with Rebecca Grogan

Since 1987, the Housing and Community Support Service at the BCA has been providing vital assistance to individuals and families facing vulnerability across the region. Managed by Rebecca Grogan, the service combines practical support with opportunities for connection, learning, and empowerment, addressing both immediate needs and long-term wellbeing.

The service provides a Specialist Homelessness Program, which includes five Crisis Accommodation Program (CAP) properties. Complementing this are initiatives through the Burdekin Community Support Neighbourhood Centre Program, encompassing support groups, community development projects, awareness and education programs, and food relief through the State Emergency Relief Program and SecondBite Program to ensure families and individuals have access to essential resources. Specialist Domestic and Family Violence support, including court assistance and counselling for women and children, forms a critical part of the service, helping some of the community’s most vulnerable members navigate challenging circumstances.

Rebecca explains, “We’re here because we care. We want everyone to feel supported, connected, and included.” Programs like the annual Christmas Appeal exemplify this mission, linking local generosity to those in need and creating tangible impact within the community.

Over the years, the service has evolved to meet changing needs. Funded programs now replace previously unfunded initiatives, and services are increasingly client-centred, responding directly to feedback while collaborating with partner organisations to ensure people receive the right support. The approach focuses on “doing with—not doing for,” encouraging connection and self-determination alongside practical assistance.

Looking ahead, the service aims to strengthen community resilience, provide early intervention, and expand opportunities for information, support, and connection. Through its combined focus on immediate relief, ongoing support, and community empowerment, the Housing and Community Support Service continues to be a lifeline for the Burdekin region, ensuring individuals and families are supported, included, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.

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with Diana Churches

For older and vulnerable adults in the Burdekin region, the BCA Home Care Service has provided practical support that helps people remain in their own homes for longer since 1977. Managed by Diana Churches, the service offers in-home care, community participation, and transport both locally and to Townsville for eligible clients. Services are available through the Home Care Packages Program, Commonwealth Home Support Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Queensland Community Support Scheme, Burdekin Community Transport Program and Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Carer Gateway Services etc via brokerage agreements.

The service supports a broad range of adults, from seniors needing help with daily tasks to younger clients accessing disability services. By assisting with household management, community engagement, and transport, the Home Care Service allows clients without local family support to maintain independence and avoid residential care. Diana reflects, “I believe that we make a difference every day for our clients… some without ever having the need to enter residential care.”

With a focus on person-centred care, the Home Care Service adapts to meet the evolving needs of the community, listening to clients and tailoring services accordingly. This flexibility ensures the service continues to uphold the Burdekin Community Association’s 50-year tradition of support.

The program also highlights career opportunities in aged care and disability care, with Diana encouraging locals to consider joining as Support Workers. “You do not need experience or training to start your journey in Aged Care and Disability Care,” she says, emphasising the importance of expanding the service’s reach to assist more clients.

For those in need of support or considering a role in aged care or disability care, the Home Care Service provides guidance, practical assistance, and a pathway to independence. Residents can contact BCA on (07) 4783 3744 to access services or explore career opportunities, ensuring the community continues to receive compassionate, professional care where it matters most.

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with Rita Quagliata

For nearly 50 years, the BCA’s Volunteer Service has been connecting people with opportunities to make a difference across the region. Managed by Rita Quagliata, the service recruits, trains, and supports volunteers from diverse backgrounds—including retirees, jobseekers, new arrivals, and students—helping them find meaningful roles that strengthen both the community and their own wellbeing.

Volunteers contribute across a wide spectrum of programs, with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) standing out as a long-standing initiative. Funded by the federal government, the scheme provides companionship and support for older Australians, extending beyond residential care to those receiving Home Care Packages. Since 2023, the ACVVS has emphasised Person-Centered Care, aligning with Aged Care Quality Standards to support resident autonomy and emotional wellbeing.

Rita says that volunteering with the BCA offers more than just a way to give back. “It gives people a sense of pride, fosters feelings of joy and contentment, provides a sense of meaning, boosts self-worth, reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and cultivates a strong sense of belonging,” she says.

Stories from volunteers underscore this. One migrant volunteer found purpose and belonging through the program, ultimately leaving a legacy to the BCA; another volunteer’s simple joy at receiving a BCA shirt highlighted the personal significance of recognition and support.

The service continues to evolve, engaging diverse communities, including First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse groups, while fostering connections that reduce isolation. Rita’s vision for the future is clear: expand volunteer roles, strengthen long-term participation, and raise awareness of the transformative power of volunteering.

Through its dedication to service and community engagement, the Volunteer Service enriches lives, strengthens social bonds, and ensures that individuals and the wider Burdekin community thrive together.

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Ayr State High School students, staff and supporters turned out in force on Friday night for the school’s annual 5-Hour Charity Walk, raising an impressive $8,446.75.

A total of 104 walkers took part, with each year level nominating a cause to support. The Year 7 team raised $1,795.90 for the Brighter Lives Foundation, while Year 8 collected $2,498.40 for the Mark Hughes Foundation.

Year 9 walkers brought in $838.30 for the Burdekin Community Association, Year 10 raised $240 for the Cerebral Palsy League, and Year 11 raised $809.70 for Endometriosis Australia.

The Year 12 team contributed $2,004.45 to the Leukaemia Foundation, while school staff members raised $260 for Ronald McDonald House.

One of the standout efforts came from Year 8 student Claire G, who raised an incredible $2,035.20 on her own, making her the highest individual fundraiser of the night.

The evening combined fitness, fun and community spirit, with every step taken going towards charities that make a difference both locally and nationally. ASHS praised the generosity of students and families, saying the results showed the strength of community support when people come together for a good cause.

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Ayr State School threw open its doors to the public on Thursday, September 11, for its annual Open Day, welcoming families, friends and community members to experience firsthand what the school has to offer.

From 4pm, parents and visitors were given a chance to tour classrooms, chat with staff, and observe student work on display. Teachers said it was a valuable chance to show the learning environment in action and to share the achievements of their students.

The event was also a hit amongst younger visitors, with messy play, face painting, science experiments and even pony walks proving popular. Food stalls kept the crowd satiated, serving spaghetti cups, a sausage sizzle and sweet honey puffs.

The school announced on Facebook how proud they were to showcase a school community that they describe as welcoming, supportive and inspiring. “It was wonderful to see so many families come along and be part of the afternoon,” one staff member said.

With enrolments for 2026 now open, the Open Day also served as an opportunity for new families to meet teachers, explore facilities, and get a sense of the close-knit environment the school provides.

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Burdekin Catholic High School continues to lead the way in providing senior students with diverse opportunities through its Vocational Learning Program for Years 10–12. With a strong focus on practical skills, industry experience, and employability, the program is helping prepare students for successful careers across a wide range of fields.

The school offers a suite of dedicated vocational subjects including Industrial Graphics, Industrial Technologies, Sport and Recreation, and Business, which complement essential English and Mathematics. These subjects provide a strong foundation in both academic and practical learning, ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed beyond the classroom.

A key highlight of the program is the delivery of nationally recognised qualifications. Students can undertake a CPC20220 Certificate II in Construction Pathways through the school’s specialised Trade Training Centre, gaining hands-on experience in a purpose-built facility. In addition, the SIT20322 Certificate II in Hospitality is delivered in the school’s industry-standard Hospitality Centre, preparing students for real-world careers in food service and hospitality.

Burdekin Catholic High School also strongly supports students pursuing School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs). This year alone, more than seven students are engaged in apprenticeships with local employers, combining their classroom learning with valuable workplace experience.

Beyond the school grounds, students also benefit from access to TAFE Queensland’s Home Hill campus, attending one day per week to study specialised fields such as Automotive and Electrotechnology. One student has been supported studying Aquaculture through TAFE in the Whitsundays. This partnership allows students to gain skills in industries that are both locally significant and nationally in demand.

Lorraine Wolffe, Principal, said the Vocational Learning Program reflects the school’s commitment to catering for a broad range of student pathways to post schooling options.

“Our goal is to ensure every student leaves Burdekin Catholic High School confident in their abilities and equipped with skills that will open doors for their future—whether that be university, further training, or employment,” she said.

With a strong blend of classroom learning, industry-standard training, and workplace experience, Burdekin Catholic High School is proud to provide pathways that prepare students not only for jobs, but for meaningful careers.

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The 2025 Giru Show lit up the region last weekend, bringing together families, friends, and visitors from across North Queensland for a day of fun, creativity, and community spirit. With a mix of returning favourites and exciting new attractions, the show had something for everyone.

Stalls ranged from an animal farm and games to a variety of market stalls, while the Pavillion was bursting with incredible exhibits—from cooking and flowers to an outstanding Lego display—showcasing the talent of local residents. This year also saw the debut of a Colouring-in competition, which was warmly received by children and families alike. The Pavillion’s success was made possible thanks to the dedication of exhibitors, stewards, and judges volunteering their time.

Special guests at the show included NQ Rural Ambassador Georgia Doull, MP Andrew Willcox, Hon Dale Last, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who officially opened the event. A touching memorial balloon release, kindly provided by Dazzling Blue, honoured the late Betty Corradi, a Life Member of the Show Committee.

Entertainment was in full swing throughout the day, with the Burdekin Brass Band opening the show and performing into the afternoon, and local Hwa Rang Do members showcasing their martial arts skills. Children enjoyed the lolly drop and games, while local groups helped run food stalls, the front gate, and the bar.

Organisers were quick to acknowledge that the success of the show relied heavily on the tireless work of volunteers, the generosity of sponsors, and the dedication of committee members who brought the event to life.

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The Burdekin Deb Ball of the Year returned in 2025, bringing together debutantes, their families, and the wider community for an evening of celebration, tradition, and achievement. Hosted this year for the first time by the Burdekin Netball Association, the event saw a full hall with over 450 guests in attendance, all gathered to mark the accomplishments of 21 young debutantes.

The Deb Ball provides a special opportunity for young women to showcase the work and personal growth they have achieved throughout the year. Burdekin Netball secretary Cailan Gosling said the event brings together the efforts of the debutantes with the support of family and friends, creating a celebration of how far each participant has come. The evening is as much about community pride as it is about the debutantes themselves.

This year’s awards celebrated the debutantes’ dedication and achievements, with Sally Laidlow taking out the winner and girls’ choice award, Erin Palmer named runner-up, and Ava Swindley receiving a special mention. Three judges made the selections, while the girls’ choice award was voted on by the debutantes themselves.

For the Burdekin Netball Association, hosting the event for the first time was an honour. “We were honoured to keep this tradition alive for the community and the young ladies’ families. This event marks just how much each debutante has grown and how much they aspire to achieve,” Gosling said.

The Deb Ball remains an important tradition for the Burdekin community, celebrating not only individual growth but also the connections and shared experiences that bind families and neighbours together. From the excitement of the evening to the meaningful recognition of the debutantes’ efforts, the event continues to highlight the value of maintaining long-standing local traditions for generations to come.

With its fusion of elegance and community spirit, the annual Deb Ball of the Year remains a valued part of the Burdekin social calendar.

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Runner up Erin Palmer, special mention Ava Swindley, and winner/girls choice, Sally Laidlow

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Burdekin Water Festival Brings the World to Queen Street

A wave of excitement, community spirit and undeniable creativity washed over the shire on Saturday the 6th of September as the infamous Burdekin Water Festival returned to the region.

Exactly 67 years on from the festival’s official debut, the event ignited Queen Street from top to tail, as approximately 4,000 locals and travellers alike flooded to the heart of Ayr to celebrate the Burdekin Shire’s abundance of water and rich sense of community.

2025’s Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) followed the theme of Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe which was reflected across each and every aspect of the event’s festivities right down to the tow bars on every vehicle and float entrant in the Grand Parade.

“The Queensland Country Bank Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade and Mardi Gras was nothing short of spectacular,” shared current BWF Committee Member and 2024 BWF Ambassador representative of the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club, Sasha Previtera.

“This year’s Bon Voyage theme brought the streets of Ayr to life with vibrant floats that transported us across the globe - from delicate Japanese cherry blossoms to the festivity of Germany’s Oktoberfest, the charm of London, the bright lights of Las Vegas, the energy of Nashville, and the spirit of America - each float was a masterpiece that captured the imagination and creativity of our wonderful community.”

Although a little down in numbers in comparison to last year’s unforgettable comeback, crowds filled the streets for the evening’s Mardi Gra, enjoying a plethora of food stalls, show rides and entertainment well into the night. Miss Mary painted hundreds of smiling faces, as the Windy Wizard had children and adults enthralled with his magic tricks and fluffy rabbit whilst the tug-of-war competition once again drew a large audience of energetic spectators.

“The celebrations continued at the Mardi Gras, where families and friends enjoyed delicious food, market stalls, entertainment, and endless fun, making it a night to remember,” added Sasha.

In a festival first, the Mardi Gras Street Party debuted Burdekin Eats, a cultural feast overflowing with international delights, and the BWF Committee could not have been happier with the community’s response.

“We are so grateful go the many Burdekin businesses who have supported the BWF through sponsorship, generous donations of prizes and in-kind support – without their very generous sponsorship, we wouldn’t be able to hold the events we have had,” shared BWF Ambassador Coordinator, Kari Ravizza.

“I would like to give a special mention to our 2024 Ambassador Winners and Runner Ups Demi O'Shea, Brielle Astorquia, Cole Pontifex and Stella Borrellini who have now handed over the title to our 2025 Ambassadors - Demi and fellow ambassador Sasha Previtera were invaluable additions to our 2025 BWF committee, spending countless hours behind the scenes supporting our 2025 Ambassadors, attending all their events and keeping our socials buzzing.”
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the heart stopping crowning of Jorja Vasta, representing Burdekin Junior Rugby League as BWF Junior Ambassador Runner-Up, and Giulia Sarri, representing Burdekin Christian College as BWF Junior Ambassador Winner.

“A huge congratulations to Giulia and Jorja - both of these young ladies shone brightly on the night and throughout the program,” noted Sasha.

“To all of our junior ambassadors, I am so beyond proud of how far you have come through the ambassador program - you have all blossomed into amazing, kind-hearted young people, and it has been such a joy to watch you grow with confidence and grace over the past two months.”

The BWF Committee have worked tirelessly over the past six months to host yet another stellar year of countless events, celebrations and gatherings.

“The committee have been meeting on a weekly basis for 6 months in preparation for the whole festival season and it takes a whole team to organise and run a community event of this scale,” said Kari.

“We (BWF Committee) would like to give a heartfelt thank you to our amazing Secretary, Colleen Harris, who also serves as our dedicated Event Co-ordinator - after finishing her own full-time job each day, Colleen still finds the time and energy to organise and liaise with all of our vendors – an incredible 54 this year.”

“Her commitment, organisation, and tireless effort are the reason everything runs so smoothly behind the scenes.”

With another Burdekin Water Festival year wrapped up, the BWF Committee are more than looking forward to having a well deserved rest ahead of next year's preparations, and hope to wow and impress the community for another year in 2026! In the meantime, the BWF Committee invites the community to keep up to date with all news and information via the BWF social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/24wote2u

The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association is celebrating a bright new look for its volunteers, with the arrival of brand-new sun smart club shirts. The shirts, described by members as “amazing,” were made possible thanks to funding from Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund and printing support from Smashed Crab Clothing Co.

The Haughton Sustainable Community Fund shares the benefits of the Haughton Solar Farm with the surrounding communities, providing long-lasting social, economic, and environmental value. Since 2019, the Fund has contributed over $300,000 to 52 local sustainable projects, with community groups eligible to apply for funding up to $10,000. The Fund supports initiatives across Ayr, Brandon, Clare, Dalbeg, Giru, Home Hill, and Millaroo.

Lower Burdekin Landcare works to promote sustainable land use across the region. The volunteer group undertakes research, implements projects such as weed and salinity control, and propagates native trees. Through collaboration with government agencies, schools, businesses, and the wider community, the association fosters environmental education and action.

The Landcare nursery also provides a hub for testing new techniques and sharing knowledge with the public. With the support of the Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund, Lower Burdekin Landcare can continue its vital work protecting native plants, lands, and waterways—now with style and sun-safe shirts to match.

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The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association is celebrating a bright new look for its volunteers, with the arrival of brand-new sun smart club shirts courtesy of Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund. Photo source: Facebook

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And breathe.

What a whirlwind of a weekend. From the elegant glamour of the Debutante Ball of the Year to the chaotic, colourful atmosphere of Queen Street during the Water Festival Grand Parade—it’s been equal parts dream and nightmare for a journalist trying to capture it all.

Don’t get me wrong, I thrive on this. These events remind me, time and time again, of the strength of this community. People show up, celebrate, connect—that’s the essence of rural life. That’s the Burdekin.

But then there’s the other side—the deadlines, the late nights, the mental roadblocks, the brain fog that settles in after a weekend spent running from one story to the next. It's a privilege, but it can also be relentless.

So, I’ve found my antidote—a good old-fashioned Mount Inkerman sunset. Seriously, try it if you haven’t. There’s just something about watching the sunlight melt over the cane fields as the breeze lightly massages your face that forces you to slow down. To breathe. To recalibrate.

One of the many things I've learned in my time here is the importance of striking that balance between chaos and calm. Deadlines and sunsets. Which makes having a 200m-high scenic lookout ten minutes down the road very convenient.

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When Iris Dingle walks through town, people still stop her with a smile and say, "Oh, Mrs Claus—I remember bringing my kids to your house at Christmas”—a testament to the enduring mark she's left on her community as she approaches her 100th birthday.

Iris has long been synonymous with festive cheer, generosity, and a life devoted to family and community. Born in Charters Towers before moving to Home Hill shortly after, Iris grew up in a tight-knit, active family. She and her sisters were known locally for their elaborate Christmas decorations, a tradition they maintained for over 20 years. “Mum would dress up as Mrs. Claus, and my auntie as Santa. Every child got a lucky dip, everyone received Christmas cake, and she made decorations throughout the year for the ladies,” her daughter Janice Stockdale recalled. “She’s always been kind-hearted, thoughtful, and generous, always willing to help people."

Beyond Christmas magic, Iris has been an active community member, volunteering with St Vincent de Paul and participating in craft groups, bingo, and local church activities. She even has a penchant for the occasional gamble at the casino—preferring roulette over pokies—and has been known to celebrate her wins with her family’s laughter.

Her devotion to family has remained a constant throughout her life. The matriarch of a large clan, Iris raised eight children and now counts dozens of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren among her extended family. “She says the reason she had eight kids was so they could look after her in her old age,” Janice said, smiling. “And that’s exactly how it worked out.”

Iris’s early life was equally rich with experiences, from playing netball with her sisters to swimming at Gardner’s Lagoon, working on farms, hatching chickens, and going down to Wunjunga Beach with her friends. Through it all, Iris has carried a spirit of joy, resilience, warmth, and community that continues to shine as she marks this milestone.

Her centenary celebrations are set for Saturday, September 13, at the local RSL, with 160 family members travelling from across Australia to join in the festivities. Though Iris may need a wheelchair for the occasion, her spirit and joy remain undimmed. “Family has always been her anchor, and that’s what keeps her strong,” Janice said.

For them, and for the Burdekin, Iris Dingle will always be remembered, not only as Mrs Claus, but as an embodiment of kindness, generosity, and a life lived to the fullest.

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OPINION PIECE

Immigration is important. Our country has been built on it. We would not be the Australia we are today without people choosing to set up their lives here.

In Dawson, we have some of the best and most successful examples of what immigrations brings and what it builds over generations. I’m talking about all the people who run farms, workshops and businesses across the region, professionals in our clinics, schools and our offices, the on the ground workers who came looking for a better life, and of course the backpackers who came for a visit but have stayed a lifetime. To everyone who has come to create a life and contribute to our region and nation, I say thank you.

But we have to be honest. Immigration needs to be properly managed. Right now, I have major concerns. Major concerns with how the current government has been managing our immigration.

There are two key elements of immigration the government must get right.

First, the number of people coming in must be balanced with the pace in which infrastructure can be built. Infrastructure like housing, roads, schools, and hospitals. Yes, we’ve got the space, but if there’s nowhere to live, no hospital beds, no classrooms, then the pressure flows to everyone.

Second, we must make sure the type of people coming share our values. To be allowed to live in Australia is like winning the Lotto, the golden ticket! Migrants should be here to make a life, make a contribution, and become a positive part of our communities.

The government is failing on both of these key metrics. The numbers are way too high, and the vetting process appears to be non existent. Labor has lost control of our borders.

The government, through weak border controls and poor vetting, has allowed too many people in, and they have let in too many that openly hate our country and people. This is unacceptable.

It’s not like new arrivals have tripped over the border like they can in other parts of the world. At the very least, the government has the time of the flight to make sure we’re not letting in people who will do harm.

There’s no excuse for un-Australian behaviour, and there is no excuse for letting that behaviour in and allowing it to stay.

It’s simple. Do the right thing, a forever life awaits. Do the wrong thing, then back you go.

Labor has always had a poor record on immigration. But the scary thing with the current Labor government is that they are knowingly turning a blind eye. They do nothing about vile hatred being spewed on our city streets or when our national flag is burnt. Yet, they condemn those who wave the Aussie flag in face of that hate.

We need a government with the guts to get immigration right. We need a governemnt that balances incoming numbers with the infrastructure being built, and we need a government that properly vets new arrivals to ensures Australia remains safe, united, and strong.

Australia is built on immigration. Get immigration wrong, and all the things we value as a nation could be resigned to history. Get immigration right, and the Nation prospers long into the future.

Andrew Willcox
Member for Dawson, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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Burdekin Netball’s goals of growing the club and improving facilities for local and visiting players have taken a major step forward following the delivery of a commitment made in the lead up to the 2024 state election.

Following his support of multiple attempts to secure funding for the upgrades, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, credited the club’s unwavering commitment and extensive planning for securing the necessary funding and expediting work.

“For five years Burdekin Netball have been seeking funding to upgrade the facilities, and, despite their best efforts, funding wasn’t forthcoming for the full project,” Mr Last said.  “Now, less than 12 months after the election, we are delivering the funding needed to help the club and local players reach their full potential.”

“The $3.5M investment will deliver 8 fully lit, high standard courts as well as additional shade and upgraded clubhouse facilities.  There is also extensive work on re-profiling the site as a whole to assist with drainage and, therefore, ensure the new facilities, and games, don’t easily fall victim to wet weather.”

“Projects like these bring a wide range of benefits for our entire community so delivering them is a priority for me.  Whether we are talking about children, or players of any age, they deserve safe, high standard facilities.”

“There are confirmed links between people who are active and improvements in both physical and mental health.  So, in addition, to being an investment in facilities, this project is also an investment in delivering better health outcomes.”

Mr Last said Burdekin Netball’s success could be seen as an example for other sporting and recreation clubs and encouraged local organisations to consider their future growth.

“The Queensland government has committed significant funding to upgrading sporting and recreational facilities across the state,” Mr Last said.  “That is because we recognise the benefits that those activities provide, especially to regional communities.”

“While the activity might be the same, sporting and recreation clubs, for most people, play a completely different role in our communities than they do in bigger centres.  Yes, they provide opportunities for players and officials, but they also act as a social hub for players, parents, officials and the like.”

“Obviously it is much easier to build groups based on common interests or activities.  Improved facilities mean increasing participation and involvement and, in turn, that increases the opportunities for people of all ages to build stronger bonds and stronger communities.”

“I have always supported local groups in applying for funding to upgrade their facilities and that won’t change.  Having spent most of my life living in smaller regional centres, I understand the importance and the benefits those projects bring.”

“Now is a great time for those sporting and recreational groups to put together a plan for their future and I can’t wait to see more of those projects become reality, just like it has for Burdekin Netball.”

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The Burdekin Art Society’s 2025 Art Exhibition was held at the Burdekin Theatre Foyer, showcasing a vibrant display of creativity from artists across the region.

The annual event officially opened on Saturday, 30 August, with a well-attended presentation evening and awards ceremony. Throughout the following week, the exhibition welcomed the public daily, offering a chance to view – and purchase – an impressive range of artworks. Pieces were available for sale starting from just $30, making it an accessible opportunity to support local artists.

With over $7,000 in cash prizes awarded across four junior sections, seven adult categories and several special awards, the exhibition once again drew strong entries. Visitors also tried their luck in the raffle, featuring a stunning artwork generously donated by local artist Tania Leigh, with tickets available for $2.

The exhibition concluded on Saturday, 6 September, coinciding with the Burdekin Water Festival. Extended opening hours gave festivalgoers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the art on display before the doors finally closed.

For further details about the Burdekin Art Society, contact Joanne Barbagallo on 0417 676 567, Luisa Delle Baite on 0448 509 927, or email burdekinartsocietyinc@gmail.com.

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OPEN PRIZE: Tomas Zarate was again successful in winning the open prize of $1000 for his watercolour, ‘Boats’
Section 1 - Local, winner: Uli Liessmann, ‘Beautification Committee’
Section 2 – Pastel, winner: John Banfield, ‘Bounce’
Section 3 – Acrylic, Oil, Mixed Media, winner: Sharon Wootton, ‘Title No 1’ (Nick and Nel Thone Memorial Award)
Section 3 – Acrylic, Oil, Mixed Media, third: Tania Leigh, ‘Botanical Bliss’
Section 4 – Watercolour, winner: Ruth Heiner, ‘Camping at Fletcher Creek’
Section 5 – Drawing, winner: Sharon Wootton, ‘Eve’s Modern Day Adam'
Section 6 – Miniature, winner: Jeananne Hawthorn, ‘All Ready’
Junior Section A – 7 years and under, winner: Max Minuzzo, ‘The Rainbow Lion’
Junior Section B – 8-10 years, winner: Ashlyn Pearce, 'In the Puddle’
Junior Section C – 11-14 years, winner: Destiny Thomas, ‘View of Japan’
Junior Section D – 15-18 years, winner: Layla Caston, ‘Winter Walk'

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2024's Opening Night was an outstanding success (Photo Supplied)

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