Brian Giddy, a familiar voice on Sweet FM, has been a radio host for four years. His journey into broadcasting began with a suggestion from his friend Cheryl, leading him to a post-retirement passion that perfectly blended his love for music with community service.
“I always wanted to do something when I retired, and I love music,” Brian reflects. His involvement in the choral society and a fondness for classic tunes from his youth laid the groundwork for his on-air presence.
“I enjoy playing the old music that we grew up with, the songs we understand.”
When asked about his favourite musicians, Brian’s love for country and western is immediately clear.
“I love Kristofferson and Patsy Cline’s ‘Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray,’” he shares. His musical journey includes playing the saxophone in a band for several years, and he’s also sung and played keyboard for the sick and elderly at respite.
“I love sharing music with the disabled and elderly,” Brian says, reinforcing his deep connection with the community through music.
One of his most memorable moments on air was an interaction with two nurses from Townsville Hospital. After playing "Pray for Me," Brian received a heartfelt request from their father to play the song during the nurses' break, making a profound connection through music.
“We also had a couple in Italy tuning in,” he fondly recalls, a testament to the station’s wide-reaching impact.
Brian’s preparation for a live show is a thoughtful process, meticulously selecting Australian songs to share. His advice for aspiring radio hosts?
“If you want to do something for the public and you like music, do it. You might make somebody’s day with a song.”
Engaging his audience is Brian’s speciality. “I encourage people to ring in, pick a song, or just say hello. I’d love to hear from people,” he adds, always closing his show with a warm message: “God bless you all.”

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At just 16 years old, Beau Easton of the Burdekin has made waves in the international bull riding community by securing third place at the World Bull Riding Championship in the United States.

However, despite his impressive accomplishment, the young cowboy remains as humble as ever, according to his mother, Jolene Easton.

“Beau doesn’t like the attention,” Jolene shared. “He’s a man of few words, so if you asked him how it feels, he’d probably just say it was alright.”

While Beau may be modest, his achievement is nothing short of remarkable. Competing in a foreign country for the first time, against unfamiliar bulls and surrounded by new faces, he remained focused and determined. The Easton family, unable to accompany Beau on his overseas journey, watched from home with bated breath.

“He went over with friends, and it was a very new experience for him,” Jolene explained.

“The atmosphere in America was something we’ve never experienced before, but Beau just focused on what he had to do. He listens to music to keep his nerves in check and stays in that mindset – you can’t interrupt him when he’s like that!”

For Beau, bull riding is more than a competitive sport; it’s a lifelong passion that began when he could barely walk. Growing up in rural North Queensland, he’s been around livestock his entire life. His father was a bull rider before him, and Beau naturally followed in his father’s footsteps.

From a young age, he’s displayed a unique style of riding, one that hasn’t been altered even by his time in America.

“He’s got his own way of doing things,” Jolene said.

“Beau rides square on and has a neat, distinctive style. It’s a pleasure to watch him ride.”

Though Beau faced many challenges in America – from unfamiliar stock to competing on foreign soil – he took it all in stride. According to Jolene, Beau is happiest when he’s on the back of a bull, no matter the circumstances.

“He came home after the competition and rode another ten bulls just for the sake of it,” Jolene laughed.

“He’s always been like that – riding bulls is something he loves, and that’s what drives him.”

Back home, Beau’s success has sparked pride across the local bull riding community. Family, friends, and fans have all rallied around him to celebrate his achievement.

“Our hearts were bursting with pride when we watched him compete from home,” Jolene said.

“Everyone wants to shake his hand and congratulate him. He’s been an inspiration to so many kids, and he always takes the time to help them or answer their questions.”

Looking ahead, Beau has no plans to slow down. With more competitions on the horizon, including one in Clermont next month, he’s already setting his sights on next year’s world competition.

“He doesn’t do it for the recognition; he does it for the love of the sport,” Jolene said.

“We’re really proud of him, and we’re just excited to see what he does next.”

For Beau Easton, the journey to the top of the bull riding world has only just begun.

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16 years old, Beau Easton secures third place at the World Bull Riding Championship in the United States. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Hi Everyone,

I thought I’d jump on here this issue to say a big thank you to all of you for supporting this newspaper for a full year!

Yep, this issue officially clocks-up our first trip around the sun and we wouldn’t be here without all of you.

What started with a phone call from local resident Neil Williams asking us to bring back a local community to the Burdekin has resulted in such a meaningful connection with all of you.

The support of both loyal readers and local businesses mean we can produce this newspaper for you every week.

Right from the beginning we have really wanted you to feel a sense of ownership and pride for this newspaper, we simply produce it for you, but you are the people that send in your stories, invite us to events and make this newspaper part of the fabric of the community.

We would like to sincerely thank you for being so welcoming to our journalists Sam and now Miah, and also to the rest of our team that you’ve encountered along the way – from the friendly face that books your ads to the distributors that drop your paper around town.

It is an absolute honour bringing you this newspaper and the warm reception we receive each week makes all our dedicated efforts worthwhile.

A few months ago, we received a call from the Mayor of the Hinchinbrook because he had seen a copy of Burdekin Life Newspaper – he was calling to ask us to bring a local newspaper back to his region too.

As I’m sure you can imagine, starting a new newspaper is a big job, but when we arrived in Ingham we felt the resounding heartbeat of the local community again – the community in fact reminded us a lot of the Burdekin and so we felt called to go ahead.

By the end of November, we will be welcoming Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper to Life Publishing Group family and, the communities of Ingham, Cardwell and Rollingstone will have a dedicated local paper back.

This all started because of you, so thank you all very much.

Rach

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I would like to share my good news experience that happened to me.
My name is Valarie Edwards, and I am 96. In November I will be 97.
I have asked Rita Quagliata from BCA to help me to share my story for me.

I wanted to share this because it is worth mentioning and for people in our community to know, that help is out there when or if you need it.

I had just come out of hospital, and was home only a few days, when I started feeling sick again. But I ignored it. I thought nothing of it.

My support workers from BCA came to shower me.

Immediately they noticed that I wasn’t my bubbly self and that I didn’t look well.

My support workers were very concerned, that they couldn’t move onto their next client because they were too worried for me.

They decided to call the ambulance.

When I was back in the hospital, my doctors carried out more tests.

As a result of those tests, they discovered I had a rare and nasty infection.

I was hospitalised and, on a drip, and required antibiotics 3 times a day for 10 days.

My girls, my two angels (yes, I call them my angels) they saved my life.

If they didn’t call the ambulance, who knows what would have happened to me.

I want to thank Burdekin Community Association for their wonderful service.

I wanted to let people in our community know, that help is always out there.

I would like to thank everyone, the BCA, my angels from BCA, the hospital, and the doctors for taking good care of me and bringing me back to my usual bubbly self.

I want this message to go out across to the community, because of the care, love and concern I received from some wonderful people. 

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Grassroots netball in the Burdekin has received a massive boost with the announcement of $3.5 million in funding from the LNP, a lifeline for the Burdekin Netball Association as it continues to grow the sport and support its local players.
The funding will enable the association to install new courts, upgrade the lighting, and construct a new clubhouse and seating, addressing safety issues that have plagued the facility in recent years. The improvements are critical to ensuring the sport’s future in the region.
"It means everything to our club,” a representative from the Home Hill Netball Association shared. “Without this, we wouldn’t have been able to run next season; we would have had to fold because our courts are unsafe. We just need to look after our members so we can grow.”
Dale Last, Member for Burdekin and LNP representative, praised the association’s efforts to secure the necessary funds after years of hard work and determination.
“Netball is one of the most popular sports in the Burdekin, and the Burdekin Netball Association has been endeavouring to secure the necessary funds to upgrade their facility for several years, doing everything they can,” Last said.
“Full credit to them, they went to a lot of trouble preparing their business case, conducting their research, and it’s a real feather in their cap that they’ve managed to pull together a proposal that we were more than happy to support.”
Mr Last emphasised that these infrastructure upgrades are part of the LNP’s broader commitment to supporting communities and providing the services Queenslanders deserve.
“The Burdekin Netball Association has a plan to ensure the health and mental health benefits of netball are available to people in the Burdekin for the next 50 years, and that’s a plan the LNP is proud to support,” he said.
With these new funds, netball in the Burdekin is set to thrive, ensuring a bright future for players across the region.

All Smiles at the Home Hill Netball Association. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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National Police Remembrance Day, held every September, is a heartfelt occasion to honour the courageous Police Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This year, ceremonies will be held throughout Queensland and across the nation, reflecting our deep respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our communities safe.

On Friday, 27th September 2024, the National Police Remembrance Day Service will take place at 10:00 am at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr.

During this solemn gathering, facilitators will read the Roll of Honour, a tribute to the Officers lost. It’s a meaningful moment for our community to remember and recognise their bravery.

Guests will have the chance to lay flowers and wreaths as symbols of gratitude and remembrance. There will also be a collection to support Police Legacy, an organisation dedicated to helping the families of fallen Officers, ensuring they are never forgotten.

After the service, everyone is invited to gather in the Church Hall for light refreshments. This will be a wonderful opportunity to connect and foster a sense of community among Police Officers, their families, and the public.

As we approach this day, the Queensland Police Service encourages everyone to participate and reflect on the sacrifices made by our local heroes. National Police Remembrance Day is a powerful reminder of the vital role police play in our lives and the deep gratitude we owe them.

WHAT: Police Remembrance Day
WHERE: Burdekin Community Church in Ayr
WHEN: Friday, 27th September at 10am

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Burdekin Shire Council invites all community members to come and celebrate a whopping 30 Years of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council on Saturday 12 October from 3:00 pm.
Reflecting on the last three decades, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has played a pivotal role in providing a voice for young people from all high schools and townships in the Burdekin, and often guide Council’s decision making around matters related to youth.
The Burdekin Shire Youth Council was founded in 1994 under the leadership of then-Mayor Beth Honeycombe and has continued to thrive under the guidance of Council’s Community Development department.
Over the years, the Youth Council has played a pivotal role in a range of community initiatives, including the development of the Anzac Park Skate Park, the establishment of Burdekin PCYC, and the Burdekin Aquatic Centre.
The Youth Council has also been behind a series of successful events such as the Mayor's Disco, Battle of the Bands, and most recently, the highly popular Fast Track Talent Showcase.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said this has been the longest consecutive running Youth Council in North Queensland.
“For 30 years, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has been empowering our young people to contribute meaningfully to our community,” Mayor Dalle Cort stated.
“This celebration is a chance to recognise the contributions of Burdekin’s youth and to look forward to the continued success of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council.”
Light refreshments will be provided at the event, for catering purposes please secure your free tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/CVHUD .
Following these formal celebrations, guests are invited to join the Connect & Celebrate wellbeing event in the Theatre forecourt from 4:00pm.

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What: 30 year Burdekin Youth Council Celebration
When: Saturday 12th October, 3pm onwards
Where: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, Queen Street, Ayr

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Burdekin Youth Council Is Getting Ready to Celebrate 30 years!

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Selectability has officially opened a dedicated mental health facility, a space that aims to provide essential services for mental health and suicide prevention. The inspiration behind this much-needed facility stemmed directly from the community.

“Before Selectability moves into an area, we conduct a survey. In this case, 93% of respondents said they needed a dedicated facility to support mental health and suicide prevention,” said Bryn Hicks, Regional Coordinator.

The facility offers a variety of services, ranging from NDIS support to group programs and Clubhouse memberships. What sets this centre apart is its open-door policy—no referral is necessary, everyone is welcome.

While it’s not a crisis service, the team is always prepared to refer individuals to the appropriate groups. Their services extend beyond typical offerings, as the centre also provides transport for participants and serves as a multi-use space for organisations and community groups.

Training and development are a priority for the staff.

"We provide ongoing training, practice supervision, and mentorship to ensure our team is well-equipped to handle a wide range of mental health issues," Hicks explained.

This is part of Selectability’s commitment to supporting the community with experienced and empathetic staff.

To tackle mental health stigma, simply being present in the community is a huge step.

“Just having a facility like this shows people that mental health is something we can talk about. It’s out in the open, and that visibility helps to break down barriers,” he added.

Accessibility is also central to their mission. Selectability embraces diversity within its workforce and in its policies, ensuring inclusivity for First Nations people, the LGBTQIA+ community, and linguistically diverse groups.

There’s also a special focus on the elderly, who, as Hicks highlighted, suffer from some of the highest rates of suicidality due to loneliness.

Ultimately, the goal is to spark conversations around mental health in the community.

“Having these conversations makes people feel safe,” emphasised Hicks.

When people visit the facility, they can expect a warm welcome, a cup of tea or coffee, and someone to help them navigate their challenges.

For those interested in accessing services or joining community-led groups, the facility is ready to assist, providing a supportive space for all.

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The anticipation and excitement surrounding the 2024 Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival has reached new heights with the recent announcement of the celebration’s seven impressive 2024 Queens.

Being a Harvest festival Queen stands as a prestigious role and an incredible opportunity for each of the young women to engage with the heart of their community in a deeply meaningful way. The 2024 Queens will make their official debut on Sunday 29 September at the Harvest Festival Launch and Ephemera event set to be held at the Lloyd Mann Gardens in Home Hill. With many of the young ladies having already begun their fundraising for their respective organisations, the Home Hill Harvest Festival Committee is beyond excited to kick off the 2024 celebrations in style next weekend and provide the region with the unique opportunity to meet each of the Queens in a wonderful community setting.

MEET THE HOME HILL HARVEST FESTIVAL QUEENS

Martina Bojack – Home Hill Community Sports Club
Martina Bojack, 18, is proudly representing the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce at James Cook University in Townsville. With a focus on Accounting and Financial Advising, Martina skilfully juggles her academic commitments with a part-time role at Cormack and Company Accountants in Ayr. Martina is excited to be a participant in this year’s Harvest Festival Queen program, viewing it as a fantastic opportunity to engage with her community and form meaningful connections with her fellow contestants. When she’s not studying, she enjoys catching up on the latest NRL matches.

Sophie Brosnan – Get Fit Home Hill
Representing Get Fit Home Hill with pride is Sophie Brosnan, 27. Originally from Germany, Sophie settled in the Burdekin at 22 after arriving as a backpacker and meeting her husband, Clinton. Now fully immersed in the community, she balances her time as a student nurse and fitness enthusiast. By the end 2024, she will become a registered nurse and plans to dedicate her career to caring for others at Regis Home Hill and local hospitals. Known for her love of animals and participation in bodybuilding competitions, Sophie’s passion for health and wellness shines through in everything she does. Around town, she's affectionately called “the girl with the dog,” often seen with her loyal companion, Oreo, by her side during her shifts at the aged care home.

Harmony Fletcher – Home Hill Rotary Club
Harmony Fletcher, 18, is proudly representing the Home Hill Rotary Club, an organisation she deeply admires for its commitment to generosity and kindness. A recent Home Hill High School graduate, Harmony now works full-time in the bakery department at IGA. Through this year’s festival, she looks forward to connecting with her fellow entrants and engaging more with the community. When she’s not at work, Harmony enjoys staying active at the gym or relaxing at home with her cherished dog, Hazel.

Tegan Johnson – Burdekin Rugby League Club
Proudly representing the Burdekin Rugby League Club is Tegan Johnson, 28.  A lifelong Burdekin resident, Tegan runs a thriving fashion hire business, catering to both local and interstate clients. Two years ago, she embraced rugby league, joining the Hens team, and has loved every moment on the field since. Her entrepreneurial drive and passion for fashion are equally matched by her dedication to fitness, soccer, and community involvement. Tegan is excited to represent Burdekin Rugby League in this year’s Harvest Festival and looks forward to celebrating with her community.

Danelle Laubscher – Home Hill-Ayr Lions Club
Danelle Laubscher, 18, is honoured to represent the Home Hill-Ayr Lions Club. Originally from South Africa, Danelle has made the Burdekin her home since 2022. Now in Year 12 at Burdekin Christian College, she’s eager to become more involved in the community and make new connections. As she continues to explore the Burdekin, her appreciation for the region has only grown. Danelle is excited to represent the Lions Club in this year’s festival and looks forward to making the most of this memorable experience.

Marnie Skipper – Home Hill Community Kindergarten
At 19, Marnie Skipper is proudly representing the Home Hill Community Kindergarten, where she now works after earning her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Currently pursuing her diploma, Marnie balances her time between two additional roles as an assistant educator and a dance teacher. Her lifelong passion for working with children, influenced by her years of dancing and teaching, makes her an ideal fit for this role. Having attended the kindergarten herself, Marnie is thrilled to give back and raise funds for a service that holds a special place in her heart.

Madison Mainwaring-Samwell – Burdekin Netball Association
Madison Mainwaring-Samwell, 20, is proudly representing the Burdekin Netball Association. A long-time member, Madison has contributed to the club in various roles, from player and umpire to coach, and now serves as the Social Media Officer. Her dedication to the organisation is unwavering, and she is excited to raise funds for the club that played a significant role in her upbringing. Madison looks forward to forming new connections with her fellow queens and the wider community as she takes part in this year’s festival.

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Marnie Skipper, Danelle Laubscher, Sophie Brosnan, Harmony Fletcher, Martina Bojack, Madison Mainwaring-Samwell, and Tegan Johnson.

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Well done to all our sporting clubs who have recently represented the Burdekin. The Roosters (Rugby League), the Toads (Union), The Panthers (Football) have all had senior teams in grand finals recently. Although they all fell just short of avoiding a sad Sunday, they should all feel proud that they have reminded our neighbouring towns that we a rich with talent and heart.
Not to be left out, our junior clubs are also representing in proud fashion. Tennis, Basketball, Rugby League, and Golf are all flourishing and having some impressive results showing that the Burdekin will continue to be a dominant force into the future.
We have a very strong sporting culture in the Burdekin. For anyone new to town you will find every sport or hobby catered for and it is a great way to meet our friendly locals.
With many sports finishing up for the year it is time for our Lifesavers to start patrols as we all start venturing back to the beach to cool down.
It’s heating up quick so remember to be sun smart, drink water and enjoy our piece of paradise to its fullest.

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Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Burdekin Chamber meeting, where one of our main focuses was on the Burdekin gift cards which is a great initiative to keep money circulating within our community. Also discussed was the future of our community and the need for strong leadership. A crisis meeting is being held this week to address the formation of a new committee, ensuring we continue driving positive change for the Burdekin.
In other news, I'm thrilled to share a win for road safety - thanks to the efforts of our community, we’ve successfully had 'Giddy Road' removed from Google Maps as a recommended route. This is a significant step towards keeping our roads safer, and I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a role in making this happen. Your involvement is helping to ensure a safer future for all of us.
Let’s continue working together for the Burdekin we all know and love.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Direct flights from Adelaide to the Whitsunday’s started earlier this month, and the flight path has been an instant success.

In just two hours and 20 minutes people from Adelaide can get to the region, whereas previously visitors would have to catch a connecting flight, equalling approximately an eight-hour journey.

CEO of Whitsunday Coast Airport Craig Turner said the new route is making it much easier for people from Adelaide to get here to the Whitsundays and beyond.

“For a long time, it's been so difficult for people from Adelaide to get here,” said Craig.

“It was expensive, inconvenient, and it was a long way to get here, going via Melbourne or Brisbane, whereas now it's cheaper, it's faster, and it's direct.

“1.2 million people from South Australia can now access the Whitsundays coast effectively and conveniently.”

To display this new route, Jetstar the airline supplying the service, and Whitsunday Coast Airport have been advertising everywhere.

Advertisements in this paper, posts on social media, and digital billboards in both Adelaide Airport and Whitsunday Coast Airport are just some ways the route has been advertised.

Whitsunday Coast Airport are thrilled the Adelaide flights are up and running but they won’t stop there.

“We're really happy, we will continue to monitor the flights. We are also active in the market to make sure that these flights are sustainable, and they last,” said Craig.

“Just because we've got the flights in, doesn't mean the jobs done.

“There's still more to do to make sure people know where they can fly to or from when they're in the Whitsundays.”

The new flights are great for local tourism and also supplies local residents with another potential route.

“The airport services the whole region, from tourism, visitors, mining, agriculture – everyone in our community!” said Craig.

“The airport is the funnel to drive the economy for the Whitsundays.”

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Get Ready Queensland Week launches on 8 October 2024 and encourages Queenslanders to prepare ahead of the severe weather season.
 
Getting ready is easy and it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Small actions can ensure you stay safe and comfortable when severe weather hits.
 
We know that older Australians can be particularly vulnerable to extreme weather. Taking some time to think about what you will do if this happens can go a long way to making you feel safer.
 
Here are some things you can think about.
 
Understand Your Risk

   • Impacts from extreme weather are different for everyone.
   • Learn about what can happen where you live and how it could affect you. Your risk may be different to other people in your community.

Have A Plan

   • Make a household emergency plan so you know what to do in extreme weather. It takes just a few minutes but will give you peace of mind.
   • Think about what important documents you might need, any special requirements you have, your regular medication and who you can call on to help you if you need assistance to evacuate.
   • Include your key contacts and carers.

Pack A Kit

   • Prepare an emergency kit and store it somewhere safe so you have the things you need during and after a natural disaster.
   • Consider that you may not be able to get to a supermarket or pharmacy for supplies for a few days and make sure you have a copy of your household emergency plan.

Get Ready Queensland Week 2024 includes a schedule of events encouraging Queenslanders to get together and Get Ready!
 
Head to the Get Ready Queensland website to see what’s on where you live and to find out more. www.getready.qld.gov.au/get-ready-queensland-week
Source: Seniors Connect September 2024 Edition
 
Please also visit Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster Dashboard for reliable emergency information, Key Contacts, Important contact numbers you may need in an emergency. https://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au
 
Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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Home Hill Police Station counter will be closed for administration related inquiries from 3:00pm 1 October 2024 until 1 November 2024 due to Josie being on leave.
 
For any inquiries relating driver licencing or firearms, please attend –
 
Queensland Transport functions:
   • Online at - www.tmr.qld.gov.au
   • Ayr QGap (Ayr Courthouse). 163 Queen Street, Ayr - 8:30am – 4:30pm
 
Firearms:
   • Online at - www.police.qld.gov.au
   • New Applications – Australia Post. 155 Queen Street, Ayr – 9:00am -5:00pm
   • Renewals - Ayr Police Station. 165 Queen Street, Ayr - 8:00am -3pm

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Technology plays a vital role in today's ever-changing world. However, the rapid pace of technological advancements can pose challenges for many. Eventually, we all need to use online services and apps, monitor emails and text messages, and adapt to more sophisticated appliances and equipment.

Where do you turn when seeking assistance? While turning to friends and family for help is often a good option, it may not always be feasible. However, learning to find information and solve problems independently can empower you to overcome many technological hurdles.

The Burdekin Senior’s Computer Group meets on the first and third Thursdays of each month from February to November. Our Community Development Officer, Jenny Cummings, leads the group and encourages members to share and enhance their knowledge of digital technologies like computers, phones, and tablets. Members are taught to stay safe online and identify scam emails and text messages.

One of our group members has recently started online grocery shopping and home deliveries, joined Qantas Frequent Flyers, and is learning how to book her flights online. Some of the group members have commented on the benefits, including: "The group provides companionship," "What we learn gives us confidence to try things at home," "I now know the importance of updating the software on my phone and iPad," and "We really enjoy ourselves at the sessions."

The Neighbourhood Centre also offers one-on-one Be Connected appointments to assist community members in accessing digital technology. These appointments can be scheduled by calling or visiting the Centre. If someone is available to assist, we can help immediately; otherwise, we will schedule a mutually convenient appointment.

So, next time you are struggling with technology, give us a call or come on in, and we will see how we can assist you. You can also come along to one of the sessions and see if they work for you.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Robyn, Doreen, Patsy, Carol, June, Bertilla and Iris with BNC Facilitator: Jenny. Photo supplied

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