
Deep tyre tracks have left three local sports fields unplayable and caused an estimated $5,000 in damage, leaving the Burdekin Touch Football Association to face a months-long recovery effort. The extensive vandalism to the Wickham Street grounds in Ayr was discovered early Wednesday morning, sparking a police investigation into whether a recently stolen vehicle was involved. ‘The worst I've seen it’ Burdekin Touch Football Association President Peter Knapton was notified of the destruction at 6am on Wednesday. “I thought, 'not again!’" Mr Knapton said. “It’s happened before, but this is the worst I’ve seen it.” Groundskeepers estimate repairs will exceed $5,000, with deep ruts and possible sprinkler damage expected to take months to restore. Mr Knapton expressed deep frustration over the disrespect shown to the club's volunteers, who spend countless hours maintaining the facility. “I know the amount of hours that our groundskeepers put into this field,” Mr Knapton said. “When we developed field five, they spent days and hours pulling out every bullhead, every bindi, every weed… it’s so disappointing, not just for me, but for all of us. “People don’t have respect for other people’s property anymore. It’s sad that you have to accept that these things are going to happen, and you’ve got to put in such extensive measures to mitigate and repair any damage to your property.” The Wickham Street complex is a popular community hub, hosting touch football, junior rugby league training, junior touch and organised fitness training each week. Mr Knapton described its fields as “the best in North Queensland.” He noted that the facility's open accessibility makes it a social hub for the community, but leaves it susceptible to incidents like Wednesday’s. He said the club had explored remedies to prevent illegal vehicle access, with most involving costs the club could not afford. Ayr Police have launched an investigation into the vandalism, with officers investigating whether a utility vehicle, stolen from an Ayr address on the same morning, was involved in the incident. Sergeant Lisa Shields, Officer in Charge of Ayr Police, condemned the damage, calling the incident "extremely disappointing" given its widespread impact on the local community. “Police are appealing for public assistance in identifying the persons responsible for this careless act,” Sgt Shields said. “I urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or may have relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.” Anyone with information is urged to contact the Ayr Police Station, Policelink, or Crime Stoppers. CAPTIONS: 1—Deep tyre tracks have left three local sports fields unplayable and caused an estimated $5,000 in damage. Photo credit: Luke Bozzetto 2—The extensive vandalism to the Wickham Street grounds in Ayr was discovered early Wednesday morning, sparking a police investigation into whether a recently stolen vehicle was involved. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that refurbishment works at the Burdekin Theatre have now been completed, with the venue officially back in operation. The recently completed upgrades included a full refurbishment of the theatre stage and a complete upgrade of the dressing rooms, delivering modern, functional backstage facilities for performers and production crews. Both the stage and dressing rooms were original to the theatre and had not been refurbished since the venue was constructed in 1982, making these improvements a significant milestone for the facility. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the completion of the works marked an exciting new chapter for the Burdekin Theatre. “These upgrades ensure the Burdekin Theatre can continue to support local performers and visiting productions for many years to come,” Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said. “With modernised backstage facilities and a newly refurbished stage, performers will benefit from a safer, more functional environment that reflects the high standard of talent we see in our community.” The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, which commenced on Tuesday 5 May, will be the first major event to utilise the upgraded facilities, with hundreds of local and visiting competitors taking to the stage in the coming weeks. Council is proud to support the strong performing arts culture in the Burdekin and looks forward to seeing the refreshed theatre continue to host a wide range of performances, events and community activities. Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Shire Council CAPTIONS: 1— Burdekin Shire Council is pleased to announce that refurbishment works at the Burdekin Theatre have now been completed, with the venue officially back in operation. 2—The recently completed upgrades included a full refurbishment of the theatre stage and a complete upgrade of the dressing rooms, delivering modern, functional backstage facilities for performers and production crews. 3—The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, which commenced on Tuesday 5 May, will be the first major event to utilise the upgraded facilities, with hundreds of local and visiting competitors taking to the stage in the coming weeks. Photos supplied
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Ringo is a young American Bulldog with presence, personality, and just enough cheek to keep life interesting. At first meeting, he can come on strong with big energy, big enthusiasm, and a clear belief that everyone is already his best friend. Give him a few minutes (and ideally a treat or two) and he quickly softens into a loyal, affectionate companion. His foster carer lovingly describes him as “a bit of a boof” when excitement kicks in. For this reason, Ringo is not suited to homes with small children, even though his intentions are always gentle. On the lead, Ringo is generally steady and willing, but he shows his best self in quieter environments where he isn’t overwhelmed by noise and movement. Busy streets and high stimulation can distract him, so continued training and calm exposure will help him build confidence and focus. He is highly food motivated, which makes him a quick learner during training sessions. However, this also means portion control and supervision around food will be important. Ringo is currently working on his manners, including waiting patiently for meals and taking treats more gently. With consistency and guidance, he is improving every day. What Ringo needs now is a patient, kind and committed owner willing to continue his training and help him grow into his best self. In return, he offers loyalty, charm, and a whole lot of personality packed into one wagging, hopeful package. Ringo’s adoption fee is $600 and includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatment, and heartworm prevention (or ProHeart). Contact Angel Paws Inc. on 07 4420 3276 for further information.
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When most people think of their pharmacy, they think of prescriptions and cold and flu remedies. But your local FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr offers much more than that, including services that can save you time and support your health, often without needing to see a doctor at all. Here are three services you may not know are available right here in Ayr. UTI treatment without a GP appointment FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr can now assess and treat eligible patients for uncomplicated UTIs directly, thanks to expanded pharmacy prescribing services in Queensland. Our trained pharmacist will assess whether this service is appropriate for you and, where eligible, can supply the required treatment on the spot. Fast, confidential and convenient. Sick leave and carer's leave certificates FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr can provide certificates for sick leave and carer's leave for eligible patients, recognised under the Fair Work Act. A practical alternative when a GP appointment is not immediately available. Speak with our pharmacist to find out if a certificate is right for your situation. NDSS: Support for people living with diabetes FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr is a registered NDSS access point, giving you access to subsidised testing strips, lancets, insulin pump consumables and other diabetes management products right here in your community. Our pharmacist can also help you register for the scheme and connect you with further support. Pop in and see us. No appointment necessary for most services. Contributed with thanks to FriendlyCare Pharmacy CAPTION: FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr offers services that can save you time and support your health, often without needing to see a doctor at all. Photo supplied
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Burdekin Men’s Shed Hosts Inter-Shed Visits
Burdekin Men’s Shed hosted their first inter-shed visit since COVID on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, with 14 members from Townsville Men’s Shed, 4 members from Vincent Men’s Shed, and 3 members from Rollingstone Men’s Shed visiting our local shed.
On arrival, the guests were treated to morning tea and mingled with members from the other sheds. This was followed by a guided tour of the Burdekin sheds, then a general discussion and Q&A session with all shed members participating—mainly outlining the red tape new sheds have to overcome in obtaining land and securing finances to establish a Men’s Shed.
The Burdekin Shed is fortunate, attributing its success to its office bearers, committee, and the commitment of its members. The extremely strong support from Burdekin Shire Council, local State and Federal Members of Parliament, and the community makes our shed the success it is today.
May General Meeting Focuses on Men’s Health
There is a monthly general meeting on the third Saturday of each month, with a guest speaker on men’s health at the start of the meeting, followed by a sausage sizzle.
At the May general meeting, we had two guest speakers—Physiotherapist Isabelle Ryan and Occupational Therapist Lucy Penny from NQRH (North Queensland Regional Health). Isabelle spoke on men’s pelvic floor muscles and the exercises men can do to strengthen these muscles as they age, along with the associated problems that may arise. She also outlined the effects the prostate can have on men throughout their lives, using anatomical models and a PowerPoint presentation, followed by a Q&A session.
Lucy spoke on the NQRH vision, the areas and towns they cover, the services they can assist with, how to contact them, using existing care plans or creating a new one, how often practitioners can provide home or regional visits, and handed out information booklets. She also fielded questions from the members.
Contributed with thanks to Rob Ritchie, President of BMSA
Lucy Penny, Isabelle Page from NWRH & Rob Ritchie, President of BMSA
Question & Answer session involving Townsville Men's Shed, Vincent Shed, Rollingston Shed and Burdekin Shed

The 24th annual Burdekin Enduro tore through the Ayr Rifle Range over the weekend, with more than 50 off-road vehicles battling it out across a challenging course that’s become one of Queensland’s most distinctive racing experiences.
Hosted by the Burdekin Off-Roaders, the two-day event delivered everything fans have come to expect—speed, skill, and clouds of red dust rising off the unique six-terrain track. With hundreds of spectators drifting in and out across Saturday and Sunday, the atmosphere was electric, the air thick with adrenaline and engine noise.
What started in 2001 with just eight cars has evolved into a mainstay of the Queensland Championship calendar, attracting competitors from across the state and beyond.
The Enduro’s course remains a standout, offering a mix of surfaces and technical sections that push both car and driver to the limit. It's this diversity—and the inclusive class system—that keeps bringing people back, whether they're seasoned racers or newcomers to the sport.
Speaking of newcomers—I soon found myself strapped into one of these bad boys—as a passenger, of course. “Let’s just ease into it,” I told Darren, the experienced driver kind enough to take me for a spin. He either misheard me, ignored me, or simply didn’t know what it meant, because a few seconds later, we were airborne, travelling at breakneck speeds through the twists and turns of the sprint circuit.
From the vicious roar and bone-rattling vibration of the engine to the feeling of my internal organs reorganising themselves with every bump, jump and turn, this was definitely an experience I won’t be forgetting any time soon.
Thanks again to the team over at Burdekin Off-roaders Inc., not only for strapping me in and letting me experience the ride firsthand, but for putting on an outstanding event for all drivers, passengers and spectators involved.
Results
First—James and Lizzy Sant
Second—Matthew Lawless
Third—Dan Dunn
Second place, Matthew Lawless, first place winners, James and Lizzy Sant, and third place, Dan Dunn.
Photo source: Show n Go Photography

This week was one of intense reflection—albeit somewhat involuntarily.
Battling sickness through Wednesday, I was reduced to the confines of my apartment walls—so as not to infect the whole neighbourhood. And it was while stuck with nothing but myself and my thoughts that my mind began to run wild:
Should I learn the saxophone? Open a food truck? Have I been living in a simulation this whole time? Should I finally start composting? I wonder what became of my Year 4 science teacher. Wait—did I ever reply to that email from two weeks ago…?
Among this series of diverse quandaries was a sharp realisation—a stutter in the chaotic stream of tangents: Have I really just moved across the country by myself?
I mean, I’m no stranger at all to foreign environments—to turning my life upside-down. After all, I have travelled all over the world for football, and did live in Pittsburgh for almost three years.
But this is no Pittsburgh. And it’s no Sydney.
But with that thought came a kinda quiet clarity—a sense of grounded-ness. A genuine gratitude for the opportunity I’ve stumbled into here in the Burdekin.
Because although it’s vastly different to anything I’ve experienced in my life so far, it represents positivity: a positive career step, a positive new beginning, and heaps of positive relationships so far.

Concerns have been raised about ongoing erosion on the south bank of the Burdekin River, particularly near Home Hill, where experts believe the risk of a channel avulsion—a sudden shift in the river’s course—is at its highest. The erosion has reportedly damaged protective vegetation and riverbank stability, raising questions about the current approach to managing flood and flow-related risks in the Burdekin Delta.
A recent statement by Professor Eric Wolanski (Townsville), Chris Hopper (Townsville), and Chris Canavan (Home Hill) calls for more comprehensive and future-focused planning. The group argues that while the Burdekin River Trust’s $5 million commitment toward bank restoration is a step in the right direction, a more detailed understanding of the river’s physical dynamics is essential.
They suggest that a portion of the funding be used for a full topographic survey of the riverbed and banks, including the underwater terrain. This, they say, would allow for more accurate hydrodynamic modelling and ultimately lead to more reliable long-term solutions. “Waiting for a major flood to trigger significant damage isn’t a viable strategy,” the group noted in their joint statement.
One potential long-term measure put forward is dredging sand from the riverbed to redirect flow and relieve pressure from vulnerable sections of the bank. The group argues that this could be economically viable, as sand is a globally valuable commodity that could be sold to offset operational costs.
The concerns tie into wider research conducted by Wolanski and Hopper on how dams and climate change can accelerate channel avulsion and coastal erosion in river systems such as the Burdekin. Their 2022 paper, published in Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, highlights the risks posed to Ramsar-listed wetlands in the Great Barrier Reef catchment.
With the region’s economy and community closely tied to the river, discussions about erosion management and flood mitigation are expected to continue among residents, scientists, and government agencies alike.
Concerns have been raised surrounding ongoing erosion on Burdekin River

Queensland’s sugarcane growers have backed Owen Menkens to lead the industry through a pivotal period, re-electing the Burdekin grower for another three-year term as Chairman of CANEGROWERS Queensland.
Mr Menkens was returned to the role by the grower-only Policy Council, which also elected Innisfail grower Joe Marano as Senior Vice Chair and Burdekin’s Steven Marbelli – a newcomer to the state board - as Vice Chair.
“This is a grassroots organisation, run by growers for growers,” Mr Menkens said.
“To be re-elected by my peers is an incredible honour. It shows the trust we’ve built and reflects the important work we still have to do.”
The appointments cap off CANEGROWERS’ triennial election process, which began in February when growers nominated for their local district boards. Those local elections concluded in April, with new district boards officially starting their terms on 1 May.
Each district board then nominated a representative to the Policy Council – one from each mill area. The newly formed Council met in Brisbane today for its first meeting, where it elected the state board, including the Chairman, Senior Vice Chair, Vice Chair, and board members.
This bottom-up structure ensures the organisation remains fully accountable and representative – from paddock to policy – with every leadership role held by a grower elected by fellow growers.
Also elected to the state board were returning members Joseph Borg and Kevin Borg (Mackay), and Michelle Fischer (Rocky Point), alongside three new faces – Glenn Betteridge (Burdekin), Claude Santucci (Tablelands), and Steven Marbelli (Herbert River).
While new to the state board, all three bring deep experience as district directors and Policy Council members, ensuring that this injection of new blood also comes with a solid understanding of the organisation and the issues it faces.
“The strength of this board lies in its mix of continuity and renewal,” Mr Menkens said.
“With experienced leaders like Joe Marano and Kevin Borg alongside committed new board members like Glenn, Claude and Steven, we’ve got the right team to move the industry forward.”
The Policy Council will now establish a series of industry committees to lead focused work on key priorities including mill performance, supply chain efficiency, sustainability, diversification, and grower profitability.
These committees will be made up of grower representatives who bring firsthand experience and deep regional knowledge to the table.
The board also welcomes new Policy Council members Leah Russo (Herbert River), Charles Papale (Burdekin), Brett Leach (Mackay), and Peter McLennan (Isis) joining a number of returning councillors.
“We’ve significant challenges ahead, but just as many real opportunities. This grower-elected leadership team is well positioned to shape a strong, sustainable future for Queensland’s cane industry,” Mr Menkens said.
Owen Menkens. Photo supplied
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Hello,
I attended the Burdekin Theatre on Friday the 16th May to hand out the awards and certificates for all the winning competitors in the Burdekin Eisteddfod. It was so rewarding to see their little faces as they received their awards. Congratulations to all winners and competitors of the event.
I was honoured to open and lead the BCA Walk for Domestic Violence on Sunday. What an amazing event. To see everyone standing in solidarity and strength was a very impressive site. We gathered to not only walk but to raise awareness for those who cannot, those who live in fear and those whose lives have been forever changed by domestic and family violence. It was a powerful event and congratulations to the organisers.
Burdekin Shire Council is inviting the Community for feedback on the upgrade of the Burdekin Aquatic Centre. We have a draft Masterplan that we would like your feedback on for the next stage of the improvements. They include:
• Building new amenities in a new location, closer to the Centre’s entry;
• Providing unisex and disabled facilities within the design of the amenities;
• Improving visual contact with the wading pool by relocating the Chatterbox;
• Providing shade in front of the new amenities to provide an area for marshalling during carnivals;
• Moving the grassed area to the Queen Street end of the site.
If you would like to review the Master Plan please go to the Burdekin Shire Council Website and type in Burdekin Aquatic Master Plan. We welcome your opinion.
Hope to see you at the Sweet Days Hot Nights on the weekend.
Event Details are:
Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring First Fire
• Date: Friday 30 May 2025
• Time: 6:00pm – 11:00pm, Gates open 5:00pm
• Location: Home Hill Showgrounds.
Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships
• Date: Saturday 31 May 2025
• Time: 11:00am – 5:00pm, Gates open 10:30am
• Location: Home Hill Showgrounds.
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Many will recall the ABC series The Black Hand, which told the harrowing story of the Mafia in North Queensland. Among the many confronting moments in that program was the tragic story of Jean Morris, a young woman whose life was cut short by domestic violence and whose grave remained unmarked for nearly a century.Earlier this week I had the privilege of attending the unveiling of her headstone. It was a powerful moment of remembrance, justice, and dignity for a woman who was, for so long, forgotten by history.Sadly, Jean’s story is not just a distant memory. Despite the millions invested in education, awareness, and prevention, domestic and family violence continues to run rampant in today’s world. It is a sobering reminder that we must do more than raise awareness, we must act, every day, to challenge attitudes, support victims, and foster a culture of respect and safety for all.Burdekin Shire Council has recently joined the Not Now, Not Ever. Together. campaign and signed the pledge to work toward a Queensland where everyone is equal and free from violence. This is not just a symbolic gesture, it is our commitment to being part of the solution.As we reflect on this important message, we also come together this weekend to celebrate one of our region’s signature events, the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival. This festival not only showcases our rich cane-cutting heritage but also reminds us of the strength, resilience, and spirit of our Burdekin community. I hope to see many of you there.Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

If you’ve ever walked along the main strip of Home Hill, you may have noticed some unique, archival army gear hanging from the ceiling above the walkway. It marks the entrance to Annzack Tradings—a local oddity, institution, and treasure trove of vintage memorabilia, rare collectables, and stories from all over the country and beyond.
Step inside and you’ll likely be greeted by Kenneth Hall—or just Ken, as everyone in town calls him. Owner, collector, conversationalist, and accidental shopkeeper, Ken has been running Annzack Tradings for 13 years. But he’s not just in the business of selling stuff—he’s also hunting for it.
“One of the most important things I want people to know is: bring your stuff in,” Ken says. “I get asked all the time how I stock the shop. Well, a lot of it’s from the internet these days, but even better is when people walk in the door with something from the back shed.”
Ken is passionate about preserving history—not profiting off it. “If you brought in your grandfather’s medals and asked what I’d give you for them, I’d say absolutely nothing. Take them home and keep them,” he says. “But if you want help getting replacement ribbons or a re-mount, I’ll help you with that.”
Growing up in Charters Towers, Ken spent time farming in Collinsville and Gumlu before moving to the Burdekin.
Ken’s love for the vintage world intensified after appearing as an army captain extra in Australia, the Baz Luhrmann film shot in Bowen. He even crashed the premiere in uniform—not out of mischief, but pride. “That’s when I really started chasing military gear, tracking it down from Victoria and beyond.”
Since then, the business has grown in its own quiet way. “It’s pretty static,” Ken says. “But I’ve sold all around the world, and met thousands of people. A lot of them come back every year—grey nomads mostly. They always say, ‘Glad you’re still here.’”
And in a town like Home Hill, being known is its own kind of success. “I walk down the street and everyone says, ‘Hi Ken.’ I couldn’t tell you all their names—there’s too many—but everyone knows me, and that’s a nice thing.”
Annzack Tradings isn’t your typical antique store. It’s part collection, part conversation, and all heart—just like Ken himself.
“One of the most important things I want people to know is: bring your stuff in!”

Heating up ahead of the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival this weekend, the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce meeting last Wednesday was its usual entertaining mix of guest speakers and lively debate.
Erin Brennan from the Home Hill Choral Society gave the audience a heartfelt and engaging insight into the 94-year history of this dynamic community group of players and performers.
Attendees were delighted by a PowerPoint presentation featuring photos from performances over the years and outlining the impressive efforts of committee members to generate funding and provide a dedicated venue for the group.
Bringing the community together with their regular shows, the Home Hill Choral Society is an exceptional group of community-oriented individuals.
Next to take the stage was Councillor John Furnell, who got everyone excited about the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival.
Handing out event programs and branded balloons, John gave a passionate speech about the upcoming event, which is due to take place at the Home Hill Showgrounds this weekend.
Last to speak on the night was Rachael Smith, Editor of Burdekin Life Newspaper, who presented the latest bi-monthly edition of Core Life and Tripping Magazine.
Core Life is a business networking magazine, and Tripping is a leisure publication. Both are printed within the same book in a flip-format. Printing 15,000 issues every two months, the publications have been running for over 10 years and are distributed from Mackay to Ingham, including the Whitsundays, Burdekin, and Townsville.
During the evening, Rachael also launched the brand-new monthly Home Hill Happenings feature, debuting in the paper this week, and thanked local businesses for their support.
She finished by sharing that the newspaper now has a budget for a local, dedicated Sales Representative to join the team and encouraged interested community members to apply.
The evening came to a close with more conversation and networking opportunities.
Special thanks to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce committee for presenting a positive and lively evening. Thanks also to Councillors John Furnell and Fina Vasta for attending.
Uli Liessmann from Home Hill Chamber of Commerce, Erin Brennan from the Home Hill Choral Society and Councillor John Furnell at last week's Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Meeting. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Time may be running out for residents to nominate their Local Legends in the lead up to Queensland Day but Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, wants to be sure the Burdekin’s legends receive the recognition they deserve.
Across the state communities are nominating people that embody the Queensland spirit and those who are awarded legend status will certainly be celebrating Queensland Day in style.
“In every community you have people who just get in and get the job done without any fuss,” Mr Last said.
“Queensland Day is when we celebrate everything that makes Queensland great, and those people
definitely make Queensland great.”
“There are no strict rules for what makes someone a Local Legend in our communities so there are no specific criteria when it comes to nominating them for recognition. Whether it’s someone who patrols the beaches, helps people in need or mows the sporting fields, they make a huge contribution and they deserve our thanks.”
“It can be very easy to focus on the challenges that we face but the reality is we live in the best state in Australia. Shining a light on those unsung heroes is just one way to ensure that, this Queensland Day, every Queenslander can see an example of the people that make our state the best.”
“When you think about what we have achieved as Queenslanders, there is almost always people behind the scenes who have made huge contributions. Unlike other states, we don’t talk ourselves up as Queenslanders but, for one day of the year, I think we can make an exception and make sure those people are recognised.”
Selected Local Legends will be presented with their awards at Suncorp Stadium on Queensland Day when Queensland’s favourite places and produce across 15 categories will also be celebrated.
“Queenslanders work hard but, when the time’s right, we all like to enjoy great food or drinks or even a bit of a getaway,” Mr Last said. “It’s almost impossible to pick the best of those categories so we are asking Queenslanders to have their say and settle the argument.”
“There is a range of categories from best beer to best coffee and best meat pie to best landmark. People can vote for one of the existing contenders or nominate their own.”
“In my job I do a lot of travelling throughout Queensland and, without being biased, I know that there are quite a few places in the Burdekin that would easily be contenders. While it’s a competition to some degree, it really is about having a bit of fun and celebrating the positives.”
“Queenslanders love to compete, especially when we are the underdogs, but we do that with the best spirit and sense of humour. With the last few years being such challenging times, generating some pride in our community and our state is a win for everyone.”
Voting and nominations are now open via www.qld.gov.au/qld day. Nominations for Local Legends close at 11.59pm on Sunday, June 1st.
Contributed with thanks to Member fr Burdekin Dale Last.
Who are you going to nominate as a Local Legend in the lead up to Queensland Day?
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This week’s Good Deed goes to one of our own — Burdekin Life journalist Jacob Casha — who, since moving to town just over a month ago, has proven himself an asset not only to the newspaper but also to the community.
Well-known at the Home Hill Bowls Club for his enthusiastic participation in the sport, attending local soccer games, and joining the Tennis working bee, this young man is truly embracing local life.
Kate Caswell from Home Hill Tennis took the time to write into the paper to nominate him for some recognition.
“Since coming to town, Jacob has really gotten into the community spirit and taken up pickleball and bowls,” she shared.
“This week we had a working bee to clean off some mould, and Jacob came along and added operating a pressure cleaner to his skill set! Thanks for helping out, Jacob.”
Jacob’s kind gesture shows that small acts and time given to worthy causes are incredibly meaningful to the community and inspire kindness in others.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved locally, follow Jacob’s lead and volunteer your time to help others.
Not only will you get the warm fuzzies from lending a hand and the satisfaction of a job well done — you may also form some great connections along the way.

Last week at Home Hill State High School, Year 7 and 8 students in the STEAM class took on a hands-on engineering challenge inspired by one of history’s greatest inventors. Tasked with building Da Vinci bridges out of paddle pop sticks—without glue or tape—students quickly learned that patience, persistence, and resilience are crucial ingredients in the creative process.
The activity, while frustrating at times due to the fiddly nature of the materials, encouraged students to problem-solve, revise their designs, and keep trying even when the bridge collapsed. Most students successfully reached step five of the construction, a testament to their teamwork and determination.
The lesson extended beyond engineering—it was about embracing the journey of invention. As the students discovered, even the best ideas require trial, error, and multiple revisions before reaching their full potential--A reminder that persistence pays off in learning and life.

Hailing from Townsville, Anne Walsh of Anne Walsh Fine Art travels to Home Hill’s 170 Arts on the Avenue on the first Saturday of each month to host a wonderful Art Class to foster creativity and artistic talent.
With a love for coastal seascapes, Anne has a passion for nature and water scenes to evoke feelings of immersion and escapism through each brushstroke and her talents have been commended on several occasions. Anne’s joy of sharing art with others has led her to become a much-loved teacher, and over the past four years, she has mentored students within the Burdekin Shire privately through one-on-one classes and in workshops conducted at either the Burdekin Art Society or with the Burdekin Artisan Community Association.
“My love and passion for painting is what inspires me to help other artists with their artistic journey, and I enjoy being able to share my knowledge and techniques,” Anne explained.
“I like encouraging each artist to just enjoy the process of painting or drawing with enthusiasm and self-belief, then to see what they accomplish is inspiring.”
The Burdekin Artisans have happily welcomed Anne into their studio for the past few months where artists of all experience levels have flourished and thrived, especially those who had never picked up a brush or pencil before.
“The classes are based on each student bringing whatever they want to work on, whether it be watercolour, acrylics, drawing, pastel or oils and I help each artist individually and as a whole on composition, colour mixing, brush techniques, perspective and tonal values,” Anne outlined.
In each workshop, Anne prides herself on establishing an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere for her students to explore their creativity freely with individual guidance.
“Art is such a personal expression and can sometimes be quite daunting for those who would like to have a go but feel hesitant, so I love to make the experience fun and full of laughs,” added Anne.
“I also get to meet some beautiful, interesting and like-minded people along the way.”
On Saturday the 7th of June, Anne will teach another fantastic class from 9am to 2pm at 170 Arts on the Avenue. Bookings are essential and can be made by phoning 0497 356 355.
What: Art Class with Anne Walsh
When: Saturday the 7th of June, 9am to 2pm
Where: 170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill
Anne Walsh has been guiding artists of the Burdekin Shire for the past four years (Photo Supplied)
Anne's next class will be held on the 14th of June at 170 Arts on the Avenue (Photo Supplied)

Truck drivers across Australia are receiving vital wellbeing support when and where they need it most thanks to a new, first-of-its-kind mental health campaign from Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, led by actor, comedian and truck enthusiast Shane Jacobson.
Launched on National Road Safety Week’s Regional Roads Day last Monday, the 19th of May, the campaign delivers preventative mental health support to truck drivers travelling Australia’s most isolated freight routes using geo-targeted radio messages, billboards, and podcast content to reach drivers where traditional support can’t.
More than half a million Australians work in trucking, warehousing and logistics, and truck driving remains the most common occupation for men in the country, however, the industry ranks last out of 19 sectors for mental health with many drivers spending long, isolated shifts away from family, friends and support.
“We know how important connection is for mental health and wellbeing, but every day, truckies are driving away from the people they love,” How Ya Travellin’? host Shane Jacobson said.
“They’re isolated for long periods of time, working unpredictable shifts, with little access to healthy food or exercise options which makes it easy for their mental and physical health to slide without anyone noticing.”
Hijacking the airwaves for the next six weeks, the How Ya Travellin’? campaign will interrupt commercial radio breaks along some of Australia's most isolated freight routes like the Eyre, Great Northern, Hume and Stuart Highways to replace ads with tailored, time-based wellbeing tips and real stories of overcoming mental health challenges.
Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds CEO Naomi Frauenfelder notes the campaign has been designed to break into moments of isolation with simple, timely reminders of support to help truckies feel a little less alone, even on the most remote roads.
“We often hear from drivers that something small, a family worry, a stressful interaction, a moment of doubt, can spiral into something overwhelming after going uninterrupted for ten hours and a thousand kilometres alone in the cab,” added Naomi.
Since its launch just last week, the campaign has already begun to spark plenty of meaningful and important conversations between truckies around mental health, with many rallying behind the initiative in support of those who prop up one of the most integral industries in Australia. More information about the campaign can be found at www.healthyheads.org.au.

An impactful and inspirational fundraising event will grace the four walls of Home Hill’s beautiful Burdekin Memorial Hall this October to raise vital funds for those impacted by cancer across North Queensland.
Raelene Grantz will host a wonderful Gala Afternoon Tea on Sunday the 19th of October titled Burdekin Fights Back to stage a selection of guest speakers, exciting entertainment, multi draw raffles, cent sales and of course a delicious buffet to raise funds for the Cancer Council foundation.
In February of last year, Raelene was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine yearly mammogram, just twelve years on from her twin sister, Maree, facing her own breast cancer battle. Fortunately, the sisters are both now cancer free and have a strong desire to give back to the Cancer Council of North Queensland’s North Ward branch at Gluyas Lodge in Townsville.
“Being a cancer survivor myself and having family, and friends in the Burdekin that have had cancer, I just want to give back and the Townsville Hospital was so caring towards me when I battled cancer last year,” shared Raelene.
“I hope my fundraising goes to research and supporting family and friends of those how have cancer as I firmly believe research is the answer to finding a cure for all cancers.”
Raelene hopes the region will save the date for the October event, and she invites the entire community to attend what is shaping up to be a gorgeous afternoon.
To donate to Raelene’s Cancer Council fundraising page, visit www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/raelenegrantz.
What: Gala Afternoon Tea
When: Sunday the 19th of October from 2pm
Where: Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill