The Burdekin Roosters had a strong presence in the Rugby League Townsville and District (RLTD) finals last weekend, with three teams competing: the Under 13s, Under 18s, and Reserve Grade.

One family that stood out was the Lammon family, who had an especially busy weekend. Melissa Lammon, the registrar for both the junior and senior Roosters, and her husband Thomas, who runs water for the Under 13s, 18s, and at times the Reserves, supported their three sons in an exceptional weekend of football.

All three Lammon boys—Jax, Harrison, and Hayden—played in their respective Grand Finals. Jax, the hooker for the Under 13 team, played early on Saturday morning, followed by Harrison, the Under 18s hooker, in the afternoon. Hayden, a front-rower for the Reserve Grade, took the field on Sunday. Normally an A-grade star, Hayden played for the Reserves after returning from injury.

Jax will hold the family bragging rights, as his Under 13 team was the only one to claim the premiership title. Despite the mixed results, all three Lammon boys delivered standout performances.

As the Roosters' presentation nights approach, it's expected the talented Lammon trio will collect trophies for their efforts, ensuring the future of the Burdekin Roosters remains bright with dedicated families like theirs.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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The Lammon Boys

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Pam Power from the Ayr Bowls Club has claimed victory in the Champion of Champions Zone 8 singles competition, defeating Emma Rowbotham from Cairns in a closely fought match. Both players showcased exceptional skills, but Pam emerged triumphant. She now advances to the State finals in October. Congratulations to Pam on her stellar season in lawn bowls, and best of luck for the State finals!

The club’s week began with Mixed Social Bowls on Wednesday, September 4th. Two games of triples were played, with strong performances from all players. The winning team of the day was G. Nixon, J. McDonald, and C. Essex, who defeated Chris, Dino Poli, and L. Stidston.

On Saturday, the club held a special Social Bowls event to celebrate Mario Milan’s 90th birthday. Mario received his 90th Birthday Patriarch badge from President Ron Soper during the festivities. The afternoon featured four games of triples and one pairs game, with thrilling matches played across five rinks. The winners were P. Vass, S. Darwen, and W. Coonan, who defeated B. Young, M. Chapman, and Blake. Second place went to M. Nixon, H. Hazel, and L. Stidston. The sportsmanship prize was awarded to R. Aplin, S. Caltabiano, and J. McDonald.

For upcoming Championship Club Games, check the club board for details on the next round scheduled for September 15th. Ensure your teams are entered before the competition closing dates listed on the board.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

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Ron and Mario are all smiles

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Last weekend, Ayr Tennis hosted the highly anticipated Junior Development Series (JDS) finals, welcoming top junior players from Ingham to Mackay. Despite a rainy start, the weather soon cleared, allowing for an exciting weekend of tennis action.

The top two players from the 11, 13, 15, and 17-year-old divisions have now qualified for the JDS Masters State Finals, set to take place in Rockhampton on October 12th and 13th.

Local players performed well, with Michael Lindley securing third place in the U17s, marking his final year in juniors. William Chandler impressed with a runner-up finish in the Orange Ball Singles.

Ayr Tennis extends its gratitude to everyone involved in making the event a success, particularly Lefty from Pioneer Tennis Inc. for running the tournament. Congratulations to all winners and runners-up, and best of luck to those heading to the State Finals!

Contributed with thanks to Patrea Bojack

Final Results:

Boys U11 JDS
1. Bryan Keightley  
2. Uday Singh  
3. Zachary Robinson  
4. Ewan Ruddick  
5. Cooper Kraatz  

Boys U13 JDS
1. Curtis Reardon  
2. Connor Kraatz  
3. Max Hoskin  
3/4. Thomas Mudie  
5. Lewis Robinson  
6. Campbell Smith  
7. Ryder Reynolds  
8. Tom Porter  
9. Elijah Stook  
10. Lachlan Akroyd  

Girls U13 JDS
1. Sera Elaine Tilagucaguca Wedrat  
2. Mia Petersen  
3. Abigail Lerch  
4. Tessa Jones-Trifelly  
5. Mary Cato  
6. Chelsea Drummond  
7. Koa Taylor  
8. Daniela Ruzickova  
9. Milla Kemp  

Girls U15 JDS  
1. Lara Savige  
2. Talia Cook  
3. Mya Freeman  

Boys U17 JDS  
1. Riley Carr  
2. Anthony Heron  
3. Michael Lindley  

Orange Ball Singles  
1. Taj York  
2. William Chandler  
3. Benjamin Lerch  
4. Dominic Mazzer  
5. Rafael Ruzicka  
6. Ted Persson  

Green Ball Singles
1. Billy Squire  
2. Maris Hinschen  
3. Ike Petersen  
4. Dustin Persson  
5. Oliver Cushway  
6. Amudhan Paneerselvam  
7. Gabriele Martinello

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On September 7th, Tennis Townsville hosted the "Double Trouble" pickleball tournament, drawing players from Cairns, Cardwell, the Burdekin, Mackay, and Townsville for a weekend of competitive action. Home Hill pickleball players, along with their Townsville family members, enjoyed challenging matches with high-quality play across the board.

Hannah Casswell and Ryan Schwab, seasoned tennis players but newcomers to pickleball, teamed up to win gold in the A-grade Mixed Doubles. Rylan Pivotto and his partner Nit secured bronze in the B-grade Mixed Doubles.

After the tournament, Kate headed to Western Suburbs Tennis Club, where she partnered with former Home Hill resident Sharon McDermott (Hanson) to claim victory in the Over-50s tennis finals.

Contributed with thanks to Kate at Home Hill Tennis Club

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Hannah and Ryan win gold!

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Hi everyone, I hope you have all had a great week so far and are enjoying the warmer weather!

I was in Ayr for a weekend last month to visit family, and I had the chance to catch up with Miah over coffee. It was lovely to hear how much she has been enjoying living and working in the Burdekin, and how welcoming the community has been!

With only four more weeks to go until I complete my degree, a Bachelor of Communications and Journalism, I’ve been as busy as a bee, finalising presentations, and assignments left, right and centre! My friends and I find it hard to believe how quickly our degrees have flown by, and we all can’t wait to celebrate our graduation later this year!

With the Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade set for this Saturday, I am a little jealous that I can’t join you all on Queen Street to catch some lollies!

The QMN Manufacturing Long Lunch last weekend looked absolutely magical - it’s clear how hard the Burdekin Water Festival Committee has worked over the past few months to bring the Water Festival back, and it’s been amazing to hear how supportive the community and local businesses have been of their efforts.

A huge congrats to all Senior Ambassadors, especially to Demi and Brielle (Winner and Runner Up), and also the Junior Ambassadors! I can’t wait to see all the amazing floats line Queen Street from 4:30pm on Saturday, as well as who the Junior Ambassador Winner and Runner Up will be!

I hope you all enjoy the read, and I’ll chat to you soon!

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Saturday 7 September will mark the celebratory Queen Street return of the beloved Burdekin Water Festival, with the Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras beginning at 4:30pm.

Following on from the beautiful QMN Manufacturing Long Lunch held last weekend at Populins Hall, the Grand Parade and Mardi Gras will see Queen Street come alive with impressive floats, spectacular stalls, and lively entertainment.

Burdekin Water Festival 2024 Winning Senior Ambassador, Demi O’Shea (representing Campbell’s Jewellery), along with Runner Up, Brielle Astorquia (representing Nutrien Harcourts McCathies) were announced and crowned last weekend, with this Saturday’s parade set to host their official debut.

“Being crowned the Winner of the Burdekin Water Festival alongside my beautiful friend and Runner Up, Brielle Astorquia, is the greatest honour and I am so thankful to our judges, committee and shire for all the love and support,” shared Burdekin Water Festival 2024 Winning Senior Ambassador, Demi O’Shea.

“I cannot wait for the weekend with the Mardi Gras, and I would love to see our community out and about and have a chat with everyone!”

Continuing the celebrations, Saturday will also see the announcement and crowning of the Burdekin Water Festival Junior Winner and Runner Up commencing from 6:30pm on the Main Stage near Harvey Norman in Queen Street.

Each of the Senior and Junior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassadors have worked tirelessly over the past few months, attending community events and hosting numerous fundraisers, whilst proudly representing each of their local organisations.

“Crowning our incredible juniors is going to be a major highlight that I am looking forward to as they have worked so incredibly hard and I have seen how much they have not only enjoyed the experience, but grown with it,” added Demi.

Along with the Junior Ambassador crowning, the Main Stage will also host the announcement of the Best “Bring it Back” Themed Float, Best Junior Ambassador Float, Best Senior Ambassador Float, Grand Champion Float, and the Window Display Winner. These official presentations will begin at 6:15pm, and the community is warmly invited, and encouraged to attend in celebration of the 2024 “Bring it Back” Burdekin Water Festival.

With the Mardi Gras set to continue the celebrations into the night, the band “Heart Songs” will treat the community with their talents on the Main Stage from 7pm right though to 10pm. Additionally, in an exciting “Bring it Back” inclusion, 8pm will see an “Ergon Energy” Tug of War Competition held outside the Tavern! More details of this awesome competition can be found on the Burdekin Water Festival Facebook page.

The 2024 Burdekin Water Festival stands as a memorable, and remarkable showcase of the outstanding dedication and community spirit which exists within the region. Following last year’s absence from the community’s calendar for the first time since its inception, numerous devoted locals came together to ensure the continuation of the beloved tradition, forming the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Committee.

“The Burdekin Water Festival Committee are beyond excited to “Bring it Back” this weekend with our Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras,” shared Burdekin Water Festival Committee Member and Ambassador Mentor, Kari Ravizza.

“We thank the amazing Burdekin businesses for their fantastic support of all our Festival Events so far, and I hope that we have been able to generate a bit of excitement in the community, and that everyone comes to support and celebrate with us this Saturday.”

The Burdekin Water Festival Committee would also like to thank all their sponsors.

What: Burdekin Water Festival Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras.
When: Saturday 7 September at 4:30pm.
Where: Queen Street, Ayr.
More Information: The Burdekin Water Festival Facebook page.

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In respects to the “Bring it Back” theme, the Burdekin Water Festival Committee has shared many nostalgic photos on Facebook over the past few months including Burdekin Singer’s and Theatre Company’s 2018 Water Festival Float. Photo source: Facebook

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The Burdekin Art Show, a vibrant display of local creativity, captivated attendees with its diverse range of artworks, reflecting both seasoned expertise and fresh talent. Held at the Burdekin Theatre, the show featured various sections, each highlighting different mediums and artistic styles. From intricate paintings to bold sculptures, the event offered a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Maxine Thompson, a New Zealand artist who arrived in town just yesterday, was a prominent figure at the event, serving as one of the judges. Her role allowed her to delve deeply into the array of works on display. As she toured the exhibits, her enthusiasm for the range of art was evident. "It’s thrilling to see such a broad spectrum of work," Thompson remarked. "There are beginners who have hit the mark beautifully and seasoned artists who continue to produce breathtaking pieces."

The art show did not adhere to a single theme but instead celebrated the creativity and individuality of each artist. The top award, chosen from any painting in any section, was particularly notable. Thompson explained that her choice for this prestigious award was based not just on personal appeal but on the overall design, composition, and emotional depth of the piece. "It’s a picture that tells a thousand words," she said. "You can feel the artist’s passion and tradition in their work."

The event also featured encouragement awards, recognising the efforts of emerging artists and celebrating their journey in the art world. Thompson appreciated the opportunity for all artists, from those in their twilight years to eager beginners, to showcase their work. "It’s rewarding to see people of all ages and experience levels sharing their artistic expressions," she noted.

For Thompson, who travels around providing workshops, the Burdekin Art Show was a demonstration of the community’s dedication to fostering creativity. "Experiencing this show and witnessing the range of artistic voices is a special moment," she concluded. "It’s an honour to be part of this vibrant artistic community."

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Announcing the winners
Local Winner Uli Liessmann with Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort
Overall Winner Tomas Zarate
Uli and Maxine Thompson

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Opinion Piece

As the debacle over the impact of toxic chemical compound continues to cause havoc in Ayr, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances residents will have the chance to have their say during a senate inquiry.

Mr Last said given Ayr’s ongoing battle to rid its water supply of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemical compounds there was no excuse why a full and thorough inquiry would not include a public hearing in the township.

“The announcement of a federal government inquiry into the dangers of PFAS is welcome news but residents in towns like Ayr need assurances that this inquiry will be a boots-on-the-ground approach and that those who want the chance to speak can do so face-to-face,” Mr Last said.

“For years Ayr has been plagued by instances of elevated levels of PFAS which at times has threatened the township’s water security and has rendered a fire station obsolete and in need of relocation.”

“What we have seen recently is a clear indication there needs to be a more thorough understanding about the impact this chemical compound can have and that can’t be achieved without knowledge of how townships like Ayr are impacted.”

Mr Last said for six years the community had largely been kept in the dark by Labor over what had caused PFAS chemicals to leach into the town’s water supply with band-aid solutions and half-baked ideas put forward to alleviate the problem.

“This community has seen just how far the state Labor government have been willing to go to sweep the contamination of a drinking water source under the rug when the webpage hosting the link to the detailed site investigation was updated just days before works are committed to in the budget.

“When you examine the 2023 report by the local council which raised concerns that no QFES investigation into the issue had been made public at the time, you have to question the transparency around this issue,” Mr Last said.

“After years of uncertainty around the water security of their township, Ayr residents deserve the opportunity to have their say about how they have been impacted by the contamination of their drinking water supply.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale last.

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As part of the Burdekin Water Festival Queensland Country Bank Grand Parade and Mardi Gras the community has been advised to note the closure of the following streets on Saturday 7 September.

   • Edwards Street including between Queen and MacMillian Street from 6am to 1pm.
   • Queen Street including Soper to Mackenzie Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Soper Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Parker Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Edwards Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 1am.
   • Young Street between Graham and MacMillian Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • MacKenzie Street between Graham and Wickham Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • MacMillian Street between Young and Pool Streets from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Park Street from 12:30pm to 7:30pm.
   • Queen Street including Parker to Young Street from 7:30pm to 1am.

Both the Burdekin Water Festival Committee and the Queensland Police Service thank the community for their understanding and compliance of these closures and look forward to Bringing it Back this weekend.

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The Giru community is reeling after a young girl, who recently moved to the area, was attacked by two dogs while on her way to school.

The incident occurred last Tuesday, leaving the child pinned to the ground as the dogs bit her ankle, ear, and throat. She was rushed to Townsville Hospital, where she is currently undergoing surgery to repair the damage to her ankle and throat.

The severity of the attack has sparked concern among residents, particularly parents, who fear for their children's safety in areas where dogs are not restrained. One concerned parent, whose child is friends with the victim, expressed frustration that despite the seriousness of the situation, the local Council has not yet seized the dogs involved in the attack.

The concerned resident emphasised that the dog owners are not being uncooperative, however, she believes it is crucial to raise awareness about the incident to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of the community's children.

In response to the incident, Acting Chief Executive Officer Nick O’Connor confirmed that Council is actively investigating a recent dog attack in Giru.

“Staff are working with the owner of the dogs and the family of the young girl who was injured,” said Mr O’Connor.

“Once all the statements have been provided, a decision will be made as to what further steps the Council will take.”

He also conformed that Council staff conducted an inspection of the dog enclosures at the Giru property on Thursday, 29 August.

“Following that inspection, upgrades were undertaken by the dog owner over the weekend to reduce the risk to the community while the Council completes the investigation” he explained.

“The investigation is being conducted in accordance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.”

The community is urged to stay vigilant and report any similar incidents to local authorities.

Here is a Summary of Council’s dog attack procedure:

   • Ensure the public is safe and that the animal/s are secure
   • Inspect the dog enclosures at the property to ensure animals are secure;
   • Conduct interviews with relevant people;
   • Request photographs of injuries and medical report/s
   • Prepare Internal report recommending actions in accordance with Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 which may include fines, declaration as a regulated dog and/or prosecution.”

What to do if you encounter an aggressive dog:

   • Lower your head and turn your gaze away from the dog.
   • Turn your body slowly to the side but do not turn your back to the dog.
   • Cross your arms across your chest and remain standing still.
   • Do not speak to or yell at the dog.

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A most enjoyable morning was experienced by some residents of Regis, Aged Care, Ayr last week.
Mrs Raelene Grantz, Membership Chair, Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, and Ms Kristy McCoskey, Regis Lifestyle Coordinator spent some time “stuffing” and “stitching” breast care cushions in preparation for delivery to the Mater and University hospitals in Townsville and to patients on request.
Annually, the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc members and the Friends of Zonta sew and donate more than 120 breast care cushions and approximately 80 breast care packs consisting of cushion, drainage and shower bags to cancer patients, both male and female.
The morning’s activities at Regis were not all “work and no play”.  
The participants enjoyed a “cuppa”, some laughs and lots of friendly chatter.  More importantly, the morning gave the participants a sense of belonging and making a valuable contribution to a local community project. Community connections and a sense of belonging are critical for our health and wellbeing.
Thank you to the Regis ladies for your wonderful assistance, the quality of your work and hospitality.  Zonta looks forward to engaging your assistance going forward.

Contributed by Zonta Club Burdekin Inc

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120 Breast Care cushions have been donated to hospital patients. Photo supplied

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I’m very pleased to let community members know that BCA has appointed a new Journey Coordinator as part of our Mental Health services expansion.
 
The main aim of the Journey Coordinator is to connect adults and children to the services and supports they require and ensure that they access timely and appropriate mental health services. In the future, we expect that the Journey Coordinator will also be able to deliver free group mental health education sessions, for people needing low intensity mental health support services.
 
The Burdekin Centre for Rural Health is open from Monday to Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm.  The Journey Coordinator’s days and hours are Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm.
 
Referrals for the Journey Coordinator Service can be made by visiting or telephoning the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12a Chippendale Street, Ayr. Ph: 4783 2711. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au or telephoning the Head to Health Phone Service on 1800 595 212.    
 

Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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We often get asked what happens at the Neighbourhood Centre. The answer is a lot of everything, and more often than not, the programs and activities are born out of our conversations with community members and what they want to see happen at the Centre.  

Do you or a group of people you know have concerns or ideas that you would like help raising? We can help! Are you from a local service or group that would like to collaborate on different community projects? We can help!

At the Neighbourhood Centre, we don't work for people; we work with people. We firmly believe that when we come together as a community, we can achieve amazing things.    

Some community-led activities are coming up at the Neighbourhood Centre. As you are reading this, we would love if you could share your knowledge with your family and friends that could benefit from coming along.

Self Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop
Join Ross Romeo (CORES) on Thursday, 12th September from 10am – 12pm
Explore the concept of self-care and mental wellbeing, identify personal signs of stress and simple strategies that can be used to manage individual stress levels on an everyday basis. There are workshops available until the end of the year – both during the day and in the evening.

SHInE (Seniors’ Health and Interactive Exercise Program)
Join Andrea Piotto for the next SHIne program starting September 30th and running for 8 weeks – Monday and Wednesdays.  11.15am – 12.00pm. You can choose to come once or twice a week. Cost is an upfront payment of $80 for 1 day a week or $160 for 2.  We ask that interested people register and pay by 13th September. Lot’s of different ways to exercise – learn new skills, make new friends. Great fun!

Our support and social groups have all been initiated by locals who have lived experience or find joy in helping others to live their best lives. If this sounds something you would like to be involved in as well – don’t hesitate to call in and chat to us!

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Australian Local Government Women’s Association Queensland Branch Annual Conference in Brisbane alongside Councillors Amanda Hall and Fina Vasta. This conference was an incredible opportunity to connect with other women leaders in local government and share our experiences.
I was honoured to be part of a mayoral panel with two other mayors, where we discussed the unique role of being a mayor, the challenges we face, and what inspires us to keep going. It was an enriching experience to exchange ideas, reflect on our learning journeys, and offer advice to others who are either in leadership roles or aspire to be.
One of the key takeaways for me was the importance of resilience and adaptability in leadership. The role of a mayor is ever-evolving, with each day bringing new challenges and opportunities. But through it all, it's the community that keeps us inspired and motivated.
Switching gears to our wonderful Burdekin community, this past weekend was one for the books with the Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch. The Long Lunch was a fantastic celebration with delicious food and the crowning of our Senior Water Festival Ambassadors. Congratulations to all the Ambassadors for all you have achieved and a congratulations to the winner Demi and runner up Brielle.
I am very much looking forward to the Mardi Gras on Saturday kicking off at 4:30pm. It’s events like these that remind me of the incredible sense of community we have here in Burdekin. I encourage everyone to join in the festivities and be part of this cherished Burdekin tradition. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organisers for bringing it back this year. Your hard work and dedication have made it possible for us to enjoy this cherished tradition once again, and I know the entire community is looking forward to it.
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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The Burdekin Art Society, a cornerstone of the local creative community, has received a substantial boost thanks to a $9,900 grant from Bendigo Bank’s Community Grants program. Established 53 years ago, this vibrant organisation has long been a hub for art enthusiasts, offering everything from casual Tuesday morning sessions to dynamic children’s art classes and workshops with award-winning artists.

With 43 members who volunteer their time and talents, the Society plays a crucial role in fostering local artistic talent. Their annual Burdekin Art Exhibition, held in the Burdekin Theatre Foyer each August/September, and the November exhibition at the Home Hill Harvest Festival attract a diverse array of entrants from across the state and beyond. These events not only highlight local artistry but also draw hundreds of visitors each year, eager to view and purchase artworks.

The recent grant from Bendigo Bank is set to make a significant difference. Over the past few years, the Society’s art exhibition lighting, now 15 years old, has become outdated and cumbersome. The grant will enable the purchase of new, modern lighting, improving both safety and aesthetics. This upgrade is essential, as it will enhance the exhibition experience for visitors and simplify setup for volunteers, who previously had to manage heavy stands and outdated equipment.

Joanne Barbagallo, Assistant Treasurer and Art Exhibition Coordinator expressed the Society’s excitement and gratitude. “Receiving this grant means we can present a more professional and safer exhibition to the community. It’s an enormous relief to replace our old lighting, which has been a significant challenge for us.”

Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr’s commitment to local organisations like the Burdekin Art Society underscores their role as vital supporters of the Burdekin region. By keeping financial support within the community, they help ensure that local initiatives can thrive and continue to benefit residents.

The Burdekin Art Society invites everyone to experience the high standard of their Annual Art Exhibition. Known for its impressive range of entries and quality, this event attracts artists and buyers from far and wide. With the new lighting in place, the Society is poised to showcase local art in the best possible light, thanks to the generous support of Bendigo Bank.

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The Burdekin Art Society receives their grant

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