Burdekin residents and cycling enthusiasts are being invited to ride for a cause with the launch of the 2026 Ravenswood to Burdekin Gran Fondo, a community-focused event aimed at raising awareness for men’s mental health. The announcement coincided with International Men’s Day, highlighting the importance of supporting men in regional and rural communities. The Gran Fondo, often called the “big ride,” will see more than 200 riders and volunteers come together on Saturday, 18 April 2026, to prom
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It’s that time of year when our students are closing one chapter and opening another. As they finish their high school journey, proud parents look on with heartfelt pride and maybe a tear or two as their children receive awards and celebrate achievements. Where has the time gone? Congratulations to all our students, no matter which road you choose next. Your future is bright, and we are proud of you! Recently, the 2025 North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards were held in Townsville. While t
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As the end of the year approaches and the rush of the holiday season begins, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on the incredible contribution made by one group of people who truly make the Burdekin a wonderful place to live: our local volunteers. Whether it’s the dedicated parents running the canteen at junior sport, the tireless individuals working to promote our shire, the emergency service volunteers preparing for the upcoming season, or the committee members who organise our belove
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Researchers at James Cook University (JCU) have discovered that mountain-top plants in Far North Queensland’s Wet Tropics may hold the key to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A new study published in Microbiological Research has found that natural compounds from Uromyrtus metrosideros, a plant native to the region, not only help the plant cope with rising temperatures and environmental stress but may also help repair and restore human gut bacteria. “Rising temperatures and
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Dogs, wildlife and aggressive people are among the leading causes of incidents involving Ergon crews and contractors across Queensland. After 289 reported incidents state-wide in the last 12 months, Ergon’s metering contracts manager Sarah Bradford is appealing to customers to do their bit to keep workers safe. “One of the biggest hazards we are facing in the field has nothing to do with electricity at all – it’s actually our customers. “The type of abuse and threatening behaviour being repor
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Small Schools Students Tackle Natural Disasters Students from Clare, Millaroo, Airville and Maidavale state schools are putting their English skills on full display, literally. From November 30 to December 11, the Burdekin Library will showcase a range of projects created by Prep to Year 6 students, each exploring the subject of natural disasters. The display, part of the Small Schools' English cirriculum, focused on teaching students how to create information reports. Younger students in Prep
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The Home Hill Chamber meeting last Wednesday played host to a fiery debate, as Bowen Pipeline Company director Sean Brown briefed members on the all-but-finalised plans to run the Bowen Renewable Energy Pipeline through sections of the Burdekin, outlining proposed routes, landholder impacts and the project’s looming construction timeline. The project centres on moving surplus water from the Burdekin River to the Bowen district, channelling it through a new pipeline network designed to support a
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Last Friday was a showcase of bowling brilliance at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex, with standout performances across the Blue Group, Gold Group, and Challengers games. In the Blue Group, precision ruled as four of five wickets fell clean bowled. Kip Nicholas starred with 2 for 1 and top-scored with 17 runs, including three crisp fours, earning a “McDonalds Sports Award.” Mitchell Patti (1/4) and Jake Cullen (1/8) rattled the stumps, while Tait Parker claimed a sharp run out. Patti’s
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Home Hill State High School came alive this week as students, staff, industry partners, and community members gathered to celebrate National Ag Day — an annual event recognising the vital role agriculture plays in Australia’s economy, communities, and future workforce. The school showcased its strong commitment to food and fibre education through industry engagement and a vibrant celebration of food made from school-grown produce. Agriculture Coordinator Louise Nicholas thanked the dedicated st
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Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vi
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Meet Harvey! He's the epitome of laid-back charm and mellow vibes. Harvey is looking for a new family that appreciates his relaxed demeanor and independent nature. His love for humans is undeniable, but he balances it effortlessly with a contentedness to chill on his own, making him the perfect companion for both busy households and quieter homes. Harvey has an easy-going personality that's both comforting and engaging. He thrives in an environment where he can enjoy a leisurely pace, whether h
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Burdekin residents are being urged to roll up their sleeves and clear out the clutter ahead of cyclone season, with Super Waste Sunday returning on 7 December 2025. The annual community clean-up lets households dispose of a wide range of waste for free across all Council facilities, making it easier than ever to tidy up yards and homes. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the event is more than just a chance to dump rubbish. “Keeping our homes and yards clear of unnecessary waste is a key part of ge
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This festive season, the Burdekin Community Association is calling on the community to help bring joy to locals in need. From families experiencing financial hardship or domestic and family violence, to older people spending Christmas alone, the Support Centre aims to provide a festive lift to those who need it most. Community members are invited to donate new items to help make Christmas brighter. Needed items include bonbons, festive decorations and tableware, toiletries including women’s hyg
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Friday 28 & Saturday 29 November Rhythm Edge Dance Studios: Momentum 7.30pm Momentum delivers high-energy choreography celebrating a full year of dance achievement. A two-night showcase featuring Rhythm Edge’s senior performers. Tickets from $40; family and concession options available. Burdekin Theatre, Ayr Saturday 29 November Burdekin Craft Spectacular Markets 9am–2pm The Burdekin Craft Spectacular returns to the Burdekin Memorial Hall with a massive range of handmade goods from local and di
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Memories of Johnno Cole’s match-winning try in the 1963 Foley Shield clash at Rugby Park may be long gone, but this Saturday, the spirit of Burdekin rugby league returns with the Clubs of Origin at Bendigo Bank Park. Supporters of the region’s four historic clubs have resurrected the colours, appointed coaches, and created a day of action and celebration, uniting players from different codes for one unforgettable event. The Colts will wear the familiar red and white, coached by Ignatius Park’s
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Over the weekend, a small contingent from Ayr Surf Club headed to Eimeo to compete at the North Barrier Branch Championships. The carnival is the culmination of the region’s main surf sports season, with the announcement of the NBB Youth State Team, who will go on to compete at Surf Life Saving Queensland Youth States in February 2026 on the Sunshine Coast. The weekend saw some changes to the original program due to unexpected marine creatures; however, the majority of individual and team event
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Saturday PM 29/11 1-5pm - Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivian Sunday AM 30/11 9am-1pm - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie Sunday PM 1-5pm - Group A - Chris Wicks PC, Richard Dale PC, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zachary Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and William Holt
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The Grand Finals for the Burdekin Touch Association were the exciting culmination of a fantastic season. Baywatch A reigned supreme in Division 1 with an outstanding display of attacking Touch. The players’ athleticism, speed and agility ensured that they continued their domination of the competition. All the hard work and training paid off for Silly Soft Serves as they were successful in Division 2. Laurence Lampton (Coach) and Allyce Becke (Manager) should be very proud of the team’s progress
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Another warm afternoon greeted players at Homehill Bowls Club, and it’s still only spring! Twenty-five players took to the greens, including two very important competitors, Wayne Newton and Alex Bojack, finalists in the club singles. Alas for Alex, Wayne prevailed on the day and is our 2025 Singles Champion (pictured: Alex congratulating Wayne). The final was played on Rink 3. On Rink 4, Michael Young, Elaine Young, and Hugh Montgomery narrowly defeated Judy Elton, Nev Webb, and Mick McClosky.
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As part of Tennis Australia’s 1 Point Slam community events, Home Hill Tennis is set to host it’s very own 1 Point Slam on Sunday 30th November at 5 pm. The organizers hope to see a large number of local players take part, hoping to claim victory and a spot in the State Championships draw to be held on Saturday 20 December 2025. We need a minimum of 8 entries online. Winners of the eight State Championships events around the country will move through to the AO 1 Point Slam Main Draw, where 48
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The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football season wrapped up in style last Friday, with finals across seven grades delivering thrills, skill, and plenty of nail-biting moments for the large crowd in attendance. The A grade final saw Nrgize edge out Alliance Pharmacy 4–3 in a tense contest that swung from end to end, with desperate defence repeatedly halting sweeping attacks. Darian Lampton and Tremayne Horan were named players of the final for Nrgize. Continued on page 29 Results Across The Grounds C
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Burdekin Honoured For Risk Excellence Burdekin Shire Council has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to risk management, receiving the Risk Excellence Award at the 129th Local Government Annual Conference: Pathways to Liveability, held on the Gold Coast from October 20–22. The award celebrates the Council’s proactive and integrated approach to identifying and managing risks across all operations, ensuring community safety and the resilience of local services. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort
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It's that time of year again. Colourful lights beginning to light up local streets. Shop shelves packed with artificial trees. Mariah Carey slowly defrosting. That's right. It's only a matter of time before my annual 'Elf' viewing. In fact, what I love about the movie 'Elf' is that it always reminds me of Christmas growing up—back when I used to peek outside my window past 'bedtime' in hopes Santa would crash-land in my backyard, lining up carrots for the reindeer like it was a buffet. It's e
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A pair of young wallaby joeys are getting a fresh start in life after being rescued and taken into the care of North Queensland Wildlife Care. The tiny marsupials, still dependent on bottle feeds, are now receiving the nourishment, warmth and attention they need to recover and grow. The joeys will remain in care until they are strong enough to be released back into the wild, where they will eventually hop freely once more. For now, dedicated carers are providing round-the-clock feeding, comfort
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The announcement of a new procurement policy and grants targeting security has reaffirmed the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to back our small and family businesses, according to Member for Burdekin Dale Last. This week the Crisafulli Government announced Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program with small and family businesses encouraged to apply for funding to boost security and deter criminal activity on their businesses. The announcement follows a $35 billion shake-up of Qu
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