I’d like to begin this column by acknowledging the tragic events that unfolded at Sydney’s Bondi Beach over the weekend. Such incidents have no place in our world, let alone in our beautiful country, and I encourage everyone to keep the victims and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers. It’s tragedies like these that put life into perspective. They make us hug our loved ones a little tighter and question whether the minor inconveniences that normally frustrate us really matter at all. But it’s important to come together during times like this—when it’s all too easy to point fingers. That’s the essence of our nation. That’s being Australian. And there’s no place that embodies it better than the Burdekin. On a brighter note, local Christmas festivities are ramping up, with the Carols proving a blast and the highly anticipated Chamber Street Party just around the corner. Before long, the big man himself will be dropping by with all our presents. Is it too late to start being nice, or is his list already finalised? Maybe I’ll start saying please and thank you more often, as a last-ditch effort to get in the ‘good’ column.
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Local Initiative Brews Connection and Conversation for Mental Health Talika Pegoraro recently unveiled a beautifully heartwarming mental health focused initiative, Cuppa & Chat, in partnership with Fuel Me Up Café to start conversations and foster connections within the community. A proud Burdekin local, Talika hopes to combine her Certificate IV in Mental Health with her love for taking care of those around her to host a casual and relaxed meeting accompanied by a free beverage with whomever would like to connect. “If you’d like to connect, simply send me a private message on Facebook, and we’ll arrange a time and choose a place to meet – no agendas, no scripts, just genuine, open conversation over a coffee,” shared Talika. In the past, Talika has hosted a highly successful Women’s Circle focusing on self-care and wellbeing. “Giving people the opportunity to have a one on one, confidential conversation could make all the difference especially at a time of year where people can feel quite isolated, and I want to use what I’ve learned to connect with the wider community and just bring some happiness to any who would like it,” Talika explained. Manager of Fuel Me Up Café, Cindy Poletti, approached Talika earlier this year to offer a generous donation to support her previous and future initiatives, leading Talika to establish Cuppa & Chat, which has already been warmly welcomed by the wider community. “I’m hoping that people will use this as self-care or something just for them as an induvial. The conversation doesn’t have to be about mental wellbeing, it can be about whatever they want to talk about – however, I am more than willing to discuss some of the heavier topics that may be weighing people down.” Talika cannot wait to connect with more members of the local community and encourages anyone interested in having a Cuppa & Chat to send her a message today. Talika Pegoraro encourages anyone interested in a Cuppa & Chat to message her on Facebook. Photo supplied
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Three familiar faces in Burdekin healthcare are being celebrated for a remarkable milestone, with a combined 135 years of service marking a lifetime of service to the Burdekin community. Support Services Officer Bertilla Scodellaro, Clinical Nurse Joanne McBow, and Enrolled Nurse Jocelyn Tuffin all started as teenage trainees, and have seen the evolution of healthcare in the Burdekin first-hand. For Ms Tuffin, who began her career at just 15 years old, the technology may have changed over the last four decades, but the core of the job has remained consistent. "I just love looking after people and being there for them at, often, the worst time in their lives," Ms Tuffin said. "People really just want a caring, compassionate person to look after them; they remember it, and it gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you’ve made a difference." Ms McBow, who trained alongside Jocelyn, said working in a rural facility offered a unique "whole-of-life" career that specialised nursing couldn't match. "I can't imagine being specialised in one particular thing; I like that one minute I can be caring for someone who is ill, and the next minute I could be in theatre helping with a caesarean," Ms McBow said. "It is a privilege to have that trust to care for people you know in the community and be that support for them." While the clinical team keeps patients safe, staff like Ms Scodellaro ensure the hospitals operate smoothly. Working across both Ayr and Home Hill facilities, Ms Scodellaro was described by her colleagues as the “instrumental link” that keeps the service ticking, ensuring equipment and supplies are exactly where they need to be. "Every day is different, and that is what I like about it," Ms Scodellaro said. Together, all three embody the community spirit of the Burdekin, celebrating a rare, long-standing commitment to rural healthcare.
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A year after the Crisafulli Government reinstated the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, Member for Burdekin Dale Last is backing calls for new members to add their voice and knowledge to the future of the national artery. Mr Last said the success of the advisory council over the past twelve months was a testament to the combination of industry stakeholder representatives and local knowledge that only comes from those who travel the highway. “The Bruce Highway Advisory Council has played a vital role in shaping priorities for the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a Fatigue Management Strategy,” Mr Last said. “These voluntary positions are a 12-month role for one representative from each of the six regions that intersect the Bruce Highway to join peak body representatives to have their say on the Bruce Highway.” “Since re-establishing the BHAC, we’ve made huge strides in improving safety and reliability, guided by the voices of those who know this highway best.” Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Bruce Highway Advisory Committee brings together a group of diverse stakeholders from the Pine River up to Far North Queensland to discuss current problems along the Highway and where investment should be prioritised. Mr Last said the advisory council was not just about providing a platform for information about key concerns on the highway and had already brought about significant action. “After a decade of Labor burying their head in the sand when it came to safety issues and flood immunity on the Bruce Highway the Crisafulli Government has turned the tide with more than 40 projects fast-tracked under the Bruce Highway Target Safety Program.” “We are listening and we know there is more to be done and that is why I am encouraging stakeholders in the Northern Region to ensure those crucial concerns around areas prone to flooding, congestion and safety are given the right platform to be heard.”
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Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan
Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.
Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri's election to the STL board is a powerful step towards accountability and collaboration say cane growing advocacy groups. Photo supplied
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago
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The graduation for Group Four at PCYC, held on December 5, celebrated five participants who completed their 10-week program Get Set For Work Program, each earning certificates for their efforts.
The five participants all graduated, having achieved certificates in skills for work and vocational pathways, first aid certificates, and RSA. The participants range in age from 15 to 19 years old, with three part-time employed and one fully employed.
“The five participants all participated well and achieved some great outcomes for the 10-week program, with each having achieved their Certificate II in skills for work and vocational pathways, first aid certificates and RSA,” proud PCYC Program Coordinator, Rowan Scott says.
“At this stage, we've got three part-time employed, and one will be fully employed in a child minding facility,” he adds.
The program saw a 100% success rate, with all five participants completing the program. Graduations occur at the end of each program, which features presentations and family involvement. Past graduates often return to share their employment successes with the graduates.
“At graduation, families of the participants get to attend and celebrate, as they play a significant role in supporting the participants. The presence of families allows them to see the progress and future prospects of their children,” Rowan says.
Placement strategies include updating resumes, face-to-face resume drops at local businesses, and utilising local job boards, while online job search activities are also conducted to maximise employment opportunities.
The program aims to help participants find entry-level jobs and integrate into the local workforce and relies on local community support and involvement from local businesses. While the program continues to support participants even after the 10-week period, providing ongoing assistance.
Businesses are encouraged to participate in the program and hire entry-level workers, with many seeing success as a result, with PCYC committed to community engagement.
The graduation event included light refreshments, finger food, and individual presentations to award their certificates.
Interested parties in PCYC’s successful program can contact Rowan Scott at the PCYC or Tamara Kemp for more information on: 06 4783-1009 to express interest in the program.
The graduating class, each youngster has completed the Get Set For Work Program. Photo supplied
Rowan Scott (Program Coordinator), Tamara Kemp (Youth Worker). Photo: Supplied by PCYC
Vince Toohey Memorial Bursary for her academic excellence and achievements.
A prestigious award, the Vince Toohey Memorial Bursary is annually awarded to a graduating student who has obtained the highest ATAR across the Burdekin district to assist with university fees as managed by the Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club.
Club members, Patrick and Lydia Toohey tragically lost their son Vince Toohey as he was beginning his tertiary studies, and to honour the Toohey family, the club established the bursary to support Burdekin students looking to attend university.
“I am deeply grateful to the Lions Club and the Toohey family for their ongoing support of Burdekin students,” shared Brigitte.
“It is a huge privilege to receive an award that carries such a significant legacy within the community.”
Brigitte graduated from Burdekin Catholic High School in 2023, and moved to Brisbane to pursue a Bachelor in Engineering and Design at the University of Queensland.
In addition to achieving the highest ATAR score across the region of 99.55, Brigitte has been commended for her commitments to her studies and the wider community on numerous occasions and was also awarded the Tom Kruger Award upon her 2023 graduation.
Brigitte expresses much gratitude to the Lions Club and Patrick and Lydia Toohey.
“This bursary will be invaluable as I begin my second year of studies in Brisbane - thank you for making this opportunity possible.”
Eligible 2024 graduating students are invited to contact the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club via homehilllions@gmail.com prior to January 1, 2025, to apply for the Vice Toohey Memorial Bursary.
Brigitte Davies with Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club President, Laurie Land. Photo credit: Nyree Woods
At the end of November, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre held our 37th Annual General Meeting. Our long-term President, Kay Duggan, stood down to Vice-President and Denise Wallace has taken up the mantle. We congratulate all of the incoming Committee and thank them sincerely for supporting the Neighbourhood Centre and our collective goals.
As the new year approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past year while looking ahead toward the future. Making plans for the new year can be an exciting and transformative experience, allowing us to set fresh goals and embrace new opportunities.
It is no different for the Neighbourhood Centre; we are in the process of reflecting on the past year and starting to make plans for 2025. We thought it might be worth sharing ways to make plans.
• Consider what went well and what could have been improved. Reflecting on both successes and setbacks helps us understand our growth and the areas we want to focus on moving forward.
• Once you have identified key areas of improvement, it’s time to set realistic and achievable goals. These goals can range from personal development—such as learning a new skill or improving health and fitness—to professional aspirations, like advancing in your career or starting a new project. The SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) can be a helpful guide in formulating these goals.
• Next, create an action plan. Break your goals down into smaller, manageable steps. This approach not only makes achieving your goals less overwhelming but also allows you to track progress along the way. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your plan as needed can keep you motivated and on course.
• Moreover, don’t forget the importance of community and support. Share your goals with friends or family who can encourage you and hold you accountable. Engaging in social connections around shared goals can foster motivation and create positive reinforcement, making the journey more enjoyable. (This is our favourite part!)
• Lastly, embrace flexibility. While it’s important to have plans, life is unpredictable. Allow yourself the space to adapt and recalibrate your goals as needed.
By taking the time to make thoughtful plans for the new year, you set the stage for personal growth, fulfillment, and positive change. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!
Until next time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Thursday afternoon saw 20 players turn up at Rummeny Green.
Rink 4. Margaret Linton and Mick McClosky defeated Tony Caruso and Gary Nosworthy. Rink 5. Des Chapman and Alan C accounted for Maude ? and Hugh Montgomery. Rink 6. Paul Vass, Dino Poli and Glen (Bones) Berryman won over Phil ?, Mick Olsen and Joe Linton. Rink 7. Bob Pickard, Bruce ? and Wayne Newton proved much too strong for Alex Bojack, Steve Doig and Henry Hazel. At 11am on Saturday the 7th of December the AGM for the Homehill community sports club was held. The positions have been filled for next year. President Trevor Elton, Vice President Wayne Newton, Secretary Margaret Linton, Treasurer Lyn Elton and the social spots going to Bob Pickard and Hugh Montgomery.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Dino Poli who has been a loyal member of the club for 33 years was given Life membership. Dino has represented the club on many occasions be it pennants or the Dunn Cup, any working bee he is always there as well as supplying the weekly raffle or even just restocking the BAR. The club is better than ever thanks to you. Those present at the meeting gave a wonderful applause to Dino. Well done. The club is in good shape for next year.
After the meeting a 12 end game was played with 18 players at 3pm the club Xmas party was held and was well attended. Monday morning fitness group and Tuesday Trimmers and Wednesday morning Kraft group are still well attended, Wednesday night Barefoot bowls is proving popular in the summer heat. Thursday morning BINGO and Thursday afternoon bowls are still going as is Saturday afternoon bowls. Until next week, Good Bowling.
Photos and Story by Stephen Doig
Thursday winning team, Paul Vass, Glen (Bones) Berryman, and Dino Poli. Photo: Stephen Doig.
Trevor Elton (president), Dino Poli (life member), and Wayne Newton (vice president). Photo: Stephen Doig.
Despite heavy rain across the district, Home Hill Golf Club members were fortunate to enjoy a dry day on the course for the highly anticipated Power Family Cup. The annual 4BBB competition drew a strong field of 48 players, all vying for the coveted Christmas hams.
A big thank you goes to the Power family for their ongoing support of the club. Their contributions throughout the year are greatly appreciated and help ensure events like this are a success.
John Ross Dale and Simon Power emerged as the winners with an impressive 48 points. Close behind were Tony and Carrett in second place with 47 points, followed by Bevan MacElroy and Doug McCubben in third. The not-so-coveted “Spam” prize went to Neill Francis and Barry Duchnicz.
Pin shot winners included Greg MacElroy, Pat Lawson, and Beth Prescott on 4/13, with Megan Barbagallo, Simon Power, and Wendy Baker taking honors on 9/18.
Looking ahead, the club’s AGM will take place next Sunday at 11am, followed by the President’s and Captain’s competition. Members are invited to stay afterward for the Christmas break up and are encouraged to bring a plate of food to share.
Contributed with thanks to Megan Barbagallo.
Sunshine and good vibes filled the green for Home Hill Golf Club’s Power Family Cup.
On Sunday, December 1 in Ayr, and Monday December 2 at Home Hill, the lighting of two beautiful Christmas trees took centre stage for the Burdekin community with good sized audiences in attendance, to witness it.
Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, had the honour of flicking the switch for each tree after the crowds counted down from ten to one with her.
Both trees lit up the night skies, despite the prospects of rain, with Sunday’s event held at the Burdekin Theatre forecourt in Ayr, and the Comfort Stop, Home Hill respectively.
Council and dignitaries turn on christmas lights. L-R: Cr Musumeci, Cr Oar, Mayor Dalle Cort, Santa, Cr Vasta, Cr Hall, CEO Matthew Magin
Hi Everyone,
You may have noticed a new man around town lately – Mark Rasmussen has joined the team as our journalist and, since he started last week, he has certainly been busy!
As many of you will know by now, Miah has sadly left the company, opting to pursue different career options, and we wish her well with her future endeavours.
In a couple of weeks’ time, we will also be welcoming Chelsea Ravizza back to town. She has been working remotely from Brisbane as our journalist across three of our newspapers for a long time, but as many of you will know, she is originally from the Burdekin.
Now that she has completed her studies she will return to the region for a few months before she departs once again to travel the world.
We look forward to having both Mark and Chelsea, as well as our Sales Manager Trish, working on the ground and attending many events over the next few months and beyond.
In other news, I will be presenting at the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Meeting next week, I hope to see you there and look forward to chatting with everyone.
If you have any questions about the newspaper, please make sure you come along!
This evening I am on my way to Ingham for the official launch of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper and we are honoured to have Premier David Crisafulli attending.
David is from Ingham originally and started his career as a cadet journalist for the Herbert River Express.
We have been very lucky with these two details which are undoubtedly the main reasons he accepted the invitation.
This is a big moment for our team, and for all regional newspapers in Queensland as the Premier is shining a spotlight on our industry.
I am very grateful to be part of it all and to serve all regional communities with free local newspapers, it’s a real honour.
Rach
Quote of the Week: “Don’t wait for the right opportunity: create it” (George Bernard Shaw)
On Thursday 21 November, Paula, Henry and the pioneers behind the Jean Morris fundraising efforts were blown away and left with tears of gratitude by not one, but two extraordinarily generous acts of kindness.
A newly illustrated portrait of Jean Morris created by Trevor Neal of Whitsunday Monuments has encouraged plenty of public attention over the past week, not just online. A regular day at Paula’s salon saw two walk-in donations, one of $200 and another $1000, leaving Paula overcome with gratitude.
“The lady stood at my counter, asked how much more money we needed for the headstone, reached inside her pocket and handed me a roll of $50 notes amounting to $1000, and I just started to cry,” explained Paula.
Both Paula and Henry have been fundraising to honour the 1932 Ayr murder victim for just over sixteen months, personally adding to total themselves along with the generosity of the local and surrounding community.
“We have had some wonderful donations from businesses around the town – Torrie Davies, Burdekin Concreting, Mark Hudson Engineering, and Whitsundays Memorials have all been nothing but exceptional with their time, help and pricing towards our project.”
Find our other article in community news to read more about the community fundraiser and the history of Jean Morris.
Opinion Piece.
Having seen the impact years of youth crime has held over North Queensland communities, Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP says the Crisafulli Government’s introduction of the Making Queensland Safer Bill sends a clear message to victims of crime that they had been heard and their safety was a priority.
The Bill includes the legislating of Adult Crime, Adult Time and delivers on a key commitment to Queenslanders to restore community safety and turn the tide on the youth crime crisis right across North Queensland.
Under the proposed laws, the Youth Justice Act 1992 would be amended so young offenders committing particular crimes would be subject to the same penalties as adults. The tough provisions contained in the Bill complement plans for Early Intervention, crime prevention and effective rehabilitation to ensure fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime.
Mr Last said community consultation on the Bill had begun this week with the committee travelling to communities that had long been considered epicentres for the state’s youth crime crisis.
“This Bill sends a clear message to victims of crime that they have been heard and that their rights to feel safe in their own homes matter,” Mr Last said.
“It also sends a clear message to young offenders that if they choose to commit serious offences, then the courts have the powers to impose the appropriate penalties to meet our communities’ expectations.
“I’m proud to be a part of a government that has taken the concerns raised by locals seriously and has prioritised the safety of people in our region,”
Mr Last said for years, victims of crime had been left feeling helpless and frustrated in the face of surging youth crime in their community.
“Time and time again I heard from victims who had been left physically scarred, emotionally traumatised and financially burdened by young offenders and I know just how much it will mean to those people to know that their rights are put first and that their voices have been heard by this government.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
On Sunday, December 1, Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, flicked the switch to light up Ayr’s Christmas tree for the very first time, now at its new location in the forecourt of the Burdekin Theatre.
With a countdown from 10-1 by all those in attendance, the night was a good success despite the heavy rain earlier in the day that threatened to take the shine off the event. Thankfully, it held off long enough during the official tree lighting ceremony, which allowed people to get along and support the night and show their Christmas cheer, with many in Christmas themed colours and outfits.
Santa Claus was also in attendance on the night, having plenty of photos taken with kids (big and small), inside the theatre foyer. There was also a competition for guessing the number of lights, with the winners to be drawn at a later date.
Be sure to go see the beautiful Ayr Christmas tree, located in the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt, at 161 Queen Street.
Santa and two kids at the Burdekin Theatre. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The line to see Santa stretched the entire length of the foyer. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Burdekin Theatre forecourt and the crowd. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Santa with the Deputy Mayor and his wife. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Left to right, Cr Musumeci, Cr Oar, Mayor Dalle Dort, Cr Vasta, Santa, Cr Hall, CEO, Matthew Magin. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
On Monday, December 2, Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, lit up Home Hill with the flick of a switch that turned on Home Hill's Christmas tree for the very first time, at its cosy Comfort Stop location.
With the help of a great crowd attendance, Mayor Dalle Cort led a countdown from 10-1 before the lights flicked on and sparkled into action, much to the approval of the many people that turned out, and even a few truck drivers who drove past at the time honking their horns.
Despite the prospects of rain, it held off for this year’s Christmas tree lighting event to occur. Many people attended and supported the night by showing their Christmas cheer, with some even in costume or Christmas themed colours and outfits.
Santa Claus also made a surprise attendance on the evening, having plenty of photos taken with kids (big and small), by the tree once it was lit up. There was also a competition for guessing the number of lights, with the winners to be drawn at a later date.
Get along and check out the beautiful Home Hill Christmas tree, located at the Comfort Stop, on the Bruce Highway (next to Queensland Country Bank)
Desley Musumeci, Shire Council CEO Matthew Magin, Shannon Musumeci, Alfie Musumeci. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Tracey & Peter Walker with their son, Austiin who dressed up as mini Santa. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Lord Mayor Dalle Cort and Santa. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Left to right, Cr Hall, Mayor Dalle Dort, Santa, Cr Musumeci, Cr Vasta, CEO, Matthew Magin. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Santa with big and small kids. Photo Credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The Home Hill tree all lit up for 2024. Photo Credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Faith Luke has recently celebrated the conclusion of her secondary schooling with pride after graduating from Burdekin Christian College with flying colours as the 2024 Valedictorian.
Over the course of her schooling, Faith exhibited an unwavering commitment to her academics, undertaking subjects including mathematical methods, English, biology, physics, and chemistry, whilst balancing a world of extra-curricular activities, including dancing a plethora of styles offered at Rhythm Edge Dance Studios - often for over fourteen hours each week.
Faith’s work ethic not only allowed her to soar academically but allowed her to achieve countless dance awards and certifications, leading her to become an assistant dance teacher for both beginner and primary students, all whilst dedicating time to her studies.
In the interest of advancing her productivity and results, Faith allowed herself to absorb the advice and guidance of those around her to develop effective study techniques like keeping a detailed study folder with pages for each topic, cards to highlight key terms and practicing repetition.
“Creating a page after each topic you learn in class and adding it to your folder quickly provides you with a great end of year study tool for exams, and the repetition of writing the notes out in an aesthetic manner makes it easier to remember, and easily follow the content,” explained Faith.
As crunch time rolled around, Faith kept committed to her study routines despite the rising pressures of exams, and still managed to find time to attend her regular dance classes to allow her brain a break.
“I was studying each subject in class, and when I had completed an exam, I would use that period to study for my next upcoming exam and I would use the past exams to highlight what my strengths and weaknesses were to identify what I was needing to spend more time revising on,” Faith added.
Faith believes her success also stands as a reflection of the people around her and cannot thank her parents enough for their continued support along with her principal, Debra Creed, teacher Miss Diamond, and dance teachers Jaynai, Lucy and Natasha for providing her with plenty of opportunities and guidance. However, above all else, Faith maintained focus on the success at the end of the tunnel, and in doing so, she has recently completed and submitted her application for the Royal Australian Air Force where she plans to study electrical engineering in 2025 at the ADFA in Canberra.
“There are going to be times where you feel like giving up, but it will all be worth it in the end, so keep on pushing, and always keep the end goal in sight.”
Faith Luke graduated as Burdekin Christian College’s 2024 Valedictorian in early November, and plans pursue an ADFA career in Canberra in 2025. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Sports Fishing Club, is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and they’re having a special get together to mark the milestone, with former and current members asked to come along.
The club, first founded in 1974, has around 30-40 active members, with Simone Sutcliffe (club treasurer), and her husband Russell (club president), along with the Richard Berryman (club secretary), doing a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Notable achievements include Russell holding the Queensland, and Australian, record for a queenfish.
Simone, who’s been at the club for 15 years, joined the Burdekin Sports Fishing Club when she first met her husband, Russell.
Members meet up each month, where they each host a weekend fishing trip, which is followed by a barbecue and weigh-in to see which members reeled in the biggest fish.
“Once a month a member picks a weekend out of the month they want to host. We then usually fish from late Friday evening through to Sunday, before then going for a barbecue and a weigh-in at a club members house,” Simone says.
Common catches include barramundi, mangrove jacks, flatheads, trevally, and occasionally reef species like Spanish mackerel.
Emphasising their longevity in celebrating 50 years, The Burdekin Sports Fishing Club has even been involved running inter-club competitions. With a strong sense of community, many long-term friendships have been formed as a result outside of club weekends. They also having a lot of expert knowledge on great fishing spots, which is beneficial for new members, who they encourage to reach out.
“Get in touch with myself, Russell, or someone from the club and come along and meet us. We’re a very social, fun group. We don't take it over overly serious,” Simone laughs.
To RSVP for their 50th celebration event, contact Simone: 0457-974-999
What: Club 50th Anniversary
When: December 14, from 6pm
Where: 5, 18th Avenue, Home Hill (Ron & Judy Berryman’s)
Burdekin Sports Fishing Club, with Russell and Simone in the middle. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
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