As 2025 approaches, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with powerful community moments — each one a reminder of how local partnerships can create real change.
Among the standout highlights was the strong support shown for Burdekin Catholic High School’s Stand Up Sleep Out, an initiative driven by a passionate group of student leaders determined to shine a light on homelessness in the region.
Although homelessness is often seen as a “big city” issue, school captain Drea Piotto and her peers wanted the Burdekin community to understand that it affects regional towns too.
“Our goal was to open people’s eyes, raise awareness, and generate vital support,” Drea explained. “Homelessness is rarely a choice, and breaking that destructive belief was a driving force behind our event.”
Throughout the lead-up, students heard personal stories from people whose lives had been turned upside down, many right here in the Burdekin. For the young leaders, those conversations became a catalyst for action and empathy.
The event brought together local businesses, organisations and community leaders — including the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr team — all working towards the same goal. CEOs and leaders were invited to participate with a $100 entry donation, with many stepping forward to demonstrate that leadership in regional communities extends well beyond the boardroom.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr played a key role in ensuring the funds raised stayed local, with their contribution helping to maximise support for the Burdekin Community Association, the event’s chosen beneficiary.
Acting Branch Manager Jade Bywaters said supporting youth-led initiatives like this is something the bank is extremely proud of.
“Seeing young people lead conversations about real social issues is inspiring,” Jade said. “As a community bank, we’re proud to stand beside organisations and
students who want to make a difference. Supporting events like the Stand Up Sleep Out is exactly what community banking is all about — keeping funds local and helping create lasting change.”
As the Community Bank looks back on the year, the Stand Up Sleep Out is one of many examples demonstrating the strength of the Burdekin spirit: where young people, businesses and the wider community come together to support one another.
And while the year may be wrapping up, the commitment remains the same — continuing to invest in people, projects and ideas that make the Burdekin a stronger, more connected place to call home.
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