Burdekin Artisans invites the community to get festive and creative at their "Button Tree Christmas Workshop" hosted by the talented Billie Lee. This unique, hands-on workshop will take place at 170 Arts on the Avenue in Home Hill, offering a chance for participants to create their own beautiful button Christmas trees. Priced at just $28, the workshop includes all the necessary supplies, so attendees only need to bring their creativity. However, participants are encouraged to bring any special
Read the full storyThe Burdekin Shire Council warmly invites families, friends, and neighbours to an evening of Christmas cheer at the 2024 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols. Set to light up the Home Hill State High School Oval on Sunday, 8 December, this festive gathering kicks off at 5.30pm and promises something for everyone. Best of all, it’s free to attend! The highlight of the evening will be a headline performance by Burdekin’s very own René LeFeuvre. Known for his soulful performanc
Read the full storyCurrently treating international listeners to his musical talents in Germany, René LeFeuvre will soon headline the 2024 Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols set for Sunday 8 December. From touring across the world to enrolling in acting classes, 2024 has been nothing short of showstopping for René, and he’s looking forward to touching back down in Australia later this month for another outstanding performance on home soil. “I’m grateful to be performing again this year for
Read the full storyFor Gloria Lazzarini, plum puddings are more than just a festive treat—they’re a lifelong passion. Since the age of 17, Gloria has been perfecting her craft, first inspired by a recipe she discovered in The Australian Women’s Weekly. “Italians don’t traditionally eat plum puddings,” Gloria explains, “but I loved the idea and started making the cloth-boiled ones.” Gloria is recently semi-retired from St Francis, St Colmans, and East Ayr State Schools after teaching music and Italian for 60 years.
Read the full storyGet ready for the festive season at the Max Place Markets on Saturday, November 23rd! Running from 8am to 12.30 pm at 119 Railway Street in Ayr, this Christmas-themed market promises to be a fantastic final event for the year.
Whether you're looking for unique Christmas gift ideas or just want to enjoy a relaxed morning with family and friends, the Max Place Markets have something for everyone. Take memorable photos with a special Christmas backdrop, perfect for holiday keepsakes or sharing with loved ones. The market will also feature a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables, so you can stock up on local produce, along with delicious coffee, lollies, and other treats to enjoy on the spot or take home.
Shop from an array of handmade goods, ideal for thoughtful holiday gifts, and enjoy a tasty sausage sizzle that adds a classic Aussie touch to the morning. With so much on offer, this community market is a great way to support local businesses and enjoy the festive cheer.
Don’t miss out on the Max Place Markets' last event of the year — it’s the perfect way to start the holiday season with family fun and unique finds.
WHAT: Max Place Markets
WHERE: 119 Railway Street Ayr
WHEN: 8am-12:30pm November 23rd 2024
The Home Hill Harvest Festival’s Gala Ball concluded with the crowning of two queens. Marnie Skipper from Home Hill Community Kindy was named Personality Queen, celebrated for her charisma and community spirit, while Madison Mainwaring-Samwell from Burdekin Netball earned the title of Charity Queen for her exceptional fundraising efforts, raising an epic $29,375.49.
Reflecting on the event, Carlene Muilwyk shared, “The Rotary Club put on an exceptional event, giving our queens and their partners a memorable night to showcase their hard work, dedication, and elegance on the dance floor.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our naming sponsor, Queensland Country Bank, and to all our supporting sponsors and community members who make this festival so special.
“We are honoured to be part of this journey with our queens and deeply appreciative of the organisations, families, and friends who support them every step of the way.”
The Gala Ball embodied the spirit of the Harvest Festival, uniting the community to celebrate Home Hill’s young ambassadors and their commitment to making a difference.
Photo gallery in "Social Pics" section
Photo credit: Marni Hines
Mark your calendars for 12 June 2025, when Echoes of Pink Floyd will perform live at the Burdekin Theatre, paying tribute to the iconic British rock band on their 60th anniversary. This highly anticipated show celebrates six decades of Pink Floyd’s legendary music, offering fans a spectacular journey through every era of their career.
As Australia’s premier Pink Floyd tribute band, Echoes of Pink Floyd promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Pink Floyd’s groundbreaking sound and mesmerising visual effects. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, the Adelaide-based tribute band will transport the audience from the psychedelic vibes of the 1960s to the epic stadium anthems of Pink Floyd’s later years, celebrating the evolution of the band’s unique sound.
"This show is a testament to the enduring impact of Pink Floyd's music," said lead guitarist Daniel Hunter.
"For six decades, their innovative sound and boundary-pushing creativity have captivated audiences around the world. We're thrilled to bring dedicated Floyd fans together at the Burdekin Theatre to celebrate this milestone anniversary."
The Echoes of Pink Floyd line-up includes talented musicians and devoted Floyd fans: Daniel Hunter (lead guitar), Jason Miller (drums and vocals), Paul Bindig (keyboards), Mark MacNab (rhythm and acoustic guitar), Matt Goodluck (vocals), Will Byrne (bass and vocals), Daniel Modica (keyboard and saxophone), and backing vocalists Bree Gregory, Rossella Fanelli, and Montana Sharp.
Each musician brings a passionate dedication to faithfully replicating the sounds and sights of Pink Floyd, creating a performance that has been hailed by critics as “the next best thing to a genuine Floyd experience.”
Since 2014, Echoes of Pink Floyd has drawn audiences across the nation with its immersive shows, described as “spine-tingling” and “masterful.” Now, they invite Burdekin locals to witness the closest experience to a live Pink Floyd concert—a show not to be missed.
Tickets for this spectacular show at the Burdekin Theatre on 12 June 2025 are available now, with prices set at $82.00 for adults, $51.00 for children aged 12 and under, and $77.00 for concessions, Friends of the Burdekin Theatre members, and groups of eight or more. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate 60 years of Pink Floyd’s iconic legacy.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.burdekintheatre.com.au or by calling the Burdekin Theatre Box Office on (07) 4783 9880.
WHAT: Echoes Of Pink Floyd
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
WHEN: 12 June 2025
Don’t miss the chance to see Echoes of Pink Floyd in concert! Photo credit: Photo sourced echoesofpinkfloyd.com
Echoes of Pink Floyd proves to be a ‘wow’ experience. Photo credit: Photo sourced echoesofpinkfloyd.com
For nearly as long as Australia’s iconic duo Roy and HG have been on air, Cyclops and JG have been broadcasting their own blend of humour and music. With almost 60 years in Australia, Cyclops has made a lasting impact on Sweet FM, where he co-hosts alongside JG, drawing inspiration from classic Australian radio personalities.
Cyclops’ passion for radio was sparked years ago when he hosted a jazz program, Jazz Journey with the Guv, running live on Thursday evenings for Sweet FM. He’s a lifelong jazz aficionado, with favourites like Jelly Roll Morton, Ken Colyer, and even the Traveling Wilburys shaping his musical taste. Cyclops recalls a visit to New Orleans, describing the city’s vibrant music scene as unforgettable.
"Watching bands on every corner – I’d love to spend months there,” he said.
When asked about his most memorable moments on air, Cyclops highlights The Quirkies, a segment of “Cyclops and JG Take over the Asylum” showcasing bizarre news from around the globe.
“We occasionally get a complaint, which means people are listening,” he laughs.
Preparing for each show involves creating a detailed running sheet, often with contributions from his long-time co-host, John Gooding.
Cyclops’ advice to aspiring radio hosts? Practice.
“Come down to Sweet FM and start practising.
“It’s like public speaking – it gets easier the more you do it,” he advises.
For him, the art of radio lies in cultivating a presence that engages listeners, even during long segments.
“The fact that they don’t know who we are helps,” he chuckles.
Despite improvements in radio technology over the years, Cyclops remains adaptable, relishing new tools but has yet to embrace outside broadcasts. Reflecting on dream guests he’d love to interview; he names figures like Donald Trump and Barack Obama.
With a career full of memorable interviews, jazz journeys, and quirky moments, Cyclops embodies the joy and resilience needed to make radio a captivating medium, generation after generation.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival delighted pet lovers with its annual Pet Show and “Bolt for Bucks” event, bringing together a range of furry, feathery, and even scaly participants!
Held in the heart of the festival, the Pet Show saw beloved animals dressed to impress for categories like Best Dressed Pet, where creative costumes stole the show, and Best Kept Pet, showcasing shiny coats and well-groomed friends.
The contest also celebrated talents, with prizes for the Fastest Eater and Waggiest Tail, and drew cheers for the impressive Best Trick category, where pets showed off clever stunts.
The highlight for many was the Most Unusual Pet, where rare breeds and unique species brought extra charm to the day.
To top it off, the “Bolt for Bucks” race added a thrilling element as pets of all sizes raced, creating a memorable day for festivalgoers and their furry companions.
The winners of the night
Katrina, Indy, Kolton
Harrison, David, Anne
Rose Rodighiero, Maria Rodighiero, Royce
Trish and Tiffany
Photo credit: Miah Lampard
The Home Hill Harvest Festival’s Mardi Gras and Street Parade came alive with vibrant colours, music, and excitement, creating a festive evening for the entire community.
More than 38 creative floats rolled through the streets, each one capturing the festival’s spirit and highlighting the talents of local organisations, schools, and businesses. Standout winners included Harmony Fletcher from Rotary, awarded Best Theme; Home Hill News and Coffee, named Best Trade; and Danelle Laubscher from Lions, who took Best Queen Float. Osbourne State School was recognised with Best Other than Queen, while Ayr Pony Club delighted with humour, winning Best Humorous.
The celebration offered something for everyone: festivalgoers enjoyed an array of street food, from traditional bites to local specialties, while carnival rides thrilled all ages. Live music from local musicians Leeroy Chung, Cade Geiger with his band, and the Burdekin and Thuringowa Brass Band filled the air, setting the perfect soundtrack for dancing and merriment.
Reflecting on the event, Carlene Muilwyk said, “Our Saturday night celebration was nothing short of incredible! The Grand Parade was a true highlight, filled with colour, creativity, and community spirit”.
“We’re immensely grateful to everyone who participated to make this event so memorable, this night truly showcased the heart of our community.
“A special thanks goes to our sponsors for helping bring our festival to life and, of course, to our amazing community for coming out in full support each year. It’s an honour to celebrate with you!”
This year’s Mardi Gras was a vibrant showcase of Home Hill’s community spirit, creativity, and shared joy in celebrating together.
Get ready to celebrate the holiday season at the Burdekin Uniting Church’s Craft Spectacular, a much-anticipated event offering festive cheer and unique, quality crafts! Held at the Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill on Saturday, 30th November from 9am to 2pm, this event will showcase a delightful variety of handmade items and Christmas treasures.
The Craft Spectacular features a stunning array of cottage crafts, including patchwork, patterns, fabrics, flowers, cards, beads, woodwork, and beautifully crafted Christmas gifts and decorations. Whether you’re searching for the perfect holiday decoration or a unique gift, this market is a must-visit for Christmas shoppers.
Kids and adults alike can participate in the “Make a Christmas Card” competition, with prizes of $50 for the Open Section and $25 for the Junior Section. With free demonstrations, a treasure hunt for kids, and three lucky spot draws between 12.30pm and 2pm, there’s fun for the whole family. Remember, you must be present to claim your prize in the draws!
Enjoy morning tea, lunch, or a delightful high tea from the tea trolley as you browse. Entry is only $5, and children under 13 enter free. Don’t miss this festive community event filled with creativity, Christmas spirit, and joyful moments for all ages!
WHAT: Burdekin Uniting Church’s Craft Spectacular
WHERE: Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill
WHEN: Saturday, 30th November from 9am to 2pm
This festive season, Home Hill Newsagents and Coffee is brimming with Christmas spirit and an exciting range of products to suit all ages and tastes. Shay and Ken Linton, owners of this beloved local store, have put together a delightful selection of holiday essentials to make Christmas shopping easier and more enjoyable for the community.
For those on the hunt for gifts for little ones, Home Hill Newsagents and Coffee offers a fantastic selection of kids’ toys that are sure to bring smiles on Christmas morning. Their new collection of homewares also makes for ideal gifts, adding a touch of style and warmth to any home. To make the shopping experience even more seamless, all in-store purchases come with complimentary gift wrapping.
Adding to the festive vibe, Home Hill Newsagents and Coffee also stocks a Christmas candle range, featuring popular Palm Beach candles that fill the room with the fragrance of the season. For those who love to plan ahead, diaries and calendars are available, alongside a special Christmas range of Instant Scratch-Its – perfect for adding a little extra thrill to the festivities. Their exclusive Home Hill Christmas Cards offer a unique local touch, capturing the spirit of the community and making the perfect addition to any gift.
Among the standout items this year are the Lisa Pollock camping chairs in vibrant colours, the kids' Bling2o goggles, and the Burdekin candle. For those looking for a flexible gift option, the store’s gift vouchers are perfect and can be used on any in-store purchases, including coffee.
Shoppers spending over $100 this season will also be entered into a draw to win an ultimate beach pack, valued at over $270, adding a little extra excitement for customers.
Open seven days a week, Shay and Ken warmly thank everyone for supporting local and shopping in-store this Christmas. Whether you're looking for unique gifts or holiday essentials, Home Hill Newsagents and Coffee is ready to help you make this Christmas extra special.
Come in and see Home Hill News and Coffee’s latest Christmas Range! Photo credit: Miah Lampard
The Burdekin Shire Council is calling on local food and drink vendors to join the 2024 Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols, a festive event that brings together the community for an evening of holiday cheer, carols, and delicious treats.
This event offers a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to showcase their offerings, while being part of a cherished community tradition. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort is encouraging vendors to submit their expressions of interest, highlighting the positive impact these gatherings have on the Burdekin Shire community.
“The Christmas Carols held annually is a special tradition in our Shire, and we’re excited to welcome local stallholders to be part of this year’s festivities,” said Mayor Dalle Cort.
Stallholders are invited to apply by downloading and completing the Expression of Interest (EOI) form. Applications close on Monday, 11 November, so interested vendors are encouraged to act quickly.
To apply, download the Stallholder EOI form by visiting (https://bit.ly/4f7pO7N), or contact the Council’s Community Development team for assistance.
Let’s work together to make the 2024 Christmas Carols a memorable night for the whole community.
For further details, reach out to the Burdekin Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre at (07) 4783 9800.
The Christmas Carols held annually is a special tradition in our Shire. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Shire Council is thrilled to announce Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr as the major sponsor and naming rights partner for the highly anticipated 2024 Christmas Carols event. Set to bring festive cheer to the community, this year’s celebration will take place on Sunday, 8 December 2024, at Home Hill State High School.
Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin from Bendigo Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr expressed her excitement about this new partnership. “We are excited to be a part of the community Christmas Carols this year,” she said. “Our bank is dedicated to giving back to the community, and we believe this event is a wonderful way to spread joy and bring people together.”
The 2024 Christmas Carols promises an enchanting evening packed with festive activities. Local musicians will take to the stage with lively performances, and the event will also feature a special appearance by Santa Claus, making it a magical experience for children and families. In addition, a spectacular fireworks display and a variety of food stalls will ensure a memorable night filled with holiday spirit for all ages.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “Everyone is looking forward to the end-of-year celebration, where friends, families, and the entire community can come together and enjoy the festive spirit. We would like to thank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr for their support, which is helping us bring this magical event to life for the community to enjoy.”
Mayor Dalle Cort highlighted the partnership as a significant moment in the region’s tradition, strengthening the bond between community spirit and corporate support. “This exciting partnership marks a milestone in bringing together community spirit and corporate support for one of the region’s most cherished festive events, benefiting everyone.”
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening and join the Burdekin community in celebrating the joy of Christmas on Sunday, 8 December 2024. For further details, please contact Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800.
The 2024 Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival will ignite the streets of Home Hill with festivities and joy this weekend for one of the most exciting community celebrations of the year - packed with new features and cherished favourites that promise fun for all ages. With a new start time of 3pm families with young children can now enjoy the festivities of the Street Party earlier in the day, with the Grand Parade scheduled for 5pm this Saturday, 9 November.
A new addition to this year’s lineup is the Kids Corner, a dedicated space designed for the youngest festivalgoers. The Kids Corner will be filled with exciting rides, delicious food options, and plenty of seating, creating a relaxing and family-friendly atmosphere that lets parents and children alike enjoy every moment of the festival.
This year’s festival will feature over 25 diverse stalls, offering something for everyone. From a variety of food choices - including vegan and gluten-free options - to information booths, light-up toys, and a petting zoo, there’s no shortage of things to explore. With more rides than ever before, the festival will be brimming with activities to keep the excitement going all day long.
The entertainment lineup is also set to impress, featuring local talent and engaging performances. The Burdekin Brass Band will return to fill the air with lively music, while local favourite Leeroy Chung will take the stage, followed by Cade and Mac Geiger to keep the energy high well into the evening. The entertainment promises to make the festival a true showcase of community talent and musical enjoyment.
The highlight of the evening, the Grand Parade, will kick off at 5pm, featuring creative and colourful floats from the seven Home Hill Harvest Festival Queens, local schools, businesses, and community clubs. With so many participants, the parade is sure to be a vibrant and captivating display that will bring the community together in celebration.
The 2024 Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival promises to be an event overflowing with joy, community spirit, and unforgettable memories. Bring your family, enjoy the food and entertainment, and immerse yourself in an evening filled with festive cheer.
What: 2024 Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival
When: Saturday 9 November - Street Party from 3pm, and Grand Parade from 5pm
Where: Home Hill
More Information: The Home Hill Harvest Festival Facebook page
All smiles from Simply Dance’s 2023 Home Hill Harvest Festival float!
Leading the way with a tractor in the 2023 Grand Parade was the Home Hill Community Bowls Club.
Members from the Burdekin BMX Club Inc cycled along in the 2023 Grand Parade
Shae Munro, Claudia Pavone, Charlotte Agius and Tia Sorohan dazzled on the Deb of the Year float in the 2022 Grand Parad
2022 Burdekin Netball Association Queen, Alix Leckenby dazzling in the 2022 Grand Parade
Home Hill State High School students walking in last year’s Home Hill Harvest Festival Grand Parade
A couple of bedazzled ponies and magical fairies shone in 2023’s Grand Parade
Members of the Burdekin Brass Band ready to treat the community to their talents in the 2023 Grand Parade
2022 Home Hill Crown Hotel Queen Holly Alford and Ella Zable in the 2022 Grand Parade
Members of the Home Hill Choral Society ready to shine in the 2021 Grand Parade
Friday 8 November
Home Hill Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball
Friday from 6:30pm
Indulge in an evening of regal splendour and community sprit at the official 2024 Home Hill Harvest Festival Rotary Gala Ball! Set to ignite the Burdekin Memorial Hall on the evening of Friday 8 November, the community is invited to attend to honour the 2024 Harvest Festival Queens, and witness the crowning of both the Charity and Personality Queens. The night will see attendees enjoy an elegant seated dinner accompanied by amazing entertainment. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Deslie on 0408 822 029.
Burdekin Memorial Hall
Saturday 9 November
Home Hill Harvest Festival Grand Parade & Street Party
Saturday from 5pm
Celebrate the sugar industry in Burdekin. The Home Hill Harvest Festival runs from September to November. The Festival culminates with the Mardi Gras including floats from festival queens, community groups and businesses and ends with a Street Party featuring entertainment, rides, food and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Home Hill
Sunday 10 November
Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day
Sunday from 9am
Located at the Brandon Heritage Precinct, 21-27 Spiller Street, Brandon, the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists have an open day. Witness the power of the working vintage machinery which includes the historic Marshall Colonial Tractor and the Walkers Engine No.1, which is just one of two working air blast fuel injection engines in Australia. Admire the other vintage tractors and stationary engines on display.
Burdekin Heritage Precinct, Brandon
Sunday 10 November
Ready Set Magic Preschool Concert
Sunday from 10am
Talented Dancers will ignite the stage at the Burdekin Theatre this November in this exceptional performance. On Sunday 10 November, the youngest members of your family will be treated to an awesome Ready Set Magic Preschool Concert at the Burdekin Theatre from 10am! The concert will take audiences on a magical dance journey through Adventureland where wishes upon stars come true and magic is made with each wonderful dance.
Burdekin Theatre
Friday 22 & Saturday 23 November
À La Mode
Friday and Saturday 7:30pm
Talented Dancers will ignite the stage at the Burdekin Theatre this November in this exceptional performance. Translated from French, À La Mode means “in fashion”, and in keeping with the tone of the performance’s title, the showcase will stage the amazing talents of the Studio’s students, promising this showcase will be one of their best yet! The performances will take place on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.
Burdekin Theatre
Saturday 30 November
Burdekin Christmas Craft Spectacular
Saturday from 9am
The community is warmly invited to indulge in the festive spirit at the Burdekin Uniting Church’s wonderful 2024 Burdekin Christmas Craft Specular! The event is set to dazzle the Burdekin Memorial Hall on Saturday 30 November from 9am to 2pm, and will stand as the second Craft Specular hosted by the Burdekin Uniting Church this year! Come along, and start your Christmas shopping!
Burdekin Memorial Hall
Wednesday 4 December
Morning Melodies: Andrews and Bin Christmas Swing
Thursday from 11am
The Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing joyful, live, melodious Christmas Show is a stroll down memory lane with the beautiful 1940’s bright & engaging Christmas songs of the Andrews Sisters & the one & only “Crooner” himself, alias Bing Crosby. Three dynamic, harmonious, humble divas with their professional band, “The Miller Horns,” igniting the stage! Clap along to their iconic stylized “Jingle Bells”, listen to the enchanting best-selling song, “White Christmas” and all aboard the Christmas “Chattanooga Choo Choo”.
Burdekin Theatre
Thursday 19 December
Ayr Christmas Street Party
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.
Do you want to play a part in this year’s Grand Parade on Saturday 9 November? The Home Hill Harvest Festival Committee is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help marshal this exciting event!
If you’re available, please join the committee outside Ashworths at 4pm this Saturday and be part of a fantastic community tradition.
For more details, email info@hhharvestfestival.com.au or call Carlene after 3pm at 0478 063 808.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival Commitee are looking for marshalling volunteers for this weekend’s Grand Parade!
The Burdekin Machinery Preservationists are celebrating four decades of dedication to preserving the region’s rich heritage in vintage machinery on Sunday 10th November. With approximately 65 members, the club spans from Chillagoe to Chinchilla, showcasing a commitment to historical preservation across Queensland. The club opens its doors every Monday from April to November, inviting tourists to explore a unique collection, including tractors from the late 1800s, the Burdekin’s first trains, and even a homemade helicopter.
Their annual open day is a special occasion, drawing visitors eager to see these machines in action. Vice President John shared that the club tries to get as many machines running as possible for the public, highlighting the meticulous restoration work that brings these historical pieces back to life. Founding members, still active in the club, are celebrated for their enduring involvement, and this year, they’ll be honoured with a cake-cutting ceremony at 11.30am and a sausage sizzle.
The collection is housed at the historic Renown Picture Theatre, built in 1927, a landmark that itself speaks to the region's past. Alongside machinery, visitors can find memorabilia from local high schools and a comprehensive photographic history of Brandon. The Burdekin Machinery Preservationists stand as the last historical group in the region, committed to preserving the legacy of Burdekin’s vintage machinery and culture for future generations.
New members, especially younger ones and tradespeople are encouraged to join this not-for-profit group and support their efforts to keep Burdekin’s history alive.
WHAT: Burdekin Machinery Preservationists celebrating four decades
WHERE: 21-27 Spiller Street, Brandon
WHEN: Sunday 10th November, 9am-3pm
ENTRY: $10, with free admission for children
A tractor owned by the Drysdale brothers, the original farmers of the Burdekin region.
Since 1999, John Gooding has been a staple on Sweet FM, hosting a unique show that blends humour, oddities, and local flavour. Originally joining with a friend to cover night soccer, John’s show quickly evolved into something special, sharing mad and strange stories from around the world every week.
Unlike typical radio shows, John's program doesn’t feature music. Instead, he and his co-host focus on strange news stories. One of the most memorable tales he recalls involved an unfortunate incident during surgery when a patient broke wind, igniting a flame and causing a small fire—a story John still listens to when he needs a laugh.
Preparing for the show is a team effort. "We’re not live; we record on Thursdays, I edit it, and it airs on Saturdays and Mondays," John explains. He and his co-host steer clear of local stories, choosing instead to cover global oddities. John fondly remembers working with Dave Giffard, Sweet FM's long-time sound engineer who managed technical aspects for nearly 20 years. “Dave was invaluable, especially in the early days when we recorded on basic equipment at the council chambers. He had the technical experience that allowed us to focus on content.”
Starting with no experience, John encourages aspiring radio hosts to dive in, even if they’re new. He emphasises the importance of technical expertise, recalling how Dave's guidance helped him and his co-host build confidence. Today, John and his team enjoy the comfort of a studio, though they still face challenges—like a recent power surge that damaged their equipment. "When that happened, we knew it was beyond us!" he laughs.
John believes the key to a good show is adaptability. Years of acting experience taught him to improvise if something goes wrong, and having a co-host to play off makes it easier to keep things flowing.
For his dream guest, John would love to interview Donald Trump, purely for the unpredictability and absurdity he could bring to the show. John encourages anyone interested to volunteer, as Sweet FM is always looking for fresh voices to keep the laughs going.
John behind the mic. Photo credit: Miah Lampard