Little did I know that a phone message 3 weeks ago was going to turn into such an enjoyable business trip. Complete with last minute flight cancellations and Charter Flights!
I’m in Mt Isa today, after a flurry of activity this morning. I was supposed to be flying out of Doomadgee, North Western Queensland via Rex. The flight would’ve taken me to Mornington Island, across to Normanton. Over the Tablelands to Cairns and then a quick 50min home to Townsville. Instead, I received a call at 8am saying that the flight had been cancelled and that I was about to be picked up with the Councilor’s to head to the Burketown Airport to jump on their Charter Flight down to Mt Isa and to stay tuned for when we might be able to get a flight to Townsville.
I was so excited! A little nervous cause I had just finished a Facetime with my girls and told them I’ll see them tonight, so I was feeling a little guilty that I might not be able to do that.
Soon enough the Cruiser pulled up out front of Savannah Lodge, where I had just spent a rewarding 2 days working with Kim the Economic Development Officer for Burke Shire Council and some of the local business owners. We scoot off to the Burketown International Airport, race through security and with no chance to stop in at the lounge, we are out on the tarmac ready to board.
Our Co-Pilot, who is also a Councilor arrived shortly after and off we went. “We’ve got a head wind, so should be a little over 1 hour flying time.” The pilot had to try the left propeller 3 times before she kicked over properly.
Not an ideal start.
The head wind was a cross wind as we were hurtling down the runway. Zigging and zagging over the middle line until we were travelling fast enough for wheels up.
What a treat.
Flying over north western Queensland in a Piper Chieftain in May. The monsoon wet season was well and truly over. The sky was crystal clear and down below, the green landscape stretched as far as the horizon. It is truly remote. You get a real sense for how small your problems are when you’re in a plane, let alone flying over “the outback”.
JY told me stories of his time building the roads in the 60’s, of Gun Powder Mines History and all the upcoming potential of Cobalt and Vanadium minerals that are in the region.
The land below changed from green sweeping plains and riverways chiseled into the countryside to red rocky outcrops before the jagged hills and the smoke stacks of Mt Isa appeared on the horizon. We flew over “the pit” and the massive Mt Isa Mine site and
As directed, just over one hour, our wheels touched down on the runway.
I’m going to spend some time finding out about the history of Australia to better understand the geological formations you see out here. It’s wild how rough and rugged it is, yet there are stunning smooth hills and waterways, which makes me think if might have been under water at some stage (before humans changed the climate with rising sea levels)
But first, I have a lot of homework to do from being in Burketown. It’s Queensland Small Business Month and I was invited out to discuss all things Small Business by Kim, the incredible Economic Development Officer for Burke Shire. She organised for me to meet in back to back meetings with local business owners to discuss all things Technology, Compliance and Strategy.
Whilst Burketown is only a small town of approx. 200, the Council services nearly 40,000km2. Rich in Tourism, Grazing and Mining, Burketown is home of the world renowned “Morning Glory” cloud formation and is affectionately known as “the Heart of The Gulf”. After my visit I can see why.
At the end of the day, I presented to the Council and Business Owners on how we can all focus on improving our lives through our businesses. Utilising Technology, smart Strategy and embracing our Community, we can all use the vehicle of our businesses to drive a better future for our families, our Community and of course, ourselves!
A very special thank you to Kim, The Burke Shire Council and Burketown for an incredible experience. I’m looking forward to our next adventure.
I can’t recommend travel enough, let alone throughout Queensland (just like all of Australia) but if you find yourself in the Burketown area, let me suggest the following:
The most beautiful hidden oasis I’ve ever stayed. Extremely comfortable Cabins, with the most impressive Tropical Bar setup I’ve ever seen. Chef/Host/Gardener/Manager Amanda does an amazing job and ensured I had a wonderful stay.
Morning Glory Restaurant
Rita served the most delicious meals! I was spoilt with Grilled Barramundi and Salad with Thai Sauce, BBQ Pork Ribs and Rice and I was able to nab the last Corned Beef and Salad sandwich late in the day too.
Charter Flights and Tours – with a fleet of 5 Aircraft I can attest first hand how valuable their service is.