Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Ayr State High School has congratulated its 2026 student leadership team, who have already been carrying out their duties since their induction at last year’s Academic Awards ceremony. The school acknowledged the students’ commitment and leadership, recognising the important role they play in representing their peers and contributing to school life. Leading the 2026 cohort are School Captains Caitlyn Cheyne and Ayden Barnett, supported by School Vice Captains Karina Guglielmi and Charlie Shears. Other leadership positions include Ashlee Colls as Sports Vice Captain, Allegra Tallis as Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain, Sarah as Cultural Vice Captain, and Tiana Cameron as Community Service Vice Captain. The leaders were formally presented to the school community during the 2025 awards night held last October, marking a proud moment for students, staff and families as the team continues its leadership journey throughout the year. CAPTION: Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Allegra Tallis, Sports Vice Captain Ashlee Colls, School Vice-Captain Karina Guglielmi, School Captain Caitlyn Cheyne, School Captain Ayden Barnett, School Vice-Captain Charlie Shears, Community Service Vice Captain Tiana Cameron and Cultural Vice Captain Sarah. Photo supplied
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For many Burdekin parents, the phrase “stranger danger” brings back memories of warning children not to talk to unfamiliar adults on the walk home from school. Today, those strangers are no longer confined to parks or shopping centres—they can appear instantly on a child’s phone or tablet screen. The eSafety Commissioner has issued a fresh Online Safety Advisory highlighting the risks posed by anonymous “random chat” apps, where users are paired with strangers for live video or text conversations. Platforms such as Omegle, Chatroulette, HOLLA, Monkey and OmeTV are designed for spontaneity and global connection. While Omegle shut down in late 2023, others remain active and accessible in Australia. The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Anonymous chat apps allow people to connect instantly, often with minimal registration requirements and limited age verification. Users are randomly paired, live video can expose children to explicit material within seconds, and anonymity enables predators to hide their identity and intentions. Conversations may also be recorded and misused without consent. Omegle became notorious for pairing minors with adults engaging in sexual behaviour. In 2022 alone, the platform reportedly flagged more than 500,000 instances of child sexual abuse material. In a high-profile United States case, an 11-year-old girl was coerced into creating explicit content. Omegle later settled legal action for US$22 million before shutting down. Its founder acknowledged the platform had been misused for “unspeakably heinous crimes”. eSafety said the problem is not new, but is worsening. Children now carry video-enabled devices everywhere, pandemic lockdowns increased unsupervised screen time, and evolving technology—including AI and real-time video—makes harmful interactions harder to moderate. Under the Online Safety Act 2021, eSafety has powers to enforce Basic Online Safety Expectations, require companies to improve moderation systems and order the removal of unlawful content within 24 hours. The regulator recently issued a formal warning to OmeTV’s provider for allegedly failing to meet mandatory requirements under Australian law. Apple and Google have also been notified, as both companies are required to act if apps available in their stores breach Australian legislation. Penalties of up to $49.5 million are available under the Act. eSafety’s guidance to families is practical and direct. Parents and carers are encouraged to use device-level parental controls such as Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link, block high-risk sites, and consider monitoring tools. Just as importantly, they should talk openly with children about online interactions, reinforce rules about sharing personal information, and ensure young people know how to block and report users. The advisory stresses that responsibility should not fall on families alone. Technology companies are being urged to implement stronger age assurance measures, properly resource moderation teams and design platforms with safety at the forefront. For regional communities like the Burdekin, where children are growing up as digitally connected as their city counterparts, online safety begins at home and requires a united effort from parents, schools, industry and regulators alike. CAPTION: The advisory warns that for children and young people, these platforms can quickly become gateways to inappropriate content, manipulation and sexual exploitation. Photo source: iStock
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Residents across the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires, alongside the Molongle Creek Boat Club Inc. (MCBC) and the wider Cape Upstart community are calling on the State Government to honour its 2021 commitment to provide and maintain all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The Molongle Creek access channel is the only marine gateway to Cape Upstart, home to approximately 240 private properties that are accessible by sea only. Despite decades of volunteer investment and a formal handover to the government, thousands of locals are pushing for action, stressing the integral role the channel plays in connecting Cape Upstart with essential services and access to the mainland. Surveys have exhibited 15,000 to 20,000 vessels annually utilise the channel, which includes locals, visitors, fishers and caravan park users. Despite its importance, locals say the channel no longer provides reliable all-tide access, contrary to commitments made during the 2016 state election and formalised during a 2021 handover. “The lack of all-tide access severely restricts people’s access to their properties at Cape Upstart,” highlighted Molongle Creek Boat Club Commodore, Ken Betteridge. Currently, there’s no alternative all-tide public boating access between Townsville and Bowen, making Molongle Creek critical regional infrastructure. A Facility Built by Volunteers The Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) was formed in 1962, with the aim of improving boating access for both members and the wider public. Over the past several decades, the facility has been developed and maintained almost entirely through volunteer labour, private funding and club-owned machinery. Early attempts to maintain access involved reshaping natural channels, with club members using dozers, excavators and, in some cases, explosives to create viable passage through shifting sands. When those efforts failed due to natural sediment movement, the club established the current channel alignment, again through volunteer work. MCBC volunteers have carried out annual maintenance for years using a Komatsu swamp dozer owned by the club, however, increasing environmental restrictions, permit changes and rising costs eventually made self-maintenance untenable. Election Promise and Handover In the lead-up to the 2016 state election, both major parties committed to delivering an all-tide access channel at Molongle Creek. That commitment culminated in a tri-party Deed of Agreement between the State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council and the Molongle Creek Boat Club. As part of the agreement, the club was required to surrender its lease and gift all sea- and land-based assets to the State and Local Government, allowing public funds to be spent on the facility. A formal valuation placed the value of those assets at $2.84 million. In 2021, the Molongle Boating Facility was officially handed over to State Government control, with the expectation government would develop and maintain the all-tide access channel, boat ramps, pontoon and trailer parking in line with other public boating facilities across Queensland. Design Concerns and Infill Issues According to long-standing club members, concerns were raised during the design phase that the chosen alignment would be vulnerable to flooding and sediment infill from Molongle Creek, particularly during wet seasons. Locals advocated for an alternative alignment further east, or the construction of a protective bund wall to shield the channel from flood flows. Those concerns, they say, were ignored. “Molongle Creek Boat Club’s lobbying secured funding for an all-tide channel, however, due to various government departments, the placement of the channel was restricted to where it is now,” Mr Betteridge said. “The choice presented to us was a channel where it is – or was – or no channel at all. We knew it would be problematic, but MCBC had no choice but to accept. There’s been a lot of money spent, and the result is disappointing to say the least.” Within months of the channel’s completion, wet-season flooding filled the channel with sediment, significantly reducing depth. While bed levelling in 2022 and 2023 temporarily improved access, a major wet season in 2024 again rendered the channel largely unusable. No maintenance funding has been allocated since. As a result, access windows have narrowed dramatically. Club members say the channel was once usable on a 1.7-metre tide; now, small vessels require tides of 2.4 metres or higher, eliminating daylight access on many days. “All-tide access?” one local asked. “It’s anything but.” Safety Concerns Escalate The lack of reliable access has raised serious safety concerns, particularly given the demographics of Cape Upstart and peak holiday periods when usage surges. Over the years, residents have been forced to transport injured or ill people by boat to meet ambulances at Molongle Creek, but only when tides allow. When tides are out, emergency helicopters have been relied upon, though they are not always available. “Over the years, there have been quite a few medical incidences where the access to Molongle Creek was tidally available – if no tide, the emergency helicopter was luckily available,” said Mr Betteridge. In one recent incident, two young boys were stung by Irukandji jellyfish at Kingfish Bay, however, fortunately, the tide allowed access back through Molongle Creek, yet locals say the outcome could have been far worse had the tide been out. After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) crews conducting welfare checks were forced to use Wallace’s Creek instead of Molongle due to the channel’s condition, a longer, more exposed and potentially dangerous route. A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service said the agency remained committed to community safety. “The State Emergency Service (SES) is committed to working with the Molongle Creek and Cape Upstart communities to provide essential services to the region and maintaining community safety,” the spokesperson said. “The SES operates within a broader disaster management framework and works closely with partner agencies to deliver safe and effective responses to the community during severe weather events.” Calls for Practical Solutions The Molongle Creek Boat Club maintains that solutions already exist. Chief among them is the construction of a bund or barrier wall, either from rock or geotextile bags filled with dredged sand, a method already proven at the site, where a small geotextile wall has successfully reduced infill for more than 25 years. Club members argue such a barrier would significantly reduce sediment movement, extend the time between dredging cycles and deliver the year-round access originally promised. “There are approximately 240 dwellings at Cape Upstart that use molongle Creek as their main, and only access port – a 365 day all-tide access channel will definitely improve the safety of the whole community,” said Mr Betteridge. “We need a bund wall sooner rather than later, and MCBC along with the bulk of the public community know that a bund wall is the only solution to keep the channel open 365 days a year.” Local State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said responsibility for the failed delivery rested with the former government. “The former government went to the 2017 election with a commitment to provide all-tide access at Molongle Creek. The unfortunate reality is that they failed to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said. “I have supported the campaign for all-tide access since the very beginning, largely based on the need to be able to respond to emergencies quickly, rather than waiting for tides. The assurance that I have given, and stand by, is that I will continue to work with stakeholders for a better outcome for all users of Molongle Creek.” He said concerns raised by the boat club during the design phase were ignored. “Promises were made and expectations were built on those promises. Clearly those expectations were not met and, clearly, the promises made were broken.” Mr Last acknowledged ongoing challenges related to permits and environmental approvals but said Maritime Safety Queensland had committed to working with stakeholders on a long-term management strategy. “There are a range of issues affecting the ability to undertake maintenance at Molongle Creek. If the input from the Molongle Creek Boat Club was given the attention it deserved, many of the issues we face today would not exist,” he said. “Despite the challenges, the Club has been given a direct commitment that Maritime Safety Queensland will work closely with them and key stakeholders to develop and implement a long-term management strategy.” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the Molongle Creek boating facility was a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters, particularly for emergency access. “The Molongle Creek boating facility is a vital piece of infrastructure for the Cape Upstart community and regional boaters; it is especially significant for safety, as Volunteer Marine Rescue and residents rely on this channel for emergency transport.” Mr Willcox said the channel continued to face natural challenges due to its geographic location. “The Molongle Creek Channel currently faces ongoing challenges due to its geographic location: the flow at the mouth of the creek frequently causes sand to accumulate and choke the channel.” He said responsibility for maintaining the facility had shifted to the State Government during his time as Whitsunday Mayor, and that a permanent engineering solution was needed. “During my time as Whitsunday Mayor, the State Government assumed responsibility for the maintenance of this facility to ensure its continued operation.” “In my assessment, a permanent infrastructure solution is required to address the siltation issues: this would involve installing sheet piling or a rock wall to protect the channel and keep it open
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Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg. Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen. “We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said. “I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.” The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began. Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet. Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen. Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen. “Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.” CAPTION: Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Representatives of the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club are returning triumphant following the Life Saving World Championships which took place in the Gold Coast this week.
Chris Wicks, Ross Rickards and Jimmy Hayllor, supported by teammates Ben and Kelly Lawry, took out fifth place in the Masters Men’s Beach Relay in their age category while Kristy Wassmuth came home with a silver in the 200-metre obstacle race.
Chris Wicks, Ross Rickards and Jimmy Hayllor win big at Worlds. Photo supplied
Members of the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club are celebrating the efforts of their teammates this week as the returning heroes bring home tales of camaraderie, celebration and achievement following two successful bids at the Life Saving World Championships.
Chris Wicks, Ross Rickards and Jimmy Hayllor competed in the 110-129 year (an average of all their ages) category in the Men’s Beach Relay.
The trio came second in Australia and fifth in the world. Another Australian team came in first, followed by Brazil, Argentina, France and then – the boys from the Burdekin.
Local athlete, Kristy Wassmuth also succeeded in her division, bringing home a silver medal in the 200-metre obstacle race.
Teammate, Kellie Lawry said they were all thrilled with the result.
“The event only comes to Australia sometimes and the guys thought they’d give it crack,” she explained.
“It’s been a wonderful experience for everyone – the people we met were really friendly – Jimmy even swapped a pair of his budgies with someone from Argentina, it’s been so much fun.”
More than 5000 people came to the Gold Coast to compete in the Life Saving World Championships with various competitions taking place over the last three weeks.
The group of Burdekin representatives said they enjoyed meeting athletes from different countries and soaking up the camaraderie of the sport.
Kellie Lawry, Jimmy Hayllor, Ross Rickards, Chris Wicks and Ben Lawry at the Life Saving World Championships which took place in the Gold Coast this week. Photo supplied
Kristy Wassmuth came home with a silver in the 200 metre obstacle race. Photo supplied
Branded Budgies for the Burdekin boys. Photo supplied
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As the Burdekin transitions from the cooler months into the warmth of spring, the change of season brings a fresh wave of energy and activity to our vibrant community. The longer days and blooming landscapes set the perfect backdrop for a range of seasonal activities and agricultural shifts that define this unique time of year.
For our farmers, this season marks a crucial period of preparation and planting. With the soil warming up, there's a renewed focus on cultivating the crops that will sustain our region and beyond. The fields, once dormant, now burst with life, reminding us of the deep-rooted agricultural heritage that powers our economy.
In town, the community comes alive with a series of events that capture the spirit of spring. From local markets offering fresh, seasonal produce to outdoor festivals that celebrate our culture and creativity, there's a sense of renewal in the air. Residents are seen enjoying outdoor activities, be it picnics by the river or weekend barbecues with family and friends, making the most of the mild weather before the summer heat sets in.
Looking ahead, the coming months promise an array of events that will bring us together—whether it’s the Burdekin Water Festival, the Home Hill Harvest Festival, local sporting events, or community fundraisers. As we embrace the changing season, let’s celebrate the opportunities it brings to connect, grow, and enjoy the best of what the Burdekin has to offer.
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Every week, the Federal Government allocates $2,600 to the Doorways Emergency Relief program, providing crucial support to individuals and local families facing hardship. These funds play a vital role in ensuring that those going through tough times have access to essential services and resources.
In the Burdekin region, Gwen Marshall spearheads this initiative through the Burdekin Community Association. Working closely with the Neighbourhood Centre, Gwen and her team are dedicated to helping those in need by providing immediate assistance, such as food vouchers, utility payments, and other essential items.
“This funding is a lifeline for many in our community,” Gwen Marshall said. “It allows us to offer real, tangible help to people who are struggling to make ends meet. Whether it’s someone who has lost their job or a family facing unexpected expenses, we’re here to support them through difficult times.”
The Burdekin Community Association building, along with the Neighbourhood Centre, serves as a hub for distributing these much-needed resources. The efforts of Gwen Marshall and her team ensure that the allocated funds are used effectively to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they assist.
For anyone in need of assistance or looking for more information, the Burdekin Community Association can be reached at 4783 3744.
Gwen Marshall
If you've driven by or visited us recently, you might have seen the temporary fencing and skip bin out front of the Centre. The Neighbourhood Centre is currently undergoing construction and renovations.
Phase one has been completed, and we now have a new storage building at the back of the centre. This has allowed us to move our filing archives and storage from the garage to the new building.
Phase two has just commenced, and we are currently converting the garage into a multi-purpose training/meeting/office space for the Centre staff.
We also have new, very stylish office furniture along with the renovations. It has been over twenty years since the furniture was last replaced, which has created quite a bit of excitement in the office.
The new furniture has allowed for more much-needed workstations, as the old layout meant staff and volunteers sometimes had to share desks. The new layout also creates a better flow for moving around the office, allowing us to centralise resources more efficiently.
The only thing that has not changed is the friendly faces who work at the Neighbourhood Centre: Susan, Marisa, Jenny, Kim, and Natalie. Thank you to all the staff for their perseverance in working in less-than-ideal conditions while these changes occur.
We would also like to thank our visitors and regular program participants who have supported us during this time and adapted to the many changes and interruptions.
BellMarc Constructions was awarded the construction tender through the Department of Communities/QBuild. We thank Marc, Sam, Ryan, and their team for the hard work they’ve put in and for being accommodating and easy to work with. The guys always have happy smiles and fit the vibe of the Neighbourhood Centre perfectly.
Please drop in and see us at the Neighbourhood Centre. We would be pleased to show you the progress being made and love to have a conversation with the community - this is where we get our best ideas. Are you looking for a social outing or group to join? We can help you find one. See us at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr or contact us at (07) 4783 4243.
Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Natalie from BNC with from L to R: Sam, Mark & Ryan from BellMarc Constructions. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Chamber, a key supporter of local businesses through initiatives like the Burdekin Gift Card scheme, is at risk of closing due to a lack of volunteers. For the past decade, the Burdekin Gift Card program has played a crucial role in keeping money within the community by limiting its use to local businesses. This "closed-loop" system has bolstered the local economy and become a popular choice for organizations such as Wilmar, social clubs, and the Burdekin Eisteddfod, who use the gift cards for prizes and gifts.
However, the Chamber's future is now in jeopardy, with three key positions—President, Secretary, and Treasurer—remaining vacant. If these roles are not filled soon, the current committee may be forced to close the Chamber, putting initiatives like the gift card scheme at risk.
The closure of the Chamber would be a significant blow to the Burdekin region. It has been instrumental in advocating for local businesses, organizing networking events, and providing essential resources to help businesses thrive. The Burdekin Gift Card scheme, in particular, has ensured that economic benefits remain within the community, supporting local businesses and keeping funds close to home.
Beyond its programs, the Burdekin Chamber has been a fantastic platform for local business owners to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. By fostering these connections, the Chamber has helped build a strong, supportive business community that benefits everyone involved.
The current committee is calling on community members to step up and take on these critical roles. Without new leadership, the Chamber’s ability to continue its mission of supporting local businesses and fostering connections within the Burdekin will be lost.
The Burdekin Chamber has been a cornerstone of the local business community for years, providing both practical support and invaluable networking opportunities. Now, it needs the support of that same community to continue its work. Filling these essential positions is not just about saving the Chamber—it's about preserving the economic and social fabric of the Burdekin region.
Opinion Piece
North Queenslanders left to run the gauntlet in their daily commute on a substandard highway have been offered a clear picture about how little Labor cares about their safety, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Mr Last said despite an extensive campaign and multiple reports pointing to some of the deadliest sections of the Bruce Highway in North Queensland, the Prime Minister has failed to give locals a date as to when they could feel safe driving on the Bruce Highway.
“A plethora of safety concerns, a climbing number of deaths and a region at boiling point over the state of the Bruce Highway should have been more than enough reason for the Prime Minister to make a funding announcement this region is crying out for,” Mr Last said.
“Only weeks earlier we saw a 15-year action plan with no funding from Albanese’s state Labor mates, now we are seeing the same level of disdain for the safety of regional road users by the Labor Prime Minister.”
“In my electorate alone 18 actions were identified for the Bruce Highway, including sections that have cost multiple people’s lives in the last 12 months, so it was not as if the opportunities and priority areas for funding weren’t identified before the Prime Minister’s jet hit the tarmac in Townsville.”
Mr Last said regional Queenslanders deserved to know that their safety when they drive on the Bruce Highway in the north was just as valued as the safety of a driver on the M1 in the southeast- corner.
“We have to fight tooth and nail for any road funding in the north and the sad reality is that quite often, those upgrades aren’t about arriving at a location quicker, they are about actually arriving alive,” Mr Last said.
“Every time a community and first responders are left to pick up the pieces from another fatal accident on the Bruce Highway they are left to question just how much more blood needs to be shed before the road they rely on gets serious funding and it’s clearly a question this Labor government needs to start answering.”
Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Home Hill's Anglican Church recently hosted a lively community event that brought together residents for a day of fellowship, food, and cultural celebration. The event featured an array of activities, including a series of addresses by various ministers who shared inspiring messages and led the congregation in prayer.
The atmosphere was one of warmth and camaraderie as attendees enjoyed a traditional sausage sizzle, which provided a delicious break between the day’s festivities. The aroma of grilled sausages filled the air, drawing in families and friends eager to share a meal together.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the Burdekin Choral Society delivered a stirring performance that captivated the audience. Their harmonious voices resonated throughout the church, filling the space with uplifting melodies that highlighted the community's rich musical talent.
One of the event's highlights was a special performance of Melanesian song and dance, which brought a unique cultural element to the day. The performers, dressed in traditional attire, captivated the audience with their rhythmic movements and soulful singing, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Melanesian people.
The event at Home Hill's Anglican Church was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of community, culture, and faith. It served as a reminder of the importance of coming together to share in the diverse traditions that make the region so unique.
Photo Captions:
Bishop and Party after unveiling the Centenary Plaque
Bishop Heith and Warden Pam Ashworth after unveiling Centenary Plaque on the wall.
Home Hill Choral Society
Pam Ashworth, Noel Condie, and Alf Shand cutting Centenary Cake.
Flexi Queensland has proudly been recognized as 'The Most Exceptional Disability Support Services Team in Australia' at the prestigious Enablement Awards 2024, held in Brisbane on Friday, August 16, 2024. This accolade highlights the outstanding contributions of top performers across the Disability Care, Housing, and Services sectors throughout the year.
Winning this award is a testament to Flexi Queensland’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality support and care for individuals with disabilities. Their dedication to fostering inclusive communities and empowering their clients to lead fulfilling lives has set them apart in the industry.
The Enablement Awards serve as a platform to celebrate the achievements of organizations and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and innovation in the disability sector. Flexi Queensland’s win not only showcases their excellence but also highlights the important role that quality support services play in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities across the nation.
Flexi Queensland hopes to continue its mission of providing exceptional care and support, ensuring that every individual they work with has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their goals.
After a seven-year hiatus, the Whitsundays Writers Festival returns in 2024, Friday 6 to Sunday 8 September in Airlie Beach.
A stellar line up of Australian literary figures are confirmed, along with local regional writers, in a program of author keynotes, conversations, and workshops.
The writer’s festival kicks off next Thursday with the Love Letter to Queensland event, which is from 6:30-9pm. The evening will feature a stimulating lineup of notable speakers, each presenting their own love letters to Queensland and offering a diverse array of perspectives and experiences.
Guest speakers include:
• Marco Renai who was awarded 2024 Queenslander of the Year for his impactful work with at-risk young men.
• Elizabeth Hackett who is known for her significant contributions to the tourism industry and the Whitsunday Skyway project.
• Dr Chris Sarra, CEO of the Office of First Nations Engagement and Innovation, leading initiatives for youth engagement within Queensland.
• Dr Melissa Ashley, celebrated academic and award-winning author of historical fiction novels.
• Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson will announce and read the winning Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition entries who will receive shopping vouchers for Adult and Under 12 Divisions.
• Karen Jacobsen Whitsunday Writers Festival President, international speaker, concert artist and songwriter, author, and the voice behind over a billion GPS and smartphone devices.
On Friday, 6 September, the Whitsunday Sailing Club will transform into a lively event of author keynotes, stimulating sessions, and refreshments, including morning and afternoon tea. The day will end with Poetry Karaoke, featuring light snacks and two drink vouchers. Sessions include topics like storytelling, crime writing, responsible writing, and the impact of AI on creative writing. Attendees can also enjoy poetry readings and share their own verses in a supportive atmosphere.
On Saturday, start with the annual inaugural festival address by renowned author Shankari Chandran, then head over to the Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the diverse talents of the Australian creative community while honouring the Whitsunday Heart Reef.
In the afternoon, enjoy the Big Book Club High Tea with Sally Hepworth and Kirsty Manning, hosted by Karina Kilmore and catered by Rainbow Bakery, renowned for its exquisite High Teas and award-winning sausage rolls.
Other highlights include meet-and-greets, screen adaptations, and insightful talks on fiction writing.
Closing the Festival on Sunday 8 September will be the Local Author Long Lunch, celebrating the writing journeys of some of the festival’s fantastic Featured Local Authors.
At lunch, the following authors will discuss their genres, careers, and links to the Whitsundays:
• Rachel Armstrong, award-winning North Queensland contemporary romance author.
• Lorie Brink, Townsville local with an upcoming debut action-adventure novel.
• Harry Colfer, critical care paramedic and author of a murder-mystery, thrillers, and short stories.
• A.L. Tippett, urban fantasy writer whose first novel was at twelve, with one featuring Bowen’s Big Mango.
• Monique Van Tulder, Shute Harbour lifestyle and travel writer spotlighting inspiring women.
What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: 6-8 September 2024
Where: Main venue Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach
Registration: Head to www.whitsundayswriters.com to purchase tickets.
Renowned author Shankari Chandran
enjoy the Big Book Club High Tea with Sally Hepworth and Kirsty Manning
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Reverend Malia Ma’u of the Burdekin Uniting Church (Home Hill and Ayr), a passionate advocate for music and community, shares the inspiring story behind the formation of Burdekin’s newest ukulele group. The journey began with Ma’u’s desire to create a space where people could come together to enjoy music, and it took a significant turn when a Townsville ukulele professional faced a battle with cancer. Despite the setback, the group persevered and is now set to offer the Burdekin community a vibrant platform to learn and enjoy the ukulele.
The ukulele’s appeal lies in its accessibility and versatility. “It’s not just a small, transportable instrument; it’s something that anyone, from children to the elderly, can pick up and enjoy,” Ma’u explains. Its simplicity and the warm, inviting sound make it an ideal instrument for beginners and seasoned musicians alike.
Being part of the ukulele community has profoundly influenced Ma’u’s musical experience. “The ukulele has been a joy, bringing us together to sing and play,” she says. “It doesn’t require much, and you don’t need to plug it in—you just play and enjoy.” This communal spirit is a driving force behind the group’s activities and events.
When it comes to favourite songs, Ma’u has a special fondness for Hawaiian tunes, particularly “Aloha Oe.” “I love hearing my son Joe strum to Hawaiian songs. It’s one of my favourites,” she shares with a smile.
The ukulele’s versatility extends to various genres of music. “It’s amazing how it fits into any genre,” Ma’u notes. “The joy of playing with any song and seeing oneself improve is truly remarkable.”
For beginners, Ma’u’s advice is simple yet profound: “Don’t worry, be happy.” This approach reflects the group’s welcoming and supportive atmosphere. “I pray that this will be a space for the community to enjoy learning to play the ukulele and help build each other up through music” she adds.
Looking ahead, the group is excited about upcoming events, including a meet and greet and the possibility of Christmas carols. “We aim to bring a variety of ukuleles and provide support for those who may not have one,” Ma’u explains. “We’re working with a local church, the Carpentaria Presbytery of the Uniting Church, to ensure that the community benefits from this initiative, addressing issues like loneliness and fostering a sense of fellowship.”
The hope is that attendees will leave these events feeling encouraged and passionate about playing an instrument. “We want to inspire people and build up our community,” Ma’u emphasizes.
While there’s no charge for the events, a gold coin donation will be appreciated to help with the morning tea. Looking to the future, Ma’u is keen on setting up evening classes to accommodate those with busy schedules. “Anything that builds up community will be lovely,” she concludes.
The ukulele group, driven by Ma’u’s dedication and the collective enthusiasm of its members, promises to be a vibrant addition to Burdekin’s cultural landscape.
Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS) kicked off its 50th anniversary celebrations with a series of heartwarming events that brought together the school community, past and present, to honour half a century of education and community spirit.
The festivities began with an unforgettable Opening Night that set the tone for the weekend. The school campus was filled with pride, a strong sense of family, and an overwhelming spirit of community. The evening was a resounding success, marking the beginning of the three-day celebration in a way that words can hardly capture.
The excitement continued on Saturday night with the 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner. The event saw many past and present staff members and students gather for a beautiful evening of reminiscing and celebration. The night was a testament to the enduring legacy of BCHS, as attendees shared memories and expressed gratitude for the school's impact over the past 50 years.
On Wednesday, the celebrations shifted focus to the current students with a special 50th Anniversary Assembly. The students came together to honour the school's rich history, welcoming back former students and significant community members. A highlight of the assembly was the preparation of a time capsule, set to be opened at the school's 75th anniversary. The event also included a special blessing from Fr Truong, who blessed anniversary pins that were distributed to all staff and students.
The assembly concluded with the cutting of the anniversary cake, symbolically carried out by a student from the Class of 1974 and a current student from the Class of 2024. The moment was a beautiful representation of the school's past and present coming together in celebration. The event ended on a sweet note, with students sharing cake to mark the occasion.
As BCHS continues its celebrations, the sense of pride and community spirit remains palpable, a true reflection of the school's 50-year legacy.
Contributed with thanks to BCHS.
Photos supplied
Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) has delivered the ‘Be Connected Program’ to Seniors over 50 for more than 14 years. Our Volunteer Tutors have provided hundreds of seniors with the essential digital skills to get online safely and with confidence.
With so many aspects of life now online, from healthcare and government services to finding a job and staying in touch with loved ones and the technology we use changing very quickly, it’s super important that you get online and increase your digital literacy and feel more connected.
Our tutors can help you to use a personal computer or your mobile phone, laptop or iPad. Perhaps you would like to do online banking, access information, videos or movies, set up an online account, use social media or email to feel more connected to your friends and the community reducing loneliness and isolation etc.
To learn more, make a booking or become a Tutor, please contact the Team at The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)
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Bullying. Just say no.
In light of the recent Bullying No Way: National Week of Action which ran from 12th August to 16th August I would like to highlight the fact that bullying takes many forms, including cyber.
Cyber bullying is perhaps one of the most heinous things to grace our media devices. It affords people the opportunity to say hurtful things and make awful allegations that they otherwise would not have the courage to say to someone’s face.
Statements can escalate rapidly when others choose to jump on the bandwagon and misinformation can spread like wildfire. We need to respect the fact that we are all different and simply be kind to one another.
A great initiative by the Burdekin Shire Youth Council is the “Community Notes of Kindness” campaign which has been running throughout the month. This initiative aims to spread positivity and kindness within our community, encouraging everyone to participate in simple acts of goodwill. The steps to participate are simple:
Collect a ‘note of kindness’ from various locations around the Burdekin, including Ayr and Home Hill Libraries, cafes, schools and businesses. Look for the signs, they’ll guide you to where the cards are located. Take a moment to write a kind message for a friend, loved one, teacher, coworker or even a stranger.
You can choose to keep your note anonymous or include your name. Leave the ‘note of kindness to brighten someone’s day. Through initiatives such as this, we will hopefully foster a compassionate and supportive community.
On another note, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Councillor Fina Vasta and I attended the Vietnam Veterans Day commemorating the battle of Long Tan at the Deep Creek Veterans Retreat on Sunday 18th August.
This secluded retreat serves as a quiet, serene getaway for our veterans and congratulations must be extended to the organisers and all those who attended. It was a lovely day.
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As we approach the eighth year of Queensland's 10-year Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy, it's clear that significant strides have been made, but there is still much work to be done. With over $1.3 billion invested in services, programs, and strategies, the Queensland Government continues its commitment to ending domestic and family violence.
Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council. Under the leadership of Co-Chairs Ms. Vanessa Fowler and Mr. Robert (Bob) Atkinson, this council has been instrumental in encouraging both community and corporate sectors to take responsibility in preventing domestic and family violence. Their efforts have inspired action across the state, leading to many proactive initiatives aimed at challenging and changing the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours that contribute to domestic and family violence
I also had the opportunity to meet with Jeff Horn and representatives from small schools in our region. Our discussions focused on the critical role that education and community awareness play in preventing domestic and family violence. These conversations highlighted the importance of involving all sectors of society in our efforts to create safer communities.
Airville, Millaroo and Clare State Schools have embarked on an exciting new program by Bullyproof Australia to protect our children and teachers from bullying and improve their mental health. As the first schools in the Burdekin to undertake this program, they are setting a powerful example for others to follow in creating safer, more supportive learning environments.
Together, we all can make a difference, and no one should ever live in fear. Let's continue to support these proactive efforts and work towards a future where everyone can live free from violence.
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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Hayward Hydraulics, founded by Robert Hayward in 1996, has become a cornerstone in the Burdekin’s hydraulic industry. What began with a single cab ute and toolbox quickly expanded into a vital service provider for the region. Within a year of operation, the need for a dedicated hydraulic repair workshop became apparent, leading to the establishment of the business as it stands today.
Over the past 28 years, Hayward Hydraulics has focused on hydraulic sales and service, particularly repairs. Despite Robert Hayward’s modest nature, the company’s growth has been significant. It is now recognised as the primary hydraulic repair and parts supplier in the Burdekin and surrounding districts.
Quality and reliability are the hallmarks of Hayward Hydraulics’ operations. Every repair undergoes thorough testing before release, thanks to the workshop's two hydraulic test rigs: a 15-horsepower test bench and a 280-horsepower engine-driven pump and motor test rig. These rigorous processes have earned the company a loyal customer base, spanning from Innisfail to Hughenden and down to Mackay.
Innovation has always been a key focus for Hayward Hydraulics. The company has collaborated with local businesses to develop machinery for the cane industry, leading to innovations adopted by larger companies. Robert’s approach is not just to repair but to prevent future issues. With 47 years of experience in hydraulics, all in the Burdekin, Robert’s deep knowledge keeps customers returning.
Tailoring hydraulic solutions to meet the specific needs of different industries is another area where Hayward Hydraulics excels. The company uses a 300-tonne press for testing high-tonnage jacks for the mining industry. Robert emphasises the importance of understanding how things work before attempting repairs, a philosophy he instils in his employees. Both he and his wife, Ines, are grateful for their team’s dedication and support, which has been crucial to the business’s success.
In the current market, one of the biggest challenges Hayward Hydraulics faces is keeping up with the rapid advancement of hydraulic technology. The company stays ahead by staying informed about new products and innovations, ensuring their customers’ projects are both reliable and cost-effective. Robert himself designs hydraulic circuits and uses computer simulations to optimise systems before any money is spent. One notable achievement was designing a lubrication circuit for Wilmar’s new gearbox, which was successfully implemented without issue.
Looking ahead, Robert is preparing for retirement, though he admits he still enjoys the work and the satisfaction of seeing customers pleased with the results. Confident in his team, he believes that even in semi-retirement, the business will continue to operate to his high standards.
Hayward Hydraulics’ retail area is well-stocked to meet the demands of the cane industry, which operates seven days a week. Despite their remote location, the company ensures that parts are readily available when needed. Their air-conditioned pump and motor assembly area guarantees contamination-free assemblies, maintaining the high-quality standards Hayward Hydraulics is known for.
Kade Pearce, Sam Tomasetig, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison
Not Featured: Stephan Du Plessis, Chayse Pearce
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