Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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Home Hill residents will have the chance to enjoy the music of Michael Bublé when a tribute show arrives at the Burdekin Memorial Hall next month. Welsh-born performer Rhydian Lewis will lead his four-piece band, The Residuals, in a celebration of the Canadian singer's biggest hits and much-loved Christmas songs on Wednesday 2nd December. The show will feature favourites including Home, Everything, Haven't Met You Yet, Feeling Good, Sway and The Way You Look Tonight, alongside Christmas classics such as White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, A Holly Jolly Christmas and It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. Audiences can also expect stories from Bublé's life, with Lewis and The Residuals bringing the singer's signature blend of swing, pop and big-band music to the stage. With more than 10 years of touring experience across Queensland, Victoria and NSW, Lewis has established himself as one of Australia's leading Michael Bublé tribute performers. His Burdekin performance is free for the community, with tickets provided by Burdekin Shire Council. Free morning tea will be served from 10am, ahead of the performance starting at 11am at the Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill. Tickets are still available and can be booked online at www.burdekintheatre.com.au or by contacting the Burdekin Theatre Box Office on (07) 4783 9880. CAPTION: With more than 10 years of touring experience across Queensland, Victoria and NSW, Lewis has established himself as one of Australia's leading Michael Bublé tribute performers. Photo supplied
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Self-taught cook Giovanna Castorina is preparing to launch a series of cooking classes, giving residents the opportunity to create restaurant-calibre meals from their own kitchens. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.
Burdekin local Giovanna Castorina has been turning simple ingredients into mouth-watering Italian dishes for years.
Now, she’s letting locals in on her secret.
The self-taught cook behind Giovanna’s Cucina in Home Hill is preparing to launch a series of cooking classes, giving residents the opportunity to create restaurant-calibre meals from their own kitchens.
Born out of regular requests from Facebook followers eager to learn her tricks, Giovanna will teach each class herself, imparting the culinary flair that has seen her business become a local favourite.
“A lot of people have been asking for it over the last couple of years,” she said.
“Every time I put something on my [social media] stories of what I’m cooking at home, everyone always messages and says, ‘can I have the recipe!’”
Classes will be hosted at her shop on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue, offering a more intimate and hands-on experience to classes of six to eight people.
Each session will feature a rotating theme, with ideas ranging from fresh pasta and Italian feasts to midweek meals, slow-cooker dishes, beginner essentials—perfect for uni students—and a ‘husbands who cook’ class.
Giovanna says the goal is to share unique, cost-effective cooking ideas that can be easily adopted in the kitchen at home.
“Times are tough at the moment, and people aren’t going out to eat as much. They want to cook at home—but at the same time, finding ideas, or even just the know-how, can be tough,” she said.
“I want people to go home and try something they’ve never tried before, whether it’s crème brûlée, fresh pasta, or even just a midweek dinner that they never would’ve thought to do otherwise.”
Participants will prepare a three- to four-course meal, including an entrée, main and dessert, before sitting down to enjoy the creations and taking the recipes home.
Giovanna says each class will offer a fun, social experience, with private sessions also available for a ladies’ night out, workplace team-building session, or simply trying something new with friends.
The classes will be open to anyone aged 15 and over, with no prior cooking experience required.
Stay tuned to Giovanna’s Cucina’s Facebook page for further updates.
Despite membership almost doubling since the organisation’s last scare three years ago, the current executive team still awaits new figures to help carry the torch forward. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Planning for the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Street Party is now in full swing, despite concerns the event’s future may be in jeopardy without new executive members stepping forward.
Chamber Vice-President Gary Roser confirmed at Tuesday morning’s Chamber meeting that paperwork for road closures and insurance requirements had already been submitted to facilitate the December event, with funding, money boards, donation collections and ticket preparations also underway.
Despite the groundwork already laid, Mr Roser said the Christmas Street Party’s ultimate fate hinges on the positions of president, treasurer and paid secretary being filled before the organisation’s September AGM.
“We’ve done all the behind-the-scenes work … now, we basically need to just pull the trigger—but we can’t unless we’ve got new members in place to follow through with it,” Mr Roser said.
“If new members don’t step up into executive roles, then the Christmas Party probably won’t go ahead. It can’t continue with the skeleton crew that we have at the moment.”
The Burdekin Chamber has long advocated for the region’s business community, facilitating networking opportunities for local operators through regular member meetings, workshops, and its hallmark Christmas Street Party each year.
The December event has become a major fixture on the Burdekin community calendar, injecting millions of dollars into local businesses over the past two years while providing families with a free night of family-friendly entertainment.
Mr Roser said the potential loss of the event would be felt across the entire community, rather than just among local businesses.
“It’s not so much about the businesses,” he said.
“It’s about the town losing a free community, family-orientated event that we don’t often have.”
Mr Roser confirmed that no substantial interest had been received for any of the vacant roles as of Tuesday, with the organisation unable to continue under its bylaws without the positions being filled.
It found itself in a similar spot three years ago, when a lack of interest in the same three executive roles nearly led to its demise.
Despite membership almost doubling since, the current executive team still awaits new figures to help carry the torch forward.
Mr Roser urges anyone seeking further information on vacant roles to contact either himself on 0408 076 064 or President Seb Aguirre on 0499 197 671.
Thursday 9 July
Cirque Nouvelle
Thursday 6pm-7:15pm
Experience the magic of Cirque Nouvelle as an internationally acclaimed cast blends breathtaking acrobatics, juggling and aerial artistry in a dazzling, modern circus production that promises to captivate and amaze audiences of all ages. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 10 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Millaroo State School P&C Presents Catfish Comp BME Allot Welding & Fabrications Meet & Greet, 6pm, Millaroo Social Club, Millaroo
Saturday 11 July
Millaroo State School P&C Presents Catfish Comp Presentations, 4pm, Millaroo Social Club, Millaroo
Sunday 12 July
Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast, 8am-12pm, Burdekin Aero Club, Aerodrome Road, Brandon
LBCDA Highland Community Concert
Sunday 10am
Enjoy a vibrant night of music, dance and community spirit at the LBCDA Highland Community Concert, a free celebration of Celtic culture brought to life with lively performances at the Burdekin Theatre this July.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 13 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc Dinner Meeting
6:15pm for 6:30pm start
You are warmly invited to join us at a Zonta Dinner Meeting, an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with like-minded people who are passionate about making a positive difference. Learn more about Zonta’s work in empowering women and girls in our community through advocacy, education, and service.
Venue: ANZAC Memorial Club
Contact Nos: 0438 836 677 04 or 0400 404 461
Thursday 16 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 17 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Meet & Greet, 6pm, Crown Hotel, Home Hill
Saturday 18 July
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Burdekin Roosters VS Centrals, 3pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr
Burdekin Rugby League Ladies Day, 4pm-8pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr
Sunday 19 July
Wings & Wheels for Angel Flight, 8am, Donnington Airpark, Woodstock
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Goodbye Breakfast, 9am, Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill
Zonta Club Burdekin’s Strive to Be Kind Lunch, 12pm-2pm, Silver Screens ‘N Coffee Beans, Ayr
Monday 20 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 21 July
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
Wednesday 22 July
Home Hill CWL—Free Morning Tea
Wednesday, 9.30am
Home Hill CWL extends an invitation to all for our free morning tea—a great opportunity to catch up with new and old friends and especially if you’re new to the area. Some entertainment and games with a chance to win a raffle prize.
St Colemans Hall
Thursday 23 July
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 24 July
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
The Eagles Greatest Hits
Friday 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate the timeless sound of The Eagles live in concert, as a world-class six-piece band delivers two hours of iconic hits including Hotel California, Desperado and Lyin’ Eyes in a powerful, nostalgia-filled night of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Sunday 26 July
Gospel Music Festival
Sunday 10am-6pm
Enjoy a free, uplifting day at the Gospel Music Festival at the Stardust Drive-In, featuring inspiring live performances from Brendon Walmsley, Victor Clay and Lynton Allen in a powerful celebration of music, faith and community.
Stardust Drive-In Theatre, 27 Kilrie Road, Ayr
A convoy of vintage cars reminiscent of Home Hill's glory days rumbled down Eighth Avenue on Saturday for Home Hill News and Coffee’s inaugural Coffee and Cars event Photo source: Facebook/Home Hill News and Coffee
A convoy of vintage cars reminiscent of Home Hill's glory days rumbled down Eighth Avenue on Saturday for Home Hill News and Coffee’s inaugural Coffee and Cars event.
Vehicles dating back to the early 1900s were parked and showcased outside the café, with owners engaged in classic-car discourse over coffee and breakfast.
Home Hill News and Coffee expressed delight with the event's success, describing it in a Facebook post as a “beautiful morning.”
“We loved seeing everyone’s pride and joy in the streets of Home Hill,” the business shared.
The event was the café's first Coffee and Cars gathering, inspired by similar meet-ups held elsewhere in Queensland and driven by interest from local enthusiasts.
It hosted over half a dozen cars, including Mustangs, Chevrolets, Falcons, and other classics.
Following the success of the inaugural event, organisers plan to make Coffee and Cars a regular fixture, with enthusiasts invited to gather at the café on the first Saturday of every month from 6am.
Anyone with a vintage or classic vehicle is welcome to take part.
(L-R) Toni, Jermayne, Natasha, Isaiah and Tessa-Maree
The sights, sounds and flavours of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture returned to the Burdekin on Monday with NAIDOC Week in full swing across the nation.
Local celebrations brought more than 100 people to the selectability lawns for a day replete with island dances, face painting, storytelling, and traditional Indigenous cuisine.
This year's NAIDOC Week theme, 50 Years of Deadly, marks five decades since an entirely Indigenous-led NAIDOC committee was formed.
In keeping with the national theme, the Burdekin celebrations drew salience to the past, while celebrating the present and future for Indigenous peoples in the region and beyond.
Selectability representative Quanita Senior described the occasion as a huge success.
“I couldn’t believe it came together so well. I couldn't take the smile off my face,” she said.
“It was so great to celebrate the Indigenous culture. Culture is something that can be lost, especially the Indigenous culture. Recognising NAIDOC was a great way to show young people who they are, where their Elders came from, and not to lose that.”
The event included entertainment courtesy of Anthony and Toni Solomon, who performed worship music throughout the day.
Evelyn Billy of Bina's Kitchen and Remona Taiters also offered attendees a taste of traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait cuisine, with emu, kangaroo, and crocodile samples all on the menu.
Ms Billy also brought along a dance crew, adding to the day’s entertainment catalogue.
NAIDOC Week has long been embraced by the Burdekin community, with schools, organisations and community groups celebrating the occasion each year.
Monday’s event was the first NAIDOC celebration hosted by Selectability, a joint effort between Ms Senior and Chloe Webb, also part of the selectability team, who approached the former with the idea.
Ms Senior said the event also served as an opportunity to raise community awareness about selectability and its work in the region.
She extended a heartfelt thanks to all involved in bringing the event together.
The Home Hill Choral Society will bring the Wild West to The Vault next month, turning the venue into a lively country-western saloon following a string of sold-out performances. Photo supplied
The Home Hill Choral Society will bring the Wild West to The Vault next month, turning the venue into a lively country-western saloon following a string of sold-out performances.
‘The Big Sky Hoedown’ will transport audiences to the Wild West for an entertaining night of country classics, comedy and a storyline following a cast of unique country characters.
Choral Society member Erin Brennan said the country-western theme had been a long-standing request from the community, with the group finally answering the call.
“It has a bit of everything,” she said.
“We’ve set the date, and now we’re cracking the whip!”
With rehearsals now underway twice a week, and additional Sunday sessions planned as the show draws closer, the cast is preparing a performance packed with familiar songs audiences will know and love.
The setlist will feature country favourites alongside recognisable classics from artists including Johnny Cash and Neil Diamond, ensuring there will be plenty of opportunities for audiences to sing along.
Ms Brennan said the production would also continue the Choral Society’s tradition of involving the crowd, although she remained tight-lipped on exactly what role audience members would play.
She also revealed that, for the first time in the Choral Society’s history, the show’s storyline embraced fresh ideas from artificial intelligence, providing the group with a new creative angle as they prepare for their latest production.
“It’s a bit more of a script this time, whereas before I used to just find jokes and write them into a show. This one will still have the usual jokes, but it’s probably a bit more of a play,” she said.
“[AI] was good for giving a baseline. It’s a bit corny in places, but gives us a different angle to have a go at!”
The production will mark another chapter for the Home Hill Choral Society, which has built a reputation for entertaining local audiences through its blend of music, comedy and community spirit.
With tickets set to go on sale in early August, Ms Brennan had one final invitation for locals.
“I’ll see you all down at the hoedown!” she said.
Four members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have returned home after taking part in Queensland’s largest multi-section Scout event, the LEAP Camp. Photo supplied.
Four members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have returned home after taking part in Queensland’s largest multi-section Scout event, the LEAP Camp, held at Tarmaroo Scout Camp at Bluewater in Townsville.
The seven-day camp brought together around 150 to 200 Scouts from across the state, all participating in a program built around Leadership, Empowerment, Adventure and Patrol — the core principles behind LEAP.
Scouts worked in small patrols of five to six members, taking part in a wide range of challenges designed to build leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.
The event featured participants from all Scout sections, including 21 Cub Scouts aged 9–10, 80 Scouts aged 12–14, 42 Venturer Scouts aged 15–18, and 10 Rover Scouts aged 18–25, each running age-specific programs while sharing the same camp setting.
Around 50 adult volunteers and five junior service leaders supported the camp, managing logistics, catering, program delivery, site services and camping standards across the week.
Organisers described the camp as non-stop activity from start to finish, with participants continually rotating through challenges aimed at pushing them out of their comfort zones while strengthening independence and cooperation.
For the Lower Burdekin group, the experience provided an opportunity to test their skills against Scouts from across Queensland and take part in one of the most significant events on the state calendar.
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets at 12th Avenue, Home Hill (behind the swimming pool), with weekly meetings on Wednesday nights from 6pm–8pm for ages 11–18 and Thursday afternoons from 4.30pm–6pm for ages 5–11.
New members can attend for a four-week trial at no cost. Enquiries can be made to Rikki on 0419 104 035.
Familiar staples of traditional circus will collide with the futuristic, technology-driven advancements of modern theatre at the Burdekin Theatre next Thursday. Photo supplied.
The staples of traditional circus will collide with futuristic theatre in Ayr next Thursday 9th July, when the internationally acclaimed Cirque Nouvelle visits the Burdekin Theatre.
Dubbed a “celebration of everything circus,” the production will bring flames, lasers, and world-class physical artistry to the region following sell-out shows across Australia.
The brainchild of husband-and-wife acrobat duo Rebecca and James Capener, the show is an amalgamation of inspiration gleaned throughout their 10-year stint as cruise ship performers.
“The dream was always to produce a show that we could tour nationally,” Rebecca said.
“I think a lot of typical circus shows mostly just have incredible acts, one after the other—but we have that plus the storyline, which kind of blends and intertwines the acts.
“It takes the audience on a journey and makes them feel something—something they can talk about around the dinner table. It's nice to give the show a little bit more substance than the wow factor.”
The show follows the journey of a charismatic ringmaster forced to grapple with the shift from the traditional Big Top to modernised, tech-driven circus by fusing humour, heart, and professional acrobatics.
“Circus has come a long way from its traditional roots. Everything’s a bit more fast-paced and high energy,” said Ms Capener.
“[The show] is kind of like a battle of the two ... before coming full circle to touch on how we still have a place for both.”
She said the underlying theme of change was intentionally chosen to evoke resonance within the crowd.
“Change is a common thing that we all struggle with at different seasons in life,” said Ms Capener.
“We wanted it to be relatable to our audiences of all ages—being a family show—and it's definitely had a great response so far … with a lot of emotions from the crowd.”
Cirque Nouvelle is the first joint production for the pair, which Ms Capener credits to a shared vision and around-the-clock passion.
“[James and I] make a great team. Whatever time of the day, even if it’s 10 at night in bed, we're still talking about the show and ideas. We don't really know when to clock off, but we don't mind that at all. It's our life,” Ms Capener said.
“We are both just so passionate, and we’re going to do whatever it takes for it to be a success.”
The show is part of a 12-show tour spanning from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping at the Burdekin Theatre next Thursday at 6pm.
Tickets for the show are available for purchase at https://www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Cirque-Nouvelle
Fishing enthusiasts, families and holidaymakers are invited to cast a line at the annual Millaroo State School P&C Catfish Competition, returning to the Burdekin on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th July.
The popular community event will be held at the Millaroo Social Club and promises a fun-filled weekend of fishing, live entertainment and family-friendly activities, with all proceeds supporting students at Millaroo State School.
Festivities begin on Friday, 10th July, with the BME Alloy Welding & Fabrications Meet and Greet from 6pm, where competitors can register, pay nominations, hand in brag mats and enjoy dinner before a weekend of fishing.
The competition continues on Saturday, 11th July, with anglers vying for prizes across several categories, including Longest Catfish, Most Catfish Caught and Longest Other Species. Junior divisions cater for children aged five and under, six to 10 years, 11 to 15 years, as well as an open school-aged category, ensuring plenty of opportunities for young fishers to get involved.
Presentations will begin at 4pm on Saturday, followed by live music from Tiny & The Bad Teddy from 6pm, dinner, raffles and a range of great prizes.
Entry costs $20 per competitor, with participants of all ages welcome.
Free unpowered camping will also be available behind the Millaroo Social Club for those wanting to make a weekend of it. Campers are reminded there is no water available on site and must be self-sufficient.
Organisers encourage the community to come along, enjoy the school holiday atmosphere and support Millaroo State School while experiencing one of the Burdekin's favourite grassroots fishing events.
Debutantes and their partners at the Burdekin Singers ball at Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday night. PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography
23 debutantes stepped into the spotlight at Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday night after months of rehearsals brought them to their formal debut.
23 debutantes took their leap into society at Burdekin Memorial Hall last weekend in what organisers called an “elegant” and “prestigious” affair.
The ‘Coco and Bloom’-themed event was the culmination of months of preparation, with organisers witnessing the participants' development before their formal introduction to the wider community.
Burdekin Singers President Lawrence Polga called the ball a “big success for both Burdekin Singers and the local community.”
“The ball is something we value, not only as a fundraiser, but also as an event for the community,” he said.
“Seeing the parents proud of their children on stage, to then seeing the children develop into lovely people before joining the community—I loved that.”
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort delivered a special address to kick off the night’s proceedings, before debutantes and their partners performed individual dances, couples’ dances, and traditional family dances, which were rehearsed every Sunday over the nine weeks leading up to the event.
Mr Polga said the ball offered debutantes a unique experience.
“Some of these lovely debutantes have never been on stage before, or never been presented to the community or to a crowd before,” he said.
“Seeing them so nervous on the side of the stage, to them coming back so excited that they've walked out there, that’s the highlight.
"To give them the chance to have that experience for the first time in a safe environment with all their family, friends and loved ones around them, that’s one of our biggest achievements.”
Mr Polga said the success of the event was largely thanks to the meticulous preparations of the Burdekin Singers sub-committee, led by Kris Favale.
“We have a fantastic sub-committee, and these ladies have worked behind the scenes for the last seven months creating this dream. From the table decorations to the cake, through to the suits that the guys wear, it's all very on point,” Mr Polga said.
"We can't put on an event like this without the Burdekin Singers volunteers. It takes a thousand people.”
A record-high of over 5,500 people stampeded through the gates of Ayr Showgrounds last Wednesday for what was described as the most “community-spirited” Burdekin Show to date.
This year’s iteration continued a longstanding local tradition dating back to 1909, treating locals and visitors to a full day of agricultural displays, family entertainment, and classic showground attractions.
Burdekin Show Committee vice-president Brendan Kolb said this year’s show smashed committee expectations.
“We keep saying it's going to get bigger and better each year. This year, we definitely saw that happen,” Mr Kolb said.
“Between food vendors, the Sideshow Alley, all the entertainment, the general public … it was definitely as big as I’ve ever seen it.”
Different to previous editions, the Show Committee centred this year’s show on community involvement, with several participant-driven activities throughout the day.
Mr Kolb called the gamble a “big success,” pointing to almost 2,000 entrants in the main hall exhibit displays and strong participation in the Mini Ring from both locals and visitors from abroad.
“It was definitely a big success—we had a lot of crowd involvement, everyone was cheering and it created a really good atmosphere,” he said.
“People liked that there was something for everyone, young and old.
“A particular thanks to our local backpackers, they really got into it. It was really good to see them getting into the Burdekin’s style of fun.”
He mentioned the Stockman’s Challenge as one of the day’s highlights, alongside the “spectacular" dog high jump event.
“I've never seen a dog high-jump before, and I've got to tell you, it was pretty spectacular to watch,” he said.
The event culminated in the Show’s customary firework display, drawing to a close one of its most successful iterations to date.
Mr Kolb especially thanked everyone involved in bringing the show together, including sponsors.
“Without them, we would not be able to put on on a show,” he said.
The Show committee now turns its attention to the year of preparation ahead, says Kolb.
“We start planning pretty much straight away,” he laughed,
“We’ve now got the base down, we got a lot of positive feedback this year. Now we just have to expand it from there.”
Thursday 2 July
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 3 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Sunday 5 July
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Lunch at Nonna’s
Sunday 12pm
Step into a heartwarming afternoon of food, laughter and music with Lunch at Nonna’s, a lively celebration of Italian-Sicilian-Australian life featuring stories, songs and a delicious four-course meal shared in true Nonna style. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 6 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 7 July
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 9 July
Cirque Nouvelle
Thursday 6pm-7:15pm
Experience the magic of Cirque Nouvelle as an internationally acclaimed cast blends breathtaking acrobatics, juggling and aerial artistry in a dazzling, modern circus production that promises to captivate and amaze audiences of all ages. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 10 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 11 July
LBCDA Highland Community Concert
Saturday TBA
Enjoy a vibrant night of music, dance and community spirit at the LBCDA Highland Community Concert, a free celebration of Celtic culture brought to life with lively performances at the Burdekin Theatre this July.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Sunday 12 July
Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast, 8am-12pm, Burdekin Aero Club, Aerodrome Road, Brandon
Monday 13 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc Dinner Meeting
6:15pm for 6:30pm start
You are warmly invited to join us at a Zonta Dinner Meeting, an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with like-minded people who are passionate about making a positive difference. Learn more about Zonta’s work in empowering women and girls in our community through advocacy, education, and service.
Venue: ANZAC Memorial Club
Contact Nos: 0438 836 677 04 or 0400 404 461
Thursday 16 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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
Ms Vollema-Creek co-authored a number of locally-themed books over the last two decades before releasing an independent project, ‘History of the Home Hill Harvest Festival’, in 2022 to much local acclaim. Photo supplied.
Home Hill author Saskia Vollema-Creek has announced plans to bring the town’s history back to life through a new, first-of-its-kind book on “growing up” in the town.
Ms Vollema-Creek, a history teacher at Ayr State High School, said the book will use the raw, first-hand accounts of locals to revive the town’s bygone eras.
“To me, [people’s stories] add another layer to the history of a town,” Ms Vollema-Creek said.
“You can read about dates, when this happened, and when that happened, but it's the stories that really paint the picture of what it was like for those people in the various time periods that they grew up in.
“These are people's memories—the stories you would never find in a history book.”
Ms Vollema-Creek permanently moved to Home Hill from Brisbane in 1989 after being posted to the town as a teacher. She quickly embraced the area, where she has juggled teaching and writing ever since.
She co-authored a number of locally-themed books over the last two decades before releasing an independent project, ‘History of the Home Hill Harvest Festival’, in 2022 to much local acclaim.
Ms Vollema-Creek said her current project will be her first since taking some time away from writing.
“I’m ready for a new challenge," she said.
She originally announced the book on Facebook last month with a post that was met with overwhelming support.
Since the announcement, a number of locals have sent her detailed, written recollections of their upbringing—some dating as far back as 1915—with several interviews lined up in the school holidays.
She described the accounts sent in so far as “surprising,” challenging prevailing stereotypes about country life.
“There's this idea that country towns are boring… but from what I've already heard, these kids that grew up here were never bored,” Ms Vollema-Creek said.
“They had so much fun with their friends, going to the theatre, going to the shops, going to the cafe… building canoes in Gardners Lagoon. They were always doing something.”
She’s now calling on more locals to help bring the book together by sharing their stories.
“I'm not going to reject anybody. [Share] anything to do with you growing up, your friends, what you used to do for fun—anything really. Everyone’s story is different, everyone's childhood memories are different … and there’s such a multicultural aspect to it as well,” MsVollema-Creek said.
Anyone interested in contributing is encouraged to email Saskia at creekys@outlook.com.au.
The Rotary Club of Home Hill has received a $15,000 boost from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, helping the club on its quest to raise money for a police ATV.
The cheque was officially presented to the club last Friday, following a $30,000 donation by the Bank to the Burdekin Chaplains earlier this month.
“Our community is very fortunate to have Rotary Club of Home Hill, who is dedicated to making a positive impact in our Home Hill community,” read a Facebook post by the company.
The money will help Home Hill Rotary on its path to raising $40,000 for an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that will be gifted to the Ayr and Home Hill Police forces.
The club officially announced the fundraiser earlier this year, marking one of its biggest fundraising commitments ever.
The ATV—a Yamaha ‘Wolverine RMAX4’—will serve a critical function for the Burdekin, giving officers immediate access to remote areas such as Wunjunga Beach, Alva Beach, and river beds.
The club will combine the generous Bendigo Bank donation with money raised via its own fundraising efforts to make up the funds for the vehicle.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with participants and mentors from the Young Digital Mentors Program. Photo supplied
Young Burdekinites are helping senior residents build confidence with technology through the Young Digital Mentors Program, an initiative aimed at improving digital literacy while strengthening community connections across the Burdekin.
Facilitated by Burdekin Library, the program pairs young mentors with senior participants to provide one-on-one support with everyday technology, including smartphones and tablets.
Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the program demonstrated the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.
“Programs like Young Digital Mentors not only build valuable digital skills, they also bring generations together in a meaningful way,” Cr Dalle Cort said.
“It’s fantastic to see our young people stepping up to support others, while also developing confidence, leadership and communication skills of their own.”
The Young Digital Mentors Program was originally developed by the State Library of Queensland in 2025 and was first piloted in the Burdekin, making the region the first location in Queensland to deliver the initiative.
This year's program continues to be delivered by Burdekin Library with support from the State Library of Queensland and the eSafety Commissioner. Training for the young mentors was provided in partnership with Creative Bytes.
Senior participant Inez Larsen said the experience had improved her confidence in using technology.
“Participating in the Young Digital Mentors Program has been a rewarding experience,” Ms Larsen said.
“I really appreciated the way Andria shared her knowledge in such a supportive, respectful and approachable way.
“As a result of the program, I have come away feeling more confident and using more fully the capabilities of my iPhone. Thank you Burdekin Library staff and young digital mentor, Andria.”
The program aims to improve digital inclusion by helping older residents develop practical technology skills while giving young people the opportunity to build leadership, communication and mentoring experience.
This year's young digital mentors were Thomas Lindley, Alexis Lindley, Andria Reinke, William Wiseman, Addison Bonato and Fletcher Sgroi.
Senior participants included Liz Schmidt, Robert Ritchie, Alvin Thomas, Inez Larsen, Margaret McLucas, Michael Irving, Sheron Gaston and Beverley Matthews.
Burdekin Shire Council has encouraged residents to stay connected with Burdekin Library for information on future programs designed to strengthen digital skills and community connections.
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