Burdekin Growers Race Day Delivers Again The Burdekin Growers Race Day lived up to its reputation as the region’s premier 18+ social event on Saturday, May 17, delivering a mix of racing, fashion, and community celebration under perfect autumn skies. Thousands flocked to the track for the annual event, as the vibration of hooves denting the manicured grass course signalled the start of a six-race program showcasing top local talent.
Read the full storyPlantation Park came alive on Sunday for the 16th annual Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, drawing a strong crowd for a day of fun, fundraising and floating plastic ducks. Hundreds lined the creek bank to cheer on the rubber competitors, with one lucky duck taking out the $1000 top prize and the coveted 2025 Quack Cup. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox joined locals in enjoying the festivities, which included food stalls, kids’ activities and live tunes from the Burdekin Brass Band. The c
Read the full storyThe Burdekin took centre stage on national television last week as The Today Show brought its live weather broadcast to the region as part of a week-long Townsville North Queensland showcase. On Tuesday, May 14, viewers across the country woke up to the sights and sounds of the Burdekin, with weatherman Tim Davies broadcasting live from the Burdekin Theatre forecourt between 5:30am and 9:00am. Locals turned out in force to be part of the action, with behind-the-scenes fun, community spirit, an
Read the full storyThe Bowen Pipeline Project is edging closer to becoming a reality, with state approval expected in 2025 and construction forecast to begin within the next 12 months. Bowen Pipeline Company spokesperson Sean Brown recently confirmed the project remains on schedule, with the public advertising phase of its Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application underway since the 4th of April. The application, lodged in December of 2024 and confirmed in March earlier this year, is progressing th
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
Born and raised in Ayr, Kristy Grabs knows the value of community—and she brings that local warmth to every interaction in her role as floor manager at Harvey Norman Ayr. With four years at the store under her belt—one in computers, and the last three in electrical—Kristy’s retail career stretches far beyond Harvey Norman. She spent 15 years at Overflow, where she worked her way up into a management position, and helped open Silly Solly’s before joining the Harvey team. “I love interacting wit
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
Tucked just off Queen Street lies Carmichael Ford—a powerhouse of automotive knowledge and expertise. And while the building may have changed location, customers still receive the same experience, loyalty and service that has always lived inside. At the helm of this close-knit team is Jenna Heidke, Branch Manager and spare parts interpreter—a title that, she laughs, “means you’ve got to be a bit of a detective!” Jenna joined the company in 2002 as an apprentice parts interpreter in Bowen. It wa
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
Neighbourhood Centre Week is a nationwide initiative held annually in May to celebrate the vital role and impact of local Neighbourhood and Community Centres. This year, the theme for Queensland is ‘The heart of our community’. From the 12th to 18th May, Neighbourhood Centres celebrated in various ways, from community meals to community murals. The week united communities across Queensland by connecting people in a statewide celebration while saying thank you and encouraging Queenslanders to cel
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
A couple of weeks ago, the Burdekin Touch Association (BTA) took time out to recognise a special group of people on and off the field - its players and officials who are past or present members of local emergency services. “The contribution made to the Burdekin community by SES, Lifesavers, Police, Fire & Rescue, Paramedics and Marine Rescue members often goes unnoticed,” said BTA President, Michael Littlefield. “We wanted to thank our Touch Football members who make our community a safe
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
Home Hill Pickleball numbers continue to rise. Over the weekend, club members headed up to Townsville to participate in a Queensland Pickleball Tournament. While the opposition were consistent and quick at the net, all the players did some learning and had a great time. Debbie Tait came home with a silver medal in the mixed doubles and Hannah Casswell a silver in the open ladies’ doubles. The club is looking forward to hosting the Cane Country Cup, a mixed doubles team event on Sunday 8th June.
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
It’s been a big week at the Ayr Bowling Club, with two major highlights bringing excitement and energy to our local greens. Thanks to a generous grant from the Community Gaming Benefit Fund, brand-new lighting was installed on the club’s green on Tuesday. The upgrade was made possible with the support of Ergon Energy and expertly carried out by the team at Coral Coast Electrical. These lights are set to enhance the club’s popular Wednesday Night Social Bowls and Friday Fun Nights, providing a b
Read the full storyFebruary 6, 2025
Joining a club isn't just about exploring something you're passionate about or picking up a new hobby; it's also about connecting with others, building relationships, and immersing yourself in your local community. Clubs offer a unique opportunity to meet people who share your interests and values, and often, these connections can evolve into long-lasting friendships. A great example of this is The Burdekin Brass Band. By becoming a member, you'll not only be joining a community of like-minded
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
Saturday 24 May Burdekin Enduro Off-Road Race Saturday 9am Join the Burdekin Off-Roaders Club for their annual home ground off-road race, the Burdekin Enduro. This family friendly event showcases some of Queensland’s, and Australia’s, best off-road race cars as they tear through the dirt to claim podium places. Don’t miss the sprint section on Saturday afternoon where you will be able to see the cars up close and personal. Entry is free, just bring water and something to sit on. Burdekin Offroad
Read the full storyMay 21, 2025
From the 7th to the 18th of this month, the local community flocked to the Burdekin theatre to witness the next generation of local talent strut their stuff. In its 41st year, the annual event saw 2600 talented children from all over North Queensland showcase their skills across a range of disciplines and age groups—from poetry and choral performances to classical piano and traditional Highland dance. “We’re very happy with the amount of entries and how it went,” said the secretary of the even
Read the full storyMay 22, 2025
If one thing can be said for sure, it’s that the Burdekin Shire loves its annual Ladies Day celebrations! After another stellar year of Ladies Day events in 2024, the Burdekin Roosters, Burdekin Football Club, and Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads have taken a place on calendars across the community, confirming 2025 will be a year to remember with three wonderful weekends on the horizon! The first club to take a seat at the 2025 table will be the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads! Saturday the 12th o
Read the full storyMay 15, 2025
Excitement is building across the Burdekin as ducks and humans alike ready themselves for the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, set to take over Plantation Park this Sunday, May 18. Now in its 16th year, the much-loved community event will see hundreds of bright yellow ducks hit the creek for a thrilling 130-metre float to glory. The spectacle kicks off at 11am near the Don Moss Archway, with cash prizes on offer for the fastest five finishers—including $1000 and the coveted 2025 Quack Cup for fir
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