It’s the annual event that years 11 and 12 students from across the Burdekin look forward to every year, and 2023’s Home Hill Harvest Festival Students’ Ball definitely delivered glitz, glamour and an ‘enchanting’ night out.

View the gallery here

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Burdekin Christian College students arriving at the 2023 Home Hill Harvest Festival Students’ Ball in style. Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography

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Coming live to the Burdekin Lighthouse in Ayr, the Finding Nemo Junior theatre production!

The Great Barrier Reef will come to life on a stage near you in October and November, from October 21 to 29 and November 4 to 5.

Based on the beloved Pixar film, the production will feature junior cast members from ages four to fifteen, who are ready to make a splash on the big stage! The show is set to take you under the sea and make you smile, laugh and even cry - with a story that everyone knows and loves.

Treasurer Jim Nuttall from Burdekin Singers commented on the upcoming show, “[Guests] will love it. I saw a bit of it for the first time the other day, it’s looking really good.

“We’ve been waiting for Finding Nemo to come out for the juniors for two to three years. I put the application in straight away; we are the first organisation to do it.

“There's no songs that have ever been done before, they're all new songs.”

The performers are busy with singing rehearsals three to four weeks before the school holidays, for two hours every Sunday.

Jim also comments that living in a tight-knit, small community, it is of dire importance that it is a family affair, with all hands on deck to pitch in and put on a spectacular show.

Parents take on a large role, from preparing food and cleaning, to costume alterations and set design.

This is the first time Burdekin Singers have used an online platform to sell tickets to their shows, with around 600 out of 800 seats sold, Finding Nemo Jr. is set to be a busy night for cast and crew!

Jump on the wave and grab your ticket to Finding Nemo Jr. at trybooking.com.

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Claude is eager and ready for his forever home!

Coming to Angel Paws from Burdekin Pound, Claude is a cuddly purr machine.

Loving a good pat and fantastic chin scratches, Claude will not hesitate to make himself comfortable on his human’s lap.

Equally happy to curl up and watch a movie with his humans, Claude is also always up for a good play with his toys and his humans.

Being a young man, Claude is a ball of energy, so being with brother and sister cats, he will be at home.

Available for adoption, Claude desexed, flea, tick and worm treated, up to date of his vaccines, and microchipped, and ready for his forever home!

PS: Claude is a Manx cross breed and has no tail! Only adds to his charm!

Fast Facts:

Rehoming fee: $185

DOB: 1/03/2022

Sex: Male

Breed: Manx x

Kid friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Untested

Other cats: Yes

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
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To enquire about Claude, or set up a meet and greet, submit the cat/kitten enquiry form here: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

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A welcoming atmosphere, diverse selection of fresh food and friendly and caring staff is what has established Cafelicious as a go-to meeting place for people across the Burdekin.

Centrally located in Queen Street, the vibrant café has been owned by Kristian Moretto for two years.

Kristian has a passion for food and a passion for his community, and Cafelicious allows him to serve his community in a personal way.

“I enjoyed being in a kitchen when I was a kid, and I developed a passion for opening something small that can accommodate people in a more intimate way,” he said.

“People are drawn to us and sometimes I feel like we’re a bit of a hidden gem.

“It’s vibrant, it’s loud and it’s very welcoming.”

Regulars visit Cafelicious expecting a high quality and unique style of food, the frequently changing menu bringing a variety of options.

Whether you’re looking for a freshly cooked breakfast, a rejuvenating lunch, or a quick bite to grab and go from the hotbox, there is something for everyone at Cafelicious.

Aromas of fresh coffee fill the space and their milkshakes and smoothies are a crowd favourite.

“I think customers understand that it’s all house made,” Kristian said.

“You can’t fool people with that, they know the quality, and I think it draws them back all the time.”

Kristian leads a tightknit team, instilling that customer and community service in everyone who dons the apron.

The passionate staff members are cross trained across all tasks at the café, eager to lend a hand with whatever the customer requires.

“The team is like an extension of the family,” Kristian said.

“The connection’s a lot deeper and we really appreciate that.

“When people come in, customers will feel it.”

A Queen Street staple, Cafelicious provides the community with fresh food and coffee and does so with pride and a smile.

“We love serving the community, it’s our passion, it drives us, and we’re here to stay,” Kristian said.

Find Cafelicious at 125 Queen St, Ayr.

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Diane, Ornella, Kristian, and Meg of Cafelicious

Supporting community wellbeing and mental health, Burdekin Shire Council is encouraging all members of their community to the ‘Kickoff the Conversation’.

Tackling the hard questions and ending the stigma, the event sets to empower mental health and resilience.

“This event encourages conversations about mental health resilience and the importance of seeking support,” Mayor McLaughlin said.

“Tickets will be available to purchase on 3 October 2023 and the event is expected to sell out quickly so be sure to book straight away.”

The event will be hosted by influential keynote speakers, who have not only faced significant health and life challenges but have succeeded, inspiring all with their resilience and determination.

One significant speaker is the King Wally Lewis, an esteemed sports star and personality, who will share his health story, his sporting journey, and the importance of breaking down stigma and asking for help.

Joining Wally is Warren Davies who is well known as the Unbreakable Farmer and will share invaluable life lessons, focussing on resilience, persistence, determination, and wellbeing.

Warren and Wally will also be joined by a host of local guest speakers, who will add depth and diversity of the conversation.

Tickets officially go on sale through the Burdekin Theatre October 3, with the event expected to be sold out quickly.  

WHAT: Kickoff The Conversation

WHEN: Saturday, October 28, from 6.30pm

WHERE: Burdekin Memorial Hall

TICKETS: Available from Burdekin Theatre from October 3

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The King, Wally Lewis, will join locals and other guest speakers at the Kickoff The Conversation event. Photo supplied

Most recognisable with her camera in her hand and her eye behind the lens, Mel Napier is a passionate local photographer who loves capturing special moments and creating memories for both her own family and yours.

In love with “all things photography since a young age”, Mel pursued her craft as a side hustle for many years, beginning with scanning old photos and creating slideshows, photobooks and prints for her customers with her business Your Memories Crafted by Mel.

Despite this creative outlet, a passion for photography still ran deep and, with her husband’s encouragement she rebranded to Melanie Napier Memories and Photography, diversifying to officially become the photographer she’d always dreamt of being.

Since then, Mel has not looked back and, by working alongside a range of different customers, her experience has grown so that she now has a reputation for a range incredible photography, including family portraiture, pets, landscape and corporate.

She hopes to one day sell her stunning landscape images for prints to decorate local homes and one of her proudest moments was achieving champion print of the Burdekin Show this year, as well as her involvement with Marni Hine in Project Raw.

A born and bred Burdekin local, Mel is originally from Millaroo which ignited her passion for the outdoors and wildlife.

She has worked for the Burdekin Shire Council since 2008 and in the IT department for the past 13 years.

Mel has two adult sons with her husband of 30 years, Collin, and both the boys live close by.

She is also blessed to have a grand daughter who has just turned one.

A genuine and caring photographer, Mel is ready to capture special moments for you and your family.

She is also proudly working alongside Burdekin Life Newspaper having taken their first front-page photo and become their photographer of choice.

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Local photographer, Melanie Napier. Photo supplied

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The beloved Seniors Health and Wellbeing Expo is on again for 2023, with Burdekin Shire Council opening ticket sales.

Hosting a range of informative and engaging stallholders for all walks of life, the expo will be insightful, allowing the community’s seniors to build connections and be inspired.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the event is aimed at promoting a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

“This event provides a platform for seniors to access valuable resources and connect with essential services, ensuring their wellbeing remains a priority in our community,” Mayor McLaughlin said.

Emceeing the event will be Ricky Romeo, who is ready to entice each and every senior.

The Luncheon will be host to REGIS bingo, live entertainment, prizes and giveaway, and be a wonderful event to build relationships.

Services already signed up for the expo include Ayr Amcal Chemist, Ayr Health Service, Burdekin Community Association, Burdekin Library, Burdekin Men’s Shed Association, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Equip U, McCathies Furniture Plus, and so much more.

Burdekin Shire Council would like to thank major sponsor Regis Aged Care and all the stall holders for their contribution and support.

For more information contact Burdekin Shire Council on 4783 9800.

WHAT: Seniors Health and Wellbeing Expo and Luncheon

WHERE: Ayr Showgrounds

WHEN: Monday October 23, 10.30am to 1.30pm

TICKETS: $10 per person, available from the Burdekin Theatre

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After 10 years of selling out festivals worldwide, the boys from Briefs Factory International are back!

With their hills hoist poised, the Briefs boys are ready to air their ‘Dirty Laundry’ in this brand-new party cabaret you don’t want to miss out on.

Led by Fez Faanana aka Shivanana, and featuring a line-up of classic Briefs boys, as well as some shiny new boys and toys, ‘Dirty Laundry’ will take over the Burdekin Theatre on Saturday, September 30 for one very special night.

With more glitter stains and ballsy attitude than ever before, your favourite Briefs misfits give you a night of intoxicating physicality, gob-smacking comedy, unapologetic truths, and ridiculous showmanship.

The evening will kick off with an opportunity to enjoy a cocktail and “Meet the Queens” from 7:00pm before the main performance kicks off at 8:00pm.

The 10th birthday extravaganza has earned five-star reviews all across the country, with FRINGE WORLD 2019 calling ‘Dirty Laundry’ “The perfect blend of flesh, acrobats, dance, boylesque and brilliance.”

Out in Perth said, “Hilarious, jaw-dropping and heartfelt, the Briefs boys set out on a mission to celebrate every moment and don’t leave until they’ve made sure the whole audience is along for the ride,” while ArtsHub added, “The Briefs Boys know how to combine the serious, the ironic, and the naked.”

Glam Adelaide called ‘Dirty Laundry’, “the drag party you always wish you’d be invited to!” so make sure to get your tickets today and watch these boys tumble dry.

WHAT: Dirty Laundry presented by Briefs Factory International

WHEN: Saturday, September 30 from 7:00pm

WHERE: Burdekin Theatre

TICKETS: www.burdekintheatre.com.au

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Dirty Laundry is coming to the Burdekin. Photo credit: Cecilia Martin

A stacked calendar of events was launched on Sunday with the Queensland Country Home Hill Harvest Festival just around the corner.

President Mark Vass officially launched the festival at the Crown Hotel, a festival that was one he always looked forward to growing up in the region.

“As a kid growing up here, we had the Home Hill Rodeo, the Home Hill Show and the Home Hill Harvest Festival – they were the things I can remember looking forward to most as a kid,” he said.

“The only one that’s left is the Harvest Festival and I’ve always been community minded, and I didn’t want to see it die so I got involved in 2015.”

Starting 61 years ago and originally only consisting of the grand parade and street party, the Home Hill Harvest Festival has grown to incorporate an array of events spanning across three months, with highlights including the Town of Origin cricket, netball and rugby league matches, derby day, pet show and gala ball.

“There are all sorts of different events we put on for the community, but the main one is always the grand parade and street party,” Mr Vass said.

“It’s always such a big event, we’re expecting over 3,000 people there.”

Mr Vass also introduced the four entrants for the Queen of the Home Hill Harvest Festival and their sponsors, including Allie-Jo Farry representing Home Hill Lions Club, Zoe Oakes representing Home Hill Rotary Club, Dayna Linton representing Burdekin Netball Association and Kaitlyn Warren representing Home Hill Prawn Shop.

Find a full calendar of events below and visit hhharvestfestival.com.au for more information.

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Queensland Country Home Hill Harvest Festival Queens Dayna Linton, Allie-Jo Farry, Kaitlyn Warren, and Zoe Oakes

Queensland Country Home Hill Harvest Festival Committee: President Mark Vass, Treasurer Krystel Payne, Secretary Peta-Anne Broadhead, and Debbie Simpson. Absent: Vice President John Wood, Treasurer Desley Musumeci, and Minutes Secretary Faith Swindley

The Queensland Country Home Hill Harvest Festival was officially launched at the Crown Hotel on Sunday

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Queensland Country Home Hill Harvest Festival Events Schedule

50 years of illustrious football history will be celebrated at the Burdekin FC 50 Year Gala Dinner in October.

The Burdekin Football Club is celebrating half a century, inviting life members, past and present players, committee members, coaches, managers, sponsors, and supporters along for a very special evening.

“It’s a very important celebration; 50 years is not to be sneezed at,” said Burdekin FC President Laurence Dal Santo, who first played for the club in 1987.

Football in the Burdekin dates back to the early 1900s when men would play informal games in Ayr and Home Hill.

Most of the players at the time were migrants from Scotland, Ireland, England, and European countries, playing without the formality of club or competition.

Clubs were eventually established in both Ayr and Home Hill, the towns playing against each other on most Sundays, although bonding and camaraderie were still the aim of the game.

In the early 1970s, another group of men from Ayr started to organise a formal senior soccer competition, with games again played on Sunday afternoons.

Over the years, teams would come and go, with only four teams in the competition at any one time, including Centrals, Comets, Crusaders, Easts, Grenadiers, Juventus, and Parkside Rangers.

In 1971, the Townsville based North Queensland Soccer Federation (NQSF) had seven teams in their first division and offered players of Ayr the opportunity to play in the competition against teams who had a bye.

Ayr accepted, with teams travelling to Townsville every three to four weeks to compete, and Townsville teams travelling to Ayr.

While some players were happy with the arrangement, others wanted more out of the competition, hoping to play in the elite NQSF competition on a more regular basis.

It was during the 1972 season that the idea to join the NQSF was officially raised and in 1973, the Ayr Senior Soccer Association competed in its first season, becoming the Burdekin Soccer Club in 1987, now known as Burdekin FC.

The club has celebrated many wins and triumphs over the years and produced local football stars who have gone onto big things, all of which will be celebrated on the night.

“The club punches above our weight, we go alright,” said Mr Dal Santo.

“A lot of players have come and gone, and we’ve got volunteers and parents with lots of stories to tell,” added fellow committee member Carla Dal Santo.

Prominent members of the club, both men and women, will discuss each decade of history with the club and 18 life members will be honoured on the night.

The 16+ formal event includes a three-course dinner, live entertainment, and guest speakers, with drinks available for purchase.

To find out more, visit Burdekin FC Inc on Facebook and find the Burdekin FC 50 Year Gala Dinner event.

WHAT: Burdekin FC 50 Year Gala Dinner

WHEN: Saturday, October 14 from 6:00pm

WHERE: Burdekin Memorial Hall

TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/CKUUN

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Burdekin FC 50 Year Gala Dinner Sub-Committee Back L-R Ramon Oar, Laurence Dal Santo, Callan Sunderland, Joshua Valle. Front L-R Michael Taylor, Carla Dal Santo, Sian Reardon

Sub-Committee members Kyle Taylor and Maddison Dal Santo

50 years of Burdekin FC history will be celebrated at a Gala Dinner in October

Photos supplied

Booking your holiday directly with a local travel agent rather than risking the confusing minefield of online services is something that can transform your holiday experience from stressful and nerve-racking to positive, personal and above all; safe.

This level of personal service is something that the friendly team at Helloworld in Ayr pride themselves in; their knowledge, expertise and excellent customer service makes every customer feel relaxed in the competent arms of a professional they can develop a good relationship with.

For Rosemary Menkens, it was an easy decision to go to Pierina Dalle Cort at Helloworld Travel Ayr, and have her team handle all her travel bookings and essentials.

“I’ve been going through Pierina for everything for 20-something years now, and I’ve never looked back,” Rosemary explained.

Rosemary initially approached Helloworld when she travelled a lot for work, sometimes at a moment’s notice, however since her retirement, she has continued to see Pierina and Helloworld whenever she and her husband travel.

“Pierina handles everything for you, and nothing ever went wrong, and if something did, her team would solve it for you.”

Recalling a time when their flight was unexplainedly cancelled, Rosemary was thankful that Pierina and her team associated with the travel insurance claim, and even to the length of speaking to them.

“That experience really made me realise why you go to a professional and thorough travel agent and have insurance whenever you travel,” Rosemary explained.

Travelling multiple times a year, Rosemary always returns to Helloworld.

“Pierina has trained her staff beautifully and they are so knowledgeable and ready to assist. They have all of my respect,” Rosemary said.

Earlier this year, Rosemary and her husband Ray embarked on a 35-day cruise across the Pacific Ocean, with Helloworld ensuring the best possible accommodations, entertainment, and travel route.

Rosemary also completed a land tour of New Zealand, where she explored the Southern Island, and is already looking forward to jet-setting off for a holiday to Portugal with a friend sometime soon.

Looking back over her travels, Rosemary is thankful for Helloworld and the passionate team.

“Just thinking about everything that goes into booking and organising a holiday, from travel insurance, flights, accommodations, and experiences, Pierina and her team take all the pressure out of everything and made the entire experience seamless and amazing.”

To learn more, book your next holiday vacation, or see the fantastic details that Helloworld Ayr have on offer, ring 4783 2122, email ayr@hellworld.com.au or visit their shopfront at 131 Queen Street Ayr.

Rosemary’s best travel tip: Be sure to check your passport expiry date! Sometimes you can’t travel if you have less than six months left on your passport, so double check.

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Rosemary and Ray Menkens on their travels to Scotland

Rosemary at Empress Catherine Palace in St Petersburg. Photos: Rosemary Menkens

Little Miss Sofie is available for adoption!

This very sweet and calm black and white kitten is ready to meet her perfect home.

Cuddly and playful, Sofie would best suit a calm and relaxing home, with older children.

Sofie is quick to turn into a snuggly purring machine and will become a permanent fixture in your lap.

She loves being cradled like a baby, and is eager for a play, either with toys, her human, or a cat tunnel.

Although more than comfortable with other feline friends, Sofie would positively thrive in a peaceful and relaxing environment, where she is the centre of attention.

Sofie is open and available for meet and greets, always eager to meet new humans and families.

Available for adoption, Sofie is up to date on her vaccines, flea, tick, and worm treated, is desexed and microchipped, ready for her forever home at a moment’s notice.

To enquire about Sofie, or set up a meet and greet, submit the cat/kitten enquiry form here: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Fast Facts:

Rehoming fee: $185

DOB: 01/11/2022

Sex: Female

Breed: Domestic short hair

Kid friendly: Older kids (12+ years)

Dog Friendly: Untested

Other cats: Yes

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

Location: Ayr, QLD

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With highly competitive prices, a broad range of direct flights and an experiential fun-focussed terminal, Whitsunday Coast Airport is quickly becoming the airport of choice for people living in the Burdekin.

Airport Manager, Craig Turner, said that the Council-owned facility is “delivering seamless and cost-effective access” to a range of destinations.

Flying direct to Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne and also the Gold Coast (as of December 7), the airport hosts Qantas, Virgin, JetStar, SkyTrans and Bonza airlines.

“The Whitsundays is a well-known holiday destination – this makes it cheaper, faster and direct!” said Mr Turner.

“Locals are also buying a seat next to a leisure passenger rather than when they travel from Townsville and are sitting next to a corporate or mine worker which drives the prices up.”

In addition to passenger travel, Whitsunday Coast Airport also has a dedicated Freight Distribution Centre – transporting fish, crabs, and pets all around the country.

They can also transit fresh local produce to population centres quicker than any road or rail transport.

“This is great for local farmers whose produce gets to market as fresh as possible,” Mr Turner explained.

“Not only is the produce worth more, it also looks fantastic!”

While the flights and the freight are definitely setting Whitsunday Coast Airport apart from other regional airports, it is also the terminal experience that has seen Whitsunday Coast win several awards this year.

“We unashamedly promote fun!” said Mr Turner.

From the Heart Reef inspired aquarium at the centre of the departure lounge to the free-form seating, augmented reality screen to entertain the kids and the Taste Whitsundays food and beverage offering – everything is an experience at Whitsunday Coast Airport.

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Whitsunday Coast Airport is taking-off! Photo supplied

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The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club have a saying: ‘Where there’s a need, there’s a Lion,’ which sums up the work they’ve been doing throughout the Burdekin for the last 60 years.

The club is celebrating 60 years in November and inviting the community to celebrate their contributions and hard work.

“It’s time to sit back and look at what we’ve done, who we are and enjoy that with each other and the community,” said Home Hill – Ayr Lions club member and Public Affairs Officer for North Queensland Nick Wiseman.

“We’ve got members who have been in the club a long time and we’ve got some newer members as well.

“It’s going to be amazing to see and be a part of what Lions have been doing in this community for such a long time.”

The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club most notably fundraise and donate money to organisations and causes locally and nationally.

Recent beneficiaries have included the Burdekin BMX Club, local schools, chaplaincy programs, cancer research and natural disaster funds, most recently Burketown floods.

The club maintains ongoing projects including the fruit park in Home Hill, located across the road from the Lions diorama.

The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club have also sponsored Allie-Jo Farry, a 2023 Queensland Country Home Hill Harvest Festival Queen entrant who, with the club’s assistance, is fundraising through bake sales, raffles and events, with funds raised to be donated to a charity of her choice.

The club will also welcome the Lions Eye Health Project Coordinator to the region, visiting Home Hill State School on October 30 to conduct early intervention vision screening on school students.

The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club is always looking for new members and assistance, meeting at the Crown Hotel every second and fourth Monday from 6:30pm.

To find out more about membership and the club’s 60th celebrations, email homehilllions@gmail.com.

WHAT: Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club 60th Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, November 18 from 6:30pm

WHERE: Brandon Tavern

TICKETS: $40pp

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The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club meet at the Crown Hotel twice a month. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

With disaster season approaching, the emergency services of the region gathered at the SES Home Hill Open Day on Saturday to spread awareness ahead of Get Ready Week.

The Open Day came after the Burdekin Unit State Emergency Service won the Regional Unit/Group of the Year and more at this year’s SES Week Awards.

“We are a tightknit little group,” said Burdekin SES Deputy Local Controller Laurinda George.

“We do not have a lot of members, but we know how to pump out jobs, we trust each other, we know each other’s abilities, so we spread out and do what needs to be done.”

Local Controller John Winn attended the SES State Awards ceremony in Brisbane earlier in the month as a Suncorp Spirit of SES nominee.

“I’m pretty proud and the members are pretty proud,” Mr Winn said.

“It’s quite an impressive award for our small numbers.”

Last weekend’s Open Day welcomed SES, Fire Brigade, Ambulance, Police, Rural Fire Brigade and Council to engage with the community and share helpful information ahead of the summer.

“What we like to do is engage with the community so that they can become independent in times of trouble,” added Ms George.

“We’re here to educate them on how to help themselves so they don’t find themselves in a state of emergency, they’ve done it all before and they’re prepared, and today is a big part of that.”

Burdekin SES members meet every Monday evening from 7:00pm with depots across Ayr, Home Hill, Clare, Rita Island and Guru, all sponsored and maintained by the Burdekin Shire Council.

The organisation currently has 33 members across the region, some being with SES for over 30 years, but are seeking more interest from the community, welcoming people 16 years and above to join.

“We are a volunteer organisation so it’s what you can volunteer,” said Ms George.

“We just need people to want to support their community and by doing that we can support them.

“There is something for everyone.”

To find out more about joining SES, email SESNR.Admin@qfes.qld.gov.au.

Get Ready Week will take place across the region next month.

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SES Week Awards

Burdekin SES Unit – Regional Unit/Group of the Year

Paul Haller Group Leader Ayr SES – SES Week Award

John George Deputy Group Leader Ayr SES – SES Week Award

Donn Thomson Deputy Group Leader Home Hill – Meritorious Service Clasp for 30 Years of Outstanding Service

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Burdekin SES Deputy Local Controller Laurinda George, Deputy Local Controller Warren Francis, and Local Controller John Winn

Home Hill SES hosted an Open Day last weekend

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie