Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Ayr Seventh-day Adventist Church will mark a significant milestone on 16 May 2026, celebrating 100 years since the official opening and dedication of its original church building. While a small congregation of Seventh-day Adventists had been meeting in members’ homes throughout the early 1920s, the anniversary specifically commemorates the opening of the church building dedicated on Saturday, 15 May 1926. The church’s history reflects the determination and faith of the early Burdekin Adventist community. In 1925, land was purchased on the corner of Parker and Wilmington Streets in Ayr, where the church still stands today. Soon after, members located a former blacksmith’s shop in Charters Towers that was suitable for conversion into a church. The building was dismantled, transported to Ayr by rail, and re-erected during March 1926 before its official opening two months later. A weekend of celebrations is planned to honour the centenary. Events begin on Friday evening, 15 May, with a meet-and-greet and soup and buns in the church hall. Sabbath celebrations on Saturday will include a history presentation, worship service, and guest speaker Pastor Simon Gigliotti, President of the Northern Australian Conference. Following lunch, attendees will share memories and witness the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Celebrations conclude on Sunday morning with a pancake breakfast at Ayr Anzac Park. Church members say the congregation continues to play an important role in the Burdekin through worship services, Bible study groups, health and wellbeing programs, community food assistance, and disaster relief support through ADRA. All are welcome to attend the centenary celebrations.
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Queensland’s push to kick-start a domestic biofuels industry could unlock significant new opportunities for the Burdekin’s sugarcane sector, according to CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan. Mr Galligan welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s recent $25 million investment into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, describing it as an important first step towards building a stronger and more resilient economy while paving the way for future growth across regional industries. “While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said. Queensland’s sugar industry has long advocated for the expansion of a domestic biofuels sector, with the potential to significantly increase ethanol production, generate more green electricity through sugar mills and eventually produce advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel. With the Burdekin recognised as one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing regions, Mr Galligan said local growers could play a major role in helping power Queensland’s renewable fuel future. “This is about more than cleaner energy – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment,” he said. “It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.” Mr Galligan said ensuring sugarcane remained central to future biofuel production would be critical to delivering the industry at scale and strengthening long-term opportunities for regional Queensland communities. The announcement comes amid growing national discussions around fuel security, regional manufacturing and reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel supplies. In recent weeks, the Queensland Government announced plans to strengthen the State’s fuel security through expanded local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additional infrastructure opportunities at ports across Queensland. Official expressions of interest have also opened under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry proposals for fuel refining and storage projects on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane. Member for Burdekin, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the focus was now on future-proofing the industry and creating long-term opportunities. "We know what the challenges are and I’m looking at the opportunities going forward, because that's where we can make the greatest change and get the most benefit," Mr Last said. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said recent fuel shortages had exposed critical gaps in Australia’s fuel storage capacity, particularly for regional and agricultural communities. “This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said. “We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.” CANEGROWERS said it would continue working with government and industry partners to ensure momentum in the biofuels sector translates into practical outcomes for growers and regional communities across Queensland. CAPTION: CANEGROWERS says Queensland’s growing biofuels industry could create major new opportunities for Burdekin cane growers. Photo source: CANEGROWERS
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Be Empowered Disability Services believes mobility should never be a barrier to independence. Whether it’s a weekend escape, essential medical appointments, or a long-awaited family road trip, accessible transport can make the difference between staying home and staying connected. BeEmpowered Disability Services provides a wheelchair-accessible van hire service designed to deliver comfort, flexibility, and confidence on the road. Built on the reliable Toyota Hiace Commuter platform, the van is a spacious and versatile solution tailored to your specific needs. It features a flexible seating configuration and is equipped with a heavy-duty hoist, designed to accommodate extra-large width manual or motorised wheelchairs of up to 350 kilograms. Despite its specialist equipment, the vehicle remains simple to operate, featuring automatic transmission and requiring only a standard car licence. The van comes equipped with a disability parking permit, and has no kilometre limits. Rates start at just $150 per day, while those planning a longer trip are offered a “seven-day block” for $900, effectively providing one day free for longer bookings. For extended needs, BeEmpowered is happy to discuss long-term hire rates by negotiation. Experience the comfort and reliability of Be Empowered Disability Services and get where you need to go with less hassle. CAPTION: Built on the reliable Toyota Hiace Commuter platform, the van is a spacious and versatile solution tailored to your specific needs. Photo supplied
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Queensland is seeing a surge in construction apprenticeships, with the State Government claiming new figures show progress in addressing long-standing workforce shortages impacting major infrastructure and housing projects across regions including the Burdekin Shire. According to the Government, more than 10,000 new apprentices have begun training across Queensland so far this financial year, including almost 3,000 in construction trades — representing a 27.4 per cent increase in the sector. The State has also recorded a high number of apprenticeship completions in 2025, with nearly 13,000 Queenslanders now qualified and ready to enter the workforce. The increase comes as Queensland continues to prepare for a major pipeline of infrastructure and construction projects in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, alongside ongoing demand for housing and regional development. Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the figures were encouraging but acknowledged more work was still needed to address workforce shortages. “Labor left us a skills shortage with a predicted peak the size of an empty Suncorp Stadium but there are promising signs we’re getting the workforce back on track and building a pipeline of tradies who’ll help deliver our generational infrastructure program,” Minister Bates said. “We are delivering the initiatives and incentives to draw more young Queenslanders into trades and taking the CFMEU’s boot off the construction industry’s throat so future workers feel safe going to work. “Whether it’s infrastructure for the 2032 Games, health projects or the thousands of homes we’re unlocking for Queenslanders, we are building the Queensland of the future and creating the pathways for anybody who wants to help us do so.” The government said programs like the free Career Taster initiative through TAFE Queensland are also helping introduce Year 10 students to priority industries including construction and healthcare. CAPTION: Queensland’s construction sector is seeing a rise in apprenticeship commencements as the State Government looks to address ongoing skills shortages across regional areas including the Burdekin. Photo source: Burdekin TAFE New apprenticeship figures released by the Queensland Government show growing numbers of young Queenslanders entering construction and trade pathways ahead of major future infrastructure projects. Photo source: Burdekin TAFE
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The Lower Burdekin Scout Group brought the spirit of Christmas to Home Hill on Christmas Eve, hosting a free meal for lonely or homeless members of the community at the Home Hill Bowls Club.
Held at the popular local venue, the dinner provided more than just a hot meal, offering a welcoming space filled with conversation, music and festive cheer. Scouts and volunteers worked together from the early stages, setting tables with Christmas decorations, arranging cutlery and preparing the venue before guests arrived. As final preparations were made, young Scouts took on cooking duties, proudly contributing to the evening’s success.
Members of the Uniting Church joined Scouts on the night to help serve food and lead Christmas carols, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. In total, around 36 people, including guests and helpers, shared in the dinner, companionship and singing, making for a memorable Christmas Eve.
This marked the first time the Lower Burdekin Scout Group has organised a Christmas Eve dinner of this kind. Organisers said the experience, combined with the overwhelming goodwill shown by the wider community, has laid strong foundations for the event to grow in coming years, with hopes of an even bigger and better gathering planned for December 2026.
The Scout Group extended heartfelt thanks to the many local organisations, businesses and individuals whose generous donations, time and support helped make the free Christmas Eve meal possible, highlighting the strength of community spirit across the Burdekin.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night in 12th Ave Home Hill, 5–7 years meet 4-00 to 5-00pm and 8-18 years meet 5-30 to 7-30pm. People can come along for four weeks free to Try Scouting by contacting Rikki on 0419 104 035.
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group brought the spirit of Christmas to Home Hill on Christmas Eve, hosting a free meal for lonely or homeless members of the community at the Home Hill Bowls Club. Photo supplied
As the state heads into storm, cyclone and monsoon season, emergency authorities are reminding residents that preparing your home ahead of time is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and property.
Preparing early can significantly reduce damage, stress and risk during severe weather events. It also forms a key part of the Get Ready Queensland campaign, which encourages households to be disaster-ready well before warnings are issued.
A good place to start is general home maintenance. Residents are urged to check the condition of their roof, repairing loose tiles, eaves and screws, and to clean gutters and downpipes so water can drain away quickly during heavy rainfall. Trimming trees and overhanging branches can prevent damage in high winds, while securing loose outdoor items such as furniture, toys and garden equipment can stop them becoming dangerous projectiles.
Households should also take time to prepare for emergencies more broadly. This includes checking that home, contents and car insurance policies are current and provide adequate cover, including debris clean-up and disposal. Identifying the strongest room in the house - usually a small room with few or no windows - can be crucial if residents need to shelter indoors during a severe storm or cyclone. Knowing how to turn off water, electricity and gas mains is also essential.
Emergency essentials should be purchased and kept on hand, including containers for drinking water, spare fuel stored safely, wide masking tape for windows, and sandbags or hessian bags to prevent sewerage backflow through indoor drains during flooding.
For those living in flood-prone areas, additional precautions are recommended. Poisons should be stored well above ground level, and residents should plan which indoor items may need to be raised or moved if floodwaters threaten. Longer-term considerations, such as alternative flooring to carpet and raising power points and electrical sockets, can further reduce damage.
Homes in cyclone or severe storm-prone areas may benefit from window shutters or metal screens, and residents are encouraged to have a professional builder assess their home’s structural strength and recommend improvements to better withstand high winds.
When severe weather warnings are issued, preparation steps become critical. Authorities advise disconnecting electrical appliances and external aerials, securing outdoor items, filling baths and buckets with clean water, and parking vehicles under cover where possible. Families should shelter together in the strongest room with their emergency kit close by, and stay informed by tuning into local radio for updates and safety advice.
Emergency services stress that the best time to prepare your home is before disaster season begins. Taking action now can help families stay safe, reduce damage and recover more quickly when severe weather strikes.
Historic flooding in the Burdekin and Haughton catchments has shaped the region's resilience over time. Photo source: QLD Government
During the wet season, there is no shortage of water flowing through the Burdekin and Haughton catchments. Photo supplied
Residents still recount 1989's Severe Tropical Cyclone Aivu to be the worst weather system to hit the region. Photo supplied
Donnington Airpark will come alive this winter as aviation and motoring enthusiasts unite for a special Wings & Wheels fundraising event in support of Angel Flight Australia.
The event will be held on Sunday, the 28th of June, from 8am to 12pm at Donnington Airpark, following strong community feedback from last year’s gathering. Organisers have opted to trial a winter event this year, hoping cooler conditions will encourage even more aircraft, cars, motorbikes and trucks to attend.
With a $10 donation per vehicle, all funds raised will go directly to Angel Flight Australia, a non-government funded charity that provides free flights for people living in remote and regional areas who need to travel long distances to access essential medical care.
Adding to the day’s momentum, the Townsville Ford Enthusiast Club will be supporting the event through promotion and fundraising efforts. The club will also host a pre-meet at the OOM Service Station in Wulguru, before cruising out to the airpark together.
Open to all makes and models, Wings & Wheels promises a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere celebrating machines on land and in the air, all while supporting a cause that makes a real difference.
Organisers are encouraging the community to mark the date, polish their pride and joy, and help make this winter trial a standout success for Angel Flight.
What: Wings & Wheels for Angel Flight
When: Sunday 28th June
Where: Donnington Airpark
A colourful display of aircraft, cars and motorbikes will fill Donnington Airpark this June. Photo supplied
Pets Domain Ayr is set to welcome animal lovers for a heartwarming Dog Adoption Day and Sausage Sizzle later this month, giving locals the chance to support rescue animals while enjoying a relaxed community event.
Held in conjunction with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, the adoption day will take place on Saturday, the 17th of January, from 10am to 2pm at Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street.
The event will feature a range of friendly rescue dogs who are searching for their forever homes. Attendees are encouraged to come along, meet the dogs, ask questions of the dedicated rescue volunteers and learn more about the adoption process. For those not quite ready to adopt, the day also offers an opportunity to show support, spread awareness and enjoy a classic sausage sizzle.
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue works tirelessly to rehome abandoned, surrendered and at-risk dogs, relying heavily on community support, volunteers and fundraising events like this one. Adoption days not only help find loving homes but also play a vital role in educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of rescue.
Whether you are looking to welcome a new furry family member or simply want to support animal welfare in the region, organisers say everyone is welcome. And who knows — you may just leave with a new best friend!
What: Pet Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle
When: Saturday 17th January
Where: Pets Domain Ayr
Pets Domain Ayr will join forces with Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue to give rescue dogs new homes next Saturday! Photo source: Unsplash
Australia’s manufacturing sector is being steadily weakened under the Albanese Labor Government, not through a single bad decision, but through a pattern of failure. What we are seeing now is not economic management. It is crisis containment. Labor is applying band-aids to a bullet wound, and taxpayers are being handed the bill.
The Government’s decision to bail out Tomago Aluminium is the latest example. This is the same Tomago Aluminium facility Anthony Albanese has been promising to protect for decades. Rather than delivering on those promises by fixing the underlying problem, affordable and reliable energy, Labor has chosen another bailout to paper over the consequences of its own policies.
On 12 December 2025, the Prime Minister announced that Tomago Aluminium would continue operating beyond the end of its current energy contract in 2028. That is welcome news for workers, their families, and the Hunter region. But bailouts are not a solution. They are an admission of failure.
This deal follows a disturbing pattern, as 2025 became the year of government bailouts. A $2.4 billion taxpayer rescue of Whyalla Steelworks. Then interventions in Hobart and Port Pirie. In Queensland, a bailout to keep Glencore’s copper smelting operations afloat, and now, Tomago in NSW. A pattern of failure across the country.
Labor’s energy policy is now so broken that major manufacturers cannot survive without taxpayer life support.
Under the Albanese Labor Government, power prices are up by around 40 per cent. Families are paying roughly $1,300 more on their annual electricity bills. Business investment is stalling. Manufacturing competitiveness is collapsing. And instead of fixing the root causes, high energy prices, punitive regulation, and policy uncertainty, Labor is asking taxpayers to underwrite failure.
Corporate bailouts do not address these issues. They merely delay the reckoning. They are hospital passes that disguise Labor’s failure to confront its own terrible trifecta: soaring energy prices, high taxes, and rigid regulation.
Labor’s broader economic mismanagement compounds the problem. Reckless federal spending has fuelled inflation, pushing up costs across the economy. For energy-intensive industries like manufacturing, that pressure is relentless. When even global multinationals are struggling to operate in Australia, the question must be asked: what chance do our small and medium-sized manufacturers have?
Australia has already reduced emissions at almost double the rate of the developed world since 2005. Yet to meet Labor’s Net Zero 2050 target, emissions reductions would need to double again. Labor is setting targets it cannot realistically meet, at a cost Australia cannot afford.
The result is exactly what we are seeing today: electricity prices spiralling upwards, businesses shutting down or moving offshore, and a nation increasingly reliant on taxpayer-funded bailouts delivered through opaque mechanisms like the National Reconstruction Fund and the so-called Future Made in Australia agenda.
Australians deserve a cheaper, better and fairer solution. They deserve affordable power, responsible emissions reduction, and an energy policy grounded in reality, not ideology. The Coalition believes we can achieve emissions reduction without sacrificing competitiveness, jobs, or living standards; but affordable energy must come first.
Our plan delivers a practical pathway to lower power prices, long-term energy security, and responsible environmental outcomes.
Australians have been let down by this Government. What they need now is a circuit breaker on energy costs and leadership that fixes the system instead of subsidising its failure. That is what the Coalition offers, and that is what Australian manufacturing urgently needs.
Andrew Willcox MP calls for affordable power and leadership as Labor resorts to bailouts across Australia. Photo supplied
2025 now sitting fairly in our tailwinds, this week will see many of us have a chance to come together for the festive season.
As the Member for Burdekin I have the privilege of witnessing the best of humanity in this community,
especially at Christmas time. Each year we see residents take the time to donate to our local
community organisations who provide hampers of non-perishable goods, toys for children or a hot
meal to enjoy on Christmas Day. We also see the generosity of this community in the simple acts- the
time we take to check in on our neighbours a smile or simple gesture of kindness to a stranger. It is
this level of generosity that we must continue to strive for beyond the festive season.
A year that started with much of our state facing significant flooding has brought with it challenges
and opportunities for the betterment of our community.
While our neighbours in the north bared much of the brunt of monsoonal rainfall in February, it is safe to say the Burdekin was not left unscathed. As flood waters receded and our community faced its
own clean-up we saw businesses step up to prepare extra meals and provide essential services while
our emergency services volunteers showed utmost dedication in our community’s darkest hours.
Our ability as a community to advocate for better access to health, improvement of our safety or
providing certainty for projects that matter to us has meant that in the Crisafulli Government’s first year the Ayr Hospital is looking forward to a new CT scanner, crime deterring measures are now in place in our CBD and major steps forward have been taken in the delivery of new facilities at Burdekin Netball.
Before we turn the chapter to 2026 and begin the rush of a new year I hope you and your family have
the chance to enjoy the festive season. Spend time with those you love and celebrate all that 2025
has had to offer while looking towards opportunities for the new year.
If you are packing the car and heading off on a road trip please drive safely and remember the fatal
five. With the festive season coinciding with the North’s severe weather season, it’s a timely reminder to ensure your home is prepared.
My office will be closed from December 22 and will re-open January 5.
Above all else, I’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.
Yours
Dale
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As we wrap up another big year, I’d like to take a moment to wish everyone in our community a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.
This time of year is a wonderful opportunity to connect with family and friends, enjoy the festive season, and reflect on the achievements and challenges of the past twelve months.
If you’re travelling over the holidays, please take extra care on the roads. Plan ahead, drive safely, and look out for one another so everyone can arrive home safely.
The new year is just around the corner, bringing a fresh start and new opportunities. Whether you’re setting resolutions, starting new projects, or simply looking forward to a positive beginning, I hope 2026 is a year of growth, health, and success for you.
Wishing everyone a joyful Christmas and a bright start to the new year.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
The festive season has reached its peak in the Burdekin, with the Community Christmas Carols and the Burdekin Chamber Christmas Street Party lighting up the region as Christmas Day draws near.
With carols ringing through the region and locals packing the streets of Ayr CBD, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort says there's no place that does Christmas quite like the Burdekin.
"Christmas in the Burdekin is unique because of its country spirit, [which] truly reflects the heart of our community," said Mayor Dalle Cort.
"Our warm weather, strong community spirit and pride in our Burdekin create a festive season that is centred on connection, generosity and spending quality time with family, friends, and neighbours."
Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/23n6a2bc
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort poses with Santa as Christmas festivities ramp up around the region. Photo credit: Saskia Photography courtesy of Burdekin Shire Council
The Burdekin is expected to see an uptick in housing and business development after Council's adoption of a new Economic Stimulus Policy which will reduce infrastructure costs for new developments.
The policy, approved at the council meeting on Tuesday, the 25th of November 2025, is designed to support new businesses and housing developments in getting off the ground, attracting investment, creating jobs, and increasing housing options across the region.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the move is an important step in supporting the Burdekin community.
“We want to ensure the Burdekin remains an attractive place for investment and development,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“By reducing infrastructure costs for new projects, we are creating opportunities for business growth, housing development and job creation, which will benefit our entire community.”
Council currently charges infrastructure fees to maintain services and avoid burdening ratepayers with the costs of major infrastructure projects. However, officials say balancing these charges with competitive development costs is crucial for growth.
The new policy sets out a consistent and transparent process for developers to apply for incentives or reductions in fees, aligning with the Council’s Corporate Plan 2025–2030 goals. These include supporting business growth, workforce development, diversifying the economy, and boosting housing availability and affordability.
The policy update is the latest of a string of measures that have positioned the shire for major residential growth, following last month's announcement of significant RAF funding expected to bring more than 350 houses to the region.
The Burdekin is expected to see an uptick in housing and business development after Council's adoption of a new Economic Stimulus Policy which will reduce infrastructure costs for new developments. Photo source: Shutterstock
Burdekin workers are facing job losses after Wilmar Sugar and Renewables confirmed redundancies across its North Queensland mills just weeks before Christmas.
“After careful consideration, Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has implemented organisational changes to ensure our structure and workforce reflect current business needs,” a Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesperson said.
“These changes have been necessary to improve alignment with our business objectives and ensure the sustainability of our cost base in the current operating environment.”
According to a Townsville Bulletin report, a source employed at one of Wilmar’s North Queensland mills said the recent redundancies are part of a $50 million operations cost-cutting plan actioned by the company. Wilmar Sugar did not confirm or deny the figure when asked.
The spokesperson added that the business “explored potential redeployment of employees within the company” but was “unable to find suitable redeployment opportunities in all cases,” with a small number of employees leaving as a result.
“We continue to prioritise safety, operational and financial performance, and are now focused on positioning the business strongly for the production season ahead,” the spokesperson said.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables operates eight sugar mills across North Queensland, employing over 2,000 staff during the annual sugar production season. Its Burdekin mills—Invicta, Kalamia, Inkerman and Pioneer—are among the largest in the region, producing a significant portion of Australia’s sugar output.
According to modelled Small Area Labour Market estimates from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, unemployment in the Burdekin remains below the state and national averages, but the latest Wilmar Sugar redundancies are expected to have an impact on the local workforce, given the company’s role as a major regional employer.
Burdekin workers are facing job losses after Wilmar Sugar and Renewables confirmed redundancies across its North Queensland mills just weeks before Christmas. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar via LinkedIn
Queensland Police are ramping up efforts to keep Burdekin roads safe this festive season as part of the state’s annual Christmas and New Year blitz, Operation X-Ray Mistletoe. With 289 lives already lost on Queensland roads in 2025, police are warning motorists that safe choices are crucial.
"Most police will agree that delivering a death notification to a family is the hardest task an officer can perform. I don’t want any of my officers to have that burden this Christmas," said Sgt. Lisa Shields, Officer in Charge at Ayr Police Station.
Sgt. Shields said the operation will see increased patrols across the Burdekin, with a particular focus on the “Fatal 5” offences–speeding, drink and drug driving, driver fatigue, dangerous driving, and failing to wear seatbelts.
"Within the Burdekin, the community will see an increase in police presence, more static RBT sites, and officers patrolling the Bruce Highway," Sgt. Shields said.
Water Police and Fisheries will also increase patrols on local waterways, targeting unsafe boating behaviour during the holiday period.
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski underscored the human cost of road trauma at the launch of Operation X-Ray Mistletoe, where a Christmas tree displayed 289 baubles—each representing a life lost on Queensland roads this year.
"These are just not numbers–these represent a parent, child, partner, mate," Commissioner Gollschewski said.
"Their absence is permanent and has profound impacts on their loved ones’ lives."
Sgt. Shields said Ayr Police are aiming for zero fatalities in the Burdekin this Christmas—a target they successfully achieved last year.
"We are committed to keeping our community safe and ensuring everyone is able to spend the holidays with their loved ones," she said.
"I encourage everyone to act responsibly, respect the conditions, and follow rules to prevent tragedies."
The operation begins on 13 December and will continue across the holiday period, with thousands of roadside and on-water tests planned, supported by specialist officers, mobile patrols, and targeted enforcement in high-risk locations across the state.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Adam Guild reiterated the importance of responsible choices for every road user.
"We know that most Queenslanders do the right thing, and I thank those road users who make responsible choices," he said.
"But for those putting themselves, and other road users, at risk–police will be ready to respond the moment you make that choice."
QPS to increase patrols on local roads and waterways this festive season as part of Operation X-Ray Mistletoe. Photo source: QPS
If you've shopped in Woolworths lately and heard an angelic chorus in the next aisle... no, you weren't dreaming.
For the last three weeks, the Home Hill Choral Society has been spreading Christmas cheer to all corners of the supermarket with soulful renditions of classic Christmas carols in what has become a tradition over recent festive seasons.
"We look forward to it every year," said group member Erin Brennan.
"We just enjoy singing... and aim to spread the message of joy."
The group spreads out, popping up in different positions of the store for around an hour each night, offering a peaceful soundtrack to the otherwise frantic last-minute Christmas shopping.
"Some people like to get involved... Others go a different direction," laughed Brennan.
The performances round off a successful year for the Choral Society, which produced and performed four original shows, all of which played to full houses at The Vault in Home Hill. Crowd favourites included the Italian-themed Viva L'Italia, a mix of classic Italian anthems and the group's signature comedy sketches, and 2025—The Year That Was, which combined the Burdekin's favourite songs and sketches from the past year.
The group also accompanied global opera star Paul Tabone during his Viva Pavarotti show at the Burdekin Theatre in September.
The Choral society remains optimistic of more success heading into the new year, with a Neil Diamond tribute in the works to kick 2026 off in style. Further details are not yet available.
For the last three weeks, the Home Hill Choral Society has been spreading Christmas cheer to all corners of the supermarket with soulful renditions of classic Christmas carols in what has become a tradition over recent festive seasons. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The group spreads out, popping up in different positions of the store for around an hour each night, offering a peaceful soundtrack to the otherwise frantic last-minute Christmas shopping. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Choral society remains optimistic of more success heading into the new year, with a Neil Diamond tribute in the works to kick 2026 off in style. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce tied a bow on 2025 at the Home Hill Bowls Club last Wednesday, using its final Social and Networking Event of the year to promote stronger community affiliatio nacross the Burdekin.
The Christmas-themed gathering proved to be a spirited social occasion, with energetic carolling by the Home Hill Choral Society setting the tone for a night of little structure but valuable connection.
Chamber president Uli Liessmann said it was a positive end to the year despite lower-than-usual attendance.
“Just having everyone there, sitting around the table and talking, it was good to see,” Liessmann said.
During the meeting, Liessmann announced plans to incorporate a new segment—titled My Story—into Chamber meetings moving forward. The segment will see one member share a personal monologue detailing their own story, alternating between Ayr and Home Hill residents at each meeting.
He described it as an opportunity to strengthen bonds between members and further connect the Home Hill and Ayr communities.
Liessmann highlighted the social integration of the two Burdekin towns as a key focus of his tenure as president since being sworn in earlier this year, saying significant strides had already been made.
“Having the Burdekin Chamber showing interest in our Chamber meetings has been a big plus,” he said.
“The Burdekin is not big enough to have these separations. We’re much stronger when we unite.”
Liessmann said he was committed to facilitating the Home Hill Chamber’s steady growth in the new year and encouraged anyone interested to attend.
“You don’t have to be in business to attend a meeting—we want as many people as possible to come along, especially more young people and more women,” he said.
“We are the voice of the community, so we want to be as diverse as possible.”
An energetic carolling by the Home Hill Choral Society setting the tone for a night of little structure but valuable connection. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce used its final Social and Networking Event of the year to promote stronger community connection across the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin Shire Council has extended the nomination period for this year’s Senior Cultural Award and Citizen of the Year until Wednesday, 7 January 2026, allowing the community additional time to honour individuals who have made a lasting contribution to the region.
These honours form part of the council’s longstanding Australia Day Awards program, which has recognised community champions in the Burdekin for over 40 years.
The Citizen of the Year award recognises individuals demonstrating exceptional service to the local community, with 2025 recipient Scott McLean honoured for more than a decade of volunteering with youth at the Rock Solid Boxing Club in Home Hill.
The Senior Cultural Award honours residents aged 60 and over who have made an outstanding contribution to arts, culture, or heritage, with Irene Richards receiving the award in 2024.
Council encourages residents, community groups, and organisations to submit nominations, noting that the awards play an important role in celebrating dedication, service, and commitment that help shape the Burdekin.
“Recognition isn’t just about awards,” a Council spokesperson said. “It’s about honouring those who give their time, skills, and passion to make the Burdekin a better place for everyone.”
For more information about eligibility and to submit nominations, visit: https://bit.ly/AusDay2026_Info or complete the nomination form at: https://bit.ly/AusDay2026_NominationForm.
Council is asking the community to share this opportunity widely to ensure deserving individuals receive the recognition they deserve.
2025 Australia Day Award winners and nominees, on stage celebrating so many achievements in the community. Photo credit: Burdekin Life Newspaper
Burdekin Tourism Volunteers gathered on Saturday, 6 December, for their annual Christmas Party, marking another successful year of promoting the region to visitors.
From January to November this year, volunteers at the Ayr and Home Hill Visitor Information Centres welcomed more than 10,500 visitors, with July being the busiest month—Ayr assisting 994 visitors and Home Hill 731.
The centres are staffed by a dedicated team of 33 volunteers, who work seven days a week providing maps, directions, local business recommendations, regional information, and the popular Driver Reviver service.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort acknowledged volunteers who reached significant service milestones: Donna Boccalatte and Heather Todman for 10 years, and Barbara Sullivan for 15 years.
“Our Visitor Information Centres are often the first point of contact for travellers, and the friendly faces of our volunteers make a lasting impression,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “Their knowledge and passion for the region help visitors experience the very best of what the Burdekin has to offer.”
Burdekin Shire Council expressed its gratitude to all tourism volunteers for their commitment and invaluable contribution to the local tourism industry and community.
Volunteering at the Visitor Information Centres offers a rewarding way to share local knowledge, meet new people, and help visitors enjoy the Burdekin, from greeting guests and answering questions to offering a cup of tea or coffee as part of Driver Reviver.
Residents interested in becoming a volunteer can contact Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or via email at tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
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