Farming is a cornerstone of many rural communities, providing food, employment, and a way of life. However, it comes with its unique set of risks and challenges. Fires, cyclones, machinery breakdowns, and accidents can threaten not only the livelihood of farmers but also affect the entire community. It’s therefore crucial to address the importance of farm safety and the role of farm insurance in protecting our assets and ensuring the sustainability of our farming operations.

An unfortunate but common occurrence, farm fires can start from various sources, and their impact can be devastating. John from Elders Insurance Ayr explains, "There are many ways fires can start on farms, and once they start, they can be extremely difficult to contain." This makes vigilance and preventive measures essential.

Harvesting machinery is also a common cause. Research showed that approximately 7% of harvesters contributed to farm fires in 2020 in Australia. High temperatures, dry landscapes, and mechanical failures can easily lead to disaster. Regular maintenance is key. Servicing equipment and ensuring everything is well-greased can significantly reduce fire risks. Inspections for electrical and mechanical issues are equally important. Clearing trash from hot engine parts and monitoring for fire risks can also help prevent such fires.

Adhering to local guidelines on when you can and can’t harvest is crucial. John advises, "Each state and almost every council has different criteria of when you can and can’t harvest." Equip yourself with firefighting tools like extinguishers, knapsack spray pumps, shovels, and rakes. Having water and fire units within the paddock and relocating them with your harvesting equipment as needed is also vital.

Routine farm tasks, whether commercial or domestic, can spark fires. "A small job with an angle grinder may not seem a big deal, but it could easily start a fire," John points out. Maintaining strong safety practices for all farm activities is essential.

Given the myriad risks, having farm insurance is not just a precaution but a necessary consideration. Farms are valuable properties with significant investments in land, property, machinery and livestock. Proper insurance helps to ensure that if something goes wrong, farmers can have the financial protection needed to recover and continue operations.

Working with a knowledgeable insurance partner, like Elders Insurance Ayr, can help farmers assess their needs. John and his team are equipped to guide farmers through the complexities of farm insurance, helping to ensure they have the right coverage to protect against potential adverse events. This includes machinery breakdowns, accidents and liability.

The impact of farm fires and accidents can extend beyond individual farms to the entire community. "Over the years, I’ve seen escaped fires from farms have a devastating effect on the farm itself, the surrounding area and community, and the people involved," John shares. Ensuring all machinery is in good working order, implementing safety measures, and being prepared to respond to emergencies are critical to protecting our community.

By maintaining equipment, following safety guidelines, and regularly reviewing insurance, farmers can significantly reduce the risks on their properties and help improve resilience. These proactive steps protect individual farms and safeguard our entire community from the devastating effects of farm fires and accidents.

This article is part of a paid arrangement.
Seldon Pty Ltd  ABN 93 675 197 645 trading as Elders Insurance Ayr is an Authorised Representative of Elders Insurance (Underwriting Agency) Pty Limited (ABN 56 138 879 026, AFSL 340965) (EIUA). EIUA, acting under its own AFSL, is authorized to distribute Elders Insurance products on behalf of QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545), the product issuer.
The advice in this article is general only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and may not be right for you. Visit www.eldersinsurance.com.au to consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and any applicable Target Market Determination to decide if the product is right for you.

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John Azpiri of Elders Ayr

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Last month, NQ Dry Tropics coordinated a two-day Regional Cultural Fire Workshop on Gugu Badhun Country at Jervoise Station, near Greenvale.
The event was part of the Cultural Fire for Grazing Landscapes project, delivered in partnership between Traditional Owners of the Burdekin Dry Tropics region, WWF-Australia, Firesticks Alliance, and graziers.
Event attendees spanned a wide range of professions, ages, and backgrounds, including representatives from several regional Traditional Owner groups, Gudjuda Rangers and Trainees, Mingga Mingaa Rangers, Wulgurukaba Rangers, Girringun Rangers, graziers, council workers, Qld Rural Fire Service staff and volunteers, and representatives from Firesticks and WWF Australia.
Participants exchanged ideas and learned from Lead Firesticks Practitioner Victor Steffensen and his team about the importance of reading Country prior to using fire to heal sick landscapes.
They visited paddocks previously treated with fire to see how they had regenerated and took part in a cultural burn.
“Thanks to the wonderful Jonsson family for hosting the event,” NQ Dry Tropics shared on social media.
“The atmosphere was fantastic, and the spirit of partnership and respect shown across the board was the epitome of NQ Dry Tropics’ vision that we are all working together to care for Country as custodians of the land for future generations.”
Visit NQ Dry Tropics on Facebook or www.nqdrytropics.com.au for more information.

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Photo credit: Photography By Scott Radford-Chisholm

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The Federal Government’s backflip on changes to the Pacific Australian Labour Mobility (PALM) Schemes mandatory work hours has been welcomed by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox.

“Last year, the Albanese Labor Government ploughed ahead with unworkable changes to the PALM Scheme, despite numerous warnings from the Coalition and industry bodies, which put our agricultural industry and our foreign relations in jeopardy,” Mr Willcox said.

“The changes forced employers to guarantee 30 hours per week.

“As a farmer by trade, I know firsthand how unworkable the constraints of guaranteed work hours are.

“Farming is seasonal, and weather dependent, which dictates how many hours a worker will be able to work, and forcing farmers to pay each person they employ on the PALM Scheme the mandatory 30 hours, regardless of if they only worked 10, was having a detrimental effect on our hard-working farmers.

“These new changes will see these constraints relaxed, and now 120 hours can be averaged out over 4 weeks per employee, which will be much more workable.”

Mr Willcox said concerns were raised in Senate Estimates, in Questions in Writing to the Minister for the Pacific, and through strong media advocacy which “turned the tide”.

“Thankfully, now the Labor Government has backflipped but only after seeing a decline of 10.2 per cent in short-term workers and 10.4 per cent for all PALM workers in agriculture,” he said.

“These changes will come into effect from July 1, and I will continue to fight against red tape that makes things harder for our farmers and Pacific relations.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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Living the island life stands as a bucket list dream for many, but Brooklyn Ivory has been living this dream, day in, day out for just over a year.

Brooklyn lives, works, and studies on Hayman Island in the Whitsundays as part of The Hotel School where she is enrolled in an Associate Degree of International Hotel and Tourism Management. The Hotel School allows its students to study on the island campus and combines their academia with hands-on experience to foster a unique work, study and living environment.

“We live in The Village on Hayman Island, and with the resort just a road away and being right near the marina, our view is just amazing, its beach and water every morning,” explained Brooklyn.

After graduating from Ayr State High School in 2021, she chose to take a gap year before commencing her tertiary studies on Hayman Island. Brooklyn has always had a love for the hospitality industry, and after learning of the opportunity in Year 10, she believed the 2-year course would provide many opportunities and career pathways across the world.

“I heard about the program at one of the careers nights in Year 10, and from there I did a lot of research into the Sydney and Melbourne schools, as they had just opened The Hotel School on Hayman Island,” explained Brooklyn.

“I applied and explained I wanted to take a gap year in 2021 and The Hotel School was very understanding and they’re a very flexible university, always looking after their students mental, physical and academic health all at the same time.”

Brooklyn carries out her degree on a fast-tracked university schedule, studying for a 6-week period, with a 2-week break, on a continuous cycle for 4 terms before the summer term commences where she will carry out a resort placement.

“There are definitely ups and downs living the island life, but as a whole it’s been an amazing experience,” expressed Brooklyn.

“For me, taking a year off and then going back to a small town that’s even smaller, I had doubts about if I would meet anybody, and as there are only 250 staff members here at the moment, and 350 at maximum, you get to know everybody very quickly because you live with them, work with them, and do extra-curricular activities with them all the time.”

Once Brooklyn began her island lifestyle, she found the whole process of meeting people and making life-long friends a breeze. Many students from around Australia and the world began their studies along with Brooklyn in March of 2022, and with a quick turn over of island residents, Brooklyn finds herself meeting new people often.

“We’re always meeting new people, and that’s become the joy of it because there are lots of people of different cultures, and I love learning about their backgrounds, and hearing their travel stories,” explained Brooklyn.

With 10 months to go before graduating with her Diploma of Hotel and Tourism Management, Brooklyn has left her horizon open to exploring many opportunities, and believes she’ll find herself traveling internationally in the coming years.

“Anyone interested in the opportunity should enroll, whether you’re looking at doing it to study, or looking at just coming to Hayman to work, 100% do it,” she urged.

“The most important thing you’ll take away is just the experience of living here which is something most people will never experience, and you’ll truly never regret it.”

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Brooklyn Ivory, originally from Ayr, loves living the island life. Photos supplied

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Rehoming fee: $545
DOB: 10/06/2021
Sex: Male
Breed: Jack Russell Terrier
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 4ft

Archie is a very social dog, both to people and dogs.

He likes to keep busy, whether that’s sniffing, exploring, eating, playing with toys or spending time with you - he does it all at the same time.

He loves the company of other dogs, but he needs to be fed separately or else he will steal their food.

He’s a total goofball with a great personality and will give you company whenever you need.

He adores his toys, especially fluffy ones, he likes to throw them in the air and catch them and he isn’t against you joining in on the fun.

Archie looks forward to seeing you very soon!

If you’re interested in Archie please complete an animal enquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.htmm

Archie is available for adoption desexed, micro-chipped, and is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated and he is on heartworm preventative.

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The Rita Island Progress Association’s (RIPA) Old Time Dance was a fantastic community evening for those who attended on Saturday, May 25.
It kicked off with dinner at 6:00pm cooked by the Jarvisfield P&C committee and staff, then at 6:30pm the FC Caledonia Highland Dancers showcased their talents on the dance floor as they proceeded through their many different dance routines.
At 7:00pm the band Kiradon started playing and they kept the crowd entertained all evening with adults and children joining in the dancing.
The laughter and chatter from the bar area as old and new friends caught up was great to see, as was the scramble by the children for chocolates as they were spread around the floor and the ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ from the adults and children as smoko was delivered to the tables with a magnificent spread of sandwiches and cakes along with tea and coffee.
The feedback from those present on the night has RIPA seriously thinking about making it a yearly event.
Thank you to all who contributed.

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Contributed by Shantelle Ehmann
Rita Island Progress Association recently held a fantastic Old Time Dance. Photos supplied

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The Lower Burdekin Scout Group joined other Cub Scouts aged 8-10 years old at the top of Castle Hill Townsville for an Abseiling adventure.
There were 36 Cub Scouts and 10 Leaders all set for the challenge as some parents looked on.
The weather was near perfect, with a bit of a breeze every now and again.
Many of the Cubs were slow and cautious at the start, but by the end they were Abseiling like professionals.
A great day was had by all and the view from Castle Hill was spectacular.

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Contributed by Chris Berkery

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Last week, BCHS paused to honour National Sorry Day, gathering for a Flag Ceremony and Prayer.  
“This day reminds us of the Stolen Generations and the pain and loss faced by First Nations peoples,” BCHS shared on social media.
“At BCHS we are committed to fostering understanding, respect, and reconciliation.”

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BCHS held a National Sorry Day ceremony last week. Photos supplied

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St Francis Catholic School in Ayr has proudly announced the completion of newly refurbished Prep classrooms, designed by i4 Architecture and constructed by Simon Bell Construction.
The project, fully funded by the school, aims to create a modern and functional learning environment for the school’s youngest students.
St Francis Catholic School Principal Amanda Jones said the design brief for the project was to create a space that would support the age-appropriate pedagogy of the school, incorporating a range of teaching methods and resources to engage young learners and achieve effective learning outcomes.
“Some features of the new Prep classrooms include a raised stage for interactive learning experiences, a reading nook cut out in the wall for quiet reading time, and open display shelving to showcase the students' work,” Ms Jones said.
“One of the main objectives of the refurbishment was to provide a conducive environment for inside/outside learning and activities.
“This means that students can now access resources such as paint easels, blocks, water troughs, and construction materials at any time throughout the day.
“This not only promotes independent learning but also encourages our students to be creative and engaged in their learning experiences.”
The two prep classrooms have also been given themes to create an even more immersive learning experience: one classroom has a Reef theme, complete with underwater murals and coral reef-inspired soft furnishings, while the other classroom has a Rainforest theme, with lush greenery painted on the walls and flexible seating options to match.
“We believe in developing students' critical and creative thinking skills, including imagination and risk-taking abilities,” Ms Jones said.
“This is a vital part of the Australian Curriculum, and the new Prep classrooms are designed to support this objective.
“By fostering students' curiosity about the world around them, we hope to nurture their love for learning and set them on the path to success.
“The completion of this refurbishment project represents our commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students.
“We are excited to see how the new Prep classrooms will benefit our young learners and help them reach their full potential.”

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Sometimes I try and think back to five, three, even one year ago and gauge how familiar I was with ‘the Burdekin’. I must admit, while I did know a few people from the region and had driven through, I had no idea what lay beyond the Bruce Highway, and I’m met with a similar sentiment when attempting to explain where I live to out-of-towners – I’m sure you’re all familiar.
Now, after nine months, I can proudly say that the Burdekin and its people will always hold a special place in my heart. When I moved to Mackay at the start of 2022, I knew I wanted a lifestyle change from the corporate work and city life I was living before. Getting a job with Life Publishing allowed this lifestyle change – what better way to get to know a new region than by driving around it, meeting the people and hearing their stories every day? This job has allowed me to do the same right here in the Burdekin and I like to think I know the place pretty well and I’m proud of that fact.
After two and a half years in North Queensland, I am now moving back to Brisbane to move in with my girlfriend, Jakita, and be closer to family and friends. I’m looking forward to taking this exciting step in my personal life, spending weekends on the family property in Millmerran, going to more concerts and Broncos games, and continuing my professional journey in print media down in the big smoke. In saying all of that, there are many, many parts of Burdekin life I will miss.
I want to thank you all again for the huge role you’ve played in my time here and the impact you’ve had on my life, and I want to thank the team at Life Publishing for all of their support and the incredible opportunities they’ve offered me. It’s been a great experience and I look forward to returning to NQ one day soon.
While I’m usually the one with camera in hand, a few people have taken the rare opportunity to capture photos of me in my time here, so I thought I’d share a few of my favourite memories from the past nine months.

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Burdekin Life Co-Editors Amanda (left), Rachael (right) and myself with Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, a supporter of our publication and my work across Mackay and the Burdekin for years
My neighbour Pedro took this photo of me and my parents on our way to the Harvest Festival grand parade last year
Although I only managed to play four games, getting involved with the Home Hill Cricket Association and winning the grand final with Guardian Pharmacy was a highlight of my time in the Burdekin
I won my first game of bowls back in January alongside Meryl Smith and the beer never tasted so sweet
Tracey Gabiola and I at the Laurie’s Love Gala Ball – I don’t think I’ve ever been to as many gala balls as I have in the Burdekin!
My girlfriend Jakita and I at the top of Mount Inkerman, probably my favourite and most frequented spot in the area
Runners Up and Best Dressed team ‘Whatever Works’ from BNA’s Trivia Under Stars
In the Sweet FM studio presenting my weekly show, the Home Hill Happy Hour

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Moving into a new rental property is an exciting yet challenging venture. Whether it's your first rental or a transition from a previous lease, being well-prepared can save you from potential pitfalls. Here are some crucial aspects to consider when moving into a new rental.

Inspect The Property Thoroughly
Before signing any lease agreement, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as leaky taps, mould, or faulty electrical points. Check that all appliances are in working order and take note of any damages. Document these issues with photos and share them with your landlord to avoid being held responsible when you move out.

Understand The Lease Agreement
A lease agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy. Ensure you read it thoroughly. Pay attention to clauses related to rent payment dates, late fees, maintenance responsibilities, and termination conditions. If anything is unclear, seek clarification from your landlord or a legal expert to avoid misunderstandings later.

Evaluate The Neighbourhood
The quality of your rental experience is often influenced by its neighbourhood. Spend some time exploring the area. Consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, parks and schools. Check for noise levels and safety conditions. A vibrant community with amenities can significantly enhance your living experience.

Check For Essential Amenities
Ensure that essential amenities like heating, cooling, and plumbing are functioning correctly. Inquire about the availability of internet and cable connections. If the rental includes shared amenities like a gym or laundry facilities, inspect them to ensure they meet your standards.

Plan For Moving Day Logistics
Coordinate your moving day logistics in advance. Reserve a moving truck or professional movers if necessary. Check if the building has any restrictions on move-in times or requires reserving an elevator. Being organised can make your move-in day smoother and less stressful.

Budget For Additional Costs
Rent is not the only cost you’ll incur. Factor in utilities, insurance, and potential maintenance costs. Understanding the full financial picture helps prevent any unwelcome surprises.

By paying attention to these details, you can ensure a smoother transition into your new rental home. A proactive approach will help you avoid common rental pitfalls, allowing you to enjoy your new space with peace of mind.

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Celebrates National Volunteers Week

Burdekin Community Association Inc celebrated their 20th National Volunteers Week celebration on Thursday May 23, recognising the vital work of their volunteers and simply saying “thank you”.

National Volunteer Week is Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteering, held from May 20 to 26.

This special event provides an opportunity to highlight the important role of volunteers in our community and invites people not currently volunteering to give it a go.

The volunteer event was centered as per the NVW theme, ‘Something for Everyone’ and recognises the diverse passions and talents everyone brings to volunteering.

Becoming a volunteer is an opportunity to explore the wealth of opportunities available, emphasising that there’s a place for everyone in our community for volunteering.

BCA came together for National Volunteer Week, embracing this theme to showcase the vast spectrum of possibilities and the impact that emerges when everyone finds their meaningful role in making a difference.

BCA volunteers connect with clients and community, through companionship, outings, arts and crafts, games, spiritually and with other community connections.

BCA Volunteer Manager, Rita Quagliata, expressed her heartfelt thank you to all her volunteers for their time, dedication, and commitment and how they truly make a huge difference.  

“In a time-poor world, volunteers bring the most precious gift, the gift of ‘time’,” Rita said.

“Life is short, everyone is busy and the short time that we are here, we should help make a difference.

“Consider making a difference, continue to help others in need with your time.”

Before the formalities were over, the cutting of the cake was drawn and the lucky volunteer to cut the cake was Rosa Torrisi.

Volunteering can help change everyone’s life.

It improves health and well-being, including increased longevity, adoption of healthy lifestyles and reduction in depression and stress.

It allows you to develop and use different skills that lead to establishing a real sense of achievement, develops confidence, builds self esteem and establishes new friendships.

Burdekin Community Association is constantly in need of volunteers.

Don’t hesitate, call in and have a chat with Rita Quagliata about volunteering or give her a call on 47833744.

Contributed by the BCA team

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Back L-R: Bev Edwards, Dianne Noack and Rita Quagliata. Front L-R: Madeline Janiola, Jo Rodgers and Brenda Matthews

Stephen Tunbridge, Sam Caltabiano and Debra Cochran

Rosa Torrisi cutting the cake

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Less than one year since its inception, Burdekin Life Newspaper is proud to report that it has been recognised with a gold award for the Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign at the Queensland Country Press Awards which were held in the Sunshine Coast last Friday night.

Burdekin Life Journalist, Sam Gillespie, attended the awards and was thrilled to represent the team and the region, securing an award that cemented both the newspaper and the successful launch of the publication into the community.

Burdekin Life Journalist Sam Gillespie with Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling.

Best In State
For Locally Produced Ad

Winners are grinners, and this was certainly the case for Life Publishing Group representatives who brought home three awards at the Queensland Country Press Awards over the weekend.

Burdekin Life Journalist, Sam Gillespie stood proudly with Burdekin Life’s award for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign for the My Pets Rural ad that graces this very page every week (see below).

Concepted and designed by the team at the central office located in the Whitsundays, these series of ads were a real hit with the judges.

“This series ticks all the boxes!” said the judges report.

“Great pics, great graphics and creative design elements. The message in each advert is clear and humorous. Each advert lists the products and services available at My Pets Rural. The consistency in brand recognition here is outstanding.

“This series is a standout winner.”

Production Manager, Crissy Bottrell was instrumental in designing the award-winning concept, alongside Ruby Gorlick who worked with the client on the initial idea.

“I love anything that makes people smile and shake their head at the same time,” expressed Crissy.

“I came up with my most “dad joke” worthy one-liners and it all rolled on from there.

“This would have to be my most proud achievement. In 30 years of working administration, I’ve had some highlights for sure, but this really tops it.

“Having my terrible sense of humour validated and revered is pretty monumental. My kids will have to think I’m cool now!”

Sam Gillespie said he was thrilled to receive the accolade on behalf of the team.

“Receiving an award of this stature within a year of launching Burdekin Life is a huge achievement and one that I am very proud to be involved in,” he shared.

“It’s not only recognition of the work that I and the team put into this publication every week, but an honour that we share with each and every one of our readers and supporters.

“The support of the community in launching Burdekin Life has been immense and I am very thankful of the assistance, guidance and feedback I receive from you all on a weekly basis.”

Owner and Founder of Life Publishing Group, which also produces Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine, said the award was real validation of the success of the newspaper in its early days.

“We were asked by the community to come and start a newspaper because there was a real need for it,” shared Ms Douthwaite.

“So, for Burdekin Life to grow so quickly in just a few months and be recognised for its design that was put together by our team, is a huge achievement for everyone involved.”

At the same awards presentation, Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper won gold for Best One-off Commercial Feature and gold for Best Free Newspaper in Queensland.

That publication is produced by the same team that produces Burdekin Life Newspaper and is where Sam Gillespie began his career two years ago as a cadet journalist.

“I’m also very proud of Mackay and Whitsunday Life, the publication with which I began my journalism career, being awarded Best Free Newspaper in Queensland and Best One-off Commercial Feature,” Stated Mr Gillespie.

“Contributing to these publications has been an incredible journey and has offered me so many unique opportunities, for which I am extremely grateful.

“Bringing free, fair, and relevant news to these communities is our passion and receiving this industry recognition is a huge feat for us as a team and one that we celebrate alongside you, our valued readers and supporters.”

Life Publishing Group representatives standing with Opposition Leader David Crisafulli at the Queensland Country Press Awards last Friday night. Sam Gillespie from Burdekin Life Newspaper, Rebecca Douthwaite Founder and Owner of Life Publishing Group, David Crisafulli Leader of the Opposition and Rachael Smith Editor in Chief of Life Publishing Group. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling

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Hi readers
Firstly, I want to thank you for all the messages and comments of congratulations for the awards Burdekin Life and Mackay and Whitsunday Life received at the Queensland Country Press Association Excellence Awards on the weekend.
It was a wonderful evening in Mooloolaba and me, Bec and Rachael were very proud to accept the awards.
You can read more information on that just over the page on page 3.
Next week will be my last week in the Burdekin and brings with it lots of other little ‘lasts’.
Monday night will be my last night of tennis in Home Hill; tennis is up there in the top two of my favourite sports to play (alongside netball), so getting involved with the Home Hill Tennis Association was a no-brainer when I first moved to Home Hill.
I’m looking forward to one final hit and a few laughs on Monday.
Tuesday will be my last show of the ‘Home Hill Happy Hour’, the radio show I’ve been presenting on 97.1 Sweet FM since February.
If you’re free from 7:00pm Tuesday evening, I invite you to tune in on the wireless or online to hear some of my favourite tunes as I send off the show.
Wednesday, of course, is social bowls, where I will farewell the friends I’ve made and caught up with every Wednesday throughout my short but very enjoyable bowls career.
If you’re keen on a bowl, a beer, a sausage and a nice night out, come along to Home Hill Community Sports Club!
Lastly, Friday night will be my last night out at the Burdekin Theatre as I look forward to ending my last day on the job with some Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks tunes – maybe I’ll see you there.
I will be sad to farewell the Burdekin, but I look forward to making the most of the time I have left here and hope to see you out and about while I do!

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A group of Home Hill crafters have been busy crocheting blankets, beanies and scarves to be donated to patients at the Home Hill Hospital.
Approximately 20 members from the Friends and Neighbours Craft Group have been working on the projects for most of the year so far, some even starting late last year to have the donations ready for winter.
“The idea came many years ago when we were asked if we could do something for the patients,” Friends and Neighbours Craft Group President, Christine Oats said.
“A lot of the wool gets donated, and we’ve just kept doing it every couple of years.
“We thought we’d better get in and make the donation because it turned cold.”
The crafty and generous group also lend their skills, making other donations throughout the community and even the state.
“Some people in our group make little booties for the babies at Ayr Hospital and another makes toys, and they are sent down to a hospital in Brisbane for the children’s ward,” Christine said.
Approximately 25 crafters make up the group which was started about 30 years ago by Christine’s mother, although craft isn’t always the only thing on the agenda.
“We talk gardening, cooking, health, there’s a whole heap of subjects that we go around,” Christine said.
“It’s a social outing, not just a craft group.”
“Because so many new people come to Home Hill, we’d love to meet them, even if they’re not a really crafty person, they can come and have a cuppa and a chat,” added fellow member June Bartlett.
The Friends and Neighbours Craft Group meet at the Home Hill Community Sports Club every Wednesday from 9:00am.
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Ann, June, Robyn, Gail, Rosalea and Connie from the Home Hill Friends and Neighbours Craft Group

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