With the sounding of the final school bell for the 2024 school year set to ring across the region at 3pm on Friday 13 December, there’s no better time than the present to dive into the Burdekin Library’s fun filled Holiday Program for 2024 and 2025!

In the interest of kicking the holidays off on a festive note, the 2024 December Holiday Program will have you swimming in waves of Christmas crafts, treats, and eats! January will provide even more opportunities for fun and creativity, with activities set to see your child’s imagination run wild!

Create Your Own Christmas Tree
Although a few activities have already been booked out, the Burdekin Library invites students to get crafty with a Christmas Tree Decoration Craft session on Tuesday 17 December from 10:30am to 11:30am at the Home Hill Library.

Decorate Festive Biscuits
Craving some tasty treats? The Home Hill Library will also be holding a fabulous Festive Biscuits Decorating session on Thursday, 19 December from 10:30am to 11:30am.

Craft A Magnificent Monster Mask
Unleash your inner monster and craft up a storm with the Ayr and Home Hill Library’s Monster Masks Walk in Make it session on Wednesday 8 January. Suitable for children aged 4 years and over, this activity session will run from 9:30am to 11:30am across both branches.

Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting
Children aged 8 years and over are encouraged to unleash their creativity on Thursday 9 January for the Ayr Library’s magical Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting workshop from 10:30am.

Make Your Own Robot
Have you ever wanted to make your own friend? Both the Ayr and Home Hill branches will host a Robots Walk in Make it session on Friday 10 January from 9:30am to 11:30am suitable for children aged 4 years and over.

Watch A Movie
The Ayr Library will hold a Holiday Movie screening suitable for children aged 6 years and over at 2pm on both Friday 10 January and Friday 17 January!

Sand Art Rangoli
On Monday 13 January, students aged 6 years and over are invited to explore their creativity and create a vibrant masterpiece at the Ayr Library’s Sand Art Rangoli session from 10:30am. If your child cannot get enough of the wonderful artform, the Home Hill Library will then host a second, spectacular session from 11am on Monday 20 January.

Create A Garden Collage
Another fantastic Walk in Make it session suitable for children aged 4 years and over will be held on Tuesday 14 January from 9:30am to 11:30am to create a gorgeous Garden Collage.

Code Away
Get your code on with Caitlin on both Tuesday 14 January and Tuesday 21 January from 3pm at the Ayr Library with Code Club! An awesome, educational activity, Code Club is suitable for children aged 8 years and older.

Scratch Art
Scratch Art will be running from 10:30am at the Ayr Library on Wednesday 15 January for children aged 7 years and over to let their creativity shine.

Mario Kart Gaming
On Wednesday 15 January, an awesome session of Mario Kart Gaming will see the Ayr Library spin into a hive of activity with Luigi, Toad, Yoshi, Mario, Princess Peach and more coming alive from 2pm. This action-packed gaming activity is suitable for children aged 8 years and over.

Create Your Own Butterfly
Thursday 16 January will host a beautiful Butterfly Creations session for children aged 6 years and over from 11am at the Home Hill Library.

iPad Art
Children aged 8 years and over are encouraged to test their creativity and imagination in the world of digitalised iPad Art at the Ayr Library at 2pm.

Aus Art
On Tuesday 21 January, creativity will flourish and thrive among children aged 7 years and over at the Ayr Library’s Aus Art session at 10:30am.

An annual extravaganza, the Burdekin Library continues to offer a colourful collection of highly anticipated, FREE activities each school holiday period to entertain, and educate students. All bookings to be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents and parents are asked to note the minimum age requirement outlined across each event and adhere to the requirement of parental supervision.

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Jeff Lunn and Leon McCormack, are better knowns as the Christmas Lights Guys. They have been running a Christmas lights display for 17 years, something that was inspired by their childhood experiences.

“When I was growing up, mum and dad used to take us around to the houses and suburbs. I thought, ‘Yeah, I could give that a go all right.’ So, I did. I used to put lights up for my folks, and for my grandparents,” Jeff says.

“Leon was a bit of grinch the first few years, but now, now he's totally on board,” Jeff laughs.

A popular feature of their display, is the music that accompanies the many lights. They use a system called Light-O-Rama to synchronise the lights with the music, a practice they've maintained for 12 to 15 years. And just how many lights do they have?

“We have a four bay car garage that’s full of Christmas lights,” Leon says.

Despite the extensive setup, they have zero electricity bills due to 53 solar panels, which eliminate their worries about costs. And thank goodness, because in one year their display blew the main telegraph pole, leading to a total power outage in the area!

“In the early days we had simple gatherings with pizza and swims, but they’ve grown into the large-scale events you now see,” Jeff says.

The display attracts many local visitors, including those from Townsville, and is one of the most significant in the Burdekin area.

This year their display features new additions like an airplane and helicopter on the roof, along with other new features, including a flashing Merry Christmas sign. The Lions Club holds sausage sizzles, and Santa visits on Christmas Eve and the day before.

“We do this every year just for the pure enjoyment of seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces and the joy it brings people,” they both say.

Be sure to check out Jeff and Leon’s amazing Christmas lights display, located on the corner of Darwin and Edwards Streets, opposite the Ayr Golf course.

Leon and Jeff, the ‘Christmas Lights Guys’. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) enjoyed a great Christmas Luncheon with clients and volunteers on Monday 02.12.24.
 
178 people attend the luncheon held at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club. Over 40 Lucky Door prizes, raffle prizes and best Christmas outfit prizes were won by lucky participants.
 
BCA also gave the 38 Volunteers in attendance, a gift bag of goodies and $20 gift voucher to thank them for their service throughout the year.
 
We are very grateful to the many businesses and individuals who donated items and vouchers for prizes to BCA which enabled us to share the Christmas spirit and joy throughout the luncheon.
 
If you or someone you know needs support, advice, referrals or information concerning community or health services, please contact our Team at:
 
BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen St Ayr. Ph 4783 3744
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale St, Ayr. Ph 4783 2711
Community Information Centre, 119 Queen St, Ayr. Ph 4783 7633

BCA Christmas Clients & Volunteer luncheon copy provided by Debra Cochran.

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left to right: Councillor, Finn Vasta, Officer in Charge, Steve Barton; Treena List; Cathy Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort, McDonnell; Brian & Margaret Sorohan. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Valerie Edwards (97), and her aglow Christmas hat. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Burdekin Theatre is delighted to launch six brand new shows for next year. All six new shows will be part of the highly anticipated annual QLD Morning Melodies tour. These shows are voted on, and they will visit many other performing venues across Queensland during their 2025 runs.

All shows are $15 per person, which includes a free morning tea provided by the Friends of the Burdekin Theatre.

The final show, ‘Home for Christmas’ will be provided free by the Burdekin Shire Council.

The six shows feature, Craig Martin (Wednesday, 5 March), who will be performing classic British song hits; while six-time Golden Guitar winner, Melanie Schneider returns to the Burdekin theatre performing a soulful tribute the great women of country on Wednesday, 2 April.

Jonathon Welch AM, pays homage to best loved songs from stage to screen (Wednesday, 4 June); while on Wednesday, 13 August,  acclaimed vocalist, Chris Lloyds accompanied by The Jamie Rigg Band, takes the audience on a musical journey celebrating iconic American performer, Tony Bennett.

Wednesday, 15 October, will bring together music theatre star, Loren Hunter and renowned singer-songwriter, Marcus Corowa, along with piano virtuoso, Dan Khoury, as they perform a spectacular music experience you’ll sure to fall in love with. And wrapping up the six-show extravaganza, is award-winning performer, Darren Coggan, who celebrates the joy of being home for Christmas, with a collection of songs and stories that embrace the Australian Christmas festive spirit, who will be performing on 3 December.

All six QLD Morning Melodies shows, promise to be a spectacular affair, and no doubt, will sellout as they have done in previous years, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.  

Tickets for all six shows are on sale now except for the final show, ‘Home for Christmas’, with the Burdekin Theatre releasing tickets to that event for the public on 15 October, on account of it being free. It tends to sell out really quickly, so the theatre holds them back until later in the year.

However, if you do purchase all five shows at once before March 5, which is the date of the first show, then you can get early access to the free Xmas tickets.

All six shows’ tickets can be purchased online at www.burdekintheatre.com.au or at the Burdekin Theatre Box Office by calling: (07) 4783 9880

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Great British Songbook - Craig Martin
Great Women of Country - Melinda Schneider
From Stage to Screen - Jonathon Welch
For the Love of Tony - Chris Lloyds
Wonder - Little Red Company
Viva Pavarotti -Paul Ettore Tabone
Home for Christmas - Darren Coggan

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You cannot help but fall in love with the idea of spending a picture-perfect Sunday strolling around the quaint market stalls manned by passionate local and travelling creators and entrepreneurs.

Coffee in one hand, and dog lead in another, bring along your friends and family for a morning of sunshine, socialisation and retail therapy as you browse the talents on show at the brilliant Burdekin Plantation Park Markets.

Held on the first and third Sunday of each month, the Burdekin Plantation Park Markets are perfectly nestled amongst wonderful shady trees, plenty of open grass areas, a state-of-the-art nature-based play area, and the entrance to the Juru Walk.

A selection of artisan stalls are set up each week as well as stalls selling fresh, locally grown produce for you to enjoy. Paired with retail items and the occasional coffee van, the weekly market also hosts a collection of street eats to treat your tastebuds and fuel your splendid Sunday outing.

On a rotating management structure with Ayr State Primary School, the Vietnam Veterans Burdekin Subbranch will be running the upcoming markets on Sunday 15 December, the final market of 2024.

Pop down to Plantation Park this Sunday to support your local stallholders and enjoy all the wonders on offer at the Burdekin Plantation Park Markets. You may even find an awesome and unique gift to give to someone special this Christmas!

What: Burdekin Plantation Park Markets
When: The first and third Sunday of each month from 8am to 12pm
Where: Plantation Park

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Friday 6 December
Saint Nicholas Day
Friday 5:30pm
Come along for Children’s craft, Christmas Stocking making a Sausage sizzle and Carols. Embrace the Christmas spirit and enjoy.
Ayr Presbyterian Church Grounds

Saturday 7 December
CORES’ Suicide Prevention Training
Saturday 9am
Equip yourself with life-saving skills through CORES’ FREE Suicide Prevention Training workshop.
164 MacMillian Street, Ayr

Saturday 7 December
Burdekin Race Club 100 Year Celebration
Saturday 11:30am
The Burdekin Race Club warmly invites the community to attend the centennial celebration with five local races set to be held over the course of the day along with a full bar, canteen, giveaways, free entry, the cutting of a cake, and free treats for children also available.
Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill

Saturday 7 December
20 Years of Nuttall’s Garden Centre Celebration
Saturday 6pm
Jim and Pat Nuttall invite the community to attend a wonderful birthday celebration of Nuttall’s Garden Centre. Attendees are asked to call Jim on 0407 832 463.
Nuttall’s Garden Centre, 52 Soper Street, Ayr

Sunday 8 December
Burdekin Aero Club’s Christmas BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
Fly, drive or walk to join the Burdekin Aero Club for a morning of festivities and a delicious breakfast on Sunday from 8am to 11am! Camping facilities are available and for all enquiries contact 0429 144 921.
Aerodrome Road, Brandon

Saturday 7 December
Rosary in the Park
Saturday 3pm
Everyone within the community is welcome to attend Roary in the Park at the Lloyd Mann Gardens in Home Hill on Saturday 7 December from 3pm onwards. Attendees are asked to please bring your own chair.
Lloyd Mann Gardens, Home Hill

Sunday 8 December
Christmas Carols
Sunday 5:30pm
The Burdekin community is invited to kick off the festive season at the 2024 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols. This year’s celebration will feature a headline act hailing from the Burdekin, René LeFeuvre! The evening will feature plenty of live festive music, a variety of food stall, a photo booth, face painting, and of course, a very special visit from Santa.
Home Hill State High School Oval

Friday 13 December
End of Harvest Golf Classic
Friday 5:45am
Celebrate the end of the crushing season at the 2024 End of Harvest Golf Classic! Registrations and tee off begins at 5:45am, with Cat’s Coffee arriving at 6am, the Sponsor’s Brunch commencing at 9am, the Bray Slushy Bar opening at 11am and the Longest Drive Comp set for 1:30pm!
Ayr Golf Course

Sunday 15 December
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for a morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats. Browse the talents of both local and travelling market stallholders to discover amazing and unique Christmas gifts for the final Plantation Park Market of 2024! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Sunday 15 December
Christmas Service
Sunday 4:30pm
U R Church will host a Christmas Service on Sunday 15 December with plenty of carols, and a light supper for attendees to enjoy.
30 Edward Street, Ayr

Sunday 15 December
Christmas Carols
Sunday 7pm
Burdekin Catholic Parish invites the community to come together for an evening of merriment and joy to share in the happiness of the birth of Jesus.
St. Colman’s Church, Home Hill

Wednesday 18 December
Christmas Confessions
Wednesday 6pm
The community is invited to come and experience the love and mercy of Jesus.
Sacred Heart, Ayr

Thursday 19 December
Christmas Confessions
Thursday 6pm
The community is invited to come and experience the love and mercy of Jesus.
St. Colman’s Church, Home Hill

Thursday 19 December
Ayr Christmas Street Party
The festive season in Ayr is set to be brighter than ever, with the annual Ayr Christmas Street Party scheduled for Thursday, 19th December. The Burdekin Shire Council is calling on local singers, dancers, and performers to fill the streets with holiday cheer. Local eateries are encouraged to join in, with outdoor seating allowing patrons to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Tuesday 24 December
Christmas Vigil
Tuesday 6pm
On Tuesday 24 December the community is invited to attend a Christmas Vigil at 6pm at either St. Colman’s Church in Home Hill or the Samaritan Centre in Ayr.
St. Colman’s Church & Samaritan Centre

Wednesday 25 December
Christmas Day Mass
Wednesday 7am & 9am
A Christmas Day Mass will be held across four different locations on Wednesday 25 December. At 7am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joesph’s Church (Giru) or St. Colman’s Church (Home Hill) and at 9am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joseph’s Church (Clare) or Sacred Heart Church (Ayr).
Various Locations

Tuesday 31 December
New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Ceilidh
Tuesday 6:30pm
Celebrate the end of 2024 and welcome 2025 in style with a fantastic New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Ceilidh Celtic Party on Tuesday 31 December! Kicking off at 6:30pm, the community is invited to attend this family friendly NYE party that will have both you and your kids dancing well into the night and all the way through to 1am on 1 January!
Burdekin Memorial Hall

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Burdekin Shire Council invites the community to celebrate the start of the Christmas season with Lights, Camera, Christmas—a special event marking the lighting of the new Christmas trees in Ayr and Home Hill.
The celebrations will be held on Sunday, 1 December from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt in Ayr, and on Monday, 2 December 2024 from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Home Hill Comfort Stop.
This festive event offers families the chance to enjoy the lighting of the trees, soak in the holiday atmosphere, and have photos taken with Santa—absolutely free of charge. A local photographer will capture the magic, with the photos shared on the Burdekin Shire Council’s Facebook page for families to keep and cherish.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort expressed her excitement about the event, saying, “We are thrilled to bring the community together to celebrate the start of the Christmas season. These tree lighting events and free Santa photos provide a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the joy and togetherness of the holiday season.
“Let’s light up the Burdekin and welcome the most magical time of the year!”
Families are encouraged to come along, enjoy the festivities, and kick off the Christmas celebrations in style!
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WHAT: Lights, Camera, Christmas!
AYR: Sunday, 1 December from 6pm to 7.30pm at Burdekin Theatre Forecourt
HOME HILL: Monday, 2 December from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Home Hill Comfort Stop

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Thursday 28 November
Where in the World is Winston? - Author Talk with Renee Hudson
Thursday 10am
Meet Renee and Winston and learn all about her new book, and how it supports language development!
Burdekin Theatre

Saturday 30 November
Burdekin Christmas Craft Spectacular
Saturday 9am
Burdekin Uniting Church is proud to bring the beloved Craft Spectacular to the Memorial Hall for the second time this year!
Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill

Saturday 30 November
Burdekin Library’s Big Book Sale
Saturday 9am
Santa stopped by the library a month early and delivered more books! Come buy a library bag for just $4 and take home as many books as you can fit!
Burdekin Library

Saturday 30 November
Simply Dance Presents Simply Glamorous
Saturday 1:30pm & 7pm
Join the students of Simply Dance as they return to the Burdekin Theatre for their annual performance – Simply Glamorous! Two shows will take place to stage the wonderful talents of the hardworking students with the opening show at 1:30pm and the closing night commencing from 7pm. Tickets can be purchase on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.
Burdekin Theatre

Saturday 30 November
Burdekin Christmas Craft Spectacular
Saturday from 9am
The community is warmly invited to indulge in the festive spirit at the Burdekin Uniting Church’s wonderful 2024 Burdekin Christmas Craft Specular! The event is set to dazzle the Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday 30 November from 9am to 2pm, and will stand as the second Craft Specular hosted by the Burdekin Uniting Church this year! Come along, and start your Christmas shopping!
Burdekin Memorial Hall

Sunday 1 December
Lights Camera Christmas
Sunday 6pm
Celebrate and embrace the festive spirit with the Burdekin Shire Council’s Lights Camera Christmas event! The community is invited to attend the lighting of the new Burdekin Christmas Trees and enjoy FREE Santa photos as well as plenty of fun and community spirit!
Burdekin Theatre Forecourt

Sunday 1 December
Christmas Lights Party
Sunday 6:30pm
The infamous corner house community attraction will officially commence its Christmas Lights showcase on Sunday 1 December, with the community warmly invited to enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with carols, popcorn, snow cones, fairy floss, and a sausage sizzle!
CNR Edward and Darwin Street, Ayr

Monday 2 December
Lights Camera Christmas
Monday 6pm
Celebrate and embrace the festive spirit with the Burdekin Shire Council’s Lights Camera Christmas event! The community is invited to attend the lighting of the new Burdekin Christmas Trees and enjoy FREE Santa photos as well as plenty of fun and community spirit!
Home Hill Comfort Stop

Wednesday 4 December
Morning Melodies: Andrews and Bin Christmas Swing
Thursday from 11am
The Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing joyful, live, melodious Christmas Show is a stroll down memory lane with the beautiful 1940’s bright & engaging Christmas songs of the Andrews Sisters & the one & only “Crooner” himself, alias Bing Crosby. Three dynamic, harmonious, humble divas with their professional band, “The Miller Horns,” igniting the stage! Clap along to their iconic stylized “Jingle Bells”, listen to the enchanting best-selling song, “White Christmas” and all aboard the Christmas “Chattanooga Choo Choo”.
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 6 December
Saint Nicholas Day
Friday 5:30pm
Come along for Children’s craft, Christmas Stocking making a Sausage sizzle and Carols. Embrace the Christmas spirit and enjoy.
Ayr Presbyterian Church Grounds

Saturday 7 December
Rosary in the Park
Saturday 3pm
Everyone within the community is welcome to attend Roary in the Park at the Lloyd Mann Gardens in Home Hill on Saturday 7 December from 3pm onwards. Attendees are asked to please bring your own chair.
Lloyd Mann Gardens, Home Hill

Sunday 8 December
Christmas Carols
Sunday 5:30pm
The Burdekin community is invited to kick off the festive season at the 2024 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols. This year’s celebration will feature a headline act hailing from the Burdekin, René LeFeuvre! The evening will feature plenty of live festive music, a variety of food stall, a photo booth, face painting, and of course, a very special visit from Santa.
Home Hill State High School Oval

Sunday 15 December
Christmas Carols
Sunday 7pm
Burdekin Catholic Parish invites the community to come together for an evening of merriment and joy to share in the happiness of the birth of Jesus.
St. Colman’s Church, Home Hill

Wednesday 18 December
Christmas Confessions
Wednesday 6pm
The community is invited to come and experience the love and mercy of Jesus.
Sacred Heart, Ayr

Thursday 19 December
Christmas Confessions
Thursday 6pm
The community is invited to come and experience the love and mercy of Jesus.
St. Colman’s Church, Home Hill

Thursday 19 December
Ayr Christmas Street Party
The festive season in Ayr is set to be brighter than ever, with the annual Ayr Christmas Street Party scheduled for Thursday, 19th December. The Burdekin Shire Council is calling on local singers, dancers, and performers to fill the streets with holiday cheer. Local eateries are encouraged to join in, with outdoor seating allowing patrons to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Tuesday 24 December
Christmas Vigil
Tuesday 6pm
On Tuesday 24 December the community is invited to attend a Christmas Vigil at 6pm at either St. Colman’s Church in Home Hill or the Samaritan Centre in Ayr.
St. Colman’s Church & Samaritan Centre

Wednesday 25 December
Christmas Day Mass
Wednesday 7am & 9am
A Christmas Day Mass will be held across four different locations on Wednesday 25 December. At 7am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joesph’s Church (Giru) or St. Colman’s Church (Home Hill) and at 9am, the community is invited to attend at St. Joseph’s Church (Clare) or Sacred Heart Church (Ayr).
Various Locations

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Woohoo! The summer school holidays will officially commence from 3pm on Friday 13 December with the 2025 school year to kick off on Monday 27 January. In order to ensure the next six weeks are nothing short of enjoyable, we have compiled a fantastic list of wonderful, educational, engaging and entertaining activities for both you and your children to enjoy in and around the Burdekin community to make this school holiday period one for the history books!

Fun Activities At The Library
Starting off strong, both the Ayr and Home Hill branches of the Burdekin Library have designed a fantastic schedule of school holiday activities for children aged four years and older to enjoy!
With activities like Christmas Decoration Craft, Festive Biscuit Decorating, Owl Tealight Ceramic Painting, Movie Sessions, Scratch Art, Code Club and so many more scheduled from December into January, the Burdekin Library is certainly the place to be these holidays! Bookings are essential and can be made online at https://bit.ly/burdekinlibraryevents from Thursday 28 November.
Over the course of the holidays, the Burdekin Library will be holding their annual Summer Reading Club for all school aged children to participate in. Visit the library before Thursday 19 December to register, collect the activity booklet and get started on completing the awesome challenges for the chance to win terrific prizes and an invitation to the Summer Reading Club Party!
Along with the amazing scheduled activities, both library branches provide a welcoming environment for the community to enjoy, and home several iPads and tablets for membership cardholders to use as well as plenty of puzzles and colouring in activities which are also available upon request.
The Burdekin Library located at 108 Graham Street, Ayr is open to the public from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm on Saturday.
The Home Hill Branch located at 77 – 79 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill is open from 1pm to 5pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 10am to 12pm as well as 2pm to 5pm on Wednesday.

Get Active With Plantation Parkrun
With so many enriching and educational opportunities to take advantage of these school holidays, another awesome way to spend time together as a family over the course of the next six weeks is by registering for the Plantation parkrun!
Plantation parkrun is held each Saturday at 7am at Plantation Park off the Bruce Highway and is a completely free community event where participants of all ages can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate along the 5-kilometre trail.
Why not create a school holiday family competition and see who can improve their finish line time the most in six weeks? It has been proven time and time again that running, walking and moving your body in any way contributes to improving not only your physical health but also greatly improves your mental health and overall well-being in the areas of sleep, stress management, confidence, memory and cognitive function! Register for this Saturday’s parkrun event online now at www.parkrun.com.au/plantation/.

Explore Nature At A Local Park
In the interest of getting out and about in the community, set aside a couple of hours to enjoy the sunshine and gorgeous weather conditions whilst surrounding yourself with the natural beauty of one of the Burdekin Shire’s local parks.
Pack a perfect picnic basket as well as a football or two and make sure to swing by either the Ayr or Home Hill Library on your travels to pick up a free copy of the Burdekin Shire Council’s wonderful Wink and Blink school holiday activity booklets.
Set the navigation to either Plantation Park (Ayr), Anzac Park (Ayr), Coutts Park (Ayr), Alva Beach Park (Alva Beach), Arch Dunn Memorial Park (Home Hill), Ford Park (Home Hill), Watson’s Green Park (Home Hill), Spiller Street Park (Brandon) or Brolga Park (Giru) and enjoy plenty of quality family time away from the screens, soaking up rays of vitamin D!

With calendars quickly filling up for 2025, it’s important to use the next six weeks as time to make memories with one another, and the Burdekin community is overflowing with plenty of amazing local facilities, and activities for families with children of all ages to enjoy these school holidays!

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Burdekin Artisans invites the community to get festive and creative at their "Button Tree Christmas Workshop" hosted by the talented Billie Lee. This unique, hands-on workshop will take place at 170 Arts on the Avenue in Home Hill, offering a chance for participants to create their own beautiful button Christmas trees.  
Priced at just $28, the workshop includes all the necessary supplies, so attendees only need to bring their creativity. However, participants are encouraged to bring any special buttons they’d like to incorporate, adding a personal touch to their festive artwork. Whether it’s a sentimental button from a loved one or one with unique colours, this option gives each button tree a story of its own.
The event promises a relaxed and social atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind, connect with fellow community members, and craft something truly memorable for the holiday season. Under Billie’s guidance, participants will learn how to design and assemble a charming button tree that they can proudly display at home or gift to someone special.
This public workshop is open to everyone, making it an ideal holiday activity for both families and individuals. Burdekin Artisans looks forward to welcoming participants and sharing in the joy of the season. Don’t miss this festive creative experience at Arts on the Avenue – a perfect way to start the Christmas season with a touch of handmade charm!
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WHAT: Burdekin Artisans Button Workshop
WHERE: 170 Arts on the Avenue Home Hill
WHEN: Saturday 23rd November

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The Burdekin Shire Council warmly invites families, friends, and neighbours to an evening of Christmas cheer at the 2024 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols.
Set to light up the Home Hill State High School Oval on Sunday, 8 December, this festive gathering kicks off at 5.30pm and promises something for everyone. Best of all, it’s free to attend!
The highlight of the evening will be a headline performance by Burdekin’s very own René LeFeuvre. Known for his soulful performances, René is set to captivate audiences with his unique blend of talent and heart, making this a standout celebration for all ages.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort expressed her excitement about the event, saying, “This free family-friendly event is open to all and a wonderful way to come together to celebrate the holiday season. We’re thrilled to have René back in his hometown for this special occasion.”
Attendees can look forward to an array of festive activities, including live Christmas carols to set the holiday mood, face painting and a photo booth for family fun, food stalls offering a variety of delicious bites, a special visit from Santa spreading holiday cheer, and a stunning fireworks display to end the night on a sparkling note.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, 8 December 2024, and bring your loved ones for a night of music, laughter, and Christmas magic.
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WHAT: Ayr and Home Hill Christmas Carols
WHERE: Home Hill State High School Oval
WHEN: 8th December, 5:30pm

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Currently treating international listeners to his musical talents in Germany, René LeFeuvre will soon headline the 2024 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols set for Sunday 8 December.

From touring across the world to enrolling in acting classes, 2024 has been nothing short of showstopping for René, and he’s looking forward to touching back down in Australia later this month for another outstanding performance on home soil.

“I’m grateful to be performing again this year for the Burdekin Christmas Carols,” shared René.

“My North Queensland Tour was a great success, and the highlight was definitely performing at the Giru International – thank you to everyone that came, and hopefully we can do it again soon!”

Polishing off the final performances of his tour, René has found much joy in sharing his music and stories with international audiences, despite the change in weather conditions!

“My international tour has been incredible - I’m freezing over here though!

“I just landed in Cologne, Germany, and the audiences have been amazing to play to and everyone is very interested in my story of growing up in Giru on a mango farm – they think it’s crazy that I’m on the other side of the world performing for them!”

René cannot wait to bring plenty of Christmas cheer to the region with his December performance, adding he’s hoping to bring his parents up on stage for a boogie along with spending plenty of quality time with his family and friends.

“I’ll spend a couple of days home before heading back to Sydney to continue writing and recording my second album,” explained René.

“Before I go though, I’ll definitely be scoffing down some of mum’s cooking – particularly her ravioli, it’s the best!”

Looking ahead, René has plenty on the cards already for 2025, with plans to embark on more national and international tours, and even hopes to take up jiu jitsu classes in his spare time.

“I will be based in Sydney for the next twelve months working hard on my songwriting and musicianship, and having recently taken on acting classes, I think I’ll spend more time in America, but we’ll see what the new year brings!”

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2024 has been huge for René, and 2025 is only looking bigger!

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For Gloria Lazzarini, plum puddings are more than just a festive treat—they’re a lifelong passion. Since the age of 17, Gloria has been perfecting her craft, first inspired by a recipe she discovered in The Australian Women’s Weekly. “Italians don’t traditionally eat plum puddings,” Gloria explains, “but I loved the idea and started making the cloth-boiled ones.” Gloria is recently semi-retired from St Francis, St Colmans, and East Ayr State Schools after teaching music and Italian for 60 years.
Initially, Gloria would prepare her puddings in small batches, hanging them to dry and ensuring they stayed cold. “They don’t last as long, so I had to work quickly,” she recalls. “I used to visit the Townsville markets regularly, taking orders and making them fresh.”
The COVID-19 pandemic brought this tradition to a halt. When markets resumed, Gloria found that her regular customers had moved on, and her familiar market spot was gone. “The younger generation doesn’t eat plum puddings as much,” she notes. “When I returned, the organisers didn’t even know what plum puddings were!”
Despite these challenges, Gloria’s passion for puddings has not wavered. Even while travelling to Italy one year—and again this year—she continues her efforts to make as many puddings as possible. “People still ask about them, and I can’t say no,” she laughs.
This year, Gloria has enlisted the help of a talented friend, a South African-born chef with experience as a head chef in Perth and Adelaide. “He’s been a lifesaver,” she says warmly. “His wife went to school with my daughter, so I asked if he could help, and he agreed. He helped last year as well.”
Together, they’ve been hard at work preparing puddings, which will soon be available at Chill Café. Gloria admits she may not have her usual quantity ready before her trip, but her determination remains strong. “I’ll try my best!” she says with a smile.
For Gloria, plum puddings are more than a recipe—they’re a testament to her dedication, creativity, and love for sharing the festive spirit.

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Gloria and her famous plum puddings. Photo Credit: Miah Lampard

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Get ready for the festive season at the Max Place Markets on Saturday, November 23rd! Running from 8am to 12.30 pm at 119 Railway Street in Ayr, this Christmas-themed market promises to be a fantastic final event for the year.
Whether you're looking for unique Christmas gift ideas or just want to enjoy a relaxed morning with family and friends, the Max Place Markets have something for everyone. Take memorable photos with a special Christmas backdrop, perfect for holiday keepsakes or sharing with loved ones. The market will also feature a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables, so you can stock up on local produce, along with delicious coffee, lollies, and other treats to enjoy on the spot or take home.
Shop from an array of handmade goods, ideal for thoughtful holiday gifts, and enjoy a tasty sausage sizzle that adds a classic Aussie touch to the morning. With so much on offer, this community market is a great way to support local businesses and enjoy the festive cheer.
Don’t miss out on the Max Place Markets' last event of the year — it’s the perfect way to start the holiday season with family fun and unique finds.
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WHAT: Max Place Markets
WHERE: 119 Railway Street Ayr
WHEN: 8am-12:30pm November 23rd 2024

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The Home Hill Harvest Festival’s Gala Ball concluded with the crowning of two queens. Marnie Skipper from Home Hill Community Kindy was named Personality Queen, celebrated for her charisma and community spirit, while Madison Mainwaring-Samwell from Burdekin Netball earned the title of Charity Queen for her exceptional fundraising efforts, raising an epic $29,375.49.
Reflecting on the event, Carlene Muilwyk shared, “The Rotary Club put on an exceptional event, giving our queens and their partners a memorable night to showcase their hard work, dedication, and elegance on the dance floor.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our naming sponsor, Queensland Country Bank, and to all our supporting sponsors and community members who make this festival so special.
“We are honoured to be part of this journey with our queens and deeply appreciative of the organisations, families, and friends who support them every step of the way.”
The Gala Ball embodied the spirit of the Harvest Festival, uniting the community to celebrate Home Hill’s young ambassadors and their commitment to making a difference.

Photo gallery in "Social Pics" section

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Photo credit: Marni Hines

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