The Burdekin Community Association is calling for the community to come together in support of their 2024 Christmas Appeal to help share the joy of Christmas this festive season. The appeal hopes to provide assistance to locals in need from families experiencing Domestic and Family Violence, to elderly residents experiencing loneliness.

Supporting the BCA’s appeal is simple, with the following items greatly accepted:
   • Bonbons
   • Festive decorations and tableware
   • Toiletries including women's hygiene products
   • Christmas books
   • Sparklers
   • Long life milk and long life custard
   • Tinned fruit and vegetables
   • Gravy
   • Jelly
   • Sunscreen and insect repellent
   • Breakfast cereal
   • Spreads and condiments
   • Tea and coffee
   • Pudding
   • Festive biscuits
   • Tinned protein including tuna, beans, and spam
   • Soft drink or cordial
   • Snacks including chips, nuts, and lollies
   • Pasta, rice and noodles

All donations can be dropped into the Support Centre, Burdekin Community Association at 130 Queen Street, Ayr. Please call or contact the BCA on 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au for more information.

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Donations of non-perishable items can be made at BCA’s Support Centre at 130 Queen Street, Ayr.

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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.

Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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Life is a journey filled with endings and new beginnings. Each stage gives us chances to grow and evolve, and how we deal with change is essential for our emotional health and personal growth.

Endings often bring a range of emotions, from sadness to relief. Acknowledging these feelings is essential, allowing us to reflect on our experiences and recognise the lessons learned. Accepting that endings are a normal part of life helps us appreciate what we have achieved while preparing for the future.

Each ending and new beginning provides a unique opportunity. When we accept these changes with an open mind and a positive attitude, we can experience significant personal growth and learn more about ourselves. Building resilience and a positive attitude helps us face life’s changes confidently and prepares us to seize the opportunities that come our way.

At the time of writing this column, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s team is going through their own endings and beginnings. We say goodbye to Jenny Cummings, our Community Development Officer, as she embarks on her own journey with the Burdekin Shire Council as Disaster Management Officer. Jenny started with the Centre in 2021 as a James Cook University student for her Master of Social Work Placement and continued to volunteer once her placement finished. She joined the team in November 2022 and has worked with us for the last two years.

The Neighbourhood Centre welcomes the opportunity to host students in their placements. It encourages our team to learn and grow through new ideas and fresh perspectives and presents opportunities for the students to learn in a natural working environment. Community Development is a two-way exchange of energy, and this is the first principle students learn on their journey with us.

Although we are sad to see Jenny go, we view it as the natural ebb and flow of people moving in and out of our lives or spaces without the need to cling to and restrain them. When we stifle this movement, we stop people from evolving, and we lose our opportunity to grow. We look forward to collaborating with the Disaster Management Team at the council and welcoming a new staff member sometime in the new year. Like the ripples of a pond, our circle expands outwards with each interaction with the community.

Until next time,
The Team - Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre farewelled Jenny Cummings this week as she moves to a new position with the Burdekin Shire Council.

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Join a transformative Suicide Intervention Training session designed to equip individuals with life-saving skills and knowledge. This free workshop, hosted at PCYC Burdekin, 164 MacMillian Street, Ayr, is tailored to empower community members to recognise and respond to early signs of suicide effectively.  
Participants will learn to recognise the early warning signs of suicide, support individuals at risk by connecting them to available services and encourage help-seeking behaviours to prevent crises. Additionally, the training will help attendees develop their own self-care strategies to maintain well-being while supporting others. This proactive initiative focuses on equipping people with the tools to intervene before a crisis arises, fostering resilience within the community.  
The session, organised by CORES (Community Response to Eliminating Suicide), will take place on Saturday, 7th December 2024, from 9am to 4pm. It is completely free of charge, making it accessible to all. For enquiries, contact 0448 894 525 or email adminqld@kentishrc.com.au. To secure your spot, RSVP at https://bit.ly/3YZeaGl.  
Take this opportunity to be a part of a movement that saves lives and promotes mental health awareness. Organised "By the Community, For the Community," this training underscores the power of collective care.  
Let’s build a supportive, informed community together!
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WHAT: Suicide Prevention Training
WHERE: 164 MacMillian St Ayr
WHEN: Saturday 7th December 2024 9:00am – 4:00pm

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Get into the festive spirit and join the Ayr Presbyterian Church for a magical evening of fun and giving back this Christmas season. The annual Saint Nicholas Day celebration will take place on Friday, 6 December, from 5.30pm to 7pm at the church grounds.

This family-friendly event promises a heartwarming mix of activities and festive cheer, and attendees will learn about the story of Saint Nicholas of Myra, the inspiration behind the modern-day Santa Claus.

The evening will feature a range of activities, including decorating sugar cookies, creating Christmas crafts, and even making your own Christmas stocking in the “Boot Making” craft session. Younger participants and those young at heart can also design their own Christmas bauble by writing down something they’re grateful for and hanging it on the community tree.

No Christmas celebration would be complete without carols, so bring your singing voice and join in on the festive tunes. To keep everyone energised, there will be a sausage sizzle, along with tea, coffee, and scones available.

Each activity requires just a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to Burdekin Community Association to support local families in need during the holiday season.

Bring your family, friends, and festive spirit along to this wonderful community event. Together, let’s spread joy and kindness this Christmas. For more details, visit Ayr Presbyterian Church or follow their Facebook page.

What: Saint Nicholas Day.
When: Friday 6 December from 5:30pm – 7pm.
Where: Ayr Presbyterian Church Grounds.

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The Burdekin sub-branch of Vietnam Veterans has been busy expanding the Deep Creek Veteran Retreat with a new barbecue area to create an even more welcoming space for veterans and their families. Ten members recently gathered for a working bee at the retreat, putting in hours of effort to bring the vision of a third barbecue area closer to completion.
Don Bailey, a key organiser, shared that the team focused on extending the roof area and caring for some freshly planted trees, ensuring the area will eventually offer ample shade and a touch of greenery for visitors.
“We’re just giving those new trees plenty of water in these dry conditions,” Bailey explained.
The working bee attracted both Vietnam Veterans and associate members, part of the wider group of ex-military personnel who value the retreat as a place to relax, socialise, and connect with one another.
Deep Creek Veteran Retreat has long been cherished for its atmosphere of camaraderie, and the new barbecue area will add to this. Once completed, it will provide another setting for events, gatherings, and peaceful moments in nature, strengthening bonds within the veteran community.
The Burdekin sub-branch is grateful for the volunteers who took part in this effort, and they look forward to celebrating this latest improvement with all who visit the retreat.

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Deep Creek Retreat has barbecue stations dotted all across their land. Photo Supplied.

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At 2.20 am on Saturday 2 November, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Edwards Street.  As a result, a 34-year-old Burdekin man was issued a Notice to Appear (NTA) for drink driving, .153 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 25 November.
At 11.35pm on Saturday 2 November, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on MacMillan Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 27-year-old Townsville woman, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .101 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.
At 7.10pm on Wednesday 6 November, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Fifth Avenue, Home Hill.  The driver, a 29yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in her saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 7 January.
At 10.35am on Wednesday 13 November, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Eighth Avenue, Home Hill.  The driver, a 45yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
At 10.20am on Thursday 14 November, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Soper Street, Ayr.  The driver, a 51yr old Burdekin man was issued a NTA for driving with a relevant drug in his saliva and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 10 February.
At 3.45pm on Thursday 14 November, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Ayr.  The driver, an 47yr old Brisbane man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .057 and unlicenced driving.  He is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 9 December.

At 10.25pm on Saturday 5 October, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Burke Street, Ayr.  The driver, an 47yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .078 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October.
At 3.20am on Sunday 6 October, Ayr Police received a complaint that a male had been assaulted at a licenced premises in Queen Street, Ayr.  As a result of investigations, a 24yr old Townsville man was located a short time later and charged with one count of serious assault of a person over 60 years and released on conditional bail.  He is due to appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on 29 October.  He was also issued a Police Banning Notice in relation to licenced premises in Ayr.
At 4.05pm on Sunday 6 October, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Ayr-Dalbeg Road, Mount Kelly.  The driver, an 33yr old Burdekin man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .063 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October.
At 11.50pm on Saturday 12 October, Ayr Police intercepted a vehicle on Tenth Street, Home Hill.  As a result, a 40yr old Burdekin woman was issued a NTA for drink driving, .111 and is due to appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 28 October.
At 6.55pm on Tuesday 15 October, Police from Ayr Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle on Bruce Highway, Home Hill.  The driver, an 57yr old Townsville man, was issued a NTA for drink driving, .116 and will appear in Ayr Magistrates Court on 11 November.

SOCIAL MEDIA
As technology continues to improve, so does our ability to share memories and stay in touch with friends. Social media platforms provide an invaluable opportunity to connect, have questions answered and offer assistance.  
The information available on social media has been successfully used by Ayr Police on more than one occasion to locate stolen property or missing children. An information tool that we embrace, when used for the right reasons.  
This opportunity though is sometimes marred by people in our community that use it to settle vendettas and harass. Some people seem too comfortable in constantly providing perceived problems, but no solutions. It seems to offer a certain amount of anonymity and separation that attracts ‘key board warriors’.    
Before you type: think about the possible ramifications, consider if it may be threatening or harassing, think about if it is fact and contemplate what you are actually trying to achieve.    

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Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash
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Did you know??
What is a safe distance when passing a bicycle rider??
Motorists passing a bicycle that is travelling in the same direction as the driver must stay wider of bicycle riders by giving a minimum of:
   • 1m when passing a bicycle rider in a 60km/h or less speed zone
or
   • 1.5m where the speed limit is over 60km/h.
Regulation 144A Transport Infrastructure (Road Use Management-Road Rules) Regulation 2009

Home Security Audits
The Queensland Police Service have “ Home Security Audit” forms that can be accessed at the QPS website https://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/homeSecurity/Homesecurityauditchecklistandfactsheet.htm
Anecdotally the majority of unlawful entry offences are committed on residences or vehicles that are unlocked and/or have valuables in plain sight.  Locking your house and car & securing valuables including money, keys, wallets and mobile phones will deter opportunistic thieves.  
If you see someone acting suspiciously AT ANY TIME, ring Ayr Police Station on 4790 3555 or after hours ring 131 444, unless life threatening, then ring 000.
Crime prevention is a community effort.  Police regularly need public assistance and information to help solve criminal offences.  This information can be anonymous to crime stoppers.  If you have any such information, pls contact Crime Stoppers or Ayr Police.
Don’t let yourself become a victim of crime – Lock it or Lose it
If you have any information about crime or illicit drugs, phone crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.  The more detailed the information you give, the better it will be for all concerned.
Remember to secure your property – “lock it or lose it”.
You wouldn’t leave a dish containing thousands of dollars sitting on your bench or sitting out in the open, so why do this with your car keys
Car keys – treat them like cash

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The Burdekin Theatre’s Friends of the Theatre volunteer group has been guiding patrons to their seats since the theatre was established in the 80s and hold a celebrated role in providing the community with access to live entertainment.
Comprised of approximately twenty dedicated and enthusiastic members, the Friends of the Theatre not only provide the venue with a friendly ushering service, but also contribute to delivering a warm atmosphere for the community to enjoy through a range of fantastic services.
The Friends of the Theatre have been operating the coffee bar and selling chocolates and raffle tickets in the theatre foyer for performance goers to enjoy for just over four decades, and they never fail to provide Morning Melody patrons with a wonderful, complimentary morning tea. Collectively, the group also sponsors buses which transport children to the Burdekin Theatre annually to experience the magic of live theatre for themselves.
John Woods has proudly held the position as Friends of the Theatre president for three years and invites interested community members to join the fantastic group.
“We’re always looking for ways to support the Burdekin Theatre in any way, and we’re always looking for more members,” shared John.
“It’s fun to be involved and work with likeminded people, and the group runs as a great way to maintain a number of skills as all of our volunteers are trained in areas like First Aid, and fire safety.”
Over the past two years, the group has purchased various items for the Burdekin Theatre including an ice machine, new ticket scanners, and foyer televisions to continue elevating the experiences of its guests, with investment totalling to an amazing $13,100.
The group’s generosity certainly does not go unnoticed, with John beyond proud of what the Friends of the Theatre group has been able to achieve.
“We’re very pleased to have made these necessary, and beneficial contributions to the Burdekin Theatre, and we’re proud to continue providing our services to the community.”
Community members with an interest in the magic of the theatre and who would like to learn more on how to become involved in such a fantastic volunteer group are encouraged to contact the Burdekin Theatre Box office on (07) 4783 9880.

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Burdekin Shire Council’s Cultural Venues Manager, Troy Everett and Friends of the Burdekin Theatre President, John Woods with the newly purchased ticket scanners and Foyer TVs

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Established over a century ago, the Delta Tropical Theatre, also known as the Olympia Theatre, opened its Queen Street doors on Friday, 23 September 1910. The beloved Burdekin establishment homed waves of live entertainment from exquisite balls and dancing performances to meetings, and even skating, before introducing the screening of silent movies in 1912.

Built alongside the Delta Hotel, the Delta Tropical Theatre was constructed and designed by David Edwards, and Fred Smith in May of 1910 to host over eight hundred patrons. David carried out additional renovations in 1914 to allow for a total of 1,400 patrons to indulge in the joys and magic of the Theatre.

In 1931, the Delta Theatre was prestigiously considered as the Best Country Theatre in Queensland due to its historical achievement of being the first Country Theatre to be wired for “talking pictures” in 1929 under the management of Mr Robert W. Edwards.

A fond memory reminisced upon by some was sitting on the Delta’s canvas seats, watching the official 1953 crowning of Queen Elizabeth II, or simply meeting with friends each week like clockwork to catch a Friday night movie.

A Saturday night saw Queen Street closed off to traffic to host a wonderful evening of community festivities with locals flooding in to enjoy raffle wheels, the Three Graces Café’s ice cream sundaes, a pastry from Horrie Crowdey’s Pie Cart, and comment on the flash new cars stationed in the centre car parks.

In its later years, the Cinema screened many movie premiers, attracting crowds of locals of all ages, with some premiers held as fundraisers for community-based organisations and schools. Holding a position at the Delta became a first job for many young students, as well as an enjoyable role for retirees, with some picking up a shift, punching tickets, cleaning or serving as a doorman here and there.

The Delta Theatre experienced a thirty-nine-year hiatus in 1961, closing its doors on Saturday 29 July following the screening of “That Kind of Woman” and “Accused of Murder” until Burdekin born, professional Australian golfer, Karri Webb, bought the establishment, re-opening the theatre as the Burdekin Delta Cinemas in 2000.

Karri’s parents, Evelyn and Robert Webb of Webco Builders oversaw and carried out extensive renovations of the building with the support of Asa Suters and Alasdair MacEachern of Progress Consultants.

Coinciding with the retirement of Evelyn and Robert, the Burdekin Delta Cinemas concluded its final screening the week of the 14 July 2021.

Much to the sadness of the community, many took the official closure as an opportunity to share their immense gratitude to the Webb family for continuing the traditions of their childhood for the next generation.
Today, 114 years on from its debut in the Burdekin Shire, many still reminisce on their memories with the infamous Delta, expressing what an amazing, and nostalgic building stands at 145 – 149 Queen Street, Ayr.

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The Delta Theatre as it stood in 1937.
The Delta Theatre’s stunning 1900s interior.
The Delta Theatre building still stands in Queen Street, 114 years on from its establishment.

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Hi Everyone,

Great to see so many people in the community celebrate the end of a successful year – from the Year 12 graduating students through to local businesses embarking on a busy Christmas period – there is certainly a lot going on!

A big congratulations to all local students graduating this year. Completing your school career is one of the biggest moments of your life and I am sure we all have our own special memories of the day we walked through the high school gates for the last time.

Whether graduates are embarking on an apprenticeship or leaving for university, we all wish them a fun-filled summer full of adventure and freedom!  A well-deserved break no doubt.

Another highlight of the paper this week, is the page 3 story about the ‘Three Blokes Running’. I found their commitment to raising awareness about mental health very inspiring.

To think that six men a day in Australia die due to suicide is a shocking statistic.

It means the lives of six Aussie families are shattered every day, 180 families a month.

Let’s all support these three young men as they run 180 kilometres each, one kilometre for each life lost this month.

You can do this by attending a charity event at Queen’s Hotel this Sunday.

Incredibly, the ‘Three Blokes Running’ have already raised $7K, let’s help them reach $10K!

In other news, the photo of the week this week goes to the Junior Home Hill Cricket Association. Thank you for the incredible submission from a club member who managed to capture the youngsters playing to a backdrop of the cane fields ablaze.

Flip over the newspaper to see the photo on the back cover.

There is nothing more ‘Burdekin’ than seeing this unique sight, and I remember my own son pointing it out with excitement when we were driving into town recently.

Rach

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Rose Rodighiero is a true gem in the Home Hill community, dedicating her time and energy to ensuring no one feels lonely. She is deeply committed to visiting her clients, sharing her warmth and bringing joy to their lives. Through these regular visits, Rose has formed lasting friendships that enrich both her life and the lives of those she visits.
Born in a small town in Sicily, Rose moved to Australia at just eight years old. She attended St Colman’s Catholic School in Home Hill, where she struggled with the language barrier but quickly adapted. After completing secondary school, she worked at the Carmichael Corner Pharmacy in Home Hill before marrying in 1966.
Rose’s strong sense of community has always guided her, and she volunteered with Meals On Wheels for many years. However, her passion for helping others led her to spend seven years visiting elderly residents in her community.
Rita Quagliata, Volunteer Manager at BCA, shared, "Everyone enjoys and looks forward to her visits. They appreciate the company of this gentle, soft-spoken lady."
Rose’s caring nature and selfless dedication to others have made a significant impact on many lives. Her kindness is deeply appreciated by the clients and their families, who are grateful for the time and love she gives to their loved ones. Rose Rodighiero is indeed a treasure, and the Home Hill community is fortunate to have her.

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Rose is a true gem in the community of the Burdekin. Photo Supplied

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Three Burdekin tradies have turned their commitment to mental health awareness into an incredible community effort by running 180km each for Movember. Austin Dewar (18), Campbell Johnson (21), and Braden Rawlins (21), who are all local apprentices, initially aimed to raise $540 but have far surpassed their expectations, collecting nearly $7,000 to date.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the challenge, Austin Dewar explained:
“Basically, my two mates and I are running 180km each for Movember to raise money for mental health awareness. Campbell brought up the idea after learning about Movember’s ‘Move for Movember’ initiative. He looked into the statistics and found out that six men a day in Australia take their own lives. Over a month, that adds up to 180— and that’s a staggering number. It really hit home for us, so we decided to take action.”
The trio initially set a modest target of $540—$180 each to symbolise the lives lost in a month. However, the community quickly rallied behind their mission. “We smashed $1,000 in the first 24 hours alone,” Austin said. “Now we’re almost at $7,000, and we’d love to hit $10,000.”
Local businesses have enthusiastically joined the cause, contributing to the fundraising effort and offering prizes for a community event scheduled for 24 November at the Queen’s Hotel in Ayr. The event will kick off at 4pm, featuring a 5km running track and a 2km walking track.
“There’ll be a barbecue, raffles with prizes like gift cards, meat trays, and even a fridge giveaway,” Austin shared. “Even if people don’t want to exercise, they can still come down and show their support.”
The support has been overwhelming for the young tradies, who are now not just raising funds but breaking down barriers around mental health.
“The biggest thing is the encouragement we’re receiving,” Austin said.
“We get messages from people saying we’re doing great, and it’s made us feel more comfortable speaking up, which is amazing. Running through town, we have people waving and beeping at us. That kind of support really keeps us going.”
Movember, a global initiative focusing on men’s health, has been instrumental in shining a light on the often-taboo subject of mental health. Austin, Campbell, and Braden are proud to contribute to this movement.
“We’ve realised how important it is to normalise conversations around mental health,” Austin said.
“If our efforts help just one person feel less alone, then it’s all worth it.”
The trio hopes their story inspires others to take small steps toward making a big impact.
“We’re just three mates who wanted to do something meaningful,” Austin said. “The community support has been unbelievable, and it’s proven to us that people really do care about this issue.”
With their event just around the corner and a lofty $10,000 target in sight, the Burdekin community has a chance to make a difference and show their support for this remarkable initiative.
To donate to their Movember campaign or learn more about the event, visit the Movember website and search for their team, “Three Blokes Running”. Together, we can make strides—literally and figuratively—towards better mental health for all.
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WHAT: Three Blokes Running Fundraiser
WHERE: Queen’s Hotel Ayr
WHEN: 4pm Sunday 24th November 2024

Austin Dewar, Campbell Johnson, and Braden Rawlins are running for men’s mental health. Photo Supplied

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Brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Australian children, with DIPG (Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma) the most aggressive form, referred to in medical circles as the deadliest cancer known to man.
Ren’s Million Dollar Mission was born out of personal tragedy when Ren Pedersen lost his 9-year-old daughter, Amy, to DIPG in 2009. Amy’s legacy lives on, inspiring Ren’s relentless efforts to fund research into this devastating disease.  
The campaign, which aims to raise $1 million, seeks support from 1,000 individuals and businesses, each donating $1,000. These funds will directly benefit the Children’s Cancer Institute, Australia’s leading paediatric cancer research organisation.
Recently, Ren and his campaign collaborator and partner Megan Law, held a community meet-and-greet event at the RSL on Saturday 16th November. This gathering provided an opportunity for locals to connect with Ren, learn more about the mission, and contribute to the cause.
Since signing a formal partnership with the Children’s Cancer Institute three weeks ago, Ren has worked tirelessly to bring awareness to the urgent need for funding. “Without action, parents will continue to nurse their children to the grave,” he said.  
The Children’s Cancer Institute now has 20 scientists dedicated to DIPG research, a remarkable development compared to 2009 when no such resources existed. However, the challenge remains to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and accessible treatments.
Ren’s Million Dollar Mission is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when personal grief is channelled into community action. With the Burdekin’s ongoing support and collective generosity, Amy’s legacy is driving the fight for a brighter future for children battling brain cancer.
Join Ren’s Million Dollar Mission and make a difference for children battling DIPG. Your donation can help fund vital research to turn groundbreaking discoveries into life-saving treatments. Every contribution counts.

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Megan Law with the scientists at the lab. Photo Supplied

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Marking 10 years of his Christmas Appeal, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is hoping this year may be the Burdekin’s biggest year of giving so far.

Across the decade, Mr Last said the appeal had gone on to help numerous Burdekin families at a time of the year that can be incredibly difficult for many in the electorate.

“The appeal has run every year since 2015 and has had a huge impact on literally hundreds of families,” Mr Last said.

“For some it’s about being able to put food on the table or a Christmas gift for a young child but, for all of them, it shows they aren’t alone and that their community cares.

The Salvation Army have been a key partner in the appeal since it started back in 2015,” he said.

“That allows us to put together hampers for people based on what they need and that ensures we provide the right help, and it also means that nothing is wasted.”

Mr Last said the appeal’s ability to bring together the generosity of local community groups as well as individuals was a credit to the community’s generosity during the festive season.

“Every single donation, whether it is handmade wooden toys or staples for the kitchen pantry has the ability to make a real difference to a family in need,” Mr Last said.

“Each year we see our local Men’s Shed and Woodcrafts Association go above and beyond to provide some spectacular wooden toys to the appeal and at the same time we see individuals go out of their way to pop something extra in their shopping trolley.

Even if people are not in a position to be able to donate they can still help people in need.

Sharing a smile, a few kind words or donating some time at a charity really does help and, after all, that’s the true spirit of Christmas.”

Donations, including non-perishable food, can be made until 15 December, at the Burdekin Electorate Office at the East End Centre. For those in Bowen looking to make a donation this can be done at the Bowen Salvation Army store on Herbert Street.

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Approaching the three-year anniversary since a monstrous 3.9-meter crocodile was hauled away by Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) wildlife officers from the bustling Groper Creek jetty and boat ramp area, along with members of the boating and fishing community have become increasingly concerned about recent crocodile sightings, calling for DESI to take immediate action.
Rodney Walter, Commodore of the Home Hill Boat Club Inc. Committee submitted a letter to the Burdekin Shire Council on Monday 28 October, alerting them to the overgrown vegetation in the immediate vicinity of Groper Creek boat ramps and jetty areas. Mangroves and riverbank vegetation provide excellent homes and shelter to many animals like mangrove jack, various types of sea snakes, prawns, crabs, and of course crocodiles.
“The crocodile population is such a worry for our community and there are regular sightings of crocs including just last year in 2023 between the jetty and boat ramp in which the boaties got a scare but did manage to get out at the ramp and retrieve their boat,” explained Rodney.
Many members of the local Burdekin community and travellers alike enjoy and use Groper Creek regularly for fishing, boating and social gatherings, furthermore, making the removal and maintenance of the overgrown mangroves an issue directly impacting the safety of the public.
“Crocs have been sighted and captured within 100 metres of the jetty and boat ramps and you just have to ask those locals that have shined torches at night from the jetty to witness croc eyes, or stories of the latest sightings in helicopter joy rides or recent fishing trips,” said Rodney.
A frightening ordeal, the 2021 crocodile capture came after the reptile was spotted frequenting the Groper Creek Groper Creek Caravan Park jetty and boat ramp, a sighting park manager, Jeanette Garvey noted was far too close for comfort.
In late 2023 an alarming ordeal where a crocodile rammed and followed a man’s boat around Pensioners Bend sparked the placement of a crocodile trap, warning signs and the intervention of wildlife officials. However, with an empty trap removed from the creek a month later, its believed the reptile is still at large. Paired with these fearful concerns, Rodney and the Home Hill Boat Club Inc. Committee are calling for urgent removal and maintenance to take place as the mangroves have begun encroaching on both the boat ramps and jetty areas.
“The mangrove branches are now at the point they intrude through the jetty side rails and will very soon grow to the point you won’t be able to walk on the jetty without brushing or pushing past these branches – trimming is a must – urgently,” Rodney added.

Groper Creek often hosts regular sightings of crocodiles and has been referred to as a metropolitan area within “Croc Country” on multiple occasions. Visitors to the area are advised to always be “Crocwise” and report all crocodile sightings to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation through the QWildlife app for iOS and Android devices or through calling 1300 130 372.

“The department records and investigates all crocodile reports made by the public and will take appropriate action in accordance with the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan - your reports help in determining crocodile presence and movement in the area,” advises the Burdekin Shire Council.
 
“Always remember that no natural waterway in crocodile country is ever 100% risk -free, and the public should remain Crocwise at all times when in and around crocodile habitat.”

The Burdekin Shire Council is currently preparing the necessary applications to submit to the State Government for approval to begin action and undertake works on the affected Groper Creek boat ramps and jetty areas.

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A photo captured recently of a snap happy friend between Burdekin and Groper Creek areas measuring approximately 8 – 10 feet long (Photo credits: Denise Holder).
A growing concern! Mangroves continue to grow, encroaching on Groper Creek boat ramp and jetty areas
Welcome to Croc Country! Official signs were placed around Groper Creek following a frightening crocodile encounter last year.

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