The Lower Burdekin Scout Group held a Christmas Raffle for the first time in the last 5-7 years. The Scouts would like to thank “Beaver” who is one of our Adult Helpers for coming up with the fundraising idea and doing all the leg work. This fundraiser will assist us in keeping our membership fees the lowest in our region.
We especially would like to thank the following local organisations who supported us by donating vouchers and gifts, which enabled us to create 12 packages of gifts as prizes:
Home Hill News & Coffee, Pathway to Holistic Health, Home Hill, Marzays, Home Hill
The Prawn Shop, Home Hill, Dee & Vees Takeaway, Home Hill, Fit Gym, Home Hill, Coles, Ayr, Woolworths, Ayr, Lilly May’s Flowers & Gifts, Home Hill and Tattoo Lotus, Ayr.

We would also like to thank Harvey Norman and Woolworths, for allowing the Scouts to sell the raffle tickets outside their stores. Harvey Norman also additionally supported the Scouts by allowing us to run a BBQ and sell raffle tickets on Thursday, 19 December.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts sold 479 tickets at $1 each to local families and visitors, and there were 12 prize packages.
The raffle and BBQ were the last Scouting activity in 2024, which has been a busy year for our Scouts.
Some of the activities were: Australia Day, swimming, Anzac Day, abseiling, camping, hiking, sailing, Harvest Festival, Ayr Show, Water Festival, visiting local Emergency Services and movie night.
The 2025 program has been developed and there will be lots of activities like there was in last year. 2025 starts with the Jamboree in Maryborough from the 5–16th of January.
People who would like to try Scouting, can come along in 2025 for four nights at no cost or more information, simply call Rikki on: 0419 104 035.
The Lower Burdekin Scouts wish all the readers, our supporters and members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

‍

Lower Burdekin Scouts, Corey and Rikki, setting up for the BBQ. Photo: Supplied

‍

The Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Incorporated will soon celebrate its 35th anniversary within the region, with the committee’s rich agricultural history dating back to 1990.

John Trace held the position of 1990 Burdekin Shire Chairman and decided to establish a Landcare steering committee within the community, issuing an official meeting on the 28th of February. A year later, following on from Councillor Ron Brennan chairing the first public meeting of the committee, April of 1991 saw the announcement of President, Bob Whitson, Vice President, Maree Cameron, Secretary, Mike Franettovich, and Treasurer, Pat Neville as well as the renaming of the group to Lower Burdekin Landcare Association Incorporated. As June of 1992 rolled around, Les Searle was elected Chairperson, and actioned scouting for tree planting sites in both Ayr and Home Hill, and the rest, as they say, is history.

With over three decades of achievements and milestones, 2024 has seen the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association encourage a new generation into the fold through the launch of a wonderful Junior Landcare program. Chairwoman, Deb Calligaro, notes the program as a celebratory accomplishment, warmly thanking Keith Kiloh for his instrumental role in launching the initiative, wishing him all the best ahead of his retirement.  

“Keith has done an amazing job as our previous Chairman and has really set us up for a bright future,” shared Deb.

“We thank Kieth immensely for all his hard work, dedication and leadership during his time as our leader and wish him all the very best in life.”

Along with the successful introduction of the Junior Landcare program, the Association celebrated both National Tree Day 4 Kids, and National Tree Day throughout 2024 along with a selection of improvements to their International Road facility. With 2025 underway, Lower Burdekin Landcare plans to continue advancing the Association’s reach within the community and increase volunteer numbers, with Deb inviting the community to see the work they carry out firsthand.

“We would like to create a mental health hub where anyone can come to the nursery and sit amongst nature and enjoy a cuppa and a chat with us,” added Deb.

“We would love for people to come into our nursery and see what we do and what is involved in being a volunteer or a member.

As a volunteer you don’t have to come every day that we are open nor do you have to stay the whole four hours, we are happy for any time that anyone can spare.”

Deb and the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association committee invite the community to either visit the nursery located at 57 International Road, Ayr or reach out via 07 3543 0477 or 0407 333 927 for more information.

‍

The Burdekin region is set to cultivate the next generation of agricultural talent with the return of the much-anticipated Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition. This unique event invites local schools to roll up their sleeves and showcase their skills in sugarcane cultivation while fostering a sense of pride and collaboration across the community.
The competition, beginning in April, promises an exciting journey for participating schools as they learn the intricacies of sugarcane farming. From planting to nurturing their crops, students will gain hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture and witness the vital role the sugarcane industry plays in the region's economy.
By embracing this challenge, students and teachers alike will delve into environmentally conscious farming practices, nurturing both their crops and a deeper understanding of the hard work and dedication required in agriculture. The initiative is designed to spark a passion for farming among the younger generation while promoting teamwork and innovation in the classroom.
Schools will cultivate their crops over 12 months, with industry experts evaluating the sugarcane for quality and growth. The competition will culminate in May 2025, aligning with the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival, where the winning school will be announced during the Australian Hand Cutting Championships.
The victorious school will not only take home a $1,000 prize, proudly sponsored by CANEGROWERS Burdekin, but also a trophy and a year’s worth of bragging rights.
This grassroots initiative continues to inspire students and highlight the importance of agriculture in the Burdekin community, ensuring that the region’s sweetest industry has a bright and sustainable future.

‍

Grower advocacy group, CANEGROWERS, have said that Queensland's sugarcane farming families have spent Christmas counting the cost of yet another delayed harvest. It claims that updated industry analysis has found that poor milling performance throughout the year has caused crushing to continue into the wet season, which could cost growers over one-hundred million dollars in 2024.
The analysis by CANEGROWERS has revealed that as of 14 December more than 1.8 million tonnes of cane, worth a staggering $179 million, remained unharvested across Queensland.
“Some mills are still crushing, so it’s too early to tell how many tonnes will remain unharvested when the season finally ends, but that could happen any day given the continuing wet weather we’re experiencing across the state,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
“What’s clear is that growers and harvesting contractors are going to take a huge financial hit this year due to delays that they have no control over.”
The challenges are compounded by the downstream effects of standover cane and late-harvested ratoons, which threaten to erode grower profits well into 2025.
While mills also face financial setbacks from the extended crush, growers bear the lion’s share of costs, Mr Menkens said.
“As the crush drags past mid-November, rising temperatures and the onset of the rainy season create a triple blow – reduced sugar content in the cane, higher harvesting costs, and damage to wet paddocks, which require expensive remediation.”
The disparity in financial losses is stark.
“Obviously mills lose out too, but of that $179 million, the cost to growers and harvesting contractors is $115 million, so the growing sector is by far the hardest hit,” Mr Menkens said.
“We’re not supposed to be harvesting at this time of year, it’s as simple as that, and farmers are frustrated by the situation, which many feel is preventable.
“This frustration is reflected in tension across the industry, but arguments alone won’t solve the issue.”
Underlying these delays are systemic problems. Queensland’s sugar mills, many of which are ageing, urgently require significant investment to meet modern standards.
Workforce shortages compound the issue, with mill workers, harvester operators, and truck drivers in short supply.
Mr Menkens emphasised the need for unity and transparency to overcome these challenges.
“The future of our industry hinges on collaboration. Fixing systemic issues requires growers, millers, and government to work together, but we also need transparency.
“Every year the milling sector tells us the vast sums that they spend on maintenance and capital expenditure, but we don’t actually know what the true cost of bringing our mills up to speed might be.
“Spending $40-$50 million on capex sounds impressive, but if the true cost is $100 million then suddenly it doesn’t seem like nearly enough. So, transparency is essential.”
While historical tensions and mistrust between growers and millers persist, the industry’s survival depends on building trust and working toward shared goals, Mr Menkens said.
“Confidence to spur capital investment, shared strategic planning, and workforce development must be priorities.”
“It’s time to move beyond blame and focus on solutions. With cooperation, we can realign our seasons and position Queensland’s sugarcane industry for a stronger future.”

‍

Photo supplied: CANEGROWERS

‍

The Get Set for Work program, run by Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), targets 15-19-year-olds who have dropped out of school and provides them with a Certificate II in skills for work and vocational pathways.

The program includes resume and cover letter assistance, first aid, RSA, and white cards, and features guest speakers on topics like budgeting, mental health, workers' rights, road safety, indigenous culture, and drug and alcohol awareness.

“Our Get Set for Work program is for youth aged 15 to 19 and is part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. The program aims to guide youth who have dropped out of school towards gaining employment,” explains Rowan Scott, PCYC Program Coordinator.

The Get Set for Work program is free, runs five days a week, and starts up again on January 28. Success stories include participants landing jobs in travel agencies, engineering, and hospitality.

The program aims to build confidence and employable skills.

PCYC’s most recent program in December, saw a 100% success rate, with all five participants completing the program. Past graduates often return to share their employment successes with the participants.

“Seeing the participants come in at the start, they’re a little nervous, a bit immature and unsure. By the end of the 10-week program, however, we start to see big changes in them when they complete their Certificate II, or find work for example. It's a small reward for us but a big deal for them,” Rowan says with pride.

“Here at PCYC we also run a ‘Break the Cycle’ program, which helps participants obtain their 100 hours towards their learner's license. Like Get Set for Work, it’s free! We also provide a pick-up and drop-off service, which runs five days a week, from 9am to 3pm,” he says.

Both programs are designed to give participants more freedom and flexibility, while giving them a greater sense of self-worth and purpose. PCYC continues to support their participants even after the courses have concluded, providing ongoing assistance.

Businesses are encouraged to participate in the programs, with many seeing great success as a result of hiring entry-level workers.

Interested participants and businesses, can contact Rowan Scott or Tamara Kemp for more information on: 06 4783 1009.

‍

Rowan Scott (Program Coordinator) and Tamara Kemp (Social Worker). Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍

We are checking in with you all!

How are we all going?
How did Christmas go for everyone?  
A relaxing time spent with those that matter, or did it feel more like a dumpster fire?

As we reflect on the past year, there comes a moment to release the challenges of 2024. Tonight presents a wonderful opportunity to shift our focus toward planning and setting intentions for the new year. It’s a time for manifestation and envisioning what we want to create in 2025.

No matter how your experiences have shaped you, this moment allows for growth and renewal. Letting go of the difficulties faced lets us clear space for new opportunities and aspirations. This is not merely about resolution-making but about truly contemplating the direction we wish to take moving forward.

The significance and history of New Year's celebrations can be traced back thousands of years and vary widely across different cultures and regions.

In 46 BC, Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar, which established January 1 as the beginning of the year. This choice was related to January being named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, gates, transitions, and time, symbolically looking back at the past and forward to the future.  Regardless of the specific date or customs, the essence of welcoming a new year resonates universally, transcending cultural barriers.

New Year's celebrations represent hope, renewal, and the collective desire for a better future, making it one of the most significant and widely celebrated occasions around the globe.  

We are excited to welcome everyone back to the Centre from Monday 6th January 2025.
Our programs and services will be available from this date.

Our groups' start-up dates:

Crochet Group – Monday, 13th January starting at 1pm.  We are opening the group up to other crafters.  If you would like to join the group and be around like-minded crafters like yourself – get in touch with us to find out more.

Presentation of Grief – Wednesday, 29th January 10.30am.  An interactive education session on what grief looks like, how to support someone who is grieving and ideas on self-care.

Burdekin Dementia Support Group – Tuesday, 4th February at 10.00am

Burdekin Senior Computer Club – Thursday, 6th February at 9.30am

Burdekin Parkinsons Support Group - Friday, 28th February at 9.30am

So, as the clock ticks down, let’s embrace this moment to renew our focus, heal from past difficulties, and cultivate hope for the future.

Until next time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

‍

The final Honour Board event of 2024, Constable & Taylor Day, was held on Saturday, December the 7th, drawing an impressive 56 participants eager to embrace the tradition at the Ayr Golf Club. Despite the rainy weather earlier in the week, the course was in fantastic condition, thanks to the tireless efforts of our volunteers and greenkeeper with their hard work ensuring a seamless event.

Captain Sandra Wight shared a heartfelt moment during the event, reflecting on her visit last year with Dr. Bill Taylor, just before his passing. During their discussion, Dr. Taylor spoke fondly of how both his father, Dr. Taylor, and Dr. Constable were passionate about fostering new friendships through randomly drawn partners. This vision of inclusivity has become a cherished tradition, making Constable & Taylor Day a special occasion each year.

The day was filled with excitement and friendly competition, culminating in a thrilling playoff to determine the next names to grace the Honour Board. The crowd gathered around the playoff hole to witness some exceptional putting, with Patron Pat Lawson delivering a clutch putt for par to secure the victory by a single shot.

Congratulations to Geoff Munro and Pat Lawson, the 2024 Constable & Taylor Day champions! A special mention also went to the runners-up, Donna Reid and Lenny Phillips, who both played brilliantly, with their teams finishing with 44 stableford points.
Equal third place was claimed by Mike Casey and Ross McLaughlin, as well as Charlie Coles and Phil Johnstone, who both scored 42 points. In a tie for fourth place, with 39 points each, were Trevor Jones & Ann Phelan, Robert Potter & Vin Sorbello, and Marion Chappell & Jon Lena.

‍

On 11 December, The Home Hill Surgery was thrilled to celebrate a milestone – their 10th anniversary – since the irrepressible and lovable, Dr Tata, has taken over the practice.

It has been an incredible journey, and one they couldn’t have done without the local community’s support, who’ve seen the practice go from one doctor, to two, to now six! Quite remarkable when you consider that most regional and rural areas are lucky to have one doctor, and even then that’s usually a locum – a temporary or visiting GP.

“It’s a passion and honour of mine, to practice,” Dr. Tata says when he discusses the centre’s 10th anniversary. He gave much thanks to his wife, family, and his other doctors, as well as his many supporters, presenting those in attendance with special awards for their support on the day.

‍

Dr. Tata celebrating with friends and family. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍

Growing Health, Caring For Community

In the time since Dr. Tata took over the clinic, he’s not only been able to increase the number of doctors in the region from one to six, but brought on other practitioners, including the newly arrived physiotherapist, Joshi Kota, who has only been in the Burdekin area since early October.

Named a finalist for GP of Australia in 2019, along with being named the best GP in all of Queensland, it’s a testament to Dr. Tata and his Home Hill Surgery, long considered to be one of the friendliest general practices around.

The Home Hill Surgery also offers other services not found in other regional areas, including the new procedural room, which was opened by Dr Tata and Mayor Dalle Cort on the day. That now means patients can have some minor procedures taken care of, while still being close to home, and family and friends, rather than visit Townsville or travel to bigger hospitals much further away.

“We work like a small family here,” Dr Tata says. It’s something that is reiterated among not only his doctors and staff, but the wider community, with many grateful for Dr. Tata for not only taking over the surgery, but adding real value and quality service in a region that really needed it.

Many people came to join him and his staff for a special celebration to mark this significant occasion, as they looked back on the memories, honoured the achievements, while looking forward to many more exciting years ahead.

He also received hundreds of wonderful emails and video messages congratulating him on his 10th anniversary and continued success in the community, including from MP Dale Last.

Dr Tata perhaps summed up the occasion and mood best when he says, “We may be a small dot on the map, but we’re big on heart.”

Judging by the number of people in attendance, and the numerous video messages from key organisations and prominent positions within the Burdekin, it’s easy to see why.

For all your medical needs, go visit the Home Hill Surgery, on 67 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill, and check out the vast array of services on offer, as well as the new procedural room.

‍

Dr. Tata thanks his family and supporters. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

Dr Tata with his wife Pavani Ganapathi, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, and his supporters, cut the 10th Anniversary cake. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍

Ready to brighten your day and support a great cause? Then head on down to 12 Patricia Road, Ayr, where you can pick your own sunflowers for a donation, with all the money collected going into research for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Australia.

Started up by a local man who wanted to remain anonymous, during a brief conversation, he said he was doing it after one of his good friends lost their child to CDH.

“Basically, anything I can do that might help save a life, whether it’s money for research into CDH which can possibly save other child’s lives, felt like the thing to do,” he said.

When asked if he’d repeat this beautiful display again next year, he was unsure, but if the genuine, heartfelt response from the community is anything to go by, you can expect that there’ll be a nice donation amount being sent to CDH Australia after it’s all done.

The display has seen a great response and participation from the local Burdekin community, who has taken up the challenge and come armed with snips or scissors, cutting their own sunflowers to take and decorate their home or give as gifts to others, while leaving generous donations for the cause.

Bring your own snips, snap some fun photos, post on social media, all while taking home a gorgeous bloom!

Your donation helps CDH Australia support families impacted by Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia, raising awareness and funding for life-saving research and support.

‍

Local sunflower display now on display to support CDH Australia. Photo credits: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍

So as another year is almost over, last minute Chrissie gifts are checked off, and we step into 2025 (how did we get there so quickly?), from me, Trish, Chelsea and the rest of the Burdekin Life team, we want to thank everyone from the local community, the Burdekin Shire Council, community and support groups, sports teams and clubs, and especially advertisers, for your continued support and commitment to the paper. Without it, the Burdekin Life Newspaper would cease to exist.

In my short time here, me and my own little family – which will be extended by one next April – have nothing but gratitude for the welcome and support we’ve been given. When you’ve been on the road as long as we have (19 months), across two countries, simply looking to put down roots, it’s that kind of care and camaraderie, that makes the world of difference.

As we all look forward to a vibrant 2025, may your festive season be one of joy, delight, and wonderful memories. To those who may have lost loved ones throughout the year, let’s gather around them and let them know they are not alone.

A strong, healthy, and compassionate community, can only be as good as everyone is willing to contribute. Doesn’t matter whether it’s their services, time, or support, we can each do something to lift the Burdekin community up and make it a shining example across Queensland and Australia.

I look forward to meeting many more of you next year, hearing your own great personal stories, and sharing the delights of them within these pages.

For now, have yourselves a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and here’s hoping Santa Claus brings you all what you want most. Ho Ho Ho!

‍

Staff at the Ayr Hospital took time to recognise some of their longest serving staff with a special morning tea function on Friday, 13th December, last week.
 
Eight staff across the whole nursing, medical, operational and administration service groups, were presented with certificates and commemorative pins by Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, highlighting their milestone years of service.
 
Notably, clinical nurse, Suzette Marano, who primarily works within the emergency department, was awarded her certificate for 35 years of service to the health service.
 
Ayr Health Service director of nursing, Tracey Gabiola, said Ms Marano was one of the most experienced and invaluable members of the team.
 
“Suzette is a shining example of a rural generalist nurse who is competent across much of our service,” Tracey said.
 
“While she primarily works in emergency, she also provides support to all our nursing and medical staff within the acute ward and perioperative when required.”
 
“As a clinical nurse, Suzette provides an advanced level of assessment and emergency response skills and has provided quality leadership within our nursing team over her long career here at the Ayr hospital,” Tracey concluded.
 
Other staff who were recognised for Ayr Health Service length of service awards on the day included:
 
       ◦ Mary Anne Fraser    30 years
       ◦ Kathy Dunn              25 years
       ◦ Helen Fraser             15 years
       ◦ Jade Nielsen             10 years
       ◦ Colin De Wit            10 years
       ◦ Sandra Boccalatte    10 years
       ◦ Katrina Moretto       10 years

‍

Clinical nurse, Suzette Marano with Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort. Photo: Supplied

L-R: Sandra Boccalatte (10 years), Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Colin De Wit (10 years), Suzette Marano (35 years), Jade Nielsen (10 years). Photo: Supplied

‍

It may have been the tenth year of Member for Burdekin Dale Last's Christmas Appeal, but the generosity of Burdekin residents has again left him both humbled and proud to represent such a great community. 

Hopes of ensuring the tenth year of the Christmas appeal could be the biggest yet have been exceeded with donations of non-perishable food and toys pouring in over recent weeks at the Burdekin Electorate Office. 

Mr Last said despite costs of living continuing to impact family budgets it was incredibly humbling to see the generosity of residents ignite for a tenth festive season. 

"2024 has been an incredibly tough year for many community members and knowing that these items will go to those people who may not have otherwise been able to afford to have a few presents under the tree or enjoy some festive treats is incredibly heartwarming," Mr Last said.
 
"Whether it was your first time or your tenth time popping into the Burdekin Electorate Office to provide a donation to the appeal, I'd like to offer my deepest gratitude on behalf of the recipients for your generosity.”

Mr Last said it was not only individuals who had taken the time to give to the appeal but also community groups, with the Burdekin Men’s Shed once again supporting the appeal.

“Each and every year of my appeal has seen an array of cherished toys and additional donations from our local shedders and woodcraftsmen, which I know are incredibly special for the children who receive them on Christmas morning,” Mr Last said.

“The Salvation Army’s volunteers will now put together hampers based on the needs of the families they are supporting. It’s a great effort by those volunteers as well because it means that families get the support they need, and every single donation is used in a way that will make a real difference.”

“The festive season is now well underway and with the end of a busy year approaching, it’s a timely reminder to us all that while this season can bring joy to many, it can be difficult for others.”

“Sharing a smile, a few kind words or donating some time to charity doesn’t cost a cent but may mean the world to someone else, after all that is the true spirit of Christmas.”

‍

Christmas appeal with Charles Ford and Gwen of The Salvos, with Dale Last. Photo: Supplied.

‍

Born and raised in India, Joshi Kota, who has worked in the U.S and U.K, where he spent many years studying and practicing, comes with a wealth of experience. Having recently moved to the Burdekin in October, he is now Home Hill Surgery’s new physiotherapist.

“I first met Dr. Tata, while I was working in the U.S before he invited me to join him in here in Home Hill,” Joshi says.

Joshi has been a physio since 2018, with experience in dealing with musculoskeletal pain management, sports injuries, women's health, and neuro-rehab. Despite the lack of readily available activities he has been used to in bigger cities, with a strong willingness to work in rural areas he couldn’t be happier.

“I really like interacting with my patients, especially the elderly, as I really listen to their problems and then provide the best care possible for them. For many of them, it’s the first they’ve ever had access to physiotherapy in the comfort of their home,” he says.

Not only has he worked with the NHS, but also has a Master's in Business Analytics, while currently pursuing a doctorate in occupational health and safety. The added benefit of an experienced physiotherapist like Joshi in the Burdekin region, is also his extended studies and knowledge of women’s health for prenatal and postnatal care for women.

“I help guide women through their pregnancies, providing exercises to ease delivery, and managing any postnatal complications. I always emphasise the benefits of exercise and health maintenance during, and after, pregnancy,” he says.

Joshi aims to provide the best care to the Burdekin community, while appreciating the positive feedback he’s received already from long-time residents who had never seen a physio before.

“I work for the welfare of the patients. I’m the only physiotherapist in the area who offers low private charges and bulk billing, which is not only a significant service for the community, but also a rarity in the area,” Joshi says.

With such a strong team dynamic at Dr. Tata's Home Hill clinic, which celebrated its 10th anniversary with Dr Tata in charge, Joshi describes all the doctors, nurses, and staff, as that of a cohesive family.

“I appreciate the supportive and collaborative environment at Home Hill surgery, it’s been really great. Everyone has been very welcoming of me and wife, including the local community. I’ve found being here has enhanced my professional and personal well-being, too” Joshi smiles.

‍

Home Hill surgery’s new physio, Joshi Kota. Photo: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍

For the second year in a row, the Burdekin Christian College and Zonta Club, has organised a Christmas Dress-Up Day and Christmas Pop-Up Treat Shop, in order to raise money for charity.

Towards the end of Term 4, BCC staff and their students joined in the Christmas spirit wearing their best Christmas costumes. The Z-Club also held a Christmas Pop-Up Treat Shop with lots of treats and goodies, which were sold on the day to the delicious delight of many.

There were also prizes awarded for the best dressed Christmas costumes, and worthy winners were: Arlo Flynn, Dani Broadhead, Amity Crosswell, Sophie Wilkie, and Isabella Cole, who each received a Christmas Goodie Bag for their efforts.

“It was so hard to decide on the winners because everyone looked amazing,” says Rachel Cornelius, BCC Chaplain and teacher.

“At the end of the day it didn’t matter who won a Christmas Goodie Bag, because we think they were all winners. But it was Hope In A Suitcase who was the most deserving,” she says.

A total of $506 was raised and the money was donated to ‘Hope In A Suitcase’, a non-profit organisation run entirely by passionate and dedicated volunteers who provide suitcases for children going into foster care or out of home care.

The day was a great success with many students and BCC teachers all participating to ensure that Hope In A Suitcase, took home as many donations as possible.

‍

BCC students Indy and Dani Broadhead, in costumes with a plate of cookies. Photo: Supplied

BCC Christmas costume winning student, Isabella Cole. Photo: Supplied

BCC students lining up for the Christmas Pop-Up Treat Shop. Photo: Supplied

BCC Chaplain and teacher, Rachel Cornelius surrounded by students in costume. Photo: Supplied

‍

Maria, owner of Maria Porter’s Bakehouse Treats, had a passion for cooking ever since she was a young girl when she used to watch her mum bake. Despite not being allowed in her mum’s kitchen, it only ignited Maria’s passion for cooking all the more.

“My love for cooking began in my early 20s. I was self-taught, reading cookbooks but also watching my own mother cook in the kitchen,” Maria muses. “I've been cooking for 42 years now, and here at home in Ayr for the last eight since I had spinal surgery.”

Prior to her that, Maria worked in various commercial kitchens, including restaurants, hotels, and motels, but after spinal surgery she needed to rethink that. Maria’s Bakehouse was born.
An approved, council registered kitchen, means Maria can continue her love of baking.

She operates from her home at 4 Barsby Street, Ayr, which helps her stay active throughout the week, selling her wares on Sundays only. And her most popular item are the pumpkin scones, which are freshly baked every Sunday morning and always sell out!

Maria's prices range from $6 for biscuits up to $35 for plum puddings, which are always in demand this time of year.

Maria also offers a variety of baked goods including: caramel tarts; caramel tartlets; peach blossoms; chocolate blossoms; and perennial Christmas goody favourites like rum balls and apricot balls, as well as more traditional plum puddings and the oft forgotten boiled fruit cake.

“Most requests this time of year are for traditional, old-fashioned baked goods, such as peach blossoms, fruit cakes, and boiled chocolate cake.

Keen to highlight the strong community support she receives, Maria also iterates the importance of supporting local businesses, which thrive on word of mouth.

“I've actually got fantastic community support, with some customers who have been with me for over 20 years. Being in a small, local town, I always shop locally. You do the right thing by each other, they do right by you. Locals helping locals out. That's what we can all do to keep the community spirit going,” Maria enthuses.

To place an order, call Maria on: 0409 849 876, where you too can savour her delicious delights and tasty treats.

Maria Porter showcasing her delicious home baked treats. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

‍