Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Burdekin Shire Council last week announced a new initiative in a bid to manage the flying fox population in Memorial Park, Home Hill ahead of the Anzac Day commemorations.  
On Wednesday April 24, from 5:30am to 7:00am, Council trialled a non-invasive dispersal method that has shown to be effective in other communities.  
The approach involves the use of a small, portable smoke machine that emits a safe, non-toxic, non-irritant and water-based smoke, ensuring no harm to people, pets, or wildlife.  
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said this trial represents a step forward in Council’s long-term management plan for flying foxes.
“Council would like to thank the 68 participants who contributed to the online survey which provided valuable data,” Ms Dalle Cort said.
“The consultants are now incorporating the results into the Flying Fox Management Plan and a draft of the plan will be available soon for community consultation.”

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On-site activities have ramped up on Burdekin Falls Dam as the Queensland Government works to raise the dam by two metres and improve its resilience against extreme weather.
22 jobs will be supported by these on-site activities over the coming months, with the majority from North Queensland, while the project will create more than 350 jobs during construction.
Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said Queensland’s largest dam is about to get even bigger.
“With the project set to create 350 jobs during construction, there will be considerable flow-on benefits for North Queensland,” he said.
“I also look forward to seeing more Townsville and North Queensland suppliers getting involved.
“The 2-metre raise makes sense – both economically and environmentally.”
Drilling and trenching will examine the dam’s foundations, main structure and saddle dams.
The project team will also assess clay and sand from the area.
These on-site activities will help the project team better understand labour, equipment and material requirements to inform construction.
Local suppliers from Townsville and Ayr have been contracted to provide accommodation, office and laboratory testing facilities as well plant hire and plumbing services.
Topographic surveys are also progressing to inform the design process while Sunwater is conducting stakeholder engagement with landholders and Traditional Owners.
Cultural heritage field officers representing the Birriah People are supporting these works.
“The investigations and preparatory works we have commenced are essential to provide us with the information we need to make important project decisions,” said Sunwater CEO Glenn Stockton.
“Sunwater continues to engage directly with the community, landholders and Traditional Owners to ensure local interests and expectations are considered and managed during project activities.”
The Burdekin Falls Dam 2-metre raise will increase medium priority water allocations by approximately 150,000 megalitres per year, boosting capacity at the dam from 1.8 million megalitres to more than 2.4 million.
The proposed works on the dam will include raising the spillway and abutments using concrete buttressing, raising and widening the saddle dams, and constructing a new saddle dam on the right bank.
Businesses can register their interest to supply goods and services on the project’s dedicated web registry.  
Sunwater will soon appoint a consultant to undertake a series of investigations into the road network leading to the dam.

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The Burdekin Falls Dam 2-metre raise will increase medium priority water allocations by approximately 150,000 megalitres per year. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) has hit a winning streak after their success in securing a Bendigo Bank Community Grant.
Sheree McKaig, the Grants Officer for BNA, expressed her enthusiasm for the $36,000 grant, highlighting its significance in advancing the association's initiatives.
Established in 1970, BNA has been a pivotal fixture in the Burdekin community, providing sporting opportunities for over five decades.
With a robust membership base spanning juniors to seniors, the association fosters not only athletic development but also social connections and community engagement.
Sheree underscored the association's dependence on its volunteers and committee of 35 members, noting their active involvement in local events and support for neighbouring sporting clubs.
“We also have many more volunteers during the year, with parents assisting in the canteen weekly and at our annual carnival and fundraising events,” Sheree said.    
“BNA performs many volunteer hours in our community and supports the Home Hill Harvest Festival and other sporting clubs in Home Hill by providing manpower to assist and support their fund-raising activities.
“We also assist when required at other community organisations fundraising events.
“We are very appreciative of everyone who lends a hand, both large and small.”
Reflecting on the grant application process, Sheree emphasised the importance of additional support in sustaining community organisations.
“Fundraising is hard, and assistance provided by any external source is always welcome,” she said.
“Support from Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr is a two-way relationship; we encourage our members to support them as they support us.”
The grant will primarily fund the purchase of four iPads, enhancing the association's capacity to streamline game scoring and data management through Netball Queensland's Netball Connect program.
Additionally, funds will be allocated towards acquiring a shipping container for equipment storage, optimising space within the clubhouse and improving accessibility for coaches.
“It is a lot of work to apply for a grant and very exciting and rewarding to actually receive it,” Sheree said.
“Grant writing requires valuable time and effort, and it is a rewarding experience if successful.  
“For our club, it allows other money we are raising to be saved for our goal of a major refurbishment, which will see upgraded modern facilities for the entire community to enjoy.”
As BNA gears up for upcoming events and fundraisers, Sheree extended a warm invitation to all community members.
"BNA is a great club and a great social outlet, whether you are a player or a spectator,” she said.
With new fundraising activities on the horizon and the eagerly anticipated Harvest Festival mixed competition, BNA continues to champion community engagement and athletic excellence in the Burdekin region.

BNA has provided sporting and social opportunities to the Burdekin region for over five decades

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A new CT scanner, addressing housing and cutting power prices are among the priorities Member for Burdekin Dale Last will be looking for in the upcoming final state budget before October’s state election.
The 2024/2025 state budget will be handed down in less than two months and with plenty of opportunities and investment needed right across the electorate, Mr Last said it was only fair that the Burdekin received its share of the funding pie.
“The diversity of the Burdekin Electorate means that a great deal of the state’s economy is generated right here from our agriculture and horticulture industries in the east to our mining and resources sector in the western areas,” Mr Last said.
“Given that, it’s only fair that we receive investment back into our communities.
“Right here in the Burdekin Shire we have a severe shortage of housing available, our farmers and residents are facing soaring power costs and each week our ambulance is tied up transporting up to 15 patients to Townsville for after-hours CT scans.
“These issues fall squarely in the hands of the state government and if not addressed, have the potential to impact our local economy and potentially put lives at risk.”
Mr Last said the Burdekin had already been proactive in advocating to address issues its residents faced and deserved to see real investment rather than political footballing in October’s state election.
“More than six months ago this community put pen to paper to call for a CT scanner at their local hospital and to my understanding that business case has been completed so all that is left now is for the project to be funded,” he said.
“Recently we have seen our farmers and residents cop soaring price rises when it comes to electricity and while we constantly hear of rebates on offer, the reality is that we then watch those rebates be absorbed in the next price rise.
“Rest assured that come June all eyes will be on the state budget and as the Member for Burdekin I won’t be settling for less than what our community deserves.”

State Member for Burdekin Dale Last and LNP candidate for Mirani Glen Kelly. Photo supplied

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With school recommenced for this term, just a timely reminder for parents who drop their children off at local schools.  
Drop off zones are exactly that, pull up and drop off your children then leave. If you intend on walking your child into school, park elsewhere. We don’t want to cause any traffic congestion during an already busy time of the day.
Don’t stop in the lane of travel waiting for vehicles that are parked, picking up children, to leave that space, as this back up and congests traffic unnecessarily.
Also be aware of the school zone speed limits and drive cautiously.

Did you know?
Blocked Pedestrian Crossings
Driver’s must not enter onto or stop on a pedestrian crossing if that crossing or the road beyond is blocked.  An example would be a blockage caused by congested traffic, a collision or debris over the road.
Regulation 128 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation 2009

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The new cookies at Home Hill News and Café inspired this week's column. Coffee and Anzac biscuits from Alfie’s Bakery helped the ideas to flow.

Basic Community Cookie Recipe

Ingredients
   • Active listening and understanding to create a solid foundation.
   • An open mind to add unique and interesting flavours.
   • Kindness to help the cookie to rise and achieve its full potential.
   • A sprinkle of humour to keep things light and fun.
   • A dash of acceptance to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
   • The spice of difference to celebrate diversity and individuality.
   • Participation to bring everything together and create a sense of unity.
Method
Combine listening and understanding in a large bowl, sifting out any lumps. Add open-mindedness, kindness, humour, acceptance, and differences, and mix everything together. Make a well in the centre for participation and bind everything into a soft dough. Shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet, leaving plenty of space for expansion. Then, bake the cookies at 180°C for 15 minutes and watch them rise to the occasion.
Sometimes, we need to stop and reflect on where we are going. In today’s fast-paced world, we often reach for the easy, pre-prepared option instead of utilising those time-tested skills. Not all of us have had this experience, and this is where community participation comes to the fore. Community is about sharing experiences and skills to enable everyone to achieve their potential.
This is by no means the full list of ingredients that could be used to create a tasty cookie. The beauty of cooking is that little bit of ‘something’ we all add to build something ‘new’. Change occurs when ‘heat’ is applied as the catalyst, which is how a community develops and evolves.
What ingredient would you add to this recipe?
Until next time,
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The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Firstly, I would like to thank the residents of the Burdekin for your vote at the recent election which enabled me to become a Councillor. Since being elected to Council, life has been crazy. Trying to juggle life, work, exercise, and everything else life throws at you. Council will be challenging learning new Policies, procedures, and the everyday working of the council. It has been interesting to learn how things work, and the thought that goes into the decision-making process that could affect the lives of the Burdekin Residents.  
Getting to know my fellow councillors is also a great experience as we all have different personalities and ideas that we can all bring to the table which helps with the decision-making process. As a combined group we can achieve the best outcome.
The staff and former councillors have also been marvellous with our transition to being councillors, helping with everything that is required to understand our new position.
Last week, I attended the Burdekin Heritage Precinct at Brandon with my fellow Councillors where the passionate volunteers showed us where they spend countless hours restoring all sorts of machinery.  The work they do out there is amazing and is really worth a visit.
It was also great to see the dedication of the local residents at the Anzac Day Dawn service. It shows the great respect we all have.  
 

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Did you know you there are online resources and educational information on waste management?
Explore the Council's website to discover the advantages of recycling, gain insights on proper waste sorting, understand the recyclable and non-recyclable items, and locate the nearest landfill.
Download posters and flyers to promote recycling in your school or workplace or get the kids involved in good waste management practices these school holidays.
There is some great information about what you can and can’t put in your green waste bin with tutorials on creating your very own worm farm out of your green waste or turning it into fertilizer.
I encourage you to check Council’s website and refresh your knowledge on the proper waste management to ensure your bins stay clear of contamination.
Waste management is everyone’s responsibility. Let's all take a moment to refresh our memories on appropriate waste management practices. Council's website isn't just a resource hub; it's your ticket to staying informed and actively participating in the collective effort to reduce waste and safeguard our environment. Visit Burdekin.qld.gov.au.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President David Jochinke received a taste of the sweet life when he visited the heart of Queensland sugarcane country earlier this week.
 
A grain and livestock farmer from Victoria, Mr Jochinke enjoyed some beautiful Queensland sunshine while visiting farms throughout the Burdekin region, where he caught up with local Canegrowers members. 
 
The NFF president, who was in town for the Canegrowers Burdekin AGM on Tuesday, learned firsthand of the challenges and opportunities facing Queensland’s sugarcane industry.
 
“It was great to have David here visiting farmers so he could hear directly from growers about the work they are doing and their hopes and plans for the future,” Canegrowers Chairman Owen Menkens said.
 
“As a founding member of the National Farmers’ Federation, Canegrowers has very strong ties with the organisation, and we work extremely closely with the NFF on national issues that impact our members and agriculture more widely.”
 
Following visits to several farms in the region, Mr Jochinke will head back to the Canegrowers Burdekin office to meet staff and directors before addressing the AGM.
 
Mr Jochinke said given sugarcane was Queensland’s second largest agricultural export, he was keen to get firsthand insights into what makes the industry tick.

“There is a deluge of bad policy ideas being thrown at farmers from decision-makers in Canberra. It’s why I launched the unprecedented campaign, Keep Farmers Farming on my first day in the job as NFF President," Mr Jochinke said.
 
"I enjoyed hearing directly from cane growers on what issues are keeping them up at night and where they see their sector as we head towards our industry-wide goal to reaching $100 billion by 2030.

“I’ve been highly impressed by the positivity from the cane community with the growers I was able to meet here in the Burdekin, who are incredibly invested in the success of the industry and in investing in their farms.

“Agriculture in the region is in good hands,” he said.

Mr Jochinke said that workforce shortages were a key concern for growers.

“Access to a skilled workforce is one of the hardest challenges for the horticulture and agriculture producers to overcome,” he said.

“Especially in high-production areas like the Burdekin.

“Infrastructure relating to moving equipment and produce was also a common concern shared by growers.”
 
On Wednesday Mr Jochinke also met with the local Burdekin Council.  

“Regional councils across Australia are all facing an enormous battle when it comes to the amount of infrastructure and maintenance they are expected to upkeep with little support from state and federal governments.

“They have this mammoth task of providing the libraries, pools and infrastructure critical to communities with their income coming largely from rates.

“We can’t let rates get out of control for our farmers and regional communities, but local governments need stronger financial support from other levels of government, it’s a huge problem faced by regional councils.”

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National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke (right) with Home Hill cane farmer Mark Barbagallo

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David Jochinke and Canegrowers Chair Owen Menkens

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Two of Australia’s leading cane organisations have joined forces, in an effort to drive strategic and positive change across the industry. By combining their strengths, the two organisations aim to better serve their members, advocate for sugarcane farmers, and secure a stronger future for the industry.

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) Chairman Charles Quagliata said the sugarcane industry will see significant benefits from the partnership between QCAR and the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA).

“By joining forces, we are securing a stronger future for the growth of the sugarcane industry across Australia. This marks a pivotal moment for our industry and by combining our strengths, we can better serve our members and drive positive change.” Mr. Quagliata said.

“Both QCAR and ACFA are committed to strong advocacy for sugarcane farmers, as well as supporting our growers to ensure they get the best possible outcomes for themselves and the next generation.”

The partnership will leverage the collective expertise and resources of both QCAR and ACFA to strengthen the sugarcane industry.

ACFA Chairman Don Murday said the unified approach will amplify the voice of the industry and enhances advocacy efforts to achieve more for the industry.

“We have a laser-sharp focus on working with both State and Federal Governments to ensure the interests of the industry are being considered and met,” Mr. Murday said.

“As part of that push, we are establishing district committees that will have a focus on enhanced regional representation to address some of those challenges and opportunities that aren’t currently being prioritised. The partnership shows our confidence in our collective credibility and capability to enhance outcomes for our members and the broader industry.”

Stephen Ryan has been appointed CEO of the joint venture.

“This signifies a new chapter for the sugarcane industry. We are committed to securing a prosperous future for all stakeholders through collaborative efforts,” Mr. Ryan said. 

“Together, QCAR and ACFA will spearhead positive change, nurturing industry expansion, and championing innovation, sustainability, and resilience within the sugarcane industry.”

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ACFA Chair Don Murday, QCAR ACFA CEO Stephen Ryan and QCAR Deputy Chair Christian Lago

Captions: QCAR and ACFA pre-dinner get-together

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QCAR and ACFA post-general meeting dinner

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By Chelsea Ravizza

After decades of shining a light on the extraordinary talents of the region’s youth, 2024 marks the 40-year anniversary of the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod. The eisteddfod has proudly stood as one of North Queensland’s most celebrated talent showcases for young performers since its establishment in 1983 by President, Marie Finn.

Marie introduced the cherished event to the region with two integral principles: fairness and opportunity, and believes the eisteddfod stands as a precious idea in the Burdekin community.

“The eisteddfod is a precious idea – not a building to be maintained, but a concept to be nurtured and a vehicle for the encouragement of the Burdekin’s children’s talent, unknown to them until someone, usually a teacher, tells them they can do it,” explained Marie.

On the March 7 1983, the first official meeting of the Burdekin District Junior Eisteddfod was held with the executive committee of President Marie Finn, Vice President Ronda Holland, Secretaries Gwen Smith and Delma Schultz, Treasurer Dave Dunn, Publicity Rosemary Menkens, and committee members Joyce Crooks, Jean Nuttall, Rose Moss, Bruno Van der Heide, Rosmary Rowan, and Pat Harris.

The eisteddfod once stood as a two-day event and has exponentially grown into a 12-day showcase, hosting extraordinary performances in the areas of dance, music, speech and drama, Highland dancing, Irish dancing, and visual and literary arts presentations.

Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod President Annette Jorgensen reminisces on Marie’s dedication to the arts, and the long-lasting legacy she created for the region all those years ago.

“Mrs Finn was deeply involved in fostering a rich musical culture in the Burdekin region, starting from her early days as a music specialist to her instrumental role in establishing the Burdekin Eisteddfod,” explained Annette.

“The stories Mrs Finn shared with me about overcoming challenges, forming strong bonds with fellow educators and volunteers, and adapting to changing times, highlights the importance of passion and collaboration in nurturing young talents.”

The 2024 Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod will run from Wednesday May 8 until Sunday May 19, and the committee’s coordinators have been busily preparing since October of the previous year.

“There are over 1,000 competitors this year competing in 12 full on days, and we don’t want to give too much away, but we will have some little surprises for our audience members,” explained Annette.

The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod strives to honour Marie and her founding committee, as well as all past, present, and future event organizers in acknowledgement of their commitment to ensuring the arts continues to thrive in the region.

“Their hard work and vision have helped shape the eisteddfod into the vibrant and inclusive event that it is today; providing a platform for artists, musicians and performers to showcase their talents and for the community to come together in celebration,” explained Annette.

“This whole community is waiting for the magic dust to be sprinkled over it once again,” expressed Marie.

“In the words of the song, there is a time for everything, and with the young vibrant committee you have, this could be the time for hard work to be rewarded, with the eisteddfod taking its rightful place as a beloved community event.”

The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod committee encourages the community to come along to witness the talents of the region’s young performers and invites volunteers to contact Annette at admin@burdekinjunioreisteddfod.com.au. 

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WHAT: Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
WHEN: Wednesday May 8 until Sunday May 19
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
MORE INFORMATION: burdekinjunioreisteddfod.com.au

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Front Row: Gwen Smith, Marie Finn, Joyce Crooks, Pat Harris
Back Row: Delma Schultz, Bruno Van der Heide, Rosemary Menkins

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During the previous week, on April 23, a Senate committee discussed the potential effects of Federal Government’s suggested fresh food tax, raising major concerns about its implications, including heightened cost of living and elevated grocery expenses for locals.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP and Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry MP are rallying against the proposal, stating that the fresh food tax, which is due to be implemented on July 1, is as an attack on families and farmers throughout their electorates.

Mr Willcox questioned the proposal, stating, “In what parallel universe would a government charge its own farmers to pay for the risks their competitors are creating?

“The new tax makes absolutely no sense. It will hurt families in our electorate, and right across Australia at a time they can least afford it and farmers who are already under pressure.
  
“Farmers will be forced to pass on costs, meaning families will feel more pain at the grocery checkout.

“This Senate inquiry and its outcome is crucial because this new tax will impact almost every single family and approximately 1,500 farmers and farm managers in our electorate of Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.
 
Local grazier Nicholas Holland emphasised that farmers are already battling significant challenges, and will now have to deal with another layer of bureaucracy hitting their bottom line.

“This Fresh Food Tax is unfair to Australian farmers,” Mr Holland said.

“Why should we be forced to pay for the biosecurity of international competitors?

“The levy will add another layer of pressure to our already tight margins, which inevitably will force the producer to pass the cost onto consumers.”

Ms Landry stands firm on the matter and said that every family and farmer deserved to feel angry that the fresh food tax had already been passed in the House of Representatives.

“The Nationals will continue to fight this senseless new tax,” Ms Landry said.

“We will fight for families and we will fight for farmers, especially when it comes to taxes that impact food prices.”

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Set on the backdrop of sleepy, beautiful Bowen, this beachy town is the perfect retreat in the Whitsundays. Away from the typical hive of activity that sees Airlie Beach flurry, Bowen provides a calmer atmosphere to enjoy a family holiday.
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Visit the Cinema
Summergarden Theatre is perfect for a warm day in North Queensland. Constructed in 1948, the modern films meet classic vintage theatre charm.
Located at Queens Beach, the experience that the Summergarden Theatre offers is special and unique and worth the visit outside the hustle and bustle of Bowen’s town centre.

Visit the Big Mango
An absolute must is paying a visit to the famous Big Mango.
Constructed in 2002, the Big Mango sits at 10 metres tall and states its claim over Bowen at the grounds of the Bowen Visitor Information Centre. Iconic and proud, the Big Mango depicts a Kensington Pride mango, also known as a Bowen Special.
Having gone missing two times, the Big Mango has a history of its own, of potentially being upside down (with many believing that the lush orange should be on top, rather than the green), and the story of the elusive ant.
Be sure to grab a fresh mango sorbet from the Bowen Information Centre and have a chat with the team!

Dip into the Azure Waters
Bowen is known for its sheltered and secluded beaches, which are inviting and safe from wild ocean critters. Grays Bay, Murray Bay, and Horseshoe Bay are some of the highlighted spots that are particularly perfect for a cool dip in the ocean.
Grays Bay is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the ocean, and has a boat ramp, BBQ, playground and bathrooms, and is great for a BBQ meal and a gentle swim.
Horseshoe Bay is a smaller bay with large rocks and boulders framing the soft sand. With Rotary Lookout to one side, which provides sweeping views of the bay and the Coral Sea, Horseshoe Bay is particularly great to venture to alongside the community markets.

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The much loved comical, mind-blowing, and wildly entertaining theatrical showcase, the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival, will grace the Burdekin Theatre’s stage on 31 May for its 49th year.

Each of the region’s secondary schools; Ayr State High School, Home Hill State High School, Burdekin Catholic High School, and the Burdekin Christian College are set to perform a one act play in a non-competitive environment to showcase their talents to audiences.

The Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival stands as an annual event hosted by Home Hill High School, and organised by Home Hill High School’s Drama Coordinator, Wendy Viero.

“The Burdekin Interschool Drama festival isn’t a competition, it’s an amazing showcase where the schools can put on a fun performance for over 400 patrons,” explained Wendy.

“The students not only act, but they often produce the pieces, direct them, and they also have the opportunity to run the sound and lighting for their performances under the guidance of the theatre technical staff which is a fantastic and unique opportunity for the students to use the professional equipment with advice from theatre professionals.”

Scheduling around many of the regions celebrated cultural events, the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival had been postponed to the 31 May for 2024 rather than running earlier in the year.

“Everything has been running smoothly and having to push the event back to a later date, our students have had a lot more time to rehearse and prepare for a fantastic show,” shared Wendy.

Although a non-competitive showcase, students’ talents are celebrated with awards for the best actors, supporting actors, and directors and the 2024 Interschool Drama Festival will debut a memorial award in honor of the late Barry Jones.

“Barry jones was a gentleman who had been involved with theatre in the Burdekin for many years, and after receiving funding from the Burdekin Theatre last year, we now have a prize dedicated to his memory called the Barry Jones Award,” explained Wendy.

Wendy and the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival’s organisational committee have been busily preparing for the end of May event, and the community is invited to come along and witness each of the school’s extraordinary talents.

WHAT: Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival
WHEN: Friday 31 May 6:30pm
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
COST: $25

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