The Burdekin’s own marathon sensation, Karin Thorburn, brought her trove of running experience to Ozcare Home Hill last Tuesday, presenting to a crowd of her own clients who were left as shocked as they were inspired.

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Residents of Ozcare Home Hill discovered there’s a little more to one of their regular carers than meets the eye.

The Burdekin’s own marathon sensation, Karin Thorburn, brought her trove of running experience back to Ozcare Home Hill last Tuesday, presenting to a crowd of her own clients who were left as shocked as they were inspired.

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Fresh off a month-long trip across the globe, during which she ran 15 marathons across four continents, Thorburn gave the audience a surprise when she walked through the doors as a guest speaker rather than their regular carer.

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“Some of our clients didn’t realise it was me out of uniform,” Thorburn quipped.

The esteemed runner delivered a presentation on her ‘Marathon Journey Around the World’ to an audience over 20 strong, detailing her early running days, right through to her qualification for three consecutive Boston Marathons.

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An array of medals recognising her long-distance running exploits were also displayed throughout the event.

She said she relished the opportunity to share her story with her clients and peers.

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“It was a lovely experience,” she said.

“(I value) presenting a topic like marathon running and giving people a better understanding of what women in running can do and achieve.”

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Candice Green, diversional therapist at Ozcare Home Hill, called the presentation “inspiring.”

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“Karin truly is an incredible woman. Hearing her marathon journey and the dedication she has to her sport and supporting others is inspiring,” she said.

“We truly appreciate Karin coming into our home today to share that part of her. It was wonderful to see our clients get to know a part of your world outside caring for them.”

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One client added: “Karin is bloody amazing and deserves every medal she has received. She is brilliant.”

Thorburn now plans to take her story to local schools and community groups.

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Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is celebrating 29 years of dedicated eye care service to the Burdekin community during the month of June.

To mark the occasion they are offering 20% off all sunglasses throughout the entire month, providing the perfect opportunity to update your eyewear while celebrating a long-standing local business success story.

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Since opening their doors, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has built a reputation of delivering quality eye care and personalised service as well as providing exquisite eyewear individually tailored to each patient’s needs.

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Known for their commitment to customer service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has become a trusted name in the region, offering a full suite of eye care services along with a wide selection of stylish eyewear, prescription sunglasses, safety glasses and contact lenses.

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Owner and Optometrist Helene Holmes expressed her gratitude as the business reaches this milestone.

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“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal patients from the Burdekin and beyond. It has been a pleasure to care for your eye health over the past 29 years,” she said.

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With nearly three decades of service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes remains committed to delivering trusted, high-quality eye care while embracing the latest in optical technology and fashion eyewear.

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Included in their Sunglass Sale are leading brands such as Oroton, Mako, Stuart Weitzman and Bill Bass, a range to suit every lifestyle and budget. 

So pop in to their Practice at 150 Queen Street, Ayr, try on a new pair of sunglasses and join the celebrations.

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The familiar acoustic chords and unapologetic larrikin humour of Kevin Bloody Wilson are set to hit the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June, as his Aussie Icon Tour brings decades of irreverent pub comedy back to regional Queensland’s stages. Photo supplied

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The familiar acoustic chords and unapologetic larrikin humour of Kevin Bloody Wilson are set to hit the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June, as his Aussie Icon Tour brings decades of irreverent pub comedy back to regional Queensland’s stages.

Wilson, the stage persona of Bathurst-born comedian and singer-songwriter Dennis Bryant,  emerged in the 1980s as one of Australia’s most recognisable exporters of blue-collar, deliberately provocative musical comedy.

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But that was never the original goal.

“It all started with my mates,” Wilson said.

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“I started out by writing 40 songs for them—like ‘Mick, the Master Farter’—and they enjoyed it. They said, ‘you should record some of this stuff, it's bloody funny.’ So I did, and they were absolutely right. We sold s*** loads!”

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That same formula has carried him through decades of touring and releases including Kev’s Back (The Return of the Yobbo) and Born Again Piss Tank, alongside multiple ARIA nominations for Best Comedy Release.

Now, he comes to the Burdekin with a show derived from over 20 albums, each with that same pub-born, no-filter humour that launched his career into the stratosphere.

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But for all the global tours and acclaim, he said it’s Aussies that resonate most with his material.

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“Here in Australia, a root’s a root, and a chook’s a chook. For American and Canadian audiences, you've got to explain it,” he said.

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“I'm an electrician by trade, and I just talk the way that all my mates do. I don't dolly it up or flower it up simply because it's in a song. I tell the story in the song the same way I tell it over a beer.”

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Joining Wilson on stage is his daughter Tammy-Jo Bryant (Jenny Talia), continuing a touring partnership that has taken her across Australia, the UK and Europe, including a 72-date run supporting her father.

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With a footprint in Nashville as a traditional country music artist, Tammy-Jo eventually made the switch to bawdy comedy after decades of exposure to her father’s work. Her first release as a comedian outsold her three previous country albums.

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The pair embark on a trip a coastal run of shows from Cairns down to Brisbane at the start of this month, a stretch that Wilson calls one of his favourite.

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“I'm not pissing in your pocket when I say I particularly love this route that we're on now, from Cairns down to Brizzy. It’s seriously, one of my favourite parts of the world,” he said.

Wilson says he hopes the audience can leave with a “good belly laugh.”

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“It's cathartic, is the word that the audience usually tell me. It will always make you feel better, and it kicks in the endorphins that make you feel good,” he said.

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“Sometimes it's good to have a good belly laugh, and to laugh at s*** you're not supposed to be laughing at.”

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Catch Kevin Bloody Wilson’s Aussie Icon Tour at the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June 2026, from 7.00pm to 9.30pm. Tickets are available via www.burdekintheatre.com.au, with seats expected to move quickly for one of the region’s most in-demand comedy nights.

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The award-winning concert series Between the Tides is back in July and has found a stunning new home on Ngaro Country at Airlie Beach along the sparkling Great Barrier Reef coastline. For three years, this one-of-a-kind event has brought together music, culture, and nature, and now it is stepping into an exciting new chapter.

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Find your rhythm on The Reef as some of Australia’s most celebrated musicians take to the stage against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coast. Headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies fill the air and lift across the foreshore, the music flows seamlessly from one performance to the next. Jem Cassar-Daley follows with soulful songs that drift over the sand, drawing you in with every note. Mid Drift carries the feeling onward with intimate, heartfelt melodies that seem to ripple with the waves. Tjaka sparks a surge of energy, blending beats, rap, and didgeridoo in a way that makes the crowd move together. Rounding out the lineup, local singer Kaylee West brings warm, folk-inspired songs shaped by the ocean and open road, perfectly in tune with the coastal setting.

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Guided by the custodians of the Ngaro Nation, this is more than a concert. Experience cultural performances, sand art, workshops, and knowledge-sharing, alongside locally crafted food, drinks, and art. Dance, share stories, and connect with the rhythms of this ever-changing coastal landscape.

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Feel the breeze off the Coral Sea, and let the music, culture, and coastal beauty carry you away. Between the Tides at Airlie Beach is a day to connect, to dance, to share stories, and to create memories you’ll never forget.

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Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your place now and be part of something truly unforgettable.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

What: Between The Tides
When: Saturday 4th July  
Where: 8 Airlie Esplanade

Between the tides will be headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies will fill the air and lift across the foreshore.

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Ayr Police Station marked Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month with a dedicated morning tea at the Ayr PCYC on 27 May. Photo supplied

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Ayr Police Station marked Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month with a dedicated morning tea at the Ayr PCYC on 27 May, aimed at uniting the public and local organisations to combat violence in the home.

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The morning saw members from local community support groups and local high school leaders come together for the annual event, established by local police as a proactive community engagement initiative.

The event featured guest speaker Deb Mclean from Bowen, founder of Exercise Angels. Ms Mclean delivered a moving presentation, sharing her personal lived experience as a victim of domestic violence and detailing the vital coping mechanisms that helped her navigate her recovery.

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Key local advocacy and support groups were heavily involved in the proceedings, including representatives from the Burdekin Community Association (BCA), Zonta, and the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.

Organisers also encouraged school leaders from across the district to attend, equipping them to spread the message of awareness and safety throughout their respective high school networks.

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The primary goal of the morning tea is to educate and inform the public on the realities of domestic violence, highlighting how the community can work alongside police to prevent harm, safeguard victim-survivors, and ultimately reduce emergency calls for service.

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Ayr Police hope that by fostering open dialogue and education through initiatives like the morning tea, the community can join forces to successfully prevent violence in both homes and the wider Burdekin district.

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On Friday 22^nd May a free luncheon was provided at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club. Photos supplied

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Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)  celebrated National Volunteers Week last week from 18-24 May 2026, for the vital role that our Volunteers contribute to the community.

The theme for this year is,  "Ignite Volunteering", highlights how volunteering creates connections, purpose, and positive changes and focuses on encouraging more people to give their time and talents.

During NVW week, a Funday was held on Tuesday 19^th May at the Home Hill Community Sports Club. Volunteers were treated to a delicious morning tea and a few fun social bowl games. The BCA Volunteer Funday was enjoyed by all those who attended. Many thanks to Judy and Trevor Elton at the Home Hill Community Sports Club for providing a wonderful venue for any event.

On Friday 22^nd May a free luncheon was provided at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club. The luncheon was an opportunity for BCA to show our appreciation for all the good work that our Volunteers do for the organisation and the community.

The BCA volunteer family is growing, building social and community connections, networking and providing new skills.  At BCA we try to ensure that we provide a meaningful, welcoming and enjoyable experience for all of our Volunteers. If you or anyone you know is interested in volunteering for BCA, please contact Rita Quagliata, our Volunteer Service Manager on 4783 3744 or bca@bcaburdekin.org.au.

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“There’s just a real sense of satisfaction that comes from promoting your district, promoting the Burdekin as a tourism destination,” says Burdekin Visitor Information Centre volunteer Barry Hewson. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin really is beautiful, and if you’re anything like local Barry Hewson, you just want to scream it from the rooftops.

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That’s why Barry spends his Mondays volunteering at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centre in Ayr.

“I was born and brought up here in Ayr, so I know the place quite well,” he said.

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“There’s just a real sense of satisfaction that comes from promoting your district, promoting the Burdekin as a tourism destination. A sense of pride.”

Barry, a volunteer at the centre for seven years, said each day comes with something different. His most popular query?

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“Where are all the crocodiles?” he said with a laugh.

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“I had a fella from Denmark who wanted to pat one in the wild! I said, ‘Oh, you'll get eaten if you pat a crocodile.’ He said, ‘Oh no, I watch Crocodile Dundee. I'm right.’”

Barry enjoys sending tourists to different local pubs and cafes, local favourites like the Butterfly Centre, and the Burdekin’s underrated beaches.

For Barry, volunteering at the Visitor Information Centre helps keep him on the go.

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“It keeps you busy, keeps your mind active. For anyone who wants to be a volunteer, I say go for it,” Barry said.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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Members of the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Society. Photo credit: Rachael Smith  

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A stunning blue sky winter’s day greeted happy attendees at the Rotary NQ Field Days Exhibition held at the Townsville Show Grounds on Friday and Saturday last week.

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Highlights included drone drop shows, chain saw demonstrations, the duck race and a robotic dog used to round up cattle.

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In particular, the robotic dog drew crowds with its playful personality and impressive repertoire of tricks, including standing on two legs and forming a heart shape with its forearms, delighting children who squealed with excitement.

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Mayor Nick Dametto officially opened the event at 10am on the Friday morning and crowds enjoyed exploring the engaging displays, petting the farm animals, learning more about bees and listening to the clickety clack of old machines from the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Society.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last was present on the day, greeting constituents and enjoying everything the event had to offer.

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Martha is a gentle young cat looking for a forever home and someone to love.

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Born 25 September 2022, Martha is a female cat who has been in foster care since 14 May 2026. She is cat friendly, good with children, and may suit a home with other pets, although her experience with dogs is currently unknown.

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Martha is known for her warm personality and strong bond with people once trust is established. She is quite talkative, happily responding when called by name, and is full of purrs, head bumps and affection. At night, she enjoys nothing more than curling up beside her foster carer for comfort and companionship.

She came into care alongside her close companion Milah, and the pair share a strong and comforting bond. A joint adoption would be a special outcome, though Martha would also thrive in a calm, peaceful home where she feels safe and loved.

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Martha is a grazer, preferring small meals throughout the day, and settles best in a relaxed environment.

Adoption fee is $210, which includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, and flea, tick and worm treatment.

For a loving, gentle companion with personality and heart, Martha is ready to meet her match.

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Enquire about Martha here:https://angelpawsinc.com.au/forms/

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Burdekin Life Journo Jacob was the recipient of this week’s good deed during a stroll through the market. Photo Source: Burdekin Life

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… as written by the editor

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Me again.

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I had to take on the good deed feed this week, and you’ll soon understand why.

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After covering the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race a couple weekends ago, I shuffled across to the market stalls sprawled across the park.

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A particular stall caught my eye, displaying a range of homemade sauces that I thought might help salvage my cooking. I was particularly drawn to a steak sauce—so much so, I was prepared to buy it. One problem: it was cash only, of which I was devoid.

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After much deliberation, I eventually decided that life must go on without the steak sauce. Although, I guess the universe had other plans.

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The universe’s name in this scenario, was Janet Delaney.

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A few days pass and I receive a message from Janet, informing me that she overheard my ordeal at the counter and decided to buy the sauce for me, but couldn't find me again in the park.

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We arranged for her to drop it off at my apartment and had a jolly old yarn.

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So Janet, if you see this, thanks again. You absolutely made my day, and are a perfect example of what it means to be a Burdekinite.

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Thursday 21 May

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

Friday 22 May

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

Burdekin Support Group of Parkinsons, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Home Hill State High School P&C Fishing Competition, 6pm, Home Hill State High School, Home Hill

Saturday 21 May

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, 10am-12pm, Catholic Parish Hall, Ayr

Sunday 24 May

Home Hill State High School Family Fun Day

Sunday 10am

Come along to Home Hill State High School P&C Fishing Competition’s Sunday Family Funday! The day will include weigh ins, great music, a casting competition, and much more!

Home Hill State High School, Home Hill

Australian Medium Charmaine Wilson Regional Tour

Sunday 2pm-4:15pm

Experience an intimate afternoon with renowned Australian medium Charmaine Wilson, as she shares messages of peace, love and connection in one of her final live shows before retirement. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

Tuesday 26 May

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

Thursday 28 May

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

Creedence Clearwater Collective

Thursday 7:30pm-9:45pm

Get ready for a howling good night at the Creedence Clearwater Collective at the Burdekin Theatre, where the iconic CCR and John Fogerty hits come alive on stage for an unforgettable, full-throttle celebration of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

Thursday 28 May

Drone Use in Local Industries Workshop

Thursday 9am–12pm

Free practical workshop delivered in partnership with the State Library of Queensland covering drone use across agriculture, small business and council operations, including practical applications and regulatory requirements.

Ayr Showgrounds Multi-Purpose Hall, 9–21 Edwards Street, Ayr

Friday 29 May

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

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Meet and Greet & Book Launch

Friday 6pm-10pm

Celebrate a century of surf and service as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosts a special Meet and Greet and book launch, bringing together past and present members, friends and community for a night of stories and celebration.

Kalamia Hotel, 50 Queen Street, Ayr

Saturday 30 May

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Gala Dinner

Saturday 6pm-11pm

Celebrate a century of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club at a special gala dinner, bringing together past and present members for an evening of memories, connection and reflection on 100 years of service and community spirit.

Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill

Sunday 31 May

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Community Fun Day

Sunday 10am-5pm

Wrap up a historic centenary weekend as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosts a relaxed community fun day at the clubhouse, inviting members, families and locals to come together for a family-friendly celebration of 100 years.

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, 1-9 Sandowns Street, Alva

Monday 1 June

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

Tuesday 2 June

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Dementia Carers Support Group, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Thursday 4 June

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Tech Together Workshop, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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

Friday 5 June

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

Saturday 6 June

Birthing Kit Assembly Morning

Saturday 9am

Volunteers needed for a Birthing Kit Assembly Morning hosted by Zonta Club Burdekin Inc. Morning tea provided. Please contact 0400 404 461 for more info.

St Francis Primary School Samaritan Centre, Ayr

Sunday 7 June

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

Home Hill Tennis Association’s Pickleball Cane Country Cup

Sunday 8:30am

The third annual Cane Country Cup returns to Home Hill, bringing together mixed pickleball teams from across North Queensland for a full day of fast-paced competition, friendly rivalry and spirited matches across Competitive and Social grades.

Home Hill Tennis Association, Home Hill

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

Monday 8 June

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

Tuesday 9 June

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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

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Ringo is a young American Bulldog with presence, personality, and just enough cheek to keep life interesting.

At first meeting, he can come on strong with big energy, big enthusiasm, and a clear belief that everyone is already his best friend. Give him a few minutes (and ideally a treat or two) and he quickly softens into a loyal, affectionate companion.

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His foster carer lovingly describes him as “a bit of a boof” when excitement kicks in. For this reason, Ringo is not suited to homes with small children, even though his intentions are always gentle.

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On the lead, Ringo is generally steady and willing, but he shows his best self in quieter environments where he isn’t overwhelmed by noise and movement. Busy streets and high stimulation can distract him, so continued training and calm exposure will help him build confidence and focus.

He is highly food motivated, which makes him a quick learner during training sessions. However, this also means portion control and supervision around food will be important.

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Ringo is currently working on his manners, including waiting patiently for meals and taking treats more gently. With consistency and guidance, he is improving every day.

What Ringo needs now is a patient, kind and committed owner willing to continue his training and help him grow into his best self.

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In return, he offers loyalty, charm, and a whole lot of personality packed into one wagging, hopeful package.

Ringo’s adoption fee is $600 and includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatment, and heartworm prevention (or ProHeart).

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Contact Angel Paws Inc. on 07 4420 3276 for further information.

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Burdekin students are being encouraged to enter Queensland’s 2027 Farm Safety Calendar competition. Photo supplied

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Burdekin primary school students are being encouraged to get creative while helping promote an important message about farm and rural safety through the Queensland Government’s 2027 Farm Safety Calendar competition.

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The competition invites Prep to Year 6 students across Queensland to create artwork promoting safer practices around farms, machinery, animals and rural workplaces.

For agricultural communities like the Burdekin, where cane farming and rural industries play a major role in the local economy, the initiative aims to build safety awareness from a young age.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie recently launched the competition alongside new Workplace Health and Safety Queensland Safety Ambassador Riana Crehan at Eagle Junction State School.

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Twelve student artworks will be selected for the 2027 calendar, each representing a different monthly farm safety theme. More than 2,500 entries were submitted by over 140 Queensland schools in the 2026 competition.

Deputy Premier Bleijie said the initiative was helping build stronger safety awareness among young Queenslanders.

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“Everyone deserves to come home safe to their loved ones at the end of their working day, and we all play a part in ensuring safety in the workplace,” Mr Bleijie said.

“This competition is about creative young minds promoting the importance of farm safety by encouraging our next generation to think about risks and safe behaviours early.”

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The competition closes on August 31st, 2026. Winning students will each receive a $250 gift card, while their schools will receive $500. More than 40,000 calendars will be distributed statewide.

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Thursday 21 May

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

Friday 22 May

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

Burdekin Support Group of Parkinsons, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

Home Hill State High School P&C Fishing Competition, 6pm, Home Hill State High School, Home Hill

Saturday 21 May

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, 10am-12pm, Catholic Parish Hall, Ayr

Sunday 24 May

Home Hill State High School Family Fun Day

Sunday 10am

Come along to Home Hill State High School P&C Fishing Competition’s Sunday Family Funday! The day will include weigh ins, great music, a casting competition, and much more!

Home Hill State High School, Home Hill

Australian Medium Charmaine Wilson Regional Tour

Sunday 2pm-4:15pm

Experience an intimate afternoon with renowned Australian medium Charmaine Wilson, as she shares messages of peace, love and connection in one of her final live shows before retirement. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

Tuesday 26 May

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

Thursday 28 May

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

Creedence Clearwater Collective

Thursday 7:30pm-9:45pm

Get ready for a howling good night at the Creedence Clearwater Collective at the Burdekin Theatre, where the iconic CCR and John Fogerty hits come alive on stage for an unforgettable, full-throttle celebration of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

Thursday 28 May

Drone Use in Local Industries Workshop

Thursday 9am–12pm

Free practical workshop delivered in partnership with the State Library of Queensland covering drone use across agriculture, small business and council operations, including practical applications and regulatory requirements.

Ayr Showgrounds Multi-Purpose Hall, 9–21 Edwards Street, Ayr

Friday 29 May

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

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Meet and Greet & Book Launch

Friday 6pm-10pm

Celebrate a century of surf and service as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosts a special Meet and Greet and book launch, bringing together past and present members, friends and community for a night of stories and celebration.

Kalamia Hotel, 50 Queen Street, Ayr

Saturday 30 May

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Gala Dinner

Saturday 6pm-11pm

Celebrate a century of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club at a special gala dinner, bringing together past and present members for an evening of memories, connection and reflection on 100 years of service and community spirit.

Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill

Sunday 31 May

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Community Fun Day

Sunday 10am-5pm

Wrap up a historic centenary weekend as the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club hosts a relaxed community fun day at the clubhouse, inviting members, families and locals to come together for a family-friendly celebration of 100 years.

Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, 1-9 Sandowns Street, Alva

Monday 1 June

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

Tuesday 2 June

RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr

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

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Dementia Carers Support Group, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr

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Eight Burdekin locals eager to try their hand at woodturning were treated to expert tutelage over the weekend Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Eight Burdekin locals eager to try their hand at woodturning were treated to expert tutelage over the weekend, with experienced craftsman Simon Begg travelling from New South Wales to deliver a two-day workshop.

Hosted at the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association (BWA) headquarters on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May, the course introduced beginners to the fundamentals of the craft, taking them from basic technique through to finished pieces.

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Day one focused on spindle turning, with participants learning core skills on scrap timber before progressing to a garden dibbler project.

Day two saw attendees put their new skills into practice, turning their own wooden bowls.

Begg said he was impressed with the group’s progress across the weekend.

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“Day one is always a bit slower, and it takes a while for people to get a handle on the tools and how they all cut. But what’s really nice about two-day classes is you see the progression from day one to day two,” Begg said.

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With a background in cabinetmaking, Begg turned his woodturning hobby into a full-time career following a trip to Turnfest in 2016.

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Since then, he has exhibited works in galleries across Australia, delivered workshops nationally and overseas, and worked with more than 200 species of timber.

The Burdekin workshop marked his first visit to the region, made possible through a Regional Arts Development Fund grant from council to the BWA.

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