Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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Hundreds of jobs could be created in North Queensland after a $20 million investment was announced to help unlock one of the region’s largest undeveloped copper deposits.
The investment in Aeon Metals’ Walford Creek Project, about 350km north-west of Mt Isa, is expected to support up to 200 construction jobs and 60 ongoing positions as the project progresses towards development.
The site contains an estimated 75 million tonnes of resources including copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, silver and nickel.
The funding, through the Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, will allow Aeon Metals to undertake feasibility studies and resource expansion drilling as it works towards a final investment decision.
Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the project demonstrated the potential of Queensland’s resources sector.
“Walford Creek has the potential to supply the copper and cobalt needed for advanced manufacturing, defence, and technology which is increasingly important for nation’s looking to secure their global supply chains,” Mr Last said.
“The Crisafulli Government is backing our resources sector to attract investment, get projects moving and create long-term jobs and economic opportunities for regional Queensland.”
The investment is one of the first from the State Government’s expanded $250 million Queensland Critical Minerals Fund, which received an additional $100 million in this year’s Budget.
Aeon Metals Executive Chair Paul Harris said the funding would support key development work and help progress the project towards a final investment decision.
Circle of Life.
Last week we welcomed another grandchild. Healthy mum and bub, head full of hair—unlike Poppy J—starting a life that will bring challenges and opportunities that we may not even know of now.
The next day we attended a funeral of a man who led a long and fruitful life. A man who came from another country, worked hard, raised a family and gave back to the community. Whilst running a cane farm he was also volunteering as an ambulance officer for 20 years—a man who ‘gave’.
To this end can we look at giving back to our community without seeking a reward. This may come in many forms such as school canteen, sporting teams, community groups and many others. Whatever time you can give I’m sure you’ll be rewarded in the contribution. Community groups are crying out for people to help, especially younger members of our community.
I was recently on Sweet FM and spoke about the app ‘Snap Send Solve’. I know sometimes people express ‘what can I do when I see a problem ?’ I use Snap Send Solve when travelling around the Burdekin and you can too.
If you notice a concern around the community, e.g. pot hole, gutter damage, overgrown council areas, etc., simply download the App. The free ‘Snap Send Solve’ app allows residents to take a photo, add a brief description and send it directly to Burdekin Shire Council at any time of day.
Reminder: 2026/2027 Half Yearly Rates due by Monday September 7.
Wishing you health & happiness.
Last week, communities across Australia came together to commemorate Long Tan Day, also known as Vietnam Veterans Day. I had the privilege of attending the Burdekin service at the Deep Creek Veterans Retreat, a peaceful and fitting location to honour those who have served our nation.
As General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Australian Army veteran and former Governor-General, said: “Lest we forget is not just a phrase. It is a promise.” These words remind us of our enduring responsibility to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia's veterans. We remember those who gave their lives, those who returned carrying the lasting impacts of service, and the families who have supported them every step of the way. Their courage, resilience and dedication will never be forgotten.
The weekend also showcased the vibrant spirit of our community, with two fantastic inaugural events taking place across the Burdekin. Motor Madness made its debut at the Burdekin Showgrounds, while the Water Festival Junior Ambassadors Fun Fair brought plenty of excitement to Silver Screens & Coffee Beans. Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering these successful events. Most importantly, thank you to the volunteers who generously gave their time. Without volunteers, many of our community events simply would not be possible.
Burdekin Shire Council is inviting local grant providers to participate in a Community Grants Information Session. This initiative aims to connect organisations with funding opportunities and help strengthen grant applications across our region. I encourage interested organisations to register and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
Finally, a reminder that Free Mulch Day returns on Sunday, 23 August, from 8am to 12 noon at the Ayr Transfer Station. With the beautiful weather we’ve been enjoying, it is the perfect time to get out in the garden and make the most of this free resource.
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.
Former Burdekin Library trainee Nicole Cervoni has been named Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year at the North Queensland Training Awards. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.
Former Burdekin Library trainee Nicole Cervoni has been named Trainee of the Year at the North Queensland Training Awards.
Announced at the Townsville event on 31 July, the honour caps off a stellar 12 months that has seen the Millaroo local make waves across the region through her dedication to community service and vocational excellence.
The Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award recognises outstanding achievement by individuals who have recently completed or are finalising a traineeship in Queensland.
Nicole completed a Cert III in Business as part of her Traineeship in Library and Information Services, juggling her studies and Youth Mayor responsibilities with full-time work at the Burdekin Library. There, she built a reputation as the “girl with the best book recommendations.”
She also helped launch the State Library of Queensland’s Digital Mentors program locally—making Burdekin Library the first in the state to roll out the initiative—and delivered popular community Cricut workshops that fostered local connections.
These milestones followed Nicole’s recognition as the Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year and TAFE Queensland's Business Trainee of the Year in 2025.
Despite her recent successes, she said her nomination for the Queensland Training Awards was already a shock, with her victory last month coming as a bonus.
Her recognition in the North Queensland region means she now enters the running for the State Awards later this year.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is preparing to shine a light on the remarkable women who help keep rural communities strong with the launch of Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities.
More than just a luncheon, Beyond the Gate will bring women from across the Burdekin and surrounding regions together to connect, share experiences and celebrate the many roles they play in shaping rural Queensland.
From women working on the land and running local businesses to those leading community organisations, supporting families and contributing behind the scenes, the event recognises that the strength of rural communities is built on people who are willing to get involved and make a difference.
The event coincides with the International Day of Rural Women, celebrated globally on October 15, recognising the important contribution women make to rural communities, agriculture and regional economies.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said Beyond the Gate was an opportunity to acknowledge that contribution while also giving local women an opportunity to come together.
“Rural women contribute so much to the strength and character of communities like ours, often balancing businesses, properties, families and community commitments,” Sally said.
“Beyond the Gate is about recognising those women, giving them an opportunity to connect and celebrate what they achieve, and reminding them just how important their contribution is.”
A highlight of the luncheon will be guest speaker Angie Nisbet, co-founder of Queensland business FarmHER Hands.
Based near Hughenden in North West Queensland, Angie and fellow founder Shona Larkin understand rural life firsthand. Their idea for FarmHER Hands began after a morning working in the paddock and a conversation about the need for stylish and practical hand protection for women.
That simple conversation developed into FarmHER Hands and a range of UPF50+ sun protection gloves designed specifically with hardworking rural women in mind.
Angie's story of identifying a need, backing an idea and building a business from rural Queensland reflects the resilience, ingenuity and determination that Beyond the Gate aims to celebrate.
Guests can also look forward to an “On the Couch” panel session, where a range of guests will share their experiences and perspectives, along with networking, a delicious lunch and drinks.
For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the event is also an extension of its commitment to supporting the people who make the Burdekin and surrounding rural communities such special places to live and work.
“When rural communities are strong, Queensland is strong,” Sally said.
“We see every day the contribution local people make through agriculture, small business, volunteering and community organisations. As a Community Bank, we want to do more than provide banking services—we want to support the people and communities that make our region thrive.”
Beyond the Gate is intended to become an annual opportunity to celebrate rural women, build connections and recognise the leadership, resilience and heart they bring to their communities.
Because sometimes it is worth stepping Beyond the Gate to recognise the extraordinary people who are helping rural Queensland move forward.
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP outside Ayr Fire and Rescue Station. Photo supplied.
A stakeholder meeting to bring certainty to the future of fire services in the Burdekin community has been hailed as a positive step forward by Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.
As preparations continue for the release of tenders for the new Ayr Fire Station, Mr Last said continued consultation had led him to call for the Commissioner to provide certainty to local firefighters.
“The meeting held on Friday was an opportunity for community leaders and our firefighters to have an open discussion around ensuring our firefighters have the facility and resources needed to service this community,” Mr Last said.
"Part of those discussions allowed the commissioner to outline what is taken into consideration before a fire station can move to a 24/7 model and what actions Queensland Fire Department have taken to support the current staffing model at Ayr Fire Station.”
“As part of the process towards construction it is important that our firefighters’ views are taken into consideration by the Commissioner and the Queensland Fire Department to ensure our new fire station meets the needs of our community both now and into the future.
“It is now up to the Commissioner to take that information back to Brisbane and ensure that as we enter the following phases of planning and construction of the fire station those concerns are taken into consideration.”
Mr Last also gave his assurances to the community and fire fighters that he would continue to support them and advocate for the resourcing and infrastructure they need.
“I was proud to back our firefighters with the commitment to progress a new fire station in 2024 to not only address environmental concerns but provide a modern facility that our community and firefighters could be proud of," Mr Last said.
“Our community relies on our firefighters during their hour of need and I know we are extremely grateful to them and proud of the work they do.”
Supplied by the Office of Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP.
Principal Craig Whittred, Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek and Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, were joined by Ayr State High School captains Caitlyn and Ayden to officially open the school's multipurpose hall. Photo supplied.
Generational education infrastructure recently delivered in Ayr State High School has already proven its value as Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP joined Minister for Education and Arts John-Paul Langbroek to officially open the new hall last week.
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government’s delivery of the $13 million multipurpose hall at Ayr State High School has provided a modern facility for students, staff and the community to learn and come together.
“This facility is a great example of generational infrastructure, not only benefitting our school students but the entire community,” Mr Last said.
“The fact the hall goes beyond providing an undercover multipurpose court with the capabilities to expand learning opportunities for students in an industry standard facility is a great news story for the Burdekin region.”
The hall features: sports facilities, including a multi-purpose court for basketball, netball and volleyball; a kinesiology lab and gym for Health and Physical Education studies to inspire future careers in health, sport and exercise sciences; a kitchen and kiosk, supporting event catering; and a staff room and offices for teacher planning and collaboration.
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the new hall reflected the Queensland Government’s commitment to deliver generational education infrastructure for all of Queensland.
“State schools are the heart of communities, and this new hall at Ayr State High School is an investment in both community connection and student success. It provides a welcoming space to help young people explore future career opportunities,” Minister Langbroek said.
“We are building Queensland’s future. Our $23.1 billion Education Budget in 2026–27 includes $276.3 million for school and early childhood education infrastructure that enhances education outcomes.”
Ayr State High School Principal Craig Whittred said staff, students, parents and the community were excited to see the hall officially opened.
“Our school community is enjoying the benefits of this impressive new facility, which supports a variety of curriculum and sporting offerings as well as providing our Certificate III in Fitness students with an industry standard facility to learn in,” Principal Whittred said.
“The new hall has already supported a number of events including the recent careers day, Semester 1 celebration assembly, parent teacher interviews and school fundraiser events, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback.
“We look forward to the many possibilities this hall provides to strengthen our connection with families and local organisations as we continue to deliver a quality education for our students.”
(From left to right) John Licciardello (Director of ML Partners), Kayleen Grasso (Partner of Fahey and Walsh), Peter McKaig (Director of ML Partners). Photo supplied.
Three respected North Queensland businesses are coming together, marking an exciting new chapter for clients, team members and communities across the region.
Fahey & Walsh has recently joined ML Partners, strengthening its ability to support clients throughout the Burdekin and surrounding areas while preserving the personalised service and trusted relationships that have been at the heart of the business for more than 100 years.
In a second milestone, ML Partners and Carey Group have agreed to merge, bringing together three well-established North Queensland businesses with a shared commitment to helping families, businesses and communities thrive.
For Fahey & Walsh Partner Kayleen Grasso, the decision was driven by a desire to ensure the long-term future of the business while maintaining the trusted relationships built with clients over generations.
"Fahey & Walsh, ML Partners and Carey Group share the same values and commitment to client service," Mrs Grasso said.
"This partnership gives our clients access to broader expertise and resources while retaining the personalised service and trusted relationships they value."
Importantly, there are no planned changes for Fahey & Walsh clients or team members.
"Most importantly, it's business as usual," Mrs Grasso said.
"Our clients will continue working with the same team they know and trust, and I'm pleased to be continuing with the business as part of this next chapter to ensure continuity and maintain the longstanding relationships built within the community."
ML Partners Director John Licciardello said the alignment between the organisations became clear throughout discussions about the future.
"The alignment between our organisations was clear from the outset," Mr Licciardello said.
"Together, we're building a stronger business that expands opportunities for our clients and team members while remaining committed to the communities we serve."
Joe Carey, Chairman and Partner of Carey Group, said the merger reflects a long-standing relationship and shared vision for the future.
"We've worked alongside the ML Partners team for many years and have enormous respect for their people and values," Mr Carey said.
"Together, we're creating new opportunities for our clients, our people and our communities while preserving the relationships that underpin our businesses."
The combined business will bring together approximately 180 professionals across accounting, audit, financial planning and business advisory services, strengthening the depth of expertise and resources available throughout North Queensland.
While the businesses are excited about the opportunities ahead, their focus remains firmly on maintaining the personalised service, trusted advice and strong relationships that have defined their success over many years. Clients will continue to receive advice from the people they know and trust, backed by the additional resources and expertise of a larger regional group.
The merger represents a shared commitment to the future of North Queensland, ensuring individuals, families and businesses continue to have access to high-quality professional advice delivered by local people who understand the communities they serve.
Burdekin’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.
Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.
In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.
So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!
Two local auxiliary firefighters make their stance clear outside Ayr Fire and Rescue’s soon to be replaced Soper Street station. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.
By Jacob Casha
When Queensland Fire Department (QFD) officials signed off on 24-hour station designs for Ayr in January, local firefighters thought their years of advocacy and sacrifice had finally paid dividends.
Those plans went up in smoke when the Department instead decided to retain current staffing models in the district, leaving after-hours response on the shoulders of burnt-out permanent officers and an auxiliary workforce that is evaporating by the year.
“It's sickening,” Queensland Professional Fire Fighters Union Townsville Country Branch Secretary Peter Marten said.
“The community is not aware that if a fire happened tonight, or someone was trapped in a car tonight, they might have to wait 40 minutes for the first fire truck to turn up.
“I just don't understand how [the Department] could be willing to take that risk.”
Queensland Professional Firefighters Union (QPFU) officials have slammed the Queensland Fire Department’s decision to abandon plans for a long-awaited 24-hour fire station in Ayr.
The decision goes against years of advocacy from the Union, which raised concerns that all-time lows in auxiliary numbers have made the current mixed staffing model in Ayr unsustainable and dangerous.
Ayr Fire and Rescue (AFR) representatives were informed of the Department's decision just months after then QFD Assistant Commissioner for the Northern Region, Michael O’Neil, signed off on designs for an FS6 station—a 24/7 permanently staffed facility—to replace its current Soper Street facility.
Union representatives said Mr O’Neil’s signature followed 10 months of consultation between the Department and AFR, during which QFD Deputy Commissioner at the time, Kevin Walsh, also reportedly pledged to submit FS6 station plans with increased staff to upcoming estimates.
At the estimates last month, Mr Walsh and QFR Commissioner Steve Smith instead revealed that while the new station will still be built, it will operate under an FS4 daytime-only staffing model, deeming current arrangements sufficient for service delivery in the region.
“We look at a whole range of factors such as … demographics, urban sprawl, frequency of responses, types of responses and response times,” said Mr Walsh.
“Through that process, it was determined that an FS4 station matches the current service delivery … [with the] capacity for future expansion should the operational service change over time.”
Union officials argued the department’s assessment ignored severe operational realities on the ground, pointing to a collapsing auxiliary workforce and dangerous after-hours response delays.
The station currently pairs rostered daytime permanent staff with on-call auxiliaries for overnight coverage, making it the only emergency service in the Burdekin without a 24/7 operation.
QPFU Townsville Country Branch Secretary Peter Marten said permanent firefighters had been hiding the system’s blemishes for years, with permanent AFR firefighters forced to go on-call after hours to make up for a depleted auxiliary workforce.
“For years, a broken system has been propped up by a permanent workforce who have very clearly told [the Department] that it cannot continue,” he said.
“They're not only covering Ayr now; they cover Giru, and they also had to start covering Home Hill … and a large group of them have become burnt out.”
Mr Marten said the new station in Ayr, funded through the 2025/26 State Budget, was an opportunity for a clean slate.
“There is an opportunity with the new station to fix the problem going forward, but they’ve turned a blind eye to it,” he said.
“If it's not going to happen now, it's probably not going to happen for quite a few years—and and the auxiliary models are going to be broken for all those years. Sooner or later, someone's going to get seriously hurt because of that.”
Mr Marten said the permanent staff are now off-call following the Department’s decision, leaving after-hours response solely down to eight active auxiliary firefighters across the entire Burdekin shire.
Auxiliary Captain Noel Mulcahy said Ayr’s roster alone had plummeted from 14 active members to four over roughly 20 years, three of whom are not qualified to operate pump equipment due to ‘Grade 1’ status.
As a result, Mr Mulcahy said after-hours calls without permanent assistance can face over 30-minute delays waiting for backup from Home Hill, or up to an hour when appliances must be dispatched from Townsville. He called the delay a matter of “life or death.”
He also said low numbers have halted interior search-and-rescue operations altogether.
“If we attended a structure fire and there were people reported inside, I wouldn't commit a crew to go in for search-and-rescue—I haven't got the numbers to go in and save them if something happens,” he said.
“I don't want to stand in front of a coroner and try to explain why I sent them in with no back-up.”
A QFD spokesperson acknowledged the drop in auxiliary numbers, but defended the FS4 decision in a statement, arguing that infrastructure planning is informed by current and future demand.
The Department did not directly respond to questions about what documents Mr O’Neil signed in January, what authority that sign-off carried, or what occurred between the approval of the FS6 designs and the subsequent decision to proceed with an FS4 station.
The spokesperson did reveal that Queensland Fire and Rescue had “undertaken targeted local auxiliary recruitment activities over the past 18 months to support continued service delivery in the area.”
However, AFR statistics show a local 18-month drive launched in 2023 yielded nine applicants, one of whom remains in the role today. Union members cited the ultimately unsuccessful drive as proof that a 24/7 station was the last remaining option.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the region deserves “nothing less.”
“My issue is the fact that it’s been promised, and that 90 per cent of our community would not even realise that, at the present time, we don’t even have a 24/7 manned fire station in the district,” she said.
“Considering the size of our district and our population, having [a new station] built that is lesser than what we have is unacceptable.”
OP-ED by Federal Member For Dawson Andrew Willcox
Every Australian family sitting around the kitchen table knows the reality, our standard of living is under severe pressure. Since the Albanese Labor government took office, Australians have experienced some of the steepest declines in living standards in the developed world. With national debt fast approaching $1 trillion and structural budget deficits locked in for a decade, Labor is spending more and taxing more, while households are forced to get by with less.
The challenge facing our nation is not just identifying these economic headwinds; it is putting forward a clear, constructive alternative. That’s why I’m often asked, what a Coalition government would do differently to steer the country back on track. The answer lies in structural economic reform that rewards hard work, protects aspiration, and respects the money you earn.
At the heart of our plan is a landmark policy designed to end secret tax hikes, the Tax Back Guarantee.
Under the current system, when your wages rise to keep pace with inflation, you can easily be pushed into a higher tax bracket. This process, known as "bracket creep," allows the government to collect higher tax revenues every year without ever having to pass a law. It penalises workers for simply trying to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, rent, and power bills.
It equally penalises businesses, too. Employers feel a genuine responsibility to increase wages so their workers can afford to live, yet these rising expenses drive up business overheads at a time when everyone is struggling to swim against a tide of high inflation fuelled by the Albanese Labor Government.
The Coalition will fix this by permanently indexing income tax thresholds to inflation. Starting in the 2028-29 financial year, we will index the bottom two income tax thresholds, a measure that will protect approximately 85 per cent of Australian income earners.
By year three, that relief would climb to $1,200 a year: providing a substantial, ongoing boost to household budgets when families need it most. From the 2031-32 financial year, we will extend this indexation to the top two thresholds, ensuring that no Australian is penalised with higher taxes simply because of inflation.
This is a fair, simple, and honest reform. It forces the government to live within its means rather than relying on inflation to balance the budget.
True economic recovery also requires us to scrap this new suite of toxic taxes that punish success and stifle investment. The Albanese Labor Government's approach is a direct assault on aspiration. It imposes higher taxes on housing, savings, investments, and small businesses.
This includes a 30 per cent tax rate on discretionary trusts, which acts as an inheritance tax by stealth on the family structures everyday Australians use to pass assets to their children.
This is why a Coalition government will repeal this entire suite of toxic taxes. We will reverse changes to negative gearing that restrict housing supply, undo capital gains tax hikes that discourage investment, and protect small businesses from punitive tax structures.
Furthermore, we will abolish the Safeguard Mechanism, removing a regulatory burden that inflates building material costs and drives local manufacturing offshore.
It is a basic economic reality that when you tax something, you get less of it.
If you tax savings, housing, investment, and small business, you get less of all of them. The Coalition wants more aspiration, not less, which is why we will back the hard-working Australians who want to get ahead.
By cutting these penalties on success, we are offering a positive, practical plan to restore home ownership, lower national debt, and secure Australia's economic future.
All photos courtesy of Shay Kratzmann Photography.
Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Olivia Pabone (Feed Me Food), Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES QLD), (middle) Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), (front) Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dance Association), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School) Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School) and Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School)
The 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors traded their usual festival duties for an afternoon of tea, treats and treasured conversations when they visited Ozcare Ayr for a special high tea.
The Ambassadors played an active role throughout the morning, helping prepare and plate food, greeting residents, serving refreshments and, most importantly, sharing their individual talents and passions with the Ozcare community.
While the visit is a much-anticipated highlight on the Ambassador calendar, it also forms an important part of the judging process, providing an opportunity for the Ambassadors to demonstrate how they work together, interact with residents and staff, and share their interests with others.
The group brought an impressive variety of talents to the afternoon, with Amara demonstrating how to toss a cast net, Aria and Evie sharing their singing talents, and Ashlyn and Edith showcasing their Highland dancing skills.
Jaxsyn gave residents a glimpse into his passion for motorbike riding through a video, while Judah shared a video tour of the Burdekin. Lillea got creative by teaching residents how to draw flowers, while Mia shared her love of horses through footage of her riding and jumping.
Blaize even set himself the ambitious challenge of completing 50 push-ups, with residents eagerly counting along and encouraging him every step of the way. Although he fell just short at 44 push-ups, the enthusiastic support from the room was enough to make the challenge a success.
Ella spoke about her love of baking and prepared brownies for residents to enjoy, while Olivia brought some extra energy to the morning by teaching the other Ambassadors the ‘Hoedown Showdown’ from Hannah Montana, eventually getting the group up and dancing.
Zylon rounded out the entertainment by playing guitar and singing for the residents.
The wonderful atmosphere was made even more special thanks to Ozcare’s Kristy, Amanda and Mel, who once again went above and beyond to transform the hall for the occasion.
This year’s decorations celebrated the Burdekin’s iconic landscape and lifestyle, with photographs of local landmarks including the Burdekin Bridge, sugar cane flowers, blooms collected by Mel from along the Burdekin River and handmade cupcakes crafted by Amanda and decorated with prickly pear, cowboy hats, gum leaves and cowboy boots.
Kristy welcomed residents, Ambassadors and their invited guests to the morning, highlighting the unique Burdekin lifestyle shaped by the Burdekin River and tying the celebration into this year’s festival theme, ‘River Country’.
The beautifully decorated hall was soon filled with conversation as residents and Ambassadors enjoyed a feast of freshly made sandwiches, sweets, cakes, quiche, sausage rolls, spring rolls and more.
With the room buzzing with chatter and laughter, the morning once again highlighted the special connection the Water Festival Ambassadors have built with the region’s aged care community.
The Burdekin Water Festival Committee extended its thanks to Kristy and the Ozcare Ayr team for their ongoing efforts in hosting the Ambassadors, as well as Sunwater for its continued sponsorship of the Ambassador Program.
BWF Ambassadors (back) Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre & CORES QLD), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), (front) Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), and Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College). Photo credit: Kari Ravizza
Over the weekend, Plantation Park became a hub of happiness as the community came together, four-legged members and all, in support of Feed Me Food Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Senior Ambassador, Olivia Pavone’s Dog Walk Fundraising Event!
On the morning of Saturday 8th August, approximately 30 to 40 people, and over 20 pups filled the popular park as Olivia’s fundraiser kicked off, all in support of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue; a cause close to her heart.
“I have always loved animals and the positive impact they can have on people of all ages,” said Olivia.
“Supporting BCPR with this event meant a lot to me because I was able to combine my love for animals with helping an organisation that does so much to support and care for them. BCPR were such an open, welcoming and loving organisation – it was really special to see everyone come together for the morning.”
Mel and Mario Pavone, Owners and Managers of Feed Me Food, could not have been happier with how the day ran, confirming the event raised over $560 to support the valuable work of Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
“We fully supported Olivia’s choice to select Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, having experienced firsthand the incredible benefits a rescue dog can bring and recognising the importance of the work the organisation does,” Mel said.
Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza was in awe of the morning, noting that all the pups were well behaved and made for a lovely morning stroll through Plantation Park’s Juru Walk, followed by a delicious brunch catered by Feed Me Food.
“It was such a beautiful morning in the park and so lovely to see many of the community come out to support Olivia, Feed Me Food and the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue,” Kari enthused.
Burdekin Water Festival Junior and Senior Ambassadors (back) Zylon Dallecort (Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES QLD), Blaize Palmer (Burdekin Motors), Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr), (front) Olivia Pavone (Feed Me Food), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School) and Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School). Photo credit: Kari Ravizza
Ayr’s community spirit was on full display on the evening of Friday 7th August as the Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall came alive with laughter, friendly competition and a few celebratory bubbles in support of Rotary Club of Ayr’s Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Ella Pirrone.
Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said the sold-out event was a wonderful reflection of the community support behind Ella, with local businesses also getting behind the fundraiser by donating prizes for the evening.
“It was such a fun night, and Ella was overwhelmed with the support she received both from the community for attending and from local businesses supplying prizes for the lucky bingo winners!”
Over 120 family, friends and community members gathered to attend the Bingo & Bubbles fundraiser, with a packed evening of bingo, raffles, food and drinks to celebrate Ella’s journey to date as a Senior Ambassador and raise over $3,000 to support the fantastic work of the Rotary Club of Ayr.
“I was so overwhelmed and grateful with how many people turned up on the night – it was so nice to see the community come together – and the thought that they were all there to support me felt really special,” said Ella.
“Throughout my ambassador journey, Rotary Club of Ayr have always been there to help and support me. They are a very supportive community where nothing is ever too big or too small!”
Rotary Club of Ayr President John McVeigh said the club could not be prouder of its 2026 Senior Ambassador entrant, with Ella making a real effort to remain connected with the club throughout her Ambassador journey.
“The Rotary Club of Ayr has been incredibly proud to stand behind Ella as our Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador. She has represented our club with enthusiasm, maturity and genuine commitment, all while balancing her Ambassador duties with full-time study in primary education at JCU in Townsville,” John said.
“Her hard work in organising the Bingo & Bubbles fundraiser was evident on the night, and to see the hall filled with family, friends, bingo players and community supporters was wonderful. It was a real credit to Ella, her extended family and everyone who helped bring the evening together.
“As President, I felt very proud — not only of Ella, but of the way our club and the wider community came together to support her. For Ayr Rotary, it was deeply rewarding to see the community rally behind her, and we were delighted to be part of such a positive and successful event.”
2026 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassadors (back) Judah Donald (Burdekin Christian College), Lillea Levitt (Burdekin Netball Association), Amara Boccalatte (BT Farms), Jaxsyn Pearce (Ayr State School), (front), Edith Innes (East Ayr State School), Ashlyn Pearce (Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association), Mia Bojack (Burdekin Christian College), Evie Totorica (Ayr Motorcycle Club), Amity Baxter (The Burdekin Academy), Amity Power (Campbell’s Jewellery), and Aria Fiamingo (St Francis Catholic School). Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography
By Chelsea Ravizza
In another exciting instalment in the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF), this month will see the Junior Ambassadors join forces for the first time in BWF history to create one colourful afternoon of community fun, fundraising and friendly competition!
The inaugural Junior Ambassador Fun Fair will be held on Saturday 15th August, from 3pm at Silver Screens and Coffee Beans, bringing together all 11 Junior Ambassadors to host a collaborative fundraising event in support of their chosen schools, community organisations and charities.
Unlike previous years, where each Junior Ambassador organised an individual fundraising event, this year's ambassadors have combined their efforts to create one family-friendly celebration packed with games, treats, crafts and entertainment.
Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator, Kari says every Junior Ambassador has designed a unique stall, ensuring there’s something to entertain children and adults alike.
“It's [Junior Ambassador Fun Fair] a great excuse to get the family together, have some fun and support some amazing young people,” Kari said.
“Every activity has been planned and run by one of our Junior Ambassadors. They've put so much work into it, and it's exciting to finally see all of their ideas come to life.”
Entry to the cash only Fun Fair is free, with individual activities individually priced to help each ambassador raise funds for their nominated organisation or charity. Visitors can also enjoy mini golf for $5 before settling in for a classic drive-in movie for $12.
Families can test their skills with magnetic fishing, Highland Games challenges, paper plane competitions and a gymnastics tumble track, get creative decorating dot cakes, flower pots and hair clips, browse 3D-printed toys and sensory fidgets, enjoy a slime station, photo booth, lucky dips and chocolate toss, or cool off with raspberry slushies, snow cones, fairy floss, popcorn and other sweet treats.
“Preparations are still well underway. It takes a lot of organising to bring a community event like this together, but it's all coming together really well and the ambassadors, their supporting organisations and our committee have all been working hard behind the scenes to make it a great afternoon for everyone," Kari said.
"We'd love to see people make an afternoon and evening of it while supporting our Junior Ambassadors and the Burdekin Water Festival."
The Fun Fair also provides the community with an opportunity to meet this year's Junior Ambassadors while supporting the schools, sporting clubs and community organisations they proudly represent, including The Burdekin Academy, Campbell's Jewellery, St Francis Catholic School, Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association, East Ayr State School, Ayr Motorcycle Club, Ayr State School, Burdekin Christian College, Burdekin Netball Association and BT Farms.
Kari said bringing the ambassadors together for one collaborative event has created an exciting new fundraising opportunity while encouraging teamwork, friendship and community spirit among this year's cohort.
"With such a large number of Junior Ambassadors this year, it made sense to bring everyone together for one exciting community event," Kari said.
"Bringing everyone together has also created a wonderful sense of teamwork. Instead of competing for crowds, the ambassadors are supporting and encouraging one another while representing their schools, organisations and charities. It's a great example of what the Ambassador Program is all about – building confidence, leadership and community spirit."
Kari hopes the afternoon will celebrate not only the creativity and enthusiasm of the ambassadors but also the generosity of the local community, with every activity helping support worthy local causes.
"I'm really looking forward to seeing the ambassadors cheering each other on. They've built some great friendships throughout the program, and it's been wonderful to watch their confidence and skills grow," Kari said.
"I'd love to see a big crowd come along because they've all worked so hard to make their activities a success, and they deserve to see the community get behind them. If people come along, have a laugh, enjoy the activities, stay for the movie and head home with a smile, we'll know we've achieved exactly what we set out to do."
With affordable activities, delicious treats, community spirit and a nostalgic drive-in movie rounding out the afternoon, the inaugural Junior Ambassador Fun Fair is shaping up to be one of the highlights of this year's Burdekin Water Festival.Additional details are available via the Burdekin Water Festival’s social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.
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