A group of talented Ayr State High School students recently showcased their musical abilities at the prestigious State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) held in Townsville a couple of weeks ago.

The program, hosted by the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, brings together some of North Queensland’s most dedicated young musicians for an enriching experience of intensive rehearsals, professional masterclasses, and a culminating public concert performance.

Students are selected for SHEP through a nomination process and are given the opportunity to learn and perform alongside accomplished conductors and professional musicians. Throughout the weekend, Ayr High’s students not only developed their musical talents but also built valuable confidence and collaborative skills.

The school extended congratulations to all participants who represented Ayr High with both pride and passion.

Ayr High continues to support opportunities that encourage artistic excellence and personal growth among its students, with SHEP standing as a proud example of both.

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Last week, Ayr State School warmly welcomed some of the region’s real-life heroes for a special afternoon dedicated to thanking those who keep the community safe.

The event brought together local police officers, ambulance officers, and a Burdekin Shire Council Ranger, giving students a hands-on opportunity to learn more about the vital roles these first responders play.

From exploring emergency vehicles to participating in interactive demonstrations—including a spirited race-off against the police—the students were buzzing with excitement. One of the most talked-about moments was when a teacher was playfully handcuffed by police during a demonstration, which was met with laughter and cheers from students.

The school community extended its heartfelt thanks to all emergency service personnel for their ongoing service, courage, and care.

“Your bravery, dedication, and kindness do not go unnoticed,” the school shared.

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We are excited to announce BCA’s new Accredited Exercise Physiology (AEP) Program, that will commence on the 1st of July 2025.

The program has been specifically designed to help individuals of all ages. Sessions will be delivered from our fully equipped and friendly Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) supervise all AEP Program participants and provide best practice exercise prescription to ensure that everyone performs exercises that are safe and appropriate for their goals and health conditions.  Sessions will be delivered one-on-one and face to face.

Our AEPs specialise in helping people to:
Manage a chronic disease or injury
Post-surgery rehabilitation support
Recover from a cardiac or cancer event
Improve strength and mobility
Reduce cholesterol
Manage/improve arthritis and joint pain
Maintain or reduce body weight

Ways you may be able to access AEP Program services:
Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM)
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – Gold and White card holders
Home Care Packages Program (HCP)
Support at Home Program (SaH) – expected to commence 01.11.25
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Private Health Fund
Private Fee for Service
What do I do next?
CDM or DVA, please speak with your GP
Aged Care Package or NDIS, please speak with your service provider or contact BCRH (details below) if you are self-managing your Package/Plan
Private Health Fund, please speak with your Fund
Private fee for service, please speak with BCRH (details below)
For information, please contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (BCRH) located at 12A Chippendale St, Ayr.
P:   4783 2711
E:   bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au
F:   www.facebook.com/bca1975

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran, CEO of the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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At 1.35pm on Friday 23 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Chippendale Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 27yr old Burdekin woman, was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

At 2.40pm on Tuesday 27 May, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 54yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and unlicenced driving. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

At 9.45pm on Friday 30 May, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Edwards Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 37yr old Townsville man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 August.

At 1240am on Sunday 1 June, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, McDesme. As a result the driver, a 36yr old Burdekin woman, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

At 6.05pm on Sunday 1 June, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Wickham Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 42yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 August.

At 8.50pm on Monday 2 June, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Queen Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 31yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 July.

At 1.55pm on Tuesday 3 June, Police from Ayr Highway patrol intercepted a vehicle on Chippendale Street, Ayr. As a result the driver, a 64yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva. He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 August.

At 11.40pm on Thursday 5 June, Ayr Police were call to a minor traffic crash between a car and fuel bowser at a local service station in Ayr. As a result a 50yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .191 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 16 June. No injuries were reported and damage to both vehicle and bowser were minor.

Cane Season

Cane season has commenced. Tram crossings that have not been used in months now have loco’s and bins running at various time of the day and night and not all the crossings being used have twin alternating red warning lights. In many cases cane will obscure the approach of the tram until the last moment which means extra care is needed when approaching these crossings.

Some tips to stay safe is to slow down when approaching tram crossings, don’t try to beat cane trams though the crossing and obey the warning lights and signs on the crossing. Remember that some of these crossings have CCTV coverage.

There is an increase in slow moving farm machinery traversing the districts roads along with cane haul out trucks pulling out onto our local roads from paddocks and sidings. All this has the potential to decrease the safety of road users should they not remain vigilant when using the roads in our area.

Also don’t forget the southern travellers heading north to enjoy our glorious winter weather.

Remember to remain patient when driving and don’t let frustration cause you to drive in a manner that endangers yourself, occupants of your car or other road users. Stay safe and alert – and arrive safely to enjoy your travels.

Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it

If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000. The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.

Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.

You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys

Car keys – treat them like cash

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You might’ve noticed that Dal Santo’s Deli was a little busier and a lot louder than usual last Thursday. That was thanks to the Burdekin Breast Cancer Awareness Group’s sold out  Biggest Morning Tea event.

Attendees flooded the space from 10am, with 60+ people gathering in true Burdekin fashion to show their support for breast cancer research and those affected by the disease.

Among attendees was Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who officially opened the event before handing over to councillor and event MC John Furnell.

Furnell facilitated the morning’s proceedings, which included lively and informative speeches by Support Person and Founder of the Burdekin Breast Cancer Awareness Group, Shirley Gilmore, Developmental Specialist for the Queensland Cancer Council, Tegan Marsden, Kate Shaw, and Desley Ralph of Dragons Abreast, Townsville.

Bridging the gaps between speeches was an enthusiastic live performance by local talent Alexis, setting the mood while some tasty, hand-made treats tantalised the tastebuds of attendees. A raffle rounded off the morning, with a range of prizes up for grabs.

Gilmore, the event organiser, was thrilled with how the morning transpired.

“Everyone that was there had just loved the day,” said Gilmore. “It definitely served it’s purpose—100% plus. It certainly achieved what I wanted it to achieve, with not only the information that we delivered on the day, but also the money that we raised.”

“The support we got was amazing.”

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Find the Social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/22vmkjnq

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An enthusiastic performance by local talent Alexis bridged the gaps between speeches.

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Local organisations and schools from all across the Burdekin region were announced as the beneficiaries of a generous grant from Melbourne-based energy powerhouse Pacific Blue at last weekends Sweet Days Hot Nights festival.

Community Investment Coordinator for Pacific Blue Jackie Stojanoski attended the event, handing out a number of checks aimed at aiding operations of different organisations in the area as part of the company’s Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund.

The Haughton Sustainable Community Fund shares the benefits of the Haughton Solar Farm—a large-scale solar photovoltaic power station located in North Queensland’s Burdekin Shire—with the surrounding communities, providing more than $300,000 to 52 local sustainable projects since 2019.

Recipients included:

Brandon Bowls Club Inc. - New Solar Battery
Burdekin Artisan Community Association Inc. - Summer Comfort Area
Burdekin Community Association Inc. - New PA System
Burdekin Fitness Hall - Upgrade to Amenities
Burdekin Junior Rugby League Football Club Inc. - Upgrade to Canteen appliances
Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Inc - New Strimmer for Grounds Maintenance
Burdekin Potters Inc. - New electric pottery wheel
Burdekin Rugby League Inc. - Electrical Upgrades to facilities
Burdekin Swimming Club (Burdekin Torpedoes) - Upgrade of Club House and Facilities
Clare Sports and Recreation Club - New Lawn Mower
Clare State School Parents and Citizen's Association - Arts Activity Trail
Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation - New Generators
Home Hill Choral Society Inc. - Electrical Works
Home Hill Community Sports Club Inc - Restoration of main floor

Pacific Blue voiced their support for the Burdekin-based organisations on their official Facebook page: “Congratulations to all the successful 2025 applicants of the Haughton Community Fund! Your projects are making a real difference in your community, and we’re proud to support your inspiring work.”

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Local organisations and schools from all across the Burdekin region were announced as the beneficiaries of a generous grant from Melbourne-based energy powerhouse Pacific Blue. Photo supplied.

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Where there’s a will, there’s a way—and although the way isn’t so clear-cut for three-year-old brain cancer patient Elenna Savorgnan, her parents Maria, Marty, and brother Reuben are playing their part in forging one.

After recently launching a GoFundMe campaign, the Home Hill-based family have managed to garner a sizeable $13,210 at the time of writing, with contributions from 158 generous donors helping them edge closer to their $50,000 target.

The money raised will aid the family’s efforts to find treatment for Elenna, who was diagnosed with Group 3 Medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood brain cancer, just last year.

Crossing Borders For An Answer

After already enduring brain surgery, high-dose chemotherapy, and radiation, Elenna and her family have extended their search for effective treatment beyond Australia’s borders.

“Recently, we were told something no parent should ever hear: that there are no more curative options available. That we’ve come to the end. But we cannot accept that,” says Maria in a heartfelt letter on their GoFundMe page. “We are now searching everywhere, across Australia and around the world, for any treatment, trial, or chance that could help Elenna.”

The Savorgnan’s, despite the uphill battle, are refusing to lose hope in finding an answer—and if that answer comes, they want to be ready.

“This fundraiser will help us prepare for whatever comes next, whether it’s international travel for treatment, advanced testing not covered here, consultations with specialists, or emergency access to compassionate-use medications,” says Maria.

“We don’t have a clear path yet. We’re still waiting on answers, still hoping for options. But we know that when the moment comes, we’ll need to move fast.”

In the meantime, Elenna has most recently started the MEMMAT protocol—a treatment that combines low-dose chemotherapy with targeted therapies. While it’s not a cure, the goal is to slow the progression of the cancer and buy her more time.

“The idea is to attack the tumour from multiple angles, continuously, without overwhelming her little body,” states a post on the family’s Facebook page, ‘Elennas' fight with Medulloblastoma.’

While encouraging, it’s just one part of an ongoing battle. The Savorgnan’s are grateful for the support they’ve received so far, and are hopeful that the generous donations from fellow Burdekinites and beyond can help to give Elenna every possible chance.

“We are fighting for time. For hope. For even the smallest chance that Elenna might get to grow up,” said Maria, Elenna’s mother. “We are heartbroken. We are exhausted. But we are still fighting, for her.”

You can help Elenna’s cause here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/for-elenna-help-us-keep-fighting

You can follow her journey here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577099935542

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Elenna with her parents Maria and Marty, and brother Reuben Savorgnan. Despite the uphill battle, the family refuses to lose hope in finding answers. Photo source: GoFundMe
The money raised will aid the family’s efforts to find treatment for Elenna, who was diagnosed with Group 3 Medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood brain cancer, just last year. Photo source: Facebook
Elenna has most recently started the MEMMAT protocol—a treatment that combines low-dose chemotherapy with targeted therapies. Photo source: Facebook

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At the heart of the Burdekin in far north Queensland is a land of rich, dark soil,
with the Burdekin River Delta and an underground aquifer delivering abundant water that remains unspoiled.
A land where much heavier crops of sugar cane are grown,
by multi-generational farmers and their families who live on the land without complaint in a cyclone zone.

From bores, the water travels channels tilled across fertile laser-levelled fields that the farmer made.
As the green cane shoots are coaxed to grow and reach for the sky, they are all in a line, as if they were meant to be displayed.
A balance of fertiliser and the need for energy-filled sunshine, and water in the dead of night, blessed with sweet moonshine.

Farmers watch for the shoots to transform into thick stalks that turn from green to yellow, to brown at the bottom, and for a natural thinning at the top.
With the promise of a bountiful harvest, they crack the stout, jointed stalks open to taste the sweet, sugary juices on their tongue, confirming the readiness of their latest crop.
They embrace the rain and wind with gratitude and trepidation;
the chance to become a cyclone that wreaks havoc in a second is not a good situation.
The mayhem caused by blown-down cane is a cause for a farmer's disdain, and the farmer must wait for the water-logged cane to stand up again.

Before the harvest, the seasonal cane fires remove the trash of sugarcane tops and razor-sharp leaves.
Preparation starts before sunset, waiting on the winds, confirmed by a test they do by releasing dirt from the hand to indicate the direction of the breeze.
In pairs, positioned at the corner of the chosen field, a water tractor ready nearby, with burners ignited, they await with smiles,
on cue, they walk, one left and one right, adding flame to the cane at the bottom to start a fiery spectacle that lights up the fields for miles.

A slow crackle of leaves caught by flame catch from the bottom to the top and start to race along and within.
The crackles get louder, and orange, red, and white flames enrage, leaping meters in the air, a ferocity extremely intense, unbearably hot, and able to melt skin.
Hawks circle high above, their sharp eyes searching for bandicoots, rats, and snakes that vainly try to escape, fire thermals play havoc, thick black smoke chokes, a massive roar, the cane implodes, a caramelised sugar scent fills the air, Burdekin snow floats, a black ash that moves like feathers of different shape.

The morning stillness breaks and ash and dirt rise to the background diesel engine rhythmic sounds that march across the field,
designed to lift, scoop, top, and cut the cane, the harvester moves slowly so the farmer can believe its promise for this season's yield.
Broken cut stalks spill into the maws of metal cages on flat-bed trucks that cross load to journey by rail to the sugar cane mill.
In a few days, life stirs, and shoots grow in the ashen soil, a testament to the farmer's love of the land that will be fertilised and watered to await the next harvest with spirit and rehearsed skill.

A poem by Kathryn Carlisle

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has recognised 6 locals for their contribution during this year’s severe weather events.

Community input had already seen the Country Ayr Motel and radio station Sweet-FM acknowledged for going above and beyond and Mr Last said the final six flood heroes were just as deserving.

“While damage to homes and businesses was not as widespread as was originally feared, the severe weather event had a major impact on both locals and visitors to the region,” Mr Last said. “From ensuring the safety of stranded travellers, to providing health care and helping essential staff get to work, the contributions of the flood heroes cannot be overstated.”

“During the event, the queue of semi-trailers waiting to get through stretched for several kilometres along the highway and many more waited in nearby streets.  Both Mandy McKeagg and Betina Wilks were nominated for delivering food to both the drivers themselves and staff and volunteers who supervised the road closures.”

“Dr Sarat Tata was also nominated for providing essential support to the community and visitors.  Our community is well-known for welcoming visitors but what Mandy, Betina and Dr Tata did was well above what anyone could expect.”

Mr Last said that the closure of the Bruce Highway during the weather event not only impacted communities further north when it came to vital supplies, it also affected much-needed services for locals.

“Prior to the rail bus commencing operations, moving essential items and people from one side of the closure to the other posed a major challenge but local knowledge and dedication meant the nearby rail line could be used,” Mr Last said.  “Queensland Rail employee Troy Schonenberg made himself available to emergency services 24 hours a day for several days to ensure essential items and services were available to the community.”

“When the rail bus commenced operations, there was a need to move people from Home Hill itself to the temporary station at Rossiter’s Hill and, again, it was community-minded locals who answered our call.  Jess Wall and Brendan Arthur became familiar faces for Home Hill residents utilising the rail bus, using vehicles supplied by their employer to ferry people to and from the rail bus.”

“What people might not know is that Jess, Icomply’s accommodation manager and Brendan, the company’s Regional Manager, also provided free accommodation for travellers waiting in Home Hill for the road to re-open.  That means incredibly long days going above and beyond to help their community.”

“I know that Icomply’s senior management are incredibly proud of the way in which their local management team responded and when I asked for nominations for flood heroes, Jess and Brendan’s efforts earnt them the community’s praise as well.”

“None of the people who were nominated have sought out thanks or attention; they simply did what they could for the community during our time of need.  The strength and generosity of our community is well illustrated by all the recipients, and our community is a better place because of them.”

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It's truly a special time of year in our region, as the familiar hum of machinery signals the start of our vital sugar cane harvest season. As your local councillor, it's always inspiring to witness the incredible effort and dedication that goes into this annual tradition, which is so deeply woven into the fabric of our community.

The sight of harvesters working in the fields and the cane trains rumbling along our railway lines are iconic sights that remind us of the immense contribution the sugar industry makes to the Burdekin. For many families, this season brings employment, supports local businesses, and injects significant energy into our economy.

This year, our local mills — Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia, and Inkerman — kicked off their crushing operations on June 3rd, marking the official start of what we hope will be a safe and successful season for everyone involved. It's a testament to the hard work of our growers, mill workers, transport operators, and all the support services that make this industry thrive.

While the harvest is a busy time, it's also a moment to appreciate the expertise and resilience of those in our agricultural sector. Let's remember to share the roads with our cane haulage vehicles and exercise extra caution around railway crossings as the season progresses.

Here's to a prosperous harvest for the Burdekin!

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The skies are once again filled with black snow. While I do enjoy skiing down snowy slopes, unfortunately, this isn’t the kind of snow we can ski on. Many grumble at the sight of it, but it has long been part of life here in the Burdekin. It's a sign that the hard work of the crushing season is underway, bringing economic benefits that flow right across the district.

Of course, we all know the golden rule, don’t hang the washing out too early, and make sure it’s in before the afternoon falls. As time moves forward, we hope that one day alternatives will be found, and these fires will no longer be needed, with the leftover trash put to better use.

The Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival has now wrapped up for another year and was a huge success, with record crowds through the gates. Burdekin’s Sweetest School was a fantastic competition showcasing the talents of our local students. You never know where it may lead; we may be seeing the future sugar industry experts in action. The Events Team are already hard at work with fresh ideas for 2027, and if you’ve never been, it’s certainly one to add to your calendar.

I also had the pleasure of attending the Biggest Morning Tea, organised once again by the wonderful Shirley Gilmore and her dedicated team. Shirley has given so much to our community over the years and continues to be there for anyone who might need advice or support. Cancer touches all of us in some way, whether through personal experience, a family member, friend, neighbour, or someone we simply know. What makes the Burdekin special is that we are a true community, everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. In the city, many wouldn’t even know their neighbour's name.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Gumlu held its 11th AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA at the Molongle Beach Caravan Park shelter by the seaside on Sunday 8th June, on a magnificent north Qld winter’s morning, enjoying the filtering in of the warm sunshine. The total raised was $1363 with a crowd of 50 people. Many travelled from Bowen and the Burdekin regions to enjoy the annual gathering.

We always try to invite guest speakers from CCQ or people whose personal lives have been affected by cancer. This year we had the privilege of listening to Jayne Henry from Kingscliff, NSW. She was visiting her brother and niece in Gumlu. She gave a heartfelt briefing of the affliction of cancer in her own personal life. From as young as 30, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, followed by bowel cancer ten years later. Then breast cancer presented. She is now seven years clear post breast cancer. Many in her family have battled cancer. Her own mum was afflicted when Jayne was very young, but has survived and lives on at the age of 83. Jayne developed a passion for music when young and is now a professional solo singer, singing all genres including pop rock country. She gave us an ‘a cappella’ rendition of Mercedes Benz, which had the whole group clapping in time. We were all touched by her resilience, after surviving these traumas. We thanked her for her passion to inspire and deliver positive messages.

The morning continued as usual with a large array of sweets, teas and coffee. Almost 100 prizes were for grabs in the Cent Sale and major Raffle draws. Major prizes included a Yeti Hopper Flip 8 cooler and a large dart board. Winners could go to the tables and choose their prize. Also everyone was guaranteed to go home with something. There was also the guessing of lollies and teabags in jars, as well as a 50s board. Gumlu’s local State School Principal, Thomas Harrington was the MC and ensured all ran smoothly. A round of trivia once again proved an interesting hit while socializing.

Big thanks to all for attending and contributing to a worthy cause and to the people who helped to set up and run the morning. Special thanks to the following who contributed to the major raffle: Gumlu State School, Thomas Harrington, Gumlu Tavern, Molongle Sandbar Cafè, Complete Pharmacy (Home Hill), Perries IGA (Bowen), Vicki Quirk, Anna Hinchliffe, Cathy Ford, Maria Totorica and Cameron Pugh for the mudcrabs.

We reflect on the reason why we gather. We trust that each of us do make a very valuable contribution, even if small, to the efforts of committed people in the medical and health profession working towards a vision of a cancer-free world. Special blessings to those who have chosen these vocations in life, for the betterment of humanity.

Contributed with thanks to Regina Lequerica (host)

The 11th Gumlu Biggest Morning Tea
Gumlu State School Principal and MC Thomas Harrington with helper Tony Battiston
Helpers Savannah, Bonnie and Ella
Guest Speaker Jayne Henry with helping niece Amy Pfingst

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Dear Community Members,

We hope this article finds you well – it has been a minute since we have contributed an article to the paper! As we all know, food security is a pressing issue that affects us on multiple levels—families, individuals, and our community as a whole. Ensuring that everyone has consistent access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food is crucial for our health, well-being, and personal growth. Together, we can brainstorm innovative strategies to enhance food security for everyone.

We are reaching out to invite you to contribute your ideas on how we can work collectively to tackle this challenge. To get the brain working - here are a few questions to consider:

1. Local Food Production: What community gardens, urban farms, or cooperative farming initiatives could we establish or support to increase locally produced food?
2. Food Distribution: How can we improve access to food for those who may be facing transportation issues? Are there existing programs or services we should collaborate with or enhance?
3. Education and Awareness: What kinds of workshops or initiatives could we launch to educate community members about healthy eating, cooking, and sustainable practices?
4. Support for Local Farmers: How can we better support local farmers and food producers, ensuring that they have a market for their goods while also providing fresh produce to our community?
5. Sharing Resources: What systems can we put in place, like food sharing or surplus programs, to reduce waste and support those in need?

Your insights and experiences are invaluable, and we encourage each of you to share your thoughts. We know there is some amazing work being done in our community in this area. It is not about us trying to reinvent the wheel. It is about knowing what is out there already in the community and how we can, as a community value, add to things for all of our benefit. Together, let’s create a more food-secure future for our community!

Until next time

The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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The Home Hill Choral Society delivered an afternoon of laughs, music and heartfelt community spirit during their Winter Concert last Sunday at The Vault.

The event featured a unique blend of performances, with young talent from the recent Eisteddfod taking centre stage alongside the Society’s trademark comic skits and choral songs. Children performed songs, poetry, and Highland dancing—much to the delight of an audience of around 55 people, plus proud parents and guests.

In between the children's acts, the Society entertained with a series of light-hearted skits and musical numbers that had the crowd in stitches. Musical highlights included the tongue-in-cheek Not So Boring Minuet and the uplifting Everywhere I Go, the Lord is With Me, offering a mix of humour and heart.

As always, the afternoon included raffles, lucky door prizes, and a generous spread of food, served with smiles by Society members. “It felt like we were doing something important for community and mental health,” said Society member Rob Antionazzi.

With more concerts on the horizon—including an Italian-themed performance and a collaboration with world-renowned tenor Paul Tabone—the Society continues to grow in profile and impact. As one attendee put it: “This was the best afternoon I’ve had in a long time.”

By Jacob Casha

The American Theatre Wing’s renowned Tony Awards—held annually in New York City—celebrated its 78th edition on Monday morning AEST, recognising excellence in Broadway theatre with that characteristic Broadway grandeur.

And amidst the whirlwind of flashy dresses and ostentatious, fake-pocketed suits was the proud, grounded presence of Burdekin-born-and-raised Neil Gooding—whose works were recognised with four Tonys and a further six nominations at the event.

His projects Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical and Sunset Blvd. helped actors Jak Malone (Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical) and Pop icon-turned-stage powerhouse Nicole Scherzinger (Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical) take home Tonys for their acting performances, while Sunset Blvd. also secured Best Lighting Design of a Musical and Best Revival of a Musical.

Operation Mincemeat was also nominated for Best Musical, while Gooding’s third nominated musical, Gypsy, was in the running for Best Revival of a Musical, alongside Sunset Blvd.

The former Ayr State High student is no stranger to seeing his work garner widespread acclaim, with previous efforts earning him nominations for Best Direction of a Musical at both the Helpmann Awards and the Green Room Awards for Gutenberg! The Musical!, as well as a Sydney Theatre Award nomination for Dogfight.

Now based in the concrete jungle that is New York City—a wild paradox to his roots in Ayr—Gooding doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon, proudly waving the Burdekin flag on the world’s biggest theatre stage.

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