and community spaces are hosting a range of programs to keep young minds engaged and entertained throughout the break.
As always, thank you for being part of what makes the Burdekin such a vibrant and welcoming community.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
There is a lot of talk about the future of regional Queensland, but if you want to see where the Burdekin is heading, you don’t need a spreadsheet. You just need to look at our local workshops, worksites, and businesses.
You need to look at our apprentices and trainees.
For a long time, there was a belief that to "make it," regional kids had to pack their bags for the big cities. But here in the Burdekin, we prove every day that you can build a first-class career right here in your own backyard.
When a local business takes on an apprentice, they aren't just filling a vacancy, they are investing in the survival of our community. Keeping our young people local means keeping our sporting clubs full, our volunteer groups alive, and ensuring the next generation is here to raise families in Ayr, Home Hill, and our districts.
Council plays its part by hosting trainees and apprentices across our departments, but the real heavy lifting is done by our local businesses and contractors. Taking on a young worker takes time, patience, and money. To every Burdekin business owner who backs our youth, thank you! You are the backbone of our economy.
To the young men and women currently turning spanners or learning a trade, stick with it. The skills you are learning right here are world-class.
Let’s keep backing our kids, supporting our local shops, and keeping the Burdekin the best place in the North to build a life and raise a family.
Learning environments across four schools in the Burdekin are receiving a welcome boost as part of the 2026/2027 State Budget handed down last week.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the boost to infrastructure at Brandon State School, East Ayr State School, Jarvisfield State School and Millaroo State School strengthens the future for some of the Burdekin’s youngest residents.
The 2026/2027 State Budget will deliver upgrades to the school oval at Brandon State School; additional shade and lighting at Jarvisfield State School; upgrades to the multipurpose court at Millaroo State School; and a new hard shade structure at East Ayr State School.
“Our small schools are at the heart of our community, so I am proud to see the Crisafulli Budget delivering for our rural students with the improved learning environments they need to continue to grow and learn,” Mr Last said.
“The investment of more than half a million dollars will see sporting areas upgraded, new shade areas and a boosted tuckshop across the four schools.”
“At the same time we’re providing an increased $150 Back to School Boost and Play On! Sports Vouchers meaning our youngest residents have access to improved learning environments and strengthened opportunities.”
Mr Last said the boost for Burdekin schools reflected the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to help Queensland kids catch up, keep up and stay in school.
“This year’s $23.1 billion Education budget will see a half a billion dollar increase to strengthen the foundations for a fresh start for all Queenslanders,” Mr Last said.
“In conjunction with delivering the infrastructure our schools need, the Crisafulli Government has already delivered 1350 more teachers and teacher aides across the state to help kids catch up, keep up and stay in school.”
“As the Member for Burdekin, I’m proud to work closely with the schools in my electorate to ensure our regional students are afforded the learning environments they need to succeed.”
Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
Brothers Josh, Ross and Chris Pirrone on their Pirrone Brothers farm just outside Ayr
A first-of-its-kind, Burdekin-grown zucchini flower vodka has beaten a horde of international competition to win gold at last month's World Drinks Awards in London.
The drink, which uses zucchini flowers grown by brothers Josh, Ross and Chris Pirrone just outside Ayr, took out the ‘World’s Best Botanical Vodka’ title at the prestigious event.
Pirrone Brothers co-owner Josh said the victory justified his last-minute decision to fly across the world, collecting the accolade on behalf of the family business and Yeppoon-based Reef Distillers.
“I told [the organiser] I’m only gonna come if we win. He said, ‘I can't tell you, but it'll be worth your while’, so I just booked it on that,” Mr Pirrone said.
To qualify for the award, the zucchini flower vodka first had to rank highest nationally—which it did, after a round of blind sampling.
The five highest-scoring countries were then deemed finalists, before Pirrone Brothers were announced winners at the 2 June event.
The ceremony brought together producers, distillers, and drinks professionals from around the world to the Waldorf Hotel, celebrating innovation and excellence in the industry.
Mr Pirrone relished the opportunity to network with international distillers, albeit with some language difficulties. He said the victory was made sweeter by the sheer level of competition their unique concoction beat out.
“Making small talk with the guests at the pre-drinks was pretty hard, because there were French people, Italian dudes…,” he said.
“Some of these guys had been doing it for 10, 20, 30 years. It’s their livelihood. So to win the award against them was pretty cool.”
The idea for the award-winning spirit was first conceived in early 2025, with the recipe, production and branding process taking almost a year before being finalised in December.
Mr Pirrone said he initially approached multiple distillers with the idea of producing a vodka using his farm produce, before eventually partnering with Reef Distillers.
“I just wanted to do a vodka and I spoke to a few people, but there wasn’t much interest,” he said.
“When I got in touch with Reef Distillers, Laura suggested using the zucchini flowers, and it kind of clicked from there.
“It wasn’t intentional. It was more of a collaboration of ideas and we just ran with it.”
The drink's success has encouraged the family to explore other unique avenues, with Mr Pirrone revealing an eggplant pickle could be the next product to hit the market.
“We’ve got an eggplant pickle recipe that we’re fine-tuning at the moment,” he said.
“Hopefully in the next two or three months we’ll start selling that and put it out there.”
The luncheon on Sunday 19th July, will feature a special guest appearance from ABCF Director Vanessa Fowler. Photo source: website/Allison Baden-Clay Foundation
A Burdekin woman inspired by recent domestic violence awareness events is bringing a community luncheon to the region next month, hoping to spark further conversation around coercive control, respectful relationships and the impacts of domestic violence.
The ‘Strive to be Kind’ luncheon, organised by local resident Alexandria Lange in conjunction with the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and the Allison Baden-Clay Foundation (ABCF), will be held at Silver Screens n’ Coffee Beans on Sunday 19th July to raise awareness and support for domestic violence prevention initiatives.
“It's about spreading the message of kindness … and awareness of domestic violence and its impacts on the community,” said Ms Lange.
“I attended the DV prevention walk in May, and was really impressed by what the DV network and the police did there. I also attended the PCYC event, and have just been greatly inspired by all those people.
“I wanted to see more events like that happening so we can spread the message further—the message of kindness, and of community coming together to create safer, respectful relationships in our communities.”
The luncheon will feature a special guest appearance from ABCF Director Vanessa Fowler OAM.
The sister of Allison Baden-Clay, who was tragically murdered by her husband in 2012, Ms Fowler played a major role in the formation of the Foundation, taking on multiple executive roles.
She has since been the driving force behind Strive To Be Kind Day.
Bowen martial-arts instructor Deb McLean will also present on the day.
Ms Lange called the pair “inspiring,” and hopes attendees leave with a similar impression.
“I really hope this luncheon encourages inspiration—one more conversation, one more act of kindness, one more person to support the foundation's work. If we can do that, then we've already made a huge difference,” she said.
Ms Lange encouraged the community to support the event in any way possible.
“I would really love it if the community got behind us—community members, businesses, everyone,” she said.
"If you could contribute in any way, whether that's buying a ticket and coming along to the event, or donating to the ABCF. It doesn't matter how small.”
The event will begin at midday, with a meal and raffle prizes up for grabs. All proceeds will be donated to the ABCF.
Tickets can be purchased at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr.
Invicta Mill (pictured) led weekly throughput with 129,947 tonnes crushed (season to date 350,719 tonnes). Photo source: website/Wilmar
The Burdekin sugar industry has pushed through the 900,000-tonne mark for the 2026 season, with mills recording another strong week of crushing and CCS levels continuing to track well above budget.
For the week ending 20 June 2026, total cane crushed reached 346,651 tonnes, bringing season-to-date throughput to 900,378 tonnes. The weekly total was described as above budget, with steady factory performance across all four mills.
Invicta Mill led weekly throughput with 129,947 tonnes crushed (season to date 350,719 tonnes), followed by Pioneer with 78,843 tonnes (183,432 tonnes season to date), Kalamia with 76,682 tonnes (186,631 tonnes), and Inkerman with 61,179 tonnes (179,596 tonnes).
Average weekly CCS for the region rose to 14.23, well above the budgeted figure of 12.98 and slightly higher than the season-to-date average of 13.97. Individual mill CCS results were also strong, with Kalamia recording the highest weekly result at 14.86, followed by Pioneer and Invicta both at 14.31, and Inkerman at 14.03.
Industry officials reported that Invicta and Inkerman mills undertook their first cleaning intermissions for the season last week, with Kalamia and Pioneer scheduled to follow on Tuesday 23 June as part of routine maintenance to sustain factory performance.
Variety performance data showed Q240 continuing to dominate the crush at 40 per cent, delivering 13.83 CCS. KQ228 accounted for 31 per cent at 14.51 CCS, followed by Q183 at 15 per cent with a strong 14.88 CCS. Smaller plantings included SRA23 at 5 per cent (14.73 CCS), WSRA17 at 3 per cent (13.91 CCS), and Q208 at 2 per cent (13.73 CCS).
The highest CCS recorded for the week was 17.30, achieved from a rake of Q183 plant cane supplied from the Mulgrave productivity district.
With school holidays approaching, cane supply officials are urging caution around the rail network.
Locals and visitors are also being reminded to “use your train brain” and always give way to cane trains as the season continues to ramp up.
After almost a decade of planning, consultation and community advocacy, the Bowen Pipeline Project has entered a critical phase with water sales now open
Every region reaches defining moments that shape its future.
North Queensland supporters of the Bowen Pipeline Project believe this could be one of them.
After almost a decade of planning, consultation and community advocacy, the project has entered a critical phase, opening water sales and giving local growers, businesses and investors the opportunity to participate in the Locals First program.
While the project itself is about delivering water, the broader conversation is about what secure water makes possible.
The Bowen-Burdekin region is already one of Australia's most productive agricultural areas, supplying around one-fifth of the nation's vegetables and supporting thousands of jobs across farming, transport, processing and local businesses.
As the region continues to grow, reliable water will play an increasingly important role in supporting agricultural production, encouraging investment, and providing confidence for future generations.
For many producers, water is more than a seasonal necessity. It provides the certainty needed to invest, expand operations, adopt new technologies and plan for the long term.
Increasingly, it is also recognised as a valuable asset in its own right.
Across Australia's established water markets, water ownership is often considered alongside land ownership as an important part of long-term agricultural productivity and business resilience.
Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said community interest in the Water Sales Program had reflected a growing understanding of water as both a productive resource and a long-term investment.
"People are recognising that water has value beyond immediate production," Mr Brown said.
"Secure water provides confidence for farming businesses today while also creating opportunities for future generations."
A key feature of the current Water Sales Program is the project's Locals First approach, giving local growers, businesses and investors priority access before allocations become available more broadly.
The current program is also an important milestone in progressing the project.
Strong participation will demonstrate customer demand and community confidence, while helping support the next stage of project development and discussions with government funding partners.
Beyond the direct benefits to agriculture, secure water has the potential to strengthen regional employment, encourage new investment, and support industries that will continue to drive North Queensland's economy well into the future.
Importantly these benefits extend beyond today's businesses.
They are about creating opportunities for young people to remain in the region, supporting local communities and ensuring future generations have the confidence to invest, work and build their lives in North Queensland.
After nine years of work the Bowen Pipeline Project has reached one of its most significant milestones.
For supporters, this is more than a water sales program. It is an opportunity for the region to demonstrate its confidence in a project designed to support long-term growth and prosperity.
To learn more about the Bowen Pipeline Project Water Sales Program visit bowenpipeline.com.au/water-sales.
Water for Growth. Water for Generations.
Supplied by Bowen Pipeline Company
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, alongside Nationals Leader Senator Matt Canavan, and other Coalition members, as well as Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, and regional local government leaders in Canberra to protest the federal cuts to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). Photo supplied.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has joined local government leaders and Coalition leadership in Canberra to warn that the Albanese Labor Government’s cuts to disaster funding will push regional councils into financial strain.
Standing alongside Nationals Leader Senator Matt Canavan, Shadow Minister for Emergency Management and Minister for Maranoa David Littleproud, and regional mayors attending the Australian Local Government Association’s National General Assembly, Mr Willcox condemned the decision to overhaul the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The proposed shift to a 50–50 cost-sharing model replaces a framework that previously provided up to 75 per cent federal support for major disasters. Modelling from the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) suggests that, under the new approach, Queensland communities would have lost more than $1 billion in “betterment” funding over the past 13 years, previously used to rebuild more resilient infrastructure.
Drawing on his experience as former Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor during Cyclone Debbie in 2017, Mr Willcox said regional Australia cannot sustain the change.
"Before I came to this Parliament, I chaired the Disaster Management Group as Mayor of the Whitsundays during Cyclone Debbie. It was one of the most destructive cyclones to ever hit our shores, causing billions of dollars in damages across the country, with infrastructure and industry damage in Queensland alone exceeding $1 billion," Mr Willcox said.
"Back then, we relied on the federal government covering between 64 and 75 per cent of the recovery costs, with our council contributing the first $240,000. If this deceptive 50-50 split had been in place back then, and the state couldn’t afford the balance, our council would have gone completely broke.
"This is a cold cost-shifting exercise by a Labor Government trying to shift its core responsibilities. The communities I represent in Dawson contribute an absolute powerhouse of wealth to this nation through sugarcane, tourism, massive horticultural crops, and mining, but the geographic price we pay is living in a disaster-prone area. This is a direct hit to our productivity.
The Coalition has pledged to oppose the changes in the Senate, calling for the Emergency Management Minister to reverse the decision and maintain funding support for regional communities.
Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
Burdekin Shire Council mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (centre) expressed confidence in Mr McVeigh (right) as the new president, whose appointment follows Carl List’s (left) two year stint at the helm. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Six-year Rotarian and former Australia Day Citizen of the Year John McVeigh has officially taken charge of the Rotary Club of Ayr.
The Burdekin local was sworn in as the new president at last Thursday’s annual Ayr Rotary Changeover event, which also saw new members honoured and special recognition for two key club contributors.
In attendance on the night was Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who expressed her confidence in Mr McVeigh as the new president.
“Ayr Rotary is in good hands with John McVeigh,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“He’s very dedicated to everything he puts his hand up for … and everything seems to thrive under John’s leadership.”
A teacher at Ayr State High School for 30 years, Mr McVeigh steps into the role following years of contribution to the club as a member.
His rein will follow Carl List’s two year stint at the helm, who shared words of thanks for those who helped him during his own tenure before wishing McVeigh “all the best.”
“I’d like to think I left [the club] the way I found it,” Mr List said.
Mr McVeigh said his term will focus on connecting the community and local service clubs, and attracting more members.
“My plan is not just to look at the 12 months, but how we want the club to look in five years’ time,” McVeigh said.
“We need more members, and part of attracting new members is going out, talking to people, and giving them confidence that there are people at the club who are willing to mentor them.
“And to all the service clubs, we’ve all got the same cause, we just fly different banners. I’d love Ayr Rotary to link with the service clubs … because I think there's a lot we can do.”
Mr McVeigh announced at the Changeover that board discussions on upcoming fundraisers, projects and grant applications are set to commence in the near future.
The event also saw Rotarians Stacey Koia, a member since 2017, and former club president Carl List receive Paul Harris Fellows recognition for their substantial contributions to the club.
New and returning members Aaron Kelly, Rosetta Tama, and Scott Morrison were presented with membership badges on the evening, while Rotary Youth Exchange student Nico was presented with an Akubra Hat as a farewell gift.
Ms Wade (centre-right) was officially sworn in during an SES ceremony last Monday following an extensive selection process involving council and SES members. Photo supplied.
Ayr State High School acting deputy principal Cheryl Wade has been appointed local controller of the Burdekin State Emergency Service (SES).
Ms Wade, who relocated from Cairns late last year for her role at Ayr State High School, was officially sworn in during an SES ceremony last Monday following an extensive selection process.
While Ms Wade described the appointment as “very rewarding”, she said she was prepared for the demands of the voluntary position.
“What does it mean to me? O.M.G,” she laughed.
“I’m going to be a very busy woman, but I was made that way. I was deputy principal before I took this role on and will continue to stay in that role.
“The difference now is that I'm helping bring a team together, with a lot of planning and working alongside [Burdekin Shire Council] during disaster seasons.”
Ms Wade brings with her three years of prior SES involvement in Cairns. She said she is eager to make her mark in her new role, citing team togetherness and enhanced training programs as key elements that will guide her tenure.
“I want to see the Burdekin better supported with SES and to grow the team. I’m a face and advocate for the team, but our crew is very diverse. My role is about bringing that team together as one,” she said.
“I'm also focusing on training of volunteers; training for heights, driving boats and boat safely in rapids, and working towards their certificate if they're interested. It’s about up-skilling people and then drawing on the vast experience of our older members.”
Ms Wade said her tenure will also focus on increasing support for the more rural areas in the region.
“I suppose the biggest thing [for Burdekin SES] is being a presence here and being supportive within the region. We are the lifeline,” she said.
“I want to expand more into the outer regions where storms and floods have a big impact. We need Rita Island and Giru communities to continue to step up—being involved allows them to actually get the support they need for their areas, and it's important that everyone's included.”
Ms Wade said Burdekin SES is open to any volunteers interested in helping keep the community disaster ready. She urged anyone aged 16 or over with interest in joining the diverse crew to enquire through council.
“We’ve got young people all the way up to some in their late 80s. Everyone is welcome to reach out," she said.
Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it.
“It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said.
Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters.
After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide.
“I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said.
His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own.
While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello.
“I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.”
Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production.
“One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected.
“When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.”
Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections.
“People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said.
That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow.
“When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said.
“Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.”
Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater.
“If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said.
“Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect.
“The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.”
It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out.
The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do.
I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again.
The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush.
Take care everyone.
“It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie.
It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time.
Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence.
And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration.
Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities.
A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previousgenerations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you.
Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian.
The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters.
With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment.
The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter.
These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation.
The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government.
Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future.
Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax.
Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure.
The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities.
While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services.
“Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.”
More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road.
The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park.
Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity.
“Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said.
“This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.”
Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments.
Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project.
“While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark.
Member for Burdekin and Shadow Minister for Rural & Regional Affairs Dale Last stands next to the Bruce Highway in 2024.
Five narrow bridges north and south of Ayr are set for replacement as part of the next stage of the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program.
The Federal and Queensland governments this week announced 52 new tenders for design and construction works along the Bruce Highway, with projects affecting more than 200 kilometres of roadway across the state.
Among the North Queensland works slated for the coming year are bridge replacements at Palm Creek, St Margaret Creek, Emmett Creek, Mackenzie Creek and Alligator Creek between Ayr and Townsville, alongside further safety upgrades, pavement strengthening and overtaking lanes.
The announcement comes as 11 projects under the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program have now been completed, while work continues on another 46 projects. A further 10 projects have recently commenced, with almost 60 more expected to begin progressively from 2026.
Over the next 12 months, the program will deliver more than 300 kilometres of wide centre-line treatment, more than 145 kilometres of pavement strengthening, 23 intersection upgrades and two new rest areas.
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the release of 52 additional tenders demonstrated the scale of the program.
"The Albanese Government is committed to improving safety on the Bruce Highway, and these latest tenders represent another significant step in delivering upgrades that will help save lives and support regional communities and industries,"Ms King said.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the next wave of projects showed the program was continuing to move ahead at pace.
"We told Queenslanders we are committed to fixing the Bruce and works are already making a real difference for motorists, regional communities and freight operators between Gympie and Cairns," Mr Mickelberg said.
The Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program is jointly funded by the Federal and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis and is expected to deliver projects through to 2030.
Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said AgForce’s report estimates the regulatory cost per business for referral and annual compliance could be as much $139,000 per referral. Photo source: Facebook/Senator Matthew Canavan
Queensland farmers are facing billions in new costs, with the next phase of Labor’s land clearing laws due to come into effect on July 1.
A new report by peak body AgForce, ‘Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Reform Impacts on Queensland Agriculture’, shines a light into the enormous burden farmers will face under the changes.
Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said AgForce’s report estimates the regulatory cost per business for referral and annual compliance could be as much $139,000 per referral. This is an ongoing cumulative cost of $3.5 billion on Queensland agriculture alone, per year.
The report also estimates a $5.87 billion in permanent reduction of Queensland farmland value, due to the changes in the continuous use exemption, with 1.1 million hectares of Category X land captured and more than 4.3 million hectares of total land captured.
Senator Canavan said Labor’s confusing and rushed EPBC Act reforms has resulted in poorly designed regulation not always delivering better environmental outcomes.
“The EPBC framework was originally designed to assess one-off development proposals, not the cyclical and ongoing land management activities that occur as part of normal agricultural production,” Senator Canavan said.
“Farmers are extremely concerned they are unintentionally breaking the law, with limited to no information to assist in making decisions. It has resulted in genuine fears farmers could get taken to court and be put out of business.
“If this is just Queensland, imagine the impact on the rest of the nation. This also comes after Senate Estimates revealed the impacts, costs, nor environmental outcomes of the EPBC reforms haven’t been modelled, after a last minute deal with the Greens.”
AgForce general president Shane McCarthy said AgForce is concerned a regulatory impact statement into how the changes could affect farmers, regional communities, food security and food sovereignty was not conducted.
“Producers should be encouraged to actively manage weeds, invasive regrowth, fire risk and land condition,” Mr McCarthy said.
“If regulation creates uncertainty around those activities, there is a real risk of achieving outcomes that are worse for both the environment and agricultural productivity.”
Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said in the 2026-27 Budget, the government committed to reducing regulatory burden by $10.2 billion each year, which includes the implementation of the EPBC Act reforms.
“Labor must explain, how does this figure account for the increased regulatory burden on agriculture, and will the regulatory burden on agriculture be costed each year?” Mr Chester said.
“The fact that many farmers still cannot determine with confidence whether routine agricultural activities trigger federal requirements demonstrates the framework is not yet fit for purpose.
“At a time when our farmers are facing increased input costs, it is madness for the Albanese Government to make it harder for Queensland's farming families.”
Shadow Minister for the Environment Andrew Bragg said effective policy should build on that stewardship rather than creating barriers to active land management.
“Landholders could be forced to obtain permission for something as simple as managing weeds and invasive regrowth on private property,” Senator Bragg said.
“Australian consumers expect farmers to be growing food, not navigating legal uncertainty. Every dollar spent on unnecessary approvals, referrals and compliance is a dollar that cannot be invested in food production, environmental stewardship or regional communities.
“This is why the Coalition will improve the operation of the EPBC Act, including cutting green tape to provide certainty for stakeholders. We will focus on protecting the environment, while safeguarding the livelihoods and prosperity of Australians.”
Supplied by Office of the Hon Senator Matthew Canavan
Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (second from left) is excited to meet with growers and share insights into global sugar markets during Wilmar's Global Traders Roadshow this week. Photo supplied
By Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing, Simon Hood
June is shaping up to be a busy month, and we look forward to catching up with growers across our milling regions through a range of events and activities.
This week, our Global Traders Roadshow returns, bringing together Wilmar's global trading experts and local Grower Marketing team to discuss the latest developments in sugar and currency markets. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the people monitoring global markets every day, while also asking questions about pricing options and current market conditions. We are looking forward to connecting with those of you who have put their name down to attend.
We're also reminding growers that nominations for the 2027 Managed Pool Plus close on 30 June. If you've been considering the pool, now is the time to act.
The Managed Pool Plus is designed for growers seeking a longer-term approach to pricing in volatile markets, with active management across both sugar and currency markets. The 2025 season has highlighted the value of this strategy, with the pool delivering a result above the seasonal average, demonstrating the benefits of disciplined pricing over an extended window rather than relying on short-term market movements. While past performance is never a guarantee of future returns, the result reinforces the value of having experienced market specialists actively managing price risk through changing market conditions.
If you'd like to learn more before nominations close, speak with your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager or catch us at one of the Global Traders Roadshow events.
Beyond the markets, we're proud to continue supporting the local communities that support our industry. Throughout June, Wilmar Grower Marketing is once again sponsoring several regional events, including the Sarina Tractor Pull, Proserpine Cane Awards and Ingham Tractor Pull.
These events celebrate the people who make our industry what it is and provide a great opportunity for families, growers and the wider community to come together. We look forward to seeing many familiar faces, celebrating another season and continuing the conversations that matter most to our growers.
We hope to see you at one of our roadshow sessions or community events over the coming weeks
Burdekin region sugar mills crushed just over 346,000 tonnes of cane in Week 3 of the 2026 crushing season, taking the season-to-date total to more than 900,000 tonnes.
The weekly throughput, ending 20 June, was above budget expectations, according to Burdekin Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi, reflecting steady early-season performance across all four mills.
Invicta led weekly production with 129,947 tonnes, followed by Pioneer (78,843 tonnes), Kalamia (76,682 tonnes) and Inkerman (61,179 tonnes). Season-to-date totals now sit at 350,719 tonnes for Invicta, 183,432 tonnes for Pioneer, 186,631 tonnes for Kalamia and 179,596 tonnes for Inkerman.
The overall regional average Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) for the week was 14.23, well above the budgeted figure of 12.98 and slightly higher than the season-to-date average of 13.97.
Kalamia recorded the highest weekly CCS at 14.86, while individual mill results remained strong across the board, with Invicta and Pioneer both recording 14.31.
Variety performance data showed Q240 as the dominant variety, making up 40 per cent of the crush at an average CCS of 13.83, followed by KQ228 at 31 per cent (14.51 CCS) and Q183 at 15 per cent (14.88 CCS).
SRA23 recorded the highest CCS of the minor varieties at 14.73.
The region also recorded a peak CCS of 17.30 from a rake of Q183 plant cane supplied from the Mulgrave productivity district.
Operationally, Invicta and Inkerman mills completed their first cleaning intermissions for the season last week, while Kalamia and Pioneer are scheduled to undergo cleaning on Tuesday 23 June.
With the school holiday period approaching, growers and industry representatives are also urging families to reinforce safety awareness around the cane rail network.
Locals and visitors are being reminded to “train their brain” and always give way to cane trains near rail crossings and track corridors.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its commitment to reduce landfill and boost recycling with a $343,520 investment in projects that will slash landfill and supercharge recycling in Burdekin and surrounds.
The Resource Recovery Boost Fund – Round 1 – supports council projects across Queensland, from material recovery facility upgrades to distributing larger household recycling bins.
The first round is supporting 26 projects across Queensland, which will divert more than 150,000 tonnes of waste from landfill and save councils around $17 million annually on waste levy costs.
In the Burdekin, that means 419.2 tonnes of waste saved from landfill and approximately $40,662 saved on waste fees.
Queensland is the most decentralised state in Australia and stakeholders consistently told the Government that Labor’s one-size-fits-all approach failed to reflect the different challenges faced by communities across the State.
The Crisafulli Government has introduced a new set of practical targets including a statewide recycling target of 65 per cent by 2035, alongside dedicated targets for both South East Queensland and regional Queensland.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was delivering on its plan to reduce landfill and boost recycling.
“This is about getting waste out of the ground and backing practical solutions that turn it into value,” Minister Powell said.
“This investment means less going into landfill, more being reused and recycled, and real savings for local councils.
“We’re supporting councils with the infrastructure they need to manage waste smarter and keep their communities clean and sustainable.
“We are doing what we said we would do - cutting landfill, increasing recycling and investing in the infrastructure Queensland needs for the future.
“After a decade of decline under Labor, Queensland now has the second lowest recycling rate in Australia, and we’re getting on with the job of fixing the system and delivering better outcomes for Queenslanders.”
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Crisafulli Government’s investment would deliver practical improvements for residents while supporting better waste outcomes.
“This funding is all about building smarter, more sustainable infrastructure that keeps pace with our rapidly growing region, Mr Last said.
“These upgrades will make a real difference on the ground - creating jobs, improving how materials are recovered, and ensuring our community has the facilities it needs both now and for future generations.
“By investing in modern infrastructure, we’re making it simpler for households to recycle, while helping drive down costs and strengthening long-term sustainability in the Burdekin electorate and surrounding areas.”
Supplied by Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP’s office
2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES QLD), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), and Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), (front) Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association), Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School), Amity Power (Campbell’s Jewellery), Amity Baxter (The Burdekin Academy), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), and Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College). Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography
Continuing a tradition that has brought the community together for almost 70 years, the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival season was officially launched on Friday 19th June, kicking off a new year of celebrations under the theme River Country, Burdekin Style.
Held at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, the Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch marked the official beginning of this year’s Festival program, bringing together community members, families, sponsors and supporters for an evening of entertainment and celebration.
The 2026 Festival will also make history, with several significant milestones achieved within the Ambassador Program. For the first time since the Festival began in 1958, two male Senior Ambassadors have been introduced, marking a major moment in the program’s long-standing history. This year has also seen a range of new community organisations joining as first-time supporters, strengthening the program’s ties across the Burdekin region.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is pleased to welcome a new face to the team, with Mikayla Giddy recently joining the branch as a Customer Service Officer.
Born in Townsville and raised in Ayr, Mikayla is no stranger to the Burdekin. Growing up alongside her brother and surrounded by family deeply connected to the local community, she has a genuine appreciation for the region and the people who call it home.
Now stepping into her new role at Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Mikayla is excited to build relationships with customers and become part of a team that is dedicated to supporting local people and businesses.
“The thing I enjoy most about my role is being able to interact with the customers who come into the branch and getting to know them,” Mikayla said.
“It’s great meeting different people every day and helping them with their banking needs.”
Away from work, Mikayla enjoys spending time with friends, travelling and indulging in a little retail therapy. Her friendly personality and enthusiasm for connecting with people make her a natural fit for a customer-facing role.
Having grown up in the Burdekin, Mikayla understands the unique sense of community that makes the region special.
“We’re a tight-knit community that’s always looking out for one another,” she said.
“There are always special events happening that bring people together and create opportunities for people of all ages to connect and enjoy themselves.”
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said Mikayla’s local knowledge and approachable nature have already made a positive impression on both customers and staff.
“We’re delighted to welcome Mikayla to the team,” Sally said.
“Being a local, she understands the values that are important to our customers and the wider community. Her enthusiasm and willingness to help make her a wonderful addition to our branch.”
As Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr continues its commitment to delivering personalised service and investing back into the local community, team members like Mikayla play an important role in ensuring customers feel welcomed and supported every time they walk through the door.
When we talk about Council’s budget each year, it’s easy to think of it as just numbers on a page. But in reality, it’s about the everyday things that keep our community running.
It’s the roads we travel on each day, the drainage that protects our homes during the wet season, and the parks, pools and public spaces where families come together. It’s the essential services we often don’t think twice about - until they’re not there.
This year’s budget is guided by the theme “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow,” and that really speaks to what we’re trying to achieve for the Burdekin - making sure what we have today continues to serve us well into the future.
The 2026/27 Budget continues our focus on maintaining what we have while planning carefully for the future. It’s about making sure our infrastructure is reliable, our services are consistent, and our community remains a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Council also recognises that many households and businesses are continuing to feel the pressure of rising living costs. That has been front of mind in shaping this year’s budget, with a strong focus on balancing what our community needs now with what we must plan for into the future.
A lot of Council’s work happens behind the scenes. From water and sewer systems to drainage networks and asset maintenance, these are the foundations that support daily life in the Burdekin. While they may not always be visible, they are critical to our community’s health, safety and long-term sustainability.
Council is continuing to invest in the infrastructure that matters most, while also supporting the community spaces and facilities that contribute to our lifestyle. Because maintaining liveability is just as important as maintaining roads and services.
Importantly, this year’s budget is about balance. It’s about delivering what our community needs today, while planning responsibly for tomorrow.
That’s what sustainable growth looks like - making considered decisions now that will support a strong, connected and resilient Burdekin into the future.
As always, I encourage residents to stay engaged, take an interest in Council’s work, and continue to be part of what makes our community so unique.
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.
For the first time, BT Farms will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Amara Boccalatte proudly stepping into the role.
Amara said she was excited to become an ambassador and embrace the opportunity to meet new people, challenge herself and be part of one of the Burdekin's most cherished community celebrations.
As part of a local family farming business, Amara already has a close connection to the organisation she is representing, and she enjoys helping her dad with jobs around the farm, learning about the sugar industry and seeing firsthand the work that goes into growing one of the region's most important crops.
"My favourite part is getting to see all the people my dad works with and riding on the tractor," Amara shared.
Outside of farm life, Amara keeps busy with dance, piano, singing, art and athletics, while also holding a special love for animals.
Amara has nominated Ronald McDonald House Townsville as her chosen charity for the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.
Junior Ambassador Jaxsyn Pearce is proud to represent Ayr State School in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, embracing the opportunity to meet new people and showcase his school within the wider community.
Jaxsyn currently serves as House Captain of Mitchell Kookaburras, a leadership role that allows him to encourage school spirit and represent his fellow students. He is especially proud to be representing Ayr State School during a significant milestone year, as the school celebrates its 140th anniversary.
Home to students from a wide range of backgrounds, Ayr State School has long been an important part of the Burdekin community and continues to provide opportunities for students to learn, grow and achieve.
Outside of school, Jaxsyn enjoys motorbike riding, machinery and gaming. He has a keen interest in aerodynamics and hopes to one day pursue a career as a mechanic or even compete as a MotoGP racer.
Junior Ambassador Amity Baxter is ready to flip into this year's Burdekin Water Festival, proudly representing The Burdekin Academy.
Amity nominated to become an ambassador to meet new friends, get involved in the community and enjoy the exciting experiences the festival has to offer. As a passionate gymnast, she is also proud to represent the club that has been a big part of her life since she was five years old.
A dedicated member of The Burdekin Academy, Amity enjoys competing at gymnastics competitions and meeting athletes from clubs across the region and beyond. The academy has been providing gymnastics opportunities for local children for more than a decade, helping young people develop confidence, skills and friendships in a fun and supportive environment.
When she isn't training in the gym, Amity enjoys staying active through athletics and soccer.
As a 2025 Junior Ambassador, Amity is looking forward to making new connections and celebrating everything that makes the Burdekin community special.
For the first time, Burdekin Motors will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Senior Ambassador Blaize Palmer proudly taking on the role.
Blaize said he was inspired to nominate by a friend and saw the ambassador program as an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, kindness and respect while becoming more involved in the community.
A Year 1 apprentice light vehicle mechanic, Blaize works as a technician within the Burdekin Motors team and is building a career in the automotive industry. Burdekin Motors Group is a well-known local business, offering vehicle sales, servicing, repairs and detailing to customers across the region.
Away from work, Blaize enjoys staying active through a range of sports, including basketball, touch football and rugby league. He is also passionate about helping young people and regularly participates in community activities through the PCYC.
Blaize has nominated 100% Hope as his chosen charity.
For the first time, Ayr Motorcycle Club will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Evie Totorica proudly taking on the role.
Evie said she was excited to represent both the club and the sport she loves, while becoming more involved in the local community through the ambassador program.
A talented junior rider, Evie competes in the 65cc class and regularly races against boys at club, state and national levels. She proudly represents Ayr Motorcycle Club at events across Queensland and Australia.
Based at Brandon Sports Reserve, Ayr Motorcycle Club is a grassroots dirt-track and speedway club built on local volunteers, community spirit and a shared passion for motorcycle racing.
When she isn't on the track, Evie enjoys singing, netball, camping, boating and fishing. She is looking forward to meeting new people and sharing her passion for motorcycle sport throughout the Water Festival journey.
Junior Ambassador Aria Fiamingo is eager to embrace new opportunities, meet new people and make a positive impact as she proudly represents St Francis Catholic School in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.
Aria nominated for the ambassador program because she sees it as a chance to learn, grow and give back to the community. Passionate about fundraising and helping others, she is excited to support worthy causes while sharing new ideas and perspectives throughout her ambassador journey.
A natural leader, Aria serves as both a Grade 6 leader and Sport Captain at St Francis Catholic School. In these roles, she encourages younger students to do their best, participate and enjoy school life while leading by example. She also enjoys representing her school at community events and has proudly taken part in Anzac Day commemorations since Prep.
Outside the classroom, Aria enjoys dancing, singing, playing guitar, sport and art, with a particular love for contemporary dance and country music. Reliable, enthusiastic and community-minded, she is looking forward to making the most of her ambassador experience.
Feed Me Food will make its Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program debut this year, with Olivia Pavone proudly stepping forward as the business's first-ever Senior Ambassador.
For Olivia, the opportunity is particularly meaningful. Having always dreamed of being involved in the Water Festival, she was thrilled when approached to represent the family-owned business and jumped at the chance to become more involved in the community she loves.
Working alongside her parents, Olivia is part of the team behind Feed Me Food, a familiar sight at local markets, festivals and community events. Known for serving fresh food with a smile, the business has built a reputation for bringing people together while supporting events across the region.
Away from work, Olivia enjoys travelling, singing, attending community events and spending time with family and friends. She is looking forward to meeting new people and embracing every part of the Water Festival journey.
Junior Ambassador Amity Power is excited to represent Campbell’s Jewellery in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, an opportunity she eagerly accepted when asked by her grandmother, the business owner.
Having grown up watching her grandmother and staff assist customers, Amity has developed a keen interest in the jewellery industry and hopes to one day work at the store herself. In the meantime, she is learning about gemstones and diamonds while gaining a greater understanding of the family business.
Originally owned by Kevin and Meryl Campbell for more than 50 years, Campbell’s Jewellery has remained a trusted part of the Burdekin community since Amity’s grandmother took ownership in 2013.
A soccer player who enjoys baking, shopping and spending time with her younger cousins, Amity is looking forward to meeting new people, attending events and taking part in the Water Festival parade.
Junior Ambassador Judah Donald is looking forward to stepping outside his comfort zone and building his confidence as he represents Burdekin Christian College in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival.
A Year 6 student and House Captain for Mark House, Judah is proud to represent his school and the values it promotes throughout the community. He sees the ambassador program as an opportunity for personal growth while meeting new people and developing valuable leadership skills.
Burdekin Christian College provides education for students from Prep to Year 12 and has become a well-respected part of the local community, offering a faith-based learning environment that encourages students to reach their full potential.
Outside of school, Judah enjoys spending his free time gaming and swimming. He has nominated Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue as his chosen charity and is eager to support the important work the organisation does throughout the region.
Meet Ella Pirrone - Representing the Rotary Club of Ayr
With fond memories of her time as a Junior Water Festival Ambassador in 2018, Ella Pirrone is excited to return to the program as a Senior Ambassador, proudly representing the Rotary Club of Ayr.
Currently studying Primary Education at university, Ella saw the ambassador role as an opportunity to build confidence, connect with the community and meet new people while revisiting an experience that left a lasting impression on her.
Although not a Rotary member herself, Ella said she is honoured to represent a club that has been serving the Burdekin community for more than 70 years. Through initiatives including the Community Raffle, Rotary Phone Book, Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race and Sugar Rush Breakfast, the Rotary Club of Ayr continues to support important local causes and community projects.
Outside of her studies, Ella enjoys playing and umpiring netball, baking, fishing and spending time with family and friends.
For the first time, the Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association (LBCDA) will be represented in the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, with Junior Ambassador Ashlyn Pearce proudly taking on the role.
Ashlyn was thrilled when she was invited to become an ambassador and is looking forward to meeting new people, making new friends and celebrating one of the Burdekin's most-loved community events.
A dedicated Highland dancer, Ashlyn is actively involved with the association, attending classes, performing at community events and competing throughout the year. Alongside her family, she also volunteers at annual events hosted by the club.
The LBCDA promotes Highland and Irish dancing throughout the Burdekin, providing opportunities for dancers to learn traditional Scottish dances while building strong community connections.
Outside of dancing, Ashlyn enjoys trips to the beach, swimming, knee boarding, riding her quad bike and attending art classes after school.
Junior Ambassador Mia Bojack is looking forward to meeting new people and building her confidence as she represents Burdekin Christian College in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival.
A Year 6 student at the college, Mia is excited to embrace the opportunities that come with the ambassador program while proudly representing her school and the wider community.
Born and raised in the Burdekin, Mia lives on a farm surrounded by animals, including dogs, horses, cats and even a cow. Her greatest passion is horse riding, a hobby she has enjoyed for the past six years. A competitive show jumper, she spends much of her time training and competing, developing skills, discipline and confidence along the way.
Mia is eager to make the most of her ambassador journey and create new friendships throughout the festival.
In a first for the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES Queensland have joined forces to sponsor a Senior Ambassador, with Zylon Dallecort proudly representing both organisations.
While initially hesitant about taking on the role, Zylon said learning more about the opportunities involved quickly changed his mind, and he is now looking forward to becoming more involved in the community through the festival.
The two organisations share a commitment to strengthening community wellbeing. Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre focuses on building connections and supporting local needs, while CORES Queensland delivers suicide prevention education and awareness programs across the state.
Many locals will recognise Zylon from his performances with the Burdekin Singers. When he is not on stage, he enjoys playing guitar, painting and working with people in the community. He is also a passionate fan of superheroes, particularly those from the Marvel universe.
Junior Ambassador Lillea Levitt is excited to represent the Burdekin Netball Association in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, with the opportunity to meet new people and celebrate her club among the highlights of the experience.
A dedicated netball player since the age of six, Lillea has developed a strong connection to the sport and the association that has supported her throughout her sporting journey. She is proud to represent an organisation that encourages young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence and always strive to do their best.
The Burdekin Netball Association provides opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to learn and enjoy the game in a welcoming and supportive environment, helping foster both teamwork and sportsmanship.
Outside of netball, Lillea enjoys playing touch football and volleyball, as well as fishing, shopping and spending time with her friends.
Junior Ambassador Edith Innes is excited to step outside her comfort zone and represent East Ayr State School in this year’s Burdekin Water Festival.
Having attended East Ayr State School from Prep to Year 6, Edith is proud to showcase the school community that has played such an important role in her life. She said becoming an ambassador has always been something she wanted to do, with the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills and build confidence making the experience even more special.
Currently serving as East Ayr State School Captain, Edith is passionate about giving back to her school and highlighting the many opportunities available to students, from music and performing arts to sport and leadership programs.
Outside of school, Edith plays soccer and is a Highland dancer with FC Caledonia. She also plays the alto saxophone and has a keen interest in science, with dreams of becoming a biologist or zoologist in the future.
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Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. Photo supplied
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Signing up takes just a few minutes. Simply visit our friendly team in-store at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and they will get you set up on the spot. You can also join online at friendlycare.com.au.
As a FriendlyCare member, you’ll receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store immediately; exclusive member-only pricing on most products; CarePoints earned on every dollar spent, redeemable for rewards; exclusive member email offers and competitions; and access to the FriendlyCareApp to manage your medications.
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.
Supplied by FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr
Tangible cost of living relief will be delivered for north Queenslanders who have borne the brunt of soaring power costs as prices fall for the first time in a decade.
The Queensland Competition Authority’s (QCA) final determination has confirmed electricity costs will drop by up to 6.9 per cent for regional households and 8.1 per cent for small businesses from 1 July.
Having advocated for a better deal for regional power customers as the local Member, Burdekin MP Dale Last has hailed the reduction in electricity prices a win for the region’s families and small businesses.
“I have long called for Queensland’s regional power customers to receive a better deal and I’m proud to see the Crisafulli Government deliver the price cut our families and small businesses need,” Mr Last said.
“Following the Queensland Competition Authority’s final determination, our government took action to direct Ergon Energy to pass on the savings in full to regional households and small businesses.”
“It’s only right that if the cost of energy falls, bills should too and now couldn’t be a better time with the national affordability crisis putting pressure on Queenslanders’ hip pocket.”
The QCA notes higher availability of Queensland coal generators, lower gas prices, and growing investment in batteries and renewables are driving down power bills for Queenslanders.
Mr Last said the concerns from families and small businesses around the increase in power prices under the previous Labor government had been heard loud and clear with the Crisafulli Government now delivering.
“This is real structural cost of living relief that we are delivering to Queenslanders no matter where you live in this state.”
“Under the previous Labor Government households bore the brunt of a 28.7 per cent increase in their power prices, in contrast the Crisafulli Government is bringing down prices with our Energy Roadmap.”
Supplied by the office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
A Facebook post from a concerned daughter has prompted an overwhelming response from the Ayr community, with more than 30 people offering support to her terminally ill father.
The woman shared that her father, who lives in Ayr, is struggling with everyday tasks such as preparing meals and washing dishes due to declining health. She explained that he falls into a “grey area” where he is unable to access certain funded health or aged care services, while his children all live out of town and cannot provide daily assistance.
Describing her family as “desperate, exhausted and heartbroken”, she asked the community for advice after unsuccessful attempts to find private help.
The response was immediate.
Dozens of residents commented on the post, offering practical assistance, recommending local services and sharing their own experiences navigating the health and aged care systems. Some community members even volunteered their time to help with meals, household chores and regular welfare checks.
The outpouring of support highlighted the caring nature of the Burdekin community, with many residents determined to ensure the family did not face the challenge alone.
What began as a desperate plea for help quickly became a powerful reminder of the strength of community spirit and the willingness of locals to rally around those in need during difficult times.
Executive Members Rose Papadimitriou and Jenny Papale, Treasurer Frank Nucifora, President Seb Aguirre, Secretary Kari Ravizza, and Executive Member Paul Benvenuti, elected at last year's AGM. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin Chamber of Commerce is seeking new executive committee members, with leaders urging fresh volunteers to step forward as key positions become vacant.
The call comes after the recent resignation of secretary Kari Ravizza, with president Seb Aguirre also set to step down from his role at the end of his three-year term in September.
Mr Aguirre said the positions must be filled in the coming months to ensure the future of the organisation.
“We need someone to step up,” he said.
“It's too viable, and our membership is amazing. We can’t let all those people down.”
According to Mr Aguirre, the Burdekin Chamber found itself in a similar position three years ago, when a lack of interest in executive roles nearly led to its demise.
Membership has since grown from about 70 to 121, with the organisation’s flagship Christmas Street Party injecting millions of dollars into local businesses over the last two years.
Mr Aguirre said that although membership had seen a steep uptick, interest in the vacant positions had been virtually non-existent.
Despite the concerns, Chamber Vice-President Gary Roser said he remains “optimistic” about the organisation’s future.
“I don’t think we’re at the stage where it’s going to fold. I think people will step up and it will continue to exist, but to what capacity will be the difference,” Mr Roser said.
He said fresh hands at the helm could help to strengthen the organisation moving forward.
“We need a changing of the guard to help solidify what we’ve got, and then help take it to the next step,” he said.
“I’d hate to see it not bigger and better every year. It’d be disappointing for all the hard work that has been done by many people.”
Anyone interested in learning more about vacant executive roles is encouraged to contact either Seb on 0499 197 671 or Gary on 0408 076 064.
Recent Order of Australia awardee Bill Lowis (right) with wife Trish (left) and daughter Kirsten (centre). Photo credit: Jacob Casha
A lifetime spent simply “doing his bit” has seen William “Bill” Lowis awarded an Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours this month. The former mayor says the award, more than 60 years after his first national recognition, brings his journey full circle.
By Jacob Casha
A lifetime of unfaltering dedication to his beloved hometown has culminated in an Order of Australia award for Home Hill local William “Bill” Lowis.
The honour comes almost 60 years after his first Governor-General's Award in the Royal Australian Navy, tying a perfect bow on more than half a century of service to the community he calls home.
“It just felt like a full circle moment,” said Mr Lowis.
The former Burdekin Mayor was listed alongside 141 other Queenslanders on the King’s Birthday Honours List earlier this month, recognised for his “service to local government, and to the community of the Burdekin Shire.”
Mr Lowis said he was “totally surprised” by the recognition, but described it as a proud moment.
He said that while the recognition was satisfying, it was never the motivation.
“It’s just about being part of the community,” Mr Lowis said.
“We’ve raised our family here, and I’ve just taken part in what I can to keep the town itself, Home Hill, and the Burdekin district in a wider sense, going.”
Born in Home Hill Hospital in the 1940s, Mr Lowis has called the Burdekin home for nearly eight decades.
After a 12-year stint in New South Wales with the Navy, Mr Lowis returned to the Burdekin where he built a career as a builder, educator, water and environmental leader, and community volunteer.
He spent 18 years as General Manager of the South Burdekin Water Board, was a foundation member of Burdekin Landcare, and contributed across an array of organisations including Rotary, the SES, Rural Fire Service and the RSL.
Following a period of retirement, Mr Lowis was urged by local residents and community leaders to stand for local government. At age 65 he obliged, and was subsequently elected Mayor of the Burdekin Shire in 2012.
Mr Lowis’s tenure was responsible for the construction of the Burdekin Shire Cyclone Shelter, his flagship initiative during a term that focused on disaster resilience, infrastructure and community development.
He eventually stepped down at the end of his term in 2016.
Mr Lowis now continues to live in Home Hill with his wife, Trish, whom he married at the Home Hill Catholic Church in 1969.
The couple have four kids, all of whom were raised and have remained in North Queensland.
Both daughter Kirsten Lowis and wife Trish said they were proud of Mr Lowis for his recognition, calling it fitting for a man who had spent decades serving others without ever seeking praise for it.
“He’s always been so humble … and I think he was a wonderful Mayor,” said Trish.
“I think when he gets to heaven that they’ll say, ‘Saint William, it’s time to come through!’”
When asked how important his family had been along his journey, Mr Lowis replied: “Everything.”
Daughter Kirsten echoed that sentiment.
“This award is about mum, too, because the two of them are the best team. Dad would not be dad without mum, and mum would not be mum without dad,” she said.
“Dad’s a builder; both by trade and by heart. Mum and dad have been building this community, building their own houses, building our houses, our businesses and our lives.”
Primary producers in the Burdekin are set to benefit from a Queensland Government investment aimed at strengthening biosecurity preparedness and improving responses to potential agricultural outbreaks.
The Government has allocated $75,000 through the Biosecurity Boost Grants Program to support industry-led simulation exercises designed to test emergency responses to real-world threats.
The program will bring together key industry organisations including Cotton Australia, the Australian Lot Feeder’s Association and NRM Regions Queensland to simulate potential biosecurity risks affecting agriculture and livestock industries.
Biosecurity remains a key concern for Queensland’s agriculture sector, with pests and disease outbreaks identified as one of the most significant risks to production, exports and regional economies.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the investment was about ensuring industry and government were prepared to respond quickly and effectively to emerging threats.
“Biosecurity underpins Queensland's ability to grow and produce clean, healthy and nutritious local food,” Mr Perrett said.
“Strong biosecurity is the linchpin of a productive primary industries sector and regional and rural communities.”
He said preparedness exercises were essential to minimising the impact of any future outbreak.
“The simulations conducted by our industry partners are critical investments in prevention and preparedness, to ensure swift, effective responses that significantly limit impact on individuals and entire industries,” he said.
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the exercises would help industry better understand outbreak response pathways.
“Boll weevil is one of the top threats to the cotton industry, and it has the capability to cause significant damage to crops, so it’s important to understand how to respond should an outbreak occur,” Mr Kay said.
NRM Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said the funding would strengthen preparedness across regional sectors.
“These exercises are a great opportunity for the NRM team across the state to simulate real-world scenarios and ensure we’re prepared to assist on any biosecurity threats where we can,” he said.
Farmers across the state are set to benefit from a new land rent cap aimed at easing cost pressures on the agriculture sector. Photo source: Shutterstock
Agricultural producers in the Burdekin are among those set to benefit from a new Queensland Government cap on land rent increases for eligible primary production tenures.
The cap will limit increases to 10 per cent in the 2026–27 financial year and is expected to deliver more than $75 million in rent relief across the state for farmers, graziers and rural producers.
The measure applies to eligible leases, licences and permits and will automatically come into effect, with the government saying it is designed to provide stability in the face of rising land valuations.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the policy would help ease pressure on primary producers dealing with higher costs and global market uncertainty.
“At a time when producers continue to face higher input costs, market volatility and global economic shifts, this measure delivers certainty and will take some pressure off the cost of doing business,” Mr Last said.
He said the government was backing the agricultural sector as a key driver of Queensland’s economy.
“Queensland farmers and graziers are not just the backbone of our regional communities, they are a foundation stone of the wider economy,” he said.
AgForce President Shane McCarthy said the announcement would help producers make longer-term decisions with greater confidence.
“Having certainty around land rent costs helps producers make informed business decisions, invest with confidence and focus on running productive sustainable operations,” he said.
“A strong agricultural industry underpins regional communities, supports jobs, and contributes significantly to Queensland’s economy.”
The rent cap will apply from the 2026–27 financial year.
Opinion of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP
There is a moment in life when private health insurance ceases to be an optional expense and becomes an absolute lifeline. For over three million older Australians, that moment is now. Yet, in a cynical act of budget manoeuvring, the Albanese Labor government has chosen this exact point of vulnerability to launch a targeted raid on the health security of our seniors.
Buried within the federal budget is a directive that strips away the long-standing, age-based Private Health Insurance rebate safeguards for citizens aged 65 and over. From 1 April 2027, the vital support seniors rely on to maintain their health cover will be dismantled.
If you are aged 65 to 69, your rebate is being cut from 28.1% to 24.1%. If you are 70 or older, the hit is even heavier, with your rebate slashed from 32.2% all the way down to that same 24.1% baseline.
This is a trap, plain and simple. The government waited until our seniors left the workforce and locked themselves into fixed retirement incomes, before pulling the rug out from under their health security.
Our seniors spent decades working hard, paying their taxes, and making immense personal sacrifices to secure their retirement. They did everything right. To change the rules of the game on them now is a complete insult: it forces older Australians to play a game of economic Monopoly where the rules are rewritten at halftime simply because the banker ran out of money.
Labor is treating the hard-earned health security of older generations like they just stumbled across a giant sack of cash by the river, trying to spend it as fast as they can to plug their own budget deficit before the public finds out.
This betrayal delivers a massive blow to household budgets. Maintaining private health cover is already an expensive struggle, with premiums climbing sharply year after year. Forcing older Australians to bear this extra burden ensures that health security will be priced too far out of reach for many who need it most.
This means ordinary, fixed-income couples holding comprehensive Gold-tier cover will see their out-of-pocket bills surge by more than $1,600 a year. For thousands of seniors in our community who view health insurance as a necessity, this is a financial eviction notice from their own health funds.
This budget raid sends a dangerous message to everyday Australians. If you work hard, save your money, and try to be self-reliant, this government will just punish your success.
To defend this as a sensible budget reform is a total delusion. The government claims they are redirecting these "savings" to fund aged care, but it is a classic false economy.
Independent actuarial modelling shows these changes may reduce rebate expenditure by around $482 million, but they will dump approximately $547 million in additional costs onto our public hospitals.
When escalating costs force older Australians to drop or downgrade their private coverage, their complex health needs do not vanish into thin air. Instead, those chronic conditions and surgical requirements are dumped straight into our public emergency wards, exploding wait times and fracturing a system that is already on its knees.
We all know the empty promise that a Medicare card is all you need, but out here in regional communities like Dawson, finding a bulk-billed doctor or securing a local specialist appointment is already rarer than hen’s teeth.
Pushing thousands of elderly patients onto public waiting lists will choke regional healthcare access and threaten the viability of the local private hospitals our communities rely upon to survive.
Our seniors have paid their dues. They have earned their peace of mind, and they deserve certainty, dignity, and respect; not an overnight raid on their health security.
It is time to say enough is enough and tell the federal government to keep their hands off our health cover.
If you are ready to stand up against this betrayal and protect the health cover our seniors have earned, join me in sending a clear message to Canberra by emailing me at andrew.willcox.mp@aph.gov.au
Burdekin Shire Council CEO Matthew Magin has warned a proposed overhaul of federal disaster funding arrangements could come at an "enormous cost to ratepayers" if passed in its current form.
The new Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), announced by the Albanese Government last week, would split disaster recovery costs 50/50 between the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
Under previous arrangements, Commonwealth funding typically covered about 64 per cent of disaster recovery funding.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the change could increase pressure on already stretched council budgets, with concerns some costs may ultimately flow through to ratepayers.
“While we acknowledge the intent to streamline funding and improve response times, there is a real concern that local governments will be left to carry more of the financial burden, which could impact how quickly and effectively we can rebuild after future events,” she said.
“It’s essential that funding arrangements recognise the scale and frequency of events we face, so we can continue to rebuild stronger and support our communities when they need it most.”
North Queensland leaders have slammed the proposal, with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox calling it a “direct hit to the heart of North Queensland.”
"Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival,” Mr Willcox said.
He said the new arrangement could leave communities “dangerously exposed.”
“Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone,” Mr Willcox said.
"To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal.”
Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said the proposed arrangements will streamline funding channels to communities in recovery.
"Our reforms will create certainty about the support available to communities and ensure it flows as quickly as possible,” she said.
“I look forward to working constructively with jurisdictions to deliver a system that is simpler and fairer for all Australians.”
The Burdekin has experienced several major floods dating back to 1911, and as recently as 2025, with floodwaters periodically cutting major roads, isolating communities and disrupting key transport infrastructure across the region.
Mayor Dalle Cort said past funding arrangements had been critical in restoring key Burdekin infrastructure like roads, bridges, and other transport links after major weather events.
She confirmed a letter had been sent on Thursday to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister McBain, urging the Government not to proceed with its proposal.
Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has returned from a week-long STEM Girl Power Camp in Brisbane, where she was one of just 60 Year 10 girls selected from across Queensland to take part in the hands-on program. Photo supplied
Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has returned from a week-long STEM Girl Power Camp in Brisbane, where she was one of just 60 Year 10 girls selected from across Queensland to take part in the hands-on program.
The camp immersed students in a range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics experiences, including university visits, laboratory work, and interactive exhibitions designed to showcase future study and career pathways.
Jorja said she was “incredibly grateful” for the experience and eager to apply her newfound knowledge.
“The camp was a wonderful opportunity to explore a range of STEM fields as well as meeting like-minded students, build new friendships and creating unforgettable memories," she said in the Ayr State High School newsletter.
"I am incredibly thankful for the chance to be part of such an inspiring and empowering experience, and look forward to applying what I have learnt for National Science week and future STEM activities.”
Ayr High teachers commended the way Jorja represented the school and “embraced the incredible opportunity."
Across the week, Jorja took part in activities ranging from designing a model water dam and visiting a pathology lab where students observed real-life organs, through to exploring QUT and UQ campuses.
The program also included excursions to the planetarium, the Museum of Brisbane and SparkLab, where students engaged with interactive science displays, including Tesla coils.
The program is designed to encourage young women into science, technology, engineering and mathematics pathways.
Jorja was officially selected for the camp last December, continuing the trend of Ayr High student representation after Bella Lawry took part in 2025.
The experience is expected to further support her involvement in school STEM initiatives and future study pathways in science and technology.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with participants and mentors from the Young Digital Mentors Program. Photo supplied
Young Burdekinites are helping senior residents build confidence with technology through the Young Digital Mentors Program, an initiative aimed at improving digital literacy while strengthening community connections across the Burdekin.
Facilitated by Burdekin Library, the program pairs young mentors with senior participants to provide one-on-one support with everyday technology, including smartphones and tablets.
Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the program demonstrated the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.
“Programs like Young Digital Mentors not only build valuable digital skills, they also bring generations together in a meaningful way,” Cr Dalle Cort said.
“It’s fantastic to see our young people stepping up to support others, while also developing confidence, leadership and communication skills of their own.”
The Young Digital Mentors Program was originally developed by the State Library of Queensland in 2025 and was first piloted in the Burdekin, making the region the first location in Queensland to deliver the initiative.
This year's program continues to be delivered by Burdekin Library with support from the State Library of Queensland and the eSafety Commissioner. Training for the young mentors was provided in partnership with Creative Bytes.
Senior participant Inez Larsen said the experience had improved her confidence in using technology.
“Participating in the Young Digital Mentors Program has been a rewarding experience,” Ms Larsen said.
“I really appreciated the way Andria shared her knowledge in such a supportive, respectful and approachable way.
“As a result of the program, I have come away feeling more confident and using more fully the capabilities of my iPhone. Thank you Burdekin Library staff and young digital mentor, Andria.”
The program aims to improve digital inclusion by helping older residents develop practical technology skills while giving young people the opportunity to build leadership, communication and mentoring experience.
This year's young digital mentors were Thomas Lindley, Alexis Lindley, Andria Reinke, William Wiseman, Addison Bonato and Fletcher Sgroi.
Senior participants included Liz Schmidt, Robert Ritchie, Alvin Thomas, Inez Larsen, Margaret McLucas, Michael Irving, Sheron Gaston and Beverley Matthews.
Burdekin Shire Council has encouraged residents to stay connected with Burdekin Library for information on future programs designed to strengthen digital skills and community connections.
The Burdekin’s 2026 sugarcane crush season has opened with more than 183,000 tonnes processed in the first week, as all four local mills move through commissioning and settle into full production. Photo supplied
The Burdekin’s 2026 sugarcane crush season has opened with more than 183,000 tonnes processed in the first week, as all four local mills move through commissioning and settle into full production.
The week ending 6 June saw Invicta, Pioneer, Inkerman and Kalamia mills collectively crush 183,526 tonnes of cane, marking a solid start to the season after operations began on 2 June, with Kalamia following shortly after.
Invicta led weekly throughput with 72,574 tonnes, followed by Inkerman on 40,989 tonnes, Pioneer on 38,498 tonnes, and Kalamia on 31,465 tonnes.
Sugar content across the region also tracked strongly in the opening week, with the Burdekin average Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) recorded at 13.59. Individual mill results ranged from 13.24 at Kalamia to a high of 13.92 at Invicta.
Wilmar Cane Supply Manager Chris Scovazzi noted the opening week is typically focused on commissioning plant and equipment, with factories now beginning to stabilise after the seasonal ramp-up.
Dry and cool conditions leading into the crush were also credited for supporting the strong early CCS results, which have come in above budget expectations.
The highest CCS recorded for the week was 16.4, from a rake of KQ228 cane supplied from the Haughton productivity district.
Variety performance data showed Q240 dominating supply at 50 per cent of cane crushed, delivering an average CCS of 13.34. KQ228 accounted for 31 per cent of supply and returned a stronger CCS of 13.90, while Q183 made up 11 per cent at 13.54. Smaller contributing varieties included SRA23 at 4 per cent (13.07), WSRA17 at 1 per cent (12.98), and Q208 at 1 per cent (13.01).
With the crush now underway across the region, mills are expected to move further into steady-state production in the coming weeks.
Motorists are also being reminded that cane trains are operating around the clock, seven days a week, as the harvest intensifies.
Mr Scovazzi urged road users to remain alert around rail crossings and “use your train brain” by always giving way to cane trains.
The Ayr Industrial Precinct is nearing completion, with new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region. Photo supplied
Burdekin Shire Council is continuing to support local economic growth, with the Ayr Industrial Precinct nearing completion and new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region.
The Ayr Industrial Precinct represents a major milestone in the region’s economic development, offering fully serviced, competitively priced industrial land in a strategic location ideal for manufacturing, logistics, trade services and emerging industries.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the time has never been better for businesses to consider establishing or expanding their operations in the Burdekin.
“The Ayr Industrial Precinct provides the kind of well-connected, serviced industrial land that businesses are actively looking for,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Stage 1 lots are now available from $50 per square metre plus GST, with a range of lot sizes to suit different business needs.
Council has also introduced a new Economic Stimulus Policy for Development Incentives to help reduce barriers to development and support business growth.
“Council understands that development costs can be a challenge, particularly for businesses looking to grow or relocate,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“This policy provides a clear and streamlined pathway for developers and business owners to seek reductions in fees and infrastructure charges.
“We want businesses to know we’re here to work with them.”
The Economic Stimulus Policy reinforces Council’s strategy to foster innovation, attract investment, and support long-term economic sustainability in line with the Burdekin Shire Council Corporate Plan 2025–2030.
Businesses interested in securing land or learning more about the development incentives available are encouraged to download the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Supplied by Burdekin Shire Council
As I speak with many in our community approaching retirement, I often hear plans of more time on the water - more fishing, more time enjoying life. But all too often, the years pass and that boat never leaves the shed. Retirement is a wonderful opportunity, but staying active and connected is just as important for your health and wellbeing.
One of the best ways to do that is through volunteering. Across the Burdekin, there are so many opportunities to get involved and give back. Whether it’s helping deliver Meals on Wheels, lending a hand at the Men’s Shed, supporting the SES, joining the Fire Brigadeor contributing to the Burdekin Community Association - there truly is something to suit everyone.
The Burdekin Water Festival Launch is coming up this Friday night, and I encourage everyone to get along and support our entrants. These events are a wonderful way to showcase our young people and celebrate what makes our region so special.
We’ve also been fortunate with the weather in recent weeks, providing perfect conditions to get outdoors - whether that’s heading to the beach or enjoying a spot of fishing. At the same time, the sugar cane season is well underway. While not everyone enjoys the “black snow,” I see it as a reflection of the wealth and history that underpin our community.
I’m also pleased to share that the Main Hall at the Ayr Showgrounds has received a much-needed refurbishment with stage 1 of the renovations now complete. This is a well-used and valued community asset, hosting everything from weddings and birthday celebrations to expos and major events. The improvements will ensure it continues to serve our community for many years to come.
As always, I encourage you to stay connected, get involved, and take the time to enjoy all that the Burdekin has to offer.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
On Wednesday 3rd June, I attended the Pathways and Possibilities night at the Burdekin Theatre. What a fantastic event. The information and displays on offer were outstanding, and it was clear a great deal of effort had gone into providing meaningful opportunities for our young people.
I saw many parents and children having genuine conversations about future pathways, asking questions and exploring the wide range of options available. It was valuable for parents to have so many opportunities presented in one place, helping them support their children in making informed decisions about their future.
Events like this play a critical role in connecting education, training and career pathways, and in encouraging our young people to think confidently about their future. Congratulations to all the organisers, schools and industry representatives involved—well done on delivering such a successful and impactful evening.
It was also great to see such a strong turnout at the Chaplains Breakfast at Ayr State High School on Thursday. The atmosphere reflected the strong connections within the school community and the important role chaplains play in supporting our young people.
It was clear the work of the chaplains has a meaningful impact on the wellbeing and resilience of students. Many young people have benefited from their guidance, support and encouragement, both within the school and across the broader community.
I would like to acknowledge and thank the chaplains, school staff and volunteers for the incredible work they do. Their ongoing commitment makes a real difference in the lives of children and families in our community.
Come along to the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday 25th June from 4pm to 6pm, where you can have a chat with the Mayor and Councillors. This will be relaxed and informal opportunity for residents to connect directly with their Councillorsfocusing on building relationships, also hearing what the community priorities are. Please feel free to come along
Zonta Club Burdekin has assembled more than 1,000 birthing kits in a single morning, with 53 volunteers taking part in a community effort aimed at improving maternal health in underserved regions.
The assembly day, held at the Samaritan Centre at St Francis Catholic School last week, brought together local community groups, schools and service clubs to prepare the kits, which will be distributed to women in remote, displaced or post-conflict settings where access to trained medical care is limited.
“These have the potential to save two lives—mother and baby—so it’s really gratifying,” Zonta Burdekin Correspondence Secretary Inez Larsen said.
Each kit includes plastic sheeting, gauze, string, gloves, soap and a razor, providing basic sterile equipment to support safer childbirth in low-resource environments.
Community groups involved included the Ayr–Home Hill Lions, Rotary, Burdekin Shire Council, as well as students and staff from Ayr State High School, Home Hill State High School and Burdekin Christian College.
Ms Larsen said Zonta members were “proud” of the strong community support for the project.
“We were over the moon. The atmosphere was just so nice,” she said.
“People stayed on for morning tea, there were a lot of laughs—it was a lovely morning.”
Burdekin Shire Councillor John Furnell described it as an “honour” to take part, praising Zonta members for the organisation behind the event.
The Zonta Birthing Kit Project began in 1999 and has since distributed more than three million kits across 30 countries. Australian Zonta clubs account for approximately 65 per cent of global kit production.
Burdekin Zonta contributed about $5 per kit, covering materials and distribution costs. The kits are set to be transported to Birthing Kits Australia in Adelaide before being dispersed overseas.
From a $2,000 ute and a toolbox to a Burdekin industry mainstay, Hayward Hydraulics marks 30 years built on reputation, innovation and community.
Not every business starts with a blueprint.
For some, it begins as a calling… in more ways than one.
Burdekin local Robert Hayward had been in the hydraulics industry since he was 18. A diligent worker who loved his job, he quickly built a reputation locally as one of the best in the business.
But despite a mutual affinity with the industry that had formed over years, he stepped away in the early 1990s to help his father-in-law maintain a cane property in Clare.
Until he received a call.
Then another… and another.
Rob quickly realised that, despite his brief hiatus, his reputation in hydraulics had not faded.
With that, he was pulled back into the game, this time with nothing but a $2,000 ute, a toolbox, and work up to his neck.
And the only way to keep himself from drowning in it was, ironically, to go in deeper.
“As the Burdekin is, if you do a very good job, word travels quickly between the community. One farmer talked to another, he talked to another, he talked to another…
“Until I sat down with my wife one day and said, ‘I think we can make a business out of this.’”
His ute would eventually make way for a permanent space—a small sub-shed at Larry Hudson Engineering in the Ayr Industrial Estate that would serve as his headquarters for the following four years.
He tackled the first year solo, before demand forced him to put an apprentice on in the second year, and a qualified tradesman in the third.
By the end of the fourth, Rob’s work had outgrown its humble base, moving down the road into a new purpose-built shed that would become the home of Hayward Hydraulics.
That shed would officially open in 1996, spurring a 30-year legacy sustained by three defining pillars.
“I had no idea how to use computers,” Rob said with a smirk.
Admittedly, he hadn’t realised he signed himself up for a three-decade, three-fold evolution between an entire industry, his own business, and himself. What he did know was that he was ready to learn, and eager to grow.
It started with the basics. For Rob, that meant wrapping his head around modern computers, attending TAFE courses on emerging welding techniques, and becoming a leader.
“I went from being a very good tradesman to having to be an employer,” he said.
“You have to be a people's person, you have to treat people the right way, treat your workers the right way. That part I never even thought of until we started getting into it.”
Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business's first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry.
With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology.
He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself.
“I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody's been doing something for 20 years, I'll look at a better way of doing it,” he said.
Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today.
“I've seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said.
“The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.”
Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught.
Care.
And he makes sure his staff do, too.
“I didn't come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said.
“So if I'm not happy with something, I'll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’”
When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension.
When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said:
“No.”
“I've always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you've got workers that people don't like, they don't come through the door,” he said.
“My current staff are up there with the best that I've had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.”
With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way.
As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing:
“We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.”
For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club.
Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company.
“The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said.
“The’ve given a lot to me. They've helped me grow and supported me, so it's about time I supported them back.”
Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force.
“I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothers-in-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said.
“But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn't home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything.
“It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we'd sit on the shop floor and have lunch.
“She's been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.”
Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing.
As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never meant to last this many pages.
“I still love what I do,” he said.
“The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it.
“I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years.
“When I read it, I said to myself, 'well, I'm gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’”
And that, he did.
Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down.
Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment.
In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family.
Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations.
“Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said.
“They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.”
The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April.
Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye.
Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour.
He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side.
In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations.
Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family.
“(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said.
“It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.”
Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link, or scan the QR Code:
FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied
The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget.
The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model.
This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations.
Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery.
"This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said.
"Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal.
"During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks.
Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain."
Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines.
"The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said.
"Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work.
By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons.
"It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time.
“This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election.
"This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.”
Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard.
Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community.
“Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said.
“I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.”
Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives.
“A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said.
“If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible
Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.”
Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review
Former Army Sergeant Matthew Reid was formally awarded the prestigious jaguar brevet at a ceremony held at Jezzine House, Jezzine Barracks in Townsville last week. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
A local Ayr police officer has received formal military recognition for becoming the first Australian soldier to pass one of the toughest jungle warfare courses in the world.
Former Army Sergeant Matthew Reid was formally awarded the prestigious jaguar brevet at a ceremony held at Jezzine House, Jezzine Barracks in Townsville last week.
The event marked the official endorsement for recipients to wear the brevet on their formal Army ceremonial dress.
The recognition comes after Mr Reid made history in 2024, becoming the first Australian to successfully complete the gruelling eight-week Jaguar Course in French Guiana, run by the French Foreign Legion.
The elite course, notorious for its extreme physical rigours, put participants through endurance, combat, and survival tests in a dense jungle environment.
The experience proved a true test of resilience for NSW-born Reid, compounded by a severe foot infection that caused swelling and intense pain throughout the training.
"It was probably one of the hardest things I've done throughout my military career. But I enjoyed it a lot," Mr Reid said.
After two months of intense field training, which saw him struggle through a casualty transport emulation in armpit-deep mud, Mr Reid would pass the course ranking 18th out of 35 students.
He recalled feeling a mix of nervousness, relief and pride as he awaited his results at the ceremony.
“The staff and instructors over there don't really give you too much feedback, so you don’t really know where you sit. But it was definitely a massive weight off the shoulders (when I passed),” he said.
“It felt good to represent Australia, the Army, and the unit that I came from.”
Following a ten-year military career, which included eight years in Townsville and two years in Tully, Mr Reid would eventually transition into civilian law enforcement.
He graduated from the police academy and was stationed at the Ayr Police Station last November, where he’s been learning the ropes ever since.
Mr Reid said that, despite few similarities between the Jaguar jungle course and the Ayr climate, his military background has facilitated a smooth transition into policing.
“Not so much from (the Jaguar Course) applies, but from the army in general, there’s definitely a lot of discipline and resilience that carries over to this job,” he said.
Now six months into his policing career, he says he has embraced the slower pace of the Burdekin, drawing parallels with his coastal hometown of Jervis Bay.
"It's a nice place to start policing. It's a bit slower in pace compared to the bigger cities … so you get to understand the processes and policies (a bit easier). The community has also been quite friendly,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mr Reid is eager to focus on mastering his new role in Ayr.
For many of us, the start of the crushing season is one of the clearest signs that another year is moving forward in the Burdekin. The locos are running again, harvesters are in the paddocks, and the familiar "black snow" has started to drift across the district.
While growers continue to face challenges from low sugar prices and rising input costs, the start of the season always seems to bring a sense of optimism. The sugar industry remains the backbone of our local economy and supports countless businesses, jobs and families throughout the region.
It has also been pleasing to see local success recognised recently, with Burdekin Shire Council receiving recognition at the 2026 LGMA Awards for Excellence for the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility. Congratulations to the staff involved in delivering a project that has attracted attention across local government.
Community creativity is also being encouraged through the Regional Recycled Art Competition, which is open to schools, community groups, and individual artists. Entries close on 6 July, with details available on Council's website. As one of the judges, I look forward to seeing the innovative ways local residents transform recycled materials into artwork.
As harvest ramps up across the district, I wish everyone a safe and productive season.
It has been another busy week across the Burdekin, with a number of great events highlighting the talent and opportunities within our community.
I recently attended the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival, which was held on Friday night. It was wonderful to see the performances from all our local high schools and the level of talent on display.
There are also some important dates ahead, including Men’s Health Week from 15 to 21 June. I encourage everyone to take the time to look after their health and wellbeing — it’s important not just for yourself, but for those around you.
We also had a visit from Bob Katter, Member of the Australian House of Representatives, who dropped into Council. It’s always valuable to have open doors and conversations across all levels of government as we continue to advocate for our region.
Another highlight was the Pathways & Possibilities event, which was a rewarding experience for those who attended. Education and career opportunities are so important, and it was encouraging to see the range of pathways available to support people in making decisions about their future.
These events are a strong reminder of the opportunities that exist within our community and the importance of continuing to support one another.
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.
Photo Credit: Natalie Saroglia
Over 150 Burdekinites marched through Plantation Park on May 31st in solidarity with victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.
The DV Prevention Walk brought local families, community groups, councillors, and service providers to Ayr’s Plantation Park before a purple-and-orange convoy set off along the Bruce Highway, up to Kirlie Road, and back to the park.
Marchers held high signs calling for an end to violence, before signing a banner pledging their commitment to safer families and communities.
Burdekin Community Association CEO Debra Cochran, emcee of the event, told the crowd before the march that preventing domestic and family violence was a responsibility shared by the entire community.
“Violence and abuse in any relationship is unacceptable. Preventing it requires all of us to step up, call out disrespect and at times, have tough conversations with our friends and loved ones,” Ms Cochran said.
“Every step you take today is a step toward a culture where everyone feels safe, equal and respected. Let’s walk with purpose and carry the energy of today forward into what we say and do every day.
“We say NO to violence.”
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Officer in Charge of the Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields also addressed attendees on the morning.
Police and DFV Service providers manned information stalls, with a free barbecue breakfast provided by the Network and free sweets courtesy of Sweetsville.
SweetFM also brought music, rock painting, and badge making activities to the park.
Ms Cochran described the event as “very successful and impactful.”
“We fulfilled the main purpose of the event, which was to raise awareness about domestic and family violence within the community while creating a visible message of support for victim-survivors,” she said.
“It was an opportunity for community members to come together in solidarity and demonstrate a shared commitment to promoting safety, respect, and healthy relationships within the Burdekin community.
“We hope the event encourages ongoing conversation.”
Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue across Australia and Queensland.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in four Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner since the age of 15.
In Queensland, there were 27,857 domestic and family violence protection orders initiated in 2023–24, according to latest Queensland Courts data.
Ms Cochran said the walk reinforced the importance of community support for victim-survivors of one of the State’s most pressing social issues.
“We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them,” she said.
The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far seen wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks cleared of invasive weeds. Photo credit: NQ Dry Tropics
Restoration work is underway across three Burdekin Delta creeks as part of a major wetlands project aimed at reducing pollutants entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far cleared invasive weeds from wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks as part of broader efforts to reduce fine sediment, dissolved inorganic nitrogen and pesticides reaching the Reef.
According to the Australian Government’s 2024 Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report, the Burdekin River catchment is the largest individual contributor of fine sediment, delivering about 3.7 million tonnes. It also contributes significant particulate nitrogen and phosphorus loads.
NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader Scott Fry said combining on-ground works with monitoring, modelling and training would help the WWBD project deliver measurable reductions in pollution and improve wetland health.
“Waterways in the Burdekin Delta are both productive agricultural systems and vital ecological assets,” Mr Fry said.
“Healthy, well-functioning wetlands are naturally able to capture and process pollutants before they reach the Reef.
“We aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of scalable, long-term management practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental outcomes.”
Work will employ a multi-step “treatment train” approach which focuses on improving wetland health, increasing water use efficiency to reduce excess flows into creeks, and trialing new water treatment methods.
It will also involve harvesting aquatic weeds to remove stored nutrients and improve fish and bird habitat, revegetating creek banks with native plants and improving fire management practices.
Weeds harvested will be turned into compost for use on local farms.
The WWBD project will be delivered in conjunction with Lower Burdekin Water, Burdekin Shire Council and Bindal Traditional Owners, with funding from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program.
It will complement work with Burdekin Delta cane growers to improve irrigation efficiency under NQ Dry Tropics’ Burdekin Tailored Automation project, a broader endeavour which aims to reduce agricultural runoff to waterways while improving farm efficiency.
The proposed $750 million Bowen Pipeline Project has entered a critical phase, with project leaders extending their water sales program as they work towards securing federal funding and delivering what they describe as a "generational" piece of infrastructure for North Queensland.
The privately funded project would see a 182-kilometre underground pipeline constructed from the Burdekin River to Bowen, delivering up to 100,000 megalitres of water annually to one of Australia's most productive horticultural regions.
Project proponents say the pipeline would provide a secure and reliable water source for the Bowen-Gumlu region, which produces around one-fifth of Australia's annual vegetable crop and generates approximately $750 million in fresh produce each year, despite relying largely on seasonal rainfall.
Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said community interest in the project's water sales program continued to grow, prompting the extension of its Locals First water investment policy until 14th July.
“Our water sales program is tracking nicely with interest steadily increasing from the local communities," Mr Brown said.
“Having said that, it is most interesting to see that demand is intense from those regions that have experience in water trading and water markets generally.
"They understand that water is an asset, like land, and is a strong enhancement for any investment portfolio, particularly on the driest continent on earth.
“Our desire is for the local community to benefit from the ownership of water and as such we will keep the Locals First water investment policy open for another four weeks. After that the water will be allocated to all parties.”
Mr Brown said community information sessions had generated strong interest from local residents keen to better understand water markets and the long-term value of water ownership.
“Attendees at our presentations have been delighted with the knowledge they acquire about how water trading is done, the water asset value increases over time, pressures for delivery and the pricing of the water,” he said.
The company has also expanded its local employment and procurement commitments, linking water ownership opportunities with potential construction jobs.
“Our Locals First employment and supply policy is resonating strongly in the community,” Mr Brown said.
“In fact, we have expanded the policy whereby local water purchasers will be given priority consideration for employment opportunities during the construction phase, where suitable.”
To strengthen its case for federal funding, the project must demonstrate both significant water demand and a substantial number of users. The minimum purchase volume has been set at 20 megalitres, which can be shared between neighbouring properties.
Project leaders are aiming to achieve shovel-ready status by September 2026 before lodging an application seeking federal funding for half of the construction costs.
“After nine years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push to make this $750 million generational Project a reality,” Mr Brown said.
If successful, the company hopes to secure funding through the May 2027 Federal Budget and begin construction in September 2027.
A fundraising breakfast held last week raised $35,000 for Burdekin Chaplains, headlined by a $30,000 donation that surprised even organisers.
The Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast, hosted annually by the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team, welcomed a crowd of around 70 to Ayr State High School grounds on Thursday 4th June to support local chaplaincy over a free breakfast.
Several guest speakers addressed the audience, including Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Chairman Darren West, who was met with a roar of applause as he presented a cheque for $30,000 to the host organisation.
“We know the chaplains have done it tough for funds at times over the years, so we’re pleased to be here today to present this cheque,” Mr West said.
Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team Co-Chair Kylie Webley said the organisation was “not expecting to receive such a generous donation.”
A number of other contributions made up the $35,000 total, including one from Margaret Thorne of Bluey’s Thrift Shop in Home Hill which was also presented on the morning.
Ayr State School Principal Nikki Schell addressed the breakfast, delivering a gripping speech that used the Burdekin River as a metaphor for the role chaplaincy plays in local schools and communities.
“Just as the river breathes life into our region, chaplaincy breathes life into our schools and into our communities,” Ms Schell said.
“Not life in the physical sense, but life in the things that matter most: hope, belonging, connection, joy. The confidence to keep going when things feel hard, the courage to ask for help, the comfort of knowing that someone cares.”
Scripture Union manager for North Queensland Brooke Sorbello also delivered a speech at the event, while former Burdekin Chaplaincy Committee Chair Ronda Williams was acknowledged for her years of service to the organisation.
Ms Webley said the morning was an important opportunity to bring local chaplaincy to the forefront, calling the community support “invaluable.”
“Without the support, Burdekin Chaplains would not have the same reach across our schools, and our community may not understand the needs and challenges facing our young people today,” she said.
“It’s also important for chaplains to feel supported in their work.”
The Burdekin's seven school chaplains provide social, emotional and pastoral support across 10 local schools, working with students, staff and families.
Their role includes mentoring, wellbeing programs and helping young people navigate challenges ranging from bullying and anxiety to family breakdown.
Funds raised from this year’s breakfast will help keep chaplains at local schools and assist with the needs of students.
Community members seeking more information or ways to become involved are encouraged to contact Kylie or Joanne Ballin of the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team at: burdekinlcc@gmail.com.
Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Photo supplied
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to welcome Tracey Young to the team as a new Customer Service Officer, bringing with her a strong passion for people, community and helping customers with their everyday banking needs.
Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Together they are raising their three children – Charlie, Mitchell and Henry – while embracing the close-knit lifestyle that makes the region so special.
For Tracey, joining Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is more than simply starting a new role – it is an opportunity to work closely with local people and contribute to a bank that actively supports the wider community.
“What I enjoy most is interacting directly with our customers every day,” Tracey said.
“It is incredibly rewarding to solve their problems, help them with their day-to-day financial needs, and build real trust within our local community.”
Outside of work, Tracey enjoys an active family life centred around horses, camping adventures, travelling to new places and spending quality time with her family whenever possible.
Having spent more than a decade living in the Burdekin, Tracey says the welcoming spirit of the community is what stands out most.
“Definitely the people and the small-town community spirit,” she said.
“Everyone is willing to help each other out, whether it’s at a local sporting group, a not-for-profit organisation, the local school, a fellow Burdekin neighbour or even a traveller passing through. You will always be welcomed with a warm smile.”
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said the team was excited to welcome Tracey and the local knowledge and customer focus she brings to the branch.
“Tracey’s warm personality and passion for helping people make her a wonderful addition to our team,” Sally said.
“At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, we pride ourselves on delivering personal service and supporting the communities we live and work in, and Tracey reflects those values perfectly.”
Customers visiting the branch are encouraged to stop by, say hello and welcome Tracey to the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr family.
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
The BMSA barbecue was delivered in conjunction with sponsor Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.
Members of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association (BMSA) whipped out the barbie last Friday to raise funds for the Lower Burdekin Scout Group.
The fundraiser, sponsored by Bendigo Bank, brought the aroma of a freshly cooked barbecue breakfast to Ayr’s Queen Street from 9am until around noon.
BMSA President Rob Ritchie called it a “great opportunity to get out and face the community” while raising money for an important local group.
“We’ve donated to national charities before, but the Lower Burdekin Scout Group is a great community group, and we’d rather see money raised stay in the community,” he said.
“They’ve got to do every bit of fundraising themselves, so if we can help a little bit, all well and good.”
BMSA member Chris Fox said the barbecue was the latest example of a mutual relationship between the two organisations that has spanned years.
“They’ve done lots for us, so we do our best to reciprocate in kind,” he said.
On top of the occasional fundraising barbecue, the BMSA meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00–11:30am for recreational activities, skills development and community projects.
Anyone interested in joining the BMSA is encouraged to call 0467 083 502, email burdekinmensshed@outlook.com or visit the shed at 155-157 Young St, Ayr.
Opinion Piece By Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox
Every federal budget should be a structural blueprint for a nation’s future prosperity. Instead, Labor’s latest budget has delivered a grim ledger of broken promises, toxic taxes, and skyrocketing debt that leaves everyday Australians footing the bill.
It confirms that Anthony Albanese is presiding over an incompetent executive and overseeing a country that is heading completely in the wrong direction.
Since Labor was elected, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Because this government simply cannot manage money, they are aggressively coming after yours.
Their record spending means the federal budget is now forecast to be in deficit for a decade, and total national debt is about to smash through the $1 trillion mark.
To put that into perspective, the yearly interest bill alone on that debt will top $42 billion. That is a crushing $80,000 per minute leaking out of the budget, money that should be funding highways, veteran wellbeing and providing dignity to those in their twilight years.
Rather than exercising restraint, Labor has locked government spending at its highest level in forty years, outside of a pandemic. To bankroll this spending spree, our economy is being burdened with $50 billion in higher taxes, including a massive $15 billion hit to personal income taxes.
These toxic taxes are a direct assault on aspiration. They are locking young Australians out of the stable opportunities afforded to older generations, whacking punitive penalties on housing, savings, investment, and small businesses.
This economic mismanagement is actively fuelling a homegrown inflation crisis. For communities across our region, this means interest rates will stay higher for longer.
The human cost of this failure is devastating. A typical Australian family with a mortgage is now $32,000 a year worse off under Labor, when you take into account higher mortgage repayments and higher cost of living factors.
At the same time, the actual buying power of your wages has declined by 3 per cent. You are working harder than ever, yet your pay packet buys less every single week.
Australians do not have to settle for this managed decline, and people will rightly ask, what would your party do differently?
The Coalition has put forward a comprehensive plan to restore our standard of living and protect our way of life. Our strategy will reward hard work, restore home ownership, and put Australians first.
We have promised to axe Labor’s toxic taxes. At the heart of our commitment is a Tax Back Guarantee. We will end Labor’s insidious inflation tax by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation, ensuring workers keep more of what they earn.
To secure our financial future, we will establish a Future Generations Fund. We will bank resource windfalls to systematically pay down debt and build the vital national infrastructure our regional communities desperately need. By returning 25 per cent of resource windfalls directly to their regions of origin, the Coalition will deliver an incredible boost to Dawson, ensuring the wealth generated in the Bowen Basin gets reinvested to boost investor and business confidence.
This budget presents a fundamental choice for Australians to consider before this next election. It is a choice between a government that taxes your savings and shrinks your future, and a Coalition plan that rewards hard work, restores home ownership, and secures Australia’s future.
A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and photography
Generations of lifesavers, families and supporters converged on the district at the weekend as the iconic Ayr Surf Life Saving Club marked a century of beach safety and mateship with a spectacular three-day centenary celebration.
More than 300 attendees flocked to the region at the weekend to mark one of the most significant milestones in local history as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club celebrated its 100th anniversary.
The milestone was commemorated with a packed three-day program of events running from May 29 to 31, bringing together generations of members, families and supporters to reflect on a century of coastal protection and community spirit.
A gala dinner at the Home Hill Memorial Hall on Saturday night served as the centrepiece of the centenary celebrations, complemented by a Friday night meet-and-greet at the Kalamia Hotel and a relaxed recovery gathering at the Alva Beach clubhouse on Sunday.
Club President Dr Benjamin Lawry said the anniversary celebrations were a fitting tribute to the volunteers, members and community supporters who have sustained the organisation for a century.
"Over the past 100 years, countless individuals have given their time, energy and commitment to ensure the safety of beachgoers and strength of our community," Dr Lawry said.
"This weekend was an opportunity not only to celebrate our history, but to thank everyone who has played a role in building the Club into what it is today.
"The stories shared throughout the weekend reminded us that while our uniforms, equipment and the beach itself have changed over the years, the spirit of service, friendship and community remains exactly the same."
The club’s deep historical roots trace back to late 1925, following the tragic drowning of John Begg Donaldson while swimming at Lynch’s—now known as Alva—Beach.
In the wake of the tragedy, Mr Donaldson's workmates at the Kalamia Mill raised funds and sent them to his parents in Scotland, who returned the money with the insistence that the local community use it.
A meeting was subsequently convened at the Shire Chambers in October 1926, where the decision was made to form the Donaldson and Lower Burdekin Life Saving Club, which originally affiliated with the Sydney-based Surf Life Saving Association of Australia four years before a Queensland branch even existed.
Now known as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, the institution stands proudly as one of Queensland's oldest surf lifesaving clubs.
The club’s storied history was also honoured on the weekend by the official launch of a new retrospective book, 100 Summers: the story of the Ayr SLSC, written by author Martin Grandelis following months of exhaustive research, interviews and writing to document the people who shaped the club.
Long-time members used the weekend to reflect on the profound personal impact of the local institution, including Club Patron Hockey Vernon, who joined the club as a cadet in 1959.
Addressing the gala dinner, Mr Vernon delivered a heartfelt speech on how the club has shaped generations of local families over the decades.
“From joining the Club in 1959 as a cadet, it quickly became much more than just a place to volunteer. It became a second family,” Mr Vernon said.
“The mateship and camaraderie found down at Alva have been a constant and particularly meaningful part of my life. Seeing my children become part of the Club has been especially rewarding, and a testament to the lasting impact this community has on generations.
“Sharing in the celebration of 100 years of the Club has been incredibly special. It has been wonderful to see so many familiar faces, past and present, come together to honour the history, achievements and spirit of this Club I call family.”
As commemorations for 2026 QLD Day gear up, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is encouraging Burdekin residents to take the time to celebrate everything great about their community and our state.
Mr Last said the Burdekin’s multicultural heritage, local legends and spanning industries meant there was plenty to recognise and celebrate on June 6.
“I have always said the Burdekin Electorate punches above its weight and Queensland Day is another chance to shine a light on the people, places and the contributions our industries make to our state,” Mr Last said.
“No matter where you are in this state, QLD Day is our chance to get together and celebrate what Queensland means to us and what it means to be a Queenslander.”
“For me, Queensland Day is a chance to recognise those local legends in our community who step up to support others at times of hardship, our emergency services, volunteers and those we describe as local legends. We saw this recently when victims of a tragic bus accident were provided immediate support by members of our community.”
Ahead of celebrations at the weekend, Mr Last congratulated those from all corners of the state who had been recognised in the QLD Day 2026 All the Best.
“Queenslanders have backed their best fish and chip shop, beaches, cafes, bakeries and florists with some of our best small businesses appearing on the state’s stage,” Mr Last said.
“The campaign was another way we can get behind our favourite small businesses and it’s fantastic to see finalists from right across the state, including the Burdekin Electorate.”
QLD Day, held annually on 6 June, marks the date the state officially separated from New South Wales in 1859 and became an independent self-governing colony.
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Death is one of life's certainties, yet it remains one of the most difficult experiences we face. When we lose a loved one, it can feel as though our world has been turned upside down.
In small communities like ours, however, grief is rarely carried alone.
From funeral notices in the local paper to personal messages of condolence, there is a shared understanding that when one family is hurting, the wider community stands beside them.
Earlier this week, Burdekin Funerals took to social media to acknowledge another tradition that continues to reflect the compassion and respect of the Burdekin community.
"One thing we've always admired about communities like Ayr and Home Hill is the respect people still show during a funeral procession," they said.
"Cars pull over. Businesses pause. People stand quietly out the front.
"It's a simple gesture, but it means more than most realise to the families travelling behind that hearse, saying their final goodbye.
"Sadly, not many towns still do this anymore.
"Thank you for continuing to show kindness, patience and respect in moments that matter most."
While seemingly small, these acts serve as a powerful reminder of what makes country communities special. In a world that often moves at a relentless pace, taking a moment to pause and honour someone's final journey speaks volumes about the values we continue to hold dear.
It is a tradition of respect, dignity and community spirit - one that many hope will continue for generations to come.
AgServices agronomists Drew McGilchrist (left) and Marc Tanizar (right) chat with Mackay grower Lee Blackburn about the positive outlook for Bio Dunder supplies. Photo supplied
From Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
As the 2026 harvest begins, the Wilmar AgServices team has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we are ready to support growers with their fertiliser needs throughout the season.
We recognise that global events have affected the supply of some raw material inputs, creating uncertainty across fertiliser markets and raising concerns about product availability.
We want to reassure growers that we are confident in our current supply position – both for our base Dunder stocks and key added inputs such as urea. Planning is also well advanced to ensure Bio Dunder liquid fertiliser applications can commence in line with harvesting operations.
While our supply outlook is positive, the current supply environment remains dynamic. We encourage growers to confirm their fertiliser requirements early to help secure supply and enable our experienced local contractors to schedule applications efficiently across farms.
Made in Sarina, Bio Dunder is an organic-based fertiliser trusted by generations of farmers. It delivers a comprehensive nutrient package of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur (NPKS), together with valuable organic carbon that supports long-term soil health.
Our agronomists and contractors consistently see the best yield responses when Bio Dunder is applied straight after harvesting. That’s why we encourage growers to ‘follow the harvester’ with their Bio Dunder application.
We know rising input costs are placing pressure on farming operations. Our sales agronomists continue to work closely with growers to optimise NPKS programs that help reduce fertiliser costs without compromising sugarcane yield potential. Our pricing remainscompetitive, particularly when considering the soil health benefits Bio Dunder provides.
Call us on 1800 881 957 to confirm pricing and supply for the season. Alternatively, email
AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
We’re ready and able to support your fertilising needs throughout the 2026 harvest.
Meet some of this year’s QLD Day ambassadors, championing the essence and vibrance of Queensland.
We know Queensland has produced no shortage of rugby league royalty. Wally Lewis AM – also known as “The King” – is the face of his state yet again as a 2026 QLD Day ambassador.
“I’m a proud Queenslander, born and bred, and I’ve spent a lifetime representing this wonderful state,” Wally said.
“I’m inspired by everyday Queenslanders, the people who show up for their families, their communities, and each other; that’s the real strength of this state.”
One of rugby league’s greatest players, Johnathan Thurston AM; former three-time premiership winner for the Brisbane Broncos, Gorden Tallis; and captain of the Broncos, Maroons and Jillaroos, Ali Brigginshaw are also representing rugby this year.
There must be something in the water, with our best swimmers diving in as ambassadors: eight-time Olympic medallist, Cate Campbell OAM; Paralympic gold medallist Alexa Leary OAM; and four-time Paralympic medallist Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson. Netball great Laura Geitz, raised in the Darling Downs town of Allora, joins Gold Coast AFL rising star Ethan Read.
One of Australia’s most beloved tennis champions, Pat Rafter said he proudly wears the title of ‘Queenslander’, while he secretly loves having a stadium with his name on it.
“I love being a Queenslander, I was brought up in Mount Isa, so I guess there is a fair bit of that country passion in me,” Pat said.
“Having a stadium with my name on it is so cool. The Queensland tennis crowd is pretty respectful; they enjoy their tennis but appreciate good players with good attitude.”
From the arts, didgeridoo virtuoso and composer William Barton sits alongside Pub Choir founder Astrid Jorgensen OAM, country music balladeer Lee Kernaghan OAM, and celebrity chef Alastair McLeod.
Rounding out the line-up is veteran journalist and child-safety advocate Kay McGrath OAM, a Queensland Great, encouraging all Queenslanders to celebrate the unique spirit of the Sunshine State.
“Queensland Day is a chance for us to come together and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this extraordinary state,” Kay said.
What ties them together isn’t fame – it’s our state. Each ambassador’s story is rooted in a different patch of Queensland, from outback towns to coastal cities. Together, they paint a portrait of a state that’s as diverse as it is proud.
The QLD Day Awards shine a spotlight on the Queenslanders who go above and beyond – the community volunteers, local legends, young achievers and those shaping our state’s future.
From grassroots changemakers to everyday heroes, these awards celebrate Queenslanders from all walks of life who make Queensland a better place. Announced on QLD Day, the winners reflect a proud tradition of service, generosity and community spirit that has defined our state since 1859.
Jane Hedger, CEO of Volunteering Queensland, said the awards recognise the Queenslanders who often work behind the scenes to support others.
“The QLD Day Awards shine a light on those Queenslanders who quietly make the world go round and give us an opportunity to say thank you,” she said.
For Catherine Lamb, a Meals on Wheels volunteer from Ashgrove, Brisbane, giving back is simply part of who she is.
“It’s about the simple things – how good you feel doing something good, and how much it means to the person on the other end,” Catherine said.
This year’s recipients continue a strong legacy of community champions, following in the footsteps of the 2025 QLD Day Local Legends – all shining examples of the Queensland spirit in action.
Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Government has launched a new funding round for its Future Drought Fund Drought Resilience Hubs program, creating opportunities to further strengthen drought preparedness across agricultural regions including the Burdekin.
The national initiative will establish seven Drought Resilience Hubs across Australia, supporting farmers and rural communities with practical tools, knowledge and services aimed at improving resilience to future drought conditions.
Following an independent review, the program has been redesigned to place greater emphasis on delivering on-the-ground outcomes and helping producers adopt proven drought-resilient practices.
A total of $86.7 million will be invested nationally through to June 2032 to support the next phase of the program.
The hubs are intended to act as regional connectors, linking producers with experts, innovations, research and support services while identifying local challenges and opportunities specific to their area.
The program also aims to strengthen collaboration between industry groups, governments, research organisations and regional communities.
Applications are now open for eligible organisations interested in operating the hubs, with funding expected to support activities from March 2027 through to June 2032.
Applications will close on the 10th of August. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says the $53 million project would address the region’s key barriers to growth. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Shire Council is seeking over $53 million in state funding to unlock roughly 1,000 new residential lots in Ayr, in a bid to ease the region’s ongoing housing shortage.
The proposal will be submitted under Round 2 of the Queensland Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which supports major infrastructure projects needed to open up new housing supply.
If successful, the funding will deliver critical trunk infrastructure including roads, sewer networks, water supply upgrades and treatment plant expansions, targeting long-standing development constraints that have limited new housing construction in the area.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the project would address one of the region’s key barriers to growth.
“Council recognises that a lack of enabling infrastructure is one of the biggest barriers to housing growth in the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Through the Residential Activation Fund, we are investing in the essential infrastructure needed to unlock new residential land, reduce development barriers and support future population growth.”
She said the investment would also strengthen the local economy by improving housing availability for workers.
“This project is not just about housing—it’s about strengthening our local economy, attracting workers and ensuring the Burdekin remains a great place to live, work and invest,” she said.
Council data shows local housing construction has fallen by 41 per cent since 2021, a decline attributed to a shortage of affordable, development-ready land. High upfront development costs, flooding constraints, rising insurance premiums and a shortage of builders and trades have also contributed to the slowdown.
The $53 million proposal targets infrastructure upgrades and extensions in growth areas including Craig Street, Chippendale Street and Beach Road. The figure includes construction costs, contingency allowances, contractor margins and indirect expenses.
If approved, council expects enabling works to begin in July 2027 and be completed by December 2028, with housing development to follow as serviced land becomes available.
The state government has already approved almost $994 million in projects under the Residential Activation Fund to unlock both infill and greenfield housing. Successful projects from Round 2 are expected to be announced from July 2026.
“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders,” says Club President Peter Knapton. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Burdekin community has rallied behind the Burdekin Touch Football Association, rapidly backing a new "Sponsor-a-Block" initiative to protect local sporting grounds following devastating damage last month.
The fundraiser allows local businesses and residents to sponsor heavy concrete barriers recently placed around the Wickham Street complex, each block stencilled with the sponsor's name to serve as a permanent wall of advertising and security.
A total of 60 blocks have already been sponsored as of 28 May, raising vital funds to secure what are regarded as some of the best in North Queensland.
The immediate response from local businesses, families, individuals, and teams follows an incident where vandals tore through the complex, leaving four fields with considerable damage and forcing a four-week halt to all men’s, women’s, and junior competitions.
Club President Peter Knapton said the widespread support highlighted local outrage over the vandalism.
"The community is obviously sick of mindless damage and the obvious lack of respect for other people’s property by a small minority,” Mr Knapton said.
“When all blocks are in place, there will be a sense of protection for the fields from intruders.”
The committee launched the initiative after discovering that standard rock barriers used by other councils were too expensive. While Ergon Energy initially offered used power poles, the club ultimately sourced the cement blocks from BQC Quarries to create a vehicle-proof barrier.
The project, which carries a total cost of $10,000, is being funded through a combination of the block sponsorships and club funds. 56 blocks have been positioned at the complex so far, with a further 135 blocks still available for sponsorship.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a block is encouraged to text Peter on 0427710500.
Fifty years since the formation of the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade was commemorated on Sunday, coinciding with National Volunteers Week.
Formed on 24 May 1976, the brigade was presented with a Queensland Fire Department Certificate of Appreciation stating –
“This milestone acknowledges the brigade’s longstanding commitment to protecting lives, property and the community through volunteer service, resilience, teamwork and unwavering dedication during emergencies and times of need”.
Groper Creek Fire Brigade’s First Officer Dave Coplick accepted the recognition from Rural Fire Service Queensland Deputy Chief Officer Northern Region Tony Hazell, who travelled with Townsville Area Manager/Inspector Mick Thomson to thank volunteers for their ongoing service.
“We couldn’t let the date go by without acknowledging the brigade’s 50 years of service to the community of Groper Creek and we would like to thank you for your ongoing commitment to fire safety and disaster management,” Mr Hazell said.
Queensland has more than 27,000 RFSQ volunteers in the 1,400 rural fire brigades and 2,400 fire warden districts throughout the state.
Brigade First Officer Dave Coplick thanked those who were able to join in the informal foreshore festivities, particularly RFSQ representatives and Dalbeg-Millaroo Brigade members who had travelled for the occasion.
Groper Creek Brigade Secretary Jeanette Garvey paid tribute to those who had previously been involved in the brigade and current voluntary members, who continue to work behind the scenes.
“The brigade has evolved from the initial ‘bush’ brigade when it was first formed in 1976 and we are continuing to evolve with the latest equipment, resources and support provided by the State,” Ms Garvey said.
“Like many other community groups, we are always looking for more active hands-on volunteers, especially young and fit persons, to train and use brigade equipment. We also welcome all volunteers who are able to support in so many ways.”
To find out more about joining the Groper Creek Rural Fire Brigade, contact Jeanette Garvey ph 0421 508 510.
It was another busy and positive week across the Burdekin, with strong community engagement and continued progress on key initiatives.
Over the weekend, I attended a number of community events, including celebrations for the 100-year milestone of the Burdekin Surf Life Saving Club and the 2026 Burdekin Domestic Violence Walk, which raised awareness for an important cause. These events highlight the strength of our community and recognise the ongoing contribution of volunteers who play a vital role in keeping our region safe and connected.
We have also had some exciting news on the international stage, with Home Hill’s Adam Walton delivering an outstanding performance at the French Open. His success is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for the Burdekin, showcasing the talent that comes from our region. Congratulations to Adam on this remarkable milestone.
Community participation was strong at the recent Free Mulch Day at the Ayr Transfer Station, with residents taking advantage of the opportunity to collect mulch and support sustainable waste practices. It is great to see the community’s ongoing involvement in initiatives that promote environmental responsibility.
Across our operations, works programs continue to progress well, with road and infrastructure projects advancing across the Shire. Council will continue to keep the community informed as works progress.
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.
There is no greater gift you can give to others than that of your time. There is no greater gift to yourself than the pleasure and satisfaction gained from helping others. We are all quick to complain - it’s human nature, but rather than expend that energy on social media, ring a Councillor. That’s our job and why we’re on Council. I’m pleased to say that I receive quite a few phone calls from people who have an issue, who need assistance or simply information and I get the greatest satisfaction from helping them resolve an issue or pointing them in the right direction. Those phone calls to say thank you mean more than you know and are truly appreciated. As always, my mobile number is 0427827386.
Congratulations to Conway and Jo Ganderton of the Ayr and District Orchid and Allied Plants Society for stepping up in the co-organizing of the Plantation Park Markets with Ayr State Primary School. The ASPS Bush Markets are held on the first Sunday of each month, with the next one being held on 7th June from 8am to 12noon in Plantation Park. The Ayr and District Orchid and Allied Plants Society Markets are on the third Sunday of each month with the next being held on 21 June 8am-12noon at Plantation Park. As always, there will be a myriad of goods for sale with literally something for everyone. Stallholders can phone 4790 3333 or 4783 6627 to find out more information.
People who volunteer their time for the many different organisations are such an invaluable part of our community. I had the pleasure of attending the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce general meeting recently where Margie Ryder was one of the guest speakers. Margie is Secretary of Volunteering NQ and she is indeed a pocket dynamo. Her effervescent energy and love of volunteering is captured in the phrase “Without volunteers NOTHING happens”. This is the absolute truth so thank you to all who volunteer in our community.
Don’t forget to get your tickets for the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival which is on at the Burdekin Theatre Friday 5th June. We have some wonderfully talented young people in the Burdekin and this event, along with the recently held Burdekin Eisteddfod and Fast Track showcase these talents beautifully. I remember being involved as a student at Home Hill State High School, although I was more at home in the background doing props than centre stage. Tickets are $25.00.
Lastly, should you require the services of a JP, you can find one at the Burdekin Library between 10am and 2pm each Tuesday.
God Bless and take care.
The EV Pipe Dream vs. The Factory Floor
There was a time when walking into an Australian garage meant standing next to something we actually built.
For generations, brands like Holden weren't just names on a tailgate; they were proof that Australia possessed the sovereign grit to shape its own heavy industrial destiny.
When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lamented over the death of the Australian-made car, calling it a national "pity," he expects us to ignore the fact that his own government is standing over the body holding the smoking gun.
But then came the political pivot. Speaking at an industry event, the Prime Minister confidently
declared that "there is no reason why we can’t make electric vehicles here."
The Prime Minister is banking on the idea that automation will solve everything, assuming that robots don't care about penalty rates or energy bills. But this completely misses the point. You cannot build a heavy automotive industry when the basic foundational costs of doing business in Australia are being driven through the roof.
His theory is an absolute pipe dream, completely detached from the hard mechanical facts, the soaring input costs, and the real-world physics of actually building things on an Australian factory floor.
I recently hosted a manufacturing roadshow in Mackay, sitting down with local engineering firms, component makers, and fabricators who operate on the frontlines of our regional economy.
These are self-reliant operators who don't want taxpayer-funded corporate welfare or green
subsidies to generate a good headline, they just want a fair go.
What they showed me is that this Labor Government is actively widening a sovereignty gap that punishes our local makers. The brutal truth is that any attempt to build sophisticated electric vehicles here will stall long before it ever reaches the assembly line.
To understand why, you have to look past the political rhetoric and look at the basic physics of heavy automotive engineering.
An electric vehicle is essentially an incredibly complex, high-voltage computer on wheels.
You cannot run the factories of tomorrow on a fragile power grid. The advanced robotics required to assemble modern electric vehicles demand perfect, constant 24/7 power. A short drop in voltage, a mere blink that you wouldn’t even notice at home, is enough to trigger a total shutdown on an automated line. The machinery freezes, precision calibrations are lost, and thousands of dollars bleed out for every single minute the assembly track sits idle.
Yet, Labor’s rushed, ideologically driven race toward its Net Zero fantasy is driving electricity prices through the roof and leaving the grid structurally vulnerable.
There is also the glaring double standard embedded in our current trade settings.
Right now, overseas competitors can buy Australian coal and raw minerals, ship them across the ocean, use them to fire up cheap baseload power, and then dump low-cost, substandard hardware right back into our market.
Local engineering firms at our roadshow pointed out that fully imported Chinese components land in Mackay substantially cheaper per unit than those manufactured locally. How can we dream of manufacturing a 3,000-kilogram electric vehicle when our policy settings make it unviable to competitively produce the nuts and bolts that hold it together?
Additionally, Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism acts as a carbon tax by stealth, slapping a financial handbrake on our heavy component producers and forcing international capital offshore to nations with cheaper, more predictable energy strategies.
It is precisely why Australia’s share of global resource investment has plummeted from 40% to just 15% over the last decade. Capital goes where there is certainty, and right now, Australia looks like a high-risk zone because the regulatory goalposts change at the stroke of a pen.
We need a government with the common sense to close the sovereignty gap. That means establishing a National Import Quality Taskforce to stop sub-standard foreign dumping, offering royalty discounts for companies that procure 100% Australian-made items, and overhauling the "Australian Made" logo fees so local workshops aren't charged a premium just to tell the world where their goods were built.
Most importantly, we must restore sovereign confidence by scrapping the punitive Net Zero targets, removing the Safeguard Mechanism, and focusing heavily on delivering the cheap, stable baseload power that makes Australian industry competitive on the global stage.
The Coalition has a clear plan to get our energy affordability back on track, back the regions,
reward true technical efficiency, and protect the Australian dream for our workers.
It is time to swap the green pipe dreams for reality on the factory floor.
The annual Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness Walk will return to its original home at Ayr’s Plantation Park on 31 May. Photo supplied
Burdekin residents are being urged to lace up their shoes and wear purple this Sunday to help take a stand against domestic and family violence.
The annual Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness Walk will return to its original home at Ayr’s Plantation Park on 31 May, following years of pandemic disruptions and weather setbacks.
Organised by a host of local organisations, the inclusive event aims to bring locals together to spark crucial conversations, reduce stigma, and show solidarity with victim-survivors.
BCA Chief Executive Officer Debra Cochran said the walk was intentionally designed for maximum visibility to spread its vital message.
"The DV awareness walk was originally started to encourage greater community engagement and bring people together to raise awareness and gain access to information about domestic and family violence," Ms Cochran said.
"We intentionally chose a walking route that could be completed safely while also providing strong visibility to the wider community, particularly along the highway where passing traffic can clearly see the event and its message."
First held in May 2018, the event built strong momentum before COVID-19 restrictions and last year's flooding at Plantation Park disrupted its format. Ms Cochran said the BCA hopes this year's edition will help rekindle momentum and leave a lasting impression on participants.
"We hope attendees leave the DFV Walk with a greater understanding of the impact domestic and family violence has on individuals, families and the wider community," Ms Cochran said.
"We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them."
The free community event kicks off from 8:15am on Sunday 31 May at Plantation Park, Ayr, with the walk officially commencing at 9:00am. Participants can enjoy a free BBQ breakfast and kids' activities throughout the morning.
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has recorded its strongest Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea yet, raising more than $2,300 for the Cancer Council.
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) has recorded its strongest Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea yet, raising more than $2,300 for the Cancer Council and smashing previous fundraising totals in a show of local generosity that surprised even organisers.
Held on Thursday, 21 May from 10am to 12pm, the annual event drew more than 70 community members to the centre, with organisers saying this year’s turnout and donations marked a clear step up in both engagement and giving.
The morning featured a generous spread of morning tea options alongside a Lucky Door Prize, Mega Raffle and Special Raffle, with most prizes kindly donated by local businesses and community members.
Attendees shared conversations while MC Councillor John Furnell facilitated the event that featured "plenty of laughter and community spirit” throughout.
said the strong turnout and fundraising result reflected the growing support behind the annual event and its purpose.
"The main purpose of the event was to bring the Burdekin community together to raise vital funds and awareness for people affected by cancer through the work of the Cancer Council, while encouraging community connection and fundraising by providing a welcoming space, raffles, and food for attendees to enjoy together,” Ms Darley said.
She said the overwhelming support continued a pattern of overwhelming community generosity that the BNC sees each year.
“The BNC is absolutely astonished each year by the generosity shown by the community, local businesses, and everyone attending our morning tea event—whether in person or through online donations—to help support anyone affected by cancer," she said.
“We hope attendees took away a sense of community connection, compassion, and support, while knowing that their attendance, donations, and participation helped make a meaningful difference to people affected by cancer.”
The BNC extended its thanks to all local businesses and community members who supported the event, including those who contributed food, vouchers, raffle prizes, and other assistance in any form.
The organisation encourages any businesses interested in being involved in the 2027 event to contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on
Journalist Jacob Casha was awarded Best Young Journalist of the year at the Queensland Country Press Awards
Burdekin Life’s young journalism duo took home gold and silver at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on the Sunshine Coast.
Burdekin Life’s young journalism duo has come away from the Sunshine Coast with gold and silver honours after a strong performance at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on Friday, 22 May.
Jacob Casha was announced as Best Young Journalist of the year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist, while Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.
Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith said the awards are a strong result for the young journalists and the organisation.
“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Ms Smith.
“Our journalists learn the ropes fast, attending community events, forming connections and networks, writing and reporting on every aspect of news from sports to events – it is a big job that sets the tone for a dynamic career.
“To think that two members of our team took out the two top spots in this category is incredibly humbling – and an example of the calibre of writing all our journalists are striving towards.
“This was capped off by Jacob receiving a silver award for Best Single Story — it’s fantastic to see him recognised in his first year alongside seasoned journalists who have spent years refining their craft.”
The editorial achievements rounded off one of Life Publishing Group’s most successful years at the QCPA event, where it also won a further three advertising awards on the night.
A highlight was receiving gold for Best Print Community Advertising Promotion for the Life Publishing Group Enchanted Garden Charity Event which raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities.
A second gold was awarded for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement of the year and was followed by silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign of the year.
“It makes life easy when you know you have a great team to back you up,” said Hinchinbrook Life Sales Manager Sherie Hensler Adams.
“At Life Publishing Group, our incredible creative team designs each ad from scratch, working closely with our clients to bring out the best in their business.
“We truly care about every client, and you can see this clearly in the love that goes into the design of all the ads and all the pages in every paper.”
There are more than 60 independent news media publishers registered with Queensland Country Press Association.
“In 2024 we were thrilled to bring home Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for our sister publication Mackay and Whitsunday Life,” shared Rachael Smith.
“This was a huge honour, and one we are looking forward to achieving again as we grow our other publications, especially here in Hinchinbrook.
“2026 represents a year where we have solidified our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.
“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”
Director of Infrastructure Planning & Environmental Services, James Stewart, provided an overview of the Burdekin Shire Council’s push for a slice of the $55 million Residential Activation Fund (RAF). Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Major infrastructure projects designed to unlock residential land and secure water access took centre stage at the Burdekin Industry Breakfast last Wednesday.
The event, held at the Burdekin Theatre on 20 May, brought together developers, landowners, and agricultural stakeholders to discuss investments shaping the region's economic future.
Topping the agenda was the Burdekin Shire Council’s push for a slice of the $55 million Residential Activation Fund (RAF). The council has officially applied for Round 2 funding to construct crucial trunk infrastructure, aiming to open up fresh housing developments across the Ayr township, specifically targeting the Beach Road, Chippendale, and Craig Street areas.
Council had already secured Round 1 funding to complete the detailed design work for the infrastructure, positioning the project for immediate progression if the secondary funding application is successful.
Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown also provided an update on the $700 million Bowen Pipeline Project, a privately funded 182-kilometre water pipeline running from the Burdekin River to Bowen along the Bruce Highway corridor.
Designed to deliver 100,000 megalitres of water to a region historically reliant on unpredictable summer rainfall, the project hit a major milestone just days before the breakfast, with water sales officially commencing on 18 May.
Local agricultural prospects are also set for a further boost via the North Queensland Food Futures Precinct Project in Ayr.
Spearheaded by the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) using Regional Economies Future Fund grants secured in 2024, BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery said the pilot food processing facility will focus on converting the 30 per cent of fruit and vegetables that fail tomeet market standards into shelf-stable products.
The breakfast also detailed how the new facility will serve as an innovation space, giving local growers access to specialised commercial processing equipment to value-add their produce.
It was a privilege to attend the Regional SES Awards Ceremony and 50th Anniversary Celebration over the weekend, recognising the dedication of our SES volunteers. It was great to see members of our Burdekin unit alongside crews from Townsville, Hinchinbrookand Magnetic Island, all coming together to support award recipients.
The SES plays a vital role in keeping our community safe, particularly during severe weather events, and they are always looking for new recruits. I encourage anyone interested to get involved, it’s a meaningful way to give back while learning valuable skills.
Another milestone event this weekend is the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club’s 100th anniversary. This club is defined by its people. While I was not a member, many of my family were, as have generations of Burdekin families. From Nippers and competitions to patrolling Alva Beach, the club has long upheld the values of surf lifesaving.
As Mayor, I see the impact this club has on our region. It builds responsibility, teamwork and courage, brings families together, and keeps our coastline safe. To everyone who has contributed over the past century, this milestone is yours. Here’s to 100 years of service, and to the next 100.
Council continues to deliver important infrastructure works. Upgrades have commenced at Wunjunga Road and Beachmount Road, along with a new cattle grid installation. Construction of a concrete floodway on Bahr Road is also underway to improve resilience during severe weather.
I encourage young people and their families to attend the Pathways and Possibilities event on Wednesday 3 June at the Burdekin Theatre Foyer from 5pm. This event will be a great opportunity to hear from local industry speakers, explore real career pathways, and connect directly with employers, training providers and support services.
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.
Community helping Community creates great outcomes.
I had the privilege of attending two events recently where it was an honour to see the spirit of giving to others. The first was when I was MC for ‘Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea 2026’, Burdekin style, organised by the ‘Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’ to support the work of the ‘Cancer Council’, Australia’s leading cancer charity. Around 150,000 Australian’s are diagnosed with cancer every year, if you or others need advice call 13 11 25. I counted thirty four local businesses as well as private citizens who donated prizes, thank you to them all. This is why it’s important to support our local businesses, who are often asked for donations, that support community events.
Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall was toe tapping and dancing to ‘Rock The Decades’ by Attori on Saturday night. Rick Romeo and friends donated their time and talent for Burdekin School, whose P&C were raising funds for the school community. Once again Burdekin community members building a better Burdekin.
This weekend sees Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club celebrating 100 years, a milestone of another tremendous voluntary organisation locally and throughout Australia. The weekend kicks off Friday with a Meet n Greet and book launch at the Kalamia Hotel, Gala Dinner Saturday at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, concluding with a Community Fun Day at the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club. The weekend will see past and present members, friends and community come together for celebration and sharing of stories.
The Cowboys had another fine win over the Bunnies without two of their best, Tom Dearden and Reuben Cotter. The game has rallied together after one of South’s best, Jai Arrow, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. The Community Raffle raised over fifty thousand dollars to help Jai and his family with his battle.
Wishing you all health & happiness
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that would expand repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.
Released last Thursday, the discussion paper proposes extending Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery, alongside improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.
The current scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice.
According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had contributed to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.
Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce delays during critical planting and harvest periods.
The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms would give farmers more choice and support regional repair businesses.
“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most,” Ms Collins said.
The consultation period is open until Friday, July 3, 2026.
New Burdekin apprentices, from left Jack Power (electrical), Nicholas Ellis (electrical), Connor Onaindia (electrical), Caileb Jerkic (diesel fitting), Riley Smith (fitting and turning), Benjamin Forman (electrical), Jayden Lehmann (boiler making), and Dylan Thorley (electrical). Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has welcomed 18 first-year apprentices across its operations this year, with the new recruits already settling into roles spanning electrical, fitting and turning, boilermaking and diesel fitting trades.
The apprentices officially commenced in February and are now working across the company’s Sugar and Renewables division as part of one of Queensland’s largest apprenticeship programs.
Group Manager Mechanical Engineering Tienie van Blerk said the new apprentices had adapted well to their roles and embraced the company’s workplace values.
“They've integrated really well into the business and are demonstrating the values of teamwork and passion in their day-to-day work,” Mr van Blerk said.
“I'm really impressed by how keen they are to learn from our experienced trades and become the best they can be.”
Group Manager Electrical Instrumentation and Control Chris Pickering said apprentices at Wilmar benefited from exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies and industrial systems.
“The sugar industry is known for turning out really well-rounded apprentices and our factories have some of the most advanced technological platforms available,” Mr Pickering said.
“Our electrical trades are working with advanced automation and control systems, modern power generation and distribution systems, and smart instrumentation. Most electrical apprentices only get exposure to a narrow range of equipment. Ours are trained across a large range of industrial plant.”
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said the apprenticeship program played an important role in the company’s long-term workforce development and retention strategy.
“We have one of the largest and most successful apprenticeship programs in Queensland,” Mr Torok said.
“Not only do we have a very high completion rate, but we have a high retention rate among our newly qualified tradespeople. These first-year apprentices will become the highly-skilled tradespeople we rely upon to keep our factories, locos and mobile fleet running efficiently. They'll also become mentors for future generations of apprentices at our sites.”
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables currently employs around 120 apprentices across the business.
Applications for the company’s 2027 apprenticeship intake will open on 9 June.
If you would like to be part of continuing this important support and helping chaplaincy remain strong in our schools, you are warmly invited to join a local Chaplaincy Support Team. Photo supplied
As Chaplaincy Week approaches from May 31 to June 7, the Burdekin community is being encouraged to celebrate and support the local school chaplains helping students, staff, and families across the region.
For almost two decades, the Burdekin community has benefited from the vital work of dedicated school chaplains.
The Burdekin currently has seven school chaplains supporting the holistic wellbeing of 10 of our school communities. Through one-on-one support, running small groups, and connecting with staff, students, and families, our Chappies make a much-needed impact.
School chaplains provide social, emotional, and pastoral support to school communities. They are in the prevention and support business, helping students find better ways to deal with issues such as peer relationships, mental health challenges including anxiety and depression, bullying, educational support needs, and family breakdown.
They provide a listening ear and a caring presence for children and young people in crisis, as well as those who simply need a friend. They also provide support for staff and parents within school communities. Chaplains also run evidence-based programs including social and emotional support, mentoring, educational support, and community development.
Our Chappies are funded in part by the government and their schools, but the shortfall is required to be made up through the fundraising efforts of local Chaplaincy Support Teams.
We would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank the Burdekin community for the ongoing support shown towards school chaplaincy over many years. Through donations, fundraising efforts, volunteering, sponsorship, and attendance at community events, local individuals, businesses, churches, and organisations continue to play a vital role in ensuring chaplains can remain present in our schools.
If you would like to be part of continuing this important support and helping chaplaincy remain strong in our schools, you are warmly invited to join a local Chaplaincy Support Team. Throughout the year, there will also be several opportunities for our community to support chaplaincy, beginning with the Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast during Chaplaincy Week, followed by the Water Festival and Harvest Festival.
Your support is greatly appreciated in helping maintain the wide reach of chaplaincy in Burdekin schools.
Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team
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