Mayor Dalle Cort with 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri (Burdekin Christian College), Senior Ambassador Winner Molly Julyan (Liessmann’s Plumbing), Senior Ambassador Runner Up Eliza Worlein (Rotary Club of Ayr), and Junior Ambassador Runner Up Jorja Vasta (Burdekin Junior Rugby League) at the 2026 BWF Community Launch. Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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Celebrations for the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) officially commenced on Friday, 19th June, as community members gathered to launch one of Queensland’s longest running and most cherished festivals.

The Burdekin Water Festival was born from the vision of local resident Bob Saxby, who, after attending Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers in 1957, recognised an opportunity to create a signature event for the Burdekin. Working alongside then Shire ChairmanE.W. Ford and the wider community, Saxby helped bring the first Ayr Water Festival to life in 1958. Nearly 70 years later, that vision continues to flourish, with the Burdekin Water Festival remaining a proud celebration of the people, organisations and industries that shape the region, while bringing the community together through a vibrant calendar of events and traditions.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Festival’s longevity can largely be attributed to the community’s strong sense of pride and the opportunity it provides to celebrate everything that makes the Burdekin unique and special.

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“The Burdekin Water Festival has always been something people feel genuinely connected to – it’s not just an event, it’s a tradition that families have grown up with and continue to be part of year after year,” she said.

“It brings people together, celebrates who we are as a community, and keeps that strong local spirit alive across generations.”

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On Friday evening, 140 people gathered at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt as this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors were officially welcomed into the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program.

While steeped in tradition, the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival has also made history, with two male Senior Ambassadors entering the program for the first time since its establishment in 1958, marking the first occasion male representatives have participated in the Senior Ambassador category.

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This year’s program has also welcomed several first-time supporting organisations, including BT Farms, Burdekin Motors, Feed Me Food, the Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association and the Ayr Motorcycle Club. In another Festival first, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES Queensland have joined forces to support a single Ambassador entrant.

Burdekin Water Festival Life Member Robyn Hewson presented each representative with their sash, marking the start of their BWF journey and their role in one of the region’s most enduring traditions.

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Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said she is eager to see this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors flourish throughout the program, having already been impressed by the confidence and poise each representative displayed during their introductory speeches.

“Even in the short time since joining the program, I’ve already seen tremendous growth from this year’s entrants,” she said.

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“For generations, the Ambassador Program has helped connect young people with their community while ensuring local organisations remain actively involved in the Burdekin Water Festival. It continues to evolve, but its purpose remains the same – bringing people together, celebrating community pride, and investing in the next generation of Burdekin leaders.”

As the evening unfolded, the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Senior and Junior winners and runners-up shared reflections on the cherished Ambassador Program, speaking about its impact on their personal development and offering words of encouragement to this year’s incoming cohort.

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Mayor Dalle Cort said the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program provides young people with valuable opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills and stronger community connections, while encouraging them to become active contributors to the region’s future.

“Investing in our young people is investing in the future of the Burdekin,” she said.

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“Programs like the Ambassador Program provide valuable opportunities for participants to develop confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of community connection.”

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Fourteen-year-old Ayr High School student Mason Lando opened the musical entertainment with performances of Sign of the Times by Harry Styles and Man of the North by Liam St John. He was followed by 15-year-old Burdekin Christian College student Gabriel Hatherell, who has performed in local productions and competitions, as well as at the Townsville Folk Festival alongside Lando, delivering Something in the Orange by Zach Bryan and Remembering Sunday by All Time Low.

As attendees enjoyed live entertainment, food and community spirit beneath the evening sky, the festivities turned to one of the Festival’s most beloved traditions — the Fashion Parade. Once a staple of Water Festivals gone by, the event had been absent from the Burdekin Water Festival since at least the 1990s before being revived to great acclaim in 2024.

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Mrs Ravizza said the Fashion Parade highlights one of the Ambassador Program’s greatest strengths: its ability to foster friendships, confidence and a strong sense of community among participants.

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“What stood out most to me at the Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch was the way they [Junior and Senior Ambassadors] supported and encouraged one another,” she said.

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“The Senior Ambassadors naturally took the Juniors under their wing, and you could see friendships forming and confidence growing throughout the Fashion Parade and the evening. By the end of the night, they weren’t just individual entrants representingdifferent organisations – they were a team, and I think that’s something special.”

With preparations for upcoming Burdekin Water Festival events already well underway, Mayor Dalle Cort said the Community Launch was a fantastic showcase of community spirit, noting it was wonderful to see such strong attendance and genuine enthusiasm from residents, families and supporters. She said events like this highlight the importance of the BWF to the community and congratulated the 2026 Ambassador cohort.

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“I would like to congratulate all of this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors,” she enthused.

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“This is a wonderful opportunity to represent your organisation or business, build lifelong skills and create lasting memories. I encourage you to embrace the experience, support one another and take pride in being part of such a respected and longstanding Burdekin tradition.”

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A full list of upcoming events is available in the Burdekin Life Event Guide and via the BWF social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

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Burdekin Show Doubles Down On Community Spirit

Local focus, community competitions and classic show favourites headline next Wednesday’s Burdekin Show, as organisers aim to push attendance past 5,000 and deliver what they describe as the most community-driven program yet.

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The upcoming event at Ayr Showgrounds is set to lean heavily into local participation, with organisers intentionally shifting away from outsourced entertainment and instead building a program powered by community groups, volunteers and homegrown competitors.

Vice-president of the show committee Brendan Kolb said the change was deliberate and designed to put locals at the centre of the event.

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“We’ve still got all the crowd favourites, but the difference this year is we’ve kept it all local,” Mr Kolb said.

“We're relying on the community to get involved, put their nominations in and join in with all the fun.”

The program retains its familiar drawcards, including Melville’s Animal Farm, Timmy the Train, duck races, My Pets Pet Show, dog high jump, precision reptile displays, Honeycombes Tractor Pull, live machinery demonstrations, and a fireworks finale.

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But this year’s emphasis is firmly on community-run competitions, including the Stockman’s Challenge, Bushman’s Relay, Watermelon Eating Competition, Dachshund Races and a “Best Dressed Dachshund” contest.

The Stockman’s Challenge will see competitors complete a series of fast-paced rural tasks such as rolling swags, moving hay bales, handling stockman equipment and assembling gear under time pressure.

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The Bushman’s Relay will test team-based agricultural skills across multiple age divisions, while the Watermelon Eating Competition will see entrants race to eat the most, with prize money and bragging rights on the line.

The committee is expecting more than 5,000 attendees through the gates this year. If attendance hits the target, it would edge past last year’s turnout of just under 5,000.

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Mr Kolb said the final product will be a year of work in the making, with planning for the show beginning immediately after the previous year’s event.

“It’s basically a job that never finishes,” he said.

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“As soon as the posters go up, everyone starts talking about it. It’s definitely an event people circle on their calendar.

“In the end, it's very rewarding to see it all come together each year, and to be able to put it on for our local community and out-of-towners as well,” he said.

The Burdekin Show will run on Wednesday, June 24, with entry specials available from 9.30am to 11am. Adult tickets are $5, students $2, and children under five free. No pass-outs apply during the discounted entry period.

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For more information, contact the Burdekin Show Committee on PH: 0459 831 790, E: burdekinshow@gmail.com, or visit W: www.burdekinshow.org.

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Volunteers young and old rolled up their sleeves last weekend as a community car wash raised more than $1,600 to support local young people.

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Hosted by Selectability, the Youth Car Wash saw more than 20 volunteers wash over 80 vehicles by hand throughout the day, with proceeds going towards the Burdekin Area Youth Watch (BAYWatch) program.

Selectability team leader Emma Smith said organisers were overwhelmed by the level of community support.

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“We were extremely pleased and grateful for the support shown on the day and amazed by the willingness of volunteers to give their time, as well as the community members who brought their vehicles along,” she said.

“It showed us the community's commitment to supporting our local young people.”

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Funds raised will directly support participants in the BAYWatch program, a community-led initiative focused on the health, wellbeing and empowerment of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Ms Smith said the event delivered benefits beyond fundraising, providing young people with opportunities to develop practical and interpersonal skills, build confidence, learn the value of teamwork and responsibility, and strengthen connections within the community.

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“Community events such as this are incredibly important,” she said.

“One of the standout moments was seeing the young people work together as a team and take pride in their efforts. There was so much laughter between them, and they all had fun with water fights and dancing to the music.”

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Ms Smith thanked the volunteers, donors and community members who supported the event.

“Every contribution helps create opportunities for these young people to feel a sense of belonging and to understand that this community is here to support them,” she said.

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See all the photos here: www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/soap-smiles-and-support-for-local-youth

The Raine & Horne Ayr team at Burdekin Growers Race Day. Photos supplied

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For Carla Healy, principal of Raine & Horne Ayr, a community can only thrive when locals support locals. That philosophy is at the centre of everything the local real estate stalwart does.

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At the helm since 2024, Ms Healy has made a point of supporting local events. She calls it a duty to the community that has given her and her business so much.

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“It’s always been a philosophy of mine,” she said.

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“We rely on the community. All businesses rely on the community to support us, so if we can give back any way we can—whether big or small—we're happy to do so.”

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Most recently, the business stood as a major sponsor of Burdekin Growers Race Day—a local favourite event that Carla said “attracts everyone.”

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The business also sponsors the Karrie Webb Junior Masters golfing event, Burdekin Singers, and Student Balls, investing in the next generation of locals.

She said it was incumbent upon local businesses to keep the region ticking.

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“We have to keep our community going, and the only way to keep our community going is locals supporting locals,” she said.

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“All of our Christmas parties and events are held locally, we source from local businesses, local tradies, everything. Sourcing out of town is our last resort.

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“We’re local all the way.”

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Ms Healy said that Raine & Horne's engagement with the community goes beyond mere monetary support. She called it a “philosophy” that governs everything her and her staff do, citing a recent incident with a tenant as a prime example.

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“We had a little incident the other day with one of our tenants … just an elderly man by himself. We had to attend his property yesterday and my senior rental manager, out of the kindness of her heart, helped him (with things beyond her real estate agent duties),” she recalled.

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“He wanted to repay her with some flowers but couldn’t get through to the florist, so I took it upon myself to organise the flowers and pay for them. I didn’t want him to pay for them because I just appreciated the phone call to say that a staff member had done a brilliant job.  

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“He was forever grateful. It’s the little things that make it worthwhile.”

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For Ms Healy, it is those small, consistent actions that define the business’s role locally.

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“To make everything work in a community, everybody’s got to be involved. It’s all about give and take, and the more that you can give, the community does see the benefits of it all.”

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“We've always been givers more so than takers.”

Burdekin Christian College was transformed into a vibrant sea of colour as students and staff came together to celebrate Crazy Colour & B Kinder Day.

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On Thursday 11 June, Burdekin Christian College was transformed into a vibrant sea of colour as students and staff came together to celebrate Crazy Colour & B Kinder Day.

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Everyone was encouraged to wear bright and colourful clothing, creating a cheerful atmosphere across the College. Adding to the excitement, the popular Pop Up Treat Shop was open throughout the day, offering a variety of chocolates, chips, lollies and other tasty treats.

From our youngest students to our senior cohort, the school community embraced the spirit of the day with enthusiasm, positivity and plenty of colour. It was wonderful to see students and staff celebrating kindness and inclusion together.

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B Kinder Day is centred on connecting people, fostering inclusion and encouraging acts of kindness. Inspired by Billie Kinder, whose name fittingly spells “B Kinder’, the initiative began in 2018 with a vision to make a positive difference in the world. Since then, it has grown significantly, with schools and communities across the globe participating each year.

The day encourages participants to discuss what it means to be kind; empower and inspire others; promote empathy, compassion and inclusion; recognise that our actions matter and that each person has the power to make a positive difference.

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The Burdekin Christian College Z Club, affiliated with the Burdekin Zonta Club Inc., did an outstanding job organising the event. Their dedication and hard work helped create a memorable day for the entire school community.

The College is delighted to announce that more than $600 was raised through the Pop Up Treat Shop and gold coin donations. All proceeds will be donated to the B Kinder Foundation to support its important work promoting kindness, inclusion and positive wellbeing.

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Z Club Coordinator and School Chaplain, Mrs Rachel Cornelius, expressed her gratitude to students, staff and families for their support.

“Crazy Colour & B Kinder Day was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together, have fun and celebrate the importance of kindness. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and enthusiasm shown by everyone who participated,” she said.

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Through events such as these, Burdekin Christian College continues to foster a caring and inclusive environment where every student feels valued, supported and encouraged to make a positive impact on others.

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Supplied by BCC

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See more photos here:

www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/burdekin-christian-college-celebrates-kindness-with-crazy-colour-b-kinder-day

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Thursday 18 June

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

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Friday 19 June

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

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Friday 19 June

Rotary Club of Home Hill Trivia Night

Friday 7pm

Trivia night hosted by the Rotary Club of Home Hill. Teams of 6 at $15 per person. Bookings on 0408 822 029 or just come along on the night. Everyone welcome.

St Colmans Parish Hall, Home Hill

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Monday 22 June

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

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Tuesday 23 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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Wednesday 24 June

QCAR Burdekin Show

Wednesday 10am

The QCAR Burdekin Show returns to the Ayr Showgrounds, delivering a vibrant day of country fun with exhibits, competitions, live entertainment, sideshow thrills and fireworks, celebrating the very best of community, agriculture and country life.

Ayr Showgrounds, Ayr

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Thursday 25 June

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

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Friday 26 June

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

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Monday 29 June

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

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Tuesday 30 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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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

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Friday 3 July

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

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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

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Monday 6 July

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

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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

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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

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Friday 10 July

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

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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

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Sunday 12 July

Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast, 8am-12pm, Burdekin Aero Club, Aerodrome Road, Brandon

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Monday 13 July

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

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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

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The school’s passionfruit vine Photos supplied

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Students at St Francis are making a positive impact on their school environment through the efforts of the school’s dedicated environmental group, the “Planet Protectors.”

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The student-led initiative is helping the school grow in more ways than one, with projects focused on sustainability, recycling, gardening, and environmental education.

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One of the Planet Protectors’ key responsibilities is managing the school’s composting program. Each classroom has its own compost bin, which students empty daily into a central compost area.  Food scraps that would otherwise end up in landfill are transformed into nutrient-rich soil used to support plant growth around the school.

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St Francis students are also supporting the Containers for Change initiative by collecting recyclable bottles and cans. The program helps reduce waste while teaching students the importance of recycling and environmental responsibility.

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The school’s vegetable and flower gardens have become another source of pride for students and staff alike. The gardens not only beautify the school grounds but also provide hands-on learning opportunities about sustainability, plant growth, and caring for creation.

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Students are also learning about cane farming and its importance to the local community and regional history. Through this learning, students gain a deeper understanding of agriculture, sustainability, and the role farming plays in supporting local families and communities.

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Teachers say the Planet Protectors are showing that protecting the environment does not always require major changes. Simple actions such as recycling, conserving water, reducing waste, and maintaining gardens can make a meaningful difference when everyone works together.

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Principal Tegahn Maitland said it was especially important for students to “recognise the connection to farming and appreciate the amazing work our farmers and their families do to support our community.”

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She called the initiative an opportunity for students to take responsibility and understand the real impact of their actions.

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“I hope students learn where their fruit, vegetables and other produce come from, and develop a respect for the land and the people who care for it,” she said.

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“We really enjoyed the visit from Canegrowers, and I hope we can continue working with local farmers and learning more so students build a deeper understanding of farming and sustainability.”

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Supplied by St Francis Catholic School

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Photo source: Facebook

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Burdekin Christian College welcomed around 300 families, friends and community members for a vibrant Under 8’s Day celebration that showcased the heart of the College and the joy of early learning.

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The event transformed the campus into a hub of activity, with interactive classroom displays inviting children to explore, create and play. Young visitors enjoyed rides, entertainment, a petting zoo and plenty of opportunities for hands-on discovery throughout the afternoon.

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See all photos here: https://www.burdekinlife.com/social-pics/big-smiles-and-busy-hands-at-burdekin-christian-college-under-8s-day

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The Burdekin Shire Council has been formally lauded as one of Queensland’s leading innovators at the 2026 LGMA Awards for its world-first macroalgal facility.

The LGMA Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding achievement across statewide local government, with the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility, officially opened last year, acknowledged for its approach to sustainable infrastructure.

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Mayor Dalle Cort said the award reinforced the Burdekin as a regional trailblazer.

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“This recognition… demonstrates what can be achieved when we are willing to think differently,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“By taking a different approach, we’ve been able to improve environmental performance while also delivering long-term value for our ratepayers.”

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Delivered in partnership with RegenAqua and Pacific Biotechnologies, the facility uses naturally occurring macroalgae to remove nutrients from wastewater, significantly reducing nitrogen and phosphorus entering waterways connected to the Great Barrier Reef catchment.

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The system also produces macroalgal biomass that can be reused in agriculture and industry.

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The LGMA recognition follows success at last year’s Queensland Water Awards, where the project took out the regional Infrastructure Project Innovation Award in October.

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Jorja transformed her float into a Las Vegas-inspired wonderland for the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Street Parade and Mardi Gras, embracing the festival’s Bon Voyage: Roam the Globe theme. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto

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As Runner-Up in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Program, Jorja Vasta is encouraging other young people to get involved as preparations begin for the 68th Burdekin Water Festival, themed River Country, Burdekin Style.

Jorja said she was thrilled to receive her title and looks back on her time in the program fondly.

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“I was stoked to be crowned the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up. I couldn't believe it,” she said.

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“I enjoyed the different experiences that came with being involved in the Water Festival, and my confidence definitely got a boost. I met a lot of new people, and I became socially more confident, which helped me a bit when I began my journey at high school.”

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Jorja proudly represented the Burdekin Junior Rugby League Club, an organisation with strong ties to her family.

“I have loved the Burdekin Water Festival and its vibe of community connection, and it was great to represent the club I play for, and my family has been a part of,” she said.

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Reflecting on Jorja's time in the Water Festival Ambassador Program, she and her mother, Samantha Vasta, said the experience helped build confidence, create new friendships and leave lasting memories, and they are excited to see this year's entrants begin their own festival journey.

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“It was heartwarming to watch new friendships develop and Jorja’s confidence grow, and everyone around her [fellow ambassadors and mentors] were so supportive and encouraging,” Samantha said.

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“Just know you won’t be the only one feeling nervous and just give it a go,” Jorja enthused.

Burdekin Water Festival Life Member, Robyn Hewson, presenting 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador, Asha Grasso with her sash at last year’s BWF Community Launch. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto

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It's almost lights, camera, action for the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival, with excitement building across the region as preparations ramp up for the official BWF Community Launch.

The Burdekin Water Festival Committee is warmly inviting the community to gather under the stars at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt from 6pm on Friday, 19th June, to celebrate the launch of the 68th Burdekin Water Festival and the beginning of another exciting festival season.

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Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said the Community Launch remains one of the most significant events on the festival calendar, bringing together sponsors, supporters, families and festival enthusiasts ahead of months of celebrations.

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“The Launch is where the community gets its first chance to meet this year's Ambassadors and celebrate the beginning of their journey,” she explained.

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“It sets the tone for the months ahead and reminds us what the Water Festival is all about – community, connection and local pride.”

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Held under the 2026 theme, River Country, Burdekin Style, the evening will celebrate the spirit, character and lifestyle that make the Burdekin unique.

“River Country, Burdekin Style is about celebrating everything that makes the Burdekin special – our people, our lifestyle and our strong sense of community,” Mrs Ravizza said.

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Guests will be among the first to meet this year's Festival Ambassadors, who will take to the stage to deliver their introductory speeches and begin their Water Festival journey.

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“People can look forward to a fantastic evening of local talent, community spirit and festival excitement,” Mrs Ravizza enthused.

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“Meeting this year's Ambassador team for the first time will undoubtedly be a highlight, and it's a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and show their support.”

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Adding a touch of nostalgia to the evening, the much-loved Festival Fashion Parade will return, reviving a tradition from years gone by while showcasing garments from local businesses. Live entertainment from local performers Gabriel Hatheral and Mason Lando will also feature throughout the night.  

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Mrs Ravizza belives the launch is the perfect introduction to the Water Festival for both long-time supporters and first-time attendees.

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“Even if you've never attended a Water Festival event before, the Launch is the perfect place to start,” she said.

“It's a relaxed and welcoming evening where you can enjoy local entertainment, meet this year's Ambassadors and experience the community spirit that makes the festival so special. The Water Festival belongs to the whole Burdekin, and the Launch is a great way to be part of it.”

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As the countdown to the festival season begins, Mrs Ravizza said she’s beyond excited to see the community come together and celebrate everything that makes the Burdekin unique, and cannot wait to see the 2026 BWF Ambassador Program flourish for another year.

“I'm most excited to see our Ambassadors build confidence, develop new skills and form lasting friendships. It's always incredible to watch them step outside their comfort zones and discover what they're capable of,” she said.

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“This year, we're also doing something a little different with our Junior Ambassadors. Instead of hosting individual fundraising events, they'll be working together to create one major community event, which I'm really looking forward to seeing come to life. I think it will be a fantastic experience for them and something the whole community can enjoy.”

Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic rug or chair and settle in for an evening of entertainment, community spirit and festival fun. Attendees can bring their own picnic or pre-order meals from Feed Me Food via the Burdekin Water Festival website and social media pages.

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Meal options will cater to a range of dietary requirements, including gluten-free, with pre-orders encouraged as only limited meals will be available for purchase on the night. Drinks will be available from the bar.

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Tickets for the BWF Community Launch are available now via burdekinwaterfestival.com.au/events.

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What: Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch  

When: 6pm, Friday 19th June

Where: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt  

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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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