The construction of the Ayr water treatment plant has reached a new milestone, with a contractor appointed to commence work on the $46.88 million project.

Under the funding allocations made in the 2024/25 Budget last week, the Tallai Project Group were awarded the construction contract following the Burdekin Shire Council’s extensive tender process.

The project consists of numerous stages, with Stage 1 of the new water treatment plant including iron and manganese pre-treatment, coal on sand dual media filtration, disinfection, solids handling, chemical storage, and dosing.

“This is a critical piece of infrastructure for the Ayr, Brandon and Alva communities that will ensure that we can continue to provide safe and reliable drinking water to our residents,” said Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort.

“We are excited to see this construction project nearing commencement after years of strategic planning and design.”

Works are expected to commence at the South Ayr borefiled in September, with the new bores expected to be up and running at the time of completion of the new water treatment plant.  

“The South Ayr borefield will also undergo a complete rejuvenation with the development of up to eight new submersible pumps and delivery infrastructure,” explained Mayor Dalle Cort.

“The water from this borefield will be treated by the filtration treatment plant to remove iron and manganese from the source water eliminating historical discolouration issues at South Ayr”

The 2024/25 Queensland Government Budget funding also provides support for costs associated with refurbishing South Ayr bores to supplement current drinking water supplies and is part of an ongoing management plan following detections of PFAS in the groundwater. Additionally, the Queensland Government will invest $1 million to better understand the groundwater in Ayr through monitoring and modelling the aquifer.

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher believes the investments and support directed towards the Burdekin Shire uphold the Queensland Government’s commitment to supporting councils and delivering for Queenslanders.

“I look forward to working with Mayor Dalle Cort to continue to deliver for the Burdekin Region,” said Glenn.  

“We know how important water supply is for our communities and we’re always there to roll up our sleeves and help Councils with their water infrastructure needs.”

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher.

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The initial 2024 season sugar price forecasts from marketing companies indicate that the high physical premiums received by Australian sugar in the 2023 season, are likely to be repeated for this production season.

For Wilmar growers who use Target Pricing, the initial forecast is for $38.43/t Actual to be added to the AUD #11 swap price fixed by the grower. This is in comparison to QSL’s forecast of $21.12/t Actual.

While the initial forecast is below the 2023 season estimate of $53.22/t Actual (QSL $33.91/t Actual), it is important to remember that not long ago this premium was negligible to negative.

This is good news for growers and underscores the strong demand for the quality sugar that is consistently produced out of Australia.

An expected bounce back in the Thai crop, which is the main competitor in Asia for our sugar, may keep a lid on upside revisions from here.

As far as the broader market is concerned, the focus remains on the progress of the Brazilian crop. The ICE #11 continues to trade around 20c/lb as the market continues to digest the volume, ATR, and production mix from the early Brazilian crush.

The May 24 UNICA fortnightly reports indicate that all three sugar production key variables were trailing behind market expectation: tonnes are down, sucrose yield is lower and sugar make is below 50 per cent.

The trend through June was for the crop, yield, and sugar make to firm up. Nevertheless, the speculative community has reduced their short position, and upside resistance will depend on how the rest of the world crop is developing.

As previously noted, the Thai crop is expected to be recovering well this year and the monsoon in India appears to be on track for a normal season. Even if the Indian crop comes in higher, the increased production is expected to be absorbed into ethanol production and therefore, global sugar stocks will not be affected.

Wilmar’s Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham will be touring Queensland in the second week of July. He will be presenting in each of our regions, providing an update on Wilmar’s supply and demand forecasts, as well as an insight into the key destination countries for Australian sugar.

This is always a popular event, so make sure you contact your local consultant for further information.

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STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) stands as a program designed to connect young, regional girls with local industries, and has made significant strides under the leadership of dedicated local educator, Sarah Chapman.  

Sarah Chapman, a former Ayr State High School student, Townsville Science Teacher, and recipient of the 2013 Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Science Teaching, has been the driving force behind STEM Changemakers, holding the position of Co-Chair of Women in STEM Australia.  

The two-month-long program has been celebrated for the experiences, mentorship, and opportunities it presents to its participants within STEM careers.  

“As a teacher with twenty years of secondary state school experience, I’ve seen countless talented girls in STEM who lacked support at home, or faced too many other life demands,” explained Sarah.

“That’s why six months ago, I decided to be the change I wanted to see in the world and take a year off work to devote my time to changing opportunities for regional girls in STEM; that is where I developed the STEM Changemakers program.”

Within the current workforce, 80% of the fastest-growing occupants require STEM skills, however, only 15 per cent of STEM-qualified jobs are held by women. The program, STEM Changemakers, works to provide girls with tangible experiences with the support of role models to further transform girls’ aspirations, enabling them to perceive a positive future for themselves on a STEM pathway.  

“The girls in the STEM Changemakers program walk away with a reinforced confidence in themselves - they have strengthened communication and networking skills and are able to collaborate with a range of stakeholders in the community,” said Sarah.

A central focus of STEM Changemakers is collaborating with local stakeholders and businesses, one of which being Wilmar Sugar Australia. Wilmar Sugar Australia has presented a real-world industry challenge to the students, involving ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions of the transport of sugarcane to the mills. Nina West, Manager of Design Engineering at Wilmar Sugar Australia, says this challenge not only gave the girls a practical problem to solve but also highlighted the relevance of STEM in addressing global issues.

“There have been amazing ideas resulting from the girls’, some of which we might not have considered without them, and that is exactly what we were hoping for,” said Nina.  

Ayr State High School’s Grade Eight student, Jorja Ahern has been part of STEM Changemakers over the past two months and believes the program has expanded her knowledge and understanding of the diverse career opportunities available.  

“This program has opened up opportunities for my future studies and career path - it has helped me understand the different types of engineering, and what I could achieve as an engineer, and I have found interest in electrical engineering and environmental engineering,” said Jorja.  

Tiana Cameron, fellow Ayr State High School student in Grade Ten, was also part of STEM Changemakers, and developed similar understandings to Jorja, explaining the program provided her with a glimpse into STEM careers.  

“Changemakers has brought me from a girl interested in science to a girl interested in a career in science, and I think that’s my biggest takeaway,” said Tiana.  

On Saturday 22 June, STEM Changemakers culminated, where the girls celebrated their involvement with the program by presenting their STEM solutions to over 200 businesses and supporters. Jorja Jerkic, Mia Formilan, Tiana Cameron, Briella Wassmuth, and Jorja Ahern made their presentations at the Science Precinct in Townsville, and in their audience was special guest, Australian Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Folley, who has supported the girls and the growth of the STEM Changemakers program.  

Sarah’s inspirational and commendable mission has only just begun, and she has made long-term plans for the future to continue supporting young girls in STEM.

“Long-term, I am aiming to work with regional industries to provide targeted skills training that is flexible and responsive to young people’s needs, rapid technological change, and industry demand to ensure Australia’s STEM skills workforce can be more dynamic and responsive to change and allow our young people to be the leaders in solving future STEM challenges,” said Sarah.  

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Jorja Jerkic, Mia Formilan, Tiana Cameron, Ms Sarah Chapman, Briella Wassmuth, Jorja Ahern, and Mrs Claire Brock at the Final Presentation Day.
Bella Lawry, Tiana Cameron, and Briella Wassmuth.
Jorja Ahern, Mia Formilan and Jorja Jerkic.

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The "Make It Happen" Life Skills Cooking Class was created following the Burdekin Community Association (BCA) observing an increase in people who haven’t learnt essential life skills like cooking.

The program works to educate and teach attendees essential skills like budgeting, and hygiene alongside cooking to empower participants to take control of their health, and finances.

The classes are designed for people who have never learnt the basics of cooking and creating meals on a budget - a crucial skill considering the rising cost of living.

Participants can expect to begin with the fundamentals of cooking including essential kitchen tools and techniques and students will learn how to chop vegetables, measure ingredients and understand cooking terminology. The hands-on approach ensures that everyone gets practical experience, making it easier to replicate the recipes at home.
 
Budgeting is a crucial component of the course. Many people avoid cooking because they believe it is too expensive or time-consuming. The "Make It Happen" course teaches participants how to plan meals, create shopping lists, and make the most of their grocery budget.

Another critical aspect of the course is hygiene as proper food handling and kitchen cleanliness are essential to prevent foodborne illnesses. The class covers the basics of food safety, including how to store ingredients, sanitize surfaces and avoid cross-contamination.

A free course, BCA is taking bookings no. Call the BCA Support Centre on 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au.
 

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We thought we would do a recap of the programs and activities that are available from the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.  

Our regular programs and activities are:
   • Crochet Club -Monday’s 1pm – 5pm
   • Free Community Legal Advice – First Tuesday of the Month (depending on rostered solicitor)
   • Dementia Support Group – First Tuesday of the month 10am – 12pm
   • Burdekin Seniors Computer Club – 1st and 3rd Thursdays 9.30am – 11am
   • Be Connected – by appointment
   • My Time Program – Monthly activity for families with children with a disability
   • Emergency Relief Program – by appointment
   • Parkinsons Support Group – 4th Friday of the month (Feb – Nov) 9.30am – 11.30am

The newest star on the block will be our S.H.I.N.E Program (Seniors’ Health and Interactive Exercise Program).  Starting Monday 8th July running for 8 weeks.

We are also home to a number of local community groups that offer opportunities to learn, be social and support each other:
   • Burdekin Mahjong Players
   • Burdekin 4WD Club
   • Burdekin Games Society – Dungeons and Dragons / Warhammer
   • Aglow

The Neighbourhood Centre works closely with other services in our region to provide a space so that our community can access local based support.

Al-Anon
Australian Hearing
54 Reasons Playgroup
Feros Care
My Pathway
Women’s Centre
APM
DYNAH (Counselling)

The Centre always looks forward to talking with community and discovering where we can help fill gaps.  We don’t have all the answers, however, we know that by working together with fellow community members we can make the Burdekin a better place to live.  

Pop in for a cuppa – you bring the ideas – we bring the ears!  
Until next time,
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The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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I would like to start by congratulating everyone involved in the success of the Burdekin Show. This annual event continues to showcase the vibrant spirit of our region. It is a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy entertainment, exhibits, and activities. Your hard work and dedication have once again created a memorable experience for all attendees. 

Last week Council adopted the 2024/25 Budget, focusing on stretching dollars and strengthening communities. Council’s strategic planning ensures continued investment in essential infrastructure, community projects, and services that benefit all residents. Additionally, starting 1 June 2024 year, we will transition to half-yearly rates to provide greater flexibility and ease for our residents. This change aims to make payments more manageable and align with many households' financial planning. You can still pay your full year's rates. The half-yearly rates are half of the general rates and utility charges you would normally receive in a yearly notice.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Council’s upcoming Feral Deer Workshop on Tuesday 9 July 2024. This event will provide insights into managing the local feral deer population and understanding the impacts on our environment and agriculture. It’s a great opportunity for community members to learn and engage in discussions on effective management strategies.

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Did you know that a leaking toilet can waste more than 96,000 litres of water a year? Fixing leaks and using water-efficient fixtures can save not only water but also reduce your utility bills significantly. Simple actions like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or taking shorter showers can make a big difference.
The allocation of water to properties in the Burdekin Shire (your annual entitlement) is generous compared to many other Councils across Queensland but property owners still need to monitor water consumption so that they do not exceed their entitlements.
You pay for every drop of water used, whether it is used wisely or wasted, so water conservation is something we should all practice.
Council’s website has some great resources available for smart water management. These resources offer tips and tools to help you conserve water, from efficient irrigation techniques to water-saving landscaping ideas. You can also find a guide on typical water use patterns for various activities throughout your home, such as dishwashing and leaking taps.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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GPB Constructions has been operating with a high level of workmanship for over 74 years, providing the surrounding communities with trustworthy, and reliable servicing opportunities.

George Populin has been the director and leader of GPB Constructions since 1975, and prides himself on his honest and realistic approach to business. In joining the family business, George developed his understanding of GPB Constructions under the guidance set by the original founder, George’s father Demetrio Populin, who began the business in 1950. With his family having been in the industry all his life, George has a lifetime of construction experience, and reminisces on building the Townsville Stadium in the 2000s as one of his many career highlights.

The Management and Administration team now consists of eight dedicated members; George, Christine, Kurt, Alicia, Dean and Alyce Populin, Michael Dodds, and Kerry Muller. Along with 15 employees, all observing the same 1950 values the business was built upon just under eight decades ago.

GPB Constructions specialises on concreting, reinforcing, and framework construction with professionalism and the act of completing projects on time at the forefront of their operations. Currently the team are working on numerous developments within the region, dedicating their skills towards projects in the areas of Sugar Mills, and Defence Force infrastructures.  

Looking towards the future, GPB Constructions will continue to uphold the same customer service and work ethic their customers know, love and expect from the family business, just as it has been achieving since 1950.

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George Populin, Kurt Populin, and Dean Populin.

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The latest Reef Water Quality Report Card (2021 and 2022) has been released.

The report shows progress towards targets being made in the Burdekin region to improve Reef water quality, with a 0.5% reduction in sediment recorded for the area.

The Burdekin catchment recorded a three per cent reduction in dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), one of the largest reductions across Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef catchments for the reporting period. 

The region also recorded good overall ground cover with 88 per cent of grazing lands having adequate ground cover in the late dry season in 2022, compared to 71 per cent in 2021 and 56 per cent in 2020. This result was largely due to the higher than long-term average rainfall in the Burdekin region in 2021 and 2022. 

The report card shows overall inshore marine condition was moderate in 2021-2022 with coral conditions remaining moderate, as recovery continues from Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

Inshore seagrass meadow condition improved from poor to moderate, with seagrass meadows showing high resilience, particularly in their capacity to recover from disturbances such as the large flood event in the Burdekin region in 2019.

NQ Dry Tropics Program Manager Sustainable Agriculture Rob Hunt said the report card demonstrated the reduction in sediment and nutrient loads as a result of the on-ground activities NQ Dry Tropics was funded to carry out across the region.

“NQ Dry Tropics and its delivery partners work directly with farmers to trial and validate farm management practices for improved farm production and water quality,” said Rob.

“We support Burdekin farmers to drive change from the ground up to identify, test and validate practices that can reduce their environmental footprint while also enhancing farm production and viability.

“The DIN result is positive - It reflects cane growers’ ongoing commitment to improve water quality through their management planning and practices while also ensuring business viability.

“Although the sediment reduction is small, major water quality programs were in their infancy during the reporting period.

“Greater progress is expected in meeting these targets as multi-year projects funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, as well as projects funded by the Queensland Government, are completed and reported.”

Mr Hunt said the Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting (Paddock to Reef) program provided the framework for evaluating and reporting progress towards Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan targets and objectives through the Reef Water Quality Report Card.

Photo Caption: NQ Dry Tropics Program Manager Sustainable Agriculture Rob Hunt.

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The Fair Work Commission has ordered three unions to suspend industrial action at the Queensland factories of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables for six weeks after hearing submissions from unions and the company.

In light of the Commission’s decision, Sugar and Renewables is planning to have all of its eight factories crushing cane again this week, as soon as harvesting resumes in the wake of rain that drenched all its districts from Sarina in the south to Ingham in the north during the past week.

A spokesman for the company said that, assuming no more rain fell in the regions, it expected to have cane supply enabling production at all Burdekin mills this week, starting with Kalamia and Inkerman mills tomorrow (Monday) followed by Invicta and Pioneer mills by Thursday.

“Further south, Proserpine Mill is also expected to commence crushing Tuesday and Plane Creek Mill at Sarina is looking promising for Tuesday or Wednesday,” the spokesman said.

The Macknade Mill in the Herbert region to the north was expected to be in production early this week with Victoria Mill following mid-week. Fair Work Commission Deputy President Dobson had been asked by Sugar and Renewables to issue suspension orders after unions notified intention to mount a series of stoppages over coming weeks, further threatening company attempts to continue with the annual sugar season.

The company gave extensive evidence to the Commission on the impact of bans and stoppages, including the effect on regional economies and third parties in the sugar supply chain, particularly cane growers. The Sugar and Renewables spokesman said the suspension of industrial action relieves the immediate risk to the annual crushing season, and provides clear air for negotiations with unions on the enterprise agreement.

“Everyone in the supply chain can now make the necessary preparations to get underway and begin making up for lost time,” the spokesman said.

Meanwhile, Wilmar received another blow last week, with two staff with more than 14 years of experience handing in their notice of resignation at Invicta Mill.

The AWU (Australian Workers’ Union) claims that these latest departures come as a direct result of Wilmar’s low wages and will leave Wilmar’s largest mill critically short-staffed.

The AWU reported that one Wilmar worker at Invicta, who asked not to be named for fear of repercussions, said the departing workers will lead to the mill struggling to maintain quality and reliability throughout the crush.

“I fear the process side at Invicta will suffer this year as managers are pushing new starters to get signed off with only 3-4 weeks training,” they said.

“They still haven’t filled all positions in the fugals, mills or lab, it is a sh*t show for coverage - people are burned out already.”

AWU Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson said these reports confirmed what workers, cane growers and the local community had been saying for some time.

“Wilmar’s greed is slowly strangling the sugar communities of our region,” said Mr Wilson.

“We have also heard that Wilmar has had to send a boiler operator and a boiler assistant from the Inkerman mill to Proserpine because they don’t have anyone trained to do the job down there.

“It’s time for Wilmar to send an adult into negotiations to get this resolved.”

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Invicta Mill’s startup commenced last month but production has been interrupted by industrial action and weather. Photo credit: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables

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For more than 20 years Elvie Dickinson has been Treasurer of the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.

As treasurer Elvie looks after the money of the neighbourhood centre, puts together the budget and oversees that everything is done correctly.

Elvie does more than volunteer her time at the Neighbourhood Centre, she is also the coordinator of a support group for people with Parkinson’s disease in the Burdekin.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease herself in 2011, she noticed there was no support group for people in the Burdekin.

“I just thought that it was something that was needed and we meet on the fourth Friday of every month,” said Elvie.

“Parkinson’s is the second most prevalent neurological disease after Alzheimer's, in Australia. There are 18 or 19,000 people in Queensland, with Parkinson's disease.

“We help by what I like to call, a talkfest but we also have guest speakers as often as we can, they talk about different aspects of Parkinson's or the different ways that
you can get help for Parkinson's.

“We have people that provide help for people living with Parkinson's, the different programs that can help people.  

Coordinator at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre Natalie Saroglia said Elvie has mentored her and that the neighbourhood centre would not be what it is today without her.  

“She has a huge heart and she’s here for the community and it's people like Elvie that make community organizations what they are.”  

Photo supplied

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How is the cost-of-living crisis affecting you? Where is it hitting you? And What would you like the government to do to help?


Doreen Man
“It doesn’t affect me because I live by myself and have two pensions. I'd hate to have a family I don’t know how I’d do otherwise, I’ve got a gold card, and free health and medical stuff. For those struggling minimum wage could be raised without having to tax more people and if they could keep some control over the supermarkets and the pricing of goods, I don't think they'll be able to do that, but it’d be good.”



Yasar Dolu
“I'm just a backpacker doing the visa here and working on the farm. I need to work more hours than I expected. Before I came here, I thought I would save more money. But now it's kind of just enough for the bill for my rent, groceries and transportation.”



Jane Goodchild
“It's very high and making it hard. It’s affecting me most at the grocery store and you know your living expenses, your fuel, your rates and your insurances and everything. If the government can help bring prices down on groceries if they can, and car registrations and other stuff really.”



Hayley Vidler  
“I guess we’re just more cautious when we go to the grocery store and more cautious with after-school activities. We don't eat out anymore, we eat at home a lot more. The government can help with petrol and food they are probably the two biggest factors. They really need to come down, that's getting out of control and more funding for private schools would be good too, that would be great.”

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The exceptional talents of the young Zaza Road Quartet will ignite the Burdekin Theatre this July as part of the 2024 Outreach Tour.  

Violinist Keven Hsu, cellist Mya Whatson, clarinettist Nathanael Duffy, and pianist Mai-Lien Olsson attended the Australian Festival of Chamber Music’s (AFCM) International Masterclass Program as students, and now will lead the Outreach Tour to Charters Towers, Ingham, Ayr and Townsville.

“They are the perfect example of what we aim to do in both programs – to nurture young musicians, and to share music and pathways with North Queensland students through our Outreach Tour & Workshops Program,” said AFCM Pathways Program Director Lloyd van’t Hoff.

Much more than performances, the tour will host workshops at the secondary schools throughout the region, one of which being Ayr State High School to provide mentorship and inspire students about the opportunities and careers in music.

“We are hoping that students of music, and related studies, will take part in the workshops and we encourage everyone to come and watch our performances and talk to us about our respective careers and what’s ahead, as well as how students in regional Queensland can pursue careers in music,” said Lloyd.

The AFCM Outreach program stands as an important part of the festival’s commitment to community engagement, access and development, and has been made possible with the incredible support of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

Wilmar Community Relations Manager Kylie Newman said the company was proud to partner again with the AFCM to support this year’s Outreach Tour & Workshops Program.
 
“We are pleased to welcome Lloyd and the Zaza Road Quartet back to North Queensland to share their talents with music lovers in our regional communities,” Mrs Newman said.

“We know there is a wealth of musical talents in the regional communities of North Queensland, and we hope the young people who attend the workshops are inspired to continue to peruse their music studies.”

The free AFCM Outreach Tour Concert will be held on Monday 22 July from 6pm at the Burdekin Theatre, and more information can be found online at afcm.com.au.

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What: AFCM Outreach Tour Concert.
When: Monday 22 July from 6pm.
Where: Burdekin Theatre.
More Information: Online at afcm.com.au.

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On Saturday 22 June, fifteen debutantes made their official debut at the Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s 2024 Debutante Ball.

The theme of the evening was “A Night Under the Stars” with gorgeous decorations, dresses and suits igniting the Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill.

Each debutante and partner shone bright for what was an amazing evening filled with both dancing choreographed by the talented duo, Eliza Worlein and Rory Jorgensen, and traditional dances debutante balls are known for.

Congratulations to all the debutantes.

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The Debutantes with dance teachers Rory and Eliza on either side.

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The Home Hill Harvest Festival has begun gearing up for what will be an amazing Parade and Street Party for the annually anticipated event.

The festival celebrates the rich agricultural industry within the Burdekin community and encompasses a range of events spread throughout the back end of the year from late September to early November. The Grand Parade, accompanied by a fantastic Street Party concludes the celebrations, and will run from 5pm at Eighth Avenue in Home Hill on Saturday 9 November. Set to bring extraordinary live entertainment, delicious food, wonderful merchandise stalls, and terrific carnival rides, it’s time to mark your calendars.

The unforgettable evening will follow the Home Hill Harvest Festival Street Parade and is now calling for stall holders to apply. Watson’s Green in Home Hill will become a lively hot spot for fun and excitement as the community comes together for a memorable 2024 celebration with the setting of the sun from 6pm.

Stall holders, travellers, and locals are all invited to enjoy an evening under the stars as the Home Hill Harvest Festival celebrated the bountiful harvest season for another year.

Applications will be accepted through the festival’s online form at www.hhharvestfestival.com.au. Those interested are invited to contact the committee via email at info@hharvestfestival.com.au.

What: Home Hill Harvest Festival Street Parade and Street Party
When: Saturday 9 November from 5pm
Where: Eighth Avenue Home Hill and Watson’s Green Home Hill
More Information: www.hhharvestfestival.com.au and the Home Hill Harvest Festival Facebook Page

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