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

‍

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.

‍

Burdekin locals Jocelyn Tuffin, Joanne McBow, and Bertilla Scodellaro, were honoured for their combined 135 years of dedication to the Burdekin community's health services. Photo supplied

‍

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.”

‍

By Andrew Willcox MP

Opinion Piece

Australia went to bed wounded, and woke up confronting a truth we should never have had to face.

What unfolded at Bondi was not just an act of violence. It was an act of terror. It was an attack on innocent people, on a community gathered in peace, and on the values that bind us together as Australians.

My first thoughts are with the victims, those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the families whose worlds have been shattered forever. No words can ease that pain. I also extend my deepest respect and gratitude to the police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses, lifeguards, and everyday Australians who ran towards danger without hesitation.

Among the horror, there was extraordinary courage. Ahmed al Ahmed, a local fruit shop owner, did not run from danger. He ran toward it. With no thought for his own safety, he tackled an armed attacker from behind, wrestled the weapon from his hands, and helped stop further bloodshed. In doing so, it has been reported by media that Ahmed was shot twice and required surgery, yet his actions likely saved countless lives.

His bravery reminds us of something fundamental about Australia: that decency, courage, and moral clarity still rise in our darkest moments.
Australia is grieving. Australia is angry. And Australia has every right to be.

This attack occurred as members of the Jewish community gathered to celebrate Chanukah by the Sea. What should have been a moment of light, faith, and joy was transformed into horror. We stand with Australia’s Jewish community today and always. Antisemitism has no place in this country. It never has, and it never will.

But we must also confront an uncomfortable truth. This tragedy was not unimaginable. For many Australians of Jewish faith, it was feared.

Since 7 October 2023, antisemitism has surged across Australia. We have seen hateful protests, intimidation outside synagogues, Jewish schools requiring security to function, and vile slogans shouted openly in our streets. Before the shameful scenes on the steps of the Sydney Opera House in October 2023, many Australians would have said such hatred could never take root here. That complacency was a mistake.

The warnings were there. They were repeated. They were ignored.

Leaders of the Jewish community sounded the alarm. International allies sounded the alarm. Even foreign heads of government warned that failing to confront antisemitism early would only embolden it. Yet the Albanese Government responded with hesitation, equivocation, and silence when moral clarity was required.

Hatred does not disappear when it is tolerated. It grows.

Australia is a successful multicultural nation because we share a social contract. We welcome people from all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, but we ask something in return. We ask that people respect our laws, our freedoms, and one another. We ask that grievances from overseas are not imported and weaponised on Australian streets. We ask that loyalty lies with Australia, not with extremist ideologies or foreign conflicts.

The vast majority of migrants honour that contract. They work hard, integrate, contribute, and enrich our country. They are valued members of Team Australia.

But it is no longer honest to pretend that our immigration system is immune from failure.

Under Labor, immigration has surged to levels that are unsustainable. More than 1.2 million people arrived in Labor’s first term alone, with two million expected by the end of the second. Housing is stretched. Hospitals are under strain. Schools are full. Infrastructure is lagging. These pressures affect Australians of every background.

A sustainable immigration program is not defined by volume, but by the values and social cohesion it preserves.

A successful immigration program does not just count numbers. It enforces standards. It ensures that those who come here accept equality between men and women, freedom of belief, freedom of speech, and the rule of law. It does not turn a blind eye to extremism, radicalisation, or imported hatred out of fear of political backlash.

What we have seen in recent times is a failure to uphold those standards. We have seen people who reject Australian values, glorify violence, and openly express hatred toward Jewish Australians. That should never have been allowed to take root here.

Raising these concerns does not make someone racist or anti-migrant. It makes them honest.

Australians are generous people. But generosity without boundaries is not compassion, it is negligence. A government that refuses to police its immigration system properly, or confront antisemitism decisively, is not being inclusive. It is failing in its most basic duty, which is to keep Australians safe.

This attack has forever changed our nation. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can decide what happens next.

We must strengthen laws against hate crimes. We must enforce existing laws without fear or favour. We must ensure migration settings serve Australia’s interests, not ideology. And we must say, clearly and without apology, that antisemitism, terrorism, and extremist hatred will be met with the full force of the law.

Australia deserves leadership that is honest, courageous, and prepared to act early, not issue statements after lives are lost.

Today we mourn. Tomorrow we must act.

For the victims. For their families. For our Jewish community. And for the future of a nation that should never have allowed this to happen on its shores.

‍

In what was the second high-tide, high-stakes Burdekin rescue in as many weeks, a mother and five children under the age of nine were ferried to safety on Alva Beach last Saturday after quick action from local surf lifesavers.

At around 3:30pm, a patrol team of five responded after noticing the group had become stranded on a sandbar as the tide rose rapidly. Patrol captain John Moloney said water levels climbed to over head-height within minutes.

"They went over [to the sandbar] at low tide, not understanding how quickly the tide comes back in," said Moloney. “They were only there for about five minutes, but the water rose fast enough to put them in danger.”

Lifesaver Tramayne Horan was the first to spot the risk and swam to the group, with Moloney and Tony Felisina assisting to ferry them safely back to shore.

The incident follows a similar rescue on Rita Island last week involving a mother and five children.

Moloney said that while sandbar incidents were common at Alva Beach, Saturday's situation could have been catastrophic due to the ages and swimming abilities of the people involved.

“If there hadn’t been a patrol on duty, it would have been a very different outcome,” he said.

‍

In what was the second high-tide, high-stakes Burdekin rescue in as many weeks, a mother and five children under the age of nine were ferried to safety on Alva Beach last Saturday after quick action from local surf lifesavers. Photo source: Queensland.com

‍

By Chelsea Ravizza

Residents of the Burdekin Shire have recently spotlighted several safety concerns surrounding the current state of the Barratta Creek boat ramp, with many calling for urgent action and emergency dredging.

Barratta Creek has silted up heavily over time, and with each natural disaster or dramatic weather event, shifting sandbars have caused accessibility issues for boaters, who report instances of grounding or propeller damage due to the creek’s reduced depth.

“The boat ramp here (Barratta Creek) was an all-tide accessibility ramp before the rain earlier this year, even at the lowest of tides,” explained Jonathan (Jon) Szendrey of North Queensland Fishing Adventures.

In late 2024 and into early 2025, intense monsoonal rains and tropical-low activity left the region submerged in one of Northeast Queensland’s most dramatic flooding events in recent years. The Burdekin River and adjacent waterways, including Barratta Creek, experienced severe volumes of fast-moving water, which shifted an existing sandbar approximately 50 metres south of the boat ramp directly towards the landing.

“Just after all of the rain, we needed about 0.8 metres in the tide to launch and retrieve boats, but it has slowly become worse during the year, and we now need about 1.2 metres in the tide to get boats in, and out,” added Jon.

Locals also believe that overgrown inland vegetation altered historic rain runoff, diverting water from Barratta Creek into Barramundi Creek (Morrisies) via the Jerona Road causeway, contributing to the ongoing silting problem.

Although the community has previously undertaken small-scale efforts using high-pressure hoses and tractors to clear the area, these initiatives are now impossible due to the significant build-up at the base of the ramp.

“20 to 30 years ago, most people wouldn’t have a problem with pushing their boat through shallow water over sandbars here, but with the number of crocs we are seeing these days near the boat ramp, it’s not a good idea to be walking in the water now,” Jon said.

“The build up around the ramp has become so bad that you can’t even push your boat within 50 metres of the ramp on a tide below a metre.”

Council has confirmed that the proposed dredging requires state government approval. The matter was referred to the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) in October 2025, and the Department of Natural Resources and Mines recently confirmed no objection to the works under the Coastal Protection and Management Act.

Burdekin Shire Council is currently seeking quotes for specialised equipment to undertake the dredging and plans to commence works early next year, noting that timing must align with the lowest astronomical tides. Council has maintained regular communication with concerned residents and emphasised that the project is aimed at improving accessibility and safety for the wider boating and fishing community.

The Barratta Creek boat ramp as it was on the 8th of November at a low tide of 0.64meters – three days earlier the low tide was 0.29meters. Photo suppled
A boat grounded at the boat ramp in August of 2025. Photo supplied
The state of the Barratta Creek boat ramp in July of 2025. Photo supplied
The boat ramp’s condition as it was in April of 2025. Photo supplied

‍

Burdekin residents have been reassured that new housing developments in the region are aimed at helping Queenslanders facing housing stress, amid rumours about who may occupy the properties.

The statement was issued by Burdekin Shire Council in response to questions and concerns raised online by Burdekin residents about the recently erected premises on the corner of Brisbane Street and Norham Road.

Mayor of Burdekin Shire, Pierina Dalle Cort confirmed that where State Government Housing projects comply with the Planning Scheme, Council has no involvement in the allocation of State or Federal Government housing projects.

She added that these housing projects are designed to support Queenslanders who are doing it tough.

“We are a compassionate community, and we should continue to support those who need a helping hand to get back on their feet,” she said.

Council figures show that approximately 487 people in the region are affected by homelessness. The Mayor expressed hope that the State Government housing projects currently underway will help address this issue.

To address any confusion associated with funding, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, clarified the situation, saying, “This is a State Government-controlled project and as such there is no role in the usage or allocation federally. I have been informed the aim of these projects is to provide housing for Queenslanders facing housing stress.”

State Member for Burdekin, Hon Dale Last MP, stepped forward to assert the State Government’s commitment to tackling housing shortages and maintaining safe neighbourhoods.

“The Burdekin district is not immune from housing shortages, and those shortages mean it is harder to get into the housing market for buyers and renters who are facing increased costs, and unfortunately for some people, the result is homelessness,” he said.

“Here in the Burdekin, the state government currently has two community housing projects underway that include a range of dwellings, including some suitable for people with mobility issues.

Minister Last added that safety for the community is always a priority.

“Queensland’s community housing provides support for Queenslanders and recognises the importance of peaceful and safe neighbourhoods. That is why we have introduced our Public Housing Antisocial Behaviour Policy. Tenants who breach the Policy will face consequences including eviction and banning from social housing,” he said.

He also clarified the division of responsibilities between state and federal governments:
“Support for people moving to Australia is the sole responsibility of the federal government. The Queensland government, on the other hand, is focussed on providing a place to call home for Queenslanders.”

Council encouraged residents to continue supporting those in need, ensuring the Burdekin remains “a caring and inclusive place for all.”

‍

New housing developments in the Burdekin are designed to support Queenslanders experiencing housing stress, providing safe and accessible homes for those in need. Photo supplied

‍

So many people will be helped thanks to those who contributed to the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal – a big thank you to everyone who donated. Your generosity will put smiles on the faces of families in need during this special time.

Our 2025 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols event was a huge success – the skies were certainly in our favour. The joy on the children’s faces when they saw Santa was priceless. There were hugs, laughter, and yes, a few tears – but I’m sure those tears will turn into smiles in time. The whole show was amazing, showcasing our incredible local talent and bringing the community together for a spectacular performance.

This season always reminds me of an old-time favourite message that I share every year – especially now, in a world where we see too much hatred and violence.

A Christmas Gift

To your Enemy – Forgiveness

To an Opponent – Tolerance

To a Friend – Your Heart

To a Customer – Service

To all – Charity

To every child – A good example

To Yourself – Respect

May this festive season bring you love, laughter, peace, and goodwill. Please stay safe on the roads, enjoy time with family and friends, and have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. God bless you all.

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.

‍

On Sunday night, I took the family along to the Burdekin Shire Community Christmas Carols.

It was a lovely event. Families on picnic rugs, kids running around with glow sticks, familiar faces everywhere, and a real sense of community. Nights like that are a good reminder of what makes the Burdekin such a great place to live. People turning up, supporting local events, and spending time together.

Like many Australians, that sense of joy was also tempered by the horrific events in Bondi.

What happened there was shocking and deeply upsetting. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the first responders who had to deal with an unimaginable situation. Events like this make you pause and reflect on how quickly an ordinary day can turn into tragedy.

Standing at the carols, watching kids laugh and families relax, really highlighted how important community events are. They bring people together, remind us to look out for one another, and reinforce the values that keep our towns strong.

As we head into the Christmas period, I encourage everyone to slow down where they can, check in on those around them, and appreciate the simple things, time with family, time with friends, and time in our community.

Wishing everyone a safe and peaceful lead-up to Christmas.

‍

The Get Set for Work program, run by Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) Burdekin, targets 15-19-year-olds who have disengaged from school or are looking at additional skills to assist with attaining a job.

The program includes a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational pathways, resume development and cover letter assistance, and access to first aid, RSA, and white cards.

To give real life experiences, we source guest speakers to talk on topics like budgeting, mental health, workers' rights, road safety, indigenous culture, and drug and alcohol awareness.

“Our Get Set for Work program is for youth aged 15 to 19 and is part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. The program aims to guide youths who have dropped out of school or need assistance to help towards gaining employment,” explains Rowan Scott, PCYC Burdekin Program Coordinator.

The Get Set for Work program is free, runs five days a week, and starts up again on January 27th, 2026. Success stories include participants landing jobs in travel agencies, engineering, and hospitality as well as a hardware supplier.

The program aims to build confidence and employability skills of participants.

PCYC Burdekin’s 2025 program saw participants gain statements of attainment in the Certificate II as well as opportunity to complete First Aid, RSA and White cards.

Past graduates often return to share their employment successes with the participants.

“Seeing the participants come in at the start, they’re a little nervous, a bit immature and unsure. By the end of the 10-week program, however, we start to see big changes in them when they complete their Certificate II or find work for example. It's a small reward for us but a big deal for them,” Rowan says with pride.

“Here at PCYC Burdekin, we also run a ‘Break the Cycle’ program, which helps participants obtain their 100 hours towards their learner's license. Like Get Set for Work, it’s free! We also provide a pick-up and drop-off service, which runs five days a week, from 9am to 3pm,” he says.

Both programs are designed to give participants more freedom and flexibility, while giving them a greater sense of self-worth and purpose. PCYC continues to support their participants even after the courses have concluded, providing ongoing assistance.

Businesses are encouraged to participate in the programs, with many seeing great success as a result of hiring entry-level workers.

Interested participants and businesses can contact Rowan Scott or Tamara Kemp for more information on: 0448 686 648.

‍

New Repair Laws Back Farmers When Machines Break Down

Australian farmers have welcomed a major reform that will give them greater control over the repair of agricultural machinery, with the Federal Government extending Right to Repair laws to the farming sector.

The reform will require manufacturers to share critical repair information with farmers and independent mechanics, ending long-standing frustrations caused by costly delays when machinery breaks down during peak periods such as harvest.

For many producers, downtime can mean significant financial losses. By allowing farmers to choose who repairs their equipment, the changes are expected to improve productivity, reduce costs and strengthen competition across the sector.

According to the Productivity Commission, extending Right to Repair to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through improved grain output alone, largely by reducing harvest delays. The announcement also comes as new figures show Australia’s agriculture industry is on track to reach a record value of almost $100 billion this financial year.

Farm groups have strongly backed the reform, with leaders describing it as landmark and game-changing for the industry. The changes are also expected to benefit regional communities by supporting local repair businesses and keeping money circulating in rural towns.

Treasury will work alongside the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to consult farmers, manufacturers and repairers as the framework is expanded, building on the success of existing Right to Repair laws in the motor vehicle sector.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reform was about fairness and practical support for farmers.

“The Albanese Labor Government has listened to our farmers and worked with them to deliver these reforms, they’re a matter of fairness for farmers and will make a big difference,” Ms Collins said.

“Farmers are backing this change because they know it will save time and money.

“The Albanese Labor Government will keep backing our farmers to succeed.”

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said the reform would strengthen both competition and regional economies.

“Farmers have been clear, they want the freedom to choose who repairs their machinery. This reform delivers that choice, strengthens regional economies and ensures technology works for the people who rely on it most,” Dr Leigh said.

“This is a win for farmers and a win for competition. When markets are open, businesses thrive, and consumers benefit. Right to Repair is about giving farmers control and creating a level playing field for independent repairers.

“Every independent workshop is a small business that employs apprentices, sponsors local clubs and keeps money circulating locally. By unlocking repair information, we’re supporting those businesses and the communities they serve.”

The Right to Repair reform is expected to improve resilience, reduce waste and ensure valuable farming equipment stays in use for longer, delivering long-term benefits for Australia’s agricultural sector and regional communities.

‍

Right to repair reforms will give farmers more choice over machinery repairs, cutting harvest downtime and supporting local repairers. Photo source: Unsplash

‍

The Burdekin region is set to bolster its flood resiliency and water supply thanks to two recently announced upgrade projects, courtesy of the Queensland Government's $15 million pledge to support North Queensland councils.

The grant, just shy of $2 million, will see both an upgrade of the Ayr Town Drain near Mackersie Street, as well as the construction of a Duplicate Water Main for the Home Hill Water Supply.

Delivered as part of the 2024–28 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP), Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the upgrades would deliver real improvements to communities across the Burdekin.

“The $720,000 duplicate water main for Home Hill will boost the reliability and resilience of the local water network, while the $1.2 million upgrade to the Ayr town drain will improve flood management and protect homes and businesses,” Mr Last said.

“These are practical upgrades that strengthen essential services for the long term.”

With the Burdekin no stranger to flooding or pressure on its water infrastructure, the projects aim to shore up essential services before the next big test arrives.

‍

Helping Kids Step Confidently Into 2026

As the 2025 school year comes to a close, many families are celebrating another year ticked off, while others are quietly realising a big milestone is just around the corner. For parents of Year 6 students, the end of the year marks the beginning of an exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) transition to high school in 2026.

Moving from primary to high school brings new opportunities, friendships and independence, but it can also come with nerves for both students and parents. New classrooms, different teachers, heavier workloads and unfamiliar routines are all part of the change — and that’s before adding in the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence.

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way.

Attending school orientation days, information sessions and open days can help ease uncertainty, while involving children in decisions — from choosing school bags to planning transport — helps build confidence and independence. Encouraging simple skills like reading a timetable, organising homework and looking after belongings can also make the transition smoother.

Once high school begins, keeping communication open is key. Checking in regularly, celebrating milestones like the first week or first term, and maintaining consistent routines around sleep, meals and homework can help students feel settled. Parents are also encouraged to stay connected with teachers and support staff, and to attend school events where possible.

It’s normal for some students to take longer to adjust. Changes in behaviour, confidence or enthusiasm for school can be signs they’re struggling — and early conversations with both your child and the school can make a big difference.

As families enjoy a well-earned break over the holidays, this transition can be seen not just as a challenge, but as an exciting next chapter. With support, reassurance and a positive outlook, students heading into high school in 2026 can start the year feeling prepared, confident and ready for what’s ahead.

‍

The end of the 2025 school year marks an exciting new chapter for Year 6 students preparing to transition into high school in 2026. Photo source: Unsplash

‍

Burdekin Library is inviting kids and teens aged 0–18 to take part in its Summer Reading Club this holiday season. The program runs from 1 December 2025 to 22 January 2026 and promises a mix of reading, challenges, and prizes to keep young minds engaged over the summer break.

Participants are encouraged to read books, complete fun activities, and collect rewards along the way. The library’s staff are on hand to guide children and teens through the program and explain how to join the adventure.

The Summer Reading Club is designed to encourage a love of reading, build confidence in literacy, and give children a productive, entertaining way to spend their school holidays. With prizes to win and challenges to complete, the program adds a sense of excitement to everyday reading.

The Summer Reading Club is a free and fun way for kids to stay engaged, explore new stories, and make the most of their summer holidays.

Visit your local library branch today to collect your challenge booklet and get reading!

‍

Burdekin Library is inviting kids and teens aged 0–18 to take part in its Summer Reading Club this holiday season. Photo source: Reading.com

‍

Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has been named a 2026 Girls STEM POWER ambassador, joining an elite group of just 60 students across Queensland to receive the honour.

The STEM Girls POWER initiative is a year-long program that encourages girls to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It provides hands-on activities, workshops, and mentoring with female role models, helping students develop leadership skills and consider future STEM pathways.

Jorja follows in the footsteps of 2025 ambassador Bella Lawry, continuing a proud tradition of Ayr High girls excelling in STEM. As part of the handover, Bella passed along a book that records memories, tips, and advice from each ambassador, ensuring knowledge and experience are shared with future participants. She described the program as a lasting tradition, saying, “It is a legacy, and we hope someone else finishes it next year.”

Teacher Rob Scalia congratulated Jorja on the achievement, noting she had been selected from students across the state and praising the leadership opportunities the program provides. “It's a wonderful achievement for Ayr State High School. Congratulations, girls,” added Scalia.

The STEM Girls POWER program encourages young women to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For students like Jorja and Bella, it provides a platform to develop leadership skills while inspiring the next generation of female STEM leaders.

‍

Jorja Jerkic follows in the footsteps of 2025 ambassador Bella Lawry, continuing a proud tradition of Ayr High girls excelling in STEM. Photo source: Ayr State High School

‍