I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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Burdekin Shire Council are continuing to urge residents to take pride in their region and help tackle a rise in illegal dumping across the Shire.
Recent investigations have uncovered household rubbish, white goods, building materials, and green waste dumped on private properties, in bushland, along roadsides, at the Burdekin River entrance, and even directly into the river.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said illegal dumping is costly, harmful to the environment, and will not be tolerated.
“Illegal dumping is environmental vandalism. It damages our landscape, risks public safety, and leaves ratepayers to cover the clean-up costs,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“We have a beautiful region and we need everyone to take pride in keeping it that way. Council has surveillance cameras in operation and we investigate every report. We will find you, and we will fine you.”
Council employs a dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DETSI), who leads targeted investigations and monitors dumping hotspots.
In September, a man was fined $2,670 for dumping a trailer load of household waste in Beerburrum State Forest after DETSI officers investigated the incident. Maximum fines for illegal dumping can reach $66,760 for individuals and $333,800 for corporations for waste under 2,500 litres – with higher penalties for larger volumes.
“Council provides multiple waste facilities across the region, with many domestic waste items accepted free of charge. There is simply no excuse for illegal dumping – it’s cheaper to drive to the dump than risk a fine,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Residents are urged to report illegal dumping to Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 or visit burdekin.qld.gov.au. DETSI also offers an online reporting system for illegal dumping and littering across Queensland.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with some of the illegally dumped items found within the region earlier this year (Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council)
If you’ve wondered when you last spotted a Christmas beetle, you’re not alone. Many Australians have noticed fewer of these iconic, shiny insects in recent years. But there’s hope: researchers are calling on the community to help track their return through the annual Christmas Beetle Count.
Since the 1st of October, iNaturalist reports there have already been 226 sightings this season. The project, run by Invertebrates Australia, aims to understand the population trends of Christmas beetles and investigate why numbers may be declining.
Participants are encouraged to count and photograph any beetles they see, contributing to a national database that helps researchers solve the mystery of the Christmas beetle’s changing numbers. The sightings collected also help track species diversity, seasonal patterns, and distribution.
The project covers beetles from the genera Anoplognathus, Calloodes, and Repsimus, and sightings are recorded across Australia. So far, over 20,000 observations have been logged, with popular species including the Washerwoman (Anoplognathus porosus), Duck Billed Beetle (Anoplognathus montanus), and Emerald Tip Beetle (Anoplognathus brunnipennis).
To take part, locals can visit www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count to submit observations. For those unsure how to identify the beetles, the Australian Museum’s Xmas Beetle ID Guide app is available on both iOS and Android.
By joining the Christmas Beetle Count, residents not only get a chance to enjoy a festive outdoor activity but also contribute valuable data to help protect these native insects for generations to come!
Spot a Christmas beetle in your backyard? Join the festive count and help track these iconic Aussie insects this season (Photo Supplied)
By Chelsea Ravizza
The community flocked to the Ayr Golf Course on Friday, the 12th of December, to be part of one of the shire’s most anticipated and well-supported charity sporting events.
The 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic was a resounding success, attracting nearly 300 golfers and raising $37,150 for Burdekin based CORES Queensland programs and initiatives.
The event aims each year to bring the community together to celebrate mateship while highlighting the vital work CORES Queensland does across the state. The organisation delivers suicide prevention and early intervention training, helping communities recognise risk, have safe conversations, and connect people with appropriate support, while strengthening mental health awareness.
Over the past several years, the End of Harvest Golf Classic has raised more than $100,000 for local charities, including CORES Queensland, a milestone organisers Kelsey Shand and Ben Smith are immensely proud of.
“We were thrilled to welcome 290 golfers to the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic,” Kelsey and Ben said.
“The turnout speaks volumes about the strength of our community and the generosity of everyone who continues to support this event year after year.”
In an emotional final year of organising the event after almost a decade, Kelsey and Ben have decided to step down from their roles in the new year, thanking everyone who has supported them and the End of Harvest Golf Classic.
“Events like this give us an opportunity to come together, enjoy the game, and reflect on the importance of checking in on friends, family, and neighbours. Through CORES, the End of Harvest Golf Classic helps turn that care into meaningful action,” they said.
“It’s not all about the money raised, it’s about connecting and having a good time with each other, and making sure that when your mates are down, you go grab them,” added Ben.
The event also featured a heartfelt address from Ross Romeo, CORES Queensland Coordinator for the region, who praised the community for coming together.
“We can measure the donations, but one thing we can’t measure is community connection,” Ross said.
“We hope that today you’ve run into people that you haven’t seen in a while, made some new mates, had some chats, and connected with one another.”
With the community’s generosity and spirit on full display, the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic not only raised vital funds for CORES Queensland but also reinforced the importance of connection, mateship, and looking out for one another.
Find the social pics here:
Rodney Williams & Bob Clarke
Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team.
The pair have travelled to Tolga on the Atherton Tablelands to compete in the U12A Northern Hub Championships, taking on the top under-12 cricketers from Central Queensland, Mackay/Whitsunday, and Far North Queensland. Their team will face each region in a 40-over round-robin competition, testing their skills against the best in the north.
The experience, from the trials and North Queensland training through to this week’s carnival of high-quality competition, is expected to not only improve Ben and Marshall’s cricket skills but also help them build friendships with young players from across Northern Queensland.
Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team. Photo credit: Scott Heidke
Home Hill Cricket enjoyed a weekend to remember with both their Second and Third Grade sides securing impressive victories.
At the Nutrien Ag Solutions fields, Home Hill’s Second Grade side clinched a thrilling win with overs to spare. Bowling first, the Home Hill bowlers were in fine form. Jack Gimson starred with 3/12 off 4.3 overs, including the key wicket of Michael Morris (54), who had threatened to take the game away. Josiah Ballin was clinical, taking 2/16 in his 6-over spell, while Alex Stillhard and Al Wilkins each bagged two wickets to maintain pressure and bowl Northern Beaches all out for 117.
In reply, Home Hill posted 4/118 in just 33 overs, opting for patience over power to take the win. Zakk Myles (31 off 59) and Lee Watts (21 off 79) anchored the innings before Mark Coventry injected momentum with a brisk 32 off 21, including a six and four fours. Greg Flanagan and Darcy Walters closed the innings unbeaten to secure the victory.
Meanwhile, the Third Grade side secured a hard-fought 21-run win over Wests at Mick Downey Oval, defending a modest total of 116 with a composed bowling display and sharp fielding. Home Hill posted 8/116 from the allotted 30 overs, with contributions across the top and middle order. Luke Mottin anchored the innings with a patient 24 off 63 balls, while Dan Olditch injected momentum with a brisk 22 off 24 balls, striking three boundaries before being dismissed. Ryan Rickards (18* from 16), Darren O’Keeffe (14 off 13) and Steven Zabala (16 from 37) ensured Home Hill reached a defendable total.
Home Hill’s bowlers responded with discipline and variety, restricting Wests to 8/95. Dan Olditch led the attack with 2-7 from 4 overs, matched by Leo Olditch who claimed 2-15 from 6 overs. Brad Parravicini (1-12 from 5) and Ryan Rickards (1-11 from 3) were also in the mix, while run outs from Steven Zabala and Darren O’Keeffe demonstrated strong fielding work.
It was a weekend of strong performances and team effort for Home Hill cricket, with both grades showing skill and composure to take home wins.
A potentially life-threatening situation unfolded at the mouth of the Burdekin River on the afternoon of Tuesday, 2 December when a woman and five very young children were stranded on a sandbar during a rapidly rising high tide. Water Police, who initially responded to the call, described the situation as extremely dangerous, with the tide swiftly reaching 3.3 metres.
The task was passed to the Rita Island SES, who were on scene within minutes to help complete the rescue after self recovery efforts were already underway.
The woman involved, a Burdekin local, broke down in tears when recalling the terrifying experience and expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue, says Local Controller for the Burdekin SES Warren Francis.
Francis gave a special congratulations go to Deb Calligaro, who used her local knowledge to organise resources quickly and efficiently, as well as SES members Glenn Searle, Ben Barb, Chris Hodder and Russell Young, who worked alongside general duties police to bring the family to safety.
"I was very proud of our team's efforts," said Francis. "It should instil a lot of confidence in our community that we have such an organised group of volunteers who commit their time and effort into making their community safer."
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals.
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals. Photo supplied
An Ayr cleaner has been fined after using a client’s bank card to make nearly $1,000 in online purchases.
The court heard the woman, who was working in a client’s home, accessed a debit card and used it to place a $974.30 order through Big W. Police described the fraud as “not sophisticated,” noting the purchases were billed to her own business and included her personal phone number, making detection almost certain.
A police spokesperson said that when items from the order were later found during a home search, the cleaner initially denied using the card but ultimately pleaded guilty to the charge.
Her lawyer explained that she was a single parent trying to make ends meet while operating her cleaning business, though Magistrate Susan Warrington described the incident as a “significant breach of trust” and noted that the way the order was billed made it inevitable that it would be discovered.
The cleaner has reportedly already repaid part of the amount to the client and was fined a further $800, with an order to repay the remaining balance.
Five people and a dog were rescued from a sinking vessel off the Cape Bowling Green area early on Thursday morning, 4 December.
Around 6.30am, Queensland Government Air (QGAir) Rescue 521 was tasked to investigate a beacon activation reported off the coast near Ayr. Upon arrival, the crew located a seven-metre vessel partially submerged and its occupants in the water.
The rescued included two 45-year-old women, a 28-year-old woman, a 50-year-old man, a 41-year-old man, and a blue heeler puppy. The QGAir crew quickly brought all five people and the dog to safety around 7.30am.
All were transported back to Townsville and reported to be in good health following the incident.
Marine Rescue and Queensland Police Service are investigating the circumstances that led to the vessel sinking. Authorities have not released details regarding the vessel’s ownership or what caused it to take on water.
The quick response from QGAir and coordinated efforts of rescue services ensured a safe outcome for everyone involved. Officials reminded recreational boaters to always carry safety equipment, register trips, and ensure communication devices are operational before heading out on the water.
Five people and a dog were rescued from a sinking vessel off the Cape Bowling Green area early on Thursday morning, 4 December. Photo source: QPS Media
In its first iteration earlier this year, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre's Community Cuppa, then called the End Loneliness Morning Tea, saw just one person show up. A name change, word of mouth, and a couple of months later, the organisation last week played host to a full house of over 50 attendees, all bonding over the simplicity of friendly, lighthearted conversation.
From 10am on Thursday, 4 December, the BNC invited members from the Burdekin community, as well as visitors from Townsville who made the trip specifically for the event, to gather over food, conversation and good company for its Christmas-themed Community Cuppa.
For hours, attendees found themselves engrossed in conversation with faces familiar and foreign, sparking not only chatter, but new friendships. This, for BNC Community Development Officer Maddy Darley, is the exact essence of the monthly gathering—a platform for locals and visitors alike to unwind and connect.
“We don’t have an agenda. There’s not a topic. It’s just come and join in,” she said. “There was vibrant conversation on every table, and every one was so different.”
Darley was thrilled to see diversity among the crowd of attendees, with people living alone, residents brought in from the aged care home, and those simply looking for connection all sharing the morning together.
“Everyone can come along, share a recipe, share a story, bring a plate if you want, although that's not a requirement. You can just bring yourself and conversation,” Darley said.
Attendance has risen each month since its inception, with the BNC receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community about its Community Cuppa initiative.
If you're interested in attending next month's Community Cuppa, please contact the BNC on (07) 4783 4243. No attendee has to tick any boxes. Just show up, eat, disagree over whether jam or cream goes first, and leave knowing at least one person listened.
It was around 2am last Saturday when I was tossing and turning in that half-asleep, half-awake trance where dreams are so vivid that they virtually feel real. Anywho...
My dream was abruptly cut short by what seemed to be a real-life nightmare.
Tap... tap on my front glass door.
My immediate verbal response was something I probably can't repeat in a community paper.
I sprung up.
"Did a demon claw just tap on my window?"
"Was Wolf Creek set in the Burdekin?"
This is the part of living alone that no one really prepares you for. A younger me would've bolted down the hallway to my parents' room and wedged myself between them. Unfortunately, that safety net had expired. Time to grow a pair.
By the time I heard another few taps, I was almost at the door, roller blinds blocking my view. I had no idea what kind of physical specimen I was about to confront. What I did know, though, was that no one drops by at 2am to deliver chocolates.
I peeked through a gap. No one there.
I wasn't sure if that was better or significantly worse.
I turned to retreat back to bed when I heard it again.
Tap... firmer this time.
Now brimming with adrenaline, I stormed toward the door, feeling like whatever was there, I'd knock out clean anyway (I have no combat experience, by the way).
I yanked the blinds away and stood there, waiting. Nothing. No one.
I began to wonder if I'd ever left that vivid dream. Then, just as I was about to turn away and call it a night... there it was.
A cane beetle.
Desperately convinced that if it hurled itself at my glass with enough force, it could achieve quantum entry and reach the lounge room light I’d foolishly left on.
I hung my head in shame.
I guess it could've been worse.
Councillor Amanda Hall
This is my last Councillor Column for 2025 and next year will be my third year representing the people of the Burdekin. I’d like to think I have handled your queries and issues promptly, to the best of my ability and have at least provided you with a semblance of confidence and satisfaction. Unfortunately, things aren’t always black and white and you’re often that sole vote. Major concerns such as drainage and roads need to be considered within budgetary constraints and others are as simple as having manpower available.
We have a wonderful, vibrant community filled for the most part, with involved and dedicated people who love their towns. It’s easy to be a keyboard warrior and complain about everything but the action is in the doing. Don’t be a knocker – get involved and help out; donate to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. I always maintain it is better to give than to receive.
I would love to see our towns enveloped in the spirit of Christmas with more decorations and music and I’m sure that can be budgeted for next year. It doesn’t need to cost a fortune but businesses can also do their part to keep the town centre tidy and welcoming. Ultimately, Christmas comes from within.
The Burdekin Community Christmas Carols are almost here! Join us Sunday 14th December beside the PCYC Wickham Street, Ayr from 5:30pm. Pack a picnic rug, gather your loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of Christmas with our community.
Don’t forget the Burdekin Chamber’s Christmas Party on Thursday 18th December from 5:00pm in Queen Street. Spend $30 at participating stores to earn an entry into the major prize draw of $10,000 in vouchers! (You must be present to claim first prize.)
I’d like to take a moment to remember those we have lost in our community this past year. May God hold them close and bless their families and friends who will be feeling their loss today and every day. As we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ this Christmas season, may you find reasons to laugh, time to be grateful and the strength to close the door on hate.
With love and gratitude from my family to the Burdekin community, may the gifts of peace, love and happiness be yours at Christmas and throughout the coming year. God Bless.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort
What a week it’s been - Christmas parties, school graduations, and plenty of delicious food! I think I’ll need a few extra morning walks to work off the festive treats… I am sure I’m not the only one in that boat!
I had the pleasure of meeting the Pirrone Brothers last week and discovered their latest creation - a Zucchini Flower Vodka brew. What an incredible example of Burdekin innovation and vision. I am certain their Nonno would be proud.
On a more serious note, I am saddened to report major vandalism at Coutts Park and the Alva Beach public conveniences. It is a senseless act of stupidity that costs our community time and money - resources we could be using elsewhere. If you know anything, please reach out to me confidentially or contact the local police.
Don’t forget our Bendigo Community Bank Christmas Carols are on in Ayr this Sunday! It is one of the highlights of the festive season, bringing families, friends, and neighbours together for an evening of music, laughter, and Christmas cheer. There is plenty of room for everyone, so grab a picnic rug or a chair and come along for a night not to be missed. Enjoy performances from local talent, sing along to your favourite carols, and soak up the magical atmosphere under the stars.
And finally, last week I mentioned dialling #464646 from any Telstra phone to speak to Santa. Well, I gave it a go - an elf answered and put me through to Santa. He asked for my name, I cheerfully responded… and then he hung up!! I guess I am on the naughty list. Ha!!
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.
The Burdekin Theatre foyer became permanently enshrined in the memories of 10 Burdekin residents on Tuesday, 9 December, as the place where they were officially celebrated as naturalised citizens of Australia.
At 10:20am, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, alongside councillors and families, came together to celebrate the new Australian citizens, each from various backgrounds such as Europe, Africa, and Asia.
New citizen Liezel Klopper, along with her two children, Andre Henri and Adriana Carmen, said the moment represented the end of a long journey toward becoming Australian.
"We're very happy to be [in Australia]," said Liezel. "It's been six years coming, so we're very proud to finally [become official citizens]."
Originally moving to the Burdekin from South Africa because of employment opportunities, Liezel says the decision to stay is very much a conscious choice.
"We like the Burdekin because we grew up in small towns in South Africa. We like the small-town community... raising your kids in a small town is beautiful—better than a city."
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the ceremony marked a milestone for both the new citizens and the region, underscoring the importance of cultural diversity in the community.
"I'm ecstatic to see the smiles on their faces, the enthusiasm, and their love for the Burdekin," she said. "I hope each one can bring a little bit of their own culture into our already multicultural community."
Following her address, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort led the pledge to Australia, the singing of the national anthem, and the presentation of citizenship certificates.
The ceremony concluded with photos, light refreshments, and conversations between families, Councillors, and community members, marking the beginning of the new citizens’ formal place within the region.
The Burdekin Theatre foyer became permanently enshrined in the memories of 14 Burdekin residents, as the place where they were officially celebrated as naturalised citizens of Australia. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Residents visiting Alva Beach and Coutts Park over the weekend were met with frustration after public conveniences at both sites were deliberately vandalised. The damage, coming just weeks before the holiday season, has left local families and visitors without access to key facilities.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the incidents were “a senseless act of stupidity and deeply disrespectful to our community.” She noted the personal and financial impact on locals. “Council invests significant resources to maintain public amenities for everyone’s benefit, and when they are vandalised, it’s the ratepayers who bear the cost of repairs.”
The facilities had recently undergone refurbishments, making the timing of the vandalism even more disheartening. “These facilities were also recently refurbished and to see them deliberately damaged – especially so close to Christmas – is heartbreaking,” Cr Dalle Cort said.
Council officers are currently assessing the damage and plan to begin repairs as soon as possible. The acts have been reported to police, and the council is asking anyone with information to come forward. “If you see something, say something – together we can protect our community assets,” the Mayor urged.
For locals, the message is clear: these spaces belong to everyone, and safeguarding them requires the community’s vigilance. Residents can report incidents directly to Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800 or online at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Orientation Days Give Future Hawks a Flying Start
December 5, 2025
Ayr State High School recently welcomed 75 Year 6 students from across the Burdekin for two days of Orientation. The students, soon-to-be Year 7s, spent the days getting familiar with their new school, meeting teachers, and discovering who their classmates will be in 2026.
Supported by senior student “buddies,” the future Hawks explored classrooms, learned about school routines, and participated in activities designed to build confidence and excitement for secondary school life.
While nerves were apparent on the first morning, by the end of day two, all students were noticeably more confident and enthusiastic. Teachers commented on the energy and curiosity of the young students, who are now eager to begin their Ayr High journey next year.
With these first steps completed, 2026’s cohort of Ayr High Hawks is ready to soar.
Junior Performer of the Year Awarded to Mason Lando
December 5, 2025
Ayr State High School celebrated its junior performing arts students this week, with a special recognition for outstanding talent. During the whole-school assembly, Mason Lando was awarded Junior Performer of the Year.
The award followed the school’s annual Cultural Awards ceremony, where junior performers had the chance to showcase their skills in music, drama, and dance. Mason’s dedication and talent were praised by teachers and peers alike, marking a fitting end to a year of hard work and creativity.
Staff congratulated all junior performers, highlighting the confidence and enthusiasm students bring to the stage.
The school encourages all students to explore creative opportunities next year, with performing arts playing a key role in fostering confidence, teamwork, and artistic growth.
Ayr State High Announces 2026 School Musical
December 4, 2025
Ayr State High School has announced its 2026 school musical: The Addams Family (school edition). The iconic spooky family will be coming to the stage next year, bringing both the familiar characters and some exciting new roles for students.
The Addams Family’s quirky adventures and family challenges promise a fun and engaging production for performers and audiences alike. Students eager to take on lead roles can collect audition packs from the Admin Office until Friday, 12 December. Lead auditions and ensemble sign-ups will take place in 2026.
The musical is expected to provide students with opportunities to develop their performing arts skills, teamwork, and confidence, while entertaining the local community with a beloved story.
Ayr High students and families are already looking forward to a thrilling production next year.
Year 9 Students Finish 2025 with Creative Gift Hampers
November 27, 2025
Year 9 Technology, Food and Fibre students at Ayr State High School wrapped up 2025 with a creative final assessment: handmade gift hampers.
Students applied research and planning skills to design customised hampers, using information about recipients to guide their choices. Each hamper included three food items and one textile item, all made in class.
The activity combined practical skills, problem-solving, and artistic flair, highlighting the diverse talents of Year 9 students. As the school year closes, Year 9 students can look back proudly on a year of learning, creativity, and achievement.
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