On Wednesday 12 June, the Home Hill branch of the Burdekin Library hosted a fantastic showcase of the literary talents of Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers.  

The talented writers presented poems, and stories focusing both on the past, and looking towards the future along with stories filled with love, paired with stories sharing the tales of familial chaos.

Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers were joined by an audience of locals, and relatives, and once again, each story and poem transported listers far beyond the Burdekin and broke away from the regularities of everyday life – with each audience member being returned safely back to reality at the conclusion of the event.  

The Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology is now available to read at the Home Hill and Ayr branches of the Burdekin Library, and both Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers extend a warm thanks to the Burdekin Library for hosting the event.  

Thanks were also expressed to all those who attended and their contribution to making the showcase a success. George Venables was congratulated for being the driving force behind the Anthology, and his hard work and dedication to the publication of the book were acknowledged, with the groups expressing that its existence would not have been possible without him.

‍

Members from both Burdekin Creative Writers, and Burdekin Night Writers sharing their stories

‍

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group dedicated their time at the 2024 Ayr Show on Wednesday 26 June for another year, ensuring areas including parking ran smoothly.

The group managed the carpark from 8am to 8pm, along with one of the entry admission points to fundraise for their organisation, with some scouts providing families with information on the club and what Scouting entails.

The wet weather could not dampen the spirits of the scouts, with both youth and experienced members of the club fulfilling their duties efficiently.

Youth members of the club were stationed at the information table, offering the opportunity for members of the community to come along and try Scouting for free over a four-week period.

“This is a major fundraising event for our group, and we thank the show committee for allowing us to do it each year,” explained Group Leader Chris Berkery.

“This and the other fundraising events we undertake throughout the year provides Scouting at a lower cost to youth in the Burdekin.”

‍

Members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group ready to go at the Ayr Show. Photo supplied

‍

On 16 April 1958, a group of representatives from numerous local organisations gathered to create a committee to organise the first-ever Water Festival.  

The first official Water Festival Committee members, known as Office Bearers, were Chairman Cr E. W. Ford, Secretary Mr R. L. Weatherstone, Assistant Secretary Miss J. M. Kruckow, and joining them were committee members, R. Rossiter, M. Towers, C. Richards, H. Wade, W. Saxby, L. M. Stockham, and S. M. Green.  

The committee developed various ideas, and plans for the festival, and floated the idea of introducing a Queen Competition, where a “Mermaid Queen” who fundraised the highest total would be crowned at a ball held on the Friday following the street procession. The initial brainstorm as published by the original Advocate, also included “an ugly man competition”, as well as the traditions the community now adores like decorated floats, and shop window displays. Additional proposed ideas included a garden competition, decorative lights for an evening display, a water display, sporting tournaments, Choral Society entertainment, religious events and even a spear-driving competition.  

The date was set, and the first official Burdekin Water Festival was held in Ayr from 12 – 14 September. Described as “Brilliantly Successful” by The Advocate, the procession ignited Queen Street with thousands of locals in attendance. With spectacular shop window displays and even more spectacular floats lining the sides of the bustling street, the community enjoyed the festivities all throughout the day, and well into the night.  

The 1958 Water Festival Ball as organised by the Ayr Rotary Club, was held on Friday 19 September at the Caledonian Hall, and the celebrated crowing of the first festival queens took place. The Queens gathered at the Shire Chambers to meet with the official party and then proceeded to the Caledonian Hall where they met Mr and Mrs C. Dempsey – representatives of the Ayr Rotary Club. Miss Val Pegoraro, Kalamia Queen (nominated by the Kalamia Mill Suppliers Committee), was crowned the winner, with Miss Dawn Chapple, Pioneer Queen (nominated by the Lower Burdekin Junior Farmers Club) announced the Runner Up, and Miss Mary Blakoe, Sports Queen (nominated by the Ayr Rifle Club), taking third place.  

The Burdekin Water Festival holds a treasured place in the region, and the continuation of the event in 2024 holds great significance, and stands testament to the great dedication of the extraordinary members within the community.  

The man who first dreamed of establishing what has now become one of the most treasured events in Burdekin history was Mr Bob Saxby. In the words published by The Advocate in 1958, “What a splendid reality that dream turned out to be”.  

Caption: The crowning of the first Water Festival Queens, L to R Miss Dawn Chapple, Miss Val Pegoraro, and Miss Mary Blakoe.

‍

The time has come to nominate both Junior and Senior Ambassadors for the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival! With the theme announced, and preparations well underway, the committee is calling for ambassadors to join the 2024 Bring it Back event, and many locals have begun reminiscing on their time spent as a Water Festival Ambassador in previous years since the announcement.

Clubs, schools, sporting groups, and organisations are invited to nominate their Junior Ambassador who is 11 – 12 years of age in grades 6 or 7 within the Burdekin region.

As for the Senior Ambassadors, nominations can be made from clubs, organisations, and businesses as well as individuals who will be matched with a suitable club, organisation or business.  

All nominations can be made by emailing the Burdekin Water Festival Committee at info@burdekinwaterfestival.com.au or via messaging the Burdekin Water Festival Facebook Page.

The Burdekin Water Festival Committee looks forward to supporting both Junior and Senior Ambassadors on their journey in 2024 for what will be a spectacular revival of the much-loved, and treasured event.

‍

On Thursday the 20th of June, four students from the Burdekin PCYC’s Get Set for Work Program celebrated their official graduation.

The Get Set for work program is a skilling Queenslanders for Work program funded by the Queensland Government designed for those 15 - 19 years no longer attending school.

Reece Piva, Kyle Gudge-Bollman, Jhay Leamon, and Jak Hervey completed a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways over the duration of 10 weeks, engaging with and participating in the extensive program.

Having now graduated from the program, each student has the opportunity to progress their learning by electing to obtain a Learners’ Licence, Responsible Service of Alcohol Certification, First Aid and CPR Certification, and a White Card under the guidance of the Burdekin PCYC.

Each of the frou students completed employment enhancing activities to further advance their knowledge and understanding in numerous fields. The program supported the students in building resumes and cover letters in response to job advertisements and educated them on the details of budgeting, AOD Awareness, Road Safety and much more. Additionally, the students gained a further understanding of the historical and cultural knowledge of the Burdekin area.

Applications for the next season of the program are now open, and the Burdekin PCYC encourages those interested, or those who know of a young person who could benefit from this program to apply. The program will begin on Monday 8 July, and to apply, contact Rowan Scott or Tamara Kemp on 0448 686 648. 

‍

Reece Piva, Kyle Gudge-Bollman, Jhay Leamon, and Jak Hervey celebrating their graduation

‍

Finding your dream home can be an exhilarating journey filled with excitement and challenges. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, here are essential tips to help you navigate the process and land the perfect home:

   1. Define Your Priorities
Begin by making a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Consider factors such as location, neighbourhood, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, layout, and specific features like a backyard or garage. Knowing your priorities will streamline your search.

   2. Set a Realistic Budget
Determine how much you can afford to spend on a home, taking into account your income, savings for a down payment, closing costs, and ongoing expenses like property taxes and utilities. This will guide your search and prevent you from falling in love with a home that's out of your financial reach.

   3. Research Neighbourhoods
Explore different neighbourhoods that align with your lifestyle preferences. Consider factors such as school districts, proximity to work, amenities (parks, shops, restaurants), safety, and future development plans. Visiting neighbourhoods at different times of the day can provide valuable insights.

   4. Work with a Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent can be invaluable in your search for a dream home. They have access to exclusive listings, understand market trends, and can negotiate on your behalf. Choose an agent who specializes in the neighbourhoods you're interested in and who listens to your needs.

   5. Attend Open Houses
Open houses offer a firsthand look at properties and allow you to assess their condition, layout, and potential. Take notes, ask questions, and envision how each home aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

   6. Consider Long-Term Resale Value
Even if you plan to stay in your dream home for many years, it's wise to consider its resale potential. Look for properties in desirable locations with features that appeal to a broad range of potential buyers.

   7. Get a Home Inspection
Before making an offer, schedule a professional home inspection. This will uncover any hidden issues or necessary repairs that could affect your decision or negotiation process.

   8. Factor in Additional Costs
Beyond the purchase price, budget for additional costs such as property taxes, homeowner's insurance, maintenance and repairs, and possible homeowner association (HOA) fees. Understanding these expenses upfront helps you prepare financially.

   9. Trust Your Instincts
Finding your dream home is as much about emotion as it is about logic. If a property feels right and checks off most of your boxes, trust your instincts. Picture yourself living there and envision your future in the space.

Finding your dream home involves careful planning, research, and a clear understanding of your priorities and budget. By following these tips and working with experienced professionals, you can navigate the real estate market with confidence and find a home that fulfills your aspirations. Remember, patience and persistence are key to discovering the perfect place to call home.

‍

On Wednesday 26 June, the Burdekin Shire Council announced allocations as part of its 2024/25 Budget. Here is an outline of what you’ll find in the budget.

$16.4 Million for Road Reconstructions and UpgradesAn investment dedicated to both rural and urban projects, $16.4 million will be invested into initiatives in the areas of reconstruction, floodway, drainage and culvert upgrades, and footpath replacements. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said this investment is dedicated to a range of initiatives including road designs, renewals, and drainage construction project, carefully selected to address key areas of improvements for reliability and safety.

$3.2 Million for Industrial Estate Expansion
In the Burdekin Shire Council’s continued commitment to investing in the region’s economic development, expansion of businesses, and creation of jobs, $3.2 million will support the development of the Industrial Estate expansion, with Phase 1 set to be completed by the end of 2024. Complementing the existing Ayr Industrial Estate, Phase 1 of the expansion will deliver up to 25 new industrial lots in the short term, with a further 20 lots to be released in the future as part of Phase 2 of the expansion. Works will include; new roads, drainage, water, sewerage, and underground power infrastructure that are currently underway.

$2.9 Million for the Reconstruction of the Jerona Causeway
The Burdekin Shire Council has secured $2.9 million from the State Government to reconstruct the Jerona Causeway following damage to the structure in the 2023 flooding events. The successful tender for the construction of the new Jerona Causeway has been awarded to A. Gabrielli Constructions, with construction set to commence at the end of June.

$155,000 for Community Well-Being and Infrastructure
$155,000 will be invested into facilities throughout the shire, with plans to construct a new shelter to ensure the community can enjoy the pool while being protected from the sun. The Home Hill Pool, and the Millaroo community  pool have been included in Masterplan works with new developments set to take place.

World First Wastewater Facility
The Burdekin Shire Council has announced an exciting milestone with the world first Macro Algae Bioremediation Facility set to be commissioned in September. A joint initiative between Council and RegenAqua, the innovative facility will use native green algae to treat wastewater and remove nutrients such as phosphorous and nitrogen which are harmful to the Great Barrier Reef, and will also sequester carbon dioxide.  

Long Term Portable Water Supply
Long term portable water supply for the Ayr, Brandon, and Alva communities has been secured in the 2024/25 Budget, ensuring a safe and reliable source of drinking water well into the future. The construction of a new Water Filtration Plant is expected to begin in the coming months.

‍

Councillors and Mayor Dalle Cort announcing the 2024/25 budget on Wednesday morning

‍

Hi everyone! Thank you for all the messages of support I’ve received over the past week! I’ve enjoyed chatting with you all here and there, and love continuing to share your stories.

This week, my social calendar has been booked and busy, farewelling many of my friends heading off for Euro-Summers, Contiki’s and ski trips. We’ve had a few see you soon evenings and have even started warming up with a new firepit on our back patio. We also headed out to a music concert the other night to watch The Dreggs play at Fortitide Music Hall. We were freezing cold, but we had a great time! It’s Antarctic here in Brisbane, and as I’m writing this my fingers are numb! I’m certainly missing the Burdekin winter temperatures right now.

I hope everyone had a great day at the Burdekin Show yesterday! I was lucky enough to interview special guests, Steven and Trent, and both of their performances sounded fantastic. I remember visiting the Show myself with my friends and family, and my favourite part would always be sitting on the grandstands watching the fireworks.

Last week I chatted with Amanda at the Molongle Creek Caravan Park to share the amazing work they’re doing for the community. It was so lovely to hear everything Amanda and Drew have done for their park, and the surrounding locals, as well as their plans for the future.

As always, feel free to reach out to me if you would like to share your story with me, or even just to say hi!

Have a great week, and I look forward to chatting soon!

‍

In a world where tech is responsible for all aspects of our lives, it’s worth keeping in mind how this affects our seniors.

So much of our digital world keeps on changing, it becomes more difficult for many of our seniors to learn how to use new technology on their own. 

Many require help in learning how to use their smart phone, smart TV, or computer etc. 

One Ayr resident was having difficulties with his new devices until Mark Viero volunteer at the Burdekin Community Association helped him, free of charge.

The Ayr resident said Mark was quick to outline the problem and fixed both the resident’s laptop and checked their phone.

“After outlining the problem, he quickly assessed where the software problem was and quickly had the laptop up and running again,” he said.

“He then went further and scanned through the computer systems to ensure all programs were operating properly.

“Then he offered to scan through my phone settings to once again ensure maximum performance.

“As he worked, he used a tutorial method to ensure I understood why any changes/modifications were made and how I could maximise the value of my computer and mobile phone.”

Manager of Volunteers at Burdekin Community Association Rita Quagliata said, “Mark has demonstrated his remarkable patience, expertise, commitment, reliability and has assisted numerous Seniors through the years, ranging from 55 to 95 years of age.”

“He is a tech whiz, anyone who has a problem with their computer or phone, he finds the issue and sorts it out immediately.”

‍

Mark Viero, Photo supplied

‍

Around 7:30pm on Saturday 22 June, Kylie Rice was driving home from work when a rock was hurled from the side of the Bruce Highway, penetrating through her front passenger window.

A terrifying ordeal, Kylie was fortunately not physically injured by the dangerous act, however, was extremely shaken by the experience, and hasn’t driven her vehicle since.

“I heard a thump and a shattering sound, and I rang my husband, and said, ‘My window has just smashed’, and he was like, ‘What do you mean your window has just smashed?’” Kylie recalled.

Kylie’s window was completely shattered by the incident, with the thousands of glass shards being held in place solely by window tint.

Kylie had finished her shift at BP Ayr and was passing Good Year Tyres travelling from Ayr to Home Hill along the Bruce Highway, when a rock the size of a palm shot through her window. The rock landed directly on Kylie’s passenger seat, and the act could have had serious consequences, causing harm to Kylie or any potential passengers.

“I’m feeling okay now, but at the time, I was so shaken up, and it took me ages to wind down to go to sleep that night,” said Kylie.

Considering the angle the rock penetrated the vehicle, both Kylie, and her husband, Rowan Rice were immediately suspicious, however, the offender was not visible to Kylie when she stopped to assess her situation.

“Not only could this have hurt someone but could have caused a serious accident, and killed someone,” expressed Rowan.

Rowan shared the ordeal on Facebook, urging locals to be vigilant.

“When we rang the police, they said we had to do a report online as both police stations were shut for the weekend, which I thought was a joke, I can’t believe that not one police station is open on a weekend in this day of age in Ayr or Home Hill – this could have killed someone,” expressed Rowan.

“I can’t prove anything, but I know you just don’t get a rock the size of your palm through your window.”

‍

The state government has been accused of putting the cart before the horse when it comes to addressing the contamination of Ayr’s water supply.
After it was revealed historic use of firefighting foam at the Ayr fire station had caused carcinogenic compounds to leach into the town’s drinking water, the state government committed $4million towards remediation works at the station.
However, Member for Burdekin Dale Last said with no funding commitment to provide Ayr’s firies with a new alternative home, it seemed absurd for remediation works to commence.
“It leaves you to question how our local firefighters are supposed to adequately respond to emergencies when there are bulldozers and excavators in operation removing and replacing contaminated areas of soil,” Mr Last said.
“This is another example of poor planning by this state government who seem quite happy for our firies to be left trying to operate a fire station while these remediation works take place.”
Mr Last said since the detection of PFAS chemicals in the Ayr water supply more than five years ago, the state government’s disdain for working with the community to ensure the town’s drinking water was safe and its firefighters could use their station to full capacity was clear.
“For years the local council have been left unable to adequately plan for a future water supply for Ayr and the town’s firefighters have been unable to undertake essential activities like training due to the inaction by the current Minister and her predecessor to be open with this community.”
“If she was serious about this issue, there would have been a commitment in the budget for a new fire station for our firefighters.”
“Now that she’s been dragged in to fixing this mess, it seems this Minister is determined to offer a partial solution which ultimately leaves the community in limbo.”

Opinion Piece contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

‍

Burdekin Communications Jaycar was struck by a pair of thieves on Thursday 20 June.

Dressed in high visibility clothing and backward Akubra hats, a man and a woman stood directly in front of a functioning security camera and stole a $3,500 camera system from Burdekin Communications Jaycar.

SRW Security Services have shared images of the two on social media, and their post has been shared well over a thousand times, with widespread input from the local community to help name the pair of thieves.

The community is outraged, and appalled by the act, expressing their anger and dismay on social media. Many find the irony in the situation of the pair stealing a security camera system and believe they will be found in a matter of time.

“Put these photos up everywhere on social media, someone is bound to recognise them,” said one commentor.

The incident comes after just over 600 offences have been reported in Ayr to the Queensland Police Service to date in 2024. Appearing to be on a welcome decline, the number of offences reported in 2023, 1,663, was a 344 decrease from 2022’s 2,007 spike.

SRW Security Services are urging anyone recognising the pair to make contact.

‍

Last week, Peter Dutton and the Coalition announced their nuclear energy plan to ensure Australians have access to “zero-emission reliable power” that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
 
“As your Federal Member, I support the announcement made by the Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton MP, and Leader of the Nationals, David Littleproud MP, as we stand behind all Australians and have a plan to ensure all future generations have access to a strong and reliable energy grid,” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.
 
“This is good policy that is good for Australians and the environment.
 
“Unlike the Albanese Labor Government’s plan to run 28,000 kilometres of transmission lines to build solar and wind farms to achieve their reckless race to renewables, nuclear energy is no emissions technology, and it saves us from wiping out good agricultural land and native vegetation,” Mr Willcox added.
 
Mr Willcox said that the nuclear power stations will be built on decommissioned power station sites and will not have the “negative ecological effects” of building solar farms, or wind farms, on land or in the middle of the ocean.
 “Every Australian deserves access to affordable, cleaner, and consistent electricity, and under Labor this is not happening,” Mr Willcox added. 
“Wind and solar power plants only have an operational life of 20 years, while the nuclear power stations that form the Coalition’s energy plan have an expected service life of up to 80 years.
 
“Australia is the only developed country in the world who is not drawing on zero-emission nuclear technology to support our energy mix.”
 
The announcement included seven locations for nuclear reactors across Australia that will utilise existing infrastructure from power stations that have closed or are scheduled to close.
 
These locations are:
   • Liddell Power Station, New South Wales
   • Mount Piper Power Station, New South Wales
   • Loy Yang Power Station, Victoria
   • Tarong Power Station, Queensland
   • Callide Power Station, Queensland
   • Northern Power Station, South Australia (SMR only)
   • Muja Power Station, Western Australia (SMR only)
  
“A future Coalition Government is committed to delivering Australia’s Energy Future Plan and a net-zero electricity grid by 2050 and a strong and resilient economy,” Mr Willcox said.
  
To read more about the coalition’s energy plan, head to AustraliaNeedsNuclear.org.au

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox backs the coalition’s plan to build nuclear power stations for every Australian to have access to affordable electricity. Photo supplied

‍

On Wednesday 23 September 2009, Queensland Police Officer, Senior Sargeant Michael Isles was last seen leaving his residential home in Graham Street, Ayr. Wednesday 26 June 2024, was to be for celebrating Senior Sargeant Michael Isles’ 73rd birthday, however, he was celebrated in the memories of those he left behind, still searching for answers.

Mick, as he was fondly known, was a praised member of the community, a dear husband to Fiona, and a loved father of three. He served in the police force for over 35 years and prided himself in his role of keeping his community safe, observing “old style” values, and his kind nature often prompted him to dedicate his time to supporting troubled youth. His integrity was trusted within all the communities in which he served.

Mick held the values of family above all else and has been described as a caring, honest and humble man who loved his kids dearly, and passionately. His kind heartedness extended beyond those closest to him, and he was known for always lending an ear to those in need no matter the hour.

His disappearance shocked the Burdekin community, and 2024 marks 15 years of anguish for his family and friends. Mick was last seen leaving his home at approximately 7:30am on Wednesday 23 September driving a police service vehicle. The car Mick was driving, an unmarked 2009 Silver Toyota Aurion Sedan with Queensland Registration Number 060KVD, was later located approximately 80 kilometres from Ayr. Positioned in bushland off an unsealed road north-west of Ayr, the vehicle was travelling to Ravenswood.

An extensive search of the area yielded no evidence into Mick’s disappearance, neither did the following investigations carried out over the following months.

Wednesday marked the passing of another occasion where Mick’s attendance was only possible in the memories of his close friends, and family, and his absence continues to raise questions into what really happened in 2009.  

Readers are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 to provide any insight into the disappearance of Senior Sargeant Michael Isles.

‍

On Sunday 16 June, George Populin and his family gathered at the popular Beach Road mural commissioned by George earlier this year to mark a special occasion.  

The mural honours two of the Burdekin region’s most respected and influential residents, Maria and Demetrio Populin. The mural was commissioned by the couple’s son, George, to honour his parents following his travels in Italy to uncover his family’s history.

Last week’s gathering stood as a memorable event to express their love for Maria, Demetrio and their rich family history.

“The occasion was a gathering of our family to commemorate our gratitude to Maria and Demetrio Populin,” said George.

“They are very special to us all and will always be cherished in our hearts and memories.”

The Populin family proposed a toast in honour of Maria and Demetrio, and shared in a few drinks, and nibbles, creating the setting for a beautiful morning, with George expressing his sincere thanks to all his family members for making the event possible.

‍

George Populin with his family next to the mural of his parents. Photo supplied

‍