It’s often the unsung heroes – the State Emergency Service (SES) – who are first to respond. First to rescue. First to clean up. First to help. First to support the community any way they can.
During the Burdekin’s recent floods, they com-
pleted 140 jobs, a similar number to Cyclone Kirrily last year. While they receive plenty of praise, pats on the back, or free food and accommodation, what they need most is more volunteers. In a sign of the times, volunteering nationally is down 10% everywhere!
As the SES’s volunteer base has shrunk and current members are ageing (some are in their 80s), areas such as the Burdekin have some of the lowest turnout numbers in Far North Queensland.
(L-R) Paul Haller, Trevor Tune, Warren Francis, Rosemarie & John Winn, John George (back), Ian Schwerin, the tireless volunteers and heroes of the Burdekin SES.
Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
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Something BIG This Way Comes
Another week, another organisation interviewed who like everyone else – desperately need volunteers. It’s been a common theme since I took up this role. Whether it’s the SES, The Men’s Shed, VMR, or Sweet FM, volunteers are in short supply.
We do our best within these pages to support these organisations, whether it’s the above or Lions, Rotary, BNC, BCA, Scouts, etc by giving them exposure, highlighting the great things they do, hoping someone, anyone, walks through their doors to join. Sometimes it works.
I may not be able to give up much of my time (something Warren at the SES says is the greatest thing anyone can give you), to volunteer everywhere, but I can make a difference in other ways. Stay tuned for more on this down the track.
I have picked up the baton
for one non-profit, though. The Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival was struggling for volunteers when I wandered on up there, but I’m pleased to say it’s been reignited by an enthusiastic new bunch (myself included).
If you caught the story a couple of issues ago, I wrote my heart & soul into that piece. Being an author (outside these pages), it spoke to me on many levels. I’m excited for what’s to come.
I also spoke at the recent Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting, where I discussed my award-winning novel, and my own journey. For a relative newcomer, the turnout and support blew me away. For those who then bought my book on the night, humbled beyond words. Thank You.
MarkFloods Force Creativity
During a week when Bruce Highway was shut at Plantation Creek, and it didn’t look like the papers would get through, Shae Linton from Home Hill News & Coffee stepped up, got creative, and ensured the local newspaper was delivered.
She devised a plan to get the papers by 6am, which was appreciated by the community, especially the elderly who rely on print media.
“We’d arranged for the papers to come across Plantation on a semi, but he got held up, and they didn’t make it here till lunch time. We had everyone wondering where the papers were. So then we devised another plan, and we worked in with somebody doing the bread and we got the papers here by six o’clock each morning, through the flood waters.”
“It made our customers very happy to have them here each morning by the six o’clock in the morning rather than five o’clock in the afternoon,” Shae says.
The store also faced a milk shortage, prompting a trip to Bowen where Woolies donated milk, leading to a free coffee day.
“Because of supply issues, we were having to go to Bowen for milk. One day we went down and the Bowen manager of the Woolworths donated milk to us and John from Home Hill bakery. He gave his away for free, and so we decided to have a free coffee day with our supply of milk. That Tuesday it was pretty crazy in here.”
Shae also arranged for Valentine’s flowers, with truckies more than willing to help amidst supply chain disruptions.
“When we realised that it was also Valentine’s Day, we caught two semis over to get Valentine’s flowers for the Romantics of Home Hill,” she laughs.
“In times like this, you realise how important the local papers still are. I know everyone says you can see everything on Facebook, but not everyone’s got Facebook. And the elderly community were still looking for the papers each day to find out what’s happening.”
Shae Linton, ensuring no one went without local paper. Photo credit: Mark T Rasmussen
Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival Launch Night
The Burdekin Shire Council officially launched the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival on Tuesday, with guests and sponsors treated to a wonderful evening.
Planning for the 2025 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival is well underway, with several local suppliers and stakeholders keen to take part in one the Burdekin’s premier destination events.
Major Sponsor Lachlan Sturt from Pacific Blue spoke to the audience on the night, sharing his appreciation for local cultural events and gratitude to the community for asking Pacific Blue to sponsor such a much-loved local event.
Canegrowers are also a major sponsor and announced on the evening that they will be launching the inaugural Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition, with 14 local schools competing.
Additionally, Parkside Group are major sponsors along with many other local businesses and Burdekin Life Newspaper as the Media Partner.
After the incredible success of the 2023 festival, which attracted over 4,000 attendees over the weekend, it is anticipated to be an even larger turnout for the 2025 event. It kickstarts at 6pm (gates open at 5pm) on
Friday 30 May, with the Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring the ‘first fire’ and marking the beginning of the Sweet Days Hot Nights festival.
The night will celebrate the diversity of the region with an amazing line-up of cultural performances, free activities for the kids, and authentic street food from around the world.
While the highlight of the night will be the lighting of the first fire of the 2025 sugarcane crushing season.
For Saturday 31 May, which starts at 11am, with gates opening at 10:30am, visitors will be treated to the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in an experience of skill and endurance from a bygone era, as hand cane cutters compete for the winning title.
ing free rides and activities for children, and a wide variety of food trucks, the festival shapes as a must attend event for all Burdekinites.
With live music, a range of events, includ-
Adult tickets are just $10, while kids get in free all weekend! Purchase your tickets
Mayor, Councillors and Major Sponsors attend Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival Launch Night. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Tax Axe Win For First Home Buyers
Member for Burdekin
Dale Last has hailed a boost in planning scheme funding coupled with the axing of stamp duty for first home buyers as a win in the region’s battle to address the housing supply.
As of May 1, eligible first home buyers looking to build a new home as well as those looking to purchase an existing home will save thousands of dollars with the abolishment of stamp duty after the bill was passed during the first sitting of parliament for this year.
Mr Last said the move to keep money in the pockets of first home buyers went hand in glove for the Burdekin with the Crisafulli Government’s recent announcement of additional funding to ensure the Burdekin’s local planning scheme is responsive to housing needs.
“At a time when the demand for housing is at a crucial stage, the Crisafulli Government has removed barriers for those looking to build a new home or purchase an existing home,” Mr Last said.
“The $100,000 in funding for Burdekin Shire Council will mean it is well positioned to deliver real solutions for this community’s housing needs.”
“Eligible first home buyers looking to purchase an existing home valued at up to $700,000 and those looking to build a new home won’t pay a cent in stamp duty providing a real leg-up for those looking to purchase their first home.”
Mr Last said the collaborative approach by the Crisafulli Government ensured Queensland was steadfast in reaching a target of building one million homes in the next 20 years.
“For years Queensland’s housing approvals were left in freefall which is why the LNP went to the October election with a 20-year housing plan to build homes for Queensland’s future.”
“This is part of our commitment to work closely with local councils including Burdekin Shire, to ensure local planning schemes are responsive to their local housing needs.”
Meet Young Person Of The Year
At just 17, Nicole Cervoni is making a remarkable impact on her community. Growing up in the small rural town of Millaroo, she has been actively involved from a young age, organising raffles and cent sales before joining the Youth Council, where she has served for the past year.
“I’ve only been at the Council for a year, but every time Tammy asked for volunteers, I said, ‘Yep, I’ll do it,’ and I really enjoyed it,” Nicole shared.
“It’s an incredible experience for any young person.”
Her dedication was recognised when she was named Young Person of the Year at the 2025 Australia Day Awards, a moment that left her and her family in shock.
“I jumped up and down, I got a letter in the mail, and I was crying. I rang my grandma, and she was at a bus stop in Brisbane with my cousin, and she started screaming in the middle of Brisbane,” Nicole recalled. “This award is, I think, a reflection of all the people who helped me get to this point, more than it is of me, because I couldn’t have done anything I did
without my family’s support.”
Nicole credits her parents and the hardworking Millaroo community for inspiring her.
“I would not have done half the things I did without seeing my parents leading by example and without them allowing me to,” she said. “Half the volunteering I do is here in Ayr, which meant that my mum would have to drive me in and out of town about three times a week, which was very difficult on her.”
Despite the effort, Nicole finds joy in giving back.
“When I work at the library and I’m just talking with other people and we’re having a conversation, it makes me happy to know that I’ve made a difference in someone else’s day, that I’ve made something easier for them,” she said.
“I guess just knowing that I’m following in the footsteps of so many great people, like the people at Millaroo and a lot of my teachers at Burdekin Catholic High School (BCH).”
Nicole also expressed gratitude to Antonetta Dalle Cort, a careers teacher
at BCH who helped her land her library job, and Elisa Regano, a drama teacher who dedicated her own time and money to putting on musicals for children.
Looking to the future, Nicole has been accepted to JCU to study Education, where she hopes to continue to make a difference to people’s lives.
“I want to be a primary school teacher, and then a principal and hopefully get higher up into the Department of Education.
Nicole encourages all young people to get more involved in the community.
“What’s the harm in giving something a go, giving back to the community, you never know what will happen, I didn’t expect this award from what I did,” she shared.
“I think just seeing inspirational people from such a young age made me want to help and follow in their footsteps.
“All these people giving back to the community and doing so much, but who was doing stuff for them? and I wanted to be that person.”
Young Person of the Year Nicole Cervoni. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival Reignited!
The Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival (BRWF) has been reignited after a big turnout for their do-ordie meeting last Wednesday morning at the Burdekin Theatre. In what shaped as an historic, potentially festival ending assembly, 18 people showed up and threw their support behind keeping the once popular festival alive.
After the festival was cancelled in 2020 because of covid, the BRWF never quite got back the momentum they had carried from the previous three well-run and attended festivals. However, after Wednesdays significant meeting, the Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival is alive once more!
In an impassioned opening address, BRWF co-founder, Mickey McKellar was adamant that the meeting would be the last for the organisation that had risen back in 2015 with nothing more than $320 to their name. But like a great novel, in a surprise twist, new members stood up to resurrect BRWF.
“It is most gratifying to have that sort of support. The meeting was not negative; in fact, the positivity was overwhelming,” BRWF founding member, Mickey McKellar said.
“For myself, I was walking on air after the meeting. I am so grateful to think that not only will the Literary Festivals and Events continue, but the prospect of a very energetic and enthusiastic committee appearing on the horizon is nothing short of amazing,” she said.
Several attendees raised their hands to step up when it was proposed a new committee be formed to allow the current board to step back and take a more hands-off role so they can enjoy retirement and grandchildren.
It shapes as an exciting transition, with younger, and enthusiastic new blood eager to pick up the baton and the incredible legacy left by BRWF, while bringing some fresh ideas.
“This will guarantee that BRWF will
Floods May Take 3-4 Years To Recover From
The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) has been active since the onset of the recent floods, providing support for community recovery, including funding for disaster operations and public asset repairs. Recovery is a complex process affecting not just infrastructure but also people’s mental health. Jake Ellwood, CEO of the QRA, was in the Burdekin recently. He discussed the organisation’s role in disaster recovery, while giving a recovery timeline as he explains.
“I’ve seen the impacts from north to south, and people should understand it will be a big job. We think it’s really important to make sure that there is a seamless transition from response into recovery. We’re already looking at what recovery might look like during the event,” Jake says.
“For some it could be days if the impact is minor, for some weeks, for some others it could be months, while there will be others out there who have been impacted, whether economically or mentally, where it can take some people years to recover from. Additionally, some of those bigger pieces of infrastructure have to be replanned and then executed to roll out. Invariably, there
will be some who will bounce back quickly, and some who recover slowly,” Jake emphasises.
Ellwood stresses the need for community support and a collaborative effort involving local councils, state, and federal governments, during this recovery timeline.
“This has been a very significant event. The QRA has been on the ground since the rain began. We make sure that we get appropriate support to communities. We make sure there are activations to provide counter disaster operations funding in a timely fashion, repair of essential public assets, and then we look at a range of measures that may help communities recover. And recovering is hard.”
“Often those who are surrounded by family and friends and community, they’re the ones who invariably bounce back better. But if you’re struggling, reach out to a friend, family member, council, a community recovery hotline where people are waiting to assist you. Don’t suffer in silence,” Jake stresses.
“From community to council to state and federal government. We only get through these events via a full team effort. Queenslanders are tough, and we will bounce back stronger.”
emerge once again as an essential item on the Burdekin Arts & Cultural Community Associations,” Mickey beamed with delight.
BRWF board and committee members, and its newcomers, are all smiles after a monumental decision was reached to save the Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
CEO of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, Jake Ellwood, stresses not to suffer in silence, support is there for those affected.
Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
SES Call For Volunteers Recent Flooding
“At Clare, we’ve only got three volunteers, but one’s since left so that’s back to two. Giru has two. Home Hill has six, however, we’ve just had the deputy local controller resign because of his age. He’s 85,” states Warren Francis, local controller of the (SES) in Burdekin.
“It’s a phenomena. It’s something that’s happening that we can’t control. There are two separate enquiries going at the moment. One is a state level enquiry, and one is a national enquiry about volunteerism. Why can’t we get volunteers? Why is it dropping? Why have we had a 10% decrease in volunteers in the last two years?” Warren says.
While it’s something that’s being looked into by both State and Federal governments, where it’s simply a case of ‘let’s see what they come up with’ that doesn’t help the men and women of the local SES units. Whether it’s Ayr, Home Hill, Clare, Giru, or Rita Island, all could use a boost in numbers.
So what’s the answer? What can the community do to rally behind the volunteers in bright orange who do so much for the local communities of the Burdekin?
They’ve got all the latest equipment, from rescue boats, heavy rigid trucks, 4 wheel drives. They offer free training in over 20 courses. They’re backed by the council and government. And above all, they have camaraderie second to none.
“All the training is free. If you stick around you can get a forklift license, a working at heights elevated platform ticket, Bobcat certification, etc. They’re skills you can take anywhere. We try to emphasise that to younger people, that there’s rewards and it’s all free! They’ll feed you, they look after you. If you need accommodation, they’ll look after that too,” Warren expresses.
“Look, we really need some extra people. I get it, it’s volunteering. It’s not for everyone and I won’t tell fibs to people. I’ll tell you honestly, when you get a job it’s going to be at the worst, most inconvenient time. When you go and do the job, it’s going to probably be wet and very uncomfortable. It’s going to be miserable,” Warren asserts.
“But it’s a great feeling, and it says something of a person that can volunteer their time, because there’s nothing more precious than someone’s time. If people are prepared to give you their time, that is the biggest thing that they can give you. That speaks volumes to me about the character of people who are prepared to come and do it for free, and do it so they can help their community.”
“We’re just grateful for any time that people can give us, whether it’s a little bit of time or a lot of time. We’re grateful for anyone that can give us their time,” Warren declares.
Newest recruit, Ian Schwerin, didn’t need any convincing. When his boat was hit by a rogue
wave and flipped over last year where he and his mate spent 23 long hours in shark infested waters, the first thing he did when he was rescued was walk straight into the nearest SES.
“I went for a weekend fishing trip over at the Cape, and I got hit by a rogue wave, which swamped my boat. My mate and I were stuck in the water for 23 hours and once we got found, I joined the SES to give back to the community for everyone that came looking for me,” Ian says.
While it shouldn’t take a rescue to convince you to join, perhaps a more sobering thought is what happens when the current members reach an age that they can no longer volunteer? Attend a flood or cyclone to lend a hand and clean up? What happens then? Who steps up to help when the helpers can no longer help?
“Burdekin has tremendous units, probably because we get so much work which is done by so few people that, you know, it creates a camaraderie. The satisfaction of helping the community is probably the biggest satisfaction anyone can do,” Warren concludes.
Be part of an organisation that makes all the difference. To join your local SES, simply drop in to your nearest SES branch, sign up, or visit: https://www.ses.qld.gov.au/form/become-anses-member and discover why there is no greater reward than helping and saving others.
September 28th 2023
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr, on Sunday
Minute With The Mayor
Pierina Dalle Cort
Lmeetings were an important step in ensuring our region’s needs are heard and addressed at the state level.
Over two days, we met with Ministers covering portfolios such as Infrastructure, Transport, Local Government, Housing, Health, Police, Finance, Education, and the Environment. Our discussions focused on the Burdekin’s priority projects, including road infrastructure, housing, and di-
saster recovery funding.
It was a valuable opportunity to highlight the challenges our community faces and push for the support needed to help the Burdekin grow and thrive. I’m optimistic about the future and will continue working to ensure our region gets the attention and investment it deserves.
Let’s keep doing something about it!
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
If you have a pool or a spa on your property, it must be registered with the QBCC. As well as having a compliant fence, pools must also have visible and weatherproof CPR signage.
To ensure the safety of yourself and others using your pool or spa, regularly inspect its fence or barrier for rust, loose hinges, or broken panels, and arrange repairs as needed. Make sure no climbable objects like furniture or toys are near the fence.
Taking these few small steps can make a big difference in preventing accidents and can ensure a safe summer swimming season for all.
Councillor Column
With Councillor Callan Oar
Well, the rain has given us an overdue break and things are slowly drying out.
I hope everyone impacted by the weather event have not suffered too much.
While clean-up efforts are still in full swing, I would like to remind people of one of the risks associated with these wet muddy conditions.
Melioidosis cases have been on the rise and have very sadly taken the lives of 3 elderly people in the Townsville area. Melioidosis is caused by bacteria in soil that tends to emerge more after heavy rain or flooding. When in or around soil or mud please wear boots, gloves and most importantly do not let any open wounds come into contact with the elements.
One of my councillor duties is acting as the Council representative on the Burdekin Shire Rivers Improvement Trust. We had our first meeting since the flood on Monday and boy do we have our work cut out. Any work we do will fully depend on external funding.
I hope the Federal and State governments give us our fair share. We all know how eager they would be to put their hands in their pockets if this event happened in the Brisbane River.
Did anyone notice the Cowboys trial on the weekend? I usually don’t take much notice of trial games, but any time we beat Melbourne is worth noting. Cowboys 2025 NRL Premiers!
ast week, I had the opportunity to travel to Brisbane with Burdekin Shire Council CEO Matthew Magin to meet with key Queensland Government Ministers during Parliament sittings. These
Bendigo Bank Supporting Zonta To Supply Birthing Kits
The Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr is very excited about celebrating International Women’s Day, by supporting Zonta Club Burdekin Inc IWD Brunch.
Zonta’s International Women’s Day Brunch, to be held at the Masonic Heritage Centre, MacMillan Street, Ayr on Sunday the 9th of March, is a day celebrated globally that recognises women’s achievements and raises awareness about gender equality.
Some more exciting news is that the event has sold out in one day of tickets being released. This brunch will bring together 150 people, including students from the four Burdekin High Schools and visitors to the region.
International Women’s Day (IWD) is the local Zonta club’s major fundraiser for the year, with the funds raised going towards the purchase of 1,000 birthing kits to send to developing countries as their international project.
This year Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr are gold sponsors for the event and will be presented on the day with certificates of appreciation from Birthing Kits Foundation Australia, in recognition for their support of the project and their staff’s assistance assembling the birthing kits. One birthing kit, valued at $5, has the potential to save two lives – both mother and baby.
ence Teacher, and recipient of the 2013 Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Science Teaching. She is the founder of STEM Changemakers, and has also helped build a team at Townsville State High School, which has become a magnet for parents and students who want to be prepared for jobs of the future.
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrated their 30th birthday last year. On this IWD, Zonta International celebrates the power of women in STEM and their vital contributions to innovation and progress.
President for the Zonta Club Burdekin, Isabel Stubbs, says the region has great opportunities for women in the future.
“We are proud to support the next generation of female leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through the Zonta Women in STEM Award—empowering women to achieve full and equal participation in STEM fields.” Says Isabel.
The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc gives a STEM award annual to Year 10 female students at each of the High Schools to assist with their education.
Community Grant Program
When you partner with us, good things happen.
The inspirational guest speakers include Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator of James Cook University’s Master of Nursing (Online), and Sarah Chapman, a former Ayr State High School student, Townsville Sci-
A Musical Brit-Pop Feast Not To Be Missed!
Craig Martin, a musician from Liverpool, England, is performing his ‘Morning Melodies’ show at the Burdekin Theatre on March 5. The show features classic British pop and rock songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, including hits from The Beatles, The Kinks, and Tom Jones, and features over 20 hit songs.
“I always loved music, and I had an older brother who was five years older than me. He had a huge influence on me and when you’re a teenage, you always look up to them and take notes of what your older sibling is playing, don’t you? I used to buy records, but really I was buying them for him,” Craig laughs.
“We used to sing to records and play guitars and harmonise along to Beatles and other stuff as well. But Beatles records, early Beatles stuff, we used to do that, and I always wanted to be in a band. Then we formed a band in school and started playing clubs in Liverpool – where the Beatles had played as well! That was always wonderful,” Craig reminisces.
While it’s a far cry from Liverpool and the
hip clubs and bars of the swinging sixties, The Burdekin Theatre hosts Craig in the first of the Morning Melodies series for 2025. For those fortunate to attend, it shapes as a fun, lively, nostalgic musical trip down memory lane.
“This will be the first time I’ve been there in the Burdekin. It’s part of the North Queensland tour that we’re doing. I perform songs that I love – great British pop and rock songs by great bands and singers. I’m including my favourite songs in this show. They’re big, big hits.” he says. As for his favourite all time artist, it’s not even a contest.
“The Beatles. I’m biased being from Liverpool, but they were so good, so imaginative. They were brilliant. They were, a great live band. I love bands like that,” he smiles.
To catch Craig perform The Beatles and other memorable hits, book tickets before his popular show sells out. Tickets are $15. Call the theatre on: (07) 4783 9880, or visit the website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com
The Burdekin community spirit shines at events such as these that unite a com munity for a common goal, while the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr can proudly participate, including staff and their children.
Applications close 12th April 2024.
WHAT: Zonta Club of the Burdekin’s International Women’s Day Brunch WHERE: Masonic Heritage Centre, MacMillan Street WHEN: Sunday 9th March
For the 2025/2026 financial year the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club would like any local club, sporting body, charitable organisation or individuals who may require money in any way, shape or form for sponsorship to make submissions to the club outlining their requirements. Their requests need to be in letter form and received at the club no later than close of business . All requests will then be considered at the Quarterly Committee meeting in April 2025 at which time they will be notified of the
Your organisation gets sponsorship, and your banking helps support the community.
This is a once and only opportunity to obtain sponsorship for the coming year.
L-R: Judy Mitchell Chair Zonta Club Burdekin Advocacy Committee, Helen Andrews Woman of Achievement Awardee, Therese Smith Zonta, Area 5 Directo. Photo: Supplied
Craig Martin and his band will take everyone for a blast down memory lane with his popular Great British Songbook at The Burdekin Theatre. Photo: Supplied.
Change starts with Q for QCAR
SUPPORTING AUSTRALIAN SUGARCANE FARMERS
Your local QCAR Teams:
Central District - Sonia Ball 0467 573 321 Burdekin - Angelo Licciardello 0437 401 837 Herbert River - Lawrence Di Bella 0448 084 252
Sugarcane Farmers To Be Denied Help To Replant Flood-Ruined Cane Under Crop Loophole
QCAR is urging cane farming organisations to back its call to also cover first and second ratoon crops in the proposal for financial support towards replanting of destroyed cane.
Ingham region sugarcane farmer of 25 years, Michael Waring, said it was “disheartening” and “depressing” to watch from his home as floodwater swamped his 70-acre ratoon crop downhill.
“Some of that cane was under 7m of water for five days,” the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) Herbert District member said.
“About 45 acres died and so will require replanting.”
But like many growers across the Burdekin and Herbert regions, Mr Waring will be exempt from any financial support for replanting despite facing about $30,000 in replanting costs.
That is because the proposal currently being put forward covers only plant cane, which makes up about 16 per cent of the Herbert region’s sugarcane crops, meaning farmers with flood-ruined ratoon crops are ineligible for replanting financial support.
“We’ve put a large amount of money into planting a crop that should last us five, six years and we’ve lost that,” Mr Waring said,
adding that like recently planted cane, ratoon cane or stools were flooddamaged infrastructure or assets.
Mr Waring said Herbert region farmers were still recovering from the 2019 floods with the February floods another setback to overcome, including the battle ahead to source seeds and labour to do repair works and replant.
“We’ve got to wait until it dries up or stops raining to replant. Hopefully by May, it will dry up,” he said.
QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella, said financial support for replanting cane must also consider flood-damage to first and second ratoon crops.
“The proposal currently on the table will not cut the mustard,” Mr Di Bella said. “QCAR will provide an alternative which is more palatable for farmers and will allow more growers to access critical funds for recovery efforts.
nearing their final years of production and were due to be ploughed out.”
“We are proposing a stringent process whereby it will be necessary to inspect crops for flood-damage, with replanting financial support limited to those farmers with catastrophic crop death and loss of crop.
“The proposal will not cover crops older than third ratoon because those crops are
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago said he implored all sugarcane groups and rural organisations to back QCAR’s pursuit to achieve a better outcome for all farmers.
“If we are to make any traction on this issue and ensure farmers can get back on their feet, we need to present a united voice,” Mr Lago said.
Along with replanting subsidies, QCAR is pushing for the state and federal government to approve Category D Disaster Assistance (on top of the Category C Disaster Assistance grants of $25,000 that were recently announced), funds to repair creek banks and clean drainage systems, support for the harvesting and local business sectors, help to repair the rail network and thereby allow the industry to begin crushing this season, and more mental health support and services.
Mixed ratoon sugarcane crops will need to be replaced after sitting in metres of water for days.
Photo credit: Heidi Petith
FROM STRATEGY TO PROFIT ESSENTIAL BUSINESS SKILLS FOR GROWERS
In today’s fast-evolving agricultural landscape, sugarcane growers must go beyond traditional farming practices to build resilient and profitable businesses. Recognising this need, CANEGROWERS introduced the Business Essentials workshop series, a comprehensive program tailored to empower sugarcane growers with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of modern agriculture.
Now in its fourth year, the program is more flexible than ever, offering a mix of in-person workshops and online webinars, so growers can tailor their participation to their specific needs.
The series provides practical knowledge, expert insights, and financial support opportunities to help build a profitable, resilient, and future-ready farm business.
With experienced trainers—including specialists from other agricultural sectors like cotton and grains—growers gain fresh perspectives across a wide range of topics, including:
• Building a professional business: Learn to set achievable goals, develop robust strategies, and manage unforeseen risks effectively.
• People management: Gain insights into attracting and retaining the right talent, navigating legal requirements, and fostering harmonious family working relationships.
• Workplace health & safety (WHS): Understand your obligations, establish practical safety protocols, and create a culture of safety on the farm.
• Sugar pricing strategy and industry knowledge: Demystify the complexities of sugar pricing, enabling informed and profitable decision-making. Enhance your understanding of industry-specific terms and practices, such as relative payment systems and Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS) metrics.
• Advanced Bookkeeping: Elevate your financial management skills, including considerations around managing your own Business Activity Statements (BAS).
Growers can choose sessions that align with their specific interests and needs, mixing and matching between in-person workshops and online webinars. This approach ensures that participants can maximise the benefits of the program without compromising their operational responsibilities.
By equipping growers with a comprehensive farm business resilience plan, the program not only enhances operational effectiveness but also positions businesses to secure essential funding and support for future challenges.
The program also offers personalised oneon-one support, helping you develop a comprehensive business plan and implement strategic solutions that drive real, measurable success for your farm.
“There comes a time when you do need to step back and say, right what are our biggest issues, how are we going to get around them, are we going to do something about them or are we just going to ignore them. And look at where you want to be in that five-year or 10-year mark” -Jill Fox (Mackay)
Embrace this opportunity to transform your sugarcane farming business and register your interest today! The Business Essentials workshop & webinar series is more than just a learning experience; it’s an investment in the future resilience and profitability of your enterprise.
“You are with your fellow growers. It’s an outlet to provide support” -Paul Schembri
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, network, and grow! For more details, workshop dates, and registration, visit canegrowers.com.au.
Burdekin Bridge Is Not Just A Landmark
Anymore!
Burdekin Community Recovery
WThat began as a simple question at the Neighbourhood Centre about a month ago, has blossomed into a wonderful opportunity for community members to socialise and keep their minds active.
Sylvia Van Rossum, who is new to the Burdekin area, reached out to the Neighbourhood Centre looking for a local Bridge group to join. As an enthusiastic Bridge player, Sylvia likens Bridge players to golfers, saying, “When you move to a new place, you call around to see if there’s a game you can join.”
Although we didn’t find an existing group right away, the Centre is dedicated to helping community members start new activities. So, alongside Sylvia, we organised a “Come and Try Day” last month. To our surprise, the event attracted a lot of interest, making it very exciting for everyone.
Burdekin Bridge (pun intended) is in its fifth week and continues to welcome new members
each week. They meet every Tuesday morning from 9:30am to 1:00 pm at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.
During their meetings, the group takes a break for tea and snacks, and the staff checks in to see how everyone is doing. Participants have joked about experiencing “brain strain,” but they always have smiles on their faces!
When we asked what people love about playing, they shared comments such as, “I’ve wanted to learn to play Bridge for 19 years; I’m so excited a group has started here,” “My brain hurts, but in a good way!” “It’s wonderful to be social and keep my mind active,” and “Sylvia is such a patient teacher!”
If you’re interested in joining this friendly group, feel free to drop by on Tuesday mornings or give the Centre a call to learn more!
Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
he team and I at BCA have been busy helping the community and council with the initial disaster management response and community recovery, due to the recent Monsoonal Trough. Please see information below regarding the Community Recovery Hubs currently open.
Community Support Services
The Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) is here to serve and providing community support services as always.
For Community, Health and Wellbeing Services, information or support please contact our Team:
Community Recovery Hub Burdekin
Activated locations: entire LGA
If you are suffering hardship or require emotional support as a result of the North and Far North Tropical Low event, help is available. You may be eligible for financial or other assistance to help you get back on your feet.
People are encouraged to apply for financial assistance grants online at www.qld.gov.au/DisasterHelp or by calling the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
Community Recovery hubs are a place where residents who are experiencing hardship, unable to apply online or over the phone, or needing emotional or wellbeing support can visit for assistance.
Emotional support
If you’re impacted by the severe weather and are experiencing emotional stress, the dedicated Community Recovery Lifeline Hotline is available.
Confidentially speak to a qualified disaster counsellor on 1800 116 671 for help. Available 24 hours.
Stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support during this challenging time.
The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711
Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Website: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ bca1975
Visit a Community Recovery Popup Hub
Community Recovery Pop-up Hubs are available to provide support, including assistance with grant applications and emotional well-being services.
For more information on available assistance and eligibility, please visit the Queensland Government’s disaster recovery page: https://www.qld. gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/money-finance/eligibility-apply/nq-monsoon-troughjanuary-2025#hub
Sylvia Van Rossum (standing) with some of the enthusiastic new community Bridge players.
Kiera
“I can now get to work – by car! I don’t have to get a helicopter or catch the train-bus to work, which is what I was doing for a little while. We were stuck for like a week. And then, well, I was there from Tuesday and we got stuck on Friday, so however long that is. But yeah, I caught a helicopter to Ayr one day, and then on Wednesday and Thursday I caught the Q-Railbus from Ayr across Plantation, to then catch the courtesy bus. Because the bus stops across the road at the Comfort Stop, I could then just walk to work. I did that for a few days.”
Adam & Debbie
“We’ve got our own pest control business, and the rain basically… well, it didn’t shut us down but I’ve been parked up for three weeks because nothing works in the wet. And we couldn’t get across the bridge to come to Home Hill, so at the moment we’re just waiting for everything to dry out and then we’re back in the business full time. We also had up to go to Townsville after one of my dogs bit my finger. The dogs were fighting over a chicken and silly me put my hand there. He bit through to the bone. But other than that, we’re all right.”
Jane
“Yeah, we’re cleaning mould off walls. We’re out near Osborne. We had leaks in the roof. While it’s not that bad compared to some places you see, that’s what we’re doing right now. Other than that, we’re also out in the garden where I’m helping out mum. I’m unemployed right now because of epilepsy, so I can’t work. So yeah, we’re just cleaning up the yard, cleaning up the house. It’s a pretty boring life right now.”
Spiros
“I’m just travelling home from a week’s worth of work down in the Bowen basin. When the roads got cut off, lucky for me I had the vehicle at work on site. So I drove that to Mackay and booked flights from Mackay to Cairns, which were a bit of a mess. With the roads cut off, when it came to flights, the airlines price gouged on the tickets and the prices went up by twice to even three times as much. Usually they’re pretty cheap. That was frustrating and annoying when a lot of the flights automatically went higher but because there was no other way to get around the only way was to fly.”
Lorelle
“I just finished work and now I’m going for lunch, but honestly, not a lot. I’m just waiting for the grass to dry so I can possibly mow it. But mostly I’m just working again after being stuck in Ayr from Saturday to Tuesday. Once the rail-cart bus was up and running, I started taking that to get to work again but that’s about it.”
Meet Usher
This week, Angel-Paws Dog and Cat Rescue is delighted to introduce you to Usher, an incredibly sweet and snuggly tabby boy who’s just waiting to bring joy into a new home. Usher was brought into the care of Angel-Paws when he was just 2 weeks old, along with his siblings.
He was tiny and malnourished at the time, but with plenty of love and care, he’s since blossomed into a healthy, playful, and affectionate little fellow.
While all of Usher’s siblings have already found their forever homes, this charming boy is still waiting for his chance.
Usher is a true purr machine and loves nothing more than curling up right by your pillow when it’s time to sleep. When he’s not snuggling, he’s zooming around with his big foster siblings, showing off his energetic side!
Usher is a sweet and playful little man, and Angel-Paws believes he truly deserves a loving family of his own.
If you think you could be the one to offer him that, please fill out an inquiry form to meet him. He’s just waiting to bring endless love and laughter into your home! https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms. html
Don’t let this sweet boy wait any longer – Usher is ready to find his forever home and become part of your family!
Age: 2 weeks old
Sex: Male
Breed: Tabby
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Slow Introduction
Kiera Wiseman is just happy to be able to drive to work again.
Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Lorelle Scott’s out and about having lunch and working.
Spiros Christou is driving home to see his family after having to pay for expensive flights.
Jane Cannavan is cleaning mould from the walls, while helping in the garden.
Adam & Debbie Leigh are waiting for it to dry out to get back to business.
Burdekin Brass Band
Congratulates Young Musicians
The Burdekin Brass Band extends its congratulations to Cecilia Cason and Joe Mau, who have recently returned from the 2025 Queensland Band Association Youth Music Camp in Brisbane. At the camp, Cecilia was selected to perform as Solo Horn, while Joe played E Flat Bass. The event provided both musicians with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of musical styles under the guidance of some of the country’s finest conductors. Additionally, they participated in specialised workshops led by expert tutors, enhancing their individual playing skills. The experience proved invaluable for both players, and the band eagerly anticipates them sharing their newfound knowledge in the coming weeks.
Burdekin Brass expresses its gratitude to the Regional Arts Development Fund for its financial contribution, which helped offset the costs of attendance for the young musicians.
Following recent floods, Burdekin Brass Band rehearsals will resume on Tuesday
Band Hall, located in the park on 10th Avenue, Home Hill. With a busy schedule ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the band.
“Staying Dry During Big Wet” With
The Lower Burdekin Scouts
The Lower Burdekin Scouts, like most clubs and organisations these last two weeks, has been affected by all the recent heavy rains and flooding in the region. While it forced a few last minute cancellations, our spirit, like the Burdekin community, remains strong.
We started the year just before Australia Day with a walk around Plantation Park and some of the heritage sites in Ayr. This term we have a very full program planned.
On Australia Day the Scouts joined the community in celebrating the achievements of our local heroes.
Our planned BBQ at Harvey Norman on the 1st of February was interrupted by rain and water over some of the roads.
Scouts have a month of planned swimming events, which concludes with a Region swimming carnival on 22nd of February. Unfortunately, our first swimming night on Thursday the 6th was cancelled due to yet more heavy rain and road closures with water over some of the roads which prevented many of our Scouts attending.
We still have two more swimming nights planned before the swimming carnival. These swimming events are not a competition but a chance to demonstrate our water activity skills towards achieving
badgework.
In March and April our planned activities involve getting ready for camping with sleepovers, getting out in the community for Clean Up Australia Day, Anzac Day, and participating in Scout Leadership training weekends.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night at 57-59 Twelfth Ave Home Hill (behind the swimming pool). Come join in the fun and be part of something special.
Ages 5-8 years 4-5pm
Ages 8+ Years 5:30-7:30pm
Contributed with thanks to the Lower Burdekin Scouts.
QBA 2025 music camp
Leadership Traditions at Ayr State High School
On Wednesday 19 February, the Ayr High Community came together to acknowledge the school leaders for 2025. A range of leadership positions were acknowledged including the House Family Representatives for each year level, YR 7 and 11 Scholarship recipients, Yr 11 LIP Leaders, QATSIF Awardees, Sporting House Captains and the School Student Executive.
2025 School Captains, Jack Power and Sophie Robertson outlined their vision for the school in an inspiring speech while new School Vice-Captains compered the event. A special thank you to Deputy Mayor, Max Musumeci for his role in the proceedings.
For many years there has been an accepted tradition of each out going Student Executive member handing forward ‘the book’ which accompanies each position. These books contain information and messages from previous year’s members and it is the responsibility for the incoming member to add their story too.
A new initiative this year courtesy of the work of 2024 Indigenous Vice-Captain Sienna Chapman is the Message Stick which will be handed down to each new Indigenous Vice-Captain with the responsibility of adding their story to the stick.
2025 Indigenous Vice Captain Johben Tabo accepted the Message Stick from Aunty Bernice Zaro on behalf of Sienna at the school ceremony.
Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) has long been a beacon of educational excellence in our community, and the recent 2024 Awards Night held on Thursday evening, was a testament to the outstanding learning and teaching that take place within its classrooms.
This prestigious evening celebrated the dedication, hard work, and achievements of both students and staff, showcasing the school’s commitment to fostering academic success and personal growth.
The Awards Night recognised students who have excelled across various disciplines, from academic achievements to leadership, service, and cultural pursuits. The results from our 2024 graduates further highlight the school’s commitment to high-quality teaching and learning.
BURDEKIN CATHOLIC
HIGH SCHOOL
Teaching and Learning Excellence
Many students have secured outstanding results, opening doors to university offers, apprenticeships, and promising career pathways. Their success reflects not only their dedication but also the unwavering support of BCHS educators, who continue to implement innovative, evi-
Year 7–Year 12 Duxes. Photo. Supplied
Years 7–11 JCU Academic Excellence Awardees. Photo. Supplied
Teaching At Burdekin Catholic High School
dence-based teaching practices to ensure every student reaches their full potential.
Principal Lorraine Wolffe praised the hard work of students and staff, stating, “At Burdekin Catholic High School, we are committed to creating an environment where every student is encouraged to strive for excellence. Our teachers go above and beyond to provide engaging and effective learning experiences, and the success of our graduates is proof of that commitment.”
ing that students develop holistically. The school’s focus on faith, values, and community engagement, continues to shape well-rounded individuals ready to make meaningful contributions to society.
Catholic High School remains dedicated to its mission of providing outstanding education, empowering students to achieve excellence, and making a difference in the world.
Beyond academics, BCHS fosters a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, ensur-
As we celebrate the successes of our 2024 students and look to the future, Burdekin
Whole school reward RECIPIENTS
Year 7 Major Awards
YEAR 7 JCU SHIELD
Hayden Zandonadi
YEAR 7 DUX
Popi Loizou
Year 8 Major Awards
YEAR 8 JCU SHIELD
Tate Horan
YEAR 8 DUX
Lisa Keryk
Year 9 Major Awards
YEAR 9 JCU SHIELD
Holly James
YEAR 9 DUX
Chloe Bugeja
Year 10 Major Awards
BENDIGO BANK YEAR 10 ALL ROUNDER
Emme Flanagan
ZONTA CLUB OF AYR - STEM AWARD
Sophia Moloney
ADF LONG TAN YOUTH LEADERSHIP & TEAMWORK AWARD
Kate Wilkie
ADF FUTURE INNOVATORS
AWARD
Jack Roveglia
DANNY VALE MEMORIAL
AWARD FOR STUDENT FELLOW-
SHIP
Nathanael Minuzzo
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SERVICE
AWARD
Sophia Moloney
THE JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY
SHIELD FOR YEAR 10
Makayla Pirrone
FATHER O’BRIEN SHIELD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Kate Wilkie
FRANK HANSEN SHIELD FOR YEAR 10 DUX AWARD
Jack Roveglia
Year 11 Major Awards
AUSTRALASIAN INSTITUTE OF MINING AND METALLURGY BURSARY
Brock Smith
THE JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY
SHIELD FOR YEAR 11
Zennah Malas
BRADLEY WALLACE MEMORIAL
SHIELD FOR GENERAL PROFICIENCY / BEST ALL ROUNDER
Piper Grogan
BR BRIAN MURRAY FELLOWSHIP AWARD
Kevin Trang
GERARD HAM MEMORIAL
AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP & CHARACTER
Drea Piotto
THE ROTARY CLUB OF AYR AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Piper Grogan & Brock Smith
SIAN KAPEECHKIN AWARD FOR YEAR 11 DUX
Cleo Delle Baite
Year
12 Major Awards
FRANK HANSEN SHIELD FOR CONTINUING EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
Ashley Rhodes
Year 11, Level 1 (Gold) Awardees. Photo. Supplied
Award Winning Author & Local Journalist
Wows Audience
Burdekin Life’s Journo Sells Out Books!
Burdekin Life newspaper journalist and celebrated author, Mark T. Rasmussen, wowed a packed Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting last Wednesday at the Home Hill Community Sporting Club, as he discussed his award-winning novel, The Journey, and his own life story.
The first meeting of the year for the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce proved to be a popular one, with the full house of attendees treated to a special night to hear about Mark’s novel, his writing, as well as his own journey, which included hearing highlights of his many adventurous travels.
During the night, Mark mentioned that he had visited about 60 countries across six continents, while living in eight major cities around the world: Melbourne, London; Edinburgh; Auckland; Rio de Janeiro; Sydney; L.A; and Toronto, with Rio his fa-
At Home Hill Chamber Of Commerce Meeting Community Comes Together
vourite.
The audience got to listen in to Mark’s writing process, where he discussed the National Novel Writing Month challenge he undertook in late 2016, which resulted in the 50,000 first draft for his novel, as well as hearing some of his more personal stories.
At the end of his vibrant, honest, and captivating talk, several of the audience waited in line as Mark wrote personal inscriptions for each before selling-out of his popular book on the night.
“Being new-ish here, I never expected such a showing let alone the support I did. It was an honour to speak, and to sell out of my books was an unexpected bonus,” an excited Mark said.
“Huge thanks to Rob Antoniazzi, and the rest of the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce for inviting me. I had fun,” Mark proclaimed.
Award-winning author (and Burdekin Life journalist), Mark T. Rasmussen, stands with his novel The Journey and book poster, after enrapturing a full house of attendees. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Jane Baltzars and Erin Brennan Eusebio Aguirre (President Burdekin Chamber of Commerce), with Kari Ravizza (Treasurer) Burdekin Chamber of Commerce
Deputy Mayor, Max Musumeci, Councillor Amanda Hall, Peter Hall
Lisa Shepherd, Kate Casswell, Lyn McLaughlin, Norm Bethell
Belinda Mohr, Gwen Marshall all smiles. Anthony & Carolyn Sturiale
The incredible team of event organisers behind the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
Mark and Kylie Cabassi, John Azpiri, Bruce and Deanne Lewty, Tina Hancock and Terry and Cassie Dennis
WEEKLYTVGUIDE
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7.00 News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Under The Vines. (PG) 9.15 Optics. (M)
9.45 Hard Quiz. 10.20 Spicks And Specks. 10.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 11.35 News. 11.50 Grand Designs. 12.40 Long Lost Family. 1.25 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Optics. 2.00 Under The Vines. 2.45 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.35 The Role Of A Lifetime. 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 5.30 Landline.
6.00 Australian Story.
6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2025. 10.30 The Newsreader. (M) 11.25 Unforgotten. (M) 12.15 Rage. (MA15+)
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6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. 1.55 Fake Or Fortune? 2.55 Simply Nigella. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 Optics. 9.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 9.45 Planet America. 10.20 Spicks And Specks. 10.50 News. 11.05 The Business. 11.20 Gold Diggers. 12.15 Grand Designs. 1.05 Long Lost Family. 1.50 Rage. 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 12.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.30 PBS Washington Week. 4.55 Range Of Motion. 5.00 Heroines. 5.30 Hitler: Decoding A Dictator. 6.30 News. 7.30 Ancient Greece By Train. 8.25 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. 9.20 Legends Of The Pharaohs. 10.20 Great British Landmark Fixers. 11.15 Elvis’ Women. 2.40 Love Your Garden. 3.30 Employable Me (UK) 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
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6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Saving Lives At Sea. 3.00 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 Britain’s Beautiful Rivers. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. 11.30 Prisoner. 12.40 Fargo. 2.25 Her Majesty’s Cavalry. 3.20 Employable Me (UK) 4.25 Bamay. 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.
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12.30 We Interrupt This Broadcast. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. H’lights. 1.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road 2.30 Air Crash Investigations: Special Report. 3.30 Border Security: Int. 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00 Australian Idol. 8.40 The Hunters. 10.15 Murder In The Outback: The Falconio And Lees Mystery. 12.15 Friday Night Lights. 1.15 Travel Oz. 2.00 TBA. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 10.30 Oscars Red Carpet. 11.00 The Oscars. 3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) 9.10 Suits L.A. (M) 10.10 The Oscars. (PG) 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 TBA. 2.45 Surveillance Oz. 3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) 9.10 The Hunting Party. (M) 10.10 The Irrational. (M) 12.10 Sun, Sea And Surgery. (MA15+) 1.10 Travel Oz. (PG) 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 TBA. 2.45 Surveillance Oz. 3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG)
8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Full Sweat. (M) 11.00 Autopsy USA. (M) 12.00 Covert Affairs. (M) 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Our Take On Love. (2022) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. (PG) 8.40 MOVIE: Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard. (2021) (MA15+) 11.00 MOVIE: Lions For Lambs. (2007) 12.45 Pointless. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy. 4.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Your Next Cruise. 2.00 Bondi Vet. 3.00 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 4.00 Cherie Barber’s Tiny Home. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde. (2001) 10.30 MOVIE: Magic Mike’s Last Dance. (2023) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 Let’s Eat With George. 2.00 The Incredible Journey. 2.30 TV Shop. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Helping Hands. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 I Fish. 8.30 Everyday Gourmet. 9.00 My Market Kitchen. 9.30 Planet Shapers. 10.00 The Weekly Kick-Off. 10.30 Australian Survivor. 12.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 NRL Sunday Footy: Las Vegas Pre-Show. 2.30 Rugby League. NRL. Penrith Panthers v Cronulla Sharks. 4.30 NRL Sunday Footy: Las Vegas PostMatch. 5.00 News. 5.30 My Way. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.45 60 Minutes. 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 See No Evil. 11.15 The First 48. 12.05 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. 1.00 Destination WA. 1.30 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 Customs. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.45 Innovation Nation. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (M) 9.00 Rise Of The Dolphins. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 The Life And Murder Of Nicole Brown Simpson. 12.00 The Equalizer. 1.00 Hello SA. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Neighbours. 7.30 Farm To Fork. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 10.00 Judge Judy. 10.30 Australian Survivor. 12.00
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 Getaway. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (M) 9.00 Madam. (MA15+) 10.20 9News Late. 10.50 My Feet Are Killing Me. 11.40 The Equalizer. 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Building Ideas. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Neighbours. 7.30 Farm To Fork. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 10.00 Ent. Tonight. 10.20 Australian Survivor. 11.30
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (M) 9.00 Big Miracles. (M) 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Casualty 24/7. 11.30
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Glass Houses. (2020) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 6.50 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Brisbane Lions v Geelong. 9.30 AFL Post-Game Show. 10.00 Kick Ons. 10.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG) 11.30 Autopsy USA. 12.30 Damnation. 1.30 Travel Oz. 2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? (PG, R)
8.30 Mythbusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
8.55 Robot Wars. (R)
9.55 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.40 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
11.10 Deadly 60. (R)
11.35 Dragon Ball Super. (PG, R)
7.30pm Kids BBQ Championship.
8.10 Chopped Junior.
8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. (R)
9.40 Speechless. (PG, R)
10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. (PG, R)
10.30 Dragon Ball Super. (PG, R)
10.55 Log Horizon. (PG, R)
11.20 Turn Up The Volume. (R)
7.35pm Moominvalley.
Horrible Histories. (PG, R) 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R) 9.15 Speechless. (PG, R) 9.55 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.40 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
11.05 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
11.35 Operation Ouch! (PG, R)
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.50 Little Lunch. (R)
8.05 Operation Ouch! (PG)
8.40 The Crystal Maze. (PG, R)
9.25 Street Science. (PG)
9.50 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.35 Mythbusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
11.00 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.50 Little Lunch. (R) 8.05 Operation Ouch! (PG)
8.40 Deadly 60.
9.10 Foxes: Their Secret World.
10.00 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.50 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Evil. (MA15+, R) 11.20 Jake And The Fatman. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 Bull. (M, R) 9.25 Bull. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (M, R) 11.20 Bull. (M, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 Elsbeth. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.30 NCIS. (M, R)
10.30 The Weekly KickOff. 11.00 Evil. (M, R)
12.00 Jake And The Fatman. (PG, R)
12.55 Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R) 1.55 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Ghosts. (PG, R)
7.00 Friends. (PG, R)
8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
10.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R)
11.00 Becker. (PG, R)
11.30 The King Of Queens. (PG, R)
12.00 Impractical Jokers. (M, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Ridiculousness. (PG, R)
12.30 South Park. (MA15+, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (MA15+, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.00 Ridiculousness. (PG, R)
12.00 South Park. (MA15+, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (M, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R) 6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R) 7.00 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R) 10.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R) 11.00 Frasier. (PG, R) 12.00 Becker. (PG, R) 12.30 The King Of Queens (PG, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)
7.00 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)
10.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R)
11.00 Frasier. (PG, R)
12.00 Becker. (PG, R)
12.30 The King Of Queens. (PG, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R) 6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R) 7.00 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R) 9.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 10.30 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R) 11.00 Becker. (PG, R) 11.30 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.00 Impractical
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.
DEATH NOTICES
Carla PIOTTO
Late of Ayr.
Passed away on 19th February, 2025 aged 85 years.
Beloved wife of Pietro (deceased), Much loved mother and mother-in-law of John and Sue, Maria and Bevan Reents, Peter and Andrea, loving nonna of Melissa and Shane, Leyton, Massimo and Drea Rose, Bis nonna of Rocky.
A service to celebrate the life of Carla was held yesterday, Wednesday, 26th February at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr followed by interment in the Ayr Cemetery. K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS 40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270
CONCRETORS
Valmai Joan Galeano
Late of Townsville
Sadly passed away on the 20th February 2025.
Loving Wife of Nicola Galeano (dec). Adored Mother of Mark & Sharon and Mother-In-Law of Andree.
A private Cremation will take place at the request of Valmai’s family.
“Forever Loved. Forever In Our Hearts”
Notice of the Annual General Meeting of Burdekin Readers & Writers Association Inc.
This is to advise of the upcoming Annual General Meeting of Burdekin Readers & Writers Association Inc.
The details of this meeting are as follows:
Notice of the Annual General Meeting of Burdekin Association Inc.
This is to advise of the upcoming Annual Burdekin Readers & Writers Association
2. Election of members of the management committee 3. General Business
The details of this meeting are
Date: Wednesday, March 19
Time: 11.30am
Place: Burdekin Theatre – Foyer, 161 Queen
Business to be conducted:
1. Receiving and adoption of nancial statements 2. Election of members of the management 3. General Business
CRANE HIRE
Wet Weather Challenges Cricket Fixtures
The wet season once again threatened to disrupt cricket fixtures last week, as a heavy shower fell at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday just before matches were set to commence. Fortunately, the rain ceased by 4:30 pm, allowing games to get underway, albeit slightly delayed.
The Challengers played on a newly mowed pitch in the outfield of the Barry Richards Field, which made the bounce of the soft ball more predictable and runs easier to score. Aria and Lincoln capitalised on these conditions to top-score with 11 runs unbeaten. The partnership of Hadley and Mekena contributed nine runs, while Jai and Noah followed closely with eight. Kyeem, Levi, Corey, Jack, Jai, and Olivia each secured a wicket, while Henry, Harvey, Corbett, and Nicholas finished the game with multiple dismissals. Olivia and Jack were awarded the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their exceptional bowling and batting performances.
On the astro pitch at Field 4, the “Hardball” Blue Group cricketers were eager to return to the game following the delayed start of the second half of the season after the Christmas break. Kye Quinlan topscored with 15 runs unbeaten, followed by Tait Parker with 12. Jake Cullen struck a four on his way to 11 runs unbeaten. Jake also claimed a wicket, while Corey Pensini, Tyler Smith, Jacob Adcock, Tait Parker, Kye Quinlan, and Kip Nicholas each took
one as well. Kip played a crucial role in three runouts, earning him the McDonald’s Sports Award for this group alongside Mason Harvey, who also received recognition.
The Gold Group, playing on the other astro pitch, was equally enthusiastic to return to action after the long break. Marshall Parker maintained his impressive form from last year, leading the scoring with 20 runs unbeaten. Mark Wilkie and Oscar Mahoney contributed 11 runs each, both remaining not out. Jacques Gardener stood out among the bowlers, recording figures of 1 for 5, followed by Ben Watkins, who secured 1 for 14. Marshall claimed the prestigious McDonald’s Sports Award for the Gold Group after executing two runouts and taking a catch.
With the season now in full swing, players and supporters eagerly anticipate another competitive week of cricket.
Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Junior Cricket.
Saturday Senior Cricket Returns to Action
After the Christmas break and a spell of wet weather, senior cricketers finally returned to the Nutrien AgSolutions fields for the first matches of 2025 on Saturday. Despite playing on astro turf wickets and enduring intermittent showers, the matches remained highly competitive.
Rookies v Peto Marine
The Rookies won the toss and elected to bat first. A shaky start saw the team at 2/8 after the first over. However, Dan Olditch steadied the innings with a crucial 52 runs off 39 balls. The highlight of the innings came from Alex Stillhard, who delivered a dominant performance, blasting 116 runs off just 49 balls, including 14 sixes, before being bowled. The Rookies set a formidable total of 8/215 from 25 overs.
Peto Marine responded strongly, with notable contributions from Kris Wright (62 runs from 29 balls), Brad Parravicini (42 from 20), and Greg Flanagan (27 from 15). Despite their efforts, Peto Marine fell just short, being bowled out for 200, handing the Rookies their first victory of the season.
Alliance Pharmacy v Crowned Mongrels
The Crowned Mongrels won the toss and chose to bat. The Alliance Pharmacy bowlers were in fine form, with Farhan Sarwar taking 3/17 and Damien Ricketts securing 3/7, including two caught-and-bowled dismissals. Batting contributions from Andrew Wallwork (62 runs from 46 balls) and Alexander Romeo (36 runs) helped the Mongrels reach a total of 165 before being bowled out.
The Alliance Pharmacy batters wasted no time in the chase. JD Wilkins anchored the innings with an unbeaten 60 from 33 balls, while Lee Watts provided stability with 29 runs from 67 balls. Despite a brief rain delay, Alliance secured the victory, finishing at 7/178.
With a hopeful spell of sunshine in the coming week, the fields are expected to dry out in time for the next round of matches. Fixtures for Saturday, 1 March, will see Alliance Pharmacy face Peto Marine, while the Crowned Mongrels take on the Rookies.
Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association.
The Challengers
Jack and Olivia with their Mcdonalds Sports Award
Dan Olditch - 52 runs from 39 balls for the Rookies Alex Stillhard - 116 runs from 49 balls (including 14 sixes) for the Rookies
Football Matters with Cyclops
The 2025 season kicked off last Saturday night when Burdekin Panthers met Estates in the Kappa Cup. Unfortunately, the Panthers lost 1-2 but are back in action this Saturday with the start of the 2025 fixtures.
After enjoying a few Cup runs in the last few seasons the Panthers were keen to do the same this year. In front of them was an Estates team that we have enjoyed many tough battles with over the last few years. That it was the first competitive match of the season was obvious as both teams struggled to get into a groove. Both teams enjoyed a couple of forays into the box but to no avail. Estates finally broke the deadlock at the 25 minute mark and that is how it stayed in the first half.
In the Second half, the Panthers came out firing enjoying the lion’s share of possession as well as the majority of the chances but couldn’t find the back of the net. Then, against the run of play, after fifty seven minutes Estates scored again to make it 2-0. This kicked things up a notch for Burdekin as they started to take more risks, creating plenty of chances but a packed Estates defence got their bodies behind every ball in the box. Eventually at the 80th minute a beautiful Jhett Jones cross found Jay Leckenby who scored, setting up a tense final ten minutes. The Panthers pushed forward at every opportunity but unfortunately could not find a leveller.
FOOTBALL
Despite the loss, the quality of football on display from the Panthers was higher than what you would expect at this point of the season, providing a great springboard to compete for trophies again this year.
Fixtures for 2025 begin this Friday night with the Ladies away to Brothers at Paradise Park. Then on Saturday the Panthers have two home games against MA Olympic. The Under 23s kick off at 5.00 and then the Premiers play at 7.00.
Training nights for the Men’s teams are Tuesday and Thursday from 6.30 and Monday and Wednesday for the Women from 6.00.
Juniors
The season is close, and registrations have closed. Teams are being organised for the upcoming season. Can’t wait for kick off! On Saturday, Brett Butler held a fitness session for Juniors aged 9 and over to get them ready and firing for the season ahead. He will be holding another session this Saturday 1st March at 5pm to 6pm down at junior fields. Kids to wear closed in shoes. No need to register your child’s interest, just come on down!
Masters
Monday Night Masters hoped to kick off on Monday 24th February. International Park, 7.00 pm and all are welcome. Age and infirmity are irrelevant. Be there!
Ladies Return To Green BOWLS
The Ayr Bowling Club ladies made their return to the green on Tuesday, with an impressive turnout of 14 players. The event was proudly sponsored by Amcal Pharmacy, a longstanding supporter of the club. To mark the beginning of 2025, Amcal Pharmacy generously donated cosmetic products for the ladies.
The winners on the day were Katharina Stuckler, Merle Nixon, Sandra Stidston, and Mary Poli, who triumphed over Linda Guimelli, Rhonda Smythe, Heather Jorgensen, and Irene Wilson. In another match, Isabel Cislowski, Rayleen Harvey, and Pam Power secured victory over Karen Shepherd, Karen Page, and Dot Cutting.
Nominations are now open for the upcoming Club Open Championship events, including A Singles, B Singles, and Rinks. The club also extends congratulations to Pam Power on her selection for the North Queensland representative team as a skip—a remarkable achievement reflecting the high calibre of players emerging from Ayr Bowling Club.
Men’s Club Championships and Weekly Bowls
Nominations are also open for the Men’s Club Championships in A Pairs, B Pairs, and Mixed Pairs.
Wednesday men’s social bowls attracted 18 players, with two games of triples and a rinks game played. The winners were Bob Pickard, Joe Papale, and Ron Soper, who defeated Bob Young, George Nixon, and Anthony Bull. Wednesday night social bowls fea-
tured two games of pairs, with Margaret McLaughlin and Sam Caltabiano winning the first, while Tegan Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen claimed victory in the second. The club continues to encourage newcomers to try their hand at bowls during these enjoyable social nights.
Saturday’s Mahjong Ladies Sponsorship
Saturday’s event was generously sponsored by the Mahjong Ladies, who have been valuable supporters of the club for many years. The club expressed its gratitude, acknowledging that such sponsorships make these event days possible.
A total of 24 players took to the greens, playing four games of triples. The winners on the day were:
1st Place: Margaret Chapman, Lorraine Wolffe, and Joe Grabbi, who triumphed over Deslie Olsen, Merle Nixon, and Pam Power.
2nd Place: Cisco, George Nixon, and Sam Caltabiano, who defeated Linda Guimelli, Ron Smythe, and Dot Cutting.
Friday Roll-Ups Return
Friday Roll-Ups continue this week, running from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. These casual sessions provide an opportunity for members to sharpen their skills, receive training tips, and unwind with fellow players. Whether looking to practice or simply socialise over a drink, Friday Roll-Ups are the perfect way to start the weekend.
Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club.
Home Hill Bowls Numbers Grow
The popularity of Wednesday Night Bowls continues to soar, attracting players of all ages and skill levels to the greens. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the irresistible aroma of the barbecue, keeps both participants and spectators engaged throughout the evening. With lively music playing in the background, the event has become a highlight of the week, offering fun and enjoyment for everyone.
Lawn bowls may appear simple, but mastering the game requires skill and precision. One rising star, Amy Newton, has discovered just how rewarding Wednes-
day Night Bowls can be. She is among a growing number of young players embracing the challenge and camaraderie of the sport.
