Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
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My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
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If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
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Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
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Zorro is a young feline with a heart full of promise and the opportunity for a bright future. Rescued from the pound, Zorro may initially seem a bit shy, but give him just thirty minutes, and you'll find yourself enchanted by his gentle nature and sweet demeanor. Once he trusts you, he transforms into a dedicated purr machine, letting you know you've won his heart with his melodic symphony of affection.
Though Zorro's beginnings were challenging, his time in foster care has worked wonders, bringing out the best in this charming cat. He's now ready to put the past behind him and embrace the next chapter of his life with a loving new family.
Zorro will do best in an environment where patience and plenty of love are abundant. His progression from a shy feline to an endearing companion makes him a truly rewarding pet to welcome home.
Will you be the one to offer Zorro the loving space to settle and thrive? Please fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Included in adoption fee of $210 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.
DOB: 1/10/2024
Sex: Male
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
BIN: BIN0000268254643
At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, it’s the people behind the counter who make the biggest difference — not just in banking, but in building lasting community connections. Two of those friendly faces, Raelene and Sonya, share a deep passion for helping others and being part of something that gives back.
Raelene, who has called the Burdekin home for around 35 years, joined the Community Bank just four months ago. For her, the most rewarding part of the job is simple — it’s the people.
“Honestly, it’s the customers,” she says. “I enjoy chatting with them and building those relationships. I love being able to really help people and make a difference for them.”
Raelene says she’s proud to work for a bank that genuinely cares about its community. “I’m really proud that our community bank gives back and supports local people and organisations — it feels good to be a part of something that makes a difference.”
Sonya shares that same passion. Born and raised in Home Hill, she has spent her entire life in the region and knows what community connection truly means. “I have been in the region all my life. I was born and raised in Home Hill until I was 18 years old, then moved to Ayr. I now live near Clare with my two teenage girls,” she says.
Sonya joined the Home Hill & Ayr Community Bank team two years ago, working across both branches. “I really enjoy working for the Community Bank — helping customers and building a relationship with them gives me great satisfaction,” she says. “Being a local myself, I get to serve and help a great deal of friendly faces whom I know.”
For both Raelene and Sonya, their roles go far beyond transactions. It’s about connection — greeting familiar faces, listening, helping, and being part of a team that’s invested in the same community they call home.
“It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my role,” Sonya adds. “Working for a community bank that gives back to the community is something I’m truly proud of.”
Step into Betta Ayr these days and you’ll feel a fresh energy in the air. That's because Dave Jenkins, the store’s new manager, has brought a friendly, homey touch to every corner, drawing on nearly 20 years of local experience in the appliance and electronics industry to make shopping simple, welcoming, and personal for everyone in the Burdekin community.
“Trust is a big thing in a small town," says Dave. "Everyone walks through the door with a problem—maybe something’s broken, they want to upgrade, or it doesn’t fit, and it's my job to solve it.”
Since joining Betta Ayr seven months ago, Dave has focused on cultivating a shopping experience that makes the community feel at home. “When a customer walks into a shop, it needs to tell a story,” he says. “It’s about realigning things, having everything sharp, straight lines—looking good. A clean, tidy shop is about creating the best possible customer experience.”
Under Dave’s leadership, Betta Ayr launched a furniture range, curating stock with a keen eye on local Burdekin taste. “We try to keep up with trend," he says. "There’s always new stock arriving, and wait times on furniture are getting better and better. It’s about giving consumers what they want and what’s in fashion.”
Beyond its leap into the furniture sector, Betta Ayr still offers its full selection of TVs, washers, fridges, and small appliances, all backed by a Price Match Promise. “Any genuine competitor price, we’ll match it," says Dave. "We want people to be able to shop locally and know they’re getting a great deal."
With the best prices and a local team who know the community inside out, Betta Ayr is all about locals serving locals. Whether it’s upgrading your home, browsing the new furniture range, or getting friendly, expert advice, Dave Jenkins and his team are ready to help.
Burdekinite David Jenkins has drawn on nearly 20 years of local experience in the appliance and electronics industry to make shopping simple, welcoming, and personal for everyone in the Burdekin community.
With the best prices and a local team who know the community inside out, Betta Ayr is all about locals serving locals. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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