The Whitsundays Writers Festival is thrilled to announce the featured local authors of this year’s pen-dropping event which is happening this September.

Festival President, Karen Jacobsen says “We are excited to be showcasing the creative talent and diversity of the region’s writers and there are many ways local authors can get involved.”

Featuring among the esteemed line up of local authors is Rachel Armstrong, North Queensland award winning contemporary romantic fiction author, who loves writing about rural small towns, stirring up the suspense with terrifying villains, and placing paranormal shifters in an everyday world.

Joining Rachel is Bec Russell, a long-term Whitsundays local. Having lived in the area for most of her life she feels blessed to have grown up in a beautiful, small, yet vibrant community. A holistic health coach and yoga teacher, Bec loves exploring her creativity.

Adding to this list of engaging local authors is A.L. Tippett. Having written her first novel when she was twelve, this passionate writer almost abandoned her dreams after deciding that being an author wasn’t a “real” job and not worth pursuing. Thankfully, she rediscovered her passion for storytelling and has published The MINATH Chronicles.

Meanwhile, Jo Nightingale is local author and Airlie Beach local. In 2013 she was travelling through India when she felt compelled to record her journey. Unbelievable events were taking place that needed to be shared and her first book — Finding the Quietness Within — was born. This began her trilogy following her journeys around the world with the second book Finding the Stillness Within.

“We can’t wait for Festival attendees to meet our local authors by discovering their stories through our bookshop and taking time to meet them and learn more about their work and writing journeys,” said Karen.

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A.L. Tippett almost gave up on her dreams of becoming an author but has now published the MINATH Chronicles. Photo supplied

Rachel Armstrong is a North Queensland award winning contemporary romantic fiction author. Photo supplied

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On Saturday 22 June, the home of the Burdekin Canetoads hosted a vibrant event to remember for the Burdekin Rugby Union Ladies Day 2024.

The theme of the extravaganza was Partying into the Sunset, and over 160 ladies certainly followed suit, looking absolutely beautiful in their sunset tones, with Terzah Menzies taking out a $100 prize for being the best-dressed sunset! The ladies danced the night away with the talents of local musician, Megan Law staged into the night. In a special treat, the ladies enjoyed Slushies at Sunset by Tipsy Taps Co with Sarina, and Union’s very own old boys whipping up delicious daiquiris, showcasing their bartender skills throughout the event.

The charity jersey auction and raffles provided plenty of friendly competition among the ladies, along with an extraordinary live match of football with both men’s teams dominating North Ward with Reserves winning 80 – 0, and A Grade winning 55 – 0. Raffles were held throughout the event, with many lucky ladies walking away with amazing prizes as generously donated by 28 local businesses.

Half-time saw a hilarious display of comedic entertainment with a Relay Race showcasing the Reserve Grade Men’s abilities to run in ladies attire, wearing their best high heels to race their way through the field.

A successful celebration, the 2024 Canetoads Ladies Day saw the Women’s Jersey Fundraiser for the “Support the Girls” foundation raise an outstanding total exceeding $6,000, with the jerseys auctioned off at the event. Support the Girls works to empower vulnerable, disadvantaged, and isolated women, and girls, providing access to professionally fitted bras, essential products, and the support needed to lead healthy, and fulfilling lives. The Canetoads women’s team proudly wore the kit for their Ladies Day Game, shining bright, pretty in pink on the field.

“It was another successful weekend on the union home grounds, and we look forward to many more great, lively nights for our future home games,” expressed the event’s organisers Annie Best, and Caitlin Holmes.

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Embark on an acrobatic adventure these school holidays when the Burdekin Theatre hosts Flipside Circus Workshops on Monday 1 July.

The workshops will teach attendees a collection of extraordinary new skills in a fast paced, action-packed environment overflowing with fun. Aiming to supercharge your school holidays, the workshops will entail trapeze, harnessing, hula-hoops, and more!

The expertise of the Flipside Circus trainers will have attendees of all skill levels prepped with new ground and aerial circus talents to show off. Each workshop focuses on building self-confidence, physical skills, and fitness, as well as teamwork.

Running throughout the day on Monday 1 June, there will be three different workshops on offer. From 9:30am, children aged 2 – 4 are invited to come along to Kindy Camp where they’ll become little circus stars with their parents / carers support under the guidance of Flipside’s artists and trainers.

Children aged 4 – 8 years are invited to attend Flipperoos from 10:30am to enjoy a bouncy and active workshop with lots of play for beginners.

1pm will see Circus Skills ignite the Burdekin Theatre with children aged 8 – 16 years invited to join in on the action, motion and challenges of the circus with plenty of opportunities to have a joyous time building their circus skillset. The day will conclude with a chance for attendees to perform their new skills for friends and family, and attendees can expect tumbling, trampolining, and trapeze to become some of their newly developed talents.

Tickets are available now, and prices range from $10 - $30. More information, and the booking portal are available online on the Burdekin Theatre Website.

What: Flipside Circus School Holiday Workshop
When: Monday 1 July from 9:30am
Where: The Burdekin Theatre
More Information: Flipside Circus – Burdekin Theatre

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On Saturday 13 July, The Sunshine Club will light up the Burdekin Theatre’s stage for an evening of entertainment and song.

The production has been celebrated nationwide, and tells the tale of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman returning home from World War II. Frank discovers the harsh attitudes of those back home in Brisbane and harnesses his defiant energy and ambition to set out for a better life. In doing so, Frank establishes The Sunshine Club.

The Sunshine Club hosts a lively environment filled with dance where both black and white can come together. Here, Frank dreams of a future where he can dance in step with Rose, the girl next door, the girl of his dreams.

An award-winning theatre piece, The Sunshine Club has been described as thought provoking, and vibrant. The production features a talented cast of 11 which includes emerging and established First Nations artists, and a 5-piece live band.

Tickets are available now via the Burdekin Theatre website or at the Theatre’s box office, and for a limited time only ticket prices start from just $20.

What: The Sunshine Club
When: Saturday 13 July from 7:30pm
Where: The Burdekin Theatre
More Information: The Sunshine Club – Burdekin Theatre

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With the Winter school holidays having kicked off on Monday 24 June, there’s plenty of wonderful activities and adventures to tick off your to-do list over the next week and a bit!

If you’re searching for a plethora of fun, hands-on activities for your little ones to enjoy, then head to both the Burdekin Library in either Home Hill or Ayr! The Burdekin Library has put together an awesome lineup of creative activities, with at least one event on offer each day!

Today, Thursday 27 June, both locations will host a creative DIY Board Games activity in Ayr at 9am, and Home Hill at 2pm.

Friday 28 June will see the continuation of this week’s all day drop in Castle of Tarragindi on Tour exhibit along with a 9am Scoobie Workshop in Ayr, and the same hosted in Home Hill at 2pm.

Everyone’s invited to come along for a Play Time at the Park from 9:30am in Home Hill on Saturday 29 June!

On Monday 1 July, Ayr will host a Rock Painting activity class at 9am, and then a Lego Robotics program at 10am, with Home Hill following on with a 2pm Rock Painting Class.

Tuesday 2 July will have something for everyone on offer with Ayr to host Sand Art at 9am, followed by Creative Minecraft at 1pm, with Home Hill hosting Nintendo Gaming at 10am, and Sand Art at 1pm!

Ayr has the monopoly on Wednesday 3 July with an unmissable Nature Scavenger Hunt set to have Plantation Park buzzing from 10am, followed by Nintendo Gaming back at the library at 2pm.

Unleash creativity on Thursday 4 July for Ayr’s Beading Workshop at 9am, followed by Lego Robotics at 10am, and then head on over the river at 2pm for Home Hill’s beading Workshop, and back over to Ayr for Trading Card Games at 3pm.

Conclude the two weeklong Winter school holidays with a bang on Friday 5 July, kicking off at 9am with Ayr hosting Dungeons & Dragons, followed by an exciting Family Fun Time from 1pm with light snacks and refreshments provided for a restful afternoon!

All events require bookings to be made on the Burdekin Library Events website page, excluding Friday’s Family Fun Time.

What: Burdekin Library’s School Holidays Activities
When: Monday 24 June – Friday 5 July
Where: Both Ayr, and Home Hill Libraries
More Information: https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents

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The Burdekin Woodcrafts Association is an organisation dedicated to helping men and women of the community to enjoy the satisfaction of making beautiful items from wood.  For over 30 years they have helped many people, and their creations are probably found in hundreds of homes in the area.

To this end, they try to have up-to-date machinery to make the constructions quicker and easier.  This has been helped this month with the with the purchase of a new thicknesser and dust extractor. A thicknesser, as it sounds, is a machine designed to take roughly cut and thick timber, smooth it up, and bring it to the thickness needed for the project. The purchase of these two machines was made possible by a generous grant from the Gaming Community Benefit Fund.

Club President Phillip Scuderi is thrilled with the new machines.  

“The thicknesser is an Italian made SCM 630mm wide with small knobs and buttons to control the cutting height, rather than turning handles and does an amazing and seemingly effortless job,” said Phillip.

“The new four bag dust extractor, the club’s eighth extractor, easily gathers all sawdust made by the thicknesser and helps keep our workshop a clean and healthy environment.

We sincerely thank the Community Benefit Fund for their generosity.

I should mention that because the SCM is so different from our previous unit, installation and training was overseen by an SCM Field Service Technician from Brisbane.”

As well as members making their own projects, they will always happily make whatever the community needs, from engraving wooden signs to making items of furniture, and anything in between. They can also use their experience where possible to restore beloved items of furniture for future use.

Their workshop at 30 Little Drysdale Street is a hive of activity every Wednesday and Saturday morning, and they sincerely welcome all new members and will happily guide them through the use of whatever machinery is needed and what techniques can be used to create beautiful items. As their President says, “if you want to make something to be proud of, and not just sit around talking, then Burdekin Woodcrafts is for you”.

The Woodcrafters can be contacted on 0409 615 559, or via their Facebook page.

Contributed with thanks to Phillip Scuderi.

The new SCM 630 and the dust extractor with BWA members Kerry Banks, Vice-President Merv Mohr, Treasurer Lyn Cecil, President Phillip Scuderi, Barry Reid, and Geoff Manins.

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As the first week of the Winter school holidays comes to an end, it’s time to map out the next 7 days to ensure both you and your kids make the most of your time together before they pop back on their school uniforms. Along with the Burdekin Library’s School Holiday Program, there are plenty of other activities and experiences on offer in this beautiful community for your whole family to enjoy.

Inkerman Hill / Charlie’s Hill at Sunset

With the winter weather upon us and the sun setting earlier, it’s time to pack an early dinner and head up Inkerman Hill to watch the sunset over the Burdekin from the tippy top, enjoying a birds eye view. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a high set sunset location with a historical touch, pop up Charlie’s Hill and explore the standing structures of World War II along with beautiful views of both Home Hill and surrounding farmlands.

Alva Beach Picnic and Sandcastle Making
It may not be the best weather for a dip in the ocean, but the sandy shores of Alva Beach can certainly be enjoyed all year round. Gather your favourite buckets and spades and pack some snacks as you’re about to craft the most magnificent sandcastles the Burdekin has ever seen! Share your creations with the world, and don’t forget to tag us on Facebook and Instagram so we can admire your work!

Visit the Drive In
The Burdekin is extremely lucky to home the Stardust Drive in Theatre, with travelers venturing far and wide to transport themselves back in time to enjoy what has become an extremely rare entertainment experience. Although the big screen is in the process of being erected following Cyclone Kirrily’s destruction, their indoor cinema is up and ready to go, along with a delicious menu filled with hot food and classic movie snacks. With Inside Out 2, The Garfield Movie and IF screening now, keep up to date with Stardust’s timetable on their Facebook page; Stardust Drive in Theatre Ayr.

Picnic at the Park
Schedule in some sunshine and playtime with a trip to the park! Pack a picnic and head to one of the region’s many local parks to enjoy some fun in the sun these school holidays! The Plantation Park Nature Based Playspace has to be at the top of our lists, with a huge space to let imaginations run wild! Just down the road, Anzac Park creates the perfect environment for some playground fun, paired with a skatepark adventure, and if you’re heading towards Alva, stop into the Beach Road Park for a play, or even the Alva Beach Playground itself!

A Game of Touch Football
Gather your teams together and pick out your winning footy because it’s time to host the most nail-biting family touch tournament ever! The lush green touch fields at the Burdekin Touch Association on Wickham Street will make for the perfect setting to create some memorable touchdowns and foster plenty of friendly family competition. With grandstands at the ready, invite the whole family along to both participate and witness what will be an exhilarating game of touch football.

A Trip for the Pups
It’s no secret that your pups love having the kids home for a play for two weeks straight, so don’t forget to treat them to a special school holiday outing too! Venture down to the off-leash dog park on Kennedy Street / Plantation Park and enjoy some quality time with the whole family, four legged members included! With both a small dogs and big dogs fenced section, along with plenty of fun ramps and tunnels, your precious pooch will have the time of their lives!

With just two weeks to spend all together before jumping back into regular routines, there’s no better way to make memories than just simply spending time together. Happy school holidays everyone!

alva beach photo credits to the burdekin shire council

anzac park photo credits to burdekin shire council

dog park photo credits to the burdekin shire council

water park photo credits to the burdekin shire council

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Monday 24 June

ARC by ERTH
Monday and Tuesday, from 6.30pm
Showcasing exquisite puppetry, an enigmatic host, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals, ARC is a profound experience that embraces the natural world and the creatures that cohabit this place we call Earth. 

ARC presents intimate, magical encounters with rare and vulnerable species, raising important questions about our collective and individual relationship with nature and loss. Renowned as innovators of physical and visual theatre, for the past three decades Erth’s body of work has explored the depths of the past. With ARC, they look unblinkingly to the future, as this menagerie of animals transforms the stage before your very eyes.
Burdekin Theatre

Wednesday 26 June

Burdekin Show
Wednesday, from 10am
The Annual Burdekin Show hosted at the Ayr Showgrounds is an event for all ages. From exhibits to equestrian, sideshow alley and fireworks there is something for everyone and the true essence of country hospitality can be found. 
Ayr Showgrounds

Monday 1 July

Flipside Circus
Monday, from 9:30am
Flipside is bringing the circus to town with a fantastic range of workshops to supercharge school holidays.
Flipside Circus’s expert trainers work with young people to teach ground and aerial circus skills including juggling and manipulation, hula-hoop, acrobalance, minitrampoline,
tumbling, and trapeze.
The workshops are challenging and focus on; building self-confidence, physical skills, and fitness, as well as teamwork.
KINDY CAMP - 9:30AM - $10.00
2 - 4 years, 45min duration
FLIPPEROOS - 10:30AM - $20.00
4 - 8 years, 1.5hr duration
CIRCUS SKILLS - 1.00PM - $30.00
8 – 16 years, 3hr duration
Tickets Available 8 April 2024 - 3:00pm
Burdekin Theatre Auditorium

Saturday 13 July

The Sunshine Club
Saturday from 7.30pm
It tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who has come home from World War II to find that although the wider world may have changed, attitudes back home in Brisbane are just the same. Filled with a defiant energy and ambition for a better life, Frank starts The Sunshine Club, a place where black and white can meet and, most importantly, dance. Here he dreams of a future where he can dance in step with Rose, the girl next door, the girl of his dreams.
The award-winning Sunshine Club is a thought-provoking, vibrant and above all joyful night of theatre and music, featuring a talented cast of 11, including emerging and established First Nations artists, and a 5-piece live band. It is perfect for audiences seeking entertaining, socially relevant work, at a time of heightened social discourse on Indigenous Affairs, as Australia looks towards ‘incorporating’ the Indigenous Voice to Parliament by 2024.
Burdekin Theatre

Tuesday 16 July
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Beginners Resin Art Class

Tuesday from 6.30pm
Learn the art of resin with our fun and hands-on Beginners Resin Art Class/Workshop—perfect for unleashing your creativity and creating stunning pieces.

Discover the mesmerising world of resin art at our upcoming Resin Art Courses!

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced artist, our talented instructors will guide you through the entire process, from preparing your board to mixing and pouring the resin. You'll learn various techniques, including colour blending, creating stunning effects, and adding texture to your artwork.

This is not just a class, it's an experience! Immerse yourself in the magical world of resin art and unleash your inner artist.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to expand your artistic horizons and create breathtaking masterpieces! Limited spots available, so book your place today! 
Malpass Hotel, Home Hill

Saturday 20 July

Zonta Club Burdekin – Birthing Kit Assembly
Saturday from 9.30am

The Zonta Club Burdekin Inc welcomes your help to assemble 1,000 birthing kits which are distributed to developing countries (i.e. areas in Africa, New Guinea).  

Each kit has the potential of saving two lives, mother, and her baby.

A scrumptious morning tea is provided by Zonta.  It is a fun, feel good morning. We look forward to your company and assistance.
Samaritan Centre, St Francis School.

Wednesday 14 August

Morning Melodies: A Farewell to Doris
Thursday from 11am
Melinda Schneider returns to the stage in 2024 to pay tribute to the legendary Doris Day.
The world lost one of its biggest stars with the passing of Doris Day. A legend of stage, screen and song, Doris died aged 97, leaving behind an incredible body of work, including iconic movies and unforgettable songs.
Doris Day, “the girl next door”, had millions of fans around the world, none bigger than chart-topping Australian singer songwriter Melinda Schneider, who has recorded two albums of Doris’ songs, co-written and starred in a theatre show based on Doris’ life, and done sell-out tours celebrating Doris’ work.
Melinda Schneider’s, A Farewell To Doris, is a heartfelt tribute to Doris Day. This nostalgic concert celebration will include timeless hits as well as a number of Doris’ big band standards.
Burdekin Theatre

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Entries are now open for the Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition.

The competition is calling individuals to share their heartfelt stories and express their love for the magnificent state.

The state is known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant communities and unique culture, and the competition wants to hear your individual experiences, memories and connections to Queensland, in the form of a love letter.

How you construct your love letter is up to you. Whether through larrikin humour, ironic observations, fond treasured memories, or understated admiration and gratitude, all forms of written expression are welcomed.

Entry requirements are as follows:

Write: Compose an entry of up to 300 words expressing your love for Queensland.

Submit: Send your entries via the competitions online form either as text or as an image.

Win: The competition awards a generous shopping voucher and a chance to be featured in an edited collection of Love Letters to Queensland. Prizes will be presented for Adult, Under 18 Years and Under 12 Years categories.

The event is taking place for the first time in 2024 as part of the Whitsundays Writers Festival and is supported by James Cook University’s Roderick Centre for Australian Literature. The centre continues the work of passionate North Queenslander’s Professor Colin Roderick CBE and Margaret Roderick.

Everyone, old or young, is encouraged to participate. Love knows no age and neither does the community writing competition.

Dr Victoria Kuttainen, Director of the Roderick Centre adds to this notion, expressing how “Great writers and writing can emerge anywhere. Queensland and regional Australia are as culturally inspiring and imaginatively fertile as Paris.”

Also supporting Love Letter to Queensland is the Whitsunday Regional Council through their Community Assistance Grant program.

Express your love. Share your story. Celebrate Queensland.
For more details, visit: https://www.whitsundayswriters.com/love-letter-to-queensland/

What: Love Letter for Queensland’s Community Writing Competition
When: Competition submission deadline: 11:59pm, Wednesday 31st  July 2024
Winner announcement: Love Letter to Queensland event 6:30pm-9:00pm Thursday 5th  September at Coral Sea Resort

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On Wednesday 14 August, the Burdekin Theatre will be graced with the talents of Melinda Schneider as she returns to the stage to pay tribute to the legendary Doris Day.

As part of the Burdekin Theatre’s Morning Melodies Series, this performance will encompass a nostalgic concert celebration as Melinda Schneider stages a heartfelt tribute to Doris Day.

A legend of stage, screen and song, the world lost one of its biggest stars with the passing of Doris Day. Labelled “the girl next door” Doris left behind an incredible body of work, including iconic movies and unforgettable songs and her fan base extended across the world.

Australian singer songwriter, Melinda Schneider, will take audiences on a tour of Doris’ legacy, including timeless hits such as Que Sera, Sera, Sentimental Journey, Everybody Loves a Lover and Secret Love plus classic songs from the movies Calamity Jane, Love Me or Leave Me and The Pyjama Game, as well as a number of Doris’ big band standards.

Melinda’s move affair with Doris Day began when she saw Calamity Jane when she was just eight years old.

“I thought she was the best of everything a woman can be, and when I grew up, I wanted to be just like her,” expressed Melinda.

In 2010, Melinda released the acclaimed tribute album, Melinda Does Doris – A Tribute to Doris Day, and has since produced many more pieces in honour of her icon. Saddened by the passing of Doris, Melinda is proud to present A Farewell to Doris this August at the Burdekin Theatre, and believes Doris’ work will continue to being joy to audiences of all ages.

“Doris was multi-talented, a true triple threat: a world-class singer, dancer and actor, but it is her beautiful spirit that will stay with me,” said Melinda.

“Singing her songs and telling her incredible story of reliance has been an absolute honour, and I’m happy to have the opportunity to celebrate her wonderful talent with audiences once again.”

Tickets are $15 each and include a delicious morning tea as provided by the Friends of the Burdekin Theatre and are available now from both the Burdekin Theatre Box Office and on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.

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What: Melinda Schneider’s A Farewell to Doris
When: Wednesday 14 August; Morning Tea at 10am, and show beginning at 11am
Where: Burdekin Theatre
More Information: Burdekin Theatre Website

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Catching up with old school friends? How about catching up 50 years later? That's exactly what the ex-students from Marist Brothers and St Francis Xavier Convent High School did.
Meeting at Hotel Brandon, around 42 individuals (pictured below), gathered to celebrate 50 years since they left school in 1974. Many of the alumni travelled a great distance to join the reunion, with some even travelling all the way from New South Wales.
Attendees expressed how the evening was an extremely enjoyable and nostalgic occasion that was full of laughter and stories new and old.
The evening commenced with a school bell, and the individuals also had a remembrance call and minute of silence to remember those who had passed. The classmates were also surprised by a visit from their old schoolteacher Mrs. Freshwater.
School is out until the next reunion.

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Saturday 15 June
Perform Studios presents Rise
Saturday from 2pm and 7.30pm
Perform Music presents their annual showcase concert - RISE!
Burdekin Theatre

Wednesday 19 June

Home Hill Community Meeting
Wednesday, from 9am
Residents of Home Hill, particularly new residents and over 60s, are invited for a chat and cuppa to meet Labor Candidate for Burdekin Anne Baker. Raise your concerns and share your views, ideas and hopes for the community. Morning tea supplied.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Monday 24 June

ARC by ERTH
Monday and Tuesday, from 6.30pm
Showcasing exquisite puppetry, an enigmatic host, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals, ARC is a profound experience that embraces the natural world and the creatures that cohabit this place we call Earth. 
ARC presents intimate, magical encounters with rare and vulnerable species, raising important questions about our collective and individual relationship with nature and loss. Renowned as innovators of physical and visual theatre, for the past three decades Erth’s body of work has explored the depths of the past. With ARC, they look unblinkingly to the future, as this menagerie of animals transforms the stage before your very eyes.
Burdekin Theatre

Wednesday 26 June

Burdekin Show
Wednesday, from 10am
The Annual Burdekin Show hosted at the Ayr Showgrounds is an event for all ages. From exhibits to equestrian, sideshow alley and fireworks there is something for everyone and the true essence of country hospitality can be found. 
Ayr Showgrounds

Monday 1 July

Flipside Circus
Monday, from 9:30am
Flipside is bringing the circus to town with a fantastic range of workshops to supercharge school holidays.
Flipside Circus’s expert trainers work with young people to teach ground and aerial circus skills including juggling and manipulation, hula-hoop, acrobalance, minitrampoline,
tumbling, and trapeze.
The workshops are challenging and focus on; building self-confidence, physical skills, and fitness, as well as teamwork.
KINDY CAMP - 9:30AM - $10.00
2 - 4 years, 45min duration
FLIPPEROOS - 10:30AM - $20.00
4 - 8 years, 1.5hr duration
CIRCUS SKILLS - 1.00PM - $30.00
8 – 16 years, 3hr duration
Tickets Available 8 April 2024 - 3:00pm
Burdekin Theatre Auditorium

Saturday 13 July

The Sunshine Club
Saturday from 7.30pm
It tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who has come home from World War II to find that although the wider world may have changed, attitudes back home in Brisbane are just the same. Filled with a defiant energy and ambition for a better life, Frank starts The Sunshine Club, a place where black and white can meet and, most importantly, dance. Here he dreams of a future where he can dance in step with Rose, the girl next door, the girl of his dreams.
The award-winning Sunshine Club is a thought-provoking, vibrant and above all joyful night of theatre and music, featuring a talented cast of 11, including emerging and established First Nations artists, and a 5-piece live band. It is perfect for audiences seeking entertaining, socially relevant work, at a time of heightened social discourse on Indigenous Affairs, as Australia looks towards ‘incorporating’ the Indigenous Voice to Parliament by 2024.
Burdekin Theatre

Tuesday 16 July
Beginners Resin Art Class

Tuesday from 6.30pm
Learn the art of resin with our fun and hands-on Beginners Resin Art Class/Workshop—perfect for unleashing your creativity and creating stunning pieces.

Discover the mesmerizing world of resin art at our upcoming Resin Art Courses!

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced artist, our talented instructors will guide you through the entire process, from preparing your board to mixing and pouring the resin. You'll learn various techniques, including colour blending, creating stunning effects, and adding texture to your artwork.

This is not just a class, it's an experience! Immerse yourself in the magical world of resin art and unleash your inner artist.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to expand your artistic horizons and create breathtaking masterpieces! Limited spots available, so book your place today! 

Malpass Hotel, Home Hill

Wednesday 14 August

Morning Melodies: A Farewell to Doris
Thursday from 11am
Melinda Schneider returns to the stage in 2024 to pay tribute to the legendary Doris Day.
The world lost one of its biggest stars with the passing of Doris Day. A legend of stage, screen and song, Doris died aged 97, leaving behind an incredible body of work, including iconic movies and unforgettable songs.
Doris Day, “the girl next door”, had millions of fans around the world, none bigger than chart-topping Australian singer songwriter Melinda Schneider, who has recorded two albums of Doris’ songs, co-written and starred in a theatre show based on Doris’ life, and done sell-out tours celebrating Doris’ work.
Melinda Schneider’s, A Farewell To Doris, is a heartfelt tribute to Doris Day. This nostalgic concert celebration will include timeless hits as well as a number of Doris’ big band standards.
Burdekin Theatre

Monday 2 September

Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition
Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm
The Burdekin Art Society Annual Exhibition attracts lovers of fine art from near and far. Being a week-long exhibition allows people from other areas an opportunity to see this very popular event and draws entries from all over the state and further afield. 
The longevity of the event attests to the quality and popularity that the entrants and viewers alike enjoy.
Burdekin Theatre

Saturday 7 September

The Visitors
Saturday, 7:30pm
On a sweltering day in January 1788, seven clan leaders gather on a sandstone escarpment overlooking the harbour. The attendees, six of them Elders and one new initiate, catch-up, laugh together, share a meal and compare notes. But beyond the friendly banter, protocols, and hospitality, a momentous decision is waiting to be made. A mysterious fleet of giant nawi is amassing in the harbour and as they creep closer, these seven representatives must choose unanimously: whether to send these strangers on their way or welcome them?
TICKET PRICES
Adult $40.00
Concession $38.00
Friends of the Theatre $35.00
Youth under 30 $35.00
Burdekin Theatre

Saturday 14 September

Giru Show
Saturday, from 12pm to 6pm
The annual Giru Show highlights the community's talent with a variety of exhibits and stalls. From vintage machinery displays and live entertainment to games suitable for every child, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The Giru Show have recently added games to the schedule for all ages to take part in. The local bands will provide entertainment throughout the day. 
Brolga Park, Giru

Celtic Illusion
Saturday, from 7.30pm
Immerse yourself in the Irish Dance and Grand Illusion sensation that has taken Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, and the USA by storm. Celtic Illusion is coming to a stage near you!

Even fans who have seen our previous shows won’t dare miss the 2024 tour that is set to raise the bar once again. This exhilarating production has broken barriers by fusing unparalleled art forms and is more spectacular than ever before. With new spellbinding illusions, entrancing music and choreography, Celtic Illusion is an awe-inspiring night of family entertainment.
Burdekin Theatre

Wednesday 2 October

Morning Melodies: Livvy and Pete
Thursday from 11am
Helpmann award winner Michael Griffiths and acclaimed cabaret darling Amelia Ryan celebrate the songbooks of Aussie icons Olivia Newton-John and Peter Allen. 
From their humble small-town beginnings to world domination in sequins and jumpsuits, revisit all of their sing-a-long classic from Rio to Tenterfield, all the way to Xanadu and beyond. As camp as maracas and tender as Pete's gift to Livvy "I Honestly Love You", there promises to be rollerskates, T-Birds, Pink Ladies, 80s jazzercise and an Oscar winning song to boot! Livvy & Pete made its debut in 2016 at the Ballarat Cabaret Festival, and Adelaide's Feast Festival. Since then it has delighted audiences at The Adelaide Fringe Festival (Garden of Unearthly Delights), The Hobart Spiegeltent, The Wollongong Spiegeltent, Vivaldi's Canberra, Slide Sydney, Adelaide Fringe Roadshow, and the Brisbane Cabaret Festival. 
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 11 October

Grinspoon ‘whatever, whenever, wherever’ Australian Tour 2024
Friday, from 7.30pm

Grinspoon’s 8th studio album titled ‘whatever, whatever’ will arrive on August 9. It’s an album of ferocity; an injection of adrenaline that marks a period of rejuvenation and a new peak for the band, who’ve spent recent years touring nationwide celebrating their untouchable seven album-strong discography and legacy to date. 

The band have also announced they’re heading out on an extensive 45 date ‘whatever, whenever, wherever’ tour across the country.
Burdekin Memorial Hall

Saturday 9 November

Home Hill Harvest Festival – Grand Parade & Street Party
Saturday from 5pm
Celebrate the sugar industry in Burdekin. The Home Hill Harvest Festival runs from September to November. The Festival culminates with the Mardi Gras including floats from festival queens, community groups and businesses and ends with a Street Party featuring entertainment, rides, food and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Home Hill

Sunday 10 November

Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day
Sunday from 9am
Located at the Brandon Heritage Precinct, 21-27 Spiller Street, Brandon, the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists have an open day. Witness the power of the working vintage machinery which includes the historic Marshall Colonial Tractor and the Walkers Engine No.1, which is just one of two working air blast fuel injection engines in Australia. Admire the other vintage tractors and stationary engines on display.
Burdekin Heritage Precinct, Brandon

Wednesday 4 December

Morning Melodies: Andrews and Bin Christmas Swing
Thursday from 11am
The Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing joyful, live, melodious Christmas Show is a stroll down memory lane with the beautiful 1940’s bright & engaging Christmas songs of the Andrews Sisters & the one & only “Crooner” himself, alias Bing Crosby. Three dynamic, harmonious, humble divas with their professional band, “The Miller Horns,” igniting the stage! Clap along to their iconic stylized “Jingle Bells”, listen to the enchanting best-selling song, “White Christmas” and all aboard the Christmas “Chattanooga Choo Choo”.
Burdekin Theatre

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The Japanese Film Festival Online 2024 will brighten our television screens across Australia for another year from Wednesday 5 June until Wednesday 3 July.

The program for 2024 will showcase a dynamic collection of cinema and television released over the past 70 years as presented by the Japan Foundation. The festival celebrates the breadth and diversity of Japanese storytelling, serving as a cultural bridge connecting global fans of Japanese cinema.

The 2024 program will host a diverse selection of 23 films, 2 TV dramas spanning over 20 episodes each, and 4 selected horror shorts for audiences to enjoy. The curation covers a broad spectrum of themes and narratives, including LGBTQIA+ stories, intricate family dramas, and exhilarating adaptations of beloved Japanese manga.

To watch and indulge in all things Japanese cinema, those interested can sign up to watch the free streaming on the Japanese Film Festival Online 2024 website.

What: The Japanese Film Festival Online 2024.
When: Wednesday 5 June – Wednesday 3 July.
Where: Online / Televisions across Australia.
More Information: JFF Online 2024 - The Japanese Film Festival Australia

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The annual Burdekin Show will light up the Ayr Showgrounds on Wednesday 26 June, with a plethora of special guests scheduled to attend. One of Australia’s most inspirational and award-winning dog trailer and trainer, Steven Elliot, will make his Burdekin Show debut as one of the event’s special guests, and his story is nothing short of extraordinary.

Steven has led a celebrated career, and following a rodeo accident in Townsville in 2003, his life took a turn, leaving him confined to a wheelchair. Despite his accident, Steven has overcome numerous challenges throughout his professional lifetime.

From finding his niche in working to hand-craft cattle brands for cattle businessperson and mining royalty, Gina Rinehart, along with NRL coach Wayne Bennett, to passionately dedicating his time to the training of working dogs, Steven has created an impressive resume for himself.

Steven’s passion for training working dogs began in 2012, and over the past 12 years, his love for the industry has grown exponentially.

“We went to Mingela for our first dog trial and when we made it to the finals, we realized how much a dog could actually do,” explained Steven.  

Steven last visited the region 5 years ago and is eager to return to experience the Burdekin Show for the first time, accompanied by his promising pup, Indi.

“We’ll be running working dog demonstrations all day at the Burdekin Show to show people what a dog can actually do, and Indi, my TV star dog will be with me too, and the kids always love to get their photos and give her plenty of pats too,” explained Steven.

Steven’s demonstrations will involve sheep and cattle to showcase their dogs’ impressive abilities, and after all these years, Steven’s favorite part of the job is teaching puppies these skills from a young age.

“When you get a little pup who has so much desire for the herding instinct, watching them learn the skills is the most rewarding part of the trade.”

WHAT: Burdekin Show
WHERE: Ayr Showgrounds
WHEN: 26 June

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Thursday 6 June

Morning Melodies: Some Enchanted Evening
Thursday, from 11am
We have all heard their songs and we have all enjoyed their musicals. They were known as America’s most successful musical theatre writing team and their partnership has been called the greatest of the 20th Century.
Join us for a very special event paying tribute to the timeless music from the legendary Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Featuring your favourite tunes from Carousel, The King and I, South Pacific, The Sound of Music and many more, Some Enchanted Evening is truly an enchanted concert of exquisite songs from the golden age of musicals. 
In an intimate setting amongst the stars, come on a whimsical journey through song and dance, and be captivated by the beautiful music of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, ‘Younger Than Springtime’, ‘I Have Dreamed’, ‘Climb Every Mountain’, and ‘Oh What a Beautiful Morning’. With beautiful costumes, extraordinary dancing and a song list that also includes music from their partnerships with Jerome Kern and Lorenz Hart, Some Enchanted Evening is a magical, uplifting experience that is not to be missed.
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 7 June

The Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks Tribute Show
Friday, from 7.30pm
Welcome to The Dreams Show – your ticket to experiencing the magic of Fleetwood Mac and the captivating solo career of their leading lady, Stevie Nicks. Since its launch in 2017, Dreams has gained massive acclaim, both from fans across Australia and from within Fleetwood Mac themselves. Dennis Dunstan, Fleetwood Mac’s Manager (1981-1999), applauded the show, stating, “The Dreams Show was a breath of fresh air when it comes to Fleetwood Mac tribute shows.. these guys deliver.. Big Time! Don’t miss this show if you’re a Mac fan!” Surrender to the enchantment of Dreams, as we recreate everything from their live show spectacle to clothes to choreography and  anecdotes to iconic songs of the legendary band. Enjoy monumental hits like ‘Go your Own way’, ‘Gypsy’, ‘Edge of Seventeen’, ‘Rooms on Fire’, ‘TUSK’, ‘Say you love me’, and many others. $59 tickets.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 9 June

The Cane Country Cup Pickleball Team Event

Friday, from 8.30am
Building on the success of the Sugar Bowl, Home Hill Tennis brings you the inaugural Cane Country Cup, a pickleball team event. Teams have been invited to the event from Mackay, Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Charters Towers and Ingham. It will be unique on the pickleball calendar with mixed teams of 4-6 players, where every point won will go toward determining overall winners. It will be played in Competitive and Social Grades. The excitement around the event is building with teams from clubs committing to playing in the event. Pickleball is a fast paced, fast scoring racquet sport played on a small court. Organizers are expecting that sportsmanship, camaraderie and building friendships will be at the forefront of the event.
Home Hill Tennis Association

Wednesday 12 June

Ayr State High School: Year 10 Careers Morning
Wednesday, from 9am to 10am
The aim of the morning is to provide a broad view of careers and employment opportunities in our local area and surrounds.
The format includes display tables, 10-minute introduction of your organisation and an opportunity for students to ask questions. Students will move between organisations to gain knowledge about career options to support their subject choices for their senior schooling.  
Please use this link https://forms.office.com/r/rpaKQtFiK4 to register. It would be appreciated if each organisation representative could register for catering and workplace safety purposes.
Ayr State High School

Anthology Showcase
Wednesday, 10:30am
Writers from the “Burdekin Creative Writers” and “Night Writers” groups will read a selection of their pieces from the Anthology.
Home Hill Branch of Burdekin Library

Saturday 15 June

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Perform Studios presents Rise
Saturday from 2pm and 7.30pm
Perform Music presents their annual showcase concert - RISE!
Burdekin Theatre

Monday 24 June

ARC by ERTH
Monday and Tuesday, from 6.30pm
Showcasing exquisite puppetry, an enigmatic host, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals, ARC is a profound experience that embraces the natural world and the creatures that cohabit this place we call Earth. 
ARC presents intimate, magical encounters with rare and vulnerable species, raising important questions about our collective and individual relationship with nature and loss. Renowned as innovators of physical and visual theatre, for the past three decades Erth’s body of work has explored the depths of the past. With ARC, they look unblinkingly to the future, as this menagerie of animals transforms the stage before your very eyes.
Burdekin Theatre

Wednesday 26 June

Burdekin Show
Wednesday, from 10am
The Annual Burdekin Show hosted at the Ayr Showgrounds is an event for all ages. From exhibits to equestrian, side show alley and fireworks there is something for everyone and the true essence of country hospitality can be found. 
Ayr Showgrounds

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