Described as the most authentic Johnny Cash show around, Aussie husband and wife duo, Mark & Joanne Caligiuri, embody the legend that was Cash and his singer wife, June Carter. But before he was Cash, Mark was King.

Originally Mark was performing as Elvis Presley, and singing his popular songs around the country, but at one particular show his world and destiny would change forever. It was at one of these performances that they first came to lay eyes on each other as Joanne explains.

“I love music from Elvis, Chuck Berry, Cash, Dolly Parton… I love all that era. But that’s how I met him (Mark),” Joanne laughs.

“I grew up being a Johnny Cash fan, and while Mark knew of him he wasn’t that familiar with Cash’s music. Then as we started dating, in 2006 the movie ‘Walk The Line’ came out, which starred Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon. I was like, ‘Oh my God, Johnny Cash, do you know Cash? And he said, ‘Kind of.’ I said, ‘Mate, this movie’s coming out you must go see it, I guarantee it’s going to be great’ and so we went and saw it together,” she smiles.

“I was singing along to the songs and even though Mark didn’t know them by the time the film had finished he turned to me and said, ‘I love Johnny Cash’. I gave him my Cash CDs to listen to and he really got into it and afterwards.”

“I was watching the film and just listening to the songs and I thought this is great,” Mark adds.

From there a seed was planted before Joanne said, ‘Why don’t we perform our own Cash show’ and that’s how it all came about,” she says.

Their Johnny Cash & June Carter Get Rhythm show, has garnered some high praise with it being labelled the most authentic Cash/Carter show being the highest. There’s no doubt about it, in speaking with this real life husband & wife performer duo, their energy and commitment is unparalleled.

“We do our best to stay true to who Cash and Carter were. Obviously we have the edge in that we’re married, so that connection is real. We have great communication with each other on stage and with the band. We involve the audience so they also become part of the show,” Joanne enthuses.

“Most people get that you're taking on a character. With Johnny Cash, it’s all about the voice and conviction. We often evoke strong reactions from our audience because you're tapping into people’s memories and for some, those memories can be quite deep.” Mark adds.

“We’re very proud of what we do and what we created. We've worked extremely hard to give the most authentic Johnny Cash show in Australia,” he concludes.

This two part show includes Cash’s biggest hits such as ‘Folsom Prison Blues,’ ‘Ring Of Fire,’ and 'Walk The Line’ and is expected to sell out.

WHAT: The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
WHEN: Saturday 24th May

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Mark Caligiuri, as the famous man in black, Johnny Cash, in full flight.
Joanne & Mark, who epitomise legendary musicians Johnny Cash & June Carter, love performing together. (Photos supplied).

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The Home Hill Choral Society is back for more fun in 2025, with their first show this year entitled, Shamrock Shindig. We sat down with Erin Brennan, the show’s writer and director, to find out what the audience can expect in what is always a hoot!

“We will be featuring Irish songs, typical ones, you know such as: When Irish Eyes Are Smiling; If You're Irish, Come To The Parlour, and many more. And of course we’ll have jokes. There's lots of jokes that I've found over the years. I always find jokes and I turn them into skits,” Erin beams.

For this writer, director, actor, and singer, Erin managed to write Shamrock Shindig in a week, however, because of the recent floods, rehearsals were much trickier to arrange let alone have as she explains.

“This show in particular probably took me a week. It just starts to come to me and once I start reading through, I shuffle it around. Then I do the first draft, and afterwards we change it a bit as we go. I'm the director and writer, but Cheryl Platt from Sweet FM, is my offsider. She does all the musical side of things.”

“With the flood scares and everything we had, we couldn’t rehearse it fully through like we normally do. Some people were stuck on the Ayr side, including Cheryl, and so they couldn't get out to rehearsals here in Home Hill. Because she's on the Ayr side, she couldn't get over to teach the music. So therefore I had to rearrange and change a couple of things.”

Between Erin and Cheryl, they pick the songs, teach the choir members the numbers, and generally have fun. With minimal rehearsal, Shamrock Shindig shapes to be more lively and fun than ever.

“It’ll be just lots of fun and laughs. Sometimes we'll make mistakes, but you can laugh with us and the things that we do,” Erin chuckles.

But mark her words, the audience don’t get off scot-free either.

“We have audience participation as well. Yes, audience participation,” she reiterates grinning.

Shamrock Shindigs kicks off next Friday, March 14 at 7:30pm (doors open 30 minutes before show), and performs on the 16th, 21st, and 23rd. The matinee shows on the Sundays (16 & 21) are almost sold out!

“We never had much trouble selling the daytime shows, it’s the night time shows that we sometimes do. But there's a licensed bar where for your $35 you get a full meal, which is quite substantial. Benefit is you get a fun show, you get supper afterwards, and there's cakes, there's tarts, there's whatever we decide we want to make with an Irish themed flavour to it.”

“We also hope to have some little Irish dances as well, because we try and incorporate people outside our group as well,” Erin adds.

Tickets cost $35 and include a meal or afternoon tea for the matinees. They can be purchased by calling Erin on: 0428 822 091.

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Some of the cast in rehearsals ready to make you laugh. Photo supplied
Shamrock Shindig writer & director, Erin Brennan is all smiles ahead of opening night. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
The ladies of the show set to entertain the audience. Photo supplied.

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Friday 7 March
Creedence Clearwater Collective
Friday 7:30pm
The community is invited to a night of celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered to the songs they wrote for others. Tickets can be purchase on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 8 March
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Sunday 9 March
Zonta Celebrates International Women’s Day
Sunday 10:30am
The community is welcomed to help Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrate women’s successes to date at an Interntaional Women’s Day brunch commencing at 10:30am. Speakers are Sarah Chapman, STEM Changemakers Founder and Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator, JCU Master of Nursing. All funds raised will be used to support Zonta’s ongoing local and international projects.
Masonic Heritage Centre

Tuesday 11 March
Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee Live!
Tuesday 7:30pm
Anh Do’s bestselling book, The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh, and cry and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.” Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 14 March
Trivia Under the Stars
6.30pm (for a 7pm start)
Grab a team of 6 and join us for a fun night of trivia, under the stars. $10 pp. Supper provided.
Burdekin Netball Association Courts

Friday 14, 16, 21, 23 March
Shamrock Shindig
The Home Hill Choral Society proudly presents their latest show, Shamrock Shindig, which shapes to be a real hoot. With shows at 7:30pm and 1pm, everyone’s covered. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
The Vault (Home Hill) – Tickets: 0428-822-091

Sunday 16 March
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 19 March
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Friday 28 March
Clare State School Open Classroom
Friday 12pm
Come along to Clare State School’s Open Classroom afternoon, Meet & Greet (4pm) and P&C BBQ Dinner (6pm) in celebration of the school’s 75th Anniversary!
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
Clare State School 75th Anniversary School Fete
Saturday 9am
A timeless tradition, Clare State School will hold a fantastic School Fete as part of their 75th Anniversary celebrations where the opening of the time capsule will take place.
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
75 Years of Clare State School Formal Dinner
Saturday 6pm
Join Clare State School for a twilight feast and timeless talks on the grounds of the old school yard to celebrate 75 years of education! The dress code is chic attire and tickets are available at www.clarestateschool75th.com.au.
Clare State School

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The Burdekin Shire Council officially launched the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival on Tuesday, with guests and sponsors treated to a wonderful evening.

Planning for the 2025 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival is well underway, with several local suppliers and stakeholders keen to take part in one the Burdekin’s premier destination events.

Major Sponsor Lachlan Sturt from Pacific Blue spoke to the audience on the night, sharing his appreciation for local cultural events and gratitude to the community for asking Pacific Blue to sponsor such a much-loved local event.

Canegrowers are also a major sponsor and announced on the evening that they will be launching the inaugural Burdekin’s Sweetest School competition, with 14 local schools competing.

Additionally, Parkside Group are major sponsors along with many other local businesses and Burdekin Life Newspaper as the Media Partner.

After the incredible success of the 2023 festival, which attracted over 4,000 attendees over the weekend, it is anticipated to be an even larger turnout for the 2025 event.

It kickstarts at 6pm (gates open at 5pm) on Friday 30 May, with the Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring the ‘first fire’ and marking the beginning of the Sweet Days Hot Nights festival.

The night will celebrate the diversity of the region with an amazing line-up of cultural performances, free activities for the kids, and authentic street food from around the world. While the highlight of the night will be the lighting of the first fire of the 2025 sugarcane crushing season.

For Saturday 31 May, which starts at 11am, with gates opening at 10:30am, visitors will be treated to the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in an experience of skill and endurance from a bygone era, as hand cane cutters compete for the winning title.

With live music, a range of events, including free rides and activities for children, and a wide variety of food trucks, the festival shapes as a must attend event for all Burdekinites.

Adult tickets are just $10, while kids get in free all weekend! Purchase your tickets online at https://www.trybooking.com/CXYWC

WHAT: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
WHERE: Home Hill Showgrounds
WHEN: 30-31st May 2025

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Mayor, Councillors and Major Sponsors attend Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival Launch Night. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival (BRWF) has been reignited after a big turnout for their do-or-die meeting last Wednesday morning at the Burdekin Theatre. In what shaped as an historic, potentially festival ending assembly, 18 people showed up and threw their support behind keeping the once popular festival alive.

After the festival was cancelled in 2020 because of covid, the BRWF never quite got back the momentum they had carried from the previous three well-run and attended festivals. However, after Wednesdays significant meeting, the Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival is alive once more!

In an impassioned opening address, BRWF co-founder, Mickey McKellar was adamant that the meeting would be the last for the organisation that had risen back in 2015 with nothing more than $320 to their name. But like a great novel, in a surprise twist, new members stood up to resurrect BRWF.

“It is most gratifying to have that sort of support. The meeting was not negative; in fact, the positivity was overwhelming,” BRWF founding member, Mickey McKellar said.

“For myself, I was walking on air after the meeting. I am so grateful to think that not only will the Literary Festivals and Events continue, but the prospect of a very energetic and enthusiastic committee appearing on the horizon is nothing short of amazing,” she said.

Several attendees raised their hands to step up when it was proposed a new committee be formed to allow the current board to step back and take a more hands-off role so they can enjoy retirement and grandchildren.

It shapes as an exciting transition, with younger, and enthusiastic new blood eager to pick up the baton and the incredible legacy left by BRWF, while bringing some fresh ideas.

“This will guarantee that BRWF will emerge once again as an essential item on the Burdekin Arts & Cultural Community Associations,” Mickey beamed with delight.

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BRWF board and committee members, and its newcomers, are all smiles after a monumental decision was reached to save the Burdekin Readers & Writers Festival. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Burdekin Brass Band extends its congratulations to Cecilia Cason and Joe Mau, who have recently returned from the 2025 Queensland Band Association Youth Music Camp in Brisbane.

At the camp, Cecilia was selected to perform as Solo Horn, while Joe played E Flat Bass. The event provided both musicians with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of musical styles under the guidance of some of the country's finest conductors. Additionally, they participated in specialised workshops led by expert tutors, enhancing their individual playing skills. The experience proved invaluable for both players, and the band eagerly anticipates them sharing their newfound knowledge in the coming weeks.

Burdekin Brass expresses its gratitude to the Regional Arts Development Fund for its financial contribution, which helped offset the costs of attendance for the young musicians.

Following recent floods, Burdekin Brass Band rehearsals will resume on Tuesday nights at 7:30 pm in the Band Hall, located in the park on 10th Avenue, Home Hill. With a busy schedule ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the band.

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QBA 2025 music camp

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Monday 24 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February to stage the public speaking talents of students in Year 12! Call John on 0447 561 790 for more information.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Friday 28 February
BNC Burdekin Parkinson's Support Group
Friday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing Parkinson’s in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Sunday 2 March
Clean Up Australia Day
Sunday All Day
Clean Up Australia Day has been helping keep Australia beautiful for over 35 years! Members of the Burdekin community can either check with local groups and organisations or create their own clean-up crew to keep our streets, parklands, beaches, and surrounding areas pristine. For more information, visit www.cleanup.org.au.
Burdekin Area

Sunday 2 March
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Friday 7 March
Creedence Clearwater Collective
Friday 7:30pm
The community is invited to a night of celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered to the songs they wrote for others. Tickets can be purchase on the Burdekin Theatre’s website.
Burdekin Theatre

Sunday 8 March
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Sunday 9 March
Zonta Celebrates International Women’s Day
Sunday 10:30am
The community is welcomed to help Zonta Club Burdekin Inc celebrate women’s successes to date at an Interntaional Women’s Day brunch commencing at 10:30am. Speakers are Sarah Chapman, STEM Changemakers Founder and Dr Tracey Ahern, Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator, JCU Master of Nursing. All funds raised will be used to support Zonta’s ongoing local and international projects.
Masonic Heritage Centre

Tuesday 11 March
Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee Live!
Tuesday 7:30pm
Anh Do’s bestselling book, The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh, and cry and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.” Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
Burdekin Theatre

Friday 14 March
Trivia Under the Stars
6.30pm (for a 7pm start)
Grab a team of 6 and join us for a fun night of trivia, under the stars. $10 pp. Supper provided.
Burdekin Netball Association Courts

Friday 14, 16, 21, 23 March
Shamrock Shindig
The Home Hill Choral Society proudly presents their latest show, Shamrock Shindig, which shapes to be a real hoot. With shows at 7:30pm and 1pm, everyone’s covered. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
The Vault (Home Hill) – Tickets: 0428-822-091**

Sunday 16 March
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 19 March
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Friday 28 March
Clare State School Open Classroom
Friday 12pm
Come along to Clare State School’s Open Classroom afternoon, Meet & Greet (4pm) and P&C BBQ Dinner (6pm) in celebration of the school’s 75th Anniversary!
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
Clare State School 75th Anniversary School Fete
Saturday 9am
A timeless tradition, Clare State School will hold a fantastic School Fete as part of their 75th Anniversary celebrations where the opening of the time capsule will take place.
Clare State School

Saturday 29 March
75 Years of Clare State School Formal Dinner
Saturday 6pm
Join Clare State School for a twilight feast and timeless talks on the grounds of the old school yard to celebrate 75 years of education! The dress code is chic attire and tickets are available at www.clarestateschool75th.com.au.
Clare State School

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Craig Martin, a musician from Liverpool, England, is performing his ‘Morning Melodies’ show at the Burdekin Theatre on March 5. The show features classic British pop and rock songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, including hits from The Beatles, The Kinks, and Tom Jones, and features over 20 hit songs.

“I always loved music, and I had an older brother who was five years older than me. He had a huge influence on me and when you're a teenage, you always look up to them and take notes of what your older sibling is playing, don't you? I used to buy records, but really I was buying them for him,” Craig laughs.

“We used to sing to records and play guitars and harmonise along to Beatles and other stuff as well. But Beatles records, early Beatles stuff, we used to do that, and I always wanted to be in a band. Then we formed a band in school and started playing clubs in Liverpool – where the Beatles had played as well! That was always wonderful,” Craig reminisces.

While it’s a far cry from Liverpool and the hip clubs and bars of the swinging sixties, The Burdekin Theatre hosts Craig in the first of the Morning Melodies series for 2025. For those fortunate to attend, it shapes as a fun, lively, nostalgic musical trip down memory lane.

“This will be the first time I've been there in the Burdekin. It's part of the North Queensland tour that we're doing. I perform songs that I love – great British pop and rock songs by great bands and singers. I'm including my favourite songs in this show. They're big, big hits.” he says.

As for his favourite all time artist, it’s not even a contest.

“The Beatles. I'm biased being from Liverpool, but they were so good, so imaginative. They were brilliant. They were, a great live band. I love bands like that,” he smiles.

To catch Craig perform The Beatles and other memorable hits, book tickets before his popular show sells out. Tickets are $15. Call the theatre on: (07) 4783 9880, or visit the website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com

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Craig Martin and his band will take everyone for a blast down memory lane with his popular Great British Songbook at The Burdekin Theatre. Photo: Supplied.

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The Burdekin is set to host North Queensland’s best talent showcase, with acclaimed actor and singer Hugh Sheridan, confirmed as the special guest for Fast Track 2025, thanks to the generous support of Major Sponsor, Burdekin Motors.
 
Hugh Sheridan, widely recognised for his outstanding career in both acting and music, will bring a whole new level of talent to the event. As the first-ever actor/singer to be part of Fast Track, Hugh will provide invaluable insights and inspiration to contestants.
 
Sheridan will be actively involved in the Friday evening workshop, where Fast Track contestants will have the opportunity to learn from his experience in the entertainment industry. He will also take on the role of guest judge and deliver a highly anticipated live performance at the Finals Showcase on Saturday evening.
 
Fast Track 2025 is now open for registrations, welcoming performers of all ages and talents across various genres, including singers, dancers and bands. Those interested in taking part can register by contacting Bella at bella@yoyomanagement.com or reaching out to the Council’s Community Development Team at 4783 9800.
 
The event will feature the top 20 performers from across the region competing for over $5,000 in cash and prizes, alongside a special performance by Hugh Sheridan himself. Don’t miss your chance to witness one of the biggest names to ever be part of the North Queensland event.
 
Tickets will be available for purchase this week. Get yours at the Burdekin Theatre Box Office or online at burdekintheatre.com.au

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WHAT: Fast Track Talent Showcase 2025
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre
WHEN: Saturday 22nd March

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Sunday 16 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 19 February
Award-Winning Author Guest Speaker
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce social and networking event to hear award-winning author (and Burdekin Life journalist) Mark T. Rasmussen, speak about his novel, The Journey, and his own journey.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Monday 24 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February to stage the public speaking talents of students in Year 12! Call John on 0447 561 790 for more information.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Friday 28 February
BNC Burdekin Parkinsons Support Group
Friday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing Parkinsons in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Joining a club isn't just about exploring something you're passionate about or picking up a new hobby; it's also about connecting with others, building relationships, and immersing yourself in your local community.
Clubs offer a unique opportunity to meet people who share your interests and values, and often, these connections can evolve into long-lasting friendships.
A great example of this is The Burdekin Brass Band. By becoming a member, you'll not only be joining a community of like-minded individuals but also creating the potential for new friendships and experiences. Whether you're an experienced musician or a beginner, there’s a place for you in the band. The group includes people of all skill levels, making it a welcoming environment for anyone with a love for music.
Even if you have never played a sport, participated in a certain activity or even blown a trumpet, joining a new club can be a great way to get stuck in and learn in a hands-on way, with the guidance of individuals with more experience.
Sometimes, going into a club as a beginner is the best way to break the ice, make friends and enjoy yourself.
Have a hunt around your local community groups and try and find a club that fits you best!

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Burdekin Brass Band are open to new members. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Troy Everett, Cultural Venues Manager at the Burdekin Shire Council, recently discussed the significance of the Burdekin Theatre and Memorial Hall in fostering the arts in the region. Long considered a jewel in the crown, the venues are top-class. The Burdekin Theatre seats 475, while the Memorial Hall can accommodate 490. The Burdekin Theatre also has the extra bonus of being able to use the beautiful forecourt along with its foyer.

The Theatre hosts anything from world-class shows, events, conferences, dinners, and even weddings. The Memorial Hall, with its raised stage and flat floor, is regularly used for bigger business functions and formal events such as debutant balls, with at least one event occurring every three days at either venue.

“The Burdekin is extremely lucky to have a theatre this size, and equipped as well as it is. There are two great venues that a lot of regional towns would love to have,” Troy says with pride.

“I see the Burdekin Theatre as a true catalyst for the arts in this region, showcasing an incredible calibre of talent. The standard here is exceptional. It's a testament to the remarkable quality of the Theatre for a regional town.”  

Local performers, dance schools, and music programs benefit significantly from the high-quality facilities. Troy explains that the quality of the technicians and what they achieve backstage is outstanding.

“It’s incredible to have such talented technicians right here in the community.”

“The other great thing is that you’ve got other businesses, such as accommodation venues, hotels, bars, catering services and so forth, that also get to thrive by working alongside us or indirectly off us, which is terrific for the region.”

"The Burdekin can take pride in having such an exceptional facility and the significant impact it has on the community," Troy concludes.


For those who’d like to book the venue, contact the Theatre on: (07) 4783 9880, email: burdekin.theatre@burdekin.qld.gov.au or visit the website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com  

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The Burdekin Theatre – keeping everyone entertained. Photo: Supplied.

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Thursday 6 February
BNC Burdekin Senior Computer Club
Thursday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an educational computer club to support seniors’ journey into the digital age.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Saturday 8 February
Annual Alva Beach Golf Day
Saturday Midday
Get your teams together for one of Alva Beach’s most anticipated events of the year! With tee off scheduled for just after lunch, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club annually hosts an action-packed day to remember topped off with live music, prizes, a BBQ and bar!
Alva Beach

Sunday 9 February
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Sunday 9 February
Justin Roy Kid’s Bash
Sunday Midday
Come one, come all to enjoy a FREE Kid’s Bash filled with rides, treats, games, races, prizes, a sausage sizzle and more in honour of Justin Scott.
Burdekin Race Club

Monday 10 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club 2025 Debut Meeting
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club invites the community to attend their first meeting of 2025! Come along and see firsthand the wonderful plans the Club has in store for 2025, and reminisce on what they achieved in 2024.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Sunday 16 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park

Wednesday 19 February
Social Event with Award-Winning Author
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event with special guest speaker, Award-Winning author (and Burdekin Life newspaper journalist), Mark T. Rasmussen, for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club

Monday 24 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club Annual Youth of the Year Quest will be held on Monday the 24th of February to stage the public speaking talents of students in Year 12! Call John on 0447 561 790 for more information.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

Friday 28 February
BNC Burdekin Parkinsons Support Group
Friday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing Parkinsons in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Thursday 30 January
Ayr Friendship Club Wood Burning
Thursday 10am
Come along for a FREE creative and enjoyable morning with friends!
158 Queen Street, Ayr

Friday 31 January
Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s Back to the 80’s
Friday 7:30pm
From the era that brought the world the Rubik’s Cube, Max Headroom, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comes the “totally awesome” musical, Back to the 80’s! The Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company’s production of Back to the 80’s will be staged across two weekends with the opening night set for Friday 31 January!
Burdekin Theatre

Saturday 1 February
FREE Golf Clinic with Karrie Webb
Saturday 8:30am
Golfers of all abilities (including beginners) are invited to attend the Ayr Golf Club’s FREE Golf Clinic with Karrie Webb!
Ayr Golf Club

Sunday 2 February
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park

Sunday 2 February
Queensland Firebirds Netball Clinic
Sunday 11am
The Queensland Firebirds will fly into the Burdekin as part of their Regional Tour for a comprehensive paid clinic! Registrations are essential.
Burdekin Netball Association, Home Hill

Tuesday 4 February
BNC Burdekin Dementia Support Group
Tuesday 10am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host a support group for those experiencing dementia in their lives.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Thursday 6 February
BNC Burdekin Senior Computer Club
Thursday 9:30am
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre will host an educational computer club to support seniors’ journey into the digital age.
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Saturday 8 February
Annual Alva Beach Golf Day
Saturday Midday
Get your teams together for one of Alva Beach’s most anticipated events of the year! With tee off scheduled for just after lunch, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club annually hosts an action-packed day to remember topped off with live music, prizes, a BBQ and bar!
Alva Beach

Sunday 9 February
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon

Monday 10 February
Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club 2025 Debut Meeting
Monday 6:30pm
The Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club invites the community to attend their first meeting of 2025! Come along and see firsthand the wonderful plans the Club has in store for 2025, and reminisce on what they achieved in 2024.
Crown Hotel, Home Hill

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Lawrence Polgar, President of the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company – who first went on stage in 1992 in Oliver – discusses the return of the show ‘Back To The 80s’ which first appeared here in the Burdekin, 20 years ago.  

“It’s exciting as it’s been 20 years since we first saw ‘Back To The 80s’ on stage here in the Burdekin. Some members even performed in the original show 20 years ago! The cast includes both senior and junior members from Townsville and the Burdekin area, many of whom have grown up through the Burdekin Singers,” an ecstatic Lawrence says.

“Over the years, they've come through our junior program and are now in our senior program. But it's also got a lot of new faces. We've got a lot of new local dancers that may not have a strength in singing, but actually have a strength in the arts. So we have a full dance cast as well.”

The production team includes local director, Pat Nuttall, and choreographers Stephanie Polgar, Jane Olson, and Mitchell Pierce, who have risen through the ranks.

“They have all been part of the Burdekin Singers for quite some time now. They’ve moved through the ranks, and now they're in charge of our choreographing. Then we have the makeup. We have the hair. Then we have got the backstage crew, who are also volunteers. They come and give up their time to make this dream come alive and bring ‘Back To The 80s’ back to the Burdekin stage. It’s thrilling to be part of,” Lawrence grins.

The Burdekin Singers and their production team are aiming to make everything different this time, by changing a number of things without losing the show’s original appeal.

“This time around the show includes more colour, different singing styles, and revamped dance routines, with choreographers adding their own unique touches. One of our key points with this show is to do it differently from how we did the first time around. For example, some songs are broken down, so it’s not just one individual singing but multiple people involved. We've also changed a lot of the dance routines. Having a team of choreographers who’ve come through Burdekin Singers, now they’re adding their own flavour to the routines,” Lawrence delights.

The show’s original writer and creator, and Burdekin native, Neil Gooding, will also visit rehearsals to provide input and support, after having successfully written, produced, and directed international shows, including on Broadway in New York.

“Neil grew up in the Burdekin Singers, so reaching out to him and asking for an opportunity to do Back To The 80s again, he took it with two hands. Having him in town shows people that there are opportunities for them outside of just being on stage in a local theatre company. There are opportunities to be a creative writer, director, or to produce shows around the world or within Australia,” Lawrence states.

Of course, none of this is possible without the local community’s support, which is crucial for the non-profit organisation's success.

“We can't do shows like this without community support. We get a lot of support from the local council, but also businesses here in the Burdekin, whether it's financial, their time, or goodwill. We are always grateful. Without their support, we're unable to give these kids and adults an opportunity to do what they love to do. But also, we're not able to give the show the level of artistic flair that we have without the support of the Burdekin community.

To book tickets for Back To The 80s, contact Burdekin Theatre on: (07) 4783 9880, email: burdekin.theatre@burdekin.qld.gov.au or visit the website at: https://www.burdekintheatre.com

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The Burdekin Singers cast ahead of their upcoming popular show, Back To The 80s. Photo: Supplied

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