Ayr resident June Pola knows a thing or two about preparedness for natural disasters. Having lived in the Burdekin Shire for 45 years, she’s experienced many cyclones and floods. She’s lost a roof – and kept her family safe. Like most people here, she’s well aware of the dangers and how to prepare. And she thinks that lived experience of natural hazards is important factor that pushes people to prepare.

“I follow all the things that they say you have to do,” says June. “I moved everything that might blow away under the house because I've seen what's happened with the winds.

People just have no idea of the strength of those winds and the driving rain when you get a category 4 cyclone. Unless you've gone through it, you just cannot experience it any other way.”

Insights like June’s on what helps people prepare, stay resilient and recover from natural hazards is the subject of research currently being conducted in the Burdekin Shire. A team from Deakin University in Melbourne is visiting Ayr this week, to ask locals about how disaster communication is done here. The research is being undertaken for Natural Hazards Research Australia, Australia’s research centre for natural hazards resilience and disaster risk reduction.

“By ‘disaster communication’ we mean, all the messages that people receive about how to prepare for natural hazards, how to survive through them, and how to recover,” says Dr Gabi Mocatta from the Deakin research team. “This might be from emergency authorities, the Council, from media – even from your neighbour.”

The team is particularly interested in what type of information makes people prepared and resilient in the face of ‘compound hazards’ (when two or more hazards occur at the same time or in quick succession) meaning protective responses may be more complex, and there’s less time for recovery. The team also wants to find out how people prefer to receive hazards information.

The Burdekin Shire is one of three case study locations across Australia. Each location has experienced different hazards – storms, floods, fires, drought, flooding, cyclone – some in middle of COVID lockdowns. Communities have different levels of preparedness.

“Sometimes, there are several sources of information and messages can be confusing or contradictory,” says Dr Mocatta.

Burdekin Shire does disaster awareness well. “It all comes through the Council they send out messages all the time,” says June. “The Bureau of Meteorology, they send out the warnings. Then, in the paper the week before the cyclone was a list of things that people needed to pack and get. Birth certificates, insurance documents, some of your better photos, put them in plastic. Because when the roof goes all that gets wet!”

In the latest event, Cyclone Kirrily, June’s house didn’t have any structural damage, but her garden suffered. “It’s nature’s pruning, you know.”

The Deakin team invites all Burdekin community members to join the forum this Saturday 24th February to discuss disaster communication, Burdekin-style. The event will be held at PCYC Burdekin, 64 MacMillan Street, Ayr. Afternoon tea will be served. More information here: https://bit.ly/4bjnCIQ

‍

Caption: Deakin University invites community members to discuss disaster communications at a forum this weekend

‍

What started with a simple idea of supplying locals with sporting equipment has far exceeded even what owner Neville Eathorne expected, when he first opened the doors of Eathorne’s Sports Village in 1974.

A born and bred Burdekin local, Neville looks back at the growth of his sporting store with pride, explaining that the last 50 years has been “a ride and a half”.

It all started in 1973, when Neville was playing a lot of cricket and basketball, and realised that he couldn’t buy locally what the professionals were using, and thought it was a good idea to bring this standard of equipment to Ayr.

“And with absolutely no business experience, I opened Eathorne’s Sports Village,” Neville explained.

“At first it was a rough store, with rough presentation, but I was always reinvesting back into the shop.”

As much as it was Neville’s dedication and hard work, the longevity of Eathorne’s Sports Village also rested upon the support of the local community, something that Neville continues to value implicitly to this day.

“In the early days, we had accounts running, and people would put their equipment on the account and come back later to pay for it,” Neville explained.

In fact, Neville can remember vividly a time when he was in the store and a man walked past the counter with a tennis racquet.

“’Nev! Put this on my account!’ the man said. I couldn’t remember his name, but the next week, he was back to pay for the racquet!” Neville explained.

Understanding the value of community, Neville joined every sporting committee that he played on, and learnt how the clubs were run, and the equipment they needed.

For Neville, looking back over the years, he is most proud of the team members that helped build up the shop.

“How we achieved all that we have achieved is through the great staff and team members we have had over the years,” he said.

By 1983, buying groups and franchises boomed in popularity.

“And I knew that to survive against them, I would have to join them,” Neville explained, and Eathorne’s Sports Village transitioned into Eathorne’s Sportscene.

During this time, Neville expanded the shop’s offerings, bringing on trophy engraving, which increased in popularity before long, and Neville was moved to bring on a permanent engraver.

In 1997, Neville’s two sons returned home to Australia, following a career of playing college basketball in America, with Brett staying on in the family business, and Wade deciding to pursue a financial planning career.

By 2001, with Brett on the books and computers at the counters, Neville and his wife Karen were able to purchase a premise on Queen Street in Ayr, which continues to host the business now.

The business went through another transformation in 2003, when it transitioned into Eathorne’s Sportspower, as Sportscene and Sportspower came together under the ARL Group.

Neville was invited to join the Sportspower Board, which saw him travel to Melbourne regularly to move the Sportspower brand forward.

“I was on the board for five or six years, and I enjoyed it so much. It gave me this great insight in the business and the brand,” Neville explained. “But it was really hard to be away from my family for days at a time.”

Following an injury, Neville took a step back from the business, and Brett transitioned into a managerial role where he continues to be a key partner in the business.

In 2024, another key moment in the business’ evolution occurred when it moved across to the Intersport brand. Neville continues to be a part of this business and Brett continues to take a bigger role.

“This venture would never have happened without the support of the Burdekin people,” Neville shared.

“They have supported a small business trying to grow and I hope they have enjoyed the ride. We are proud to have been supporting the Burdekin district, with us sponsoring just about every club during the 50 years. It has created some lifelong friendships.”

“I am so proud to have started way back in 1974 and am still trading 50 years later. I am also proud of what I will be leaving to Brett and his family to work with for how many years they want.”

Without a doubt, Neville’s legacy will continue to prevail throughout Burdekin history, even though he is vowing to not go anywhere anytime soon.

‍

1. Eathorne’s Sports Village, in 1974

   2. Eathorne’s Sportscene with Neville Eathorne in 1983

   3. Eathorne’s Sportspower in 2020. Photos supplied

   4. Three Generations: Neville, with his son Brett, and his twin grandchildren

   5. Eathorne’s Sportscene, making waves in Ayr

‍

The next round for the Community Child Care Fund (CCCF) grants for child care centres in regional and remote areas has now opened and Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP is encouraging local childcare providers to look into how this opportunity could benefit them directly.

Funds are available for eligible childcare centres to renovate or extend their facilities to cater for high un-met demand or for those wishing to work with other organisations to create sustainability support.

The funding is directed at helping early childhood education and care (ECEC) services to address barriers to ECEC participation for disadvantaged and vulnerable families and communities.

Mr Willcox says he welcomes the announcement of additional funding to support a fourth round of financial support for these crucial services.

“This funding aims to support centres in regional and remote areas to increase the viability and sustainability of early childhood education and increase the accessibility of services where there is high unmet demand.”

“Eligible childhood education and care centres can receive funding of up to $300,000 for capital works, including repairing, modifying, renovating, or extending their facilities.

“Alternatively, eligible centres can receive funding of up to $400,000 for sustainability support including working with other organisations and families to identify and address barriers to early childhood participation.

Applications for this funding close on March 8, 2024.

To find out more about the eligibility requirements and application process visit: Current Grant Opportunity View - GO6796: GrantConnect (grants.gov.au)

‍

NQ Dry Tropics has been awarded a grant through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund (FDF) Longterm Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices (LTT) Program, to complete a five-year trial testing the efficacy of drought resilient grazing strategies in the Burdekin region.

Taking place at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ (DAF) Spyglass Beef Research Facility, this trial is the only Northern Australian trial, utilising virtual fencing systems in remote environments, that will shape and promote wider adoption.

The predominate virtual fencing system used by this study will be the Gallagher eShepherd Virtual Fencing System, pioneered by CSIRO.

Using the Gallagher eShepherd System, the herd will be monitor in real time, using both desktop and mobile applications, with the farmers able to instantly modify boundaries for any reason, including to lower stress drafting, directing high need cattle to better pastures, or to protect areas of land vulnerable to erosion.

The System was initially tested in 2023, with cattle first observed for their behaviours with the device, to ensure the technology has minimal behaviour and welfare impacts on the animals, with this new trial expanding to test efficacy in improving drought resilience capacity.

“Virtual fencing has unparalleled potential to drastically change the impact of grazing,” explained Marc McConnell, a DAF representative.

“My hope is the trial will demonstrate how the technology allows graziers to move fences and herds to promote healthier pastures and boost carbon sequestration by preventing overgrazing, while saving them time and money,”

‍

1. Cattle in the Spyglass Station trial wearing the Gallagher eShepherd collars

   2. The tracking for one individual shows how quickly the animal learns the meaning of warning sound emitted as it approaches the virtual fencing. This animal received two small shocks, after which it paid attention to the alarm on seven occasions. Photo supplied

‍

Tracpower Brandon recently hosted an open day to showcase their range of Deutz-Fahr products, inviting the agricultural community of the Burdekin to discover what the high horsepower range can offer on Monday, February 19 and Tuesday, February 20.

Tracpower have been Deutz-Fahr dealers for 12 months and Tracpower Dealer Principal and Director Justin Minuti said the brand is gaining traction in the area.

“The higher horsepower is what we were after with Deutz-Fahr,” he said.

“We are a Kubota dealer as well … Kubota has been the top brand in the Burdekin region for the last four to five years so I wanted something we could offer our customers in the higher horsepower range that Kubota doesn’t offer.

“We looked at Deutz-Fahr and their tractors are very heavy, simple, easy to use, good technology and good backup and good backup service is something we pride ourselves on.

“We’ll drop everything if we have to to get to you.

“If you’re broken down, we’ll be there straight away.

“We’re service-orientated, it’s more about the experience for the customer.

“We’ve got a very good staff with the same ambitions and the same idea of putting the customer first.”

“That’s why our motto is, ‘We not only sell, we service as well.’”

The open day was also held in partnership with Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR).

“We’ve been a partner of QCAR for a few years, so we offer members a discount of 2% on whole goods and 5% on spare parts and servicing,” Mr Minuti said.

“QCAR have done a fantastic job of getting exposure for this event.”

QCAR CEO Panikos Spyrou said QCAR was happy to be supporting the event.

“We respect Tracpower’s very honourable and generous support of our organisation and the discounts their providing to our members on sales, service and parts,” Mr Spyrou said.

“Our members are benefitting incredible from that at the moment and the extension of that to our collaborative partners as well, so full credit to Tracpower and Justin to allow us to enjoy those benefits.”

An open day was held at Tracpower’s Ingham branch today, Thursday, February 22 and tomorrow.

‍

Caption 1: Christian Lago, Charles Quagliata and Ben Pontifex

Caption 2: Mick Brombal, Frank Mugica and Scott Harness

Caption 3: Panikos Spyrou and Barry Breadsell

Caption 4: Aiden Kratzmann and Julen Achurra

Caption 5: Justin Minuti and Charles Quagliata

‍

By Chelsea Ravizza

Ashley De-Campo established the Burdekin Clothes Shop Facebook page in December of 2021 to solve one simple problem many women face: too many clothes, too little closet space.

Looking for a solution, Ashley created the group in addition to other Burdekin trade Facebook pages in the interest of harboring a niche topic with a tailored audience.

“I needed to make room in my cupboard, and I had lots of clothes that still had their tags on, clothes I had never worn before, and clothes in really good condition,” explained Ashley.

“It felt like a bit of a waste, so I thought why not make some money out of them by selling them.”

The sustainable fashion page has blossomed into a lively community of over 2,200 women looking to make some space and make some cash.

Members often hop onto the page to search for unique costume pieces other people may have buried in their closets, finishing touches to Race Day outfits, or even to post enquiries on clothing pieces they cannot find anywhere else.  

“I felt like it was something everyone would be able to get involved in, because particularly us women, we’re all in the same boat with having too many clothes not being worn and needing to make space in our closets.”

Ashely, as the page’s administrator, monitors the member requests to ensure all Burdekin Clothes Shop members are living in the local region to simplify the trading process.

“I wanted the interactions to be as easy and stress free as possible, and not have people wanting to be sent clothes or come from out of town, and it was an easier option to create a more intimate group with less people to make it easier for all the users,” explained Ashely.

Since creating the page, Ashley has received an overwhelmingly positive response she never could have imagined, and she is very grateful for the community’s continued support.

“I just thought there would be a handful of people, but 2,200 members is huge!

“I’m so grateful for the community getting involved, and for making the Burdekin Clothes Shop such a successful and supportive group.”

‍

Caption: Ashley De-Campo. Photo supplied

‍

The first Burdekin Industry Breakfast for 2024 was held earlier this week welcoming two guest speakers to illuminate the morning event.  

The Burdekin business community gathered at the Burdekin Theatre on Wednesday, February 21 to hear from Rhian Aguirre, the Senior Manager of Operations and Maintenance of Ark Energy Corporation and Ranee Crosby, CEO of Port of Townsville.

Mr Aguirre discussed Ark Energy’s goals, completed projects and future plans for the company, outlining the importance of opportunities for the involvement of north Queensland businesses.  

Established in 2021, Ark Energy has become a leader in Australian renewable energy company specialising in wind, solar, and hydrogen, and is dedicated to the decarbonisation of the energy supply of their parent company, Korea Zinc Co.  

Following Mr Aguirre, Ms Crosby provided an overview of the Port of Townsville, of current and future projects, and of how the Port influences and supports the Burdekin region and its industries.

The Port of Townsville is Northern Australia’s largest container and vehicle port, and the country’s leader in export of copper, zinc, lead, sugar, fertiliser, and molasses.

‍

Caption 1: Ark Energy Corporation Senior Manager – Operations & Maintenance Rhian Aguirre, Burdekin Shire Councillor and Emcee Kaylee Boccalatte and Port of Townsville CEO Ranee Crosby

Caption 2: Ranee Crosby and Michael Kern

Caption 3: David Jackson and Pierina Dalle Cort

Caption 4: Eusebio and Laura Aguirre

Caption 5: Jarrod Vassalini and David Pedley

Caption 6: Kaylee Boccalatte

Caption 7: Rhian Aguirre

Caption 8: Ranee Crosby

‍

Leaders’ Investiture

Congratulations to Home Hill State High School’s leaders for 2024 who were sworn in at a ceremony on Tuesday, February 20.

Senior Secondary School Captains: Saelym Poli and Jacob Machin

Junior Secondary School Captains: Lucy Young and Alex Swinney

Junior Secondary Vice Captain: Kalen Linton

Indigenous Captain: Graycee Messer-Watego

Indigenous Vice Captiain: Blaize Palmer

Beachmount House Captains: Sienna Heron and Meleik Billy

Inkerman House Captains: Rian Berryman and Geoffrey Terare

Upstart House Captains: Chloe Blacklock and Maliq Ogomeni

Student Council Executive

President: Sean Phayre-Leung

Vice President / Treasurer: Maliq Ogomeni

Secretary: Sharni Smerdon

Student Council Form Class Representatives: Dontaii Clubb, Emily Power, Alex Hayne, Jaydon Srisoongnoen, Katie Krug, Ashlyn Poli, Kiara Werda, Luke Blacklock, Rowen Petersen, Cheyenne Worland, Jack Srisoongnoen, Milly Berryman, Campbell Cooke, Grace Ogomeni, Cruz Torkington, Khiara Turner and Bridget Zimmerlie

‍

Caption 1: Senior Secondary School Captains Saelym Poli and Jacob Machin

Caption 2: The HHSHS class of 2024

Caption 3: L-R Senior Secondary School Captains Jacob Machin and Saelym Poli, Indigenous Captain Graycee Messer-Watego, Junior Secondary School Captains Lucy Young and Alex Swinney and Junior Secondary Vice Captain Kalen Linton (Absent: Indigenous Vice Captiain Blaize Palmer)

Caption 4: L-R Upstart House Captains Maliq Ogomeni and Chloe Blacklock, Inkerman House Captain Rian Berryman and Beachmount House Captains Meleik Billy and Sienna Heron (Absent: Inkerman House Captain Geoffrey Terare)

Caption 5: HHSHS’s 2023 School Dux was awarded to Talitha Carroll by Glenn Nicolson of Wilmar

Caption 6-7: Student Council Form Class Representatives

‍

Fast Facts:

Rehoming Fee: $425

DOB: 31/12/2022

Sex: Male

Breed: Staffy Cross

Kid Friendly: Older Kids

Cat Friendly: Untested

Other Dogs: Yes with Slow Introduction

Fences: 5ft

Oddish is a friendly and loveable boy whose favourite thing to do is spend time with his people. He is food motivated and knows how to sit and is keen to learn new tricks.

He walks well on a harness but can pull out of excitement when people walk past.

Oddish would be best suited to a home with older kids as he isn’t aware of his size yet. With some more love and training Oddish will become the perfect pooch.

Oddish is available for adoption, has been desexed, micro-chipped, is up to date on his vaccinations, has been flea, tick and intestinal worm treated, and is on heartworm preventative.

To schedule a meet and greet with oddish, complete and submit an animal enquiry form: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

‍

Brigitte Davies, the recipient of the Tom Kruger Award, Year 12 Dux of Burdekin Catholic High School in 2023, has not only excelled academically but has also exemplified remarkable dedication in every facet of her life. Her stellar ATAR of 99.55 is testament to her efforts. The Class of 2023 achieved outstanding results. Brigitte was one of six students at Burdekin Catholic High School who received an ATAR of 90 or above, and 47% received an ATAR of 80 and above.

Brigitte's academic achievements and those of her fellow year 12 students were acknowledged at the 2023 Awards Night held this year. She was awarded the top of subject in an array of subjects including Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Chemistry, Study of Religion, and Physics.

Brigitte Davies has left a lasting mark on our school community. As the School Captain, she seamlessly blended her leadership responsibilities with her academic pursuits, setting a shining example for her peers and the whole Burdekin Catholic School community. There is a song that is played at graduation ceremonies called “Standing on the Shoulders.” The message is about overcoming life’s challenges, persevering, and finding inspiration from those who came before us. Brigitte and the class are 2023 are truly an inspiration.

Beyond her academic commitments, Brigitte was a valued part time employee to Woods’ Newsagent. Her ability to balance academics, leadership roles, and employment is an example of her time management skills and resilience.

Brigitte's was accepted by the University of Queensland in a dual degree, Bachelor in Engineering and Design. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Brigitte's intellectual prowess.

‍

Contributed by BCHS

‍

Caption: The recipient of the Tom Kruger Award for Year 12 Dux of BCHS 2023, Brigitte Davies

‍

Burdekin Christian College has welcomed their 2024 Student Leaders at their official Student Leadership Induction Ceremony.

These students embody the values of the College, showing grace, dignity, and confidence in everything they do.

At the Official Ceremony earlier this year, the students were presented with their leadership badges by honoured guest, 2023 College Captain, Emily Holmes, who returned for the event.

Senior Leadership Team

College Captain – Brent Dingle

College Captain – Shanay Arroita

College Vice-Captain – Jayden Shelton

Collage Vice-Captain – Laney Lando

College Vice-Captain – John Grabs

College Vice-Captain – Faith Luke

Cultural Captain – Emily Pacey

Christian & Pastoral Care Captain – Danelle Laubscher

Sports Captain – Erica Gongora

Luke House Captain – Ezrah Henaway

Mark House Captain – Pouhila Finau

Matthew House Captain – Michael Mayor

Junior Leadership Team

Junior College Captain – Cooper Cordie

Junior College Captain – Adison Robertson

Junior College Captain – Amelia Dwyer

Junior College Vice-Captain – Lincoln Tunbridge

Junior College Vice-Captain – Chelsea Cordie

Junior Cultural Captain – Dakota Dixon

Junior Cultural Captain – Kadie Wilson

Junior Sports Captain – Lakirra Offord

Luke House Captain – Francheisca Dela Cruz

Mark House Captain – Jahzelle Harman

Matthew House Captain – Charles Dyball

‍

The Burdekin Christian College Student Leadership Team. Photo supplied

‍

Ayr State High School’s leaders were formally introduced to theschool community at their recent Investiture Ceremony last week.

Despite theinclement weather, nothing could dampen the enthusiasm and excitementof the Student Executive, lead by school captains Layla Kelly andNoah Arboit, as they introduced over 90 student leaders.

House Captains,LIP Leaders, House Family representatives, QATSIF recipients, Year 7and 11 scholarship awardees, and elected Student Council and Interactcommittee members were presented to the community and pledged theircommitment to the student body, the school community, and the LearnerCode.

Afterwards,student leaders, parents/carers, invited guests and community membersadjourned to the newly refurbished Resource Centre for lightrefreshments, before progressing through to the front of A Block forcommemorative photos.

Many thanks toour invited guests, including: Councillor Lyn McLaughlin, Mayor ofthe Burdekin Shire Council; Mr Lloyd Shepherd, Vice-President AyrState High School’s P & C Association; Mr Chris Wicks,Principal of East Ayr State School, and Pastor Les Henaway for theirongoing support of the Ayr High family.

Contributed withthanks to Ayr State High School.

‍

Caption:

1: Ayr High Student Leaders

2: Principal Whittred with school captains, Layla Kelly and Noah Arboit.

3: Principal Craig Whittred with the Ayr High Student Executive. L-R: Indigenous Students’ Vice Captain Seanna Chapman, Cultural Vice Captain Ashka Thorne, School Vice Captain Georgia Tomasetig, School Captain Layla Kelly, School Captain Noah Arboit, School Vice Captain Cooper Raitelli, Community Service Vice Captain Maddy Geitz, School Sports Captain Charley Ruskin.

4: Ayr High House Captains LtoR: Banks House Captains Amanda Brown and Charley Ruskin; Cook House Captains Matthew Kolb and Lacy Horan; Macquarie House Captains Jayla Tinus and Tyreese Murray; Phillip House Captains Khyla Cursio and Blake Walker.

Photos supplied

‍

Looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat in round 11, Crowned Mongrels delivered a strong performance in a very close affair against Guardian Pharmacy at Barry Richards Field last weekend.

Guardian won the toss and sent Mongrels in to bat, with opener Ayden Marano getting to work immediately with 41 runs from 21 balls, assisted by Joel Hanson with 23 from 18 and Casper Licciardello with 19 from 26 not out.

Daniel Olditch took an impressive 3/7 from two overs for Guardian while Andrew Cardillo took two wickets and Isaac Cardillo, Kent Batchelor, Kate Lyne and Jamie Grabs all took one.

One player down, Mongrels were bowled out after 21.4 overs at 9/155.

Daniel Olditch’s fine form continued with the bat when Guardian came to the crease, retiring not out on 50 from 50 while opener Isaac Cardillo scored 24 from 26 and Jd Wilkins scored 16 from 20.

The batting side was closing in on their target but fell short, finishing their 25 overs on 7/149.

Joel Hanson shone with the ball for Mongrels finishing with 3/8 from three overs with Jay Leckenby taking two wickets and Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro and Ayden Marano both taking one.

Guardian Pharmacy will back up this weekend, taking on Peto’s Marine on Saturday at Barry Richards Field.

‍

Caption: Joel Hanson and Daniel Olditch both took three wickets and scored vital runs for their team on the weekend. Photo supplied

‍

The recipients of the 2024 Australia Day Awards were proudly announced by Burdekin Shire Council at a rescheduled ceremony on Monday, February 12, recognising the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and groups in the community.

‍

L-R Burdekin Shire Council Deputy Mayor Sue Perry, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, Burdekin Citizen of the Year 2024 John Woods and Councillors John Furnell and Kaylee Boccalatte. Photo supplied: Burdekin Shire Council

‍

Australia Day Awardees Announced

Australia Day Awardees Announced

The Burdekin community gathered at Burdekin Memorial Hall on Monday, February 12 to recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals at Burdekin Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards Ceremony.

Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Terry Brennan said the Australia Day Awards serve as a commendable event each year to recognise and celebrate the exceptional contributions, achievements, and selflessness of individuals in our community.

“I want to commend all Australia Day Award nominees for being nominated by their peers for their dedication in their relevant areas, and especially congratulate all winners for their significant contribution to our community,” Mr Brennan said.

The 2024 Citizen of the Year Award was presented to John Woods who has a significant history in his volunteering efforts throughout the entire community.

John has volunteered for and held vital roles in organisations including Home Hill Kindergarten, Burdekin Singers, Queensland Cancer Council Home Hill, Burdekin Meals on Wheels, Home Hill Primary School P&C, Home Hill State High School, Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, St Helen’s Church, Home Hill Harvest Festival, and the Home Hill Choral Society.

From 1982 to 1994 John was a Councillor for Burdekin Shire Council and served as the first Shire Mayor for 10 years from 1994.

The 2024 Young Citizen of the Year Award went to Eddie Jones, a young leader and role model who has been involved in the Burdekin Shire Youth Council (BSYC) for six years.

Eddie’s involvement in the Burdekin Shire Youth Council displays a proactive approach to staying informed about local events and actively participating in community initiatives.

Eddie has also volunteered for many community organisations, such as Meals on Wheels, Lions Club and Rotary Club.

The 2023 Australia Day Awards also included the announcement of Volunteer, Cultural, Sporting and Event Awards.

Four individuals, Xiaoxia Li, Mohammadhashem Samiraninazhad, Karen Sullivan and Judith Wilson, were also granted Australian citizenship on the night as part of the Burdekin Shire Council’s Citizenship Ceremony.

‍

Burdekin Shire Council’s 2024 Australia Day Award Recipients:

Citizen of the Year: John Woods

Young Citizen of the Year: Eddie Jones

Young Citizen of the Year Achievement Award: Emily Holmes

Young Citizen of the Year Achievement Award: Martina Bojack

Community Event of the Year: Jeffrey Lunn & Leon McCormack – 2023 Community Lights Display

Community Event of the Year Achievement Award: Millaroo Social Club – Cathrine Britt’s Bush Pubs Tour 2023

Volunteer of the Year:  Leanne Gudge

Lifetime of Service Gold Award: Charlie Barbagallo

Lifetime of Service Bronze Award: Leanne Gudge, Gary Edwards, Shirley Chard, Robin Blundell

Senior Cultural Award: Irene Richards

Junior Cultural Award: Emily Holmes

Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Ky Mitchell

‍

Caption 1: Awardees and new citizens were recognised at the Burdekin Shire Council Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony on Monday. Photo supplied: Burdekin Shire Council

‍

Hi readers

I have exciting news! Next Tuesday, I’ll be making my debut on Sweet FM with my very own show!

I started volunteering for community radio station 4CRM while living in Mackay where I would host ‘The Prekend’ on Thursday nights, a show where I aimed to shine a light on local musical talent while bringing fresh, contemporary independent music from all over the world to Mackay's airwaves.

I had no radio experience prior to this but, as I’ve mentioned plenty of times, moving to the regions was an opportunity to try things I never would have tried while living in the big city, and this was one of those things (other examples include understanding politics and line dancing).

‘The Prekend’ ran for just over a year, right up to my move to the Burdekin, and in that time, I had built a small but loyal following of local musicians and music fans and felt like a growing part of the Mackay music scene.

I got a thrill from giving local bands their first play on the radio, knowing how much it would mean to me if I wrote music and someone was to play my songs on the radio.

Plus, I played songs I loved, so every Thursday was an excuse to chill out in the studio and pump my favourite tunes knowing that they were being broadcast throughout the region for all to enjoy.

Now, it’s time to grow my passion at a new station, in a new area with a new audience and, with Charlie Scuderi’s help, I’m ready to kick things off.

Tune in to 97.1 Sweet FM next Tuesday, February 20 from 7:00pm to hear the debut of my new show, ‘The Home Hill Happy Hour’.

I’m excited to get back into radio, play a few tunes for you and have a good time!

‍