Councillor Column Councillor Fina Vasta

I would like to highlight the valuable work of Burdekin Area Youth Watch (Baywatch), a non-for-profit community organisation dedicated to supporting local youth through sport, recreation and positive community engagement. By providing diversionary programs, Baywatch helps reduce youth involvement in the juvenile justice system while promoting confidence, healthy lifestyles, school attendance and personal development.

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Baywatch offers a range of activities including Touch Football, Basketball, Boxing, Fishing, Rugby League, Soccer, Tennis and fitness programs. As a not-for-profit organisation, it relies on donations and limited funding to operate three buses and deliver mentoring and support services to local youth.

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A small committee is also working to establish a drop-in centre for at-risk youth at the former racecourse building and is seeking donations of quality furniture and equipment, including lounges, bean bags, gym equipment, televisions, gaming equipment, bicycles, scooters and children's clothing.

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If you would like to donate items or make a financial contribution, please contact me at the Ayr Police Station. Thank you for supporting this important initiative and helping create positive opportunities for young people in our community.

Another great organisation is the The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre it was founded by a group of community-minded women.  The Centre has grown into a vital community hub, supporting around 10,000 people each year. The Centre is committed to fostering inclusion, community participation, and wellbeing by providing a welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and access support.

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Funded through the Queensland Government’s Community Support and Sector Development Program and Neighbourhood Centre Initiative, the Centre offers a range of services, including information and referral support, meeting spaces, social and support groups, lifestyle programs, free community legal advice, emergency relief assistance, and support for local initiatives.

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The Centre also hosts a variety of community programs, including Be Connected, My Aged Navigator, MyTime Burdekin, the Dementia Support Group, Seniors’ Computer Club, Parkinson’s Queensland Support Group, and a community crochet group. Through these services, the Centre continues to strengthen community connections and improve the wellbeing of people across the Burdekin region.

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