The Burdekin Deb Ball of the Year returned in 2025, bringing together debutantes, their families, and the wider community for an evening of celebration, tradition, and achievement. Hosted this year for the first time by the Burdekin Netball Association, the event saw a full hall with over 450 guests in attendance, all gathered to mark the accomplishments of 21 young debutantes.

The Deb Ball provides a special opportunity for young women to showcase the work and personal growth they have achieved throughout the year. Burdekin Netball secretary Cailan Gosling said the event brings together the efforts of the debutantes with the support of family and friends, creating a celebration of how far each participant has come. The evening is as much about community pride as it is about the debutantes themselves.

This year’s awards celebrated the debutantes’ dedication and achievements, with Sally Laidlow taking out the winner and girls’ choice award, Erin Palmer named runner-up, and Ava Swindley receiving a special mention. Three judges made the selections, while the girls’ choice award was voted on by the debutantes themselves.

For the Burdekin Netball Association, hosting the event for the first time was an honour. “We were honoured to keep this tradition alive for the community and the young ladies’ families. This event marks just how much each debutante has grown and how much they aspire to achieve,” Gosling said.

The Deb Ball remains an important tradition for the Burdekin community, celebrating not only individual growth but also the connections and shared experiences that bind families and neighbours together. From the excitement of the evening to the meaningful recognition of the debutantes’ efforts, the event continues to highlight the value of maintaining long-standing local traditions for generations to come.

With its fusion of elegance and community spirit, the annual Deb Ball of the Year remains a valued part of the Burdekin social calendar.

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Runner up Erin Palmer, special mention Ava Swindley, and winner/girls choice, Sally Laidlow

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Burdekin Water Festival Brings the World to Queen Street

A wave of excitement, community spirit and undeniable creativity washed over the shire on Saturday the 6th of September as the infamous Burdekin Water Festival returned to the region.

Exactly 67 years on from the festival’s official debut, the event ignited Queen Street from top to tail, as approximately 4,000 locals and travellers alike flooded to the heart of Ayr to celebrate the Burdekin Shire’s abundance of water and rich sense of community.

2025’s Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) followed the theme of Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe which was reflected across each and every aspect of the event’s festivities right down to the tow bars on every vehicle and float entrant in the Grand Parade.

“The Queensland Country Bank Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade and Mardi Gras was nothing short of spectacular,” shared current BWF Committee Member and 2024 BWF Ambassador representative of the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club, Sasha Previtera.

“This year’s Bon Voyage theme brought the streets of Ayr to life with vibrant floats that transported us across the globe - from delicate Japanese cherry blossoms to the festivity of Germany’s Oktoberfest, the charm of London, the bright lights of Las Vegas, the energy of Nashville, and the spirit of America - each float was a masterpiece that captured the imagination and creativity of our wonderful community.”

Although a little down in numbers in comparison to last year’s unforgettable comeback, crowds filled the streets for the evening’s Mardi Gra, enjoying a plethora of food stalls, show rides and entertainment well into the night. Miss Mary painted hundreds of smiling faces, as the Windy Wizard had children and adults enthralled with his magic tricks and fluffy rabbit whilst the tug-of-war competition once again drew a large audience of energetic spectators.

“The celebrations continued at the Mardi Gras, where families and friends enjoyed delicious food, market stalls, entertainment, and endless fun, making it a night to remember,” added Sasha.

In a festival first, the Mardi Gras Street Party debuted Burdekin Eats, a cultural feast overflowing with international delights, and the BWF Committee could not have been happier with the community’s response.

“We are so grateful go the many Burdekin businesses who have supported the BWF through sponsorship, generous donations of prizes and in-kind support – without their very generous sponsorship, we wouldn’t be able to hold the events we have had,” shared BWF Ambassador Coordinator, Kari Ravizza.

“I would like to give a special mention to our 2024 Ambassador Winners and Runner Ups Demi O'Shea, Brielle Astorquia, Cole Pontifex and Stella Borrellini who have now handed over the title to our 2025 Ambassadors - Demi and fellow ambassador Sasha Previtera were invaluable additions to our 2025 BWF committee, spending countless hours behind the scenes supporting our 2025 Ambassadors, attending all their events and keeping our socials buzzing.”
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the heart stopping crowning of Jorja Vasta, representing Burdekin Junior Rugby League as BWF Junior Ambassador Runner-Up, and Giulia Sarri, representing Burdekin Christian College as BWF Junior Ambassador Winner.

“A huge congratulations to Giulia and Jorja - both of these young ladies shone brightly on the night and throughout the program,” noted Sasha.

“To all of our junior ambassadors, I am so beyond proud of how far you have come through the ambassador program - you have all blossomed into amazing, kind-hearted young people, and it has been such a joy to watch you grow with confidence and grace over the past two months.”

The BWF Committee have worked tirelessly over the past six months to host yet another stellar year of countless events, celebrations and gatherings.

“The committee have been meeting on a weekly basis for 6 months in preparation for the whole festival season and it takes a whole team to organise and run a community event of this scale,” said Kari.

“We (BWF Committee) would like to give a heartfelt thank you to our amazing Secretary, Colleen Harris, who also serves as our dedicated Event Co-ordinator - after finishing her own full-time job each day, Colleen still finds the time and energy to organise and liaise with all of our vendors – an incredible 54 this year.”

“Her commitment, organisation, and tireless effort are the reason everything runs so smoothly behind the scenes.”

With another Burdekin Water Festival year wrapped up, the BWF Committee are more than looking forward to having a well deserved rest ahead of next year's preparations, and hope to wow and impress the community for another year in 2026! In the meantime, the BWF Committee invites the community to keep up to date with all news and information via the BWF social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/24wote2u

The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association is celebrating a bright new look for its volunteers, with the arrival of brand-new sun smart club shirts. The shirts, described by members as “amazing,” were made possible thanks to funding from Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund and printing support from Smashed Crab Clothing Co.

The Haughton Sustainable Community Fund shares the benefits of the Haughton Solar Farm with the surrounding communities, providing long-lasting social, economic, and environmental value. Since 2019, the Fund has contributed over $300,000 to 52 local sustainable projects, with community groups eligible to apply for funding up to $10,000. The Fund supports initiatives across Ayr, Brandon, Clare, Dalbeg, Giru, Home Hill, and Millaroo.

Lower Burdekin Landcare works to promote sustainable land use across the region. The volunteer group undertakes research, implements projects such as weed and salinity control, and propagates native trees. Through collaboration with government agencies, schools, businesses, and the wider community, the association fosters environmental education and action.

The Landcare nursery also provides a hub for testing new techniques and sharing knowledge with the public. With the support of the Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund, Lower Burdekin Landcare can continue its vital work protecting native plants, lands, and waterways—now with style and sun-safe shirts to match.

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The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association is celebrating a bright new look for its volunteers, with the arrival of brand-new sun smart club shirts courtesy of Pacific Blue’s Haughton Sustainable Communities Fund. Photo source: Facebook

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And breathe.

What a whirlwind of a weekend. From the elegant glamour of the Debutante Ball of the Year to the chaotic, colourful atmosphere of Queen Street during the Water Festival Grand Parade—it’s been equal parts dream and nightmare for a journalist trying to capture it all.

Don’t get me wrong, I thrive on this. These events remind me, time and time again, of the strength of this community. People show up, celebrate, connect—that’s the essence of rural life. That’s the Burdekin.

But then there’s the other side—the deadlines, the late nights, the mental roadblocks, the brain fog that settles in after a weekend spent running from one story to the next. It's a privilege, but it can also be relentless.

So, I’ve found my antidote—a good old-fashioned Mount Inkerman sunset. Seriously, try it if you haven’t. There’s just something about watching the sunlight melt over the cane fields as the breeze lightly massages your face that forces you to slow down. To breathe. To recalibrate.

One of the many things I've learned in my time here is the importance of striking that balance between chaos and calm. Deadlines and sunsets. Which makes having a 200m-high scenic lookout ten minutes down the road very convenient.

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When Iris Dingle walks through town, people still stop her with a smile and say, "Oh, Mrs Claus—I remember bringing my kids to your house at Christmas”—a testament to the enduring mark she's left on her community as she approaches her 100th birthday.

Iris has long been synonymous with festive cheer, generosity, and a life devoted to family and community. Born in Charters Towers before moving to Home Hill shortly after, Iris grew up in a tight-knit, active family. She and her sisters were known locally for their elaborate Christmas decorations, a tradition they maintained for over 20 years. “Mum would dress up as Mrs. Claus, and my auntie as Santa. Every child got a lucky dip, everyone received Christmas cake, and she made decorations throughout the year for the ladies,” her daughter Janice Stockdale recalled. “She’s always been kind-hearted, thoughtful, and generous, always willing to help people."

Beyond Christmas magic, Iris has been an active community member, volunteering with St Vincent de Paul and participating in craft groups, bingo, and local church activities. She even has a penchant for the occasional gamble at the casino—preferring roulette over pokies—and has been known to celebrate her wins with her family’s laughter.

Her devotion to family has remained a constant throughout her life. The matriarch of a large clan, Iris raised eight children and now counts dozens of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren among her extended family. “She says the reason she had eight kids was so they could look after her in her old age,” Janice said, smiling. “And that’s exactly how it worked out.”

Iris’s early life was equally rich with experiences, from playing netball with her sisters to swimming at Gardner’s Lagoon, working on farms, hatching chickens, and going down to Wunjunga Beach with her friends. Through it all, Iris has carried a spirit of joy, resilience, warmth, and community that continues to shine as she marks this milestone.

Her centenary celebrations are set for Saturday, September 13, at the local RSL, with 160 family members travelling from across Australia to join in the festivities. Though Iris may need a wheelchair for the occasion, her spirit and joy remain undimmed. “Family has always been her anchor, and that’s what keeps her strong,” Janice said.

For them, and for the Burdekin, Iris Dingle will always be remembered, not only as Mrs Claus, but as an embodiment of kindness, generosity, and a life lived to the fullest.

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OPINION PIECE

Immigration is important. Our country has been built on it. We would not be the Australia we are today without people choosing to set up their lives here.

In Dawson, we have some of the best and most successful examples of what immigrations brings and what it builds over generations. I’m talking about all the people who run farms, workshops and businesses across the region, professionals in our clinics, schools and our offices, the on the ground workers who came looking for a better life, and of course the backpackers who came for a visit but have stayed a lifetime. To everyone who has come to create a life and contribute to our region and nation, I say thank you.

But we have to be honest. Immigration needs to be properly managed. Right now, I have major concerns. Major concerns with how the current government has been managing our immigration.

There are two key elements of immigration the government must get right.

First, the number of people coming in must be balanced with the pace in which infrastructure can be built. Infrastructure like housing, roads, schools, and hospitals. Yes, we’ve got the space, but if there’s nowhere to live, no hospital beds, no classrooms, then the pressure flows to everyone.

Second, we must make sure the type of people coming share our values. To be allowed to live in Australia is like winning the Lotto, the golden ticket! Migrants should be here to make a life, make a contribution, and become a positive part of our communities.

The government is failing on both of these key metrics. The numbers are way too high, and the vetting process appears to be non existent. Labor has lost control of our borders.

The government, through weak border controls and poor vetting, has allowed too many people in, and they have let in too many that openly hate our country and people. This is unacceptable.

It’s not like new arrivals have tripped over the border like they can in other parts of the world. At the very least, the government has the time of the flight to make sure we’re not letting in people who will do harm.

There’s no excuse for un-Australian behaviour, and there is no excuse for letting that behaviour in and allowing it to stay.

It’s simple. Do the right thing, a forever life awaits. Do the wrong thing, then back you go.

Labor has always had a poor record on immigration. But the scary thing with the current Labor government is that they are knowingly turning a blind eye. They do nothing about vile hatred being spewed on our city streets or when our national flag is burnt. Yet, they condemn those who wave the Aussie flag in face of that hate.

We need a government with the guts to get immigration right. We need a governemnt that balances incoming numbers with the infrastructure being built, and we need a government that properly vets new arrivals to ensures Australia remains safe, united, and strong.

Australia is built on immigration. Get immigration wrong, and all the things we value as a nation could be resigned to history. Get immigration right, and the Nation prospers long into the future.

Andrew Willcox
Member for Dawson, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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Burdekin Netball’s goals of growing the club and improving facilities for local and visiting players have taken a major step forward following the delivery of a commitment made in the lead up to the 2024 state election.

Following his support of multiple attempts to secure funding for the upgrades, Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, credited the club’s unwavering commitment and extensive planning for securing the necessary funding and expediting work.

“For five years Burdekin Netball have been seeking funding to upgrade the facilities, and, despite their best efforts, funding wasn’t forthcoming for the full project,” Mr Last said.  “Now, less than 12 months after the election, we are delivering the funding needed to help the club and local players reach their full potential.”

“The $3.5M investment will deliver 8 fully lit, high standard courts as well as additional shade and upgraded clubhouse facilities.  There is also extensive work on re-profiling the site as a whole to assist with drainage and, therefore, ensure the new facilities, and games, don’t easily fall victim to wet weather.”

“Projects like these bring a wide range of benefits for our entire community so delivering them is a priority for me.  Whether we are talking about children, or players of any age, they deserve safe, high standard facilities.”

“There are confirmed links between people who are active and improvements in both physical and mental health.  So, in addition, to being an investment in facilities, this project is also an investment in delivering better health outcomes.”

Mr Last said Burdekin Netball’s success could be seen as an example for other sporting and recreation clubs and encouraged local organisations to consider their future growth.

“The Queensland government has committed significant funding to upgrading sporting and recreational facilities across the state,” Mr Last said.  “That is because we recognise the benefits that those activities provide, especially to regional communities.”

“While the activity might be the same, sporting and recreation clubs, for most people, play a completely different role in our communities than they do in bigger centres.  Yes, they provide opportunities for players and officials, but they also act as a social hub for players, parents, officials and the like.”

“Obviously it is much easier to build groups based on common interests or activities.  Improved facilities mean increasing participation and involvement and, in turn, that increases the opportunities for people of all ages to build stronger bonds and stronger communities.”

“I have always supported local groups in applying for funding to upgrade their facilities and that won’t change.  Having spent most of my life living in smaller regional centres, I understand the importance and the benefits those projects bring.”

“Now is a great time for those sporting and recreational groups to put together a plan for their future and I can’t wait to see more of those projects become reality, just like it has for Burdekin Netball.”

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The Burdekin Art Society’s 2025 Art Exhibition was held at the Burdekin Theatre Foyer, showcasing a vibrant display of creativity from artists across the region.

The annual event officially opened on Saturday, 30 August, with a well-attended presentation evening and awards ceremony. Throughout the following week, the exhibition welcomed the public daily, offering a chance to view – and purchase – an impressive range of artworks. Pieces were available for sale starting from just $30, making it an accessible opportunity to support local artists.

With over $7,000 in cash prizes awarded across four junior sections, seven adult categories and several special awards, the exhibition once again drew strong entries. Visitors also tried their luck in the raffle, featuring a stunning artwork generously donated by local artist Tania Leigh, with tickets available for $2.

The exhibition concluded on Saturday, 6 September, coinciding with the Burdekin Water Festival. Extended opening hours gave festivalgoers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the art on display before the doors finally closed.

For further details about the Burdekin Art Society, contact Joanne Barbagallo on 0417 676 567, Luisa Delle Baite on 0448 509 927, or email burdekinartsocietyinc@gmail.com.

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OPEN PRIZE: Tomas Zarate was again successful in winning the open prize of $1000 for his watercolour, ‘Boats’
Section 1 - Local, winner: Uli Liessmann, ‘Beautification Committee’
Section 2 – Pastel, winner: John Banfield, ‘Bounce’
Section 3 – Acrylic, Oil, Mixed Media, winner: Sharon Wootton, ‘Title No 1’ (Nick and Nel Thone Memorial Award)
Section 3 – Acrylic, Oil, Mixed Media, third: Tania Leigh, ‘Botanical Bliss’
Section 4 – Watercolour, winner: Ruth Heiner, ‘Camping at Fletcher Creek’
Section 5 – Drawing, winner: Sharon Wootton, ‘Eve’s Modern Day Adam'
Section 6 – Miniature, winner: Jeananne Hawthorn, ‘All Ready’
Junior Section A – 7 years and under, winner: Max Minuzzo, ‘The Rainbow Lion’
Junior Section B – 8-10 years, winner: Ashlyn Pearce, 'In the Puddle’
Junior Section C – 11-14 years, winner: Destiny Thomas, ‘View of Japan’
Junior Section D – 15-18 years, winner: Layla Caston, ‘Winter Walk'

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2024's Opening Night was an outstanding success (Photo Supplied)

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The Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) kicked off its 50th Anniversary celebrations on Monday, 1st September, with a memorable gathering for clients and guests.

A crowd of 114 enjoyed a delicious roast lunch, dessert, and a specially made Anniversary cake. Councillor John Furnell kept the event lively as emcee, while Ricky Romeo entertained with a wide variety of songs.

Highlighting the celebration, BCA Secretary Brian Sorohan and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort shared the ceremonial cake-cutting. Guests also enjoyed a display of BCA memorabilia and a captivating slideshow that showcased the Association’s achievements over the past five decades.

To view the full BCA 50th Anniversary slideshow, visit www.facebook.com/bca1975.

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Physiotherapy, Dietitian Support, and Home Care Services All Under One Roof

The Burdekin’s healthcare options have just been bolstered significantly with the opening of Kota's Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinic in Ayr, which was marked by a well-attended ceremony led by owner Dr. Sarat Tata on Sunday, 9 September.

Located at 53 Macmillan Street, the clinic aims to provide the Burdekin community with convenient, accessible, and affordable physiotherapy, dietitian and home care services.

Dr. Tata explained that the clinic was born out of a clear need in the community. “There was no more bulk-billing physiotherapy service in the Burdekin, and a lot of people were having to pay out of pocket significantly, which was putting them off visiting a physio.”

Dr. Tata says chronic pain and musculoskeletal issues are widespread in the region, and many residents rely on medication to manage discomfort. “Medication is not the answer to pain management,” he said. “Physiotherapy is the recommended treatment, but without access to such services, people turn to pain killers, opioids, and that becomes another issue.”

To address these challenges, Kota's Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinic has brought together a team of highly qualified physiotherapists Phelps and Joshi Kota, who both boast extensive international experience. The facility also expands the services to include dietitian Kerri Carmichael, who offers dietetic and nutritional support, with a focus on women’s health issues such as PCOS, and home care support provided by Care More Support Services operated by Trilogy and led by Mr Roy, for My Aged Care and NDIS clients. This integrated approach means residents can access physiotherapy, dietary advice, and at-home care services including nursing support, cleaning, gardening, and pharmacy guidance, all under one umbrella.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort praised the initiative, saying, “I’d like to thank Dr. Tata for his progression in the care sector for the Burdekin. It’s nice to see the Burdekin growing in that way, because it’s very important to the region.”

The clinic promises fully bulk-billed physiotherapy sessions, ensuring that cost is no longer a barrier for those seeking treatment. Dr. Tata believes this service will make a tangible difference in the lives of residents, improving overall health outcomes and reducing reliance on medication for chronic pain management.

With the new Ayr clinic, Home Hill Surgery continues to demonstrate its commitment to the Burdekin community, combining expert care with accessibility to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the region.

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What a Weekend in the Burdekin – and a Wake-Up Call Too

What a great Burdekin Water Festival! After months of planning, Queen Street came alive last Saturday as our community celebrated 67 years of tradition. Hats off to the Organising Committee, our hardworking Junior and Senior Ambassadors, and every single volunteer who pitched in – whether in a big way or small.

From the Grand Parade rolling down the street, to the busy Twilight Markets, the tasty delights of Burdekin Eats, and plenty of fun for the kids – there truly was something for everyone.

But as bright as Saturday was, Tuesday 2nd September brought a very different experience – one that hit far too close to home. While I was rehearsing with the Home Hill Choral Society, four young offenders decided to intrude on our home in Ayr.

In the middle of the evening, with lights on and my wife Lisa working at the kitchen table, they came straight through the front screen door. Three of them went into our bedroom, opening drawers, while the fourth wearing a hoodie and backpack waited inside the front door with Lisa in full view. Lisa heard a noise and thought it was me returning, but instead she was confronted by a group of strangers in her own home. With a few strong words, she chased them outside and up the street before returning to the house and phoning 000.

Thank you to our Neighbourhood Watch and local police response and reassurance.

This happened while someone was clearly home, lights on and screen door shut. And sadly, our house wasn’t the only target. I’d heard the Burdekin Aquatic Centre was broken into, and by Sunday morning I visited the Prawn Stop and was told it had been hit overnight, who knows what mayhem in-between ?

Moments like this remind us that community spirit has two sides. On one hand, we see thousands of people celebrating together in the heart of Ayr, showing what’s best about the Burdekin. On the other hand, a small group of young people are causing fear, damage, and division.

We need to back our police, support the victims and work out how we can prevent young people from taking this destructive path. The Water Festival reminded me of the pride and resilience of our community. The break-ins reminded me of the challenges we face. Both are real, but one is worth holding onto, the positive spirit of community.

Health and Happiness Cr John

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Yes, we’ve done it again!

Council has secured $1.9 million from the Federal Government to deliver much-needed road pavement widening and kerb renewal, making heavy vehicle access smoother and safer for our local businesses and industry. This funding comes through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) a big win for our region.

And that’s not all. We’re also in the final stages of approvals for more than $20 million in jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) by the Australian and Queensland Governments, the program is being administered by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA). Council has secured funding approvals to repair roads damaged by this year’s flooding. This program will be the largest flood damage restoration program in more than a decade over five times bigger than anything we’ve managed in the past 10 years.

We have a strict two-year window to deliver these works. With such a huge program, Council crews can’t do it all alone, so we’ll be inviting local contractors to tender. That way, we not only get the job done but also keep the economic benefits flowing through the local region. It’s a big task, so I ask our community to be patient as we roll it out.

On a completely different note, if you’ve ever thought about caring for injured wildlife, now’s your chance. An Introduction to Wildlife Care Course will be held on Saturday, 13 September at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre. It could open up a whole new world for you. More details and registration are available at nqwildlife.org.au/introduction_to_wildlife_care_burdekin.

And finally, what a weekend! The Burdekin Water Festival was once again a spectacular celebration. Congratulations to Burdekin Christian College for taking out the trifecta winning Junior Float, Senior Float, and Princess. In reality, every float and participant is a winner, and none of it happens without the tireless efforts of our volunteers and the generous support of sponsors.

If you’d like to reach out, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Sleep apnoea is a condition many have heard of, but few truly understand. Its symptoms are vague—snoring, fatigue, restless nights—and often brushed off as nothing serious, but if left untreated, consequences can be far more damaging than mere daytime grogginess. The good news? It’s treatable. And, for residents of Ayr and surrounding communities, access to testing and treatment just got a lot easier.

Ayr Amcal Chemist is stepping in where larger healthcare services often fall short. For 12 years, the pharmacy has quietly offered sleep apnoea testing. Ayr Amcal Chemist's commitment and high quality of service in this area has now been recognised by Pharmacy Sleep Services, which has granted the Ayr team an exclusive role as Queensland’s only provider of free testing this September and October. For Ben and his staff, the goal is to drive awareness and advocacy for a condition that too often goes unnoticed.

Sleep apnoea, particularly obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), is an often overlooked sleep disorder. People with OSA experience repeated airway collapse during sleep, often for 10 seconds or longer, leaving them fatigued, stressed, and at risk of serious long-term health complications such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression.

Sleep apnoea can develop for a variety of reasons. Genetics, age, weight, and lifestyle all play a role, with men and older adults generally at higher risk. Anatomical factors, such as a narrower airway or enlarged tonsils, can contribute, as can underlying medical conditions. While some people may be predisposed, the condition can also develop gradually over time, often going unnoticed until symptoms interfere with daily life.

But the signs aren’t always telltale. Snoring, poor concentration, morning headaches, and irritability can all point to the condition, but are somewhat ambiguous and easy to dismiss. As a result, experts estimate that 80 per cent of sufferers are undiagnosed—a figure that Ayr Amcal Chemist is playing its part in shaving down.

“We’re trying to remove cost as an obstacle,” Ben explains. “It’s about increasing accessibility in our local community, and providing a service that was not already being fulfilled.”

Ayr Amcal’s sleep apnoea testing service is powered through a partnership with Pharmacy Sleep Services, a program that trains pharmacy staff to administer tests, offer CPAP therapy trials, and guide patients through the process from screening to treatment.

The testing procedure begins with a simple screening quiz, using the accredited Stop BANG Questionnaire and Epworth Sleepiness Scale to assess risk. If a patient’s results indicate OSA, they can take a home sleep test—a Level 3 device that requires no GP referral, is non-invasive, and can be returned the next day for rapid assessment.

Within 7–10 days, a dedicated sleep physician evaluates the results and weighs up therapy options. For patients diagnosed with OSA, a four-week CPAP therapy trial is available. Staff assist with mask fitting, machine settings, and ongoing monitoring to ensure the therapy is effective before purchase.

For some patients, the test can reveal more than just sleep apnoea.

One local resident, wishing to remain anonymous, initially went in thinking they had sleep apnoea, but the screening instead highlighted symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, and irregular heartbeats. Further testing in Townsville revealed it was actually heart disease, and that any delay in treatment could have been life-threatening.

“They made the whole process so easy," they said. "I thank Sharon every day. It saved me."

For Ben, the work doesn’t stop at treatment. Like many health professionals, he sees the bigger challenge as making people aware of the condition and its symptoms, helping them recognise the often subtle signs before serious health consequences take hold.

“People don’t realise how under-diagnosed sleep apnoea is within the general population,” he said. “It’s intricately linked to people’s long-term health outcomes regarding mental health, diabetes, cardiovascular health, and when left untreated, all these risk factors just go through the roof.”

This hidden impact often shows up in unexpected ways, namely in weight management, explains Ben.

“If you’re sleep-deprived, you’re already under stress,” he said. “We often see people trying to lose weight, but their sleep apnoea works against them. Stress triggers cortisol, which raises blood sugar levels, and even with a good diet and exercise, the body stays stuck in that cycle.”

For Ben, access to a remedy should be a standard rather than a privilege—an ethos reflected in the community-focused care he and his team provide at Ayr Amcal Chemist.

“We know our clients intimately,” he said. “When you come into our shop, it’s an interaction, not just a transaction. Ben and his Amcal team look at people holistically and provide a more personable service than what you’d get in one of the big cities.

For the community, that means access to a service that could be fundamentally life-altering. For those who take part, the pharmacy offers immediate guidance and ongoing support. CPAP equipment can be trialed in the comfort of home, monitored by staff, and adjusted to individual needs. By removing barriers such as cost, travel, and waiting times, Ayr Amcal Chemist is making life-saving care genuinely accessible to the local community.

For September and October, the doors of Ayr Amcal Chemist are open to anyone curious or concerned about sleep apnoea. The home sleep tests, therapy trials, and expert advice are all free of charge—a rare opportunity that Ben hopes will set a new standard for rural healthcare across Queensland.

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From a childhood fascination to building a thriving photography business, Melanie Napier has always seen the world through a lens.

“I can remember using mum and dad’s little camera, trying to take pictures of birds and other wildlife,” she said. That early spark eventually grew into Melanie Napier Memories & Photography, which this month celebrates three years since she officially began her dream of working as a photographer.

By day, Napier works as an ICT administrator for the Burdekin Shire Council, but her weekends and evenings are often spent capturing families, couples and milestone events.

“It’s about being able to capture precious memories for them to treasure forever,” she said.

Her business name, she explained in a recent Facebook post, was deliberately chosen to stand out. With another “Melanie Napier Photography” already established overseas, she wanted something uniquely hers, while also honouring her beginnings in creating photo books and slideshows.

“Back then, I called it Your Memories Crafted by Mel. But before long, I realised I wanted to not only present beautiful memories but also capture them. That’s how Memories & Photography came together–a blend of two passions.”

Now five years in business and three years behind the camera, Napier said she hopes to continue growing. “I love the wildlife and landscape side of things as well, so hopefully I can look at creating calendars down the track.”

But for now, Napier’s passion is capturing genuine, natural images in the outdoors that clients can cherish forever. Sessions start from $250, offering an affordable way to preserve your special moments.

For more information, or to book your session, visit: www.mnmp.com.au

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By day, Napier works as an ICT administrator at council, but her weekends and evenings are often spent capturing weddings, debutante balls and milestone events. Photo supplied

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Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to support the upcoming Club of Origin day on Saturday, 29 November, standing alongside the Burdekin Roosters and the wider community in their efforts to keep rugby league strong in the region.

The Club of Origin is more than just a sporting event. Its purpose is to revive and sustain local rugby league by encouraging new and returning players, volunteers, and supporters to get involved. This year, the Roosters have faced challenges on and off the field, making the support of events like this vital for the club’s future.

By sponsoring the event, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is helping ensure rugby league remains a vibrant part of the Burdekin community. The Community Bank understands that sport has always been central to regional life—bringing people together, creating lifelong friendships, and strengthening community spirit. The Club of Origin reflects all of this, offering an opportunity for families, past players, and new participants to unite under the banner of tradition and healthy competition.

The event not only celebrates the four original clubs that once made up the local league competition but also connects multiple generations of players. Today, it’s not uncommon to see three generations from the same family proudly wearing their club colours.

This year’s timing, carefully chosen for the off-season of other local sports and after the conclusion of the crushing season, ensures maximum participation across the community. With support from the QRL and sponsors like Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the event is positioned to reignite passion for rugby league while securing the future of the Burdekin Roosters.

For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the decision to sponsor Club of Origin is a reflection of their ongoing commitment to the community. Unlike other banks,

the Community Bank model returns profits directly back into local initiatives—investing in people, projects, and events that matter most.

“Supporting grassroots sport is just one of the many ways our Community Bank strengthens connections and contributes to the long-term wellbeing of the region”, says Senior Branch Manager for Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chantel Michielin.

“We value this connection and will continue to invest part of our profits back into sport in our region”.

When the whistle blows on 29 November, it will be more than a game. It will be a celebration of resilience, tradition, and community spirit—values that Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to stand behind.

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