As another bustling term for Mayor Lyn McLaughlin comes to a close, I had the pleasure of speaking with her on the year that was, and the future plans for the Burdekin region as we move into a new year.

Mayor McLaughlin reflects on her past year with great appreciation and gratitude as she was able to experience it in good health, surrounded by the strength of her dear friends, and family. Additionally, she believes all the major achievements of the Burdekin community would not have come to fruition if not for everyone working together, and Lyn expressed gratitude for all the opportunities that arose for the Burdekin Shire Council in 2023.

“We’ve got a wonderful community, so much is achieved by other people, and it’s so good to recognise what everyone else does and contributes, both in the Burdekin as well as council,” expressed Mayor McLaughlin.

Particularly, Mayor McLaughlin celebrates one major achievement for the Burdekin region; the $44.88 million Water Treatment Plant for Ayr, as granted by the Palaszczuk Government.

The funding stands as the largest grant the Burdekin has received and will allow the 5-year plan for the Water Treatment Plant to come to fruition in 2025.

“This was a major grant, the largest grant we have ever achieved in the shire, and a major accomplishment for our community,” expressed Mayor McLaughlin.

In addition, Mayor McLaughlin celebrates the commencement of the industrial estate expansion.

“These are two big projects that have been in the pipeline for many years, and to have them started was just outstanding,” she said Mayor McLaughlin.

Mayor McLaughlin believes that although 2023 did not see the completion of the Burdekin’s major projects, she celebrates the finalisation of the Ayr Waterpark, the construction of the new entry to the Ayr Pool and the overall contribution these aspects have made to the youth in the community. Lyn explained the true success of these achievements is due to the Burdekin Shire Council’s strategic planning previously solidified in earlier years, assuring the most beneficial outcomes are produced when applying for and receiving government funding and grants.

Mayor McLaughlin expressed, it’s due to these plans being implemented years in advance, that discussions have begun into the establishment of a youth precent in the area; an idea not yet presented for community consultation. Additionally, strategic planning has been carried out in the areas of road reconstruction, economic development, the renewal of the region’s tourism plan, as well as in the interest of the Ayr Showgrounds.

“It is really important to have a big picture and then work at each project within that,” explained Mayor Mclaughlin.

“There’s always room for improvement, and there’s lots of things we want to do.”

In the interest of completing her term with no distractions, Mayor McLaughlin was not willing to disclose if she will be running in the upcoming election, and explained the community should expect an answer the week of the 29 January.

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Standing L-R John Furnell, Terry Brennan, Max Musumeci, Michael Detenon and John Bonanno. Sitting L-R Kaylee Boccalatte, Lyn McLaughlin and Sue Perry 

The NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is thrilled to announce two special guests for the 2024 edition: Taylor Henderson and Ethan Beckton.  

These talented artists will not only perform live at the final showcase, but also attend a workshop with performers prior to them taking the stage.

The pair will also judge the finals and share their insights and tips with the aspiring performers.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is the only talent showcase of its kind in Queensland.  

“The national talent showcase is open to performers of all ages and talent genres, with over $5,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, including professional development and national performance opportunities,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“The Burdekin is delighted to welcome Taylor Henderson and Ethan Beckton to the showcase this year.

“They are both amazing examples of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication and I'm sure they will inspire and entertain our performers and audiences alike.  

“The NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is a fantastic opportunity for our region and visitors to showcase its talent and creativity, and I encourage everyone to come along and support this event.”

Have you considered entering as an individual or group?

With the event taking place on Saturday March 16, there is still plenty of time to start preparing your piece.

Don't miss this chance to show your skills and passion.  

Fast Track 2024 is organised by the Burdekin Shire Youth Council and will take place on Saturday March 16, 2024.

Registrations open soon, for more information email burdekin@fasttracktalent.com.au.

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Ethan Beckton

Taylor Henderson

Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) has delivered the ‘Be Connected Program’ to Seniors over 50 for more than 14 years? Our Volunteer Tutors have provided hundreds of seniors with the essential digital skills to get online safely and with confidence.

With so many aspects of life now online, from healthcare and government services to finding a job and staying in touch with loved ones and the technology we use changing very quickly, it’s super important that you get online and increase your digital literacy and feel more connected.

Our tutors can help you to use a personal computer or your mobile phone, laptop or iPad. Perhaps you would like to do online banking, access information, videos or movies, set up an online account, use social media or email to feel more connected to your friends and the community reducing loneliness and isolation etc.

To learn more, make a booking or become a Tutor, please contact the Team at The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr. Ph: 4783 3744. E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

Debra Cochran

Chief Executive Officer

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is looking for community members who would like to help us make a positive impact in the Burdekin community.

We need people with skills and experience to help us re-energise our Management Committee and achieve our goals. Don't worry if you don't know everything - we welcome people from all walks of life and value different perspectives, as this is what makes us more relevant to the wider community.

We want to collaborate with community members on projects that will bring people together and make our community stronger.  This could be mentoring, group facilitation, or working groups for community consultations.

Our Neighbourhood Centre is a place where people can connect and feel welcome, no matter who they are. We are community-led and managed by locals who care about their community and want to make a difference. And the most important part of the Centre? You guessed it - the people!

Volunteering is a great way to develop new skills and gain valuable experience. It can also help you meet new people, expand your professional networks, and show your commitment to personal growth and community involvement.  It doesn’t hurt that it looks great on a resume!

Maybe the Neighbourhood Centre might not be a right fit for you?  That’s okay. We can help link you with many other local organisations and community groups looking for volunteer members. The team at the Neighbourhood Centre are all about making the lives of the people of the Burdekin better every day.

So, if you're looking for a new adventure in 2024, why not talk to us at 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr? We'd love to hear from you!

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

With the 2024 local government elections being held on 16 March 2024, I would like to share some news with you. I have decided not to run for councillor again next term. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve our community for the past eight years, but I feel it is time for me to step aside and let someone else take on this role.

I know that some of you may be interested in running for councillor in the next election. If you are, I encourage you to come and have a chat with me. I would be happy to share my experience and advice with you and answer any questions you may have. Being a councillor is a rewarding but challenging job, and it requires passion and commitment.

I want to thank you all for your support and trust in me as your councillor over the past two terms. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I hope you are too. I took on this role in 2016 and really wanted our community not to be known as an “aging population” and be more known as a “family-oriented” community.  I think we have taken some massive steps in this direction and hope our next elected members move in the same direction moving forward.  I will always be available to help you with any issues or concerns.

I wish you all a happy new year. Stay safe and healthy and I hope you enjoyed the festive season with your loved ones.

Did you know you there are online resources and educational information on waste management?

Explore the Council's website to discover the advantages of recycling, gain insights on proper waste sorting, understand the recyclable and non-recyclable items, and locate the nearest landfill.

Download posters and flyers to promote recycling in your school or workplace or get the kids involved in good waste management practices these school holidays.

There is some great information about what you can and can’t put in your green waste bin with tutorials on creating your very own worm farm out of your green waste or turning it into fertilizer.

I encourage you to check Council’s website and refresh your knowledge on the proper waste management to ensure your bins stay clear of contamination.

Waste management is everyone’s responsibility. Let's all take a moment to refresh our memories on appropriate waste management practices. Council's website isn't just a resource hub; it's your ticket to staying informed and actively participating in the collective effort to reduce waste and safeguard our environment. Visit Burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Before I take you to the Ballad of The Burdekin Stream, a little history will suffice. North Queensland was first settled in 1861 and the township of Bowen was formed. Settlers spread out over the country and crossing the Burdekin River was an obstacle. Settlers bought their horses, sheep and cattle with them and this caused erosion to the banks of the rivers and creeks (this erosion is mentioned in The Burdekin Stream). In early February 1864, the Burdekin River experienced a great flood and movement of people, animals and supplies would have come almost to a halt. The Township of Wickham at the mouth of the Burdekin River was virtually washed away. One man drowned, Mr. Thomas, a passenger on the schooner “Three Friends”. Mr. Cook broke his leg. The “Three Friends went aground on shore, two cable lengths from high tide water mark. Tom McEwen was master of Three Friends. These incidents are referred to in the ballad.

Frederick Thomas Rayner became the owner, editor of the Port Denison Times from March 5, 1864 until he died on June 6, 1900. The Port Denison Times was North Queensland’s first paper. This ballad was first published in Port Denison Times 7 May 1864.

Old Sadducee was probably Phillip Somer. He was from Sydney. Phillip Somer had a partner Mathew (John) Hervey and they established Dotswood Station. Hervey Range is named for Mathew Hervey. Dotswood Station is now owned by the Defence.  Somer published ballads under the name Remos (Somer spelt backwards). He had a number of ballads published in the “Queenslanders’ New Colonial Camp Fire Song Book” in November 25, 1865, one ballad being the “The Kennedy Men” sung to the same air, Bonny Dundee, as The Burdekin Stream. Someone under the nom de plume of Old Cranky did not like the ballad and he had a verse in the Port Denison Times May 14, 1864.  In PDT of August 20, 1864, Old Sadducee replied on the same day Phillip Somer placed an advertisement in the paper asking for a person to establish a Public House, Store and Blacksmith at the Upper Burdekin Crossing. Phillip Somer died June 27, 1876. Phillip was married and had three children. Some descendants of Phillip Somer still live in the Burdekin Shire today.

Some people back in 1864 were taking note of animals causing erosion to the banks of rivers and streams. Of recent times we complain about the weather bureau not giving us enough warnings of Cyclones and floods. Just imagine how the people would be frightened of the unexpected cyclones and floods with no communication as to what was happening with the weather around them.

References to this article Port Denison Times March till August 1864, “A Thousand Miles Away a History of North Queensland to 1920” by G C Bolton 1972, George Loyau, “The man who wrote bush ballads” by Hugh Anderson together with The Queenslanders New Colonial Camp Fire Song Book and The Sydney Songster Red Rooster Press 1991 Contributed by Glenis Cislowski

THE BURDEKIN STREAM In the far famed valley you’ll find out my source, By Leichhardt’s bold mountain you’ll trace down my course Till, joining my brothers, there’s water ‘twould seem To furnish forth now a magnificent stream.   Chorus

Then up to the valley, to the ocean below, I’m the father of waters as all of ye know, Though my course at the city as nothing may seem, Ye have nae seen the height of the Burdekin Stream.

Of yore noble Wickham, afflicted with thirst, Came in from the ocean, of white men the first, That found my fresh water with fishes did teem, And blest his kind stars, and this life-giving stream. Chorus

Next Leichhardt the explorer came down on my tracks, Tom Burdekin furnished his saddles and packs, For as yet none had ventured so far with a team, Discovered, and called me the Burdekin Stream.   Chorus

But in after ages the white man came forth, And built him a town on my banks to the north, And tore up my waters with paddle and steam, And called it the “Pride of the Burdekin Stream.”     Chorus

And they brought up their property all uninsured, And they took up the country that I had secured, And they tore down my banks with their bullocks and team I’ll be down on them yet, said the Burdekin Stream.   Chorus

So, I called on my brothers one night, on the Clarke, The Bowen, The Suttor, Belyando, and hark To the men’s crying wail, and the women’s loud scream As they gaze on the power of the Burdekin Stream.    Chorus

And I tore down their city, and swept o’er their tent ,And over the tops of their houses, I went. And I stranded their schooner, and laid her abeam In the midst of their “Pride of the Burdekin Stream.”      Chorus

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The mighty Burdekin River in flood. Photo supplied

In the cane fields of the Burdekin, third generation sugarcane farmer Christian Lago has recently completed a Farm Emissions Report with Nutrien Ag Solutions, saying the insights have helped inform his priorities for future emission reduction activities.

“The report used our on-farm production data and scientifically verified, governmental and industry approved models to quantify emissions occurring at each step along the production system,” Mr Lago said.

“It showed that the majority of our emissions are attributed to the application of nitrogen fertilisers, and highlighted techniques for reducing these losses; as well as opportunities for increasing our atmospheric carbon sequestration.”

Nutrien Ag Solutions Sustainability Field Manager Charles Starkings said there’s an increased drive for transparency into the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of Australian industries and businesses due to the COP21 Paris Agreement and national emission reduction target of Net Zero by 2050.

“Market demand is further contributing towards this push for emissions transparency and reduction,

as the preferences of consumers and other key stakeholders shift towards produce and practices

that have a verifiably low GHG footprint,” Mr Starkings said.

“There are both short and long-term opportunities for Australian farmers who are positioned to deliver this product, and the first step in preparing for this is to understand the emissions associated with your farm business.

“A Farm Emissions Report enables farmers to visualise where emissions are occurring within their production system, and then make informed decisions on practice change to reduce future emissions.”

For Mr Lago, the experience of completing a Farm Emissions Report was educational and straightforward.

“We wanted to get an understanding of how our farming carbon footprint is calculated, and what the major contributors are in our system,” he said.

“Good records will definitely make the process easier – we reviewed our production data, energy and fuel use, fertiliser and chemical applications and protected vegetation information.

“It was a very informative process and demonstrated that while we’re on the right track, there are some areas where we can concentrate our efforts to achieve better environmental outcomes.”

The Nutrien Ag Solutions Sustainability Team can now assist in the completion of a Farm Emissions Report.

If you are interested in completing this first step, North East Sustainability Field Manager Charles Starkings at charles.starkings@nutrien.com.au or on 0438 400 988.

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The Australian agricultural industry today accounts for approximately 14% of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Of that 14%, 77% is due to the emission of methane, 19% to the emission of nitrous oxide, and the remaining 4% to the emission of carbon dioxide.

Following inspections of farms in the Lower Herbert region, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) member Michael Penna and Senior Technical Officer Lawrence Di Bella viewed firsthand the impacts of the recent floods.

Visiting members’ farms on December 27, 2023, Mr Penna and Mr Di Bella discovered many blocks to be waterlogged with floodwater still present in some blocks.

On some farms, cane trash blankets had shifted due to the flooding occurring just after harvesting and, in some cases, had been deposited on young plant and ratoon crops.

The impacted cane blocks will experience some cane yield losses and stool death may occur where the trash has smothered cane.

During the inspection, some infrastructure damage was noticed on members’ farms with wash outs along drainage lines and some headlands.

Overall, the crop damage is not significant in the Lower Herbert when compared to previous floods.

The crops outside non impacted areas are growing well, and the rain was welcomed.

Additionally, it is hoped that rain and the recent flooding will impact on rat numbers throughout the district with growers noticing dead rats on farms and along roads when travelling throughout the district.

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Cane trash on top of young ratoons in the Lower Herbert area

A drainage line impacted in the Lower Herbert

Photos supplied

The Burdekin’s sugar mills have signed on sixteen new apprentices as 34 apprentices officially commence their trade training across the eight Wilmar Sugar and Renewables mills across Queensland.

The new apprentices completed their two-week Safe Start program in January, before they began their work at their representative sugar mills.

Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said the two-week Safe Start program prepared the new apprentices for what life would be like in Wilmar’s mills.

“It’s about getting them to understand Wilmar’s safety requirements and procedures, as well as giving them the basic skillset they require to enter their relevant workshops,” Daniel said.

In the Burdekin, Hugh Barnicoat is starting at Pioneer Mill as a second-year electrical apprentice.

He said he had transferred to Wilmar from his previous job for greater skill exposure and to be mentored by Wilmar’s experienced tradespeople.

“I’m excited to be working with the mill’s state of the art equipment, particularly the big switch rooms in the factory,” Hugh said.

Mr Shipard said he was excited to bring the newest intake of apprentices into Wilmar’s operations, across the key trades of electrical, fitting and turning, boiler making and diesel fitting.

“They’re going to be a huge asset to our organisation, and we can’t wait to see them grow over the next four years of their apprenticeship.”

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Wilmar’s new apprentices

Electrical apprentices Hugh Barnicoat and Cadey McMurray are looking forward to working with Wilmar’s state-of-the-art equipment. Hugh is based at Pioneer Mill in the Burdekin and Cadey is based at Victoria Mill in the Herbert

Ready to start work at Wilmar’s mills, with Hugh Barnicoat third from left. Photos supplied

Don West Toyota is pleased to announce the launch of KINTO Rent, to offer expanded mobility services to the Burdekin.

KINTO provides customers with the flexibility to book and drive a Toyota vehicle from an hour to a year at attractive rates – all through the KINTO app.

Since its launch in March 2021, Toyota vehicles booked through KINTO have been available at on-street locations in Melbourne as well as some Toyota Dealerships. Toyota intends that KINTO – a program of Toyota Finance Australia – will expand throughout Australia, increasing its availability to more customers.

At Don West Toyota, vehicles will now be available and conveniently located for use by KINTO customers in the local area.

Set to become Australia’s most innovative solution to accessing a great range of Toyota vehicles, KINTO operates completely from a smartphone app, including sign up, booking, access and payment. Unlocking and locking of the vehicle is done via buttons from within the app.

All KINTO bookings include the convenience of fuel and the reassurance of comprehensive insurance and 24/7 Roadside Assist. Drivers pay for the duration booked and the distance travelled, with decreased rates for longer bookings, plus any extras such as insurance excess reduction.

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said KINTO offers consumers greater freedom and flexibility whenever they need a vehicle.

“KINTO is the next best thing to owning your own car because it is simple and affordable to book and drive the latest Toyota vehicles, including our popular hybrid models,” Mr Hanley said.

"KINTO offers services that will support Toyota's aim to be the mobility provider of choice for all types of customers," he said.

The name KINTO is derived from kintou, a Japanese word meaning “flying nimbus” – a magical cloud that appears quickly when necessary to provide transport.

KINTO details, terms and conditions are available at www.kinto.com.au or by calling 1300 4KINTO (454 686).

Delivering exceptional service with the utmost care and consideration is integral to Eyecare Plus Ayr.

Having been a central service in the Burdekin for over 70 years, Eyecare Plus Ayr is synonymous with meticulous health care and a gentle approach.

And now, with new ownership at the helm of the business as of 2018, Eyecare Plus Ayr continues to provide optometry services to the region.

Shannon Davies is the current owner and Optometrist, who has lived locally for the past decade. Shannon has been an optometrist for 20 years and was Australia’s first indigenous female optometrist, graduating from the University of Melbourne in 2004.  

“As we come into our third year under the current ownership, it has been a pleasure to welcome previous patients and new patients alike into our practice to serve their eye care and eyewear needs,” Shannon explained.

She is joined in her practice by three other team members.

“Our team has two qualified optical dispensers and boasts a combined experience of over 45 years in the optical industry,” Shannon explained.

“Eyecare Plus is the longest servicing optometry practices in Ayr,” and Shannon is proud of the lasting legacy.  

“Given the long serving history of the practice, the first challenge was upgrading the optometry equipment as well as refreshing the sunglasses and spectacles frames to ensure we are providing an optimal optometry service and meeting optical current trends,” she added.

“We are really happy with the results and by all reports our patients are as well!

“We are locally owned and provide a high level of not only optometry care, but our team are trained in optical dispensing,” she said.

“While the practice looks the same from the exterior the upgrading of equipment has allowed us to provide excellent optometric care.”

Offering comprehensive vision and eye health assessments, Eyecare Plus also offers early detection of macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, provision of contact lenses, co-care with ophthalmology practices, driving licence vision assessments, diabetic co-management with GPs, removal of foreign bodies and prescription of the therapeutic ocular drops.

"We offer range of latest fashion brands and high quality lens designs and technology as well as an exceptional optometry service.”

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Bronwyn Darwen, Shannon Davies and Sandy Young of Eyecare Plus Ayr

As the temperatures continue to rise and, it becomes more imperative than ever for industries and trade sectors to adapt to the seasonal changes to maintain optimal productivity and employee well-being. Implementing best summer practices is crucial for businesses and their staff to thrive in the warmer months.

   1. Flexible Scheduling: Consider introducing flexible work hours or remote work options. This not only helps employees beat the summer heat but also promotes a healthier work-life balance, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.

   2. Heat Stress Prevention: For industries requiring outdoor work, prioritise employee safety by providing proper training on heat stress prevention. Encourage regular breaks, hydration, and the use of personal protective equipment suitable for warmer conditions.

  3. Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Summer often brings higher energy demands. Implement energy-efficient practices, such as optimising air conditioning systems, using natural light, and adopting eco-friendly technologies, to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

  4. Supply Chain Optimisation: Summer can bring disruptions to supply chains due to weather-related issues. Develop contingency plans, diversify suppliers, and maintain open communication to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure a seamless flow of goods and services.

  5. Employee Engagement Programs: Boost morale and team spirit by organising summer-themed employee engagement programs. This could include team-building events, outdoor activities, or casual dress codes to create a positive and enjoyable work atmosphere.

  6. Inventory Management: Seasonal fluctuations in demand may occur, especially in construction and manufacturing. Optimise inventory management by forecasting demand accurately, adjusting production schedules, and ensuring adequate stock levels to meet customer needs during peak summer periods.

By incorporating these best summer practices, industries and trade sectors can navigate the challenges of the season, enhance employee satisfaction, and maintain efficient operations for sustained success.

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Stay safe on the job this summer. Photo supplied

For almost 43 years, Pierina Dalle Cort of Helloworld Travel Ayr has been the friendly face behind your adventures, and after all those years, her favorite travel advice is to venture with an open mind.

With travelling being one of many popular New Year’s Resolutions within the Burdekin community, Pierina and her team have been busily preparing locals for their next holiday.

“Planning for Christmas and the New Year for 2024/2025 is a hit already as families are wanting a cooler, relaxing environment,” said Pierina.

European destinations are at the top of the list for the new year, along with New Zealand and other gorgeous locations both internationally and within Australia.

“We are doing a little bit of everything these days,” explains Pierina.

“There are also lots of great spots in our own country.”

Pierina advises her clients to not fear travelling, nor to let language barriers deter you from venturing abroad.

“English is a major language spoken by most people as their second language, and there are always people willing to help.”

Of course, we had to know the location Pierina herself loves the most, but asking an owner of a travel agency, what’s your favorite travel destination? mirrors asking Willy Wonka to name his favorite chocolate: a question impossible to answer.

“It’s hard to answer because I just love wherever my journey takes me.

“I don’t compare, and just enjoy the destination for what it has to offer me.”

With COVID-19 border closures becoming a distant memory, there are still fewer planes in the sky. Pierina and her team advise locals to plan their holiday itineraries sooner rather than later.

“Since the opening of boarders after COVID-19, we don’t have the same capacity of airplanes in the sky, so you really need to book early to avoid high flight prices.”

Helloworld Travel Ayr encourages you to adventure more throughout 2024 and beyond. The highly experienced and friendly team handles air, rail, sea, and coach and are ready to assist you with your travel requirements.

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Caption: Pierina Dalle Cort

Entries have opened ahead of the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod celebrating its 40th year in 2024.

The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod is a friendly but competitive eisteddfod attracting high quality competitors from all over North Queensland.

With its friendly atmosphere amongst competitors, teachers and parents, the eisteddfod has become a popular venue on the eisteddfod calendar over the last 40 years.

Held every year, the eisteddfod aims to help young people of North Queensland, particularly local Burdekin children, showcase their talents, increase their self-esteem and further their life experiences.

With over 2,000 competitors entering each year, the event is also a wonderful opportunity for visitors to enjoy the local restaurants, wonderful variety of shopping and hospitality the Burdekin has to offer.

The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod is accepting registration across art, dance, Highland dance, Irish dance, literature, music, photography and speech and drama disciplines across all age groups.

Entries close on Friday, March 1 with the eisteddfod to take place from May 8 to 19.

Visit burdekinjunioreisteddfod.com.au for more information.

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Entries are now open for the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod. Photo supplied