I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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Last weekend, I was brought crashing back to earth after a humbling experience at Amelia Pivotto’s trivia night on Friday.
At first, it was all going so swimmingly—a perfect night under the stars, replete with vibrant chatter and laughter as the questions came thick and fast. Our team was doing… fine. Not topping the leaderboard, but not embarrassing ourselves either.
Then a particular question came up. Something along the lines of, “what is the name of the Burdekin journalism legend—a local cornerstone and the embodiment of community spirit?”
My ears pricked up. Could that be me? I was flattered. I thought to myself, “wow… I’m glad I’ve had such a grand impact on this community after just a matter of months.”
With confidence, I started spelling out my surname to our team scribe, with little doubt I was the answer. I mean, who else could it be?
Turns out, it was David Jackson—the same David Jackson I wrote an entire feature about just two weeks ago. Might need to pay Dr. Tata a visit for apparent short-term memory problems.
I suppose I’ve got a few decades—and a few thousand articles—to go before I can even begin to scratch the surface of what ‘Jacko’ has done for this community.
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A 25-year-old Ayr man has died following a trail bike crash at Osborne early Monday morning.
Emergency services were called to Iona Road around 6am on October 20, after reports a rider had been found unresponsive.
Police said the man sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Forensic Crash Unit has launched an investigation into the incident, with officers appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has relevant dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward.
Police reminded motorists that road safety remains a shared responsibility, urging all road users to remain vigilant and avoid the “Fatal Five” contributing factors to serious crashes — speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Policelink or Crime Stoppers.
Policelink: www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersqld.com.au
A Local Fire Ban has been declared across the Burdekin Shire by the Rural Fire Service Queensland, taking effect from midnight Saturday, 18 October, and continuing until 11:59pm Friday, 31 October. The ban comes in response to current weather conditions and heightened fire risk.
During this period, lighting, maintaining, or using fires in the open is strictly prohibited. All existing permits to light fires are suspended, except in limited cases. Fires used for cooking on a properly constructed BBQ or in a gas or wood-fired oven are allowed, provided the flames cannot escape and a hose or extinguisher is on hand. Small contained fires, such as a fire pit or brazier no larger than one metre by one metre by half a metre, may also be used for warmth between 6pm and 6am if the surrounding area is cleared of vegetation.
Sugarcane burning may continue where a valid permit has been issued, and essential or commercial burning is permitted only with the approval of the Chief Fire Warden.
Residents are also urged to exercise caution when using power tools such as lawn mowers and slashers, and to keep suitable equipment nearby to extinguish any accidental fires.
For further information on fire bans and exemptions, visit the Queensland Fire Department website at www.fire.qld.gov.au.
With Remembrance Day around the corner, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is encouraging local groups to apply for grants that allow the community to better honour and acknowledge the service of veterans.
The fact that the Burdekin election is home to a significant number of veterans meant the new funding program offered a potential boost for a community whose track record for honouring veterans was among the best in the state.
“You only have to look at the number of people who attend events like Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans’ Day and Anzac Day to see that this community is extremely proud of our veterans,” Mr Last said. “On a per capita basis our community had made a huge contribution to many conflicts and that fact isn’t lost on locals, regardless of age.”
“Unlike some countries, we don’t celebrate conflict; we commemorate and honour the brave men and women who serve. I think it’s appropriate that, as a government, we provide funding that supports the community in making that commemoration possible.”
“Whether it’s a new memorial, refurbishments of existing memorials or activities and equipment, there is funding available to ensure we continue to honour our veterans.”
Mr Last said the Honouring our Veterans program was the first step in the Crisafulli government’s commitment to implement a Veterans’ Strategy.
“Queensland is home to more veterans than any other state in Australia,” Mr Last said. “Our approach is to not only support the more than 160,000 veterans and one way to do that is to ensure the community can honour their service.”
“The strategy we are developing is not about duplicating existing services or taking over tasks from the federal government. It’s about finding ways that the state government can provide practical support with practical measures to support their transition to civilian life for example.”
“We have begun in-person consultation with veterans and their families because getting the strategy right is vitally important. The last thing that veterans need is another layer of bureaucracy or a strategy that makes big statements but delivers very little.”
“In terms of the current funding there is basically two areas that are currently being focussed on. One is capital works projects like refurbishments, upgrades and new memorials and the other area of focus relates to activities and events that educate and raise awareness.”
“I’d encourage local groups and organisations to consider applying for funding and to think outside the square, especially if there is a need that they think is not currently being met.”
“The community groups that help us honour our veterans deserve this support but, most of all, our veterans deserve it. I’m looking forward to seeing the applications from our community and for the positive effects that will have as we remember those who have given so much in our names.”
A $550 million tourism development in Townsville is set to ripple benefits through the Burdekin, with local businesses tipped to gain from increased visitor traffic and regional growth once the project gets underway.
Townsville City Council last week granted preliminary approval for the Townsville Waterpark, Beach Club, and Hotel project—a major step forward for what has been described as a game-changer for North Queensland’s tourism economy.
The 15-hectare site sits at the intersection of Bruce and Flinders Highways, directly opposite Fairfield Central Shopping Centre and just over an hour’s drive from Ayr and Home Hill — placing the Burdekin within easy reach of the new attraction.
For Burdekin locals, the development could mean new opportunities in construction, accommodation, and tourism. Local suppliers and tradespeople may be among those engaged during the build, while hospitality operators could benefit from increased visitation as the region’s tourism profile expands.
According to an independent economic impact study by Sydney-based advisory firm Location IQ, the Townsville Waterpark development is expected to create more than 1,100 direct and indirect jobs across construction and operations. Once completed, it could generate more than $26 million in annual retail and hospitality sales and over $400 million in turnover by 2046.
The project is designed in two precincts: Precinct 1, on the western side, will feature the 3,000-person capacity waterpark, a 10,000-square-metre Beach Club for up to 5,000 guests, and a 15-storey, 200-room hotel with function and event facilities for 600 people. Precinct 2 will include mixed-use commercial development such as shops, food outlets, health and fitness spaces, and a childcare centre.
Council documents show the approval introduces a new Plan of Development for the site, setting out how future development applications will be assessed. Developers must still meet several conditions, including updated water and sewerage planning, a transport masterplan, and stormwater requirements.
Townsville’s Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the decision marked an important milestone, describing it as “a step in the right direction” for a project the community had wanted for decades.
With Townsville’s visitor expenditure climbing to $1.2 billion for the year ending June 2024—up more than 10 per cent from the previous year—local observers say the Burdekin could share in the benefits.
A large-scale waterpark just a short drive north is expected to encourage more day trips, overnight stays, and regional collaboration, giving the Burdekin another reason to attract passing visitors and new investment.
An artist's impression of the $500 million waterpark planned for Townsville. Photo sourced
The Burdekin is starting to rebuild after the devastating tropical low earlier this year, with restoration projects now underway at Plantation Park, Groper Creek Foreshore, and the Mt Inkerman Nature Trail.
At Plantation Park, which houses the Burdekin Visitor Information Centre and the Nature-Based Playground, crews are repairing internal roads and carparks that were stripped and scoured by floodwaters. Once complete, families and visitors will have safe access to the park’s popular facilities.
Groper Creek residents also felt the full force of the floods. Water reached under homes and isolated parts of the community. Restoration works include a new concrete entry to the jetty and resurfacing of Barramundi Esplanade, Grunter Grove, and public car and trailer parking areas. Council says the upgrades will help Groper Creek welcome both locals and visitors back safely.
The iconic Mt Inkerman walking trail, offering panoramic views over the Burdekin River delta, was heavily eroded. Restoration works will rehabilitate the trail, keeping it safe and accessible for walkers, community groups, and charity events.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the projects will restore key community spaces and make them safer for locals and visitors. “The 2025 tropical low caused major damage across our Shire, washing away roads, carparks, and some of our most loved recreational spaces,” she said. “With support from the Australian and Queensland Governments, we’re rebuilding stronger and safer community spaces for everyone to enjoy.”
These projects are jointly funded under the Community and Recreational Assets Recovery Program by the Australian and Queensland Governments through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. Council notes the material does not necessarily reflect the views of either government.
Restoration projects are now underway at Plantation Park (pictured), Groper Creek Foreshore, and the Mt Inkerman Nature Trail following the devastating tropical low earlier this year. Photo source: Townsville North Queensland
On Sunday, 19 October, the Burdekin community came together at the Burdekin Memorial Hall for Burdekin Fights Back, a Gala Afternoon Tea supporting the fight against cancer.
The event was led by local resident Raelene Grantz, who survived breast cancer last year and has watched her twin sister Maree face the disease nearly 12 years earlier. “We've just got to keep fighting. I'm a firm believer in the research,” Raelene said.
Guests were treated to entertainment by Ricky Romeo and guided through the afternoon by local MC Emma Halliday. Insightful talks from Dr. Paula Heggarty, a GP and Associate Professor of Rural Medicine at James Cook University, highlighted the challenges faced by cancer patients in North Queensland. Tegan Marsden from the North Queensland Cancer Council explained the support services available, including Gluyas Lodge in Townsville.
More than 100 attendees enjoyed a generous afternoon tea buffet and drinks, provided by local cafes, restaurants, and community groups, ensuring everyone left nourished in body and spirit.
The program also featured a cent sale, lucky door prizes, and a mega raffle, raising vital funds for cancer research and patient support.
The afternoon highlighted the strength and generosity of the Burdekin community, showing that together, locals are determined to fight back against cancer.
Stella Pengelly, Corinna Polga, Mary Pattinson
Louraine Clark, Bev Power, Bev Andrews, Joan Andersen
Mary Marchese, Kari Bekkemellen, Nyree Woods, Tricia Land
Chelsea Langdon, Bryan Langdon, Paula Langdon, Leah Zandonadi, Amy Langdon (picture) Olindo Lazzarin
Karen McKaig, Toni McKaig, Robyn Sleigh
Pam Gianni, Debbie Ferraris, Marg Pirrone, Jan Stirling
Taylor Smith, Chiara Guy, Emma Halliday, Gemma Halliday
Burdekin local and MC of the event Emma Halliday led proceedings.
Tegan Marsden from the North Queensland Cancer Council shared information about the organisation's programs
Dr. Paula Heggarty, GP and Associate Professor of Rural Medicine at James Cook University, shared invaluable information about cancer and preventative measures.
Ricky Romeo lit up the hall as guests enjoyed refreshments.
Tegan Marsden, Dr. Paula Heggarty, Raelene Grantz and Emma Halliday
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Once again, Jeffrey Lunn and Leon McCormack’s infamous Halloween Party will spook and delight the community next Friday, the 31st of October for an evening of costumes and candy, complete with iconic scary season decorations, music and an unparallel atmosphere!
The pair first came up with the idea to introduce a haunting Halloween Party after witnessing firsthand the extravagant displays put on in the United States whilst on holiday, and after some planning, Jeff and Leon debuted their very first Halloween Party back in 2017 and never looked back!
Now in its 9th year, next week’s Halloween Party promises to be nothing short of spooktacular, with the wonderful Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club set to be in attendance to fire up the barbeque and serve soft drinks from 6:30pm onwards. As always, free candy, snow cones, popcorn and fairy floss will be on offer for all to indulge in, as well as plenty of good vibes and spooky tunes to get the community into the scary season spirit!
Annually celebrated, Jeff and Leon have been wowing the community for almost 20 years, crafting together amazing light displays for celebrations like Christmas and Halloween for the entire community to enjoy and admire! What started off small many moons ago, quickly turned into a huge attraction, with cars often lining both sides of the street as families flooding to the corner of Edwards and Darwin Street for the annual celebrations.
Since first flicking the switch in 2008, the pair have been celebrated and commended for their commitment to bringing waves of joy and contagious spirit to the community. In 2024, Jeff and Leon were recognised for their amazing work at the 2024 Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards where they were presented with the title of Community Event of the Year for their 2023 Christmas Lights Display!
Plenty of preparation goes into each light display, and the pair continue to introduce new decorations in an effort to top the previous year’s extravaganza.
The entire community is warmly welcomed to attend next week’s Halloween Party, dress in their most spooktacular costumes, and enjoy an evening of trick or treating in style!
What: Halloween House Party
When: Friday, 31st October from 6:30pm
Where: Corner of Edwards and Darwin Street, Ayr (opposite the Ayr Golf Club)
Jeff and Leon continue to wow and impress the community with their delightful displays!
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As we move into the warmer months, I want to remind our community how important it is to be mindful of our water use. Temporary Stage 1 Water Restrictions in Ayr will commence from the 7 November to 7 December while Council completes a critical stage of the South Ayr Filtration Plant upgrade. These works are essential to securing the long-term reliability of our water supply.
We all have a part to play in conserving this precious resource. I encourage everyone to follow smart water practices, plenty of great tips can be found on Council’s website, and think about simple ways to make a difference at home. As I’ve been driving around the shire recently, I’ve noticed many green (and a few not-so-green!) lawns. The best times to water your gardens are early morning or late evening, when the sun is low and evaporation is minimal. While the Burdekin is fortunate to have an abundance of our own ‘liquid gold,’ remember that every drop you use comes at a cost - so use it wisely.
Please take into consideration the importance of these works and join Council in helping to preserve our water supply throughout this period. I encourage the entire Burdekin community to reduce water in their homes.
On another note, as the sugar crushing season is nearing the end, many of the women in the Burdekin will be breathing a small sigh of relief as the “black snow” settles for another year. It’s all part of living in the sugar capital of Australia - a town proudly built on the strength of our cane industry, which continues to keep our community thriving.
And finally, with just 10 weeks until Christmas, I am excited to announce the return of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal. Last year’s incredible generosity from our community made a real difference for local families, and I look forward to seeing that same spirit of giving once again this festive season.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
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The Burdekin never ceases to astound with the variety of activities happening throughout the shire.
The Harvest Festival Student Ball was an outstanding success and the activities for the Harvest Festival continue in Home Hill. Mental Health Week wrapped up with a time to consider our own mental health in a week of presentations including the group at the Burdekin Men’s Shed with an open community invitation to “Cuppa Chat & Chew”. Seniors Month culminates with the Seniors Expo & Luncheon Thursday 30th October 2025 at the Burdekin Memorial Hall.
Congrats to the driving force lobbying for a CT scanner at Ayr Hospital, one of eleven locations receiving an upgrade of Medical Imaging services. The magical ‘Seussical Jr’ performed by the junior company of Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company has started delighting audiences. Based on the works of Dr Seuss and performed at the ‘Lighthouse’ there is still time to grab yourself tickets to a night of colour, sound and wonderment. Cancer has touched many of us so a big shout out to Raelene Grantz and team for a successful ‘Burdekin Fights Back’ fundraiser for the ‘Queensland Cancer Council’ last Sunday.
Stage 1 water restrictions take effect from 7th November to 7th December. The restrictions are to support critical works and preserve supply. For more information visit www.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Local artists, performers and community groups are reminded that applications for the next round of the Regional Arts Development Fund close tomorrow Friday 24th October, visit Council’s website.
Well done to all those who have been involved with the world first Burdekin based Macro-Algae project. The project has taken out the ‘Infrastructure Award’ at the recent Queensland Water Awards. This nature-based solution for wastewater treatment has many other councils enviously looking at what can be done for their Shires.
Till next time, health and happiness to you all.
Donzel began his Tec-NQ House journey in Semester 2, 2025, bringing fresh energy to the boarding community. As a year 10 student, preparing for year 11 in 2026, he already has his future mapped out: a career in the automotive industry.
“I chose Tec-NQ for the opportunities after school,” said Donzel.
“I heard about this school from family members,” he added.
It’s the strength of Tec-NQ’s vocational pathway options that attracted him, and he is keen to take every chance to learn. “So far, it’s been good,” he added with a smile.
Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Donzel’s attitude is a great fit for Tec-NQ House. “When new students arrive with a clear goal, it sets them up to make the most of the opportunities here,” Luke said. “Donzel has come in focused on automotive, and we’re already seeing his commitment.”
Life outside of the classroom keeps Donzel busy. At home on Warraber Island in the Torres Strait, he spends spare time fishing with family and friends. In Townsville, he’s quick to make use of the boarding house facilities, enjoying games of pool and keeping up with basketball. A loyal Chicago Bulls supporter, his favourite number is 23, a tribute to Michael Jordan. On the rugby league field, he follows the Roosters.
For Luke, this balance of vocational focus, sport and recreation is exactly what Tec-NQ House was designed to provide. “Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” he explained. “We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and then we support them with structure and routine. That’s where they thrive.”
Tec-NQ House itself is a purpose-built boys-only residence located in Rosslea. Opened in 2022, it provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.
The facility blends structure with comfort. Students have air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, communal lounges with streaming services and computer access, and a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities and a basketball court. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals every day, fuelling the boys for school, sport and work placements.
Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus, and staff also drive students to and from workplaces when required. This removes barriers and lets students focus on their learning, hobbies and friendships. After-hours, the boys enjoy organised sport, social activities and excursions, all designed to build a sense of community.
Luke says that for students like Donzel, these routines help them settle quickly. “First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” he said. “They learn to manage their time, connect with mates and build confidence. Those skills will serve them in school, in apprenticeships and in life.”
With his career pathway in mind, his hobbies from home, and a willingness to get involved in boarding life, Donzel is making a strong start. We look forward to seeing his journey continue into year 11 and 12.
Zorro is a young feline with a heart full of promise and the opportunity for a bright future. Rescued from the pound, Zorro may initially seem a bit shy, but give him just thirty minutes, and you'll find yourself enchanted by his gentle nature and sweet demeanor. Once he trusts you, he transforms into a dedicated purr machine, letting you know you've won his heart with his melodic symphony of affection.
Though Zorro's beginnings were challenging, his time in foster care has worked wonders, bringing out the best in this charming cat. He's now ready to put the past behind him and embrace the next chapter of his life with a loving new family.
Zorro will do best in an environment where patience and plenty of love are abundant. His progression from a shy feline to an endearing companion makes him a truly rewarding pet to welcome home.
Will you be the one to offer Zorro the loving space to settle and thrive? Please fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Included in adoption fee of $210 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.
DOB: 1/10/2024
Sex: Male
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
BIN: BIN0000268254643
At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, it’s the people behind the counter who make the biggest difference — not just in banking, but in building lasting community connections. Two of those friendly faces, Raelene and Sonya, share a deep passion for helping others and being part of something that gives back.
Raelene, who has called the Burdekin home for around 35 years, joined the Community Bank just four months ago. For her, the most rewarding part of the job is simple — it’s the people.
“Honestly, it’s the customers,” she says. “I enjoy chatting with them and building those relationships. I love being able to really help people and make a difference for them.”
Raelene says she’s proud to work for a bank that genuinely cares about its community. “I’m really proud that our community bank gives back and supports local people and organisations — it feels good to be a part of something that makes a difference.”
Sonya shares that same passion. Born and raised in Home Hill, she has spent her entire life in the region and knows what community connection truly means. “I have been in the region all my life. I was born and raised in Home Hill until I was 18 years old, then moved to Ayr. I now live near Clare with my two teenage girls,” she says.
Sonya joined the Home Hill & Ayr Community Bank team two years ago, working across both branches. “I really enjoy working for the Community Bank — helping customers and building a relationship with them gives me great satisfaction,” she says. “Being a local myself, I get to serve and help a great deal of friendly faces whom I know.”
For both Raelene and Sonya, their roles go far beyond transactions. It’s about connection — greeting familiar faces, listening, helping, and being part of a team that’s invested in the same community they call home.
“It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my role,” Sonya adds. “Working for a community bank that gives back to the community is something I’m truly proud of.”
Step into Betta Ayr these days and you’ll feel a fresh energy in the air. That's because Dave Jenkins, the store’s new manager, has brought a friendly, homey touch to every corner, drawing on nearly 20 years of local experience in the appliance and electronics industry to make shopping simple, welcoming, and personal for everyone in the Burdekin community.
“Trust is a big thing in a small town," says Dave. "Everyone walks through the door with a problem—maybe something’s broken, they want to upgrade, or it doesn’t fit, and it's my job to solve it.”
Since joining Betta Ayr seven months ago, Dave has focused on cultivating a shopping experience that makes the community feel at home. “When a customer walks into a shop, it needs to tell a story,” he says. “It’s about realigning things, having everything sharp, straight lines—looking good. A clean, tidy shop is about creating the best possible customer experience.”
Under Dave’s leadership, Betta Ayr launched a furniture range, curating stock with a keen eye on local Burdekin taste. “We try to keep up with trend," he says. "There’s always new stock arriving, and wait times on furniture are getting better and better. It’s about giving consumers what they want and what’s in fashion.”
Beyond its leap into the furniture sector, Betta Ayr still offers its full selection of TVs, washers, fridges, and small appliances, all backed by a Price Match Promise. “Any genuine competitor price, we’ll match it," says Dave. "We want people to be able to shop locally and know they’re getting a great deal."
With the best prices and a local team who know the community inside out, Betta Ayr is all about locals serving locals. Whether it’s upgrading your home, browsing the new furniture range, or getting friendly, expert advice, Dave Jenkins and his team are ready to help.
Burdekinite David Jenkins has drawn on nearly 20 years of local experience in the appliance and electronics industry to make shopping simple, welcoming, and personal for everyone in the Burdekin community.
With the best prices and a local team who know the community inside out, Betta Ayr is all about locals serving locals. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Rural Women’s Day brought together an inspiring crowd at the Masonic Temple in Ayr on Friday, October 17. Presented by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr in partnership with Wilmar, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, and Keir Steele Waldon, the event recognised the resilience and heart of women across the Burdekin and beyond.
Hosted by Bendigo Bank’s Queensland equipment finance manager and Beyond the Farm Gate podcast host, Helen Connick, the day featured live music, a two-course lunch, and captivating guest speaker Kathy Gabriel.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, who attended with his wife Raylene, recognised the importance of such community events.
“Rural women don’t just keep our farms running—they keep our communities strong, grounded, and connected.” He stated, “Having grown up on the land, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, strength, and heart that rural women bring to everything they do.”
Now part of a growing national movement, Rural Women’s Day connects thousands of women across Australia through community and celebration, shining a light on the women who truly keep rural Australia alive.
Photo credit: Tayla Quagliata Photography
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