Burdekin Life

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Meet Miah

Hello!

My name is Miah, and I am your new on-the-ground journalist living and working right here in the Burdekin!

I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey in the world of journalism. My passion for storytelling has been a driving force in my life for as long as I can remember.

My love for journalism began at a young age, with my first article being published in the Cairns Post when I was just 12 years old. That experience ignited a spark in me and solidified my desire to pursue a career in this field. Since then, I have honed my writing skills, delved into various topics, and developed a keen eye for detail and accuracy.

Apart from my journalistic pursuits, I have a deep love for music and cooking. Music has always been a source of inspiration and relaxation for me. Whether it’s playing an instrument, attending live concerts, or simply listening to my favourite tunes, music is a significant part of my life. Cooking, on the other hand, allows me to express my creativity differently. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, trying out different cuisines, and sharing delicious meals with family and friends.

In addition to my love for music and cooking, I am also dedicated to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Going to the gym is something I look forward to regularly. It helps me stay fit, boosts my energy levels, and provides a great way to unwind after a busy day.

As I begin my career with Burdekin Life, I am eager to bring fresh perspectives, engaging stories, and a passion for truth to the community. I look forward to learning from experienced journalists, growing in my role, and making a positive impact through my writing. If you would like to catch up with me in person I would love to meet you, please call me on 0484 501 662.

Miah

SWEET NOSTALGIA

Senior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador for Campbell’s Jewellery, Demi O’Shea, will host a decadent Cake Stall on Saturday 10 August from 9am.

A nostalgic and classic fundraising activity, the Cake Stall will be run outside Campbell’s Jewellery selling a variety of homemade treats along with raffle tickets for the Burdekin Water Festival’s Diamond Ring Raffle valued at $5000 as donated by Campbell’s Jewellery.

With the celebrated theme of the 2024 Burdekin Water Festival being “Bring it Back”, Demi decided it would be more than fitting to bring back one of the community’s most loved fundraisers.

“Our Cake Stall will bring back so many memories for many people, allowing them to reminisce on the past Water Festivals and the joy they have brought to all,” shared Demi.

“This will be our opportunity to give back to the community in a thoughtful way, as well as getting to see everyone’s wonderful, familiar faces, helping them experience the same joy we feel to ‘Bring it Back’.”

WHAT: Cake Stall Fundraiser.

WHEN: Saturday 10 August from 9am.

WHERE: Campbell’s Jewellery, 113 Queen Street, Ayr.

DID YOU KNOW

• Instantly dissolve soils, greases, fats

• Easy spray & simply wipe away

• Effective against common bacterias

San-e-Scrub is effective against a few common micro-organisms: Pseudomonas Aeroginosa, Pseudomonas Putrida, Escherichia, Coli, Staphylococcus Aureus, Bacillus Subtilis, Streptococcus Lactis, Streptococcus Faecalis, as well as so much more.

Legacy Continues For Vernon Family With Three Generations Completing Magnetic Island Swim

The Vernon’s have a deep history with the Townsville to Magnetic Island Swim, with three generations of competitors within their family. The Vernon family legacy begins with Hockey Vernon in the early 1960’s, his son then competed in 2011, and, most recently his grandson in July this year.

Hockey Vernon, at just 18 years of age, became the youngest competitor to attempt the swim in 1964 since the race’s commencement in 1954. He trained at the Ayr swimming pool under the guidance of coach Phil McLeod. Protected by a large cage towed by a boat, McLeod would watch on from a rubber dinghy to observe Vernon compete against five other swimmers, primarily from Gold Coast Surf Clubs. Vernon finished third with an extraordinary finishing time of two hours and one minute. Back then, the finish line was the RAAF pontoon, where onlookers, friends and family would eagerly await the emergence of their competitor.   Hockey reattempted the swim in 1968, this time with Ingham-based Kauka Kaurlia, the very first winner of the race in 1954 as his coach. The fierce competition included coach Phil McLeod’s son Rodney, who finished first with a time of one hour and fifty-seven minutes. Hockey came in second,

mere moments behind him with a time of two hours and two minutes. The solidarity and contention between the Burdekin swimmers was apparent, as many from the region have attempted the swim, contributing to the significant history of the event.

Come 2011, the Vernon legacy was defended by 40-year-old Trent Vernon. Trent completed the Magnetic Island Swim in two hours and forty-five minutes, under the coaching and observation of John Moloney from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club. His effort was a testament to the determination and dedication that had come to define the Vernons’ involvement in the swim.

This month, Max Vernon, at just 17 years old, demonstrated that the Vernon flair for open-water swimming has certainly not diminished. Max conquered the swim in just two hours and two minutes, finishing fourth overall and second in the under-17 category. Kylie Deeroy from Arcadia Surf Life Saving Club served as his navigator, ensuring a successful and safe crossing. Max’s achievement not only honoured his family’s tradition but also showcased the emergence of a new generation of talented swimmers from the Vernon lineage.

The Vernons’ involvement in the Magnetic Island Swim is part of a larger tapestry of noteworthy performances by Burdekin swimmers.

Rodney McLeod’s four-time participation, his sister Robyn’s record-setting swim in 1966 with a time of two hours and twenty-eight minutes, and Dulce Andrews’ courageous swim in 1959, where she overcame the sweeping tides to finish, all showcasing the tenacity and spirit of the region’s athletes.

The legacy was further enriched in 1997 by Home Hill’s champion swimmer Josh Santacatarina, who won the swim in a spectacular 1 hour and 34 minutes. These stories of endurance and achievement have cemented the Magnetic Island Swim as a

cornerstone of the local sporting calendar.  The three-generation-spanning competitors from the Vernon family in the Magnetic Island Swim represent not just a passion but an aptitude for open-water swimming. From Hockey’s 1960 pioneering swims, to Trent’s impressive finish time, as well as Max’s most recent accomplishment, the Vernon family have continuously contributed to the deep history of this challenging event. Their inspiring story is one of dedication, perseverance, and familial pride, encouraging future genera-

Trent Vernon, Hockey Vernon and 17-year-old Max Vernon who recently competed in Magnetic Island Swim. Photo supplied

Station Commitment Smothered

OPINION PIECE

Ayr firefighters will be left to put up with a substandard fire station at the epicentre of a town’s toxic chemical contamination under Labor, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has revealed this week.

Mr Last said the commissioner’s response to questions during Estimates proceedings around replacing the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station was a slap in the face to firefighters who have been left exposed to carcinogenic compounds and unable to undertake essential training for years.

“The PFAS contamination in this township has been an ongoing issue for years and for at least four years this government has sat on a report into its origins” he said.

“Now we have not only seen a half-baked solution by this state government, we have now heard the commissioner state that there is no funding or intent to replace the Ayr Fire and Rescue Station,” Mr Last said.

“The extent of the PFAS contamination at the fire station could mean that not only are our firefighters left to operate from an excavation site while remediation works occur but infrastructure at the current site may well still need to be replaced following the completion of those works.”

“To add to this, we then have no certainty that once contractors have finished remediation works our firefighters will be able to conduct full training activities on the site.”

Mr Last said the disgust at the idea of leaving Ayr’s firefighters to operate from a construction zone was only compounded by the fact Labor had cut the ribbon on a $6m fire station in the south-east with full knowledge it would need to bulldozed within ten years to allow for roadway upgrades.

“People who sign up to put their lives at risk in front line services deserve to have a facility that actually allows them to operate at full capacity, not a 65-year-old station that is not only deemed an environmental risk but is no longer fit for purpose.”

“Make no mistake that as this mess continues to unfold, it’s becoming clearer to this community that our firefighters and residents can’t rely on Labor to ensure that our frontline services have the support and resources they need to respond to emergencies.”

Contributed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

Local Cemetery Goes High Tech

Burdekin Shire Council is proud to announce the launch of its new cemetery management program OpusXenta in an innovative step towards evolving community access and operational proficiency. The leading-edge program promises to transform how cemetery records are managed and services are provided in the community.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort outlined the numerous benefits that OpusXenta will bring to both council staff and local residents.

“This upgrade facilitates long-term planning and extends the life of our cemetery facilities,” Cr Dalle Cort said. She emphasised that the new system will modernise cemetery administration, offering a more ordered and accessible experience for all involved.

One of the standout features of OpusXenta is its enhanced search functionality on the Council’s website, allowing users to easily

locate specific grave sites, and provide precise burial site information at the click of a button.

The integration of interactive maps further supports this functionality, enabling users to view detailed layouts of the cemeteries and locate graves directly from their smartphones. This revolutionary advancement is expected to make visiting and navigating cemeteries a much more convenient experience for community members.

For those seeking more information about the new cemetery management system, the Burdekin Shire Council encourages residents to contact their Customer Service Centre at (07) 4783 9800. Alternatively, details can be found on the Council’s website at burdekin.qld.gov.au.

This initiative underscores the Council’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance public services and community engagement.

Burdekin Shire Council opts for new cemetery management program OpusXenta. Photo supplied

BCHS TURNS 50!

This year marks a momentous occasion for Burdekin Catholic High School as it proudly commemorates its 50th anniversary - a testament to half a century of nurturing young minds, fostering community spirit, and upholding a tradition of academic excellence in the Burdekin region.

Built on the shoulders of Edmund Campion College (Marist Brothers) BCHS celebrates the vision that became reality in 1974 when it first opened its doors as a co-educational high school, officially named Burdekin Catholic High School.

From its inception, the school has stood as a beacon of knowledge and values, shap-

ing the lives of countless individuals of the Burdekin region who have passed through its doors.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the dedication and vision of those who founded and shaped our school - reflecting on the transformative impact of Burdekin Catholic High School,” Principal, Mrs Lorraine Wolffe said.

“To our alumni who have carried the values of Burdekin Catholic High School into the world, to our current students who embody the spirit of excellence and community, and to the future generations who will continue this legacy, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.”

Such an important time in the life of the school should be celebrated, and an Anniversary Weekend will be held on 16, 17, and 18 August. The anniversary celebrations are not just a reflection on the past but also a testament to the ongoing journey of education and growth.

There is a whole weekend of activities planned and BCHS would love to have their past students and teachers come and celebrate.

The festivities planned for this golden jubilee include a series of events and activities designed to celebrate the school’s rich history, honour its achievements, and inspire the community to embrace the opportuni-

ties that lie ahead.

Beginning the wonderful weekend, Friday 16 August will see a Twilight Event held at the school. Saturday 17 August will host the Anniversary Gala Dinner set to be held at the Memorial Hall, with tickets available for purchase from the Burdekin Theatre. To conclude the celebrations, an Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday 18 August at the school at 9am.

WHAT: Burdekin Catholic Highschool 50 Year Celebrations WHEN: 16, 17, 18 August

The first Burdekin Catholic High School Assembly in 1974
School Leaders 2024

Home Hill Anglican Church Celebrates 100 Years

As Home Hill prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its Anglican church, it’s a moment to reflect on a century of faith, community, and resilience.

Founded in the early 1910s, Home Hill initially faced water scarcity, unlike its neighbouring Ayr. This challenge led to the formation of an irrigation board and the establishment of a powerhouse near the post office, laying the foundation for irrigation and agricultural prosperity.

Farms were allocated through ballots, and wells were installed, turning the region into a thriving agricultural hub.

By the 1920s, the community’s spiritual needs were met with the construction of its first church, operational by 1924.

Built by Edward Woodward for £1,884, this church became the heart of the community. In 1977, a new church was built and paid off by the year’s end, continuing to serve as a spiritual centre for Home Hill.

In its prime, the church saw vibrant participation. Sunday school attracted around 40 children, and community groups like the Mothers’ Union and a ladies’ school flourished.

Fundraising events, including the sale of up to 800 dozen cupcakes, brought the community together. Volunteers meticulously assembled these cupcakes with frosting and coconut in the church kitch-

en, reflecting the church’s bustling and dedicated spirit.

Beyond Sunday services, the church offered midweek worship and extensive community support through visitation programs for the sick.

The youth group, Comrades of St. George, held weekly meetings and annual gatherings in Townsville, focusing on religion, sports, dancing, and singing, producing several ministers who went on to serve the wider community.

service and stays hopeful that the younger generation will carry the torch forward.

Today, the congregation is smaller, with diminished participation from the younger generation. However, dedicated members like Alf Shand, who has attended the church since 1948, continue to uphold its legacy.

Shand, who served as the church’s secretary and treasurer, remains an active member, as well as continuing to come to

On August 18th, Home Hill’s Anglican Church will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a grand event. The celebration will feature a community service at 10am with the bishop and various ministers, followed by a sausage sizzle, performances by the choral society, and Melanesian singing and dancing.

This milestone is a testament to the church’s enduring presence and the community’s resilience. While no one from the church’s inception is around to celebrate, it is up to the current members to honour and uphold this century-old legacy.

WHAT: Home Hill’s Anglican Church 100th anniversary celebrations WHEN: Sunday 18 August from 10am

Alf Shand has attended the church since 1948. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

Become An Auxiliary Fire Fighter

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is actively recruiting part-time auxiliary firefighters to join their dedicated team in the Burdekin Local Government Area, including stations in Ayr, Giru, and Home Hill. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to contribute to their local community whilst balancing other commitments.

QFES is an all-inclusive emergency service agency devoted to ensuring the safety of all individuals and property across Queensland. It comprises of the Fire and Rescue Service, the Rural Fire Service and the State Emergency Service. It also supports volunteer groups and operates with a unique, collaborative approach that integrates fire, rescue, emergency and disaster management services, delivering improved safety outcomes for the community.

QFES offers an inimitable and fulfilling role. The part-time firefighter position is designed to improve community safety through effective prevention, preparation, response, and recovery activities.

Requirements for participation include employer consent to attend incidents and emergencies, to live or work within a reasonable distance of an auxiliary fire station, Australian permanent resident sta-

tus, and a manual C class driver’s licence. Commitment requirements include attending 50% of calls a day with a day working routine hour schedule, or 30% of calls as a shift worker with a non-routine hour schedule, 75% attendance of regular drill and training sessions, gaining an MRV licence within 12 months of employment (at personal expense), participation of ongoing skill acquisition and maintenance programs, including first aid/emergency care, compliance with QFES policies and procedures, including code of conduct and safety standards.

Current QFES employees must apply via their internal careers site. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. Interested candidates can apply through the QFES website, with the process including a fitness assessment, interviews, and background checks.

Becoming a part-time firefighter with QFES is not just a job—it’s a commitment to service, excellence, and community. If you have the allegiance to serve and meet the key requirements, QFES invites you to apply and embark on a rewarding path.

For more information on the recruitment process and upcoming information sessions, visit the QFES website.

Fly Direct To Adelaide From Whitsunday Coast Airport

Pack your bags, and prepare for takeoff because from Sunday 1 September, the Whitsunday Coast Airport will offer a selection of brand-new Jetstar flights directly to Adelaide.

Confirmed earlier this year, the flights will take off on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday each week, with the introduction set to significantly boost local tourism in both the Whitsundays and Adelaide.

In celebration of the February announcement, a one-way sale saw fares available

from $99 earlier this year, and Jetstar’s Executive Manager, Jenn Armor explained Jetstar’s excitement in offering the new route to customers.

“For the first time ever from 1 September 2024, flying between these two destinations will take just under three hours, continuing Jetstar’s mission to make travel more accessible with great low fares,” said Jenn.

Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Businesses for Whitsunday regional

Council that owns Whitsunday Coast Airport, believes Jetstar’s new flight paths will open the region up to a brand-new market of travellers, and this debut has been a long time coming.

“The importance of developing new destinations is critical to the growth of the Whitsundays,” said Craig.

“We’ve relied on Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne traditionally for our interstate visitors but to be able to get Adelaide, South Australia with 1.3million people on three

flights a week to the Whitsundays, conveniently, cost effectively and direct is significant.

“This will be an enormous boost for the region for tourism, mining and agriculture and it really is a strategically important route that has taken a long time to achieve, and we’re very excited for the first of September start and Jetstar has told us the load factors are very strong.”

Direct flights to Adelaide will be running three times a week from September 1. Photos supplied

HOME HILL SURGERY WELCOMES NEW DOCTOR

For the past 10 years Dr Sarat Tata has operated a forward-thinking medical practice that has become a hub for all things health in the Burdekin.

His inspiring attitude and connections within the medical industry has attracted a range of medical practitioners who add to the diversity of services offered and provide the local community with the dedicated health care they deserve.

Dr Mounika Cherabudla is the latest professional to join the team which now boasts five doctors, four registered nurses, two medical receptionists and a range of other medical experts who visit the clinic on a regular basis.

Dr Cherabudla has been practicing medicine for the past four years having gained her qualifications in her home-country of India.

In 2021 she moved to the UK where she completed a Masters in Applied Public Health, following which she started the long process of pursuing a career as a GP in Australia, which can take up to 18 months.

Upon moving to Australia, Dr Cherabudla worked as a GP in Townsville for eight months before joining the team at Home Hill Surgery in July.

“I like the small countryside environment of the Burdekin, I am a bit of a nature lov-

er and I really like living here, the people are lovely,” she said.

“As a GP I enjoy practicing holistic healthcare – dealing with ailments but also mental and social factors which give me a good opportunity to understand where the disease arises and learn more about the patients through GP care.”

Specialising in women’s healthcare, Dr Cherabudla also has an interest in helping patients manage chronic diseases, diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney diseases.

She has also loved the challenge in working with the community’s elderly which has enabled her to have an understanding of ‘complete medicine’.

Dr Cherabudla moved to Home Hill with her husband who is now looking for local work within the IT industry or similar business.

They have a four-year-old son who is currently living with family in India and is due to move over as soon as they are settled.

“I am very grateful for the support of my parents, my sister and my brother,” shared Dr Cherabudla.

“I am also very blessed to be around Dr

and encouraging to be around.”

Dr Tata said he is thrilled to be bringing new doctors to the team and explained it is a long and complicated process due to strict regulations.

The Home Hill Surgery has 5,600 active patients and Dr Tata’s dedicated work has been recognised several times, namely in 2020 when he was named Queensland GP

of the year.

Home Hill Surgery offers GP healthcare five days a week, in-site pathology and ultrasound services, Burdekin Hearing, a dentist who visits fortnightly, a regular physio, skin cancer medicine centre and surgery, Allied Health, North and West Remote Health, a chronic pain management centre and a nutritional medicine practitioner.

Tata who is a very inspiring person – supportive
Dr. Dwija Karumanchi, Dr. Pavani Ganapathi, Dr, Sarat Tata, Dr. Mounika Cherabudla and Dr. Priyanka Rapelli. Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories and Photography

Dr Sarat Tata

Principal General Practitioner

DDr. Sarat Chandra Viswanadh Tata, the principal general practitioner at Home Hill Surgery, has dedicated the past nine and a half years to serving the community with unwavering commitment.

“Medicine is my calling; it’s my passion. I’ve wanted to be a doctor since I was 12 years old,” he shares with a smile.

Taking over from Dr. Griffiths in 2014, Dr. Tata has now transformed a modest practice into a thriving five-doctor business. His dedication has not gone unnoticed, earning him the North Queensland Primary Network GP of the Year award,

Queensland GP of the Year, and a finalist spot for Australia’s GP of the Year.

Beyond general practice, Dr. Tata offers a comprehensive range of services, including pathology, ultrasound, dental care, audiology, physiotherapy, and various allied health specialties.

His extensive qualifications include specialisations in skin cancer medicine and surgery, pain and sleep management from the University of Sydney, nutritional and environmental medicine, and psychology. He also holds a Master of Medicine from the University of Sydney.

Dr. Tata is adept at managing complex and chronic medical conditions, with advanced skills in mental health and managing complex medical conditions.

Dr. Pavani Ganapathi

General Practitioner

Dr. Pavani Ganapathi has been practicing medicine in the Burdekin for the past nine months, driven by a deep-seated desire to serve people.

“Back in India, doctors are almost like gods because they have the power to save lives,” she explains.

With no doctors in her family, her mother’s dream of becoming a doctor was left unfulfilled due to family circumstances. Instead, she passed on that dream to Dr. Ganapathi.

Witnessing the growth of her husband, Dr. Tata, over the past nine years has been a source of pride.

“I’ve seen a lot of improvement, and

he is appreciated by everyone,” she shares.

Passionate about treating children, Dr. Ganapathi holds a diploma in paediatrics. The practice also offers services like audiology and pathology to accommodate patients who can’t travel far, ensuring all needs are met in one place.

After completing medical school in India, Dr. Ganapathi embarked on her Australian journey, which required several exams. She worked as a doctor in Sarina for 12 months before joining her husband here at the surgery. Although time is limited, Dr. Ganapathi enjoys painting, drawing, singing, and gardening,

particularly tending to her flowers.

With her parents living in India, where her mother works as a teacher, and her fatherin-law residing with them, Dr. Ganapathi balances fam ily and professional life. She has a 17-month-old baby and is expecting another child in December. Her dedication to medicine and family reflects her unwavering commitment to making a difference in her com munity.

Describe yourself in three words: emotional, passionate, stubborn

His journey has taken him from rural India to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Western Australia, and finally to North Queensland, which he finds climatically like India.

An active community member, Dr. Tata enjoys playing chess, tennis, and cricket. He serves as Vice President of the Home Hill Tennis Club and even finds time for video games. Supported by his wife, a 17-month-old daughter, and a son expected in December, Dr. Tata remains deeply grateful to the Burdekin community. “Without my patients and staff, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” he says humbly.

Describe yourself in three words: hardworking, multitalented, loveable

Dr. Dwija Karumanchi

General Practitioner

Dr. Dwija Karumanchi has been a valued general practitioner at Home Hill Surgery for three and a half years, driven by a lifelong passion for medicine. Choosing to be a doctor at the age of six, she pursued her dream with unwavering dedication. “I love seeing the people happy,” she says.

Her medical journey began in India, where she found immense satisfaction in her work.

“Every patient is a reward for our hard work,” she says, reflecting on her early experiences.

The transition to Home Hill in 2021,

where she joined her university friend Dr. Tata, marked a new chapter.

“It’s a lively surgery; it’s always busy and growing,” she notes, appreciating Dr. Tata’s continuous efforts to enhance the practice.

Initially focusing on female health, Dr. Karumanchi has since expanded her expertise to include skin excisions, repairs, and various other medical procedures. She feels confident and fulfilled in her diverse role.

“When I was in India, I thought of becoming a paediatrician, but after moving to Australia, I decided to pursue gynaecology,” she shares, adding that she remains open to exploring further specialisations.

Dr. Karumanchi moved to Brisbane in 2014, completing her Masters in Health Services Management before facing numerous exams and interviews. Her journey to Home Hill in 2021 brought significant changes but also a sense of belonging.

Working six days a week, Dr. Karumanchi enjoys her days off by resting, visiting Townsville, and occasionally golfing. Passionate about cooking, she hosts potlucks with friends, enjoying games, dances, and songs. Reading is another beloved pastime. Her seven-year-old daughter keeps busy with ballet and gymnastics, bringing joy to their small, tight-knit family.

Describe yourself in three words: Fun-loving, professional, family-oriented

Fina Raitelli

Administration And Reception

For the past seven years, Fina Raitelli has been the welcoming face of Dr. Tata’s practice, transitioning from the old practice to the new one. “I love having something different to bookwork. I really enjoy the patient contact, especially the regulars,” she shares. The practice has grown significantly, expanding from one doctor to six at times, and now stabilising at five, along with a variety of extra services. “It’s been amazing really,” she adds.

Multitasking is her specialty, seamlessly balancing administration and reception duties. “Having a good friendship with the doctors has been wonderful as

Andrea Blain

Medical Receptionist

For the past 12 months, Andrea Blain has embraced her role as a medical receptionist, finding joy and fulfillment in helping people. “I love that it’s helping people and there’s a lot more involved than I ever thought. It challenges you every day,” she says. Each day brings new opportunities to make a difference, and she values the rewarding nature of her work.

One of the highlights of her job is the vibrant and festive culture at the practice. “They love their parties. Christmas, Easter, and birthdays are so much fun,” she shares. Dressing up in saris, enjoying cultural food, and dancing at dinners have made her feel like part of an extended

family. The practice has grown from a small place to a thriving hub, and she admires the team’s dedication to doing their job properly.

Despite still learning the ropes, Andrea has discovered that her talent lies in empathy and understanding people. She takes pride in fitting patients in when there’s no one else available, ensuring they get the care they need. “There’s a few times I fit in a few people, and they really needed it,” she recalls. She enjoys handling scan referrals, knowing it’s the start of patients getting on their way to feeling well.

Born in Mount Isa, Andrea has lived in the area since she was about five years old.

well. It’s like a family,” she says, appreciating the supportive and familial atmosphere at work. Her extensive knowledge of the business and the area makes her a valuable resource for her colleagues.

Born and raised in Ayr, Fina has deep roots in the community. Married with two daughters, her past jobs have centred around bookkeeping. She attended Burdekin Catholic High School, completing her education up to grade 10. Her passion for travel has taken her to Dubai, Paris, Switzerland, Italy, and the UK. “My next destination is the Netherlands, and I plan to visit Italy and Switzerland again within the next 12 months,” she reveals.

Family is at the heart of Fina’s life. She cherishes time with her three grandchildren and enjoys visits with her daughters, Melissa and Kirsten. Married to her childhood sweetheart, Craig, for 40 years, she values their enduring relationship.

Reflecting on her journey, Fina is grateful for the opportunities and connections she has made. “I love having my beautiful grandchildren over,” she says with a smile, looking forward to future adventures and cherished moments with her family.

Describe yourself in three words: Attentive to detail, particular, dedicated

Her previous jobs include working at Regis and a stint at the mill for a season. Outside of work, she enjoys repurposing furniture, woodworking, and collecting succulents.

Family is central to her life, with two married children, soon-to-be three grandchildren, two dogs, and her partner, Josh. They also take care of her mother. With her passion for helping others and her dedication to her family, Andrea continues to make a positive impact in her com munity, one day at a time.

Describe yourself in three words: co lourful, hardworking, eccentric

Lorenza Onella

Registered Nurse

Registered nurse Lorenza Onella has been a committed presence in Home Hill since 2020, with plans to stay until retirement. Her nursing journey was driven by a natural curiosity and comfort around medical professionals from a young age.

“I wasn’t scared of any doctors or dentists. I was curious who they are,” she recalls.

Originally from the Philippines, Lorenza holds a Bachelor of Commercial Science. Inspired by her sister, who has lived in Australia since the 1990s, she moved to Australia, initially intending to migrate to Canada. In 2008, she

earned a Certificate IV in Nursing, followed by a Bachelor of Nursing to secure permanent residency.

Lorenza has known Dr. Tata since 2015, when Dr. Griffiths was still in practice. She fondly remembers the transformation of the clinic from a pharmacy to Dr. Tata’s own practice in 2018. She especially enjoys working with elderly patients, saying, “My main goal is to help elderly people maintain their quality of life until the end of their lives.”

Before moving to Home Hill, Lorenza spent seven years in Melbourne. “I love this place. It feels like home,” she says.

Lorenza loves sewing, a skill learned from her mother, and enjoys making dresses and costumes for her children.

Passionate about alleviating poverty, Lorenza is involved in organising volunteer work to provide food for the hungry. Upon retirement, she hopes to continue this mission in the Philippines. Married with two children and one grandson, she believes Australia is a beautiful country with fortunate people.

“Just be happy, spread love, and keep the peace,” she advises. “Live life to the fullest because life is short. Problems are always there, but a big heart can make a difference.”

Describe yourself in three words: A big heart

Thursday September 28th 2023

Win in WHAT’S IN THE WORK S

Win in

Celebrate Bullying No Way Week with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council’s ‘Community Notes of Kindness’ Campaign

WHAT’S IN THE WORKS

SHIRBOURNE ROAD, GIRU

WHAT’S IN THE works

BARRATTA ROAD

In celebration of Bullying No Way Week, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council is excited to announce the ‘Community Notes of Kindness’ campaign, running throughout the month of August.

simple:

Barratta Road

WHAT’S IN THE WORK S

WHAT’S IN THE WORK S

This initiative aims to spread positivity and kindness within our community, encouraging everyone to participate in simple acts of goodwill.

Days Left Burdekin’s Bingo

An allocated budget of $880,000 has been set for the complete reconstruction of a 740-metre segment of Barratta Road from the School Road junction. The foundation material is currently being transported onsite and will undergo compaction and levelling in the coming weeks before the initial bitumen sealing takes place.

During Bullying No Way Week, from 12-16 August, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council invites all community members to participate in this positive campaign. The steps to participate are

Collect a ‘note of kindness’ from various locations around the Burdekin including Ayr and Home Hill Libraries, cafes, schools, and businesses. Look for the signs; they’ll guide you to where the cards are located.

Barratta Road

Barratta Road

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor, Pierina Dalle Cort said in times where negativity can often dominate, small acts of kindness can make a significant impact.

“We hope this campaign not only brings happiness but also fosters a compassionate and supportive community,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

An allocated budget of $880,000 has been set for the complete reconstruction of a 740-metre segment of Barratta Road from the School Road junction. The foundation material is currently being transported onsite and will undergo compaction and levelling in the coming weeks before the initial bitumen sealing takes place. Traffic flow at the site will be limited to a single lane, managed by traffic lights during the construction phase.

Take a moment to write a kind message for a friend, loved one, teacher, co-worker, or even a stranger. You can choose to keep your note anonymous or include your name.

The reconstruction of Shirbourne Road between the concrete floodway and Garrone Road is advancing with the pavement for the first 400 metre section ready for the final seal and bitumen. Stabilisation of the remaining 500 metre section up to Garrone Road was completed last week. The lime treated subgrade now requires a further 14 days for curing time for the lime to activate. All pavement works are being constructed under a full road closure between the Bruce Highway and Garrone Road. The intersection of Garrone Road and Shirbourne Road will remain open during construction providing alternate access to the Bruce Highway. Funding for the full reconstruction of Shirbourne Road to the BQC Quarry site has been provided by the Department of Transport and Main Roads and will be scheduled over the coming years to avoid clashing with the wet and crushing seasons to the extent possible.

Traffic flow at the site will be limited to a single lane, managed by traffic lights during the construction phase.

Leave the note of kindness to brighten someone’s day.

An allocated budget of $880,000 has been set for the complete reconstruction of a 740-metre segment of Barratta Road from the School Road junction. The foundation material is currently being transported onsite and will undergo compaction and levelling in the coming weeks before the initial bitumen sealing takes place. Traffic flow at the site will be limited to a single lane, managed by traffic lights during the construction phase.

PARKER STREET DRAINAGE WORKS

HOME HILL FURNITURE UPGRADES

Home Hill Furniture Upgrades

An allocated budget of $880,000 has been set for the complete reconstruction of a 740-metre segment of Barratta Road from the School Road junction. The foundation material is currently being transported onsite and will undergo compaction and levelling in the coming weeks before the initial bitumen sealing takes place. Traffic flow at the site will be limited to a single lane, managed by traffic lights during the construction phase.

For more information on the Community Notes of Kindness Campaign visit Burdekin Shire Youth Council’s Facebook page or phone Council’s Community Development Team on (07) 4783 9800.

Works are underway to improve drainage at the intersection of Parker Street and Wickham Street, Ayr. This week kerb and channel and driveway crossovers will be poured to tie in with the new drainage improvements. A traffic management plan with reduced speed limits and changed conditions will remain in place for the duration of the works.

Upgrades

The Central Business District (CBD) in Home Hill has recently witnessed the placement of ten fresh arrangements of street furniture, featuring benches, planter boxes, and litter bins. More of these combinations have been enlisted as part of the ongoing budget initiative and will be set up upon completion of the manufacturing process. These locally produced planter boxes and litter bins reflect our commitment to supporting local businesses, a source of pride for the Council.

Home Hill Furniture Upgrades

The Central Business District

ROAD UPGRADES

The Central Business District Home Hill has recently witnessed the placement of ten fresh arrangements of street furniture, featuring benches, planter boxes, and litter bins. More of these combinations have been enlisted as part of the ongoing budget initiative and will be set up upon completion of the manufacturing process. These locally produced planter boxes and litter bins reflect our commitment to supporting local businesses, a source of pride for the Council.

Think

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

Home Hill has recently witnessed the placement of ten fresh arrangements of street furniture, featuring benches, planter boxes, and litter bins. More of these combinations have been enlisted as part of the ongoing budget initiative and will be set up upon completion of the manufacturing process. These locally produced planter boxes and litter bins reflect our commitment to supporting local businesses, a source of pride for the Council.

The Central Business District Home Hill has recently witnessed the placement of ten fresh arrangements of street furniture, featuring benches, planter boxes, and litter bins. More of these combinations have been enlisted as part of the ongoing budget initiative and will be set up upon completion of the manufacturing process. These locally produced planter boxes and litter bins reflect our commitment to supporting local businesses, a

Grading maintenance, gravel resheeting and shoulder maintenance is scheduled for the following roads over the next week – Wunjunga Road South of Inkerman and Stockham Road in the Upper Haughton area.

SANDY

CAMP ROAD

Repairs from the wet season are scheduled to commence in early August 2024.

TOLL ROAD

earthworks, road construction, drainage infrastructure, and water and sewerage service installations.

Pavement reconstruction of 190m of the existing bitumen outside the residence on Toll Road will commence in September 2024.

Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion

INVITATION FOR TENDERS

account of a change in the tender specification.

The Council’s representative for this tender is Rebecca Stockdale who can be contacted on (07) 4783 9800 or by emailing accounts.payable@burdekin.qld. gov.au.

Request for Tenders – TBSC/24/023

Tenders closing on Monday 19 August 2024 at 5pm are invited for:

•TBSC/24/023 - Purchase of lots at the Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion Stage 1.

Tender documents including the Tender Form and Contract can be downloaded from the Burdekin Shire Council website www.burdekin.qld.gov.au or by emailing Eliza Lovell at eliza.lovell@burdekin.qld.gov.au

Responses must be lodged via the form included in the request for tender documentation and must be received via email to tenders@burdekin.qld.gov.au by the closing date.

Tender documents are available from Council’s online Tender platform, VendorPanel Marketplace. To view the Tender documents and make a submission, all respondents must be registered in the VendorPanel Marketplace within one of the regions below and select one of the following categories: Regions: Mackay, Queensland – Northern Categories: Aircraft & Aviation Services, Building Trade, Repairs, Maint., Construction & Operation, Horticulture & Arboriculture, Parking, Traffic Services & Equip, Plant & Equipment – Hire, Signs & Barriers, Waste Management & Landfill

Registration in the VendorPanel Marketplace can be completed by following the link https://www.burdekin.qld.gov.au/doing-business-with-council and selecting Tender Marketplace.

Tenders must be lodged electronically via the VendorPanel Marketplace by no later than 2:00pm on Monday 12 August 2024.

Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tenders to take

INVITATION FOR TENDERS – RFT/24/020 Flooded Road Warning Infrastructure.

Burdekin Shire Council invites tenders for Supply, Installation and Commissioning of Flooded Road Warning Infrastructure at three (3) locations in the Burdekin Shire.

Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tenders to take account of a change in the tender specification.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Tender documentation may be obtained from VendorPanel on 25 July 2024.

Tenders must be lodged at VendorPanel by 12 noon on 16 August 2024.

Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tenders to take account of a change in the tender specification.

Terry Brennan Chief Executive Officer

The Council’s representative for this tender is Dean Pappalardo who can be contacted on dean.pappalardo@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

• 1 completed line of photos 1 entry. If you complete card, that’s 10 entries into draw.

• Pick up your ‘Think Outside Bingo Card’ from either the Ayr or Home Hill your photos the competition dates. Don’t out on this opportunity discover Burdekin like never Time is running so get your card and your school adventure.

The Think Outside Bingo tition runs from 16 September October 2023. To play your photos between tition dates. Don’t miss exciting opportunity to Burdekin region like never Time is running out, so go card and finish your are invited to join in Think Outside Bingo fantastic way to explore the wonders of the Burdekin, think outside and play for a chance to win one of four $50 Burdekin Gift Cards,” Cr

• Pick up your ‘Think Outside Bingo Card’ from either the Ayr or Home Hill the competition dates. Don’t out on this opportunity discover Burdekin like never Time is running so get card and your school adventure.

Card’ from either the Ayr or Home Hill Visitor Information Centres, or download a copy at https://bit. out on this exciting opportunity discover Burdekin like never Time is running so get your card and your school adventure. Image: Mick Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure. completion of the process. These planter boxes and commitment businesses, a the Council. Estate Expansion Estate expansion completed its phase. Sand Macro Algae has commenced In the 2023/24 budget, the Council million to cover construction, infrastructure, and water service installations. as part of the project. In the 2023/24 capital works budget, the Council has allocated $2.76 million to

Road junction. is currently onsite and and levelling weeks before sealing takes will be managed by construction Upgrades Business has placement of benches, litter combinations as part initiative and completion process. planter boxes commitment businesses, the Council.

Council is seeking applications for a Technical Officer - Civil Design to be involved in meeting the design needs of Council’s Design office by working on a wide range of Council projects including road construction, traffic facilities, stormwater drainage, and community pathways. You will also work closely with key internal and external stakeholders to deliver quality outcomes with a

You will also work closely with

internal and external stakeholders to deliver quality outcomes with a ‘Think Outside Bingo Card’ from either the Ayr or Home Hill Visitor Information Centres, or download out on this exciting opportunity discover Burdekin like never Time is running so get your card and your school adventure.

Image: Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure.

experience, you’re refreshing Burdekin Centre or a sun-soaked Wunjunga Capture those moments, #visitburdekin media your way play card to win. miss out –only a few take part.” how to up your Outside Bingo either the Home Hill Information download card to or using the #visitburdekin tag @visitburdekin. • 1 completed line of equals 1 you complete whole card, 10 entries prize draw. The Outside Competition from 16 September to 1 October To play along, your photos the competition Don’t on this opportunity discover Burdekin like never Time is running so get your card and your school adventure. Image: Mick Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure. THE $880,000 complete 740-metre from The currently will levelling the place. limited traffic construction Upgrades District recently ten street benches, bins. combinations the will the These and commitment businesses, a Expansion expansion completed its Sand Algae commenced 2023/24 Council cover construction, water installations. Win Adventure and Win in

Image: Mick Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure. Only a Few the Burdekin’s out to get your pictures in for the Think Outside Bingo holiday adventure, Burdekin style, designed to get you exploring the best of the Burdekin region these school holidays. Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said if you are looking for an action-packed adventure to finish the school holidays, residents and visitors are invited to join in Think Outside Bingo Competition. Think Outside Bingo is a fantastic way to explore the wonders of the Burdekin, think outside and play for a chance to win one of four $50 Burdekin Gift Cards,” Cr “The Bingo IN THE of $880,000 the complete a 740-metre

Image: Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure.

Council is seeking applications to fill the role of Executive Assistant to the Mayor. This is a temporary position for a period of up to three months. Fulltime or part-time work arrangements will be accepted. This role also includes providing executive support for the Chief Executive Officer and Councillors as

Council is seeking applications for a Technical Officer - Civil Design to be involved in meeting the design needs of Council’s Design office by working on a wide range of Council projects including road construction, traffic facilities, stormwater drainage, and community pathways. You will also work closely with key internal and external stakeholders to deliver quality outcomes with a

Assistant to the Mayor. This is a temporary position for a period of up to three months. Full-

Estate Expansion Estate expansion completed phase. Macro commenced In the 2023/24 budget, the million construction, infrastructure, and service installations.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with the Burdekin Shire Youth

Loneliness Awareness Week Australia (5-11th August 2024)

This coming week is Loneliness Awareness Week in Australia. Social Isolation and Loneliness are growing epidemics worldwide.

How does Loneliness Awareness Week define lonely and alone (socially isolated)?

‘Lonely’ - Loneliness is a distressing feeling that arises when your current relationships do not meet your social needs. You can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely.

‘Alone’ - Being alone (or socially isolated) is a physical state where you have fewer interactions with others. Some people may enjoy being alone, but for others it can be distressing and lead to loneliness.

We can start to create a culture of connection at work, in our community spaces, and start all this in our own homes.

Here are some tips:

• Digital free dining

• Play a game or do a puzzle together

• Encourage conversations

• Say hi to your neighbours

• Weekly online chats to loved ones in oth-

er towns and abroad

How about in ourselves? How do we start creating meaningful connections?

We can start by:

• Recognising that loneliness is a sign to connect

• Building on small talk

• Nurturing current relationships

• Joining an interest group

• Trying volunteering

Wanting connection is part of being human. We are social creatures that thrive when we feel heard, seen and understood. Take time this coming week to reflect on your own connections, become aware of loneliness and social isolation and if you see a need in your life to implement some changes, reach out to the Centre to help you find connection in our great Burdekin community.

Until next time, The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

With Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort

Did you know that tenders are now open for an exciting opportunity to secure prime industrial land?

Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion features 19 lots available for tender, offering a fantastic chance for businesses and investors to secure valuable industrial land. Most of these lots are generously sized around 2000m², offering plenty of space to build your dream industrial property or expand your business. The flexible configurations mean that buyers have the option to tender for multiple lots, allowing for customised and expansive developments.

For more information and to access the tender package, be sure to visit Council’s website or contact Burdekin Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

This is your chance to explore all the details and find the perfect lot to meet your business needs. Remember, the deadline is approaching fast—tenders close at 5:00pm on Monday 19 August 2024.

Councillor Column

Left to Snap Bingo Adventure

Instagram Facebook the hashtag #visitburdekin and @visitburdekin. completed photos entry. If complete the card, that’s entries into the draw. Think Bingo Competition runs September October 2023. along, post photos between competition Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to the region never before. running out, your bingo and finish school holiday adventure. Mick the Cutter on a Bingo Adventure.

If you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to phone me on 0447 150 582 or email mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.

au

With Councillor Fina Vasta

Iwould like to talk about one of the Burdekin’s local not for profit organisations, the Zonta Club Burdekin Inc, that is actively working on a number of local community projects.

In the coming months, Zonta, in partnership with the Red Rose Foundation, Burdekin Shire Council and the Men’s Shed, will place a number of Red Benches in prominent locations in Ayr and Home Hill. Keep an eye out for them - you won’t miss them!!

The presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible.

If you wish to learn more about Zonta and their exciting local community and international work, follow the club activities on Facebook or you can make arrangements to attend a monthly dinner meeting which is held every second Tuesday of the month commencing at 6:00pm at the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club.

Burdekin Community Association

Emergency Relief Program

BCA provides financial and material assistance for adults experiencing personal, family, relationship and/or financial issues.

The service assists adults and children with basic needs in times of financial hardship, through the provision of:

• Food parcels

• Toiletries

• Vouchers (food, clothes, chemist, transport)

• prepaid cards

• payment of third-party accounts

Please note that a Centrelink Income Statement is required unless you are affected by domestic and family violence and not receiving a Centrelink payment. We wouldn’t be able to offer this Service without funding from the State Government and generous donations from community groups, businesses and individuals.

On Sunday I had the privilege of attending the Home Hill Burdekin Uniting Church Bluey’s Thrift Shop 50th Birthday celebration.

It was wonderful and humbling to spend time with the warm, caring and hardworking members of the Church Auxiliary and other church members, Thrift Shop volunteers and former Blue Nurses.

The church auxiliary has donated some of the funds raised in the Thrift Shop for our Emergency Relief and Domestic and Family Violence Support services for a number of years and we are super grateful.

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran Chief Executive Officer Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

Exciting Opportunity: Tenders Open for Ayr Industrial Estate

The Burdekin Shire Council is thrilled to announce that tenders are now open for the newly expanded Ayr Industrial Estate. This expansion offers additional industrial land and infrastructure, aimed at boosting the growth and diversification of our local economy.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort expressed the Council’s enthusiasm about this major development, with Stage 1 offering 19 lots.

“The launch of tenders for the Ayr Industrial Estate expansion is an exciting step forward,” Cr Dalle Cort stated.

“This expansion represents prime real estate strategically positioned to foster industrial growth - it aims to attract a diverse range of new industries to the area, en-

hance economic grown and also encourage innovation and development within the community.

Not only will the new development provide existing businesses with the opportunity to expand, but it will also ensure the availability of future jobs for our young people.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to secure your businesses future in this wonderful part of North Queensland.”

Tenders are now open for lots in the Industrial Estate expansion. For more information, visit burdekin.qld.gov.au or contact the Council’s Economic Development Team at (07) 4783 9800 or via email at eliza.lovell@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Meet Spud

Spud is a lovable Jack Russell terrier with a heart of gold! He is a bundle of energy and enthusiasm, always ready for a game.

He has adorable ears and wags his tail none stop, he is sure to bring a smile to your face every day.

Despite his small size, Spud has a big personality. He is incredibly loyal and

FAST FACTS:

DOB: 01/04/2023

Sex: Male

Breed: Jack Russell Terrier

affectionate, always eager to cuddle up on the couch or snuggle in bed.

Spud is also quite smart and he loves to learn new tricks.

If you’re looking for a furry companion who will fill your life with joy and laughter, look no further than Spud the lovable Jack Russell terrier!

Kid friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Untested

Other dogs: Yes

Fences: 5ft

To meet Spud, fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $1000 Spud will be desexed, micro-chipped, up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated, and he is on heartworm preventative.

Equivalent capacity to a 750mm round pipe Bottom half remains clear of silt buildup

Fixed headwall integrated into both barrel and floor for seamless installation

Flat bottom design pushes trash and weeds through culverts Hold water on farm

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort on site with the Industrial Estate Expansion Prospectus.

Sugar Traders Deliver Cautious Message

Simon Hood - Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

a roadshow through Wilmar’s four milling regions with senior sugar traders, Peter Bingham and Neil Foo.

for the 2024 season.

Peter and Neil work with Wilmar International and travel to Queensland once a year to meet with growers who choose Wilmar to market their GEI sugar. Peter is based in London while Neil is based in Singapore.

for pricing in July

sugar was a dream. At hopefully the promise of

Their overarching message was for growers to be conscious that we may not see the elevated prices we witnessed in the last couple of years. The primary cause for caution on the outlook for #11 sugar pricing is based around the rapid ramping up of Brazilian cane production and crystallisation capacity.

persistent deficit of

Peter delivered a Brazilian masterclass, highlighting how acreage under cane had expanded. A 300,000 increase in 24/25 season hectares has essentially erased the

nder $600 with underwriting of next

unexpectedly.

dramatically. We have lots In simple terms

previous eight-year steady decline in area under cane.

Additionally, millers have been aggressively investing in crystallisation capacity by converting ethanol- only factories to dual sugar/ ethanol output. The increased acreage and sugar-make capacity has our projection for this year’s Brazilian sugar production to be at 42.2m tonnes – similar to last year’s record production.

The supply response in Europe, China and Thailand is expected to see a trade surplus for this year and beyond. India is expected to have a larger crop as well, but will not be a trade participant as domestic consumption and increased ethanol production will soak up the extra tonnes.

Overall consumption is expected to stay solid but the key importing countries of China and Indonesia are reasonably well covered in the short term and have sufficient stocks for them to sit out of

the market for some time.

Peter and Neil were clear in their delivery that this is a forecast, which is based on modelling, which relies on assumptions, which relies on information known at the time. We could be wrong. No one was able to foresee the massive tail end of the Brazilian harvest in November 2023, which caused the spectacular collapse of #11 from US 28c/lb to sub 20c/lb.

The good news is that demand for Australian sugar remains strong into our traditional markets of Japan and Korea. Our 24-season physical sale program is well advanced and the large premiums that flowed into the Allocation Account for 23 Season are likely to be repeated this year – albeit at a slightly lower level.

Peter and Neil enjoyed their annual roadshow and look forward to returning next year.

the bell, notifying the knowledge.

whereby margin about taking control of different appetite for

help you make the best tools and payment

Pool we dedicate outperformed QSL’s

Meghan Wilson on
Burdekin growers Ben and Billie Nielson with Burdekin Grower Marketing Consultant Fiona Villis at the recent roadshow event, held at the Burdekin Theatre. Photos supplied
Wilmar’s Grower Marketing team spent some time on farm during the roadshow. Pictured from left are, Risk Manager Bevan Patterson, Grower Marketing Consultant Meghan Wilson, Business Development Manager Owen Richards, Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham, Manager Grower Marketing Simon Hood and Senior Sugar Trader Neil Foo
Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (left) with Burdekin grower Mario Mio and sons, Sebastian and Oliver
Senior Sugar Traders Peter Bingham and Neil Foo were impressed by the size of the cane grown in the Burdekin. They visited one of Wilmar’s farms at Mona Park as part of the annual roadshow

Mill Pay Dispute “Costing Farming Families Millions”

CANEGROWERS has welcomed news that Wilmar and unions representing workers at the company’s nine Queensland sugar mills have accepted a mediation offer from the Fair Work Commission.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said he hoped the move signalled the beginning of the end for the long-running pay dispute that is affecting half of the industry and threatens to completely derail the season.

“Sugarcane farming families have been losing $4 million a day due to strike action at Wilmar mills, and we’ve seen the crush fall up to 20% behind schedule in some districts,” Mr Menkens said.

“It’s been clear for weeks that the parties had reached a stalemate in negotiations, so it’s well past time that we got this issue resolved.

“To make matters worse, communication between the mills and their grower suppliers has been almost non-existent, with growers left in the dark about what may happen from one day to the next.

“Cane harvesters, contractors, farmers and farm workers have been operating in an atmosphere of complete uncertainty, and they have had enough.

“There are no winners in this situation, but there are very clear losers, that’s the cane growing families whose livelihoods are being devastated.

“I personally know growers who are losing tens of thousands a day during stoppages. These farmers have spent millions of dollars growing this crop and getting it ready to harvest. They face huge bills for fertiliser, chemicals, staffing, machinery, maintenance, and all the other costs associated with farming. So, they are not just losing their income, they are unable to continue servicing those huge debts that farmers must run up just to grow a crop.”

The ongoing industrial action is just the latest problem for a milling sector plagued by performance issues that are rapidly dragging down the productivity and profitability of the entire industry, impacting the financial and mental wellbeing of farming families and communities.

“Certain parts of the milling sector have been under-performing for years, which has flow-on effects on season length, cane quality, harvesting costs. Every year we are seeing cane left unharvested in the paddock. The inability of some mills to crush the crop in that June to November window is hurting growers, the industry, and the communities that rely on sugarcane for survival,” Mr Menkens said.

“CANEGROWERS has been working on this problem with many milling companies and other industry organisations. We know how much it is costing the industry. We also know the solution. In fact, it’s pretty simple! Milling companies need to invest for the long term in their factories

and infrastructure.

“Simply keeping mills ticking over year after year is not enough, because each year they are getting a little bit worse. They need to make significant investments to upgrade and modernise their assets. They must also train and maintain qualified staff.”

Mr Menkens pointed out that some milling companies have successfully invested and collaborated with the growing sector and are thriving as a result.

“We realise mills, especially older mills, are difficult to run and maintain. And the logistics of moving and crushing 35 million tonnes of cane per year are complex. But it can be done successfully and we need to work together to see this happen.

forces with Mossman cane growers to ensure they get their cane crushed this year following the closure of Mossman Mill in 2023.

“MSF’s Tableland mill is currently crushing at around 97% capacity. It should be a shining example to those mills struggling to maintain 70-80% availability.

“MSF’s Mulgrave mill has even joined

“This proves that mills can perform well and work with growers collaboratively if they invest properly in their own business and the industry more widely.”

Constructive Discussions Held In Townsville On Wilmar Enterprise Agreement

Enterprise bargaining discussions between Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and representatives of three unions in Townsville earlier this week on Tuesday have been described as constructive by a Wilmar company spokesman.

A Fair Work Commissioner assisted in the discussions and the Wilmar spokesman said that in the course of the day the par-

ties had succeeded in narrowing the gap further between unions’ claims and company offers.

The Commissioner, Bernie Riordan, has offered to provide further input and remain available should the parties wish him to contribute further.

“These confidential discussions are ongoing and without prejudice, so we do not

intend to discuss details outside the negotiating room,” said the company spokesman.

He added that Wilmar Sugar and Renewables was disappointed to receive notification of further industrial action from all three unions within 15 minutes of Tuesday’s discussions concluding.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens and CANEGROWERS Burdekin Director Rian Swindley with Queensland Premier Steven Miles during a Community Cabinet in Townsville last month

the best weekly throughput for the season to date, bringing the total tonnes crushed to more than 1.8M tonnes. This represents just over 21% of the Burdekin region’s forecast crop.

Production was impacted this week by a number of unplanned stops as well as industrial action. The opportunity was taken during the stoppages to carry out necessary maintenance work.

The average weekly CCS was 14.02, which was above budget.

The highest CCS sample of 17.1 was from a rake of Q240 -PL in the Sextons (Pioneer) productivity district. As always, please remember to take care as you approach cane rail crossings.

Our cane trains operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week during the season.

Burdekin Region

AgTrends Show Sector To Boom

The value of Queensland’s agricultural sector is projected to boom to a second-highest-ever valuation of $23.56 billion in 2024-25.

New AgTrends figures released last month show a promising year ahead, despite challenges such as declining cattle prices, drier conditions and major natural disasters in 2023-24 leading to a valuation of $22.1 billion for the year.

The valuation remains higher than the five-year average and showcases the resilience of Queensland agriculture, with a corresponding supply chain value estimated at $33.88 billion.

Cattle and calves once again took the gold medal as Queensland’s highest-valued commodity in 2023-24, contributing $5.71 billion to the state’s economy.

Meanwhile meat processing ($2.40B) and sugarcane ($2.06B) took the silver and bronze positions respectively.

The Burdekin region continues to play a crucial role in Queensland’s thriving agricultural sector, contributing a significant $735 million to the state’s Gross Value of Production (GVP) in 2023-24. This notable performance places Burdekin among the top five highest GVP contributors, highlighting the region’s importance in the overall agricultural landscape of Queensland. The region’s

success is further underscored by its impressive GVP growth rate of 19 per cent, making it one of the fastest-growing areas in the state.

Sugarcane remains a vital commodity within Queensland’s agricultural sector, securing its position as the third highest-valued commodity with a contribution of $2.06 billion to the state’s economy in 2023-24. This robust performance reflects a significant growth rate of 32.7 per cent, reinforcing sugarcane’s essential role in the state’s agricultural output.

The promising projections for 202425, with the sector expected to reach a near-record valuation of $23.56 billion, further indicate the enduring strength and resilience of Queensland’s agriculture, driven in part by the steady contributions from regions like the Burdekin.

Macadamias led the top five highest-growing commodities in 2023-24, followed by chickpeas, sugarcane, apples and strawberries.

The macadamia mania was largely led by the Bundaberg region, which dominated the state’s production of the “Queensland nut“.

Toowoomba was the best-performing region in 2023-24 with a Gross Value of Production (GVP) worth $1.27 billion, followed by the Western Downs

($951M) and Bundaberg ($899M).

Hinchinbrook experienced the highest growth in GVP (29%), followed by Douglas (24%), Mackay (23%), Burdekin (19%) and Cairns (12%).

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said that Queensland‘s valuable and vital agriculture sector is “under threat from David Crisafulli and the LNP’s nuclear power plan.”

“If the LNP gets their way, approximately 3,440 farms will be within the fallout zone of the LNP’s handpicked reactor sites in Queensland, putting our state’s first-class food and fibre in danger of contamination.

“Queensland’s food and fibre is the best in the world, and our primary producers have showed remarkable resilience in delivering a bumper 2023-24 despite challenging conditions.

“While Queensland is officially droughtfree, conditions were drier overall leading to tougher conditions for growers and graziers.

“In parts of the state, Severe Tropical Cyclones Jasper and Kirrily created further challenges.

“Our traditional titans of beef and sug-

ar remain a cornerstone of the Queensland economy, and it’s great to see strong growth for many growers, particularly for macadamias, sugar, chickpeas, apples and strawberries.”

Minister Furner went on to say that the future is bright with a second-highest value on record projected for the Ag sector in 2024-25.

“Queensland agriculture is under serious risk from the LNP. David Crisafulli is too weak to stand up to Peter Dutton and his own party on nuclear, which would be a disaster for our state.

“The LNP wants to install the thirstiest form of energy on the world’s driest inhabited continent, taking water away from our farmers.

“We should be watering our plants – not Peter Dutton’s nuclear plants that will become a frightening reality under David Crisafulli.

“Meanwhile the Miles Government backs Queensland’s primary producers.

“We say no to nuclear and we’ll continue to support farmers through initiatives

such as our Rural Economic Development (RED) Grants, Rural Agricultural Development (RAD) Grants and joint Commonwealth and State Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements.”

Highest GVP in 2023-24 by LGA ($): Toowoomba            $1.27 billion

Western Downs       $951 million

Bundaberg              $899 million

Burdekin                 $735 million

Cassowary Coast    $727 million

Highest GVP growth in 2023-24 by LGA (%):

Hinchinbrook          29%

Douglas                  24%

Mackay                   23%

Burdekin                 19%

Cairns                     12%

Highest commodities growth in 2023-24 (%): Macadamias           86.3%

Chickpeas               37.1%

Sugarcane              32.7% Sugar processing    23.9% Apples                      7.4%

For the latest AgTrends statistics visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries‘ DataFarm website.

Sugarcane remains a vital commodity within Queensland’s agricultural sector, securing its position as the third highest-valued commodity with a contribution of $2.06 billion to the state’s economy in 2023-24
The Burdekin region continues to play a crucial role in Queensland’s thriving agricultural sector, contributing a significant $735 million to the state’s Gross Value of Production (GVP) in 2023-24
Cattle like these grazing in the Burdekin contributed to beef being the highest-valued commodity in 2023-24, contributing $5.71 billion to the state’s economy

Beauty in the Burdekin

Welcome to the Burdekin, a vibrant region where the charm of small-town Australia meets the boundless beauty of nature. Nestled south of Townsville, the Burdekin boasts picturesque landscapes, from the lush green fields of sugar cane to the pristine wetlands teeming with wildlife. This area is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, dynamic history, and unique natural attractions, offering visitors an array of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re diving into the depths of the ocean to explore historic shipwrecks, birdwatching in serene lagoons, or marveling at impressive WWII relics, the Burdekin promises adventure and discovery around every corner.

DIVE INTO HISTORY

Immerse yourself in the depths of the ocean and explore the legendary shipwreck of the S.S. Yongala, one of the world’s top

10 dive experiences. Shrouded in mystery, the Yongala lay lost beneath the waves for nearly half a century, its sinking still an enigma. Today, this sunken treasure, now an underwater ecosystem, attracts divers from around the globe. As a PADI 5 Star Dive Resort located in Alva Beach, Yongala Dive offers the quickest route to this magnificent site. Dive into the Yongala’s rich history and vibrant marine life, where hundreds of species of fish, rays, turtles, and corals have made their home. Our small group dives with experienced staff ensure an unforgettable and intimate underwater adventure.

EXPLORE A UNIQUE WWII BUNKER

Journey along the Bruce Highway to discover the historic WWII site at Charlie’s Hill, situated roughly 100km south of Townsville. This radar installation, built by the RAAF in 1943, stands as a testament to Australia’s wartime efforts. Step inside

the reinforced concrete igloos that once housed radar equipment, offering bombproof protection during the war. Although the wooden towers have been removed, the concrete structures and foundations remain, providing a glimpse into the past.

Listed in the Queensland Heritage Register, Charlie’s Hill offers a poignant look at military history. Just a six-minute drive south of Home Hill, follow the signs on the Bruce Highway, turn onto Charlie’s Hill Road, and travel about 1.5 kilometres to reach this significant site.

BIRDING IN THE BURDEKIN

Lilliesmere Lagoon: A Bird Watcher’s Haven

Nestled near the Kalamia Sugar Mill, Lilliesmere Lagoon is a renowned freshwater wetland cherished by the community. This vital water source not only supports irrigation but also serves as a sanctuary for birds and fish. Acting as a natural filter, it absorbs nutrients and sediment, enhancing the water quality flowing out.

Travel from Ayr towards Alva along Beach Road to reach this birding hotspot.

CROMARTY WETLANDS: A SANCTUARY OF BIODIVERSITY

The Cromarty Wetlands, a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life, is a primary breeding and feeding ground for Magpie Geese and a seasonal playground for the majestic Brolga. This wetland system hosts an im-

pressive variety of wildlife, including 255 bird species, 51 reptile species, 44 mammal species, and countless invertebrates. The Aboriginal name for the main wetland, Wongaloo, translates to “quiet waters.” Located just over a 30-minute drive from Ayr, this serene and biodiverse haven offers a unique birding experience.

MARVEL IN AWE AT THE AYR CEMETERY

Located just off the Bruce Highway north of Ayr, the Ayr Cemetery is a fascinating site, notable for its impressive collection of mausoleums. These architectural marvels, primarily housing families of Italian descent, each boast unique designs and substantial sizes, reflecting the cultural heritage and traditions of the region.

THE FIERY SPECTACLE OF CANE BURNING

The Burdekin is renowned for its spectacular sugar cane fires, a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight that lights up the night sky from June to December. These controlled burns are not just a visual feast but also an integral part of the local agricultural process, preparing the fields for harvesting. For those eager to witness this fiery phenomenon up close and learn about the fascinating reasons behind cane burning, Burdekin Farm Stay offers an immersive experience.

Burdekin Christian College student, Sioli ‘Joe’ Mau, has travelled to Sydney to take part in a song writing workshop following winning the North Queensland Fast Track to Fame Prize in 2023.

Joe was the celebrated winner of the 2023 Fast Track Talent Showcase hosted by the Burdekin Shire Youth Council at the Burdekin Theatre, and as part of his prize, was able to attend a song writing workshop with 2020 Voice winner, Chris Sebastian.

“Working with Chris Sebastian was an extraordinary experience that transcends the usual professional dynamics,” shared Joe.

Throughout the workshop, Chris led Joe through the creation of a song on a professional level, providing Joe with an insight into what a music career entails, further igniting his passion to peruse music professionally.

“Chris is not only a remarkable talent but also an inspiring individual whose presence elevated

my courage, and his collaborative spirit makes him a joy to work with,” explained Joe.

“He approached the collaboration with an open mind and a genuine desire to create something meaningful, and the single that is currently in the making explores the idea of not rushing ahead but really sitting back and living in the moment, enjoying the ride instead of rushing ahead to the destination.”

A memorable and significant experience, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council and the Burdekin Shire Council is looking forward to hosting the 2025 Fast Track Showcase to continue providing talented youth like Joe with these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

“The fire that was fuelled within me couldn’t be extinguished due to the eagerness of my heart and the passion Chris showedI would love to thank the Burdekin Shire Council for sponsoring my trip, as well as Fast Track Talent show for the massive opportunity.”

winner, Chris Sebastian,

a

2020 Voice
led Joe through
once-in-alifetime music workshop as part of his 2023 Fast Track Talent Showcase prize. Photo supplied

22 Social Life

The Queensland Country Bank Burdekin Water Festival will make its celebrated Queen Street return with an impressive group of both junior and senior ambassadors.

With the September Grand Parade and Mardi Gras on the horizon, each ambas-

sador will make their anticipated debut on Friday 2 August at the Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch and Festival Fashion Parade.

The 2024 event will see 7 Junior Ambassadors and 7 Senior Ambassadors representing numerous businesses and organisations within the Burdekin region.

Dakota Dixon – Burdekin Christian College

“I nominated to be an ambassador because I watched my sister, Summer participate in 2022, and I think it would be a very worthwhile experience. I love living in Ayr, I also love my school (Burdekin Christian College) and I wanted to represent my school as an ambassador. I also would love to build my confidence in public speaking and would love to make new friends and memories along the way.”

Cole Pontifex – The Burdekin Academy

“I feel super proud to be involved in such an iconic Burdekin event. I’m keen to put myself out into the community, improve myself, meet new people and help promote the Burdekin Academy - I want to be a relatable role model for other boys thinking of joining gymnastics.”

Eden Godfrey – Burdekin Netball Association

“I was pleased to be asked to represent the Burdekin Netball Association as Junior Ambassador because the organisation plays an important role in my development. Being Junior Ambassador will allow me to return my appreciation to the club, it’s tireless committee members and the central role it plays in our community.”

Stella Borellini – The Burdekin Academy

“When I was younger, I admired the people on the floats that got to represent their clubs and throw lollies to the spectators. I couldn’t wait to grow up and join them and as soon as I could, I hopped on the Burdekin Academy’s float. Seeing other entrants represent our club and other organisations in the past made me hope to be considered as an entrant one day. I’m really looking forward to all the functions and events, getting to meet new people and raising funds for our awesome club.

Olivia Ferguson - The Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited

“I would like to represent the Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited as the Junior ambassador because Bur-Del helps the community and people and that is something I like to do. Bur-Del does a lot of different jobs and activities to help everyone in the community and I think that is fantastic.”

Kelsey Laidlow – East Ayr State School

“I always look forward to the Water Festival each year and I am excited to represent my school. East Ayr State School has been a part of the community for a very long time, and I wanted them to be represented in this event. My family owns a cane farm and the abundance of water in the Burdekin should be celebrated. My mother was a queen entrant in the Harvest Festival and spoke about it to me - when the opportunity came up, I thought it would be good to meet new people and have fun.”

Francheisca Dela Cruz – Burdekin Christian College

“The Burdekin Christian College asked us if anyone would be interested in joining the water festival ambassador and I decided to join, not only to represent my school but to show my pride and to give me the chance to give back to the community here at our school and to be a great example to others.”

Dakota Dixon will represent the Burdekin Christian College
Cole Pontifex will represent The Burdekin Academy
Eden Godfrey will represent the Burdekin Netball Association
Stella Borellini will represent The Burdekin Academy
Olivia Ferguson will represent the Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited
Kelsey Laidlow will represent East Ayr State School
Francheisca Dela Cruz will represent the Burdekin Christian College

Demi O’Shea – Campbell’s Jewellery

“I have been a local citizen my entire life, and I am abundantly grateful that I now have the chance to repay the acts of service that this community has not only rewarded me, but all our members. As I broaden my knowledge, experience and perspectives, I also look forward to building new relationships throughout our community, committee and my fellow ambassadors with whom I will be sharing this awaited journey with.”

“I accepted the role as a Water Festival Ambassador as I believe it is a great opportunity to get more involved in the community and extend my social circle. It’s also a great way to meet new people and learn more about the water festival and what goes on behind the scenes to make the festival come together. The Burdekin Shire council has a vision of a prosperous, connected and inclusive community built on the shire’s strong rural foundations.”

“I accepted this role to be a senior ambassador for the Ayr Rotary Club as my grandfather was the president in 1998, and I would like to make him proud. The Rotary Club is a community-based organisation that helps out when they can. They also run the annual duck race every year in memory of Norm Perry. My role is to represent this amazing club to the best of my ability, and I love to help anyone and everyone and learning new things.”

What: Maria Populin Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch and Festival Fashion Parade.

When: Friday 2 August 6pm.

Where: Populin’s Hall, Queen Street, Ayr. More Information: Tickets are available at Solutions @ ELA 145 – 147 Mackenzie Street, Ayr.

Zimyra Monday – The Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited

“I have a passion for helping people in our community, whether it be the younger generation and ranging through to our older generation. I have always been very supportive of my parent’s vision for the Community Organisation, in which I have been involved in many plans behind the scenes of Bur-Del. I am very passionate and have a desire to help make our community a safe and efficient place for our children and families.”

“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always loved watching the water festival parade and supporting my school and sporting clubs. I decided to nominate as a Water Festival Ambassador as it is a great opportunity to meet new people and contribute to our community. Representing such a respected organisation is a true honour, and I’m eager to give back to the community and support the Lions Club.”

“Being asked to be an Ambassador for the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club came out of left field, it was humbling to think that I could represent my organisation and meet new people who feel the same way. I’m delighted to be a part of this event and to give back to my organisation the support they have given me.”

“I nominated to be an Ambassador for Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate to put myself out there, meet new people and gain more confidence while stepping out of my comfort zone. McCathies Real Estate was founded by Jack & Milly McCathie in the early 1960’s. The organisation is locally owned and operated for over fiftyfive years, we strive to look after all our clients with the up most respect and professionalism.”

Macy Grabs – Burdekin Shire Council
Sasha Previtera – Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club
Mia Kelly – Rotary Club of Ayr Inc
Charlotte Horsfall – Ayr Anzac Memorial Club
Brielle Astorquia – Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate
Demi O’Shea will represent Campbell’s Jewellery
Macy Grabs will represent the Burdekin Shire Council
Mia Kelly will represent the Rotary Club or Ayr Inc
Zimyra Monday will represent The Bur-Del Co-operative Advancement Society Limited
Sasha Previtera will represent the Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club
Charlotte Horsfall will represent the Ayr Anzac Memorial Club
Brielle Astorquia will represent Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate

Sustainable Living For Your Home

Living in a world where we must increasingly become aware of our collective environmental impact, adopting sustainable living practices is paramount in ensuring a healthier planet. Small changes in our daily routines can make a big impact on our carbon footprint and resources.

One effective way to begin a greener approach to life is through energy consumption reduction. Making the switch to energy-efficient appliances, such as LED bulbs and unplugging devices when they are not in use can not only help save the planet but can keep electricity costs low too. Not only this, but also learning to embrace natural light during the day is a more inviting and healthier option.

Water conservation is another integral aspect of sustainable living. Simple habits such as fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter

showers and using water-saving fixtures can significantly reduce water waste. Collecting rainwater and grey water for gardening and opting for native plants can also contribute to water conservation. Mindfulness when washing dishes and doing laundry can also help. Reducing waste is key in the quest for

sustainability. Adopting the three R’s, reducing, reusing, and recycling, stops huge amounts of waste being sent into landfills. Reusable bags, containers and bottles in place of single-use plastic should always be opted for. Composting kitchen scraps and yard matter not only reduces landfill but also forms the foundation of nutrient-rich soil for the garden. Donating and repur-

posing items rather than discarding them lengthens their lifespan and reduces the need for new resources.

Transportation is another fundamental pillar of sustainable living. Wherever possible, opting for carpools, bikes and walking greatly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes an active, healthier lifestyle. Where necessary, regular upkeep with vehicle maintenance and efficient driving will be kinder not only on the planet but also on your wallet.

Finally, eco-friendly products and locally produced goods, as well as seasonable produce and minimal packaging are all great ways to reduce your environmental impact. Furthermore, it also supports the local economy as well as driving market demand for thoughtfully sustainable products.

By incorporating these ideas into daily routines, as a community we can have a substantial impact on our carbon footprint. Through conscious choices and nurturing a sustainable mindset, collectively we can contribute to a healthier planet for current and future generations. Embracing green living is a shared journey.

FOURTH STREET, HOME HILL

• Charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom house.

• Situated on a spacious 2-hectare land.

• This property offers a peaceful and serene lifestyle surrounded by nature.

• The house features a cozy living room, a functional kitchen, and a well-maintained bathroom.

• This 3-bedroom, 1 bathroom house is the perfect place to call home.

• Spacious living room, cozy bedrooms, and a beautiful backyard.

• Situated on a 794 sqm block of land.

• This property is tenanted at $205 per weekGross Return Approx 6.1%

CROMARTY SLIDING ROAD, CROMARTY

• Centrally located between Townsville and the Burdekin.

• The unique property is approx. 30ha (74 acres).

• The home includes combined dinning and lounge.

• Separate titled rumpus area, renovated bathroom, laminated kitchen.

• This charming 3-bedroom, 1 bathroom house is the perfect place to call home.

• Generous land area of 794 sqm.

• There is a 1 Bedroom, 1 Lounge Room and Bathroom downstairs.

• Property is currently tenanted at $280.00 per week - Gross Return approx. 5.6%.

• Welcome to this inviting 2-bedroom unit.

• In a boutique complex of four, this unit is perfectly positioned and is walking distance to Ayr’s CBD.

• This maintainable unit provides an abundance of storage with built in robes.

• Parcel 2: Approx. 800m from the Burdekin River.

• Area: Approx. 35.92 Ha (86.48 acres) 1 Title Freehold.

• Soil Types: Dark river clay loams soils and some areas grey clay.

• The property is barb & mesh fenced.

• This high set charming house is situated on a spacious 1012 sqm land area.

• The property features beautiful gardens with an abundance of plants.

• The interior of the house boasts hardwood flooring.

• This exceptional property has always attracted interest.

• Balconies for every bedroom, a cellar and spectacular vaulted ceilings.

• This four-bedroom home has many additional features such as a ducted vacuum system.

• This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house.

• It is walk in

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3 LETTERS

4 LETTERS ARCS BAWL ELKS ELSE ESKY HOWS KERB LYRE OBOE PANG STAB TEST TRIP YARD

5 LETTERS AORTA APPAL AWAIT BATON BEERS BENTS BRINE CLEAT CORNY CURSE DOUBT EAGER EARLY EARNS EDGES EGGED ELDER GRITS NERVE OFTEN OUNCE PARKA PASSE PASTA

PEACE REUSE RINSE RIVET ROUND SCABS SCARE SECTS SORTS SPEAK SPOTS STEEL STEER STEWS STYLE SWEAT TORSO TREED TRIBE

TROUT TSARS TULIP WAIST WEDGE WREST YOU’RE

6 LETTERS BANNER RETYPE STEREO YEASTS

7 LETTERS AEROSOL ARSENAL ROOSTER ROSTERS

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

13 words: Good 20 words: Very good 27 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: No. 237

WEEKLYTVGUIDE

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. 10.30 That Pacific Sports Show. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. 12.00 News. 1.00 Troppo. 1.55 QI.

2.25 QI. 2.55 Restoration Australia.

3.50 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip.

4.40 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG)

7.00 ABC News. 7.35 Vera. (M)

9.10 Troppo. (M)

10.05 Austin. (PG) 10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 Love Your Garden. 11.40 Grand Designs. (PG) 12.25 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip. (PG) 1.15 We Hunt Together. (M) 2.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 News. 12.30 Unforgotten. (M) 1.15 Vera. (M)

2.45 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PG)

3.35 The Greek Islands With Julia Bradbury. 4.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG) 4.30 Freeman. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Stuff The British Stole. (PG)

6.30 I Was Actually There: The Beatles. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (M)

8.15 Van Der Valk. (M) 9.50 Fifteen-Love. (M) 10.40 The Beast Must Die. (M) 11.25 Rage. (MA15+) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 Compass. 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Love Your Garden. 2.20 Grand Designs: The Streets. 3.05 Dream Gardens. 3.40 Extraordinary Escapes. 4.30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. 5.00 Restoration Australia. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 News. 7.30 Vera. 9.00 Fifteen-Love. 9.50 Unforgotten. 10.40 Fisk. 11.10 Annika. 11.55 Frayed. 12.45 Noughts + Crosses. 1.40 Rage. 3.05 Classic Countdown. 4.00 Landline. 4.30 Art Works. 5.00 Insiders.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Van Der Valk. 2.30 I Was Actually There. 2.55 Restoration Australia. 3.55 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip. 4.40 Grand Designs. 5.30 Back Roads. 6.00 Hard Quiz. 6.25 Monday’s Experts. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Stuff The British Stole. 8.30 Four Corners. 9.15 Media Watch. 9.35 Monday’s Experts. 10.05 You Can’t Ask That. 10.40 News. 10.55 The Business. 11.10 Planet America. 11.40 Vera. 1.10 Grand Designs. 2.00 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip. 2.45 Rage. 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Landline. 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 7.30.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 The Newsreader. 1.55 Brush With Fame. 2.25 Back Roads. 2.55 Restoration Australia. 3.50 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip. 4.40 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 I Was Actually There. 8.30 Rose Gold. 10.00 Brush With Fame. 10.30 News. 10.45 The Business. 11.00 Four Corners. 11.50 Monday’s Experts. 12.20 Media Watch. 12.40 Grand Designs. 1.25 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip. 2.15 Rage. 3.45 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Landline. 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 7.30.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.35 Media Watch. 1.55 Brush With Fame. 2.25 Back Roads. 2.55 Restoration Australia. 3.50 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip. 4.40 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 QI. 8.30 Tom Gleeson: Joy. 9.45 Planet America. 10.20 News. 10.35 The Business. 10.50 Interview With The Vampire. 11.40 Fifteen-Love. 12.25 Grand Designs. 1.15 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip. 2.00 Grantchester. 2.50 Rage. 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Landline. 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 7.30.

6.00 WorldWatch. 10.55 Britain’s Biggest Dig. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Animal Einsteins. 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. 4.00 Garma Festival 2024. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Great British Landmark Fixers. 8.30 Ancient Superstructures. 9.30 The Airport: Back In The Skies. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 The Shelter. 11.40 The Shelter. 12.30 My Brilliant Friend. 3.30 Grayson Perry’s Big American Road Trip. 4.25 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Destination Flavour. 2.10 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 2.15 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 4.05 Ireland In Music: Sclimpini. 4.35 Britain’s Scenic Railways. 5.30 A Hollywood Spy Against The Nazis. 6.30 News. 7.30 Amazing Railway Adventures. 8.25 Malta: The Jewel Of The Mediterranean. 9.20 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. 10.10 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. 11.10 Ralph And Katie. 11.40 Ralph And Katie. 12.15 Rex In Rome. 1.10 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Woven Threads Stories From Within. 3.10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 4.05 Ireland In Music: Sclimpini. 4.35 Britain’s Scenic Railways. 5.30 The Books He Didn’t Burn. 6.30 News. 7.30 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. 8.25 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. 9.20 Raising The Mary Rose: The Lost Tapes. 10.15 Ukraine: Life Under Attack. 11.10 Billy Graham. 1.15 24 Hours In Emergency. 2.10 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 3.00 Hell On Earth: WWII. 4.00 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Woven Threads Stories From Within. 2.10 The Great Separation. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 Jeopardy! 5.00 Letters And Numbers. 5.30 Mastermind Aust. 6.00 Garma Festival 2024. 6.30 News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 8.40 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. 9.30 24 Hours In Emergency. 10.30 SBS News. 11.00 Forest Of The Missing. 12.40 A French Case. 2.40 Planet Sex With Cara Delevingne. 4.25 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 2.05 Wurundjeri Baggarrok. 2.25 The Toys That Built The World. 3.15 Railway Vietnam. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 Tony Robinson: Britain’s Greatest River. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Railway Journeys UK. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 The Point: Road Trip. 11.30 The Man Who Died. 1.15 Christian. 4.15 Peer To Peer. 4.45 Bamay. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 3.35 Woven Threads Stories From Within. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 Who Do You Think You Are? US. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Lies, Politics And Democracy. 9.35 DI Ray. 10.30 SBS News. 11.00 Headhunters. 12.40 You Shall Not Lie. 3.30 Babies: Their Wonderful World. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 1.00 Australia’s Wild Odyssey. 1.55 Brush With Fame. 2.25 Back Roads. 2.55 Restoration Australia. 3.50 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip. 4.40 Grand Designs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Grand Designs: The Streets. 9.20 Troppo. 10.15 News. 10.30 The Business. 10.50 Talking Heads. 11.30 Grand Designs. 12.20 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip. 1.05 Rage. 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Landline. 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 7.30. 6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Woven Threads Stories From Within. 2.10 The Toys That Built The World. 3.00 Seeds: Planting Hope Through Education. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 Who Do You Think You Are? 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Sue Perkins: Lost In Thailand. 8.25 Junior Doctors Down Under. 9.20 Treasures Of India With Bettany Hughes. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 The Head. 11.35 The Head. 12.35 Blanca. 3.30 Babies: Their Wonderful World. 4.40 Bamay. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Heaven. (2019) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. (PG) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.30 MOVIE: Fifty Shades Darker. (2016) (MA15+) Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Kim Basinger. 11.00 To Be Advised. 1.00 Criminal Confessions. (MA15+) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG)

6.00 Better Homes. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Horse Racing. VRC Season Premiere Race Day, Rosehill Gardens Raceday and Teddy Bears Picnic at the Races. 5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)

7.30 MOVIE: Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit. (1993) (G)

9.45 MOVIE: Sisters. (2015) (MA15+) 12.00 Boy To Man. (PG) 1.00 Travel Oz. (PG) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Drop Dead Weird. 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG)

6.00 Better Homes. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Jabba’s Movies. (PG) 12.30 To Be Advised. 2.30 Beach Cops. (PG) 3.00 Surveillance Oz. (PG) 3.30 Border Security: Int. (PG) 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PG) 9.25 Miniseries: Malpractice. (M) Part 3 of 5. 11.30 Born To Kill? (M) 12.30 Lipstick Jungle. (M) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Deadly Mom Retreat. (2021) 2.00 Catch Phrase. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG) 8.30 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (M) Mike’s police mentor brings him a case. 10.30 S.W.A.T. (M) 12.30 The Event. (M) 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: An Organized Killer. (2021) (M) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. (PG) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) 9.30 First Dates UK. (M) 11.35 Extended Family. (PG) 12.35 Holey Moley Australia. (PG) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: A Deadly Connection. (2017) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. 2.15 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) 8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia. (MA15+) 10.45 Autopsy USA. (M) 11.45 Air Crash Investigations. (PG) 12.45 Criminal Confessions. (M) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 9News Morning. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Afternoon. 6.00 9News. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. 8.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 22. Dolphins v Sydney Roosters. 9.55 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Late night. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris

6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 7: Early morning. 7.00 Today In Paris. 11.00 9News. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 8: Afternoon. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 8: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 8. Late night. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 8: Post midnight. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 8: Early morning. 7.00 Today In Paris. 11.00 9News. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. Canterbury Bulldogs v Canberra Raiders. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 9: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 9: Late

6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 9: Early morning. 7.00 Today In Paris. 11.00 9News Morning. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Afternoon. 6.00 9News. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Late night. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Post midnight. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Overnight. 5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Early morning. 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Dr Phil. 10.00 Everyday Gourmet. 10.30 Deal Or No Deal. 11.00 The Drew Barrymore Show. 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Ent. Tonight. 1.30 Judge Judy. 2.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 Everyday Gourmet. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. 4.30 Bold. 5.00 News. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? 9.30 Ghosts. 10.25 10’s Late News. 10.50 The Project. 11.55 Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.

6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 10: Early morning. 7.00 Today In Paris. 11.00 9News Morning. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Afternoon. 6.00 9News. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Late night. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Post midnight. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Overnight. 5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Early morning. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Bold. 9.00 Dr Phil. 10.00 Everyday Gourmet. 10.30 Deal Or No Deal. 11.00 The Drew Barrymore Show. 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Ent. Tonight. 1.30 Judge Judy. 2.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 Everyday Gourmet. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. 4.30

6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 11: Early morning. 7.00 Today In Paris. 11.00 9News Morning. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 12: Afternoon. 6.00 9News. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 12: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 12:

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Secret Diary Of A Cheerleader. (2023) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. 2.15 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Animals Aboard With Dr Harry. (PG) 8.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles. (M) 9.35 Starstruck. (PG) 10.50 Air Crash Investigations. (PG) 11.50 The Goldbergs. 12.20 Boy To Man. 1.20 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 13: Afternoon. 6.00 9News. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 13: Night. 7.50 Rugby League. NRL. Round 23.

The Project. 12.00 Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.

7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)

8.00 Hard Quiz Kids. (R)

8.35 Operation Ouch! (PG, R)

9.05 Officially Amazing. (PG)

9.35 Dragon Ball Super. (PG, R)

9.55 Supernatural Academy. (PG, R)

10.20 The PM’s Daughter. (R)

7.30pm Hard Quiz Kids. (PG)

7.55 The Crystal Maze. (R)

8.45 All-Round Champion. (R)

9.35 Movie: Nancy Drew. (2007) (PG, R) Emma Roberts, Max Theriot, Tate Donovan.

11.10 Good Game Spawn Point. (R)

12.00am Rage. (PG, R)

1.30 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. (PG, R)

7.30pm Movie: The Secret Garden. (1993) (G, R) Kate Maberly.

9.05 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)

10.10 Doctor Who. (PG, R)

10.55 Merlin. (PG, R) 11.45 RCO: Järvi Conducts Mozart And Schumann. (R)

1.00am Horrible Histories. (PG, R)

1.35 Operation Ouch! (R)

2.00 So Awkward. (R)

7.35pm The Inbestigators. (R)

7.50 Little Lunch. (R)

8.05 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)

8.25 Matilda And The Ramsay Bunch. (R)

8.50 Style It Out.

9.20 Further Back In Time For Dinner. (R)

10.15 Doctor Who. (PG, R)

11.00 Merlin. (PG, R)

11.45 Good Game Spawn Point. (R)

7.35pm The Inbestigators. (R)

7.50 Little Lunch. (R)

8.05 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)

8.25 Matilda And The Ramsay Bunch. (R)

8.50 Deadly Mission: Shark. (PG)

9.20 Planet Expedition. (PG, R)

10.10 Doctor Who. (PG, R)

10.55 Merlin. (PG, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Chris Tarrant’s Extreme Railways: Railroad To Mandalay. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

12.30 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

1.30 The Hotel Inspector. (PG, R)

6.00pm Heathrow. (PG, R)

6.30 The Highland Vet. (PG, R)

7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)

12.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

1.30 Our Town. (R) 2.00 Discover. (PG, R)

6.00pm Greatest Escapes To The Country. (R)

6.45 Escape To The Country. (R)

7.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (M, R)

8.35 Endeavour. (M, R)

10.35 Kath & Kim. (PG, R)

11.45 Greatest Escapes To The Country. (R)

12.30 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

1.30 Endeavour. (M, R)

5.30pm I Escaped To The Country. (PG, R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

8.30 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

10.30 Great Rail Restorations. (PG)

11.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

12.30 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R)

8.30 Football. AFL. Round 21. West Coast v Gold Coast Suns. 11.30 Armchair Experts. (M)

12.15 American Restoration. (PG, R)

12.45 American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.00pm Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.00 Football. AFL. Round 21. Collingwood v Carlton.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show.

11.00 Movie: Cold Pursuit. (2019) (MA15+, R) 1.25 Storage Wars. (PG)

7.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: Transporter 3. (2008) (M, R) 10.40 Movie: Transporter: Refueled. (2015) (MA15+, R) 12.40 Blokesworld. (PG, R)

1.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PG, R)

8.30 Gem Hunters Down Under. (PG, R) 9.30 Appalachian Outlaws. (M)

10.30 Jade Fever. (M, R)

11.30 Mountain Men. (PG)

12.30 Storage Wars. (PG, R)

5.30pm I Escaped To The Country. (PG, R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Call The Midwife. (M, R)

8.45 A Touch Of Frost. (M, R)

11.00 Slow Train Through Africa With Griff Rhys Jones. (PG, R)

12.00 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.00 Call The Midwife. (M, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Outback Truckers. (PG, R)

9.30 Kings Of Pain: Fire Down Below. (M)

10.30 Outback Hunters. (M, R)

12.30 American Restoration. (PG, R) 1.00 American Pickers. (PG, R) 2.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 7: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 7: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 7: Post midnight.

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

11.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)

11.00 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)

11.30 Impractical Jokers. (M)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 8: Night.

10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 8: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 8: Post midnight.

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 9: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 9: Late night. 12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 9: Post midnight.

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 Bull. (M, R) 12.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 Just For Laughs: Montreal Comedy Festival. (MA15+, R)

6.00pm JAG. (PG, R) 7.00 Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R) 8.00 NCIS. (M, R) 9.55 Bull. (M, R) 12.45 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R) 10.00 South Park. (M, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

2.00 Comedy Central Roast Of William Shatner. (MA15+, R)

6.15 Forged In Fire. (PG, R)

7.05 Jeopardy!

7.35

Shoresy. (MA15+) 12.25 Dark Side Of Comedy. (M, R)

5.55pm The Food That Built The World. (PG) 6.45 The Food That Built The World. (PG) 7.35 Impossible Engineering. (R) 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Batman. (MA15+)

10.20 Movie: Leonardo Dicaprio: Most Wanted. (2021) (M, R)

11.20 Hudson & Rex. (M) 1.50 The X-Files. (MA15+, R)

5.30pm Alone Denmark. (PG)

6.40 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (R)

7.35 Abandoned Engineering. (PG, R)

8.30 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. (PG, R)

9.30 WWE Legends. (M)

11.05 Hoarders. (M, R)

12.50 Couples Therapy. (M, R)

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 10: Night.

10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 10: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 10: Post midnight.

5.30pm Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

6.30 Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

11.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)

7.00 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)

10.45 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)

11.10 The Neighborhood. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 11: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 11: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 11: Post midnight.

5.30pm Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

6.30 Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

11.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)

7.00 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)

11.00 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)

11.30 Impractical Jokers. (PG) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.25pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG, R)

6.15 Forged In Fire. (PG, R)

7.05 Jeopardy!

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) 9.40 Stacey Dooley: Inside The Undertakers. (PG)

10.50 Dinosaur. (M)

12.00 Over The Black Dot. (R)

5.30pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG, R)

6.20 Forged In Fire. (PG, R)

7.10 Jeopardy!

7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Alone. (PG) 9.40 Hoarders. (M) 11.20 The Back Side Of Television. (MA15+, R) 12.00 True Believers. (M, R) 7.35pm The Inbestigators. (R)

7.50 Little Lunch. (R)

8.05 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)

8.25 Matilda And The Ramsay Bunch. (R)

8.50 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. (PG) 9.15

(R)

(PG, R)

Merlin. (PG, R)

5.30pm I Escaped To The Country. (PG, R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Heartbeat. (PG, R)

8.45 Judge John Deed. (M, R)

10.45 Law & Order: UK. (M, R)

11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.00 Judge John Deed. (M, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.00 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) 8.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. (M, R)

10.30 Live PD: Police Patrol. (M)

11.00 Nightwatch. (MA15+)

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 12: Night.

10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 12: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 12: Post midnight.

5.30pm Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

6.30 Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

11.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)

7.00 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)

11.00 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)

11.30 Impractical Jokers. (PG)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.25pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG, R)

6.15 Forged In Fire. (PG, R)

7.05 Jeopardy!

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 Movie: Johnny Mnemonic. (1995) (R) Keanu Reeves, Jane March, Dolph Lundgren.

10.20 Movie: Goon. (2011) (MA15+, R) Seann William Scott. 12.00 Alone. (PG, R)

(R)

(PG,

5.30pm I Escaped To The Country. (PG, R) 6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.30 Father Brown. (M, R) 8.30 McDonald And Dodds. (M, R)

10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)

11.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

12.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. (PG, R)

2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Full Custom Garage. (PG)

8.30 Movie: Prometheus. (2012) (M, R) Noomi Rapace, Logan Marshall-Green, Michael Fassbender.

11.00 Movie: The Host. (2013) (M, R)

1.30 American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.00pm Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 13: Night.

10.30 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 13: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 13: Post midnight.

5.30pm Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

6.30 Diagnosis Murder. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R) 11.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)

7.00 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

9.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, R)

11.00 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)

11.30 Impractical Jokers. (M)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.25pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG, R)

6.15 Forged In Fire. (PG, R)

7.05 Jeopardy!

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 Beyond Watergate: The Richard Nixon Story. (M)

10.00 The UnXplained With William Shatner. (M, R)

11.40 The World’s Toughest Prisons. (M, R)

DALE, Barry Gene

Late of Home Hill

Passed away on 26th July, 2024 aged 86 years

Beloved husband of Jean, Much loved father and father-in-law of Mark and Leanne, Lee-Anne, Natalie and Rodney Levien. Loving grandad of 8 and great-grandad of 6.

A service to celebrate the life of Barry was held yesterday, 31st July, 2024.

GILLMAN, Peter Joseph

Late of Ayr

Called to rest on 30th July, 2024 aged 75 years

Loving husband of Lesley, Caring father and father-in-law of Mark and Natasha, and Jeni. Loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle of Gavin, Kevin and Michael (deceased) and their families.

A service to celebrate the life of Peter will commence at 2pm Tuesday, 6th August, 2024 at The Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr followed by interment in the Ayr Lawn Cemetery.

Lesley SHIPLEY (nee Andersen)

Born 24.02.1940, passed peacefully on 22.07.2024 aged 84y.o

Formerly from Cairns, Gladstone, Ayr, Brisbane and Caloundra, Sunshine Coast.

Much loved wife to Gordon Shipley (deceased). Mother to Kerrin and Rae. Mother-in-law to Julian (David) and Peter. Grandma to Joshua, Braden, Ashley, Ethan and Dempsey, and great grandma to Rafferty and Lavender.

Will be sadly missed.

Late of Townsville, formerly of Ayr. Beloved Wife of Domenico Cesconetto.

Treasured Mother of Lidia, John, Nives, Danito, Carla and Lawrence, Mother-In-Law of the Martins, Eathorne and Cesconetto families.

Adored Nonna of Luka, Dante, Teagan, Tara, Peter, Christopher, Dylan and Raul.

Dearly Missed Sister of Rossetta, Albina, Graciella (dec), Pietro, Iole and Ricardo and Sister-In-Law of Franko (dec), Yittorio (dec), Angelo and Donna.

All relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Funeral service for Guglielmina which is appointed to commence at 2pm on Friday 2nd August at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr followed by Interment in the Ayr Cemetery.

Journey Coordinator

76 hrs

+

Burdekin Community Association Inc. is a not-for-profit registered charity which strives to fulfil the unmet social, welfare and health needs of the community.

Due to an expansion of mental health services, we are seeking a Journey Coordinator for the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12a Chippendale St, Ayr. The Journey Coordinator operates as a partner in a person’s care journey.

Applications to include a cover letter, a current resume and statements addressing the selection criteria found in the Position Description. An Application Package can be obtained from The Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12a Chippendale Street Ayr, by phoning 47832711 or emailing bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

Applications close 4.00pm Tuesday 13 August 2024

www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Burdekin Catholic High School, Ayr is looking for Bus Drivers for their Morning and Afternoon

For more information, you can contact us on 07 4783 2366 or bchs@tsv.catholic.edu.au

Funded by Burdekin Cane Growers & Wilmar

Annual General Meeting

The Board and Management of BPS cordially invite all Financial Members and Industry Representatives to join them at the AGM on Friday 23rd August 2024 at the Ayr Showgrounds Hall commencing at 8.00am for a light breakfast followed by the AGM at 9.00am.

Ethan Waters representing James Cook University will deliver a presentation on ‘RSD Detection in Sugar Crops via Satellite Imagery’ Complimentary Breakfast at 8am will precede the AGM

The Board and Management of BPS cordially invite all Financial Members and Industry Representatives to join them at the AGM on Friday 23rd August 2024 at the Ayr Showgrounds Hall commencing at 8.00am for a light breakfast followed by the AGM at 9.00am.

Ethan Waters representing James Cook University will deliver a presentation on ‘RSD Detection in Sugar Crops via Satellite Imagery’

Complimentary Breakfast at 8am will precede the AGM

Burdekin Community Association Inc.

A Winning Week on The Green @ Home Hill Bowls Club

BOWLS

Aperfect winter afternoon set the stage for a competitive day at the Home Hill Bowls Club on Thursday 25 July, with 30 players participating. The games were drawn at random, resulting in four games of triples and one game of pairs.

Rink 3: The team of Kim, Bruce, and Cy narrowly defeated Judy, Dino, and Jim with a score of 18-15.

Rink 4: Bob Y, Mick O, and Trevor dominated Karl/Hugh, Des, and Stephen, winning 30-5.

Rink 5: Yogi, Bob P, and Wayne outplayed Paul, Steve, and Terry, securing a 23-11 victory.

Rink 6: Jimmy M/Henry and Mick Mc edged out Mark and Ron in a tight match, finishing 15-12.

Rink 7: Mick M, Jeff, and Gary had a strong win over Christina, John, and Joe, ending the game 25-13.

The raffle saw Bruce Ross winning the meat tray, generously donated by Dino, while Lyn Elton took home a bottle of wine as the second prize. The lucky ball draw

went to Jimmy Murray, but there was no winner this week, rolling the jackpot over to $114 for next week. The club expresses special thanks to EB Hives for sponsoring the event.

A smaller group of 12 players enjoyed the Saturday afternoon session on 27 July. Two games of triples were played over 10 ends, with the winners rotating after the break. Yogi, Joclyn, and Cy emerged as the day’s champions, winning both of their matches. A standout moment came from Margaret Linton, who impressively placed three blue bowls close to the kitty, showcasing her skill.

For those interested in joining the club’s activities, there are various events throughout the week, including the Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning KRAFT group, Wednesday evening barefoot bowls, Thursday morning BINGO, and Thursday afternoon social bowls. Saturday afternoon social bowls are also gaining popularity and are a great way to spend the weekend.

Until next week, good bowling!

Contributed with thanks to Stephen Doig.

Another Eventful Week on the Green BOWLS

The Ayr Bowling Club was filled with exciting games and great company for another week, with many locals and travellers giving it their all on the green. On Wednesday, 24 July, social bowls featured three games of triples and one game of pairs, with J. Pirrone, G. Nixon, and W. Coonan the celebrated winners.

On Saturday 27 July, the social bowls winners were Jimmy, Chris, Happy, and Blake, and the day saw the club welcome visiting players to the green who shared their travel stories and enjoyed a bowl or two.

Sunday 28 July, was a proud day for the Ayr Bowling Club’s Ladies Premier Cup players in Townsville. Congratulations to B. Cornford, D. Olsen, H. Jorgenson, and Pam Power, who secured three wins: a +14 victory against Jubilee in round seven, another +14 win against Bowen in round eight, and a +9 triumph against Alligator Creek in round nine. The team showcased fantastic skills throughout the day.

Sunday also featured two Club semi-final championship triples games. The results were:

- J. Pirrone, R. Young, and C. Essex defeated D. Poli, J. McDonald, and M. Milan.

- J. Murray, J. Hall, and M. Parravicini defeated H. Horan (sub), S. Caltabiano, and B. Shepherd.

In the Championship Pairs final, C. Pearce and G. Pearce emerged victorious against J. Grabbi and L. Stidston.

For details on upcoming championship games scheduled for 4 August, please check the club board, and don’t forget to register your teams for the mixed competitions by the closing dates posted.

If you’re interested in lawn bowls, the Ayr Bowling Club is a welcoming community for players of all levels. Located at 101 Young Street, Ayr, the club offers a friendly and social atmosphere. For more information, contact the club at (07) 4783 1336 or visit their Facebook page at Ayr Bowling Club.

Whether you’re an experienced bowler or a beginner, the Ayr Bowling Club is the perfect place to enjoy the sport and meet fellow enthusiasts.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull.

Always buzzing with local and travelling bowlers, the Ayr Bowling Club invites those interested in giving the sport a try to attend their Social Bowls on Wednesdays.
Another wonderful week of wins was had at the Home Hill Bowls Club!
Margaret Linton’s impressive display of skill saw her place three blue bowls close to the kitty last Saturday afternoon.

Football Matters with Cyclops: A Weekend of Highs and Lows for the Burdekin Panthers

FOOTBALL

The Burdekin Panthers experienced a weekend of intense football action. Initially scheduled for four games, the Panthers saw the Division One Funkies secure a straightforward win by forfeit against Olympic, while the other three teams faced Estates in away games. They emerged victorious in two matches and narrowly lost one. On Sunday, the Premiers dominated with a 4-0 victory, the Under 23s clinched a 4-3 win, and the Ladies lost 2-3.

Looking ahead, the Panthers have four more games this week. On Friday night, the Division One Funkies will face Estates Navy away, and on Saturday, Sponsors Day, the Premiers, Under 23s, and Ladies will host Saints Eagles Souths at home.

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers overcame a strong Estates side with a 4-0 victory. Luke Maguire opened the scoring with a penalty, followed by goals from Mason Matthews and Matthew Kolb. Jay Leckenby sealed the win after Estates’ goalkeeper was red-carded.

The Burdekin Tyre Service Under 23s Reserves faced a tough Sunday game in Townsville against ladder leaders Estates. Jhett Jones and Jack Shears scored in the first half, with Cooper Kross adding another after the break. Despite Estates’ fightback, Jones’ second goal clinched a crucial

4-3 victory to keep their finals hopes alive.

The Austral Masonry Funkies secured a win by forfeit from Olympic.

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies started strong against Estates, with Brielle Astorquia scoring from a Kate Castelanelli cross. Estates quickly equalized and took the lead. Sienna Lago scored to make it 2-2 at halftime, but Estates regained the lead in the second half. Despite numerous chances, the Burdekin Ladies couldn’t find the net again, ending in a narrow 2-3 loss.

The Under 13s Panthers faced Warriors 5 on Saturday at Paradise Park, losing 0-4. William Shears stood out with his high work rate. On Sunday, the Panthers faced Saints at home, losing 3-5. Despite the defeat, they displayed good ball movement, with goals from Rohan Kelly, Lincoln Innes, and William Shears. Parker Lawson received special recognition for his goalkeeping efforts.

In the juniors’ section, Saturday saw another good week of football with great weather. Teams from Brothers and Northern Beaches travelled from Townsville to play, and some of Burdekin’s older teams travelled to Townsville, ensuring a weekend filled with exciting matches and enthusiastic participation from young footballers.

Burdekin Roosters Set to Face Townsville Centrals in Triple Header

The Burdekin Roosters are preparing for a challenging weekend as they travel to Townsville to face the Townsville Centrals across three grades at the Sports Reserve this Saturday afternoon.

The matches kick off on August 3 with the Hens playing at 1:10 PM, followed by the Reserves at 2:20 PM, and the A grade team at 3:50 PM.

A grade coach Steve Lansley is awaiting final player allocations from the Cowboys and Blackhawks, expecting Chris Gale and Roto Ravisore from the Hawks, and Henry Teuteu and Epi Kikau from the Cowboys. Jeremiah Matuatu, called up to the Cutters last week, performed well despite their loss to Norths Devils in Bowen.

Reflecting on last Sunday’s loss to Norths, Lansley noted that poor execution and defensive lapses were costly. The team struggled with offloading the ball in difficult positions. However, with Colby Johnson and possibly Ethan Hagarty returning from injury, the team hopes to improve, though Jones Munro and Rhett Williams are likely out for the season.

The Roosters’ A grade team is currently sixth on the ladder, with three wins and a draw, while Centrals sit in eighth place with one win and a draw. Last week, Centrals lost 42-18 to Herbert River in Ingham.

The Roosters’ Reserves are faring better,

sitting second on the ladder with eight wins and a draw. Last week, they capitalized on the Tigers’ 42-8 loss to Herbert River with a 40-20 win over Norths. Coach Chris Perry hopes for a fitter team this week, though they will miss standout player Tubby Heron. Jerome Lacco, Alex Lennox, and Dalton McIninerny are expected to return. A win this weekend would strengthen their position for a second-place finish.

The Hens face a formidable opponent in the Centrals, who are unbeaten this season, scoring 404 points and conceding only 42. The Hens missed last week’s game due to a forfeit from Norths and had their previous match cut short due to an injury to a Towers player. Despite lacking the size of the Lady Tigers, the Hens are determined to challenge the Centrals.

In other matches this weekend, Brothers face Norths, Souths meet Charters Towers, and Herbert River hosts Western Lions.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

RUGBY LEAGUE

July Monthly Medal Event Showcases Stellar Performances BOWLS

The July Monthly Medal event, proudly sponsored by Eathornes Intersport, provided an excellent opportunity for the Ayr Golf Club’s ladies to compete, especially those who work during the week. This year’s competition featured strong performances across all grades.

In A Grade, Loretta Mauro emerged victorious with an impressive 68 net score. B

Grade saw Cecily Lena take the top spot with a 73 net score. Gabby Cahill in C Grade scored an outstanding 41 stableford points, a sensational performance shared by Shirley Jones and Marion Chappell.

Each of these talented ladies received vouchers from Eathornes Intersport, and the Ayr Golf Club extends a warm congratulations to all the winners!

Commercial Tavern Day a Hit Despite Windy Conditions GOLF

On Wednesday, 24 July, the Ayr Golf Club hosted its Commercial Tavern Day, featuring an Ambrose style partner event. Despite facing challenging cyclonic winds, 24 dedicated ladies participated in the competition, vying for Tavern Vouchers.

The winning pair, Loretta Mauro and Janet Trezise, delivered an impressive perfor-

mance, scoring 66.25 and achieving an Eagle on Hole 8. Cecily Lena and Sandra Wight secured second place with a strong score of 68.25, while Tuk Williams and Wendy Baker came in third with 69.75.

The event was a great success, and the Ayr Golf Club thanks the Commercial Tavern for their unwavering support.

Toads on Tour! Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads Travel for

Hughenden 7s RUGBY UNION

Two cases of extremely significant vegetation vandalism will cost the community more than $7000 to remediate, the Mackay Regional Council reported at its ordinary meeting last week.

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads had another memorable weekend at the Hughenden 7s tournament. Despite some sore heads, a few injuries, the event was

weekend for

filled with plenty of camaraderie on tour, and exciting rugby action.

The girls’ team faced a tough challenge and unfortunately suffered a loss in the bowl match. Meanwhile, the lads battled hard against the Minions, who were eager for redemption after losing to the Canetoads last year. Although there were no Canetoad champions this time around, the

players and supporters alike had a fantastic time, celebrating the spirit of country rugby.

The true highlight of the weekend was the sense of community and the new friendships formed over some cold drinks. The Canetoads enjoyed the warm hospitality shown by the Hughenden community and appreciate the effort put into organising

such a great event. The team eagerly looks forward to returning next year.

A special thank you was expressed the Canetoads’ sponsors for their continued support, providing fantastic kits and backing the team’s efforts on tour each year.

Both male and female Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads teams travelled to Hughenden last
a memorable tournament.

NQ Handicap Pennants 2024: A Weekend to Remember!

The Ayr Golf Course hosted an incredible weekend the first-ever combined Men’s and Women’s Handicap Pennants! A total of 114 players gathered for this historic event, marking a significant milestone for the club.

The Ayr Golf 2024 Committee embraced the challenge of organising this event, and it truly stood as a test of logistics and coordination. With 50 members generously lending their personal buggies, the team faced the task of collecting keys and preparing the equipment for the traveling teams by 5:30am - a challenging yet rewarding experience.

The Ayr Golf Club shared this event would not have been possible without the meticulous planning and dedication of their volunteer members, who ensured everything was ready for the 7am tee-off on both Saturday and Sunday. A special thanks was also expressed to the club’s kitchen helpers for preparing over 120 sandwiches each day, keeping everyone energised throughout the games.

The green saw five divisions in play over the weekend, three for the ladies and two for the men, with each division crowning a winner. A highlight was the ladies Ayr 3 team winning Division 5, and the ladies Ayr 2 team finishing as runners-up, just one win shy of taking the title. The Ayr

Men’s team also celebrated victory in their division after being a late addition to the event. Additionally, the Ayr 1 ladies team claimed the flag at the Home Hill Golf Club, which hosted two divisions. It was a weekend of success all around!

The Ayr Golf Club extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed their time and effort, from the bar staff to Pat Herd for selling raffle tickets, and especially to the committee and members who ensured everything ran smoothly.

“To all that gave up their time – congratulations to a job well done,” shared the Ayr Golf Club.

“To all the travelling teams – we hope you

enjoyed your weekend in the Burdekin, many new friendships were made, and we look forward to seeing you again at upcoming opens around North Queensland.

To the NQ Golf Committee lead by our very own Callan Oar (President of NQ Golf) thank you for giving Ayr Golf Club the opportunity to trial this combined event along with all the organisation of the competition and points scoring.”

Showcasing their dedication and exceptional skills, many golfers backed up their efforts over the action-packed weekend to play in the Drummond Vets Classic on both Monday and Tuesday earlier this week. It’s clear the Ayr Golf Club is the place to be!

Rhonda Martin, Tin Watts, Katrina Hearn, Debbie Searle, Bev Power, and Pat Lawson from the Ayr Golf Club at the NQ Handicap Pennants.
Ayr Golf Club ladies Wendy Baker, Janet Trezise holding Tilly, Loretta Mauro (front), Kim Manby, Cecily Lena, and Michelle Stockdale (Absent from Photo Vicki Adcock) ready to hit the green.
Ayr Golf Club ladies Ann Phelan, Sandra Wight, Tuk Williams (front), Donna Reid, Donna Boccolatte, Kerry Mann, and Ang Baxter (back) celebrating at the historic NQ Handicap Pennants.
Wendy Baker, Tuk Williams, Tilly (dog), and Kerry Mann zipping around the green.
The Home Hill Ladies Team celebrated winning the first round! Stuck between a bush and a hard place, Home Hill Golf Club ladies had a giggle questioning “will I play it?”.
Paula was celebrated for hitting an amazing hole in one on 18!
Home Hill Golf Club’s Kieren Dawes, Kevan Chatfield, Luke Carrett, Doug McCubben, Jaylen McCubben, and Ross Wilkie celebrated taking out second place in Pool B.
Ladies from the Ayr Golf Club ready to make history at last weekend’s NQ Handicap Pennants.

Roosters A Grade Narrowly Misses Victory

The Roosters A grade team faced a tough battle last Sunday 28 July at Bushland Beach, narrowly losing to the Norths Devils with a score of 32–28. Coach Steve Lansley noted the team’s struggle to capitalise on promising opportunities, often rushing to score rather than building up plays.

“Once again we failed to finish off promising moves by being too anxious to scorewe are trying to score with every attacking move instead of building up,” said Lansley.

The Norths Devils started strong, quickly taking a 16-0 lead. However, the Roosters fought back, closing the gap to 16-12 by halftime. Unfortunately, poor execution and handling errors in the second half cost them the game. The defence also faltered at times, allowing Norths to make significant gains.

Despite the loss, Coach Lansley praised Lachlan Shepherd for his strong running and defence, and noted that Jye Olsen and Chris Gale made valuable contributions to the team. The Roosters’ tries were scored by Nemia Nawave, Hayden Lammon, Kali Nauque, Lachlan Shepherd, and Epi Kikau, with Joel Mason converting four goals.

In other A grade matches, Herbert River defeated Centrals 42–18, Western Lions edged out Brothers 16–14, and Charters

Towers and Souths both had byes.

The Roosters Reserves moved up to second place on the ladder after a 40–20 victory over Norths on Sunday. Coach Chris Perry acknowledged the win, though he described it as “sloppy but effective.” He emphasised the need for greater dedication and commitment as the team approaches the finals.

Perry highlighted Tubby Hereon and Bradyn Cotter, playing their first games, as standout players, with Tubby earning the players’ player award. The team scored tries through Suli (2), Nemia Nawave (2), Jayden Sgarbossa, Braedyn Cotter, and Dylan Doak, who also kicked six goals for a total of 16 points.

In other reserve grade matches, Herbert River defeated Centrals 42–8, Brothers beat Western Lions 36–6, and Souths overcame Bowen 24–8.

The Burdekin Hens did not play last weekend but were awarded two points after Norths forfeited their match. The previous Sunday, Centrals defeated Norths 28-0, with the Norths team suffering several injuries that left them short of players. The Hens are set to return to action this coming weekend against Centrals. Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

Table Bowls Notes

TABLE BOWLS

Round 3 week 4 – 18/07

Nat I v Bombers at the Queens 8-2

Cougars v Ants at the Anzac 6-4

Crushers v Falcons at the Ayr 8-2

Nat II had the bye 10 points

Round 3 week 5 – 25/07

Crushers v Nat I at the National 6-4

Nat II v Ants at the Anzac 9-1

Cougars v Bombers at the Ayr 8-2

Falcons had the bye 10 points

Points:

Nat II - 149, Crushers - 136, Falcons - 127, Nat I -118, Cougars - 94, Ants - 91, and Bombers 45

Games for Thursday 01/08/24:

Nat II v Falcons at National, Bombers v Crushers at Queens, Cougars v Nat I at Ayr and Ants have the bye

Contributed with thanks to Kerry Davison.

Brandon Bowls Club’s Ladies Shine at 2024 Premier Cup

BOWLS

Brandon Bowls Club’s 2024 Premier Cup team consisted of five exceptional and celebrated players: Helen Collins, Colleen Olsen, Lyn Storrie, Darrell Pearce, and Joy Woods. The event, hosted by the Suburban Bowls Club in Townsville, spans over four challenging days, with 11 other teams competing for the prestigious title and the opportunity to

host the event in 2025.

After three days of intense competition, the Brandon ladies faced tough opposition, securing 4 wins and 5 losses. In conclusion of the competition, the ladies were determined to finish strong in their last two games and make their mark in this highly competitive tournament.

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd.

The Hens will return to the field this weekend for an action-packed game against Centrals.
Representing the Brandon Bowls Club, Helen Collins, Colleen Olsen, Lyn Storrie, Darrell Pearce, and Joy Woods give it their all at the 2024 Premier Cup.
Kieran Cusack
Smalley

A MEMORABLE WEEKEND FOR THE MIGHTY CANETOADS

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads had an eventful weekend, showcasing the spirit and determination of both their youth and senior teams.

On the evening of Friday 26 July, the Under-11 boys played against Brothers at Mike Carney Toyota Park. Despite facing a tough challenge, the young players demonstrated commendable effort and growth, learning valuable lessons from the match. Their dedication and progress were evident, and they can be proud of their performance, regardless of the outcome.

Saturday afternoon saw the Canetoads’ 3rd grade team take to the field for their first match of the season. The players eagerly reunited with the sport they love, shaking off the dust from their boots. The game was intense, but the Canetoads emerged victorious with a final score of 31-14. This win marks a fantastic start to their season and sets a positive tone for the upcoming matches.

Overall, it was a weekend filled with enthusiasm and promising performances from the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads. The club looks forward to building on these experiences in the games ahead.

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A toadally awesome weekend - Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads shone in both youth and senior matches last weekend.
RUGBY UNION

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