I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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Burdekin residents are being urged to roll up their sleeves and clear out the clutter ahead of cyclone season, with Super Waste Sunday returning on 7 December 2025. The annual community clean-up lets households dispose of a wide range of waste for free across all Council facilities, making it easier than ever to tidy up yards and homes.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the event is more than just a chance to dump rubbish.
“Keeping our homes and yards clear of unnecessary waste is a key part of getting ready for cyclone season. Super Waste Sunday makes it easier for our community to tidy up, declutter and responsibly dispose of a variety of items,” she said.
Residents can bring sorted waste such as green waste, recyclables, cardboard, scrap metal, e-waste, EPIRBs, fluoro light bulbs, and batteries. Certain items—including tyres, fridges, freezers, air-conditioners, gas bottles, mattresses, solar panels and fire extinguishers—will have dumping fees waived. Free mulch will also be available for collection.
While the Ayr and Home Hill Transfer Stations will be open from 8:00am to 4:00pm, the Giru Transfer Station operates from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, and Kirknie Landfill is open from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Some items, including car bodies, bricks, concrete, and large loads, must go to Kirknie. Asbestos, unsorted waste, and commercial rubbish will still incur fees.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, take advantage of this opportunity, and get their homes storm-ready while keeping the Burdekin community clean and safe.
This festive season, the Burdekin Community Association is calling on the community to help bring joy to locals in need. From families experiencing financial hardship or domestic and family violence, to older people spending Christmas alone, the Support Centre aims to provide a festive lift to those who need it most.
Community members are invited to donate new items to help make Christmas brighter. Needed items include bonbons, festive decorations and tableware, toiletries including women’s hygiene products, Christmas books, sparklers, long-life milk, tinned fruit and vegetables, gravy, jelly, breakfast cereal, spreads and condiments, tea, coffee, pudding, long-life custard, festive biscuits, tinned protein such as tuna, beans and spam, soft drinks or cordial, chips, nuts, snacks, lollies, pasta, rice, and noodles.
Donations can be dropped off at The Support Centre, Burdekin Community Association, 130 Queen Street, Ayr. For more information, residents are encouraged to call 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au.
Your support will ensure that more local families and individuals can celebrate Christmas with warmth, cheer, and a sense of community. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference in spreading festive joy throughout the Burdekin this holiday season.
Burdekin Shire Council has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to risk management, receiving the Risk Excellence Award at the 129th Local Government Annual Conference: Pathways to Liveability, held on the Gold Coast from October 20–22.
The award celebrates the Council’s proactive and integrated approach to identifying and managing risks across all operations, ensuring community safety and the resilience of local services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin accepted the award, highlighting the dedication of staff and the strength of partnerships that underpin Council’s achievements.
The award was presented amid a packed three-day program that included forums on governance, disaster management, and the intersection of technology and risk. Delegates were also treated to showcases of innovative council projects from across Queensland, with Burdekin’s facility receiving particular attention for its practical environmental impact.
A key factor in the recognition is the Ayr-Brandon Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility, officially opened in June 2025. The state-of-the-art facility, developed in partnership with Pacific Bio and co-funded by the Queensland Government, uses RegenAqua’s Macroalgal Bioremediation Technology to remove excess nutrients from wastewater while supporting carbon capture and agricultural innovation.
The facility also contributes to protecting the Great Barrier Reef, enhances water quality, and supports a circular economy. Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers Ann Leahy praised the project as a cutting-edge solution for sustainable wastewater management, calling it “a great example of regional Queensland taking the lead and embracing emerging technology."
“I congratulate the Burdekin Shire Council on this wonderful facility which I’m sure is going to be a great success for the region,” said Leahy back at the opening in June.
Now, that success takes the form of the Risk Excellence Award, which, along with the facility, underscores Burdekin Shire Council’s focus on safe, sustainable, and resilient services, while highlighting the region’s growing reputation as a hub for environmental leadership and technological innovation.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin accept the Risk Excellence Award at the 129th Local Government Annual Conference. Photo supplied
Sam Bastounas, CEO of Pacific Biotechnologies (Australia), the Honourable Ann Leahy MP, Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, and Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort at the Macroalgae Bioredmediation Facility official opening in June this year. Photo supplied
A key factor in the recognition is the Ayr-Brandon Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility, a state-of-the-art facility developed in partnership with Pacific Bio and co-funded by the Queensland Government. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
It's that time of year again. Colourful lights beginning to light up local streets. Shop shelves packed with artificial trees. Mariah Carey slowly defrosting. That's right.
It's only a matter of time before my annual 'Elf' viewing.
In fact, what I love about the movie 'Elf' is that it always reminds me of Christmas growing up—back when I used to peek outside my window past 'bedtime' in hopes Santa would crash-land in my backyard, lining up carrots for the reindeer like it was a buffet.
It's easy for the Christmas spirit in each of us to fade as we grow older. Heck, I never thought I'd see the day that I ask for money as a Christmas gift instead of some cool little toy or gadget, but here we are.
What once represented a day full of presents now serves more as a checkpoint—an oasis in a widespread desert. A chance to hop off the treadmill, have a breather, and enjoy the company of my family and friends, without having to worry about what's going on the front page the coming week.
And once the new year rolls around, it's right back into it! I'm still warming to this whole 'adult life' thingy.
A pair of young wallaby joeys are getting a fresh start in life after being rescued and taken into the care of North Queensland Wildlife Care. The tiny marsupials, still dependent on bottle feeds, are now receiving the nourishment, warmth and attention they need to recover and grow.
The joeys will remain in care until they are strong enough to be released back into the wild, where they will eventually hop freely once more. For now, dedicated carers are providing round-the-clock feeding, comfort and specialised support to ensure each animal has the best possible chance of survival.
The organisation relies heavily on community generosity to continue its work, with donations, volunteer involvement and the purchase of food or supplies all helping to cover the cost of milk, feed and essential care items.
This small act of compassion is one of many carried out by North Queensland Wildlife Care each week, reminding the community of the difference everyday kindness can make in protecting local wildlife.
If you spot an animal in need, call NQ Wildlife on 0414 717 374 for advice or assistance.
The announcement of a new procurement policy and grants targeting security has reaffirmed the
Crisafulli Government’s commitment to back our small and family businesses, according to Member
for Burdekin Dale Last.
This week the Crisafulli Government announced Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership
Program with small and family businesses encouraged to apply for funding to boost security and
deter criminal activity on their businesses. The announcement follows a $35 billion shake-up of
Queensland’s procurement policy putting local, small and family businesses at the fore.
Mr Last said more than 200 registered small businesses in the Burdekin would join others in
Queensland as the key focus of how government buys goods and services from January 2026
onwards.
“The overhaul of Queensland’s procurement process will mean no matter where your small business
is located in Queensland you can get on with winning work, not wading through paperwork,” Mr Last
said.
“We want to see our small businesses at the front of the queue when it comes to government
procurement, that’s why as part of the Crisafulli Government’s overhaul of the policy we have
implemented a 30 per cent small and medium enterprise participation target for government
contracts.”
“Small businesses are at the heart of our regional towns and when they can thrive in their services we see the flow on affects in our wider community, from the sponsorships they provide our sporting
clubs to the support they offer at our major events.”
Mr Last said the round two opening of the Crisafulli Government’s Secure Communities Partnership
Program went further in providing small and family businesses a hand up when they needed it most.
“When small business is impacted by crime the costs can be devastating not only for the owner left
to clean up but the potential job losses that can follow,” Mr Last said.
“The Securing Communities Partnership Program offers small businesses grant funding to install
alarm systems or CCTV, improve entry management and enable the purchase of physical security
items such as lockable display cases.”
“The Crisafulli Government is not taking its foot off the pedal when it comes to tackling crime in this state and we know there is plenty more to be done. The Burdekin has already benefitted from
additional crime deterring measures with the recent announcement of six new CCTV cameras
installed in the CBD under the first round of the program.”
“Making these additional security measures more readily available to our small businesses means
we are able to tackle crime from every angle, from empowering our frontline police to helping those at the heart of our community invest in additional security measures.”
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign
Capability, Andrew Willcox, says Labor’s plan to drop regional speed limits leaves regional
Australia stuck in the slow lane.
The ‘roadblock to regional progress’ proposal would reduce the default speed limit on unsigned
roads outside of built-up areas, which is currently 100 km/h, down to as low as 70 km/h.
“Slashing speed limits isn’t road safety reform, it’s a lazy fix. Instead of patching potholes, Labor
wants to punish the people who drive on them,” Mr Willcox said.
Mr Willcox said Dawson communities are firmly opposed to the Government’s plan, describing
it as a “Canberra solution to a regional problem.”
“Country people want the Government to invest in fixing our roads, not let them deteriorate to
the point where speed limits have to be reduced, and later forcing councils and state
governments to pick up the tab when proper investment could prevent this.”
Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has cancelled, cut, or delayed more than $30
billion in infrastructure funding, leaving many regional projects in limbo.
Mr Willcox said the Government’s claims of restoring the 80:20 funding split for regional road
upgrades were misleading.
“People think the 80:20 funding model has been restored, but that’s just smoke and mirrors. It
only applies to the money pledged to the Bruce Highway, and we haven’t seen those funds flow
to regional areas either,” he said.
“The Prime Minister has targeted regional roads for spending cuts, reducing the
Commonwealth’s contribution from 80 per cent under the Coalition to just 50 per cent for many
upgrade projects.”
Mr Willcox said the proposal would only hurt regional productivity and safety.
“Out here, roads aren’t a luxury, they’re lifelines for farmers, truckies, and small businesses.
Lowering speed limits just slows regional Australia down,” he said.
“Locals don’t want slower roads, they want safer ones.
“Fund the repairs, back our councils, and stop treating regional Australia as an afterthought.”
He said Labor’s plan had even drawn criticism from within its own ranks.
Labor Senator Glenn Sterle told ABC Radio: “Absolutely no way do I support this. It is a
nonsense. It is just a nonsense that we would even entertain or put up something like this.”
“If the Government won’t even listen to one of its own senators, why would we believe it will
listen to feedback from rural communities?” Mr Willcox said.
“It’s time to make it clear, this plan must be scrapped.”
Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox urges the Government to fix deteriorating regional roads in Dawson rather than imposing a 70 km/h speed limit. Photo supplied
The Burdekin is mourning the loss of beloved resident and teacher Gavin McLean, who tragically passed away in a single-vehicle crash in Ayr earlier this month.
Mr McLean had relocated to the Burdekin with his wife, joining Burdekin Christian College in 2024. Despite being new to the region, he had quickly become a much-loved member of the school community, bringing extensive experience in STEM education, international learning partnerships and digital technologies, along with a reputation for calm guidance and genuine care.
Originally from Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, he was a devoted father to two sons and the proud owner of two miniature Fox Terriers, Bindi and Astro. Away from the classroom, Mr McLean was known for his love of music. A former professional guitarist and sound designer, he enjoyed sharing his gift at local venues and events.
In a statement, Burdekin Christian College paid tribute to their Technologies Head of Department, saying Mr McLean was “not only an exceptional educator, but a cherished colleague, mentor, and friend whose kindness, humour and unwavering dedication impacted countless lives.”
“Gavin’s presence, wisdom and generous spirit will forever remain a part of the heart of BCC,” they added.
The McLean family invited the community to honour Gavin’s life on Wednesday, 19 November, at 10.30am at the Burdekin Theatre. The College closed on the day to allow staff and students to attend and celebrate his legacy.
Burdekin-born plumbing apprentice Scarlet Jenkins has taken out Apprentice of the Year at the TAFE Queensland Awards, held last month at the Townsville Pimlico campus—an honour she never saw coming.
Nominated by her teacher, Jenkins said the news came completely out of the blue. "I didn't even know about it... I just got a call one day and they said 'you've been nominated'," she said.
Now halfway through her four-year apprenticeship, she admitted the lead-up to the event had her on edge. "When they called my name I was shocked. I was like 'oh, God... I need to make a speech now!'"
Her efforts were recognised with a trophy, a photo frame, and a $500 voucher for Reece Plumbing in Townsville.
Originally, Scarlet had planned to become an electrician, but when that path didn’t come to fruition, she turned to plumbing, and hasn’t looked back. "I love it. It's just something different every day, getting out, meeting different people and learning stuff every day," she said.
Scarlet hopes to eventually work in the mining industry as a plumber, combining her skills with her love of hands-on work. Though for now, she's excited to see out her final two years of her apprenticeship at Ferguson Plumbing, where you'll see her on roofs or digging holes around town.
The award is a proud moment for the local community, highlighting the talent and dedication of young apprentices from the Burdekin region.
Burdekin-born Scarlet Jenkins has been named Apprentice of the Year at the TAFE Queensland Awards. Photo supplied
The District Finals of the annual R.O. & B.M. Colls Memorial Lecturette Competition were held on Monday evening, November 3, at the Home Hill State School Resource Centre.
This long-standing Burdekin tradition invites Year 6 students from across the district to research, write and deliver a persuasive speech on a factual topic linked to an area of school study. Each participating school selects two representatives, with thirteen talented finalists taking to the stage this year. Contestants were adjudicated on the quality of their content, language, and delivery.
The overall winner was Arden Jane Mitchell, representing St Francis Catholic Primary School, Ayr. Arden Jane captivated the audience and judges alike with her powerful and deeply moving speech titled “Sticks and Stones… and Tiny Graves,” which explored the confronting issues of childhood bullying and youth suicide.
Arden Jane’s courage and compassion shone through as she addressed this difficult but vital topic, earning her the prestigious Colls Lecturette Trophy, a particularly meaningful moment for her family as the trophy also bears the name of her uncle, Ben Brandon, who won the same award in 2003.
Arden Jane’s mother, Kady Brandon, said, “Arden spent hours preparing her speech and finding the courage to tackle such an emotional subject in front of her peers and community. She hoped her words might reach even one person that evening.”
The judges described Arden Jane as “a young lady going places”, praising her articulate, eloquent and mature delivery.
Arden also recently received an Academic Scholarship to Ayr State High School, where she will begin her secondary education next year. With her natural talent and determination, it seems clear that this young achiever has a bright future ahead.
The judges described Arden Jane as “a young lady going places”, praising her articulate, eloquent and mature delivery. Photo supplied
Once again, the community has been warmly invited to lace up and have a jog this weekend for another spectacular Three Blokes Running (TBR) Fun Run event at the Queens Hotel!
Scheduled for Sunday, the 23rd of November from 4pm, Austin Dewar, Campbell Johnston and Brayden Rawlins will lead the event for the second consecutive year all in the interest of raising much needed funds and awareness for the Movember Foundation, and men’s mental health.
The fun run itself will kick off at 5pm sharp from outside the Queens Hotel in Ayr, with the boys inviting anyone and everyone to come down for a walk or run regardless of experience levels.
In the inaugural year (2024) of TBR, Austin, Campbell and Brayden hosted a debut Fun Run event attracting an outstanding turnout exceeding 100 runners and raising an estimated $2,000 for the boy’s 2024 Movember Foundation team. The boys hope this weekend’s event will yield the same, if not better results!
“Join us for an arvo of beers, running, and raffles, all for a great cause! All proceeds will go towards men’s mental health awareness,” shared the trio.
As soon as the calendar flipped over to November, Austin, Campbell and Brayden reignited their Movember Foundation mission, amplifying the message “it ain’t weak to speak” far and wide. In an effort to continue spreading awareness and good vibes, day by day, the trio flip a card, and do a mystery challenge, which could be anything from clocking in for endless push-ups or a good old classic gym session.
With thousands of followers cheering them on, the boys have been comedically vlogging their challenges and sharing the videos online, attracting tens of thousands of views from across the state and beyond.
To follow along with the boys journey, search Three Blokes Running on social media and to donate to the TBR Movember Foundation team, jump online to https://movember.com/t/three-blokes-running.
What: TBR Movember Foundation Fun Run
When: Sunday, 23rd November, 4pm
Where: Queens Hotel, Queen Street, Ayr
2024's TBR Fun Run saw over 100 locals rally behind the boys (Photo Credit: David Jackson)
The Burdekin proudly celebrated its sporting talent at the recent North Queensland (NQ) Sportstar Awards, highlighting local athletes and volunteers who have excelled in their fields. Four finalists from the region were recognised for their outstanding achievements and dedication to sport.
Karin Thorburn claimed the prestigious Sporting Excellence Award, making history as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, reaching the milestone during the Magnetic 30 event on the Strand. Known for her relentless dedication, Karin continues to inspire the Burdekin community through her consistency and commitment to running.
The North Queensland Rifle Association F/TR team were named Senior Team of the Year runners-up. The team secured their first-ever national title in 2024 and followed up with victories in 2025, including F-Class Team Matches and the Long Range Trophy. Beyond competition, the team actively volunteers at local clubs such as the Ayr Rifle Club, contributing to the sport’s growth at the grassroots level.
Para-athlete Ainsley Hooker was a finalist in the Para-Athlete of the Year category. After competing in the Invictus and Warrior Games, Ainsley has established herself in para-athletics, holding Queensland F57 records in seated shot put, discus, and javelin, and claiming the F57 national discus title this year. She also mentors junior para-athletes and supports their families.
Sandra Danziger was recognised as a finalist for the Alan Ticehurst Memorial Service to NQ Sport Award. As Treasurer of the Burdekin Netball Association for 40 years, Sandra has guided the club through significant changes while supporting fundraisers, coaching, and umpiring programs, making her a cornerstone of local netball.
The Burdekin community congratulates Karin Thorburn for her award-winning achievement and applauds all finalists for their dedication, passion, and inspiration. Their efforts reflect the strength and spirit of sport in the Burdekin region.
Karin Thorburn stole the spotlight, winning the Sporting Excellence Award. Karin became the first Australian to complete 500 marathons. Photo supplied
The North Queensland Rifle Association F/TR team were runners-up for Senior Team of the Year after back-to-back national titles in 2024 and 2025. Photo supplied
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School is all but done for 2025. I had the pleasure and opportunity to attend both the Home Hill and Ayr State High Schools academic awards nights and I was blown away. The academic achievements of our local children/teens are nothing short of impressive. Several students received early admissions to university and others received not one but multiple Dux awards. Well done to all our students and the future looks bright for you and for the Burdekin.
I also attended the Burdekin Football Club annual awards night recently. Listening to the achievements of all the players and hearing the speeches from captains and players, had this proud old Burdekin Panther reminiscing of the glory days. Congratulations to the Ladies Team who took out the Division1 Grand final earlier this year. By the sounds of the comradery and team spirit, I think they can go back-to-back next year! Congratulations to all the players who received awards. It was also great to see a club celebrate their volunteers and highlight those who embody that club spirit. Well done to all.
Congratulations to the Harvest Festival Committee for once again putting together an action-packed series of events. All the events were well organised and very well attended. It was great to see so much effort and pride go into the 38 floats that went down Eighth Avenue. Congratulations to all the winners of all the events.
It is Movember, and that means a month of Moustaches being sported to raise awareness of men’s health issues. What started as a small idea among friends in Australia, has grown into Movember, a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for some of the most pressing issues affecting men today. Such as, Prostate Cancer, Testicular Cancer, Mental health and suicide prevention. Movember is the time of year when growing a moustache is not only socially acceptable—it’s encouraged. So, raise funds, raise awareness, and raise the corners of your moustache proudly.
Grow a Mo. Save a Bro.
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We have had several important activities and community moments across the Burdekin Shire recently, and I’m pleased to share some of the updates with you.
On Monday 25 November, a mobile Telstra customer service van will be in the Burdekin from 9.00am to 4.30pm. This is a valuable opportunity for residents to receive face-to-face assistance with their Telstra accounts and services. No appointment is required, and the van will be conveniently located in the vacant block on Queen Street, between Vinnies and K-Hub. I encourage anyone needing support to drop in throughout the day.
We were also fortunate to welcome the Brisbane Broncos to the Burdekin as part of their trophy tour. Two of our local schools, East Ayr State School and St Colman’s School in Home Hill, were selected for the visit. The students’ excitement was truly wonderful to see, and they impressed the players with their thoughtful and entertaining questions. It was a memorable experience for everyone involved.
On 11 November, Councillors and I joined the community at Anzac Park in both Ayr and Home Hill to mark Remembrance Day. It was an honour to stand together as we paid tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our nation.
I would also like to remind residents in Ayr and Brandon that water restrictions remain in place as Council undertakes a critical stage of the South Ayr Filtration Plant Upgrade. Your cooperation during this time is greatly appreciated and helps ensure the work can be completed safely and efficiently.
As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss any Council matters, please contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
The Burdekin region has long been recognised for its strong sense of community, and that commitment continues to shine through the ongoing support provided by the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr to the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy.
Operated by a local board passionate about community wellbeing, the Community Bank has reaffirmed its support for school chaplaincy services across the region’s eleven state schools. Through dedicated funding and sustained advocacy, the bank is helping ensure chaplains remain a vital source of support for young people.
Acting Branch Manager Jade Bywaters said the board understands just how essential chaplains are in today’s school environment.
“Chaplains play a crucial role in helping students navigate both school life and personal challenges,” Jade said. “They create safe spaces, run programs that build connection, and offer support when students need it most. We’re proud to continue backing a service that delivers such genuine and lasting impact for local families.”
The Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy currently employs seven chaplains who run breakfast programs, lunchtime clubs, mentoring initiatives, and in-class support. They also provide one-on-one care for students facing social, emotional, or family challenges. Many of these services fall outside government funding and rely heavily on community partnerships to continue.
Operating under the umbrella of SU Australia (Scripture Union), the chaplaincy team provides opportunities for young people to build resilience, find connection, and discover hope through positive relationships and supportive programs.
This year, the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr announced a $30,000 grant to the chaplaincy program—an investment that will help ensure its long-term sustainability. The Chaplaincy Committee welcomed the funding, acknowledging that community-backed support is essential for keeping chaplains active in schools.
The Community Bank’s continued partnership reflects its core mission: returning profits to local causes and strengthening the Burdekin community from the ground up.
For more information about the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy or how you can support their work, please contact the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr or visit your local school’s chaplaincy committee.
This year, the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr announced a $30,000 grant to the chaplaincy program—an investment that will help ensure its long-term sustainability. Photo supplied
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