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Hi readers

I can’t believe footy is back. It doesn’t feel like that long ago that I was taking to page two to lament over the Broncos’ heartbreaking loss in last year’s NRL grand final – and while I’ve learnt to deal with it, that wound is one that will never heal – but I’m excited to see what 2024 has instore for my mighty Broncos.

While I acknowledge that the Pre-Season Challenge means little in the scheme of the competition, a win is a win and I’ve been impressed with the early signs from the team. Footy coming back to our screens is exciting enough, but I must admit that I’ve been utterly swept up by the hype surrounding the season openers in Las Vegas.

I’ve been keeping a close eye on social media to see what the boys have been getting up to over there and which American athletes and celebrities they’ve found themselves in company with.

I can’t wait to see the spectacle of the Brisbane Broncos taking to the field of Allegiant Stadium on Sunday and hope

Sit Down With Sam

to see a solid performance against the Roosters to kick their season off the right way. This edition of Burdekin Life sees the first instalment of our footy tipping competition, so flick to pages 34-35 to check out how the locals see round one panning out.

I’m also looking forward to my first opportunity to catch the Burdekin Roosters in action as their season kicks off soon.

Their A Grade side has been dealt an early blow with the unexpected departure of coach Daniel Beazley ahead of his first season at the helm –flick to page 37 to catch all the details.

And in personal news, my beautiful girlfriend Jakita will be visiting from Brisbane this week, and I’m excited to give her some more insight into my day-to-day up here.

From social lawn bowls in Home Hill to climbing Mount Inkerman and a camping trip over the weekend, I’m keen to give her a quintessential week in the Burdekin.

In honour of Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day and the first day of Lent in the Christian calendar, Ayr’s Alfies Bakery sold large pancakes with a scoop of ice cream and maple syrup last Tuesday, February 13, donating a portion of the sales to the local Catholic Women’s League (CWL).

Members and friends of the Burdekin Catholic Parish gathered at the bakery to devour their delicious pancakes on Shrove Tuesday while others called in to the shop and purchased pancakes to take home or to their businesses for morning tea.

After a successful day of pancakes, Alfies Bakery donated $150 to the Ayr branch of the CWL.

donated to Caritas Australia as part of Project Compassion during the season of Lent in 2024.

“CWL sincerely thanks Alfies Bakery for their support,” the post read.

“A huge thank you to all who purchased pancakes on the day!

“We will do it all again in 2025.”

As the Catholic Church’s international aid and development agency, Caritas Australia works hand in hand with the most marginalised communities in Australia and overseas to confront the challenges of poverty.

Spanning across the six weeks of Lent each year, Project Compassion brings thousands of Australian schools, parishes and supporters together to

Members and friends of the Burdekin Catholic Parish gathered at Alfies Bakery for Shrove Tuesday. Photo supplied: Catholic Women’s League Sacred Heart Branch

“The Infinite Love Is The Cure”

Laurie’s Love Partners With Brain Cancer Centre Ahead Of Gala Ball

Laurence Pavone made an indelible impact on the Burdekin community.

When he was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Multiforme, an aggressive, inoperable brain tumour, in December 2018, it inspired him to help others and leave a legacy, founding Laurie’s Love in the hope of not only raising funds for brain cancer research, but also bringing his community together.

“During his pain and anguish and facing certain death, all he could think about was helping someone else so that they don’t have to go through this,” said Laurence’s wife Julie.

“He never once felt sorry for himself.”

Upon launching Laurie’s Love on his birthday in April 2019, Laurence was met with the utmost support and compassion from the Burdekin community.

He gave the foundation a motto that he said encapsulated the love he had received after people heard about his diagnosis: ‘The infinite love is the cure’.

Friends and community members held fundraisers at every opportunity, from sausage sizzles and car washes down the main street to the launch of major events Row for a Cure and the first Gala Ball, both

held in the months after Laurence passed away in October 2019.

“Laurence was very community minded and was involved in a lot,” Julie said.

“Given his age, his personality and just who he was, so many people empathised with the situation.

“We were overwhelmed with the support and still are five years on.”

These days, the Laurie’s Love heart logo can be spotted on bumper stickers, shirts and wristbands all across the region.

The foundation’s message has spread into local schools after the annual ‘Day for Laurie’ was launched, held in August each year, where school students are asked to wear red and black or a Laurie’s Love shirt.

“It’s not about Laurence anymore, it’s about the message of giving back to the community, doing something for other people, and the kids and the schools have really taken that on board,” Julie said.

“It’s really teaching the next generation how to be good members of a community and what you can do to make your community a better place.”

After three massive Row for a Cure events, Laurie’s Love is hosting it’s first Gala Ball since 2019 on Saturday, March 9, with

tickets very quickly selling out.

The foundation has partnered with the Brain Cancer Centre for the event, with all funds raised to fund a researcher to work on brain cancer research under the Laurence Pavone Post Doctoral Fellowship.

Television personality and brain cancer advocate Carrie Bickmore will speak at the event, sharing her journey and instilling hope in a community that has been affected by this disease too many times.

“Laurence is still bringing the community together through these events, even though he’s not here, so it makes me very proud to be a part of it and be the face of what he started,” Julie said.

Laurence

on this town.

“I think he would be blown away but at the same time, I don’t think he’d be surprised at what this town is capable of.

“He’d be very, very proud of our community and I think he’s left a massive legacy

“He’s passed on the love, and that was his biggest thing.”

To find out more, visit www.laurieslove. org.au.

and Julie Pavone. Photo supplied

Continued from pg 1

Ayr Left Waiting On A CT Scan

The Burdekin community’s response in a call to establish CT scanner services at the Ayr Hospital saw thousands sign a petition and a shirewide campaign last year, as many came forward with their own stories of how the after-hours inaccessibility of a CT scanner had seen them or their loved ones transferred to Townsville.

Six months on from the launch of the petition, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has called for assurances the project has not fallen on deaf ears.

“With the calendar now reaching six months since the petition was opened for signatures and a promise by the Minister that a business case was being prepared, this community deserves to know that this project hasn’t just been tucked away into a cupboard,” Mr Last said.

“In recent weeks I have written to the Townsville Hospital and Health Services Board calling for an update on the business case, because as this community has made it clear, we are not willing to let this issue lie.

“Let’s not forget that in many cases these CT scans are used to assist in the treatment of potentially time-critical conditions such as strokes, where every second matters.”

Mr Last said with as many as 15 patients a week needing to be transported to Townsville for a CT scan, and the June budget now only months away, time was ticking on ensuring the project received the consideration it deserved and did not become a political football at election time.

“Almost six months ago, I said that I would keep working on this issue until the machine is in place and patients are receiving their scans in Ayr.

“I also said I will work cooperatively with the Minister as long as we saw continual progress and I will honour both of those commitments for as long as it takes.

“We know there is added pressure on our hospital and frontline services, so when a simple solution to easing that burden and ensuring that patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible is put forward, there shouldn’t be any obstacles placed in the way.”

Burdekin Participates In Disaster Research Project

Ateam of researchers at Deakin University recently partnered with local media and natural hazards experts to deliver the Burdekin Aware and Prepared Community Forum.

The forum, held on Saturday, February 24 at Burdekin PCYC, saw community members come together to share their experiences of living through natural disasters and how information was communicated by different organisations.

The project’s lead researcher, Dr Gabi Mocatta, said the team was grateful for the support of the Burdekin community.

“We’ve done some research on how the Burdekin Shire does disaster communication and how well it’s done here, which is one of the reasons we wanted to come to this community,” she said.

“The council-run Local Disaster Management Group seemingly does an amazing job of getting the community resilient and knowledgeable and that’s perhaps a model that can be emulated across other parts of Australia.

“It is a community service that people have done, for their community but also for other places in Australia, so it’s amazing that people make that effort.”

The forum was one of three held across Australia as part of the Awareness, Education and Communication for Compound Natural Hazards project, funded by the Natural Hazards Research Australia, with a forum already held in Dandenong, Victoria and one to be held later this year in Tenterfield, New South Wales.

The data collected from the forum will be drafted into a communication framework, which will seek the feedback of members from the three communities, before a report will be written for Natural Hazards Research Australia to be made available for emergency managers across Australia. The project is still seeking feedback in the form of an anonymous survey.

Scan the QR code to complete the survey.

L-R Emergency Management Coordinator Andy Pethybridge, LDMG Chair Lyn McLaughlin, Lead Researcher Gabi Mocatta, Sweet FM Manager Charlie Scuderi, Local Disaster Coordinator Eileen Devescovi and Kirsten Diprose and Erin Hawley of Deakin University

The Unsung Heroes Of St Vincent De Paul

When reflecting on her role as President of the St Vincent de Paul Home Hill Conference, Kaylene Rinella admitted that the work of the conference can fly under the radar.

Providing assistance to the whole of the Burdekin in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, Kaylene and her team of passionate volunteers provide a hand up, not a handout, and rely on dedicated community support to do this.

“We’re just trying to help people survive, really, help people get through,” Kaylene said.

“We’re seeing so many new families that we haven’t seen before; things are just getting so expensive.

“We just want to be there for those people who are really struggling.”

Kaylene commenced in the role of President five years ago and was vice president prior to that, involved in the conference for over 13 years.

She first signed up to volunteer at Vinnies Ayr when her accounting experience was recognised, and she was invited to work with the conference.

Bringing exuberance to the role, Kaylene has reinvigorated the conference, growing its services and budget to include emer-

gency food relief in collaboration with Burdekin Community Association, emergency accommodation assistance, loans through the No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS), clothing, school supplies, car and electricity bill relief, toiletries and more.

St Vincent de Paul relies on the generosity of community to fund these activities, whether it be through fundraising, donations of furniture and goods or volunteering.

Recent donations from Home Hill Rotary Club Inc, Home Hill - Ayr Lions Club and local schools exemplify the Burdekin’s generous spirit.

“We’ve got a great network,” Kaylene said. “I’ve been doing it for such a long time and people have put so much trust in me, it’s wonderful.

“This work makes me feel good.”

Whether it be for picking up and moving furniture or volunteering at Vinnies Ayr, the St Vincent de Paul Home Hill Conference is always on the look out for volunteers to assist their mission.

For more information on volunteering, joining the conference or donating funds, furniture and goods, email kaylene.rinella@svdpqld.org.au.

ELECTION: ON THE FRONT-LINE

Question Of The Week:

Please share with us one personal experience during your campaign trail so far that has really reinforced the reason you are running.

Pierina Dalle Cort Mayoral Candidate

Another day, another frustrated rate payer. There is a lack of urgency and efficiency in addressing issues. Surveyors, planners, and their clients are frustrated with the system. I keep hearing it is just too hard to do business with Burdekin Shire Council. Ratepayers have had to endure unnecessary costs. What is council’s legal bill in the last 12 months?

Economic development is crucial to Burdekin’s survival. This is the Burdekin, a rural community not Brisbane City Council.

Lyn

I began my campaign by travelling across our Shire and visiting key projects delivered in the current term of Council. This was a fantastic way of reminding myself that I am a representative for every resident in every township and community, and to see firsthand the difference Council has made across our region. It was also a great opportunity to meet with residents, discuss what they love about our Shire, and areas they believe should be focused on moving forward.

During the campaign I have attended Community Forums and one message that I had received and have taken on board is that the community feels like they aren’t being heard. The reason why I am running is because I want to be a voice for our community. I want to engage with the community and hear their ideas and concerns and vote for what the community wants. I want to be a voice for the community.

Lyn McLaughlin for Mayor

What do I want to achieve in the next four years?

The completion of a key major project Ground has broken on the Macroalgal Bioremediation Facility, offering a cost-effective and more sustainable wastewater treatment solution, and I look forward to seeing the long-term benefits of this project not only from an environmental perspective but the reduced operation and maintenance costs.

Attracting investment

In the weeks since announcing my candidacy for Councillor with Burdekin Shire Council, I have had nothing but positive feedback. The recent candidate forums held at the Kalamia Hotel in Ayr and at the Home Hill Community Sports Club were particularly informative as candidates had a chance to address the community and answer questions. Speaking with people, it is clear they are looking for strong voices and a change within Council and I believe I can deliver both.

Ground has also broken on the expansion of the Ayr Industrial Estate, allowing existing businesses to grow or new businesses to enter the market for the first time. New businesses will also mean more jobs and potential growth of our population.

Prioritisation of essential services

At its core, Council delivers key services including roads, water, wastewater and rubbish – so these will remain key pillars of focus moving forward.

Growing our tourism offering

A range of new attractions for our drive market have opened recently including the Burdekin Water Park, and our Shire’s signature destination event – the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival – continues to grow in attendance. I hope to continue showcasing these and ensure travellers are aware of the Burdekin’s many points of difference to spend more time and money in our region.

A vote for me is a vote for the continued growth of our Shire. If you have any questions on Council matters, do not hesitate to email Councillor.McLaughlin@burdekin.qld.gov.au

Vote 1

Saturday 16 March

Authorised by Lynette McLaughlin, 22 Lookout Road, Mount Kelly, Ayr for Lynette McLaughlin (Candidate).

McLaughlin Mayoral Candidate

Michael Backo Councillor Candidate

Amanda Hall Councillor Candidate

Attending and sitting in on the past two council meetings, has allowed me to better understand what being a ‘councillor’ means. If elected I would be eager to be part of a progressive team and help to achieve goals. Since deciding to nominate I have received a lot of support from family and friends, which gives me confidence that I would be able to carry out the role as councillor with the Burdekin’s best interest at heart.

I am pleasantly surprised at the depth of interest the community has in bettering the Burdekin. I see this in their questions and ideas for improvements into our future. I am excited about representing such an enthusiastic group of people with my energy and knowledge from working with the Burdekin Shire Council and the State Emergency Service. We can achieve so much by working together cooperatively towards common goals to sustain and develop the Burdekin’s future.

ADJUSTABLE BEDS

LARGE RANGE | EASY OPERATION TRY BEFORE YOU BUY | IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

262 Queen Street, Ayr (Opposite McDonalds)

Michael Fraser Councillor Candidate

Warren Francis Councillor Candidate

ELECTION: ON THE FRONT-LINE

Question Of The Week:

Please share with us one personal experience during your campaign

Haynes

I have been overwhelmed by the support given to me by the people of the Burdekin. When I secured the Containers for Change depot for the Burdekin the residents showed that they are keen to support new ventures. Setting this up under the NQ Green Solutions social enterprise model was a great outcome for the Burdekin community as this scheme helps with the cost of living and increased employment opportunities. I’m looking forward to exploring many more opportunities and bringing the voice of the residents to Council.

There has been a multitude of experiences that have inspired me to run for a second term. It’s helping that one person with their individual concern. It’s positive projects completed eg water park, projects underway eg macro algae, industrial estate and new ones to begin eg water filtration plant. My father served in the air force in Townsville so it will be great to see Charlies Hill progressed. The Burdekin has achieved a lot, there is a ‘never end’ to being a continually improving community.

Max Musumeci

The majority of the people I speak to are happy with what’s been done in my last four years as councillor. One particular experience, however, was a particular conversation I had with a rate payer who I have not been able to help. Hearing him saying he wanted me to return was somewhat surprising and exactly what I needed to hear at that point. He understood that if there was any way I could help him, I would. It was the positive reinforcement that I needed.

I have had a lot of people ask why I don’t have signs up like most other candidates. The signs seem like a good idea, but I want people to vote for me because they know what I have done for the community for many years now. I’m a person of action, getting things done to keep our community safe and doing good for our community. One of the reasons why I’m running is because I want to help my community.

Michael Detenon Councillor Candidate

The Campaign trail so far has reinforced my decision to run as I see how passionate other people are about our great Burdekin Shire. As a proud born and bred local myself it is great to see so many other people, whether they have moved to town or been here all their life, show such interest in the future of all our towns and I like the idea of continuing to be able to put forward the community’s ideas to both grow and improve our region.

Since nominating, I have had many people come up to congratulate me. Nearly all these people have in some way exclaimed that “we need change”. This election, change will be inevitable as three existing councillors have not nominated for re-election. I know that I can bring positive change to council. I am not just another yes-man, but can and will work with whoever I need to, to make the best decisions for the whole Burdekin Shire.

Delfine Vasta

Since starting on my Campaign trail, I was a little nervous about the whole venture but I have been so overwhelmed by the support and guidance I have received from the community; it has reinforced that the reason I am running for Councillor is for the Community and to be their voice in Council. At the end of the day, it is the Burdekin residents who will be electing the next six Councillors and Mayor so our job is to do what is right for them.

Something I’ve noticed in the last few weeks is when people have raised concerns over issues they have, there might not have been any feedback given to the person that has raised that issue. I would like to find out if the person hasn’t followed through or if it simply wasn’t resolved and a response wasn’t given.

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Mark

Councillor Candidate

Councillor Candidate

Councillor Candidate

John Furnell Councillor Candidate

Scott Worlein Councillor Candidate

Callan Oar Councillor Candidate

Jayson O’Keeffe Councillor Candidate

Council And Community To Collaborate On Flying Fox Management Plan

ACommunity Engagement Session was recently hosted by Burdekin Shire Council, providing residents with the opportunity to raise concerns and share ideas on the management of flying foxes in the Shire.

Council has secured the services of Queensland based environmental consultancy company Ecosure Environmental Consulting to assist in developing a longterm flying fox roost management plan after funding was secured earlier this year.

Burdekin Shire Council CEO Terry Brennan said the overarching objective of the project is to create a document defining a clear way forward for staff and the community when managing flying foxes in the future.

“The five-year plan for flying fox management will be designed to prioritise public safety, the protection of flying foxes and the local amenity, and to maintain critical infrastructure,” he said.

“The plan will include short- and longterm strategies for management including community education, vegetation management, and mitigating conflict where human and wildlife interactions occur.”

Ecosure Environmental Consulting Senior Ecologist Dr John Martin said the company will utilise its 20 years of experience in flying fox management and community engagement to work towards a meaningful plan while acknowledging the fact that black flying foxes in town are a native and protected species.

He said a range of dispersal tools can be used, saying Council’s current method of light and sound can deter the animals from roosting in a certain location.

“The bats are moving and there can be different bats in a roost in one day, week or month to the next,” he said.

“If that is a tool that’s utilised in an appropriate way under the relevant permits, what we have seen is that flying foxes will move to other roost sites.

“There are rules around the amount of noise that can be made, the timing, the seasonality in respect to things like breeding, so the idea is that there is actually no harm to the animals, but they actively make a choice to move on.

“This is a very challenging space to get it right and it requires long-term, persistent management that aligns with the state

government’s legislation.”

Dr Martin highlighted the flying fox’s importance to the ecosystem, saying they are a protective native species and that the risk of disease transmission, a common misconception associated with flying foxes, is extremely low.

“Think of them like a giant bee,” he said. “They’re actually out there pollinating the trees, in particular the gumtrees that are so

important to our landscape.”

Council’s current planned dispersal activities will continue to be carried out using sound and light, adhering to the State Government permit that ensures minimal harm to flying foxes.

Ecosure will survey the community to develop a draft 5-year plan to be submitted to Council and then the community in April 2024, with the final plan being completed in May 2024.

250-300 flying foxes have been observed roosting in five locations across the Burdekin

Opens Mental Health Hub

Burdekin residents can now access a range of mental wellbeing and suicide prevention services under one roof, as not-for-profit charity, selectability, today officially opens the doors to a new Mental Health Hub.

The new facility, located in the previously disused Caledonian Hall, is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Community Infrastructure Investment Partnership Program. selectability Chief Executive Officer

Debra Burden said the Mental Health Hub provided a central location for those across the region to connect to vital support.

“We believe that all regional Queenslanders have the right to access high-quality mental wellbeing and suicide prevention services locally,” Debra said.

“Before developing our plans for the Mental Health Hub, we carried out extensive community consultation to understand the service gaps.

“This included a community survey which found 93 per cent of respondents believed there was a need for a dedicated mental wellbeing facility.

“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to partner with the Community Infrastructure Investment Partnership Program, which supported the project with an $808,000 grant, to address this unmet need.”

Burdekin-local Regional Coordinator, Karisa Bojack, said the Mental Health Hub would bring huge benefit to the community.

“I am looking forward to working with groups and individuals across the region to improve mental wellbeing and prevent suicide in the Burdekin,” Karisa said.

“We offer NDIS individual and group support; support coordination and recovery coaching; along with a range of mental wellbeing, suicide prevention and carer support programs.

“No appointment or referral is required, just drop in to see the team at 182 Edward St, Ayr (the former Caledonian Hall).”

The official opening of the Burdekin Mental Health Hub is scheduled for Monday March 11 2024, from 11:00am.

For more information, visit selectability.com.au.

selectability has officially opened the doors to its new Mental Health Hub in Ayr. Photos supplied

Regional Coordinator and Burdekin-local Karisa Bojack

Only a Few Days Left to Snap and Win in the Burdekin’s Bingo Adventure WHAT’S IN THE WORK S

Stay Informed as Disaster Season Continues

Only a Few Days Left the Burdekin’s Bingo

WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT

ATIME is running out to get your pictures in for the Think Outside Bingo Competition A holiday adventure, Burdekin style, designed to get you exploring the best of the Burdekin region these school holidays.

s the disaster season in North Queensland continues into April, Burdekin Shire Council is urging residents to stay informed and prepared for any potential weather events that may arise.

With unpredictable weather patterns and the challenges posed by natural disasters, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and proactive in their approach to disaster preparedness.

tions and take precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of themselves and their families.

Energy and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

IN THE

TIME is running out to get your pictures in for the Think Outside Bingo Competition A holiday adventure, Burdekin style, designed to get you exploring the best of the Burdekin region these school holidays.

Burdekin Shire 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 on the Think Outside Bingo Competition.

It is paramount that residents stay informed and make necessary prepara-

Burdekin experience, whether you’re seeking a refreshing dip at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre or a relaxing sun-soaked day at Wunjunga Beach. Capture those special moments, tag #visitburdekin on social media and bingo your way through the play card for a chance to win.

Residents are encouraged to prepare an emergency kit, develop a family emergency plan and take time to read the Burdekin Emergency Action Guide.

card to Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #visitburdekin and tag @visitburdekin.

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

For updated information visit the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard, disaster. burdekin.qld.gov.au, including opting into emergency notifications. Here you can keep up to date with the latest information and warnings issues by relevant authorities including The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), State Emergency Services (SES), Ergon

“Don’t miss out –there are only a few days left to take part.”

Here’s how to play:

In times of crisis, community preparedness is instrumental in dealing with disaster events and helping with the recovery process. By staying informed, prepared, and connected, residents can help build a stronger, more resilient community.

Barratta Road

of $880,000 the complete a 740-metre Barratta Road from junction. The is currently onsite and will and levelling weeks before the sealing takes place. will be limited managed by traffic construction Upgrades Business District has recently placement of ten

“The Think Outside Bingo Competition 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 McLaughlin said.

• Pick up your ‘Think Outside Bingo Card’ from either the Ayr or Home Hill Visitor Information Centres, or download a copy at https://bit. ly/3PGSvOE.

Burdekin Shire 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 on the Think Outside Bingo Competition.

“The Bingo Adventure offers a fantastic opportunity to dive into the

• Take 4 photos to complete a line on the bingo card. Tick off your bingo card as you go - lines can be completed across, down, or diagonally.

Burdekin experience, whether you’re seeking a refreshing dip at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre or a relaxing sun-soaked day at Wunjunga Beach. Capture those special moments, tag #visitburdekin on social media and bingo your way through the play card for a chance to win.

For further information and updates on disaster preparedness and initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the Burdekin Shire Council website, burdekin.qld.gov.au and Burdekin Disaster and Emergency Information facebook page.

• Upload your line of photos and completed bingo

The Think Outside Bingo Competition runs from 16 September to 1 October 2023. To play along, post your photos between the competition dates. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to discover the Burdekin region like never before. Time is running out, so get your bingo card and finish your school holiday adventure.

Council undertakes an annual water main replacement program that targets water mains that are reaching the end of their serviceable life. Monitoring the number of unplanned supply interruptions through mains breaks, condition assessments and investigation of failure modes inform the asset management team of priority replacement areas to improve water supply reliability. Darwin Street is the first of three streets that will see the replacement of the existing reticulation infrastructure with Little Crescent and Victoria Street in Parkside to be replaced by June 30 2024. The water main replacement program aligns with commitments enshrined in Council’s Customer Service Standards which are available to be viewed on Council’s Website.

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.

card to or using the #visitburdekin tag @visitburdekin.

WALLACE ROAD, INKERMAN

Home Hill Furniture Upgrades

A full road closure has been established between the intersections of Mount Alma Road and Peak Road to allow for the upgrade of existing drainage structures. Access to Arthur Spotswood Road will be via Groper Creek Road and Mount Alma Road for the duration of the upgrade. Drainage works are expected to take four weeks to complete and will be immediately followed by pavement reconstruction, bitumen widening and surfacing upgrade works at the intersection with Peak Road, Inkerman.

“Don’t miss out –there are only a few days left to take part.”

ROADS

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.

Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion

of street

Here’s how to play:

Image: Mick the Cane Cutter on a Burdekin Bingo Adventure.

benches, litter bins. combinations as part of the initiative and will completion of the process. These planter boxes and commitment businesses, a the Council.

“The Think Outside Bingo Competition 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 McLaughlin said.

23/65

Grading Maintenance and re-sheeting is scheduled for the following roads this week: Wunjunga Road, Stockham Road and Black Road in the Upper Haughton area and several roads in the Rita Island area.

• Pick up your ‘Think Outside Bingo Card’ from either the Ayr or Home Hill Visitor Information Centres, or download a copy at https://bit. ly/3PGSvOE.

SOPER AND GRAHAM STREET ROUNDABOUT

The Ayr Industrial Estate expansion site has successfully completed its clearing and grubbing phase. Sand fill transfer from the Macro Algae development site has commenced as part of the project. In the 2023/24 capital works budget, the Council has allocated $2.76 million to cover earthworks, road construction, drainage infrastructure, and water and sewerage service installations.

A new roundabout has commenced construction at the intersection of Soper and Graham Streets, Ayr. The project is fully funded by the Australian Government Black Spot Program. Access for residents will be maintained during these works.

Kickoff

Burdekin Shire Council has used plant being disposed by auction on pickles.com.au.

Inspection of used plant can be arranged with Pickles 787 Ingham Road, Bohle – Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am and 4pm.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said Kickoff the Conversation is a pivotal moment for the community.

The used plant for auction in March 2024

• 20032 – Truck – 2011 Isuzu NPR300 Dual Cab with fixed/tipper body

“This event encourages conversations about mental health resilience and the importance of seeking support,” Cr McLaughlin said.

• Take 4 photos to complete a line on the bingo card. Tick off your bingo card as you go - lines can be completed across, down, or diagonally.

Here’s a glimpse of what’s on offer:

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.

of programs catering to children, teens, and adults. From interactive sessions for the little ones to tech-savvy workshops for adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• 1 line of equals 1 you complete whole card, 10 entries prize draw. The Outside Competition from 16 to 1 October To play along, 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.

• Baby Rhyme Time (0-18 months) - Join us every Thursday (except the last one of the month) at 10:30am at the Ayr Library.

“The Bingo Adventure offers a fantastic opportunity to dive into the

Full plant details are available on the Pickles website www.pickles. com.au.

“Tickets will be available to purchase from October 3 2023, the event is expected to sell out quickly so be sure to book straight away.”

If required, there is access to computers with internet access available at our Council Libraries in Ayr or Home Hill.

• Toddler Time (18 months – 5 years) - Every Wednesday (except the last one of the month) at 10:30am at the Ayr Library.

• Upload your line of photos and completed bingo

Kickoff the Conversation will feature keynote speakers who have not only faced significant health

For further information please visit Council’s website https://www. burdekin.qld.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service Section on (07) 4783 9800.

• Storytime (2.5-5 years) - Dive into the magical world of storytelling every Friday at 10:30am at the Ayr Library.

• Messy Play (0-5 years) - Join us on the last Thursday of the month at 10:30am at the Ayr Library, starting March.

Council

Image: Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure.

• Play Time (0-5 years) - Held on the last Wednesday of the month at 10:30am at the Ayr Library and on the last Saturday of the month at 9:30am at Arch Dunn Memorial Park, Home Hill, starting April.

be involved in meeting the design needs

The Burdekin Libaries are offering a diverse range

22/32 – Technical Officer – Civil Design

Where Do You Go?

You don’t know what you don’t know. Makes sense, right?

But where do you go when you need to know something? Ever thought about popping into the Neighbourhood Centre to ask? We aim to be helpful to anyone who comes into the Centre with an issue.

It takes a lot of courage to walk into somewhere new. When you walk through our door, there is no judgement, no shame. Just friendly faces, a listening ear and a safe space to take a moment to find your

direction. And whilst we may not show it – trust us, we will be high-fiving you for taking that big first step.

Linking community members with services, supports, activities, resources, and information is a huge component of the work at the Centre. It is important for our staff to develop links across all sectors of our community. We work hard to ensure that the information we hold here at the Centre is up to date – it takes a lot of time and effort to do – but it is worth it to see the relief on people’s faces when they know they do not have to keep doing the rounds

of information gathering.

Every time you walk through our door is an opportunity for us to learn. As community members ourselves, we don’t have all the answers, however, we will take the time with you to learn together. We can’t tell you how many times we have learnt from our community members that have enabled us to pass this on to others.

So come on in, take a deep breath, and let’s work together.

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Burdekin Community Association

The Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) Home Care Service delivers a wide range of services for seniors and their carers.

Home Care Packages Program (HCP)

The HCP Program provides support to older people with complex care needs to live independently in their own home. We can offer services to eligible seniors on a Level 1, 2, 3 or 4 package. Services include in-home support services, transport, home maintenance/repairs/modifications, access to allied health services

Did you know that the Burdekin Shire has over 200 kilometres of beaches within its boundaries?

That’s more than the distance from Ayr to Airlie Beach. The Burdekin Shire is home to some of the most pristine and diverse coastal environments in Queensland, with sandy shores, rocky headlands, mangroves and access to coral reefs. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing

and other care related services relating to the client’s health, safety and wellbeing.

Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)

The CHSP is an entry level home help program to assist older people who can mostly, but not completely, live and cope on their own an don’t yet need high levels of support at home. Services include domestic assistance, social support (friendly visits/shopping/outings), personal care (showering/bathing/medication monitoring), respite care (support for the carer),

transport and home maintenance (lawn mowing/whipper snipping/rubbish removal).

Please contact the Home Care Service Team to discuss services or obtain information on Ph 4783 3744, The Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, bca@bcaburdekin.org.au, www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au.

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

ON THE BEAT

At about 1.05am on 11 February, Ayr Police were called to a licenced premises in Ayr CBD as a result of a disturbance between a number of persons. As a result, a 24yr old man, a 20yr old man and a 17yr old male youth were all issued infringement notices regarding their behaviour and also served a Police Banning Notice.

At about 12.55am on 18 February, Ayr Police were called to a disturbance at a licenced premises in Ayr CBD. As a result, a 26yr old Sarina man was issued with a public nuisance infringement notice and served a Police Banning Notice.

Snr Sgt Steve BARTON OIC AYR

getaway, a fishing adventure or a wildlife encounter, you’ll find it in the Burdekin Shire. Here are some of the best beaches to explore in this amazing region:

Lynch’s Beach, Alva: This is a popular spot for fishing, diving and kite surfing, as well as for camping and caravaning. Situated along the roadway, you’ll find the Ayr Surf Lifesavers Club, and your gateway to the S.S. Yongala, one of the

GRIMETIME

Grime Time is a hard working hand cleaner with natural grit. It is designed to remove grease, oil, and most industrial soiling from hands. It is used in mine sites, garages, manufacturing and engineering workshops, auto repair and maintenance workshops.

world’s best wreck dives, where you can see an incredible array of fresh and saltwater marine life. At low tide, the beach makes for excellent exploring with hundreds of soldier crabs, endless shells and an abundance of wildlife.

Wunjunga Beach: This is a secluded and scenic beach, ideal for birdwatching, fishing and picnicking. One of the best ways to enjoy all that Wunjunga has to

offer is by setting up a tent or caravan at the Funny Dunny Park camping grounds that offer limited short-stay camping for self-contained vehicles.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your sunscreen, hat and camera and head to one of our beaches for an unforgettable coastal experience.

GRIMETIME – you’ll want to get dirty every day

More Queensland, for more Queenslanders

Let’s grow a better Queensland together

Let’s face it, life in Queensland is pretty sweet. We’ve got the great outdoors, and that famous sunshine-state-of-mind. And we’re not the only ones who think so, because Queensland is growing. In fact, over the next 10 years our state is expected to grow with over a million more people through both interstate and international migration, as well as natural increase. That’s great news for our economy and communities. But with all those extra Queenslanders, it’s important that government, industry and communities work together to plan and build for this growth.

There’s no place like Queensland

A million extra Queenslanders means we’ll need more homes. And because household dynamics are changing, the types of homes we’re planning and building for need to change too. People want different things depending on their personal circumstances. There are more single person and single parent households than ever before and there will be more in the future. Not everyone wants a big block with an equally big mortgage,

or lawn they need to care for. So now and into the future there is going to be more demand for attached housing and smaller homes.

We call this housing diversity and we’re baking it into our future long-term strategic plans. From duplexes and granny flats to townhouses, terrace housing and units, we’re planning for more housing types so that more people can find homes to suit their needs and budgets. A bigger range of housing gives people more options about where they live, such as being able to live closer to family, friends or places of work. Ultimately our goal of well-planned growth is to provide people with a better quality of life and more time to connect - because what’s good for Queensland, should be good for every Queenslander too.

More people means more benefits

But it’s not just more homes in the pipeline.

As Queensland’s population grows, so will its vibrant communities, and it’s our job to plan ahead - to meet current and future needs of a changing population. More homes and people means more community benefits, like improving transport infrastructure, with more public transport services. It means more hospitals and more upgraded schools. And with all those extra people, we’re going to need somewhere for us all to hangout, practise some of that famous Queensland sociability and maybe kick a footy around (go Maroons!). So it means more parks and places to meet too.

Of course none of this exciting growth would be sustainable without proper planning. Queensland’s planning framework continues to evolve as the state grows and changes, but how it works is actually pretty simple. The state government’s planning framework is there to help development succeed - by encouraging the development of more walkable neighbourhoods for instance, streamlining planning approvals, increasing transparency and giving every community a voice. Which is where you come in.

Take a closer look

In Queensland, planning is a joint effort between the councils and the Queensland Government. The Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works is the custodian of the overarching planning framework; working with Queensland’s 77 councils to ensure state and local interests are integrated into planning schemes to guide the future shape of our communities.

Industry and the community also play a role in planning for the future, by getting involved when there is a new state or local government policy or plan, or when these instruments are being amended. The community can also have their say on certain proposed developments, when a development application is assessed.

So if you are interested in learning more about the planning process, what’s planned for your area, or how you can get involved, visit qld.gov.au/ GrowingTogether and let’s grow a better Queensland together.

SUGARCANE FUELING &

Through a Circular Bioeconomy

A circular bioeconomy utilises existing sugarcane land for sugar production while converting sugarcane waste into, bioenergy, bioproducts, and biofuels

ELECTRICITY

FERTILISER

Sugarcane

RECYCLE

POWERING

SUGAR MILLS

Co2 TO OXYGEN

BAGASSE

BIOENERGY BIOFUELS

BIOPRODUCTS

GROW WASTE

PROCESS

Sugarcane

SUGAR

MOLASSES

FARMERS & COMMUNITY BENEFIT

BOOSTS CANE SUPPLY + JOB CREATION

REDUCES ENERGY COSTS + HOUSEHOLD BILLS

EMPOWERS ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP + SUSTAINABILITY

$

STRENGTHENS REGIONAL ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

Local Teacher Named As Finalist For Rural Women’s Award

Home Hill State High School teacher Louise Nicholas has progressed to Finalist of the Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, an award to recognise notable female rural leaders who are advocating, empowering, and celebrating for changes in agriculture.

Louise is excited to have progressed to become a Finalist for the award.

“It’s still sinking in,” she explained.

“I was nominated two years ago and didn’t progress to this stage, so it’s all new.

“This time around, my project is further refined and is better matured.”

Her project, ‘Grow Your Own’, is committed to progressing and advocating for students to pursue careers and futures in agriculture and industry.

“There is a lack of trained workforce in industry and agriculture,

and to encourage our students to pursue careers in industry, we have partnered with local industry and agricultural businesses and farms to show students what’s on offer,” Louise explained.

“We also work closely with agricultural bodies like Central Queensland University and AgForce, who support us in taking students out on tours of farms, of workplaces and sites.

“Exposure is really what we’re trying to do. To show the students what’s out there, and that farming and a career in agriculture isn’t sitting on a tractor all day anymore.”

Louise aspires to extend the Grow Your Own initiative across Queensland and showcase the diverse industry opportunities that are available for students, while fostering growth and success in their own communities.

“There is so much out there,” Louise said.

“And exposing students to the diverse and various aspect of indus-

try and agriculture is critical.

“It encourages students to enter a career in industry that they may not have known was an option.”

Louise is also a big advocate for the Food and Fibre component of the Australian Curriculum, wishing to encourage further commitment of Queensland schools to deliver the component with confidence.

“Food and Fibre is outlined is the curriculum but not a lot of schools deliver it, because the teachers don’t feel confident in delivering the material.

“I am also advocating for teachers and professionals to upskill.”

Louise will travel to Brisbane on March 11 for the final interview with the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award panel, with the winners named during the following days.

Each state and territory winner receives a $15,000 grant from Westpac to fund their project, business, or program.

“To win allows me to better propel the initiative and extend it across Queensland, to better agriculture education in schools, and support students pursuing careers in industry and agriculture in their local area.”

Louise Nicholas with her students, supporting students to pursue careers in industry and agriculture. Photos supplied

NO SURPRISE - IT’S ALL ABOUT BRAZIL

Simon Hood - Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Tthe close of the 2023-24 Brazilian crush and the start of the 2024-25 season seems impossibly short. The final production for this season’s output is yet to be determined, but is heading towards a record harvest.

Thanks for choosing Wilmar

Reports suggest that mills are rushing to increase crystallisation capacity. However, as we are acutely

Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Projections for the 24-25 season are fluid in the analysts’ spreadsheets. The early number of 640+ million

aware, it takes some planning to design, build, and install mill components so a step change in capacity may be constrained.

Doubt remains about how quickly the Thai crop will be cut out. The outlook for next year is not for a massive recovery of cane hectares, as competing crops maintain a viable alternative in Thailand. This should support the far-east premium as Australian sugar will remain in strong demand.

position for much of the 2023 season, they are yet to move far away from a small net long balance in the

2024 calendar year. At the end 2023, we witnessed the impact of the head exiting in unison, so it is important to keep a bead on the signals that were used to drive their investment flows.

Firstly, thank you to all who have entrusted us with your GEI marketing nomination for the 2024 season.

mt of cane is being wound back, due to the dry weather in December and January being factored into the

There is talk of further investment at the Brazilian docks to ease loading bottlenecks, which global logistics managers will support.

Finally, the speculative community is keeping its powder dry. After liquidating a

For more information, contact your local Wilmar Grower Marketing consultant.

For many, this decision was made a long time ago when the 2024 season opened for pricing in July 2021.

yield. February was forecast to be a wetter month, but has not delivered as much moisture as desired.

Ranges now in the market cover 600-635 million mt, with Wilmar at the upper end of that scale.

At that time, target prices where trading sub $400/t and the thought of $800/t for sugar was a dream. At the time of writing, we have seen a high of $840/t trade more to come.

Another important variable is the production mix between ethanol and sugar. This ratio pushed the market to the upside last year with the final coming close to 50:50. There is an obvious incentive to increase this percentage with ethanol par-

If the dry weather persists, the new season crush might start earlier. This will be bearish in the shortterm, as more sugar becomes readily available, but will potentially bode well for constructive pricing later as yield prospects will be cut. Watch this space.

The reasons for the dramatic rise over the last years are well documented in the persistent deficit of supply against demand and the consequent running down of global stocks.

Following a poor and patchy monsoon, the Indian crop has performed better than expected.

Nevertheless, India is not expected to be a significant player in global trade for the foreseeable future,

Our current average hedge rate for Target price growers in the approximately 40 per cent of committed tonnes priced. This provides a significant underwriting of next year’s production and a big buffer for growers if prices were to collapse unexpectedly. This graph charts the Brazilian crop size and the sugar-ethanol mix since 2017-18

with any increase in production siphoned

Queensland To Host Major Agrifood Tech And Innovation Event I

n an announcement that further boosts Queensland’s credentials as Australia’s emerging AgTech innovation capital, Brisbane has been named as the home of the AgriFutures evokeAG. global innovation event in 2025.

Connecting the global agrifood innovation community of investors, entrepreneurs, AgTech service providers and agribusiness professionals, evokeAG. provides a digital platform and premier agrifood tech event where farmers share their experiences, startups pitch their potential, scientists showcase their discoveries, global business leaders share their insights and industry experts debate their opinions.

The announcement came after a group of Queensland innovators and industry leaders joined more than 1,800 delegates from across the Asia Pacific attending this year’s event in Perth.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities

Mark Furner said the Queensland Government has helped the state’s agricultural industry grow from $17.2 billion to an estimated $24 billion in value, supporting hundreds of thousands of good jobs for Queenslanders since 2015.

“AgTech is a strong part of the sustainable future of agriculture, solving problems and growing businesses,” Mr Furner said.

“Bringing this event to Queensland reinforces the Queensland Government’s commitment to AgTech and adoption.

“I have no doubt Queensland’s ag riculture sector will make the most of this event and ensure next year’s evokeAG. held in Brisbane will be the best yet.”

AgriFutures Managing Director John Harvey said he looks forward to hosting the event in Brisbane.

“evokeAG. began as an opportunity to showcase the incredible agrifood tech innovation happening here in Australia, to hear from the rest of the world and to drive innovation in the Asia-Pacific region,” Mr Harvey said.

Rare Skink Found In North Queensland After Over 40 Years

Queensland Chief Entrepreneur Julia Spicer added that the state’s agriculture has an innovative culture.

“Our farmers have instinctively turned to innovation to solve some of the big farming challenges in Australia, including dealing with drought, floods, pests, soil quality, remote locations, livestock monitoring, and transport and logistics,” Ms Spicer said.

“This in turn is driving a strong homegrown AgTech sector – technologies and innovations developed for farming in some of the toughest conditions in the world.

“As someone who works closely with many regional communities to drive change and enhance economic opportunities in agriculture, I know that hosting evokeAG. in Brisbane next year is an opportunity to showcase the world-class AgTech that we create and harness across Queensland.”

The event will be held in Brisbane from February 18-19, 2025.

The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink had not been observed since 1981 and is known only from a single locality that is heavily grazed by cattle.

That is until the rare lizard was found last year for the first time in over 40 years living in north-east Queensland.

In early 2023, scientists from Queensland Museum and James Cook University were tasked with the challenge of finding the elusive Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink.

The surveys were part of research by the Resilient Landscapes Hub of the Australian Government’s National Environmental Science Program that is looking for highly threatened reptiles across Queensland.

Dr Andrew Amey from Queensland Museum Network, who led the expedition, said the goal was to find three species of skink which have very small distributions confined to the Mount Surprise area, around 500 kilometres northeast of Ayr.

“These lizards are all hard to find and seldom seen,” Dr Amey said.

“Two are part of a large group of skinks in the genus Lerista, which are only found in Australia and have adapted to sandy soils by reducing their limbs to essentially swim through the soil.

“It shows that parts of Australia such as grass-

lands and open woodland that are grazed by cattle can still host important biodiversity.

“It was an exciting moment to find all three skinks, but to find the Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was an amazing discovery.”

The other two skinks were the Limbless Finelined Slider, which is found in the Undara Volcanic National Park, and the Mount Surprise Slider, which was only known from one paddock.

The purpose of the survey was to find if the species still existed and if scientists could find new populations elsewhere.

The small distribution of the skinks makes them vulnerable to damaging events such as bushfires, drought, invasive weeds, and disease.

The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was recently listed as Critically Endangered by the Queensland and Australian Governments in recognition of this.

www.canegrowersburdekin.com.au

Dr Amey said animals like these skinks have an important role to play in our ecosystems.

“We need to know if these skinks have healthy populations or if they are declining,” he said.

“We can’t take effective action to protect them if we don’t know where they occur and what threats are impacting them.

“The only way to get this information is go and look for them.”

Lyon’s grassland skink. Photo credit: Conrad Hoskin

Burdekin Bus Tour

Cross-Regional Collaboration

Between Mackay-Whitsunday And Burdekin Canegrowers

Growers participating in the Burdekin Irrigation project, the Lower Burdekin Smart Irrigation Project and the Major Grants project hosted sugarcane growers from the Mackay-Whitsunday region the Far North and local growers to demonstrate on-farm smart irrigation strategies, tools, technologies, and practices throughout the Burdekin.

The bus tour aimed to increase cross regional relationships and provided an opportunity for growers interested in new advancements in irrigation practices and technology from outside the region to explore on-farm smart irrigation demonstrations.

The three demonstration sites contained a variety of smart irrigation technologies including gravity fed surface drip, high press subsurface drip, automated overhead sprinkles, automated furrow irrigation systems and a myriad of sensing equipment to collect data from each trial site. Improved irrigation practices supported by the Burdekin Irrigation Project have resulted in an increase in productivity, providing a path to a more sustainable farming enterprise.

Three Burdekin growers who hosted the demonstration sites highlighted the challenges associated with farming in their specific locations and shared the robust process they undertook to address crop demands.

They noted that automation has been the enabler for improved efficiency, but with-

out the practice change there would have been little benefit.

“ The bus tour provided an excellent opportunity for growers across districts to see first-hand demonstrations of different irrigation practices side by side with replicated treatments,” explained Terry Granshaw, SRA.

“Whether its sugarcane or any of our legumes that are grown across the district, we want to be making sure we apply the right amount of water to the crop at the right time.

“The demonstration sites compare grower current practices with a changed practice, based off data collected from sensors and current weather conditions.

This information is collected via automation and used in conjunction with IrrigWeb (a crop model used for scheduling and record keeping) Feedback from the growers who attended on the day were very positive and I hope that future cross region interaction becomes the normal within our industry,” he said.

With support from Reef Catchments and Sugar Research Australia, growers from the Mackay-Whitsunday region will join their peers to workshop how learnings from the Burdekin tour can best be integrated with local grounded experience in the region.

To learn more about Water Quality management in the Burdekin region, visit NQ Dry Tropics’ website at www.nqdrytropics. com.au.

Tis invited to get behind the rod or the rifle to help fundraising efforts for the Clare State School P&C Committee.

Involving fun for the whole family, the event schedule includes the coveted weigh-in presentations for all pigs, fish and crabs, a well-stocked licensed bar, Rotary food tent, Lillie’s Cubby House, live music by none other than Tammy Moxon, plus face painting and merch stall selling the very best branded clothing and accessories.

WHAT: Burdekin Boars and Barras Competition 2024

With over $7,000 worth of prize money on offer in junior, senior and open categories across all classes, this is set to be a weekend of fun and excitement.

Find out more and get your tickets at burdekin-boars-barras.spiffystores.com.

WHERE: Clare Sports and Recreation Club

WHEN: Saturday March 2 and Sunday March 3

TICKETS: $10 Junior and $20 Senior

Record Breaking Recycling For The Burdekin

BY CHELSEA RAVIZZA

January 2024 saw a new mammoth monthly record set for the Containers for Change Scheme across Queensland, with 175,805,461 containers returned for a refund and recycling. This outstanding total surpasses the previous record set in January of 2023 of 157,525,681, and Rachael Coleman of NQ Green Solutions continues to be blown away by the Burdekin’s recycling efforts.

NQ Green Solutions recycled 1,133,972 containers in January, and the depot shows no sign of slowing. Recycling almost 350,000 more containers in January of 2024 than January of 2023, Rachael believes this increase can be owed to various factors.

“A number of factors have contributed to our surge in number for January in the Burdekin like the expansion of our Container Collect Service to include areas such as Giru and Ravenswood, our online booking app, sponsorship, large community involvement, and awareness about the scheme and what if offers,” explained Rachael.

living pressures, Containers for Change has returned more than $780 million to Queenslander’s’ back pockets,” explained Ms Roach.

“Containers for Change has also supported more than 935 jobs across Queensland, with many of these in regional areas, benefitting the local economy.”

The Queensland Government’s Containers for Change Scheme was introduced in November of 2018, and has since received more than 7.75 billion containers, and refunded more than $775 million to Queenslanders.

Rachael and her team have seen many new customers come through their deport in response to the cost-of-living crisis, and Container Exchange CEO, Natalie Roach, believes the Containers for Change Scheme exists as a widely beneficial tool to combat this struggle.

“At a time when many are facing cost of

The scheme’s expansion to include glass wine and spirit bottles from the beginning of November in 2023 is believed to be one of the main contributing factors to the record-breaking figures.

“We have had an overwhelming response to the addition of glass wine, and spirit bottles to the Container refund Scheme since its introduction, but January saw massive growth across all container variants,” expressed Rachael.

“Since we opened our doors, we have recycled and saved over 37 million containers from landfill, and I couldn’t be prouder of the Burdekin and their participation in the entire scheme, as every week the numbers just blow me away.”

Charley Ruskin and Caitlin McDonnell of NQ Green Solutions. Photo supplied

Empowering The Next Generation Of Road Users

Next month, high school students from four Burdekin schools will attend a potentially lifesaving education program professionally developed and delivered by trained local mentors.

Road Safety Education Limited’s (RSE) RYDA workshop is a whole of school program which includes a full day workshop of practical, interactive and powerful sessions about road safety for students at Burdekin Catholic High School, Home Hill State High School, Burdekin Christian College and Burdekin Educational Engagement Program.

The program lays the foundation for safe road use throughout their lives and challenges students to think about the role they play road safety.

RSE CEO & Managing Director Terry Birss said the organisation applauds schools for committing to the educational experience for their students.

“Educating young people and equipping them with the tools they need to make good choices on the road is essential to saving lives,” he said.

“It is not enough to teach a young person the skill of controlling and manoeuvring a vehicle.

“We must balance this with the skill of

critical thinking and an appreciation for safety on the road.”

The workshop is supported by a range of resources for students and teachers to use including an online digital revision course, pre-workshop classwork and follow-up modules on a range of road safety topics which schools can build into their curriculum.

To date, over 775,000 students have completed the RYDA program throughout Australia and New Zealand.

The program focuses on teaching young drivers the cognitive skills required to manage distractions, an understanding and acceptance of the rules of the road and the laws of physics.

It helps students to plan their journey and gives them strategies to avoid risk and the resilience and motivation to implement those strategies.

RYDA also teaches passengers how to contribute positively to the car’s environment and speak up if they’re uncomfortable and to use the road with social responsibility.

RYDA QLD Senior Program Coordinator Hannah Olsen said the support of local Rotary Clubs means the program can be run in all communities by local road safety and education professionals, including

police.

“Youth Road Trauma is a community problem that needs a whole of community response,” she said.

“Our local rotary club and RSE are in a unique position to bring together all the essential elements to provide an effective and highly successful road safety education program for young people.”

Drivers are at their highest risk of being involved in a crash during their first year of driving unsupervised.

Young Australians continue to be over-represented in road trauma statistics with 17-25-year-olds making up 10% of the population but representing 22% of all driver and passenger fatalities.

A range of factors have been linked to the higher rate of injuries and deaths caused by young drivers including driver inexperience, risky driving behaviours such as speeding, driving while fatigued, driving without a seatbelt and driving smaller and/or older vehicles with fewer safety features.

sion-making skills so they can recognise risky situations and make safer choices.

The RYDA workshops teach all of these skills and are aimed specifically at people of senior high school age.

The risk of crashing diminishes with experience plus the development of deci-

Scouting In Home Hill

Scouting has been part of the Home Hill community since 1928. On Monday 12 February 12, as part of our community involvement, members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group attended the Burdekin Council Australia Day event at the Home Hill Memorial Hall. This was a great night seeing and hearing about so many in-

spirational people in our community.

We also took the opportunity to share the opportunity for youth 5 to 15 years of age (adults too) to come along for four weeks for free to Try Scouting on a Thursday night at our Hall in Twelfth Ave, Home Hill.

This term along with our Thurs-

day night programs our members will attend:

• 3 Community events

• 2 Camps/Sleepover

• 5 Adventurous Activity days

Contributed by Chris Berkery

Home Hill Scouts attended the recent Australia Day Awards Ceremony in Home Hill. Photo supplied

The program will run on Friday March 15 at the TAFE Queensland Burdekin Campus.

EVENTGUIDE

FRIDAY 1 MARCH

World of Prayer in Home Hill

Friday, from 10am

All churches welcome to share this celebration of faith. Hosted by St Helen’s Anglican Church. Contact Pam Ashworth for more information: 7 4782 1177.

Cnr 14th Street and 10th Ave Home Hill

SATURDAY 2 MARCH

Family Fun Day

Saturday from 3pm to 6pm

Fun for the whole family, join the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club for their annual Family Fun Day! With a dunk tank, face paint, slip and slide, popcorn, slushies and fairy floss available, there is something for everyone! And don’t miss the Sock Disco, from 6pm! Ayr Surf Club, Sandowns Street, Alva

SATURDAY 9 MARCH

Laurie’s Love Gala Ball

Saturday, from 6pm

Book your tickets for the 2024 Laurie’s Love Gala Ball featuring special guest speaker and brain cancer advocate, Carrie Bickmore. All tickets include four hour beer and wine drink package and three-course meal. Dress code: Black Tie. Burdekin Memorial Hall

SUNDAY 10 MARCH

Zonta’s International Women’s Day

Sunday, from 1.30pm

Celebrate IWD in style at a scrumptious High Tea. The 2024 Zonta UN theme is “Count her in: Accelerating Gender Equality through Economic Empowerment”.

Fun afternoon is assured with a guest speaker, an assortment of awards and prizes, lucky door, raffles etc. The funds raised support Zonta’s various ongoing local and international projects. Burdekin Catholic High School, Marchellin Centre, Gibson Street, Ayr

SATURDAY 16 MARCH

NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase

Saturday, from 11am

The NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is the only talent showcase of it’s kind in Queensland. The event is run by leading event and artist management company Yoyo Music and hosted in the Burdekin Shire by the Burdekin Shire Youth Council. The national talent showcase is open to performers of all ages and talent genres, with over $5,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, including professional development and national performance opportunities.

Burdekin Theatre

TUESDAY 19 MARCH

Ayr State High School: Apprenticeship / Traineeship / Cadetship Evening

Tuesday, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm

The aim of the evening is to inform students about how to prepare and secure an apprenticeship, traineeship or cadetship. The format includes display tables, 5 minute introduction of your organisation and upcoming or future opportunities, and an expert panel for questions and answers.

Ayr State High Resource Centre

WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH

The Robertson Brothers 60’s Variety TV Show

Wednesday, from 7pm

Following their Sold Out National Tour in 2023, Australia’s new ‘Kings of Variety Television’ are back in 2024 with a brand new show! The Robertson Brothers are thrilled to be returning with their new heart-warming and uplifting 1960’s Variety TV Show! Geoff and Ben Robertson are back as your charming and cheeky hosts for this nostalgic night of entertainment as they pay tribute to the musical giants of the 1960’s – The Beach Boys, The Monkees, Johnny Farnham, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Hollies, The Bee Gees, Frankie Valli, The Everly Brothers, Neil Sedaka and The Seekers.

Burdekin Theatre

FRIDAY 5 APRIL

Shane Muspratt Cup

Friday, from 9am

The Shane Muspratt Cup is an Annual Under 12’s Junior Rugby League Carnival proudly hosted by the Burdekin Roosters Junior Rugby League Club.  The Burdekin Junior Rugby League host this hotly contested event for under 12’s annually with great success. This competition is open to all QRL Registered Junior Rugby League Players in the Under 12 age group and is a great weekend for spectators who love rugby league. It is a great event that brings hundreds of families to the Burdekin region!

Junior Rugby League Club, Wickham Street Ayr

SATURDAY 13 APRIL

Canefield Ashes Carnival

Saturday April 13 and Sunday April 14 from 7.30am

The Canefield Ashes brings the excitement of 20/20 cricket to the sugar capital of Australia. The competition has quickly developed into a great weekend of cricket, mateship and socialising. The two-day contest is held over a weekend and attracts teams from the Burdekin as well as Bowen, Proserpine and Charters Towers. This year is the 20th anniversary of the ashes and a golf day is also being planned for Friday April 12 as part of the 20 year celebrations.

Home Hill Cricket Association

Bohemian Rhapsody: Made in Heaven Tour

Saturday, from 8pm

Direct from sell-out theatres, Australia’s longest running Queen Tribute since 1993, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” starring the internationally acclaimed Thomas Crane, returns in 2024 for the brand new show, “Made In Heaven”. Prepare for an unforgettable journey as Thomas Crane takes fans through the iconic hits of Queen. Prepare to be transported back in time as “Bohemian Rhapsody” recreates the visual excitement and electrifying energy of a Queen concert. Audiences can expect an unforgettable night filled with Queen’s iconic hits from the ‘70s to the ‘90s, including classics like “Somebody to Love,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” and, of course, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Purchase tickets from the Burdekin Theatre.

Burdekin Theatre

Meet Harry Potter

This playful little tabby is on a quest to find his furever home!

Dubbed Harry Potter, he is affectionate and loving, sure to keep his humans spellbound with his stellar personality.

He can magically make your worries (and a whole bowl of food) disappear!

Harry isn’t a fan of Quidditch, but he

FAST FACTS:

Rehoming Fee: $195

DOB: 1/1/2023

Sex: Male

Breed: Domestic Short Hair

flies around at top speed chasing his toys.

The Sorting Hat has decided that Harry is definitely a lap cat, who adores being with his human friends.

Harry is available for adoption, is desexed and microchipped, and up to date on his vaccinations. Harry has also been flea, tick and worm treated.

Kid Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Untested

Other Cats: Yes Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

To schedule a meet and greet with this pet, complete and submit the animal inquiry form: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

A Day Of Family Fun

Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club is inviting the community to the beach for a Family Fun Day happening Saturday, March 2 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.

The day will offer fun for the whole family, including a dunk tank, face painting and slip and slide.

Snacks will be available including popcorn, slushies and fairy floss as well as other food and drinks – BYO is not permitted.

The 2024 Family Fun Day is free to enter and will take place at the Ayr Surf Club, Sandown Street, Alva.

Following the Family Fun Day will be a Sock Disco from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

The cost of the Sock Disco is $10 to enter and includes a sausage sizzle and drink.

WHAT: Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club’s Family Fun Day

WHEN: Saturday, March 2 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm

WHERE: Ayr Surf Club, Sandown Street, Alva

COST: Free entry (Sock Disco $10 entry)

A Fortnightly Oasis Empowering

Women’s Mental Health

Burdekin resident Talika Pegoraro understands that the busy lives of women and mothers doesn’t always allow for time to be spent on oneself.

That’s why she started Sisters of the Moon, a fortnightly women’s circle inviting local women to take two hours out of their busy lives to focus on themselves.

Talika has been working with Airlie Beach-based life coach Jen Gils to work through her anxiety, depression and complex PTSD, which she said was an opportunity to change her mindset.

“I found that, locally, there wasn’t really an area for women to have a safe space where they could decompress and work on their mental health,” she said.

“I saw the opportunity to help other women the way that I had been helped.

“I started Sisters of the Moon to create a safe space where they can take two hours out of their fortnight, out of their busy schedules, and relax and learn about mental health.”

Sisters of the Moon has been meeting every fortnight since September 2023 where participants are invited to wear comfort-

able clothing and bring a yoga mat and a book to write in.

“Some women bring pillows, eye masks and blankets, it’s completely up to them, as long as their comfortable,” Talika said.

“Each class is different but the basic structure is an information session at the start, then we go into journal points, because journalling is a way people can express what’s on their minds without judgement, then we get into a guided meditation.”

Talika invites regular and new participants every fortnight.

“I know it can be hard for women to get time for themselves, but that’s exactly why I did this, so women can commit to two hours a fortnight where it is just for them,” she said.

Sisters of the Moon meet every fortnight at the CWA Hall, Ayr from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, with the next meeting held on Wednesday, March 6.

Jen Gils will also be in the Burdekin on March 10 hosting a guided meditation class.

For more information, contact Talika Pegoraro on 0408 441 218 or visit Sisters of the Moon – Burdekin on Facebook.

This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom duplex is the perfect property for families or investors. This fully fenced property, situated on a generous 2,023 sqm of land provides privacy and security. The duplex has a beautiful backyard and two patio’s, perfect for outdoor entertaining.

Inside, you will find a comfortable living room, a well-equipped kitchen, and a cozy dining area. Each unit is fully tiled, airconditioned, has a lockable garage, a separate laundry and 2 bedrooms with built-ins. Unit 2 features larger bedrooms, a corner tub and separate shower, a large storage room, a relaxing fire

place and a lockable shed. Set one behind the other, you can live in one and rent the other! Rarely do properties of this caliber become available to purchase. With plenty of room to relax and unwind, this duplex could be perfect for you.

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6.00 Rage. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast.

9.00 Rage. 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) 1.30 Darby And Joan. (M) 2.15 Spicks And Specks. (PG) 2.45 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG) 3.15 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World. (PG) 4.00 Universe With Brian Cox. 4.55 Better Date Than Never. 5.30 Landline.

5.55 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2024. (M)

10.50 Rage Mardi Gras Special. (MA15+) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

3.00 Nigella Bites. 3.25 Cook And The Chef. 3.50 Grand Designs NZ. 4.40 Extraordinary Escapes. 5.30 The ABC Of... 6.00 Brush With Fame. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 News. 7.30 Death In Paradise.

8.30 House Of Gods. (PG) 9.30 Silent Witness. 10.30 Midsomer Murders. 12.00 Harrow. 12.55 Significant Others. 1.50 Sanditon. 2.40 Rage Vault. 4.00 Catalyst. 5.00 Insiders.

7.30 The Good Ship Murder. 8.25 Endurance: Race The Pole. 9.20 Queens That Changed

The World. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45

Departure. 11.30 Miniseries: The Unusual Suspects. 2.25 Miniseries: The Unusual Suspects. 3.20 Going Places. 4.20 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Gymnastics. Artistic Apparatus World Cup. Highlights. 3.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike Championship. Round 1. Highlights. 4.00 Secrets Of A Celtic Grave. 5.30 Merrill’s Marauders: Burma WWII. 6.30 News.

7.30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres. 8.25 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. 9.20 The Wonders Of Europe. 10.20 Those Who Stayed. 11.05 Cycling. UCI Women’s World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. 12.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche. 3.00 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Surf Life Saving. Super Surf Teams League. Highlights. 4.50 Where Are You Really From? 5.25 Her War, Her Story: WWII. 6.30 News. 7.35 The Lost Scrolls Of Vesuvius With Alice Roberts. 8.30 Netanyahu, America And The Road To War In Gaza. 10.05 Military Strongholds. 11.05 Rodman: For Better Or Worse. 1.05 Dirty Bird. 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 1. 3.10 Going Places. 4.10 Bamay. 4.45 Destination Flavour. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 2.20 Ramses The Great Empire Builder. 3.10 Mastermind Aust. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The Great Fire Of London. 5.05 Jeopardy!

5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Finding Your Roots. 8.30 The 2010s.

9.20 24 Hours In A&E. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Blanca. 11.40 Silent Road. 12.35 Wet By Fire. 12.50 Cycling.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Patsy And Loretta. (2019) 2.00 House Of Wellness. 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: Where The Crawdads Sing. (2022) (M) Daisy Edgar-Jones, Taylor John Smith, David Strathairn. 11.10 First Dates UK. (M) 12.10 Get On Extra. 12.40 12 Monkeys. (MA15+) 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 11.30 Horse Racing. Verry Elleegant Stakes Day and Australian Guineas Day.

5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border

Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)

7.30 MOVIE: RED. (2010) (M)

9.50 MOVIE: Con Air. (1997) (MA15+)

12.10 The Arrangement. (M)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG)

2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Get Clever.

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG)

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend

Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00

House Of Wellness. 1.00 Jabba’s Movies. 1.30 To Be Advised. 4.00 Border Security. 4.30 Be Our Guest!

Behind The Scenes Of Beauty And The Beast: The Musical. 5.00 News.

5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00

Australian Idol. (PG) 8.00 King Con: Life And Crimes Of Hamish McLaren.

(M) 10.00 Soham: Catching A Killer.

(M) 11.00 Autopsy USA. (M) 12.00

MOVIE: Jesse Stone: Night Passage. (2006) (M) 2.00 Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 To Be Advised. 1.30 Motorbike Cops. (PG) 2.00 To Be Advised. 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)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Love

Amongst The Stars. (2022) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 David Attenborough’s

Dynasties II. (PG) 8.40 MOVIE: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed And Fabulous. (2005) (M) 11.00 MOVIE: Monster-InLaw. (2005) (M) 12.50 Tipping Point. (PG) 1.40 Pointless. (PG) 2.35 Great Australian Detour. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Postcards. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Skippy.

6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Great Australian Detour. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 The Pet Rescuers.

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 Ent. Tonight. 8.30 Neighbours. 9.00 Bold. 9.30 Deal Or No Deal. 10.00 Farm To Fork. 10.30 Judge Judy. 11.00 Dr Phil. 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Ent. Tonight. 1.30 Judge Judy.

2.00 Dr Phil. 3.00 Farm To Fork.

3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00

Everyday Gourmet. 4.30 Bold.

5.00 News. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

6.30 The Project. 7.30 The Graham Norton Show. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. 9.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. 10.30 Fire Country. 11.30 The Project. 12.30 Stephen Colbert. 1.30 Shopping.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00

Undisputed. 2.00 NRL Sunday Footy:

Vegas Pre-Show. 2.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos. 4.30 NRL Sunday Footy: Vegas Post-Show. 5.00 News.

5.30 My Way. 6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.30 60 Minutes. 9.30 9News Late. 10.00

To Be Advised. 11.00 The First 48. 11.50 Family Law. 12.40 Building Icons. 1.50 World’s Greatest Islands.

2.50 Explore. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 Building Ideas.

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 Would I Lie To You? (R)

8.30 Movie: Pride. (2014) (M, R)

10.30 Would I Lie To You? (R)

11.00 QI. (M, R)

11.30 Killing Eve. (M, R)

12.15am Back. (MA15+, R)

12.40 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. (R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 QI. (M, R)

8.30 Live At The Apollo. (M, R)

9.00 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (M)

9.45 Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL. (M, R)

10.15 MythBusters. (PG, R)

11.05 Double Parked. (M, R)

11.30 Portlandia. (PG, R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 QI. (PG, R)

8.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2024. (M, R)

11.50 Ragdoll. (MA15+, R)

1.25am Doc Martin. (M, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country.

11.30 Escape To The Perfect Town. (PG, R)

12.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

6.00pm Heathrow. (PG, R)

6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet In Autumn. (PG, R)

12.30 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. (PG, R) 1.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

5.20pm I Escaped To The Country. (R)

6.20 Escape To The Country. (R)

7.20 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)

8.30 Vera. (M, R)

10.30 Call The Midwife. (PG, R)

11.30 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)

1.00 House Calls To The Rescue. (R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)

8.30 MythBusters. (PG)

9.20 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. (R)

10.10 Louis Theroux: The Ultra Zionists. (M, R)

11.10 Would I Lie To You? (R)

11.40 QI. (M, R)

12.10am Whose Line Is It Anyway? (M, R)

7.30pm Spicks And

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

8.30 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

10.45 Mighty Ships: Marina. (PG, R)

11.45 Doc Martin. (M, R)

12.45 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Movie: Men In Black: International. (2019) (M, R) Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson.

9.50 Movie: Hellboy. (2004) (M, R) Ron Perlman, John Hurt.

12.20 Movie: Bad Times At The El Royale. (2018) (MA15+, R)

6.00pm Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.00 Storage Wars. (PG)

7.30 Air Crash Investigations: The Accident Files. (PG)

9.30 Mighty Planes. (PG, R)

10.30 Mighty Ships. (R)

11.30 Building Giants. (PG, R)

12.30 Storage Wars. (PG, R)

6.00pm Border Security: International. (PG, R)

6.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

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

8.30 Movie: Kingsman: The Golden Circle. (2017) (MA15+, R)

11.25 Movie: First Kill. (2017) (MA15+, R)

1.30 Blokesworld. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PG, R)

8.30 Adventure Gold Diggers. (M, R)

9.30 Frozen Gold. (PG)

10.30 Mountain Men. (PG)

11.30 Ax Men. (M)

12.30 American Restoration. (PG, R)

5.30pm Celebrity Yorkshire Auction House. (R)

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: Dune. (1984) (PG, R) Kyle MacLachlan.

11.15 Major Crimes. (M, R)

1.15 Movie: The Desperate Man. (1959) (PG, R)

6.00pm Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 2. Crusaders v NSW Waratahs. 8.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 8.45 Movie: Barquero. (1970) (M, R) Lee Van Cleef, Warren Oates, Forrest Tucker.

10.55 Deadly Cults. (MA15+, R)

11.55 Movie: Stardust. (1974) (M, R)

3.30pm Movie: The Secret Of Santa Vittoria. (1969) (PG, R)

6.30 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: Magnum Force. (1973) (MA15+, R) Clint Eastwood.

11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+, R)

12.00 Movie: Blue Murder At St Trinian’s. (1957) (G, R)

1.45 Movie: Carry On Constable. (1960) (G, R)

5.30pm Celebrity Yorkshire Auction House. (R)

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R)

8.40 The Madame Blanc Mysteries. (M)

9.40 Whitstable Pearl. (M)

10.40 Dalgliesh. (M, R)

11.40 Madam Secretary. (M, R)

5.30pm

6.00pm Deal Or No Deal.

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 Bull. (M, R)

8.30 NCIS. (M, R)

9.25 NCIS: Hawai’i. (M, R)

11.15 Diagnosis Murder. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

March1–7

6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

8.30 Two And A Half Men. (PG, R)

11.00 Frasier. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG, R)

6.05pm Trip Hazard: My Great British Adventure. (PG, R)

6.35 Jeopardy!

7.25 The Day The Rock Star Died. (PG, R)

7.55 Athletics. World Indoor Championships. Day 1. Morning session.

12.15 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R)

1.10 Sex Before The Internet. (MA15+, R)

6.00pm Soccer. A-League Men. Round 19. Western Sydney Wanderers v Sydney FC.

9.15 NCIS. (M, R)

10.15 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

12.05 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

2.00 48 Hours. (M, R)

6.00pm JAG. (PG, R)

7.00 Bondi Rescue. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

10.20 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

11.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

12.15 FBI: International. (M, R)

1.10 Evil. (MA15+, R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 Bull. (M, R)

8.30 NCIS. (M, R)

10.20 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

10.30 Friends. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG, R)

5.50pm Food That Built The World: Best Served Cold. (PG)

7.20 The Day The Rock Star Died. (PG, R) 7.50 Athletics. World Indoor Championships. Day 2. Morning session.

12.20 Impossible Engineering. (R)

1.20 The X-Files. (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. (MA15+, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG, R)

6.05pm The Joy Of Painting With Bob Ross. (R)

6.35 Ocean Wreck Investigation. (PG)

7.25 The Day The Rock Star Died. (PG, R)

7.55 Athletics. World Indoor Championships. Day 3. Morning session.

11.40 Abandoned Engineering. (PG)

12.40 Transnational. (M, R)

6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)

6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)

7.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

8.30 Two And A Half Men. (PG, R)

10.00 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)

11.00 Frasier. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG, R)

5.35pm TVNZ 1News At Six.

6.15 The Fast History Of Toys. (PG, R)

6.40 Jeopardy!

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

8.30 Taskmaster. (M, R)

9.25 Bad Education. (MA15+)

10.35 Psychedelics: Stepping Into The Unknown – Australia Uncovered. (M, R)

11.30

11.30

7.30pm

8.00

8.30

Quiz. (PG, R)

9.00 Gruen. (M, R)

9.40 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

10.10 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. (PG, R)

10.55 Whose Line Is It Anyway? (PG, R)

11.15 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

8.30 The Coroner. (M, R)

10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)

11.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

12.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.30 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

6.00pm Football. AFL. Opening Round. Sydney v Melbourne.

9.30 AFL Post-Game Show.

10.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

10.30 Mighty Ships. (R)

11.30 Building Giants. (PG, R)

12.30 Air Crash Investigations: The Accident Files. (PG)

1.30 Mighty Planes. (PG, R)

5.30pm The Balmoral Hotel:

codeword

Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?

4 LETTERS

word search

Theme: Butterflies

5 LETTERS ADORE ALIBI

ARENA AROMA BASIC BASIL BONED BUFFS CYSTS DEATH DOILY DRESS EASEL EERIE ENDER ENEMA ERASE ERODE FLEES GRIPS

HOSES IGLOO KNIFE LLAMA LOINS OVERS PASTE PETAL PIANO PLANE RARER RATES RESET RUMPS SEEDS SLEWS SPATS STEEP

STEER STRIP TAMED TENET TEPEE TONES TREES TWEET ULTRA USERS VIPER

6 LETTERS ADEPTS ADULTS CASINO STRINE

7 LETTERS POISONS RENEWAL REPLETE REREADS RESPOND TENDONS

No. 125

8 LETTERS EMPTIEST INTENSER REDEFINE TERMINAL

14

Can you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret

crossword

7 Chinese fruit (6)

No. 186

8 Type of pasta (8)

9 A mosquito repellent (10)

14 A season of the year (6)

16 Long journey (4)

20 Hindu religious teacher (5)

22 Three times (6)

24 Flightless bird (3)

26 Instant (9)

28 Relating to the body (9)

29 Shadowy, dim (5)

31 Greeting (5)

32 Theme (5)

33 Inhales

34

36

water (7)

51 Upright (7)

53 Uniform (4)

55 Bitter irony (7)

58 The control in clinical trials (7)

59 System of stars (6)

62 Rigid (5)

63 Marine animal with tentacles (9)

66 Strained (4)

67 Permission (7)

68 Jam (8)

70 Citizen (10)

71 Tears (4)

72 Needed (8)

73 Bean curd product (4)

74 Unbranded; non-specific (7)

75 Salad plant (7)

76 Large woollen coverings (8)

DOWN

2 Spider (Lat) (8)

3 Underground cemetery (8)

4 Arabian spirit (5)

5 Ridiculous (US coll) (10)

6 Smallgoods item (6)

60

61

old (8)

64 Small (6)

65 Domesticated polecat (6)

69 Scour (5)

BCHS Swimming Carnival

Friday, February 23 saw Burdekin Catholic Shire Council (BCHS) lift in rivalry with the Interhouse Swimming Carnival. After a fantastic Spirit Week, the three houses were set to bring their best to the pool. The day was filled with highly competitive races, with BCHS showcasing many great swimmers. Importantly, there was also high participation from our non-competitive races to ensure maximum points were gained towards acquiring the House Trophy.

It was great to see the fantastic spirit of each of the houses led by their incredible House Leaders. The house chants were most likely heard all around Ayr. The staff at BCHS were well supported by officials from the Burdekin Torpedos. Announcements of the winners and age champions will be at the end of the Commissioning Liturgy on Wednesday morning.

Contributed by Burdekin Catholic High School

Much

SWIMMING

Date: 3rd March 2024

General Meeting to Follow Time: 9.30am

Venue: Home Hill Community Hall

NORRIS,

Passed away peacefully on 24th February

of Ricki, Terrie-Anne and

Loving nanna of Riley and Lily, Loved sister of William, Raelene and Desleigh (deceased) Weaver.

BCHS’s interhouse rivalry returned at the school’s swimming carnival last week. Photos supplied

Dodgeball At BCC

DODGEBALL

The first of Burdekin Christian College’s pre-carnival spirit activities was dodgeball, a very popular ac-

tivity with many students participating. Mighty Mathew took out the first event of spirit week.

Jarvisfield State School

At The Leadership Summit, Paluma Environmental Education Centre

Photos supplied: Jarvisfield State School

Bruce Spannagle The Met

Sea Eagles Broncos

Marc Laffo Laffo’s

Rabbitohs Broncos Albert Ramsamy Crane Logistics

Rabbitohs Broncos

Brett Crosby RAW Metal Corp

Rabbitohs Roosters

Richard Murphy Ray White Rural Sarina

Rabbitohs Broncos

Troy Fuller Bogan Apparel

Sea Eagles Broncos

Steve Pilcher Pilcher’s Mitre 10

Rabbitohs Broncos

Jess Gilmore Poppy’s Pizza Place

Rabbitohs Broncos

Stacey Gerhart Leader Group

Rabbitohs Broncos

Max Lamb M&P Services

Rabbitohs Broncos

Brendan Better Built Sheds

Rabbitohs Broncos

Matt Fallon Fallon Constructions

Rabbitohs Broncos

Melissa QCAR

Sea Eagles Broncos

Michael Saunders NQ Electrical

Rabbitohs Broncos

Kay Nyenuh Muscle Garden

Rabbitohs Broncos

Rabbitohs Broncos Smalley KC’s Bar & Grill

SUNDAY 3 MARCH

1.30PM

ALLEGIANT STADIUM, LASVEGAS

3.30PM

ALLEGIANT STADIUM, LASVEGAS

THURSDAY 7 MARCH

8.00PM

Mc DONALD JONES, NEWCASTLE FRIDAY 8 MARCH

6.00PM

GO MEDIA STADIUM, AUCKLAND

8.05PM

AAMI PARK, MELBOURNE

SATURDAY 9 MARCH

5.30PM

COMMBANK, PARRAMATTA

7.35PM

CBUS SUPER STADIUM, ROBINA SUNDAY 10 MARCH

4.05PM

SUNCORP STADIUM, BRISBANE

2024 Prize Sponsor

Liam Hillery Hillery Group

Rabbitohs Broncos

Lloyd Strutynski Baltic Group

Rabbitohs Broncos

Kieran Cusack QLD Hydro

Rabbitohs Broncos

Jason Mansfield Greater Whitsunday Vet

Rabbitohs Broncos

Samantha Young Style N Secrets

Rabbitohs Broncos

Luke Hillery Hillery Group

Rabbitohs Broncos

Home Hill Bowls Report

BOWLS

18 players arrived to do battle in the barefoot bowls night on Wednesday, February 21.

3 games of triples were played.

Rinks 5,6 and 7 were used running east/ west.

Rink 5: Gladys, Meryl and Joe were much too strong for Betty, Judy and John winning 14 to 5.

Rink 6: Ashley, Tony and Amy had a good win over Lyn, Nev and Ron to the tune of 12 points to 3.

Rink 7: Conner, Margaret and Stephen

won on the final end after being all square after 11 ends over Wayne, Mark and Torrie 11 to 7.

Trevor’s morning tea is weekly on Monday morning, Tuesday Trimmers on Tuesday, Wednesday Kraft group and barefoot bowls at 6pm on Wednesday.

Thursday morning bingo and bowls in the arvo, names in between 12 and 1pm.

There was no bowls on Thursday. Good bowling.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

Specialising in heavy vehicle

Ayr Bowls News

Social Bowls were played Tuesday February 20 where the winners were Ruth Moore, Elaine Young, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeating Desley Olsen, Donna Soper, Sandra Stidston and Irene Wilson.

Isabel Cislowski, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli defeated Katharina Stuckler, Joy Comollatti amd Dot Cutting.

Eighteen bowlers enjoyed playing lawn bowls under the stars at Wednesday Night Bowls on February 21.

Coming in first place were Katharina Stuckler, Anthony Bull and Robyn McAllister.

In second place were Carolyn Jones, Rob Jorgensen and Heather Jorgensen.

Men’s Championship Fours 8:30am Sun-

BOWLS

day March 10 - 1. G. Papale, J. Grabbe, S. Caltabiano, L. Stidston vs D. Poli, M. Olsen, ? , M. Milan. 2. H. Horan, J. Hall, W. Coonan, M. Parravicini vs A. Bull, C. Essex, M. Power, R. Soper.

Nominations for championship pairs and triples close March 3.

Wednesday February 21 winners were Bob Young and Col Essex who defeated Vince Beitia and Chris Berkery.

Other results were John Hall, Barry Hewson and Maurie Power defeated John Pirrone, Sandra Darwen and Wayne Coonan. Mick Olsen, Joe Papale and Lew Stidston defeated Jim Murray, Dino Poli and Ron Soper.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini

Brandon Bowls BOWLS

Wednesday February 20

Ladies results: only four ladies turned up and conditions still not favourable however those who turned up certainly had a good time.

Kaye Garner and Lyn Storrie beat Ann Newton and Vanda Ballao.

Ladies, please have your names in by 1:00pm for 1:30pm start.

Sunday February 25

A grade singles: Gary Pearce defeated Henry Hazel.

And the other A grade singles game went down to the wire with Doug Koehne defeating Jamie Woods.

A Pairs: Vince Beitia and Allan Garioch defeated Joe Ypinazar and Peter Jorgensen.

Social Bowls

Triples game: Norm Storrie, Rob Garner and Peter Henderson defeated Kaye Garner, Bob Jorgensen and Ray Panacassio.

And final game of was Rinks with Neville Dickinson, Helen Collins, Lloyd Shepherd and Doug Robins defeating Glen Woodward, Ken Ferguson, Lyn Storrie and Leo Kenny.

Sunday March 3 Jackpot will be drawn until we get a winner.

Names in by 1.00pm for 1.30pm start.

Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd

Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club

Weekend Beach Patrol at Alva Beach

SATURDAY MARCH 2

SUNDAY MARCH 3

1:00pm to 5:00pm 9:00am to 1:00pm 1:00pm to 5:00pm

Patrol Group B – Terry Lund, Dylan Carew, Andrew Kennedy, Joshua Furnell, Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Saga Hisatake, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Chris Wicks

Patrol Group D – Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Kristy Wassmuth, Mia Vivian, Lisa Vivian, Bella Lawry

Patrol Group G – Carl List, James Kennedy, Shane Morgan, Jimmy Hayllor, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards, Jedd Giddy

Winners of Sunday’s Championship events. Photo supplied

Roosters Coach To Depart Ahead Of 2024 Season

RUGBY LEAGUE

The Burdekin Roosters received a setback last week with the announcement 2024 appointed senior coach Daniel Beazley would be leaving the club.

Beazley told the players at training on Thursday he had received an offer from a family member to join a business on the Gold Coast.

Beazley said he knew his cousin was beginning a new business and he wanted his input but he thought that would not be till towards the end of the year.

“For my cousin the business has gone really well, and I have been offered a partnership in something I have been looking at for a long time,” Beazley said.

The coach said he was sad to be leaving the club as he had enjoyed the people he has been associated with and he felt the club was getting back on the right track. He said training before Christmas was a little slow, but it had really picked up in

the New Year and he believes the players had been enjoying it as much as he had.

The former Blackhawk captain said he thought the club had the players to go all the way this year and with a few more coming in they are going to be hard to beat.

“If I didn’t think that I wouldn’t have suggested a trial match with Brothers who are always strong,” Beazley said.

He said he would not be leaving for a couple of weeks and would help prepare the boys for the trial with Mackay Magpies in a fortnight and then Brothers.

Roosters President Mick Brombal said he would be sad to see ‘Beaz’ go but people must think of their future, and this appears too good for him to refuse.

“Beaz is a good bloke, and he will help us find a replacement as well as coach the boys for the next couple of weeks,” Brombal said.

Contributed by Brian

Carnes

Burdekin Teams To Contest Annual Bowen Tens Carnival

RUGBY LEAGUE

The much-anticipated Rugby League carnival, the Annual Bowen Tens, will be played at Denison Park in Bowen on Saturday.

Sponsored mainly by Whitsunday Civil, the day brings much needed funds to the Bowen Seagulls Junior League with various charities also benefitting.

A number of Bowen charities have been the recipients of money from the Bowen Tens. This year, the main recipient will be Kids Connecting Parents.

Burdekin teams have supported the day since it was first introduced in 2012 with the Charity that year Cancer Research.

The Burdekin Old Boys made themselves a popular team by donating half the prize money they received for winning that year to the charity and it continued on with several other Burdekin teams doing the same thing.

This year, 14 men’s teams and six women’s team will contest the games for the cash and trophies donated by Kincove for the men and Abbot Point for the women.

The Burdekin will again be represented by Runamuck in the women, a group of ladies mainly from the Burdekin Hens led by the Monday sisters whose style of play will suit this format.

They will be joined by Bowen teams Boonti Busters and Bowen Bush Chooks.

Carlton from Mackay will again be playing with Townsville team Norths Devils.

The sixth team is an unknown group called Darlz Warriors but they are expected to be strong.

Three men’s teams will represent the Burdkein: Runamuck, Runamuck 10 and Fiji Time.

Fiji Time are the defending champions and they alone will bring spectators just to see their exciting brand of football.

Matches are played over two ten-minute halves on two fields at Denison Park with a two-minute half time and thirty seconds between games.

Timing is done from a central time piece.

The first games get under way at 8am with the final of the men expected about 8pm, giving some 12 hours of non-stop footy Food and drink will be sold on the grounds and there are some big raffles taking place all for a $5 entry fee.

The player scoring a try then attempts to convert with a drop kick before the player’s team restarts.

It all makes for speed and excitement.

Teams of no more than 20 players with ten on the field at any one time come from several centres around the north as it is not only a good bonding weekend, it is also very good for pre-season fitness.

A four-person relay is also held between teams with the referees at times having a team and they have been successful in the past.

Bowen is well represented with at least 8 teams while the Moranbah Miners and Carlton Devils play in the Mackay League.

Some Townsville teams have supported the Carnival in the past with this year the Norths Devils women making the trip. This will be the first time the Cardwell Axemen will try their luck although Herbert River have been there before.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

Departing Roosters Coach Daniel Beazley

Grant Win Leads To Women’s Changeroom Upgrades

FOOTBALL

Burdekin FC will work towards upgrading its women’s changerooms and facilities at International Park after winning a grant from the 2024 Ergon-Energex Community Fund.

The $10,000 grant will enable renovation of the women’s changerooms to provide a safer, more inclusive, and accessible space for players to feel comfortable and confident in their environment and increase participation.

Burdekin FC Senior Secretary Sian Reardon said the women’s facilities currently has two toilets, one of which often malfunctions, a women-only shower that is used as storage and a communal shower that is shared with the men’s facilities and doesn’t have a lock on the door.

The club plans to upgrade all facilities including a third toilet, new shower area and new basin and mirror.

“At the moment, it’s just not a nice place to be in,” Ms Reardon said.

“The facilities are our foundation.

“If we don’t foster a positive, clean environment, it’s not a welcoming environment for those girls to come into.

“If they see that we take pride and respon-

sibility and put that money in to make the facilities clean and welcoming, we get more people through the door.”

Ms Reardon, who also plays for the senior women’s team and coaches junior teams, said the investment proves the growth of the women’s game in the Burdekin.

She said the club currently has enough junior girls for two teams in U9s, U10/11s and U12/13s age groups this year.

“The numbers have grown incredibly this year,” she said.

“We’ve seen more girls interested in coming down to our women’s training as well.

“We’ve got a few 15-year-olds floating around who are really eager and want to get involved, which is awesome.”

The club has also recently purchased new goal posts using a previous grant which are due for installation soon.

“We would not be able to function without grants and community support,” Ms Reardon said.

“Whenever Louise (Nicholas, Grants Officer) sees a grant that could towards the club, the entire club comes together to discuss what’s most important.”

A Night On The Lanes FOOTBALL

We weather put a dampener on preseason training for Burdekin FC’s youth teams, with

the U13 and U14/15 teams instead taking things indoors for a night of “non- competitive” ten pin bowling.

Football Matters with Cyclops FOOTBALL

The start of the 2024 local football season was delayed again due to the very wet weather. All matches in the area were called off and the Kappa Cup 3rd Round game between Burdekin Panthers and JCU Riverway has yet to be rescheduled.

The actual season is due to start this weekend with all five teams playing MA Olympic. The games were due to be played in Townsville, but the Olympic grounds were unplayable and Olympic wanted to play the games in the Burdekin, but after Mon-

day night’s rain, International Park is also unplayable at the time of writing.

Senior registrations are now open and players must be registered by this Friday to be eligible to play weekend fixtures.

Training Shirts are now available to collect at Senior trainings.

Jumper preorders are now open. Form is available on Facebook to order. Cut off is March 8th.

Training at International Park will be happening on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm for men and Wednesdays at

6:00pm for women, should it ever stop raining.

The Juniors are, unfortunately, in the same position. Pre-season Week 1 was postponed. Again, as well. Let’s hope we can get some drying conditions for next week and get the season underway soon.

Keep an eye out for details regarding the Working Bee and coaches clinic which were also cancelled on the weekend.

Monday Night Masters was cancelled again, so we will have another go at it next Monday assuming there is not too much

more rain. So, it’s usual time, usual place, 6:30pm at International Park. New and old players are all welcome. In fact, it doesn’t really matter if you can’t play. Treat it as an escape.

The Matildas played the first leg of their Olympic Qualifier against Uzbekistan last Saturday and won 3-0 in a rather lacklustre performance. The second leg was played in Melbourne on Wednesday and, barring a catastrophe, the Matildas should qualify for the real thing in Paris.

Burdekin FC Senior Secretary Sian Reardon is excited to see upgrades to the women’s changerooms after securing a grant. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Burdekin FC’s U13 and U14/15 teams spent a night at Burdekin Bowl after preseason training was rained out.

Photos supplied: Burdekin FC Inc

Junior Cricket Recap CRICKET

Continued from page 40

The Friday afternoon Challenger’s session was moved to the East Ayr State School Hall due to the weather with modified indoor skills and drills organised by our Co-Ordinator Shaun Goldsworthy.

The 14 eager children were very appreciative of Shaun’s efforts in getting this going for a second week in a row.

There was catching practice, some bowling drills, then a fun game of indoor cricket to finish up the session.

After a very disrupted start to the second half of the season we have our fingers crossed we can play some cricket in the sunshine on Friday this week.

Contributed by Scott Heidke

Home Hill Tennis Club News

TENNIS

Both night tennis on Monday and pickleball on Tuesday have been fortunate to dodge rain over the recent weeks, with good numbers of players at 7:00pm. At pickleball, everyone has been enjoying the challenge of learning a new game as well as the social aspect. Friday Social tennis starts up in early March.

The upcoming AGM on the March 11 is a great opportunity for everyone to come along to Home Hill Tennis to hear about all the club’s activities in 2023. It is also time to recognise and thank those who have contributed to the club whether it

is through grants, sponsors, playing and the very valuable work of club volunteers. Without these, our club would not exist.

The Burdekin hosts two junior tournaments over the next couple of weeks. Ayr has the first event and Opening Day this Saturday March 2 at 8:00am. There will be guest speakers at the opening for the parents and players. Home Hill hosts the Super JDS on March 16-17 where there will be coaching clinics and teams’ events. All visitors are welcome to the clubs on these weekends.

Contributed by Home Hill Tennis Association

Clear skies on Tuesday allowed the Rookies to go ahead

Home Hill Tennis Association hosts tennis on Tuesday s from 7:00pm. Photo supplied

Junior Cricket Rookies CRICKET

Our North Queensland wet season again prevented any Junior Cricket to be played late last week at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex, and Charters Towers where our Under 17s were meant to play Wests.

Clear skies on Tuesday allowed the Rookies to go ahead though, with Antony Stewart from Queensland Cricket coming down from Townsville to run the session.

Antony was helped out by one of our older junior Thomas Cardillo at the East Ayr School Grounds.

This session included fun drills and games for our youngest cricket stars of the future.

Continued on page 38

Queensland Cricket’s Antony Stewart (back left) and junior cricketer Thomas Cardillo (back right) led the junior cricket rookies session last week. Photo supplied