Community News

Six Decades & 350 Letters Lyndy & Yoshiko Celebrate 60 Years Of Friendship

Six Decades & 350 Letters Lyndy & Yoshiko Celebrate 60 Years Of Friendship

Six decades ago, as Lyndy McCathie was seated in an East Ayr State School classroom, she was assigned an international pen friend to reach out to as part of the school’s curriculum at the time. Lyndy’s letter was mailed all the way to Japan where it was received and replied to by Yoshiko Okada on the 28th of April, 1965, marking the beginning of a beautiful friendship. “This was just the start of something very special,” shared Lyndy. “I could never have imagined that writing a letter re

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Burdekin Benefits As 5,000 New Social & Affordable Homes Roll Out Across Queensland

Burdekin Benefits As 5,000 New Social & Affordable Homes Roll Out Across Queensland

The Burdekin is among dozens of Queensland communities benefiting from a statewide housing construction boom, with 10 new social and affordable homes currently under construction or under contract in the region as of the 28th of February, 2025. The milestone comes as the newly elected Crisafulli Government fast-tracks housing delivery under its Securing Our Housing Foundation Plan, with nearly 5,000 homes now either in contract or being built across the state. Minister for Housing and Public W

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Join The Awareness Walk For The Prevention of Domestic & Family Violence

Join The Awareness Walk For The Prevention of Domestic & Family Violence

You can help to prevent domestic and family violence (DFV) or support those who are affected by it. Domestic and Family Violence is a pervasive issue that often remains hidden behind closed doors. Recognising the signs is crucial to providing support and potentially saving lives. If you suspect someone is experiencing domestic violence, speaking up is essential. Dialling emergency services like 000 when you hear or see Domestic Violence occurring. DFV is not a private issue, the next step is re

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A game, A Community, A Home

A game, A Community, A Home

Since even its earliest form, football—soccer, calcio… whatever you call our beautiful game—has held an unparalleled power to connect: to connect people, to connect communities, and to bring together worlds that otherwise might never have met. It’s a universal language—and Hugh Montgomery’s story serves as a testament to that truth. In 1970, Hugh, a then 26-year-old Northern Irish lad, arrived in the Burdekin, knowing no one in the region except his Northern Irish wife and soulmate, the late Hi

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Wearable Arts Is Back!

May 15, 2024

Avid fashionistas from across the region are busy creating fabulous designs ahead of the 2024 Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Wearable Arts Parade which is due to take place in August as one of the central events hosted by the Great Barrier Reef Festival.

A popular event, which is a regular stable at the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Wearable Arts has captured the passion of the community.

The event will kick-off with the Wearable Arts Parade on Saturday 3rd August and will culminate in the competition where guest judges will evaluate the entries and select winners across various categories.

These categories include Best Individual Design, Best Team Design, Great Barrier Reef Festival Theme design and Best Accessories.  

With fierce competition and extraordinary talent on display, anticipation runs high as participants vie for recognition and accolades.

Everyone is invited to make their own creations, simply create a fashion item from recycled materials in order to be eligible and register your fabulous masterpiece at greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au.

Wearable Arts takes place in Airlie Beach on Saturday 3rd August, and everyone in the Burdekin is invited to come along and be part of both this event and the broader Great Barrier Reef Festival.

There will be a lantern parade, fireworks display, street parade, family fun day, live music, fairground rides and sideshow ally taking place across a magical weekend where the whole town comes alive with colour and festivity.

EVENT: Wearable Arts Parade and Competition – August 3
WHAT: Great Barrier Reef Festival
WHERE: Airlie Beach
WHEN: 1-4 August

Some fabulous creations. Photo supplied

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White On Whitehaven – You’re Invited!

May 15, 2024

The bucket-list item on many a people’s list, the annual St. Bebida White on Whitehaven by Fish D’vine Catering is the only long lunch of its kind open to the public on Whitehaven Beach.

This extravagant, decadent and opulent affair invites guests to indulge in a full day on Whitehaven Beach, where you are whisked away to a paradise, that is just a two-hour drive away from your home.

Starting your day aboard an air-conditioned ferry, the party begins as soon as you join the sea of stunning white outfits that form the dress-code for the day.

The vibrant chatter on the scenic ferry ride over to Whitsunday Island soon abates when the white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach appear on the horizon.

Guests walk from the boat directly onto the beach and are immediately greeted by a glass of chilled French Champagne and the bluesy beats of the nationally acclaimed six-piece band, The Natural Culture.

The long white tables stretch out along the delicate sands and everyone is invited to sit and enjoy the views while feasting on freshly shucked oysters and sashimi.

Highlighting the freshest local seafood, fine cuts of grass-fed meats, topped with divine sauces and salads, guests are able to watch as the food is cooked on the BBQ and interact with the chefs.

Proudly sponsoring the event is St. Bebida, showcasing their exciting new range of products, including Sparkling Rosé, Flamenco Sangria, and ‘Chello’ Limoncello Spritz, adding a refreshing twist to the event.  

WHAT: White On Whitehaven
WHERE: Whitehaven Beach
WHEN: 6-8 September  
TICKETS: whiteonwhitehaven.com.au

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New Legislation For Strata Properties

May 15, 2024

Property owners from in the Whitsunday region took part in a free community event earlier this month to hear all about the new Strata legislation that came into effect on the first of May.

This free community information session was hosted by Archers Strata Professionals and their Chief Executive Officer Nicky Lonergan told the room about the upcoming changes.

The new legislation addressed the following changes:

Smoking
Bodies corporate will be able to introduce bylaws that prohibit smoking and vaping, not only on common property and outdoor areas, but also on outdoor exclusive-use areas, including private balconies and patios.

Pets
Body corporates have had their capacity to restrict pets in strata complexes significantly reduced, to the point where they cannot apply blanket bans.

Towing
The dispute resolution process around towing cars parked in violation of bylaws has been considerably streamlined, including the removal of enforcement through the courts.

Scheme termination
A community titles scheme can be terminated with the support of 75% of lot owners in certain circumstances.

Nicky Lonergan explained, the new legislation is not about restricting personal rights, but about aligning with the greater-good approach that is inherent in, and essential to, strata living.

“Being part of a strata community is like living in a share house – just on a larger scale,” she said.

“When you choose to call that community home, you choose to live by a set of rules which form a critical part of the fabric of that community.”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director of Queensland Archers Strata Professionals, Nicky Lonergan. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Townsville Development To Boost North Queensland Property Market

May 15, 2024

After being identified as a key growth area in Queensland, one of the largest residential-zoned developments in Townsville, officially launched earlier this year offering 20 homesites in the city’s southwest.
In a strategic move to combat the growing population and new home buyer and investor interest demand in Townsville, property developer Urbex acquired the 80.27-hectare site in mid-2022.
The plans will see 850 homesites at the Somers and Hervey development delivered over the next 15 years.
“Our commitment to delivering well-connected communities across the nation is our specialty and we are proud to not only deliver diverse homesites but an unparalleled living experience for Townsville residents,” Urbex General Manager Peter Sherrie said.
“This is our eighth master planned community in the region after successfully giving life to more than 8,000 dream homesites across the country that have been transformed into ideal living spaces by Australian families who proudly call an Urbex community home.”
Nestled between Mount Stuart and The Pinnacles, the $136 million expansive residential development boasts seamless connectivity with the addition of a new on-ramp from Beck Drive to the Ring Road, bridging residents to essential amenities including James Cook University, Townsville Hospital, and Lavarack Barracks.
Somers and Hervey is expected to evolve into a vibrant lifestyle hub for approximately 2,000 residents.
“We are excited to unveil stage one of Somers and Hervey after acquiring the site in May 2022,” Urbex Realty General Manager Craig Covacich said.
“We are well-versed in delivering diverse communities to North Queensland, and with our eighth community underway and title expected for June this year, Townsville residents can expect an elevated contemporary living experience at Somers and Hervey.”

Photo supplied: Urbex

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Serving Up Excitement The 2024 Sugar Bowl Returns

May 8, 2024

The jampacked annual Sugar Bowl returned to the court for its 43rd year in the Burdekin as hosted by the Home Hill Tennis Association. One of the hottest events on the North Queensland tennis calendar, the 2024 Sugar Bowl impressed spectators once again with teams travelling from as far afield as Brisbane and Mareeba to compete in the event from the 4 – 6 of May.

The event made its debut in 1981 when Lex and Pat Anderson invited captains from areas such as Mackay and Ingham to enter teams in the first ever Sugar Bowl. Over four decades later, the Sugar Bowl stands as a highly celebrated and anticipated event for the whole community to enjoy, with 44 teams playing in the competition last weekend.

Continued on page 6
Special feature written by Chelsea Ravizza.

Men’s Winners of this years’ Sugar Bowl Men’s A Team: Bruce Butler's Tea Bags, Presented by trophy donor Ruth Stockdale. Photo supplied

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Sit Down With Sam

May 8, 2024

Hi Readers
I’m back from holidays and feeling ready to get back into it, however I do return with some bittersweet news.
But first, the holiday: I had a wonderful week on Norfolk Island with my family, taking in the layered history, intriguing lifestyle and breathtaking beauty of the incredibly unique place.
My favourite moments came when hiking through the national park, swimming in the pristine waters of Emily Bay and exploring the rugged coastline of the small but diverse island.
There was a plethora of history to absorb, with the ruins of the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area telling a particularly poignant tale.
I found there was slightly too much to cram into an already very busy week, so I certainly hope to return one day.
I would like to share a big thanks to Rachael, Daniel and Chelsea who held the fort while I was away, and I enjoyed flicking through a digital copy of last week’s paper while on the island to keep up with what you’ve all been up to.
I’m now back in the Burdekin but must announce that I will be finishing up my role with Burdekin Life and leaving the region in a month’s time.
I used the word “bittersweet” above; I am excited to return to southeast Queensland to take the next steps in my personal and professional journey, however there are most certainly elements of ‘Burdekin life’ that I will miss dearly.
My last day on the job is Friday, June 7, so I look forward to making the most of my last month here and seeing you all before then!
Please be assured that you are in incredibly safe hands as the team is looking forward to welcoming a fresh face to Burdekin Life who will pick up from where I left off and establish themselves as an equally central part of this wonderful community.

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Marketgoers Get Heart Smart

May 8, 2024

The bi-monthly Burdekin Plantation Park Markets are a popular place for locals to find handmade treasures, homemade baked goods, beautiful plants and yummy food, but last Sunday, May 5, marketgoers also had the opportunity to receive a free blood pressure check thanks to Mater Private Hospital Townsville.
The team from Mater Private Hospital Townsville set up their market stall in celebration of Heart Week 2024, providing free blood pressure checks, fresh fruit thanks to Lamberts Fresh Produce, and other giveaways.
Heart Week is Australia’s national heart health awareness week held in May each year and runs from May 6 to 12 in 2024.
An initiative of the Heart Foundation, the week provides an opportunity for the Australian public and health professionals to start a conversation about heart health and take positive steps to reduce their heart disease risk.
A spokesperson said this was the second year Mater conducted a Heart Week Roadshow to celebrate the launch of Heart Week, with the first road trip to the Burdekin held in early May last year.
“While our cardiologists run on referrals, their dream is to see less people suffering cardiac events so this was all born out of their desire to ensure more North Queenslanders are aware of the signs and symptoms of heart conditions, and to discuss them with their GP sooner rather than later so that they never suffer an event in the first place,” they said.
“The Burdekin has always had a soft spot in the heart of our clinicians, with a range of our doctors holding clinics in Ayr regularly and a large percentage of our patients in Mater across all specialties from the beautiful bountiful Burdekin, so we’ve always started any planning around Heart Week in particular with opportunities to chat to Burdekin residents at front of mind.”

The team from Mater Private Hospital Townsville celebrated the launch of Heart Week 2024 in Townsville before bringing the party to the Burdekin Plantation Park Markets over the weekend. Photo supplied

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40 Years Of Celebrated Service Paddy Carew Retires

May 8, 2024

Brendon Carew, known by the community as Paddy Carew, officially retired from the Burdekin Police Force earlier this week after 40 years of exceptional service.

Brendon attended the Brisbane Police Academy following the encouragement of a family member, and after graduation, he moved to the Burdekin where he has served 37 years stationed at the Burdekin Police Station.

Brendon looks back on his career as being a long and fantastic journey, and believes the community will be in safe, capable hands as he re-learns how to be a civilian in today’s society.

“I’ll be off travelling with the wife, catching up on a lot of lost time with her and the young fella, spending time with family, and I suppose re-learning how to be a civilian,” explained Brendon.

The Officer in Charge at the Burdekin Police Station, Chris Cohen, looks back on his past year in the role, and believes Brendon’s standing in the community is second to none.

“On behalf on the whole team here at the station, Brendon’s service has been both long and honourable,” said Chris.

“His service is longer than the ages of most of the officers at the station, and on most jobs, most people only want to speak to Paddy Carew, because of the respect and dignity he has shown in the community for those 37 years.”

Prior to transferring to the Burdekin, Chris was stationed in Townsville, where he often heard much praise of Brendon’s service.

“Everyone enjoys the company of Paddy, and no one else has achieved what he has done for the Burdekin area,” explained Chris.

“It’s been a pleasure serving this community and the state of Queensland, and I wish all the officers that I leave behind all the best,” expressed Brendon.

Chief Inspector Roger Whyte, retiring Police Officer Paddy Carew and The Officer in Charge at the Burdekin Police Station, Chris Cohen. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

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Housing Crisis Questions Left Unanswered

May 8, 2024

Burdekin residents sleeping in tents and farm sheds are being left without the answers they deserve according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.
Over a month ago, Queensland Premier Steven Miles promised crisis accommodation for every homeless person in the state.
Mr Last, however, said the fact that his Housing Minister was yet to provide answers on what crisis accommodation was available for use in the Burdekin was a slap in the face to everyone sleeping rough in the region.
“Towns like Moranbah, Ayr, Home Hill and Bowen deserve to have a clear indication as to exactly what crisis accommodation is actually available to them and if the answer is none, then those communities deserve to know exactly what this Minister is actually doing to provide that accommodation,” Mr Last said.
“The fact that the Minister has failed to answer a question on notice on time, sends a clear message to the Burdekin that Labor has no interest in fulfilling promises and, as a result, families with newborn babies are left to sleep in a tent.”
Mr Last said while the housing crisis remained state-wide, in small regional towns the impact of that lack of housing is far reaching.
“As we know, we have to fight tooth and nail for the housing resources we do have in our regional towns and with the crushing season about to begin and harvesting in our horticulture sector already underway the pressure on our housing stock is only set to go up,” he said.
“While the spotlight on this issue has largely sat over cities in the south-east, small towns like Ayr, Home Hill, Bowen and Moranbah have been left in the dark and as a result we are seeing widespread impacts on our communities.
“If Labor was serious about ensuring everyone in the Burdekin electorate had a roof over their head and a warm bed to sleep in at night, the least they could do is provide an answer to a question on notice about what crisis accommodation is actually available.”

Stock Image

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Raising Funds For An Unmarked Grave

May 8, 2024

In an act of kindness, a team of compassionate locals are currently raising funds to gift a gravestone to a 93-year-old unmarked grave in the Ayr cemetery. The heroes behind the act have recently reached a significant milestone in their fundraising efforts, achieving Stage 1 of the Jean Morris Gravestone Fundraising target with a total of $2500 raised but are needing ongoing community support to fulfill their goal.

This accomplishment is the climax of their dedicated efforts that began in early April when the funds stood just under $2000. The success of the campaign can be attributed to the innovative "Let's Have Cuppa for Jean" initiative and a personal commitment by co Coordinator, Henry Peterson who donated 10 cents from every avocado he sold in Ayr.

However, the journey to reach this milestone hasn't been easy. With financial constraints tightening across communities, charities are experiencing a staggering 50% drop in donations, reflecting the economic challenges faced nationwide. Even school tuckshops are feeling the pinch, witnessing significant declines in sales, underscoring the widespread impact of financial strain.

Attention now turns to Stage 2 of the fundraising efforts set to commence on May 1st. There are deliberations on the preferred approach for the gravestone project, with options including erecting one in two stages on a cement base with a granite top and headstone for $8000, or opting for a single-stage erection with a full granite finish for $13,000.

The decision on which option to pursue lies with the team as they take a collaborative approach to the project. With the groundwork laid for Stage 2, there's a shared commitment to exploring more creative fundraising ideas to secure the necessary funds. The journey ahead will require continued innovation and dedication from the team to achieve their goals and honour Jean Morris's memory with a fitting gravestone.

Local donations are welcome and can be dropped off at Paula's Place Hair Salon on Queen St, Ayr. Alternatively, arrangements can be made for collection at the end of the month. Bank details are also available for direct transfers if preferred.

For further information, please contact Paula at 0439 333 494 or Henry at 0428 887 114.

Henry Peterson is helping to raise money to provide a gravestone for Jean Morris and has donated 10 cents from the sale of each avocado. Photo supplied

An example of gravestone they are looking erect. Photo supplied

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A Lifelong Dedication Honorably Recognised

May 8, 2024

As part of the 2024 Australia Day Award Ceremony, former Burdekin local, Terri Bradon, was honorably presented with a Medal of the Order of Australia. An award of great prestige, the medal stands to recognise outstanding achievement and service, and Terri has been celebrated for her contributions to the arts in regional Queensland.

When Terri began her journey in the world of the performing arts, she never contemplated the possibility of being presented an award as prestigious as an Order of Australia Medal, yet she feels it’s the perfect way to recognise and honor the work of her mentors and all the influential people who have led her to where she is today.

“It’s a big achievement for everyone involved with the whole company, and I suppose I’m representing the work of a lot of people who have made this happen and all the people in my life that I could not live without,” expressed Terri.

Throughout Terri’s secondary education at Ayr State High School, with the encouragement of dedicated staff and her parents, she found joy in participating in school musicals and the annual Interschool Drama Festival. She often spent her spare time developing small plays where she would cast her friends to act them out.

“It’s funny because when I look at my parents I think, here are two people who were not involved in the arts, and one out of all of their kids just decided she was going to follow this path, but they were so trusting, supportive, and happy that I was having a go and I’m so grateful for them, and I love that I have made them proud,” expressed Terri.

Following graduation, Terri enrolled in James Cook University to pursue a degree in drama, and her passion for the stage continued to flourish throughout her studies with the support of her respected mentor, Jean-Pierre Voos. After completing her tertiary studies, Terri moved to pursue her career in Melbourne, however, following the passing of Jean-Pierre Voos in 2008, Terri found herself drawn to return to the region continue his legacy.

“Jean-Pierre Voos started Townsville’s Shakespear Under the Stars, which is where I first truly feel in love with the work of Shakespear and got my start in theatre,” explained Terri.

“At the time of his passing, I was working for the Australian Shakespeare Company in Melbourne, and because of him, that’s where my life had taken me, and I just felt so passionate about the event staying in honor of Jean-Pierre, and for the little Terri Bradons who might be like me, see one show and go that’s what I want to do.”

With drama education facilities closing their doors, Terri took it upon herself to create opportunities to continue fostering the love of theatre. Her love for the arts turned into determination to keep the industry afloat in regional Queensland and further prompted her to co-found various institutions including the Bridge Project, and TheatreiNQ.

“Being awarded with an Order of Australia Medal to me certainly feels that we’re making a difference and that has been our motto at TheatreiNQ; do something in our lifetime to make a difference, and I think that it’s quite remarkable this award is recognising regional arts,” expressed Terri.

“The outpouring of support and love has been really overwhelming, and the people who have been a part of my whole career are so proud and I just feel so grateful and so lucky that this is my life.”

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A Grand Slam Event For The 43rd Sugar Bowl

May 8, 2024

With 44 teams competing the 43rd Sugar Bowl was destined to be a great weekend of tennis. The Burdekin turned the weather on which was perfect for tennis with cooler mornings and a slight breeze. The new on court shades donated by Bendigo in Home Hill were appreciated by the players.
As usual the results were close with the last round determining the winners. B ladies was won by Cathy Fairburn’s The Odd Bunch with an average of 51.4 games per session followed by Sharon Mc Dermott 48.25 and Sophie Rickards Home Hill Team Ace Ace Baby on 36.25.
A2 Ladies was won by Sugar Bowl stalwart and dedicated supporter Paula Simpson’s Hack the Planet on 258 games followed by Megan and Riley’s Get Under It and in 3rd place Deb Debondi’s Mackay team “Tam” on 198.
A Ladies was won by defending champions Julie Witty’s M & Ms on 180 games, closely followed by Home Hill’s Hannah Casswell’s 171 and Proserpine’s Elspeth Scotford on 162.
The B Men was won by Brett Campman’s Calen Crew with a few ring-ins from Home Hill on 266, 2nd place was West Teas Brett Thompson on 219 and Home Hill’s Justin Vidler on 217 Here for Beer.
A2 Men was won by Mareeba’s Carl Martens Tableland Tennis (Carl was born and raised in Home Hill), as was Brett Wheeler with Col’s Crew who took out 2nd place on 219 and followed up by Brisbane’s Will Fraser The Bad Hatters on 213.
Defending champions Bruce Butler’s Tea Bags retained the A Grade Stockdale trophy with 258.
Home Hill’s Andrew Casswell’s The Wallys came in second on 230 and Will Fraser’s Bad Hatters 1 were in 3rd place on 199.
The Woods Team Spirit Trophy was hotly contested with most teams turning out in fantastic team uniforms, displaying great sportsmanship and camaraderie, and showing great support for the club.
Special mention to Ace Ace Baby who danced their hearts out on Sunday night, The Teaspoons who cooked up a storm all weekend, The Shoeys who just had a great weekend all round after the whole team showed up to help set up on the Friday and the Northern All Stars from Ingham who were even seen helping in the kitchen at one point.
Congratulations to Kylie Newman’s Post Card Lifers who proudly held this trophy high.
The club would really like to thank all the sponsors, volunteers, players, and supporters. The main raffle prize an Air conditioner from Polar Industries was won by Steve Cockfield.
Of special mention is Western Suburbs Tennis Club and Coach Paula Simpson who whole heartedly support the Sugar Bowl. This club bring about 12 teams to the Bowl each year. We love the support of the players, teams, and captains. You are the ones who make this event.
To recognise the contributions of the volunteers this year we had a free volunteers raffle which was won by Carol Rossato. Thanks everyone for helping out. The preparation, delivering the event and cleaning up is huge. Thanks also go to Giru and Ayr Clubs for their support in hosting many matches over the weekend.
Event wrap-up contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell.

Joel Hanson presenting the B Grade trophy donated by the Hanson Family
The Odd Bunch Cathy Fairburn


Jill Barbagallo Patron and Trophy Donor A 2 Ladies 
Paula Simpson Hack the Planet


Team Spirit winners donated in memory of founding Teaspoon member David Woods
Post Card Lifers Kylie Newman with Josh Woods


B Men winners Brett Campman Calen Crew pictured with Casswell family member Andrew who donated this trophy


Kylie Newman presenting the trophy on behalf of Pat Anderson trophy donor to the A2 Men Carl Martens Tableland Tennis


A1 Ladies Julie Witty M & Ms
pictured with trophy donor Lex Davies

Photos supplied

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Brent Dingle Represents Region At Queensland Parliament House

May 8, 2024

On Saturday 14 April, the Queensland Parliament House hosted a ceremony to swear in the newly appointed members of the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, and among them was Burdekin’s very own, Brent Dingle.

The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP) stands as a highly celebrated and unique opportunity for young people to create real change in Queensland. Open to young people aged 15 – 25 across Queensland, Brent has been eager to join the QYP since he was encouraged by his school principal at the Burdekin Christen College.

“My school principal encouraged me to apply for the Queensland Youth Parliament when I mentioned that I originally wanted to go to university for law, and she believed I would be best suited so she prompted me to apply for the program,” explained Brent.

Brent has been an extremely active member within the Burdekin community for many years. As well as having been appointed as the 2023 Deputy Youth Mayor for the Burdekin Shire Youth Council, Brent continuously volunteers for community service events including CWL, Park Run, and even at an Ambulance Seminar. In 2023, Brent was honourably recoginised for his selfless dedication to community with a Young Citizen of The Year Award, a token he feels perfectly captures what matters to him the most.

“I was awarded the Young Citizen of The Year Award for getting involved, and giving back to my community which is really close to my heart and being a young person with cerebral palsy I have always felt passionate about my community and for giving young people a voice, especially those with a disability.”

The QYP fosters its Youth Members’ desire to make a difference within their electorates in political areas through educational opportunities and firsthand parliamentary experiences. In mid-April, Brent attended the Launch Weekend event where he was officially sworn into parliament alongside his committee members.

“At the 3-day Launch Weekend, I learnt all the ins and outs of parliament through interactive workshops with parliamentary employees, we did a mock debate at Queensland Parliament House, and we started writing our Bill,” explained Brent.

“As part of the parliament, I am in the committee of Health, Mental Health and Emergency Services, Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence and Seniors and Disability Services, and we will develop our Bill over the year long program.”

Brent, alongside his committee members, have begun work to develop a Youth Bill which will be debated and amended throughout the year, and then presented at Parliament House as part of The QYP’s Residential Week in September.

“Over the next 12 months we’ll be split into teams for sponsoring and refuting; sponsoring creates the Bill, and the refuting create amendments to the Bill, and when I go back to Brisbane in September for Residential Week, I’ll go to Parliament House every day to debate my Bill in parliament,” explained Brent.

Once the Youth Bill has been passed, it will be sent to the Officer of Youth, and then passed to the Queensland Government Minister responsible for the corresponding Portfolio.

“It has been really good to work with people close to parliament, learning the ins and outs on how Queensland runs, and it’s definitely opened my eyes to a new career opportunity.”

With high school graduation approaching at the end of 2024, Brent has been planning out his next few years, and after his time with the QYP, his future career aspirations have slightly shifted.

“I plan to go to Griffith University to study a double degree in Business and Political Science, and following that, I’ve been strongly encouraged by many people to become the Queensland Premier, so it’s become a sort of goal of mine.”

With an inspirational past, present and future, Brent hopes to spread his message to others with similar aspirations.

“I am passionate about spreading positive reinforcement and the message that anything is possible with the right mindset and goals.”

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Domestic Violence Awareness Candlelight Vigil

May 8, 2024

You’re Invited
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS
Candlelight Vigil
followed by exhibition of Artwork "Through her eyes”

Where - Burdekin Community Association
130 Queen Street Ayr
When - Wednesday 15th May 6pm-7:30pm

RSVP Essential
Ph 47833744
rebecca.grogan@bcaburdekin.org.au

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Long Weekend on Magnetic Island

May 8, 2024

Over the long weekend the Lower Burdekin Scout Group joined other Scout groups for a long weekend of fun activities on Magnetic Island.

The Scouts travelled by ferry on Friday evening and had transport waiting for them which they took to their camp at Rover Hut at Florence Bay.

After setting up tents, dinner and a safety briefing the Scouts got some sleep preparing for an early and busy next day.

After watching sunrise Scout Leader Chris Berkery said the rest of the day was filled with activities.

“We spent the rest of the day playing on the beach, swimming, preparing our meals and having spare time activities and games,” he said.

A trip to Magnetic Island is not complete without a trip to the Forts, and that’s what the Scout’s did on Sunday.

Following the Fort’s Walk the Scouts trekked down to Horsehoe Bay and the Magnetic Island Markets.

A morning full of the sights but the day wasn’t over yet, the Scout’s then hiked to Radical Bay before heading back to camp for a late lunch and some very well-deserved rest.

On Monday morning the group packed up and went to the stunning Alma Bay for lunch and games on the foreshore, then made their way back to the ferry and back home.

Exploring the beach
The Scouts on a hike

Photos supplied

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