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Hi readers

I have returned from a wonderful weekend away with Jakita at Paluma Ranges National Park and, I must say, what a beautiful spot.

From swimming in the creeks and waterholes to wandering the tracks and taking in the vistas, it made for a refreshing weekend of exploring a beautiful part of the country that’s essentially right on our doorstep.

We observed a wide variety of bird life with a highlight being sitting on the balcony of a quaint café in the village, eating shepherd’s pie and drinking sarsaparilla after a big hike and watching yellow-faced honeyeaters, new holland honeyeaters and green catbirds flit through the backyard – some of which I had never seen before.

Swimming under the bridge at Little Crystal Creek is a truly unique experience, and, after recent rain, the water was

Sit Down With Sam

flowing with some mighty force.

The water at all swimming holes felt cool, fresh and clean and was especially refreshing after hiking the trails.

We enjoyed our stay at the Big Crystal Creek camping ground, with the creek a short walk away and the shade of the trees providing a relaxing homebase.

We made a point of taking in the stars each night and, boy, did they put on a show.

We made our way up to the Frosty Mango, those signs just too appealing for us to say no, before heading up to Jourama Falls to find that part of the national park, unfortunately, closed.

There was simply too much to cram into one weekend so I will certainly be returning to Paluma soon.

Sam

WOOLWORTHS APPRECIATION AFTER TEMPORARY COLES CLOSURE

With Coles Ayr closing unexpectedly to complete urgent roof repairs, Woolworths has weathered an influx of shoppers to pick up the demand.

Many residents have taken to social media to share their appreciation of the supermarket’s handling of the extra customers.

“I think Woolies in Ayr deserve a big shout out for the amazing job they’ve done dealing with a sudden 100 per cent increase of demand from their store,” one person posted in the Burdekin Community Hub Facebook group.

“Not an easy task logistically and can only imagine the stress involved for all of their staff.”

The post was met with countless comments of support for

the supermarket and its staff.

“I’ve been saying the same thing,” read one comment.

“Thank you for Woolworths staff working super hard.”

“The staff in there are so wonderful when you need help, they are so amazing.

“Keep up the good work, good to see people that still respect their jobs,” said another.

“They’ve been so busy every time I’ve gone in, but still amazing customer service and friendly smiles,” said another.

Coles, located in Burdekin Plaza in Ayr, suddenly closed in February after heavy rain caused damage to the buildings roof.

Go to page 5 to find out more about the supermarket’s reopening.

Woolworths Ayr has seen an influx of customers due to the unexpected closure of Coles in February. Photo supplied

Intensive On Country Trial Program Considered

First Nations organisations are welcome to submit their expression of interest to deliver a new ‘Intensive On Country’ trial program, for young First Nations Queensland engaged with the youth justice system.

Building upon foundations established by the current ‘On Country’ initiative, ‘Intensive On Country’ will include an intensive cultural and residential experience for longer periods of time, education and training opportunities, family support, and in home support.

The ‘On Country’ program boasts early data that young people who participated in the program are less likely to reoffend six months after the program completion, when compared with youth who did not participate.

This trend continued 12 months after the completion of the program, and with notable and significant improvements in behaviour, emotional regulation, effective communication, managing conflict, and family circumstances in youth participants.

Youth Justice Minister Di Farmer explained, “We are firmly committed to helping young people break the cycle of crime by giving them the opportunity to

turn their lives around.

“This is why we are investing heavily in intervention and diversionary programs around the state that are proven to be effective in reducing offending.

“Our new initiative will build on from our current On Country program and provide a more intensive service to stop offending by helping young First Nations people to turn their lives.”

Uncle Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Aboriginal Reference Group, based in Home Hill, admits that he had been approached by Governing bodies to facilitate the program in the Burdekin, however he is, “Still considering the implications of taking the program onboard.”

“This program needs to run properly, or the kids will just reoffend.”

Uncle Eddie also explained that while this program is good, it does lack in some areas.

“It’s all well and good to say yes to the program, but you’ve got to consider if you have the right facilities for it,” Uncle Eddie explained.

“We need to look at the parents and understand the home situation of the youth who are offending. A program which brings the parents and youth together would be

great, but that can’t always happen,” Uncle Eddie said.

“A program like Earn & Learn is great to teach the youth to respect others, to respect the value of money and of property, but I also believe that such programs need to be delivered through the courts, with youth given the option to complete the program or spend a period of time is prison.”

Uncle Eddie Smallwood of the Gudjuda Aboriginal Reference Group

Fuel Efficiency Standards

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is calling out the Australian Government following the release of research that suggests its supercharged fuel efficiency standards could cost hard-working Aussies up to $25,000 more by 2029.

Mr Willcox said the Government’s supercharged fuel efficiency standards are another discriminatory blow to rural and regional Australia.

“According to the FCAI (Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries), the top selling cars in Australia such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Mitsubishi Outlander could cost up to $25,000 more after Labor’s fuel efficiency standards come into effect on 1 January 2025,” Mr Willcox said.

“The people of Dawson are currently struggling through a Labor created costof-living crisis, and this announcement comes at a time when people are worried about how they’re going to put food on the table, let alone how they’re going to be

able to afford the extra costs of a practical vehicle.”

The new fuel efficiency standards aim to support the growth of electric and battery-operated vehicle sales in Australia, but Mr Willcox suggested they are out of touch with what regional and rural Australia needs right now.

“These policies are tone deaf to the needs of people living in rural and regional areas, especially those living and working in our electorate of Dawson, and it seems that the Prime Minister does not understand what it takes to live in our communities,” he said.

“The reality is that the functionality and reliability of our vehicles can mean the difference between being able to feed your family or not.

“Electric and battery-operated vehicles do not have the capacity to cope with the needs of those living and working in our electorate of Dawson.

“They cannot transport what needs to be transported.

“They cannot carry the weight, they cannot tow the load, and worst of all, they cannot travel the vast distances needed or handle the harsh landscapes.

“This is purely a city orientated policy.

“It’s just not going to work for our tradies, farmers, fishers, and miners in Dawson.

“These vehicles are not up to the task.

Mr Willcox said regional and rural areas across Australia do not have the infrastructure to support electric vehicles and, util this infrastructure exists, or electric and battery-operated vehicles can cope with the demands of regional communities, hard-working Australian residents cannot be denied the right to drive a vehicle that suits them and their work or lifestyle.

“We’re all committed to ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable future for Australia, but the Albanese Labor Government

seems determined to set extreme deadlines to reach these targets, when what we really need are commonsense approaches that will actually work, and right now, this policy isn’t one of them,” he said.

“Australia is a relatively small market for car manufacturers, and with the stoke of a pen, the Labor Government is ensuring that Australian’s will not only have to pay more for a vehicle, they’re also going to be left with less choice if car manufacturers decide to pull out of the Australian market.”

Mower Accident Claims Life Of Local Woman

An Ayr woman has passed away after an incident involving a lawn mower on a private property on Cislowski Road, Ayr.

48-year-old Kylie Walker suffered head and chest injuries after the accident that occurred around 6:00pm on Monday, March 4.

Paramedics were called to the scene where she

was assessed in a critical condition before, sadly, passing away.

Police are preparing a report for the coroner.

Ms Walker leaves behind her husband, Darren, and two teenage children who are wellknown in the local farming community.

Clean Up Australia Day With The Lower Burdekin Scout Group

TThe day was finished with a BBQ and a swim at the pool.

Stats for the day were:

Walked 6 kms around Home Hill and picked up:

• 9 plastic bottles

• 4 glass beer bottles

• 20 cigarette butts

• 15 plastic bottle tops

• 7 plastic straws

• 1 paper straw

• 90 lolly wrappers

• 6 newspaper inserts

• 1 plastic ice cream cup

• 2 plastic clothes pegs

• 1 bike reflector

• 1 wooden icy pole stick

• 1 plastic takeaway food container

• 10 aluminium drink cans

• 2 pieces of car tyre tread

• 2 pieces of iron bracket

Last Calls For TAFE Plan

An iron-clad plan must be developed for the local TAFE following a committee report into the services across the state, says Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

Mr Last has called on the Minister to front the Burdekin community to develop the plan after key findings in the report into the delivery of VET in regional, rural, and remote Queensland acknowledged that there was scope for improvement in community involvement in the planning for VET services in regional areas.

“As we saw with the consultation process into the Infrastructure Strategy, when it comes to community consultation on the delivery of TAFE in their shire, we have to jump through hoops or miss out on a chance to have a say at all,” Mr Last said.

“For years, residents, business owners and chambers of commerce have called for better utilisation of the Burdekin TAFE facility to benefit not just students but the wider community and now this report echoes the need for them to be heard.

“Given the findings, it’s time for the Minister to come to the Burdekin and hear how we want to see our local TAFE facility be-

ing used and provide a plan as to how that vision can be brought to fruition.”

Mr Last said having an effective deliverance of TAFE in the Burdekin benefitted the whole region as well as improving the retention of young people from the district.

“Several stakeholders noted in the report the gaps between the training being delivered by TAFE and the skills required by local industries and at a time when the demand for skilled workers is skyrocketing, this should be ringing alarm bells for immediate action,” Mr Last said.

“Right now in the Burdekin we still have a group of young people who are being forced to leave the Burdekin to pursue training options that could be offered here at their local TAFE and at the same time we are seeing a dramatic rise in the number of unfilled positions in vital industries.

“I am calling on the Minister to provide assurances that she isn’t willing to sit on her hands while a rural Queensland community watches its young people leave just to secure the training they need for the career they want to pursue.”

Coles Reopens With Ceiling Tiles Replaced

• 1 steel bolt

• 1 biro/pen

• 30 pieces of plastic

• 3 pieces of glass

• 70 pieces of paper

• 3 small cardboard boxes

• 1 pair of school shorts

• 1 roll of masking tape

• 1 popper box

• 3 socks

Coles Ayr reopened yesterday, Wednesday March 6, following its sudden closure over two weeks ago, due to comprised ceiling tiles posing a significant health and safety risk.

The trade of Coles Ayr, in the Burdekin Plaza, was initially suspended due to concerns about the stability of the roof tiles as a result of excess moisture and humidity from the recent heavy rains.

Engaging with the building landlord, a contractor was employed to undertake the necessary works.

Todd Riches, Coles Regional Manager explained that “We’re excited to welcome back the community into our Ayr store from this Wednesday (6 March).

“Our team are busy getting the store ready, after the short two-week closure while the ceiling tiles were replaced.

“To thank our customers for their patience and understanding, we are extending the free delivery offer. Our Ayr community can get free delivery on all orders over $50 until Sunday 10 March 2024.”

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group participated in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 3. Photo supplied

Kylie Walker tragically passed away on Monday. Photo: Facebook

Continued

The Ayr Surf Club would like to thank all that attended and joined in the day.

For anyone interested in joining the club as a nipper or a Bronze Member, please contact our administrator on ayrslsc@gmail. com or via our Facebook page.

Contributed by Kellie Lawry

The Borgonid family Jax and Katrina Hearn

Zoe Ball, Bentley Favero and Miley Ball

Emilee Wassmuth, Julia Rickards, Kristy Wassmuth and Chelsea Crooks

New Laws Criminalising Juveniles’ Access To Knives Over the Counter

In the effort of protecting local communities and deterring youth offenders engaging in knife crime, new legislations banning the sale of knives and other items to minors have been passed by the Queensland Parliament.

The new laws make the sale of knives, replica firearms, including gel blasters, and edged weapons like machetes, axes, and swords to juveniles an offence, and Police Minister Mark Ryan believes the passing of these legislations stands as another positive advancement in the government’s comprehensive strategy to support community safety.

“The new laws will help to keep dangerous items out of the hands of young criminals,” explained Mr Ryan.

In reducing accessibility, the legislations have been designed to disrupt and deter violent offences in youth and furthermore criminalise attempts to use false identification to purchase these items.

The new laws follow research conducted by Queensland Police Service (QPS), including an assessment of crime statistics, comparisons to knife crime in other jurisdictions and considerations of comparable legislative responses in Queensland including the sale of spray paint to minors.

Commissioner Katarina Carroll believes the legislations will disrupt dangerous behaviour at the source, and work to allow communities to feel safe in their own homes and on the streets.

“Too many times we have seen the devastation which can result from possessing a knife including lifelong trauma for the victims, their families and the community,” explained Ms. Katarina Carroll.

“The Queensland Police Service welcomes the new laws as another tool for police to use in ensuring the best protection for the community.”

The new laws mark a commendable step to ensure the protection of retailers and community members alike and furthermore work to reduce youth offences and deter knife crime in Queensland.

Bruce Highway Triple Vehicle Crash

On Sunday February 25, Police attended a three-vehicle traffic crash on the Bruce Highway, Inkerman.

Investigation revealed a utility traveling southbound veered onto the incorrect side of the road, clipping a 4WD towing a trailer traveling north.

The utility has then struck the 4WD’s trailer causing extensive damage.

The utility has then clipped another vehicle traveling behind the 4WD causing minor damage.

No persons were injured as a result of the incident.

Police provided traffic control at the scene for several hours while the vehicles were towed.

A utility driver was issued an infringement notice for careless driving after a triple vehicle crash. Photos supplied

The driver of the utility was issued an $619 infringement notice for careless driving.

Domestic And Family Violence

Unfortunately, incidents of Domestic Violence continue to occur around the Burdekin. As a result, there have been a number of persons charged with contravening Domestic Violence orders and in some instances, further charged with criminal offences such as assault. Domestic Violence has a substantial impact on those involved, particularly when children are involved and the community as a whole. Domestic Violence destroys families and relationships and should not be accepted or tolerated in society.

Police have considerable powers for dealing with Domestic Violence including power of entry to investigate such matters and power of detention.

Don’t let crises situations build up or escalate (e.g. Domestic Violence or family or neighbourhood disputes, the pressures of life including financial matters) until someone is assaulted or hurt, property is damaged or destroyed or Police intervention is required.

There is a way out for those suffering from Domestic Violence. We encourage those who find themselves in any of these distressing or similar situations to seek help from the below agencies who can offer excellent, confidential and on-going assistance:

There are a number of organisations that can provide assistance to various issues a person may have:

• Parentline - 1300 30 1300 - is open between 8am and 10pm, 7 days a week. If you call outside of these hours, you will hear a recorded message;

Lyn McLaughlin for Mayor

No debt

Council made its final loan repayment on 15 September 2020, making the Burdekin one of the few financially sustainable Queensland local governments.

Strategic planning

• Lifeline - 24hr help line -13 11 14 – provides Services and information for people experiencing a personal or community crisis;

• Domestic Violence Help Line on 1800 737 732.

• Dispute Resolution Centre Townsville – 1800 908 605

• North Qld Domestic Violence Support, Townsville 4721 2888

• MensLine Australia- 1300 78 99 78

• Burdekin Community Association, Ayr – 4783 3744 – business hours only 9am – 4pm

• Kids Help Line - 1800 551 800

• National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline 1800 250 015

Police in Ayr regularly see this at first hand and I’m sure many of you reading this column will know of friends, family or perhaps yourself that have been victim or otherwise impacted by this scourge.

The Queensland Government has provided a website that provides excellent information and advice on this matter and can be accessed at the following address: www.communities.qld.gov.au/communityservices/violence-prevention/trust-your-instinct/domestic-and-family-violence

Don’t let your concern become regret. Trust your instinct – call:

• DVConnect 1800 811 811

Adopted master plans for the ANZAC Park Precinct in Ayr and Watson’s Green and Memorial Park in Home Hill, ensuring that when relevant funding became available, there was a business case ready for submission.

Securing our future

Delivered long-term water security with the 5ML Home Hill Water Reservoir and the 10ML Ayr/Brandon Water Reservoir and associated infrastructure, both supported by the Queensland Government.

Invested in our youth

Underwent several rounds of community consultation on the Burdekin Water Park before securing funding through the Works for Queensland program and officially opening the facility in 2023. Other key attractions for youth including the Giru Multisport Courts and the Watson’s Green Ninja Warrior Course were also completed and opened.

Disaster preparation and response

Ensured the Burdekin remained a resilient community with timely preparation for and response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as various weather events. Hosted one of Queensland’s first virtual festivals and drive-in social distanced concerts.

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

ELECTION: ON THE FRONT-LINE

Questions Of The Week:

Who do you think is your biggest competitor? What do you admire about them and what qualities do you have that will ultimately make you better for the role?

If you could throw your support behind a particular local community organisation what would it be and how would you support them?

Lyn McLaughin MAYORAL CANDIDATE

1. I love the quote, ‘The only competition worthy of a wise person is with themselves.’ However, with International Women’s Day tomorrow, it is empowering and timely to note that our Shire will elect a female mayor on March 16 and I respect fellow candidates’ passion and commitment to our Shire. Ultimately, I respect democratic process knowing I am just one vote among many and work well collaboratively with all elected members of all parties at local, state and federal levels.

2. There’s so many fantastic not-for-profits and community groups in our Shire, it’s difficult to select

and support only one. All are run and supported by dedicated teams of volunteers and I have supported them wherever I could – from making donations and attending events to providing advice. Every bit of support provided goes such a long way: even if you aren’t in a position to financially support them, sharing their Facebook posts can mean a lot, helping them reach new audiences.

3. The Burdekin’s reputation as Sugar Cane Capital of Australia will continue to grow, while also innovating in other agricultural products and industries with the successful continued expansion of

Pierina Dalle Cort MAYORAL CANDIDATE

1. In the current election, my only competitor is the incumbent Mayor – Lyn McLaughlin. While I acknowledge the role she has played over the years, I do believe there has been a lack of leadership and genuine support for the Burdekin community. Having been a successful business owner for 42 years and working with people from all walks of life, I know the skills that are needed. I know how to listen affectively and deliver accurately on everything I do.

2. Choosing one local community organisation is challenging as there are so many deserving groups

who volunteer towards the welfare of our community. One that stands out, is the School Chaplains which Council commenced contributing to during my time as a councillor. Chaplains go beyond all expectations and provide safe guidance and reassuring support often during times when our youth have no one else. Ongoing funding for this organisation is paramount to ensure this service continues.

3. There is much to do over the next decade to deliver on my vision - a thriving region. Town centres that deliver activations to create a sense of community

John Furnell COUNCILLOR CANDIDATE

1. I don’t see myself as competing. I am putting my name forward for the people of the Burdekin to decide if I am worthy. I admire all candidates just for nominating. I admire them for what they have done for the Burdekin thus far in their various roles and admire newcomers to the community eg Warren Francis SES controller and his background of military and police service.

2. I would like to support all volunteer organisations as they contribute to the fabric of the Burdekin. I

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would support them by being an active participant. Currently I am involved with, outside of Council committees, ‘Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club’ First Aid Officer, ‘Burdekin Men’s Shed’ Grants Officer and ‘Friends of the Burdekin Theatre’ Past President/ current volunteer, to name a few.

3. My vision in 10 years is that the Burdekin is a thriving, safe, inviting and connected community. A place where my children and grandchildren enjoy the community and contribute to its future.

What’s your vision of the Burdekin in 10 years’ time?

the Industrial Estate. It’s important that our roads, drainage, footpaths and parks continue to be maintained and renewed as required, which is done through effective asset management plans. Ongoing strategic planning through community consultation ensures Council will continue to have a range of shovel-ready projects ready for funding, developed by Burdekin residents.

and to support continued development for local business. The expansion of industrial estate will provide diverse opportunity for growth and as a result retain our next generation and attract new population. I will support the expansion of the defence base in Townsville as this in turn will open our region for future possibilities.

Infrastructure wise I want to see booming Industrial Estates in Ayr and Home Hill, ANZAC Park Ayr and Memorial Park Home Hill Masterplans completed, a thriving sugar industry, no empty shops and people shopping locally. Continually improving roads, drainage, cultural and park facilities.

Questions Of The Week:

Who do you think is your biggest competitor? What do you admire about them and what qualities do you have that will ultimately make you better for the role?

Callan Oar COUNCILLOR CANDIDATE

1. I don’t see any of the candidates as my competitors. What I can say is, most of the nominees, if elected, will bring some great skills and experience that I would like to collectively work with. I believe with my skills and determination; I can be the backbone in council that will help the council stand up and be counted. Not just shoved aside because hands are being tied.

2. I couldn’t answer this question, as there isn’t just one community organisation that I think needs more council support. There are plenty. Council is sitting on great cash reserves that could be more easily used to support community infrastructure. I know there have been schemes available like interest free

If you could throw your support behind a particular local community organisation what would it be and how would you support them?

loans in the past, but typical of council, these prove very hard to acquire.

3. A bigger Burdekin. Growth! We need a growth plan now! The Burdekin population has been slowly shrinking for at least 15 years. Sporting and community clubs are struggling. Volunteers declining. Without growth, less people are left to foot the bill. And that bill doesn’t stop growing.

What’s your vision of the Burdekin in 10 years’ time?

Warren Francis COUNCILLOR CANDIDATE

1. I recently spoke to a reputable citizen of the Burdekin who attended the Chamber of Commerce meetings and he said, “There is not one of them you wouldn’t vote for” and I agree that all Candidates are all high quality. I feel my experience working in varied environments in different jobs has strengthened my ability to converse with people. Coupled with my volunteer works makes me an ideal candidate for working with the community.

2. As the Local Controller of the Burdekin SES, I am committed to raising membership numbers by actively recruiting volunteers. I feel that this is an issue that many community organisations in the Burdekin region are struggling with. I would like to work with other community organisations to increase volunteer numbers and offer local community members

the opportunity to gain experience to develop their employable skills. This will help to increase the sustainability and resilience of the Burdekin community.

3. I would like to see the Burdekin reverse the declining population and work at attracting families back to the area. The Councillors need to be futuristic and think outside the square to attract industry and population. Also to work with current industry to see if they can expand their current operations. Housing, schools, medical and shopping facilities would need to be developed in proportion to the increasing population along with activities and spaces for families to enjoy together.

ELECTION: ON THE FRONT-LINE

Questions Of The Week:

Who do you think is your biggest competitor? What do you admire about them and what qualities do you have that will ultimately make you better for the role?

If you could throw your support behind a particular local community organisation what would it be and how would you support them?

Amanda Hall COUNCILLOR CANDIDATE

1. I don’t regard the Council election as a competition and I believe all Councillor candidates have their own strengths and passions to offer. However, as a Sugar Cane Farmer, I do have an understanding of what is necessary to run a successful business - and Council is a business - by doing our budget and books. The need to prioritise spending is paramount so that all areas of the Shire are treated equally and receive necessary and comparable infrastructure, services and facilities.

2. My Dad spent time at the Home Hill Hospital before his passing last year and was treated wonderfully as are all the residents. In 2011, through fundraising efforts of Christie Gist and her mother Sharon, “Christie’s Dream Room” was opened. To my knowledge, the Hospital receives no financial support for the mainte-

What’s your vision of the Burdekin in 10 years’ time?

nance and upkeep of this room. Even though Health Services are a State issue, I would like to see Council offer its assistance financially, as the room was built through local effort for our elderly residents.

3. It’s impossible to state the importance of infrastructure, services and facilities in 80 words. All are necessary and vital – to ALL areas of the Shire. We all yearn to see our towns safe and thriving once more with no empty, dilapidated shops and well-maintained roads with adequate drainage; good water quality is a given. Council needs to work with individuals and developers and not against them to ensure growth, prosperity and the creation of jobs. Our Shire can be amazing again.

Michael Backo

COUNCILLOR CANDIDATE

1. I do not see other candidates as my competitor, I see them as people that I may get the opportunity to work with soon. I admire all of them for putting their themselves forward to take on this challenging role. I believe that I will be able to work with anyone as I am a flexible person who can adapt to any situation and I can negotiate to achieve positive outcomes.

2. I would like to get involved in assisting the PCYC as I see the benefits that their programs can deliver to assist the youth of the community to develop their skills and help them achieve their goals and to assist them to become future leaders of our community, for example I see first-hand how the driver program assists the

youth to gain the hours and confidence to obtain their driver’s license

3. My vision for the Burdekin is to assist community members to start their own businesses so that the community can thrive and in turn this would assist the community to attract tourism opportunities and bring more revenue to the district. I would like to see how this could assist with lowering of the rates and make room for more accessible services such as renewable energy projects in the future that could assist with the price of power bills.

Upgrades have commenced on the Home Hill Swimming Pool facilities

IN THE

Only a Few Days Left the Burdekin’s Bingo

JERONA CAUSEWAY EMERGENT REPAIRS UPDATE

WHAT’S IN THE WORK S

BTIME 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.

urdekin Shire Council is excited to announce the commencement of a transformative project aimed at enhancing the Home Hill Swimming Pool facilities.

The project kicked off on Wednesday 28 February 2024, and is scheduled for completion in June 2024.

The eagerly anticipated project will focus on upgrading the male and female change rooms and toilets and encompasses a comprehensive overhaul that includes:

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.

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

toilet facilities, enhancing the pool’s overall aesthetic appeal.

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.

Painting of External Buildings: A fresh coat of paint will rejuvenate the external appearance of the change rooms and

Here’s how to play:

“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.

• 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.

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

New Tiling: Tiling will be installed, providing not only a visually appealing upgrade but also ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.

Residents and visitors will enjoy the added convenience of hot water showers.

Barratta Road

Burdekin Shire Council wishes to advise that the Jerona side of the Causeway embankment underwent urgent restoration works on Monday 4 March, following favourable tidal conditions at the Causeway.

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

Internal Painting: The interiors of the change rooms and toilets will receive a fresh coat of paint, creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for users.

Despite the extensive renovation works, the Home Hill Swimming Pool will remain open throughout the duration of the project. Temporary toilet facilities will be available onsite to ensure minimal disruption to patrons.

New Fixtures and Fittings: Upgraded fixtures and fittings, including toilet and shower partitions, bench seating, and modern tapware, will elevate the comfort and functionality of the facilities.

Installation of Hot Water to Showers:

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

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.

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.

The Home Hill Swimming Pool facilities have commenced renovations and are scheduled to be completed by June 2024.

The Pool will remain open throughout the entire project. For more information phone Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.

• Upload your line of photos and completed bingo

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

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.

In order to restore access, the repairs consisted of large ballast and high strength concrete to repair and re-establish the approach. The concrete repairs require time to reach sufficient strength and it is anticipated that the concrete will have cured sufficiently to allow the crossing to be open by late Friday afternoon or evening. Load testing will be undertaken on Friday afternoon before opening to the public. Jerona Road remains closed for safety reasons and to allow sufficient time for the repairs and concrete to cure.

Home Hill Furniture Upgrades

Council will update the public on Friday afternoon as to the status of any potential reopening and wish to thank the community for their patience and understanding while the works are carried out.

ROADS

Grading maintenance and re-sheeting is scheduled for the following roads next week: Stockham Road and Black Road in the Upper Haughton area and Old Fort Road off Kirknie Road.

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

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.

RURAL RESEAL PROGRAM

Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion

Here’s how to play:

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

• 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 BE-ACTIVE

TRAIL, ALVA

“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.

Kickoff

Kickoff

Burdekin

“This

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.

Preparations for the annual Rural Reseal program are underway. The rural reseal program is undertaken in May to avoid weather issues and the annual harvesting season. A list of roads slated for reseals will be published closer to commencement.

Construction of a concrete walking path will commence in March. This will provide pedestrian access from the Ayr Lifesaving Clubhouse to the beach causeway.

Estate Expansion

• 1 line of equals 1 you complete whole card, 10 entries prize draw. The Outside Competition from 16 September to 1 October To play along, your photos the competition dates. Don’t out on this opportunity discover Burdekin like never Time is running so get your card and your school adventure.

“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.

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.

“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.”

• Upload your line of photos and completed bingo

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

22/32

Council is

23/54

Image: Mick Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure.

22/32 – Technical Officer – Civil Design

Communication Is Key

At the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, we believe that communication is incredibly important for any community to thrive. When people can communicate effectively, they can connect with each other, share ideas, and work together towards common goals.

In today’s world, there are many ways to communicate, such as phone calls, faceto-face conversations, and online platforms. We’re excited to announce that we’ve launched our new website, which will make connecting with our community even easier.

You can check it out at www.thebnc.org. au.

We understand that not everyone feels comfortable using technology, so we also offer other ways to get in touch with us. You can call us, visit our Centre in person, or even connect with us on Facebook. We always provide a warm and friendly reception, no matter how you choose to communicate with us.

Suppose you’re a senior citizen who’s not

confident with technology. Did you know that the Centre supports the Burdekin Seniors’ Computer Club who meets twice a month and is a safe and friendly space where you can learn about computers, phones, and tablets.

We also offer free one-on-one sessions under the BeConnected program.

We want to ensure that everyone in our community can communicate effectively, even if they have lower levels of language, literacy, numeracy, or digital skills. We’re exploring ways to help people improve these skills, so if you think this would benefit you or someone you know, please get in contact.

When people can communicate openly and effectively, they’re more likely to feel heard and valued, which can lead to a more positive community experience.

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Burdekin Community Association

Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme

Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) delivers the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) and recruits and supports volunteers to visit socially isolated older community members? Through the ACVVS, we support volunteers to provide friendship and companionship to older people in their home and also at Regis aged care.

Visits are available to anyone who:

• receives government-subsidised residential aged care or a Home Care Package, including care recipients approved or on the National Priority System for residential or a home care package.

• is socially isolated.

Did you know that reporting local issues can be as easy as taking a photo and submitting it to ‘Snap, Send, Solve’?

This user-friendly platform is designed to streamline the reporting process, allowing you to select from a list of common issues, add a brief description and location, and submit your report in 30 seconds or less.

To report a local concern to Council, you have two convenient options: you can either download the ‘Snap, Send,

Solve’ app for free or visit the website https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/queensland. From there, you can fill out a simple online form and attach a photo of the issue.

Whether it’s a pothole, a malfunctioning streetlight, or graffiti, you won’t need to waste time figuring out who to contact. Plus, you’ll receive updates on the status of your report and track how it’s being resolved.

Why it is important?

Some older people can feel alone for various reasons. This Includes:

• feeling isolated from their culture and heritage

• little contact with friends or relatives

• mobility issues that prevent them from taking part in social or leisure activities

• being different in some way.

Regular visits from volunteers can help to improve quality of life and help older people feel less isolated.

For information about this FREE service or to find out how to become a Volunteer, please contact the BCA Team on Ph 4783

3744, The Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr, bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

Debra Cochran | Chief Executive Officer

Celebrate Advancements With The 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Awards

The 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Awards nominations are now open to celebrate the creation of meaningful partnerships, employment opportunities, and efforts made to improve the health and wellbeing of First Nations communities.

Businesses, community groups, schools, sporting clubs, and cultural organisations are encouraged to nominate for the 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Awards, and Minister Leeanne Enoch believes each nominee stands as an inspirational role model in advancing reconciliation.

“The awards provide us with an opportunity to celebrate our shared journey towards reconciliation highlighting initiates and programs that are advancing reconciliation, strengthening relationships, and improving outcomes for Queenslanders,” explained Ms Enoch.

The annual awards have recognized over 100 initiatives and partnerships for fostering a more inclusive Queensland since their

inception in 2003. The 2023 Queensland Reconciliation Awards saw the celebration of the Waijungbah Jarjums Service as the winner of the overall Premier’s Reconciliation Award, and the health and wellbeing category. Delivered by Gold Coast Health, the Waijungbah Jarjums service improves health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and their families from pregnancy through to childhood.

Once again, this overall Premier’s Reconciliation Award will be awarded to a nominated initiative demonstrating innovative strategies and exceptional outcomes towards advancing reconciliation in Queensland.

Nominations for the 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Awards close 5pm Monday March 18, and recipients will be announced during National Reconciliation week on May 27 to June 3 and will be awarded with a share of $30,000.

For more information on how to apply visit qld.gov.au/reconciliation.

Meet The Burdekin Born And Bred Team Behind Oar And Horan Dentists

She graduated from James Cook University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and started her dental ca-

The four dentists each bring their own dental passion to the business while remaining fully committed to helping people with their dental needs well into the future, offering a full range of comprehensive dental services including preventative and restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, whitening, endodontics, oral surgery and implants. They are ably supported by a talented team of hygienists, Rebecca Horan, Gaynor Ewens and Heather de Abreu, boasting a collective 80 years of dental experience, plus a dedicated team of receptionists and dental assistants who ensure the smooth operations of the

Over the years, the staff at Oar and Horan Dentists has grown from five to close to 20, signifying rapid growth and increased commitment to the dental health and wellbeing of the Burdekin. This growth ensures that the team can continue to offer appointments to new and existing patients in a timely man- L-R

Dr Todd Horan, Dr Sian Blakey, Dr André Le Feuvre and Dr Ramon Oar

Community Grants Open With Groups Urged To Apply

Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr – Bendigo Bank is welcoming Burdekin community organisations to step forward for their 2024 round of Community Grants.

Off the back of a stellar 2023 Community Grant Presentation, where Community Bank-Bendigo reinvested over $278,000 into 28 local Burdekin community groups, Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr are ready to do it all over again.

Senior Branch Manager Chantel Michielin explained that the grants will work the same as they did last year, with all local community organisations invited to submit their applications.

“I encourage all who apply to include a wish list, so while the one of the first on the list may not be granted, another critical item can be supported,” Ms Michielin explained.

“We are proud of our $278, 052 reinvestment into community groups and organisations last year, and are excited to make another round of significant contributions this year.”

Ms Michielin urges community groups to submit their applications, available from their website as a PDF download, a paper copy from the Branch, or an as email copy for those who inquire.

“Opening March 1, we have allocated six weeks for groups to complete and return their applications, with the Grants closing 5pm April 12,” Ms Michielin explained.

The Community Grant recipients will be presented to groups at an official ceremony on May 27.

To find out more, visit bendigobank.com. au/branch/qld/community-bank-ayr or contact the branch on (07) 4783 3288.

Hijacking The Social Landscape For Your Business

BY CHELSEA RAVIZZA

The online landscape has provided a space for businesses to grow far beyond expectations and in more ways than imaginable.

Holding an online presence in the form of social media pages, an online website, publishing blog posts or elevating Google Business profiles are all means to increase a business’ reach and push the domain to customers who would never physically walk through the store’s front door. In social media applications like TikTok and Instagram, it’s easy for businesses to take advantage of the algorithm, allowing content to reach not only a larger audience but also a tailored audience, realistically filled with potential customers. Following local businesses, influential community members, and showing consistent support of other business’s content through likes, comments, and shares, are all tasks to elevate a business’s profile and prompt search engines. When audiences grow, sales grow, when sales grow, businesses flourish.

In saying this, a business’s online presence can become much more than a means of attracting customers. In the time where social media has become a part of society’s everyday lives, it’s not surprising to discover those seeking employment use applications like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok similarly to websites like Seek, Indeed and LinkedIn. Businesses presenting an online brand which showcases a personalized approach to operations with photos of staff, the business itself, and customer interactions will evidently become more appealing to future employees in comparison to corporate focused profiles.

To employ techniques for successful online growth of a business’s brand, it’s integral to first evaluate the values of the business and how to portray such values in a way to attract a specifically targeted audience. When complete, it’ll become more than simple to hijack the social landscape for business success.

The Bendigo Bank team at last years’ Community Grant Presentation Night. Photo supplied

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

Co2 TO OXYGEN

BAGASSE

BIOENERGY BIOFUELS

BIOPRODUCTS

GROW WASTE

PROCESS

Sugarcane

SUGAR

FARMERS & COMMUNITY BENEFIT

BOOSTS CANE SUPPLY + JOB CREATION

REDUCES ENERGY COSTS + HOUSEHOLD BILLS

EMPOWERS ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP + SUSTAINABILITY

MOLASSES

$

STRENGTHENS REGIONAL ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

Fueling The Future Through A Circular Bioeconomy

Sugarcane’s potential as a renewable source of bioenergy, biofuel and bioproducts continues to grow through the concept of the circular bioeconomy.

Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source.

“We cut it and from the day it starts growing again, it’s creating oxygen and natural capital on your farm and its producing natural energy,” he said.

“Once harvested, it joins the process of fuel, power, plastic, milk, oil, burning modules, it just becomes a whole array of green energy.”

Through the circular bioeconomy, sugarcane can fuel and power the future by utilising existing sugarcane land for sugar production while converting sugarcane waste into bioenergy, biofuel and bioproduct.

QCAR’s commitment to renewables and sustainable agriculture is also seen as a vital opportunity for the industry to capitalise on sugarcane’s unique composition as the globe makes strides in its mission to decarbonise.

Mr Hall recognised the potential for the Burdekin and beyond to participate in this

shift by establishing itself as a bioeconomy hub through expansion of land and infrastructure.

“We can be part of the process and get ourselves into the grid by whole crop harvesting, then buy the power, fuel and fertiliser back,” he said.

“Because we’re in the dry tropics, the Burdekin’s got the most sunshine, radiation, the dam, the soil, the water and the infrastructure.

“There’s the first part which is the sugar and molasses process, but if it’s got organic nitrogen, green power and biodiesel or bioethanol, then all of a sudden, that sugar becomes 100% net zero sugar.

“We’re good for the reef, good for the economy and good for the environment, we tick all the boxes.”

This opportunity for the sugarcane industry is seen as a positive for not only farmers and growers, but also for the communities that thrive on the industry.

“The jobs in other renewables are non-existent, whereas sugar mills employ up to 200 people,” Mr Hall said.

“It will expand the industry because, all of a sudden, you’re not sending in 8 million tonne of cane, you’re sending in 12-14 mil-

lion tonnes of biomass.

“You’re going to building more factories.

“Instead of losing our families, I think there’s enough money in this sort of system to keep young people in the towns.

“The whole community can prosper, whether as a part of it or as a shareholder or even just the supply of cheaper energy and cheaper fuel.

“There’s huge potential for the economy, we’ve just got to have a proactive government on board.”

Mr Hall believes this increased demand will require sugarcane to be cut year-round, seeing a return to Monday to Friday crushing which will again benefit communities and the families who call them home.

“We all know cane is like grass, we don’t have to wait until it gets to 60-70 tonnes to the acre, you can cut it every six months,” he said.

“We want it to be ongoing, Monday to Friday, so when the sun is shining, we can be harvesting cane as a biomass.”

“QCAR is willing to work with incumbent sugar millers to push the concept of a circular bioeconomy.”

QCAR Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source

Varroa Jacobsoni Discovered

Beekeepers Warned To Be Vigilant

Asingle Varroa Mite has been detected during a routine inspection at the Port of Brisbane.

The routine inspection, conducted by Biosecurity Queensland, completed diagnostic testing and confirmed that the mite in Varroa Jacobsoni, not Varroa Destructor.

The Varroa Jacobsoni mite parasitizes Asian honey bees, while the Varroa Destructor targets European honey bees.

While the common honey bee within Australia is the European honey bee, secondary testing is being conducted to determine if the mite is carrying any exotic viruses of honeys bees, or if any other exotic bee pests are present.

Biosecurity Queensland is also undertaking tracing activities to identify the potential source and likelihood of spread.

As a precautionary measure, a movement control order (MCO) is not in place to prevent any potential spread.

All Queensland beekeepers are urged to:

• continue monitoring hives for varroa mite using the alcohol wash method (at least every 16 weeks)

• report your hive check using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if you do not find any suspect mites

These movement restrictions apply to all beekeepers who have hives or have had hives in the areas around port of Brisbane in the last 90 days. These restrictions apply to movement of bees, bee hives, bee products, and used bee keeping equipment.

Queensland Beekeepers Association president Jacob Stevens explained, “The Queensland Beekeepers’ Association Inc is in position and ready to provide meaningful support to our impacted beekeepers in the movement control zones.”

“In recent years we’ve provided our expertise and technical knowledge to Biosecurity Queensland to deliver successful eradications of mites detected in Queensland,” he said.

“Queensland has a history of exotic incursions and the QBA is confident our beekeepers will rise to the challenge acting on our call to action to undertake varroa mite surveillance immediately, reporting all results to Bee 123.”

• immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland

• report sightings of Asian honey bees, feral nests/swarms or hives showing symptoms of exotic pests to Biosecurity Queensland

Influential Women Community Leadership Forum

Women in agriculture are invited to attend a two-day leadership forum in Ayr designed to develop leadership skills, personal confidence and be empowered to make future focused decisions to drive a positive change in their communities.

The Influential Women Community Leadership Forum, to be held 19 – 21 March in the Burdekin Theatre Music Loft, has been supported by Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub as part of their commitment to enhancing the skills and capacity of agricultural communities in North Queensland, and is open to female producers, farmers and agriculture service providers.

“This forum is firmly rooted in rural Queensland, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural women. This is a great opportunity to build their skills and confidence to be leaders and drivers of change in their communities,” said Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub Program Lead and forum organiser, Dr Jane Oorschot.

“The forum facilitator, Heather Ellis from Blue Wren Connections, will guide the participants through two days of group and individual activities to learn about different leadership roles, teamwork, adapting to change, understanding personal values, and self-care to achieve work/life balance.

“We piloted this forum last year in the Gulf Savannah region and received extremely positive feedback on how inspired participants felt about contributing to their local communities.”

Home Hill State High School Agriculture Science Teacher and President of the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association, Louise Nicholas, said she enrolled in the forum to build more connections and further her leadership development.

“I think women play an enormous role in agriculture and we’re seeing more women in high profile leadership positions,” she said.

“In rural and regional areas, we sometimes feel isolated, so it is great to have those connections and networking opportunities to raise each other up and help us succeed in leadership positions.”

Ms Nicholas is one of four finalists in the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Awards and said the Influential Women Community Leadership Forum will assist her in achieving the goals she set as part of the application process.

“We had to do a project plan and I believe this course will assist me in delivering ‘Grow Your Own,’ a project that will make connections between school students and industry,” she said.

“It’s about getting the students involved, training them up and making connections in the agricultural industry, and hopefully

retaining them in our local areas.

“Any opportunity to develop yourself is of benefit, and I’m excited for the opportunity to attend a leadership forum here in the Burdekin.”

Registrations are limited to 20 participants and priced at just $20.

Dr Oorschot encourages women in agriculture throughout North Queensland to register now for the Influential Women Community Leadership Forum so they don’t miss out on such a valuable professional and personal development opportunity.

“This course is valued at over $1400, but thanks to our partners BlueWren Connections, NQ Dry Tropics, Growcom and Burdekin Shire Council and the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, registration is just $20, with very affordable accommodation available at the Country Ayr Motel.

“Numbers are capped at 20 to ensure par-

ticipants receive a highly interactive and personalised experience, and the program has been designed to be practical, challenging and fun.

“By supporting the skills and capacity within the agriculture sector, together we can become more drought and climate resilient and build flourishing, sustainable communities equipped to make future focused decisions.”

To register for the Influential Women Community Leadership Forum to be held in Ayr 19 – 20 March, visit the Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub website at www.tnqdroughthub.com.au or phone Dr Jane Oorschot on 0481 158 989.

Home Hill State High School Agriculture Science Teacher and President of the Queensland Agricultural Teachers Association, Louise Nicholas

Committed to caring for women through every chapter of their life: women, babies and beyond.

Mater is a strong advocate for women putting their health and wellbeing first and has the specialists and services to support them – and their familiesevery step of the way.

Specialists in women’s health areas including:

Breast surgery

Endocrine surgery

Gynaecology

Maternity care

Obstetrics

Urogynaecology

Considering a weekend getaway? A quick rendezvous to a different location?

Consider venturing out to Airlie Beach’s Colonial Palms, for a cool afternoon of gentle jazz, that soothes the soul and sets your week off right.

Brought to visitors and locals alike by the likes of Motor Inn Managers Greg and Nettie Dunlop, the Jazz on the Deck is a relaxing afternoon, away from the big beats and loud noise typical of main street venues of Airlie Beach.

In fact, the tempered notes of the Jazz perfectly blends with the scenic view over the coral sea and the Port Of Airlie, which sets the Colonial Palms Motor Inn apart from other accommodation providers.

We are so lucky that Nick is now a local Airlie Beach resident, and brings his amazing musical talent and worldly connections to Airlie.

Stay, Wine and Dine Package

Stay in the comfortable king room, Bottle of wine and dinner for two at the Palms Restaurant and witness Nick and his guest musician entertain the afternoon away for the Jazz on the Deck. Only $350 (per couple)

“And we offer the room on either Saturday or Sunday night, so you can come on Saturday and head home after the Jazz day,” Greg explained. “Or travel down on Sunday and stay the night, then head home on Monday.”

With Nick at the helm of inviting and welcoming his accompanying musicians on stage with him, the fortnightly jazz performances have a consistent flair of excitement and beautiful Jazz music.

On the next Jazz day on the 17th of March, Nick has invited Melbourne based Jazz Guitarist, Ash DeNeef to join him on the deck- sounds like we are in for a real treat!

As a special for the Burdekin, Greg and Nettie are offering Burdekin residents a special offer:

For Managers Nettie and Greg, they knew that live music entertainment on the deck was an aspect they wanted to bring to the business but were eager to set themselves apart from the other venues in Airlie Beach. And found that no other venues in our area offering Live Jazz

House musician, Nick De Gregorio, is a testament to classical and modern jazz music. Nick has studied Jazz at the conservatory of music in Western Australia and has travelled the world playing in Jazz bands throughout Europe, the UK, USA and aboard cruise ships

WHAT: Jazz On The Deck,

with Colonial Palms

WHERE: Colonial Palms Motor Inn

WHEN: Sunday, March 17, from 3pm

RESERVE YOUR GETAWAY: https://colonialpalmsmotorinn.com.au/ or call directly on 4946 7166.

Lake Proserpine

Your slice of inland paradise is right here at Lake Proserpine in the Whitsundays, just 2 hours south of the Burdekin.

Enjoy lakeside bush camping, non-motorised watersports hire or try your luck at catching the legendary one metre Barramundi.

Prices as follows:

$10 per adult, per night

$5 per child, per night

$25 per family (2A & 2C), per night

www.lakeproserpine.com.au

EVENTGUIDE

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

WE ARE HIRING!! SUPERVISOR/LEADING HAND

This role will include managing a small team of workers, as well as the project itself, talking to vendor and organising upcoming work.

The preferred candidate will possess: - QLD Drivers Licence - Strong attention to detail - Confined Space & Working at Heights - Industrial White Card - Australian Trade Certificate

FOR MORE INFO OR EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO 0432 234 890 or 0408 703 257 admin@burdekindemo.com.au

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

WEDNESDAY 24 APRIL

The Boys From Oz

Wednesday, from 11am

Let’s hear it for The Boys! Come celebrate the greatest songs from Australia’s greatest male singers. Join JD Smith as he takes you on a journey through the pop, rock & country classics that have been the soundtrack to your life. From the unofficial national anthems of John Farnham’s You’re The Voice, Daryl Braithwaite’s The Horses & Peter Allen’s I Still Call Australia Home; Supergroup classics by ACDC, INXS, Cold Chisel, Little River Band & The Bee Gees; the Poptastic stylings of John Paul Young, Rick Springfield & Leo Sayer through to iconic ballads from Savage Garden, Rick Price & Keith Urban…. you will be stunned by the powerhouse vocal versatility and charm that JD Smith brings to these songs on stage. (A lifetime performing around the world in musicals & most recently with the international vocal supergroup The Ten Tenors will do that.) The Boys from Oz will have you singing, dancing and cheering as you remember how much you love these iconic songs from Australia’s most iconic male performers!

Burdekin Theatre

6.00 Rage. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast.

9.00 Rage. 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) 1.30 A

Life In Ten Pictures. (M) 2.35 Julia

Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG) 3.05 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG) 3.55

10.50 Midsomer Murders. (M) 12.20 Rage. (MA15+) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

Endurance: Race The Pole. 9.20

Queens That Changed The World.

10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Departure.

11.35 Sex And Sensibility. 12.25 A Way Of Seeing. 12.50 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 6.

2.50 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00

WorldWatch. 2.00 Cycling. UCI Women’s World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. Highlights. 3.00 Gymnastics. Trampoline World Cup Series. Highlights. 4.00 Joyful. 4.10

Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. 5.05 Where Are You Really From?

5.35 WWII Women On The Frontline.

6.30 News. 7.30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road. 8.25 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. 9.20 The Wonders Of Europe. 10.25 Those Who Stayed.

11.05 The City Of Art. 11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 7. 1.25 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.00

WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00

Surf Life Saving. Nutri-Grain Next Gen Series. Highlights. 5.00 Grand

Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. 5.35 WWII Women On The Frontline. 6.30

News. 7.30 Mystery Of The Puzzling

Designs NZ. 4.40

Extraordinary Escapes. 5.30 The

ABC Of... 6.00 Brush With Fame. (PG)

6.30 Compass. (PG) 7.00 News. 7.30

Death In Paradise. (PG) 8.30 House Of Gods. (M) 9.30 Silent Witness. (M) 11.25 Harrow. (M) 12.20 Significant

Others. 1.10 Sanditon. 2.00 Rage

Vault. 4.00 Catalyst. 5.00 Insiders.

Pyramids Egypt. 8.20 Odysseus

Returns. 10.20 The Day The Rock Star Died: Buddy Holly. 10.50 Mother

Tongue. 11.05 Cycling. UCI World

Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Final stage.

1.05 Coastal Ireland With Adrian Dunbar. 2.00 Coastal Ireland With Adrian Dunbar. 2.55 Chernobyl: The New Evidence. 3.50 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 2.10 Death Of The Pyramids.

3.30

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Broken Ties. (2023) (M) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust.

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

6.40 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Brisbane Lions v Carlton.

9.30 AFL Post-Game Show.

10.15 Armchair Experts. (M)

11.00 Get On Extra.

11.30 To Be Advised. 1.30 The Arrangement. (M) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 11.00 Horse Racing. Randwick Guineas Day and Flemington’s Super Saturday. 3.00 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Gold Coast Suns v Richmond. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00

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

7.30 MOVIE: Battle Los Angeles. (2011) (M)

9.55 MOVIE: Unhinged. (2020) (MA15+) 11.40 The Irrational. (M) 1.35 The Arrangement. (M) 2.30 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 To Be Advised. 3.30 Border Security. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PG)

8.30 Why Planes Vanish: The Mystery Of Flight MH370. (PG)

9.50 What The Killer Did Next. (M)

10.50 Soham: Catching A Killer. (M)

11.50 Autopsy USA. (M) 12.50 MOVIE: Jesse Stone: Stone Cold. (2005) (M) 3.00 Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 Oscars Red Carpet. (PG) 10.00 The Oscars. (PG) 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.30 Coastwatch Oz. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News.

5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG)

8.30 The Oscars. (PG) Hosted by Jimmy Kimmel. 12.00 MOVIE: Someone Is Watching. (2000) (M)

3.30

And Counting.

Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.

2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30

9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Wedding Fix. (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 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Melbourne Storm v Penrith Panthers.

8.55 Golden Point.

9.45 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon. (1987) (M)

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 1.00 Pointless. (PG) 2.00 Australia’s Top

Ten Of Everything. (M) 3.00 TV Shop.

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 MOVIE:

Emma. (2020) 3.30 Renovate Or Rebuild. 4.30 Garden Gurus. 5.00

9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway.

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PG)

8.30 MOVIE: Spectre. (2015) (M)

11.25 MOVIE: Danny Collins. (2015) (M) 1.35 Garden Gurus. 2.00 The Incredible Journey. (PG) 2.30 Getaway. (PG) 3.00 TV Shop. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Helping Hands.

6.00 Weekend Today. 9.00 Wide

World Of Sports. 10.00 NRL Sunday

Footy Show. 12.00 Out Of My Lane. 2.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Dolphins v North Queensland Cowboys. 5.00 News. 5.30 My Way.

6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married

At First Sight. (PG) 8.45 60 Minutes.

9.45 9News Late. 10.15 Married To A Psychopath. (M) 11.15 The First 48. (M) 12.05 Family Law. 12.55 Building Icons. 2.05 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 Fishing Aust. 5.00 9News Early. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 Getaway. 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 Married At First Sight. (M) 9.00 Big Miracles. (M)

10.00 100% Footy. (M) 11.00 9News

Late. 11.30 Court Cam. (M) 12.00

Tipping Point. (PG) 12.55 Pointless. (PG) 1.45 Hello SA. (PG) 2.15 Talking Honey. (PG) 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00

TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 9News Early. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00

Tough Tested. 10.00 Australia By Design: Architecture. 10.30 Farm To Fork. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet. 11.20 Australian Survivor. 12.30

Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.00 All 4 Adventure. 2.00 Wildlife Rescue. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30

GCBC. 4.00 My Market Kitchen.

4.30 Taste Of Aust. 5.00 News.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 Dog House Aust. 7.30 The Dog House.

8.30 Ambulance Australia. 9.30 Ambulance UK. 10.30 So Help Me Todd. 11.30 FBI: International. 12.30 Shopping. 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00

Leading The Way. 7.30 Tomorrow’s

Project. 7.30 Australian Survivor. 9.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. 11.00 The Sunday Project. 12.00 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.30

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (R)

8.00 Would I Lie To You?

The Unseen Bits. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: The Twilight Saga: New Moon. (2009) (M, R)

10.35 Movie: Romeo & Juliet. (2021) (M, R)

12.15am Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)

12.45 QI. (PG, R)

1.15 Killing Eve. (MA15+, R)

2.00 Back. (M, 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)

11.35 Portlandia. (M, R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 QI. (PG, R)

8.30 Louis Theroux: Miami Mega Jail. (M, R)

9.30 You Can’t Ask That. (M, R)

10.05 Ragdoll. (MA15+, R)

10.50 Death In Paradise. (M, R)

11.50 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. (PG, 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: Behind Bars. (M, R)

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

11.40 QI. (M, R)

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

7.30pm Spicks And

6.00pm Bargain Hunt. (R)

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.

8.30 Escape To The Country.

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

12.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks.

8.00

8.30

11.00

11.35 Louis Theroux:

7.30pm

8.00

8.30

9.00

9.35

10.10

10.50

11.15

6.00pm AFL: Friday Night Countdown.

6.30 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Brisbane Lions v Carlton.

6.40 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.40 Movie: Runaway Bride. (1999) (PG, R)

10.05 Movie: American Made. (2017) (MA15+, R)

12.25 American Restoration. (PG, R)

12.55 American Pickers. (PG, 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)

12.40 House Calls To The Rescue. (R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt.

7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

8.30 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

10.45 Railroad Australia. (PG, R)

11.45 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

12.45 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

6.00pm Football. AFL. Opening Round. GWS Giants v Collingwood. 9.30 AFL Post-Game Show.

10.00 Movie: Total Recall. (1990) (MA15+, R) Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rachel Ticotin. 12.25 Movie: Universal Soldier. (1992) (MA15+, 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: The King’s Man. (2021) (MA15+, R)

11.10 Movie: Hard Kill. (2020) (MA15+, R)

1.10 Blokesworld. (PG, R)

1.40 Storage Wars: New York. (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. (PG, R)

9.30 Frozen Gold. (PG)

10.30 Mountain Men. (PG)

11.30 Ax Men. (M)

12.30 American Restoration. (PG, R)

5.30pm The Balmoral Hotel: An Extraordinary Year. (R)

6.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Melbourne Storm v Penrith Panthers.

7.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (M, R) 8.30 To Be Advised.

6.00pm Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 3. Reds v Chiefs. 8.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 8.45 Movie: A Fistful Of Dynamite. (1971) (M, R) James Coburn, Rod Steiger, Antoine Domingo. 11.55 Movie: Hair. (1979) (M, R)

3.30pm Movie: Alexander The Great. (1956) (PG, R)

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

8.30 Movie: The Enforcer. (1976) (M, R) Clint Eastwood, Harry Guardino, Tyne Daly.

10.30 Movie: The Driver. (1978) (M, R) Ryan O’Neal.

12.20 Movie: Sweeney 2. (1978) (M, R)

5.30pm The Balmoral Hotel: An Extraordinary Year. (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 Footy Classified. (M)

Community News

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

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)

March8–14

6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

8.30 Basketball. NBL.

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

11.30 Frasier. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

5.40pm TVNZ 1News At Six.

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

6.40 Jeopardy!

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats

Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 Hoarders. (M, R)

9.25 Making Waves: Extraordinary Women. (PG)

9.55 Unleash. 11.30 Sex And Music. (M, R)

6.00pm Soccer. A-League Men. Round 20. Adelaide United v Melbourne Victory.

9.15 NCIS. (M, R)

10.15 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

12.05 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+, 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 48 Hours. (M, R)

12.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

1.10 FBI: International. (M, R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 Bull. (PG, 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)

6.00pm Food That Built The World: The Spoils Of War. (PG)

7.35 Impossible Engineering: Littoral Class Ships – U.S. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: The Quick And The Dead. (1995) (MA15+, R) Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman.

10.30 Better Things. (M)

11.25 We Are Who We Are. (MA15+, R)

1.30 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)

6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)

6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)

7.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

8.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, 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)

6.00pm TVNZ 1News At Six.

6.40 Ocean Wreck Investigation. (PG)

7.35 Abandoned Engineering. (PG)

8.30 The Amber Room. (M)

9.20 Fukushima: Nature In The Danger Zone. (PG, R)

10.15 Australia’s Sleep Revolution. (M, R)

11.20 La Jauria. (MA15+, R)

5.35pm TVNZ 1News At Six.

6.15 Brooklyn Nine-Nine. (PG, R)

6.40 Jeopardy!

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

8.30 Taskmaster. (M, R)

9.25 Ten Year Old Tom. (M)

10.30 The Matchmakers. (PG, R)

11.30 Over The Black Dot. (R)

5.35pm TVNZ 1News At Six.

6.15 Brooklyn Nine-Nine. (PG, R)

6.40 Jeopardy!

7.35

8 Out Of 10 Cats

Does Countdown. (M)

(PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

8.30 Vikings: The Rise And Fall. (M)

9.25 Stone Cold Takes On America. (M)

10.15 Hudson & Rex. (M)

11.55 Reunions. (M, R)

(MA15+, R)

codeword

word search

No. 126 Can you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message. BIOKO BRITISH ISLES CRETE EUBOEA FIJI FUNEN GRAN CANARIA HISPANIOLA IRELAND JAVA KING KYUSHU LOMBOK LUZON MALAITA MAUI MINDANAO NAURU OAHU PALAU PANAY RHODES SAMOA SHIKOKU SOISALO SULAWESI SUMATRA TAHITI TENERIFE TIMOR TONGA TORRES STRAIT UPOLU VITI LEVU

4 LETTERS CROP CURL DECK FOOD HENS ISLE LAUD OFFS ORES PEWS REED TIPS TOYS TUNA

Islands SECRET MESSAGE: My island home is waiting for me 1 14 2 15 3 16 4 17 5 18 6 19 7 20 8 21 9 22 10 23 11 24 12 25 X 13 26 V SOLUTIONS: code, coded, coincide, COINCIDED, coined, coned, dice, diced, died, dine, dined, diode, done, iced, iodide, iodine, node

7 LETTERS

you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message. BIOKO BRITISH ISLES CRETE EUBOEA FIJI FUNEN GRAN CANARIA HISPANIOLA IRELAND JAVA KING KYUSHU LOMBOK LUZON MALAITA MAUI MINDANAO NAURU OAHU PALAU PANAY RHODES SAMOA SHIKOKU SOISALO SULAWESI SUMATRA TAHITI TENERIFE TIMOR TONGA TORRES STRAIT UPOLU VITI LEVU Theme: Islands SECRET MESSAGE: My island home is waiting for me 1 14 2 15 3 16 4 17 5 18 6 19 7 20 8 21 9 22 10 23 11 24 12 25 X 13 26 V SOLUTIONS: code, coded, coincide, COINCIDED, coined, coned, dice, diced, died, dine, dined, diode, done, iced, iodide, iodine, node 61 Queen Street Ayr | p: 4783 7515 RG Customs NQ rgcustomsnq.square.site SPECIALIZING IN 4X4 ACCESSORY FITMENT Snorkels And Airboxes Suspension Bull Bars Custom Fabrication SOLUTION wordfill 9-letter codeword word search Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest? SOLUTIONS: 1 = T, 2 = P, 3 = U, 4 = W, 5 = Y, 6 = C, 7 = I, 9 = R, 10 = S, 11 = Z, 12 = E, 13 = K, 14 = D, 15 = F, 16 = J, 17 = B, 18 = G, 19 = M, 20 = L, 21 = Q, 22 = A, 23 = H, 24 = O No. 166 D I C D C NI O E Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”. 8 words: Good 12 words: Very good 17 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: No. 216 3 LETTERS ADD AGO ARE DAB EEL EGO ELK ERA EVE GEL GOT HAS IRK LAP LIP NOT OPT PEP ROW RYE SHE SUP TEA WAR 4 LETTERS CROP CURL DECK FOOD HENS ISLE LAUD OFFS ORES PEWS REED TIPS TOYS TUNA 5 LETTERS ABIDE AGILE ALIAS ALIVE ALPHA AORTA ASIDE AWARE CASTE CATER CLAWS CLEAN CLIME DEPTH DRESS EERIE

SOAKS SPREE STATE STAVE STEEL TINGE

TWEET URINE WIRES

FLORA GAMMA HEELS HERBS IDEAS INNER LIONS MELTS OGLES OPERA PASSE PAWED POLIO RAWER TREAT

ENDOW ENROL ERASE FALSE FEINT

RENDS RESTS

RIVET SOAKS SPREE STATE STAVE STEEL TINGE TREAT TWEET URINE WIRES

6 LETTERS DEEPLY EASILY INTACT UNSEAT

7 LETTERS AMMONIA AMNESIA AVERAGE EYESORE PRIMARY SASSIER

8 LETTERS FLAMINGO

SALEABLE TIMELESS

crossword

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11

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13

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17

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22

DOWN

No. 187

2 Paint variety; synthetic fabric (7)

3 Of night (9)

4 Loose (5)

5 Epicure (7)

6 Home (7)

7 Sixth zodiac sign; the Maiden (5)

9 Heavenly (9)

10 Advantageously (7)

14 Common speech (10)

16 Forceful and bitter verbal attack (8)

18 In high spirits (6)

20 Heavenly body (6)

24 Choux pastry filled with cream (11)

25 Ninth zodiac sign; the Archer (11)

26 Weaken (5)

27 Playfully provocative (11)

28 Hermits; old-fashioned people (11)

30 Waters (9)

34 Travel plan (9)

46

47

50 Speak imperfectly (4)

52 Band used to constrict a vessel (8)

53 Paradise (6)

54 Stringed instrument from ancient Greece (4)

55 Mirthful (9)

58 Declaration of policy (9)

60 Answer (5)

61 An acrobatic movement (10)

63 Trivial (10)

64 Accord (7)

65 Unfixed (5)

66 Soft creamy candy (5)

67 Vegetarian (11)

68 Single-celled animal (6)

69 Upset stomach (6)

35 Glimmer (7)

36 Blue (7)

42 Blatantly (10)

43 Thin biscuit (5)

45 Curved sword (8)

48 Guide (6)

49 Search for food (6)

51 Crush (9)

54 Weariness, lethargy (9)

55 Delinquent (7)

56 New player (7)

57 Intoxicating drink (7)

59 Accommodates (7)

62 Prickle (5)

DOWN

2 Paint variety; synthetic fabric (7)

3 Of night (9)

4 Loose (5)

5 Epicure (7)

6 Home (7)

7 Sixth zodiac sign; the Maiden (5)

9 Heavenly (9)

10 Advantageously (7)

14 Common speech (10)

63 Synthetic material used to make stockings (5)

16 Forceful and bitter verbal attack (8)

18 In high spirits (6)

20 Heavenly body (6)

24 Choux pastry filled with cream (11)

25 Ninth zodiac sign;

(while fighting) (8)

40 Magnanimity (10)

41 Pretend (10)

44 Cruel (8)

46 Natural (7)

47 Realisation (8)

50 Speak imperfectly (4)

52

53 Paradise (6)

54 Stringed instrument from ancient Greece (4)

55 Mirthful (9)

58 Declaration of policy (9)

60 Answer (5)

61 An acrobatic movement (10)

63 Trivial (10)

64 Accord (7)

65

66

DEATH NOTICES

LANDA, JOHN

LATE OF AIRVILLE.

Passed away peacefully on 29th February, 2024 aged 82 years.

Beloved husband of Ann, Much loved father of Andrew, Toni and Scott, loving grandfather and great-grandfather of their families.

In keeping with John’s wishes a private cremation has been held. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

K & S WRIGHT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

BRENNAN, RONALD JAMES ‘RON’ LATE OF HOME HILL

Passed away peacefully on 2nd March, 2024 aged 86 years.

Beloved husband of Colleen, Much loved father and father-in-law of Kathy, Garry (deceased), Steve and Erin, Floss and Brad, Alan and Gail, Loving grandfather and great-grandfather of their families.

It was Ron’s wishes for a private cremation and a Memorial Service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held at a later date. K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

ROSSITER, BEVERLEY MAY ‘BEV’

LATE OF AYR.

Passed away on the 20th February, 2024 aged 89 years.

Beloved wife of Richard (deceased), Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Robert and Beni, Marnie, Geoffrey and Sally, Loving grandmother of Ashton and Blake, Cameron and Danielle, Ethan and Bailey, Great -grandmother of Caydence, Seiarah and Fletcher, Leyton, Bonnie and Libby

A service to celebrate the life of Bev will commence at 10.30am tomorrow, Friday, 8th March, 2024, at All Saints Anglican Church, Ayr. There will be no cortege.

K & S WRIGHT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

THANK YOU

Thank You

The family of John Christofides would like to thank all relatives, friends and medical practitioners for the support shown to John and his family in his recent passing.

The care and respect given to John and his family in his final days by the doctors, nurses and staff at the Ayr Hospital was above and beyond, and greatly appreciated.

Our sincere thanks to Ken and Elizabeth Wright, for their respect and kindness to us all at this difficult time.

To all who sent cards, flowers, messages and called to extend their sympathies, thank you.

Please accept this as our personal and heartfelt thanks.

Betina Christofides and families

COMMUNITY NOTICES

After 40 years as a motor mechanic, I’m shutting up shop.

Lower Burdekin Water (LBW) calls for nominations to fill a casual vacancy on the Board for an LBW ratepayer representative.

LBW is a category 2 water authority under the Water Act 2000 and is responsible for sustainably distributing water within and around the Lower Burdekin Water Authority Area for aquifer recharge and stakeholder supply. LBW is a Queensland Government Agency and as such Directors on the Board are appointed by the Minister for Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water.

To be considered by the Selection Committee, all nominations must be:

• in writing

• signed by the candidate and signed by two (2) LBW Ratepayers or LBW Ratepayer Representatives

• nominees must demonstrate how they meet the Eligibility Criteria

• received by LBW before nominations close at 5:00pm on Friday, 15th March 2024

Nomination Form and Eligibility Criteria is available on the LBW website www.lowerburdekinwater.com.au

I would like to advise the public that my business is closing as of 08.03.24. To my suppliers – thanks for your service. It wouldn’t have been possible without you. Lastly, I would like to express my thanks to all of my customers, especially those who have been with me since the start way back in 1984

Thanks for your support!

John Piotto

SCORE

Albert

Crosby

Jess Gilmore

Marc Laffo Laffo’s

SCORE

Melissa Boulter QCAR

Stacey Gerhart Leader Group

Storm Eels Titans Dolphins

Steve Pilcher Pilcher’s Mitre 10

Built Sheds

Smalley KC’s Bar & Grill

SCORE

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

SCORE

4.05PM

SUNCORP STADIUM, BRISBANE

Liam Hillery Hillery Group

Dolphins

Jason Mansfield Greater Whitsunday Vet

SCORE 0 Knights Warriors Storm Bulldogs Titans Cowboys

Samantha Young Style N Secrets

SCORE 0 Raiders Warriors Panthers Eels Titans Cowboys

Lloyd Strutynski Baltic Group

SCORE 0 Knights Warriors Panthers Eels Titans Cowboys

Kieran Cusack QLD Hydro

Luke Hillery Hillery Group

SCORE 0 Knights Warriors Storm Eels Titans Cowboys

2024 Prize Sponsor

OPEN DIVISION

HEAVIEST

BOAR- 118 Kg

Shane Cavanagh

HEAVIEST SOW - 62.55

Kg Mat Corradi

HEAVIEST CRAB - 1.47

Kg Mathew Lynch-Harlow

JUNIOR

BARRA - 8.38Kg - Josh Patterson

MANGROVE JACK1.26Kg - Jace Klaka

CATFISH - 5.32Kg - Joshua Brett

FLATHEAD - 0.94 kgKeatan Jarvis

SECRET BARRA WEIGHT – 3.14Kg - Alex Wright

SENIOR

BARRA - 8.56 Kg - Joel Bethel

MANGROVE JACK1.76Kg - Jack Malas

CATFISH - 3.56Kg - Tiffany Jones

FLATHEAD - 1.72KgMathew Lynch-Harlow

SECRET BARRA WEIGHT – 8.46Kg - Mark Zunker

JUNIOR LUCKY DRAWAngus Galvin

SENIOR LUCKY DRAWMelissa Hyne

Heaviest junior flathead winner Keatan Jarvis with Clare State School Principal Troy Patti Heaviest junior catfish winner Joshua Brett with Troy Patti

Home Hill Bowls Report

18 players fronted up for Wednesday night barefoot bowls.

Rink 2: Wayne, Carol and Nev were too good for Jocelyn, Merle and Mark winning 14 to 12.

Rink 3: Kate, Paul and Joe put the cleaners through Maisie, Betty and Ron 17 to 5.

Rink 4: Kita, Sam and Stephen were way too strong for Yogi, Gladys and Judy winning 20 to 8.

22 Players fronted on it seems the first dry Thursday afternoon bowls in weeks.

Rink 3 Triples: Karl/Mick O, Mick and Glen won the day in a close one over Ray, Terry and Henry 15 to 13.

Rink 4 Pairs: Alex and Trevor were much too strong for Paul and Bob to the tune of 33 to 22.

Rink 5: After Norm had to pull out for health reasons Stephen skipped for two teams. Jim and Stephen just lasted to defeat Dino and Stephen to the tune of 15 to 13.

Rink 6: John and Joe won a nail-biting contest over Tony and Hugh 25 to 24.

And finally on rink 7, Judy and Wayne were convincing winners over Yogi and Des 28 to 18.

Thanks again to sponsor Rocky Ponds produce.

Supplied by Stephen Doig

Football Matters with Cyclops

FOOTBALL

Local

The start of the 2024 local football season was delayed yet again by the inclement weather. Burdekin Panthers Kappa Cup match against JCU Riverway has now been re-scheduled to Tuesday March 12, 7:00pm kick off at International Park. Last weekend’s away fixtures against Olympic were also rained off and are yet to be re-scheduled. This Saturday, March 9, the Panthers host Brothers in three grades. Reserves kick off at 3:00, the Ladies at 5:00 and the Premiers at 7:00.

With the matches against MA Olympic called off last weekend, the Panthers took the opportunity to have a Premier League vs Reserve grade match on Saturday on Field 2 at International Park. This was the first game at match intensity for some of the lads since last season, so it was good to get some minutes under our belt.

The Men’s Coaches this season are, Premiers – Leighton Gallagher, Reserves (Under 23s) – Michael Taylor and Maddy Reid will be coaching the Women’s Premier team. In the Save the Date Department, Female Football Week is May 3-12.

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 pre-orders are now open. Form is available on Facebook to order. Cut off date is March 8.

Training at International Park will be happening on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm for men and Wednesdays at 6:00 pm for women. New to town? Come down to training and have a run.

Juniors

The Juniors season finally got underway last Saturday for pre-season 1. The kids all seemed super keen to finally get into it! Great to see so many new faces joining the club also! There will be a second lot of pre-season games this Saturday, the schedule will be sent out this week. The season proper will then commence the week after, pending no more rain outs!

The fields were marked out Friday morning and finished off Sunday morning. A big thanks to all of those who helped out with this. We are in need of help in the canteen for this Saturday, if you can lend a hand that would be much appreciated. Keep an eye out for details regarding the Working Bee and coach’s clinic which were also cancelled on the weekend.

Monday Night Masters had quite a good turn out after two weeks off because of the weather. In a very close game Bhutan beat Montserrat in a replay of “The Other Final”. Eugene Burelli scored two goals and the Player of the Night was Sian Reardon who was not averse to getting stuck in. Remember everybody is welcome, new and old players, including the very old. Usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park.

Brandon Bowls BOWLS

Wednesday February 28 Results For Ladies

This week, the eight ladies got on the green for a bowl with winners of the day Joy Woods, Darelle Pearce, Kaye Garner and Lyn Storrie coming home with the chocolates. Don’t forget names in by 1:00pm for a 1:30pm start each week.

Friday March 1 Trophy Night

Under very hot and humid conditions, two Championship games were played.

Proudly sponsored by Peto Marine Home Hill.

It has taken three weeks due to poor weather but finally 54 bowlers enjoyed a warm and entertaining evening.

Winners of the night Rhonda Martin, Lyn Storrie, Norm Storrie and Joe Ypinazor.

Second place was Sandra Darween, Henry Hazel, Margaret Chapman and Gary Pearce.

Third place Margaret McLaughlin, Ross McLaughlin and David Harding.

All who attended had a great evening to finish off with once again a great smoko and many thanks to the ladies in the kitchen for your preparation.

Sunday March 3

First game was B grade pairs Glen Woodford and Tony Battglia defeating Neville Dickinson.

And in the other match was A grade singles Lloyd Shepherd defeating Allan Garioch.

Social March 3

Three games of triples were played and the winners were:

Con Sexton, Trevor Elton and Richie Mau

Lyn Storrie, Peter Jorgenson and Hugh Montgomery

Norm Storrie, Ray Paneccasio and Joe Ypinazar

Jackpot was drawn until we got a winner with Lloyd Shepherd and Lenny Feney.

Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd

Wednesday night’s barefoot bowls winners were Nev, Carol and Wayne

The winners of Thursday were Alex and Trevor.

Photos supplied: Stephen Doig

Heaviest mangrove jack winner Jack Malas with Troy Patti

Heaviest senior catfish winner Tiffany Jones with Troy Patti

Burdekin Teams Compete At Bowen 10s

RUGBY LEAGUE

Two Rockhampton based teams have taken the trophies and cash south at the completion of another Whitsunday Civil Bowen Summer Tens carnival last Saturday.

Played at Denison Park in Bowen on two fields, the Annual Carnival attracted 14 mens and six ladies teams.

Matches were played over two ten-minute halves with each team playing three games in their pool.

Semi-finals and finals were played to find the winners of the cash and trophies.

The teams from Rockhampton, Darlz Warriors, proved to be too strong winning both the Tincome mens competition and the Abbot Point Operations ladies competition.

Darlz Warriors had to fight hard to beat Burdekin team Runamucks ten in their semi-final for the right to play Chargers in the final.

Chargers, a team of mates from Bowen, Burdekin and Townsville reached the final by beating Mackay Rugby League team Moranbah Miners in their semi-final.

The Rocky boys handled the final a little better than the combined team running out narrow winners over the Chargers team with players Ethan Hagarty and Riley Horan members.

Darlz Warriors supporters were outnumbered in the cheering department in the ladies final when they met hometown heroes Boonti Busters.

Like the men, though, the Rocky girls were a little too fitter.

Carnival organisers said all ran well with Kids Connecting Parents and the Bowen Seagulls Junior Rugby League collecting some much needed funds.

Three Burdekin mens teams took part ... defending Mens champions Fiji Time with Runamucks and Runamuck 10.

Runamuck also fielded a ladies team.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

Roosters Prepare For Pre Season Trial

The Burdekin Roosters will have their first hit out of the season when they host the Mackay Magpies at Rugby Park this Saturday.

Two grades will be played: A grade and Reserve grade with the reserves scheduled to start at 3:30pm.

The two clubs play a trial match each year on a rotating basis.

The Roosters will be out to silence the birds from Mackay after they were the victors last year.

Rooster coach Daniel Beazley said his team could be a little underdone after recent rain had severely curtailed training.

“I expect they would be in the same boat as well,” Beazley said.

The coach said he wanted to have a look at a couple of players in different positions and that is what trials are all about.

It is not expected the two players each allocated from the Cowboys and Blackhawks will be playing.

“We have a keen bunch of boys and I expect them to give a good account of themselves,” Beazley said.

The coach added he particularly wanted to see three players in action.

RUGBY LEAGUE

hooker and I expect him to add a touch of class out there,” he said.

Beazley went on to say that he was glad to see Nemia Nawave at training and going hard.

He added, “Nemia will start on the wing where he is very quick but I have been told he played at hooker in Fiji so I will give him a go there to see what he offers in the middle.”

“Tate Brombal has been putting in the hard yards at training and is welcome back home after a year away playing in the Toowoomba League.

“Riley Horan is another I want to see after having a year off with former Queensland schoolboy representative Terry Connors who could be the X Factor as he appears quick.”

Reserves coach Chris Perry has named a squad with plenty of youth on one hand plus experience on another.

Former Marlins representative Mitchell Guy says he has finished playing A Grade but still wants to put the boots on and help out Chris and his reggies.

His experience will be invaluable to the coach who will have a number of last years under 19 players making the step up. The canteen will be open with the bar and doubles sold on the gate.

Contributed by Brian Carnes

“Adam Stephens appears to be a very good player, very professional and athletic and as he is only new, I want to see him on the field while Rhett Williams will play at

Two Rockhampton based teams took out the Whitsunday Civil Bowen Summer Tens carnival last Saturday. Photo supplied

Junior Cricket Recap

CRICKET

The blue skies late last week dried out the grounds and pitches enough at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex for the Junior Cricket and Challenger Blasters’ games to go ahead. The slow outfield in the Junior Cricket “Hardball” game meant only one four was scored in the whole match. Xavier Cross was quite proud of this shot as it was his first ever four scored in a game. Marshall Parker was top scorer with 17 runs followed by Mark Wilkie on 12. The weeks of net sessions and batting drills are starting to show in the nice shots that some of the batters are now playing. It is good to know that the coaching is working and that they are putting what they are being shown into practice in the games to score runs.

If it was hard to score runs, then it was even harder to take wickets as only five fell for the entire game over both innings. William Chandler came out on top with the ball getting 2 for 15. Oliver Calliga-

ro and Jacques Gardner snared one each, and Marshall Parker combined with Oscar Mahoney to affect a run out. ‘Players of the Week Award’ winners for this game were Harrison Smyth and Spyridonas Spyrou. No stats were available for the Challenger Blaster game, but Kyle Wilkie was the top scorer, and the award winners were Levi Trail and Morgan Burrell.

Ayr Junior Golf

After two weeks of rain and cancelled coaching sessions, the sun finally came out to let our Juniors out on the golf course this Saturday morning. Many thanks to Darryl for coming down to coach our young golfers, with everyone’s swing being recorded for analysis and future work. Darryl will be down again in a forthright and then monthly, working on different aspects of the game each time.

GOLF

Home Hill Golf Club Opening Day GOLF

6

4 players fronted up on Sunday March 3 for the Honeycombes sponsored Opening Day.

The format was a 2 person Ambrose played only over 16 holes as 6/15 was deemed still too wet for the motorised buggies.

Instead, 6/15 tee to 7/16 green converted to a par 3 was used.

It was a great day with almost perfect weather.

Nearest the pin shots were on 4/13 A grade was won by Craig and Sibbo; B grade by The Carretts.

7/16 A grade won by Pep and Turtle; B

grade by Beth and Catherine.

9/18 A grade won by Owen and Judy; B grade by the Carretts.

The A Grade winners with a handicap of .25 shooting a 54 off the stick were Craig and Sibbo.

2nd place went to Murray and Tim and 3rd place was taken out by Nipper and Cam.

B Grade 1st place was the McCubbens, 2nd place the Smalls with 3rd place going to Eric and Michelle.

Thanks to Bud from Honeycombes for sponsoring the day.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

This Saturday we will be holding the February Monthly Medal, with a 3, 6 and 9 hole competition being held, with the Nett winner in each group receiving a monthly medal. Please follow the Junior Golf Ayr Facebook page for more details.

Contributed by Laura Mahoney

Ayr Junior

Golf returned on Saturday morning.

Photo supplied

Levi Trail and Morgan Burrell

Harrison Smyth and Spyridonas Spyrou. Photos supplied

Sunday’s winners. Photos supplied: Stephen Doig

Boars And Barras Take Over Clare

Last weekend saw the successful return of the Burdekin Boars & Barras Competition, hosted by the Clare State School P&C, with hundreds of people showing up for the weigh in on Sunday, March 3.

There was something for everyone at the event including facepainting, kids’ corner run by Lillies Cubby House, a bar, delicious food, and live music by Tammy Moxon.

The Crab races and auction kept everyone entertained with a total of $1100 prize money up for grabs for the winner, while the Yeti toss proved to be very popular with lots of kids lining up for their chance to win a Yeti Water bottle.

“A massive thank you to all of the event sponsors,” said Emma Bethel of the Clare State School P&C.

“Without their generous support this event would not have been possible.

“The Clare State School P&C are very grateful to everyone who supported this event.”

Heaviest Junior Barra Winner Josh Patterson (left) and Heaviest Boar Winner Shane Cavanagh (right). Photos supplied