Becoming a full-time firefighter is no small feat, and Lindsay Wilson and Carter Dal Ponte are now two of Ayr's newest recruits. Selected from a pool of 5,000 to 7,000 applicants, both were offered positions at their local station after a rigorous selection process. As locals, they chose Ayr as their preferred deployment location, joining the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) in a demanding yet rewarding role. Continued on page 12. 1. NEW RECRUITS: Lindsay Wilson holding an axe and C
Read the full storyFarmers are often considered the backbone of the Australian economy. Yet with long hours, high demands, and tough conditions it’s easy for them to put their health on the backburner. Now, new research from the University of South Australia hopes to provide farmers with a dedicated pain management resource, to help them better manage chronic pain. Currently, there are no farmer-focused chronic pain management resources available to help Australian farmers better manage chronic pain. UniSA P
Read the full storyGet your dancing shoes ready for a night of nostalgia at the Burdekin School Fundraiser’s Rock the 70’s Dance Party! On October 25, 2024, the Queens Hotel in Ayr will come alive with the unforgettable sounds of the 70’s, as Attori takes the stage to perform their smash-hit show, filled with classic tunes that defined the era. From standout anthems like "Eagle Rock" to disco favourites such as "Disco Inferno," "Dancing Queen," and "I Will Survive," this event is set to transport you back to the g
Read the full storyA good crowd of Rugby League supporters last Sunday witnessed a good standard of Rugby League played at the annual Home Hill Harvest Festival Town of Origin! The first Town of Origin in this format was played in 2013 and since then Ayr has won five times to Home Hills four with no games played in 2018 and 2020. As is customary in these games the type of play was tough and hard with the town heritage at stake. Two former A grade coaches of the roosters, Chris Perry and Kieran Dawes took contro
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
It’s an exciting time in the Burdekin as our community is bustling with activity, especially with the Home Hill Harvest Festival in full swing! From Ephemera on display to the much-anticipated Town of Origin clash, there’s no shortage of events bringing us together to celebrate the heart of our region. One of the highlights of the festival is the King and Queen of the Hill competition, where local camaraderie truly shines. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to cheer on those vying for the crow
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
Every day we are blessed to be in this wonderful community and Sofia Andreou experienced that first hand. Last week, she posted on a popular Facebook community chat site offering to give $50 for free to go to a good home. It all began when she was cleaning her rental property and found a $50 note hidden behind a book, deciding not to keep it but give it away instead. “So I thought, I'm going to actually advertise this because it's $50 I didn't even notice that I had and it's very easy to forg
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
Home Hill State High School has claimed victory at the Opti-MINDS 2024 State Championship in Division II Media Communications, an outstanding achievement in the national competition, which has been running for 36 years. This marks the second year Home Hill has competed, having previously won the Townsville regional finals last year and gone on to claim the Division III Media Communications title at the state level. In 2024, Home Hill entered two teams into the Townsville regional finals, and bot
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
The Ayr and Home Hill Rugby teams. Photo credit: Marni Hine
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
The Burdekin Bocce Club warmly welcomed plenty of visitors and experienced players to enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea and a bowl on Sunday 20 October to celebrate Senior’s Month. Many attendees picked up a bocce for the first time on the weekend, embracing the relaxed nature of the beloved sport, as well as playing a round of a classic Italian card game. Mother and daughter duo, Dianne and Merle Glover took to the sport for the first time, and to the Club’s delight, the pair very much enjoyed
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
On Wednesday, 16 October, the A Grade Women’s Singles final was played between Darell Pearce and Lyn Storrie. In a gripping contest, with President Joy Woods marking the match, the game remained close until Lyn Storrie powered through to secure the win. This marks back-to-back titles for Lyn - congratulations! Both ladies put on a fantastic performance, and thanks once again to Joy Woods for officiating the final. In the social game played at the same time, Kay Garner, Bev Gairoch, and Helen Col
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
Get your dancing shoes ready for a night of nostalgia at the Burdekin School Fundraiser’s Rock the 70’s Dance Party! On October 25, 2024, the Queens Hotel in Ayr will come alive with the unforgettable sounds of the 70’s, as Attori takes the stage to perform their smash-hit show, filled with classic tunes that defined the era. From standout anthems like "Eagle Rock" to disco favourites such as "Disco Inferno," "Dancing Queen," and "I Will Survive," this event is set to transport you back to the g
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
On the spooky evening of Thursday 31 October, the ghosts and ghouls of the Burdekin will come alive for one spooktacular night of scares, sweets, and horror at the iconic, Halloween House, opposite the Ayr Golf Course. An outstanding display of lights and decorations will ignite Darwin Street to celebrate the frightful holiday with plenty of fun treats for everyone to enjoy. An almost three weeklong affair, Jeffrey Lunn and Leon McCormack decorate their home from top to bottom, producing amazin
Read the full storyOctober 25, 2024
For the past three years, radio host Ros Row has been captivating audiences with a rich blend of musical genres and heartfelt moments. Drawn to this profession by a deep love for music and an invitation from a friend, Ros recalls lying in bed on Sunday afternoons, immersed in the Top 40 hits. “I love all genres of music,” she shares, embodying the spirit of a true music enthusiast. Among the many artists that inspire Ros, Matchbox Twenty and their charismatic frontman, Rob Thomas, hold a special
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
Get your dancing shoes ready for a night of nostalgia at the Burdekin School Fundraiser’s Rock the 70’s Dance Party! On October 25, 2024, the Queens Hotel in Ayr will come alive with the unforgettable sounds of the 70’s, as Attori takes the stage to perform their smash-hit show, filled with classic tunes that defined the era. From standout anthems like "Eagle Rock" to disco favourites such as "Disco Inferno," "Dancing Queen," and "I Will Survive," this event is set to transport you back to the g
Read the full storyOctober 24, 2024
The festive season in Ayr is set to be brighter than ever, with the annual Ayr Christmas Street Party scheduled for Thursday, 19th December. The Burdekin Shire Council is calling on local singers, dancers, and performers to fill the streets with holiday cheer. Local eateries are encouraged to join in, with outdoor seating allowing patrons to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Adding to the excitement, shoppers have the chance to win fantastic prizes in a special draw. When customers spend $30 at part
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