Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Chelsea Ravizza What began as a passion project for Home Hill's Jonathan Caspanello has evolved into a successful fashion and lifestyle brand, with the 23-year-old entrepreneur crediting his regional upbringing for helping shape both the business and the person behind it. “It [Home Hill] was the kind of community where everyone got around each other, supported one another and celebrated each other's successes, and those values have stayed with me throughout my life and continue to influence both who I am and the way I approach business today,” he said. Since launching Caspa Collective at just 21-years-old, Jono has grown the label into a recognised brand with a strong social media presence, loyal customer base and a growing community of supporters. After moving to Brisbane to complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University, following in the footsteps of his mother, Kavette, Jono discovered a passion for fashion, branding and content creation while working as a teacher aide. “I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Whether it was ideas, projects or content, I liked bringing something from imagination into reality,” he said. His entrepreneurial journey began close to home, inspired by watching his father, Warren, build a successful business from the ground up. Combined with a fascination for social media and the ability of brands to connect with people through storytelling, design and culture, it sparked a desire to create something of his own. While Caspa Collective now operates primarily from Brisbane, the Burdekin remains at the heart of the brand's identity. Even its name carries a personal connection, with "Caspa" derived from Caspanello. “I wanted a name that reflected who I am, where I come from and the journey, I'm on. The word ‘Collective’ was equally important because the brand has never been just about me. It's about the people who support it, wear it, model it and help bring ideas to life.” Over the years, Jono has learned that building a successful clothing brand involves far more than designing apparel. Through a largely self-taught journey into entrepreneurship, he has developed skills across content creation, branding, social media, website development, manufacturer liaison and campaign production. “One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency matters more than perfection,” Jono reflected. “When you're starting out, it's easy to think everything needs to be perfect before you launch something. The reality is that you learn by doing. Every collection, photoshoot, campaign and product release teaches you something new.” Another lesson has been the importance of building genuine connections. “People connect with stories, personalities and communities far more than they connect with products alone,” he said. That support network starts close to home, with his sisters Rylee, Elly and Deni, along with his father and extended family, all playing a role in helping the brand grow. “When you're building something from the ground up, it's often the people closest to you who become your biggest supporters. Their encouragement, willingness to help and belief in what I'm building have been invaluable,” he said. “Every person who wears a Caspa Collective piece, shares a post or recommends the brand to someone else contributes to its growth. That's why community remains at the heart of everything we do.” Looking to the future, Jono believes Caspa Collective is only just getting started. More than a clothing brand, it has become a reflection of his journey, his Burdekin upbringing and the community that helped shape him; a reminder that with hard work, persistence and a willingness to take a chance, even the simplest idea can evolve into something far greater. “If I could offer one piece of advice to other young people from regional communities who have an idea they're passionate about, it would be this: don't let where you come from limit what you believe is possible,” he said. “Growing up in a small town can sometimes make opportunities feel further away, but technology has changed that. Today, you can build a business, launch a brand and connect with people all over the world from almost anywhere. You don't need all the answers before you begin, and you certainly don't need everything to be perfect. “The biggest regret is often not trying at all. Start before you're ready, stay patient, keep learning and trust the process. Small steps taken consistently over time can create opportunities you never imagined possible.” CAPTION: Jono Caspanello and his father, Warren Caspanello. Photo supplied
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It is show season and we should start seeing it all come together over the next week as the party comes to town. The show society has been doing a great job over the years and each year they seem to find a way to keep it fresh and entertaining. Whilst my boys are all grown up and not making me buy show bags anymore. We do still like to go along and check it out. The water festival had its launch last Friday and I’m told it was a great night. Wonderful to see so many entrants participating and getting involved. I look forward to many months of activities and fun things to do. I got myself down to groper creek briefly last week and it was great to see all the nomads in town and set up to enjoy our beautiful weather. The area looked absolutely spectacular and I can see why so many regulars come back every year. Welcome back and thanks for coming to join us again. The crushing is underway and this a timely reminder to use your train brain. I spoke to one farmer this week who got a bit closer to a cane fire than he liked, so I’ll take this opportunity to remind all of us in the industry to where your PPE and take care. It’s very easy to get complacent, especially when everyone is in a rush. Take care everyone.
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Supplied by the Office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox Tax, the three-letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three-letter word Labor does best—lie. It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time. Then, on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence. And the people who will pay the highest price are young Australians with aspiration. Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities. A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you. Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian. The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters. With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment. The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter. These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective homeowners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation. The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government. Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future. Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax. CAPTION: “It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing.” Photo source: Website/Andrew Willcox MP
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Burdekin Shire Council has handed down a $106.9 million budget for 2026/27, introducing a 1.5 per cent general rate rise to fund major upgrades to roads, drainage, and water infrastructure. The “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow” budget allocates $36.2 million for capital works and $70.7 million for operational activities. While waste services rates will remain steady, residents face a 3 per cent increase in water access charges and a 6 per cent hike in sewerage charges to fund the ongoing delivery of high-quality services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the budget adopts a practical, forward-looking approach that balances financial pressures on households with the need to maintain essential services. “Sustainable Growth, Security Tomorrow is about investing in the infrastructure our community needs now while preparing for the future,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. “We understand the financial pressures many households are facing, and this Budget has been carefully planned to balance those pressures with the need to continue delivering essential services.” More than $24.6 million will flow directly into the region's transport and flood mitigation networks. Key projects include a $5 million road and kerb reconstruction at the Ayr Industrial Estate, a $2.8 million upgrade to Upper Haughton Road, and a $1.15 million sealing project on Thompson Road. The drainage network will also receive a major boost in the form of $3.6 million Ayr Town Drain improvements and a $1.6 million drainage upgrade at Wickham Street Anzac Park. Mayor Dalle Cort said strengthening these networks is critical to the local economy and agricultural productivity. “Our road and drainage networks are essential to the functioning of our community and economy,” she said. “This year’s program focuses on strengthening infrastructure, improving flood resilience and supporting future growth across the Shire, while also supporting local industry and agricultural productivity through improved access and freight reliability.” Essential water and sewer services comprise another major pillar of the budget. Council has allocated $1.96 million specifically for sewerage infrastructure upgrades alongside significant drinking water investments. Major water utility projects include the $1.5 million South Ayr Water Treatment upgrade, a $1.2 million pipeline augmentation in Home Hill, and a $1 million sewer relining and manhole rehabilitation project. “While often out of sight, these services play a vital role in our community, from supporting public health to protecting the environment and ensuring everything runs safely and reliably,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. Community liveability and lifestyle projects will progress under the budget, backed by state and federal funding programs. Notable allocations include $1.2 million for the Home Hill Swimming Pool upgrades, $500,000 for the Burdekin Be-Active Trail, and $440,000 for the Plantation Park Nature Based Play Area carpark. CAPTION: Burdekin Shire Councillors John Furnell (back-left), Max Musumeci (back-centre), Callan Oar (back-right), Fina Vasta (front-left) and Michael Detenon (front-right) with Mayor Dalle Cort (front-centre) at the conclusion of the 2026/27 budget meeting. Missing: Councillor Amanda Hall. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Home Hill Community Kindergarten director Sue Amore has stepped down after 20 years of guiding and inspiring young minds across the Burdekin, drawing to a close a remarkable stint at the helm.
“It’s hard to believe 20 years have gone by,” said Amore. “I have many very precious moments I will remember forever. I just think it’s time to take a step back and let somebody else take the reins.”
Assistant Jodie MacDonald, who worked alongside Amore for the past 10 years, said her departure marked the end of a decades-long era of care and kindness.
“She’s brought a very calming influence. All the kids seemed to flock to her because she’s so gentle and kind,” MacDonald said. “The kids love her, and I think everyone’s going to miss her a lot. They’re very big shoes for the next person to fill.”
Amore’s journey into early childhood education in the Burdekin took shape over time. Originally from Melbourne, she and her husband first visited the region in 1987 while travelling around Australia. After falling in love with the area, they returned in 1993, settled permanently and raised four daughters.
“We just found that this was a beautiful community to raise a family,” she said.
Amore said it was motherhood that ultimately inspired her to pursue teaching.
“Growing up, I never thought I would go into teaching,” she said. “But after having children myself and seeing them growing and learning, I thought, ‘this is what I want to do.’”
After completing her teaching degree, she began her career with relief teaching at Home Hill Community Kindergarten and, when the previous director retired, was encouraged to apply for the role. By the beginning of 2006, it was hers.
“I did think I would be teaching in a school, but the opportunity [at Home Hill Community kindergarten] came up and I just loved it so much,” Amore said. “It suited my style of teaching, and this is where I wanted to stay.”
Seeing children grow, and being part of that journey, remained a highlight throughout her career.
“It’s nice to see the children starting their lifelong journey of learning,” she said. “You can see such an impact from the start of the year to the end as they move on and venture into school.”
Now stepping away from the kindergarten herself, Amore is looking forward to the next chapter, which includes spending more time with her grandchildren in Townsville. She also plans to remain connected to teaching by mentoring the incoming Home Hill Community Kindergarten director and undertaking relief teaching across the Burdekin where needed.
Amore hopes to be remembered as "a teacher who inspired kindness and a passion for learning."
“I hope that I’ve been caring to every child and family, and I'm thankful to have made so many special connections,” she said.
Home Hill Community Kindergarten director Sue Amore has stepped down after 20 years of guiding and inspiring young minds across the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Hi everyone. How’s it going? I just wanted to share some thoughts with you about connection. As humans we are wired to be connected. It doesn’t matter what we look like or who we are, we all need connection. There are so many parts of our lives that offer connection. Connection helps keep us safe.
Obviously our loved ones are right at the top of the list when it comes to connection but we can be connected to many different things. You can be connected to a song, a prayer a place in nature, a sports team, your community etc. These connections are part of our identity, they also help us develop our values & morals, teach us respect, understanding, gratitude amongst other things. Connection is key to all our relationships.
Relationships are one of the foundations of every human’s life. Again, all different areas where we have relationships. Without a doubt there are certain people right throughout your life where you put huge effort into those relationships because they mean the world to you. At different times, all relationships are hard work and that’s okay, they are supposed to be hard at times. That’s part of how we learn and grow just the same as when the good times come along within our relationships, we will learn and grow.
The relationship we have with ourselves is the toughest but it can also be the most rewarding. It’s tough because we can’t tell it to leave us alone for a while but it is also the most rewarding because when we are taking better care of ourselves, it can help you deal with things that create stress. But, the bit we tend to forget is that when the good stuff comes along and you deserve it, you can live in that moment and really take it in.
A big part of that is how we talk to ourselves. The last time someone gave you a compliment, was the first thing that came out of your mouth 'thank you', or did you deflect it? Saying thank you first is not just showing respect for the person who gave you the compliment, but more importantly, you are offering that same respect to yourself. People don’t give compliments for nothing, there is always a reason. We are always trying to find a balance with all of this, sometimes we get that right and sometimes wrong, again that’s okay.
This time of the year is always a chance for us to reflect on the year that’s coming to a close as well as looking to the year ahead. Connection will be a big part of our reflections as well as our planning.
Last time we connected through this paper, I highlighted the fact that you are one in over 8 billion. That hasn’t changed & never will. YOU ARE SO WORTH IT.
Have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Stay safe, connect & Take Care.
Contributed with thanks to Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland
Burdekin Shire Council are continuing to urge residents to take pride in their region and help tackle a rise in illegal dumping across the Shire.
Recent investigations have uncovered household rubbish, white goods, building materials, and green waste dumped on private properties, in bushland, along roadsides, at the Burdekin River entrance, and even directly into the river.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said illegal dumping is costly, harmful to the environment, and will not be tolerated.
“Illegal dumping is environmental vandalism. It damages our landscape, risks public safety, and leaves ratepayers to cover the clean-up costs,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“We have a beautiful region and we need everyone to take pride in keeping it that way. Council has surveillance cameras in operation and we investigate every report. We will find you, and we will fine you.”
Council employs a dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DETSI), who leads targeted investigations and monitors dumping hotspots.
In September, a man was fined $2,670 for dumping a trailer load of household waste in Beerburrum State Forest after DETSI officers investigated the incident. Maximum fines for illegal dumping can reach $66,760 for individuals and $333,800 for corporations for waste under 2,500 litres – with higher penalties for larger volumes.
“Council provides multiple waste facilities across the region, with many domestic waste items accepted free of charge. There is simply no excuse for illegal dumping – it’s cheaper to drive to the dump than risk a fine,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Residents are urged to report illegal dumping to Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 or visit burdekin.qld.gov.au. DETSI also offers an online reporting system for illegal dumping and littering across Queensland.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with some of the illegally dumped items found within the region earlier this year (Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council)
If you’ve wondered when you last spotted a Christmas beetle, you’re not alone. Many Australians have noticed fewer of these iconic, shiny insects in recent years. But there’s hope: researchers are calling on the community to help track their return through the annual Christmas Beetle Count.
Since the 1st of October, iNaturalist reports there have already been 226 sightings this season. The project, run by Invertebrates Australia, aims to understand the population trends of Christmas beetles and investigate why numbers may be declining.
Participants are encouraged to count and photograph any beetles they see, contributing to a national database that helps researchers solve the mystery of the Christmas beetle’s changing numbers. The sightings collected also help track species diversity, seasonal patterns, and distribution.
The project covers beetles from the genera Anoplognathus, Calloodes, and Repsimus, and sightings are recorded across Australia. So far, over 20,000 observations have been logged, with popular species including the Washerwoman (Anoplognathus porosus), Duck Billed Beetle (Anoplognathus montanus), and Emerald Tip Beetle (Anoplognathus brunnipennis).
To take part, locals can visit www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count to submit observations. For those unsure how to identify the beetles, the Australian Museum’s Xmas Beetle ID Guide app is available on both iOS and Android.
By joining the Christmas Beetle Count, residents not only get a chance to enjoy a festive outdoor activity but also contribute valuable data to help protect these native insects for generations to come!
Spot a Christmas beetle in your backyard? Join the festive count and help track these iconic Aussie insects this season (Photo Supplied)
By Chelsea Ravizza
The community flocked to the Ayr Golf Course on Friday, the 12th of December, to be part of one of the shire’s most anticipated and well-supported charity sporting events.
The 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic was a resounding success, attracting nearly 300 golfers and raising $37,150 for Burdekin based CORES Queensland programs and initiatives.
The event aims each year to bring the community together to celebrate mateship while highlighting the vital work CORES Queensland does across the state. The organisation delivers suicide prevention and early intervention training, helping communities recognise risk, have safe conversations, and connect people with appropriate support, while strengthening mental health awareness.
Over the past several years, the End of Harvest Golf Classic has raised more than $100,000 for local charities, including CORES Queensland, a milestone organisers Kelsey Shand and Ben Smith are immensely proud of.
“We were thrilled to welcome 290 golfers to the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic,” Kelsey and Ben said.
“The turnout speaks volumes about the strength of our community and the generosity of everyone who continues to support this event year after year.”
In an emotional final year of organising the event after almost a decade, Kelsey and Ben have decided to step down from their roles in the new year, thanking everyone who has supported them and the End of Harvest Golf Classic.
“Events like this give us an opportunity to come together, enjoy the game, and reflect on the importance of checking in on friends, family, and neighbours. Through CORES, the End of Harvest Golf Classic helps turn that care into meaningful action,” they said.
“It’s not all about the money raised, it’s about connecting and having a good time with each other, and making sure that when your mates are down, you go grab them,” added Ben.
The event also featured a heartfelt address from Ross Romeo, CORES Queensland Coordinator for the region, who praised the community for coming together.
“We can measure the donations, but one thing we can’t measure is community connection,” Ross said.
“We hope that today you’ve run into people that you haven’t seen in a while, made some new mates, had some chats, and connected with one another.”
With the community’s generosity and spirit on full display, the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic not only raised vital funds for CORES Queensland but also reinforced the importance of connection, mateship, and looking out for one another.
Find the social pics here:
Rodney Williams & Bob Clarke
Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team.
The pair have travelled to Tolga on the Atherton Tablelands to compete in the U12A Northern Hub Championships, taking on the top under-12 cricketers from Central Queensland, Mackay/Whitsunday, and Far North Queensland. Their team will face each region in a 40-over round-robin competition, testing their skills against the best in the north.
The experience, from the trials and North Queensland training through to this week’s carnival of high-quality competition, is expected to not only improve Ben and Marshall’s cricket skills but also help them build friendships with young players from across Northern Queensland.
Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team. Photo credit: Scott Heidke
Home Hill Cricket enjoyed a weekend to remember with both their Second and Third Grade sides securing impressive victories.
At the Nutrien Ag Solutions fields, Home Hill’s Second Grade side clinched a thrilling win with overs to spare. Bowling first, the Home Hill bowlers were in fine form. Jack Gimson starred with 3/12 off 4.3 overs, including the key wicket of Michael Morris (54), who had threatened to take the game away. Josiah Ballin was clinical, taking 2/16 in his 6-over spell, while Alex Stillhard and Al Wilkins each bagged two wickets to maintain pressure and bowl Northern Beaches all out for 117.
In reply, Home Hill posted 4/118 in just 33 overs, opting for patience over power to take the win. Zakk Myles (31 off 59) and Lee Watts (21 off 79) anchored the innings before Mark Coventry injected momentum with a brisk 32 off 21, including a six and four fours. Greg Flanagan and Darcy Walters closed the innings unbeaten to secure the victory.
Meanwhile, the Third Grade side secured a hard-fought 21-run win over Wests at Mick Downey Oval, defending a modest total of 116 with a composed bowling display and sharp fielding. Home Hill posted 8/116 from the allotted 30 overs, with contributions across the top and middle order. Luke Mottin anchored the innings with a patient 24 off 63 balls, while Dan Olditch injected momentum with a brisk 22 off 24 balls, striking three boundaries before being dismissed. Ryan Rickards (18* from 16), Darren O’Keeffe (14 off 13) and Steven Zabala (16 from 37) ensured Home Hill reached a defendable total.
Home Hill’s bowlers responded with discipline and variety, restricting Wests to 8/95. Dan Olditch led the attack with 2-7 from 4 overs, matched by Leo Olditch who claimed 2-15 from 6 overs. Brad Parravicini (1-12 from 5) and Ryan Rickards (1-11 from 3) were also in the mix, while run outs from Steven Zabala and Darren O’Keeffe demonstrated strong fielding work.
It was a weekend of strong performances and team effort for Home Hill cricket, with both grades showing skill and composure to take home wins.
A potentially life-threatening situation unfolded at the mouth of the Burdekin River on the afternoon of Tuesday, 2 December when a woman and five very young children were stranded on a sandbar during a rapidly rising high tide. Water Police, who initially responded to the call, described the situation as extremely dangerous, with the tide swiftly reaching 3.3 metres.
The task was passed to the Rita Island SES, who were on scene within minutes to help complete the rescue after self recovery efforts were already underway.
The woman involved, a Burdekin local, broke down in tears when recalling the terrifying experience and expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue, says Local Controller for the Burdekin SES Warren Francis.
Francis gave a special congratulations go to Deb Calligaro, who used her local knowledge to organise resources quickly and efficiently, as well as SES members Glenn Searle, Ben Barb, Chris Hodder and Russell Young, who worked alongside general duties police to bring the family to safety.
"I was very proud of our team's efforts," said Francis. "It should instil a lot of confidence in our community that we have such an organised group of volunteers who commit their time and effort into making their community safer."
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals.
Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals. Photo supplied
An Ayr cleaner has been fined after using a client’s bank card to make nearly $1,000 in online purchases.
The court heard the woman, who was working in a client’s home, accessed a debit card and used it to place a $974.30 order through Big W. Police described the fraud as “not sophisticated,” noting the purchases were billed to her own business and included her personal phone number, making detection almost certain.
A police spokesperson said that when items from the order were later found during a home search, the cleaner initially denied using the card but ultimately pleaded guilty to the charge.
Her lawyer explained that she was a single parent trying to make ends meet while operating her cleaning business, though Magistrate Susan Warrington described the incident as a “significant breach of trust” and noted that the way the order was billed made it inevitable that it would be discovered.
The cleaner has reportedly already repaid part of the amount to the client and was fined a further $800, with an order to repay the remaining balance.
Five people and a dog were rescued from a sinking vessel off the Cape Bowling Green area early on Thursday morning, 4 December.
Around 6.30am, Queensland Government Air (QGAir) Rescue 521 was tasked to investigate a beacon activation reported off the coast near Ayr. Upon arrival, the crew located a seven-metre vessel partially submerged and its occupants in the water.
The rescued included two 45-year-old women, a 28-year-old woman, a 50-year-old man, a 41-year-old man, and a blue heeler puppy. The QGAir crew quickly brought all five people and the dog to safety around 7.30am.
All were transported back to Townsville and reported to be in good health following the incident.
Marine Rescue and Queensland Police Service are investigating the circumstances that led to the vessel sinking. Authorities have not released details regarding the vessel’s ownership or what caused it to take on water.
The quick response from QGAir and coordinated efforts of rescue services ensured a safe outcome for everyone involved. Officials reminded recreational boaters to always carry safety equipment, register trips, and ensure communication devices are operational before heading out on the water.
Five people and a dog were rescued from a sinking vessel off the Cape Bowling Green area early on Thursday morning, 4 December. Photo source: QPS Media
In its first iteration earlier this year, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre's Community Cuppa, then called the End Loneliness Morning Tea, saw just one person show up. A name change, word of mouth, and a couple of months later, the organisation last week played host to a full house of over 50 attendees, all bonding over the simplicity of friendly, lighthearted conversation.
From 10am on Thursday, 4 December, the BNC invited members from the Burdekin community, as well as visitors from Townsville who made the trip specifically for the event, to gather over food, conversation and good company for its Christmas-themed Community Cuppa.
For hours, attendees found themselves engrossed in conversation with faces familiar and foreign, sparking not only chatter, but new friendships. This, for BNC Community Development Officer Maddy Darley, is the exact essence of the monthly gathering—a platform for locals and visitors alike to unwind and connect.
“We don’t have an agenda. There’s not a topic. It’s just come and join in,” she said. “There was vibrant conversation on every table, and every one was so different.”
Darley was thrilled to see diversity among the crowd of attendees, with people living alone, residents brought in from the aged care home, and those simply looking for connection all sharing the morning together.
“Everyone can come along, share a recipe, share a story, bring a plate if you want, although that's not a requirement. You can just bring yourself and conversation,” Darley said.
Attendance has risen each month since its inception, with the BNC receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community about its Community Cuppa initiative.
If you're interested in attending next month's Community Cuppa, please contact the BNC on (07) 4783 4243. No attendee has to tick any boxes. Just show up, eat, disagree over whether jam or cream goes first, and leave knowing at least one person listened.
It was around 2am last Saturday when I was tossing and turning in that half-asleep, half-awake trance where dreams are so vivid that they virtually feel real. Anywho...
My dream was abruptly cut short by what seemed to be a real-life nightmare.
Tap... tap on my front glass door.
My immediate verbal response was something I probably can't repeat in a community paper.
I sprung up.
"Did a demon claw just tap on my window?"
"Was Wolf Creek set in the Burdekin?"
This is the part of living alone that no one really prepares you for. A younger me would've bolted down the hallway to my parents' room and wedged myself between them. Unfortunately, that safety net had expired. Time to grow a pair.
By the time I heard another few taps, I was almost at the door, roller blinds blocking my view. I had no idea what kind of physical specimen I was about to confront. What I did know, though, was that no one drops by at 2am to deliver chocolates.
I peeked through a gap. No one there.
I wasn't sure if that was better or significantly worse.
I turned to retreat back to bed when I heard it again.
Tap... firmer this time.
Now brimming with adrenaline, I stormed toward the door, feeling like whatever was there, I'd knock out clean anyway (I have no combat experience, by the way).
I yanked the blinds away and stood there, waiting. Nothing. No one.
I began to wonder if I'd ever left that vivid dream. Then, just as I was about to turn away and call it a night... there it was.
A cane beetle.
Desperately convinced that if it hurled itself at my glass with enough force, it could achieve quantum entry and reach the lounge room light I’d foolishly left on.
I hung my head in shame.
I guess it could've been worse.
Councillor Amanda Hall
This is my last Councillor Column for 2025 and next year will be my third year representing the people of the Burdekin. I’d like to think I have handled your queries and issues promptly, to the best of my ability and have at least provided you with a semblance of confidence and satisfaction. Unfortunately, things aren’t always black and white and you’re often that sole vote. Major concerns such as drainage and roads need to be considered within budgetary constraints and others are as simple as having manpower available.
We have a wonderful, vibrant community filled for the most part, with involved and dedicated people who love their towns. It’s easy to be a keyboard warrior and complain about everything but the action is in the doing. Don’t be a knocker – get involved and help out; donate to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. I always maintain it is better to give than to receive.
I would love to see our towns enveloped in the spirit of Christmas with more decorations and music and I’m sure that can be budgeted for next year. It doesn’t need to cost a fortune but businesses can also do their part to keep the town centre tidy and welcoming. Ultimately, Christmas comes from within.
The Burdekin Community Christmas Carols are almost here! Join us Sunday 14th December beside the PCYC Wickham Street, Ayr from 5:30pm. Pack a picnic rug, gather your loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of Christmas with our community.
Don’t forget the Burdekin Chamber’s Christmas Party on Thursday 18th December from 5:00pm in Queen Street. Spend $30 at participating stores to earn an entry into the major prize draw of $10,000 in vouchers! (You must be present to claim first prize.)
I’d like to take a moment to remember those we have lost in our community this past year. May God hold them close and bless their families and friends who will be feeling their loss today and every day. As we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ this Christmas season, may you find reasons to laugh, time to be grateful and the strength to close the door on hate.
With love and gratitude from my family to the Burdekin community, may the gifts of peace, love and happiness be yours at Christmas and throughout the coming year. God Bless.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort
What a week it’s been - Christmas parties, school graduations, and plenty of delicious food! I think I’ll need a few extra morning walks to work off the festive treats… I am sure I’m not the only one in that boat!
I had the pleasure of meeting the Pirrone Brothers last week and discovered their latest creation - a Zucchini Flower Vodka brew. What an incredible example of Burdekin innovation and vision. I am certain their Nonno would be proud.
On a more serious note, I am saddened to report major vandalism at Coutts Park and the Alva Beach public conveniences. It is a senseless act of stupidity that costs our community time and money - resources we could be using elsewhere. If you know anything, please reach out to me confidentially or contact the local police.
Don’t forget our Bendigo Community Bank Christmas Carols are on in Ayr this Sunday! It is one of the highlights of the festive season, bringing families, friends, and neighbours together for an evening of music, laughter, and Christmas cheer. There is plenty of room for everyone, so grab a picnic rug or a chair and come along for a night not to be missed. Enjoy performances from local talent, sing along to your favourite carols, and soak up the magical atmosphere under the stars.
And finally, last week I mentioned dialling #464646 from any Telstra phone to speak to Santa. Well, I gave it a go - an elf answered and put me through to Santa. He asked for my name, I cheerfully responded… and then he hung up!! I guess I am on the naughty list. Ha!!
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
The Burdekin Theatre foyer became permanently enshrined in the memories of 10 Burdekin residents on Tuesday, 9 December, as the place where they were officially celebrated as naturalised citizens of Australia.
At 10:20am, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, alongside councillors and families, came together to celebrate the new Australian citizens, each from various backgrounds such as Europe, Africa, and Asia.
New citizen Liezel Klopper, along with her two children, Andre Henri and Adriana Carmen, said the moment represented the end of a long journey toward becoming Australian.
"We're very happy to be [in Australia]," said Liezel. "It's been six years coming, so we're very proud to finally [become official citizens]."
Originally moving to the Burdekin from South Africa because of employment opportunities, Liezel says the decision to stay is very much a conscious choice.
"We like the Burdekin because we grew up in small towns in South Africa. We like the small-town community... raising your kids in a small town is beautiful—better than a city."
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the ceremony marked a milestone for both the new citizens and the region, underscoring the importance of cultural diversity in the community.
"I'm ecstatic to see the smiles on their faces, the enthusiasm, and their love for the Burdekin," she said. "I hope each one can bring a little bit of their own culture into our already multicultural community."
Following her address, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort led the pledge to Australia, the singing of the national anthem, and the presentation of citizenship certificates.
The ceremony concluded with photos, light refreshments, and conversations between families, Councillors, and community members, marking the beginning of the new citizens’ formal place within the region.
The Burdekin Theatre foyer became permanently enshrined in the memories of 14 Burdekin residents, as the place where they were officially celebrated as naturalised citizens of Australia. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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