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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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Ayr Police Station marked Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month with a dedicated morning tea at the Ayr PCYC on 27 May. Photo supplied
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
On Friday 22nd May a free luncheon was provided at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club. Photos supplied
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 19th 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 22nd 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.
“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
The Burdekin really is beautiful, and if you’re anything like local Barry Hewson, you just want to scream it from the rooftops.
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.
“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?
“Where are all the crocodiles?” he said with a laugh.
“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.
“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.
Members of the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Society. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
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.
Highlights included drone drop shows, chain saw demonstrations, the duck race and a robotic dog used to round up cattle.
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.
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.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last was present on the day, greeting constituents and enjoying everything the event had to offer.
Martha is a gentle young cat looking for a forever home and someone to love.
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.
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.
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.
Enquire about Martha here:https://angelpawsinc.com.au/forms/
Burdekin Life Journo Jacob was the recipient of this week’s good deed during a stroll through the market. Photo Source: Burdekin Life
… as written by the editor
Me again.
I had to take on the good deed feed this week, and you’ll soon understand why.
After covering the Norm Perry Memorial Duck Race a couple weekends ago, I shuffled across to the market stalls sprawled across the park.
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.
After much deliberation, I eventually decided that life must go on without the steak sauce. Although, I guess the universe had other plans.
The universe’s name in this scenario, was Janet Delaney.
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.
We arranged for her to drop it off at my apartment and had a jolly old yarn.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Contact Angel Paws Inc. on 07 4420 3276 for further information.
Burdekin students are being encouraged to enter Queensland’s 2027 Farm Safety Calendar competition. Photo supplied
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.
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.
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.
“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.”
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.
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
Eight Burdekin locals eager to try their hand at woodturning were treated to expert tutelage over the weekend Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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.
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.
“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.
With a background in cabinetmaking, Begg turned his woodturning hobby into a full-time career following a trip to Turnfest in 2016.
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.
Scouts Queensland is encouraging Burdekin locals to step forward and get involved as part of National Volunteer Week, running from May 18 to 24. Photo supplied
Scouts Queensland is encouraging Burdekin locals to step forward and get involved as part of National Volunteer Week, running from May 18 to 24.
The campaign aims to attract new adult volunteers to help support young people through the Scouting program, with opportunities available for people aged 18 through to 88.
Lower Burdekin Scout Group Leader Chris Berkery said volunteering with Scouts offered locals the chance to support youth development while also building their own skills and friendships.
“Volunteering with Scouts is your chance to step into something bigger without leaving your everyday life behind,” Berkery said.
“Scouting is adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive, with connections to the outdoors, opportunities to learn new skills, build friendships and help create a better world.”
Scouting focuses on fostering personal growth through an engaging youth program tailored to different age groups and stages of development.
Young people progress through five sections including Joey Scouts for ages five to eight, Cub Scouts for ages eight to 11, Scouts for ages 11 to 14, Venturer Scouts for ages 14 to 18 and Rover Scouts for ages 18 to 25.
Adult volunteers can assist in a variety of flexible roles including section volunteers, committee members, adult supporters and parent helpers.
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets every Thursday evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Scout Den in Home Hill, located behind the swimming pool.
Young people interested in trying Scouts can attend for four weeks free of charge.
For more information or to get involved, contact Chris on 0419 104 035.
Long-time coordinator Mrs Cheryl Platt was officially inducted as a life member of the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod.
L-R: Committee Members: Kelsey Rye, Bronwyn Nucifora, Merelyn McIntosh, Cheryl Platt, Cheryl Medley, Tanya Res, Annette Jorgensen (Absent Committee Members: Nicky Achurra, Sian Reardon, Sandra Reents).
The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod solidified its reputation as the region's premier junior arts exhibition this month, drawing 2,784 entrants across a spectacular 13-day showcase.
Running from 5 to 17 May, the event saw young performers from across the Burdekin and wider North Queensland compete in dance, music, speech and drama, art, literature, photography, and Highland and Irish dancing.
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod President Annette Jorgensen said the sheer volume of competitors reflects a thriving local arts scene.
“Seeing close to 2,800 entrants this year is really exciting and shows just how much passion there is for the arts across the Burdekin and North Queensland,” Ms Jorgensen said.
“This year’s eisteddfod was one of the strongest we’ve seen in recent years, both in terms of participation and the overall standard of performances.”
The festival provided many local youths with their first taste of the stage, offering a supportive environment to receive constructive feedback from professional adjudicators. Ms Jorgensen said the school choirs and choral speaking groups particularly electrified the auditorium.
“The choirs and choral speaking performances from the schools were particularly special because of the energy and teamwork they brought to the stage,” Ms Jorgensen said.
“To have so many proud parents in the auditorium to watch their young people perform was fantastic.”
Beyond the trophies, Mrs Jorgensen emphasised the vital role the eisteddfod plays in regional youth development, helping competitors build resilience, discipline, and long-lasting friendships.
“In regional communities like the Burdekin and wider North Queensland, opportunities like this are incredibly valuable because they encourage young people to pursue the arts and recognise their own potential,” she said.
The closing sessions also marked a historic milestone for the organisation with the induction of a new life member. Long-time coordinator Mrs Cheryl Platt was officially elevated to the position during the Music awards presentation to recognise nearly two decades of continuous service.
“Cheryl is truly the heart of our Eisteddfod,” Ms Jorgensen said.
“If there’s ever a question, Cheryl has the answer, or knows where to find it. Cheryl has been an incredible support to all of us, working behind the scenes to make sure everything runs seamlessly.”
Mrs Jorgensen credited the event's overall success to the massive network of local volunteers, teachers, and sponsors who worked behind the scenes since early May, while offering a final praise to the competitors.
“Whether they placed or not, stepping onto the stage and giving their best is an achievement in itself, and the future of the performing arts in our region is clearly very bright,” she said.
1—Most Outstanding Dancer All Ages - Demi Minns
2—Local Encouragement Award - Radha Haller
3—Spirit Award - Imogen Armstrong
4—Most Promising Jazz Dancer - Isabelle Mcfie
5—Most Promising Tap Dancer - Ruby Pidgeon
6—Most Promising Classical Dancer - Peyton Prothero
Photos supplied
Clare State School became a hub of activity this week as it welcomed the wider community and neighbouring schools for its annual Under 8’s Day.
The event on Monday, 18 May, brought together around 100 young students for a morning dedicated to early childhood learning, exploration, and hands-on fun.
A wide array of local organisations and emergency services contributed to the day's success, offering interactive experiences that captured the children's imaginations.
Among the highlights were the Queensland Ambulance Service display and a popular drum kit station. Students also enjoyed racing billy carts, experimenting at the bubble station, and queuing up for face painting. Creativity was also on display at the pottery hub, hosted by local artisans.
The event underscored the strong community network supporting the region's schools, with significant contributions from the Burdekin Library, Burdekin Academy, Sunwater, Burdekin Potters, and Marine Rescue Burdekin.
Organisers expressed their sincere gratitude to the dedicated school staff and community volunteers who banded together to plan, set up, and run the activities, ensuring a memorable and seamless experience for the region's youngest learners.
Jon Davis to perform at NQ Field Day 2026! Photo supplied.
Hailing from ‘Crocodile Dundee’ Territory, Jon Davis has been in show business since he was a teenager but until relatively recently, focused more on live performances than recording and releasing his original music. It was only after a chance meeting with The Kenny Rogers Band that his career took on a new direction; when Jon was invited to Nashville to live with, and record his compositions with the actual hit-makers behind every one of Kenny Rogers' immortal classics for the last 40 years.
Since then, Jon has regularly featured finalist before taking out ‘the big one’ in 2023 at the ASA Australian Song of the Year Awards as the recipient of the Rudy Brandsma Award for Songwriting Excellence.
Jon has toured extensively throughout Australia and internationally and it was during the COVID pandemic Jon found himself ‘locked down’ in Townsville where he discovered the sights, sounds and smells of Northern Queensland. While his heart will always be in the Northern Territory, it became clear that Jon had to make the move ‘east’ in order to expose his songwriting to a broader, national audience.
“I’ll always be a Territory boy, but the country music circuit is so strong and the lifestyle so vibrant in Queensland, that it was a no-brainer…” Jon said.
To that end, Jon invested in a bespoke recording studio just outside of Townsville, where he is currently working on a few studio albums, a live EP and a few children’s songs, in readiness for the 2027 Australian Song of the Year Awards and of course, the Golden Guitars.
Jon’s history of performing at ANZAC Day and similar services as well as senior citizen retreats and disabled care facilities is well-documented. Jon now regularly delivers as many live shows as possible at country music festivals and public events as well as rodeos, pubs, clubs and bars across northern Queensland and beyond.
And now, he is lined up to give an amazing show at the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day. Jon will be performing live on Saturday 30th at the event from 12:00pm – 4:00pm. This is your chance to see an Aussie music master!
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