Welcome to the Burdekin Shire Council

Burdekin residents intrigued by the treatment of so-called enemy aliens during the Second World War are invited to take part in a discussion morning with author Debbie Terranova at the Burdekin Library on Tuesday 31 July.

Entitled What Really Happened on the Home front in WWII?, Mrs Terranova’s presentation will discuss her latest novel and provide a brief history about World War II on the home front in Australia.

The presentation will also include historical photos of the Loveday internment camps in South Australia.

Though fictional, Mrs Terranova’s novel Enemies Within These Shores centres on the true events of the round up and internment of Italian workers in Far North Queensland.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the topic of internment camps would resonate with many Burdekin residents.

“The Burdekin is rich in cultural diversity and is home to many people of Italian heritage,” she said.

“Though we now celebrate our multiculturalism, internment camps are an awful reality of our region’s history.”

Mrs Terranova, who has recently received a fellowship from the State Library of Queensland to do further research about women and war, invites all residents with personal stories from the 1939-1945 period to make contact.

In particular she is seeking to meet women who were affected by wartime national security measures, such as those who were interned due to their nationality, associations, political or religious allegiances, and those who were left behind to run farms without men.

She is also interested in discussing the various roles that women played during the war such as those who became part of the military or civilian workforce.

The discussion morning is a free event, commencing at the Burdekin Library at 10:30am.

For further information please visit Council’s website www.burdekin.qld.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

The playground at Ayr’s Anzac Park will be closed from Monday 23 July, 2018 to allow upgrades to softfall and the replacement of existing playground components.

Council will close the playground for the duration of the upgrade, which are expected to be completed by Monday 30 July, 2018.

Works to erect a new picnic shelter, seating and barbecue at Arch Dunn Memorial Park in Home Hill are scheduled to commence on Wednesday 18 July, however only minor disruptions to park use are expected.

Alternative unaffected parks with playground facilities includes Ayr’s Coutts Park, Alva Beach Park and Spiller Street Park in Brandon.

For a full list of council’s parks and gardens, visit www.burdekin.qld.gov.au/community/facilities/parks-and-gardens

Burdekin resident John Arrate was introduced to the art of hand cane cutting by his father while growing up on their small family farm at Clare.

He will line up in the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, part of the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival at Home Hill Showgrounds this 30 May and 2 June, with nothing but respect for the original hand cane cutters in the field.

“They’re the ones I take my hat off to. I think it’s a bit of an honour to think you’re still competing with the guys who have done this for a living,” Mr Arrate said.

“It’s important people have the chance to see how it was done while those guys are around. Some of them are in their seventies. Being a bit of a competitor it just bugs me that I still can’t beat the old guys.”

Mr Arrate, who now owns and operates his own sugarcane farm at Home Hill, has been competing in the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships since the introduction of the Kevin Swindley Memorial prize for local cutters in 2012. “I knew the Swindley family so I thought it would be a good way of paying tribute,” Mr Arrate said.

When he first signed up it was “just to make up numbers” however one of the older cutters soon become a mentor to Mr Arrate, who has been honing his skills ever since.

He went on to win the Kevin Swindley Memorial in 2016. “Hopefully this year I’ll be holding a trophy again,” he said.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said Sweet Days, Hot Nights would incorporate the First Fire of the Season and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships and package them with a range of family-friendly, festival-styled events.

“The First Fire on Wednesday 30 May offers visitors and locals the chance to experience the awe-inspiring sight of cane fire up close,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“On Saturday 2 June at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, festival-goers will witness a test of skill and endurance, a competition that brings to life the back-breaking work of a by-gone era.”

For more information visit www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au or ‘Like’ and ‘Follow’ the sweetdayshotnights page on Facebook.

Council advises that Septic Receival services will be closed between Monday 14^th May 2018 to Wednesday 16^th May 2018 to allow essential maintenance works to be carried out at the Ayr Waste Water Treatment Plant.

Council regrets any inconvenience that may be caused as a result of these necessary maintenance works.

For further information or queries, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.

Burdekin Shire Council is seeking applications for a Graduate Technical Officer – Civil to assist the Design Office Manager in providing design and technical services for the Council.

The Position

The key responsibilities include:

• Under general direction, undertake surveys, design, drafting, estimating, and compilation of specifications, costing analysis.
• Undertake projects as a graduate technical officer, including investigation, design, cost estimation, specification preparation and tender assessment.
• Assist with annual budget preparation requirements within the Department area as well as providing cost estimates for use of other Departments in preparation of their budgets.
• Under supervision, assist in implementing technical projects co‑ordinating necessary tradesmen, technicians and other personnel.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Associate Degree in Civil Engineering.
• Demonstrated knowledge of some of the following construction industry office practices: drafting, scheduling, estimation, as constructed records, cost forecasting and the use of computers as an aid to those activities.
• Current C Class drivers licence.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The applicable salary is to a ceiling of Level 4 ($78,447pa) with the commencing salary dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/46 - Graduate Technical Officer - Civil - (pdf 198.52 kB)

Applications for 18/45 – Graduate Technical Officer – Civil should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/45, PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807

Applications close on Monday, 30 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Matthew Ingle – Design Office Manager on (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council is seeking applications for a Technical Officer – Civil to assist the Design Office Manager in providing design, drafting, infrastructure asset management and technical services for the Council.

The Position

The key responsibilities include:

• Under general direction, undertake surveys, design, drafting, estimating, and compilation of specifications, job supervision, contract administration, costing analysis.
• Undertake projects as a technical project officer, including investigation, design, cost estimation, specification preparation, tender assessment.
• Participating in Council’s Flood Reporting Service including preparation of reports during times of floods.
• Assist with annual budget requirements within the Department area as well as providing cost estimates for use of other Departments in preparation of their budgets.
• Assist in checking design and as constructed plans.
• Provide advice to the public, professional and tradespersons, Government Departments and Statutory Authorities, within the bounds of Council policy and/or in accordance with supervisor’s directives.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Tertiary Educational Qualifications equivalent to an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in some of the following construction industry office practices: drafting, scheduling, quantity surveying, estimation, cost control, as constructed records, cost forecasting and the use of computers as an aid to those activities.
• Current C Class drivers licence.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The applicable salary is to a ceiling of Level 6 ($91,770pa) with the commencing salary dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/45 - Technical Officer - Civil - (pdf 213.36 kB)

Applications for 18/45 – Technical Officer – Civil should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/45, PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807

Applications close on Monday, 30 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Matthew Ingle – Design Office Manager on (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council is seeking applications for a Rates Supervisor to lead and mentor Council’s Rates team and maintain Council’s property database, rating operations and collections in liaison with other Council sections, State and Federal government departments and collection agencies.

The Position

The key responsibilities include:

• Support the Manager of Financial and Administrative Services by providing timely advice and support for the Rating function by Council.
• Acquire and maintain thorough knowledge of legislation, regulations, policies and procedures including Council and State Government requirements for rating.
• Support policy and budget formulation for Council rates and charges including revenue modelling.
• Co-ordinate timely production and distribution of annual, supplementary, half-year water consumption and overdue reminder notices.
• Monitor and coordinate debt collection processes, hardship applications and payment plans for overdue rates.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Demonstrated significant experience and specialist knowledge in local government rating and the operation of property and rating systems.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of legislation, regulations, policies and procedures for local government rating.
• Experience in the management and coordination of debt recovery processes.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a small team.
• Intermediate skills in the use of Microsoft Office Systems.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The applicable salary is to a ceiling of Level 5 ($83,444pa) with the commencing salary dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/44 - Rates Supervisor - (pdf 210.01 kB)

Applications for 18/44 – Rates Supervisor should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/44, PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807

Applications close on Wednesday, 25 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Kim Olsen – Manager Financial and Administrative Services (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council is seeking applications for a Tourism and Economic Development Support Officer to provide assistance and support in the operation of Visitor Information Centre facilities in the Shire and to provide administrative support to the Economic Development Coordinator and Tourism Officer.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Demonstrated experience in routine administrative or clerical work within the confines of established procedures, with occasional complex situations.
• Demonstrated ability to work with volunteers and community organisations.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing work environments and/or conditions while maintaining a positive attitude and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated ability to apply time management skills to the workplace with reference to planning and organising own workload.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing quality client service.
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and implement new skills with computer systems and applications.
• Demonstrated ability to handle private, confidential and sensitive information.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The applicable salary is to a ceiling of Level 2 ($65,121pa) with the commencing salary dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/43 - Tourism and Economic Development Support Officer - (pdf 207.93 kB)

Applications for 18/43 – Tourism and Economic Development Support Officer should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/43, PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807

Applications close on Wednesday, 25 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Human Resources on (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council is currently seeking applications for a Leading Hand – Form Setter / Concreter to assist with the construction and maintenance of civil infrastructure in connection with roads, footpaths, kerbing and channelling, stormwater drainage, boat ramps and other functions of Council.

The Position

The key responsibilities include:

• Undertake all work as specified in the relevant quality and safety plans ensuring compliance with all Acts, Regulations, quality standards and Codes of Practice.
• Maintain site records of daily activities as required to ensure safety and quality compliance.
• Under the general direction and in the absence of the Supervisor, assume control and be responsible for all activities on the job site.
• Liaise with and coordinate contractors and other Council employees on the job site.
• Guide and assist gang members in construction and maintenance activities including quality control.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Demonstrated experience in concrete construction, concrete finishing, form setting and Council maintenance operations.
• Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend job plans, specifications and reinforcing schedules.
• Sound written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work under minimum supervision in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated ability to manage time, set priorities and plan works.
• Current Class “MR” (Medium Rigid) driver’s licence.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The gross fortnightly wage for this position ranges from $2,278.93 to $2,432.57 with the commencing wage dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/42 - Leading Hand - Form Setter/Concreter - Works - (pdf 203.92 kB)

Applications for 18/42 – Leading Hand – Form Setter / Concreter – Works should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/42, PO Box 974, AYR QLD 4807

Applications close on Wednesday, 25 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Robert Potter, Works Overseer on (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council is seeking applications for a Works Supervisor to assist the Works Overseer by managing significant components of Council’s capital and maintenance road and drainage construction programmes.

The Position

The key responsibilities include:

• Under general direction, plan, supervise and coordinate the maintenance and construction of Council assets in connection with roads and footpaths, kerbing and channelling, storm water drainage, boat ramps and other functions of Council.
• Under limited direction, control projects within budget allocation.
• Supervise Council day labour workforce and external contractors.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Considerable experience in the construction industry supervision in general and in particular relating to Local Authority, Department of Transport and Main Roads works construction and maintenance.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage complex civil construction and maintenance projects within Local Government including examples of recent projects.
• Ability to effectively manage staff.
• Considerable experience in job costing control; cost forecasting; maintaining job safety and quality documents; and site records.
• Certificate IV in Civil Construction or equivalent recognised experience.
• Traffic Control Implementation.
• Current C class drivers licence.
• Authorised Person under the Electricity Act, 2002.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The applicable salary is to a ceiling of Level 4 ($80,043pa) with the commencing salary dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/41 - Supervisor - Works - (pdf 214.56 kB)

Applications for 18/41 – Supervisor – Works should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/41, PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807

Applications close on Wednesday, 25 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Rob Potter – Works Overseer on (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council is seeking applications for a Parks Supervisor to assist with the supervision of operational works within the Shire’s parks, gardens, cemeteries, reserves, streets and public facilities.

The Position

The key responsibilities include:

• Supervise and co-ordinate daily operations in area of responsibility, maintaining the prescribed standards detailed in the Burdekin Shire Council Parks Maintenance Service Levels Manual.
• Assist in the co-ordination of resources to deliver services in Council parks, gardens, public conveniences and cemeteries.
• Supervise, motivate and develop employees on a day-to-day basis.
• Assist the parks and gardens coordinator in the monitoring of budget expenditure and budget planning.
• Undertake site inductions and risk assessments.
• Provide relief duties in the absence of the Parks Coordinator.

The Person

The successful applicant will possess the following attributes at a minimum:

• Certificate 3 in Horticulture or equivalent relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience in the supervision of employees.
• Current “C” Class Drivers Licence (minimum).
• Certificate in Playground Equipment Inspection Level 2.
• Traffic Implementation Design certification or ability to attain.

Applicants should familiarise themselves with the entire position description.

The applicable salary is to a ceiling of Level 3 ($71,782pa) with the commencing salary dependent upon the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

Application packages are available from the Human Resources Office on (07) 4783 9800 or you can download the application package using the following link.

• Job Vacancy 18/40 - Supervisor - Parks - (pdf 202.21 kB)

Applications for 18/40 – Supervisor – Parks should include:

• A cover letter
• A current resume
• Statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description

Applications can be submitted using one of the following methods:

• Email –
• Mail – Confidential Application No. 18/40, PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807

Applications close on Wednesday, 25 July 2018 at 5.00pm. Word or PDF format is preferable.

For further information please contact Tano Buono – Parks Coordinator on (07) 4783 9800.

Quotations closing at 12.00 Noon on Wednesday 29th August, 2018 are invited for the refurbishment of the Ayr 50m Pool Scum Gutter.

Quotation documents are available from Burdekin Shire Council and can be emailed on request by telephoning (07) 4783 9800.

Tenderers should note that all quotations must be marked in accordance with the instructions in the quotation and will be accepted prior to the closing date and time.

Further enquires may be directed to Mr Callan Paige, Projects Engineer on telephone (07) 4783 9800.

Quotations closing at 12.00 Noon on Friday 3rd August, 2018 are invited for the supply, delivery and installation of chain wire fencing at Jones Street Depot Ayr.

Quotation documents are available from Burdekin Shire Council and can be emailed on request by telephoning (07) 4783 9800.

Tenderers should note that all quotations must be marked in accordance with the instructions in the quotation and will be accepted prior to the closing date and time.

A Mandatory site inspection will be carried out at 10.30 a.m. on Thursday 19th July, 2018 on site.

Further enquires may be directed to Mr Gary Keane, Manager of Contracts on telephone (07) 4783 9800.

Council is seeking quotations from appropriately skilled persons or companies for the provision of Internal Audit Services and development of a Three-Year Internal Audit Plan.

Quotations must be in accordance with the attached specification and criteria.

Written quotations must be lodged by Closing Time, being Friday, 27 July 2018, 5pm

• QBSC/18/007- Internal Audit Services and Three-Year Internal Audit Plan - (pdf 88.3 kB)

Burdekin Shire Council advises that road reconstruction works will be undertaken on Day Road from Allen Road to Doohan Road intersections. The works are scheduled to commence on Monday 23 July, 2018 continuing approximately until Friday 21 September 2018, weather and construction conditions permitting.

These works will be constructed under a full road closure of Day Road with access to local traffic only.

Motorists are asked to obey all directional signs and any instructions from traffic controllers or on site personnel for their own safety and the safety of Council’s workforce.

Burdekin Shire Council thanks residents and road users in anticipation of their patience during the construction period.

For further information please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

Burdekin Shire Council advises that footpath and lane closures will be in place in Ninth Avenue from Tenth Street to Eighth Street for building construction works to be undertaken on the Memorial Hall. The works is scheduled to commence on Monday 16^th July 2018 and are expected to be completed on Friday 20^th July 2018, weather and construction conditions permitting.

What to expect:

• Temporary Lane Closure
• Pedestrian Footpath Closure
• Home Hill Library Closure

During the works traffic will be required to access Ninth Avenue via the Eighth Street intersection.

Every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum during the construction period, Burdekin Shire Council thanks residents and road users for their patience during these works.

For further information please contact Council’s Customer Service Team 4783 9930.

Burdekin Shire Council advises that footpath construction works will be undertaken in Seventh Avenue from Eighteenth Street to Nineteenth Street intersections. The works are expected to be completed in August 2018, weather and construction conditions permitting.

All construction works will occur Monday to Saturday between 7.00am and 6.00pm.

Seventh Avenue will remain open during these works but will be subject to changed traffic conditions, including lane closures and reduced speed limits to enable work to be undertaken safely and efficiently.

What to expect:

• Temporary Lane Closures
• Speed Restrictions
• Dust associated with construction activities
• Increased noise levels and vibration from machinery, equipment and site vehicles

Property Access:

There will be at time when access to properties directly adjacent the works will be temporarily restricted while the works are in progress. Residents will be notified should their access be temporarily restricted.

Every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum for road users during the construction period. Burdekin Shire Council thanks residents and road users for their patience during these works.

For further information please contact Council’s Customer Service Team 4783 9930

Burdekin Shire Council wishes to advise of drainage work to be undertaken on the Ayr-Dalbeg Road, in the Mona Park vicinity, commencing Thursday 7th June, 2018 with a programmed completion of Friday 22nd June, 2018, weather permitting.

The works will be conducted under traffic with a single lane closure in place using traffic lights. Traffic lights will be operating both day and evening throughout the duration of the project.

Motorists and cyclists are asked to obey all traffic signals, directional signs, and any instructions from traffic controllers or site personnel, for their own safety and the safety of Council’s workforce.

Burdekin Shire Council thanks residents and road users in anticipation of their patience during the construction period.

For further information please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

Weather permitting, on Sunday 22nd July, 2018 Council will be conducting repairs to a fire hydrant in this area which will result in an interruption to water supply for residents on Wilmington Street between Young Street and Parker Street .

As a result of these necessary works, residents will experience a loss of water supply for up to 4 hours between 10:00am and 2:00pm. All efforts will be made to keep this interruption to a minimum.

Residents are advised to store their day’s supply of drinking water before 10:00am on that day.

Residents may also experience water discolouration for a period following these planned works. It is advisable to delay washing of clothes etc., if possible, for 24 hours following this repair.

Council regrets any inconvenience that may be caused to residents as a result of these works.

For further information or for any queries, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm.

Date of Entry

20/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Domestic Cat- 508 – Tan/Red

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Left at Pound

 
Location Found

 
Sex

Female/Entire

 
Date of Exit

25/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming

Date of Entry

20/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Domestic Cat and 5 kittens- 510 – tabby, black/white and ginger

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Left at Pound

 
Location Found

 
Sex

 
Date of Exit

25/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming

Date of Entry

20/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Domestic Cat- 509 – ginger/white

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Left at Pound

 
Location Found

 
Sex

Female/Entire

 
Date of Exit

25/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming

Date of Entry

19/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Terrier cross- 614 – Grey/white /black

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Impounded

 
Location Found

Searle Court

 
Sex

Female/Entire

 
Date of Exit

24/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming

Date of Entry

19/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Domestic cat and 4 kittens- 502 – Mother is black/white, kittens are tri colour

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Impounded

 
Location Found

McIntyre Street

 
Sex

Female/Entire

 
Date of Exit

24/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming

Date of Entry

19/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Domestic Cat- 503 – Black/white

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Impounded

 
Location Found

Sydney Street

 
Sex

Male/Entire

 
Date of Exit

24/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming

Date of Entry

19/07/2018

 
Breed and Colour

Domestic Cat- 501 – tabby

 
Impounded / Surrendered

Impounded

 
Location Found

McIntyre Street

 
Sex

Female/Entire

 
Date of Exit

24/07/2018

 
Suitable for Rehoming

Suitable for rehoming