A few rays of sunshine finally broke through in the Burdekin this week – but earlier visits to the Burdekin Productivity Services (BPS) clean seed plot found it still too damp to open at the time.

Manager of Kalagro Alan Parker, BPS Field Officers Kristie Casalegno and Jack Edwards, and Farm Manager David Paine were among those checking conditions ahead of the expected opening earlier this week.

QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello said there were “plenty of tonnes of Q240 and Q183 and many others available” for growers eager to secure their clean seed cane. Growers were encouraged to place their orders through BPS, with access to the plot anticipated earlier this week, weather permitting. For more information, call (07) 4783 1101 or visit bps.net.au.

Burdekin Productivity Services plays a vital role in supporting the region’s sugarcane industry, providing agronomy advice, research, crop management support and sustainability initiatives to boost on-farm productivity and future-proof the industry. BPS works closely with sugarcane growers, millers, and other stakeholders to enhance the overall viability and competitiveness of the sugarcane industry in the Burdekin.

Meanwhile, the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) has been active across the Burdekin and broader North Queensland, assisting primary producers following last month’s significant rain events.

QRIDA’s Regional Area Manager Angelo Rigano and Head of Client Engagement Georgia Colley met with the QCAR team, including District Manager Angelo Licciardello, to discuss the ongoing recovery efforts.

Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants remain open to eligible primary producers, small businesses and non-profit organisations to help with the costs of clean-up and reinstatement.

For support, contact Angelo Rigano directly on 0408 180 644 or visit qrida.qld.gov.au. For general QCAR enquiries, phone Angelo Licciardello on 0437 401 837.

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Checking conditions at the Burdekin Productivity Services clean seed plot are (from left) Kalagro Manager Alan Parker, BPS Field Officer Kristie Casalegno, Farm Manager David Paine, and BPS Field Officer Jack Edwards. Wet ground delayed the plot’s opening, but growers were keenly awaiting access to fresh clean seed. Photo source: QCAR (Facebook)

2. QRIDA meeting:
On the ground supporting Burdekin growers with disaster recovery are QRIDA’s Regional Area Manager Angelo Rigano and Head of Client Engagement Georgia Colley

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A group of teenage boys were recently recognised on the Burdekin Community Hub on Facebook for their respectful and considerate behaviour while visiting a local water park two weekends ago. Despite clearly being excited to enjoy the slides, the boys demonstrated an admirable level of kindness towards the younger children at the park.

As the younger ones queued for their turn, the teens graciously allowed them to go ahead, ensuring the little ones could enjoy the slides without feeling rushed. They also took extra care, waiting until each child had safely reached the end of the slide and exited before they themselves took their turn. This thoughtful behaviour was a refreshing change and a true display of respect for others, particularly at a busy, bustling venue.

Onlookers were impressed by how the boys prioritised the safety and enjoyment of the younger children, rather than focusing solely on their own fun. It’s a reminder that kindness and patience can make a big difference in any setting, and the actions of these teenagers served as an example for others.

In a time when it can sometimes feel like good deeds go unnoticed, this group of boys stood out for all the right reasons. Their parents should certainly be proud of the positive impact their children made that day. Well done, boys for setting a great example for others to follow!

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Hi Everyone!

Hope you all had a fantastic Easter break :)

With my first week in the Burdekin in the books, I can positively say: I love this place already! You all have made it so easy for me to settle in and find my feet in my new role as your local voice.

I’ve really enjoyed learning and writing about some of your stories this week. After just a couple days on the job, one thing is already unequivocally clear: you guys LOVE your local events—and I’m all for it! It’s refreshing to see a community bound by shared interests and a real sense of pride in where they live.

The Easter break afforded me plenty of time to explore the beautiful Burdekin region and beyond. A key highlight was the beautiful Alva Beach—perfect for a sunset stroll/dip. It’s also been great to take in some of the Burdekin’s hallmarks, like the Burdekin Bridge and the Burdekin River, and to indulge in some of the local pubs and restaurants.

Although I was able to do a bit of exploring over the last week, I’m still very open to any suggestions of what else to do or see. And, as always, if you have a story to tell, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Looking forward to the week ahead!

Cheers!

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With Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

The ANZAC spirit is alive and well across our region, with attendance at dawn services, marches, and other commemorative events surging in recent years. This ANZAC Day is expected to see even greater numbers, as our community once again comes together to honour those who have served.

Long before I became the Federal Member for Dawson, and my time as Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, my family and I have always made it a priority to honour the sacrifices of our brave servicemen and women.

For me, ANZAC Day is one of the most sacred days on our national calendar. It’s a time to reflect, to remember, and most importantly, to say thank you.

Seeing the younger generation stepping up to embrace our proud national history is incredibly moving. It gives me great hope for the future.

ANZAC Day is for all Australians to come together and pay tribute to the men and women of our armed forces. It’s a day to acknowledge those who fought in the first World War, those who serve today and all those who have been part of military campaigns in between.

Every person who puts on the uniform does so knowing the risks, yet they do it to protect the freedoms and values we hold dear. We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated servicemen and women keeping us safe.

As the Federal Member for Dawson, I have the honour of presenting veterans with the Australian flag. This is a small but meaningful gesture of appreciation. I have had countless interactions with some remarkable individuals across our region who have proudly served our country. For me hearing from these exceptional people fills me with pride.

This year, as in years past, I’ll be attending multiple ANZAC Day events throughout the region. I hope to see you there. But if you can’t make it to a service, I encourage you to pause in your own way, to reflect, to remember, and to give thanks.

To all our servicemen and women, past and present, and to the loved ones who are connected to them: thank you. Australia is a better place because of your courage and sacrifice.

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Networking Evening

The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held its monthly meeting at 5:30pm on Wednesday, 16 April. Guest speakers included Police Officer in Charge Sam Pyke, Labor candidate for Dawson, Neil Wallace and Burdekin Life Newspaper Sales Manager Trish Jandt.

Officer Pyke provided an update on local policing matters, identifying that sdaly domestic violence as the most prevalent crime in the Burdekin Shire. He also addressed questions from attendees about the operations and priorities of the local police force.

Labor candidate Neil Wallace followed with an overview of his campaign policies ahead of the upcoming election. A three-time President of the North Mackay Rotary Club, Mr Wallace shared his commitment to advocating for greater investment in local health services, expanded skills and training to support local employment, and increased housing development to improve access to affordable and reliable accommodation.

Trish Jandt from Burdekin Life newspaper introduced the publication’s new journalist, Jacob Casha, who also took the opportunity to stand and share a little about himself with the community, where he explained his excitement for taking on the new role.

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Fina Vasta, Robert Antoniazzi, Kari Ravizza, Linda Butler

Megan Wilson and Trish Jandt

Fina Vasta, Uli Liessmann and  Bruce McBow.

Sam Pyke—officer in charge, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Will Stewart

Peter Hall, Amanda Hall and Matthew Magin

Uli Liessmann, Neil Wallace, Pierina Dalle Cort

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, is encouraging local chambers of commerce and industry representative groups to apply for funding to improve skills and service delivery in the region.

The Local Skills Solution program is aimed at leveraging ‘on the ground’ knowledge to identify gaps in currently available training and to fill those gaps with suitable training subsidised by the Queensland government.

“This a great opportunity for the retail sector and key industries to access subsidised face-to-face training,” Mr Last said. “And just as importantly, it is training that targets gaps identified locally by people directly affected.”

“In the past, industry groups and employers have been asked what is missing but their responses have never really been acted on. We will always encourage people to obtain qualifications but it’s undeniable that there is far more value in qualifications that are actually relevant.”

“With up to $250,000 available per project I know we can tackle training that usually would be out of reach, especially for a single business. This funding, for example, makes it financially viable to bring in a trainer from a major centre or even interstate where needed.”

“For some industries, highly valued skills can be skills that aren’t taught traditionally like customer service or even sales skills. That’s why we have included mentoring and learning support as options because we know there are skills that require practical hands-on guidance that can’t be learnt effectively from a book or a website.”

Mr Last said the state government had opted to take an individual approach, rather than a ‘cookie cutter’ approach, to ensure the best outcomes and said the additional work would be worth it.

“It’s very easy for government to offer funding for a training course but that investment doesn’t represent value for money if the training isn’t appropriate,” he said.

“The Crisafulli government gave commitments to work with industry and to ensure value for money for the taxpayer and we are doing exactly that with this funding.”

“The individual approach means that stakeholders can nominate training which may not normally be subsidised because they have identified a skill gap or an opportunity. It also means that, except where there are safety requirements, eligibility restrictions may not necessarily apply.”

“There is no doubt that issues like increased regulation and the growth in e-commerce has had a huge impact on a range of businesses. Instead of ignoring those threats, the Crisafulli government is helping businesses and industry to tackle those challenges because it’s the right thing to do for those individual businesses and their employees as well as our community and the state as a whole.”

“In the Burdekin retail and agriculture, for example, are industries that have been challenged but they are also industries that are vital to the economy and our future. Rather than just acknowledging the challenge we are working with industries to identify ways to overcome those challenges and prosper because that is what good governments do and it’s what Queenslanders deserve.”

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP at the Burdekin Shire Council Manufacturing Roundtable. Photo supplied

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This week we bring you more information about the historic Marshal Tractor that among other artifacts has been lovingly restored by the multi skilled artisans at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists (BMP).

This historic Marshall Colonial Tractor Model C2 was purchased by John Drysdale and brought to Pioneer Sugar Mill in 1914. Unfortunately, the machine did not live up to expectations and lacked power – “it wouldn’t pull the skin off a rice pudding”. So, the tractor was parked in Delta Iron Works for decades.

Finally, after a long and convoluted process, it was declared heritage significant, and restored by BMP at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

A similar 4 cylinder Marshall displayed at Ilfracombe has operational data showing the fuel consumption of 4 gallons per mile (well over 1000l per 100kms). Fortunately, fuel was cheap in those days. Our 2 cylinder Marshall has been running a bit rough of late and Treasurer Lex Kelly is concerned about fuel consumption. Vice President John Hanson has taken up the challenge to tune it up for better fuel economy.

The folks at BMP are proud of their achievements and welcome visitors to the Brandon Heritage Precinct 9am to 3pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. You will get an amusing and informative guided tour introducing you to the collection and share a few interesting stories about their history.

Recently the local and regional Visitor Information Centres were treated to a grand tour of the Brandon Heritage Precinct ensuring that they are fully up to speed and can pass on information about the amazing historically important collection on offer to entertain visitors.

Come and join in the exciting huffing and puffing of the historic steam and diesel engines at our Open Day from 9am to 3pm on Saturday 10th May at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

There’s something for everyone – the Iron Works Brewery will be open after 1pm - and the old Gardner Engine and furnace will fire up about 3pm!

For more information or to join the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists please call Lex on 0488 366 443 or email us at burdekinmp@outlook.com.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Club.

What: Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day

Where: Brandon Heritage Precinct

When: Saturday 10th May 9am to 3pm

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Marshal Tractor before being lovingly restored

Marshal Tractor after restoration

Vice President John Hanson explaining the history of the Marshal Tractor

Photos supplied

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The sound of swinging knives and the scent of scorched cane will return to Australia’s Sugar Cane Capital on Saturday, 31 May, as the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships take centre stage at this year’s Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival.

The competition—a true test of strength, technique and endurance—will see men and women from across the region and beyond battle it out in the paddock, vying for thousands in prize money and the coveted title of AHCCC Champion.

Held from 11am to 5pm, with a range of age and skill-based categories, the event is one of the festival’s headline attractions, drawing crowds keen to witness the raw skill behind a trade that shaped generations of the Burdekin’s agricultural workforce.

For veteran competitor John Arrate, it’s a chance to honour the past and the people who built the industry.

“Without those cane-cutters breaking their back and being out in the sun all day, the industry wouldn’t be where it is today,” says Arrate.

“They’re the ones I take my hat off to. We just put on a bit of a display and at the end of the day we go home but those guys pick up the knife again the next day, and the next day, and the next day for six months sometimes.”

A familiar face around the paddock, John Arrate has competed in the championships for several years, even taking out the 55+ title in 2023. But it’s not just on the day that he makes his mark—John helps with cane preparation year-round, and facilitates the symbolic First Fire that kicks off the weekend’s festivities.

“Volunteers are the backbone of everything,” he says. “If you don’t do it, no one else is going to do it.”

This year, the competition takes on extra significance for the Arrate family, as John’s daughter Lily is set to make her debut in the Ladies Novice division.

“Dad’s obviously very passionate about it, so I thought why not give it a try,” she said. “It’s always a fun day… heaps of my family come as well and I think it’s just good to get involved and give it a try.”

The father-daughter duo represent both the heritage and the future of the event—a reminder that while hand cane cutting may belong to a bygone era, its legacy continues to evolve.

The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will be held at the Home Hill Showgrounds from 30-31 May. Book your tickets now at: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au

What: Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships

Where: Home Hill Showgrounds

When: Saturday, 31 May, 11am-5pm

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On Friday, April 25, the Burdekin community will come together to pay their respects to Australia’s past and present Service People, with local ANZAC services and parades to take place across the region.

In Home Hill, the Dawn Service will kick the day off, commencing at 5:25am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, followed by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute's silence at the Home Hill Cemetery Cenotaph.

Attendees will then return to the Burdekin Memorial Hall for the Gunfire Breakfast at 7:00am, with the March commencing at 10:45am on Tenth Avenue in front of the Ambulance Station. A solemn ceremony at 11:20am at Burdekin Memorial Hall will round off the morning.

The Dawn Service in Ayr will take place at Anzac Park, beginning at 5:30am, with the Service taking place at the same location at 9:20am.

School students are encouraged to gather along Queen Street, between Edwards Street and Parker Street, in preparation for the march. RSL members, Cadets, and other community groups will assemble on Parker Street, between Queen Street and Graham Street.

In Giru, commemorations will be held at Brolga Park, starting with a Dawn Service at 5:30am, followed by a morning Service at 9:30am.

Brandon residents will gather at the Spiller Street Cenotaph for an 8:00am Service.

Each ceremony across the Burdekin will provide an opportunity for the community to honour the legacy and sacrifices of the ANZACs, and to reflect on the enduring spirit of service that continues to shape Australia today.

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With Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci

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It has been a busy time of year to say the least. I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Easter break. From all reports the crabbing was good, and the weather has turned nice, hopefully signalling the end of that humidity and rain.

I recently attended the 75th Anniversary Roll Call at the Clare State School. It was great concept that saw each decade of attendees called up for a class photo and I found it an amazing display of some generational families that have been to the school. Well done to all the organised and attended.

I also attended the 25th Anniversary of Sweet Fm 97.1. The celebration began with markets at the station which were very successful and well attended. Visitors were also treated to a tour of the radio station and the original Home Hill Court house.

The evening saw a dinner and presentation of the history of how and who got the station off the ground. I personally find this history fascinating and I commend and thank all those involved along the way.

This weekend is the Canefield Ashes. I have a soft spot for this event having grown up with the Pagotto Family. This event in memory of Eugene Pagotto continues to be a hugely popular event, with 40 Cricket teams participating and with several more teams on the waiting list every year.

Friday sees the teams warm up at with an Ambrose at the Home Hill Golf club. Saturday and Sunday will see cricket of all skill levels on display, and I dare say that Monday will see many like yours truly, that have overestimated their skill and body limits, lining up at the Physio!

Tomorrow is Anzac Day, a significant if not the most significant days of our year. This is the time for us as Australians to pay respect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of not just Australia but for the free world. It is a day where we pray for those families who have been affected by a loved one serving in the Australian Armed Forces. When the bugle plays the Last Post tomorrow let us pay respect to the Anzacs that embodied loyalty, selflessness and bravery. Lest we forget.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

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As we approach ANZAC Day, we pause to remember the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served - and continue to serve - our country. Their bravery, dedication, and resilience have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today, and it is our responsibility to ensure their legacy is never forgotten.

Sadly, as we reflect on the lessons of history, we are reminded that war and conflict still exist across the world. ANZAC Day is not just about remembering the past - it is also about acknowledging the ongoing struggles of those affected by war and striving for a future of peace and unity.

It is also a time to recognise the challenges that many veterans and their families continue to face. Their service does not end when they return home, and as a community, we must do our part to support them.

I encourage everyone to take part in an ANZAC Day service, whether in person or in spirit. Attending a dawn service or commemorative event is a powerful way to honour those who have served and to help pass this tradition on to younger generations.

Lest we forget.

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.

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One of the state’s longest standing drive-in theatres lives right here within the Burdekin region, and soon enough, after many, many long months, the Stardust Drive-In Cinema will be back to creating long lasting open-aired memories for Queenslanders.

“It’s time, with the amazing new screen the Drive-In will come alive soon, and as we finish off the final details, we are preparing an opening for you, our Drive-In community, to experience,” shared Stardust Drive-In Cinema Manager, Suzzi Jerkic.

Just over a year ago, on the evening of Thursday, the 25th of January, 2024, Cyclone Kirrily tore through the Burdekin community and devastatingly, took the iconic outdoor screen of the Stardust Drive-In Cinema with it, leaving the community beyond heartbroken.

Suzzi recalled watching Cyclone Kirrily’s strong winds simply “peel” the silver screen off its sturdy supporting structure alongside her husband Frank last January, leaving the pair’s 360-car capacity drive-in theatre out of action for the past 14 months.

Suzzi and Frank have excitingly announced the community can expect to celebrate the debut of the cinema’s new outdoor screen on the 24th of May at 3pm sharp, and the pair have plenty of attractions planned to make the unveiling all the more special.

“Burdekin cruisers, Mustangs NQ, market stalls to wander through, food to enjoy, wonderful music and on the big screen will be the history of this iconic place,” added Suzzi.

"It is happening and I know you've all been waiting, but not as much as us here at the Stardust Drive-In - keep the date free and we will see you then.”

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Save the date! The Stardust Drive-In Cinema will light up again this May (Photo Source: Visit Burdekin)

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A Big Start to 2025 for Lower Burdekin Scouts

March and April have been busy months for the Lower Burdekin Scouts.

The Scouts started March with swimming nights, followed by a visit to the Burdekin Men’s Shed. Other activities were:

· A cooking night

· Fire Lighting night

· A night erecting tents in preparation for a camp to Magnetic Island.

· Knot tying night

· Harvey Norman BBQ stall

· Easter Raffle stalls

The cooking night involved making damper and creating handmade pasta with a tomato and mince sauce.

The Easter Raffle involved two days outside Harvey Norman Ayr and a day outside Woolies Ayr. The scouts would like to thank everyone that purchased tickets as they helped to raise around $1,000 towards camp costs and Scouting fees.

The Lower Burdekin Scouts meet on a Thursday night, 5-7 years meet 4-00 to 5-00pm and 8-18 years meet 5-30 to 7-30pm. People can come along for four weeks free to Try Scouting by contacting Rikki on 0419 104 035.

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Becoming a Junior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador stands as a highly celebrated and unique opportunity for the region’s youth to take part in and in 2024, Cole Pontifex took full advantage of everything the amazing journey had to offer.

Eligible Junior Ambassadors, as part of the Burdekin Water Festival, are students aged 11 to 12 years of age who are currently enrolled in Year 6 or 7 within the Burdekin Shire. Clubs, schools, sporting groups and organisations are able to nominate an Ambassador for representation in the annual event and at the conclusion of the celebrations, both a Winner and Runner Up are crowned based on various determining factors.

In July of last year, Cole was introduced to the community as one of The Burdekin Academy’s 2024 Burdekin Junior Water Festival Ambassadors, an organisation he has been a valued member of since 2022. Cole initially set out on his journey with the hopes of meeting new people whilst inspiring other boys to join gymnastics and in reflecting on what he was able to achieve almost 12 short months ago, he cannot endorse the opportunity enough.

“Looking back on my Burdekin Water Festival journey, I feel very grateful for the opportunity as I am so proud of my time as an ambassador and have so many amazing memories,” Cole shared.

“My biggest takeaway was, take any opportunity that comes your way - no matter how big or small, take chances and give it a go!”

Cole was proudly awarded the title of the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner following on from the event’s conclusion in September of last year, and he hopes many more young people will put themselves forwards ahead of 2025’s Festival.

“To anyone thinking of becoming an Ambassador, put yourself out there and get involved,” enthused Cole.

“The Festival is not only a celebration of water in the Burdekin community but it is a way for junior and senior members to interact with the community and give back - you only get this opportunity once, and it is so much fun, so rewarding, and a great way to give back to your community organisation.”

Sarah Pontifex could not be prouder of her son’s achievements and after watching Cole’s self-confidence skyrocket over the course of his Ambassador journey, she hopes many more parents encourage their children to take part in the wonderful program.

“Cole’s time as a Junior Ambassador was such a positive experience as exposure to public speaking, interacting with community members, planning speeches, attending events, representing his organisation and fundraising all helped him learn and grow and he was so proud to represent and give back to the Burdekin Academy,” expressed Sarah.

“My message to other parents would be to encourage your children to participate - yes, it is a big commitment but overall, it is such a rewarding experience.”

“I am so proud of the young man Cole has become and his time as an ambassador has helped shape him as a person.”

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Cole Pontifex was named the Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner in 2024 (Photo Supplied)

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2025 Season Begins!

The Burdekin Community Garden will open for the 2025 season on Monday morning 12 May from 9am – 11am.

This year marks its fourth year of operation after it was initially established through generous donations from the congregation of the Burdekin Community Church in 2022.

The garden exists to grow fresh produce to share free of charge with the local community.

During the first three years of its existence the garden has produced a bountiful harvest of corn, carrots, snow peas, tomatoes, lettuce, zucchinis, silverbeet, potatoes, pumpkins, cucumbers, passionfruit, bananas, and pawpaw.

Much to the delight of many Pacific Island workers in our district the garden also produces cassava and aibika (commonly referred to as slippery or island cabbage).

Growing fresh fruit and vegetables is just the tip of the iceberg when considering the purpose of the garden. Providing a safe place for people to meet, have a cuppa and a chat and just enjoy the outdoors in the company of others is another very important function of the garden.

Over the last three years the garden has hosted Year 6 student groups form the Burdekin Christian College and Ayr State School as well as the graduating class from the Burdekin School.

In addition to school students the garden has been a wonderful meeting place for local people from all walks of life.

Everyone is welcome to come to the garden located at the rear of the Burdekin Community Church on International Drive. However, Monday morning from 9 am – 11 am is the best time to visit.

Every Monday morning, excluding Public holidays, garden co-ordinators Karina Lima, and Rhonda and Rodney Williams are present to show people around the garden.

They are more than happy to make visitors a free cuppa to share over a chat and some morning tea. Weeding and other garden work is always optional at the community garden.

Everyone is welcome to come and share in the camaraderie of the Burdekin Community Garden.

For more information find us on Facebook or contact us at burdekincommunitygarden@gmail.com

WHAT: Burdekin Community Garden 2025 Season Opening

WHERE: Burdekin Community Church, Lot 23, International Road, Ayr

WHEN: Monday 12th May from 9am – 11am

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The whole community is invited down to the Burdekin Community Gardens every Monday 9-11am from 12th May onwards. Photo supplied

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