Thursday 30 January
Ayr Friendship Club Wood Burning
Thursday 10am
Come along for a FREE creative and enjoyable morning with friends!
158 Queen Street, Ayr

Friday 31 January
Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s Back to the 80’s
Friday 7:30pm
From the era that brought the world the Rubik’s Cube, Max Headroom, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comes the “totally awesome” musical, Back to the 80’s! The Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s production of Back to the 80’s will be staged across two weekends with the opening night set for Friday 31 January!
Burdekin Theatre

Saturday 1 February
FREE Golf Clinic with Karrie Webb
Saturday 8:30am
Golfers of all abilities (including beginners) are invited to attend the Ayr Golf Club’s FREE Golf Clinic with Karrie Webb!
Ayr Golf Club

Sunday 2 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Sunday 2 February
Queensland Firebirds Netball Clinic
Sunday 11am
The Queensland Firebirds will fly into the Burdekin as part of their Regional Tour for a comprehensive paid clinic! Registrations are essential.
Burdekin Netball Association, Home Hill

Tuesday 4 February
BNC Burdekin Dementia Support Group
Tuesday 10am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing dementia in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Thursday 6 February
BNC Burdekin Senior Computer Club
Thursday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an educational computer club to support seniors’ journey into the digital age.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Saturday 8 February
Annual Alva Beach Golf Day
Saturday Midday
Get your teams together for one of Alva Beach’s most anticipated events of the year! With tee off scheduled for just after lunch, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club annually hosts an action-packed day to remember topped off with live music, prizes, a BBQ and bar!
Alva Beach

Sunday 9 February
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Monday 10 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club 2025 Debut Meeting
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club invites the community to attend their first meeting of 2025! Come along and see firsthand the wonderful plans the Club has in store for 2025, and reminisce on what they achieved in 2024.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

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Lawrence Polgar, President of the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company – who first went on stage in 1992 in Oliver – discusses the return of the show ‘Back To The 80s’ which first appeared here in the Burdekin, 20 years ago.  

“It’s exciting as it’s been 20 years since we first saw ‘Back To The 80s’ on stage here in the Burdekin. Some members even performed in the original show 20 years ago! The cast includes both senior and junior members from Townsville and the Burdekin area, many of whom have grown up through the Burdekin Singers,” an ecstatic Lawrence says.

“Over the years, they've come through our junior program and are now in our senior program. But it's also got a lot of new faces. We've got a lot of new local dancers that may not have a strength in singing, but actually have a strength in the arts. So we have a full dance cast as well.”

The production team includes local director, Pat Nuttall, and choreographers Stephanie Polgar, Jane Olson, and Mitchell Pierce, who have risen through the ranks.

“They have all been part of the Burdekin Singers for quite some time now. They’ve moved through the ranks, and now they're in charge of our choreographing. Then we have the makeup. We have the hair. Then we have got the backstage crew, who are also volunteers. They come and give up their time to make this dream come alive and bring ‘Back To The 80s’ back to the Burdekin stage. It’s thrilling to be part of,” Lawrence grins.

The Burdekin Singers and their production team are aiming to make everything different this time, by changing a number of things without losing the show’s original appeal.

“This time around the show includes more colour, different singing styles, and revamped dance routines, with choreographers adding their own unique touches. One of our key points with this show is to do it differently from how we did the first time around. For example, some songs are broken down, so it’s not just one individual singing but multiple people involved. We've also changed a lot of the dance routines. Having a team of choreographers who’ve come through Burdekin Singers, now they’re adding their own flavour to the routines,” Lawrence delights.

The show’s original writer and creator, and Burdekin native, Neil Gooding, will also visit rehearsals to provide input and support, after having successfully written, produced, and directed international shows, including on Broadway in New York.

“Neil grew up in the Burdekin Singers, so reaching out to him and asking for an opportunity to do Back To The 80s again, he took it with two hands. Having him in town shows people that there are opportunities for them outside of just being on stage in a local theatre company. There are opportunities to be a creative writer, director, or to produce shows around the world or within Australia,” Lawrence states.

Of course, none of this is possible without the local community’s support, which is crucial for the non-profit organisation's success.

“We can't do shows like this without community support. We get a lot of support from the local council, but also businesses here in the Burdekin, whether it's financial, their time, or goodwill. We are always grateful. Without their support, we're unable to give these kids and adults an opportunity to do what they love to do. But also, we're not able to give the show the level of artistic flair that we have without the support of the Burdekin community.

To book tickets for Back To The 80s, contact Burdekin Theatre on: (07) 4783 9880, email: burdekin.theatre@burdekin.qld.gov.au or visit the website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com

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The Burdekin Singers cast ahead of their upcoming popular show, Back To The 80s. Photo: Supplied

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Thursday 16 January
Butterfly Creations School Holiday Activity
Thursday 11am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Sunday 19 January
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Monday 20 January
Sand Art Rangoli School Holiday Activity
Monday 11am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Tuesday 21 January
Code Club School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 3pm
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Celebration
Sunday 9am
The Molongle Beach Caravan Park will host live music, an all-day BBQ, crab and cane toad races, raffles and more! Reach out to 0436 372 089 for more information.
Molongle Beach Caravan Park

Sunday 26 January
2025 Australia Day Awards Ceremony
Sunday 9:30am
Officially commencing from 9:30am, the Burdekin Shire Council’s 2025 Australia Day Awards Ceremony will include a Citizenship Ceremony, presentation of Awards, and cutting of the Australia Day cake.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Social Bowls
Sunday 12:30pm
The Ayr Bowling Club invites the community to wear their favourite Aussie outfits for an afternoon of Australia Day Social Bowls! Sign on at 12:30pm, and begin bowling from 1pm.
101 Young Street, Ayr

Wednesday 29 January
BNC Presentation of Grief
Wednesday 10:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an interactive education session on what grief looks like, how to support someone who is grieving, and self-care activities.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Friday 31 January
Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s Back to the 80’s
Friday 7:30pm
From the era that brought the world the Rubik’s Cube, Max Headroom, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comes the “totally awesome” musical, Back to the 80’s! The Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s production of Back to the 80’s will be staged across two weekends with the opening night set for Friday 31 January!
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 2 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

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Despite being a whopping 15,000km from Edinburgh, Scotland, and on the other side of the world in the Southern Hemisphere, a Scottish Hogmanay was celebrated in the Burdekin region with bagpipes, haggis and an Auld Lang Syne. The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association hosted over 250 people at their biennial Hogmanay Ceilidh on New Years Eve, bringing a Celtic flavour to a good old fashioned family night of fun.

In between Gypsy Taps and Pride of Erins, the revellers were treated to the incredible sounds of the Scottish bagpipes and drums of the Ayr and Lower Burdekin Caledonian Pipe Band and the Townsville RSL Memorial Pipe Band, both who received a rousing reception and much applause.

Highland Dancers past and present, danced a Highland Fling before they were then quickly joined on the dance floor by a large gathering of merrymakers for a Strip the Willow and a Highland Schottische, with many exhibiting fine form throughout.

Townsville band Sneaky Beats provided a modern take to the night and kept everyone on the dance floor until well after midnight, with many of the attendees keen to ring in 2025 for as long as they could muster.

The traditional haggis, which included a delicious gluten free version, was prepared by Association member Melinda Clive, and was addressed by Andrew Mottin. Isabelle Fahey delivered the Selkirk Grace, which was followed by supper, including the delicious Scottish haggis! Talented local thespian, David Lequerica, kept the frivolities hopping as the delightful MC, with his abilities to make many laugh and enjoy themselves on the night even further as a result.

President of The Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association, Fiona Smith, acknowledged the Burdekin Shire Council for providing funding towards the community event, and thanked local businesses for providing supplies for the event during their busy holiday and festive period.

“The Burdekin has a rich multicultural history, which we are pleased to continue to promote. The Scots brought their wonderful traditions and customs with them when they arrived here in the Burdekin two centuries ago, and what better way to foster them than by bringing them altogether with a Ceilidh,” Fiona Smith said joyfully. 

Some of the money raised on the very successful and entertaining night, will be donated, but as yet, no profit figures are known and won’t be known for a few weeks until all the invoices have come in.

Until next year. Lang may yer lum reek!

Scots, kilts, and ladies who love them
Hogmanay was an all smiles affair
Spirits were high among friends this NYE
A toast to the new year, Scottish style
Pick a card, any card
Bagpipes and boogie
Dancing up a storm to see in the New Year
Scottish bagpipes always make for a delight
More dancing and Hogmanay festivities
The night was a resounding success with fun had by all who attended
Two young friends enjoying the Hogmanay fun

Photo credit: Marni Hine Photography

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Thursday 9 January
Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting School Holiday Activity
Thursday 10:30am
Children aged 8 years and over are encouraged to unleash their creativity on Thursday 9 January for the Ayr Library’s magical Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting workshop from 10:30am. Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Friday 10 January
Walk In Make It School Holiday Activity
Friday 9:30am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr & Home Hill Library

Friday 10 January
School Holiday Movie Screening
Friday 2pm
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Sunday 12 January
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Monday 13 January
Sand Art Rangoli School Holiday Activity
Monday 10:30am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Monday 13 January
BNC Crochet Group
Monday 1pm
Join the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre for a wonderful and creative crochet group!
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Tuesday 14 January
Walk In Make It School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 9:30am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr & Home Hill Library

Tuesday 14 January
Code Club School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 3pm
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Wednesday 15 January
Mario Kart Gaming School Holiday Activity
Wednesday 2pm
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Thursday 16 January
Butterfly Creations School Holiday Activity
Thursday 11am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Sunday 19 January
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Monday 20 January
Sand Art Rangoli School Holiday Activity
Monday 11am
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Tuesday 21 January
Code Club School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 3pm
Craft a world of holiday fun with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program! Bookings are essential via https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

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Despite the heavy downpour prior to the Ayr Queen Street Festival, spirits weren’t dampened any as local revellers lapped up the night time activities. While the rain persisted throughout the evening, several of the kids (and some adults) used the opportunity to dance in the blocked off street as they welcomed the teeming rainfall.
 
Several of the highlights ranged from a visit by Santa, who was busy walking the streets and having photos taken. He even managed to stay dry as he conducted the Burdekin Singers from the side of the footpath. Food stalls proved popular with their vast array of local fare, while Burdekin Christian College brother and sister singing sensation, Sioeli and Seinimli Ma’u showcased their prodigious talent to the delight of onlookers, who passed comment on their beautiful, soulful voices.

The rains got heavier as the night wore on, which only elevated the joy on people’s faces who did their best to stay dry but accepted they’d get wet anyway and rolled with it. Nothing was going to diminish the festival’s upbeat mood.

Ekob (8), Eva (6), Marlyna (10) and mum, Samantha Sagigi, savouring fairy floss

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Find more images at: https://www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/ayr-queen-street-fest-sparkles-in-rain

Sunday 5 January
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Celebrate the first Plantation Park Market of 2025 and join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 8 January
Walk In Make It School Holiday Activity
Wednesday 9:30am
Unleash your inner monster and craft up a storm with the Ayr and Home Hill Library’s Monster Masks Walk In Make It session on Wednesday 8 January. Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr & Home Hill Library

Thursday 9 January
Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting School Holiday Activity
Thursday 10:30am
Children aged 8 years and over are encouraged to unleash their creativity on Thursday 9 January for the Ayr Library’s magical Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting workshop from 10:30am. Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Friday 10 January
Walk In Make It School Holiday Activity
Friday 9:30am
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr & Home Hill Library

Friday 10 January
School Holiday Movie Screening
Friday 2pm
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Monday 13 January
Sand Art Rangoli School Holiday Activity
Monday 10:30am
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Monday 13 January
BNC Crochet Group
Monday 1pm
Join the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre for a wonderful and creative crochet group!
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Tuesday 14 January
Walk In Make It School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 9:30am
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr & Home Hill Library

Tuesday 14 January
Code Club School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 3pm
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Wednesday 15 January
Mario Kart Gaming School Holiday Activity
Wednesday 2pm
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Thursday 16 January
Butterfly Creations School Holiday Activity
Thursday 11am
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Sunday 19 January
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Monday 20 January
Sand Art Rangoli School Holiday Activity
Monday 11am
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Tuesday 21 January
Code Club School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 3pm
Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Ayr Library

Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Celebration
The Molongle Beach Caravan Park will host live music, an all-day BBQ, crab and cane toad races, raffles and more! Reach out to 0436 372 089 for more information.
Molongle Beach Caravan Park

Wednesday 29 January
BNC Presentation of Grief
Wednesday 10:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an interactive education session on what grief looks like, how to support someone who is grieving, and self-care activities.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Friday 31 January
Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s Back to the 80’s
Friday 7:30pm
From the era that brought the world the Rubik’s Cube, Max Headroom, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comes the “totally awesome” musical, Back to the 80’s! The Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s production of Back to the 80’s will be staged across two weekends with the opening night set for Friday 31 January!
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 2 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Tuesday 4 February
BNC Burdekin Dementia Support Group
Tuesday 10am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing dementia in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Thursday 6 February
BNC Burdekin Senior Computer Club
Thursday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an educational computer club to support seniors’ journey into the digital age.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Sunday 16 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

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The Burdekin libraries in both Ayr and Home Hill, are running tremendous school holiday programs throughout January. Designed to keep the kids entertained, out of the heat, and give parents much needed respite, the program is sure to capture little imaginations and get the creative juices flowing.

Information on the School Holiday Program for January 2025:
 
• Walk in Make It Sessions: are open craft sessions where craft materials are provided to explore imaginations. A theme is given for inspiration. These are unstructured and not supervised by Library staff.

• Tealight Owls: is a painting session of ceramic owls using acrylic paints followed by Modge Podge to seal.

• Rangoli Sand Art: sheets are patterned adhesive sprinkled with coloured sand.

• Our Code Club: gives children the opportunity to learn the basics of coding using guided tutorials.

• Mario Cart Gaming: is a fun session to compete for the Mario Cart Cup on the Nintendo Switch.

• Butterfly Creations: is a structured, step by step craft session.

• Aus Art: consists of timber mainland Australia pieces which can be painted with acrylic paint or decorated using the craft materials.

Some activities require bookings as space is limited, while others are walk-ins. However, to ensure you don’t miss out, give the Burdekin Library a call and speak with the friendly Carli Kovacich, the children’s librarian who can give you more information. Dates and session times are listed in the images.

Interested parties can contact Carli at the Burdekin Library in Ayr on: (07) 4783 9970 or Home Hill: (07) 4783 9969 to express interest in any of the programs, or email: library@burdekin.qld.gov.au. More information is available on the Burdekin Library’s Facebook page.

January Holiday Program 2025

Bookings Essential, Except Walk-in Sessions

Monster Masks (Walk-in Session)
Wednesday 8th January, 9:30-11:30am. Location: Ayr/Home Hill, Age: 4+

Scratch Art:
Wednesday 8th January, 10:30am. Location: Ayr, Age: 7+

Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting:
Thursday 9th January, 10:30am. Location: Ayr, Age: 8+

Robots (Walk-in Session):
Friday 10th January, 9:30-11:30am. Location: Ayr/Home Hill, Age: 4+

Holiday Movie:
Friday 10th January, 2pm. Location: Ayr, Age: 6+

Sand Art Rangoli:
Monday 13th January, 10:30am. Location: Ayr, Age: 6+
Garden Collage (Walk-in Session):
Tuesday 14th January, 9:30-11:30am. Location: Ayr/Home Hill, Age: 4+

Code Club with Caitlin:
Tuesday 14th January, 3pm. Location: Ayr, Age: 8+

Mario Cart Gaming:
Wednesday 15th January, 2pm. Location: Ayr, Age: 8+

Butterfly Creations:
Thursday 16th January, 11am. Location: Home Hill, Age: 6+

iPad Art:
Thursday 16th January, 2pm. Location: Ayr, Age: 8+

Holiday Movie: Friday 17th January, 2pm. Location: Ayr, Age: 6+

Sand Art Rangoli: Monday 20th January, 11am. Location: Home Hill, Age: 6+

Aus Art: Tuesday 21st January, 10:30am. Location: Ayr, Age: 7+

Code Club with Caitlin: Tuesday 21st January, 3pm. Location: Ayr, Age: 8+

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Children’s Librarian, Carli Kovacich, is all smiles for this year's school holiday program. Photo: ‘Supplied’

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Sweet FM first began broadcasting back on 28th September, 1999. Charlie Scuderi, station manager, has been involved with the radio since its inception in 1999 and has been managing it for the last six years. Their studio is based in the old Home Hill Court House building, on Eighth Avenue, Home Hill.

“I was involved just after the formation of the radio station back in 1999, where I stayed for about 18 months. I then got invited back June in 2018 as there had been some issues at the radio station. Merle, who a lovely lady, had been running the radio but had some health issues, and unfortunately, she couldn't come back to the radio.”

“The radio was running in limbo as a result, so a meeting was called. We formed a new committee to keep Sweet FM going. I'm still here years later,” Charlie grins.

The radio station has become very high-tech during his tenure. One of Charlie’s major achievements is purchasing a van for the radio station, which is used frequently for outside broadcasts as it’s equipped with all the necessary gear for live recordings.

Presenters also no longer use CDs or turntables; instead, they stream music from USB sticks. The new, digital play-out program allows presenters to see the name of the artist and song on screen, eliminating the need for physical CDs.

“Prior to the current set-up we've got, presenters used to turn up with CDs and invariably, CDs present their own problems. You want to play track two on this CD, then track three on another CD, and track 12 on another CD. You always had to have the sleeve handy and go, ‘What's the name of the song I want, which track is it?’ So we changed to a computer based player program, where the presenters simply bring songs in on a USB. The tracks appear on screen and you just drag the songs into the order you want and instantly, you've got the name of the artist and the song. No surprises!”

The station is manned by a dedicated band of volunteers with each volunteer choosing the music they wish to play. Long-serving presenters include Brian Carnes (who’s been there since day one), Tony Goddard (20+ years), Chris Nissen (15+ years), and Carol Betteridge (10+ years).

The station operates under a narrowcast license and relies on advertising for revenue to stay afloat as it does not fall under the community station category. As a service to the community, however, the station can broadcast messages for other non-profit organisations and groups free of charge.

During cyclones and floods, they kept listeners up to date with the latest news as it came to hand. 97.1 Sweet FM, remains an important part of the Burdekin district's social and cultural life, broadcasting easy listening music, news, and varied mix of programmes, along with forums for discussing local and regional issues.

Sweet FM is always open to new presenters, especially as two current presenters may not return due to personal and health issues. They will have an open day on the 5th of April to celebrate 25 years on air, to attract new members and presenters.

“The 25th anniversary celebration will include an open house during the day, with market stalls on the lawn and tours of the radio station for people to see how a radio station operates. Former presenters, guests, and the public are all welcome to attend,” Charlie smiles.

If you’re interested in becoming a presenter for Sweet FM, contact Charlie on: (07) 4782-8394 or email: admin@sweetfm.com.au.

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Sweet FM Station Manager, Charlie Scuderi behind the mic. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

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A wave of festive cheer washed over the Burdekin Shire throughout the month of December, and as the eve of Christmas Eve rolled around, Jeffrey Lunn and Leon McCormack hosted another spectacular Christmas lights display for all to enjoy!

On both the 23rd and 24th of December, Santa Claus himself journeyed direct from the North Pole to greet plenty of families and pose for a few fantastic photos from sunset and into the night.

Santa Claus was advised of a few temporary changes of addresses ahead of the big day, noting that for some, Christmas will be spent at Nonna’s house instead this year. Christmas music filled the air across both evenings as Jeff and Leon prepared a selection of treats for attendees to enjoy, including popcorn, snow cones, and fairy floss, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Jeff and Leon’s award-winning light display continues to impress onlookers annually, leaving travelling families visiting loved ones for the festive season speechless.

Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza.

Find more photos at: https://www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/a-magical-christmas-eve-eve-celebration

Rayleen, Stephen, Santa, William and Stephanie

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Thursday 19 December
Festive Biscuits Decorating School Holiday Activity
Thursday 10:30am
Craving some tasty treats? The Home Hill Library will also be holding a fabulous Festive Biscuits Decorating session on Thursday, 19 December from 10:30am to 11:30am. Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Thursday 19 December
Christmas Confessions
Thursday 6pm
The community is invited to come and experience the love and mercy of Jesus.
St. Colman’s Church, Home Hill

Thursday 19 December
Ayr Christmas Street Party
The festive season in Ayr is set to be brighter than ever, with the annual Ayr Christmas Street Party scheduled for Thursday, 19th December. The Burdekin Shire Council is calling on local singers, dancers, and performers to fill the streets with holiday cheer. Local eateries are encouraged to join in, with outdoor seating allowing patrons to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Queen Street

Monday 23 December
Christmas Eve Eve With The Christmas Lights Guys
Tuesday 7pm
Come one, come all for an evening of festivities at the infamous Christmas Lights Guys’ display across from the Ayr Golf Course! Santa will be in attendance, as well as plenty of popcorn, fairy floss, snow cones, and a sausage sizzle!
CNR Edwards & Darwin Street

Tuesday 24 December
Christmas Vigil
Tuesday 6pm
On Tuesday 24 December the community is invited to attend a Christmas Vigil at 6pm at either St. Colman’s Church in Home Hill or the Samaritan Centre in Ayr.
St. Colman’s Church & Samaritan Centre

Tuesday 24 December
Christmas Eve With The Christmas Lights Guys
Tuesday 7pm
Come one, come all for an evening of festivities at the infamous Christmas Lights Guys’ display across from the Ayr Golf Course! Santa will be in attendance, as well as plenty of popcorn, fairy floss, snow cones, and a sausage sizzle!
CNR Edwards & Darwin Street

Wednesday 25 December
Christmas Day Mass
Wednesday 7am & 9am
A Christmas Day Mass will be held across four different locations on Wednesday 25 December. At 7am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joesph’s Church (Giru) or St. Colman’s Church (Home Hill) and at 9am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joseph’s Church (Clare) or Sacred Heart Church (Ayr).
Various Locations

Tuesday 31 December
New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Ceilidh
Tuesday 6:30pm
Celebrate the end of 2024 and welcome 2025 in style with a fantastic New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Ceilidh Celtic Party on Tuesday 31 December! Kicking off at 6:30pm, the community is invited to attend this family friendly NYE party that will have both you and your kids dancing well into the night and all the way through to 1am on 1 January!
Burdekin Memorial Hall

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The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce met for their final time this year, on Wednesday night, 11 December. The Chamber hosted guest speakers: Rachael Smith, the Editor-in-Chief of Core Publishing (and Burdekin Life); Burdekin Life’s new journalist, Mark T. Rasmussen; Home Hill State School principal, Sharon O’Neill and teacher, Louis Nicholas.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, councillor, Amanda Hall, and several other prominent guests and members, were also in attendance.

Rachael Smith spoke about the benefits of having a local newspaper back in the community, and the knock-on effects it has provided. Mark Rasmussen introduced himself to the Chamber for the first time and gave his background, including being an award-winning author, having only arrived in the Home Hill area late November.

Sharon O’Neill, also a recent transplant, discussed her background and recent Australian travels, as well as her aims for Home Hill State High School. While colleague, Louise Nicholas talked about the exciting new horticultural project currently being undertaken at the school.

The night was a great success, with a special post talk Christmas light dinner provided, much to the delight of all attended.

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L-R: Core Publishing Editor-in-Chief, Rachael Smith; John Clarke (Treasurer), Rob Antoniazzi (Secretary), David Jackson (President); Burdekin Life journalist, Mark Rasmussen; Meg Wilson (Executive committee); Uli Liessmann (Vice President). Photo: Trish Jandt

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Cr Amanda Hall. Photo: Rachael Smith

Bryn Hicks, Paul Stubbs. Photo: Rachael Smith

Home Hill State School Principal Sharon O’Neill, and teacher Louise Nicholas. Photo: Rachael Smith

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Thursday 19 December
Festive Biscuits Decorating School Holiday Activity
Thursday 10:30am
Craving some tasty treats? The Home Hill Library will also be holding a fabulous Festive Biscuits Decorating session on Thursday, 19 December from 10:30am to 11:30am. Bookings essential https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents.
Home Hill Library

Thursday 19 December
Christmas Confessions
Thursday 6pm
The community is invited to come and experience the love and mercy of Jesus.
St. Colman’s Church, Home Hill

Thursday 19 December
Ayr Christmas Street Party
The festive season in Ayr is set to be brighter than ever, with the annual Ayr Christmas Street Party scheduled for Thursday, 19th December. The Burdekin Shire Council is calling on local singers, dancers, and performers to fill the streets with holiday cheer. Local eateries are encouraged to join in, with outdoor seating allowing patrons to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Queen Street

Monday 23 December
Christmas Eve Eve With The Christmas Lights Guys
Tuesday 7pm
Come one, come all for an evening of festivities at the infamous Christmas Lights Guys’ display across from the Ayr Golf Course! Santa will be in attendance, as well as plenty of popcorn, fairy floss, snow cones, and a sausage sizzle!
CNR Edwards & Darwin Street

Tuesday 24 December
Christmas Vigil
Tuesday 6pm
On Tuesday 24 December the community is invited to attend a Christmas Vigil at 6pm at either St. Colman’s Church in Home Hill or the Samaritan Centre in Ayr.
St. Colman’s Church & Samaritan Centre

Tuesday 24 December
Christmas Eve With The Christmas Lights Guys
Tuesday 7pm
Come one, come all for an evening of festivities at the infamous Christmas Lights Guys’ display across from the Ayr Golf Course! Santa will be in attendance, as well as plenty of popcorn, fairy floss, snow cones, and a sausage sizzle!
CNR Edwards & Darwin Street

Wednesday 25 December
Christmas Day Mass
Wednesday 7am & 9am
A Christmas Day Mass will be held across four different locations on Wednesday 25 December. At 7am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joesph’s Church (Giru) or St. Colman’s Church (Home Hill) and at 9am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joseph’s Church (Clare) or Sacred Heart Church (Ayr).
Various Locations

Tuesday 31 December
New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Ceilidh
Tuesday 6:30pm
Celebrate the end of 2024 and welcome 2025 in style with a fantastic New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Ceilidh Celtic Party on Tuesday 31 December! Kicking off at 6:30pm, the community is invited to attend this family friendly NYE party that will have both you and your kids dancing well into the night and all the way through to 1am on 1 January!
Burdekin Memorial Hall

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The festivities are well and truly alive across the Burdekin region, and many locals have crafted wonderful front yard light displays, spreading joy one bright bulb at a time.

An evening drive around the region may just be the perfect way to spend your Christmas Eve – perhaps it’s a treasured family tradition of yours already, and we have pieced together a lovely list of a few standout light displays across Ayr, Home Hill, Giru and Brandon, for you and your family to enjoy this December.

If you’d prefer to spend your late afternoon seated with a picnic style dinner, enjoying a world of festive vibes, pop over to either the Home Hill Comfort Stop or the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt to witness the Burdekin Shire Council’s fantastically decorated Christmas Trees!

AYR
   • Basilio Court
   • Brisbane Street
   • Burke Street
   • Cameron Street
   • Darwin Street
   • Edwards Street
   • Gibson Street
   • Graham Street
   • Kilrie Road
   • Lando Street
   • Laurence Crescent
   • Lawson Street
   • Lisa Drive
   • Macmillan Street
   • Melbourne Street
   • Methodist Lane
   • Munro Street
   • Paine Street
   • Parker Street
   • Riley Drive
   • Soper Street
   • Sydney Street

BRANDON
   • Bowling Green Street
   • Sexton Highway
   • Drysdale Street
   • Green Street
   • Bruce Highway

GIRU
   • Barbat Street
   • Donaghue Street
   • Lyons Street

HOME HILL
   • Fourteenth Avenue
   • Ninth Avenue
   • Second Avenue
   • Sixth Street
   • Tenth Avenue

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The Burdekin’s rich agricultural heritage and cultural diversity will take centre stage from the weekend beginning Friday 30th May 2025, as the highly anticipated Burdekin Cultural Fair returns to the region.

As hosted by the Home Hill Showgrounds, the free event will bring locals and visitors together to celebrate the many cultures that make up the vibrant Burdekin community. Kicking off from 6pm, the evening promises something for everyone, with a wide range of cultural activities for kids to enjoy like hair braiding, flag making, and Indigenous painting. Wonderful entertainment will be staged throughout the event including the talents of belly dancers, Greek dancers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers, and the awe-inspiring Chinese Lion dance.

A key highlight of the evening will be the highly anticipated lighting of the First Fire, marking the start of the 2025 sugar cane crushing season. This breathtaking spectacle is a Burdekin tradition, showcasing the rare and unique practice of burning sugar cane paddocks before harvest. Visitors can experience the roar of the flames, the crackling sound of the fire, and the sweet aroma of burning cane - a sensory celebration of the region's agricultural roots.

In addition to spectacular entertainment, a variety of food and beverages will be available for purchase, offering delicious tastes from around the world. The event stands as the perfect opportunity to come together with family and friends to enjoy food, fun, and music whilst celebrating the diversity and unity of the Burdekin.

Mark your calendars, diaries, and everything in between for this unforgettable evening of culture, tradition, and community spirit!

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What: Burdekin Cultural Fair and First Fire
When: Friday 30th May 2025 from 6pm
Where: Home Hill Showgrounds
More Information: sweetdayshotnights.com.au

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