Community News

Dam Spills Trigger Flood Warning Across the Burdekin

Dam Spills Trigger Flood Warning Across the Burdekin

A Watch and Act warning remains in place after SunWater confirmed Burdekin Falls Dam began spilling significant volumes of water into the Burdekin River on Sunday, 22 February, as catchment levels surged following widespread rainfall across the region. As of Monday morning, 23 February, the dam was sitting at 148.42 per cent capacity and continuing to spill, with authorities warning increased river flows may contribute to localised flooding in the days ahead. According to the Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard, the Burdekin River at the Burdekin Bridge reached 6.05 metres and was rising slowly. Forecasts indicated the river may reach around 7.50 metres on Monday, exceeding the minor flood level of 7 metres, with further rises possible depending on rainfall. The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has advised residents of Rita Island to prepare for possible isolation, urging households to ensure they have essential supplies — including food, drinking water, medications and pet food — to last more than five days. Over the past week, Burdekin Falls Dam has experienced a rapid and dramatic rise. Since Sunday, 15 February, storage levels jumped from 107.29 per cent to 145.55 per cent in just seven days. SunWater recorded the largest single increase overnight, with capacity climbing 12.19 per cent between Saturday, 21 February and Sunday, 22 February, just hours before the dam began spilling. Several surrounding dams have also been affected, with Eungella Dam and Julius Dam spilling, while Kinchant Dam commenced planned releases last week before returning to normal operations on Sunday. Floodwaters have already impacted multiple roads across the Burdekin region. As confirmed on Monday morning, affected roads include: Ayr Ravenswood Road / Deighton Street / McMullen Road (TMR closure) Woodstock Giru Road (TMR closure) Five Ways Road, Airville Kilrie Road and Rita Island Road, Jarvisfield Clevale Road and Kelly Road, Brandon Kirknie Road to Home Hill–Kirknie Road, Osborne Ayr Dalbeg Road, Airville Chippendale Street and Adelaide Street, Ayr Coppo Road and Groper Creek Road to Mount Alma Road, Inkerman Sexton Road, Barratta Waterview Road, Airville and Mount Kelly Jerona Road, Jerona Allen Road, Barratta Davidson Road, Clare Barratta Road, Upper Haughton Unplanned power outages were also reported on Monday morning, with supply lost to three customers in Giru and nearly 100 customers in Home Hill due to damaged and fallen power lines. Residents are advised to monitor updates via Ergon Energy’s Outage Finder; www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder. Authorities are urging the community to remain alert, monitor conditions closely and stay informed through official channels. Updates are available via SunWater’s dam level tracker; bit.ly/BurdekinFallsStorageLevels, ABC North Queensland 630 AM, and the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster and Emergency Information Dashboard; disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Families At Breaking Point As Interest Rate Hike Crushes Household Budgets

Families At Breaking Point As Interest Rate Hike Crushes Household Budgets

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has warned that North Queensland families are being pushed to a financial breaking point following today’s decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates to 3.85 per cent. The 25-basis-point hike is the first in over two years and signals a deepening cost-of-living crisis that is being directly fuelled by the Albanese Government’s inability to control its own spending. Mr Willcox said the rate rise is a devastating blow for mortgage holders who have already seen an extra $21,000 stripped from their pockets since Labor took office. He noted that while the Prime Minister promised Australians that "life would be cheaper" under a Labor government, the reality in Dawson is an unsettling erosion of the family budget. For many families, the "Australian Dream" is being replaced by an economic nightmare, a daily struggle to balance the books as inflation continues to act as a silent thief. The pressure is particularly acute for those who have young families, navigating the Christmas credit card and "back-to-school" expenses. Recent data shows that education costs have surged by 5.4 per cent, while childcare fees have exploded by an incredible 11.2 per cent. “It is a disgrace that in a country as prosperous as ours, a childcare place can now cost as much as a year at an elite private boarding school,” Mr Willcox said. “These are barriers preventing parents from returning to work, making this cost-of-living nightmare even harder on families.” Mr Willcox argued that these rising costs, combined with higher mortgage repayments and a saturated rental market, are making it nearly impossible for working parents to get ahead. “This economic pain is not an accident, but a direct result of Labor’s record-breaking spending,” Mr Willcox said. New budget data has revealed an unbelievable $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months; a rate of more than $200 million per day. “While families are being forced to make hard decisions and cut back on essentials, this Labor Government continues to pour fuel on the inflationary fire with taxpayer money,” he added. The Member for Dawson has supported Senator Matt Canavan in calling for the immediate resignation of Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Senator Canavan initiated the call in the Senate today, following revelations of a staggering $50 billion blowout in government spending over just six months, a rate of more than $200 million per day. “I am standing with Senator Canavan in saying enough is enough. “Jim Chalmers has overseen the biggest spending blowout in Australian history, and it is hard-working families who are settling the bill,” Mr Willcox said. Senator Canavan noted that if a CEO in the private sector presided over a $100 billion blowout, they would be sacked on the spot. “We should expect the same standard of accountability for the person holding the nation’s chequebook,” Mr Willcox said. “This crazy level of spending is exactly why interest rates went up today. You cannot pour $200 million of taxpayer money onto the fire every single day and not expect inflation to burn.” Mr Willcox warned that the rate hike would not only hurt mortgage holders but would also place even more pressure on an already suffocating rental market. “It’s never easy under Albanese. “Every time the Treasurer spends, the families in Mackay, the growers in Bowen, the tourism operators in the Whitsundays, the soldiers in Townsville and the workers in the Burdekin pay the price. “My team and I will continue to fight to hold this Government to account for every dollar they waste and every promise they break.”

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PET OF THE WEEK

PET OF THE WEEK

Meet Pupperoni Pupperoni is a beautiful boy with a kind heart and lots of love to share. He loves his toys and wants to share all of the fun with you. He loves to be your little shadow and is 100% invested in everything you do. Pup is very intelligent, already knowing how to sit, shake, drop, roll over, spin and wait. He is great with other dogs and would love a home where he could share it with someone who matches his energetic nature, but would also adjust well to being an only dog (he loves being the centre of attention). Pup is toilet trained, learning to walk nicely on a lead and is not destructive—just make sure he has a toy nearby. He is super affectionate and loyal, come and meet him and it will be love at first sight! Pupperoni is a male Cane Corso mix, born 14/08/2025, who is kid-friendly, good with other dogs, untested with cats, toilet trained, and learning to walk nicely on a lead; he would thrive in a home with a 6ft fence, and comes desexed, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations, treated for fleas, ticks and worms, and protected with ProHeart—all included in his $495 adoption fee. If you’re interested in meeting Pupperoni, complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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Chat with Chelsea

Chat with Chelsea

Hello from Mexico! Much to my family’s concern, and after a very quick visit back to the BDK, I’ve set off overseas again — this time to Latin America! Over the past few weeks, I’ve been jumping around the country and have now made my way down to Puerto Escondido to continue chasing the sun and surf along the southwest coastline. I’m absolutely loving my travels so far, Mexico’s UNREAL, and I’m eyeing off crossing over into Guatemala within the next few weeks. Oh, and although proof-of-life photos have been sent and phone calls have been dialled, a quick “she’s fine” for my mum and grandma when you see them would be greatly appreciated! Recently, I’ve been chatting with several members from the Molongle Creek Boat Club to put together a story covering tidal access issues in the Molongle Creek channel. Although the situation has such a deep and complex history, I’m very pleased with how my piece has come together so far, so keep your eyes peeled for that one in publishments to come! If you have any information to share regarding the issue, or any story you believe should be told, please feel free to shoot an email over to me at Chelsea@LifePublishingGroup.Com!

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Celebrating the Strength and Spirit of Rural Women in the Burdekin

October 23, 2025

Rural Women’s Day brought together an inspiring crowd at the Masonic Temple in Ayr on Friday, October 17. Presented by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr in partnership with Wilmar, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, and Keir Steele Waldon, the event recognised the resilience and heart of women across the Burdekin and beyond.

Hosted by Bendigo Bank’s Queensland equipment finance manager and Beyond the Farm Gate podcast host, Helen Connick, the day featured live music, a two-course lunch, and captivating guest speaker Kathy Gabriel.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, who attended with his wife Raylene, recognised the importance of such community events.

“Rural women don’t just keep our farms running—they keep our communities strong, grounded, and connected.” He stated, “Having grown up on the land, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, strength, and heart that rural women bring to everything they do.”

Now part of a growing national movement, Rural Women’s Day connects thousands of women across Australia through community and celebration, shining a light on the women who truly keep rural Australia alive.

Photo credit: Tayla Quagliata Photography

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Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Invite the Next Generation to Keep History Turning

October 23, 2025

For more than four decades, the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists have been keeping the region’s mechanical heritage alive—and now they’re calling on younger locals to join in and help keep the wheels of history turning.

Based in the Brandon Heritage Precinct, the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP) are a passionate group of about 60 members, many of them retired tradesmen and lifelong tinkerers, who devote their time to restoring and maintaining historic engines, tractors, and machinery.

The precinct itself is a treasure trove of Burdekin history, home to the John Tait Steam Gallery, Alf Shand Blacksmith Shop, Fielding Engine Shed, and the Old Brandon Church. Among the BMP’s most prized exhibits is the 1911 Marshall Colonial tractor—the only one of its kind left in Australia.

Established in 1984 as a not-for-profit club, the BMP’s mission has always been to preserve machinery connected to the district’s sugar industry. Over the years, the group has restored everything from the Pioneer No.1 Steam Locomotive to a Ruston Diesel Alternator Set and several diesel pumping engines.

Visitors can step back in time with guided tours each Monday (except December), as well as Wednesdays and Saturdays during the tourist season from April to September. Entry is by gold coin donation, and members are always happy to share stories and technical know-how.

The group also takes pride in being part of local shows and heritage events throughout the year, where they fire up their restored engines and display machinery that once powered the Burdekin’s cane farms and mills. Their demonstrations are a favourite among kids and families, offering a glimpse into how the district’s early industry ran on grit, grease and ingenuity.

BMP members encourage anyone with an interest in history or mechanics—especially younger enthusiasts—to get involved.

To learn more or enquire about membership, contact Lex on 0488 366 443 or email burdekinmp@outlook.com.

BMP Marshall Colonial Tractor
BMP Marshall Colonial Tractor and Vice President John Hanson. Photos supplied

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Rotary Gala Ball To Celebrate Queens At Home Hill Harvest Festival

October 23, 2025

For one special evening, Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will come alive with community spirit as guests gather for the Rotary Gala Ball, part of this year’s Harvest Festival. The event will feature live music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere, celebrating the people who contribute to the community.

Attendees will enjoy a formal sit-down dinner, mingle with fellow guests, and support local initiatives in a night that blends elegance with fun and generosity. The Gala Ball will also honour the Charity Queen, awarded to the queen who raised the most money throughout the Harvest Festival, and Personality Queen, chosen by judges based on club and district representation, following a brunch and individual interviews held on the afternoon of the ball.

Home Hill Rotary Club President Alf Musumeci says the annual event provides a chance to nurture local talent and celebrate the achievements of young women in the community.

"It's a great way to showcase some of the young, upcoming women in our community," he said. "And they get the benefit of learning to mix, learning to make a speech, and it gives them confidence."

Organised by the Rotary Club in partnership with the Harvest Festival committee, the evening brings residents and visitors together to enjoy camaraderie and community spirit. A licensed bar will be available throughout the night, and guests are encouraged to dress formally to match the gala setting.

Event Details:
Date: Friday, 7th November 2025
Time: 6:30 pm to midnight – Dinner at 7 pm
Venue: Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $80

Grab your tickets now – Call Deslie on +61 408 822 029

For one elegant evening, Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall will sparkle with glamour and community spirit as guests gather for the Rotary Gala Ball. Photos supplied from the 2024 event

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King and Queen of the Hill Returns to Mount Inkerman

October 23, 2025

The King and Queen of the Hill event is back this Saturday, October 25, as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Runners will tackle the challenging course from the base of Mount Inkerman to the scenic lookout and back, testing both speed and endurance in a thrilling competition.

Competitors will be divided into multiple age group categories, giving runners of all levels the chance to claim the crown. Cash prizes will be awarded to winners, adding an extra incentive for those chasing glory.

The event is not just for participants. A coffee van and food stalls will be on site, providing refreshments as spectators enjoy the hilltop views and cheer on the runners. The combination of competition, community spirit, and breathtaking scenery makes for a memorable morning for locals and visitors alike.

Registration is available on the day, with the race starting at 6:00am and finishing by 8:00am. Whether aiming for the top or cheering from the sidelines, the King and Queen of the Hill promises an energetic and engaging addition to the Home Hill Harvest Festival lineup.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, 25th October 2025
Time: 6:00am – 8:00am
Venue: Mount Inkerman

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Paws, Prizes and Plenty of Fun at Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks

October 23, 2025

Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival.

Locals are encouraged to bring along their beloved pets—big or small—to compete in a range of fun categories, including Best Dressed, Fastest Eater, Most Unusual Pet, Waggiest Tail, and Best Trick. Awards will also be handed out for the best kept cat, dog, puppy, kitten, guinea pig, reptile, and bird.

Following the pet show, the excitement continues with the Bolt for Bucks, where kids can dash around the park in a spirited sprint for prizes. The event is always a festival favourite, blending community spirit with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.

The Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks will run from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Watson’s Green, with entry free for all. Families are invited to come along, enjoy the entertainment, and share in the fun of this much-loved Home Hill tradition.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, 5th November 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Venue: Watson’s Green
Cost: Free

Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Golf Ambrose Tees Up for Harvest Festival Fun

October 23, 2025

Golfers will swap the sidelines for the fairways on Sunday, November 2, as the Golf Ambrose returns to the Home Hill Harvest Festival lineup. The friendly nine-hole tournament promises a relaxed day on the greens, filled with competition, camaraderie, and plenty of laughs.

Teams of four can tee off between 10:00am and 3:00pm, with limited spots available. Entry is $25 per person, which includes a round of golf, a burger, and eligibility for prizes. Awards will be presented for the best overall team, best queen team, and best corporate team.

The Golf Ambrose welcomes players of all skill levels—from seasoned golfers chasing birdies to first-timers just looking for a fun day out. The event’s social, easygoing format makes it the perfect opportunity to connect with friends, colleagues, and fellow festival-goers while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Home Hill Golf Club.

Bookings are essential, with tee times filling fast. For more information or to secure your team’s place, contact Doug McCubben on 0417 072 570.

Event Details:
Date: Sunday, 2nd November 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm (limited tee times)
Venue: Home Hill Golf Club
Cost: $25 per person (includes golf, burger, and prizes)

Golfers will swap the sidelines for the fairways on Sunday, November 2, as the Golf Ambrose returns to the Home Hill Harvest Festival lineup. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Paws, Prizes and Plenty of Fun at Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks

October 23, 2025

Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival.

Locals are encouraged to bring along their beloved pets—big or small—to compete in a range of fun categories, including Best Dressed, Fastest Eater, Most Unusual Pet, Waggiest Tail, and Best Trick. Awards will also be handed out for the best kept cat, dog, puppy, kitten, guinea pig, reptile, and bird.

Following the pet show, the excitement continues with the Bolt for Bucks, where kids can dash around the park in a spirited sprint for prizes. The event is always a festival favourite, blending community spirit with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.

The Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks will run from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at Watson’s Green, with entry free for all. Families are invited to come along, enjoy the entertainment, and share in the fun of this much-loved Home Hill tradition.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, 5th November 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Venue: Watson’s Green
Cost: Free

Watson’s Green will come alive with wagging tails, laughter, and friendly competition on Wednesday, November 5, as the popular Pet Show and Bolt for Bucks return as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Meet Cass Arboit From Raine & Horne

October 23, 2025

Just 83 years young, Burdekin-born-and-raised Cass Arboit’s name is almost synonymous with Burdekin agriculture. Born into a family of Italian immigrants and raised on the family farm, the values of hard work, efficiency, and discipline formed the foundation of everything Cass would become.

Over a farming career spanning more than 50 years, Cass witnessed firsthand the evolution of rural life, from the pre-electricity era of the 1950s to today’s modern operations.

"We only got electricity in 1957, and mobile phones… well, we had to look up the road to our neighbours if you wanted to ring anyone," he recalls. "I still remember using kerosene lamps in the dark!"

Over the following decades, Cass not only farmed cane but also ran a successful agricultural contracting and machinery business, supplying tractors, farm equipment, and vehicles across Queensland. Alongside his professional work, he played an active role in the local community—serving for years as a director of Queensland Cane Growers and as a member and chairman of the Kalamia Cane Growers. He also lent his leadership to other organisations, including the school P&C and the Junior Farmers Organisation, leaving a lasting impact wherever he contributed.

He eventually made the jump into real estate, armed with a wealth of farming and agricultural knowledge that has helped him sell hundreds of properties over almost 20 years. Within the rural sector, Cass’s experience and expertise in soil, irrigation, and crops make him an invaluable resource for both vendors and buyers navigating important decisions about their land and future.

"I know irrigation, I know different waters. I know what soils grow good cane. I think I have an advantage because I've known the farming industry for 50 years," says Cass.

Outside of work, Cass enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, and tending his land. A passionate traveller, he has explored more than 20 countries—visiting family in Europe, exploring Brazil’s sunny coastline, or taking cruises—though he always returns to the Burdekin, the place he has proudly called home his entire life.

Within the rural sector, Cass’s experience and expertise in soil, irrigation, and crops make him an invaluable resource for both vendors and buyers navigating important decisions about their land and future. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Burdekin Organisations Honoured at Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Meeting

October 23, 2025

The Home Hill Rotary Club and Ayr/Home Hill Lions Club were both recognised at last Wednesday's Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting when they received official honorary memberships for their longstanding commitments to the Burdekin Shire.

"It's about honouring both the individuals and the clubs as a whole for the work they've done," said Home Hill Chamber president Uli Liessmann.

Alf Musumeci of the Home Hill Rotary Club and Nola Nendick of the Lions Club were both in attendance on the night, receiving a certificate to mark the feat. Both shared words with the audience, expressing their gratitude to both the Chamber and the community.

The meeting was well attended, with members of the Ayr community making the trip across the bridge to get involved. Liessman stressed the importance of bridging the gap between the two communities.

"We really want to get away from this Ayr-Home Hill separation," he said. "We're really happy to see so many people from Ayr starting to attend our meetings. It's so good to see the Burdekin combining."

"I want to try to keep building these meetings up until we get to a point where we have to start turning people away. It's all about getting people involved. We are the voice of the public."

The Home Hill Rotary Club and Ayr/Home Hill Lions Club were both recognised at last Wednesday's Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting when they received official honorary memberships for their longstanding commitments to the Burdekin Shire. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Active and Social Seniors Group Keeps Burdekin Residents Moving

October 23, 2025

Local seniors looking to stay active, healthy and connected can now join the Active and Social Seniors Group at the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, located at 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

Eligible participants can take part in individual rehabilitation or group exercise sessions delivered by Accredited Exercise Physiologists and Exercise Scientists in a welcoming, fully equipped environment. Each session is designed to promote strength, mobility and confidence while encouraging social interaction among members.

The program is partially funded through the Older People’s Action Program (OPAP), with a small participant fee of $7.50 per session. Seniors aged 60 and over, and First Nations Australians aged 55 and over, are eligible for OPAP support.

All sessions are supervised by Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs), who ensure exercises are tailored to each person’s goals and health conditions. The team focuses on evidence-based programs that prioritise safety, gradual progress, and sustainable health improvements.

The Active and Social Seniors Group offers support for a wide range of needs, including chronic disease management, post-surgery recovery, cardiac or cancer rehabilitation, arthritis and joint pain management, weight control, and improving strength, balance and cholesterol levels.

Places are limited, so interested residents are encouraged to contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health team to register their interest and secure a spot in the program.

Address: 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. P: 4783 2711 E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au F: www.facebook.com/bca1975

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BDK EVENT GUIDE 23 October

December 2, 2025

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER
King & Queen of the Hill
6am–8am
Race to the top of Inkerman Hill and back in this thrilling test of endurance. Multiple age categories, cash prizes, plus food and coffee vans on site. Register on the day.
Mount Inkerman

FRIDAY 31 OCTOBER
Cocktails & Convo with Award-Winning Author
Friday 6pm
Join Burdekin Readers & Writers Association and award-winning author (and former local), Kim Wilkins, for cocktails and conversation at their pop-up book bar. The author of more than twenty-five books, a Professor of Writing at the University of Queensland, Kim is coming to town to share drinks and talk writing, including her brilliant new historical fiction, The Secret Year of Zara Holt. Everyone is invited. Register at: www.burdekinraw.org.au/events to attend this one-off event and hear from a celebrated wordsmith.
148 Queen St, Ayr

SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER
Derby Day Races
Gates open 11:30am
Burdekin Race Club presents Derby Day—your traditional black and white fashions and quality racing event. Gather your friends for a classic day at the track.
Burdekin Race Club

SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER
Writing Workshop
Saturday 9am-3pm
Acclaimed author of over 25 books, and UoQ Professor of Writing, Kim Wilkins, will give a hands-on workshop to writers of all levels. Through practical exercises, you’ll learn how to balance Architecture of Story with Artistry of Writing, to take your writing to the next level! To register for this hotly anticipated event, visit www.burdekinraw.org.au/events. Numbers are strictly limited.
Memorial Hall (Green Room), Home Hill

Sunday 2 November
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER
Golf Ambrose
Time TBA
Grab your team for a friendly day on the greens. Whether a seasoned golfer or a novice, enjoy laughter, camaraderie and competition in this social Ambrose event.
Home Hill Golf Club

WEDNESDAY 5 NOVEMBER
Pet Show & Bolt for Bucks
6pm–9pm
Bring your pets to compete in fun categories, then watch the kids dash for prizes in the Bolt for Bucks race. A free family evening of laughter, furry friends and community spirit.
Watson’s Green
Cost: Free

FRIDAY 7 NOVEMBER
Rotary Gala Ball
6:30pm–midnight (Dinner 7pm)
Celebrate the Harvest Festival with a sit-down dinner, music and dancing. The evening crowns the Charity and Personality Queens, honouring community spirit and generosity.
Burdekin Memorial Hall
Cost: $80

SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station's front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill

SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Burdekin Art Society Exhibition
All day
Explore local talent at the Burdekin Art Society’s Art Exhibition during the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Featuring a vibrant display of artworks, the exhibition is set in the South Burdekin Water Board Building, across from Watson’s Green.
South Burdekin Water Board Building, 28 Ninth Street

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Ayr Bears Take Series Lead in Annual Inter-Town Rugby League

November 6, 2025

The Ayr Bears have gone one up in the Annual Inter-Town Rugby League series against Home Hill, part of the Town of Origin Harvest Festival celebrations. The series, now in its 11th year, sees the two towns compete across Rugby League, Cricket, and Netball.

On Sunday, Ayr won the Cricket 60–59, Home Hill claimed the Netball 40–17, with Krystal Kerr judged best player, and Ayr secured the Rugby League decider 32–4, giving the northern town a 6–5 advantage in the series.

Ayr fielded an experienced side compared to a young Home Hill team, which showed in the scoreboard. Bears coach Chris Perry, however, praised the efforts of two standout young players.

Under-18 half KJ Zaro impressed in both attack and defence, using his speed and willingness to take the ball into the line. He scored a try and kicked three goals for a personal tally of 10 points, earning him the Qld Country Credit Union Man of the Match. Under-18 hooker Harrison Lammon came off the bench to play a leading role, providing smart ball from dummy half and defending strongly.

Outside back Arlvaikasai left the crowd in awe, racing away for three tries, supported by Zaro. Other try-scorers for Ayr were Jones Munro, Caleb Noah, and KJ Zaro, while KJ kicked three goals and Caleb one. Home Hill’s only try came from Jules Arrate.

Coach Perry also praised young utility Justin Cursio for his determination and effort throughout the match.

Players are now looking forward to the rejuvenated Bendigo Bank Club of Origin on Saturday, 29 November at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr. Teams with connections to the Hornets, Colts, Home Hill, and Brothers clubs will compete for bragging rights and the Bendigo Bank Cup. A Ladies match between Ayr and Home Hill will also be held for the first time in around 60 years. The Club of Origin launch will take place at the Queens Hotel on Saturday, 15 November.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Burdekin Clay Target Club Hosts Successful October Shoot

October 23, 2025

The Burdekin Clay Target Club held another successful shoot on Sunday, 12th October, with 28 shooters taking part. The club thanks sponsors Michael and Susy Populin and Torri Davies from Home Hill Engineering, and acknowledges Lui Populin for his continued support in donating meat trays for the raffle. The next shoot is scheduled for Sunday, 9th November.

Event 1, the 25 Target Single Barrel, saw AA Grade winners Phillip Scalia, Benji Micallef and Aaron Lemphers achieve a perfect 15/15, while A Grade was topped by Ron Clive, Bruce McBow and John Cerqui on 14/15. B Grade honours went to Pedro Le Blowitz with 14/15, followed by John Kinnimonth with 13/15, and C Grade was taken by David Russell on 13/15, with Alf Gangemi second on 12/15.

The 30 Target Double Barrel Championship 15m, sponsored by Michael and Susy Populin, produced a perfect score of 58/58 from Alex Scalia in the Open division, with Phillip Scalia taking AA Grade on 57/58 and Alex Scalia also topping A Grade. B Grade went to John Kinnimonth with 28/30, and C Grade to Alf Gangemi with 28/32.

In the 25 Target Double Barrel Handicap, Larry Archer claimed first place with 29/30, followed by Lindsay Groat on 33/35 and John Kinnimonth on 32/35. The 25 Target Burdekin Mixed Target Championship 15m, sponsored by Home Hill Engineering, was dominated by Lindsay Groat, who won both the Open and AA Grades on 34/35. John Cerqui took A Grade on 32/35, Chantal Micallef claimed B Grade with 32/35, and Blake Heffernan won C Grade on 31/35.

The 10 Pair Double Rise 15m event saw AA Grade won by Phillip Scalia on 17/20, with Lindsay Groat second on 16/20. Tony Caruso won A Grade on 16/20, with Glen Rea and Greg Maltby sharing second on 15/20. B Grade went to Larry Archer with 14/20, followed by Mark Simpson on 13/20, and C Grade honours were shared between Ron Clive, Chantal Micallef and David Russell on 15/20.

Raffle prizes, generously donated by Lui Populin, were won by Tony Caruso, Gina Calligaro and Lui Populin himself.

Contributed with thanks to Sylvvia Rossato

Event 2-30 Target Burdekin Double Barrel Championship 15m Sponsored by Michael & Susy Populin
Phillip Scalia, Alex Scalia, Lui Populin, John Kinnimonth, Alf Gangemi

Event 3- 25 Target Handicap
Larry Archer, Linsday Groat, John Kinnimonth

Event 4-25 Target Burdekin Mixed Target Championship 15m, Sponsored by Home Hill Engineering
Lindsay Groat, John Chequi, Chantal Micallef, Blake Heffernan

Raffle Winners, Donated by Lui Populin
Tony Caruso, Gina Calligaro, Lui Populin

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Ayr Hospital CT Scanner a Step Closer: Dale Last Welcomes “Giant Leap Forward”

October 15, 2025

The inclusion of the Ayr Hospital on a list of 11 locations receiving significant medical imaging upgrades signals another major step forward on the delivery of a CT Scanner at the facility, according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

“It has been a long fight to get to where we are today and I know there will be, literally, thousands of people in the community who will be extremely happy that the project has taken a giant leap forward,” Mr Last said. “Having Premier Crisafulli and the Health Minister commit the funding means work can get underway in earnest.”

“There was never any doubt that the government would deliver on our commitment, but I was concerned that there may be delays due to the state of our health system statewide. Our government was left with a health system full of cost blow-outs and unfunded promises that we needed to address to ensure Queenslanders can access medical services in their time of need.”

“As we have said since we began the campaign for the CT Scanner at Ayr, this project will not just boost health services here in the Burdekin, it will actually help take pressure off the Townsville University Hospital as well. Unfortunately, both of those benefits were overlooked by the previous government but, every time they knocked us back, the community united even more to back this project.”

Mr Last said the progress made on the project in the last 12 months was in stark contrast to what had been seen in the preceding three years and was a credit to a long list of locals.

“Since the Community Advisory Network first raised the issue with me, I could see that this was equipment our community didn’t just need, it was equipment we needed,” Mr Last said. “We went from basically being told there wasn’t enough demand to being told it was an important project but, despite that, it wasn’t funded by the previous government.”

“We endured three frustrating years of being given excuses, responding to those and then being handed another excuse. In the last 12 months, by contrast, we’ve seen planning commence, the Minister engage directly with local staff and now, the funding we need to make this project a reality.”

“Facilities like these do take time to come on-line because it is specialised equipment and we need to make sure that we get it right to ensure the best outcomes for patients and local staff. I’ll keep the celebrating for the opening of the facility but the progress that has been made since the election is staggering.”

“It has taken a joint effort with thousands of locals supporting my petition because this is a logical project. Once complete, it’s up to 15 less Ambulance trips a week, hundreds of staff hours saved and better health services for everyone from newborns right through to the elderly.”

“Because we have staff here that are already trained, I know the CT Scanner will make an impact from day one. It will be a great asset for our local staff as they work hard to save lives and improve quality of life and that makes the fight well and truly worth it.”

Premier David Crisafulli said the investment will help deliver faster and more accessible healthcare for Queenslanders, particularly in rural and regional areas.

“We are delivering easier access to health services so Queenslanders have the care they need, when they need it most,” Premier Crisafulli said.

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Adopt A Dog Day!

October 15, 2025

Pets Domain Ayr hosted a heartwarming and tail wagging morning last Saturday, the 11th of October for Pets Domain’s Adopt-A-Dog Day!

A joint effort between Pets Domain Ayr, Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. and Pets Domain Bowen, the day saw plenty of the community’s amazing foster carers and volunteers come together to meet several fun-loving rescue pups searching for their forever homes. Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue were extremely grateful to the community for showing up to the event and cannot thank attendees enough for their donations and support.

“What a beautiful day! Thank you to our amazing fosters and volunteers, the teams at Pets Domain Ayr and Pets Domain Bowen, and the public who showed up to meet our rescues and donate,” shared Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue.

The day saw six brave rescue dogs, Poppy, Maisie, Max, Narlyn, Zephyr and Ninja, capture the hearts of locals, with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue urging the community to reach out to inquire about adoption, fostering, or volunteer opportunities via emailing bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.

1. To inquire about adopting or fostering Poppy, email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com (Photo Supplied)

2. To inquire about adopting or fostering Maisie, email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

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