Welcome to the Burdekin, a vibrant region where the charm of small-town Australia meets the boundless beauty of nature. Nestled south of Townsville, the Burdekin boasts picturesque landscapes, from the lush green fields of sugar cane to the pristine wetlands teeming with wildlife. This area is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, dynamic history, and unique natural attractions, offering visitors an array of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re diving into the depths of the ocean to explore historic shipwrecks, birdwatching in serene lagoons, or marveling at impressive WWII relics, the Burdekin promises adventure and discovery around every corner.

Dive into History
Immerse yourself in the depths of the ocean and explore the legendary shipwreck of the S.S. Yongala, one of the world's top 10 dive experiences. Shrouded in mystery, the Yongala lay lost beneath the waves for nearly half a century, its sinking still an enigma. Today, this sunken treasure, now an underwater ecosystem, attracts divers from around the globe. As a PADI 5 Star Dive Resort located in Alva Beach, Yongala Dive offers the quickest route to this magnificent site. Dive into the Yongala's rich history and vibrant marine life, where hundreds of species of fish, rays, turtles, and corals have made their home. Our small group dives with experienced staff ensure an unforgettable and intimate underwater adventure.
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Explore a Unique WWII Bunker
Journey along the Bruce Highway to discover the historic WWII site at Charlie’s Hill, situated roughly 100km south of Townsville. This radar installation, built by the RAAF in 1943, stands as a testament to Australia's wartime efforts. Step inside the reinforced concrete igloos that once housed radar equipment, offering bomb-proof protection during the war. Although the wooden towers have been removed, the concrete structures and foundations remain, providing a glimpse into the past. Listed in the Queensland Heritage Register, Charlie’s Hill offers a poignant look at military history. Just a six-minute drive south of Home Hill, follow the signs on the Bruce Highway, turn onto Charlie’s Hill Road, and travel about 1.5 kilometres to reach this significant site.
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Birding in the Burdekin
Lilliesmere Lagoon: A Bird Watcher's Haven
Nestled near the Kalamia Sugar Mill, Lilliesmere Lagoon is a renowned freshwater wetland cherished by the community. This vital water source not only supports irrigation but also serves as a sanctuary for birds and fish. Acting as a natural filter, it absorbs nutrients and sediment, enhancing the water quality flowing out.
Travel from Ayr towards Alva along Beach Road to reach this birding hotspot.
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Cromarty Wetlands: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity
The Cromarty Wetlands, a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life, is a primary breeding and feeding ground for Magpie Geese and a seasonal playground for the majestic Brolga. This wetland system hosts an impressive variety of wildlife, including 255 bird species, 51 reptile species, 44 mammal species, and countless invertebrates.
The Aboriginal name for the main wetland, Wongaloo, translates to "quiet waters." Located just over a 30-minute drive from Ayr, this serene and biodiverse haven offers a unique birding experience.
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Marvel in Awe at the Ayr Cemetery
Located just off the Bruce Highway north of Ayr, the Ayr Cemetery is a fascinating site, notable for its impressive collection of mausoleums. These architectural marvels, primarily housing families of Italian descent, each boast unique designs and substantial sizes, reflecting the cultural heritage and traditions of the region.
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The Fiery Spectacle of Cane Burning
The Burdekin is renowned for its spectacular sugar cane fires, a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight that lights up the night sky from June to December. These controlled burns are not just a visual feast but also an integral part of the local agricultural process, preparing the fields for harvesting. For those eager to witness this fiery phenomenon up close and learn about the fascinating reasons behind cane burning, Burdekin Farm Stay offers an immersive experience.

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The Queensland Country Bank Burdekin Water Festival will make its celebrated Queen Street return with an impressive group of both junior and senior ambassadors.

With the September Grand Parade and Mardi Gras on the horizon, each ambassador will make their anticipated debut on Friday 2 August at the Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch and Festival Fashion Parade.

The 2024 event will see 7 Junior Ambassadors and 7 Senior Ambassadors representing numerous businesses and organisations within the Burdekin region.

What: Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch and Festival Fashion Parade.
When: Friday 2 August 6pm.
Where: Populin’s Hall, Queen Street, Ayr.
More Information: Tickets are available at Solutions @ ELA 145 – 147 Mackenzie Street, Ayr.

Junior Ambassadors

Dakota Dixon – Burdekin Christian College

“I nominated to be an ambassador because I watched my sister, Summer participate in 2022, and I think it would be a very worthwhile experience. I love living in Ayr, I also love my school (Burdekin Christian College) and I wanted to represent my school as an ambassador. I also would love to build my confidence in public speaking and would love to make new friends and memories along the way.”

Dakota Dixon will represent the Burdekin Christian College

Cole Pontifex – The Burdekin Academy

“I feel super proud to be involved in such an iconic Burdekin event. I'm keen to put myself out into the community, improve myself, meet new people and help promote the Burdekin Academy - I want to be a relatable role model for other boys thinking of joining gymnastics.”

Cole Pontifex will represent The Burdekin Academy

Eden Godfrey – Burdekin Netball Association
“I was pleased to be asked to represent the Burdekin Netball Association as Junior Ambassador because the organisation plays an important role in my development. Being Junior Ambassador will allow me to return my appreciation to the club, it's tireless committee members and the central role it plays in our community.”

Eden Godfrey will represent the Burdekin Netball Association

Stella Borellini – The Burdekin Academy

“When I was younger, I admired the people on the floats that got to represent their clubs and throw lollies to the spectators. I couldn’t wait to grow up and join them and as soon as I could, I hopped on the Burdekin Academy’s float. Seeing other entrants represent our club and other organisations in the past made me hope to be considered as an entrant one day. I’m really looking forward to all the functions and events, getting to meet new people and raising funds for our awesome club.

Stella Borellini will represent The Burdekin Academy

Olivia Ferguson - The Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited

“I would like to represent the Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited as the Junior ambassador because Bur-Del helps the community and people and that is something I like to do. Bur-Del does a lot of different jobs and activities to help everyone in the community and I think that is fantastic.”

Olivia Ferguson will represent the Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited

Kelsey Laidlow – East Ayr State School

“I always look forward to the Water Festival each year and I am excited to represent my school. East Ayr State School has been a part of the community for a very long time, and I wanted them to be represented in this event. My family owns a cane farm and the abundance of water in the Burdekin should be celebrated. My mother was a queen entrant in the Harvest Festival and spoke about it to me - when the opportunity came up, I thought it would be good to meet new people and have fun.”

Kelsey Laidlow will represent East Ayr State School

Francheisca Dela Cruz – Burdekin Christian College

“The Burdekin Christian College asked us if anyone would be interested in joining the water festival ambassador and I decided to join, not only to represent my school but to show my pride and to give me the chance to give back to the community here at our school and to be a great example to others.”

Francheisca Dela Cruz will represent the Burdekin Christian College

Senior Ambassadors

Demi O’Shea – Campbell’s Jewellery

“I have been a local citizen my entire life, and I am abundantly grateful that I now have the chance to repay the acts of service that this community has not only rewarded me, but all our members. As I broaden my knowledge, experience and perspectives, I also look forward to building new relationships throughout our community, committee and my fellow ambassadors with whom I will be sharing this awaited journey with.”

Demi O’Shea will represent Campbell’s Jewellery

Zimyra Monday – The Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited

“I have a passion for helping people in our community, whether it be the younger generation and ranging through to our older generation. I have always been very supportive of my parent’s vision for the Community Organisation, in which I have been involved in many plans behind the scenes of Bur-Del. I am very passionate and have a desire to help make our community a safe and efficient place for our children and families.”

Zimyra Monday will represent The Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited

Macy Grabs – Burdekin Shire Council

“I accepted the role as a Water Festival Ambassador as I believe it is a great opportunity to get more involved in the community and extend my social circle. It’s also a great way to meet new people and learn more about the water festival and what goes on behind the scenes to make the festival come together. The Burdekin Shire council has a vision of a prosperous, connected and inclusive community built on the shire’s strong rural foundations.”

Macy Grabs will represent the Burdekin Shire Council

Sasha Previtera – Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club

“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always loved watching the water festival parade and supporting my school and sporting clubs. I decided to nominate as a Water Festival Ambassador as it is a great opportunity to meet new people and contribute to our community. Representing such a respected organisation is a true honour, and I'm eager to give back to the community and support the Lions Club.”

Sasha Previtera will represent the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club

Mia Kelly – Rotary Club of Ayr Inc

“I accepted this role to be a senior ambassador for the Ayr Rotary Club as my grandfather was the president in 1998, and I would like to make him proud. The Rotary Club is a community-based organisation that helps out when they can. They also run the annual duck race every year in memory of Norm Perry. My role is to represent this amazing club to the best of my ability, and I love to help anyone and everyone and learning new things.”

Mia Kelly will represent the Rotary Club or Ayr Inc

Charlotte Horsfall – Ayr Anzac Memorial Club

“Being asked to be an Ambassador for the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club came out of left field, it was humbling to think that I could represent my organisation and meet new people who feel the same way. I’m delighted to be a part of this event and to give back to my organisation the support they have given me.”

Charlotte Horsfall will represent the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club

Brielle Astorquia – Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate

“I nominated to be an Ambassador for Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate to put myself out there, meet new people and gain more confidence while stepping out of my comfort zone. McCathies Real Estate was founded by Jack & Milly McCathie in the early 1960’s. The organisation is locally owned and operated for over fifty-five years, we strive to look after all our clients with the up most respect and professionalism.”

Brielle Astorquia will represent Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate

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Living in a world where we must increasingly become aware of our collective environmental impact, adopting sustainable living practices is paramount in ensuring a healthier planet. Small changes in our daily routines can make a big impact on our carbon footprint and resources.

One effective way to begin a greener approach to life is through energy consumption reduction. Making the switch to energy-efficient appliances, such as LED bulbs and unplugging devices when they are not in use can not only help save the planet but can keep electricity costs low too. Not only this, but also learning to embrace natural light during the day is a more inviting and healthier option.

Water conservation is another integral aspect of sustainable living. Simple habits such as fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers and using water-saving fixtures can significantly reduce water waste. Collecting rainwater and grey water for gardening and opting for native plants can also contribute to water conservation. Mindfulness when washing dishes and doing laundry can also help.

Reducing waste is key in the quest for sustainability. Adopting the three R’s, reducing, reusing, and recycling, stops huge amounts of waste being sent into landfills. Reusable bags, containers and bottles in place of single-use plastic should always be opted for. Composting kitchen scraps and yard matter not only reduces landfill but also forms the foundation of nutrient-rich soil for the garden. Donating and repurposing items rather than discarding them lengthens their lifespan and reduces the need for new resources.

Transportation is another fundamental pillar of sustainable living. Wherever possible, opting for carpools, bikes and walking greatly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes an active, healthier lifestyle. Where necessary, regular upkeep with vehicle maintenance and efficient driving will be kinder not only on the planet but also on your wallet.

Finally, eco-friendly products and locally produced goods, as well as seasonable produce and minimal packaging are all great ways to reduce your environmental impact. Furthermore, it also supports the local economy as well as driving market demand for thoughtfully sustainable products.

By incorporating these ideas into daily routines, as a community we can have a substantial impact on our carbon footprint. Through conscious choices and nurturing a sustainable mindset, collectively we can contribute to a healthier planet for current and future generations. Embracing green living is a shared journey.

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July marks a big month for local business BQC Group which is celebrating 50 years of BQC Quarries, 40 years of Burdekin Concrete and the second year of its new enterprise, BQC Sands.

Taking pride in not only building the community but also employing a local workforce, BQC Group is a thriving business that has innovated over time and consistently grown to deliver to industry needs.

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The hardworking team at BQC Group celebrating their business milestones. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

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Hi everyone! I hope you’re all having a great end to your week!

I’ve been busy with university like always, and when I’m having my chats to people on campus here and there it’s becoming so much more exciting, and feeling more and more real saying “I’m graduating at the end of this year”!

It’s been so great to chat to you all throughout the week, and I love hearing your stories and sharing them with everyone else in the community. It’s truly my favourite part of what I do, and one of the reasons why I have wanted to become a journalist! Ever since my time with Scott and Stacey writing for the Burdekin Local Newspaper all the way back in 2021, I fell in love with how important community newspapers are, and I find it so special that I can continue writing about what everyone’s up to, from my primary school teachers to my grandparents - even from Brisbane!

Excitingly, from next week, a new journalist will be moving to the Burdekin to continue writing and sharing your stories each week like Sam did! Her name is Miah Lampard, and I’m so excited for her to join the community, and I know she’ll do an amazing job!

This isn’t me saying goodbye to you all, I’m just dropping back to the same position I was in when Sam was living in the Burdekin, which will give me time to focus on the last few months of university. I have loved writing from Brisbane, and I’ll continue to do so, you’ll still see my name pop up all the time, and please feel free to reach out to say hi! I’ll also be back here and there so you’ll still see me around too!

I hope you all have a great week. Chat soon!

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Friday 14 June saw the Burdekin Christian College painted with vibrant hues and colourful hairstyles as the school celebrated Crazy Colour Day to fundraise for the NRL Cowboys House.

The NRL Cowboys House stands as a unique, culturally safe boarding facility for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women attending partner schools in Townsville. Over $500 was raised by the student-led group, Z-Club, with all these funds to be donated to the worthwhile cause.

The Burdekin Christian College’s Z-Club stands as a fundraising group within the school, whereby its members organised the recent Crazy Colour Day under the guidance of the school’s wonderful Chaplain, Mrs Cornelius. The Z-Club ran pop-up treat shops to raise additional funds for the NRL Cowboys House, and paired with the gold coin donations from the colourful day, the Burdekin Christian College has celebrated the conclusion of another successful student-run fundraiser.

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The staff and students of the Burdekin Christian College had a colourful day last term to fundraise for the NRL Cowboys House

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On Saturday 13 July, the Eimeo Surf Club hosted the North Barrier Branch Annual Awards Dinner to officially culminate the 2023-24 surf lifesaving season and recognise excelling members.

Branch employees, committee members, and members of the seven clubs from across the North Barrier including Forest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville – Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina, gathered to attend the celebratory evening.

An annual event, recognition is awarded to members who have excelled across all areas of the lifesaving community, including athletes of the year, team of the year, patrolling club of the year, and valuable volunteers.

The Ayr Surf Club nominated three of their members, Bella, Kellie and Ben Lawry, for the North Barrier Branch Annual Awards Dinner in recognition of their commitment and dedication to the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club.

In celebration of her dedication to the Ayr Surf Club, Bella received the U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year Award. Her continued commitment to the club has shone through in a variety of settings including a staggering 152 patrol hours for the season, assisting with water safety and nipper training, and various jobs around the club house including serving in the kitchen and bar, and cleaning before and after functions.

Bella has also held integral roles in the organisation of and assisting in every fundraising event, and she individually organised the Dunk Tank for the club’s Family Fun Day earlier this year.

Recognising their extraordinary contributions and commitment to the Ayr Surf Club throughout the season, Ben was awarded the Surf Lifesaver of the Year, and Kellie received the Rossato Family Trophy for Volunteer of the Year at the Awards evening.

“It was a surprise and honour for all three of us to receive a Branch Award and was extra special to share it with our family,” said Ben Lawry, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club President.

Bella, Kellie and Ben underwent an extensive nomination process to be eligible for a Brand Award and following on from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club’s presentation evening in May, the family’s commitment and dedication to the club was made clear in how they continue to go above and beyond.

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Ben, Bella and Kellie Lawry were celebrated at the North Barrier Branch Annual Awards Dinner for their commitment to the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club. Photo supplied

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Numerous groups and organisations within the Burdekin region received a celebrated funding boost on Monday 8 July from Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Community Fund.

The twelve recipients were announced at a community event held at the Home Hill Tennis Association where representatives shared their plans for utilising the generous allocation.

The Burdekin State Emergency Service (SES) were one of the many groups set to benefit from the funding, along with the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, Burdekin Amateur Basketball, Burdekin Football Club, Burdekin Men’s Shed Association Inc, Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company, Burdekin Sub Branch of Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Inc, Giru Bowls and Recreation Club Inc, Giru Daycare Association Inc, Home Hill Tennis Association Inc, Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Inc and the Zonta Club.

The Fund was established in 2019 to give back to the communities surrounding the Haughton Solar Farm and will see its 2024 recipients share in $88,000 in funding to support initiatives with health, social, cultural, environmental or economic benefits. Many recipients plan to make much needed improvements to their facilities along with elevating their methods of delivering valuable services to the Burdekin community.

Dr Ben Lawry from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club explained the contributions from the Fund will be focused on the club serving their core purpose as life savers with upgrades set to take place at their Alva Beach Club House.

“This kind of support is vital to regional communities like ours, as it would have taken months for us to be able to fundraise for this ourselves,” shared Dr Ben.

“This year’s funding enables us to upgrade the First Aid Room facilities and office which makes a significant difference to the way we deliver our service.”

The Home Hill Tennis Association plans to direct this year’s funding towards the establishment of solar panels on their buildings, an implementation Kate Casswell explained will have a sizable impact on the association’s energy bills.

“The tennis club is such an integral part of the Burdekin community, and keeping costs down ensures it remains accessible to everyone – solar panels will help to reduce the impact of large bills which would otherwise eat up the club’s funding,” explained Kate.

“The funding is so important for organisations like ours to survive and thrive. It gives us a real boost to improving our facilities and making things better for our participants.”

Applauding the ambitions of all applicants, Pacific Blue CEO Domenic Capomolla looks forward to seeing the recipient’s projects come to fruition.

“It’s fantastic to see so many community groups within the region committed to their causes and seeking to help their local communities thrive for years to come,” Domenic said.

“Since the commissioning of the Haughton Solar Farm, we are proud to have provided more than $300,000 in funding to 52 local projects.

This year it gives us great pleasure to support an additional 12 groups that will deliver projects that really matter to the local community.”

Details of upcoming funding opportunities can be found online at pacificblue.com.au.

Pacific Blue Representee, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Representee, John Furnell
The Burdekin State Emergency Service Unit were one of the 12 community groups awarded funding as part of Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Community Fund
Pacific Blue Representee awarding the Home Hill Tennis Association with their official funding as part of the Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Community Fund. Photos supplied

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As local sugar industry stakeholders came together this week, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has sounded a clear reminder to representatives that the community the industry supports needed to be at the fore of ongoing discussions.

Welcoming the announcement that following weeks of ongoing strike action, a mediation offer had been accepted by the milling company and unions, Mr Last said it was time for everyone to play their part in ensuring a successful end to the crushing season for the sake of the whole community.

“The rocky start to the 2024 crushing season has already cost growers and that impact flows onto the local community. I would hope that next week’s proceedings bring about a positive outcome in the best interests of the community,” Mr Last said.

“From the moment strike action was announced I have stood by our farmers and our community who have largely been held at ransom during these disputes. I have also said with the increase in recent profits it is incredibly easy to make the case that workers deserve a share of the prosperity." 

“This week has highlighted the need for all aspects of our sugar industry to be able to work cohesively to ensure that this industry has a strong future and as a result, the local economy is able to reap those benefits.”

Mr Last said the ability for millers, growers and contractors to work collaboratively and uphold their responsibilities determined the success of the industry going forward.

“We know that our community relies on this industry to be productive and efficient from the moment planting operations begin to the day that cane is crushed at the mill, if any aspect of that process is not meeting the expectations of other parties then they should  be held accountable,” Mr Last said.
 
“Everyone has a responsibility to uphold, in order to secure the success of the sugar industry in the Burdekin and with the clock ticking it is imperative a successful resolution to the current dispute is found sooner rather than later.”

Opinion Piece from Dale Last Member for Burdekin.

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Opinion Piece

“The State and Federal Labor Governments must be held to account for their disastrous and mismanaged phaseout of commercial gillnets across Queensland, which is now seeing our local fishos consider walking away permanently,” Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said.

The local MP has said that the ban on commercial gillnets was announced amid pressure from international activist organisations.

“It was not backed by any scientific reasoning, and there was no consultation with industry experts or the local men and women whose livelihoods are being destroyed,” Mr Willcox added.

“As your Federal Member, I am calling for a review of the unworkable and ludicrous restrictions that are being placed on those who hold a temporary NX fishing licence.

“The introduction of the temporary NX licences were touted as a lifeline for our local fishos, however the restrictions and increased regulatory requirements are seeing an increasing number of people leaving the industry completely.”

Mr Willcox added that these fishermen and women are being pressured out of their industry.

“An industry that has supported them, their families, and entire communities for generations, and we are seeing small businesses who rely on this industry really hurting,” he said.

“Since this ban was announced, I have held extensive consultations with local fishermen and women, I have called for a Senate Inquiry into the ban of commercial gillnets, which the Labor party and the Greens voted against, and I have attended community rallies organised by those whose industry is being shut down.

“I invited the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, and the Prime Minister to visit our electorate and talk to our local fishermen and women, an invitation that they have ignored.

“This decision made by the State and Federal Labor Governments is a betrayal to our regional communities that rely on our fishing industry.

“This harsh government intervention and inadequate rollout of the temporary NX licences is jeopardising the lives of our fishers.

“As your Federal Member, I will continue to do everything in my power to fight for the people living and working in my electorate of Dawson and to hold those in power to account.”

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox addresses major concerns regarding local fishers potentially facing an uncertain future as government fails to consult on gillnet ban. Image supplied

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Over fifty amazing members of the Burdekin community dedicated their time on the morning of Saturday 20 July to support the Zonta Club in assembling 1,000 birthing kits.

The Zonta Birthing Kit project was established in 2003 and involves clubs arranging kit assembly days to put together simple, clean birthing kits which are set internationally to help birthing assistants in developing countries.

Well over a million birthing kits have been sent overseas to date, with each kit including a sheet of plastic, gauze, string, a blade, soap and gloves.

The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. was more than grateful for the community’s support last Saturday, and explained the kits will be sent to developing countries within the next couple of weeks.

“A very big thank you to the 50 + people from our wonderful community who helped with assembling 1,000 birthing kits yesterday morning at the St Francis Samaritan Centre,” shared The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc.

The Zonta Birthing Kit project works to combat the estimated total of 385,000 women who lose their lives each year in childbirth, many from preventable infections. As of mid-2021, 2.4 million women experienced a safer birth due to being able to access clean birthing kits.

“Many hands make light work, and we couldn’t have done it without you – your support and assistance was greatly appreciated.”

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The volunteers who helped Zonta Club in assembling 1,000 birthing kits last weekend. Photo supplied

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The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association held a highly successful Highland Dancing Camp at Alva Beach’s Ayr Lifesavers Hut from 5 to 8 July.

Made possible by a generous donation from Regional Advisory Development Funding, 27 Highland Dancers from Mossman, Mackay, Townsville and the Burdekin attended the camp free of charge to engage in numerous sessions and activities.

Over the course of the camp, attendees danced away with a Highland Dancing workshop led by visiting teacher and former Burdekin resident, Grace Cllive.

During the event they learnt the history of clan tartans through tartan making craft sessions, practiced mindfulness and learnt tips for managing stage and competition nerves with Kerry from Hands in Harmony.

They also participated in a strength and conditioning session delivered by Andrea Piotto from NRGIZE Fitness.

Friday saw the families of the dancers join in for a night of Highland games where everyone learnt how to toss a caber, and teams battled it out in an egg and spoon race and tug-o-war.

The evening stood out to attendees as one of the camp’s highlights with dancers and some parents split into four clans; Clan McSkettie, Clan Silverlink, MacBarrafin Clan and McSugarcane Clan, to add a touch of friendly competition.

Clan Silverlink was victorious under the leadership of Fiona Smith, the president of The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association after competing in many enjoyable games.

Saturday night hosted another opportunity for families to join the fun and the dancers learnt many Scottish Country dances like Strip the Winnow, Pride of Erin, and Highland Schottische for the Ceilidh. Traditional Debutant Ball dances, many recalled dancing each of these a couple of decades ago at Deb Balls of the past.

“Everyone learnt something more about Scottish traditions, how to improve mind/body connections and most importantly, everyone had a tonne of fun and made friends with dancers they compete against,” shared Fiona Christie of The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association.

Both the dancers and volunteers in attendance received a Burdekin themed shirt as a memento of the weekend, which was made possible by the funding The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association received from a Bendigo Bank Community Grant.

“The camp organising committee had a great time planning the camp at meetings, and everyone’s superpower was recognised and used to its full advantage,” said Fiona.

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The attendees of the Highland Dancing Camp in the Burdekin shirts, ready to enjoy a wonderful weekend filled with fun, dance and activities!

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Originally from the Gold Coast and working briefly on a boat on Hamilton Island 35 years ago, Trish moved permanently to Airlie Beach in 1996, establishing herself as a longstanding member of the local community.
Looking after the advertising needs of businesses based in the Burdekin and Whitsundays regions, Trish is available each Thursday to chat face to face to any local business in the area and available on the phone every other day of the week.
Trish recently worked in administration for a Legal Firm, before realising that her true passion laid in Sales:
“I love sales, that’s why I came back to it, I really missed it.”
Trish is really excited to have joined the team at Burdekin Life Newspaper and is ready to get stuck into meeting more members of the community.
“I’ve always liked that Burdekin Life is community-based, and I've always read it,” she said.
Trish brings a wealth of sales experience to Burdekin Life, gained through roles with various companies Australia-wide. Her background includes positions with a financial company, solar sales, and facilitating for Coles Supermarkets.
When Trish isn’t wearing her sales hat, she is relaxing at home and, “cooking with a glass of wine.”
Trish has been with Burdekin Life for two weeks, and is settling in great, she says the thing she is enjoying most about her new position is the people in the team and the community members she meets:
“I love speaking to people on my rounds, I'm loving the connection with the community, and seeing faces I haven't seen for ages and everyone in the team here is lovely.”
Trish is a wonderful addition to Burdekin Life, with her vibrant and positive energy and extensive sales expertise. If you spot her around, please take a moment to introduce yourself and say hello!

Trish Jandt, Burdekin Life’s new Sales Account Manager – call her on 0499 500 406

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As the president of the Burdekin Chamber, I am proud to share one of our most successful initiatives for our members and the community: the Burdekin Gift Cards.

This exclusive program for Burdekin Chamber members is a closed-loop system that allows us to activate and deactivate EFTPOS terminals for our gift cards. This unique feature ensures that the funds remain within our local community, supporting our businesses and fostering economic growth.

The original concept behind the Burdekin Gift Cards was to ensure money is spent within our local community through the “Shop The Burdekin” marketing campaign. This effort has not only kept our economy vibrant but has also strengthened the bonds within our community. Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and their success directly impacts our collective well-being. By encouraging residents to shop locally, we are investing in our future and ensuring the sustainability of our beloved community.

The success of the Burdekin Gift Cards has been remarkable. Local retailers have seen increased foot traffic and sales, which, in turn, has led to job creation and economic stability. This initiative has fostered a sense of pride and unity among residents, reminding us all of the importance of supporting one another.

I encourage all members to get involved with the Burdekin Chamber. Our next meeting will be a General Meeting on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 5:30 PM, located at National PC Ayr, 2/137 Queen Street, Ayr. Your participation and support are crucial to our success. Together, we can continue to build a thriving, dynamic community.

For more information on how you can join or support our efforts, please visit our website at www.burdekinchamber.com.au. We look forward to seeing you there and working together to make Burdekin an even better place to live and work.

Thank you
Leigh Kefford

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Do you have a Burdekin Gift Card?

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It was another lively evening event for Home Hill Chamber of Commerce as they welcomed their latest guest speaker John Clarke at their monthly gathering last week.

John Clarke shared his life story and how he went from Africa to the Burdekin.

He grew up at Zinyangeni Mission Station and shared what it was like growing up with some of the world’s deadliest snakes, and also his quality of life while living there.

Lifestyle in Africa is extremely different to western countries, after thunder and lightning, John shared that local witchdoctors told the local community that the gods were angry.

Other differences included that, in order to attend school, many students had to walk miles to walk.

After time in Africa, John and his family made a trip to Britain where he met his grandparents for the first time.

John was shocked with the change in lifestyle, in Britain there were no servants! And he couldn’t believe it.

After the trip John was thankful to return back to Africa.

Back in Africa John enjoyed long bike rides in the bush and felt extremely safe, he also noted that there were no other white children around and the locals embraced them, cared for them and treated them like royalty.

After his junior schooling years John began an insurance job in London and hated it.

He disliked leaving home in the dark, returning home in the dark and missed his friends.

To complete his senior schooling, John travelled back home and joined the working world, and began at a bank, there he was offered a job as a programmer.

After years in the job field John found himself back in England but travelled to Kuwait on a two-year contract.

Whilst in Kuwait John started up his own business, John Clarke Computing Ltd (JCC).

It was in Kuwait that John found his love for Australia, he continually visited Australia as it was the closest country he could find that was similar to his upbringing in Africa.

John sold JCC and decided to travel Australia again with his partner Jane, it was on this trip that they found the lovely Burdekin.

Attendees at the chamber meeting enjoyed listening to John’s life story and gained a perspective of life in Africa.

Other guest speakers on the night included Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort who spoke about the budget for 2024 – 2025, Burdekin Community Association needing more volunteers, an upcoming Bowel Cancer screening and an Application for Community Cultural and Sporting Advisory Group members.

Doug Chapple asked about the Cane Cutting Festival and if it can resume on a twelve month basis. There was some discussion on this but not enough time to fully talk about it.

Karin Ravizza spoke on the Ayr Water Festival and said they had 12 Junior and 12 Senior ambassadors and that the event was proceeding very well.

David Jackson closed the meeting and said the next meeting will be the Annual General Meeting and that Darren West would be the guest speaker.

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Guest speaker John Clarke

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