I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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For more than four decades, the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists have been keeping the region’s mechanical heritage alive—and now they’re calling on younger locals to join in and help keep the wheels of history turning.
Based in the Brandon Heritage Precinct, the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP) are a passionate group of about 60 members, many of them retired tradesmen and lifelong tinkerers, who devote their time to restoring and maintaining historic engines, tractors, and machinery.
The precinct itself is a treasure trove of Burdekin history, home to the John Tait Steam Gallery, Alf Shand Blacksmith Shop, Fielding Engine Shed, and the Old Brandon Church. Among the BMP’s most prized exhibits is the 1911 Marshall Colonial tractor—the only one of its kind left in Australia.
Established in 1984 as a not-for-profit club, the BMP’s mission has always been to preserve machinery connected to the district’s sugar industry. Over the years, the group has restored everything from the Pioneer No.1 Steam Locomotive to a Ruston Diesel Alternator Set and several diesel pumping engines.
Visitors can step back in time with guided tours each Monday (except December), as well as Wednesdays and Saturdays during the tourist season from April to September. Entry is by gold coin donation, and members are always happy to share stories and technical know-how.
The group also takes pride in being part of local shows and heritage events throughout the year, where they fire up their restored engines and display machinery that once powered the Burdekin’s cane farms and mills. Their demonstrations are a favourite among kids and families, offering a glimpse into how the district’s early industry ran on grit, grease and ingenuity.
BMP members encourage anyone with an interest in history or mechanics—especially younger enthusiasts—to get involved.
To learn more or enquire about membership, contact Lex on 0488 366 443 or email burdekinmp@outlook.com.
BMP Marshall Colonial Tractor
BMP Marshall Colonial Tractor and Vice President John Hanson. Photos supplied
For one special evening, Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will come alive with community spirit as guests gather for the Rotary Gala Ball, part of this year’s Harvest Festival. The event will feature live music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere, celebrating the people who contribute to the community.
Attendees will enjoy a formal sit-down dinner, mingle with fellow guests, and support local initiatives in a night that blends elegance with fun and generosity. The Gala Ball will also honour the Charity Queen, awarded to the queen who raised the most money throughout the Harvest Festival, and Personality Queen, chosen by judges based on club and district representation, following a brunch and individual interviews held on the afternoon of the ball.
Home Hill Rotary Club President Alf Musumeci says the annual event provides a chance to nurture local talent and celebrate the achievements of young women in the community.
"It's a great way to showcase some of the young, upcoming women in our community," he said. "And they get the benefit of learning to mix, learning to make a speech, and it gives them confidence."
Organised by the Rotary Club in partnership with the Harvest Festival committee, the evening brings residents and visitors together to enjoy camaraderie and community spirit. A licensed bar will be available throughout the night, and guests are encouraged to dress formally to match the gala setting.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 7th November 2025
Time: 6:30 pm to midnight – Dinner at 7 pm
Venue: Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $80
Grab your tickets now – Call Deslie on +61 408 822 029
For one elegant evening, Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will sparkle with glamour and community spirit as guests gather for the Rotary Gala Ball. Photos supplied from the 2024 event
The King and Queen of the Hill event is back this Saturday, October 25, as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Runners will tackle the challenging course from the base of Mount Inkerman to the scenic lookout and back, testing both speed and endurance in a thrilling competition.
Competitors will be divided into multiple age group categories, giving runners of all levels the chance to claim the crown. Cash prizes will be awarded to winners, adding an extra incentive for those chasing glory.
The event is not just for participants. A coffee van and food stalls will be on site, providing refreshments as spectators enjoy the hilltop views and cheer on the runners. The combination of competition, community spirit, and breathtaking scenery makes for a memorable morning for locals and visitors alike.
Registration is available on the day, with the race starting at 6:00am and finishing by 8:00am. Whether aiming for the top or cheering from the sidelines, the King and Queen of the Hill promises an energetic and engaging addition to the Home Hill Harvest Festival lineup.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, 25th October 2025
Time: 6:00am – 8:00am
Venue: Mount Inkerman
Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival.
Locals are encouraged to bring along their beloved pets—big or small—to compete in a range of fun categories, including Best Dressed, Fastest Eater, Most Unusual Pet, Waggiest Tail, and Best Trick. Awards will also be handed out for the best kept cat, dog, puppy, kitten, guinea pig, reptile, and bird.
Following the pet show, the excitement continues with the Bolt for Bucks, where kids can dash around the park in a spirited sprint for prizes. The event is always a festival favourite, blending community spirit with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.
The Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks will run from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Watson’s Green, with entry free for all. Families are invited to come along, enjoy the entertainment, and share in the fun of this much-loved Home Hill tradition.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, 5th November 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Venue: Watson’s Green
Cost: Free
Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
Golfers will swap the sidelines for the fairways on Sunday, November 2, as the Golf Ambrose returns to the Home Hill Harvest Festival lineup. The friendly nine-hole tournament promises a relaxed day on the greens, filled with competition, camaraderie, and plenty of laughs.
Teams of four can tee off between 10:00am and 3:00pm, with limited spots available. Entry is $25 per person, which includes a round of golf, a burger, and eligibility for prizes. Awards will be presented for the best overall team, best queen team, and best corporate team.
The Golf Ambrose welcomes players of all skill levels—from seasoned golfers chasing birdies to first-timers just looking for a fun day out. The event’s social, easygoing format makes it the perfect opportunity to connect with friends, colleagues, and fellow festival-goers while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Home Hill Golf Club.
Bookings are essential, with tee times filling fast. For more information or to secure your team’s place, contact Doug McCubben on 0417 072 570.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, 2nd November 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm (limited tee times)
Venue: Home Hill Golf Club
Cost: $25 per person (includes golf, burger, and prizes)
Golfers will swap the sidelines for the fairways on Sunday, November 2, as the Golf Ambrose returns to the Home Hill Harvest Festival lineup. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival.
Locals are encouraged to bring along their beloved pets—big or small—to compete in a range of fun categories, including Best Dressed, Fastest Eater, Most Unusual Pet, Waggiest Tail, and Best Trick. Awards will also be handed out for the best kept cat, dog, puppy, kitten, guinea pig, reptile, and bird.
Following the pet show, the excitement continues with the Bolt for Bucks, where kids can dash around the park in a spirited sprint for prizes. The event is always a festival favourite, blending community spirit with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.
The Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks will run from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Watson’s Green, with entry free for all. Families are invited to come along, enjoy the entertainment, and share in the fun of this much-loved Home Hill tradition.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, 5th November 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Venue: Watson’s Green
Cost: Free
Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
Just 83 years young, Burdekin-born-and-raised Cass Arboit’s name is almost synonymous with Burdekin agriculture. Born into a family of Italian immigrants and raised on the family farm, the values of hard work, efficiency, and discipline formed the foundation of everything Cass would become.
Over a farming career spanning more than 50 years, Cass witnessed firsthand the evolution of rural life, from the pre-electricity era of the 1950s to today’s modern operations.
"We only got electricity in 1957, and mobile phones… well, we had to look up the road to our neighbours if you wanted to ring anyone," he recalls. "I still remember using kerosene lamps in the dark!"
Over the following decades, Cass not only farmed cane but also ran a successful agricultural contracting and machinery business, supplying tractors, farm equipment, and vehicles across Queensland. Alongside his professional work, he played an active role in the local community—serving for years as a director of Queensland Cane Growers and as a member and chairman of the Kalamia Cane Growers. He also lent his leadership to other organisations, including the school P&C and the Junior Farmers Organisation, leaving a lasting impact wherever he contributed.
He eventually made the jump into real estate, armed with a wealth of farming and agricultural knowledge that has helped him sell hundreds of properties over almost 20 years. Within the rural sector, Cass’s experience and expertise in soil, irrigation, and crops make him an invaluable resource for both vendors and buyers navigating important decisions about their land and future.
"I know irrigation, I know different waters. I know what soils grow good cane. I think I have an advantage because I've known the farming industry for 50 years," says Cass.
Outside of work, Cass enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, and tending his land. A passionate traveller, he has explored more than 20 countries—visiting family in Europe, exploring Brazil’s sunny coastline, or taking cruises—though he always returns to the Burdekin, the place he has proudly called home his entire life.
Within the rural sector, Cass’s experience and expertise in soil, irrigation, and crops make him an invaluable resource for both vendors and buyers navigating important decisions about their land and future. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Home Hill Rotary Club and Ayr/Home Hill Lions Club were both recognised at last Wednesday's Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting when they received official honorary memberships for their longstanding commitments to the Burdekin Shire.
"It's about honouring both the individuals and the clubs as a whole for the work they've done," said Home Hill Chamber president Uli Liessmann.
Alf Musumeci of the Home Hill Rotary Club and Nola Nendick of the Lions Club were both in attendance on the night, receiving a certificate to mark the feat. Both shared words with the audience, expressing their gratitude to both the Chamber and the community.
The meeting was well attended, with members of the Ayr community making the trip across the bridge to get involved. Liessman stressed the importance of bridging the gap between the two communities.
"We really want to get away from this Ayr-Home Hill separation," he said. "We're really happy to see so many people from Ayr starting to attend our meetings. It's so good to see the Burdekin combining."
"I want to try to keep building these meetings up until we get to a point where we have to start turning people away. It's all about getting people involved. We are the voice of the public."
The Home Hill Rotary Club and Ayr/Home Hill Lions Club were both recognised at last Wednesday's Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting when they received official honorary memberships for their longstanding commitments to the Burdekin Shire. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Local seniors looking to stay active, healthy and connected can now join the Active and Social Seniors Group at the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.
Eligible participants can take part in individual rehabilitation or group exercise sessions delivered by Accredited Exercise Physiologists and Exercise Scientists in a welcoming, fully equipped environment. Each session is designed to promote strength, mobility and confidence while encouraging social interaction among members.
The program is partially funded through the Older People’s Action Program (OPAP), with a small participant fee of $7.50 per session. Seniors aged 60 and over, and First Nations Australians aged 55 and over, are eligible for OPAP support.
All sessions are supervised by Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs), who ensure exercises are tailored to each person’s goals and health conditions. The team focuses on evidence-based programs that prioritise safety, gradual progress, and sustainable health improvements.
The Active and Social Seniors Group offers support for a wide range of needs, including chronic disease management, post-surgery recovery, cardiac or cancer rehabilitation, arthritis and joint pain management, weight control, and improving strength, balance and cholesterol levels.
Places are limited, so interested residents are encouraged to contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health team to register their interest and secure a spot in the program.
Address: 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. P: 4783 2711 E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au F: www.facebook.com/bca1975
SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER
King & Queen of the Hill
6am–8am
Race to the top of Inkerman Hill and back in this thrilling test of endurance. Multiple age categories, cash prizes, plus food and coffee vans on site. Register on the day.
Mount Inkerman
FRIDAY 31 OCTOBER
Cocktails & Convo with Award-Winning Author
Friday 6pm
Join Burdekin Readers & Writers Association and award-winning author (and former local), Kim Wilkins, for cocktails and conversation at their pop-up book bar. The author of more than twenty-five books, a Professor of Writing at the University of Queensland, Kim is coming to town to share drinks and talk writing, including her brilliant new historical fiction, The Secret Year of Zara Holt. Everyone is invited. Register at: www.burdekinraw.org.au/events to attend this one-off event and hear from a celebrated wordsmith.
148 Queen St, Ayr
SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER
Derby Day Races
Gates open 11:30am
Burdekin Race Club presents Derby Day—your traditional black and white fashions and quality racing event. Gather your friends for a classic day at the track.
Burdekin Race Club
SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER
Writing Workshop
Saturday 9am-3pm
Acclaimed author of over 25 books, and UoQ Professor of Writing, Kim Wilkins, will give a hands-on workshop to writers of all levels. Through practical exercises, you’ll learn how to balance Architecture of Story with Artistry of Writing, to take your writing to the next level! To register for this hotly anticipated event, visit www.burdekinraw.org.au/events. Numbers are strictly limited.
Memorial Hall (Green Room), Home Hill
Sunday 2 November
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park
SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER
Golf Ambrose
Time TBA
Grab your team for a friendly day on the greens. Whether a seasoned golfer or a novice, enjoy laughter, camaraderie and competition in this social Ambrose event.
Home Hill Golf Club
WEDNESDAY 5 NOVEMBER
Pet Show & Bolt for Bucks
6pm–9pm
Bring your pets to compete in fun categories, then watch the kids dash for prizes in the Bolt for Bucks race. A free family evening of laughter, furry friends and community spirit.
Watson’s Green
Cost: Free
FRIDAY 7 NOVEMBER
Rotary Gala Ball
6:30pm–midnight (Dinner 7pm)
Celebrate the Harvest Festival with a sit-down dinner, music and dancing. The evening crowns the Charity and Personality Queens, honouring community spirit and generosity.
Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $80
SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station's front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Burdekin Art Society Exhibition
All day
Explore local talent at the Burdekin Art Society’s Art Exhibition during the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Featuring a vibrant display of artworks, the exhibition is set in the South Burdekin Water Board Building, across from Watson’s Green.
South Burdekin Water Board Building, 28 Ninth Street
The Ayr Bears have gone one up in the Annual Inter-Town Rugby League series against Home Hill, part of the Town of Origin Harvest Festival celebrations. The series, now in its 11th year, sees the two towns compete across Rugby League, Cricket, and Netball.
On Sunday, Ayr won the Cricket 60–59, Home Hill claimed the Netball 40–17, with Krystal Kerr judged best player, and Ayr secured the Rugby League decider 32–4, giving the northern town a 6–5 advantage in the series.
Ayr fielded an experienced side compared to a young Home Hill team, which showed in the scoreboard. Bears coach Chris Perry, however, praised the efforts of two standout young players.
Under-18 half KJ Zaro impressed in both attack and defence, using his speed and willingness to take the ball into the line. He scored a try and kicked three goals for a personal tally of 10 points, earning him the Qld Country Credit Union Man of the Match. Under-18 hooker Harrison Lammon came off the bench to play a leading role, providing smart ball from dummy half and defending strongly.
Outside back Arlvaikasai left the crowd in awe, racing away for three tries, supported by Zaro. Other try-scorers for Ayr were Jones Munro, Caleb Noah, and KJ Zaro, while KJ kicked three goals and Caleb one. Home Hill’s only try came from Jules Arrate.
Coach Perry also praised young utility Justin Cursio for his determination and effort throughout the match.
Players are now looking forward to the rejuvenated Bendigo Bank Club of Origin on Saturday, 29 November at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr. Teams with connections to the Hornets, Colts, Home Hill, and Brothers clubs will compete for bragging rights and the Bendigo Bank Cup. A Ladies match between Ayr and Home Hill will also be held for the first time in around 60 years. The Club of Origin launch will take place at the Queens Hotel on Saturday, 15 November.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
The Burdekin Clay Target Club held another successful shoot on Sunday, 12th October, with 28 shooters taking part. The club thanks sponsors Michael and Susy Populin and Torri Davies from Home Hill Engineering, and acknowledges Lui Populin for his continued support in donating meat trays for the raffle. The next shoot is scheduled for Sunday, 9th November.
Event 1, the 25 Target Single Barrel, saw AA Grade winners Phillip Scalia, Benji Micallef and Aaron Lemphers achieve a perfect 15/15, while A Grade was topped by Ron Clive, Bruce McBow and John Cerqui on 14/15. B Grade honours went to Pedro Le Blowitz with 14/15, followed by John Kinnimonth with 13/15, and C Grade was taken by David Russell on 13/15, with Alf Gangemi second on 12/15.
The 30 Target Double Barrel Championship 15m, sponsored by Michael and Susy Populin, produced a perfect score of 58/58 from Alex Scalia in the Open division, with Phillip Scalia taking AA Grade on 57/58 and Alex Scalia also topping A Grade. B Grade went to John Kinnimonth with 28/30, and C Grade to Alf Gangemi with 28/32.
In the 25 Target Double Barrel Handicap, Larry Archer claimed first place with 29/30, followed by Lindsay Groat on 33/35 and John Kinnimonth on 32/35. The 25 Target Burdekin Mixed Target Championship 15m, sponsored by Home Hill Engineering, was dominated by Lindsay Groat, who won both the Open and AA Grades on 34/35. John Cerqui took A Grade on 32/35, Chantal Micallef claimed B Grade with 32/35, and Blake Heffernan won C Grade on 31/35.
The 10 Pair Double Rise 15m event saw AA Grade won by Phillip Scalia on 17/20, with Lindsay Groat second on 16/20. Tony Caruso won A Grade on 16/20, with Glen Rea and Greg Maltby sharing second on 15/20. B Grade went to Larry Archer with 14/20, followed by Mark Simpson on 13/20, and C Grade honours were shared between Ron Clive, Chantal Micallef and David Russell on 15/20.
Raffle prizes, generously donated by Lui Populin, were won by Tony Caruso, Gina Calligaro and Lui Populin himself.
Contributed with thanks to Sylvvia Rossato
Event 2-30 Target Burdekin Double Barrel Championship 15m Sponsored by Michael & Susy Populin
Phillip Scalia, Alex Scalia, Lui Populin, John Kinnimonth, Alf Gangemi
Event 3- 25 Target Handicap
Larry Archer, Linsday Groat, John Kinnimonth
Event 4-25 Target Burdekin Mixed Target Championship 15m, Sponsored by Home Hill Engineering
Lindsay Groat, John Chequi, Chantal Micallef, Blake Heffernan
Raffle Winners, Donated by Lui Populin
Tony Caruso, Gina Calligaro, Lui Populin
The inclusion of the Ayr Hospital on a list of 11 locations receiving significant medical imaging upgrades signals another major step forward on the delivery of a CT Scanner at the facility, according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.
“It has been a long fight to get to where we are today and I know there will be, literally, thousands of people in the community who will be extremely happy that the project has taken a giant leap forward,” Mr Last said. “Having Premier Crisafulli and the Health Minister commit the funding means work can get underway in earnest.”
“There was never any doubt that the government would deliver on our commitment, but I was concerned that there may be delays due to the state of our health system statewide. Our government was left with a health system full of cost blow-outs and unfunded promises that we needed to address to ensure Queenslanders can access medical services in their time of need.”
“As we have said since we began the campaign for the CT Scanner at Ayr, this project will not just boost health services here in the Burdekin, it will actually help take pressure off the Townsville University Hospital as well. Unfortunately, both of those benefits were overlooked by the previous government but, every time they knocked us back, the community united even more to back this project.”
Mr Last said the progress made on the project in the last 12 months was in stark contrast to what had been seen in the preceding three years and was a credit to a long list of locals.
“Since the Community Advisory Network first raised the issue with me, I could see that this was equipment our community didn’t just need, it was equipment we needed,” Mr Last said. “We went from basically being told there wasn’t enough demand to being told it was an important project but, despite that, it wasn’t funded by the previous government.”
“We endured three frustrating years of being given excuses, responding to those and then being handed another excuse. In the last 12 months, by contrast, we’ve seen planning commence, the Minister engage directly with local staff and now, the funding we need to make this project a reality.”
“Facilities like these do take time to come on-line because it is specialised equipment and we need to make sure that we get it right to ensure the best outcomes for patients and local staff. I’ll keep the celebrating for the opening of the facility but the progress that has been made since the election is staggering.”
“It has taken a joint effort with thousands of locals supporting my petition because this is a logical project. Once complete, it’s up to 15 less Ambulance trips a week, hundreds of staff hours saved and better health services for everyone from newborns right through to the elderly.”
“Because we have staff here that are already trained, I know the CT Scanner will make an impact from day one. It will be a great asset for our local staff as they work hard to save lives and improve quality of life and that makes the fight well and truly worth it.”
Premier David Crisafulli said the investment will help deliver faster and more accessible healthcare for Queenslanders, particularly in rural and regional areas.
“We are delivering easier access to health services so Queenslanders have the care they need, when they need it most,” Premier Crisafulli said.
Pets Domain Ayr hosted a heartwarming and tail wagging morning last Saturday, the 11th of October for Pets Domain’s Adopt-A-Dog Day!
A joint effort between Pets Domain Ayr, Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. and Pets Domain Bowen, the day saw plenty of the community’s amazing foster carers and volunteers come together to meet several fun-loving rescue pups searching for their forever homes. Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue were extremely grateful to the community for showing up to the event and cannot thank attendees enough for their donations and support.
“What a beautiful day! Thank you to our amazing fosters and volunteers, the teams at Pets Domain Ayr and Pets Domain Bowen, and the public who showed up to meet our rescues and donate,” shared Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.
The day saw six brave rescue dogs, Poppy, Maisie, Max, Narlyn, Zephyr and Ninja, capture the hearts of locals, with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue urging the community to reach out to inquire about adoption, fostering, or volunteer opportunities via emailing bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
Just last month, the Graduating Class of 1975 came together to celebrate the 50 years that had passed since leaving the grounds of Home Hill State High School (HHSHS).
Over the course of 12 months, Greg McCane and Carmelo Pasquale spearheaded organisational efforts to ensure the reunion would be one to remember, coordinating arrangements down on the gorgeous Gold Coast. HHSHS’ Class of 1975 travelled far and wide to attend the reunion in Southern Queensland to share in three days of laughter, friendship and trips down memory lane.
“So many memories of wonderful times together, and much laughter, it was like we were back at school again, and it did not feel like 50 years had passed,” shared HHSHS’ Class of 1975 graduate, Rosemaree Linton.
Classmates, partners and other family members gathered together to celebrate the occasion, and to the delight of many, Mr Bell and Mr Dawes also joined in on the weekend’s festivities.
Commencing on the evening of Friday, the 12th of September, everyone attended a casual affair at the Burleigh Hotel for dinner, drinks and a wonderful Meet and Greet gathering to kick off the weekend. Saturday saw attendees enjoy a beautiful three-hour-long river and rainforest lunch cruise along the Tweed River before coming together for a celebratory function where many danced the night away to a plethora of 70’s tunes performed by the talented band, Milky Way.
“The cruise down the Tweed River was enjoyable, the weather was lovely, and the scenery was beautiful, however, it was being with old mates that made the trip so memorable,” added Rosemaree.
“On Saturday night, there were no sore hips, feet or knees as we danced all night to music of our era! Milky Way kept us on our feet as we sang and danced to the music of the 70s and 80s with a few modern songs thrown in for good luck!”
With the festivities drawing to a close, HHSHS’ Class of 1975 partook in a good-old-fashioned “Barefoot Bowls Sunday Recovery” at the Burleigh Bowls Club from midday before bidding farewell to one another, and reminiscing on the weekend that was.
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