To use this website, cookies must be enabled in your browser. To enable cookies, follow the instructions for your browser below. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) An EMERGENCY ALERT has been issued at 13.58pm Friday 7 February 2025 by Charters Towers Local Disaster Management Group This is a CRITICAL WATER ALERT from the Charters Towers Local Disaster Management Group for CHARTERS TOWERS Please conserve your water use for showering (maximum 3 minutes) For assistance with a life-threatening situation phone Triple Zero (000) immediately For assistance with non-life-threatening situations - such as help with a damaged roof or storm damage - phone SES on 132 500 Keep up to date with the latest weather advice at Queensland Warnings Summary (bom.gov.au) Your browser is notsupported. Upgrade to a different browserto experience this site BACK Stay informed with the latest red meat and livestock industry news Business EDGE Young Guns workshops are for up-and-coming livestock producers who are ready to build their skills and confidence to manage a modern agricultural business The workshop includes an additional module on long-term wealth creation and a Young Gun keynote speaker *Early bird applies if registered & paid 4 weeks prior to course start date (11 February) Cost includes comprehensive set of Workshop Notes decision support spreadsheet tools and all catering For more information: Contact deliverer Simone Parker on M: 0408 818 043 or admin@bushagri.com.au LOG IN TO myMLA NOW 02 9463 9333|1800 023 100 info@mla.com.au © 2025 Meat & Livestock Australia Limited ABN 39 081 678 364 Have a question or concern about something other than the website {{Name}} {{Weight}}{{Value}} {{{Change.Symbol}}} {{{Change.Amount}}} Picture file.In the wake of the February floods that disrupted water supply for several days Charters Towers Regional Council has committed $1.3 million to overhaul its ageing water infrastructure All articles from our websiteThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueThe initiative aims to secure long-term water supply and bolster the community's resilience against future droughts The project focused on replacing end-of-life infrastructure and delivering long-term water security for the region Key components included the replacement of approximately 50-year-old steel reservoirs at Towers Hill the construction of a new low-level reservoir and the installation of a booster pump station to expand potable water storage and improve supply reliability "An upgrade of end-of-life assets and increased resilience of the water infrastructure network and securing the long-term water supply for Charters Towers residents," a council spokesperson said While existing pump stations were relatively new the new infrastructure was designed to enhance system performance during periods of high demand and improve regional supply security The spokesperson said the project was needed now to improve the area's water security The booster pump station at the Water Treatment Plant would "pump water to the low-level reservoir," while the additional reservoir itself would provide "additional storage of potable water supply." Delivery mains and reticulation networks would also be upgraded as part of the project to support future population growth and development in the Charters Towers region "Water security for the region is a high priority," the spokesperson said Council said a detailed project plan was being prepared which would outline the construction timeline and strategies to minimise disruption to residents particularly as new mains and networks are installed "This will form part of the detailed project plan," the spokesperson said Contractors and suppliers will be selected through "a robust and compliant procurement process," ensuring value for money and adherence to regulations The total cost of the works had not been determined and would depend on market evaluations council sought to have the project "100 per cent externally funded where possible" and committed $1.3 million as its co-contribution under the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program The spokesperson said council would also consider alternatives if required at the time of the grant announcement The need for major upgrades became even more urgent after the February 2025 floods which caused significant damage to the main intake at the Charters Towers Weir The incident led to critical infrastructure failure and forced the town into Level 4 water restrictions limiting water use to essential needs such as drinking council trucked in raw water and treated it at the Water Treatment Plant ensuring residents had access to safe drinking water Although the flooding directly impacted only the river intake the event highlighted the vulnerability of the existing system and the importance of securing water infrastructure against future severe weather "The new infrastructure will provide better water security for the community throughout the year," the spokesperson said Newsletters & AlertsView allWeekly The week's top stories curated by our news team Industry news from Australia's dairy sector Our twice weekly wrap of the big news in the red meat sector Our twice weekly wrap of the latest in rural property sales It was an unforgettable occasion for these under 9's from Brothers Rugby League Townsville and Charters Towers Miners Junior Rugby League who took to the field at Queensland Country Bank Stadium before the Cowboys win over the Raiders on Saturday Due to ongoing heavy rainfall and the closure of a number of major roads the Charters Towers Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has been stood up with the local Council declaring a ‘critical water alert’ for the region this morning The LDMG is working closely with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and relevant agencies to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed Council this morning advised Charters Towers residents to follow water saving measures to ensure the town water supply is maintained after an intake failure at the Weir “By reducing the water that residents use it will help preserve the ongoing supply in the reservoir,” Council said in a statement Liz Schmidt said all residents and visitors to the region should avoid any unnecessary travel “I cannot stress enough that anyone camping at one of the campsites close to the Burdekin River needs to move to town or higher ground The amount of water expected to come down is significant and conditions can change very quickly,” said Mayor Schmidt Please do not take risks or put our emergency services in danger.” Information and Events for Local Councils throughout Australia Contact us: newsdesk@insidelocalgovernment.com.au Picture supplied.A Charters Towers woman couldn't contain her joy bursting into screams of excitement and laughter in her office after discovering she'd won $100,000 in the Lucky Lotteries draw on Monday All articles from our websiteThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueThe North Queenslander held the first prize-winning entry The winning woman was in the middle of her workday when The Lott called revealing her life-enhancing win "I'm yelling out to a few of my work colleagues and they're looking at me like I'm some sort of mad woman I'm so glad I was sitting down when you broke the news to me I'm pretty sure I would've fainted otherwise "I can't wait to call my husband and share the news with him "This is definitely going to change our lives." Her winning entry of two consecutive numbers was purchased via the Lott app the official home of Australia's lotteries 147 Lucky Lotteries first prize and jackpot-winning entries across Australia won more than $53.4 million Queensland Police have set up a crime scene and are looking into a fire at a North Queensland nursing home Please call us on 1800 070 535 and we’ll help resolve the issue or try again later Any Questions? Please call 1800 070 535. Monday to Friday 7:30am – 6:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 7:00am – 11:30am (AEST) Watch 2m 7sIn Charters Towers, graziers welcomed the rain for their cattle, but those camping along the Burdekin were taken by surprise, losing everything in the flooding. 27 March 2025: Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways have agreed to work together with Renewable Developments Australia (RDA) to become key partners on a project that will set out to deliver a homegrown Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production facility in the Charters Towers Region of North Queensland The project aims to establish a fully-integrated Ethanol to Jet (EtJ) facility that converts bioethanol derived from sugarcane grown onsite into 100% SAF using proprietary PureSAFSM technology supplied from KBR while also generating all of the project’s energy requirements from renewable sources This unique vertically integrated and energy self-sufficient approach sets it apart from other SAF and EtJ projects globally The facility is expected to produce up to 96 million litres of SAF annually which will be supplied to nearby airports Early modelling indicates a potential lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction of 70 per cent compared to conventional jet fuel.[1] this project aligns with the broader Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways in October 2024 The MoU cemented their intent to collaborate on sustainability initiatives that aim to reduce carbon emissions in air travel and advance the use of SAF and Low Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF) in Australia In further encouraging support from the broader aviation ecosystem The Boeing Company (TBC) has endorsed the project through a positive letter of support to RDA and in which TBC outlines its commitment to collaborate in a number of areas including policy advocacy and the contribution of technical expertise currently in pre-final investment decision stage Commentary from Renewable Developments Australia Renewable Developments Australia’s Managing Director said the partnership with Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways marks a significant milestone in the development of a sustainable aviation fuel industry in Australia “We are proud to be working with two globally recognised airlines that share our vision of creating a domestic supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel long-term emission reductions while building a new industry in regional Queensland “Our Ethanol to Jet SAF facility in the Charters Towers Region will be a fully integrated production site generating sustainable fuel from bioethanol derived from locally grown sugarcane by repurposing by-products of the SAF production process to generate renewable power onsite we are setting a new benchmark for sustainability in aviation fuel manufacturing “This initiative is more than just a step towards decarbonising air travel; it represents a major investment in Australia’s energy security and regional economic development.” Virgin Australia Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer Christian Bennett said the project had close alignment with the priorities in the Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways MoU “The commercial aviation sector in Australia – indeed globally – faces an enormous task ahead in working towards a target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 “Working together with industry partners and government to establish a domestic SAF industry in Australia will be essential – not only to achieve these shared emissions goals but to strengthen Australia’s liquid fuel security by reducing reliance on global supply chains and creating new jobs for those living in regional Australia “We are delighted to be working with our strategic partner and the team at RDA to try and bring this project to life It is a task strongly aligned with a key priority of our MoU with Qatar Airways which at its core focuses on advancing SAF and LCAF certification and commercial uptake through strategic collaborations A Qatar Airways spokesperson said: “The development of SAF infrastructure and of the fuel itself is of vital importance to the long-term sustainability of the aviation sector both in Australia and across the globe “This initiative is a testament to the opportunity Qatar Airways Group’s investment in Virgin Australia provides Qatar Airways is committed to meeting its environmental obligations and partnerships such as ours with Virgin Australia will be crucial to that.” Commentary from the Queensland Government  David Janetzki said: “Today’s announcement helps position Queensland as a global sustainable aviation fuel leader “The new government has committed to progress the sustainable fuels industry which stands to create opportunities and new jobs in regional Queensland.”  [1] Based on a lifecycle assessment completed Stantec using the GREET model [2] Virgin Australia and Boeing signed a MoU on sustainability in June 2023 including a specific focus on SAF-related cooperation All of Virgin Australia’s mainline commercial operations are operated on Boeing 737 aircraft DOWNLOAD IMAGES In the spirit of reconciliation Virgin Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, sky and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. Located 25km from Charters Towers it normally has a flow of fresh water many metres under the bridge and is always busy with road transport vehicles and other traffic there was just a trickle of water flowing and campers had parked on the sand beside the river bed Others were fishing from the same area trying to catch a sooty grunter or a black bream which the Burdekin there is renowned for sent me the pic at the top of this story which showed the road surface across it flooded “It is 1.5m above the road and expected to get higher tomorrow when water flows down from many areas upstream,” Seery said I told Seery that about 35 years ago I had travelled there by helicopter to do a story when it was 7m over Signs on the Charters Towers side indicate that extreme level “Don’t be surprised if it surpasses that level tomorrow (February 3),” Seery said Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id" "af0332fbe32a3550d6d151c845145313" );document.getElementById("g3bfc1e4af").setAttribute( "id" and website in this browser for the next time I comment Breeding EDGE is a three-day workshop designed to assist producers improve and refine their breeder herd management and genetic improvement plans using genetic and reproductive knowledge and technologies Cost includes: A comprehensive set of Workshop Notes A Charters Towers man who went on the run and told police they’d never catch him has made a brazen appeal for bail from his prison cell All articles from our websiteThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueWith varying levels of competitive seriousness but equal amounts of enthusiasm, the 2000 visitors to Charters Towers for the three-day event all declared they would be returning next year. Once again, the very small, devoted volunteer committee ensured that all who attended had a weekend to remember. President Craig McAllister has been at the helm since 2004 and when asked what had him committing to the work required year after year, he said it was about the community. "It's about bringing people together," he said. Official umpire Ian Beattie, from Atherton, said he looked forward to catching up with fellow cricketers every year. "It's not an event, it's a pilgrimage," he said. Charters Towers Regional Council is seeking community input to update its Destination Management Plan (DMP) to help guide sustainable growth of tourism across the region Council says the strategic initiative aims to position the Charters Towers Region as a top choice for visitors by highlighting its unique offerings and strengthening its competitiveness in the tourism market developed in 2019 and implemented in July 2020 “Updating our plan is essential to ensure we adapt to changes so that the Charters Towers Region remains a competitive attractive destination,” said Mayor Schmidt Council has engaged consultants Stafford Strategy to conduct a thorough review of the current tourism landscape through a situation analysis and a comprehensive assessment of industry trends The insights gathered will help to shape a new five-year structure focused on capitalising on opportunities and enhancing the region’s competitiveness alignment with regional economic initiatives including those led by Townsville Enterprise and Charters Towers Region’s Economic Development Strategy This coordinated approach aims to bolster the Charters Towers Region’s market presence and strengthen its position as a compelling destination in the broader tourism landscape “Council is committed to building a DMP that represents the priorities and aspirations of our community and to achieve this and stakeholders to participate in public workshops and a community survey.” “Through targeted strategies and a shared vision the new DMP will ensure the Region remains well-equipped to capitalise on current opportunities and foster sustained growth into the future,” said Mayor Schmidt More information on this project, including workshop dates and a link to the survey, can be found on Council’s Have Your Say portal at haveyoursay.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/ Hardcopies of the survey are also available at the Visitor Information Centre A woman has been badly hurt after falling from a roof on a rural property in Charters Towers Any Questions? Please call 1800 070 535 Saturday & Sunday 7:00am – 11:30am (AEST) A young teenaged girl has been injured in a pedestrian accident outside Maccas in Charters Towers Rural Landholder Recovery Grants of up to $10,000 are now open to application for the North and Far North Tropical Low 29 January - 28 February 2025 disaster event. Click here to find out more and apply online.  As pink skies and tree silhouettes reflect on the lagoon at Wambiana Station three generations of the Lyons family take in the familiar view and share a laugh after a hard day’s work in the cattle yards The cattle breeding and growing-out operation located 70 kilometres south of Charters Towers has been in the family for 112 years and third-generation owners John and Ronda Lyons swap fond glances as they reflect on where it all began “My grandfather bought the property in 1912 He was a man of foresight and determination and he put up with a lot of trials and tribulations in his lifetime,” John said John and Ronda took over the family operation in 1981 and John quipped the secret to their successful partnership was the alignment of their individual strengths “I was not a very good scholar in the classroom but I could hold my own outside,” John said floods and droughts to market fluctuations and trying economic conditions John recalled some challenging times from his and Ronda’s grazing days “We went through the cattle crash in 1974 when cattle prices went from $300 for a bullock to $30 and everyone got hurt in that cattle crash and a lot of people sold out and went away,” John said We’ve always sold down rather than to feed cattle because to feed them involves more expenditure Then we’ve tucked the money aside and as the rain came and the grass grew John and Ronda were able to overcome the trying times with financial assistance from the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) known as the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority (QRAA) prior to 2017 and presently we have a recovery loan going back to the monsoon disaster,” Ronda said we have five children that we’ve been able to rear here then they’ve gone off and they’ve all come back to the bush so that’s probably our biggest achievement.” now runs Wambiana Station alongside his wife “Michael’s parents have been very patient and supportive We’ve jokingly said we’ve had a 16-year apprenticeship,” Michelle said “When we first purchased the property from Michael’s parents Michelle and Michael also accessed a QRIDA Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant to recover from flooding and recently a QRIDA Drought Preparedness Grant to improve the climate resilience of their operation “We’re looking at a hay shed for fodder and also spreading water points out so we can have good water security in all the paddocks,” Michael said A lot about the cattle industry has changed in the decades that both generations have run Wambiana Station they looked more subjectively at the cattle to make decisions on which ones to breed from Whereas we're doing it a lot more objectively now and pulling hair samples getting the DNA analysed and predictions on growth rate fertility and carcass and using that to make data-driven decisions about what we're doing,” Michael said they all agree QRIDA has helped them along their grazing journey but we were super busy with cattle pregnancy testing and so we contacted the person doing the review and they were very happy to give us an extension,” Michael said Ronda said it was a relief to talk with the QRIDA team as they understood the agricultural industry That there’s someone there that understands the problems that you’re experiencing And that’s a big thing when you’re in the bush and things are a bit tough,” Ronda said “QRIDA has been wonderful because the big plusses are the lower interest rate now works at QRIDA as a Portfolio Management Support Officer after recently completing his agribusiness degree “My upbringing here at Wambiana Station has been very helpful in communicating with clients and helping them,” Tom said “It’s good to have a yarn with people who have come from a similar background and to see a different side of the industry not just the hands-on part growing up in the bush.”  the Lyons family drive back to the homestead filled with the love of their job in the bush and hopes for more successes on the horizon for Michael and Michelle and generations of Lyons to come QRIDA is celebrating its 30-year anniversary this October and QRIDA Regional Area Manager for North Queensland said the expert administrator of government grants and loans has helped thousands of primary producers and farming families like the Lyons establish and expand their operations “It’s great that we’ve always been there to foster sustainable and resilient communities throughout Queensland for the last 30 years,” Angelo said “Agriculture and business generally are so important to the lifeblood of Queensland and we’re all exceptionally proud to have been supporting it for that long.” For more information about how QRIDA has been helping rural and regional communities thrive for the past 30 years, visit QRIDA's 30-year anniversary web page Stay connected with the latest news and events in your region The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present © The State of Queensland (Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority) 2010–2025 Queensland Government Kennedy MP Bob Katter is calling for a cull of flying foxes that are again plaguing Charters Towers Picture by Life on Red Hill.A Charters Towers family has been left heartbroken after relentless rainfall over the last week left cattle bogged All articles from our websiteThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueAs of Monday February 10 650mm has fallen at Red Hill Station owned by Kylie Stretton and her husband Shane well above the 507mm recorded in nine days in 2019 when the biggest daily measurement was 90mm While the total loss of cattle is difficult to tell with buggies getting bogged trying to rescue them and many calves unbranded Ms Stretton has been able to find calves with broken legs after falling down mud holes and bogged cows dead or too weak to survive Red Hill has received 650mm of rain as of Monday Picture by Life on Red Hill.Roads and dams have been lost too "There have been tears [because] no matter how long I live this life I think I will always upset when our animals are hurting .. and there's nothing you can do to help them "We've got upcoming issues of any disease that might pop up [Bovine Ephemeral Fever] will be the biggest one and our mustering costs to recover [cattle] will be larger than normal A snake cut out power at Red Hill after it tried to reach a nest during a downpour Picture by Life on Red Hill.The Strettons had opened gates across a few paddocks to allow cattle to spread across as much sheltered high ground as possible or retrieve lost calves but we're still asking ourselves what we could have done differently," she said We got as many cows out of the paddock on Saturday and because they're so used to that rotational grazing because they were running short of feed where they were around three-quarters of the mob was with us "We haven't been back since because they're very unsettled We don't want to force that big mob movement because .. we don't want to stress them out any more than they have been because more calves get left behind Although they're usually very good at keeping them with them." Picture by Life on Red Hill.Mrs Stretton had received offers of supplies and free services from Charters Towers Regional Council and local contractors "It will be a week until we can move cattle again they will get bogged because of the sheer weight on the ground It will be four to six weeks [before it dries out]," she said Moving cattle to other paddocks at Red Hill Picture by Life on Red Hill.Mrs Stretton said she is now forward planning for protein drought as she expects the nutrients to be drowned out of the ground after the heavy rain "That'll be adjusting stock numbers if we feel the need to making sure our lick regime is on point and making sure at the end of the year our cattle are getting the protein and energy they require for their calves and themselves," she said Townsville Enterprise is urging all sides of politics to commit over $578 million to upgrade the region's healthcare infrastructure solidifying Townsville as the healthcare super hub of Northern Australia.  Healthcare is one of the key priorities in Townsville Enterprise’s Unlock the North State Election Priorities document.   The 11 funding asks within the document include:  emphasised that this investment is essential for maintaining a liveable region and ensuring the future of the local workforce.  “Healthcare is not just a service; it’s a lifeline It plays a crucial role in deciding where people settle “The health outcomes in rural areas lag far behind metropolitan regions This puts immense strain on Townsville Hospital which is tasked with delivering critical healthcare to a vast population stretching across Northern Australia.”   “Townsville Hospital and Health Service is planning and innovating to meet the growing demand We have outlined 11 clear and necessary asks this election including funding for a new hospital in Charters Towers an integrated health centre on Magnetic Island advanced services like deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s patients and an NQ spinal unit and expanded maternity services.”  “The healthcare challenges faced by our community aren’t just economic—they’re deeply personal being able to access treatment close to home is vital It’s not just about convenience; it’s about better outcomes for patients.”  “These initiatives will save lives and improve patient outcomes but they also make our region more liveable and help to attract the talent we need to grow.”  Charters Towers Deputy Mayor Cr Kate Hastie voiced the urgency for a new hospital in her community.   “Our current facilities are outdated and unable to meet modern standards Our community deserves better,” said Cr Hastie .  Cr Hastie also described the hardships faced by residents in outlying areas who must often travel to Townsville for essential medical care.   “People in the Charters Towers region and other western communities are frequently forced to make long trips for life-saving treatments This not only places extra pressure on Townsville Hospital but also makes it harder to attract workers and secure future investments.”  With major projects like CopperString and the Singapore Defence Agreement driving population growth Cr Hastie said the need for healthcare investment is only becoming more pressing.  the absence of local birthing facilities added a layer of stress to an already overwhelming experience.  “I birthed all of my children in the Townsville General Hospital but my antenatal care was here in Charters Towers.”  “The midwives here want you to relocate to Townsville before the 38 week mark of pregnancy we have to arrange care for our other children and the travel costs as well.”  “If I were able to birth here in Charters Towers it would have been a much more positive and supportive experience”    “The Midwives and staff in Charters Towers are amazing Being able to birth with them after creating such a special bond during my antenatal care would have been wonderful Just when you need their support the most we are forced to relocate elsewhere.”  mentally and emotionally to have to be away from home in familiar surroundings with your support network and instead we were living out of suitcases for weeks it just shouldn’t be this way.”  “It becomes very expensive to relocate There is a small reimbursement available to help with travel and accommodation but we still have to pay the costs upfront The financial burden is very stressful on families when you are already trying to prepare for the birth of your child.”  For more information visit: Unlock the North - State Election 2024 | Townsville Enterprise Site by OracleStudio Townsville Enterprise and Townsville North Queensland acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout our region and Australia and their connections to land We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today Townsville Enterprise a not-for-profit organisation and is the official Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) and economic development body of the Townsville North Queensland region extending from the Burdekin to the Hinchinbrook and including the central section of the Great Barrier Reef and its island communities of Magnetic Island and the Palm Island group A rural North Queensland teen from a farming family and an innovative idea to measure soil moisture has won a major national entrepreneurial award Charters Towers Regional Council CEO Martin Drydale is stepping down Charters Towers Agricultural Show The Charters Towers Agricultural Show is an annual event that brings together the local community to celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage and achievements the Show is a highlight of the Charters Towers calendar.Set to take place from 28 July to 30 July at the Charters Towers Showgrounds this year’s show will offer an exciting lineup of events The Charters Towers Agricultural Show has long been a cornerstone of our community we continue this proud tradition with a host of competitions and displays that highlight the skill and dedication of our farmers Committee President said “We the committee of the Towers Pastoral Agricultural and Mining Association are so pleased to be carrying on the long-standing tradition as the custodians for the Charters Towers Show Since our first show in 1881 we have been able to bring high quality entertainment to the community along with a wonderful avenue for locals to exhibit their manufacturing The Charters Towers Agricultural Show is a family affair offering a wide range of activities and entertainment for all ages From thrilling rides and games in the carnival area to live music there’s something for everyone to enjoy “My personal highlight for this year’s show is the ever-increasing Stud cattle display Stud cattle of various breeds will be represented in both Lead and penned classes with many animals being offered for private sale This exhibit is so valuable for the local cattleman to be able to see the high quality of seedstockanimals on offer in their own back yard” Mr Coleman said Monday and Tuesday nights feature the Airtime Freestyle Motocross Team who push the limits on what’s possible and their action-packed show launching motorcycles high in the air while performing some of the most death-defying stunts is guaranteed to have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!Plus Tearing up the dirt track and flying through the air on quad bikes Jacks Chickens will be doing everything they can to avoid being caught by the sneaky villainous Fox Chicken Run is perfect for the whole family we can’t forget everyone’s favourite – the Fireworks and this year’s display won’t disappoint Tickets for the Charters Towers Agricultural Show 2024 are available now. Visit our official website at https://charterstowersshow.com.au/tickets/ for ticket prices and more information Follow us on social media for the latest updates and sneak peeks of what’s to come Mark your calendars and join us for a fantastic celebration of agriculture and community spirit at the Charters Towers Agricultural Show 2024 Kenneth Coleman Show PresidentCharters Towers Agricultural Show Committee Phone: 0428 740 865Email: mail@ctshow.com.au Sign up for updates from Australian Rural & Regional News Manage your subscription We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info. Picture by Tony Parker.Cricket fanatics from across the country are preparing their livers their kits and their team outfits for a record-breaking Goldfield Ashes with 4000 out-of-towners and more teams than ever before set to pour into Charters Towers All articles from our websiteThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueFrom January 17-19 266 teams (topping last year's record 243) across the A Ladies and Social grades will compete in the largest amateur cricket carnival in the southern hemisphere at 80 different pitches Rite Choice Meats manager Sophie Claes and friends have formed their own team and are counting down the days until they can debut their bright outfits in the social division 'Crocs out!' The I'd Hit That team from Townsville Picture by Steph Allen.The Charters Towers local previously played with Bottoms Up and said the annual event is one the town starts preparing for in October "The whole state rallies together in this little old town in North Queensland and it's an unforgettable weekend It doesn't even feel like Charters Towers when it's happening," she said the vibes are so high and everyone is having a great time It's truly the weekend everyone in Charters looks forward to the most Chloe McHugh and Sophie Claes with the owner of Unfamiliar Apparel Picture by Sophie Claes."Last year all it did was rain Everyone was out there in their mudboots with mud up to their knees and soaked top to bottom you'd get on one knee and do a [beer] funnel," she said It's the social element that keeps Ms Claes returning where she catches up with friends that she only sees once a year at the Ashes but a lot of the teams have been standing for a long time," she said Paul McEvoy from Townsville's Tinnies and Beers Picture by Steph Allen."You get to know new people and it's also fun You can play someone on Friday and go out on Friday night and see them at the pub and [have some banter]." The influx is expected to inject hundreds of thousands of dollars into the local economy restaurants and accommodation expecting a busy weekend Heritage Hotel manager Pam Batchelor said her venue was fully booked months in advance with three teams from Townsville making their reservations for the following year the day after the previous Ashes wraps who played for the Hormones for eight years was looking forward to the 76th annual event where teams from as far as Tasmania were expected to attend Elijah Smith and Sam Martin in the Townsville NFAS Picture by Steph Allen."It's a great deal of fun We have people cheering from the hills and people who have never swung a bat before and there are teams that really want to win Bottoms Up team mates Chloe McHugh and Tari Limb at the 2024 Goldfield Ashes Picture by Sophie Claes."The organisers start organising next year's Ashes the day after the last one finishes Council staff do some of that as well; we all contribute to a great weekend." Ms Claes encouraged first-timers to give next year's Ashes a crack and check out the Goldfield Ashes Facebook group for information about team availability or for next year's event "It doesn't matter if you've never touched a cricket ball The week's top stories curated by our news team. Industry news from Australia's dairy sector. Our twice weekly wrap of the big news in the red meat sector. Our twice weekly wrap of the latest in rural property sales. bought the two top-priced bulls from the 2024 Rocky Brangus Sale Picture by Judith Maizey.Flooded roads in and out of Charters Towers has pushed back the inaugural Triple B Brangus Northern Production Sale to keep producers and animals safe during extreme weather All articles from our websiteThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueTriple B stud principal Lindsay Barlow Dingo said after consulting with livestock agents given the recent weather a decision had been made to postpone the sale by a fortnight to February 28 The sale was due to take place on February 14 The roads are cut and nobody can get in or out," Mr Barlow said "It's better for everyone and for the animals." Sixty-five Brangus bulls are expected to go under the hammer with the sale kicking off at 10am at the Dalrymple Saleyards I think most people will be fairly appreciative that it's been put back," Mr Barlow said "We couldn't get in and nobody can get out The road is cut at Cape River and there is continuous flooding to the north [of Charters Towers]." Triple B was founded in 1990 with the enrollment of 100 females by Robert The stud has since grown to one of the country's largest purebred registered Brangus herds ABC News News HomeTwo hitchhiking friends were murdered on Queensland’s 'highway of death' 52 years ago Some believe their killer can still be foundShare Two hitchhiking friends were murdered on Queensland’s 'highway of death' 52 years ago Some believe their killer can still be foundCBy Ciara Jones Anita Cunningham and Robin Hoinville-Bartram's killer has never been found Link copiedShareShare articleIt's a desolate 800-kilometre strip of bitumen that has become so synonymous with tragedy it's earned the sinister nickname "the highway of death" the Flinders Highway is one of Australia's most important freight routes used to feed and fuel north-west Queensland and parts of the Northern Territory The Flinders Highway stretches between Townsville and Mount Isa But the remote corridor has its sinister secrets and a dark past 12 people were murdered — or vanished — along the highway No-one has been convicted of any of the crimes But one of the earliest atrocities on the notorious road has baffled generations of investigators and locals alike 1972 — 52 years ago this week — the remains of hitchhiker Robin Hoinville-Bartram were found protruding from a shallow grave under a bridge at Sensible Creek about 80 kilometres west of Charters Towers Robin Hoinville-Bartram’s remains were found partially buried under a bridge off the Flinders Highway on November 15 The 18-year-old from Melbourne had been shot twice in the head and raped There was no trace of her friend and travel companion making the case one of Queensland's most enduring murder mysteries — and despite a $250,000 reward David Cunningham is still fighting for justice for his sister who he says was "full of life and happiness" Robin and Anita were fresh out of high school and transitioning into young adulthood in 1972 They lived together in an apartment in the Melbourne suburb of Hartwell and were studying art design at the Prahan Technical College A newspaper article from the time of the murders They'd become "really good buddies" 2,500-kilometre hitchhiking holiday up Australia's east coast to visit Robin's mother who lived on a pineapple plantation near Bowen in north Queensland Mr Cunningham remembers clearly his parents pleading with Anita not to hitchhike with their father even offering to pay the plane fare when long-distance hitchhiking was a symbol of freedom and independence with teenagers and young adults particularly apt to thumb a ride "We were really naive," Mr Cunningham says Robin Hoinville-Bartram (far right) and Anita Cunningham (centre) were murdered on Queensland's "highway of death" Their father dropped the friends at the Tullamarine Freeway where they began their journey nor made any contact with their families after leaving Melbourne Retired Queensland detective sergeant Mick Gurn who will publish a book about the case this year began investigating the mystery in 2014 and has spent the past decade dissecting the girls' final movements Mr Gurn says the evidence he has found suggests Anita and Robin made it to Mount Isa in Queensland before heading east along the Flinders Highway to the outback town of Hughenden and then onto Pentland in the Charters Towers region It was here that Robin's remains were discovered in a sandy creek bed beneath a railway bridge — four months after she left Victoria Police identified her using dental records She had two bullet wounds in the back of her skull Police believed Robin was shot dead "probably late in August or early in September" according to newspaper reports at the time Art student Robin Hoinville-Bartram was murdered in 1972 officers launched a desperate large-scale search involving high-tech equipment Robin and Anita both would have been 70 this year Mr Gurn has travelled to the area where the girls were last seen and has spoken with dozens of people in the Charters Towers region in the hope of uncovering the truth for Mr Cunningham and getting justice He says one woman remembered meeting the girls with her mother at the Pentland Hotel in July of 1972 The witness claimed she and her mother chatted with Robin and Anita at the hotel's bar "The girls said they had come to Pentland from Mount Isa in a truck with a young man they only knew as 'Cowboy' who called himself Richard," Mr Gurn says "They said they were on their way to Bowen … and they wanted a lift to Charters Towers and one of the men who was in the bar there arranged a lift." the girls got into a car with a group of people She claims she saw him the next day with a scratch on his face Queensland police have never publicly identified a suspect or a person of interest in the murders of Robin and Anita Mr Cunningham believes several people know what happened Mr Cunningham's tormenting wait for answers continues — but he's not alone Several other puzzling high-profile crimes on the Flinders Highway remain unsolved The triple murder of Karen Edwards, Tim Thomson and Gordon Twaddle remains unsolved. (Supplied: Queensland Police Service.) Mr Cunningham and Mr Gurn are calling for a full commission of inquiry into the deaths of Robin and Anita and the police investigation. "It just needs the ends all tying together and that can only be done by the authorities … with the power to subpoena witnesses and question them," Mr Cunningham says. Mr Gurn believes an inquiry would "get the people that know about the story … the people that have denied involvement … in the witness box, on oath". Tony Jones went missing in north Queensland in 1982. (Supplied: Queensland Police Service) "I'm quite sure it can be solved by doing that," he says. The Queensland Police Service has been contacted for comment. Anyone with information on the murders of Robin Hoinville-Bartram and the disappearance and suspected murder of Anita Cunningham can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.