Entertainment

BUBLÉ TRIBUTE TO BRING BURDEKIN CHRISTMAS CHEER

BUBLÉ TRIBUTE TO BRING BURDEKIN CHRISTMAS CHEER

Home Hill residents will have the chance to enjoy the music of Michael Bublé when a tribute show arrives at the Burdekin Memorial Hall next month. Welsh-born performer Rhydian Lewis will lead his four-piece band, The Residuals, in a celebration of the Canadian singer's biggest hits and much-loved Christmas songs on Wednesday 2nd December. The show will feature favourites including Home, Everything, Haven't Met You Yet, Feeling Good, Sway and The Way You Look Tonight, alongside Christmas classics such as White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, A Holly Jolly Christmas and It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. Audiences can also expect stories from Bublé's life, with Lewis and The Residuals bringing the singer's signature blend of swing, pop and big-band music to the stage. With more than 10 years of touring experience across Queensland, Victoria and NSW, Lewis has established himself as one of Australia's leading Michael Bublé tribute performers. His Burdekin performance is free for the community, with tickets provided by Burdekin Shire Council. Free morning tea will be served from 10am, ahead of the performance starting at 11am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill. Tickets are still available and can be booked online at www.burdekintheatre.com.au or by contacting the Burdekin Theatre Box Office on (07) 4783 9880. CAPTION: With more than 10 years of touring experience across Queensland, Victoria and NSW, Lewis has established himself as one of Australia's leading Michael Bublé tribute performers. Photo supplied

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Burdekin Life Event Guide

Burdekin Life Event Guide

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HARVEST FESTIVAL TO BRING RIO CARNIVALE TO HOME HILL

HARVEST FESTIVAL TO BRING RIO CARNIVALE TO HOME HILL

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HATS OFF TO BURDEKIN SENIORS

HATS OFF TO BURDEKIN SENIORS

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Home Hill Tennis Trivia Serves Up $2000 For Club

October 22, 2026

The night's champions, ‘Mark’s Minions’. Photos supplied

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Twenty teams put their knowledge to the test at a Home Hill Tennis Association trivia fundraiser, raising more than $2000 for the club.

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The event was held as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival, organised by Festival Queen Sarah Shepherd, whom the tennis club is sponsoring.

The night featured seven rounds of questions covering topics from ‘Australiana' to Rio Carnival, with some proving harder than participants expected.

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Queen entrant Sarah Shepherd with trivia master Mark Barbagallo. Photos supplied

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Mini-games, including a last-man-standing pickleball juggling competition, added a twist to proceedings, with ‘Mark’s Minions’ ultimately emerging to take home the title.

Organisers said only half a point separated the night’s winners from second and third place.

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Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell said the club was surprised by the level of community support, including an array of prizes donated by local businesses.

“We were surprised by the community support … The cars were out to the racetrack!” she said.

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Twenty teams put their knowledge to the test. Photos supplied

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Kate said the club would take feedback about the question difficulty on board for next year.

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“We promise we'll make the questions easier next year,” she laughed.

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RURAL MENTAL HEALTH FILM HITS BURDEKIN THEATRE

October 22, 2026

An award-winning film exploring the challenges of rural life and mental health will screen at the Burdekin Theatre on Sunday, 25th October.

Just a Farmer follows the struggles and triumphs of rural communities, highlighting mental health challenges and the importance of community resilience.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the film could help spark important conversations about mental health in farming communities.

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“Mental health is often a silent struggle in farming communities,” she said.

“This film brings that reality to the forefront, starting conversations that can change lives.”

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A question-and-answer session with writer and producer Leila McDougall and Warren Davies, known as The Unbreakable Farmer, will take place before the screening, giving attendees an opportunity to discuss the film’s themes.

Doors open at 3pm, with the screening commencing at 4pm.

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Tickets are available online at https://bit.ly/JustaFarmer_Tix.

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Burdekin Life Event Guide

October 22, 2026

Thursday 22nd October

Zonta Club Burdekin Inc and Bendigo Community Bank, Home Hill and Ayr are hosting a FREE Financial Literacy Q & A Event for Mature Women on Thursday, 22 October 6.30pm, at the PCYC Burdekin, 164 MacMillan Street, AYR.

Event presenter, Ms Chris Delaney, will highlight essential fraud and scam awareness and help attendees better understand financial readiness for life after a partner passes.

A light supper will be served at the end of the event.

For complete event details, please see the poster on Zonta’s Facebook page.

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

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Friday 23rd October

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

Burdekin Catholic Parish Bingo Night Fundraiser

6pm

$25 per person - includes 10 games and markers

Sausage sizzle and licensed bar available. Tea, coffee and smoke - gold coin donation

Contact Kaylene Rinella on 0407622975 to register

Parish Hall, Home Hill

ABBA Thank You for the Music

Friday, 7:30pm-10pm

Celebrate the magic of ABBA with Thank You for the Music, a dazzling two-hour live tribute packed with iconic hits, soaring harmonies and feel-good nostalgia, bringing timeless classics like Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia and Waterloo to life on stage. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/ABBA-Thank-you-for-the-Music.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Saturday 24th October

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

KING & QUEEN OF THE HILL

6am, Inkerman Hill

Participants will tackle the challenging course from the bottom of Inkerman Hill to the picturesque lookout and back down again. Divided into age groups, runners will compete for the title in a test of speed and endurance.

Multiple age group categories, cash prizes and a coffee van and food available. $5 registration on the day.

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SUNDAY 25TH OCTOBER

St Colman's 100 Celebration 9am-1pm, St Colman's Church and Hall, cnr 10th Street & 10th Avenue, Home Hill

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Monday 26th October

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

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Tuesday 27th October

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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Step Into a World of Fairy-Tale Magic with Hans Christian Andersen Jr

October 15, 2026

Contributed with thanks by the Burdekin Singers

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The Burdekin Singers are inviting audiences of all ages to step into a magical world of fairy tales with their latest production, Hans Christian Andersen Junior Theatre Restaurant.

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From the moment the curtain rises, audiences will be transported into the enchanting world of one of the world's most beloved storytellers. Featuring familiar tales of Thumbelina, The Little Mermaid and the Ugly Ducking, this charming production promises an evening filled with music, laughter, imagination and a little bit of magic.

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Presented by the talented young performers of the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company, the production celebrates the timeless stories of Hans Christian Andersen while showcasing the enthusiasm, creativity and talent of the Burdekin's younger generation.

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And this isn't simply a night at the theatre; it's a theatre restaurant experience. Your ticket includes supper, so audiences can sit back, relax and enjoy the show while sharing an evening with family and friends. Alternatively, you're welcome to bring your own food and create your very own fairy-tale feast. The Lighthouse is fully licensed, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Whether you're bringing the family, catching up with friends or simply looking for a wonderful night of local entertainment, Hans Christian Andersen Junior Theatre Restaurant is an opportunity to support local young performers and enjoy some classic stories brought to life on stage.

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Performances will be held at The Lighthouse, 130 Young Street, Ayr, from the 17th October to 1st November 2026.

Tickets are available online through TryBooking, simply search for “HCA Jnr – Burdekin Singers Junior Theatre Restaurant” or visit the Burdekin Singers Facebook page for ticket information.

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Gather your companions, take your seat and prepare to be swept away into a world where mermaids, tiny fairies, ugly ducklings and fairy-tale adventures come to life.

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The curtain is rising and your fairy tale awaits, you don’t want to miss this one!

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Burdekin Life Event Guide

October 15, 2026

Thursday 15th October

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

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Friday 16th October

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

Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Beyond the Gate, 11am-3pm, Populins Hall, Ayr

One Voice – Greatest Hits of John Farnham (Tribute Show), 7:30pm-10pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Monday 19th October

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

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Tuesday 20th October

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 22nd October

Zonta Club Burdekin Inc and Bendigo Community Bank, Home Hill and Ayr are hosting a FREE Financial Literacy Q & A Event for Mature Women on Thursday, 22 October 6.30pm, at the PCYC Burdekin, 164 MacMillan Street, AYR.

Event presenter, Ms Chris Delaney, will highlight essential fraud and scam awareness and help attendees better understand financial readiness for life after a partner passes.

A light supper will be served at the end of the event.

For complete event details, please see the poster on Zonta’s Facebook page.

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

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Friday 23rd October

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

ABBA Thank You for the Music

Friday, 7:30pm-10pm

Celebrate the magic of ABBA with Thank You for the Music, a dazzling two-hour live tribute packed with iconic hits, soaring harmonies and feel-good nostalgia, bringing timeless classics like Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia and Waterloo to life on stage. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/ABBA-Thank-you-for-the-Music.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Saturday 24th October

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

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Monday 26th October

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

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Tuesday 27th October

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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Hats And High Tea To Celebrate Seniors Month

October 15, 2026

Photo source: Pexels

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Burdekin seniors are being invited to don their favourite hats for a morning of high tea, games and prizes in Ayr later this month.

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The Burdekin Community Association (BCA) will host its free Hats Off! Game On! Seniors High Tea and Hats Event at Sacred Heart Parish Hall on Thursday, 22nd October, as part of Queensland Seniors Month.

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Held throughout October under the theme “Connect and celebrate”, Seniors Month encourages older Queenslanders to build connections and celebrate their contributions to the community.

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Doors will open at 9.30am for a 10am start, with the event running until noon.

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Attendees can enjoy a selection of treats, tea and coffee, alongside trivia, music, challenges and other games designed to bring people together for a morning of fun.

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Guests are encouraged to wear their favourite hats, with a prize up for grabs for the best or best-decorated hat.

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While the event is free, bookings and tickets are essential.

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To secure a ticket, contact the BCA Support Centre on 4783 3744 or visit the centre at 130 Queen Street, Ayr.

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STUDENTS HIT THE RED CARPET AT HARVEST FESTIVAL BALL

October 15, 2026

Burdekin Catholic High School pair Boston Bramwell and Jayel Gibson were crowned Beau and Belle Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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More than 280 Burdekin high schoolers hit the runway at last Friday’s Home Hill Harvest Festival Students’ Ball, where Burdekin Catholic High School pair Boston Bramwell and Jayel Gibson were crowned Beau and Belle, respectively.

Beau and Belle runners-up Chase Power and Riley Sartori Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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Hundreds waited outside Burdekin Memorial Hall to greet the glammed-up Year 10-12 students, each making a red carpet entrance before taking their seats for the evening’s formalities.

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Max Kelly and Holly James were named Best-Dressed Couple Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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Headlining proceedings was an awards ceremony, which acknowledged several students for their standout participation on the night.

Bramwell and Gibson were joined by Beau and Belle runners-up Chase Power and Riley Sartori, while Max Kelly and Holly James were named Best-Dressed Couple.

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Matt Pappalardo and Erin Palmer were named Mr Swagger and Ms Sass Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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Matt Pappalardo and Erin Palmer were named Mr Swagger and Ms Sass, respectively.

Event coordinator Sharyn Woods said this year’s competition was particularly competitive.

This year’s Harvest Festival Queens Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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“I spoke to one of the judges—she went, ‘oh my god, that was the most difficult thing I've ever done. I just couldn’t choose,’” she said.

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Students also enjoyed a meal donated by local businesses before this year’s Harvest Festival Queens took to the stage for a formal address. Brisbane-based entertainer DJ Dello provided the night’s music.

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Students made a red carpet entrance before taking their seats for the evening’s formalities. Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

Ms Woods said the event received many positive reviews, praising the conduct of participating students.

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“It was such a good night. The students were so well-behaved, which was a credit to all the schools,” she said.

“It was a great opportunity for them to just relax and have a good time before exams.”

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Burdekin Life Event Guide

October 8, 2026

Thursday 8th October

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

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Friday 9th October

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

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Saturday 10th October

Car Boot Sale, 8am-12pm, Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark, Home Hill

Self Ignited Soul Women’s Event, 4pm, TBA

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Monday 12th October

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

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Tuesday 13th October

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

Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr

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Thursday 15th October

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

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Friday 16th October

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

Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Beyond the Gate, 11am-3pm, Populins Hall, Ayr

One Voice – Greatest Hits of John Farnham (Tribute Show), 7:30pm-10pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Monday 19th October

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

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Tuesday 20th October

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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Paradise Amplified! Everything you need to know about the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music

October 8, 2026

The sun will soon rise on the 14th Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and taking his own advice to follow it is none other than legendary singer-songwriter, Xavier Rudd.  

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Headlining the iconic waterfront main stage on Friday, November 6, Rudd is expected to treat the crowd to a mix of new music and classics like Spirit Bird, Storm Boy, and of course Follow the Sun.  

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“Airlie is a beautiful spot and I’m looking forward to getting back up that way,” he said, adding that the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef was a place where he could happily hang out with his boat.  

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Joining Rudd on the three-day lineup at Queensland’s premier ‘party in paradise’ are some of the nation’s most celebrated acts, including Hunters and Collectors frontman, Mark Seymour, Aussie icons Mental As Anything, The Whitlams, The Radiators, chart-topper Conrad Sewell, Country artist Adam Harvey, and internationally renowned blues guitarist, Nathan Cavaleri.  

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With 60 acts across 16 venues – from the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to the main strip of Airlie Beach and beyond – here’s what you need to know about the 2026 event.

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Pay for three days, party for five

In addition to the weekend of November 6-8, the festival includes a Beach Jam and Welcome Party on Thursday, November 5, and an After Party at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill on Monday, November 9.  

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Titled ‘Women Who Rock’, the opening event at Magnums features an all-star female cast, of Little Quirks, Loonaloop, Tess Fapani, Carinda Christie Band and Tiffany Grace.  

Meanwhile, the After Party will be headlined by Nathan Cavaleri, Skinny Living (UK), Mason Rack Band, Salt & Steel, Zed Charles Band, Matt Tandy and Mango Thieves.  

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Three-day pass holders have access to both additional events at no extra cost, with general admission three-day tickets priced at $340 and two-day passes costing $250.  

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Live it up like a rockstar

The Mentals aren’t the only ones who get to ‘Live it Up’, with VIP ticket-holders experiencing rockstar treatment in the main tent.  

VIP passes cost $1,200 and include an exclusive ocean-front section, separate amenities, buffet food and a daily six-hour drink package.  

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Discover new talent

Come for the big names and leave having found new favourites you’d never heard before.  

The festival has a proud history of supporting emerging artists through its national Passport to Airlie initiative, dedicated to unearthing talent and launching careers.  

Warming the stage for Xavier Rudd on November 6, will be 10 regional finalists from this year’s Passport to Airlie heats, followed by 2025 national winners, Melbourne band, Monroe.

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The Ultimate Music Holiday

With jaw-dropping sea views from the main tent and world-famous natural icons just a boat ride away, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a tropical escape with a killer soundtrack.  

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Tickets are on sale at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au.

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WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHEN: 6-8th November

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

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Mango, Chilli & Lime Prawn Tacos

October 8, 2026

Photo sourced: Shutterstock

Serves: 4
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes

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Ingredients

  • 500g raw prawns, peeled and deveined  
  • 1 tbsp olive oil  
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika  
  • ½ tsp chilli flakes  
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed  
  • Juice of 1 lime  
  • 1 ripe mango, diced  
  • ½ small red onion, finely sliced  
  • Handful fresh coriander, chopped  
  • 8 small tortillas  
  • ½ cup Greek yoghurt  
  • 1 avocado, sliced  
  • Extra lime wedges, to serve  

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Method

  1. Combine the prawns with olive oil, paprika, chilli, garlic and half the lime juice. Set aside for five minutes.  
  1. Toss the mango, red onion, coriander and remaining lime juice together to make a fresh salsa.  
  1. Heat a frying pan over high heat and cook the prawns for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.  
  1. Warm the tortillas, then fill with avocado, prawns and plenty of mango salsa.  
  1. Finish with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and an extra squeeze of lime.  

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TASTE TIP: Add finely sliced jalapeño to the mango salsa for an extra kick, or swap the prawns for grilled chicken if seafood isn't your thing.

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SWEET DAYS HOT NIGHTS LOCKED IN FOR 2027

October 8, 2026

The event attracted more than 4,000 visitors last time out. Photo: Jacob Casha

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One of the Burdekin’s premier events will return to the region next year with dates now confirmed for the 2027 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival.

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The event—which attracted more than 4,000 visitors last time out—is set to return to the Home Hill Showgrounds on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th May next year.

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Burdekin Shire Council confirmed that planning for the event is already underway, with a branding revamp to be unveiled alongside a program of entertainment, cultural experiences, competitions, food, family activities and community participation opportunities.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said next year’s festival would build on the momentum of previous years.

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“The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival has become one of North Queensland’s premier regional festivals, celebrating the people, produce and culture that make the Burdekin unique,” Mayor Dalle Cort said. 

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“The festival continues to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for the region, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and showcasing the Burdekin to a wider audience.”

Pacific Blue, Parkside and Canegrowers Burdekin will return as presenting sponsors for the 2027 festival.

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Pacific Blue Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer Simon Maan said the company was proud to continue its partnership with the festival.

“The festival celebrates the unique identity of the Burdekin and delivers positive outcomes for local businesses, tourism and the wider community,” he said.

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Further details about the 2027 program are yet to be announced.

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Businesses and organisations can enquire about sponsorship opportunities by contacting Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800.

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Festival updates will be published through the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival Facebook and Instagram pages and its mailing list.

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“THE BIGGEST EVER” HOME HILL ROTARY HOSTS RECORD-BREAKING TRIVIA NIGHT

October 1, 2026

Just For Fun Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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A Burdekin trivia night fundraiser raised nearly $1,500 for the Rotary Club of Home Hill last week, a record high for the annual endeavour.

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Hosted by the Club and its Harvest Festival Queen Maddy Gallagher, the event welcomed 94 locals—also a record—to the St Coleman’s Catholic Church hall on Saturday, 25th September, where teams of up to eight put their knowledge to the test across eight rounds of trivia.

Still Thinking Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The event formed part of Home Hill Rotary’s Harvest Festival fundraising campaign, with a portion of proceeds put towards its $40,000 police ATV mission.

Teams of up to eight put their knowledge to the test across eight rounds of trivia Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Club members said they were “blown away” by the support on the night, having to make last-minute adjustments to accommodate the flurry of bookings the week of the event.

Attendees also sported their best eighties-themed attire, with a Men in Black-themed duo taking top honours Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The club credited Maddy’s efforts in promoting the event as a significant reason for the event’s success.

Home Hill Rotary Treasurer Desley Musumeci with Harvest Festival Queen Maddy Gallagher Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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‘The Real Deal’ walked away eventual trivia winners, taking home six $50 Prawn Stop vouchers donated in half by Melissa Wiles.

Revenue Raisers Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Attendees also sported their best eighties-themed attire, with a Men in Black-themed duo taking top honours.

Home Hill Rotary President Clive Williams addresses the crowd Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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ONE VOICE: Experience The Musical Legacy Of An Australian Icon

October 1, 2026

Fronted by award-winning vocalist and former 1927 bassist Simon Shapiro, an eight-piece band will perform Farnham classics including You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, Age of Reason, Two Strong Hearts, That’s Freedom, Helpand Sadie. Photo supplied

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Burdekin John Farnham fans will hear some of his biggest hits performed live when One Voice—Greatest Hits of John Farnham comes to the Burdekin Theatre on Friday 16th October.

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Fronted by award-winning vocalist and former 1927 bassist Simon Shapiro, an eight-piece band will perform Farnham classics including You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, Age of Reason, Two Strong Hearts, That’s Freedom, Help and Sadie.

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The two-hour concert will see Shapiro draw on his own unique connection to Farnham, having previously touring as a support act for the Australian singer.

“Touring with him as a support act … and seeing him perform from the side stage has helped me to see first-hand where the bar is; really high,” he said.

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Shapiro said the show began as a one-off performance for an Australian event after he had initially started performing on a cruise ship.

“It went really well, I really resonated with the material, and it all seemed to match my voice—a lot more than I thought it would,” he said.

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“After that, we decided as a group that we’d make it a thing.”

The show has been touring theatres since December last year, backed by musicians with experience performing and recording alongside artists including Michael McDonald, Simple Minds, Daryl Braithwaite, Glenn Shorrock, Ross Wilson, Wendy Matthews, Eurogliders and Brian Cadd.

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Shapiro said Farnham’s distinctive approach to his music was something he sought to preserve in the show.

“John Farnham didn’t ever sing a song the same way—he's very creative with his melodies and he’ll have fun with the notes, and I try to embody that spirit,” he said, adding that the band plays off the audience’s energy.

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“Every crowd is different. Some shows, we’ll go: ‘they’re in a singing mood, we’re gonna break it down more often and get them to sing along a bit more.’”

Beyond the songs, Shapiro said its about preserving the legacy of a legendary Australian musician.

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“I think people are very defensive about John Farnham, and rightly so,” he said.

“It’s more important now than ever that artists perform his legacy of music, because it is a big part of the Australian culture.”

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One Voice – Greatest Hits of John Farnham will be held at the Burdekin Theatre on Friday, 16th October, from 7.30pm to 10.30pm.

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Tickets are available at burdekinthatre.com.au  

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Could The Burdekin Produce The Next Farmer Wants A Wife Star?

October 1, 2026

Could the Burdekin produce the next Farmer Wants A Wife star? Producers are encouraging single farmers from the region to put themselves forward for the show's 2027 season. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin could be home to the next Farmer Wants A Wife star, with producers specifically encouraging local farmers to put themselves forward for the show's upcoming season.

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Eureka Productions, which produces the Australian series for Seven, has named the Burdekin alongside the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions as areas it would particularly like to see represented in its latest casting search. And there is one reason the Burdekin stands out; producers say they do not often receive applications from the region.

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“We don’t often receive applications from these particular regions, so we’d be very keen to hear from eligible farmers across North Queensland,” a Eureka Productions spokesperson said.

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“We love showcasing Queensland on the series and the diversity of its landscapes, communities and agricultural industries, so it would be fantastic to see more North Queensland farmers represented in our casting pool.

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“There isn’t one particular type of farmer or agricultural industry that we focus on. Cane growers and producers from across the region are absolutely encouraged to apply.”

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Instead, personality could be just as important as what is growing in the paddock. Eureka said it is looking for genuine single farmers who are ready to pursue a meaningful relationship and willing to share their lives with viewers.

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“Personality is also a big part of casting,” the spokesperson said, with producers interested in farmers who are passionate about what they do and where they live, connected to their family or community, and able to give viewers a real sense of life on the land.

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“They don’t need to be the loudest in the room, just willing and open to sharing their thoughts with us.”

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The 2027 casting search is currently open, with farmers across Australia invited to put themselves forward, while the casting team is also accepting recommendations from people who know a farmer who might be suited to the show.

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Applications are currently being accepted through Eureka Productions' official Farmer Wants A Wife casting page, with no closing date publicly listed.

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So, Burdekin; is there a farmer out there ready to trade the tractor seat for one in front of the camera?

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Burdekin Life Event Guide

October 9, 2026

Thursday 24th September

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

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Friday 25th September

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

The Rotary Club of Home Hill Trivia night, 7pm, St Colmans Parish Hall. Teams of 6 at a cost of $15 per person. Bookings can be made at 0408 822 029 or on the night.

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Saturday 26th September

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

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Sunday 27th September

Kate Ceberano’s Australia Made Tour

Sunday, 7:30pm-9:30pm

Experience Kate Ceberano’s Australian Made Tour, a powerhouse celebration of iconic Aussie music featuring reimagined classics from INXS, Paul Kelly, Divinyls and more, alongside her own hits, delivered with unforgettable vocals, energy and star-studded live performance. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Kate-Ceberano-Australian-Made-Tour.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

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Monday 28th September

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

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Tuesday 29th September

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 1st October

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Tech Together Workshop, 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

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Friday 2nd October

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

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Sunday 4th October

Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr

Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting, 1:45pm-5pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr

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Monday 5th October

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

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Your FREE Voice In Print

Home Hill: Cornetts IGA | United Service Station| Complete Health Pharmacy
Ayr: Woolworths | Coles | Tosh’s Convenience Store | Shell Service Station | Ayr Medical Group | Farmhouse Ayr Coffee & Cafe | Dal Santo’s Deli | Woods Newsagencies  
Brandon
: Hotel Brandon | JC’s Cafe
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