Ayr State High School's 2024 Academic Awards evening, held at the Burdekin Theatre, was a celebration of student excellence across a variety of disciplines. The event brought together students, families, and staff to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of students from Years 7 to 12. From academics to leadership, citizenship, and sports, the evening highlighted the diverse ways in which students excel within the “Ayr High Family”.

The evening was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Ayr State High students, who were recognised for their contributions in all aspects of school life. Each award presented was a reflection of the high standards set by the students and the supportive environment fostered by the school.

Principal Mr. Craig Whittred, who was in attendance, shared his pride in the students’ accomplishments.

“It is always very uplifting to see the high-quality achievements of the students across all year levels - the achievements of the students is absolutely remarkable,” he remarked.

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2024 and 2025 Student Ayr State High School Executive Team.
The overall year level DUX award recipients from years 7 through to 12.
Junior and Senior Citizenship Award recipients.
Junior & Senior, All Rounder Award recipients.
Many students were celebrated at Ayr State High School’s 2024 Academic Awards Evening.

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Help us bring the joy of Christmas to the lives of locals this festive season. From families experiencing Domestic and Family Violence, to older persons alone, we are hoping to be able to provide assistance to locals needing a festive lift this holiday season.
 
We would greatly appreciate the following new items:
   • Bonbons
   • Festive decorations
   • Festive tableware
   • Toiletries including women's hygiene
   • Christmas books
   • Sparklers
   • Long life milk
   • Tinned fruit & vegies
   • Gravy
   • Jelly
   • Sunscreen/insect repellent
   • Breakfast Cereal
   • Spreads and condiments
   • Tea
   • Coffee
   • Pudding
   • Long life custard
   • Festive biscuits
   • Tinned protein—Tuna, beans, spam
   • Soft drink or cordial
   • Chips, nuts, snacks, lollies
   • Pasta, rice and noodles
 
Donations can be dropped in to The Support Centre, Burdekin Community Association at 130 Queen Street, Ayr
Please call 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au for more information.

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Apathy, often described as a lack of interest or enthusiasm, can creep into our lives quietly, leaving us disconnected and unmotivated. Whether it's a result of burnout, stress, or the overwhelming pace of everyday life, apathy can hinder personal growth and happiness. However, understanding the roots of this feeling and implementing strategies to overcome it can help us reclaim our motivation.

Firstly, it's important to recognise the signs of apathy. These might include disinterest in activities you once enjoyed, a sense of fatigue, or procrastination. Identifying these feelings is the first step towards confronting them.

Practical strategies to combat apathy are:

   • Set small achievable goals. Break tasks into manageable chunks.
   • Regular physical activity. Exercise releases endorphins, which can enhance mood and energy levels.
   • Reconnect with your passions
   • Surround yourself with positive, motivated individuals, creating an encouraging environment.
   • Celebrate these small victories; they help generate positive energy and reinforce your capability, helping to dispel feelings of inadequacy.

At the Neighbourhood Centre, we believe that creating a community helps support individuals and gives them a sense of belonging. Our byline is ‘We work WITH people, not FOR them’.  That is why we have partnered with others to broaden opportunities for community members.

Some of our current collaborations are:
Burdekin Crochet Group
Burdekin Parkinson’s Support Group
Burdekin Dementia Support Group
Burdekin Seniors’ Computer Club
CORES – Self-Care and Mental Wellness Workshops
SHINE – Seniors’ Health and INteractive Exercises  

What we need people to collaborate with:
Compassionate Communities – building our community’s death, dying, and grief literacy and establishing community networks to assist each other.  
Community Life Skilling – bringing together community members with skills and knowledge with those who want to learn.  

We can’t all be participants and sit and wait for something to happen. We need to be doers, make that first connection and create opportunities.  

While apathy can be challenging, it is not insurmountable. Let’s take the first step today and come on into the Neighbourhood Centre and see how we can work together!

Until next time,
The Team - Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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The Home Hill Harvest Festival’s Gala Ball was a night of elegance, celebration, and community pride. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner and danced the night away, honouring the remarkable young women competing as Festival Queens.

Each of the seven contestants showcased their unique personalities through interviews and group performances, giving the audience insight into their dedication to the community.

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A bright yellow Rotary Duck from Ayr has made an unexpected appearance in Canberra, delighting locals with its journey to the nation’s capital. The cheerful duck, a symbol of the annual Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race, was recently brought to Canberra by Andrew Willcox, the Member for Dawson.
The Rotary Club of Ayr, led by John, arranged for the duck to be sent to Willcox's Canberra office. The playful mascot quickly found its way to the pond outside Parliament House, making a splash in its new environment. Now, it sits proudly on Willcox's office shelf, serving as a symbol of Ayr’s vibrant community spirit and the important Rotary fundraiser.
Each year, the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race fills the Burdekin Plantation Creek with hundreds of yellow ducks, raising vital funds for local causes. “This fellow will sit proudly on my shelf,” Willcox shared, “as a reminder of the significance of Rotary’s fundraiser.”
The duck’s journey to Canberra highlights the unity and goodwill fostered by Rotary, connecting the small Queensland community of Ayr with the heart of Australian government in a meaningful and light-hearted way.

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Andrew Willcox at Parliament House with the beloved rubber ducky

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Renee Hudson has recently celebrated the official publishment of her first children's book titled, Where in the World is Winston, an adorable story following the travels of an adventurous sausage dog!

Originally from Home Hill, Renee graduated from Home Hill High School and moved to Townsville to peruse her studies in speech pathology, a field she feels deeply passionate about. In 2014, Renee graduated from James Cook University with a Bachelor of Speech Pathology, and then commenced a position at Townsville University Hospital where she currently acts as the assistant director of speech pathology.

“I chose speech pathology because I wanted to work in a profession where I was helping other people,” explained Renee.

“I moved to Townsville to study, and at first it was hard being away from family, and I used to travel to Home Hill a lot to visit as my parents are my biggest supporters!”

With strong family values, Renee and her two sisters share a close bond with one another. Renee treasures spending time with her family, and friends, and a wonderful, and memorable milestone to look forward to - February of next year will see Renee and her fiancé Jamison hold their wedding in Tasmania.

“I have two sisters who are my best friends, and I love spending time with family, friends, my fiancé Jamison, and Winston, my pet dachshund – he’s the best thing ever, and the inspiration behind my book!”

After experiencing plenty of downtime in the midst of Cyclone Kirrily, Renee found herself inspired to write a children’s book through an engaging and educational lens. Drawing upon Renee’s career in speech pathology, Where in the World is Winston was written with a focus on language development and learning, attracting praise from publishments like the ABC, Townville Bulletin, and North Queensland Weekend.

“My goal was to create a little book that children loved with a character that children loved whilst also promoting language development and learning,” shared Renee.

“The book focuses on teaching children about different locations around the world with plenty of repetition and rhyming throughout and it was also important to me that the illustrations were engaging, bright and colourful.”

With the support and encouragement of her family behind her, Renee began writing her first book.

“The story came to me relatively easily, however, the challenge was embarking on the journey of self-publishing, and finding an illustrator to bring my vision to life.

“I find feedback the most rewarding as I’ve had many parents reach out and tell me their children love the book, and its so nice to hear Winston is bringing joy into other’s lives through his adventures in the book!”

With a second book set to be published in 2025, Renee warmly invites the community to attend a reading of Where in the World is Winston at the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday 28 November, where Winston himself will be ready to receive plenty of praise, and answer all questions on his adventures to date.

What: Where in the World is Winston reading by Renee Hudson
When: Thursday 28 November, 10am
Where: Burdekin Library, Ayr, Music Loft
More Information: The Burdekin Library website https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.

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Celebrated author, Renee Hudson with her loveable pup Winston.
A national star, Where in the World is Winston was written about Renee’s four legged fur baby.

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Attending the Harvest Festival for the first time was a memorable experience that truly showcased the spirit of our community. This cherished annual celebration not only brought our town together but also highlighted the talent, traditions, and tastes that make this festival a standout event.
Wandering through the festival, I couldn’t resist stopping for the famous honey puffs—warm, golden treats that lived up to their legendary reputation. The lively buzz of the crowd added to the festive atmosphere, and as the sun began to set, a local band played out the beautiful sunset. The band’s energy was infectious, and soon enough, everyone was tapping along, smiling, and enjoying the music that brought friends and families together.
The Gala Ball was another highlight this week, steeped in elegance and community pride. Watching the Festival Queens gracefully step onto the dance floor was thrilling, each participant exuding confidence and charm. The interviews that followed gave us a glimpse into their personalities and the inspiring ways they connect with our region.
As the Harvest Festival celebrations come to an end, I’m reminded of the unique vibrancy and close-knit community we’re fortunate to have here. These experiences—savouring delicious local treats, enjoying live music, and seeing our community’s finest celebrated on stage—truly capturing the heart of the Harvest Festival. I can’t wait to attend again next year, and I encourage everyone to be part of this fantastic tradition.

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Haughton Solar Farm has just been granted approval for a substantial expansion which is set to provide a significant economic boost for the region, with an estimated 405 full-time jobs and 10 permanent roles created.
With the Burdekin Shire Council approval, the project will increase the farm’s capacity to 300 megawatts (MW) of solar power, enough to power an additional 110,000 homes, and the project will also include a 200 MW Battery Energy Storage Solution (BESS).
The expansion will see the addition of 1154 hectares of solar panels to the existing 100 MW Haughton Solar Farm, bringing the total capacity to 400 MW. The new BESS will be capable of storing energy for over two hours, providing a reliable backup that can be deployed to the grid during peak demand times, such as at night.
Mr Capomolla, a representative from Pacific Blue, called the approval a significant milestone for both the company and the renewable energy sector.
"Once this stage is complete, Haughton Solar Farm is expected to have a generating capacity of up to 500 MW, enough to power around 290,000 homes,” he said.
“This project is part of a four-part plan for our Burdekin Renewables Hub.”
The plan for the hub also includes a 500 MW wind farm and a 250 MW pumped hydro energy storage scheme. Together, these projects will make substantial contributions to Queensland’s and Australia’s renewable energy transition, delivering power to over 600,000 homes.
"Importantly, the expansion will provide a significant economic boost, with the creation of 405 full-time jobs and 10 permanent roles," Mr Capomolla added.
"We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Burdekin Shire Council and the local community, and we look forward to continuing to work with local organisations through the Haughton Sustainable Community Fund."
Since the commissioning of the Haughton Solar Farm in 2019, Pacific Blue has supported over 60 local projects through the Fund, contributing more than $400,000 to community initiatives.
In addition to the solar expansion, Pacific Blue has been running an AgriSolar trial at the site, grazing 100 Dorper sheep on the land used for solar energy generation.
"The results have been extremely encouraging," said Mr Capomolla.
"The trial has reduced landscaping costs by $500,000 and improved the wellbeing of the sheep, demonstrating the benefits of combining agriculture with renewable energy."
For more information about the Haughton Solar Farm expansion and the BESS project, visit pacificblue.com.au.

The Haughton Solar Farm has been approved for expansion.

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As the festive season approaches, Burdekin residents are preparing to embrace the Christmas spirit. For years, Queen Street in Ayr has been the heart of holiday celebrations, with its iconic Christmas tree as a focal point in the main shopping district.
However, this year, locals will notice a significant change – the tree won’t be in its usual spot and, this bold move by Council, has sparked concern among some community members.
One Burdekin resident believes that Queen Street and the Christmas tree are inseparable parts of the town’s holiday traditions.
“If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” Treena List expressed. “The business centre relies on the foot traffic and festive spirit the tree brings. Without it, the shopping district will be missing that special Christmas touch.”
Another resident, who previously ran a florist shop in town for 22 years, strongly supports keeping the tree on Queen Street.
“I feel strongly about Queen Street – it’s an iconic part of Ayr, and the Christmas tree has been there for as long as I can remember. It’s a tradition that many of us hold dear,” she said.
“The kids love seeing it when they go on holidays, and it’s a part of the community’s identity.”
In response to the concerns, Burdekin Shire Council has asserts that the decision to relocate the Christmas trees was made in order to give better access to the trees and to prioritise safety.
Two new spots have been announced - one outside the Burdekin Theatre in Ayr and the second at the Home Hill Comfort Stop.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort explained, “The roundabout location has served us well, but Council has identified that relocating the new Christmas trees offers some fantastic benefits.
“The existing Christmas trees are over 30 years old, have structural damage, and are aging, making them ready for a well-deserved retirement.”
The move also addresses safety concerns for families, residents, and council workers.
“This move prioritises safety for both our community members and Council workers and reduces the risks some people take to capture a photo on a busy road,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.
While some residents are nostalgic about the traditional location, Mayor Dalle Cort acknowledges the mixed feelings surrounding the change. “Council recognises that there are mixed feelings around the location changes, and we understand change can be difficult, but we see this as a wonderful opportunity to create a safer, family-friendly environment,” she shared.
The new tree locations will allow families to gather and celebrate in safer spaces.
“Families can now enjoy the Christmas trees up close, in spacious locations that are ideal for gathering, celebrating, and taking holiday photos without the concern of busy traffic,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Despite this, Treena List says she feels frustrated that Council offered no public consultation on the matter.
“All the decisions are made by council, but I am upset about the fact that there was no consultation and I hope in future decisions there will be more consultation with the community on the decisions made by the council for the district. But we must move on as that’s politics.” Treena List concludes.
This year’s festive season will look different, but the Council hopes that the new locations will become cherished spaces for future celebrations.

Treena List says she is not happy about the Christmas tree being moved. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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The Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) is pleased to tell you that our application to the CommBank Staff Foundation has been successful. Our application would not have been possible without BCA being nominated by local Commonwealth Bank Australia employee, Rebecca Love.
 
The Foundation will grant BCA $20,000 to help with service operational costs for the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre.  Please see our website www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au for the wide range of vital services offered to Burdekin community members, visit 12a Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph 4783 2711. Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 4.30pm.
 
I invite you to read an excerpt from the CommBank media release regarding the grants program below.
 
11 November 2024
 
Empowering communities:
$3.5 million awarded to Aussie organisations driving positive change
 
The CommBank Staff Foundation doubles its impact with 175 organisations each receiving $20,000 through the 2024 Community Grants program.
 
One hundred and seventy-five community organisations will each receive $20,000, totalling $3.5 million, through the CommBank Staff Foundation’s Community Grants program in its most significant funding year yet.
The 2024 Community Grants will enable a diverse array of projects and provide funding to worthy community organisations supporting mental health, regional communities, victim-survivors of domestic violence, First Nations Peoples education, children’s health, migrants and refugees, and more. With the grants doubling from previous years, this funding will fuel important initiatives that reflect the diversity, resilience and needs of the communities in which these organisations operate in.
This year, the CommBank Staff Foundation has raised $3.5 million to fund these grants through regular salary donations from staff which are then matched by CommBank. Over the past 17 years, the Community Grants program has awarded more than $30 million to worth community organisations, building on CommBank’s long-standing workplace giving culture which dates back to 1917.

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Another busy week in the Burdekin, Home Hill Harvest Festival wrapping up, ‘wow’, what a great parade, enjoyable food and lively entertainment. Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale Trail  was well attended and the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists open day is always a step back in time and an experience to be viewed by all. Solemn Remembrance Day services were held, a chance to pause and remember those who have contributed to our freedoms and lifestyle we enjoy today.
Well done to all organisers of these and other events that happen in our beautiful Burdekin. Every event takes time and people to organise. If you see an opportunity to help out for an event, please get in touch with the organisers, ‘many hands make light work’.
Well done to Dale Last on becoming a Minister in the new State Government.
Trees have been the subject of much comment recently. I too have admired the Christmas tree on the roundabout for many years but looking at the ‘big picture’ in the light of my councillor position it was time for change. From a safety and fiscal position it was due for a re-think. The tree was over twenty-five years old and structurally unsound. It was put up and down at a cost like requiring traffic control, and risk.
Risks were also there for those wanting a Christmas snap with the tree and those attempting to climb the structure (yes, it happened several times). It also presented a distraction for drivers traversing the round-a-bout, research shows distraction one of the main contributing factors to accidents. The baubles and tinsel will still feature above the fountain.
New contemporary trees will be placed at the Comfort Stop in Home Hill and the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt as well as an update of tired decorations. Families and others will be able to take photos in a much safer area for all concerned.  
The natural environment of the Burdekin Theatre forecourt has had a vegetation cleanup around the fountain and surrounds due to ongoing maintenance issues and the vision of opening up the Burdekin Theatre Facade. This has been mentioned several times over the years in Council. Moving forward this area will have further enhancements for all to enjoy.
A disappointment experienced at an early morning swim last week was a break-in at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre. It’s a shame that there are those amongst us who would even consider doing damage to public facilities and private businesses. The cost is borne by the ratepayer and business owners. If anyone knows anything please contact the police.  
Wishing you all an enjoyable festive lead up  
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Health and happiness, Councillor John

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Opinion Piece

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As the debacle over the impact of toxic chemical compound continues to cause havoc in Ayr, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances residents will have the chance to have their say during an upcoming federal inquiry.
Mr Last said given Ayr’s ongoing battle to rid its water supply of PFAS chemical compounds there was no excuse why a full and thorough inquiry would not include a public hearing in the township.
“The announcement of a federal government inquiry into the dangers of PFAS is welcome news but residents in towns like Ayr need assurances that this inquiry will be a boots-on-the-ground approach and that those who want the chance to speak can do so face-to-face,” Mr Last said.
“For years Ayr has been plagued by instances of elevated levels of PFAS which at times has threatened the township’s water security.”
“While council has been proactive in their management of the heightened levels of PFAS in Ayr’s water supply, it’s important that any lessons that can be learned from the township’s experience with the toxic chemical compound are provided during the examination of the issue.”
“What we have seen recently is a clear indication there needs to be a more thorough understanding about the impact this chemical compound can have and that can’t be achieved without knowledge of how townships like Ayr are impacted.”
Mr Last said it was now up to the Federal Labor Government to provide assurances that any recommendations would be accepted and the report would not be left sitting in a top draw to collect dust.
“Everyone who has experienced the impact of PFAS contamination in their water supply should have the opportunity to have their voices heard if they choose to,” Mr Last said.
“Public Submissions to the inquiry have now opened and will examine the extent, regulation and management of PFAS with the final report to be presented by August 5, next year.”
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Contributed with thanks to Dale Last, Member for Burdekin.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last has campaigned tirelessly for an inquiry into PFAS contamination at the Ayr Fire Station. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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This past Monday 11 November, we came together to honour Remembrance Day. It was a solemn moment as I attended the memorial service in Ayr to pay our respects to the brave service men and women who have served our nation. Their sacrifice and dedication will never be forgotten. While attendance at the ceremonies in both Ayr and Home Hill was unfortunately lower than anticipated, I trust that many took a moment to reflect and commemorate in their own private ways.
For those who are unaware, I’d like to provide an update on the ongoing roundabout works on Queen Street. Recently, the kerbs on the roundabout were badly damaged during resurfacing works carried out by a contractor on behalf of TMR. This led to significant cracks and failures in the newly installed kerbs. I want to assure the community that repairs are currently underway, and the contractor is responsible for covering all restitution costs. Whilst we understand that these repair works may cause some inconvenience, they are necessary to ensure the roundabout is restored to its best condition. Your patience and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated.
Stay safe and take care of yourself. Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Burdekin Potters Inc., a longstanding creative fixture in the Burdekin region, has been enriching the community with its pottery programs and initiatives since 1975. With nearly five decades of history, this not-for-profit organisation has seen remarkable growth, expanding from around ten members four years ago to an impressive 62 members today.
“Our youngest member is just 16, while our oldest is in her mid-70s,” shares Debra Ferraris, the current President of Burdekin Potters.
This diverse membership reflects the club’s commitment to fostering community bonds and accessibility through pottery.
Burdekin Potters offers pottery classes for both adults and children throughout the year, aiming to welcome new members into their artistic fold. The club also supports various groups, including Indigenous and special needs communities, and collaborates with local schools by providing materials and firing student pieces. These initiatives are core to their mission of making pottery an accessible and rewarding activity for all.
Recently, Burdekin Potters received a Bendigo Bank Community Grant of $9,450, allocated to repainting the exterior of their clubhouse in Plantation Park.
Debra explains, “We wanted the club to stand out and look refreshed in time to celebrate our 50 years in the community next year.” With a surge of local interest in pottery, the new paintwork not only revitalises the club’s appearance but also strengthens its community presence.
Receiving the grant has had a profound impact on the organisation’s future plans.
“It was awesome to be successful in gaining the funding to achieve this project,” says Debra. By covering the clubhouse’s renovation costs through Bendigo Bank’s support, Burdekin Potters can now allocate its own funds towards maintaining and purchasing essential equipment, as well as handling regular expenses such as rates, electricity, and insurance.
“Having a big-ticket item crossed off our wish list allows us to focus on these ongoing needs,” Debra notes gratefully.
Debra underscores the importance of Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr’s role in supporting the Burdekin’s local organisations. “It is invaluable for not-for-profit groups in the Burdekin to have an institution like Bendigo Bank offer these grants,” she says. “The Burdekin Potters is forever grateful for the assistance, as it allows clubs to acquire otherwise unobtainable resources.”
Looking ahead, Burdekin Potters is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary in June 2025—a milestone the entire community can anticipate. “We’re working towards organising an event to celebrate 50 years in the community next year,” Debra shares. With a vibrant mix of members from diverse backgrounds, Burdekin Potters is dedicated to making pottery an affordable, inclusive, and enriching experience.
“Our goal is to continually encourage community members to join our club, offering social interaction, mental stimulation, and the joy of a creative activity,” Debra adds.
As Burdekin Potters looks to the future, their gratitude for the Bendigo Bank Community Grant shines as brightly as their freshly painted clubhouse, embodying the transformative impact of community support in the arts.

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Burdekin Potters receive their grant! Photo supplied

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The Lower Burdekin Scouts embarked on an educational and enriching excursion to the Burdekin Marine Safety complex on Thursday 7 November to learn more about the fantastic work these wonderful volunteers achieve in and around the local community.
Each month, the Lower Burdekin Scouts follow a theme to further their knowledge, skills, and scouting expertise, with November’s theme being “emergencies”.
The Scouts enjoyed listening to the volunteers share rescue stories, and learnt valuable First Aid skills from Paul, Ian, and the rest of the experienced squad.
The cherry on top for the Scouts, however, was having the opportunity to explore the rescue boat and sport the bright red life jackets.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts warmly thank the Burdekin Marine Safety Volunteers for hosting an extremely interesting and educational night, and thanks the group for the amazing job they do for the local community.

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Exploring the rescue boat was a highlight for many of the younger Scouts!

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