Cr Column Councillor John Furnell 23 October

The Burdekin never ceases to astound with the variety of activities happening throughout the shire.

The Harvest Festival Student Ball was an outstanding success and the activities for the Harvest Festival continue in Home Hill. Mental Health Week wrapped up with a time to consider our own mental health in a week of presentations including the group at the Burdekin Men’s Shed with an open community invitation to “Cuppa Chat & Chew”. Seniors Month culminates with the Seniors Expo & Luncheon Thursday 30th October 2025 at the Burdekin Memorial Hall.

Congrats to the driving force lobbying for a CT scanner at Ayr Hospital, one of eleven locations receiving an upgrade of Medical Imaging services. The magical ‘Seussical Jr’ performed by the junior company of Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company has started delighting audiences. Based on the works of Dr Seuss and performed at the ‘Lighthouse’ there is still time to grab yourself tickets to a night of colour, sound and wonderment. Cancer has touched many of us so a big shout out to Raelene Grantz and team for a successful ‘Burdekin Fights Back’ fundraiser for the ‘Queensland Cancer Council’ last Sunday.

Stage 1 water restrictions take effect from 7th November to 7th December. The restrictions are to support critical works and preserve supply. For more information visit www.burdekin.qld.gov.au. Local artists, performers and community groups are reminded that applications for the next round of the Regional Arts Development Fund close tomorrow Friday 24th October, visit Council’s website.

Well done to all those who have been involved with the world first Burdekin based Macro-Algae project. The project has taken out the ‘Infrastructure Award’ at the recent Queensland Water Awards. This nature-based solution for wastewater treatment has many other councils enviously looking at what can be done for their Shires.

Till next time, health and happiness to you all.

‍