The Burdekin Art Society held their annual Home Hill Harvest Festival Exhibition on November 11, across the road from the Mardi Gras in the Lower Burdekin Water Board building.

It was a colourful display of 82 paintings by members of the club.

The People’s Choice awards for this year, sponsored again by Margaret Mary Spottiswood Bland, went to Luisa Delle Baite with ‘Floral Delight’ (first) and Maria Torrisi with ‘Friendship’ (second).

The winner of our raffle was drawn with Margaret Redweik ‘taking home’ a lovely Australian landscape painting by Graham W Smith.

Burdekin Art Society would like to thank the people of the Burdekin for supporting our exhibition again this year – for coming in to view the display and in painting sales.

Contributed by Burdekin Art Society

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First People’s Choice winner LuisaDelle Baite

Photo supplied

The festive season is well and truly upon us and the Burdekin community gathered at the touch fields in Ayr last Sunday, December 10 for the Community Christmas Carols.

With local entertainment, a fireworks spectacular and a very special visit from Santa, everyone revelled in the Christmas cheer.

Entertainment was provided by The Burdekin Academy, Perform Music, Malia Ma’u, Uniting Church members and so many more, showcasing our region’s talent and passion for the community.

“The Carols are a great way to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and to bring the community together,” said Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin.

“We are very lucky to have such a strong supportive community.”

View the gallery here

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The community gathered on Sunday for the Community Christmas Carols. Photo credit: Melanie Napier

Hi Readers

As promised, I’m back from Brisbane with stories of an epic weekend of live music seeing The War On Drugs and just one regret: I neglected to buy a t-shirt.

I hope those who attended Sunday’s Christmas Carols had an excellent afternoon – from all reports and photos, it looked like a terrific and festive time and proves that Christmas spirit is well and truly in the Ayr.

Flick to page 27 to check out all the photos from the night, and thank you to Melanie Napier for taking some fantastic photos at the event.

If you missed out last weekend or simply can’t get enough Christmas cheer, there are more opportunities this Sunday.

The Burdekin Uniting Church’s Christmas Carols in the Park is happening at Home Hill Park from 4:30pm to 7:30pm where the Burdekin Brass Band and Home Hill Choral Society will be providing music for the community to sing along to, with a sausage sizzle and cold drinks available from the Burdekin Chaplains.

The Burdekin Catholic Parish will also host Christmas Carols from 7:00pm Sunday at St Colman’s Church, Home Hill.

‘Tis the season for Christmas parties and the Burdekin Chamber, Burdekin Shire Council and Burdekin Community Association celebrated their members and volunteers recently with Christmas celebrations – you can see the photos from these on pages 5, 12-13 and 28 respectively.

If your workplace or organisation is hosting a Christmas party, I hope it’s a fun and safe one and a good occasion to reflect on a successful 2023.

Rotary Club of Ayr says no to Domestic Violence and has raised funds towards the Burdekin DV Support at Burdekin Community Association (BCA).

Club champions Narelle Hibberd and Shane Moon have guided the club over the years with different activities raising funds towards projects with one of these being home starter kits for families in crisis.

Senior member Frank Nucifora presented BCA CEO Debra Cochrane with a cheque for $562 towards the DV starter kits at the Rotary Club’s shed meeting last Thursday evening, December 7.

This funding was raised from a raffle held over the past couple of weeks.

“A big thank you to the community and members for the support behind this initiative,” the Rotary Club of Ayr said.

Members also got behind the BCA Christmas Hampers appeal and presented the donations of food items.

Debra gave a speech of thanks to the members present and how it will help the community in need.

Last week, on a separate gifting to the community, Frank presented the donations of Christmas Cakes to BCA and Meals on Wheels.

Rotary Club of Ayr supports the annual donations towards these organisations.

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BCA CEO Debra Cochran accepted a donation from the Rotary Club Ayr

Jumping on a trampoline is a sensation that all children should experience, and one that some may take for granted, and the Burdekin Special School (BSS) P&C has been fundraising to ensure its students don’t miss out.

After over two years of fundraising, the P&C has almost raised the funds required for the installation of inground trampolines and is calling on the community for one final push to get them over the line.

The funds will be used to install at least two inground trampolines, at least one of which will be wheelchair accessible, with early stages of construction underway.

“They are not like your traditional trampolines with springs, they’re more like a network of plastic pieces that have the give to make it move which is how they’re wheelchair accessible and why they’re safe for the kids with disabilities,” said Burdekin Special School P&C Treasurer Joe Carrington.

“It’s a playground level trampoline so the kids aren’t going to be bouncing massive heights, it’s a little bit of bounce that’s going to give our kids something different and a little bit extra in terms of their gross motor skills.”

Five out of the 22 students enrolled in the school are in wheelchairs, while the school only has one piece of wheelchair accessible equipment in the playground and one wheelchair accessible swing in the gross motor room.

“This gives us another opportunity for our kids with wheelchairs to be able to be included with their peers,” Ms Carrington said.

“It’s not a sensation they would feel on a regular basis, so it’s exciting and fun for them.”

Thanks to the generosity of the Burdekin community and assistance from the Department of Education, the P&C are closing in on a fundraising target of $132,000, with about $2,000 left to raise.

The committee has been busy fundraising through raffles, barbecues at the markets, a cookie dough fundraiser and candy shop and lob-a-choc stalls at community events.

The school was also supported by Attori the Entertainers and the Queens Hotel with an 80s show held in April where ticket sales were donated to the school.

“We really appreciate when people in the community can help us, whether it be in direct donations, whether it’s supporting us through raffles or at the markets, or donating their time and their talents,” said Ms Carrington.

It is hoped that the project will be close to completion by the start of the 2024 school year, with the installation of shade sails to come after that.

The P&C will be holding raffles and money boards in term 1, 2024 at Woolworths Ayr, Woods Newsagency and Home Hill News and Coffee.

Contact the Burdekin Special School on 07 4790 3111 or email principal@burdekinspecs.eq.edu.au for more information.

Burdekin Special School P&C Treasurer Joe Carrington and President Shane Robinson

Burdekin Special School students Jett Robinson, Marilyn Hunter, Aiden Carrington and Jake Stevenson

The Burdekin Chamber, formerly known as Ayr Chamber of Commerce, wrapped up a big 2023 with a Christmas breakup hosted by Blinds 2 U in Home Hill.

Burdekin Chamber President Leigh Kefford said reflecting on 2023 fills him with pride and optimism.

“This year, marked by our transition from the Ayr Chamber of Commerce, has been a journey of transformation and growth,” he said.

“Our hugely successful Chamber Connect events have been a significant highlight, offering varied and insightful platforms for networking and learning.”

Mr Kefford said the expansion of Chamber Connect themes to include a wider range of business sectors and relevant community issues has been one of the Chamber’s most successful initiatives this year.

“This approach has not only broadened participation but also enriched the resources and support we provide to our members,” he said.

“It’s a reflection of our commitment to evolving and adapting to the diverse needs of our business community.

“From the informative session on crime prevention with the Ayr Police to the diverse business insights at events like the one at Nutrien Harcourts McCathies, each gathering has fostered a deeper sense of community and collaboration.”

Looking ahead to 2024, Mr Kefford said he’s excited about introducing more targeted events, training opportunities and initiatives, further strengthening the Chamber’s advocacy role to ensure that the voices of Burdekin businesses are heard and considered in decision-making processes.

“We aim to continue enhancing the business environment in our region and supporting each member's growth and success,” he said.

“To our chamber members and the business community, I express my deepest appreciation for your unwavering support and active participation.

“Your engagement is the cornerstone of our collective achievements.

“As we step into the new year, I encourage each of you to reflect on your successes and achievements that you have achieved and share these on social media and with each other.  

“In unity and with a shared vision for safety, growth, and excellence, let’s look forward to a prosperous 2024.

“Together, we will continue to make a positive impact in the Burdekin region.”

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L-R Lisa Kefford, Trevor, Pierina Dalle Cort, Laurence, Marisa Zanella, Linda Butler, Leigh Kefford, Laurinda George, Dale Last, Chandler Taylor and Onni Joma

Marcus and Chandler of Blinds 2 U hosted the event with a barbecue and a tour of their showroom and manufacturing facilities

The recent threat of a tropical cyclone has prompted our local Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, to remind everyone that volunteering for the community is very important.

Mr Last said that the Christmas spirit and the motivation behind volunteering were more similar than what many may think.

“What greater gift can you give than to volunteer your time to keep your community safe,” he asked.

“There’s a wide range of roles within volunteer groups that not only cater to people’s skills and abilities but also to their other responsibilities.”

The Christmas period is an ideal time for community members to consider putting themselves forward to assist the community in times of need according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Having served as an Auxiliary Firefighter, Mr Last said the value of volunteers in communities like the Burdekin was often only highlighted during the response to a disaster; a trend he was hoping to reverse.

“There is more to responding to major events and disasters than what the public sees,” Mr Last said.  “Last week local volunteers were already preparing for the possible impact of Tropical Cyclone Jasper so there is a considerable amount of work falling on a small group of people.”

“Groups like the SES, VMR, the Rural Fire Service and our Auxiliary Firefighters are called upon throughout the year so, even outside of the larger disaster scenarios, the role volunteers play in the community cannot be understated.”

“Regardless of the impacts from Cyclone Jasper, we know that over the summer period there is usually increased demand on emergency services volunteers so putting your hand up now really could make a huge difference.”

“There is a host of information available online for people who are interested in playing their part and I would encourage people to at least think about whether this is something that they could do to support others. I know that a few extra members would be a great Christmas gift for our emergency services volunteers and our community as a whole.”

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Representatives from Woongaloo Rural Fire Service with Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP. Photo supplied

For NQ Primary Health Network

More than 150 primary health care service contracts have been delivered across north Queensland, valued at more than $63.7 million, as outlined in the recent Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) 2022-23 Annual Report.

Other significant milestones have been highlighted, including more than 4,000 engagements with primary health providers and notable advancements in mental health services.

Board Chair Terry Mehan said NQPHN was committed to strategically advancing health care access and outcomes for North Queenslanders.

“Our focus is to commission primary health care services that cater to the unique health needs of our region, ensuring quality healthcare reaches every corner of North Queensland,” he said.

A significant NQPHN accomplishment in the 2022-23 financial year included collaboration with the Groundswell Project to conduct Compassionate Communities train-the-trainer workshops.

NQPHN Executive Director Health System Integration and Innovation Karin Barron said during the 2022-23 financial year, NQPHN continued to take a leading role in engaging and supporting primary care providers through various capability and capacity-building activities.

“Our teams trained more than 380 health community connectors across North Queensland to play a stronger role in supporting local people and families during end-of-life experiences,” she said.

“One of the face-to-face workshops was held in Ayr, with 20 residents registering to become health community connectors.

“The Burdekin health community connectors are engaged when there’s a referral for informal wraparound support for individuals and families who are affected by life-limiting illnesses.

“When they are not supporting people, they signpost and share information as proactive community members.”

Meanwhile, an ambitious 12-month program to dramatically improve access to culturally safe health assessments and coordinated care for First Nations people was also a highlight of 2022-23 financial year.

With 13.75 per cent of the identified Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population of northern Queensland having a billed 715 Health Assessment in a 12-month period, the First Nations Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) program was developed to improve access.

“The program attracted 75 participating health services, with more than 545 face-to-face and virtual education event participants,” Ms Barron said.

NQPHN’s 2022-23 Annual Report can be viewed at annualreport.nqphn.com.au.

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Healthy End of Life Program (HELP) Impact and Engagement Coordinator Niki Read

Over 900 native seedlings have been planted along the sand dunes of Wunjunga in order to stabilise the dunes and protect access roads from storm surges and future extreme weather events.

The Community Planting Day included the planting of beach bean, goat’s foot and brown cudgerie, and were selected due to their ability to withstand hard coastal conditions.

Event organiser, NQ Dry Tropics Project Officer Darcy Roeger, praised attendees for turning out in numbers to help protect the beautiful natural environment.

“It was great to see so many people from the area getting involved in the planting,” Mr Roeger said.

“The heat didn’t diminish the enthusiasm of this proud community and I’m excited to see this site grow into a more valuable beach scrub.

“I would also like to thank Lower Burdekin Landcare, Coastal Dry Tropics Landcare and Whitsundays Landcare for the plants they supplied.

“It’s comforting to know that between the propagation and the planting, these trees have had the best start they can get.”

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said she was proud of the community effort.

“It was wonderful to see people from different backgrounds and ages joining forces to protect our precious sand dunes,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“These dunes are vital for our coastal resilience and biodiversity, and they need our care and attention.

“The planting sites were chosen based on the Dune Management Strategy, adopted by Council in December 2021, which identified them as high-risk areas that could be breached by severe storms.

“By restoring the native vegetation, we are strengthening the dunes and ensuring their survival for future generations.

“This is part of an ongoing collaboration between NQ Dry Tropics, Wunjunga Progress Association and Gudjuda Reference Group, who have done a remarkable job in preserving our natural heritage."

Following this event, the total of plants planted at Wunjunga are more than 2,400.

The volunteers on the day also constructed 1.6-kilometres of beachfront fencing and erected signage discouraging vehicles driving on dunes.

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The volunteer effort at the Wunjunga Community Planting Day. Photo credit: Melanie Napier

The Burdekin Mothers Union group held a service at All Saints Anglican Church as part of the 16 Days of Activism for gender-based violence.  

The service was attended by parishioners, members of the Burdekin Community Association, the Ayr police service and our local Zonta group.  

Rebecca Grogan, Housing And Community Support Service Manager from BCA, was the guest speaker and gave us some interesting information about domestic violence in our community.  

We prayed for victims of domestic violence and for those who work hard to support victims and prevent domestic violence in our community.  

The congregations of All Saints, Ayr and St Helens Home Hill collect toiletry products to make hygiene packs that are distributed to victims who need to leave their homes without anything.  

Contributed by Karen Allen

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Rebecca Grogan, Housing And Community Support Service Manager, Burdekin Community Association

Crch Warden Dianne Statham

Judith and Isabel from Zonta NQ and Reverend Karen

Photos supplied

If you are the holder of a current Qld Weapons Licence, I would remind you to check the expiry date of that licence to ensure it is current.  Ayr Police are experiencing an increase in the numbers of people attending the station after their Weapons Licence has expired.  

A brand new licence application then has to be submitted from scratch.  

There are a couple of benefits to renewing your weapons licence rather than it expire and they are (current as of 1 July, 2023):

New weapons licence application fee is $117.61 per year

5yr new licence is $294.20;

10yr renewal is $388.50;

Permit to Acquire is $44.47;

Further, if your weapons licence expires and you have a weapon, you can no longer possess that weapon.  It must be stored with a person who holds a weapons licence for that class of weapon but only for a maximum time of three (3) months.  Otherwise, it should be stored with a local firearm dealer possibly with a fee attached.

Take a moment and check the expiry date of your weapons licence now to make sure it’s current and when you need to renew it by.  Remember, it remains the responsibility of the licence holder to ensure their weapon licence is current.

Merging – who gives way

The situation where a driver merges from two to one lane of traffic, the question of who gives way is confusing for many drivers.  The below examples outline which driver is responsible for giving way and one of the key indicators that will be seen from the two diagrams, is the presence or absence of short broken lines at the end of the terminating lane.

Example 1

A driver in a line of traffic that is merging with another lane of traffic (travelling in the same direction) must give way to a vehicle in another line of traffic if any part of the vehicle is ahead of the driver’s vehicle.

Regulation 149 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rule) Regulation 2009

While this sounds complicated to many, the below diagram clearly demonstrates what it required.

Vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Example 2

A driver on a road with 2 or more lines of traffic (travelling in the same direction) who is moving from one line of traffic to another line of traffic, must give way to any vehicle travelling in the same direction as the driver in the line of traffic to which the driver is moving.

Regulation 148 Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation 2009

Once again, while this sounds complicated to many, the below diagram clearly demonstrates what it required.

Vehicle B must give way to vehicle A.

Vehicle Security

From time to time, vehicles are unlawfully entered with belongings stolen and sometimes vehicles are stolen.  

Some easy steps will help avoid being a victim of these types of offences:

• Lock your car;

• Do not leave the key in the ignition;

• Do not leave valuables in the car.

Thieves don’t care whether you think you should have to lock up, they will just take advantage of any lax security.

Snr Sgt Steve Barton

OIC Ayr

Celebrate Christmas And Decades Of Service

Burdekin Tourism Volunteers were joined by Burdekin Shire Council to celebrate their Christmas party on Saturday, December 2.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin congratulated the volunteers on a terrific year.

“They have done an amazing job of promoting our region to over 13,000 visitors who came to the Burdekin Visitor Information Centres in Ayr and Home Hill this year,” she said.

“That's over 3,000 more than last year.

“Council also had the honour of recognising the volunteers who reached special milestones, especially Robin Blundell who has been with us as a volunteer for 26 years.”

Alongside Robin, Diane Oats was recognised for 10 years of service and Barry Hewson and Cally Olditch for five years.

If you are passionate about the Burdekin and want to join the Burdekin Tourism Volunteer team, get in touch with Council's Tourism Officer on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Councillor John Furnell, Barry Hewson and Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Councillor John Furnell, Cally Olditch, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Councillor John Furnell, Diane Oats, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Councillor John Furnell, Robin Blundell, Mayor Lyn McLaughlin

Photos supplied

The 2023 crushing season has wrapped up! It's definitely something I'm grateful for this holiday season. Having completed the 2022 crushing this year also, I believe I'm not alone in eagerly anticipating a well-deserved break. As the kids enjoy their time off from school and various industries wind down for the annual Christmas shutdown, many of us are gearing up to unwind and savour moments with our loved ones.

I’d like to congratulate everyone who worked hard in the sugar industry this year. From the mill workers to the harvester and haulout operators, to the farmers, you all did an amazing job in producing one of our most important crops. You deserve a round of applause and a well-earned break.

As we celebrate the festive season, let us not forget that not everyone is feeling merry and bright. I urge you to look out for each other this time of year, check in on your loved ones and see how they are doing. Offer a listening ear or a helping hand. Be compassionate and supportive. You never know how much difference you can make in someone's life.

Burdekin Shire Council recently hosted a mental wellness event, Kick Off the Conversation, where Ross Romeo and Wally Lewis spoke about their personal experiences with mental health. They shared their stories of overcoming adversity and finding hope, reminding us that we are not alone and that help is available. They encouraged everyone to seek professional help if needed it and to reach out to support networks.

As the year comes to an end, I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Be safe on the roads, water, and in all your adventures. Enjoy the holidays and cherish the moments with your loved ones.

Were you aware that the Burdekin Shire Council boasts a Parks and Gardens team whose responsibilities extend far beyond mowing grass?

This small dedicated team takes great pride in maintaining over 41 hectares of parks, playgrounds, streetscapes and greenspaces across the Burdekin Shire enhancing the beauty and serenity of the region. A combination of seven 5 Star and 1 Four Star destination parks offer residents a range of engaging playgrounds, skate ramps, half courts and barbeques for families with young children and teenagers to enjoy and spend quality family time hosting birthday parties and other special occasions.

Additionally, the team ensures that public conveniences in Giru, Alva, Brandon, Home Hill and Ayr remain tidy and welcoming for both residents and visitors. They also maintain the public conveniences located at various boat ramps across the shire to make a day on the water that little bit easier for boaties. Most recently you may have noticed members of the Parks team erecting the Christmas trees and decorations in both Ayr and Home Hill.

Not only do they manage parks and gardens, but the team also takes on the duty of overseeing operations at the Ayr and Home Hill Cemeteries and the Plantation Park Bush Chapel by watering, mowing and preparing for funeral services with utmost dignity and respect.

The Parks team consists of 24 staff members with a mix of different roles and specialist skills including flora identification and selection skills, herbicide application and irrigation installation and maintenance. They happily lend a hand to other departments when needed, especially Community Development for events such as the Christmas Carols and Harvest Festival whilst responding to customer service requests as quickly as possible.

Proudly dedicated to serving the Burdekin Shire community, the Parks team strives to create a better environment for everyone. Next time you see them working in one of the parks or facilities, be sure to give them a wave for taking great pride in presenting the community in 5 Star condition.

When Rose Papadimitriou was first employed by Campbell’s Jewellery in 1983, she embarked on a lifelong career with the business, developing its reputation for quality, experience and helping the people of the Burdekin celebrate their special memories. Campbell’s Jewellery was established in 1974, with Rose purchasing the business in 2013. 10 years on, she reflects on many wonderful highlights, from half price sales to VIP nights and Jewellery Roadshows.

Rose says one thing hasn’t changed over those years, and that’s the emotion involved in purchasing quality pieces of jewellery. Couples exchange jewellery to symbolise their eternal love and commitment. Significant life moments like a promotion, new job or graduation are celebrated with a watch or a diamond necklace. Campbell’s Jewellery have been providing the Burdekin with special mementos for generations; symbols of powerful stories, milestones, and occasions.

“This is what makes our job so rewarding,” Rose said. “That we can guide our customers to choose the perfect piece to make their lasting memory.”

Rose is backed by a talented and caring team, bringing a combination of decades of experience and new ideas to the business. Jane, Danae, Kate, Natasha, Ella, and Lacey are all equipped with the care and attention to detail to make your purchasing experience a special one, while inhouse jeweller Allan has worked with the business since 1993 and provides professional repairs, remakes, and replacements to local and visiting customers.

“Having such an experienced team makes my job that much easier and the fact that we can laugh between us is truly amazing,” Rose said. “I feel very lucky and privileged to have been able to work amongst absolutely beautiful jewellery with an amazing, dedicated team.”

Campbell’s Jewellery specialises in fine jewellery consisting of argyle pink, chocolate, and white diamonds as well as a new range of large stone lab-grown diamonds. They also offer an extensive range of watches for every occasion as well as jewellery boxes, crystals, clocks, and figurines – the perfect range of gifts for this Christmas.

As trends come and go, Campbell’s Jewellery pride themselves in stocking the latest modern styles while listening to their customers and sourcing the perfect piece for any occasion. Visit the store on Queen Street, Ayr to browse their extensive range and experience the warm customer service that makes Campbell’s Jewellery so special.

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Jane Goodchild, Rose Papadimitriou, Natasha O’Shea, and Danae Fabbro of Campbell’s Jewellery