August 6, 2025
I’m proud to spotlight the South Burnett Pantry, a vital local service that makes our community stronger.
The South Burnett is incredibly fortunate to have the South Burnett Pantry which began in 2012 when caring neighbours came together – loaning freezers, vehicles and time – to support families facing rising living costs.
Over the years, it has grown into a trusted essential, combining affordable food relief with a caring ear and links to welfare services.
One of the Pantry’s standout features is that customers choose their own groceries. For a handling fee of $40, they can select fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, dairy, tinned and dry goods, household essentials and personal items – often valued at $120-160 in total – and feel empowered in their choices.
I am especially proud of how community groups across the South Burnett have stepped up in support, donating, volunteering, and helping the Pantry continue serving its purpose. Seeing organisations working together shows the strength and generosity of our region.
Now, the Pantry needs ongoing help to keep going.
If you can, please consider making a financial donation via their website.
Every dollar helps keep this essential service running.
Thank you to everyone, volunteers, local organisations and generous donors, who have made the South Burnett Pantry a lifeline for so many.
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South Burnett Relay For Life
A fabulous evening was had at South Burnett Relay for Life’s Dinner With The Champions.
The Kingaroy Town Hall was filled with energy and generosity as we came together to support this vital cause.
A heartfelt congratulations to Carl Rackemann and his dedicated dinner committee for orchestrating such a successful event, John Allery who led the auction and a special thanks to the many locals whose generous donations made for a successful evening.
It was also wonderful to have Matt Gardiner, CEO of Cancer Council Queensland, join us as a special guest, alongside the unstoppable Rowena Dionysius. We were treated to entertaining insights from Aussie sporting legends Trevor Gillmeister, Emily Seebohm, and Jason Akermanis, who shared their stories and supported the cause.
Each year, I look forward to getting behind this important event that raises critical funds for cancer research and supports those affected by cancer in our community.
Mark your calendars the South Burnett Relay For Life main event on October 11.
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LNP Primary Industries Forum
I was buoyed by the great crowds at the LNP Primary Industries Policy Forum in Kingaroy.
Farmers, graziers, fishers and industry leaders from across the South Burnett and beyond came together to share their insights and aspirations.
It was clear the LNP is listening to our region, with open Q&A sessions led by Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett and a professional panel who took questions straight from the floor.
There is a genuine commitment to putting primary industries at the forefront, backed by bold initiatives like the 25-year Primary Industries Prosper 2050 blueprint and significant investments in innovation and biosecurity
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Reserve Forces Day
On Sunday, July 6, for the nineteenth year, Wondai proudly upheld the tradition of Reserve Forces Day, commemorating the service of more than 1.25 million Australians who have served in the Navy, Army or Air Force Reserves since their post World War II reformation as the Citizen Military Forces in 1948.
The day, officially observed since 1998, raises awareness of reservists’ contributions and thanks families and employers for their support.
Wondai is believed to remain the last community in Queensland hosting a formal parade in honour of this special day.
The local event first began in 2006 and has continued annually ever since.
The day’s events commenced at 10:00am with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph outside town hall, followed by a morning tea hosted by the Wondai branch of the QCWA at the Post Office. At 11:00 am, the parade stepped off, led by the Wondai & District Band and the 5th Light Horse Regiment (Gympie) re-enactment troop, proceeding along Mackenzie Street and onwards to Coronation Park for the Recognition Service.
A heartfelt thank you to Linard Floral & Bridal Centre for making another beautiful wreath.
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Kingaroy Golf Club Charter Signing
I was honoured to join the hardworking committee at Kingaroy Golf Club recently to formally celebrate their signing of the R&A Women in Golf Charter, an exciting international initiative designed to encourage more women and girls to participate in golf.
It was inspiring to stand alongside Golf Australia’s Virginia Irwin, who shared in my enthusiasm as I witnessed the dedication of president Chris Sarquis and his team of volunteers who brought this initiative to fruition.
During the event, I had the opportunity to learn some putting tips from our junior members, a reminder of why this charter matters so much at the grassroots level.
It’s clear to me that the South Burnett, has tremendous potential for growth in women’s and girls’ golf.
With Kingaroy Golf Club having just celebrated 100 years of golf in our community, this new milestone marks a bright, inclusive future, one shaped by strong volunteer leadership and a real commitment to advancing opportunity for women at every level of our sport.
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Brisbane Valley Rail Trail
I had a highly productive meeting with the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Users Association to discuss the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT), which begins in Yarraman, the northern trailhead of the 161 km rail trail.
We spoke in-depth about the importance of keeping the trail in excellent condition to continue attracting visitors and boosting tourism in our smaller towns.
I’m really grateful to Paul and the team for their outstanding advocacy and for making sure everyone can enjoy this beautiful trail.
