Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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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
Thursday 29th October
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 30th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 31st October
Burdekin Race Club’s Derby Day
Saturday, 11:30am-9pm
Celebrate Derby Day at the Burdekin Race Club, a vibrant family-friendly race meet featuring live racing, Fashions on the Field, entertainment, food stalls and trackside excitement, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a great day out at Home Hill Race Course.
Home Hill Race Course, Bruce Highway, Home Hill
Sunday 1st November
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting, 1:45pm-5pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Home Hill Harvest Festival Golf Ambrose
Time: TBA
Gather your team and enjoy a round of golf in the beautiful surroundings of our course, competing in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice player, the Golf Ambrose promises a day of laughter, friendly competition, and enjoyment for all.
Ayr Golf Club, Ayr
Monday 2nd November
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 3rd November
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
Wednesday 4th November
Home Hill Harvest festival Pet Show & Bolt for Bucks
6:00pm to 9:00pm
Bring your beloved pets of all shapes and sizes to compete in a variety of adorable categories, from Best Dressed to Waggiest Tail. After the pet show, let the kids loose for the Bolt for Bucks race, where they can dash around the park in a thrilling sprint for prizes.
Watson’s Green, Home Hill
Thursday 5th November
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 6th November
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Home Hill Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball
6:30pm to midnight
Join us for an elegant sit-down dinner, accompanied by enchanting music and dancing, as we come together to support our esteemed queens and revel in the joy of the harvest season.
Tickets on sale now – Call Deslie on +61 408 822 029
Burdekin Memorial Hall, Home Hill
Saturday 7th November
Home Hill Harvest Festival Grand Parade & Street Party
Saturday, 3pm-11pm
Celebrate the Home Hill Harvest Festival Grand Parade and Street Party, a vibrant community celebration featuring colourful floats, live music, food stalls, rides and entertainment, as Eighth Avenue comes alive with energy, showcasing the spirit of the Burdekin.
Eighth Avenue, Home Hill
Monday 9th November
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 10th November
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Thursday 12th November
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
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Last year’s Grand Parade saw hundreds line Home Hill's Eight Avenue Photos: Jacob Casha
Home Hill will take on a Brazilian carnival theme when the Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival and Grand Parade returns on Saturday, 7th November.
The annual event, a Burdekin tradition since 1963, will feature colourful floats, live entertainment, food stalls, carnival rides and family activities throughout the afternoon and evening.
This year’s theme, Rio Carnivale, will bring a Brazilian-inspired flavour to the celebrations, with the street party beginning at Home Hill’s Watsons Green and Anzac Park from 3pm.
The grand parade will begin at 5pm, featuring floats, community groups, local organisations and businesses making their way down Main Street.
The newly crowned 2026 Harvest Festival Queen will also appear in the parade following the Rotary Gala Ball on Friday night.
Visitors will have a range of food options, including American-style barbecue ribs, pulled pork, burgers, Asian cuisine, loaded fries, potato twisters, cinnamon doughnuts, ice cream and handmade sweets.
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Live entertainment will include Sneaky Beats and the Burdekin and Thuringowa Brass bands, while carnival rides and attractions will cater to a range of ages.
Younger festivalgoers can also take part in activities at the PCYC games trailer.
Harvest Festival secretary Carlene Muilwyk said the festival will give an opportunity for residents, families and visitors to come together while supporting local organisations and businesses.
“The Harvest Festival is about much more than one day of celebrations. It's about bringing our community together, supporting local organisations and continuing a tradition that has been part of Home Hill for more than 60 years,” she said.
“The committee is looking forward to seeing the streets of Home Hill filled with colour, excitement and community spirit once again.”
The event is supported by naming rights sponsor Queensland Country Bank, alongside platinum sponsors Carmichael Ford, Burdekin Shire Council and Triple M, as well as other sponsors, volunteers and community groups.
The street party begins at 3pm on Saturday, 7th November, with the grand parade scheduled for 5pm in Home Hill.
More information is available at www.hhharvestfestival.com.au.
About 55 seniors gathered in Ayr last Thursday for a morning of high tea, trivia and prizes as part of Queensland Seniors Month Photos: Jacob Casha
About 55 seniors gathered in Ayr last Thursday for a morning of high tea, trivia and prizes as part of Queensland Seniors Month.
The Burdekin Community Association (BCA) hosted its free Hats Off! Game On! event at Sacred Heart Parish Hall, with six staff helping deliver the morning.
Guests enjoyed morning tea, brain-teasing trivia, games and prizes, most sporting decorated hats.
BCA chief executive Debra Cochran said the event was an opportunity to recognise the contributions of older residents and bring people together.
“It was a privilege to organise the High Tea event and we sincerely hope that everyone who attended enjoyed the morning,” she said.
Queensland Seniors Month runs throughout October under the theme Connect and Celebrate, recognising the value older Queenslanders bring to their families, neighbourhoods and wider communities.
The night's champions, ‘Mark’s Minions’. Photos supplied
Twenty teams put their knowledge to the test at a Home Hill Tennis Association trivia fundraiser, raising more than $2000 for the club.
The event was held as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival, organised by Festival Queen Sarah Shepherd, whom the tennis club is sponsoring.
The night featured seven rounds of questions covering topics from ‘Australiana' to Rio Carnival, with some proving harder than participants expected.
Mini-games, including a last-man-standing pickleball juggling competition, added a twist to proceedings, with ‘Mark’s Minions’ ultimately emerging to take home the title.
Organisers said only half a point separated the night’s winners from second and third place.
Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell said the club was surprised by the level of community support, including an array of prizes donated by local businesses.
“We were surprised by the community support … The cars were out to the racetrack!” she said.
Kate said the club would take feedback about the question difficulty on board for next year.
“We promise we'll make the questions easier next year,” she laughed.
An award-winning film exploring the challenges of rural life and mental health will screen at the Burdekin Theatre on Sunday, 25th October.
Just a Farmer follows the struggles and triumphs of rural communities, highlighting mental health challenges and the importance of community resilience.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the film could help spark important conversations about mental health in farming communities.
“Mental health is often a silent struggle in farming communities,” she said.
“This film brings that reality to the forefront, starting conversations that can change lives.”
A question-and-answer session with writer and producer Leila McDougall and Warren Davies, known as The Unbreakable Farmer, will take place before the screening, giving attendees an opportunity to discuss the film’s themes.
Doors open at 3pm, with the screening commencing at 4pm.
Tickets are available online at https://bit.ly/JustaFarmer_Tix.
Thursday 22nd October
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc and Bendigo Community Bank, Home Hill and Ayr are hosting a FREE Financial Literacy Q & A Event for Mature Women on Thursday, 22 October 6.30pm, at the PCYC Burdekin, 164 MacMillan Street, AYR.
Event presenter, Ms Chris Delaney, will highlight essential fraud and scam awareness and help attendees better understand financial readiness for life after a partner passes.
A light supper will be served at the end of the event.
For complete event details, please see the poster on Zonta’s Facebook page.
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 23rd October
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
Burdekin Catholic Parish Bingo Night Fundraiser
6pm
$25 per person - includes 10 games and markers
Sausage sizzle and licensed bar available. Tea, coffee and smoke - gold coin donation
Contact Kaylene Rinella on 0407622975 to register
Parish Hall, Home Hill
ABBA Thank You for the Music
Friday, 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate the magic of ABBA with Thank You for the Music, a dazzling two-hour live tribute packed with iconic hits, soaring harmonies and feel-good nostalgia, bringing timeless classics like Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia and Waterloo to life on stage. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/ABBA-Thank-you-for-the-Music.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Saturday 24th October
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr
KING & QUEEN OF THE HILL
6am, Inkerman Hill
Participants will tackle the challenging course from the bottom of Inkerman Hill to the picturesque lookout and back down again. Divided into age groups, runners will compete for the title in a test of speed and endurance.
Multiple age group categories, cash prizes and a coffee van and food available. $5 registration on the day.
SUNDAY 25TH OCTOBER
St Colman's 100 Celebration 9am-1pm, St Colman's Church and Hall, cnr 10th Street & 10th Avenue, Home Hill
Monday 26th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 27th October
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
Contributed with thanks by the Burdekin Singers
The Burdekin Singers are inviting audiences of all ages to step into a magical world of fairy tales with their latest production, Hans Christian Andersen Junior Theatre Restaurant.
From the moment the curtain rises, audiences will be transported into the enchanting world of one of the world's most beloved storytellers. Featuring familiar tales of Thumbelina, The Little Mermaid and the Ugly Ducking, this charming production promises an evening filled with music, laughter, imagination and a little bit of magic.
Presented by the talented young performers of the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company, the production celebrates the timeless stories of Hans Christian Andersen while showcasing the enthusiasm, creativity and talent of the Burdekin's younger generation.
And this isn't simply a night at the theatre; it's a theatre restaurant experience. Your ticket includes supper, so audiences can sit back, relax and enjoy the show while sharing an evening with family and friends. Alternatively, you're welcome to bring your own food and create your very own fairy-tale feast. The Lighthouse is fully licensed, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Whether you're bringing the family, catching up with friends or simply looking for a wonderful night of local entertainment, Hans Christian Andersen Junior Theatre Restaurant is an opportunity to support local young performers and enjoy some classic stories brought to life on stage.
Performances will be held at The Lighthouse, 130 Young Street, Ayr, from the 17th October to 1st November 2026.
Tickets are available online through TryBooking, simply search for “HCA Jnr – Burdekin Singers Junior Theatre Restaurant” or visit the Burdekin Singers Facebook page for ticket information.
Gather your companions, take your seat and prepare to be swept away into a world where mermaids, tiny fairies, ugly ducklings and fairy-tale adventures come to life.
The curtain is rising and your fairy tale awaits, you don’t want to miss this one!
Thursday 15th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 16th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Beyond the Gate, 11am-3pm, Populins Hall, Ayr
One Voice – Greatest Hits of John Farnham (Tribute Show), 7:30pm-10pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 19th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 20th October
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
Thursday 22nd October
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc and Bendigo Community Bank, Home Hill and Ayr are hosting a FREE Financial Literacy Q & A Event for Mature Women on Thursday, 22 October 6.30pm, at the PCYC Burdekin, 164 MacMillan Street, AYR.
Event presenter, Ms Chris Delaney, will highlight essential fraud and scam awareness and help attendees better understand financial readiness for life after a partner passes.
A light supper will be served at the end of the event.
For complete event details, please see the poster on Zonta’s Facebook page.
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 23rd October
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
ABBA Thank You for the Music
Friday, 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate the magic of ABBA with Thank You for the Music, a dazzling two-hour live tribute packed with iconic hits, soaring harmonies and feel-good nostalgia, bringing timeless classics like Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia and Waterloo to life on stage. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/ABBA-Thank-you-for-the-Music.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Saturday 24th October
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr
Monday 26th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 27th October
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
Photo source: Pexels
Burdekin seniors are being invited to don their favourite hats for a morning of high tea, games and prizes in Ayr later this month.
The Burdekin Community Association (BCA) will host its free Hats Off! Game On! Seniors High Tea and Hats Event at Sacred Heart Parish Hall on Thursday, 22nd October, as part of Queensland Seniors Month.
Held throughout October under the theme “Connect and celebrate”, Seniors Month encourages older Queenslanders to build connections and celebrate their contributions to the community.
Doors will open at 9.30am for a 10am start, with the event running until noon.
Attendees can enjoy a selection of treats, tea and coffee, alongside trivia, music, challenges and other games designed to bring people together for a morning of fun.
Guests are encouraged to wear their favourite hats, with a prize up for grabs for the best or best-decorated hat.
While the event is free, bookings and tickets are essential.
To secure a ticket, contact the BCA Support Centre on 4783 3744 or visit the centre at 130 Queen Street, Ayr.
Burdekin Catholic High School pair Boston Bramwell and Jayel Gibson were crowned Beau and Belle Photo credit: Hayden Menso Photography
More than 280 Burdekin high schoolers hit the runway at last Friday’s Home Hill Harvest Festival Students’ Ball, where Burdekin Catholic High School pair Boston Bramwell and Jayel Gibson were crowned Beau and Belle, respectively.
Hundreds waited outside Burdekin Memorial Hall to greet the glammed-up Year 10-12 students, each making a red carpet entrance before taking their seats for the evening’s formalities.
Headlining proceedings was an awards ceremony, which acknowledged several students for their standout participation on the night.
Bramwell and Gibson were joined by Beau and Belle runners-up Chase Power and Riley Sartori, while Max Kelly and Holly James were named Best-Dressed Couple.
Matt Pappalardo and Erin Palmer were named Mr Swagger and Ms Sass, respectively.
Event coordinator Sharyn Woods said this year’s competition was particularly competitive.
“I spoke to one of the judges—she went, ‘oh my god, that was the most difficult thing I've ever done. I just couldn’t choose,’” she said.
Students also enjoyed a meal donated by local businesses before this year’s Harvest Festival Queens took to the stage for a formal address. Brisbane-based entertainer DJ Dello provided the night’s music.
Ms Woods said the event received many positive reviews, praising the conduct of participating students.
“It was such a good night. The students were so well-behaved, which was a credit to all the schools,” she said.
“It was a great opportunity for them to just relax and have a good time before exams.”
Thursday 8th October
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 9th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 10th October
Car Boot Sale, 8am-12pm, Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark, Home Hill
Self Ignited Soul Women’s Event, 4pm, TBA
Monday 12th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 13th October
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
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Thursday 15th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 16th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Beyond the Gate, 11am-3pm, Populins Hall, Ayr
One Voice – Greatest Hits of John Farnham (Tribute Show), 7:30pm-10pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 19th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 20th October
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
The sun will soon rise on the 14th Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and taking his own advice to follow it is none other than legendary singer-songwriter, Xavier Rudd.
Headlining the iconic waterfront main stage on Friday, November 6, Rudd is expected to treat the crowd to a mix of new music and classics like Spirit Bird, Storm Boy, and of course Follow the Sun.
“Airlie is a beautiful spot and I’m looking forward to getting back up that way,” he said, adding that the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef was a place where he could happily hang out with his boat.
Joining Rudd on the three-day lineup at Queensland’s premier ‘party in paradise’ are some of the nation’s most celebrated acts, including Hunters and Collectors frontman, Mark Seymour, Aussie icons Mental As Anything, The Whitlams, The Radiators, chart-topper Conrad Sewell, Country artist Adam Harvey, and internationally renowned blues guitarist, Nathan Cavaleri.
With 60 acts across 16 venues – from the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to the main strip of Airlie Beach and beyond – here’s what you need to know about the 2026 event.
Pay for three days, party for five
In addition to the weekend of November 6-8, the festival includes a Beach Jam and Welcome Party on Thursday, November 5, and an After Party at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill on Monday, November 9.
Titled ‘Women Who Rock’, the opening event at Magnums features an all-star female cast, of Little Quirks, Loonaloop, Tess Fapani, Carinda Christie Band and Tiffany Grace.
Meanwhile, the After Party will be headlined by Nathan Cavaleri, Skinny Living (UK), Mason Rack Band, Salt & Steel, Zed Charles Band, Matt Tandy and Mango Thieves.
Three-day pass holders have access to both additional events at no extra cost, with general admission three-day tickets priced at $340 and two-day passes costing $250.
Live it up like a rockstar
The Mentals aren’t the only ones who get to ‘Live it Up’, with VIP ticket-holders experiencing rockstar treatment in the main tent.
VIP passes cost $1,200 and include an exclusive ocean-front section, separate amenities, buffet food and a daily six-hour drink package.
Discover new talent
Come for the big names and leave having found new favourites you’d never heard before.
The festival has a proud history of supporting emerging artists through its national Passport to Airlie initiative, dedicated to unearthing talent and launching careers.
Warming the stage for Xavier Rudd on November 6, will be 10 regional finalists from this year’s Passport to Airlie heats, followed by 2025 national winners, Melbourne band, Monroe.
The Ultimate Music Holiday
With jaw-dropping sea views from the main tent and world-famous natural icons just a boat ride away, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a tropical escape with a killer soundtrack.
Tickets are on sale at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au.
Photo sourced: Shutterstock
Serves: 4
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Ingredients
Method
TASTE TIP: Add finely sliced jalapeño to the mango salsa for an extra kick, or swap the prawns for grilled chicken if seafood isn't your thing.
The event attracted more than 4,000 visitors last time out. Photo: Jacob Casha
One of the Burdekin’s premier events will return to the region next year with dates now confirmed for the 2027 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival.
The event—which attracted more than 4,000 visitors last time out—is set to return to the Home Hill Showgrounds on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th May next year.
Burdekin Shire Council confirmed that planning for the event is already underway, with a branding revamp to be unveiled alongside a program of entertainment, cultural experiences, competitions, food, family activities and community participation opportunities.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said next year’s festival would build on the momentum of previous years.
“The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival has become one of North Queensland’s premier regional festivals, celebrating the people, produce and culture that make the Burdekin unique,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“The festival continues to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for the region, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and showcasing the Burdekin to a wider audience.”
Pacific Blue, Parkside and Canegrowers Burdekin will return as presenting sponsors for the 2027 festival.
Pacific Blue Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer Simon Maan said the company was proud to continue its partnership with the festival.
“The festival celebrates the unique identity of the Burdekin and delivers positive outcomes for local businesses, tourism and the wider community,” he said.
Further details about the 2027 program are yet to be announced.
Businesses and organisations can enquire about sponsorship opportunities by contacting Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800.
Festival updates will be published through the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival Facebook and Instagram pages and its mailing list.
Just For Fun Photo credit: Jacob Casha
A Burdekin trivia night fundraiser raised nearly $1,500 for the Rotary Club of Home Hill last week, a record high for the annual endeavour.
Hosted by the Club and its Harvest Festival Queen Maddy Gallagher, the event welcomed 94 locals—also a record—to the St Coleman’s Catholic Church hall on Saturday, 25th September, where teams of up to eight put their knowledge to the test across eight rounds of trivia.
The event formed part of Home Hill Rotary’s Harvest Festival fundraising campaign, with a portion of proceeds put towards its $40,000 police ATV mission.
Club members said they were “blown away” by the support on the night, having to make last-minute adjustments to accommodate the flurry of bookings the week of the event.
The club credited Maddy’s efforts in promoting the event as a significant reason for the event’s success.
‘The Real Deal’ walked away eventual trivia winners, taking home six $50 Prawn Stop vouchers donated in half by Melissa Wiles.
Attendees also sported their best eighties-themed attire, with a Men in Black-themed duo taking top honours.
Fronted by award-winning vocalist and former 1927 bassist Simon Shapiro, an eight-piece band will perform Farnham classics including You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, Age of Reason, Two Strong Hearts, That’s Freedom, Helpand Sadie. Photo supplied
Burdekin John Farnham fans will hear some of his biggest hits performed live when One Voice—Greatest Hits of John Farnham comes to the Burdekin Theatre on Friday 16th October.
Fronted by award-winning vocalist and former 1927 bassist Simon Shapiro, an eight-piece band will perform Farnham classics including You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, Age of Reason, Two Strong Hearts, That’s Freedom, Help and Sadie.
The two-hour concert will see Shapiro draw on his own unique connection to Farnham, having previously touring as a support act for the Australian singer.
“Touring with him as a support act … and seeing him perform from the side stage has helped me to see first-hand where the bar is; really high,” he said.
Shapiro said the show began as a one-off performance for an Australian event after he had initially started performing on a cruise ship.
“It went really well, I really resonated with the material, and it all seemed to match my voice—a lot more than I thought it would,” he said.
“After that, we decided as a group that we’d make it a thing.”
The show has been touring theatres since December last year, backed by musicians with experience performing and recording alongside artists including Michael McDonald, Simple Minds, Daryl Braithwaite, Glenn Shorrock, Ross Wilson, Wendy Matthews, Eurogliders and Brian Cadd.
Shapiro said Farnham’s distinctive approach to his music was something he sought to preserve in the show.
“John Farnham didn’t ever sing a song the same way—he's very creative with his melodies and he’ll have fun with the notes, and I try to embody that spirit,” he said, adding that the band plays off the audience’s energy.
“Every crowd is different. Some shows, we’ll go: ‘they’re in a singing mood, we’re gonna break it down more often and get them to sing along a bit more.’”
Beyond the songs, Shapiro said its about preserving the legacy of a legendary Australian musician.
“I think people are very defensive about John Farnham, and rightly so,” he said.
“It’s more important now than ever that artists perform his legacy of music, because it is a big part of the Australian culture.”
One Voice – Greatest Hits of John Farnham will be held at the Burdekin Theatre on Friday, 16th October, from 7.30pm to 10.30pm.
Could the Burdekin produce the next Farmer Wants A Wife star? Producers are encouraging single farmers from the region to put themselves forward for the show's 2027 season. Photo supplied
The Burdekin could be home to the next Farmer Wants A Wife star, with producers specifically encouraging local farmers to put themselves forward for the show's upcoming season.
Eureka Productions, which produces the Australian series for Seven, has named the Burdekin alongside the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions as areas it would particularly like to see represented in its latest casting search. And there is one reason the Burdekin stands out; producers say they do not often receive applications from the region.
“We don’t often receive applications from these particular regions, so we’d be very keen to hear from eligible farmers across North Queensland,” a Eureka Productions spokesperson said.
“We love showcasing Queensland on the series and the diversity of its landscapes, communities and agricultural industries, so it would be fantastic to see more North Queensland farmers represented in our casting pool.
“There isn’t one particular type of farmer or agricultural industry that we focus on. Cane growers and producers from across the region are absolutely encouraged to apply.”
Instead, personality could be just as important as what is growing in the paddock. Eureka said it is looking for genuine single farmers who are ready to pursue a meaningful relationship and willing to share their lives with viewers.
“Personality is also a big part of casting,” the spokesperson said, with producers interested in farmers who are passionate about what they do and where they live, connected to their family or community, and able to give viewers a real sense of life on the land.
“They don’t need to be the loudest in the room, just willing and open to sharing their thoughts with us.”
The 2027 casting search is currently open, with farmers across Australia invited to put themselves forward, while the casting team is also accepting recommendations from people who know a farmer who might be suited to the show.
Applications are currently being accepted through Eureka Productions' official Farmer Wants A Wife casting page, with no closing date publicly listed.
So, Burdekin; is there a farmer out there ready to trade the tractor seat for one in front of the camera?
Thursday 24th September
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 25th September
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
The Rotary Club of Home Hill Trivia night, 7pm, St Colmans Parish Hall. Teams of 6 at a cost of $15 per person. Bookings can be made at 0408 822 029 or on the night.
Saturday 26th September
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr
Sunday 27th September
Kate Ceberano’s Australia Made Tour
Sunday, 7:30pm-9:30pm
Experience Kate Ceberano’s Australian Made Tour, a powerhouse celebration of iconic Aussie music featuring reimagined classics from INXS, Paul Kelly, Divinyls and more, alongside her own hits, delivered with unforgettable vocals, energy and star-studded live performance. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Kate-Ceberano-Australian-Made-Tour.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 28th September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 29th September
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
Thursday 1st October
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 2nd October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Sunday 4th October
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting, 1:45pm-5pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Monday 5th October
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Hotel Pioneer hosted a healthy crowd of lederhosen-clad locals for its Oktoberfest celebrations last Saturday Photos supplied
Hotel Pioneer hosted a healthy crowd of lederhosen-clad locals for its Oktoberfest celebrations last Saturday.
Running from 11am until just after lunchtime, the event invited attendees to indulge in a range of German-inspired foods and activities, with local performer Chris Quagliata providing live music throughout.
Hotel General Manager Kirsten Loader said the event “went really well,” with people embracing the German theme through their attire.
“We had a few people dress up for the event and they looked fantastic,” she said.
“The keg rolling was a lot of fun—and we had planned on a pretzel eating competition, but everyone was so full after lunch that we couldn’t convince anyone to eat anything else!”
Kirsten thanked the hotel chefs, organiser Michelle and all who attended the event, which she hopes to put on again next year.
“It will be back bigger and better,” she said.
“Thank you to everyone who made the day a lot of fun.”
More than 300 Burdekin Christian College students pitched in to bring ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ to life at the Burdekin Theatre earlier this month. Photos: Burdekin Christian College
More than 300 Burdekin Christian College students pitched in to bring ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ to life at the Burdekin Theatre earlier this month.
The performances on Thursday 10th September and Friday 11th September fused the classical charm of the original with the students’ own flair, delivering humour, heart, colourful characters and memorable songs.
Behind it all was a team of students ranging from Prep to Year 12, with several performing on stage while others worked across props, lighting, marketing and sound.
A team of 70 staff also sacrificed time and sleep to help bring the production to fruition.
A BCC spokesperson said the College “could not be prouder” of those who participated.
“The talent we have at the College is simply astounding,” the spokesperson said.
“The College couldn't be prouder of every child who participated in the festivities from our youngest Preppies to our oldest Year 12 student.
“We also have to thank our extraordinary staff for their amazing work over the last 2 terms putting this together … [giving] up their time and many sleepless nights to assist in creating this moment of magic for the students.
“We hope [everyone] loved our crazy, delicious, sweet version of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,’ and that it gave you a golden ticket to a golden evening!”
The Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale will return to Ayr Showgrounds Hall across two Saturdays in November, with residents able to buy and sell preloved goods under one roof. Photo: Burdekin Shire Council
The Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale will return to Ayr Showgrounds Hall across two Saturdays this November, with residents able to buy and sell preloved goods under one roof.
Dubbed “Australia's biggest secondhand treasure hunt,” Burdekin Shire Council will host the event on 7th and 14th November from 8am to 1pm as part of the national Garage Sale Trail initiative.
Up to 50 stalls will be available on each day, with residents able to sell clothing, accessories, homewares, toys, sporting goods, tools and other unwanted items.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the event would give residents another way to clear out unwanted belongings while keeping usable items out of landfill.
“Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale is a great opportunity for our community to take part in the circular economy, find affordable preloved items and help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill,” she said.
“You do not need enough items to hold a garage sale at home. Residents can simply book a stall, clear out their wardrobe, shed or garage and enjoy being part of a larger community event.”
Sellers can register for one or both days, with those attending both able to leave their stalls set up inside the locked hall between events.
Residents who would rather run a garage sale from home can also register through Garage Sale Trail, which is being held nationally as part of the initiative.
Stall registrations for Burdekin’s Biggest Garage Sale are available through the Garage Sale Trail website.
Council is also seeking food and coffee vendors for both event days, including local clubs and community organisations looking to raise funds.
Expressions of interest for vendors close on 2nd October.
Food and coffee vendors, clubs and community organisations can request an expression of interest form from Council’s Waste Department on 4783 9800 or waste@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Thursday 17th September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 18th September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 19th September
Beanies for Brain Cancer Triples Bowls Competition, 8:30am, Brandon Bowls Club, Brandon
Beanies for Bran Cancer Barefoot Bowls Social Night, 6:30pm, Brandon Bowls Club, Brandon
Sunday 20th September
Cungulla Auto Show, 9am-1pm, 34-37 Empress Close, Cungulla
Monday 21st September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 22nd September
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
Wednesday 23rd September
Morning Melodies What’s New Pussycat
Wednesday, 11am-12:30pm
Step back into the swinging sixties with What’s New Pussycat, a feel-good Morning Melodies show packed with iconic hits, soaring vocals, cheeky humour and cabaret flair, celebrating legends like Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin and The Beatles in style. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Whats-New-Pussycat.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Thursday 24th September
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 25th September
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
The Rotary Club of Home Hill Trivia night, 7pm, St Colmans Parish Hall. Teams of 6 at a cost of $15 per person. Bookings can be made at 0408 822 029 or on the night.
St Francis Catholic School was filled with laughter, excitement and plenty of smiling faces as families from across the Burdekin Region joined us for our annual Under 8s Day Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by St Francis Catholic School
St Francis Catholic School was filled with laughter, excitement and plenty of smiling faces as families from across the Burdekin Region joined us for our annual Under 8s Day, a much-loved celebration of childhood, community and connection.
The event offers families with children under eight the chance to explore our school and enjoy a morning of hands-on activities. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the youngest members of our community while giving families an opportunity to experience our welcoming environment and vibrant learning spaces.
Throughout the morning, children and families moved between activities hosted by our school and local community partners. There was something for everyone, from arts and crafts to outdoor games, sensory play and interactive experiences. Visitors enjoyed meeting representatives from Wildlife Whitsundays, Wilmar, Burdekin Shire Council and local emergency services, who generously shared demonstrations and displays that delighted our young learners.
Adding to the fun were the Burdekin Catholic High School Emerging Leaders, who volunteered their time to support the event. Their enthusiasm and kindness shone through as they helped with face painting, creating colourful designs and happy memories for our young visitors.
Despite the cloudy weather, the atmosphere remained bright and energetic. The school grounds were alive with activity as children explored, played and discovered new experiences alongside their families.
Under 8s Day continues to highlight the strong community spirit that exists across the Burdekin. It was a pleasure to open our gates and welcome families, community members and local organisations for a morning dedicated to celebrating childhood and strengthening connections.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the day: our staff, volunteers, community partners and the families who joined us. Most importantly, we hope our young visitors left with big smiles, new friendships and joyful memories of their time at St Francis Catholic School.
Clare State School students, families and staff recently came together for a wonderful evening of fun, laughter and community spirit at the 2026 Clare State School Fancy Dress Ball. Photo supplied.
Contributed with thanks by Clare State School
Clare State School students, families and staff recently came together for a wonderful evening of fun and laughter at the 2026 Clare State School Fancy Dress Ball.
This year’s Movie and Book Characters theme certainly brought out the creativity and imagination of our students, with the school transformed into a colourful celebration of much-loved characters from books and the big screen. From superheroes and storybook favourites to iconic movie characters, there was plenty of enthusiasm and excitement throughout the evening.
The Fancy Dress Ball was a fantastic night for all, with students proudly showcasing their costumes, enjoying the music and taking part in the evening’s activities. It was wonderful to see our school community come together and celebrate the students and the special community we share at Clare State School.
A huge shout-out goes to the Clare State School P&C and the dedicated staff of Clare State School for their hard work and support in making the evening such a success.
A very special thank you goes to Geraldine Booth, who generously volunteered her time throughout the term to teach our students their dance moves. Her patience, enthusiasm and commitment were greatly appreciated by both students and staff.
Thank you to everyone who helped make the 2026 Fancy Dress Ball such a memorable and fun night. We are already looking forward to doing it all again at our 2027 Fancy Dress Ball!
(L-R) Queens Maddison Gallagher, Julea Farry, Sarah Shepherd and Sarah O’Shea with Harvest Festival President Mark Vass Photo credit: Zeepard Photos
A “special” launch at the Home Hill Community Sports Club last weekend officially kicked off this year's Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival calendar.
The well-attended event on Sunday 13th September saw the community enjoy an afternoon of bowls and live music before hearing from the 2026 Festival Queens for the first time.
Harvest Festival Vice President Carlene Muilwyk said Sunday's event was a positive beginning to another Harvest Festival season.
“Our Launch is always a special day because it officially marks the beginning of another Home Hill Harvest Festival, and this year was no exception,” Carlene said.
“We had beautiful weather, a great turnout and such a lovely atmosphere, with everyone getting involved and having a go at lawn bowls, whether they had played before or not.”
The event also saw this year’s four queens—Sarah O’Shea, Sarah Shepherd, Maddison Gallagher and Julea Farry—introduce themselves to attendees, explaining their reasons for entering the Queen Program and choosing their respective sponsorship organisations.
Carlene said hearing the Queens’ stories was one of the highlights of Sunday’s launch.
“It was also wonderful to see just how much support they already have behind them,” she said.
Carlene said the Queen Program was designed to give young women an opportunity to build confidence and become more involved in their community.
The quartet will now begin their fundraising campaigns before a Charity Queen and Personality Queen are announced at the Rotary Gala Ball on 6th November.
Sunday’s launch also starts the countdown to this year's Festival, which will culminate in the Rio Carnavale-themed Grand Parade and Street Party on Saturday 7th November.
The Harvest Festival Committee thanked attendees, the Home Hill Community Sports Club for hosting, Gabriel Hatherell for the entertainment, and the volunteers, Queen organisations and supporters who helped make the afternoon a success.
Crowds lined Queen Street for the marquee event which, alongside the Mardi Gras, brought an end to the three-month festival calendar. Photo: Shay Kratzman
A bumper crowd packed Queen Street on Saturday night as 45 floats brought the 2026 Water Festival to a spectacular close.
Sarah O’Shea, 18, representing Burdekin Netball Association. Sarah is currently studying a Bachelor of Primary Education while also navigating work at Burdekin Printers, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, and her commitments to reserve grade netball and club netball. Through being a Harvest Festival Queen, Sarah hopes to meet new people and experience new opportunities and challenges. She is passionate about being involved in her local community and enjoys connecting with people through sport and work. Sarah hopes to use this experience to grow in confidence, create lasting memories, and represent Burdekin Netball club and the Burdekin community with pride.
Sarah Shepherd, 21-year-old, representing Home Hill Tennis Association. Sarah has been living in the Burdekin for over 19 years. She enjoys being in the great outdoors, either camping or down the beach or when she’s not doing that, she’sspending time with her closest friends. She is in her second year of studying primary education and when she is not studying, she works as a disability support worker. Sarah looks forward to the opportunity to represent the club she enjoys being a part of. Sarah looks forward to all the festivities and creating new bonds with the fellow queens and the community.
Maddison Gallagher ,20, is proudly representing the Home Hill Rotary Club, an organization that she is greatly inspired by, she has seen firsthand how incredible the Rotary Club as organization has helped children with Disabilities including her own older sister who suffers with a rare Syndrome and has seen all the hard work and determination that they put back into the community, she is honored and proud to be doing her harvest festival journey with such an amazing group of people, she works full time at Home HILL IGA as the bakery manager ,in her free time you’ll she her out and about fishing with family down the creek or down at the local market selling cookies as she owns a baked goods business, she’s not Originally from the Burdekin but has done a hole lap of Australia and decided to call this little town home and has lived here for the last four years, she is so thrilled to have the chance to take place in this year’s Harvest festival and cannot wait to get out and about in her community
Representing Home Hill/ Ayr loins club is Julea Farry who is 18 years old. She is currently completing a bachelor’s degree in psychology at James Cook University. Julea was vice captain at Burdekin Christian college graduating in 2025. Julea is excited to be involved in the 2026 home hill Harvest festival and is excited to be representing Home Hill/Ayr Lions club. When Julea isn’t studying you can find her down the creek fishing, playing football for the Burdekin rugby Union cane toads or socialising with the girls at a rodeo. She is very excited to build relationships with the other queen entrants and is looking forward to attending the community events.
Thursday 10 September
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 11 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 12 September
Car Boot Sale, 8am-12pm, Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark, Home Hill
Giru Show
Saturday, 8am-5pm
Enjoy a true country day out at the Giru Show, featuring local exhibits, market stalls, live entertainment, machinery displays, yard games and family fun, including a lolly drop and sugarcane competition at Brolga Park.
Brolga Park, 11 Carey Street, Giru
Ayr Golf Club Men’s Open Championship, 10:30am, Ayr Golf Club, Ayr
Sunday 13 September
Ayr Golf Club Men’s Open Championship, 8:30am, Ayr Golf Club, Ayr
Monday 14 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 15 September
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
Wednesday 16 September
Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social & Networking Event, 5:30pm-7pm, Home Hill Community Sports Club, 87 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill
Thursday 17 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 18 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 19 September
Beanies for Brain Cancer Triples Bowls Competition, 8:30am, Brandon Bowls Club, Brandon
Beanies for Bran Cancer Barefoot Bowls Social Night, 6:30pm, Brandon Bowls Club, Brandon
Sunday 20 September
Cungulla Auto Show, 9am-1pm, 34-37 Empress Close, Cungulla
Monday 21 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 22 September
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
Wednesday 23 September
Morning Melodies What’s New Pussycat
Wednesday, 11am-12:30pm
Step back into the swinging sixties with What’s New Pussycat, a feel-good Morning Melodies show packed with iconic hits, soaring vocals, cheeky humour and cabaret flair, celebrating legends like Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin and The Beatles in style. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Whats-New-Pussycat.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
A 45-float Grand Parade brought down the curtain on an “outstandingly successful” Burdekin Water Festival last Saturday. Photo: Jacob Casha.
A 45-float Grand Parade brought down the curtain on an “outstandingly successful” Burdekin Water Festival last Saturday.
Crowds lined Queen Street on 5th September for the marquee event which, alongside the Mardi Gras, brought an end to the three-month festival calendar.
Water Festival Committee President Eusebio Aguirre said the turnout—up on previous years— was a “pleasant surprise” and fitting end to this year's festival.
“With so much happening across the weekend, I thought attendance numbers might be down,” Eusebio said.
“The committee was absolutely ecstatic with the turnout.”
This year’s parade followed a “River Country Burdekin style” theme, with entrants leaning into the region’s rural character for their floats and costumes.
Eusebio said the theme added to the atmosphere and reflected the region’s community spirit.
“The smiles on the faces of those in the parade and throughout the streets showed that people were having a fantastic time,” he said.
“I also spoke to several visitors from out of town who had never attended the Water Festival before, and their reaction was simply: ‘Wow, I've never seen anything like this before.’”
The weekend capped off a landmark festival that broke tradition by celebrating both Junior and Senior Ambassadors at the QMN Crowning Lunch the weekend before.
Eusebio said the new Photography Competition was also a standout success, naming it alongside the Garden Competition and Window Display Competition as calendar highlights.
He was quick to praise the efforts of sponsors, ambassadors, committee members and volunteers who brought the event to fruition. With the dust barely settled, sights are already set on next year’s iteration.
“The Water Festival is an event that benefits the entire community. It brings people together and creates a sense of pride and connection throughout the Burdekin… We look forward to making next year's festival even bigger and better.”
Anyone interested in volunteering or joining the committee can contact Eusebio Aguirre on 0499 199 767.
Volunteer at the Visitor Information Centre, like Patricia Herd
Age is just a number for 91-year-old Patricia Herd, who has spent the last 15 years volunteering at the Visitor Information Centre in Ayr. Here’s what she has to say about the role:
What inspired you to volunteer at the Visitor Information Centre?
Fourteen years ago, a friend told me the VIC was looking for volunteers. I thought I would enjoy the role—and I have found it immensely rewarding ever since.
What’s a typical shift like?
A typical shift is always interesting. I meet visitors from overseas and across Australia, many of whom are enjoying our pleasant winter weather.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering at the VIC?
I most enjoy sharing my knowledge of local attractions and helping visitors plan the next stage of their journey. Whether they are travelling north or south, I can provide information, brochures and maps highlighting the many attractions North Queensland has to offer.
What surprised you the most about the role?
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoy speaking with visitors from many different countries and backgrounds.
Also, the SS Yongala Virtual Reality Experience. By wearing VR goggles, visitors can explore one of the world’s top shipwreck dives without getting wet, while learning about the tragic maritime disaster of 1911.
What makes a great VIC volunteer?
Dedication, punctuality, reliability and the love of chatting with people of all ages and nationalities.
Why should someone give volunteering at the VIC a try?
Volunteering at the VIC is a rewarding way to connect with the community and meet people from near and far. It also gives me the opportunity to share my passion for the local area, give back in a meaningful way and show pride in the place I call home.
Residents interested in becoming a volunteer at the Burdekin Visitor Information Centres can contact Council’s Tourism team on (07) 4783 9800 or email tourism@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Thursday 3 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Tech Together Workshop, 10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition, 10am-4pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 4 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Art Classes with Anne Walsh, 9am-2pm, 170 Arts on the Avenue, Home Hill
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition, 10am-4pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Netball Association Deb of the Year, additional details will be released closer to the date
Saturday 5 September
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition Final Showing & Closing Evening, 10am-9pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade & Mardi Gras
Saturday, 4:30pm-11pm
Celebrate the Burdekin Water Festival, one of Queensland’s longest-running community events, culminating in a spectacular Grand Parade, Mardi Gras, live entertainment, rides, markets and family fun lighting up Queen Street, Ayr in a vibrant night of community celebration. Visit burdekinwaterfestival.com.au for more information.
Queen Street, Ayr
Sunday 6 September
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting, 1:45pm-5pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Monday 7 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 8 September
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc Dinner Meeting
Tuesday, 6:15pm
You are warmly invited to join us at a Zonta Dinner Meeting, an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with like-minded people who are passionate about making a positive difference. Learn more about Zonta’s work in empowering women and girls in our community through advocacy, education, and service.
ANZAC Memorial Club, Ayr
Thursday 10 September
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 11 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 12 September
Car Boot Sale, 8am-12pm, Ashworths Rock Shop Carpark, Home Hill
Giru Show
Saturday, 8am-5pm
Enjoy a true country day out at the Giru Show, featuring local exhibits, market stalls, live entertainment, machinery displays, yard games and family fun, including a lolly drop and sugarcane competition at Brolga Park.
Brolga Park, 11 Carey Street, Giru
Ayr Golf Club Men’s Open Championship, 10:30am, Ayr Golf Club, Ayr
Sunday 13 September
Ayr Golf Club Men’s Open Championship, 8:30am, Ayr Golf Club, Ayr
Monday 14 September
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Artists from across Queensland have put their work on display in Ayr, with 187 entries received for the 2026 Annual Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition.
The exhibition opened at the Burdekin Theatre foyer on Saturday 29th August, and will remain open from 10am to 4pm each day until Saturday 5th September, coinciding with the Burdekin Water Festival Mardi Gras and Parade.
Entry is free, with visitors able to view and purchase works across a range of categories including acrylic, oil, mixed media, pastels, watercolour and drawing.
Kerrie Christensen took out the exhibition’s $1000 Open Prize for her drawing Pretty Little Girl.
The exhibition also features dedicated categories and prizes for Burdekin artists, as well as a children’s section which attracted strong participation this year.
Generous sponsorship from businesses across the Burdekin and Townsville has allowed the society to offer monetary prizes and attract artists from throughout Queensland.
The annual exhibition also helps promote the Burdekin as a destination for artists, with entrants travelling to the region to take part.
Exhibition coordinators Tamika Savorgnan and Joanne Barbagallo have worked with the Burdekin Art Society committee since April to organise this year’s event.
Their preparations included securing sponsors, allocating prize money, distributing and processing entry forms and coordinating the exhibition’s set-up.
Townsville artist Carole Howlett, an accredited external judge, assessed this year’s entries and awarded the prizes.
Burdekin Art Society members also volunteered to set up and dismantle the exhibition.
The society was established 55 years ago by Cecilia Spottiswood and a group of artists and community members.
It has since evolved through several meeting places and locations, providing local artists with opportunities to paint, develop their skills and build friendships.
The society is now based at 154 Macmillan Street, Ayr, where members have painted murals across the building and transformed it into an art gallery showcasing their work.
Members meet at the gallery every Tuesday from 9.30am to noon to paint, exchange ideas and socialise.
The society also holds weekend seminars throughout the year, with accredited trainers helping members develop their skills across different artistic mediums.
New members of all skill levels are welcome.
For more information, contact president Luisa Delle-Baite on 0448 509 927 or email burdekinartsocietyince@gmail.com.
Contributed by the Burdekin Art Society
Salted Roots owner Candace Young pitched the project—dubbed ‘Meet Ya on Eighth’—at the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting last week. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.
The couples behind two of Home Hill’s newest businesses have joined forces to launch an ambitious initiative aimed at breathing fresh life into the town’s main street.
Salted Roots owner Candace Young pitched the project—dubbed ‘Meet Ya on Eighth’—at the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting last week, calling on residents, Council and local traders to rally behind the town’s commercial hub.
The proposal, conceived by Candace and her husband Scott alongside Scrubby’s Teahouse owners Neil Machin and Patricia Thomas, would see Eighth Avenue host a monthly evening gathering designed to drive local trade and strengthen community connections.
While details are still being ironed out, Candace said the broad plan would include live local music, local makers and market stalls, food vendors and cafes, family-friendly activities, participating businesses trading later and a Community Long Table where people could sit, eat, talk and enjoy the evening together.
She also pitched the event as an opportunity to give young local performers a stage to share their talents, with tentative plans to close off a portion of the Eighth Avenue service road to create a mini-market atmosphere complete with a stage.
For organisers, it is a chance to build on recent momentum within the town’s commercial sphere.
“Like many rural towns, Home Hill has become quieter and empty shopfronts have replaced some of the bustle that once defined our town—but something encouraging is happening,” she said.
“New businesses are opening, existing businesses continue to invest, and there is renewed belief in Home Hill. Meet Ya on Eighth – Rediscover Home Hill is an opportunity to build on that momentum and give our community a reason to gather again.”
The pitch drew strong backing from attendees at the AGM, securing immediate support across the local business community.
Candace said the aim was to have the event up and running before the end of the year, with plans to be formalised and lodged with Council.
Organisers hope it can become a Home Hill mainstay, drawing on the town’s golden era while forging a path towards a new future.
“Meet Ya on Eighth is not about recreating the past. It is about honouring what made Home Hill special while creating something new for its future,” she said.
“Let’s fill our streets with music instead of silence. Let’s replace empty footpaths with friendly conversations. Let’s give people a reason to come back into town, a reason to stay and a reason to be proud of Home Hill again.”
Director Thom Pickersgill said seeing the production take shape after months of Sunday rehearsals has been rewarding. Photo source: Ayr State High School
The Burdekin is set for a weekend of ghoulish comedy, tangos, and toe-tapping musical numbers as Ayr State High School presents its production of The Addams Family.
Opening at the Burdekin Theatre this Friday evening, the production marks the culmination of months of dedication from student performers and staff, transforming the iconic macabre clan into an energetic theatrical showcase.
The musical follows Wednesday Addams after she secretly falls for Lucas Beineke, a “normal” boy from Ohio. When her father Gomez promises to keep the secret from Morticia, chaos erupts during a fateful dinner party where two vastly different families collide, forcing the clan to face secrets, change, and acceptance.
Director Thom Pickersgill, involved with ASHS and Burdekin Singers for over a decade, said seeing the production take shape after months of Sunday rehearsals has been rewarding.
“We're at a point now, a week out from production, where I can see all of the different layers actually come together,” Mr Pickersgill said.
ASHS school captain and lead performer Caitlyn Cheyne said audiences could expect something vastly different to mainstream iterations of the story.
“It isn't like the Addams Family movie or the series on Netflix,” Caitlyn said.
“The behaviours of the characters are similar, but because this is specifically a musical, it's completely different to the TV shows.”
For her co-lead and fellow school captain Ayden Barnett, stepping into his role as Gomez has meant mastering a Spanish accent.
“This is the first character that I've ever done that had an accent,” Ayden said.
“It's definitely been through a lot of stages of evolution. At the start, I think you could probably say it was more Jamaican, but now it's got a proper European flair to it.”
The pair of long-time performers round out a tight-knit core cast who have performed together since primary school.
Mr Pickersgill said watching the group develop even further was his “favourite thing.”
“When I do musicals, I make sure that the kids are the most important thing on stage and that their experience is positive,” he said.
“It’s all about building up those relationships with each other, relationships with the audience, and the experience overall.”
He hopes crowds can also leave with something after the weekend’s performances.
“I hope audiences leave realising that someone's normal might not necessarily be someone else's normal, that family can be accepted in any shape or form, and that they see the talent we have within our school,” Mr Pickersgill said.
The show runs at the Burdekin Theatre from Friday, 21 August to Sunday, 23 August, with evening performances at 7:00 pm on Friday and Saturday, and a 12:00 pm matinee on Sunday. Tickets can be booked here:
2025 Junior and Senior Ambassadors at last year’s Long Lunch. Photo: Sharon Bozzetto.
The Burdekin’s next generation of community leaders will take the spotlight when the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch returns to Populin’s Hall later this month.
The annual celebration will be held from midday on Saturday, 29th of August, bringing together the festival’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors for the first time.
This year’s event, proudly presented by QMN Manufacturing, will culminate in the crowning of the 2026 Junior and Senior Ambassador winners and runners-up.
Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said bringing both programs together would make for a particularly special occasion.
“I think it’ll be really special having everyone in the same room, celebrating what they’ve achieved and the friendships they’ve made along the way,” she said.
“It’s a lovely way to finish off the Ambassador Program and celebrate them all before we crown our 2026 Junior and Senior Ambassadors.”
Guests can expect a “River Country, Burdekin Style Picnic at Populin’s”, with the afternoon themed around gathering, grazing and celebrating.
Live entertainment will be provided by Sneaky Beats, while guests are encouraged to embrace a cocktail dress code with “a touch of country, a touch of elegance”.
The event will also provide an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the 2026 ambassadors and the friendships forged throughout the program.
Tickets are priced at $85 and are now available.
The 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch will be held at Populin’s Hall from midday on Saturday, 29th of August.
Thursday 20 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 21 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Ayr State High School Presents The Addams Family School Edition, 7pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Saturday 22 August
Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival
Saturday, 8am-5pm
Get set for a fast-paced day of action at the Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival, bringing together teams across all ages and skill levels for competitive, high-energy matches, strong community spirit and plenty of exciting footy at the Ayr Touch Fields.
Ayr Touch Fields, 142 Wickham Street, Ayr
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr
Fresh Off Da Boat, 7pm-12am, Ayr Showgrounds Hall, Ayr
Monday 24 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 25 August
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
Thursday 27 August
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 28 August
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
Saturday 29 August
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition Opening Evening
Saturday, 7pm-10pm
Explore creativity at the Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition, a weeklong celebration of talent showcasing stunning works from artists across Queensland and beyond, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience a vibrant display of colour, skilland inspiration at the Burdekin Theatre.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
QMN Manufacturing Presents Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch, 12pm, Populins Hall, 95-97 Queen Street, Ayr
Kalamia Hotel’s 100th Birthday, TBA, Kalamia Hotel, Queen Street, Ayr
Sunday 30 August
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition, 10am-4pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 31 August
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition, 10am-4pm, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Born into a household full of Holden diehards, Judith Menso’s love affair with cars was virtually predetermined.
And when a 1977 LX Torana Hatchback came up for sale in town 30 years ago, Judith saw the skeleton of what could be so much more.
“I always wanted a Torana,” she said.
“My parents didn’t want to drive me to TAFE every day, so they bought me the car and I paid them back so I could make the modifications to it that I wanted to.”
Those modifications would see the vehicle morph into the award-winning showpiece that it is today.
Originally blue and powered by a four-cylinder Opel engine, it wasn’t long before Judith had a friend install a Holden 308 V8 under the hood.
But after years of use and several paint jobs, the major rebuild began much later in 2019.
The car had fallen into disrepair and was rarely being driven, prompting the pair to strip it back and start all over. They completely dismantled the car to a bare shell before rebuilding it from the ground up on a rotisserie.
Two years later, they unveiled the finished Torana at the inaugural Rockynats in 2021.
Just one year after that, the car was one of the stars of the show at Summernats in Canberra, not only earning a position in the Top 60 Elite Hall, but also cracking the Top 10. It was also invited to the Motorex Superstars Hall in Melbourne, tying off a fruitful year.
“It was absolutely amazing! Just a car built in the Burdekin,” Judith exclaimed.
She particularly thanked her husband Rodney, a panel beater and spray painter by trade, for his efforts in building and since maintaining the vehicle.
“[I hope] people notice the quality of workmanship and our attention to detail,” she said.
“This was 80% done by Rodney in our own shed.”
Meet the car that’s been taking social media by storm.
It was four years ago that Jaidyn’s father noticed a derelict 1998 Commodore sitting under a mango tree, lifeless.
But even then, Jaidyn and his father saw its potential.
After prizing it from its owner and towing it home, the wheels began turning on the project that would eventually capture the attention of millions.
The car has since undergone a complete mechanical and cosmetic rebuild, including refreshed front and rear cradles, new bushes throughout, Raptor-coated underbody and custom brake and fuel lines.
Under the bonnet now sits a cammed LS1 with an LSXR intake manifold, producing 410hp at the wheels and controlled by a Haltech Rebel LS ECU.
Finished in Raven Mica Pearl with a two-inch cowl bonnet, 20-inch chrome Walkinshaw wheels and a bagged rear, the exterior is matched by a custom red-and-black suede interior with red Coulson seats and a carbon-fibre steering wheel.
“What makes this car special to me isn't just the list of modifications. It’s the amount of work that has gone into the parts most people will never see,” said Jaidyn.
“I hope that people notice the time, effort and passion that has gone into building it … [and] to appreciate not just the finished car, but the journey that went into creating it.”
But Jaidyn says the project has been about more than merely building a pretty vehicle.
It has given him lifelong memories with his father, built him a fanbase across the world, and introduced him to a community where he belongs.
“That's one of the best things about being involved in the car community,” he said.
“It’s not just about the cars. It’s about the people you meet along the way.”
The McIntosh’s have always been a car family. “Rev heads,” as mother Maria puts it.
It’s an identity that began with her husband Mark and the beloved V8 Torana he piloted back in his teenage years. Decades later, that affinity for cars has extended beyond just himself.
He and Maria, a Burdekin Motors employee for over 32 years, have raised two kids who never fell far from the tree.
Their son Jaidyn has built a reputation across the state for his fully rebuilt 1998 Commodore, garnering 1.8 million views on a TikTok post featuring the car. Their daughter Bella, who bought Jaidyn’s modified Ford Falcon, is “the ultimate rev head, just like her brother,” Maria says.
Their common love for cars has taken the family to auto shows all across Queensland, Maria said.
“We used to go to the V8s, drag racing, and car shows all the time,” she said.
“That was just part of our culture with the kids as they grew up.”
But after years of travelling up and down the state, they thought it was about time the Burdekin had its very own premier auto event.
Enter Burdekin Motor Madness.
The show is the family’s brainchild, a collision of their love for cars and everything they’ve gleaned from events they’ve attended in the past.
The family are operating as a not-for-profit to bring the event to fruition, with locals Chris and Tayla Quagliata, Jaidyn’s fiancee Ally, and Bella’s partner Jayden pitching in to form a total committee of just eight.
And after two-and-a-half years of blood, sweat and tears, Maria believes the team has created an event that has never been seen before in the Burdekin.
“We’d been to other car shows like Rockynats. We wanted to bring something like that to the Burdekin, because we know there are a lot of beautiful cars in our area, and a lot of car enthusiasts here as well,” she said.
“There have been similar events here in the past, but nothing on this level with the other attractions. Our intention is not to just make it a car show, but a motor show that will have a bit of everything … and benefit the whole of the Burdekin and surrounding areas.”
Now on the home stretch of preparation, Maria praised the efforts of everyone involved in helping the inaugural event find its feet.
“It still doesn't feel real until the day is actually here,” she said.
“It’s taken lots of phone calls, lots of emails, and many nights up till midnight doing paperwork all while working full time.
“We are so grateful to anyone that has contributed in any way, financially but also through their support as well. And if it wasn't for our sponsors we would have nothing.
“Hopefully we can attract a high volume of public support ... and put on a bigger show next year.”
8:00am: PUBLIC GATES OPEN, SHOW ‘N’ SHINE
9:30am: STAGING FOR GO TO WHOA
9:45am:DRIVER’S BRIEFING
10:00am - 12:00pm: GO TO WHOA - ROUND 1, ROUND 2 & FINALS
12:45PM: STAGING FOR SLALOM
1:00PM - 3:00PM: SLALOM - ROUND 1, ROUND 2 & FINALS
4:00PM: SUPER CRUISE
5:00PM: PRESENTATIONS
6:00PM: GATES CLOSE
The event will showcase everything from exotic Lamborghinis and TikTok-famous custom builds to high-performance bikes, boats and a series of driving events. Photo supplied.
If the ground begins to tremor in Ayr this Saturday, fear not. That’s just the combined horsepower of North Queensland’s most unique and powerful engines, revving in unison for the first ever Burdekin Motor Madness.
The Ayr Showgrounds will host the inaugural all-day event on the 15th of August, showcasing everything from exotic Lamborghinis and TikTok-famous custom builds to high-performance bikes, boats and a series of driving events.
Co-organiser Maria McIntosh said the program was built intentionally to cater to both seasoned car enthusiasts and complete newcomers alike.
“Our intention is not to just make it a car show, but a motor show that will have a bit of everything for everyone,” she said.
“Sometimes you don't know you're a rev head until you go to a show like this!”
Burdekin Motor Madness will revive a regional tradition, filling a three-year void left by Townsville's former Motor Madness event. It also represents a regional first for the Burdekin, expanding the scope beyond traditional car shows to include all vehicle types.
Among the madness, the show will feature four main events: the Show N Shine, Go To Whoa, Slalom, and the Super Cruise.
Mrs McIntosh anticipates the Go To Whoa will draw major crowd interest as drivers push high-powered vehicles through three competitive rounds of rapid acceleration and heavy braking.
The Slalom event will test precision behind the wheel as entrants navigate a course marked by witches hats, while the Show N Shine will evaluate vehicles against strict judging criteria across multiple categories. The driving program concludes with the Super Cruise, featuring a vehicle procession through the streets of Ayr.
Away from the track, static displays will run across the grounds, headlined by an “elite car” showcase inside the multipurpose hall for pristine, trailer-borne show vehicles.
“The elite class cars mainly get trailered in … and they’re immaculate," Mrs McIntosh said.
“We've got a Lamborghini coming in, we got a Nissan GTR, we’ve got other exotic and European-style vehicles. These aren’t things that you see every day.”
Framed as a perfect family day, the event will host market stalls, food vendors, and free children’s entertainment, including a jumping castle. Veteran North Queensland automotive commentator Doobie Lister will also host proceedings throughout the day.
Entrants stand to win prizes including a Repco 176-piece MechPro Tool Kit, a $200 Repco gift card, and a $100 BP Ayr fuel voucher. All general admission spectators will automatically enter a gate draw for a ToolPro 6.5hp petrol pressure washer, donated by Supercheap Ayr.
Vehicle registration details and further event information are listed on the Burdekin Motor Madness Facebook page.
Green thumbs across the region are being called to put their gardening talents on display as a much-loved Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) tradition makes its return for 2026!
Now approaching its final days, entries will remain open until Monday 17th August for the official Burdekin Water Festival Garden Competition; a longstanding celebration of creativity and community pride that has featured in festivals dating back to the 1960s.
In light of strong community interest in last year’s competition, the BWF Committee made the decision to expand the categories in this year’s instalment to provide even more local gardeners the chance to get involved.
“We had such a good response last year and are hoping to increase the entries this year and have included two additional categories based on feedback from 2025,” said Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator and Committee Member Kari Ravizza.
“The committee are always looking for ways for the community to become involved in the Water Festival Celebrations and the garden competition has always been one of those lovely traditions. What better way to celebrate the abundance of water in our community than by seeing it put to good use in some of the beautiful gardens we have right here in the Burdekin!”
As sponsored by Nuttall’s Garden Centre and Lower Burdekin Landcare, submissions can be made through the BWF website into the following categories of Tropical Residential Garden, Unit Garden, Commercial Garden and Vegetable Garden.
Official judging will conclude on Sunday 23rd August, with the community warmly invited to attend a special Morning Tea Thyme at Nuttall’s Garden Centre on 30th August from 10:30am to celebrate the announcement of the 2026 Garden Competition Winners!
Kari warmly encourages those interested to give the competition a go, and although submission forms are available online, she invites residents to pop in and see her at McCathies Furniture Plus for assistance with their application.
The Robertson Brothers will bring their celebration of The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison to Ayr on Friday 7th of August, with a two-hour audio-visual spectacular marking 70 years since the music legends first entered the recording studio. Photo supplied.
They’re the voices behind the Home and Away theme song. They’re ARIA nominees. They’re world tourers.
And their next stop is the Burdekin Theatre.
The Robertson Brothers will bring their celebration of The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison to Ayr on Friday 7th of August, with a two-hour audio-visual spectacular marking 70 years since the music legends first entered the recording studio.
The award-winning vocal duo will join forces with Dean Bourne, recognised as the world’s leading Roy Orbison tribute artist, to recreate the sounds that shaped generations.
Robertson Brothers member Ben Robertson said the production was inspired by the music he and his brother Jeff grew up with.
The show aims to transport audiences back to the era when hits such as All I Have to Do Is Dream, Crying and Oh, Pretty Woman first captured listeners around the world.
“The show tries to really trigger the audience’s memories—get them out of the now and back to when they were young tots,” Mr Robertson said.
“That’s why we try to perform the songs as close as we possibly can to the originals—because they want to hear the songs as they know them.”
Rather than simply delivering a collection of covers, the production is staged as a live radio program, guiding audiences through the artists’ careers in chronological order.
“We’re not just a band turning up singing the covers,” Mr Robertson said.
“It’s set up like a radio show, and we play the songs in chronological order as they were released, with the DJ explaining the story attached to each one.”
The performance is also supported by a digital orchestra, with a full orchestra displayed on screen and playing alongside the live performers.
“It’s like a big theatrical production,” Mr Robertson said.
A highlight of the show is Dean Bourne’s portrayal of Roy Orbison, with Mr Robertson saying audiences would struggle to tell the difference.
“Dean’s the world’s number one Roy Orbison. You would swear that Roy’s in the building,” he said.
“He looks and sounds exactly like him.”
The Robertson Brothers have performed together for almost 30 years, including appearances at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, singing the Home and Away theme song, and touring alongside acts including ELO, America and John Denver.
The duo has received 16 ACE Awards, eight MO Awards, and nominations for both an ARIA Award and Golden Guitar Award.
The Robertson Brothers’ celebration of The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison will be held at the Burdekin Theatre, 161 Queen Street, Ayr, on Friday 7th of August from 7.30pm to 9.50pm.
Purchase tickets here: https://www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/The-Everly-Brothers-Friends-and-Roy-Orbison
Thursday 6 August
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 7 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr’s Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Ella Pirrone Bingo & Bubbles Fundraising Evening, 6:30pm, Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall, Ayr
The Everly Brothers & Friends with Roy Orbison
Friday, 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate 70 years of music history with The Everly Brothers & Roy Orbison tribute spectacular, featuring iconic harmonies, timeless hits and world-class performances in a powerful, nostalgia-filled concert honouring two legendary voices that shaped a generation. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Saturday 8 August
FEED ME FOOD’s Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Olivia Pavone Dog Walk Fundraising Event, 9am, Plantation Park, Ayr
Ayr State High School Cent Sale Graduation Fundraiser, 1pm, New Hall, Hanelt Lane, Ayr
Giru Progress Association Movie Night, 6pm, Progress Theatre, 12 Carey Street, Giru
Echoes of Pink Floyd 60 Years of Pink Floyd
Saturday, 8pm
Celebrate 60 years of Pink Floyd with Echoes of Pink Floyd, a breathtaking live tribute journeying through six decades of iconic soundscapes, immersive visuals and legendary hits in a powerful, authentic concert experience for devoted fans and newcomers alike. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 10 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 11 August
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 11 August
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc Dinner Meeting
Tuesday, 6:15pm
You are warmly invited to join us at a Zonta Dinner Meeting, an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with like-minded people who are passionate about making a positive difference. Learn more about Zonta’s work in empowering women and girls in our community through advocacy, education, and service.
ANZAC Memorial Club, Ayr
Wednesday 12 August
A Taste of Ireland
Wednesday, 7:30pm-9:30pm
Experience the magic of Ireland with A Taste of Ireland, a high-energy celebration of music, dance and storytelling featuring world-class performers, electrifying Irish rhythms, live vocals and dazzling choreography in a vibrant, unforgettable stage spectacular. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/A-Taste-of-Ireland.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Thursday 13 August
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 14 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Plantation Park will become a hub of community activity this Saturday as the Rotary Club of Home Hill prepares to host its annual Mega Markets. Photo: Rotary Club of Home Hill.
Plantation Park will become a hub of community activity this Saturday as the Rotary Club of Home Hill prepares to host its annual Mega Markets.
The event will welcome locals from across the Burdekin for a morning of shopping, socialising and supporting community initiatives, with the markets running from 8am to 2pm on Saturday, 8th of August.
The Rotary Club of Home Hill’s Mega Markets will feature a variety of local stallholders, with visitors able to browse fresh produce, homemade goods, handmade creations and other unique items.
Breakfast options and coffee will also be available throughout the morning, giving families and friends the chance to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere.
Rotary members said the event provided an opportunity for the community to come together while supporting the club’s ongoing projects across the region.
Funds raised through the markets contribute towards Rotary’s community work, helping the organisation continue its service within the Burdekin.
Organisers encouraged residents to bring along family and friends, support local stallholders and enjoy a morning out at Plantation Park.
The event has become a fixture of the Burdekin calendar, with past iterations attracting hundreds to the park.
This year's edition will keep the Mega Markets at Plantation Park, running from 8am to 2pm on Saturday, 8 August 2026.
Thursday 30 July
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 31 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Pump Track Community Open Day, 3:30pm, ANZAC Park, Ayr
Saturday 1 August
Burdekin Christina College’s Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassadors Judah and Mia’s Sausage Sizzle, 9am-1pm, Harvey Norman, Queen Street, Ayr
Burdekin Motor Group Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Blaize Palmer’s Touch Footy Competition, 5pm-8pm, Burdekin Touch Football Fields, Ayr
Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club’s Bagpipes & Beer, 6pm, Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club, Ayr
Sunday 2 August
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting, 1:45pm-5pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Monday 3 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 4 August
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
Wednesday 5 August
Morning Melodies Rocketman Flying Solo
Wednesday, 11am-12:30pm
Enjoy an intimate Morning Melodies experience with Rocketman – Flying Solo, as Greg Andrew delivers a stunning tribute to Sir Elton John, bringing iconic hits, powerful piano performances and personal stories to life in an up-close celebration of a music legend. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Thursday 6 August
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 7 August
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Ella Pirrone (Rotary Club of Ayr)’s Bingo & Bubbles Fundraising Evening, 6:30pm, Burdekin Junior Soccer Fields Hall, Ayr
The Everly Brothers & Friends with Roy Orbison
Friday, 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate 70 years of music history with The Everly Brothers & Roy Orbison tribute spectacular, featuring iconic harmonies, timeless hits and world-class performances in a powerful, nostalgia-filled concert honouring two legendary voices that shaped a generation. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
The ‘Flipping The Fish’ team. Photos: Jacob Casha.
Normally the setting of plays and songs, The Lighthouse instead played host to right answers and many wrongs in Ayr last Thursday as Zylon Dallecort’s trivia night kicked off the 2026 Water Festival ambassador event catalogue.
Emceed by Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre Coordinator Natalie Saroglia and Dallecort himself—one of four senior ambassadors—the event raised over $2,000 for sponsor organisations CORES Queensland and the BNC, the cherry on top of a jovial, vibrant social affair.
The first senior ambassador-led event of the year, Dallecort set the bar high for his peers, leading the event which garnered the support of over 130 people.
The former Ayr State High School student said he was blown away by the community response.
“We were going to limit the event to about 80 people, but we kept getting RSVP's and thought, ‘let’s just open it up,’” he said.
Representing CORES Queensland and the BNC as Water Festival ambassador, Dallecort said it was pleasing to see such support for two of the community's cornerstone organisations.
“Seeing everyone come together for the same cause was the best thing. Mental health and the community are two big things that connect well with all of us… and it was really nice to see it all come together,” he said.
Dallecort said the event was a culmination of days of preparation, thanking the team at BNC and Ross Romeo from CORES for their efforts in helping bring the final product to fruition.
Sponsored by Sunwater, the event also included a fundraising sausage sizzle as guests settled in.
It kicks off a calendar of events hosted by his fellow senior ambassadors, each evaluated throughout the program ahead of the official crowning at the Mardi Gras in September.
Blaise Palmer’s Touch Footy Competition, Ella Pirrone’s Bingo and Bubbles, and Olivia Pavone’s Dog Walk are all set to take place next month as part of the ambassador program.
PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography
The Burdekin Gospel Music Festival returned to the region last weekend for what was a memorable edition of the annual event. A host of activities across Saturday and Sunday culminated In a free headline concert, bringing to the stage a mix of local talent and nationally recognised acts as the crowd swayed and sang along in unison.
Image from Shutterstock
Australia's melon industry will descend on the Burdekin this October, with more than 200 growers, researchers and agribusiness leaders expected to attend a three-day conference showcasing the latest advances in melon production.
Hosted across Townsville and Ayr from 7th-9th October, the 2026 Australian Melon Conference and National Melon Field Day will feature new variety trials, autonomous farming technology, drones, robotics, protected cropping, biosecurity initiatives and research aimed at improving productivity and profitability.
The event is expected to attract delegates from every major melon-growing region in Australia, with organisers saying it will also provide a boost to local businesses.
A key feature of the program is the return of the Australian Melon Field Day at the Queensland Department of Primary Industries' Ayr Research Station, where visitors will be able to inspect variety trials from eight leading seed companies and watch demonstrations of emerging agricultural technology.
The conference program also includes an interactive Research and Development Forum, a two-day trade exhibition, strategic workshops, keynote presentations and a gala dinner designed to encourage collaboration across the melon supply chain.
Melons Australia Chief Executive Officer Johnathon Davey said the conference would focus on practical outcomes for growers while highlighting the region's role in the industry.
“Australian horticulture is evolving rapidly, and this event brings together the people and ideas driving that change," Johnathon said.
“From new genetics and automation to sustainability and market opportunities, the program has been designed to provide practical value for growers while helping shape the future of our industry.”
Johnathon said the conference would also showcase North Queensland to visitors from across the country.
“The conference is also a fantastic opportunity to showcase North Queensland and highlight the importance of the Australian melon industry to regional communities.”
The conference and field day will run from 7th-9th October across Townsville and Ayr. Registrations are now open.
For more information, visit: melonsaustralia.org.au
Online article link: https://www.melonsaustralia.org.au/event/eventpage/83cf394e-4f86-4494-856a-ee0e8f43491d
Thursday 23rd July
Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Zyon Dallecort (CORES QLD & Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre)’s Trivia Night, 6pm, The Lighthouse, 130 Young Street, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 24th July
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
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue’s Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr
The Eagles Greatest Hits
Friday, 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate the timeless sound of The Eagles live in concert, as a world-class six-piece band delivers two hours of iconic hits including Hotel California, Desperado and Lyin’ Eyes in a powerful, nostalgia-filled night of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Saturday 25th July
Macrame Pot Hanger Workshop, 2pm, Home Hill Greek Community Hall, Home Hill
Sunday 26th July
National Tree Day Planting, 8:30am-11:30am, 57 International Drive, Ayr
Gospel Music Festival
Sunday, 10am-6pm
Enjoy a free, uplifting day at the Gospel Music Festival at the Stardust Drive-In, featuring inspiring live performances from Brendon Walmsley, Victor Clay and Lynton Allen in a powerful celebration of music, faith and community.
Stardust Drive-In Theatre, 27 Kilrie Road, Ayr
Monday 27th July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 28th July
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
Thursday 30th July
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 31st July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Pump Track Community Open Day, 3:30pm, ANZAC Park, Ayr
TOP-SECRET - Operative Zog failed to calibrate the cloaking device during atmospheric re-entry. Image credit: Australian UFO Festival
Every August, something a little unusual happens in the small coastal town of Cardwell.
For four days, conversations turn to mysterious lights in the sky, unexplained encounters, scientific research and one of Australia's most enduring unsolved mysteries. Cafés and accommodation fill with visitors from across the country, locals welcome travellers with stories of their own, and curiosity becomes something everyone has in common.
Now in its thirteenth year, the Australian UFO Festival has grown from a small community gathering in 2014 into Australia's only dedicated UFO Festival. While its subject matter may be extraordinary, the festival itself is firmly grounded in community, bringing together visitors, volunteers, local businesses and speakers from Australia and overseas for a weekend unlike any other.
This year carries special significance as it marks the 60th anniversary of the famous Tully Saucer Nest Incident. In 1966, sugar cane farmer George Pedley reported seeing an unusual object rise from a swamp near Tully, leaving behind a perfectly flattened circular nest in the reeds. The story attracted worldwide attention and remains one of Australia's most compelling unexplained cases. Six decades later, it continues to inspire discussion, investigation and healthy debate.
From Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 August, Cardwell will host a diverse program of events that extends well beyond the subject of UFOs. The weekend includes the three-day C-Files Forum featuring Australian and international speakers, guided tours, astronomy experiences, Indigenous storytelling, markets, live entertainment, outdoor movies, workshops, family activities and plenty of opportunities to simply enjoy everything our region has to offer.
Perhaps the festival's greatest success is that it welcomes everyone. Some visitors arrive with a lifelong interest in unexplained phenomena. Others are fascinated by science, history or the search for answers. Many simply come to experience the atmosphere, explore the region and enjoy a unique community event with family and friends. Whatever your reason for visiting, you'll find open-minded conversations, friendly faces and plenty to discover.
Behind it all is a dedicated team of local volunteers whose vision has transformed a small regional event into one recognised across Australia. Every visitor who comes to Cardwell helps support local accommodation providers, cafés, restaurants, retailers and tourism operators, ensuring the festival continues to deliver lasting benefits for the entire community.
Whether you leave with new questions, new friendships or simply fond memories of a wonderful weekend in Cardwell, one thing is certain—you'll have a story to tell
Photos supplied
Former players, supporters and families came together to celebrate one of the Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club’s greatest achievements, marking 40 years since the club’s historic 1986 premiership-winning season.
The Home Hill Devils 40 Year Reunion, held from July 17 to 19, honoured the memorable year when the club claimed both the A Grade and Under 18 premierships—a feat that secured its place in Burdekin rugby league history.
While the Home Hill Devils no longer operate as a standalone club, organisers said the team’s legacy continued through the many players, families and supporters who later became part of the Burdekin Roosters.
The weekend provided an opportunity for former teammates and supporters to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the friendships and community spirit that defined the club’s proud era.
The celebrations began on Friday night with a meet-and-greet at the Crown Hotel, Home Hill, before attendees gathered at Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr, on Saturday afternoon to watch the Burdekin Roosters take on Centrals in the Under 19s, Reserve Grade and A Grade fixtures.
The reunion concluded with a farewell breakfast at the Burdekin Race Club on Sunday morning.
Founded in 1920, the Home Hill Rugby League Club held its own football competition until 1956 before later emerging as a standalone team known as Home Hill and eventually the Home Hill Devils.
Organisers said the reunion celebrated not only the club’s on-field success, but also the lasting friendships, family connections and community spirit that made the Devils an important part of the Burdekin’s sporting history.
GEED UP will bring its signature blend of comedy, music and high-energy entertainment to Queen Street when the group makes its Burdekin debut at the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Street Party on Saturday, 5th September. Photo source: GEED UP
One of Queensland's most energetic, colourful and downright entertaining acts will make its grand Burdekin Shire debut when GEED UP takes to the stage at the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Street Party on Saturday, 5th September.
Hailing from Brisbane, GEED UP has built a reputation as one of Australia's most unique live entertainment experiences, blending comedy, powerhouse vocals, smooth harmonies, high-energy dance routines, breakdancing, acrobatics, DJing and crowd interaction into one unforgettable show.
Dubbed the "Worst Show Ever" by the group themselves, GEED UP has spent almost two decades delighting audiences across the country with a performance that's anything but ordinary. Their tongue-in-cheek humour, infectious energy and ability to get crowds singing, dancing and laughing along have earned them a loyal following from city venues to regional communities.
GEED UP performer Nada Ropati said there’s always something special about performing in regional towns.
"We love performing for people in regional towns because, for some reason, they just know how to let loose and have fun," she said.
"Every town we have visited in rural areas is always so welcoming and warm. They treat us like family, so that energy and connection follows us on stage."
Describing the show as a "mix bag of tricks", the group promises a little bit of everything.
"Expect singing, dancing, breakdancing and just a whole lotta fun," Ms Ropati said.
Festival-goers can look forward to a soundtrack packed with crowd-favourite party anthems, along with plenty of laughs and audience participation.
"What's better than a good old street party?" Ms Ropati said.
"People can expect lots of party anthems they can sing along to and dance along to, and not to mention we're loved by all, from the kids to the grannies. Bring everyone!"
Having entertained audiences for nearly two decades, GEED UP says the secret to its longevity is simple.
"We don't take things seriously, we love what we do, and we love the company we keep," said Ms Ropati.
"We enjoy bringing the laughs that we share together to the people who come and watch."
With live music, entertainment and festival celebrations set to take over Queen Street, GEED UP is expected to be one of the highlights of this year's Burdekin Water Festival Street Party, and the community’s encouraged to visit the BWF’s social media pages and website for more information.
Crews racing their homemade recycled crafts across the water. Photo supplied: Airlie Events.
The Great Barrier Reef Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary, with this year’s program bringing together returning favourites, new experiences and plenty of opportunities for the community to get involved.
From the opening-night Lantern Parade and fireworks to live entertainment, markets, family activities, street parades and the Recyclable Regatta, the festival will once again transform Airlie Beach into a celebration of the Whitsundays and its connection to the Great Barrier Reef.
Lantern Making Workshop
Get involved in the festival before it officially begins by making your own bamboo paper lanterns. Two workshops will be held, lanterns costing $10 each. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
WHAT: Lantern-making workshop
WHEN: Saturday, July 25, 10am and 12pm
WHERE: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 20 Hazelwood Crescent, Cannonvale
Lantern Parade
The Lantern Parade will once again light up Airlie Beach as hundreds of participants make their way from Coral Sea Marina along the Bicentennial Boardwalk to the foreshore. Judging for the most colourful and creative lanterns begins at 5:45pm, before the parade starts at 6pm. The evening will continue with a Welcome to Country, Traditional Dance, live entertainment, cultural performances and family-friendly activities.
WHAT: Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade
WHEN: Friday, July 31, 5.30pm to 7pm
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina to Airlie Beach Foreshore
Fireworks On The Foreshore
The festival’s signature fireworks will once again light up the Coral Sea, with the display scheduled for 8pm. Entry to the foreshore is free, just pull up a bit of sand and settle on the beach for the show!
WHAT: Airbnb Fireworks on the Foreshore
WHEN: Friday, July 31, from 5:30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
Camira Fireworks Cruise
Take to the water aboard Camira as the three-hour Twilight Cruise will head out onto Pioneer Bay, with drinks and shared antipasto platters included before passengers settle in for an offshore view of the fireworks display. Tickets are $140 per person, plus booking fees.
WHAT: Camira Fireworks Cruise
WHEN: Friday, July 31, 5.30pm to 8.45pm
WHERE: Cruise Whitsundays Terminal, Port of Airlie
Night Markets & Outdoor Movie
The foreshore will become a hub of activity with local food, handmade goods, artisan stalls, carnival rides and live entertainment. Settle in with picnic blankets for an outdoor screening of Luca under the stars.
WHAT: Night Markets and Outdoor Movie
WHEN: Friday, July 31
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
Bait To Plate
This special multi-course lunch is hosted by former Fish D’vine co-owner and lifelong fisherman Kevin Collins. Collins will guide guests through a menu based on the freshest local catch available. Tickets are $149 plus booking fees.
WHAT: Bait to Plate with Kevin Collins
WHEN: Sunday, August 2
WHERE: 74 Islands Distillery
Family Fun Day Brings The Reef To Life
The final day is all about families, with a free program of activities designed to keep children entertained while connecting them with reef and culture.
Circus workshops, face painting, crazy races, treasure hunts and the ever-popular doughnut-eating competition, alongside reef-themed activities and educational experiences.
WHAT: Family Fun Day
WHEN: Sunday, August 3, 10am to 2pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
Recyclable Regatta
Schools, businesses, community groups and families put creativity and construction skills to the test in vessels made from recyclable materials. Crews will race their homemade craft across the water before making a final dash up the sand!
WHAT: Recyclable Regatta
WHEN: Sunday, August 3, from 1pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
The countdown is on for the official opening of the Burdekin's new Anzac Park Pump Track, with the community invited to celebrate the completion of the purpose-built facility at a free open day on 31 July.
The gates of the $778,850 facility—roughly a year in the making—will officially open at 3:30pm, with riders of all ages encouraged to bring their BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards or balance bikes and be among the first to put the new track through its paces.
The opening celebration will also feature a sausage sizzle, the chance to meet fellow riders and a giveaway, with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council offering attendees the opportunity to win a new scooter and helmet.
The pump track, backed by $760,000 through the Queensland Government's Works for Queensland program, was first announced in June 2025 as the flagship project of Burdekin Shire Council's $2.8 million investment in regional parks.
Construction began earlier this year following an extensive design process that included two rounds of community consultation.
Located on the former junior soccer field alongside the existing skate park at Anzac Park, the facility has been designed to cater for riders of all skill levels using BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and mountain bikes.
When construction commenced, Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the final design reflected feedback from the local community.
“The Anzac Park Pump Track is a great example of how community feedback helps Council deliver facilities that meet local needs and encourage people of all ages to be active,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Pump tracks are designed to be inclusive and accessible, catering for a range of users including bikes, scooters and skateboards. This facility will add to Anzac Park's existing recreational offerings and provide a safe, purpose-built space for the entire community to enjoy.”
The road to a career in motorsport has just begun for local enthusiast Jorja Ahern, who spent last week working the paddock as a scrutineer during the V8 Supercars' return to the Townsville 500. Photo supplied.
It was while watching a Formula 1 film years ago that Burdekin local Jorja Ahern first fell in love with motorsport. But unlike many aspirants, it wasn't those donning helmets and racing suits behind the wheel that engrossed her. It was the minds orchestrating it all from the garage.
An avid fan ever since, the teenager took her first steps into the paddock during last week’s Townsville 500 and, with them, a major stride towards her dream of working as an engineer in the sport.
The road to a career in motorsport has just begun for local enthusiast Jorja Ahern, who spent last week working the paddock as a scrutineer during the V8 Supercars' return to the Townsville 500.
The Year 10 student worked alongside fellow scrutineers to ensure the high-octane Supercars met a list of racing regulations, dedicating a gruelling 48 hours across the four-day event from Thursday’s Porsche category to Sunday’s Supercar showdown.
The voluntary role marked Jorja’s first time in a professional racing garage, an experience she said crystallised her long-standing dream of working as a professional motorsport engineer.
“Just being there and being close to the cars, I was like, ‘how did I get here?’” she laughed.
“You would walk through the paddock and then all these drivers would just come out of nowhere… Being in that environment, like that—I feel like that's my element.”
Jorja arrived in the paddock after reaching out to the Supercars team months earlier in search of hands-on experience, eventually signing on as a volunteer scrutineer.
As a scrutineer, she was responsible for assessing tyre pressure, driver apparel, seat belts, and checking that fuel chains were ‘earthed’ to avoid potential fires, among other tasks. She also observed the races from the garage, monitoring pit stops and ensuringprocedures were undertaken smoothly.
The experience gave the teenager a rare opportunity to pick the brains of seasoned engineers and crew members across four long days of racing, each of which began as early as 5am.
She said that, come the end of the week, her fascination for engineering and the finer details of racing had only grown.
“I had no idea they had to do all those different safety checks … and all the different regulations that had to be ticked off,” she said.
“It's also so interesting how the aerodynamics work, and how one little change in the aerodynamics can make such a big difference to the speed.”
According to her mother, Tracey Ahern, Jorja’s heart has long been in engineering, evidenced by her gravitation toward STEM-related school subjects as early as primary school.
“Whenever there was an opportunity to become involved in STEM, she would put her hand up and say, ‘yeah, I want to get involved. I want to see what that's all about,’” Tracey said.
Jorja’s STEM interest continued into high school, where she became involved in the STEM Changemakers program—an initiative which aims to encourage female participation in scientific and technical industries.
Tracey described the Changemakers experience as a pivotal reassurance for Jorja that “girls can do anything.”
“[The Changemakers program] really opened up like the doors to understanding how diverse engineering is, and that although it has been a male-dominated industry … girls can do these things as well,” she said.
That notion was rubber-stamped for Jorja, who recalled seeing several women in the garages during race week in Townsville.
Now with renewed confidence, the motorsport aspirant is eager to continue her surge into the world of professional motorsport engineering.
For Jorja, that involves studying mechanical engineering at university, before pursuing an engineering role at “any motorsport team—whether Supercars or F1.”
Thursday 16 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 17 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Meet & Greet, 6pm, Crown Hotel, Home Hill
Saturday 18 July
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Burdekin Roosters VS Centrals, 3pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr
Burdekin Rugby League Ladies Day, 4pm-8pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr
Sunday 19 July
Wings & Wheels for Angel Flight, 8am, Donnington Airpark, Woodstock
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Goodbye Breakfast, 9am, Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill
Burdekin Dachshunds Meet Up, 9am, Ayr Dog Park, Ayr
Zonta Club Burdekin’s Strive to Be Kind Lunch, 12pm-2pm, Silver Screens ‘N Coffee Beans, Ayr
Monday 20 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 21 July
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
Wednesday 22 July
Home Hill CWL Free Morning Tea
Wednesday, 9:30am
Home Hill CWL extends an invitation to all for our free morning tea—a great opportunity to catch up with new and old friends and especially if you’re new to the area. Some entertainment and games with a chance to win a raffle prize.
St Colemans Hall, Home Hill
Thursday 23 July
Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Zyon Dallecort (CORES QLD & Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre)’s Trivia Night, 6pm, The Lighthouse, 130 Young Street, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 24 July
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
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue’s Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle, 10am-2pm, Pets Domain Ayr, 93 Graham Street, Ayr
The Eagles Greatest Hits
Friday, 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate the timeless sound of The Eagles live in concert, as a world-class six-piece band delivers two hours of iconic hits including Hotel California, Desperado and Lyin’ Eyes in a powerful, nostalgia-filled night of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Saturday 25 July
Macrame Pot Hanger Workshop, 2pm, Home Hill Greek Community Hall, Home Hill
Sunday 26 July
Gospel Music Festival
Sunday, 10am-6pm
Enjoy a free, uplifting day at the Gospel Music Festival at the Stardust Drive-In, featuring inspiring live performances from Brendon Walmsley, Victor Clay and Lynton Allen in a powerful celebration of music, faith and community.
Stardust Drive-In Theatre, 27 Kilrie Road, Ayr
Monday 27 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 28 July
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
Thursday 30 July
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 31 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
“Seeing our students proudly engage in NAIDOC celebrations is incredibly special,” Head of Curriculum Nikky Guilfoyle said. Photos: Facebook/Ayr State School
The Ayr State School community joined the nation in celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture as NAIDOC Week arrived late last month.
The celebrations, this year honouring five decades of NAIDOC, saw students and families gather at the school to recognise the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples.
Attendees created Indigenous-inspired artworks and took part in hands-on damper making, before exploring one of the Gudjuda Rangers' research boats used to monitor and protect sea turtles.
A kup murri lunch provided a unique taste of First Nations cuisine, with traditional dance performances and the singing of Taba Naba, a traditional song from the Torres Strait Islands, closing out the event.
Ayr State School Head of Curriculum Nikky Guilfoyle said the event was an opportunity for students to “develop a greater appreciation of culture.”
“Seeing our students proudly engage in NAIDOC celebrations is incredibly special,” she said.
“Through storytelling, art, dance and shared experiences, [the students] develop a greater appreciation of culture, identity and community while learning the importance of respect and inclusion.
“These experiences help build understanding, strengthen relationships and ensure every student recognises the significance of Australia's First Nations cultures as an essential part of our shared story.”
The school extended a “heartfelt thank you” to everyone involved in bringing the event to fruition.
Winners of the adult men's and women's categories. Photos supplied.
The Millaroo State School P&C has raised more than $17,000 to support students after a successful return of its annual Catfish Competition last weekend.
More than 50 competitors took part in the two-day fishing event, with the community gathering at the Millaroo Social Club on Saturday night for presentations, live entertainment and a fish-and-chip dinner prepared by the Millaroo P&C.
The evening attracted more than 100 people in total, with auctioned items kindly donated by Don West Toyota & Burdekin laser cutting raising $1,075. Sponsorship contributions made up the rest of the fundraising total.
This year’s competition saw anglers compete across categories including longest catfish, most catfish caught and longest other species, with junior divisions encouraging young fishers to get involved.
Among the weekend’s winners were Millaroo State School students Leo and Layla Middleton, who claimed the titles for the longest catfish in their respective age categories, along with Harris Peterson and Remy Booth, among others.
The event featured live music from Tiny & The Bad Teddy, raffles and a range of prizes, with free camping available for competitors wanting to make a weekend of the event.
Organisers thanked the wider community via Facebook for helping make the fundraiser a success, highlighting the teamwork and support behind the event.
“We’re a small community but when there’s work to be done, everyone pitches in,” shared Millaroo Social Club.
“That’s what makes days like this possible and it’s all worth it to create memories for our kids and bring our community together.
“Thank you again to everyone who supported the event. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!”
Student Ravenna Davies smiles with her Term 2 ‘Cold Write’. Photo supplied.
On Tuesday the 9th of June, all Prep to Year 4’s went to the Burdekin Theatre. St. Francis wanted them to watch Fractured Fairytale’s, because Mrs J and Mrs D thought it would be a marvellous performance and idea.
First, we got on the bus extremely excited and wondering what to expect. The bus ride took forever! I almost fell asleep.
Next, we got into the theatre and there were props everywhere (all over the stage). As everyone sat, the lights went pitch black. We knew it was starting. Then two characters popped out—their names were Henn and Felix.
When it was done we all got a sticker which said, “I went to the Burdekin Theatre.” The bus ride back was just as long as the one there.
So in conclusion, this text discussed the great time 3/4B had at the theatre.
A new venue and diverse line-up of local and visiting performers will offer “a bit of everything” to Ayr as the fourth annual Burdekin Gospel Music Festival returns later this month.
Hosted by the Burdekin Uniting Church on 25–26 July, the festival’s customary community-focused charm will arrive at the Stardust Drive-In for the first time, accommodating growing crowds from across the region as it showcases a line-up of pastors and touring artists spanning country music, hip-hop and live art.
Narelle Castorina of the Burdekin Uniting Church said organisers were especially looking forward to this year's iteration of the local favourite event.
"We're really excited for this year—it's come together nicely," Ms Castorina said.
"It doesn't matter what age you are ... I think everyone will get something out of it for themselves. It'll be a wonderful opportunity for people to come and enjoy country music … all for free."
Saturday's festivities will begin at the Mackenzie Street church grounds with a sausage sizzle before featuring $5 creative workshops led by three visiting artists.
Attendees will have the choice of a songwriting workshop with Tamworth-based, award-winning musician Brendon Walmsley, a hip-hop session led by Adelaide pastor Victor Claye, or a pastel art class presented by Melbourne artist Lynton Allan.
Those interested in attending a workshop must pre-register by texting their name, age and preferred artist to 0477 575 972, with the $5 fee payable on the day.
On Sunday, 26 July, the festival will move to the Stardust Drive-In with an ecumenical service at 10am before local artists take to the stage and children's activities run until 2pm. The weekend will then culminate in a free headline concert featuring Walmsley, Claye, Allan and special guest youth minister Dan Warlow.
Food will be available throughout Sunday at the kiosk, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.
The event is being delivered with assistance from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government and Burdekin Shire Council that supports local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Organisers also thanked Bendigo Community Bank, Wilmar Sugar, ML Partners and NQ Rural & Business Brokers for their support as major sponsors.
Silver will shine across Airlie Beach this year as the Great Barrier Reef Festival unveils a special birthday theme to celebrate its 25-year anniversary.
Proudly presented by Cruise Whitsundays, the festival returns from July 31st to August 2nd, with three days of reef-inspired festivities, entertainment and community celebrations marking the milestone occasion.
"Celebrating 25 years is not only a chance to reflect on how far the festival has come, it's also a vote of confidence in where we're headed," said Festival Chair Heather Batrick.
"We're incredibly grateful for the support we've received from both our returning and new sponsors this year.
"Their investment is a testament to the strength of the festival, our incredible volunteers and the community that has championed this event for a quarter of a century.
"Their continued support allows us to keep growing the festival, attract outstanding entertainment, and continue offering so many of our signature events free for everyone to enjoy."
This year will see the return of the community’s favourite events, such as Saturday’s Main Street takeover with the Club Whitsundays Street parade and Revvin’ Reef Car Show, the Tasman Holiday Parks Family Fun Day and of course the spectacular firework presentation that will kick of the whole thing, now sponsored by AirBnB.
"Airbnb is proud to partner with the Great Barrier Reef Festival and support the incredible volunteers who make this event possible for all those who attend from near and far," said Susan Wheeldon, Country Manager of Airbnb Australia and New Zealand.
Festival-goers can expect an immersive experience across the foreshore, with a large-scale reef art installation made from recycled materials on display in Fairy Tree Park, capturing the essence of the reef’s natural wonder.
Giulia Sarri loved every second of representing her school, Burdekin Christian College a Junior Ambassador in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto
2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri says the experience greatly transformed her confidence, particularly when it comes to public speaking, and is warmly encouraging other young people to step outside their comfort zones and get involved.
Representing Burdekin Christian College (BCC) throughout last year's festival, Giulia embraced every opportunity the Ambassador Program had to offer and said it helped her become far more confident speaking in front of others.
"With public speaking, I don't get as nervous anymore and I'm much more comfortable speaking at events without prior notice," expressed Giulia.
Having grown up in Brandon and now attending Year 7 at Burdekin Christian College, Giulia has a deep appreciation for the close-knit community she calls home. She loves that "everything is close and everyone knows each other," and believes events such as the Burdekin Water Festival play an important role in bringing the community together and celebrating the region.
Grateful for the opportunity to represent her school, Giulia said she felt honoured to be selected as BCC’s 2025 Junior Ambassador and is encouraging other students to nominate for future festivals.
"I was extremely grateful to be chosen to represent the school and proud and honoured to do so," she said.
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and not many people can say they have been an ambassador for their local club, school or business, so to me, it was quite special. My school supported me throughout the journey."
Giulia's mother, Lisa Sarri, said she could not have been prouder of her daughter's growth throughout the experience and believes the Ambassador Program has helped shape her into the confident high school student she is today.
"I was extremely proud watching Giulia's confidence and personality grow with each Water Festival event,” said Ms Sarri.
“Giulia stayed true to herself throughout the ambassador program and embraced every new opportunity."
While Giulia treasured every moment of the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program, one experience stood above the rest; visiting residents at Regis Aged Care in Home Hill alongside her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors.
"The part of the experience that meant the most to me personally would be attending Regis as part of the Ambassador program and entertaining the residents."
Giulia said the visit gave her the opportunity to connect with the community in a meaningful way while sharing one of her favourite hobbies.
"I presented a crochet lesson and they all loved it! Being crowned the winner was honestly a bonus after fun-filled months attending events and making new friends."
Although nominations for the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program have now closed and this year's Junior and Senior Ambassador cohort has been announced, Giulia hopes more young people will consider nominating for the 2027 Ambassador Program and experience everything it has to offer.
"Just go for it," Giulia encourages.
"Be part of something special! Once you nominate my advice would be to be yourself, talk to everyone and have fun!"
Self-taught cook Giovanna Castorina is preparing to launch a series of cooking classes, giving residents the opportunity to create restaurant-calibre meals from their own kitchens. Photo credit: Jacob Casha.
Burdekin local Giovanna Castorina has been turning simple ingredients into mouth-watering Italian dishes for years.
Now, she’s letting locals in on her secret.
The self-taught cook behind Giovanna’s Cucina in Home Hill is preparing to launch a series of cooking classes, giving residents the opportunity to create restaurant-calibre meals from their own kitchens.
Born out of regular requests from Facebook followers eager to learn her tricks, Giovanna will teach each class herself, imparting the culinary flair that has seen her business become a local favourite.
“A lot of people have been asking for it over the last couple of years,” she said.
“Every time I put something on my [social media] stories of what I’m cooking at home, everyone always messages and says, ‘can I have the recipe!’”
Classes will be hosted at her shop on Home Hill’s Eighth Avenue, offering a more intimate and hands-on experience to classes of six to eight people.
Each session will feature a rotating theme, with ideas ranging from fresh pasta and Italian feasts to midweek meals, slow-cooker dishes, beginner essentials—perfect for uni students—and a ‘husbands who cook’ class.
Giovanna says the goal is to share unique, cost-effective cooking ideas that can be easily adopted in the kitchen at home.
“Times are tough at the moment, and people aren’t going out to eat as much. They want to cook at home—but at the same time, finding ideas, or even just the know-how, can be tough,” she said.
“I want people to go home and try something they’ve never tried before, whether it’s crème brûlée, fresh pasta, or even just a midweek dinner that they never would’ve thought to do otherwise.”
Participants will prepare a three- to four-course meal, including an entrée, main and dessert, before sitting down to enjoy the creations and taking the recipes home.
Giovanna says each class will offer a fun, social experience, with private sessions also available for a ladies’ night out, workplace team-building session, or simply trying something new with friends.
The classes will be open to anyone aged 15 and over, with no prior cooking experience required.
Stay tuned to Giovanna’s Cucina’s Facebook page for further updates.
Despite membership almost doubling since the organisation’s last scare three years ago, the current executive team still awaits new figures to help carry the torch forward. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Planning for the Burdekin Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Street Party is now in full swing, despite concerns the event’s future may be in jeopardy without new executive members stepping forward.
Chamber Vice-President Gary Roser confirmed at Tuesday morning’s Chamber meeting that paperwork for road closures and insurance requirements had already been submitted to facilitate the December event, with funding, money boards, donation collections and ticket preparations also underway.
Despite the groundwork already laid, Mr Roser said the Christmas Street Party’s ultimate fate hinges on the positions of president, treasurer and paid secretary being filled before the organisation’s September AGM.
“We’ve done all the behind-the-scenes work … now, we basically need to just pull the trigger—but we can’t unless we’ve got new members in place to follow through with it,” Mr Roser said.
“If new members don’t step up into executive roles, then the Christmas Party probably won’t go ahead. It can’t continue with the skeleton crew that we have at the moment.”
The Burdekin Chamber has long advocated for the region’s business community, facilitating networking opportunities for local operators through regular member meetings, workshops, and its hallmark Christmas Street Party each year.
The December event has become a major fixture on the Burdekin community calendar, injecting millions of dollars into local businesses over the past two years while providing families with a free night of family-friendly entertainment.
Mr Roser said the potential loss of the event would be felt across the entire community, rather than just among local businesses.
“It’s not so much about the businesses,” he said.
“It’s about the town losing a free community, family-orientated event that we don’t often have.”
Mr Roser confirmed that no substantial interest had been received for any of the vacant roles as of Tuesday, with the organisation unable to continue under its bylaws without the positions being filled.
It found itself in a similar spot three years ago, when a lack of interest in the same three executive roles nearly led to its demise.
Despite membership almost doubling since, the current executive team still awaits new figures to help carry the torch forward.
Mr Roser urges anyone seeking further information on vacant roles to contact either himself on 0408 076 064 or President Seb Aguirre on 0499 197 671.
Thursday 9 July
Cirque Nouvelle
Thursday 6pm-7:15pm
Experience the magic of Cirque Nouvelle as an internationally acclaimed cast blends breathtaking acrobatics, juggling and aerial artistry in a dazzling, modern circus production that promises to captivate and amaze audiences of all ages. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 10 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Millaroo State School P&C Presents Catfish Comp BME Allot Welding & Fabrications Meet & Greet, 6pm, Millaroo Social Club, Millaroo
Saturday 11 July
Millaroo State School P&C Presents Catfish Comp Presentations, 4pm, Millaroo Social Club, Millaroo
Sunday 12 July
Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast, 8am-12pm, Burdekin Aero Club, Aerodrome Road, Brandon
LBCDA Highland Community Concert
Sunday 10am
Enjoy a vibrant night of music, dance and community spirit at the LBCDA Highland Community Concert, a free celebration of Celtic culture brought to life with lively performances at the Burdekin Theatre this July.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 13 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc Dinner Meeting
6:15pm for 6:30pm start
You are warmly invited to join us at a Zonta Dinner Meeting, an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with like-minded people who are passionate about making a positive difference. Learn more about Zonta’s work in empowering women and girls in our community through advocacy, education, and service.
Venue: ANZAC Memorial Club
Contact Nos: 0438 836 677 04 or 0400 404 461
Thursday 16 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 17 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Meet & Greet, 6pm, Crown Hotel, Home Hill
Saturday 18 July
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Burdekin Roosters VS Centrals, 3pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr
Burdekin Rugby League Ladies Day, 4pm-8pm, Bendigo Bank Park, Ayr
Sunday 19 July
Wings & Wheels for Angel Flight, 8am, Donnington Airpark, Woodstock
Home Hill Devils Rugby League Club 40 Year Reunion Goodbye Breakfast, 9am, Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill
Zonta Club Burdekin’s Strive to Be Kind Lunch, 12pm-2pm, Silver Screens ‘N Coffee Beans, Ayr
Monday 20 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 21 July
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
Wednesday 22 July
Home Hill CWL—Free Morning Tea
Wednesday, 9.30am
Home Hill CWL extends an invitation to all for our free morning tea—a great opportunity to catch up with new and old friends and especially if you’re new to the area. Some entertainment and games with a chance to win a raffle prize.
St Colemans Hall
Thursday 23 July
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 24 July
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
The Eagles Greatest Hits
Friday 7:30pm-10pm
Celebrate the timeless sound of The Eagles live in concert, as a world-class six-piece band delivers two hours of iconic hits including Hotel California, Desperado and Lyin’ Eyes in a powerful, nostalgia-filled night of classic rock. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Sunday 26 July
Gospel Music Festival
Sunday 10am-6pm
Enjoy a free, uplifting day at the Gospel Music Festival at the Stardust Drive-In, featuring inspiring live performances from Brendon Walmsley, Victor Clay and Lynton Allen in a powerful celebration of music, faith and community.
Stardust Drive-In Theatre, 27 Kilrie Road, Ayr
A convoy of vintage cars reminiscent of Home Hill's glory days rumbled down Eighth Avenue on Saturday for Home Hill News and Coffee’s inaugural Coffee and Cars event Photo source: Facebook/Home Hill News and Coffee
A convoy of vintage cars reminiscent of Home Hill's glory days rumbled down Eighth Avenue on Saturday for Home Hill News and Coffee’s inaugural Coffee and Cars event.
Vehicles dating back to the early 1900s were parked and showcased outside the café, with owners engaged in classic-car discourse over coffee and breakfast.
Home Hill News and Coffee expressed delight with the event's success, describing it in a Facebook post as a “beautiful morning.”
“We loved seeing everyone’s pride and joy in the streets of Home Hill,” the business shared.
The event was the café's first Coffee and Cars gathering, inspired by similar meet-ups held elsewhere in Queensland and driven by interest from local enthusiasts.
It hosted over half a dozen cars, including Mustangs, Chevrolets, Falcons, and other classics.
Following the success of the inaugural event, organisers plan to make Coffee and Cars a regular fixture, with enthusiasts invited to gather at the café on the first Saturday of every month from 6am.
Anyone with a vintage or classic vehicle is welcome to take part.
(L-R) Toni, Jermayne, Natasha, Isaiah and Tessa-Maree
The sights, sounds and flavours of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture returned to the Burdekin on Monday with NAIDOC Week in full swing across the nation.
Local celebrations brought more than 100 people to the selectability lawns for a day replete with island dances, face painting, storytelling, and traditional Indigenous cuisine.
This year's NAIDOC Week theme, 50 Years of Deadly, marks five decades since an entirely Indigenous-led NAIDOC committee was formed.
In keeping with the national theme, the Burdekin celebrations drew salience to the past, while celebrating the present and future for Indigenous peoples in the region and beyond.
Selectability representative Quanita Senior described the occasion as a huge success.
“I couldn’t believe it came together so well. I couldn't take the smile off my face,” she said.
“It was so great to celebrate the Indigenous culture. Culture is something that can be lost, especially the Indigenous culture. Recognising NAIDOC was a great way to show young people who they are, where their Elders came from, and not to lose that.”
The event included entertainment courtesy of Anthony and Toni Solomon, who performed worship music throughout the day.
Evelyn Billy of Bina's Kitchen and Remona Taiters also offered attendees a taste of traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait cuisine, with emu, kangaroo, and crocodile samples all on the menu.
Ms Billy also brought along a dance crew, adding to the day’s entertainment catalogue.
NAIDOC Week has long been embraced by the Burdekin community, with schools, organisations and community groups celebrating the occasion each year.
Monday’s event was the first NAIDOC celebration hosted by Selectability, a joint effort between Ms Senior and Chloe Webb, also part of the selectability team, who approached the former with the idea.
Ms Senior said the event also served as an opportunity to raise community awareness about selectability and its work in the region.
She extended a heartfelt thanks to all involved in bringing the event together.
The Home Hill Choral Society will bring the Wild West to The Vault next month, turning the venue into a lively country-western saloon following a string of sold-out performances. Photo supplied
The Home Hill Choral Society will bring the Wild West to The Vault next month, turning the venue into a lively country-western saloon following a string of sold-out performances.
‘The Big Sky Hoedown’ will transport audiences to the Wild West for an entertaining night of country classics, comedy and a storyline following a cast of unique country characters.
Choral Society member Erin Brennan said the country-western theme had been a long-standing request from the community, with the group finally answering the call.
“It has a bit of everything,” she said.
“We’ve set the date, and now we’re cracking the whip!”
With rehearsals now underway twice a week, and additional Sunday sessions planned as the show draws closer, the cast is preparing a performance packed with familiar songs audiences will know and love.
The setlist will feature country favourites alongside recognisable classics from artists including Johnny Cash and Neil Diamond, ensuring there will be plenty of opportunities for audiences to sing along.
Ms Brennan said the production would also continue the Choral Society’s tradition of involving the crowd, although she remained tight-lipped on exactly what role audience members would play.
She also revealed that, for the first time in the Choral Society’s history, the show’s storyline embraced fresh ideas from artificial intelligence, providing the group with a new creative angle as they prepare for their latest production.
“It’s a bit more of a script this time, whereas before I used to just find jokes and write them into a show. This one will still have the usual jokes, but it’s probably a bit more of a play,” she said.
“[AI] was good for giving a baseline. It’s a bit corny in places, but gives us a different angle to have a go at!”
The production will mark another chapter for the Home Hill Choral Society, which has built a reputation for entertaining local audiences through its blend of music, comedy and community spirit.
With tickets set to go on sale in early August, Ms Brennan had one final invitation for locals.
“I’ll see you all down at the hoedown!” she said.
Four members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have returned home after taking part in Queensland’s largest multi-section Scout event, the LEAP Camp. Photo supplied.
Four members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have returned home after taking part in Queensland’s largest multi-section Scout event, the LEAP Camp, held at Tarmaroo Scout Camp at Bluewater in Townsville.
The seven-day camp brought together around 150 to 200 Scouts from across the state, all participating in a program built around Leadership, Empowerment, Adventure and Patrol — the core principles behind LEAP.
Scouts worked in small patrols of five to six members, taking part in a wide range of challenges designed to build leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.
The event featured participants from all Scout sections, including 21 Cub Scouts aged 9–10, 80 Scouts aged 12–14, 42 Venturer Scouts aged 15–18, and 10 Rover Scouts aged 18–25, each running age-specific programs while sharing the same camp setting.
Around 50 adult volunteers and five junior service leaders supported the camp, managing logistics, catering, program delivery, site services and camping standards across the week.
Organisers described the camp as non-stop activity from start to finish, with participants continually rotating through challenges aimed at pushing them out of their comfort zones while strengthening independence and cooperation.
For the Lower Burdekin group, the experience provided an opportunity to test their skills against Scouts from across Queensland and take part in one of the most significant events on the state calendar.
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets at 12th Avenue, Home Hill (behind the swimming pool), with weekly meetings on Wednesday nights from 6pm–8pm for ages 11–18 and Thursday afternoons from 4.30pm–6pm for ages 5–11.
New members can attend for a four-week trial at no cost. Enquiries can be made to Rikki on 0419 104 035.
Familiar staples of traditional circus will collide with the futuristic, technology-driven advancements of modern theatre at the Burdekin Theatre next Thursday. Photo supplied.
The staples of traditional circus will collide with futuristic theatre in Ayr next Thursday 9th July, when the internationally acclaimed Cirque Nouvelle visits the Burdekin Theatre.
Dubbed a “celebration of everything circus,” the production will bring flames, lasers, and world-class physical artistry to the region following sell-out shows across Australia.
The brainchild of husband-and-wife acrobat duo Rebecca and James Capener, the show is an amalgamation of inspiration gleaned throughout their 10-year stint as cruise ship performers.
“The dream was always to produce a show that we could tour nationally,” Rebecca said.
“I think a lot of typical circus shows mostly just have incredible acts, one after the other—but we have that plus the storyline, which kind of blends and intertwines the acts.
“It takes the audience on a journey and makes them feel something—something they can talk about around the dinner table. It's nice to give the show a little bit more substance than the wow factor.”
The show follows the journey of a charismatic ringmaster forced to grapple with the shift from the traditional Big Top to modernised, tech-driven circus by fusing humour, heart, and professional acrobatics.
“Circus has come a long way from its traditional roots. Everything’s a bit more fast-paced and high energy,” said Ms Capener.
“[The show] is kind of like a battle of the two ... before coming full circle to touch on how we still have a place for both.”
She said the underlying theme of change was intentionally chosen to evoke resonance within the crowd.
“Change is a common thing that we all struggle with at different seasons in life,” said Ms Capener.
“We wanted it to be relatable to our audiences of all ages—being a family show—and it's definitely had a great response so far … with a lot of emotions from the crowd.”
Cirque Nouvelle is the first joint production for the pair, which Ms Capener credits to a shared vision and around-the-clock passion.
“[James and I] make a great team. Whatever time of the day, even if it’s 10 at night in bed, we're still talking about the show and ideas. We don't really know when to clock off, but we don't mind that at all. It's our life,” Ms Capener said.
“We are both just so passionate, and we’re going to do whatever it takes for it to be a success.”
The show is part of a 12-show tour spanning from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping at the Burdekin Theatre next Thursday at 6pm.
Tickets for the show are available for purchase at https://www.burdekintheatre.com.au/Events-directory/Cirque-Nouvelle
Fishing enthusiasts, families and holidaymakers are invited to cast a line at the annual Millaroo State School P&C Catfish Competition, returning to the Burdekin on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th July.
The popular community event will be held at the Millaroo Social Club and promises a fun-filled weekend of fishing, live entertainment and family-friendly activities, with all proceeds supporting students at Millaroo State School.
Festivities begin on Friday, 10th July, with the BME Alloy Welding & Fabrications Meet and Greet from 6pm, where competitors can register, pay nominations, hand in brag mats and enjoy dinner before a weekend of fishing.
The competition continues on Saturday, 11th July, with anglers vying for prizes across several categories, including Longest Catfish, Most Catfish Caught and Longest Other Species. Junior divisions cater for children aged five and under, six to 10 years, 11 to 15 years, as well as an open school-aged category, ensuring plenty of opportunities for young fishers to get involved.
Presentations will begin at 4pm on Saturday, followed by live music from Tiny & The Bad Teddy from 6pm, dinner, raffles and a range of great prizes.
Entry costs $20 per competitor, with participants of all ages welcome.
Free unpowered camping will also be available behind the Millaroo Social Club for those wanting to make a weekend of it. Campers are reminded there is no water available on site and must be self-sufficient.
Organisers encourage the community to come along, enjoy the school holiday atmosphere and support Millaroo State School while experiencing one of the Burdekin's favourite grassroots fishing events.
Debutantes and their partners at the Burdekin Singers ball at Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday night. PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography
23 debutantes stepped into the spotlight at Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday night after months of rehearsals brought them to their formal debut.
23 debutantes took their leap into society at Burdekin Memorial Hall last weekend in what organisers called an “elegant” and “prestigious” affair.
The ‘Coco and Bloom’-themed event was the culmination of months of preparation, with organisers witnessing the participants' development before their formal introduction to the wider community.
Burdekin Singers President Lawrence Polga called the ball a “big success for both Burdekin Singers and the local community.”
“The ball is something we value, not only as a fundraiser, but also as an event for the community,” he said.
“Seeing the parents proud of their children on stage, to then seeing the children develop into lovely people before joining the community—I loved that.”
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort delivered a special address to kick off the night’s proceedings, before debutantes and their partners performed individual dances, couples’ dances, and traditional family dances, which were rehearsed every Sunday over the nine weeks leading up to the event.
Mr Polga said the ball offered debutantes a unique experience.
“Some of these lovely debutantes have never been on stage before, or never been presented to the community or to a crowd before,” he said.
“Seeing them so nervous on the side of the stage, to them coming back so excited that they've walked out there, that’s the highlight.
"To give them the chance to have that experience for the first time in a safe environment with all their family, friends and loved ones around them, that’s one of our biggest achievements.”
Mr Polga said the success of the event was largely thanks to the meticulous preparations of the Burdekin Singers sub-committee, led by Kris Favale.
“We have a fantastic sub-committee, and these ladies have worked behind the scenes for the last seven months creating this dream. From the table decorations to the cake, through to the suits that the guys wear, it's all very on point,” Mr Polga said.
"We can't put on an event like this without the Burdekin Singers volunteers. It takes a thousand people.”
A record-high of over 5,500 people stampeded through the gates of Ayr Showgrounds last Wednesday for what was described as the most “community-spirited” Burdekin Show to date.
This year’s iteration continued a longstanding local tradition dating back to 1909, treating locals and visitors to a full day of agricultural displays, family entertainment, and classic showground attractions.
Burdekin Show Committee vice-president Brendan Kolb said this year’s show smashed committee expectations.
“We keep saying it's going to get bigger and better each year. This year, we definitely saw that happen,” Mr Kolb said.
“Between food vendors, the Sideshow Alley, all the entertainment, the general public … it was definitely as big as I’ve ever seen it.”
Different to previous editions, the Show Committee centred this year’s show on community involvement, with several participant-driven activities throughout the day.
Mr Kolb called the gamble a “big success,” pointing to almost 2,000 entrants in the main hall exhibit displays and strong participation in the Mini Ring from both locals and visitors from abroad.
“It was definitely a big success—we had a lot of crowd involvement, everyone was cheering and it created a really good atmosphere,” he said.
“People liked that there was something for everyone, young and old.
“A particular thanks to our local backpackers, they really got into it. It was really good to see them getting into the Burdekin’s style of fun.”
He mentioned the Stockman’s Challenge as one of the day’s highlights, alongside the “spectacular" dog high jump event.
“I've never seen a dog high-jump before, and I've got to tell you, it was pretty spectacular to watch,” he said.
The event culminated in the Show’s customary firework display, drawing to a close one of its most successful iterations to date.
Mr Kolb especially thanked everyone involved in bringing the show together, including sponsors.
“Without them, we would not be able to put on on a show,” he said.
The Show committee now turns its attention to the year of preparation ahead, says Kolb.
“We start planning pretty much straight away,” he laughed,
“We’ve now got the base down, we got a lot of positive feedback this year. Now we just have to expand it from there.”
Thursday 2 July
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 3 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Sunday 5 July
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Lunch at Nonna’s
Sunday 12pm
Step into a heartwarming afternoon of food, laughter and music with Lunch at Nonna’s, a lively celebration of Italian-Sicilian-Australian life featuring stories, songs and a delicious four-course meal shared in true Nonna style. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 6 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 7 July
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 9 July
Cirque Nouvelle
Thursday 6pm-7:15pm
Experience the magic of Cirque Nouvelle as an internationally acclaimed cast blends breathtaking acrobatics, juggling and aerial artistry in a dazzling, modern circus production that promises to captivate and amaze audiences of all ages. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 10 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 11 July
LBCDA Highland Community Concert
Saturday TBA
Enjoy a vibrant night of music, dance and community spirit at the LBCDA Highland Community Concert, a free celebration of Celtic culture brought to life with lively performances at the Burdekin Theatre this July.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Sunday 12 July
Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast, 8am-12pm, Burdekin Aero Club, Aerodrome Road, Brandon
Monday 13 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc Dinner Meeting
6:15pm for 6:30pm start
You are warmly invited to join us at a Zonta Dinner Meeting, an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connect with like-minded people who are passionate about making a positive difference. Learn more about Zonta’s work in empowering women and girls in our community through advocacy, education, and service.
Venue: ANZAC Memorial Club
Contact Nos: 0438 836 677 04 or 0400 404 461
Thursday 16 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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
Ms Vollema-Creek co-authored a number of locally-themed books over the last two decades before releasing an independent project, ‘History of the Home Hill Harvest Festival’, in 2022 to much local acclaim. Photo supplied.
Home Hill author Saskia Vollema-Creek has announced plans to bring the town’s history back to life through a new, first-of-its-kind book on “growing up” in the town.
Ms Vollema-Creek, a history teacher at Ayr State High School, said the book will use the raw, first-hand accounts of locals to revive the town’s bygone eras.
“To me, [people’s stories] add another layer to the history of a town,” Ms Vollema-Creek said.
“You can read about dates, when this happened, and when that happened, but it's the stories that really paint the picture of what it was like for those people in the various time periods that they grew up in.
“These are people's memories—the stories you would never find in a history book.”
Ms Vollema-Creek permanently moved to Home Hill from Brisbane in 1989 after being posted to the town as a teacher. She quickly embraced the area, where she has juggled teaching and writing ever since.
She co-authored a number of locally-themed books over the last two decades before releasing an independent project, ‘History of the Home Hill Harvest Festival’, in 2022 to much local acclaim.
Ms Vollema-Creek said her current project will be her first since taking some time away from writing.
“I’m ready for a new challenge," she said.
She originally announced the book on Facebook last month with a post that was met with overwhelming support.
Since the announcement, a number of locals have sent her detailed, written recollections of their upbringing—some dating as far back as 1915—with several interviews lined up in the school holidays.
She described the accounts sent in so far as “surprising,” challenging prevailing stereotypes about country life.
“There's this idea that country towns are boring… but from what I've already heard, these kids that grew up here were never bored,” Ms Vollema-Creek said.
“They had so much fun with their friends, going to the theatre, going to the shops, going to the cafe… building canoes in Gardners Lagoon. They were always doing something.”
She’s now calling on more locals to help bring the book together by sharing their stories.
“I'm not going to reject anybody. [Share] anything to do with you growing up, your friends, what you used to do for fun—anything really. Everyone’s story is different, everyone's childhood memories are different … and there’s such a multicultural aspect to it as well,” MsVollema-Creek said.
Anyone interested in contributing is encouraged to email Saskia at creekys@outlook.com.au.
The Rotary Club of Home Hill has received a $15,000 boost from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, helping the club on its quest to raise money for a police ATV.
The cheque was officially presented to the club last Friday, following a $30,000 donation by the Bank to the Burdekin Chaplains earlier this month.
“Our community is very fortunate to have Rotary Club of Home Hill, who is dedicated to making a positive impact in our Home Hill community,” read a Facebook post by the company.
The money will help Home Hill Rotary on its path to raising $40,000 for an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that will be gifted to the Ayr and Home Hill Police forces.
The club officially announced the fundraiser earlier this year, marking one of its biggest fundraising commitments ever.
The ATV—a Yamaha ‘Wolverine RMAX4’—will serve a critical function for the Burdekin, giving officers immediate access to remote areas such as Wunjunga Beach, Alva Beach, and river beds.
The club will combine the generous Bendigo Bank donation with money raised via its own fundraising efforts to make up the funds for the vehicle.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with participants and mentors from the Young Digital Mentors Program. Photo supplied
Young Burdekinites are helping senior residents build confidence with technology through the Young Digital Mentors Program, an initiative aimed at improving digital literacy while strengthening community connections across the Burdekin.
Facilitated by Burdekin Library, the program pairs young mentors with senior participants to provide one-on-one support with everyday technology, including smartphones and tablets.
Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the program demonstrated the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.
“Programs like Young Digital Mentors not only build valuable digital skills, they also bring generations together in a meaningful way,” Cr Dalle Cort said.
“It’s fantastic to see our young people stepping up to support others, while also developing confidence, leadership and communication skills of their own.”
The Young Digital Mentors Program was originally developed by the State Library of Queensland in 2025 and was first piloted in the Burdekin, making the region the first location in Queensland to deliver the initiative.
This year's program continues to be delivered by Burdekin Library with support from the State Library of Queensland and the eSafety Commissioner. Training for the young mentors was provided in partnership with Creative Bytes.
Senior participant Inez Larsen said the experience had improved her confidence in using technology.
“Participating in the Young Digital Mentors Program has been a rewarding experience,” Ms Larsen said.
“I really appreciated the way Andria shared her knowledge in such a supportive, respectful and approachable way.
“As a result of the program, I have come away feeling more confident and using more fully the capabilities of my iPhone. Thank you Burdekin Library staff and young digital mentor, Andria.”
The program aims to improve digital inclusion by helping older residents develop practical technology skills while giving young people the opportunity to build leadership, communication and mentoring experience.
This year's young digital mentors were Thomas Lindley, Alexis Lindley, Andria Reinke, William Wiseman, Addison Bonato and Fletcher Sgroi.
Senior participants included Liz Schmidt, Robert Ritchie, Alvin Thomas, Inez Larsen, Margaret McLucas, Michael Irving, Sheron Gaston and Beverley Matthews.
Burdekin Shire Council has encouraged residents to stay connected with Burdekin Library for information on future programs designed to strengthen digital skills and community connections.
Mayor Dalle Cort with 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri (Burdekin Christian College), Senior Ambassador Winner Molly Julyan (Liessmann’s Plumbing), Senior Ambassador Runner Up Eliza Worlein (Rotary Club of Ayr), and Junior Ambassador Runner Up Jorja Vasta (Burdekin Junior Rugby League) at the 2026 BWF Community Launch. Photo credit: Shay Kratzmann Photography
By Chelsea Ravizza
Celebrations for the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) officially commenced on Friday, 19th June, as community members gathered to launch one of Queensland’s longest running and most cherished festivals.
The Burdekin Water Festival was born from the vision of local resident Bob Saxby, who, after attending Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers in 1957, recognised an opportunity to create a signature event for the Burdekin. Working alongside then Shire ChairmanE.W. Ford and the wider community, Saxby helped bring the first Ayr Water Festival to life in 1958. Nearly 70 years later, that vision continues to flourish, with the Burdekin Water Festival remaining a proud celebration of the people, organisations and industries that shape the region, while bringing the community together through a vibrant calendar of events and traditions.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Festival’s longevity can largely be attributed to the community’s strong sense of pride and the opportunity it provides to celebrate everything that makes the Burdekin unique and special.
“The Burdekin Water Festival has always been something people feel genuinely connected to – it’s not just an event, it’s a tradition that families have grown up with and continue to be part of year after year,” she said.
“It brings people together, celebrates who we are as a community, and keeps that strong local spirit alive across generations.”
On Friday evening, 140 people gathered at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt as this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors were officially welcomed into the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program.
While steeped in tradition, the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival has also made history, with two male Senior Ambassadors entering the program for the first time since its establishment in 1958, marking the first occasion male representatives have participated in the Senior Ambassador category.
This year’s program has also welcomed several first-time supporting organisations, including BT Farms, Burdekin Motors, Feed Me Food, the Lower Burdekin Celtic Dancing Association and the Ayr Motorcycle Club. In another Festival first, the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and CORES Queensland have joined forces to support a single Ambassador entrant.
Burdekin Water Festival Life Member Robyn Hewson presented each representative with their sash, marking the start of their BWF journey and their role in one of the region’s most enduring traditions.
Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said she is eager to see this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors flourish throughout the program, having already been impressed by the confidence and poise each representative displayed during their introductory speeches.
“Even in the short time since joining the program, I’ve already seen tremendous growth from this year’s entrants,” she said.
“For generations, the Ambassador Program has helped connect young people with their community while ensuring local organisations remain actively involved in the Burdekin Water Festival. It continues to evolve, but its purpose remains the same – bringing people together, celebrating community pride, and investing in the next generation of Burdekin leaders.”
As the evening unfolded, the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Senior and Junior winners and runners-up shared reflections on the cherished Ambassador Program, speaking about its impact on their personal development and offering words of encouragement to this year’s incoming cohort.
Mayor Dalle Cort said the Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Program provides young people with valuable opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills and stronger community connections, while encouraging them to become active contributors to the region’s future.
“Investing in our young people is investing in the future of the Burdekin,” she said.
“Programs like the Ambassador Program provide valuable opportunities for participants to develop confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of community connection.”
Fourteen-year-old Ayr High School student Mason Lando opened the musical entertainment with performances of Sign of the Times by Harry Styles and Man of the North by Liam St John. He was followed by 15-year-old Burdekin Christian College student Gabriel Hatherell, who has performed in local productions and competitions, as well as at the Townsville Folk Festival alongside Lando, delivering Something in the Orange by Zach Bryan and Remembering Sunday by All Time Low.
As attendees enjoyed live entertainment, food and community spirit beneath the evening sky, the festivities turned to one of the Festival’s most beloved traditions — the Fashion Parade. Once a staple of Water Festivals gone by, the event had been absent from the Burdekin Water Festival since at least the 1990s before being revived to great acclaim in 2024.
Mrs Ravizza said the Fashion Parade highlights one of the Ambassador Program’s greatest strengths: its ability to foster friendships, confidence and a strong sense of community among participants.
“What stood out most to me at the Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch was the way they [Junior and Senior Ambassadors] supported and encouraged one another,” she said.
“The Senior Ambassadors naturally took the Juniors under their wing, and you could see friendships forming and confidence growing throughout the Fashion Parade and the evening. By the end of the night, they weren’t just individual entrants representingdifferent organisations – they were a team, and I think that’s something special.”
With preparations for upcoming Burdekin Water Festival events already well underway, Mayor Dalle Cort said the Community Launch was a fantastic showcase of community spirit, noting it was wonderful to see such strong attendance and genuine enthusiasm from residents, families and supporters. She said events like this highlight the importance of the BWF to the community and congratulated the 2026 Ambassador cohort.
“I would like to congratulate all of this year’s Junior and Senior Ambassadors,” she enthused.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to represent your organisation or business, build lifelong skills and create lasting memories. I encourage you to embrace the experience, support one another and take pride in being part of such a respected and longstanding Burdekin tradition.”
A full list of upcoming events is available in the Burdekin Life Event Guide and via the BWF social media pages and website, burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.
Burdekin Show Doubles Down On Community Spirit
Local focus, community competitions and classic show favourites headline next Wednesday’s Burdekin Show, as organisers aim to push attendance past 5,000 and deliver what they describe as the most community-driven program yet.
The upcoming event at Ayr Showgrounds is set to lean heavily into local participation, with organisers intentionally shifting away from outsourced entertainment and instead building a program powered by community groups, volunteers and homegrown competitors.
Vice-president of the show committee Brendan Kolb said the change was deliberate and designed to put locals at the centre of the event.
“We’ve still got all the crowd favourites, but the difference this year is we’ve kept it all local,” Mr Kolb said.
“We're relying on the community to get involved, put their nominations in and join in with all the fun.”
The program retains its familiar drawcards, including Melville’s Animal Farm, Timmy the Train, duck races, My Pets Pet Show, dog high jump, precision reptile displays, Honeycombes Tractor Pull, live machinery demonstrations, and a fireworks finale.
But this year’s emphasis is firmly on community-run competitions, including the Stockman’s Challenge, Bushman’s Relay, Watermelon Eating Competition, Dachshund Races and a “Best Dressed Dachshund” contest.
The Stockman’s Challenge will see competitors complete a series of fast-paced rural tasks such as rolling swags, moving hay bales, handling stockman equipment and assembling gear under time pressure.
The Bushman’s Relay will test team-based agricultural skills across multiple age divisions, while the Watermelon Eating Competition will see entrants race to eat the most, with prize money and bragging rights on the line.
The committee is expecting more than 5,000 attendees through the gates this year. If attendance hits the target, it would edge past last year’s turnout of just under 5,000.
Mr Kolb said the final product will be a year of work in the making, with planning for the show beginning immediately after the previous year’s event.
“It’s basically a job that never finishes,” he said.
“As soon as the posters go up, everyone starts talking about it. It’s definitely an event people circle on their calendar.
“In the end, it's very rewarding to see it all come together each year, and to be able to put it on for our local community and out-of-towners as well,” he said.
The Burdekin Show will run on Wednesday, June 24, with entry specials available from 9.30am to 11am. Adult tickets are $5, students $2, and children under five free. No pass-outs apply during the discounted entry period.
For more information, contact the Burdekin Show Committee on PH: 0459 831 790, E: burdekinshow@gmail.com, or visit W: www.burdekinshow.org.
Volunteers young and old rolled up their sleeves last weekend as a community car wash raised more than $1,600 to support local young people.
Hosted by Selectability, the Youth Car Wash saw more than 20 volunteers wash over 80 vehicles by hand throughout the day, with proceeds going towards the Burdekin Area Youth Watch (BAYWatch) program.
Selectability team leader Emma Smith said organisers were overwhelmed by the level of community support.
“We were extremely pleased and grateful for the support shown on the day and amazed by the willingness of volunteers to give their time, as well as the community members who brought their vehicles along,” she said.
“It showed us the community's commitment to supporting our local young people.”
Funds raised will directly support participants in the BAYWatch program, a community-led initiative focused on the health, wellbeing and empowerment of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Ms Smith said the event delivered benefits beyond fundraising, providing young people with opportunities to develop practical and interpersonal skills, build confidence, learn the value of teamwork and responsibility, and strengthen connections within the community.
“Community events such as this are incredibly important,” she said.
“One of the standout moments was seeing the young people work together as a team and take pride in their efforts. There was so much laughter between them, and they all had fun with water fights and dancing to the music.”
Ms Smith thanked the volunteers, donors and community members who supported the event.
“Every contribution helps create opportunities for these young people to feel a sense of belonging and to understand that this community is here to support them,” she said.
The Raine & Horne Ayr team at Burdekin Growers Race Day. Photos supplied
For Carla Healy, principal of Raine & Horne Ayr, a community can only thrive when locals support locals. That philosophy is at the centre of everything the local real estate stalwart does.
At the helm since 2024, Ms Healy has made a point of supporting local events. She calls it a duty to the community that has given her and her business so much.
“It’s always been a philosophy of mine,” she said.
“We rely on the community. All businesses rely on the community to support us, so if we can give back any way we can—whether big or small—we're happy to do so.”
Most recently, the business stood as a major sponsor of Burdekin Growers Race Day—a local favourite event that Carla said “attracts everyone.”
The business also sponsors the Karrie Webb Junior Masters golfing event, Burdekin Singers, and Student Balls, investing in the next generation of locals.
She said it was incumbent upon local businesses to keep the region ticking.
“We have to keep our community going, and the only way to keep our community going is locals supporting locals,” she said.
“All of our Christmas parties and events are held locally, we source from local businesses, local tradies, everything. Sourcing out of town is our last resort.
“We’re local all the way.”
Ms Healy said that Raine & Horne's engagement with the community goes beyond mere monetary support. She called it a “philosophy” that governs everything her and her staff do, citing a recent incident with a tenant as a prime example.
“We had a little incident the other day with one of our tenants … just an elderly man by himself. We had to attend his property yesterday and my senior rental manager, out of the kindness of her heart, helped him (with things beyond her real estate agent duties),” she recalled.
“He wanted to repay her with some flowers but couldn’t get through to the florist, so I took it upon myself to organise the flowers and pay for them. I didn’t want him to pay for them because I just appreciated the phone call to say that a staff member had done a brilliant job.
“He was forever grateful. It’s the little things that make it worthwhile.”
For Ms Healy, it is those small, consistent actions that define the business’s role locally.
“To make everything work in a community, everybody’s got to be involved. It’s all about give and take, and the more that you can give, the community does see the benefits of it all.”
“We've always been givers more so than takers.”
Burdekin Christian College was transformed into a vibrant sea of colour as students and staff came together to celebrate Crazy Colour & B Kinder Day.
On Thursday 11 June, Burdekin Christian College was transformed into a vibrant sea of colour as students and staff came together to celebrate Crazy Colour & B Kinder Day.
Everyone was encouraged to wear bright and colourful clothing, creating a cheerful atmosphere across the College. Adding to the excitement, the popular Pop Up Treat Shop was open throughout the day, offering a variety of chocolates, chips, lollies and other tasty treats.
From our youngest students to our senior cohort, the school community embraced the spirit of the day with enthusiasm, positivity and plenty of colour. It was wonderful to see students and staff celebrating kindness and inclusion together.
B Kinder Day is centred on connecting people, fostering inclusion and encouraging acts of kindness. Inspired by Billie Kinder, whose name fittingly spells “B Kinder’, the initiative began in 2018 with a vision to make a positive difference in the world. Since then, it has grown significantly, with schools and communities across the globe participating each year.
The day encourages participants to discuss what it means to be kind; empower and inspire others; promote empathy, compassion and inclusion; recognise that our actions matter and that each person has the power to make a positive difference.
The Burdekin Christian College Z Club, affiliated with the Burdekin Zonta Club Inc., did an outstanding job organising the event. Their dedication and hard work helped create a memorable day for the entire school community.
The College is delighted to announce that more than $600 was raised through the Pop Up Treat Shop and gold coin donations. All proceeds will be donated to the B Kinder Foundation to support its important work promoting kindness, inclusion and positive wellbeing.
Z Club Coordinator and School Chaplain, Mrs Rachel Cornelius, expressed her gratitude to students, staff and families for their support.
“Crazy Colour & B Kinder Day was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together, have fun and celebrate the importance of kindness. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and enthusiasm shown by everyone who participated,” she said.
Through events such as these, Burdekin Christian College continues to foster a caring and inclusive environment where every student feels valued, supported and encouraged to make a positive impact on others.
Supplied by BCC
Thursday 18 June
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Community Cuppa, 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 19 June
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Friday 19 June
Rotary Club of Home Hill Trivia Night
Friday 7pm
Trivia night hosted by the Rotary Club of Home Hill. Teams of 6 at $15 per person. Bookings on 0408 822 029 or just come along on the night. Everyone welcome.
St Colmans Parish Hall, Home Hill
Monday 22 June
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 23 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
Wednesday 24 June
QCAR Burdekin Show
Wednesday 10am
The QCAR Burdekin Show returns to the Ayr Showgrounds, delivering a vibrant day of country fun with exhibits, competitions, live entertainment, sideshow thrills and fireworks, celebrating the very best of community, agriculture and country life.
Ayr Showgrounds, Ayr
Thursday 25 June
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 26 June
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
Monday 29 June
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 30 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
Thursday 2 July
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 3 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Sunday 5 July
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Lunch at Nonna’s
Sunday 12pm
Step into a heartwarming afternoon of food, laughter and music with Lunch at Nonna’s, a lively celebration of Italian-Sicilian-Australian life featuring stories, songs and a delicious four-course meal shared in true Nonna style. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Monday 6 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 7 July
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 9 July
Cirque Nouvelle
Thursday 6pm-7:15pm
Experience the magic of Cirque Nouvelle as an internationally acclaimed cast blends breathtaking acrobatics, juggling and aerial artistry in a dazzling, modern circus production that promises to captivate and amaze audiences of all ages. Purchase tickets via www.burdekintheatre.com.au.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting, 6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Friday 10 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Saturday 11 July
LBCDA Highland Community Concert
Saturday TBA
Enjoy a vibrant night of music, dance and community spirit at the LBCDA Highland Community Concert, a free celebration of Celtic culture brought to life with lively performances at the Burdekin Theatre this July.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Sunday 12 July
Burdekin Aero Club’s Monthly BBQ Breakfast, 8am-12pm, Burdekin Aero Club, Aerodrome Road, Brandon
Monday 13 July
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group, 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Tuesday 14 July
RSL Bingo Morning, 9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Community Gardening Morning Tea, 9am-12pm, Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group, 9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
The school’s passionfruit vine Photos supplied
Students at St Francis are making a positive impact on their school environment through the efforts of the school’s dedicated environmental group, the “Planet Protectors.”
The student-led initiative is helping the school grow in more ways than one, with projects focused on sustainability, recycling, gardening, and environmental education.
One of the Planet Protectors’ key responsibilities is managing the school’s composting program. Each classroom has its own compost bin, which students empty daily into a central compost area. Food scraps that would otherwise end up in landfill are transformed into nutrient-rich soil used to support plant growth around the school.
St Francis students are also supporting the Containers for Change initiative by collecting recyclable bottles and cans. The program helps reduce waste while teaching students the importance of recycling and environmental responsibility.
The school’s vegetable and flower gardens have become another source of pride for students and staff alike. The gardens not only beautify the school grounds but also provide hands-on learning opportunities about sustainability, plant growth, and caring for creation.
Students are also learning about cane farming and its importance to the local community and regional history. Through this learning, students gain a deeper understanding of agriculture, sustainability, and the role farming plays in supporting local families and communities.
Teachers say the Planet Protectors are showing that protecting the environment does not always require major changes. Simple actions such as recycling, conserving water, reducing waste, and maintaining gardens can make a meaningful difference when everyone works together.
Principal Tegahn Maitland said it was especially important for students to “recognise the connection to farming and appreciate the amazing work our farmers and their families do to support our community.”
She called the initiative an opportunity for students to take responsibility and understand the real impact of their actions.
“I hope students learn where their fruit, vegetables and other produce come from, and develop a respect for the land and the people who care for it,” she said.
“We really enjoyed the visit from Canegrowers, and I hope we can continue working with local farmers and learning more so students build a deeper understanding of farming and sustainability.”
Supplied by St Francis Catholic School
Photo source: Facebook
Burdekin Christian College welcomed around 300 families, friends and community members for a vibrant Under 8’s Day celebration that showcased the heart of the College and the joy of early learning.
The event transformed the campus into a hub of activity, with interactive classroom displays inviting children to explore, create and play. Young visitors enjoyed rides, entertainment, a petting zoo and plenty of opportunities for hands-on discovery throughout the afternoon.
The Burdekin Shire Council has been formally lauded as one of Queensland’s leading innovators at the 2026 LGMA Awards for its world-first macroalgal facility.
The LGMA Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding achievement across statewide local government, with the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility, officially opened last year, acknowledged for its approach to sustainable infrastructure.
Mayor Dalle Cort said the award reinforced the Burdekin as a regional trailblazer.
“This recognition… demonstrates what can be achieved when we are willing to think differently,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“By taking a different approach, we’ve been able to improve environmental performance while also delivering long-term value for our ratepayers.”
Delivered in partnership with RegenAqua and Pacific Biotechnologies, the facility uses naturally occurring macroalgae to remove nutrients from wastewater, significantly reducing nitrogen and phosphorus entering waterways connected to the Great Barrier Reef catchment.
The system also produces macroalgal biomass that can be reused in agriculture and industry.
The LGMA recognition follows success at last year’s Queensland Water Awards, where the project took out the regional Infrastructure Project Innovation Award in October.
Jorja transformed her float into a Las Vegas-inspired wonderland for the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Street Parade and Mardi Gras, embracing the festival’s Bon Voyage: Roam the Globe theme. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto
As Runner-Up in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Program, Jorja Vasta is encouraging other young people to get involved as preparations begin for the 68th Burdekin Water Festival, themed River Country, Burdekin Style.
Jorja said she was thrilled to receive her title and looks back on her time in the program fondly.
“I was stoked to be crowned the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up. I couldn't believe it,” she said.
“I enjoyed the different experiences that came with being involved in the Water Festival, and my confidence definitely got a boost. I met a lot of new people, and I became socially more confident, which helped me a bit when I began my journey at high school.”
Jorja proudly represented the Burdekin Junior Rugby League Club, an organisation with strong ties to her family.
“I have loved the Burdekin Water Festival and its vibe of community connection, and it was great to represent the club I play for, and my family has been a part of,” she said.
Reflecting on Jorja's time in the Water Festival Ambassador Program, she and her mother, Samantha Vasta, said the experience helped build confidence, create new friendships and leave lasting memories, and they are excited to see this year's entrants begin their own festival journey.
“It was heartwarming to watch new friendships develop and Jorja’s confidence grow, and everyone around her [fellow ambassadors and mentors] were so supportive and encouraging,” Samantha said.
“Just know you won’t be the only one feeling nervous and just give it a go,” Jorja enthused.
Burdekin Water Festival Life Member, Robyn Hewson, presenting 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador, Asha Grasso with her sash at last year’s BWF Community Launch. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto
It's almost lights, camera, action for the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival, with excitement building across the region as preparations ramp up for the official BWF Community Launch.
The Burdekin Water Festival Committee is warmly inviting the community to gather under the stars at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt from 6pm on Friday, 19th June, to celebrate the launch of the 68th Burdekin Water Festival and the beginning of another exciting festival season.
Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said the Community Launch remains one of the most significant events on the festival calendar, bringing together sponsors, supporters, families and festival enthusiasts ahead of months of celebrations.
“The Launch is where the community gets its first chance to meet this year's Ambassadors and celebrate the beginning of their journey,” she explained.
“It sets the tone for the months ahead and reminds us what the Water Festival is all about – community, connection and local pride.”
Held under the 2026 theme, River Country, Burdekin Style, the evening will celebrate the spirit, character and lifestyle that make the Burdekin unique.
“River Country, Burdekin Style is about celebrating everything that makes the Burdekin special – our people, our lifestyle and our strong sense of community,” Mrs Ravizza said.
Guests will be among the first to meet this year's Festival Ambassadors, who will take to the stage to deliver their introductory speeches and begin their Water Festival journey.
“People can look forward to a fantastic evening of local talent, community spirit and festival excitement,” Mrs Ravizza enthused.
“Meeting this year's Ambassador team for the first time will undoubtedly be a highlight, and it's a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and show their support.”
Adding a touch of nostalgia to the evening, the much-loved Festival Fashion Parade will return, reviving a tradition from years gone by while showcasing garments from local businesses. Live entertainment from local performers Gabriel Hatheral and Mason Lando will also feature throughout the night.
Mrs Ravizza belives the launch is the perfect introduction to the Water Festival for both long-time supporters and first-time attendees.
“Even if you've never attended a Water Festival event before, the Launch is the perfect place to start,” she said.
“It's a relaxed and welcoming evening where you can enjoy local entertainment, meet this year's Ambassadors and experience the community spirit that makes the festival so special. The Water Festival belongs to the whole Burdekin, and the Launch is a great way to be part of it.”
As the countdown to the festival season begins, Mrs Ravizza said she’s beyond excited to see the community come together and celebrate everything that makes the Burdekin unique, and cannot wait to see the 2026 BWF Ambassador Program flourish for another year.
“I'm most excited to see our Ambassadors build confidence, develop new skills and form lasting friendships. It's always incredible to watch them step outside their comfort zones and discover what they're capable of,” she said.
“This year, we're also doing something a little different with our Junior Ambassadors. Instead of hosting individual fundraising events, they'll be working together to create one major community event, which I'm really looking forward to seeing come to life. I think it will be a fantastic experience for them and something the whole community can enjoy.”
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic rug or chair and settle in for an evening of entertainment, community spirit and festival fun. Attendees can bring their own picnic or pre-order meals from Feed Me Food via the Burdekin Water Festival website and social media pages.
Meal options will cater to a range of dietary requirements, including gluten-free, with pre-orders encouraged as only limited meals will be available for purchase on the night. Drinks will be available from the bar.
Tickets for the BWF Community Launch are available now via burdekinwaterfestival.com.au/events.
The Burdekin’s own marathon sensation, Karin Thorburn, brought her trove of running experience to Ozcare Home Hill last Tuesday, presenting to a crowd of her own clients who were left as shocked as they were inspired.
Residents of Ozcare Home Hill discovered there’s a little more to one of their regular carers than meets the eye.
The Burdekin’s own marathon sensation, Karin Thorburn, brought her trove of running experience back to Ozcare Home Hill last Tuesday, presenting to a crowd of her own clients who were left as shocked as they were inspired.
Fresh off a month-long trip across the globe, during which she ran 15 marathons across four continents, Thorburn gave the audience a surprise when she walked through the doors as a guest speaker rather than their regular carer.
“Some of our clients didn’t realise it was me out of uniform,” Thorburn quipped.
The esteemed runner delivered a presentation on her ‘Marathon Journey Around the World’ to an audience over 20 strong, detailing her early running days, right through to her qualification for three consecutive Boston Marathons.
An array of medals recognising her long-distance running exploits were also displayed throughout the event.
She said she relished the opportunity to share her story with her clients and peers.
“It was a lovely experience,” she said.
“(I value) presenting a topic like marathon running and giving people a better understanding of what women in running can do and achieve.”
Candice Green, diversional therapist at Ozcare Home Hill, called the presentation “inspiring.”
“Karin truly is an incredible woman. Hearing her marathon journey and the dedication she has to her sport and supporting others is inspiring,” she said.
“We truly appreciate Karin coming into our home today to share that part of her. It was wonderful to see our clients get to know a part of your world outside caring for them.”
One client added: “Karin is bloody amazing and deserves every medal she has received. She is brilliant.”
Thorburn now plans to take her story to local schools and community groups.
Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is celebrating 29 years of dedicated eye care service to the Burdekin community during the month of June.
To mark the occasion they are offering 20% off all sunglasses throughout the entire month, providing the perfect opportunity to update your eyewear while celebrating a long-standing local business success story.
Since opening their doors, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has built a reputation of delivering quality eye care and personalised service as well as providing exquisite eyewear individually tailored to each patient’s needs.
Known for their commitment to customer service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has become a trusted name in the region, offering a full suite of eye care services along with a wide selection of stylish eyewear, prescription sunglasses, safety glasses and contact lenses.
Owner and Optometrist Helene Holmes expressed her gratitude as the business reaches this milestone.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal patients from the Burdekin and beyond. It has been a pleasure to care for your eye health over the past 29 years,” she said.
With nearly three decades of service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes remains committed to delivering trusted, high-quality eye care while embracing the latest in optical technology and fashion eyewear.
Included in their Sunglass Sale are leading brands such as Oroton, Mako, Stuart Weitzman and Bill Bass, a range to suit every lifestyle and budget.
So pop in to their Practice at 150 Queen Street, Ayr, try on a new pair of sunglasses and join the celebrations.
The familiar acoustic chords and unapologetic larrikin humour of Kevin Bloody Wilson are set to hit the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June, as his Aussie Icon Tour brings decades of irreverent pub comedy back to regional Queensland’s stages. Photo supplied
The familiar acoustic chords and unapologetic larrikin humour of Kevin Bloody Wilson are set to hit the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June, as his Aussie Icon Tour brings decades of irreverent pub comedy back to regional Queensland’s stages.
Wilson, the stage persona of Bathurst-born comedian and singer-songwriter Dennis Bryant, emerged in the 1980s as one of Australia’s most recognisable exporters of blue-collar, deliberately provocative musical comedy.
But that was never the original goal.
“It all started with my mates,” Wilson said.
“I started out by writing 40 songs for them—like ‘Mick, the Master Farter’—and they enjoyed it. They said, ‘you should record some of this stuff, it's bloody funny.’ So I did, and they were absolutely right. We sold s*** loads!”
That same formula has carried him through decades of touring and releases including Kev’s Back (The Return of the Yobbo) and Born Again Piss Tank, alongside multiple ARIA nominations for Best Comedy Release.
Now, he comes to the Burdekin with a show derived from over 20 albums, each with that same pub-born, no-filter humour that launched his career into the stratosphere.
But for all the global tours and acclaim, he said it’s Aussies that resonate most with his material.
“Here in Australia, a root’s a root, and a chook’s a chook. For American and Canadian audiences, you've got to explain it,” he said.
“I'm an electrician by trade, and I just talk the way that all my mates do. I don't dolly it up or flower it up simply because it's in a song. I tell the story in the song the same way I tell it over a beer.”
Joining Wilson on stage is his daughter Tammy-Jo Bryant (Jenny Talia), continuing a touring partnership that has taken her across Australia, the UK and Europe, including a 72-date run supporting her father.
With a footprint in Nashville as a traditional country music artist, Tammy-Jo eventually made the switch to bawdy comedy after decades of exposure to her father’s work. Her first release as a comedian outsold her three previous country albums.
The pair embark on a trip a coastal run of shows from Cairns down to Brisbane at the start of this month, a stretch that Wilson calls one of his favourite.
“I'm not pissing in your pocket when I say I particularly love this route that we're on now, from Cairns down to Brizzy. It’s seriously, one of my favourite parts of the world,” he said.
Wilson says he hopes the audience can leave with a “good belly laugh.”
“It's cathartic, is the word that the audience usually tell me. It will always make you feel better, and it kicks in the endorphins that make you feel good,” he said.
“Sometimes it's good to have a good belly laugh, and to laugh at s*** you're not supposed to be laughing at.”
Catch Kevin Bloody Wilson’s Aussie Icon Tour at the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday, 11 June 2026, from 7.00pm to 9.30pm. Tickets are available via www.burdekintheatre.com.au, with seats expected to move quickly for one of the region’s most in-demand comedy nights.
The award-winning concert series Between the Tides is back in July and has found a stunning new home on Ngaro Country at Airlie Beach along the sparkling Great Barrier Reef coastline. For three years, this one-of-a-kind event has brought together music, culture, and nature, and now it is stepping into an exciting new chapter.
Find your rhythm on The Reef as some of Australia’s most celebrated musicians take to the stage against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coast. Headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies fill the air and lift across the foreshore, the music flows seamlessly from one performance to the next. Jem Cassar-Daley follows with soulful songs that drift over the sand, drawing you in with every note. Mid Drift carries the feeling onward with intimate, heartfelt melodies that seem to ripple with the waves. Tjaka sparks a surge of energy, blending beats, rap, and didgeridoo in a way that makes the crowd move together. Rounding out the lineup, local singer Kaylee West brings warm, folk-inspired songs shaped by the ocean and open road, perfectly in tune with the coastal setting.
Guided by the custodians of the Ngaro Nation, this is more than a concert. Experience cultural performances, sand art, workshops, and knowledge-sharing, alongside locally crafted food, drinks, and art. Dance, share stories, and connect with the rhythms of this ever-changing coastal landscape.
Feel the breeze off the Coral Sea, and let the music, culture, and coastal beauty carry you away. Between the Tides at Airlie Beach is a day to connect, to dance, to share stories, and to create memories you’ll never forget.
Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your place now and be part of something truly unforgettable.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.
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
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