Kick back under the stars and enjoy a night of country music at the Burdekin Theatre on Friday, 28 March.

Join Australian country music legend Adam Harvey for an unforgettable evening of timeless classics and new hits. With a career spanning over two decades, half a million album sales, multiple gold and platinum records, and nine Golden Guitar Awards, Harvey is one of Australia’s most beloved and enduring artists.

Currently touring nationwide in celebration of his 17th studio album, Let The Song Take You Home, Harvey’s live show will transport you through country music’s golden moments. Expect a mix of classic favourites, new tracks, and all of his greatest hits—a night of storytelling and music.

Adam’s dad came from Whitsundays, and Adam grew up listening to country music with his dad, who had a fantastic selection of vinyl country music.

“My dad was a country music expert. He’d play songs and explain their history—like how a particular track was a hit in 1973 or how it marked the first time Johnny Cash defied the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

“He was like an encyclopedia.”

"As a kid, I fell in love with music, the songs, the way they made me feel, and the thought of writing my own one day.

Adam was gifted a guitar after his auntie found one in her new flat she had just moved into that the previous tenants had left. She brought its over to Adams dads house and said, “I was going to throw this out, but I thought you might want it,” and that's when Adam's music career began.

While Adam has won various awards, he said the most special ones are when you get a gold or platinum record. "People have to put fuel in their cars and buy groceries, those are necessities. But they don’t have to buy my music. So, when someone chooses to spend their hard-earned money on it, it really hits home. It makes me think, ‘Wow, they care enough, they believe in my music enough, to actually buy it.’

Adam shared how songs instantly evoke memories, inspiring the theme of his album.

“Every night, I sing a Kenny Rogers song that takes me back to Sunday mornings as a kid—Dad blaring his cassette at 6 a.m., singing off-key while making breakfast none of us wanted to wake up for.

“Music is the soundtrack of our lives, and it signifies the special moments, whether it's the song we dance to at our wedding or the song that we said goodbye to, a loved one at their send-off, or the, party that we'll talk about forever.”

Adam shared his enthusiasm for performing in regional areas, emphasising the unique energy of these audiences.

"The regions are better because, in big cities, people are spoiled for choice. They have multiple shows to choose from on any given night. But in regional areas, people make the effort—it’s a big occasion."

He encouraged everyone to attend, promising an unforgettable experience.

"I can guarantee they will have a great night, and if they’re not happy, I’ll give them their money back."

What’s your wildest concert memory?

“I was actually at a Willie Nelson concert, and through a friend of a friend, Becky Cole, who was there, Willie asked me to get up and sing on the show, without knowing.”

“I can thank my good friend Becky Cole for that one.”

What: Adam Harvey
Where: Burdekin Theatre
When: Friday 28th March

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Friday 14 March
Trivia Under the Stars
6.30pm (for a 7pm start)
Grab a team of 6 and join us for a fun night of trivia, under the stars. $10 pp. Supper provided.
Burdekin Netball Association Courts

Friday 14, 16, 21, 23 March
Shamrock Shindig
The Home Hill Choral Society proudly presents their latest show, Shamrock Shindig, which shapes to be a real hoot. With shows at 7:30pm and 1pm, everyone’s covered. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
The Vault (Home Hill) – Tickets: 0428-822-091

Sunday 16 March
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

Wednesday 19 March
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Friday 28 March
Clare State School Open Classroom
Friday 12pm
Come along to Clare State School’s Open Classroom afternoon, Meet & Greet (4pm) and P&C BBQ Dinner (6pm) in celebration of the school’s 75th Anniversary!
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
Clare State School 75th Anniversary School Fete
Saturday 9am
A timeless tradition, Clare State School will hold a fantastic School Fete as part of their 75th Anniversary celebrations where the opening of the time capsule will take place.
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
75 Years of Clare State School Formal Dinner
Saturday 6pm
Join Clare State School for a twilight feast and timeless talks on the grounds of the old school yard to celebrate 75 years of education! The dress code is chic attire and tickets are available at www.clarestateschool75th.com.au.
Clare State School

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The Burdekin has been hosting the NQ Fast Track Showcase for over 10 years, and it is currently the only one of its kind being held in Queensland. The event is open to all ages and all talent genres from singers, dancers, bands, comedians, rappers etc.

Thanks to Major Sponsor, Burdekin Motors, Fast Track this year has secured talented Aussie actor and performer, Hugh Sheridan, as their special guest for Fast Track 2025.

Hugh will be part of the Friday evening’s workshop for Fast Track Contestants, and will guest judge and perform at the Final Showcase on Saturday Evening.

The founder of Fast Track Talent, and one of the biggest talent managers in Australia, Christine Collyer, who has been judging Burdekin Fast Track since its inception, loves coming up here.

“After 11 years of coming to the Burdekin to judge Fast Track Talent, we’ve seen the most incredible talent over the years. We’ve had everything from singers to comedians, to dancers and every year there is always someone or a group that absolutely shocks and surprises us,” Christine says.

“We can’t wait to see who is going to shine this year,” says Christine with excitement.

Glenn Arboit, Manager Community Services for Burdekin Shire Council is also thrilled for this year’s event.

“The Fast Track event is unique to the Burdekin Shire, and we look forward to giving local and regional performers an opportunity to perform in front of talent scouts, gain valuable knowledge from professionals and offer once in a lifetime performance opportunities for participants,” Glenn says.

Registrations are now open for the event, which is open to performers of all ages and talents of all genres including singers, dancers, bands, comedians, rappers and more!

For more info or to register contact bella@yoyomanagement.com or the Council’s Community Development Team on (07) 4783 9800.

Tickets for the Final Showcase are on sale via the Burdekin Theatre, which will include the top 20 performers from across the region vying for over $5000 in cash & prizes, together with a highly anticipated performance by Hugh Sheridan himself.

The prize list also offers a once-in-a-lifetime professional development opportunity with the team at Yoyo Music, for the Fast Track To Fame Winner.

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All Showcase Finalists with special guests Taylor Hendersen & Ethan Becktan.
Special Guest Taylor Henderson performing at last year’s event.
2024 Prize Winners.
Audience Favourite for 2024 was Big Joe.

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Described as the most authentic Johnny Cash show around, Aussie husband and wife duo, Mark & Joanne Caligiuri, embody the legend that was Cash and his singer wife, June Carter. But before he was Cash, Mark was King.

Originally Mark was performing as Elvis Presley, and singing his popular songs around the country, but at one particular show his world and destiny would change forever. It was at one of these performances that they first came to lay eyes on each other as Joanne explains.

“I love music from Elvis, Chuck Berry, Cash, Dolly Parton… I love all that era. But that’s how I met him (Mark),” Joanne laughs.

“I grew up being a Johnny Cash fan, and while Mark knew of him he wasn’t that familiar with Cash’s music. Then as we started dating, in 2006 the movie ‘Walk The Line’ came out, which starred Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon. I was like, ‘Oh my God, Johnny Cash, do you know Cash? And he said, ‘Kind of.’ I said, ‘Mate, this movie’s coming out you must go see it, I guarantee it’s going to be great’ and so we went and saw it together,” she smiles.

“I was singing along to the songs and even though Mark didn’t know them by the time the film had finished he turned to me and said, ‘I love Johnny Cash’. I gave him my Cash CDs to listen to and he really got into it and afterwards.”

“I was watching the film and just listening to the songs and I thought this is great,” Mark adds.

From there a seed was planted before Joanne said, ‘Why don’t we perform our own Cash show’ and that’s how it all came about,” she says.

Their Johnny Cash & June Carter Get Rhythm show, has garnered some high praise with it being labelled the most authentic Cash/Carter show being the highest. There’s no doubt about it, in speaking with this real life husband & wife performer duo, their energy and commitment is unparalleled.

“We do our best to stay true to who Cash and Carter were. Obviously we have the edge in that we’re married, so that connection is real. We have great communication with each other on stage and with the band. We involve the audience so they also become part of the show,” Joanne enthuses.

“Most people get that you're taking on a character. With Johnny Cash, it’s all about the voice and conviction. We often evoke strong reactions from our audience because you're tapping into people’s memories and for some, those memories can be quite deep.” Mark adds.

“We’re very proud of what we do and what we created. We've worked extremely hard to give the most authentic Johnny Cash show in Australia,” he concludes.

This two part show includes Cash’s biggest hits such as ‘Folsom Prison Blues,’ ‘Ring Of Fire,’ and 'Walk The Line’ and is expected to sell out.

WHAT: The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
WHEN: Saturday 24th May

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Mark Caligiuri, as the famous man in black, Johnny Cash, in full flight.
Joanne & Mark, who epitomise legendary musicians Johnny Cash & June Carter, love performing together. (Photos supplied).

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The Home Hill Choral Society is back for more fun in 2025, with their first show this year entitled, Shamrock Shindig. We sat down with Erin Brennan, the show’s writer and director, to find out what the audience can expect in what is always a hoot!

“We will be featuring Irish songs, typical ones, you know such as: When Irish Eyes Are Smiling; If You're Irish, Come To The Parlour, and many more. And of course we’ll have jokes. There's lots of jokes that I've found over the years. I always find jokes and I turn them into skits,” Erin beams.

For this writer, director, actor, and singer, Erin managed to write Shamrock Shindig in a week, however, because of the recent floods, rehearsals were much trickier to arrange let alone have as she explains.

“This show in particular probably took me a week. It just starts to come to me and once I start reading through, I shuffle it around. Then I do the first draft, and afterwards we change it a bit as we go. I'm the director and writer, but Cheryl Platt from Sweet FM, is my offsider. She does all the musical side of things.”

“With the flood scares and everything we had, we couldn’t rehearse it fully through like we normally do. Some people were stuck on the Ayr side, including Cheryl, and so they couldn't get out to rehearsals here in Home Hill. Because she's on the Ayr side, she couldn't get over to teach the music. So therefore I had to rearrange and change a couple of things.”

Between Erin and Cheryl, they pick the songs, teach the choir members the numbers, and generally have fun. With minimal rehearsal, Shamrock Shindig shapes to be more lively and fun than ever.

“It’ll be just lots of fun and laughs. Sometimes we'll make mistakes, but you can laugh with us and the things that we do,” Erin chuckles.

But mark her words, the audience don’t get off scot-free either.

“We have audience participation as well. Yes, audience participation,” she reiterates grinning.

Shamrock Shindigs kicks off next Friday, March 14 at 7:30pm (doors open 30 minutes before show), and performs on the 16th, 21st, and 23rd. The matinee shows on the Sundays (16 & 21) are almost sold out!

“We never had much trouble selling the daytime shows, it’s the night time shows that we sometimes do. But there's a licensed bar where for your $35 you get a full meal, which is quite substantial. Benefit is you get a fun show, you get supper afterwards, and there's cakes, there's tarts, there's whatever we decide we want to make with an Irish themed flavour to it.”

“We also hope to have some little Irish dances as well, because we try and incorporate people outside our group as well,” Erin adds.

Tickets cost $35 and include a meal or afternoon tea for the matinees. They can be purchased by calling Erin on: 0428 822 091.

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Some of the cast in rehearsals ready to make you laugh. Photo supplied
Shamrock Shindig writer & director, Erin Brennan is all smiles ahead of opening night. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The ladies of the show set to entertain the audience. Photo supplied.

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Friday 7 March
Creedence Clearwater Collective
Friday 7:30pm
The community is invited to a night of celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered to the songs they wrote for others. Tickets can be purchase on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 8 March
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

Sunday 9 March
Zonta Celebrates International Women’s Day
Sunday 10:30am
The community is welcomed to help Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrate women’s successes to date at an Interntaional Women’s Day brunch commencing at 10:30am. Speakers are Sarah Chapman, STEM Changemakers Founder and Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator, JCU Master of Nursing. All funds raised will be used to support Zonta’s ongoing local and international projects.
Masonic Heritage Centre

Tuesday 11 March
Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee Live!
Tuesday 7:30pm
Anh Do’s bestselling book, The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh, and cry and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.” Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 14 March
Trivia Under the Stars
6.30pm (for a 7pm start)
Grab a team of 6 and join us for a fun night of trivia, under the stars. $10 pp. Supper provided.
Burdekin Netball Association Courts

Friday 14, 16, 21, 23 March
Shamrock Shindig
The Home Hill Choral Society proudly presents their latest show, Shamrock Shindig, which shapes to be a real hoot. With shows at 7:30pm and 1pm, everyone’s covered. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
The Vault (Home Hill) – Tickets: 0428-822-091

Sunday 16 March
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

Wednesday 19 March
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Friday 28 March
Clare State School Open Classroom
Friday 12pm
Come along to Clare State School’s Open Classroom afternoon, Meet & Greet (4pm) and P&C BBQ Dinner (6pm) in celebration of the school’s 75th Anniversary!
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
Clare State School 75th Anniversary School Fete
Saturday 9am
A timeless tradition, Clare State School will hold a fantastic School Fete as part of their 75th Anniversary celebrations where the opening of the time capsule will take place.
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
75 Years of Clare State School Formal Dinner
Saturday 6pm
Join Clare State School for a twilight feast and timeless talks on the grounds of the old school yard to celebrate 75 years of education! The dress code is chic attire and tickets are available at www.clarestateschool75th.com.au.
Clare State School

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The Burdekin Shire Council officially launched the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival on Tuesday, with guests and sponsors treated to a wonderful evening.

Planning for the 2025 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival is well underway, with several local suppliers and stakeholders keen to take part in one the Burdekin’s premier destination events.

Major Sponsor Lachlan Sturt from Pacific Blue spoke to the audience on the night, sharing his appreciation for local cultural events and gratitude to the community for asking Pacific Blue to sponsor such a much-loved local event.

Canegrowers are also a major sponsor and announced on the evening that they will be launching the inaugural Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition, with 14 local schools competing.

Additionally, Parkside Group are major sponsors along with many other local businesses and Burdekin Life Newspaper as the Media Partner.

After the incredible success of the 2023 festival, which attracted over 4,000 attendees over the weekend, it is anticipated to be an even larger turnout for the 2025 event.

It kickstarts at 6pm (gates open at 5pm) on Friday 30 May, with the Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring the ‘first fire’ and marking the beginning of the Sweet Days Hot Nights festival.

The night will celebrate the diversity of the region with an amazing line-up of cultural performances, free activities for the kids, and authentic street food from around the world. While the highlight of the night will be the lighting of the first fire of the 2025 sugarcane crushing season.

For Saturday 31 May, which starts at 11am, with gates opening at 10:30am, visitors will be treated to the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in an experience of skill and endurance from a bygone era, as hand cane cutters compete for the winning title.

With live music, a range of events, including free rides and activities for children, and a wide variety of food trucks, the festival shapes as a must attend event for all Burdekinites.

Adult tickets are just $10, while kids get in free all weekend! Purchase your tickets online at https://www.trybooking.com/CXYWC

WHAT: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
WHERE: Home Hill Showgrounds
WHEN: 30-31st May 2025

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Mayor, Councillors and Major Sponsors attend Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival Launch Night. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival (BRWF) has been reignited after a big turnout for their do-or-die meeting last Wednesday morning at the Burdekin Theatre. In what shaped as an historic, potentially festival ending assembly, 18 people showed up and threw their support behind keeping the once popular festival alive.

After the festival was cancelled in 2020 because of covid, the BRWF never quite got back the momentum they had carried from the previous three well-run and attended festivals. However, after Wednesdays significant meeting, the Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival is alive once more!

In an impassioned opening address, BRWF co-founder, Mickey McKellar was adamant that the meeting would be the last for the organisation that had risen back in 2015 with nothing more than $320 to their name. But like a great novel, in a surprise twist, new members stood up to resurrect BRWF.

“It is most gratifying to have that sort of support. The meeting was not negative; in fact, the positivity was overwhelming,” BRWF founding member, Mickey McKellar said.

“For myself, I was walking on air after the meeting. I am so grateful to think that not only will the Literary Festivals and Events continue, but the prospect of a very energetic and enthusiastic committee appearing on the horizon is nothing short of amazing,” she said.

Several attendees raised their hands to step up when it was proposed a new committee be formed to allow the current board to step back and take a more hands-off role so they can enjoy retirement and grandchildren.

It shapes as an exciting transition, with younger, and enthusiastic new blood eager to pick up the baton and the incredible legacy left by BRWF, while bringing some fresh ideas.

“This will guarantee that BRWF will emerge once again as an essential item on the Burdekin Arts & Cultural Community Associations,” Mickey beamed with delight.

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BRWF board and committee members, and its newcomers, are all smiles after a monumental decision was reached to save the Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Burdekin Brass Band extends its congratulations to Cecilia Cason and Joe Mau, who have recently returned from the 2025 Queensland Band Association Youth Music Camp in Brisbane.

At the camp, Cecilia was selected to perform as Solo Horn, while Joe played E Flat Bass. The event provided both musicians with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of musical styles under the guidance of some of the country's finest conductors. Additionally, they participated in specialised workshops led by expert tutors, enhancing their individual playing skills. The experience proved invaluable for both players, and the band eagerly anticipates them sharing their newfound knowledge in the coming weeks.

Burdekin Brass expresses its gratitude to the Regional Arts Development Fund for its financial contribution, which helped offset the costs of attendance for the young musicians.

Following recent floods, Burdekin Brass Band rehearsals will resume on Tuesday nights at 7:30 pm in the Band Hall, located in the park on 10th Avenue, Home Hill. With a busy schedule ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the band.

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QBA 2025 music camp

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Monday 24 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February to stage the public speaking talents of students in Year 12! Call John on 0447 561 790 for more information.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Friday 28 February
BNC Burdekin Parkinson's Support Group
Friday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing Parkinson’s in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Sunday 2 March
Clean Up Australia Day
Sunday All Day
Clean Up Australia Day has been helping keep Australia beautiful for over 35 years! Members of the Burdekin community can either check with local groups and organisations or create their own clean-up crew to keep our streets, parklands, beaches, and surrounding areas pristine. For more information, visit www.cleanup.org.au.
Burdekin Area

Sunday 2 March
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

Friday 7 March
Creedence Clearwater Collective
Friday 7:30pm
The community is invited to a night of celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered to the songs they wrote for others. Tickets can be purchase on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 8 March
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

Sunday 9 March
Zonta Celebrates International Women’s Day
Sunday 10:30am
The community is welcomed to help Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrate women’s successes to date at an Interntaional Women’s Day brunch commencing at 10:30am. Speakers are Sarah Chapman, STEM Changemakers Founder and Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator, JCU Master of Nursing. All funds raised will be used to support Zonta’s ongoing local and international projects.
Masonic Heritage Centre

Tuesday 11 March
Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee Live!
Tuesday 7:30pm
Anh Do’s bestselling book, The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh, and cry and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.” Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 14 March
Trivia Under the Stars
6.30pm (for a 7pm start)
Grab a team of 6 and join us for a fun night of trivia, under the stars. $10 pp. Supper provided.
Burdekin Netball Association Courts

Friday 14, 16, 21, 23 March
Shamrock Shindig
The Home Hill Choral Society proudly presents their latest show, Shamrock Shindig, which shapes to be a real hoot. With shows at 7:30pm and 1pm, everyone’s covered. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
The Vault (Home Hill) – Tickets: 0428-822-091**

Sunday 16 March
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

Wednesday 19 March
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Friday 28 March
Clare State School Open Classroom
Friday 12pm
Come along to Clare State School’s Open Classroom afternoon, Meet & Greet (4pm) and P&C BBQ Dinner (6pm) in celebration of the school’s 75th Anniversary!
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
Clare State School 75th Anniversary School Fete
Saturday 9am
A timeless tradition, Clare State School will hold a fantastic School Fete as part of their 75th Anniversary celebrations where the opening of the time capsule will take place.
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
75 Years of Clare State School Formal Dinner
Saturday 6pm
Join Clare State School for a twilight feast and timeless talks on the grounds of the old school yard to celebrate 75 years of education! The dress code is chic attire and tickets are available at www.clarestateschool75th.com.au.
Clare State School

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Craig Martin, a musician from Liverpool, England, is performing his ‘Morning Melodies’ show at the Burdekin Theatre on March 5. The show features classic British pop and rock songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, including hits from The Beatles, The Kinks, and Tom Jones, and features over 20 hit songs.

“I always loved music, and I had an older brother who was five years older than me. He had a huge influence on me and when you're a teenage, you always look up to them and take notes of what your older sibling is playing, don't you? I used to buy records, but really I was buying them for him,” Craig laughs.

“We used to sing to records and play guitars and harmonise along to Beatles and other stuff as well. But Beatles records, early Beatles stuff, we used to do that, and I always wanted to be in a band. Then we formed a band in school and started playing clubs in Liverpool – where the Beatles had played as well! That was always wonderful,” Craig reminisces.

While it’s a far cry from Liverpool and the hip clubs and bars of the swinging sixties, The Burdekin Theatre hosts Craig in the first of the Morning Melodies series for 2025. For those fortunate to attend, it shapes as a fun, lively, nostalgic musical trip down memory lane.

“This will be the first time I've been there in the Burdekin. It's part of the North Queensland tour that we're doing. I perform songs that I love – great British pop and rock songs by great bands and singers. I'm including my favourite songs in this show. They're big, big hits.” he says.

As for his favourite all time artist, it’s not even a contest.

“The Beatles. I'm biased being from Liverpool, but they were so good, so imaginative. They were brilliant. They were, a great live band. I love bands like that,” he smiles.

To catch Craig perform The Beatles and other memorable hits, book tickets before his popular show sells out. Tickets are $15. Call the theatre on: (07) 4783 9880, or visit the website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com

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Craig Martin and his band will take everyone for a blast down memory lane with his popular Great British Songbook at The Burdekin Theatre. Photo: Supplied.

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The Burdekin is set to host North Queensland’s best talent showcase, with acclaimed actor and singer Hugh Sheridan, confirmed as the special guest for Fast Track 2025, thanks to the generous support of Major Sponsor, Burdekin Motors.
 
Hugh Sheridan, widely recognised for his outstanding career in both acting and music, will bring a whole new level of talent to the event. As the first-ever actor/singer to be part of Fast Track, Hugh will provide invaluable insights and inspiration to contestants.
 
Sheridan will be actively involved in the Friday evening workshop, where Fast Track contestants will have the opportunity to learn from his experience in the entertainment industry. He will also take on the role of guest judge and deliver a highly anticipated live performance at the Finals Showcase on Saturday evening.
 
Fast Track 2025 is now open for registrations, welcoming performers of all ages and talents across various genres, including singers, dancers and bands. Those interested in taking part can register by contacting Bella at bella@yoyomanagement.com or reaching out to the Council’s Community Development Team at 4783 9800.
 
The event will feature the top 20 performers from across the region competing for over $5,000 in cash and prizes, alongside a special performance by Hugh Sheridan himself. Don’t miss your chance to witness one of the biggest names to ever be part of the North Queensland event.
 
Tickets will be available for purchase this week. Get yours at the Burdekin Theatre Box Office or online at burdekintheatre.com.au

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WHAT: Fast Track Talent Showcase 2025
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
WHEN: Saturday 22nd March

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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

Wednesday 19 February
Award-Winning Author Guest Speaker
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce social and networking event to hear award-winning author (and Burdekin Life journalist) Mark T. Rasmussen, speak about his novel, The Journey, and his own journey.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Monday 24 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February to stage the public speaking talents of students in Year 12! Call John on 0447 561 790 for more information.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Friday 28 February
BNC Burdekin Parkinsons Support Group
Friday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing Parkinsons in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Joining a club isn't just about exploring something you're passionate about or picking up a new hobby; it's also about connecting with others, building relationships, and immersing yourself in your local community.
Clubs offer a unique opportunity to meet people who share your interests and values, and often, these connections can evolve into long-lasting friendships.
A great example of this is The Burdekin Brass Band. By becoming a member, you'll not only be joining a community of like-minded individuals but also creating the potential for new friendships and experiences. Whether you're an experienced musician or a beginner, there’s a place for you in the band. The group includes people of all skill levels, making it a welcoming environment for anyone with a love for music.
Even if you have never played a sport, participated in a certain activity or even blown a trumpet, joining a new club can be a great way to get stuck in and learn in a hands-on way, with the guidance of individuals with more experience.
Sometimes, going into a club as a beginner is the best way to break the ice, make friends and enjoy yourself.
Have a hunt around your local community groups and try and find a club that fits you best!

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Burdekin Brass Band are open to new members. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Troy Everett, Cultural Venues Manager at the Burdekin Shire Council, recently discussed the significance of the Burdekin Theatre and Memorial Hall in fostering the arts in the region. Long considered a jewel in the crown, the venues are top-class. The Burdekin Theatre seats 475, while the Memorial Hall can accommodate 490. The Burdekin Theatre also has the extra bonus of being able to use the beautiful forecourt along with its foyer.

The Theatre hosts anything from world-class shows, events, conferences, dinners, and even weddings. The Memorial Hall, with its raised stage and flat floor, is regularly used for bigger business functions and formal events such as debutant balls, with at least one event occurring every three days at either venue.

“The Burdekin is extremely lucky to have a theatre this size, and equipped as well as it is. There are two great venues that a lot of regional towns would love to have,” Troy says with pride.

“I see the Burdekin Theatre as a true catalyst for the arts in this region, showcasing an incredible calibre of talent. The standard here is exceptional. It's a testament to the remarkable quality of the Theatre for a regional town.”  

Local performers, dance schools, and music programs benefit significantly from the high-quality facilities. Troy explains that the quality of the technicians and what they achieve backstage is outstanding.

“It’s incredible to have such talented technicians right here in the community.”

“The other great thing is that you’ve got other businesses, such as accommodation venues, hotels, bars, catering services and so forth, that also get to thrive by working alongside us or indirectly off us, which is terrific for the region.”

"The Burdekin can take pride in having such an exceptional facility and the significant impact it has on the community," Troy concludes.


For those who’d like to book the venue, contact the 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 Theatre – keeping everyone entertained. Photo: Supplied.

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