Thursday 23^rd July

Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Zyon Dallecort (CORES QLD & Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre)’s Trivia Night, 6pm, The Lighthouse, 130 Young Street, Ayr

Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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Friday 24^th July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Burdekin Support Group of Parkinsons, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue’s Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr

The Eagles Greatest Hits

Friday, 7:30pm-10pm

Celebrate the timeless sound of The Eagles live in concert, as a world-class six-piece band delivers two hours of iconic hits including Hotel California, Desperado and Lyin’ Eyes in a powerful, nostalgia-filled night of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Saturday 25^th July

Macrame Pot Hanger Workshop, 2pm, Home Hill Greek Community Hall, Home Hill

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Sunday 26^th July

National Tree Day Planting, 8:30am-11:30am, 57 International Drive, Ayr

Gospel Music Festival

Sunday, 10am-6pm

Enjoy a free, uplifting day at the Gospel Music Festival at the Stardust Drive-In, featuring inspiring live performances from Brendon Walmsley, Victor Clay and Lynton Allen in a powerful celebration of music, faith and community.

Stardust Drive-In Theatre, 27 Kilrie Road, Ayr

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Monday 27^th July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Tuesday 28^th July

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Thursday 30^th July

Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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Friday 31^st July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Pump Track Community Open Day, 3:30pm, ANZAC Park, Ayr

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TOP-SECRET - Operative Zog failed to calibrate the cloaking device during atmospheric re-entry. Image credit: Australian UFO Festival

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Every August, something a little unusual happens in the small coastal town of Cardwell.

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For four days, conversations turn to mysterious lights in the sky, unexplained encounters, scientific research and one of Australia's most enduring unsolved mysteries. Cafés and accommodation fill with visitors from across the country, locals welcome travellers with stories of their own, and curiosity becomes something everyone has in common.

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Now in its thirteenth year, the Australian UFO Festival has grown from a small community gathering in 2014 into Australia's only dedicated UFO Festival. While its subject matter may be extraordinary, the festival itself is firmly grounded in community, bringing together visitors, volunteers, local businesses and speakers from Australia and overseas for a weekend unlike any other.

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This year carries special significance as it marks the 60th anniversary of the famous Tully Saucer Nest Incident. In 1966, sugar cane farmer George Pedley reported seeing an unusual object rise from a swamp near Tully, leaving behind a perfectly flattened circular nest in the reeds. The story attracted worldwide attention and remains one of Australia's most compelling unexplained cases. Six decades later, it continues to inspire discussion, investigation and healthy debate.

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From Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 August, Cardwell will host a diverse program of events that extends well beyond the subject of UFOs. The weekend includes the three-day C-Files Forum featuring Australian and international speakers, guided tours, astronomy experiences, Indigenous storytelling, markets, live entertainment, outdoor movies, workshops, family activities and plenty of opportunities to simply enjoy everything our region has to offer.

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Perhaps the festival's greatest success is that it welcomes everyone. Some visitors arrive with a lifelong interest in unexplained phenomena. Others are fascinated by science, history or the search for answers. Many simply come to experience the atmosphere, explore the region and enjoy a unique community event with family and friends. Whatever your reason for visiting, you'll find open-minded conversations, friendly faces and plenty to discover.

Behind it all is a dedicated team of local volunteers whose vision has transformed a small regional event into one recognised across Australia. Every visitor who comes to Cardwell helps support local accommodation providers, cafés, restaurants, retailers and tourism operators, ensuring the festival continues to deliver lasting benefits for the entire community.

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Whether you leave with new questions, new friendships or simply fond memories of a wonderful weekend in Cardwell, one thing is certain—you'll have a story to tell

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Photos supplied

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Former players, supporters and families came together to celebrate one of the Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club’s greatest achievements, marking 40 years since the club’s historic 1986 premiership-winning season.

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The Home Hill Devils 40 Year Reunion, held from July 17 to 19, honoured the memorable year when the club claimed both the A Grade and Under 18 premierships—a feat that secured its place in Burdekin rugby league history.

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While the Home Hill Devils no longer operate as a standalone club, organisers said the team’s legacy continued through the many players, families and supporters who later became part of the Burdekin Roosters.

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The weekend provided an opportunity for former teammates and supporters to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the friendships and community spirit that defined the club’s proud era.

The celebrations began on Friday night with a meet-and-greet at the Crown Hotel, Home Hill, before attendees gathered at Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr, on Saturday afternoon to watch the Burdekin Roosters take on Centrals in the Under 19s, Reserve Grade and A Grade fixtures.

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The reunion concluded with a farewell breakfast at the Burdekin Race Club on Sunday morning.

Founded in 1920, the Home Hill Rugby League Club held its own football competition until 1956 before later emerging as a standalone team known as Home Hill and eventually the Home Hill Devils.

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Organisers said the reunion celebrated not only the club’s on-field success, but also the lasting friendships, family connections and community spirit that made the Devils an important part of the Burdekin’s sporting history.

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See more photos here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/devils-legacy-lives-on-as-club-celebrates-40-year-premiership-reunion

GEED UP will bring its signature blend of comedy, music and high-energy entertainment to Queen Street when the group makes its Burdekin debut at the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Street Party on Saturday, 5th September. Photo source: GEED UP

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One of Queensland's most energetic, colourful and downright entertaining acts will make its grand Burdekin Shire debut when GEED UP takes to the stage at the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Street Party on Saturday, 5th September.

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Hailing from Brisbane, GEED UP has built a reputation as one of Australia's most unique live entertainment experiences, blending comedy, powerhouse vocals, smooth harmonies, high-energy dance routines, breakdancing, acrobatics, DJing and crowd interaction into one unforgettable show.

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Dubbed the "Worst Show Ever" by the group themselves, GEED UP has spent almost two decades delighting audiences across the country with a performance that's anything but ordinary. Their tongue-in-cheek humour, infectious energy and ability to get crowds singing, dancing and laughing along have earned them a loyal following from city venues to regional communities.

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GEED UP performer Nada Ropati said there’s always something special about performing in regional towns.

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"We love performing for people in regional towns because, for some reason, they just know how to let loose and have fun," she said.

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"Every town we have visited in rural areas is always so welcoming and warm. They treat us like family, so that energy and connection follows us on stage."

Describing the show as a "mix bag of tricks", the group promises a little bit of everything.

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"Expect singing, dancing, breakdancing and just a whole lotta fun," Ms Ropati said.

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Festival-goers can look forward to a soundtrack packed with crowd-favourite party anthems, along with plenty of laughs and audience participation.

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"What's better than a good old street party?" Ms Ropati said.

"People can expect lots of party anthems they can sing along to and dance along to, and not to mention we're loved by all, from the kids to the grannies. Bring everyone!"

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Having entertained audiences for nearly two decades, GEED UP says the secret to its longevity is simple.

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"We don't take things seriously, we love what we do, and we love the company we keep," said Ms Ropati.

"We enjoy bringing the laughs that we share together to the people who come and watch."

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With live music, entertainment and festival celebrations set to take over Queen Street, GEED UP is expected to be one of the highlights of this year's Burdekin Water Festival Street Party, and the community’s encouraged to visit the BWF’s social media pages and website for more information.

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What: Burdekin Water Festival Street Party

When: Saturday, 5th September

Where: Queen Street, Ayr

Crews racing their homemade recycled crafts across the water. Photo supplied: Airlie Events.

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary, with this year’s program bringing together returning favourites, new experiences and plenty of opportunities for the community to get involved.

From the opening-night Lantern Parade and fireworks to live entertainment, markets, family activities, street parades and the Recyclable Regatta, the festival will once again transform Airlie Beach into a celebration of the Whitsundays and its connection to the Great Barrier Reef.

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Lantern Making Workshop

Get involved in the festival before it officially begins by making your own bamboo paper lanterns. Two workshops will be held, lanterns costing $10 each. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

WHAT: Lantern-making workshop  
WHEN: Saturday, July 25, 10am and 12pm  
WHERE: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 20 Hazelwood Crescent, Cannonvale

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Lantern Parade

The Lantern Parade will once again light up Airlie Beach as hundreds of participants make their way from Coral Sea Marina along the Bicentennial Boardwalk to the foreshore. Judging for the most colourful and creative lanterns begins at 5:45pm, before the parade starts at 6pm. The evening will continue with a Welcome to Country, Traditional Dance, live entertainment, cultural performances and family-friendly activities.

WHAT: Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade  
WHEN: Friday, July 31, 5.30pm to 7pm  
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina to Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Fireworks On The Foreshore

The festival’s signature fireworks will once again light up the Coral Sea, with the display scheduled for 8pm. Entry to the foreshore is free, just pull up a bit of sand and settle on the beach for the show!

WHAT: Airbnb Fireworks on the Foreshore
WHEN: Friday, July 31, from 5:30pm  
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Camira Fireworks Cruise

Take to the water aboard Camira as the three-hour Twilight Cruise will head out onto Pioneer Bay, with drinks and shared antipasto platters included before passengers settle in for an offshore view of the fireworks display. Tickets are $140 per person, plus booking fees.

WHAT: Camira Fireworks Cruise
WHEN: Friday, July 31, 5.30pm to 8.45pm
WHERE: Cruise Whitsundays Terminal, Port of Airlie

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Night Markets & Outdoor Movie

The foreshore will become a hub of activity with local food, handmade goods, artisan stalls, carnival rides and live entertainment. Settle in with picnic blankets for an outdoor screening of Luca under the stars.

WHAT: Night Markets and Outdoor Movie  
WHEN: Friday, July 31
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Bait To Plate

This special multi-course lunch is hosted by former Fish D’vine co-owner and lifelong fisherman Kevin Collins. Collins will guide guests through a menu based on the freshest local catch available. Tickets are $149 plus booking fees.

WHAT: Bait to Plate with Kevin Collins
WHEN: Sunday, August 2
WHERE: 74 Islands Distillery

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Family Fun Day Brings The Reef To Life

The final day is all about families, with a free program of activities designed to keep children entertained while connecting them with reef and culture.

Circus workshops, face painting, crazy races, treasure hunts and the ever-popular doughnut-eating competition, alongside reef-themed activities and educational experiences.

WHAT: Family Fun Day
WHEN: Sunday, August 3, 10am to 2pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Recyclable Regatta

Schools, businesses, community groups and families put creativity and construction skills to the test in vessels made from recyclable materials. Crews will race their homemade craft across the water before making a final dash up the sand!

WHAT: Recyclable Regatta
WHEN: Sunday, August 3, from 1pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

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The countdown is on for the official opening of the Burdekin's new Anzac Park Pump Track, with the community invited to celebrate the completion of the purpose-built facility at a free open day on 31 July.

The gates of the $778,850 facility—roughly a year in the making—will officially open at 3:30pm, with riders of all ages encouraged to bring their BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards or balance bikes and be among the first to put the new track through its paces.

The opening celebration will also feature a sausage sizzle, the chance to meet fellow riders and a giveaway, with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council offering attendees the opportunity to win a new scooter and helmet.

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The pump track, backed by $760,000 through the Queensland Government's Works for Queensland program, was first announced in June 2025 as the flagship project of Burdekin Shire Council's $2.8 million investment in regional parks.

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Construction began earlier this year following an extensive design process that included two rounds of community consultation.

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Located on the former junior soccer field alongside the existing skate park at Anzac Park, the facility has been designed to cater for riders of all skill levels using BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and mountain bikes.

When construction commenced, Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the final design reflected feedback from the local community.

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“The Anzac Park Pump Track is a great example of how community feedback helps Council deliver facilities that meet local needs and encourage people of all ages to be active,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

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“Pump tracks are designed to be inclusive and accessible, catering for a range of users including bikes, scooters and skateboards. This facility will add to Anzac Park's existing recreational offerings and provide a safe, purpose-built space for the entire community to enjoy.”

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The road to a career in motorsport has just begun for local enthusiast Jorja Ahern, who spent last week working the paddock as a scrutineer during the V8 Supercars' return to the Townsville 500. Photo supplied.

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It was while watching a Formula 1 film years ago that Burdekin local Jorja Ahern first fell in love with motorsport. But unlike many aspirants, it wasn't those donning helmets and racing suits behind the wheel that engrossed her. It was the minds orchestrating it all from the garage.

An avid fan ever since, the teenager took her first steps into the paddock during last week’s Townsville 500 and, with them, a major stride towards her dream of working as an engineer in the sport.

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LOCAL TEEN FAST-TRACKS MOTORSPORT DREAM AT TOWNSVILLE 500

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The road to a career in motorsport has just begun for local enthusiast Jorja Ahern, who spent last week working the paddock as a scrutineer during the V8 Supercars' return to the Townsville 500.

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The Year 10 student worked alongside fellow scrutineers to ensure the high-octane Supercars met a list of racing regulations, dedicating a gruelling 48 hours across the four-day event from Thursday’s Porsche category to Sunday’s Supercar showdown.

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The voluntary role marked Jorja’s first time in a professional racing garage, an experience she said crystallised her long-standing dream of working as a professional motorsport engineer.

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“Just being there and being close to the cars, I was like, ‘how did I get here?’” she laughed.

“You would walk through the paddock and then all these drivers would just come out of nowhere… Being in that environment, like that—I feel like that's my element.”

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Jorja arrived in the paddock after reaching out to the Supercars team months earlier in search of hands-on experience, eventually signing on as a volunteer scrutineer.

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As a scrutineer, she was responsible for assessing tyre pressure, driver apparel, seat belts, and checking that fuel chains were ‘earthed’ to avoid potential fires, among other tasks. She also observed the races from the garage, monitoring pit stops and ensuringprocedures were undertaken smoothly.

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The experience gave the teenager a rare opportunity to pick the brains of seasoned engineers and crew members across four long days of racing, each of which began as early as 5am.

She said that, come the end of the week, her fascination for engineering and the finer details of racing had only grown.

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“I had no idea they had to do all those different safety checks … and all the different regulations that had to be ticked off,” she said.

“It's also so interesting how the aerodynamics work, and how one little change in the aerodynamics can make such a big difference to the speed.”

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According to her mother, Tracey Ahern, Jorja’s heart has long been in engineering, evidenced by her gravitation toward STEM-related school subjects as early as primary school.

“Whenever there was an opportunity to become involved in STEM, she would put her hand up and say, ‘yeah, I want to get involved. I want to see what that's all about,’” Tracey said.

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Jorja’s STEM interest continued into high school, where she became involved in the STEM Changemakers program—an initiative which aims to encourage female participation in scientific and technical industries.

Tracey described the Changemakers experience as a pivotal reassurance for Jorja that “girls can do anything.”

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“[The Changemakers program] really opened up like the doors to understanding how diverse engineering is, and that although it has been a male-dominated industry … girls can do these things as well,” she said.

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That notion was rubber-stamped for Jorja, who recalled seeing several women in the garages during race week in Townsville.

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Now with renewed confidence, the motorsport aspirant is eager to continue her surge into the world of professional motorsport engineering.

For Jorja, that involves studying mechanical engineering at university, before pursuing an engineering role at “any motorsport team—whether Supercars or F1.”

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Thursday 16 July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

Friday 17 July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Meet & Greet, 6pm, Crown Hotel, Home Hill

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Saturday 18 July

Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Burdekin Roosters VS Centrals, 3pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr

Burdekin Rugby League Ladies Day, 4pm-8pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr

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Sunday 19 July

Wings & Wheels for Angel Flight, 8am, Donnington Airpark, Woodstock

Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Goodbye Breakfast, 9am, Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill

Burdekin Dachshunds Meet Up, 9am, Ayr Dog Park, Ayr

Zonta Club Burdekin’s Strive to Be Kind Lunch, 12pm-2pm, Silver Screens ‘N Coffee Beans, Ayr

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Monday 20 July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Tuesday 21 July

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Wednesday 22 July

Home Hill CWL Free Morning Tea

Wednesday, 9:30am

Home Hill CWL extends an invitation to all for our free morning tea—a great opportunity to catch up with new and old friends and especially if you’re new to the area. Some entertainment and games with a chance to win a raffle prize.

St Colemans Hall, Home Hill

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Thursday 23 July

Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Zyon Dallecort (CORES QLD & Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre)’s Trivia Night, 6pm, The Lighthouse, 130 Young Street, Ayr

Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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Friday 24 July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Burdekin Support Group of Parkinsons, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue’s Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr

The Eagles Greatest Hits

Friday, 7:30pm-10pm

Celebrate the timeless sound of The Eagles live in concert, as a world-class six-piece band delivers two hours of iconic hits including Hotel California, Desperado and Lyin’ Eyes in a powerful, nostalgia-filled night of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Saturday 25 July

Macrame Pot Hanger Workshop, 2pm, Home Hill Greek Community Hall, Home Hill

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Sunday 26 July

Gospel Music Festival

Sunday, 10am-6pm

Enjoy a free, uplifting day at the Gospel Music Festival at the Stardust Drive-In, featuring inspiring live performances from Brendon Walmsley, Victor Clay and Lynton Allen in a powerful celebration of music, faith and community.

Stardust Drive-In Theatre, 27 Kilrie Road, Ayr

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Monday 27 July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Tuesday 28 July

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Thursday 30 July

Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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Friday 31 July

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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“Seeing our students proudly engage in NAIDOC celebrations is incredibly special,” Head of Curriculum Nikky Guilfoyle said. Photos: Facebook/Ayr State School

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The Ayr State School community joined the nation in celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture as NAIDOC Week arrived late last month.

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The celebrations, this year honouring five decades of NAIDOC, saw students and families gather at the school to recognise the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples.

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Attendees created Indigenous-inspired artworks and took part in hands-on damper making, before exploring one of the Gudjuda Rangers' research boats used to monitor and protect sea turtles.

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A kup murri lunch provided a unique taste of First Nations cuisine, with traditional dance performances and the singing of Taba Naba, a traditional song from the Torres Strait Islands, closing out the event.

Ayr State School Head of Curriculum Nikky Guilfoyle said the event was an opportunity for students to “develop a greater appreciation of culture.”

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“Seeing our students proudly engage in NAIDOC celebrations is incredibly special,” she said.

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“Through storytelling, art, dance and shared experiences, [the students] develop a greater appreciation of culture, identity and community while learning the importance of respect and inclusion.

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“These experiences help build understanding, strengthen relationships and ensure every student recognises the significance of Australia's First Nations cultures as an essential part of our shared story.”

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The school extended a “heartfelt thank you” to everyone involved in bringing the event to fruition.

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Winners of the adult men's and women's categories. Photos supplied.

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The Millaroo State School P&C has raised more than $17,000 to support students after a successful return of its annual Catfish Competition last weekend.

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More than 50 competitors took part in the two-day fishing event, with the community gathering at the Millaroo Social Club on Saturday night for presentations, live entertainment and a fish-and-chip dinner prepared by the Millaroo P&C.

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The evening attracted more than 100 people in total, with auctioned items kindly donated by Don West Toyota & Burdekin laser cutting raising $1,075. Sponsorship contributions made up the rest of the fundraising total.

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This year’s competition saw anglers compete across categories including longest catfish, most catfish caught and longest other species, with junior divisions encouraging young fishers to get involved.

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Among the weekend’s winners were Millaroo State School students Leo and Layla Middleton, who claimed the titles for the longest catfish in their respective age categories, along with Harris Peterson and Remy Booth, among others.

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The event featured live music from Tiny & The Bad Teddy, raffles and a range of prizes, with free camping available for competitors wanting to make a weekend of the event.

Organisers thanked the wider community via Facebook for helping make the fundraiser a success, highlighting the teamwork and support behind the event.

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“We’re a small community but when there’s work to be done, everyone pitches in,” shared Millaroo Social Club.

“That’s what makes days like this possible and it’s all worth it to create memories for our kids and bring our community together.

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“Thank you again to everyone who supported the event. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!”

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Student Ravenna Davies smiles with her Term 2 ‘Cold Write’. Photo supplied.

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On Tuesday the 9th of June, all Prep to Year 4’s went to the Burdekin Theatre. St. Francis wanted them to watch Fractured Fairytale’s, because Mrs J and Mrs D thought it would be a marvellous performance and idea.

First, we got on the bus extremely excited and wondering what to expect. The bus ride took forever! I almost fell asleep.

Next, we got into the theatre and there were props everywhere (all over the stage). As everyone sat, the lights went pitch black. We knew it was starting. Then two characters popped out—their names were Henn and Felix.

When it was done we all got a sticker which said, “I went to the Burdekin Theatre.” The bus ride back was just as long as the one there.

So in conclusion, this text discussed the great time 3/4B had at the theatre.

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A new venue and diverse line-up of local and visiting performers will offer “a bit of everything” to Ayr as the fourth annual Burdekin Gospel Music Festival returns later this month.

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Hosted by the Burdekin Uniting Church on 25–26 July, the festival’s customary community-focused charm will arrive at the Stardust Drive-In for the first time, accommodating growing crowds from across the region as it showcases a line-up of pastors and touring artists spanning country music, hip-hop and live art.

Narelle Castorina of the Burdekin Uniting Church said organisers were especially looking forward to this year's iteration of the local favourite event.

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"We're really excited for this year—it's come together nicely," Ms Castorina said.

"It doesn't matter what age you are ... I think everyone will get something out of it for themselves. It'll be a wonderful opportunity for people to come and enjoy country music … all for free."

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Saturday's festivities will begin at the Mackenzie Street church grounds with a sausage sizzle before featuring $5 creative workshops led by three visiting artists.

Attendees will have the choice of a songwriting workshop with Tamworth-based, award-winning musician Brendon Walmsley, a hip-hop session led by Adelaide pastor Victor Claye, or a pastel art class presented by Melbourne artist Lynton Allan.

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Those interested in attending a workshop must pre-register by texting their name, age and preferred artist to 0477 575 972, with the $5 fee payable on the day.

On Sunday, 26 July, the festival will move to the Stardust Drive-In with an ecumenical service at 10am before local artists take to the stage and children's activities run until 2pm. The weekend will then culminate in a free headline concert featuring Walmsley, Claye, Allan and special guest youth minister Dan Warlow.

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Food will be available throughout Sunday at the kiosk, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.

The event is being delivered with assistance from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government and Burdekin Shire Council that supports local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

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Organisers also thanked Bendigo Community Bank, Wilmar Sugar, ML Partners and NQ Rural & Business Brokers for their support as major sponsors.

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Silver will shine across Airlie Beach this year as the Great Barrier Reef Festival unveils a special birthday theme to celebrate its 25-year anniversary.

Proudly presented by Cruise Whitsundays, the festival returns from July 31^st to August 2^nd, with three days of reef-inspired festivities, entertainment and community celebrations marking the milestone occasion.

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"Celebrating 25 years is not only a chance to reflect on how far the festival has come, it's also a vote of confidence in where we're headed," said Festival Chair Heather Batrick.  

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"We're incredibly grateful for the support we've received from both our returning and new sponsors this year.

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"Their investment is a testament to the strength of the festival, our incredible volunteers and the community that has championed this event for a quarter of a century.

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"Their continued support allows us to keep growing the festival, attract outstanding entertainment, and continue offering so many of our signature events free for everyone to enjoy."

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This year will see the return of the community’s favourite events, such as Saturday’s Main Street takeover with the Club Whitsundays Street parade and Revvin’ Reef Car Show, the Tasman Holiday Parks Family Fun Day and of course the spectacular firework presentation that will kick of the whole thing, now sponsored by AirBnB.  

"Airbnb is proud to partner with the Great Barrier Reef Festival and support the incredible volunteers who make this event possible for all those who attend from near and far," said Susan Wheeldon, Country Manager of Airbnb Australia and New Zealand.  

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Festival-goers can expect an immersive experience across the foreshore, with a large-scale reef art installation made from recycled materials on display in Fairy Tree Park, capturing the essence of the reef’s natural wonder.

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Giulia Sarri loved every second of representing her school, Burdekin Christian College a Junior Ambassador in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto

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2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri says the experience greatly transformed her confidence, particularly when it comes to public speaking, and is warmly encouraging other young people to step outside their comfort zones and get involved.

Representing Burdekin Christian College (BCC) throughout last year's festival, Giulia embraced every opportunity the Ambassador Program had to offer and said it helped her become far more confident speaking in front of others.

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"With public speaking, I don't get as nervous anymore and I'm much more comfortable speaking at events without prior notice," expressed Giulia.

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Having grown up in Brandon and now attending Year 7 at Burdekin Christian College, Giulia has a deep appreciation for the close-knit community she calls home. She loves that "everything is close and everyone knows each other," and believes events such as the Burdekin Water Festival play an important role in bringing the community together and celebrating the region.

Grateful for the opportunity to represent her school, Giulia said she felt honoured to be selected as BCC’s 2025 Junior Ambassador and is encouraging other students to nominate for future festivals.

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"I was extremely grateful to be chosen to represent the school and proud and honoured to do so," she said.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and not many people can say they have been an ambassador for their local club, school or business, so to me, it was quite special. My school supported me throughout the journey."

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Giulia's mother, Lisa Sarri, said she could not have been prouder of her daughter's growth throughout the experience and believes the Ambassador Program has helped shape her into the confident high school student she is today.

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"I was extremely proud watching Giulia's confidence and personality grow with each Water Festival event,” said Ms Sarri.

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“Giulia stayed true to herself throughout the ambassador program and embraced every new opportunity."

While Giulia treasured every moment of the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, one experience stood above the rest; visiting residents at Regis Aged Care in Home Hill alongside her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors.

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"The part of the experience that meant the most to me personally would be attending Regis as part of the Ambassador program and entertaining the residents."

Giulia said the visit gave her the opportunity to connect with the community in a meaningful way while sharing one of her favourite hobbies.

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"I presented a crochet lesson and they all loved it! Being crowned the winner was honestly a bonus after fun-filled months attending events and making new friends."

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Although nominations for the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program have now closed and this year's Junior and Senior Ambassador cohort has been announced, Giulia hopes more young people will consider nominating for the 2027 Ambassador Program and experience everything it has to offer.

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"Just go for it," Giulia encourages.

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"Be part of something special! Once you nominate my advice would be to be yourself, talk to everyone and have fun!"

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Self-taught cook Giovanna Castorina is preparing to launch a series of cooking classes, giving residents the opportunity to create restaurant-calibre meals from their own kitchens. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.

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Burdekin local Giovanna Castorina has been turning simple ingredients into mouth-watering Italian dishes for years.

Now, she’s letting locals in on her secret.

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The self-taught cook behind Giovanna’s Cucina in Home Hill is preparing to launch a series of cooking classes, giving residents the opportunity to create restaurant-calibre meals from their own kitchens.

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Born out of regular requests from Facebook followers eager to learn her tricks, Giovanna will teach each class herself, imparting the culinary flair that has seen her business become a local favourite.

“A lot of people have been asking for it over the last couple of years,” she said.

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“Every time I put something on my [social media] stories of what I’m cooking at home, everyone always messages and says, ‘can I have the recipe!’”

Classes will be hosted at her shop on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue, offering a more intimate and hands-on experience to classes of six to eight people.

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Each session will feature a rotating theme, with ideas ranging from fresh pasta and Italian feasts to midweek meals, slow-cooker dishes, beginner essentials—perfect for uni students—and a ‘husbands who cook’ class.

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Giovanna says the goal is to share unique, cost-effective cooking ideas that can be easily adopted in the kitchen at home.

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“Times are tough at the moment, and people aren’t going out to eat as much. They want to cook at home—but at the same time, finding ideas, or even just the know-how, can be tough,” she said.

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“I want people to go home and try something they’ve never tried before, whether it’s crème brûlée, fresh pasta, or even just a midweek dinner that they never would’ve thought to do otherwise.”

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Participants will prepare a three- to four-course meal, including an entrée, main and dessert, before sitting down to enjoy the creations and taking the recipes home.

Giovanna says each class will offer a fun, social experience, with private sessions also available for a ladies’ night out, workplace team-building session, or simply trying something new with friends.

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The classes will be open to anyone aged 15 and over, with no prior cooking experience required.

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Stay tuned to Giovanna’s Cucina’s Facebook page for further updates.

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