Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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If you have ever walked past the membership sign at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and wondered whether it was really worth ten dollars, the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, for most local families it pays for itself within the very first visit. FriendlyCare Pharmacy is a not-for-profit, community-owned organisation that has been serving the Burdekin region and beyond for over 100 years. Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. That means better pricing for members, and community sponsorships and donations that support the groups and events that matter to Ayr residents. It starts with ten dollars Membership costs just $10, and when you sign up you receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store straight away. Effectively, your membership pays for itself on the spot. From that point forward, you receive member-only pricing on just about everything in the pharmacy. That includes pharmacy medicines, vitamins and supplements, and all your favourite health and beauty brands. The savings quickly add up, especially for families who rely on their pharmacy regularly. Earn CarePoints every time you shop FriendlyCare Membership also includes access to the CarePoints rewards program. Every dollar you spend in-store or online earns you CarePoints, which you can then redeem to get money off future purchases. It is a simple way to be rewarded for the shopping you are already doing. The more you spend, the more you save over time. CarePoints work alongside your member-only discounts, so you are benefiting in two ways every time you visit. Member-only offers and exclusive extras As a FriendlyCare member you will be the first to hear about promotions, member-only email offers, and exclusive competitions. These are not available to general customers, and they are sent directly to you, so you never miss out. Members also have access to the FriendlyCare App, which helps you manage your medications, request prescription repeats from home, set medication reminders, and stay connected to your pharmacy team without needing to call or come in. You are supporting your community Perhaps the most meaningful part of FriendlyCare membership is what it represents beyond the savings. As a not-for-profit, community-owned organisation, FriendlyCare does not send profits offshore or to shareholders. When you become a member and shop with FriendlyCare, you are helping to sustain a local business that gives back to the community. It is the kind of pharmacy model that is rare in Australia today, and Ayr is fortunate to have it. How to join Signing up takes just a few minutes. Simply visit our friendly team in-store at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr and they will get you set up on the spot. You can also join online at friendlycare.com.au. As a FriendlyCare member, you’ll receive a $10 welcome credit to spend in-store immediately; exclusive member-only pricing on most products; CarePoints earned on every dollar spent, redeemable for rewards; exclusive member email offers and competitions; and access to the FriendlyCare App to manage your medications. Join today and start saving for the rest of your life. Pop in and see the team at FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr or visit friendlycare.com.au to sign up online. Supplied by FriendlyCare Pharmacy Ayr CAPTION: Unlike large chain pharmacies, every dollar of profit generated by FriendlyCare is reinvested directly back into the organisation. Photo supplied
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Tangible cost of living relief will be delivered for north Queenslanders who have borne the brunt of soaring power costs as prices fall for the first time in a decade. The Queensland Competition Authority’s (QCA) final determination has confirmed electricity costs will drop by up to 6.9 per cent for regional households and 8.1 per cent for small businesses from 1 July. Having advocated for a better deal for regional power customers as the local Member, Burdekin MP Dale Last has hailed the reduction in electricity prices a win for the region’s families and small businesses. “I have long called for Queensland’s regional power customers to receive a better deal and I’m proud to see the Crisafulli Government deliver the price cut our families and small businesses need,” Mr Last said. “Following the Queensland Competition Authority’s final determination, our government took action to direct Ergon Energy to pass on the savings in full to regional households and small businesses.” “It’s only right that if the cost of energy falls, bills should too and now couldn’t be a better time with the national affordability crisis putting pressure on Queenslanders’ hip pocket.” The QCA notes higher availability of Queensland coal generators, lower gas prices, and growing investment in batteries and renewables are driving down power bills for Queenslanders. Mr Last said the concerns from families and small businesses around the increase in power prices under the previous Labor government had been heard loud and clear with the Crisafulli Government now delivering. “This is real structural cost of living relief that we are delivering to Queenslanders no matter where you live in this state.” “Under the previous Labor Government households bore the brunt of a 28.7 per cent increase in their power prices, in contrast the Crisafulli Government is bringing down prices with our Energy Roadmap.” Supplied by the office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
Read the full storyA Facebook post from a concerned daughter has prompted an overwhelming response from the Ayr community, with more than 30 people offering support to her terminally ill father. The woman shared that her father, who lives in Ayr, is struggling with everyday tasks such as preparing meals and washing dishes due to declining health. She explained that he falls into a “grey area” where he is unable to access certain funded health or aged care services, while his children all live out of town and cannot provide daily assistance. Describing her family as “desperate, exhausted and heartbroken”, she asked the community for advice after unsuccessful attempts to find private help. The response was immediate. Dozens of residents commented on the post, offering practical assistance, recommending local services and sharing their own experiences navigating the health and aged care systems. Some community members even volunteered their time to help with meals, household chores and regular welfare checks. The outpouring of support highlighted the caring nature of the Burdekin community, with many residents determined to ensure the family did not face the challenge alone. What began as a desperate plea for help quickly became a powerful reminder of the strength of community spirit and the willingness of locals to rally around those in need during difficult times.
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Leadership Call For Burdekin Chamber As Executive Roles Open The Burdekin Chamber of Commerce is seeking new executive committee members, with leaders urging fresh volunteers to step forward as key positions become vacant. The call comes after the recent resignation of secretary Kari Ravizza, with president Seb Aguirre also set to step down from his role at the end of his three-year term in September. Mr Aguirre said the positions must be filled in the coming months to ensure the future of the organisation. “We need someone to step up,” he said. “It's too viable, and our membership is amazing. We can’t let all those people down.” According to Mr Aguirre, the Burdekin Chamber found itself in a similar position three years ago, when a lack of interest in executive roles nearly led to its demise. Membership has since grown from about 70 to 121, with the organisation’s flagship Christmas Street Party injecting millions of dollars into local businesses over the last two years. Mr Aguirre said that although membership had seen a steep uptick, interest in the vacant positions had been virtually non-existent. Despite the concerns, Chamber Vice-President Gary Roser said he remains “optimistic” about the organisation’s future. “I don’t think we’re at the stage where it’s going to fold. I think people will step up and it will continue to exist, but to what capacity will be the difference,” Mr Roser said. He said fresh hands at the helm could help to strengthen the organisation moving forward. “We need a changing of the guard to help solidify what we’ve got, and then help take it to the next step,” he said. “I’d hate to see it not bigger and better every year. It’d be disappointing for all the hard work that has been done by many people.” Anyone interested in learning more about vacant executive roles is encouraged to contact either Seb on 0499 197 671 or Gary on 0408 076 064. CAPTION: Executive Members Rose Papadimitriou and Jenny Papale, Treasurer Frank Nucifora, President Seb Aguirre, Secretary Kari Ravizza, and Executive Member Paul Benvenuti, elected at last year's AGM. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Over $3.65 Million has been committed to sporting and community groups in the last few weeks with Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, describing the funding as illustrating the government’s commitment to grass roots organisations in the district.
Following a commitment in the lead up to the October 2024 election, planning for facility upgrades at Burdekin Netball is now underway while facility and equipment upgrades for 6 community groups have also been given the green light under the provisions of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
“In areas like ours, sporting and community organisations play a key role in connecting people and also in improving health,” Mr Last said.
“The health benefits from sport are obvious but there’s also volumes of research proving that membership of a community group improves health as well.”
“In addition to the netball facility upgrades there is a scoreboard for the swimming club and equipment for the Burdekin Potters, the Burdekin Off-roaders and the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Both the Giru Progress Association and the Burdekin Artisans will be upgrading their facilities, so we have a great mix of short and medium-term projects.”
“Across the state more than 2000 applications were received so competition for funding was tough. I am immensely proud of the effort put in by our local organisations to secure this funding and they certainly deserve our thanks.”
Mr Last urged groups to start preparing for the next round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) with applications now opening on June 9th June and closing on July 18th.
“We have delayed the opening of the next round in recognition of the impact that weather events earlier in the year had on organisations that are largely run by volunteers,” he said. “Grants of up to $100,000 are available and that gives groups the chance to fund major projects that will provide even more benefits to our community.”
“Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants are available to a wide range of not-for-profit groups across the state, with the funding able to be utilised for a wide range of projects. From facility, equipment and accessibility improvements right through to domestic and family violence initiatives; there is funding available, and I would encourage local groups to apply.”
It was another busy week for news in the Burdekin.
Among the notable events was the re-opening of Stardust Drive-In Cinema, which welcomed customers for the first time in almost a year-and-a-half, after Cyclone Kirrily left its mark on the beloved, long-standing community hub back in January, 2024.
I decided to give it a go at their soft re-launch last Friday, and it did not disappoint. It was also refreshing to see the community turn up in droves to support the venue, which has been a staple in the Burdekin entertainment scene for over over 60 years.
Speaking of entertainment—I also managed to sus out Capone’s Nightclub on Saturday night. Nothing quite like anything back home in Sydney, but still a neat set-up and I imagine it will be packed this weekend following the races.
Which brings me to the Burdekin Growers Race Day—my first one, and I’m looking forward to it. From what I’ve heard, it’s one of those days that starts with the horses but ends up being about everything else. Good stories, loud shirts, a bit of dust, and a crowd that knows how to enjoy itself.
The pace doesn’t seem to be slowing down around here—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Can’t wait for the week ahead.
And, as always, if you have a story to tell, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Kicking off the 2025 season in the Burdekin, the St. Coleman's Debutante Ball was a night to remember. Held on Saturday, May 10th at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, the event saw eight debutantes and their partners take the stage in a stunning display of grace and tradition. The evening was made even more special by the presence of Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who joined the packed hall of parents, family, and attendees to celebrate this significant occasion. The event marked the perfect start to a season filled with elegance and community spirit.
Under a sky full of stars, the Burdekin was treated to a night of elegance and tradition as the 2025 St. Coleman's Debutante Ball launched the season with unforgettable flair. The Burdekin Memorial Hall was packed with 400 guests, all gathered to witness a beautiful evening celebrating the debutantes' journey into adulthood.
The night began with a touching ceremony at St. Coleman's Catholic Church, where the debs were blessed in the presence of their proud families. Jayel Gibson and Chad Fraser delivered heartfelt readings, setting the tone for what would be a memorable evening.
Once the blessings were complete, guests made their way to the Memorial Hall for an exquisite dinner, followed by the much-anticipated debutante presentation. The debs and their partners were introduced to the evening’s distinguished guests, including Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Home Hill High Principal Sharon O'Neill. With grace and poise, the debs stepped forward, marking the beginning of their unforgettable journey.
The evening continued with heartfelt speeches. Kareana Heron and Blaize Palmer gave thanks on behalf of the debutantes, expressing their gratitude for the support of their families and the community. Tonia Rossato, speaking on behalf of the Deb Ball Committee, shared her pride in the event’s success, while Ruby Linton and Wil Michielin had the honor of cutting the beautiful cake, made by the talented Jodie Weston. The cake was a centerpiece of the evening, symbolizing the sweet start of new beginnings.
The night was far from over as the debutantes showcased their skills and captivated the audience with their dance performances. With two partner dances, a boys’ dance, and a girls’ dance, they impressed everyone with their talent and grace. But the most touching moment came when the night concluded with the Father/Daughter and Son/Mother "Pride of Erin" dance, a beautiful tradition that highlighted the bond between parents and their children.
This spectacular evening wouldn't have been possible without the hard work and dedication of many. A heartfelt thank you goes to the families of St. Colman's School, the St. Colman's Parish Ladies, Howie’s Catering, the Burdekin Shire Council’s Memorial Hall crew, and Dominique's Events. The St. Colman's Debutante Ball Committee—Madison Mainwaring-Samwell, Holly Alford, Hayley Oats, Barbara Cox, Jacquelyn Mainwaring-Samwell, Tonia Rossato, Dom Augostis, and Shalon Gibson—deserve special recognition for their tireless efforts in making this event a success.
With every detail beautifully executed and every moment steeped in tradition, the St. Coleman's Debutante Ball 2025 was truly a starry night to remember.
After over a year of repair and preparations, Burdekin’s beloved Stardust Drive-In Theatre softly relaunched last Friday, 9th May, reopening its gates for the first time since Cyclone Kirrily devastated the site in January 2024, with locals flocking back to the community icon that has served the region for over 60 years.
Devastation struck early last year as the cyclone tore through the area, toppling the drive-in’s iconic screen and leaving the venue in ruins. Despite the challenges, Stardust’s team remained determined to rebuild the venue. "The power of nature took our screen, but it couldn’t dampen the spirit that defines us,” read a post published to their Facebook page.
The reopening was highly anticipated by the public, with the venue long serving as a beloved spot where generations of locals have gathered to enjoy films under the stars.
“I have amazing memories of the Stardust,” said one community member.
The soft-launch on Friday was met with enthusiastic support, with locals pouring in to see a screening of the brand A Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black, for the price of just $12. The concessions also offered up a range of snacks and beverages to enjoy with the film.
The venue also features an indoor cinema, giving movie lovers the choice between watching under the stars or in the cosy comfort of an indoor setting. An 18-hole mini-golf course is also on-site, ensuring there’s plenty of fun to be had before the opening credits roll.
Excitement is building as the community favourite sets itself to officially relaunch with a bang on the 24th of this month. For showtimes, updates and more, visit Stardust’s website or Facebook page.
Stardust Theatre is set to re-open on May 24
The drive-in theatre screen was destroyed in Cyclone Kirrily
The theatre is an iconic spot and has been operating for 60 years
On Thursday, 8 May 2025, families from across the Burdekin gathered at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre in Ayr for a warm and welcoming Biggest Morning Tea, hosted by 54 reasons, a local arm of Save the Children Australia. The event brought together children, parents and carers for a morning of fun, connection and community support.
Attendees enjoyed a lively and engaging atmosphere, complete with an arts and crafts table, a swing set, slippery slides and a range of children’s games. A generous morning tea was provided, with delicious contributions from Maria Porter Bakehouse Goods and Tasha’s Tasty Treats. The event raised $100 to support local children’s programs.
The morning was supported by Play2Learn, 54 reasons’ supported playgroup program. Play2Learn runs weekly across Ayr and Home Hill, offering children aged 0–5 a safe and stimulating environment to develop school readiness skills and social connections. Just as importantly, it provides caregivers with access to parenting support, community networks and a place to connect with others navigating early childhood.
As part of Save the Children Australia, 54 reasons is dedicated solely to Australian children and families, delivering programs that help children grow, feel safe, and thrive. Events like the Biggest Morning Tea not only raise funds—they help strengthen the ties that bind the Burdekin community.
Attendees enjoyed a lively and engaging atmosphere, complete with an arts and crafts table, a swing set, slippery slides and a range of children’s games. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Are you a young writer eager to share your voice with the community? Burdekin Life is offering budding journalists the chance to be part of our local newspaper! Whether it’s school news, personal hobbies, unique experiences, or anything that speaks to your age group, this is your opportunity to be heard. Plus, you’ll have the thrill of seeing your work published in a community-focused publication!
Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith says, "We're excited to open up submissions to young writers who want to tell the stories that matter to them. We welcome a wide range of topics, from school life to personal passions, as long as the content is relevant to our local community."
While this is a wonderful chance to get your work published and gain valuable writing experience, please note that this is an unpaid opportunity—an excellent stepping stone if you’re considering a career in journalism or simply want to see your name in print - and who knows where it could lead!?
If you’re ready to share your story, send your submissions to editorial@burdekinlife.com. Articles should be approximately 250 words and include a photo.
Don’t miss out on the chance to make your mark in the Burdekin community—this could be the start of your journey into the world of journalism!
Kindness at school is more than just good manners—it’s about creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone. By looking after others and standing up for yourself, you help build a school culture based on respect and empathy.
Here are some simple tips:
By following these tips, you contribute to a kinder, more supportive school environment where everyone feels valued.
Stella Borellini leapt out of her comfort zone last year when she accepted a nomination to represent the Burdekin Academy as a Junior Ambassador in 2024’s Burdekin Water Festival.
With new friendships, community focused experiences, and a new sense of self-confidence, Stella’s journey as a Junior Ambassador was nothing short of rewarding, and she hopes many others will take to the opportunity.
“A message I would like to share with aspiring Ambassadors is that it may seem daunting to participate in these sorts of things, however it’s not,” shared Stella.
“This commitment was the highlight of my year as it was a delightful, heartwarming, feel good experience and one word I would use to describe the Burdekin Water Festival experience is phenomenal!”
Over the course of approximately four months, Stella and her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors engaged in a plethora of community-based activities and fundraising events for various organisations and charities.
“My favourite memory from the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival was definitely the Fashion Parade because it was something I had never done before,” expressed Stella.
“You can just be yourself and have fun with all the other Ambassadors!”
In September of last year, Stella was celebrated as the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up, a title she accepted with joy and will treasure for years to come.
With the crown aside, Stella’s mother, Allison Borellini, was beyond delighted to see how much her daughter grew from her experience as a Junior Ambassador, adding how amazing it was to see Stella involved with so many wonderful events and people.
“Stella thoroughly enjoyed her time as a Water Festival Ambassador and it introduced her to taking part in fundraising efforts for her club, the Burdekin Academy, and what it means to give back and be involved with your community,” Allison said.
“Her confidence skyrocketed when it came to public speaking and talking with various people throughout the Burdekin community, and as a parent, it can be busy but your club will be behind you every step of the way and it is an extremely rewarding experience.”
A five-year regional initiative has wrapped up with a lasting legacy of 187 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators across North Queensland, including several from the Burdekin.
The Water Industry Worker Program (WIWP), first launched in 2019, was developed to address the growing need for skilled water industry professionals across regional Queensland. Delivered by training specialists Simmonds & Bristow, the program began as a pilot with five councils: Mackay, Townsville, Whitsunday, Cairns and the Burdekin.
Simmonds & Bristow trainer Liz Millan said Burdekin’s participation in the pilot program helped shape what would grow into one of Queensland’s largest-scale training efforts.
“I had been talking to Townsville City Council about a Water Industry program since around April 2018,” Ms Millan said.
“Despite lots of discussions throughout the year for North Queensland training clusters, it amounted to nothing as the councils struggled to consolidate their needs.”
By September 2019, training in Townsville had officially begun. Participants from the Burdekin trained locally on the same infrastructure they would eventually work on, ensuring their learning was directly relevant to their future roles.
Following the pilot’s success, the program expanded to 11 councils across the state, running for five rounds and achieving a 90% completion rate.
Burdekin Shire Council’s continued involvement demonstrated the region’s commitment to investing in a skilled, local workforce to manage critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
The program has not only strengthened council capabilities but also provided long-term job security for regional workers, cementing Burdekin’s part in a statewide success story.
Approximately 200 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators for north Queensland have entered the workforce (Photo Supplied)
A five-year regional initiative has wrapped up with a lasting legacy of 187 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators across North Queensland, including several from the Burdekin.
The Water Industry Worker Program (WIWP), first launched in 2019, was developed to address the growing need for skilled water industry professionals across regional Queensland. Delivered by training specialists Simmonds & Bristow, the program began as a pilot with five councils: Mackay, Townsville, Whitsunday, Cairns and the Burdekin.
Simmonds & Bristow trainer Liz Millan said Burdekin’s participation in the pilot program helped shape what would grow into one of Queensland’s largest-scale training efforts.
“I had been talking to Townsville City Council about a Water Industry program since around April 2018,” Ms Millan said.
“Despite lots of discussions throughout the year for North Queensland training clusters, it amounted to nothing as the councils struggled to consolidate their needs.”
By September 2019, training in Townsville had officially begun. Participants from the Burdekin trained locally on the same infrastructure they would eventually work on, ensuring their learning was directly relevant to their future roles.
Following the pilot’s success, the program expanded to 11 councils across the state, running for five rounds and achieving a 90% completion rate.
Burdekin Shire Council’s continued involvement demonstrated the region’s commitment to investing in a skilled, local workforce to manage critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
The program has not only strengthened council capabilities but also provided long-term job security for regional workers, cementing Burdekin’s part in a statewide success story.
Approximately 200 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators for north Queensland have entered the workforce (Photo Supplied)
One of the region’s most well-supported charity fundraising events, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, will be held on Saturday the 7th of June at Home Hill’s Greek Hall.
Annually, members of the community come together in support of the Cancer Council’s initiative to honour every soul touched by cancer and raise vital funds to one day achieve a cancer free future. Almost 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, and the Cancer Council exists as the only charity that works across every area of cancer from research to prevention and support.
The Burdekin’s Biggest Morning Tea event will run from 9am to 2pm and attendees can enjoy a plethora of market stalls, a selection of raffles and taste plenty of delicious food all in good company.
Tickets to the fundraiser can be purchased for $15 directly from The Little Craft & Gift Shop before the 26th of May. Each and every dollar raised at the event and through ticket sales helps support those impacted by cancer and the amazing work of the Cancer Council.
For further inquiries or for more information call 0473 865 712.
Home Hill will host its Biggest Morning Tea event this June
Aircraft enthusiasts will be in for a treat next weekend as the beloved Woodstock Wings & Wheels event lands at the Donnington Airpark! From 8am to 12pm on Sunday the 18th of May, the community is invited to enjoy a selection of delicious hot food, coffee and ice cream vans as well as plenty of wonderful market stalls in support of Queensland’s Royal Flying Doctor Service.
As a special Sunday treat, pilots and members of the public are granted free entry to the airpark and there will be no landing fees for the strip across the entire day.
All types of aircrafts and display vehicles are warmly invited to attend the morning for a diverse showcase for the community to admire.
Ample parking for aircrafts and vehicles will be available as well as under-wing and public camping opportunities at 3467 Flinders Highway, Woodstock.
For further inquiries and more information, call Christian on 0418 636 727.
Market stalls, aircrafts, display vehicles, food, coffee and ice cream, what more could you ask for? (Photo Credit: Woodstock Wings & Wheels)
On Sunday the 25th of May, the terrific talents of fiber artist Billie Lee and artist Coral Colquhoun will be on show at 170 Arts on The Avenue for all to enjoy.
Over the course of two and a half hours, the pair will host an exquisite opening celebration of a unique Fabrics & Art Exhibition featuring both Billie and Coral’s creative creations.
With celebrated reputations in the artistic sphere, both Billie and Coral bring an ocean of experience, knowledge and expertise to textile art and traditional works to impress and intrigue onlookers.
Coral’s pieces have been featured and commended on numerous occasions at the annual Ayr Show, and her portraits of local infrastructures have also received much praise within the local community and beyond.
Having practiced craft since she was five years old, Billie has been an active member of the Burdekin Artisans for many years, and her passion for sharing art with others has led her to host a weekly Crafty Thursdays workshop for others to come together for a morning of artistic expression, and socialisation.
The showcase will be held at 170 Eighth Avenue in Home Hill, the home of the Burdekin Artisans, and for a $5 entry fee, attendees are welcome to enjoy an evening of artwork accompanied by a glass of wine and afternoon tea from 5pm to 7:30pm.
All bookings are essentials and reservations can be made by contacting 0427 821 065.
What: Fabric & Art Exhibition
When: Sunday, 25th of May, 5pm to 7:30pm
Where: 170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill
The Burdekin Water Festival has officially sounded the call for 2025 Junior and Senior Ambassadors to come forward and nominate for what is shaping up to be another outstanding festival!
Burdekin based organisations, schools, businesses and groups are encouraged to nominate an Ambassador for the celebrated program and attend an information evening at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club from 6pm on the 19th of May.
The evening invites both potential ambassadors and supporting organisations to attend where Burdekin Water Festival Committee members will share all there is to know about the event’s official Ambassador Program and how to be involved in one of the region’s most cherished traditions.
Ambassador nominations will officially open from Monday the 19th of May and more details on the process will be discussed across the information evening.
“We want to share information with organisations on how they can benefit from nominating an Ambassador and boost their profile within the community,” shared Ambassador Coordinator and Burdekin Water Festival Committee member, Kari Ravizza.
“Information on our newly strengthened Ambassador Program will also be shared as for the Ambassadors themselves; we have introduced additional workshops to support them with their own personal development and growth.”
RSVPs must be made by the 16th of May by emailing info@burdekinwaterfestival.com.au or by contacting Kari on 0437 832 932.
What: Burdekin Water Festival Information Evening
When: Monday 19th May, 6pm
Where: Ayr Anzac Memorial Club
2024's Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassadors were Sasha Previtera, Macy Grabs, Charlotte Horsfall, Zimyra Monday, Brielle Astorquia, Demi O'Shea and Mia Kelly (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) have made more than 4,200 youth arrests and laid over 18,000 charges in the first quarter of 2025 as part of an intensified crackdown on youth crime.
While no individual breakdown was provided for the Burdekin district, nearby areas including Townsville and the Mackay - Whitsunday region reported 464 and 59 youth arrests respectively, further suggesting youth crime remains a pressing concern for North Queensland communities.
The State Flying Squad, backed by $32.4 million in government funding, was deployed 22 times into crime hotspots between January and March, focusing on repeat youth offenders in both regional and metropolitan areas.
Premier David Crisafulli said the results mark the beginning of a new chapter in restoring community safety.
“Stronger laws, more police, early intervention and rehabilitation are all part of the fresh start for a safer Queensland,” Premier Crisafulli said.
Police also conducted over 12,000 wandings under Jack’s Law, seizing 112 deadly weapons in the process. Amendments have been introduced to make Jack’s Law permanent and expand police search powers further.
Locally, Burdekin residents are being urged to continue reporting suspicious activity and to stay engaged with community crime prevention initiatives.
“Queenslanders deserve safety and police deserve support, and we are delivering on both to turn the tide on Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis,” Minister Purdie said.
Members of the community are able to report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting offences online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
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