The Burdekin Water Festival’s Grand Parade and Mardi Gras lit up Ayr on Saturday with an energetic display of local pride and creativity. The streets were alive with floats from businesses, organisations, and schools, each vying for top honours in various categories. The parade kicked off with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) leading the way, setting a high-spirited tone for the event. The Townsville RSL Pipe Band followed, adding a traditional musical touch, while floats from Queensland Cou
Read the full storyCole Pontifex was more than overjoyed when he was announced as the Winning Junior Ambassador for the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival, a moment he says he’ll never forget. “The night when I was announced as the Winning Ambassador felt amazing, and it’ll be a night I’ll never forget, it was great!” explained Cole. Cole has been an active and valued member of the Burdekin Academy since he was 10 and representing the Academy as one of their Junior Ambassadors in the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival was
Read the full storyHello, I have been busy since my last column I attended the Burdekin Brass Band concert on the 4th August with Councillor Callan Oar, what a enjoyable afternoon. They had the whole theatre singing along and toe tapping to all of the great tunes from the old to the modern. What a great job they did. Well done. The Zonta Club had their 30th Birthday celebrations at the RSL, there were past and present ladies from the club. A lovely night was had by all reminiscing from the beginning of the club
Read the full storyThe Canefields Ephemera, now in its seventh year, has become a highly anticipated event in Home Hill, showcasing the creativity of local and state artists. Set against the picturesque Lloyd Mann Gardens, this outdoor sculpture festival transforms the park into an open-air gallery, allowing visitors to explore striking installations both day and night. This year’s exhibition builds on the success of previous festivals, continuing to attract artists from across Queensland and the local region. Or
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
This past week, I was involved in a car crash that could have ended far worse than it did and although it has taken me a full week to fully process what happened, I am so grateful for everyone who has taken the time to check I’m ok. Thankfully, I’m on the mend, but the road to recovery has been made smoother by the overwhelming support from our incredible community. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kari Ravizza, whose quick actions and kind words helped more than she can know. Kari was
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
Funding renovations for aging health infrastructure so it “will last generations” is at the top of the list for Labor candidate Anne Baker who is vying for the position of Member for Burdekin in the upcoming State Election, due to be held at the end of October. According to Ms Baker, the Labor Government is investing over $1 billion to deliver world-class health facilities in Queensland’s rural and remote communities through the Building Rural and Remote Health Program. More than 20 key proje
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
Member for Burdekin Dale Last has applauded the Burdekin and Bowen communities after a weekend of successful events in the regions. Thousands gathered to watch the colours and fun of the street parade as the Burdekin’s Water Festival successfully returned to Ayr’s main street. The community support was echoed in Bowen where racers and riders from across the nation competed in the renowned Don River Dash at Bowen. Mr Last said the success of both Bowen and Burdekin events at the weekend was a c
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
Burdekin FC’s Premier League side have qualified for Saturday’s Grand Final after winning 1-0 against MA Olympic in the Preliminary Final, played at Paradise Park in Townsville last Saturday night. The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a sense of confidence going into this game, having beaten MA Olympic twice with the most recent win coming just two weeks ago. However, the Panthers also knew that it wasn't going to be an easy task coming up against the minor premiers. The game started slowly for th
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
The Burdekin Roosters Reggies suffered a tough defeat in the Grand Final last Sunday, falling 42-24 to minor premiers Souths at the Sports Reserve in Townsville. Early mistakes from the Roosters allowed Souths to gain momentum, and by halftime, the Redmen led 24-0. Despite a spirited second-half comeback, where the Roosters outscored Souths 24-18, the early deficit proved insurmountable. Terry Connors crossed twice for the Roosters, with Nemia Nawave and Braedyn Cotter also scoring, but Souths
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
The Burdekin Netball Association has awarded Wilma Wright a prestigious Life Membership in recognition of her 15 years of dedicated service. This honour is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the association, and Wilma’s tireless commitment over the years has made her a standout recipient. Wilma became involved with the association in 1996 when her daughter Sarah joined the local netball scene, shortly after the family moved to the Burdekin. Despite being new to th
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
Cole Pontifex was more than overjoyed when he was announced as the Winning Junior Ambassador for the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival, a moment he says he’ll never forget. “The night when I was announced as the Winning Ambassador felt amazing, and it’ll be a night I’ll never forget, it was great!” explained Cole. Cole has been an active and valued member of the Burdekin Academy since he was 10 and representing the Academy as one of their Junior Ambassadors in the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival was
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
Cole Pontifex was more than overjoyed when he was announced as the Winning Junior Ambassador for the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival, a moment he says he’ll never forget. “The night when I was announced as the Winning Ambassador felt amazing, and it’ll be a night I’ll never forget, it was great!” explained Cole. Cole has been an active and valued member of the Burdekin Academy since he was 10 and representing the Academy as one of their Junior Ambassadors in the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival was
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
The Canefields Ephemera, now in its seventh year, has become a highly anticipated event in Home Hill, showcasing the creativity of local and state artists. Set against the picturesque Lloyd Mann Gardens, this outdoor sculpture festival transforms the park into an open-air gallery, allowing visitors to explore striking installations both day and night. This year’s exhibition builds on the success of previous festivals, continuing to attract artists from across Queensland and the local region. Or
Read the full storySeptember 12, 2024
Ayr State High School graduate René Le Feuvre is set to make a highly anticipated return to North Queensland this October. After building a flourishing music career, René’s tour will include performances across Mackay, Bowen, Airlie Beach, and Townsville, with a special highlight at the Giru Pub on October 5. Having last toured the region in 2018, following his appearance on The Voice, René’s return has been a long time coming. He is excited to reconnect with the local community, particularly i
Read the full storySeptember 5, 2024
For 20 years, Erin Brennan has been at the helm of various productions, bringing stories to life on stage. This year, they're excited to present "Going Troppo," a lively and humorous musical set on a tropical island, all to the beat of iconic 80s music. The storyline follows a group of vacationers as they embark on a hilarious journey, experiencing the highs and lows of island life. Brennan emphasises that the show is not just about entertainment but also about providing an escape for the audien
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