Sibby Saitta started his clothing business in Queen Street, Ayr 72 years ago in 1952. It commenced trade as a basic tailoring shop of which there were several in town at that time. Sibby tailored made-to-measure men’s suits, trousers and other basic apparel, all made from scratch.

As time passed, ready made clothing and fashions became more readily available, so the shop evolved into a retail outlet selling men’s fashions of the day. Work clothing soon became available from factories in Brisbane and Sydney. Women’s wear was introduced as well and at that point the stock was so vast it had outgrown the Queen Street premises. Put simply, the shop was too small to accommodate all this stock.

Almost 50 years ago, it was decided to purchase a shop in Graham Street to house the growing work clothing business. All the work clothing stock was transferred to this shop and the business was named Sibby’s Savers.

Corporate wear and western wear were added to the stock profile eventually.

The Sibby’s Savers Graham Street building was extended around 1990 to house Sibby’s suit hire business.

Although the suit hire business was closed many years ago, the Sibby’s Savers business continued to operate.

"The end of an era has arrived with the sale of the Sibby’s Savers business to Kristy and Callan Oar. We wish them all the best with their new enterprise. Kristy has drive and enthusiasm, and she has a beautiful personality to boot, so the business is definitely in good hands. The store has been renamed to Wild East Western and Workwear."

Rosemary and Mark Rickards would like to thank their many valued customers for their patronage over the last 72 years and encourage them to continue supporting the new owners as the business will continue to operate with the same friendly and helpful service.

The pair would also like to thank their employees for their efforts during 72 years of business. They explained how there are too many to name, however their efforts are truly appreciated.

Rosemary and Mark with new owner Kristy Oar. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

Rosemary and Mark Rickards standing outside Sibby's Savers

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Ingrained in the history of the Burdekin region as one of the largest construction projects to date, the Burdekin Falls Dam holds the prestigious title of existing as the largest dam in Queensland.

Situated approximately 100 kilometres south of Charters Towers, the Burdekin Falls Dam was completed in 1987 at a cost totalling $125 million to adequately contain the Burdekin River, a catchment area covering about 7% of the state.

The structure can hold a capacity of 1,860,000 mega litres, and historically, the dam has reached a mammoth capacity of 221.15% which was recorded on the 20th of February in 1991, with the dam’s lowest point of 29.83% recoded in early November of 1987 after its official completion.

More recently, the dam has been splashed across headlines following the reconfirmation of the Burdekin Falls Dam Raising Project where the dam’s capacity will increase by an additional two meters with works to begin in 2027.

As outlined in the 2024-2025 Queensland Budget, $540 million in funding has been allocated for the project and as of the 24th of March, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process marked another milestone whereby the Coordinator-General stated a new project declaration lapse date of the 7th of April, 2027.

The Burdekin Dam Raising Project has been a contentious topic of discussion for quite some time now, and the structure itself continues to stir a world of conversation within the Burdekin community and beyond.

A post published in January of 2021 on a community social media page asked locals to recall the wild conspiracy theories they once believed (or may still believe) to be true about the infamous structure. Stories dating back to the dam’s construction of disappearing workers came to the forefront of many local’s minds as well as the tales of a witch calling the dam home alongside a monstrous crocodile.

With both a rich history and a wave of plans for future development, the Burdekin Falls Dam will undoubtably continue to stand as the most impressive and largest water storage asset in Queensland for years to come.

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The Burdekin Falls Dam is the largest water storage facility in Queensland (Photo Source: Sunwater)$125 million was allocated to the dam's initial 1987 construction (Photo Source: William John Rolls)
The Burdekin Falls Dam near completion in 1987 (Photo Source: Fred Morris)

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2025 marks a wonderful milestone in Clare State School’s history, and over the weekend, almost 500 members of the Burdekin community gathered together to celebrate the school’s 75th anniversary.

Despite the unfortunate weather conditions, Clare State School Principal, Troy Patti was beyond pleased with the weekend’s events, noting Saturday evening’s Twilight Feast & Timeless Talks was an occasion to remember.

“The weekend was very successful, especially considering the rainfall that we had experienced in the days prior,” shared Mr Patti.

A plethora of events were scheduled across the weekend including a nostalgic Roll Call led by Mrs McMullen, Meet and Greet, Friday Night Fete, and Time Capsule opening which were enjoyed by both past and present staff, students and members of the wider community.

“It was great to see past students and staff rekindling friendships from many moons ago,” Mr Patti recalled.

“We even had two students who enrolled in 1950 (the first year our school opened), John and Peter Shadforth, in attendance as well as our longest serving staff member, Mrs Maureen McMullen who is 95 years old and was a teacher at the school from 1955 – 1987.”

On Saturday evening around 300 guests enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Home Hill’s Burdekin Memorial Hall, where plenty of memories were shared alongside a beautiful anniversary cake which was cut by John and Peter Shadforth along with two current prep students, Coen Booth (a third-generation student) and Chad Brown.

“Hearing the many stories from the past staff and students was a highlight for all as well as everyone at the Memorial Hall being led by the current day students to sing our school song, “Let the Cane Fires Burn”,” Mr Patti added.

“The students stood on the stage and led everyone in singing the song.”

The 75th Anniversary of Clare State School will be remembered for years to come, and the momentous occasion was officially cemented into the school’s history with the unveiling of a magnificent monument listing the names of six families who have enrolled three generations at the school over the years.

“The response from the community has been very positive,” said Mr Patti.

“Huge congratulations are in order for the 75th anniversary committee, Parents and Citizens’ Association, school staff and community members who have all helped to make this a very successful event.”

“This has been a great event which has seen many members of the Clare community come together with each other and past residents.”

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The beautiful anniversary cake was cut by John and Peter Shadforth along with two current prep students, Coen Booth (a third-generation student) and Chad Brown. Photo supplied

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You know what they say, every cloud has a silver lining, and just last week Morag Burbidge found that timeless saying to be true.

A dear friend of Morag’s had an unfortunate fall which left her both unconscious and with terrible injuries earlier last week, and thanks to the quick thinking of a couple of vigilant locals, Morag’s friend had the help she needed within minutes.

“A young lady waved down a young man and asked for him to sit with my friend while she ran across the road to the hospital to raise the ambos,” shared Morag.

“I don’t know who she is as by the time my friend came too, there were a number of people caring for her.”

Both the woman and gentleman who wish to remain anonymous held Morag’s friend’s hand, keeping her calm and comfortable until emergency services were on the scene.

“Two nurses then came to assist, rang her emergency contact, and waited for the ambulance – all the while the young man stayed with my friend, and held her hand to reassure her.”

Morage took to social media to thank the kind strangers in a post which has since attracted over 300 interactions from both touched and concerned members of the local community.

“People should never be too busy to help someone in need – there are good, beautiful people in the Burdekin,” commented hopeful locals.

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Ivica Murry has mastered the art of intertwining the whimsical world of magic and wonder into her everyday life, and now she hopes to help other members of the community do the same.

Recently, Ivica created an online community titled “The Folk Magick Collective” where she plans to share her wealth of knowledge on the niche practice with the wider Burdekin and beyond.

“Folk Magick is a practical, tradition-based system of magic passed down through generations within communities, often focusing on everyday needs and using locally sourced materials and knowledge,” explained Ivica.

“Folk Magick is generally used to address common problems and desires within a community, such as healing, finding lost items, bringing good harvest, or warding off misfortune and my page is for those who are interested in Folk Magick or are full Practitioners.”

With a year of practice and a lifetime of study behind her, Ivica pulled strength from her ability to comprehend the true power of both the mind and universe to overcome her five-year long battle with chronic depression.

“My journey to healing started with a book I was given, and I won my battle by using a holistic approach using the natural healing energies from crystals, herbs, candles and meditation,” noted Ivica.

“Folk Magick often incorporates local plants, animals, and beliefs, reflecting the specific environment and culture of a particular region and not all Folk Magick is witchcraft - the term "cunning folk" or "wise folk" is often used to describe those who practice Folk Magick for good.”

Ivica hopes to share the benefits of the craft in a judgement free space without a “hierarchy” emphasising “we are all the same and value each other’s knowledge”.

“My message to those out there, is go for it,” Ivica added.

“If you're interested in Folk Magick, don't let what is presumed by the public as bad, deny those of you who truly just want to be yourselves.”

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Ivica hopes to share the artful craft of Folk Magick with the Burdekin community (Photo Credit: Sarah Brown)

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Tracey Jane was born and raised in Melbourne, attending grammar school in Brighton before studying a foundation year in Art and Design at Brighton Technical School in 1976. She began a Graphic Design degree at Caulfield Institute of Technology in 1977.

That same year, she travelled to England by ship and worked in London as an artist and receptionist for a printing company. Her passion has always been drawing, and she has now been a practising artist for over 40 years.

After returning to Australia, Tracey studied gallery administration in Rockhampton, later joining the Townsville Art Society and holding a joint exhibition with Peter L’Hota. In 1997, she had a solo exhibition at the Perc Tucker Gallery and studied photography at James Cook University in Townsville.

Tracey has won numerous awards, including Emerging Artist at Cairns Regional Gallery and multiple first-place honours at Charters Towers art competitions.

She moved to Bundaberg in 2009, exhibiting graphite works at the Gin Gin Courthouse Gallery and Avondale Tavern. This led to her involvement in publishing, resulting in two books: Book of Geometric Designs and Patterns and Weird and Wonderful Graphic Drawings.

In 2012, she returned to Cairns, exhibiting at Tanks Gallery and the Cairns Hilton. From 2016 to 2022, she achieved notable success in Atherton competitions, being named Champion of the Art Show three times.

In 2022, Tracey relocated to Charters Towers and spent a year preparing her upcoming exhibition, It’s a Circular Thing, which will open in June 2025.

She now lives in Ayr, having moved to the Burdekin in August 2023. Last year, she volunteered at Arts on the Avenue in Home Hill, calling it "quite an experience!" Her latest exhibition, Geometrica, is currently showing on Queen Street, Ayr, and focuses on pattern and design.

What: Geometrica Exhibition, Tracey Jane
Where: Queen St opposite Chill Cafe
When:  April 2nd til April 12th th from 11am til 4pm

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The Cecchin Motors story is by Mattero’s son, Vic who now lives at Phagan’s Bay New South Wales.
Cecchin Motors all began in the late 1920’s when Matteo Cecchin, along with his mates- George Populin, Antonio (Tony) Lando, and the father of  Willie Dal Santo came to Ayr from the village of  Porcia near the city of Pordenone in the region of Friuli-Venezia Italy to cut sugar-cane. In the off season (slack season)  from cutting sugar-cane, Matteo used to journey to Port Kembla, New South Wales where he continued with mechanical skills he had learnt in Italy.

Matteo Cecchin married Baviara in 1939 and lived at 19 Parker Street Ayr. The house today is number 27 Parker Street. Cecchin Motors made its humble beginnings in the tin shed in our backyard at the end of the driveway. Electra, my sister was born in 1940 and I was born in 1945. Throughout the war Dad serviced government vehicles such as council, police, and the ambulance. By 1953 Matteo’s business was expanding and he moved Cecchin Motors to the corner of Young and Wickham Streets. The building was built by George Populin, Dad’s mate. (today Burdekin Hire Service.)

As Dad’s main source of income was from cane farmer’s he acquired the agency of Case Tractors and the Peugeot motor car.  He also had the Mercedes Benz Agency and sold the first Mercedes in North Queensland to  Ray Northwood.  Ray Northwood had a service station opposite the old Ayr Baths in Queens Street.

In those days European cars were not in favour so Dad dropped the Peugeot Agency and took on the Standard Motor Company which included Van Gard, Triumph, sports cars and motor bikes and the standard 10 mini sedan. More importantly with that agency came the Ferguson Tractor which was extremely popular  in the tobacco industry with expanding throughout the upper Burdekin areas of Clare, Millaroo and Dalbeg. When that industry finished so did the popularity of Ferguson tractors. He then took on the Chrysler Motor agency which included Dodge, Plymouth, Desoto and eventually Valiant Motor Cars. To replace the Ferguson Tractor, Dad took on the Fiat  David Brown Tractor Agencies.

By the late 50’s Willie Dal Santo’s bought a half share of Cecchin Motors for his  son Willie who had served his apprenticeship at Cecchin Motors. Other staff were Jack McCarthy, Matt Cecchin, Peter Bengoa, Bill Smith Colin Peterson, and Graham Anderson.

In 1958 my sister married and moved to Sydney. Dad sold his half of the business to Willie Dal Santo.  Our family moved to Sydney by 1960.  Cecchin Motors became Dal Santo Motors.

Vic’s son, Mathew was football Rep a few years ago in the area. We are looking for a home for  a three piece  English China Tea Set with the Ayr Post Office building on the cups and sauces and  egg cups and Burdekin Shire Chambers on the plate and little dish.

Evidently  Matteo bought this China tea set sometime in the 1950’s to give to his brother’s family who consisted of three in the family. No one knows if it was for a specific occasion  in the Burdekin that this English tea set was issued. Other people have seen a plate or part there of a tea set and could be purchased through a newsagency here as a souvenir. HRH Queen Elizabeth11 along with the Duke of Edinburgh  did a visit to Australia in 1954 after her coronation and in 1956 Australia held the Olympic Games in Melbourne in 1956. The Set has never been used and Vic and the family would like it to displayed in the Burdekin. It was sent to his good friend Pat Lawson (nee Clark) who was his neighbour whilst the Cecchin’s lived in Ayr.

Contributed with thanks to Glenis Cislowski.

Cecchin Motors Stand at Ayr Show
Cecchin Motors Stand at Ayr Show
Jack McCarthy, Willie Dal Santo, Matt Cecchin, Peter Bengoa, Bill Smith, Colin Peterson about 1955
Matt Cecchin and Willie Dal Santo

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Jye Olson, now in his second year as an electrical apprentice, is a prime example of Laser Electrical’s hands-on, community-focused approach to training. He initially joined the team for school-based work experience in Year 10 and returned in his own time, demonstrating strong initiative.

By the end of Year 11, Jye had built a solid rapport with the team, earning an apprenticeship offer before completing Year 12—something the company supports for promising candidates.

Laser Electrical typically takes on one apprentice per year, collaborating with local schools and regional towns to provide work experience opportunities. These placements often lead to apprenticeships when a good fit is found.

Apprentices receive formal training through TAFE or Tech-NQ, with block training in Townsville, while gaining hands-on experience alongside qualified tradesmen. Throughout the four-year apprenticeship, a one-to-one ratio ensures each apprentice works directly with a tradesman. In the first year, tasks are closely supervised, and as apprentices gain confidence, they take on more independence, though all work is still checked. By the fourth year, they are skilled but encouraged to continue learning and asking questions.

Laser Electrical fosters a culture of continuous development, where even qualified tradesmen are expected to stay curious and up to date with industry changes.

With services spanning electrical, air conditioning, solar, and building, Laser Electrical is known for supporting its people, valuing local talent, and promoting diversity, including hiring female apprentices. The company’s broad expertise makes it a standout in the industry and a sought-after choice for apprentices seeking varied experience.

Operations Manager Ned Bonato highlights the company’s strong team culture, saying, "We’ve got about 18 guys, and they all work really well together. There's never an issue pairing apprentices and tradesmen based on personalities—they all get along and work as a team."

Ned encourages anyone interested in an apprenticeship to consider Laser Electrical: “As a locally owned company, we’ve always hired many local people, mainly young guys. It’s about giving local talent the chance to become tradespeople in our community, which we take pride in.”

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The Burdekin Readers & Writers Association has been officially rekindled following its Annual General Meeting on March 19. It marks a fresh era for the region’s literary community.

A new committee was elected, with Kelly Lund appointed as President, Mark T. Rasmussen Vice President, Samantha Minuzzo Secretary, and Yvette Lando Treasurer.

Speaking at the meeting, founding member Mickey McKellar, expressed her delight at seeing the association reinvigorated.

“Since its inception, I have enjoyed my time with Burdekin Readers and Writers immensely. I am delighted and thrilled that this organisation will once again become a very important addition to the Burdekin Arts and Cultural program,” expressed Mickey.

“I have no doubt it will be onwards and upwards under this new executive. I look forward to following the association’s future progress, albeit from a distance,” she added.

Incoming President Kelly Lund acknowledged the contributions of McKellar and other founding members, recognising their efforts in keeping the association alive.

“We are fortunate to have such a vibrant arts scene in the Burdekin, and this literary association adds another layer of depth to our creative community,” Kelly said.

She confirmed that the committee is inspired to build on the past successes of the festival, with a particular focus on fostering youth engagement.

“Exploring ways to encourage and support Burdekin’s emerging literary talent will be a key priority. We want to refresh the festival and place a strong emphasis on young writers.”

The association will officially relaunch in June, with a planning day for the committee in the lead-up. Kelly also announced that upcoming events and a new website would be unveiled by mid-year.

“We look forward to bringing top-tier authors to the Burdekin once more, while celebrating our local literary voices and encouraging those who aspire to write,” Kelly stated.

Those interested in joining Burdekin Readers & Writers or contributing to its initiatives can contact Kelly at 0437 677 732.

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The Burdekin Readers & Writers Association ushers in its new executive committee. L-R: Vice President Mark T. Rasmussen, President Kelly Lund, Treasurer Yvette Lando, and Secretary Samantha Minuzzo. Photo supplied

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A warm welcome from the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Inc. (BMP).

This club provides the community with active social involvement. With a membership of around sixty, many of whom are retired machinery enthusiasts, fifteen or sometimes twenty meet weekly to restore and maintain historical machinery and enjoy a good yarn.

The museum and working displays are open and available to the public from 9am-3pm each Monday. During the tourist season (April to September) we are also open on Wednesday and Saturday. You are all welcome to call in during those times and one of our knowledgeable members will be pleased to introduce you to the collection and share a few interesting stories about their history.

BMP Inc. was established in 1984 as a not-for-profit (NFP) group of individual machinery enthusiasts with private collections. The Club leased buildings at the Brandon Heritage Precinct from Burdekin Shire Council, and its charter is to collect and display historic machinery pertaining to the local sugar industry. Notable items in that category include the historic Marshall Colonial Tractor, Pioneer No.1 Steam Locomotive, Inkerman No.1 Steam Locomotive, Walkers No.1 Diesel Alternator Set, Ruston Diesel Alternator Set and 3 Diesel Pumping Engines. Aside from maintaining a working museum, the Club operates well equipped fitting, machine and blacksmith shops.

Each year, we hold an Open Day during which we operate the machinery for the public’s enjoyment. The Club also participates in local agricultural shows, and the hand sugar cane cutting event, during which we display the fascinating antique engines and machinery.

This year, our Open Day will be from 9am to 3pm on Saturday 10th May at the Brandon Heritage Precinct. We extend a cordial invitation to you all – do come and join in the exciting huffing and puffing of the historic steam and diesel engines.

There’s something for everyone – the Iron Works Brewery will be open after 1:00pm - and the old Gardner Engine and furnace will fire up about 3:00pm!

If you would like to know more about the club’s activities or if you are interested in becoming a member, please give Lex a call on 0488 366 443.

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BMP Marshall Colonial Tractor
BMP Marshall Colonial Tractor and Vice President John Hanson. Photos supplied

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A busy weekend of bowls action saw players take to the green in both competitive and social formats, with strong performances across the board and a few surprises thrown in for good measure.

On Friday 4th April, thirteen bowlers turned out in humid conditions, with the high level of play a testament to their skill and stamina. Bruce McCallum, Lloyd Shepherd, Sandra Darwen and Cindy Darwen were outplayed by the in-form combination of Gary Pearce, Ken Ferguson, Margaret Chapman and Margaret McLaughlan. In the second game of triples, Jamie Woods, Peter Lejarraga and Dion McIntosh proved too strong for Ross McLaughlan, Jayson Farry and Brad McIntosh. The jackpot, however, remained unclaimed.

Sunday 6th April brought with it a full schedule of Championship matches and social play. In the B Grade singles, Doug Kiehne edged out Gary Nosworthy in a tight contest, drawing on experience and form late in the match to secure victory. Meanwhile, Glenn Woodford staged a determined comeback against Ben Mills after a one-sided start, pulling out all the stops to eventually clinch the win.

The A Grade fours delivered the match of the weekend. Gary Pearce, Chris Pearce, Peter Lejarraga and Jamie Woods came out firing, dominating the first five ends against Kevin Collins, Doug Robins, Lloyd Shepherd and Ken Ferguson. But the Collins team refused to back down. With Ken Ferguson finding the perfect length and Doug Robins delivering some superb bowls, momentum shifted. The underdogs rallied, and with a steely finish, they powered through to book their place in the Grand Final.

In social play, Davis Harding, Alan Gairoch, Jayson Farry and Henry Hazel notched a win over David DeFranciscis, Leo Kenny, Mick McCloskey and Ross McLaughlan. Elsewhere, Richi Mau, Ray Paneccasio, Neville Dickinson and Sandra Darwen overcame Peter Jorgensen, Joe Yipnazar, Judy Elton and Peter Henderson in a lively match.

Club News: A working bee is scheduled for Saturday 12th April from 8:00am at the club. All members are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand—every bit of help makes a difference!

Contributed with thanks to Llyod Shepherd - Brandon Bowls.

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Doug Kiehne , Doug Robins , Lloyd Shepherd , Kevin Collins , Ken Ferguson , Glenn Woodford. Photo supplied

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Although your bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in your home, the space still deserves as much love as any other! Whether you’re a novice decorator looking for quick fixes or a DIY enthusiast ready to tackle a project, there are plenty of ways to refresh your space without breaking the bank.

Simple Updates for Instant Impact

• Swap Out Accessories: One of the easiest ways to give your bathroom a fresh feel is by changing out the little details. Pop in a new candle, handwash dispenser, toothbrush holder or decorative tray for your toiletries to instantly elevate the space.
• Update Hardware: If your vanity is looking a little tired, bust out the screwdriver and quickly replace a couple of drawer handles and cabinet knobs with modern or stylish alternatives.
• Introduce Greenery: A small indoor plant, such as a fern or peace lily, can breathe life into your bathroom and improve air quality.
• Fresh Linens and a Shower Curtain: A new bathmat, plush towels, or a bold-patterned shower curtain can go a long way in adding colour and personality to the space.

For the DIY Go-Getters

• Repaint or Refresh Your Walls: A fresh coat of paint in a soft neutral or a bold accent colour can transform the mood of your bathroom. For a stylish upgrade, consider adding peel-and-stick wallpaper for a statement wall.
• Upgrade Your Mirror: Instead of a plain mirror, opt for a framed one or add a DIY frame to your existing mirror for a high-end look on a budget.
• Install Open Shelving: Floating shelves can add both storage and style. Use them to display candles, neatly folded towels, or small decorative pieces.
• Replace Your Vanity or Sink: If you’re ready for a more hands-on project, swapping out an outdated vanity for a more modern version can dramatically change the feel of your bathroom.

Whether you’re making small changes or taking on a full-scale DIY project, these ideas will help you create a bathroom that feels fresh, stylish, and welcoming without the need for a full renovation!

Give your bathroom some love this weekend with these DIY tips and tricks!

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Growing your own herbs at home is an easy and rewarding way to elevate your meals while also enhancing your living space. Whether you have a garden, a windowsill, or even a small balcony, there’s always room to grow fresh herbs.

Top Tips:

Choose the Right Herbs for a tropical climate

The warm, humid environment means herbs that thrive in heat and moisture will do best. Some great options for our region include basil, mint, oregano, lemongrass, and coriander. Herbs like rosemary and thyme, which prefer drier conditions, may not thrive as well in the humid climate but can still grow with extra care in drier, well-drained soils.

Sunlight Considerations

While most herbs need plenty of sunlight, North QLD's intense sun can sometimes be too harsh, especially during summer months. You may need to provide some afternoon shade for your herbs to prevent them from getting scorched.

Watering

Due to the region's humidity and rain, overwatering can be a risk. Make sure your pots or garden beds have excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging. Be cautious about watering too frequently during the wet season, as the natural rainfall might provide sufficient moisture.

Protect from Pests

Tropical climates can attract various pests, so keep an eye on your herbs and use organic deterrents or barriers to protect them.

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Mental health is a crucial component to a healthy, happy and productive life. For better or for worse we can never escape our own minds and as most readers probably know, the little voice in our heads is constantly speaking to us and sometimes the voice does not say nice things. For this reason it is important to talk about the inner workings of our minds as the little voice is not always right. So it is essential to normalise conversations surrounding mental well- being, share personal experiences when comfortable and acknowledge emotions openly.

Authentic and genuine conversation nurture connections, reduce isolations and build strong and supportive community relationships. Therefore it is helpful to share our thoughts and feelings with someone, a family member, friend or mental health professional as they can provide valuable insights, insights which may be difficult to see when we are limited to the vantage point that is the inside of our heads.

A stigma surrounds the topic of mental health, especially in regional areas such as Hinchinbrook, and dispelling this stigma begins with open, honest and frank conversations. Although there has been improvement in recent years, conversations surrounding mental health still carry with them a shadow of shame and misunderstanding.

Another key element is education. Inform yourself and help inform others of mental health conditions, treatments and resources. Arming ourselves with knowledge helps us dispel the myths and encourages informed and supportive conversations.

Lastly, engage in active listening. When people share their struggles, give them your attention and spare them your judgment. Often people simply need to be heard and validated. With the power of open dialogue regarding mental health we can foster empathy, reduce shame and create happier and healthier communities.

Tips on Breaking the Stigma: How to Talk About Mental Health Openly:

1. Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait for a crisis. Begin talking about mental health in everyday conversations, just like you would any other health issue. Normalise the topic by casually bringing it up in social settings.

2. Be Honest and Vulnerable
Share your own experiences, struggles, or mental health journeys, if comfortable. When people see others being open, they feel encouraged to do the same and are less likely to feel ashamed or isolated.

3. Use Positive Language
Avoid using judgmental or stigmatising terms like "crazy" or "weak." Instead, use respectful language that focuses on mental health as an important part of overall well-being. For example, "I’ve been struggling with anxiety, and I’m seeking support."

4. Listen Without Judgment
When someone opens up about their mental health, be an active listener. Avoid offering solutions unless asked. Instead, offer empathy and let them know you’re there to support them, not to judge.

5. Encourage Professional Help
Talking openly about the importance of therapy, counselling, or other mental health services helps reduce the stigma around seeking professional support. Normalise the idea that seeing a therapist is as common and important as seeing a doctor for physical health concerns.

6. Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about mental health conditions and share what you’ve learned with others. Understanding the facts can help dispel myths and misconceptions, which are often the root cause of stigma.

7. Respect Privacy and Boundaries
Recognise that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to sharing their mental health experiences. Respect boundaries and don’t pressure someone to talk if they’re not ready.

8. Use Your Platform for Advocacy
If you’re in a position to do so (whether through social media, your job, or community involvement), advocate for mental health awareness and resources. Sharing articles, personal stories, or positive messages about mental health can help normalise the conversation.

9. Encourage Open Dialogue in the Workplace or School
Advocate for mental health resources at work or school and create an open, non-judgmental environment where discussing mental health is welcomed. Encourage regular check-ins and support for mental well-being.

10. Show Empathy, Not Sympathy
Mental health struggles are not a pity party. Instead of offering sympathy, show empathy by acknowledging the person’s feelings and validating their experiences. Say things like, "I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you."

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This Friday Burdekin will be fortunate enough to welcome a truly remarkable individual — Sam Childers, also known as "The Machine Gun Preacher." His incredible journey from a troubled youth to a hero who has dedicated his life to rescuing children from war-torn regions is one of both heartache and hope, and now, for the first time, he is bringing his powerful story to our small regional town.

Childers, an American former biker and gang member, transformed his life after a deeply spiritual experience while visiting Africa. Moved by the horrors of child soldiers and the suffering of innocent children in Sudan, he found himself compelled to take action. He left his violent past behind and became a passionate advocate for those who had no voice. His efforts led to the creation of The Angels of East Africa, an organisation dedicated to rescuing children from rebel forces and giving them a chance at a better life.

Known as “The Machine Gun Preacher” for his willingness to take up arms in the protection of the children he rescued, Childers’ story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to those in need. He built an orphanage in Southern Sudan, providing refuge for hundreds of children who would otherwise have had their lives torn apart by war. Despite the dangers, including numerous threats to his life, Childers never wavered in his mission, and his efforts have made a lasting impact on countless lives.

But Childers is not just a man of action; he’s a man who has been deeply moved by his experiences and wants to share the lessons he's learned along the way. His life is a testament to the power of second chances, and the strength that can be found when one person chooses to make a difference.

Now, for the first time, Sam Childers will be sharing his incredible journey with the people of Burdekin. This is an exciting opportunity for locals to hear firsthand from the man who has inspired countless individuals around the world. His visit promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with inspiring stories of his work in Africa, the challenges he has faced, and the incredible resilience of the children he’s helped.

This event is more than just a chance to meet a hero. It’s an opportunity to learn about the power of compassion and action. Childers will be sharing not only his story but also his passion for helping those who need it the most. His message is simple but profound: no matter how small we feel in the grand scheme of things, each of us has the power to change the world, one act of kindness at a time.

As a small regional town, we’re not always at the forefront of major events, but this is our chance to be part of something bigger. Burdekin residents should be proud to host such an extraordinary individual and have the chance to hear about the incredible difference one person can make. Sam Childers’ visit is sure to be an inspiring event that will stay with us long after the final words are spoken.

Mark your calendars and prepare to be moved. Don’t miss the chance to meet Sam Childers and hear his incredible story — this is one event you won’t want to miss!

WHAT: Sam Childers, The Machine Gun Preacher
WHERE: Burdekin Community Church
WHEN: Friday 11th April, 7pm

Sam Childers, The Machine Gun Preacher, will be speaking at the Burdekin Community Church this Friday. Photos supplied