Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Burdekin residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice next month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer. Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available. Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month. More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas. Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes. “Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.” Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this year’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au. CAPTION: Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied
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Cloncurry Airport could face an operational downgrade this wet season, potentially restricting FIFO aircraft and affecting mining operations across North West Queensland unless a further $10 million is secured for a permanent runway upgrade. Cloncurry Shire Council has warned heavier jet aircraft could be prevented from using the runway if conditions create the potential for a repeat of the major failure experienced earlier this year. The airport sustained significant damage in January when heavy rainfall associated with a monsoon trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji damaged sections of the runway. Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell said safety would remain the priority. “It's not a decision we want to make, but we need to ensure our facility is safe,” Cr Campbell said. “The technical advice we are getting is that if we have a severe weather event like we had during this year's wet season, we will need to downgrade the airport to ensure we do not have another catastrophic failure of our key asset. “It’s critical that we protect our airstrip to prevent failure. The best solution would be to secure the required $10 million and have the upgrades completed prior to the wet season.” The Commonwealth and Queensland governments have committed $11.5 million through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, with approximately $2 million used for emergency repairs that restored the runway to near-normal operations. However, Council says another $10 million is required to complete its broader $26 million rehabilitation program. Planning for the major upgrade began about four years ago after inspections identified the airport was approaching the end of its useful life. The project would not only rehabilitate the runway but support Council’s plans to develop the site into a broader aviation precinct capable of accommodating larger aircraft. Cloncurry Airport serves as a major gateway for the North West’s resources sector, supporting mining operations including Ernest Henry, Dugald River, Eloise, Austral Resources, Eva Copper, True North Copper and Rocklands, alongside future projects such as CopperString. “We've been working towards doing a major upgrade to the airport for probably four years now, where it was getting to the end of its life,” Cr Campbell said. “We were looking at growing our airport to be an aviation precinct.” Council had sought $14.5 million through the Federal Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, however its application was unsuccessful. Cr Campbell said updating the application with market-tested tender prices was treated as a resubmission, moving the project from round two to round six of assessments and causing further delays. “The final advice that the CEO got gave us some confidence that we would be better off updating with the tendered prices,” he said. “But that was considered a resubmission and pushed us back. Instead of us being in round two, we ended up being assessed in round six.” Council is now calling on either the Queensland or Federal Government to provide the remaining funding before another major weather event places the runway at risk. “We don't care if the funding comes from Canberra or Brisbane, but we need that extra $10 million to get the work done so we can continue to be a major contributor to the economy,” Cr Campbell said. CAPTION: Cloncurry Mayor Greg Campbell with Federal Minister Kristy McBain and Treasurer Jim Chalmers at Cloncurry Airport. Photo supplied
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Back (from left): Tracey Gabiola, Ainsley Ferrando, Helen Kross, Carolyn Bell, Dr Ben Lawry. Front (from left): Tamika Crank & Rayf Pugh, Ayla Armstrong & Callie Armstrong, Chantel Ferrando & Maverick Rush, Stacey Butler & Remi Malaponte, Laura Cowan & Freya Cowan, Jessamy Nicolaides & Ava Nicolaides. Photo supplied. The Burdekin is booming with babies after six newborns arrived in less than four days at Ayr Hospital. The new Burdekinites are among 30 babies born at the hospital between May and July, making it the region’s busiest baby boom in more than half a decade.Baby Boom Sets Six-Year Record At Ayr HospitalA four-day birthing spree at Ayr Health Service has capped off the facility’s busiest maternity period in over five years, with six infants arriving in under 96 hours. The maternity unit welcomed a total of 30 newborns between May and July, marking the highest three-month tally at the facility since 2020. The total represents eight more births than the local average for the same period over the past six years. Director of nursing Tracey Gabiola said she could not remember a time when the local maternity service had been as busy. “While it has been an extremely busy time for our staff, particularly during a hectic few days at the end of May where six newborns arrived in less than 96 hours, staff enjoy working in a service where they can share in the joy of welcoming babies and supporting parents,” she said. “These are incredibly special moments, and we feel very privileged to be involved.” Ms Gabiola commended the adaptability of the health service workforce. “Whether responding to an emergency or assisting with the delivery of a baby, the team always steps up and I am incredibly grateful to them for always rising to the challenge.” Local mother Stacey Butler, who gave birth to daughter Remi Malaponte during the May delivery cluster, said it was important to be able to give birth in her hometown. “We are very fortunate to have the facility and the staff here so we can have our babies in our community,” Ms Butler said. “I really didn’t want to have to leave home and be away from my family and friends to give birth to my little girl. “She is perfect, and it means the world to me that she was able to be born in her hometown and surrounded by her loved ones.” CAPTION: 1—A four-day birthing spree at Ayr Health Service has capped off the facility’s busiest maternity period in over five years, with six infants arriving in under 96 hours. 2— The maternity unit welcomed a total of 30 newborns between May and July, marking the highest three-month tally at the facility since 2020. Photos supplied.
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Cancer Council Australia’s Daffodil Day is returning this month for the 40th time, and among those embracing the occasion in bright yellow is Raelene Grantz and her Burdekin Delta Diner team. Daffodil Day is held each August to raise money for cancer research, prevention and support services, with the daffodil symbolising hope in the ongoing fight against cancer. That fight is personal for Raelene. After being diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago—and watching her twin sister battle it around 12 years prior—Raelene has made a point of doing her bit to support the cause. Her latest effort has seen the Delta Diner decorated in yellow over the last month as Daffodil Day approaches on the 20th. As well as posters and daffodils, Raelene has also put out a donation collection box with QR codes linking to a donation page. She said the endeavour was her “little way of helping.” “Cancer has touched my husband, my family, myself and some of our staff members over the years,” she said. “It’s an ongoing [battle], and it’s not letting up. We just have to keep doing our little bit with fundraising and supporting people through their journeys, and this is our way of doing it.” Raelene said the support so far had been overwhelmingly positive and encouraged others to get behind the cause by making a donation at the store. CAPTION: Cancer Council Australia’s Daffodil Day is returning this year for the 40th time, and no one in the Burdekin is embracing the occasion quite like Raelene Grantz and her Delta Diner team. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.
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Young storytellers across the Burdekin are being encouraged to tap into their imaginations for the 2025 Sweet Days Hot Writes Short Story Competition, with entries now officially open.
Hosted by Burdekin Shire Council, the competition is open to children aged 5 to 17 who live in the Burdekin region. This year’s theme, “Mystery in the Canefield,” invites participants to draw inspiration from the area’s iconic rural landscape and local culture.
Entrants will compete in three age-based categories, each with its own word limit: children aged 5 to 7 can submit stories of up to 200 words, those aged 8 to 11 can write up to 500 words, and teenagers aged 12 to 17 can submit stories of up to 1,000 words.
Winners in each category will receive a cash prize, and their stories will be published in a digital e-book available on the Burdekin Library’s BorrowBox app — a chance for young voices to be shared with the wider community.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the initiative plays an important role in encouraging creative expression and pride in the region.
“Sweet Days, Hot Writes is a wonderful way to nurture creativity in our young people while shining a light on the rich culture and community spirit of the Burdekin,” she said.
“I encourage all children and teenagers to get involved and share their stories.”
Entries close at 5.00pm on Friday 23 May 2025.
More information, including full terms and conditions, is available by contacting Burdekin Library on (07) 4783 9970 or via email at library@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Over $3.65 Million has been committed to sporting and community groups in the last few weeks with Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, describing the funding as illustrating the government’s commitment to grass roots organisations in the district.
Following a commitment in the lead up to the October 2024 election, planning for facility upgrades at Burdekin Netball is now underway while facility and equipment upgrades for 6 community groups have also been given the green light under the provisions of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
“In areas like ours, sporting and community organisations play a key role in connecting people and also in improving health,” Mr Last said.
“The health benefits from sport are obvious but there’s also volumes of research proving that membership of a community group improves health as well.”
“In addition to the netball facility upgrades there is a scoreboard for the swimming club and equipment for the Burdekin Potters, the Burdekin Off-roaders and the Home Hill Harvest Festival. Both the Giru Progress Association and the Burdekin Artisans will be upgrading their facilities, so we have a great mix of short and medium-term projects.”
“Across the state more than 2000 applications were received so competition for funding was tough. I am immensely proud of the effort put in by our local organisations to secure this funding and they certainly deserve our thanks.”
Mr Last urged groups to start preparing for the next round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) with applications now opening on June 9th June and closing on July 18th.
“We have delayed the opening of the next round in recognition of the impact that weather events earlier in the year had on organisations that are largely run by volunteers,” he said. “Grants of up to $100,000 are available and that gives groups the chance to fund major projects that will provide even more benefits to our community.”
“Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants are available to a wide range of not-for-profit groups across the state, with the funding able to be utilised for a wide range of projects. From facility, equipment and accessibility improvements right through to domestic and family violence initiatives; there is funding available, and I would encourage local groups to apply.”
It was another busy week for news in the Burdekin.
Among the notable events was the re-opening of Stardust Drive-In Cinema, which welcomed customers for the first time in almost a year-and-a-half, after Cyclone Kirrily left its mark on the beloved, long-standing community hub back in January, 2024.
I decided to give it a go at their soft re-launch last Friday, and it did not disappoint. It was also refreshing to see the community turn up in droves to support the venue, which has been a staple in the Burdekin entertainment scene for over over 60 years.
Speaking of entertainment—I also managed to sus out Capone’s Nightclub on Saturday night. Nothing quite like anything back home in Sydney, but still a neat set-up and I imagine it will be packed this weekend following the races.
Which brings me to the Burdekin Growers Race Day—my first one, and I’m looking forward to it. From what I’ve heard, it’s one of those days that starts with the horses but ends up being about everything else. Good stories, loud shirts, a bit of dust, and a crowd that knows how to enjoy itself.
The pace doesn’t seem to be slowing down around here—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Can’t wait for the week ahead.
And, as always, if you have a story to tell, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Kicking off the 2025 season in the Burdekin, the St. Coleman's Debutante Ball was a night to remember. Held on Saturday, May 10th at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, the event saw eight debutantes and their partners take the stage in a stunning display of grace and tradition. The evening was made even more special by the presence of Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who joined the packed hall of parents, family, and attendees to celebrate this significant occasion. The event marked the perfect start to a season filled with elegance and community spirit.
Under a sky full of stars, the Burdekin was treated to a night of elegance and tradition as the 2025 St. Coleman's Debutante Ball launched the season with unforgettable flair. The Burdekin Memorial Hall was packed with 400 guests, all gathered to witness a beautiful evening celebrating the debutantes' journey into adulthood.
The night began with a touching ceremony at St. Coleman's Catholic Church, where the debs were blessed in the presence of their proud families. Jayel Gibson and Chad Fraser delivered heartfelt readings, setting the tone for what would be a memorable evening.
Once the blessings were complete, guests made their way to the Memorial Hall for an exquisite dinner, followed by the much-anticipated debutante presentation. The debs and their partners were introduced to the evening’s distinguished guests, including Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Home Hill High Principal Sharon O'Neill. With grace and poise, the debs stepped forward, marking the beginning of their unforgettable journey.
The evening continued with heartfelt speeches. Kareana Heron and Blaize Palmer gave thanks on behalf of the debutantes, expressing their gratitude for the support of their families and the community. Tonia Rossato, speaking on behalf of the Deb Ball Committee, shared her pride in the event’s success, while Ruby Linton and Wil Michielin had the honor of cutting the beautiful cake, made by the talented Jodie Weston. The cake was a centerpiece of the evening, symbolizing the sweet start of new beginnings.
The night was far from over as the debutantes showcased their skills and captivated the audience with their dance performances. With two partner dances, a boys’ dance, and a girls’ dance, they impressed everyone with their talent and grace. But the most touching moment came when the night concluded with the Father/Daughter and Son/Mother "Pride of Erin" dance, a beautiful tradition that highlighted the bond between parents and their children.
This spectacular evening wouldn't have been possible without the hard work and dedication of many. A heartfelt thank you goes to the families of St. Colman's School, the St. Colman's Parish Ladies, Howie’s Catering, the Burdekin Shire Council’s Memorial Hall crew, and Dominique's Events. The St. Colman's Debutante Ball Committee—Madison Mainwaring-Samwell, Holly Alford, Hayley Oats, Barbara Cox, Jacquelyn Mainwaring-Samwell, Tonia Rossato, Dom Augostis, and Shalon Gibson—deserve special recognition for their tireless efforts in making this event a success.
With every detail beautifully executed and every moment steeped in tradition, the St. Coleman's Debutante Ball 2025 was truly a starry night to remember.
After over a year of repair and preparations, Burdekin’s beloved Stardust Drive-In Theatre softly relaunched last Friday, 9th May, reopening its gates for the first time since Cyclone Kirrily devastated the site in January 2024, with locals flocking back to the community icon that has served the region for over 60 years.
Devastation struck early last year as the cyclone tore through the area, toppling the drive-in’s iconic screen and leaving the venue in ruins. Despite the challenges, Stardust’s team remained determined to rebuild the venue. "The power of nature took our screen, but it couldn’t dampen the spirit that defines us,” read a post published to their Facebook page.
The reopening was highly anticipated by the public, with the venue long serving as a beloved spot where generations of locals have gathered to enjoy films under the stars.
“I have amazing memories of the Stardust,” said one community member.
The soft-launch on Friday was met with enthusiastic support, with locals pouring in to see a screening of the brand A Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black, for the price of just $12. The concessions also offered up a range of snacks and beverages to enjoy with the film.
The venue also features an indoor cinema, giving movie lovers the choice between watching under the stars or in the cosy comfort of an indoor setting. An 18-hole mini-golf course is also on-site, ensuring there’s plenty of fun to be had before the opening credits roll.
Excitement is building as the community favourite sets itself to officially relaunch with a bang on the 24th of this month. For showtimes, updates and more, visit Stardust’s website or Facebook page.
Stardust Theatre is set to re-open on May 24
The drive-in theatre screen was destroyed in Cyclone Kirrily
The theatre is an iconic spot and has been operating for 60 years
On Thursday, 8 May 2025, families from across the Burdekin gathered at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre in Ayr for a warm and welcoming Biggest Morning Tea, hosted by 54 reasons, a local arm of Save the Children Australia. The event brought together children, parents and carers for a morning of fun, connection and community support.
Attendees enjoyed a lively and engaging atmosphere, complete with an arts and crafts table, a swing set, slippery slides and a range of children’s games. A generous morning tea was provided, with delicious contributions from Maria Porter Bakehouse Goods and Tasha’s Tasty Treats. The event raised $100 to support local children’s programs.
The morning was supported by Play2Learn, 54 reasons’ supported playgroup program. Play2Learn runs weekly across Ayr and Home Hill, offering children aged 0–5 a safe and stimulating environment to develop school readiness skills and social connections. Just as importantly, it provides caregivers with access to parenting support, community networks and a place to connect with others navigating early childhood.
As part of Save the Children Australia, 54 reasons is dedicated solely to Australian children and families, delivering programs that help children grow, feel safe, and thrive. Events like the Biggest Morning Tea not only raise funds—they help strengthen the ties that bind the Burdekin community.
Attendees enjoyed a lively and engaging atmosphere, complete with an arts and crafts table, a swing set, slippery slides and a range of children’s games. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Are you a young writer eager to share your voice with the community? Burdekin Life is offering budding journalists the chance to be part of our local newspaper! Whether it’s school news, personal hobbies, unique experiences, or anything that speaks to your age group, this is your opportunity to be heard. Plus, you’ll have the thrill of seeing your work published in a community-focused publication!
Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith says, "We're excited to open up submissions to young writers who want to tell the stories that matter to them. We welcome a wide range of topics, from school life to personal passions, as long as the content is relevant to our local community."
While this is a wonderful chance to get your work published and gain valuable writing experience, please note that this is an unpaid opportunity—an excellent stepping stone if you’re considering a career in journalism or simply want to see your name in print - and who knows where it could lead!?
If you’re ready to share your story, send your submissions to editorial@burdekinlife.com. Articles should be approximately 250 words and include a photo.
Don’t miss out on the chance to make your mark in the Burdekin community—this could be the start of your journey into the world of journalism!
Kindness at school is more than just good manners—it’s about creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone. By looking after others and standing up for yourself, you help build a school culture based on respect and empathy.
Here are some simple tips:
By following these tips, you contribute to a kinder, more supportive school environment where everyone feels valued.
Stella Borellini leapt out of her comfort zone last year when she accepted a nomination to represent the Burdekin Academy as a Junior Ambassador in 2024’s Burdekin Water Festival.
With new friendships, community focused experiences, and a new sense of self-confidence, Stella’s journey as a Junior Ambassador was nothing short of rewarding, and she hopes many others will take to the opportunity.
“A message I would like to share with aspiring Ambassadors is that it may seem daunting to participate in these sorts of things, however it’s not,” shared Stella.
“This commitment was the highlight of my year as it was a delightful, heartwarming, feel good experience and one word I would use to describe the Burdekin Water Festival experience is phenomenal!”
Over the course of approximately four months, Stella and her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors engaged in a plethora of community-based activities and fundraising events for various organisations and charities.
“My favourite memory from the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival was definitely the Fashion Parade because it was something I had never done before,” expressed Stella.
“You can just be yourself and have fun with all the other Ambassadors!”
In September of last year, Stella was celebrated as the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up, a title she accepted with joy and will treasure for years to come.
With the crown aside, Stella’s mother, Allison Borellini, was beyond delighted to see how much her daughter grew from her experience as a Junior Ambassador, adding how amazing it was to see Stella involved with so many wonderful events and people.
“Stella thoroughly enjoyed her time as a Water Festival Ambassador and it introduced her to taking part in fundraising efforts for her club, the Burdekin Academy, and what it means to give back and be involved with your community,” Allison said.
“Her confidence skyrocketed when it came to public speaking and talking with various people throughout the Burdekin community, and as a parent, it can be busy but your club will be behind you every step of the way and it is an extremely rewarding experience.”
A five-year regional initiative has wrapped up with a lasting legacy of 187 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators across North Queensland, including several from the Burdekin.
The Water Industry Worker Program (WIWP), first launched in 2019, was developed to address the growing need for skilled water industry professionals across regional Queensland. Delivered by training specialists Simmonds & Bristow, the program began as a pilot with five councils: Mackay, Townsville, Whitsunday, Cairns and the Burdekin.
Simmonds & Bristow trainer Liz Millan said Burdekin’s participation in the pilot program helped shape what would grow into one of Queensland’s largest-scale training efforts.
“I had been talking to Townsville City Council about a Water Industry program since around April 2018,” Ms Millan said.
“Despite lots of discussions throughout the year for North Queensland training clusters, it amounted to nothing as the councils struggled to consolidate their needs.”
By September 2019, training in Townsville had officially begun. Participants from the Burdekin trained locally on the same infrastructure they would eventually work on, ensuring their learning was directly relevant to their future roles.
Following the pilot’s success, the program expanded to 11 councils across the state, running for five rounds and achieving a 90% completion rate.
Burdekin Shire Council’s continued involvement demonstrated the region’s commitment to investing in a skilled, local workforce to manage critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
The program has not only strengthened council capabilities but also provided long-term job security for regional workers, cementing Burdekin’s part in a statewide success story.
Approximately 200 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators for north Queensland have entered the workforce (Photo Supplied)
A five-year regional initiative has wrapped up with a lasting legacy of 187 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators across North Queensland, including several from the Burdekin.
The Water Industry Worker Program (WIWP), first launched in 2019, was developed to address the growing need for skilled water industry professionals across regional Queensland. Delivered by training specialists Simmonds & Bristow, the program began as a pilot with five councils: Mackay, Townsville, Whitsunday, Cairns and the Burdekin.
Simmonds & Bristow trainer Liz Millan said Burdekin’s participation in the pilot program helped shape what would grow into one of Queensland’s largest-scale training efforts.
“I had been talking to Townsville City Council about a Water Industry program since around April 2018,” Ms Millan said.
“Despite lots of discussions throughout the year for North Queensland training clusters, it amounted to nothing as the councils struggled to consolidate their needs.”
By September 2019, training in Townsville had officially begun. Participants from the Burdekin trained locally on the same infrastructure they would eventually work on, ensuring their learning was directly relevant to their future roles.
Following the pilot’s success, the program expanded to 11 councils across the state, running for five rounds and achieving a 90% completion rate.
Burdekin Shire Council’s continued involvement demonstrated the region’s commitment to investing in a skilled, local workforce to manage critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
The program has not only strengthened council capabilities but also provided long-term job security for regional workers, cementing Burdekin’s part in a statewide success story.
Approximately 200 newly qualified Water Industry Workers and Treatment Operators for north Queensland have entered the workforce (Photo Supplied)
One of the region’s most well-supported charity fundraising events, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, will be held on Saturday the 7th of June at Home Hill’s Greek Hall.
Annually, members of the community come together in support of the Cancer Council’s initiative to honour every soul touched by cancer and raise vital funds to one day achieve a cancer free future. Almost 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, and the Cancer Council exists as the only charity that works across every area of cancer from research to prevention and support.
The Burdekin’s Biggest Morning Tea event will run from 9am to 2pm and attendees can enjoy a plethora of market stalls, a selection of raffles and taste plenty of delicious food all in good company.
Tickets to the fundraiser can be purchased for $15 directly from The Little Craft & Gift Shop before the 26th of May. Each and every dollar raised at the event and through ticket sales helps support those impacted by cancer and the amazing work of the Cancer Council.
For further inquiries or for more information call 0473 865 712.
Home Hill will host its Biggest Morning Tea event this June
Aircraft enthusiasts will be in for a treat next weekend as the beloved Woodstock Wings & Wheels event lands at the Donnington Airpark! From 8am to 12pm on Sunday the 18th of May, the community is invited to enjoy a selection of delicious hot food, coffee and ice cream vans as well as plenty of wonderful market stalls in support of Queensland’s Royal Flying Doctor Service.
As a special Sunday treat, pilots and members of the public are granted free entry to the airpark and there will be no landing fees for the strip across the entire day.
All types of aircrafts and display vehicles are warmly invited to attend the morning for a diverse showcase for the community to admire.
Ample parking for aircrafts and vehicles will be available as well as under-wing and public camping opportunities at 3467 Flinders Highway, Woodstock.
For further inquiries and more information, call Christian on 0418 636 727.
Market stalls, aircrafts, display vehicles, food, coffee and ice cream, what more could you ask for? (Photo Credit: Woodstock Wings & Wheels)
On Sunday the 25th of May, the terrific talents of fiber artist Billie Lee and artist Coral Colquhoun will be on show at 170 Arts on The Avenue for all to enjoy.
Over the course of two and a half hours, the pair will host an exquisite opening celebration of a unique Fabrics & Art Exhibition featuring both Billie and Coral’s creative creations.
With celebrated reputations in the artistic sphere, both Billie and Coral bring an ocean of experience, knowledge and expertise to textile art and traditional works to impress and intrigue onlookers.
Coral’s pieces have been featured and commended on numerous occasions at the annual Ayr Show, and her portraits of local infrastructures have also received much praise within the local community and beyond.
Having practiced craft since she was five years old, Billie has been an active member of the Burdekin Artisans for many years, and her passion for sharing art with others has led her to host a weekly Crafty Thursdays workshop for others to come together for a morning of artistic expression, and socialisation.
The showcase will be held at 170 Eighth Avenue in Home Hill, the home of the Burdekin Artisans, and for a $5 entry fee, attendees are welcome to enjoy an evening of artwork accompanied by a glass of wine and afternoon tea from 5pm to 7:30pm.
All bookings are essentials and reservations can be made by contacting 0427 821 065.
What: Fabric & Art Exhibition
When: Sunday, 25th of May, 5pm to 7:30pm
Where: 170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill
The Burdekin Water Festival has officially sounded the call for 2025 Junior and Senior Ambassadors to come forward and nominate for what is shaping up to be another outstanding festival!
Burdekin based organisations, schools, businesses and groups are encouraged to nominate an Ambassador for the celebrated program and attend an information evening at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club from 6pm on the 19th of May.
The evening invites both potential ambassadors and supporting organisations to attend where Burdekin Water Festival Committee members will share all there is to know about the event’s official Ambassador Program and how to be involved in one of the region’s most cherished traditions.
Ambassador nominations will officially open from Monday the 19th of May and more details on the process will be discussed across the information evening.
“We want to share information with organisations on how they can benefit from nominating an Ambassador and boost their profile within the community,” shared Ambassador Coordinator and Burdekin Water Festival Committee member, Kari Ravizza.
“Information on our newly strengthened Ambassador Program will also be shared as for the Ambassadors themselves; we have introduced additional workshops to support them with their own personal development and growth.”
RSVPs must be made by the 16th of May by emailing info@burdekinwaterfestival.com.au or by contacting Kari on 0437 832 932.
What: Burdekin Water Festival Information Evening
When: Monday 19th May, 6pm
Where: Ayr Anzac Memorial Club
2024's Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassadors were Sasha Previtera, Macy Grabs, Charlotte Horsfall, Zimyra Monday, Brielle Astorquia, Demi O'Shea and Mia Kelly (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
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