What Is The Burdekin Water Festival?
The Burdekin Water Festival is an annual celebration of the abundance of water in the Burdekin region of Queensland, Australia. First held on September 6, 1958, it is one of Queensland's longest-running festivals. The festival is a testament to the community's appreciation for its natural resources and serves as a platform for showcasing local talent, culture, and community spirit.
Over the years, the festival has grown to include a wide range of exciting events and competitions that engage the entire community. These activities span two months, typically from July to September, and culminate in the spectacular Grand Parade and Mardi Gras on Queen Street in Ayr.
The Grand Parade features vibrant floats, costumes, and performances from community groups, schools, and businesses, while the Mardi Gras offers fun rides, delicious food, live music, and entertainment for all ages.
The Burdekin Water Festival not only highlights the importance of water to the region but also fosters a sense of unity and pride among its residents. It is a time when the community comes together to celebrate their heritage, enjoy each other's company, and create lasting memories.
The History & Origin Of The Festival
Travel back upstream to where it all began...
The Burdekin Water Festival is one of the longest running festivals in Queensland. It was the dream of William Morley (Bob) Saxby Snr who had been to Toowoomba and had experienced the Carnival of Flowers in 1957. Upon his return to Ayr, he approached the Shire Chairman at the time to discuss what the Burdekin could do to promote its underground water supply.
A public meeting was called in late 1957, and from that meeting the "Ayr" Water Festival was formed and planning began.
On the 13th of September, 1958, the first Ayr Water Festival is held.
Three young ladies competed for the title of Water Festival Queen, with the winner, Val Pegararo, being named the first Water Festival Personality Queen.
The Festival proves to be very popular - and continues for a second year, this time including Home Hill in the celebration. The name was later changed to the Burdekin Water Festival to include the whole district.
In 1963, the organisers decided to expand upon the Queen Crowning and include a junior entry: The Water Festival Princess.
Popularity continues to grow through the 60s, new competitions and events are added including a Beach Carnival day at Alva.
In 1974, the Water Festival Charity Queen title was created to reward entrants for their fundraising efforts.
The 1980s saw the Festival become a major part of the Burdekin community.
The Festival Committee played a key role in fundraising for the construction of the Burdekin Theatre and Memorial Hall, donating $20,000 towards the project.
The 90s saw the festival continue to grow and evolve - titles are changed to ‘Ambassadors’ and ‘Young Ambassadors’ to include young men in the quest.
The festival is now attracting visitors from all over the Burdekin and even interstate travellers.
The Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary.
The festival is sadly cancelled due to uncertain conditions and restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2023, the Festival is once again not held due to challenges with re-engaging the community support and finding volunteers. Local leaders form a new committee, determined to restore the Festival in 2024.
In 2024, the Water Festival returns with a new committee and new focus - the theme "Bring it Back," aiming to recapture nostalgic elements from past festivals.
Community participation is encouraged - businesses decorate shop fronts, junior and senior ambassadors are invited from various community sectors, further emphasizing inclusivity.
Coming soon...
