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Hi readers

Sit Down With Sam

I’ve returned from a wonderful weekend of exploring with mum and dad and have bid adieu to them once again.

After a weekend spent in the Burdekin, that included sunrise up the hill, a night of bowls, and a couple of beers with the neighbours, the three of us headed west, spending our first night on the road in Ravenswood.

Although I don’t have any ghost stories to share, the town had a historical eeriness which I loved.

The remaining buildings were just beautiful to look at and I was fascinated by what was left of the town.

The next day we went on to Charters Towers after a quick drive out to Burdekin Falls Dam.

Lunch at the Stock Exchange Arcade was a must do, as was perusing the Arcade’s bookstore.

We went for a wander downtown, taking plenty of photos of the beautiful old buildings. We also explored the history at the Zara Clark Museum and admired the birdlife at Burdekin Weir before taking in

the vastness of the area from Towers Hill.

These were all areas I’d never been before, so I was glad to have been able to make the trip while mum and dad were up.

While at bowls last week, Trevor offered to take a photo of us “for the paper,” so I thought I’d include it here.

With the long weekend approaching, I’m taking the opportunity to do some more exploring, so I’ll report back here next week with tales of my next adventure.

I hope you all have a great weekend and enjoy the read!

QUEENSLAND PRIDE ON DISPLAY

DALE LAST PRESENTS BRANDON STATE SCHOOL WITH NEW FLAGS

The Burdekin likes to fly its flags proudly, but the north Queensland sunshine can certainly take its toll.

That’s where Member for Burdekin Dale Last came in, providing a new set of flags for Brandon State School earlier in the month.

Mr Last presented students and staff with the flags on Monday, March 11.

“Like all schools throughout the electorate, the Brandon State School takes great pride in flying their flags,” he said.

“Thanks to the North Queensland weather, the school’s flags were looking a bit worse for wear but, yesterday, I delivered a full set of new flags.

“The principal and students are looking forward to hosting

them up the flagpoles so everyone can see how proud they are to be Queenslanders and Australians.”

Most organisations and not-for-profit community groups are eligible for a free Queensland flag and as Member for Burdekin, Mr Last would be honoured to present the flag at your meeting or event where possible.

Those eligible include schools, tertiary institutions, Scouts, youth organisations, service associations such as Rotary and Lions, welfare and ethnic organisations, sporting clubs, historical societies, museums, show societies and local fire brigades etc.

To find out more, visit www. dalelast.com.au/howdalecanhelp.

Member for Burdekin presented students and staff of Brandon State School with a new set of flags earlier this month. Photo supplied

Alva Fisher Receives State Recognition

Alva fisher Sienna Green has been awarded the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards after being nominated for making “a positive difference to the seafood industry.”

26-year-old Sienna is a third-generation fisher who has been operating her own fishing business for the last six years.

When the State and Federal Governments announced a ban on the use of gillnets on the Great Barrier Reef in June last year, Sienna and her father Neil embarked on a nine-month battle for the rights of their industry.

“We’ve obviously had a massive nine months following everything with the gillnet ban, so I was just over the moon to be awarded,” Sienna said.

“I was up against some strong competition, so to come out on top, especially representing wild caught, was just awesome.”

Being a third-generation fisher, Sienna grew up helping on the boats with her dad, Neil, and her mum Leanne.

“I’ve been on the water all my life,” she said.

“It’s something I never thought I could or wanted to do, being a professional fisher,

but after school, nothing really stood out to me.”

Sienna took a gap year to work with her parents, taking on more responsibility and growing her skills and experience.

“I thought I might just give it a go myself and see how I go and there was a massive difference from being in the deckhand’s seat to being in the skipper’s seat and I absolutely loved it,” she said.

“I’ve been operating my own fishing business for just over six years, and I haven’t looked back.”

Driven by the needs of the seafood consumer, Sienna is passionate about providing fresh, wild caught seafood, and appreciates the unique nature of the line of work she’s chosen to pursue.

“They’re the ones who rely on us to catch their share of the resource out there, and being a third-generation professional fisher, that’s in my blood,” she said.

“You’re working in the most beautiful environment out there on the water.

“Every day is different, there’s never a roster or a routine, and you’re always learning, and that’s the part that keeps me keen and excited.”

Travelling to Brisbane for the gala dinner

on Friday, March 15, Sienna used the opportunity to represent the wild caught inshore net fishery she is a part of.

“We had Fisheries Queensland and some managers in the room as well as the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Mark Furner, so I was very honoured to receive the award having them in the room,” she said.

“I wouldn’t have been able to get as far as what I have without our local community’s support.

“The local traditional owners and the council, politicians, we wouldn’t be where we are without them, so we’re very grateful for all of that support that we’ve received over the past nine months.

“I hope by winning the award, I have done our inshore net fishery proud, and that with an award of this significance, I hope it can showcase our industry.”

Sienna and Neil are currently in Canberra where they prepared barramundi on the doorstep of Parliament House, hoping to showcase what will be taken away should gillnet fishing be banned in 2027.

Alva fisher Sienna Green was awarded the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards. Photo supplied

Government’s “Unforgiveable Broken Promise” Energy Prices On The Rise

The Australian Government has found itself in quite a pickle after breaking its election promise to reduce overall household energy bills by $275. The draft of regulated electricity prices was released on March 20 after the national energy regulator pledged to intensify efforts in safeguarding consumers.

Dale Last, Member for Burdekin, remained reluctant about the proposal, raising major concerns that it wouldn’t be enough to ensure regional customers can afford to keep the lights on in their homes.

Upon the release of the Australian Energy Regulator’s draft decision, it appears that Queenslanders who are unable to seek alternative suppliers will face a $53 hike in the coming months.

Mr Last said the draft decision was another kick in the guts for regional customers at the mercy of a monopoly energy market.

“The fact that a report by Energy

Queensland found more than 50 per cent of customers were concerned they would not be able to pay their upcoming power bill should be ringing alarm bells not only with regulators but the Minister,” Mr Last said.

“For years we’ve seen promises of rebates and cheaper electricity only to find when the bill arrives that those rebates, concessions and promises are sucked up by the soaring prices we are left to pay.”

“The draft Default Market Offer has confirmed that the Government has fallen short by up to $1,027 of its promised price reduction for everyday households, equivalent to a 37% increase.”

As a sign of the suffering faced by everyday Australian households, startling new numbers from the AER have also revealed 116,753 people have been placed into hardship due to their skyrocketing energy bills and 192,459 people are now in energy

debt.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the skyrocketing price of energy was consigning local people to energy poverty.

“Labor was elected on a promise that it would reduce household electricity bills by $275 but instead Australians are now paying among the most expensive bills in the world,” Mr Willcox said.

“This is simply unaffordable for residents in my community who are already suffering.”

The Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien said Labor’s broken promise on energy prices was “unforgiveable”.

“The Australian people deserve nothing less than a complete and unreserved apology from Prime Minister Albanese for making households and businesses pay for his failures,” he said.

Prior to its election, the Australian Labor Party promised to create jobs, cut power bills and reduce emissions by boosting renewable energy.

“This plan will bring cheaper renewable energy to Australian homes and businesses,” said the Australian Labor Party statement.

“It will cut power bills for families and businesses by $275 a year for homes by 2025, compared to today.”

The draft DMO, released by the Australian Energy Regulator, sets the ‘reference price’ for electricity bills for the 2024-2025 period and will now be consulted on before the final determination is made in coming months.

The final 2023-24 DMO recorded increase in the overall cost of electricity, throwing into the question the likelihood of any substantial changes before the final determination for the 2024-25 DMO is made.

“I’m There To Listen”

Dalle Cort Declared Mayor

When Pierina Dalle Cort made the announcement that she had been declared the next mayor of the Burdekin Shire Council, she said it was an “absolute privilege”.

“I will hold this position with the utmost respect and strive to achieve the best for our beautiful Burdekin,” she said.

“A very big thank you to the voters of the Burdekin Electorate, it’s your belief and desire for change that has made this possible.

“Thank you to my friends, work colleagues, family and my wonderful partner Trevor for standing by me throughout everything.”

Ms Dalle Cort said she can’t wait to get into the chambers and work with the new team of councillors, including Amanda Hall, Delfine Vasta, Callan Oar, Michael Detenon, Max Musumeci and John Furnell, and Council staff.

“Communication is a key word,” she said.

“We need to work together to go through some of the problems that have been facing our community for some time and what’s been holding up our process,” she said.

“I’m there to listen.

“Me and the team have been selected by the Burdekin and we want to hear your message and want to listen to you.”

Ms Dalle Cort, who owns travel agency Helloworld Travel Ayr, served 12 years on the Burdekin Shire Council up until 2016 and unsuccessfully ran for mayor in 2020.

“I’ve always been interested in council, I’ve been in business for 42 years, been the president of the Chamber of Commerce, I’ve always been involved,” she said.

“I went in last election for mayor, but Covid came in and the second week, we couldn’t hand out ‘how to vote’ cards which changed the demographics of my possibility at that time, and there was a third person.

“I’ve got a very supportive partner who said he’ll support me through this, so I needed to do it, and if I didn’t do it, I

would’ve lived with regrets, and they always say don’t live with regrets.”

Ms Dalle Cort said she represents change for the Burdekin and hopes to address issues of population, rates, and encourage more investment and business in the community.

“My message throughout this campaign has been ‘let’s do something about it’,” she said.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me the opportunity to do everything possible to lead the Burdekin to its

full potential.

“Let’s do this.”

The new Burdekin Shire Council is expected to be sworn in in coming weeks.

Three former councillors, Sue Perry, John Bonnano and Kaylee Boccalatte, have all ended their tenure on the Burdekin Shire Council after choosing not to run for re-election in 2024.

Ms Perry and Mr Bonnano both served for two consecutive terms and Ms Boccalatte for one.

Pierina Dalle Cort has been declared the next mayor of the Burdekin Shire Council

THREE DECADES OF LEADERSHIP

One of the Burdekin’s longest serving members of Local Government is walking the halls of the Burdekin Shire Council chambers for the last time this week, having been first elected over 30 years ago.

Lyn McLaughlin has risen from local Councillor to Mayor of the region during this time and despite being unsuccessful in her bid for another term in the hot seat, she said she is harnessing the optimism and integrity she is known for, taking the new life direction in her stride.

No stranger to local government, Ms McLaughlin’s father Robert Rossi served as Councillor and Deputy Chairman of the Mulgrave Shire in Far North Queensland for 23 years, something that inspired his daughter to follow in a similar direction.

“In 1976 I first moved to the Burdekin as a teacher at Home Hill State Primary School – and my love for our region has grown every day since then,” Ms McLaughlin said.

“18 years after moving here I was first elected Councillor, as I wanted to turn my passion into action and serve the community that I loved.

“Since then, I have been incredibly privileged to serve as both Councillor and Mayor for 22 years.”

Ms McLaughlin said she is proud of all the positive change she has driven within the

region during her tenure and would like to thank all the elected representatives she has been fortunate to work with over this time.

“It is with much sadness that I walk the halls of Burdekin Shire Council for the final time: I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with a dedicated and enthusiastic team of both indoor and outdoor staff over the past three decades,” she said.

“I wish the incoming Council and new Mayor success in supporting our community and continuing to progress the Burdekin Shire.”

Ms McLaughlin is looking forward to more time with family and friends and supporting local organisations, including Burdekin Netball Association and Lower Burdekin Landcare.

“Our son will return home from working for the Australian Antarctica Division at Macquarie Island this May, so my husband Matt and I are looking forward to spending time with him,” she said.

“I’ve always enjoyed my

time outdoors, whether it’s on the sidelines of the netball court or in the garden, and I am looking forward to having more time pursuing these passions and volunteering where I can.

“We have recently seen the formation of the Burdekin Catholic Parish – the coming together of the former parishes in Home Hill, Giru, Clare and Ayr – and I look forward to being an active member of their

community.

“You will see me across the Shire regularly supporting local events and community organisations, so please don’t be a stranger.

“As I start a new chapter in my life, I want to thank all Burdekin residents for their faith in me: serving you over the past three decades has been the greatest honour, and I will never forget it.”

Lyn McLaughlin will step down as Burdekin Regional Council Mayor this week. Photo credit: Marni Hine

Lyn McLaughlin during her first term as Mayor. Photo supplied

North Queensland's Future Flows BOWEN PIPELINE PROJECT INCHES CLOSER TO APPROVAL

The approval of an underground pipeline corridor connecting Bowen with the Burdekin River is now in the final stages of Federal and State Government assessment and support, as pre-construction activities for the Bowen Pipeline Project continue to advance.

Developed by the Bowen Pipeline Company (BPC), the community led and funded Project is a 182 km underground water pipeline commencing 16km upstream from Home Hill and moving south through to Gumlu, Guthalungra, and on to Bowen.

The development of a secure, high quality and cost-effective water resource, such as the Bowen Pipeline Project, is vital in unlocking the economic potential of these regions.

The project will allow the creation of a reliable, secure water supply to an area that produces one fifth of Australia's vegetables and is Australia’s largest winter vegetable growing area, currently growing some $650 million of fruit and vegetables each year (over 250 million kg).

The Bowen Pipeline Project is a community led and funded project with over 40 grower, individuals and industry investors who have to date invested some $2.5 million.

“We particularly value the commentary of local stakeholders including growers who have noted the need for increased reliable, quality water; First Nations Peoples such as the Bindal and the Juru; transport, logistics and manufacturing entities; and experienced locals who see the merits of innovative technologies developed in Australia being used more in Australia,”

“We are very confident that the Project stacks up economically and environmentally in a sustainable way.

“The company is very proud to be the first project of this kind working towards becoming a Net Zero project in line with the Commonwealth Government’s Climate Change legislation and the State Government carbon reduction goals.

“We continue to have strong bi-partisan support as all sides of government understand how important water is for the economic sustainability and growth in our region, not only for the farming community but for the broader community in general.

“As soon as the funding milestone arrangements are achieved, construction is expected to commence 12 months later, targeting September 2025.”

The Project will provide approximately 200 jobs during construction and up to 1,200 jobs through the growth of existing and future industries when operational.

“As to our employment targets, we are seeking to employ and train as many locals in the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shire as we can,” Mr Brown said.

The $600 million project will generate significant expenditure in North Queensland.

“Townsville, Ayr, Home Hill and Bowen will realise potential opportunities for the supply of materials, consumables and accommodation during the two years of construction, and then into operations,” Mr Brown said.

BPC’s policy will be Locals First, and we will be holding community meetings as

soon as the final hurdles are finalised. Existing available water allocations from the Burdekin Falls Dam will be secured from Sunwater and local water allocation owners.

The pipeline will generally run adjacent to the Bruce Highway, mainly on private land and unformed road reserves.

The pipeline will transport up to 100,000 ML per year with 60,000 ML for horticulture, agriculture and aquaculture.

The pipe has been designed to allow for 40,000 ML to be supplied to the Abbot Point Green Energy Export Hub for the production of green hydrogen, ammonia and fertiliser.

“Pi R squared is amazing,” Mr Brown said.

“The initial design of 60,000 ML required a 1,600 mm pipe diameter but by increasing the pipe diameter by a hand’s width to 1,800 mm, this increased the volume supplied by over 60% to 100,000 ML.

“We have now future proofed the critical water supply to fast track and assist the Green Energy Hub to become a reality for the national and multinational companies looking to develop supply for the fast-growing Asian markets.”

To help to minimise the pipeline’s carbon footprint, the Project will use world class Australian technology for the onsite extrusion of the High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe in 100+ metre lengths, generating a reduction of some 5,000 B double truck movements, and reductions of over 5 million kilometres of road transport.

The longer lengths of HDPE pipe also result in 90% less welding (i.e. potential failure points) compared to steel or concrete

piping, creating construction and cost efficiencies.

BPC has consulted with local horticultural and aquaculture producers as well as future green energy companies which fits in with our mandate to achieve our goal of making the project Net Zero.

All groups agree that with additional water they would materially increase production to service emerging local and rapidly growing offshore markets.

Existing cleared Class A & B Good Quality Agricultural land used for cattle grazing could be converted to high value irrigated land, increasing employment.

No flood irrigation will be permitted.

All 15 of the major and high value rivers and creeks will be underbored to ensure the riparian zones and cultural areas are protected.

As the core value of this community led project, BPC is committed to promoting a vibrant economy whilst also maintaining a strong commitment to the local environment.

Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association President Carl Walker, Juru Elder and Chair Trevor Prior, Minister for Water Glenn Butcher, and BPC Director Sean Brown

The Bowen Pipeline Project will run from Kirknie, near Home Hill to Merinda Pump Station, near Bowen

HOME HILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GETS EDUCATED ON CHAPLAINCY

Home Hill Chamber of Commerce held its second Social and Networking Event last Wednesday, March 21, inviting Scripture Union School Chaplain John Mackay to address the business community.

John has 17 years of experience as a school chaplain and currently works at both East Ayr State School and Clare State School.

He said the biggest role of the school chaplain is to care for the students within the schools.

“More than that, we also care for the staff and the families there too, so we’re trying to make the schools a good place for the kids to come,” he said.

John’s role is varied and involves sitting in on classes, assisting students with their work, and playing educational games with them, but one of the most significant initiatives he’s implemented at both schools is ‘breaky club’, offering students fruit, toast and cereal before school.

“Lots of kids end up not being fed properly before they come to school and if the tummy’s not happy then the kids can get restless, so the kids love it,” he said.

John is one of six chaplains who work across nine schools in the Burdekin, and he said he was pleased to be invited to speak to the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce members to share the work of the chaplaincy.

“It’s good to find out the things that are happening in the community and I’d like the business community people to know about chaplaincy because it’s their kids, their grandkids, who we’re trying

to love,” he said.

Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Secretary Robert Antoniazzi said he invited John to shed light on the work of chaplaincy in the community.

“I know how much he’s done at the schools, and I wanted to share that information with everybody, because he does make a difference to schools and troubled school kids,” Robert said.

Home Hill Chamber of Commerce’s next Social and Networking Event will be held at the Home Hill Community Sports Club on April 17 from 5:30pm, where Tony Goddard of the Ayr Rotary Club has been invited as a guest speaker.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a chaplain, contact Scripture Union District Manager Brooke Sorbello on 0427 291 540.

Meet Checkers

TCheckers is relaxed and looking for a relaxing home. He is super chilled and tolerant, making him perfect if you have children around the house.

Checkers doesn’t just chill in his own world, he is renowned for cuddles and loves attention.

FAST FACTS:

Rehoming fee: $195

DOB: 1/07/2022

Sex: Male

Checkers is desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations and is tick, flea and worm treated.

If you are interested in taking home Checkers, Please fill out an animal inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc. com.au/forms.html.

Breed: DOH

Kid friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Untested

Other cats: Yes

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

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

School Chaplain John Mackay and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Vice President Uli Liessmann

REVVING UP RESILIENCE

Offroad Racing Offers Adrenaline Therapy For Burdekin Veterans

Ian and Justine Baker are two of the Burdekin’s newest residents and when they moved here from Ipswich, they brought with them a rare opportunity for local veterans to experience offroad racing.

Although new to the Burdekin, the Raemus Rover Racing program has been operating in southeast Queensland for over 10 years, a method of adrenaline therapy utilising the highly dynamic genre of racing and combining it with a peer-to-peer counselling and support program.

The program’s origins trace back to 1976 when it first started as a trade training activity using ex-Vietnam war stock out of Puckapunyal, Victoria.

“It was then used as a cross training activity, and they used to compete in the state and national championships,” said Ian.

“It was a good platform at the time to entertain the troops, a lot of them ex-Vietnam, to entertain them while they were basically posted in the middle of nowhere.”

Once the program had served its purpose and the vehicle and team were no longer required, the vehicle went into storage at the Bandiana Army Museum where it re-

mained for 22 years.

“When I was an apprentice at Puckapunyal Workshop, I played with Raemus Rover,” Ian said.

“I’ve gone through a lot of time in service, been deployed multiple times, and the regiment I was in at the time had a permanent, established group rotating through Afghanistan for 11 years straight, and we were starting to really see the effects of continual rotation of deployment and combat.

“My guys needed a distraction, and they came to me and asked about the old Raemus Rover.”

The therapeutic potential of offroad racing became clearer and clearer before Ian, who had been in the Australian Army for

33 years since the age of 15, and Justine, who worked in defence as a public servant for 30 years, built the program into what it is today.

“We found this adrenaline therapy research and that’s the basis of the program,”

Ian said.

“We utilise a genre of motorsport that isn’t widely understood; it is the most dynamic and aggressive form of motorsport that looks like you’re going to die, but you’re not.

Raemus Rover Racing invites veterans to utilise and develop their skills in offroad racing. Photo credit: Alan McIntosh Sports Photography

“It’s extremely safe and it has an enormous amount of suspension.

“At the heightened state of adrenal flow is when people are more likely to open up, accept suggestion and talk about issues, so we purposely put them into a heightened adrenal flow state utilising something that’s sexy to them, race cars, we get them to that point, and we sit down and talk.”

The Raemus Rover Racing program has discharged military counsellors, nurses, trained combat medics, psychologists and padres either on staff or on call, providing a safe and familiar space for other veterans to take part.

“If we weren’t on that tour with you, we know someone who was or we’ve been to the same area and done the same things, so we can automatically build a rapport and we can start to talk about things,” Ian said.

The program involves weekly drop-in sessions, inviting veterans to come in and help work on the vehicles; trackside program days, where veterans and families are able to get in the vehicles and race; as well as racing events, where those looking to further their racing can compete in official offroad racing events.

“It’s all about building that support group that understands and will help them through it, because it’s not going to be a fix, it’s just building up the confidence that they can keep coming back and nobody’s judging them,” said Justine.

“A lot of people, when they leave the military, they don’t realise the transferrable skills they’ve got.”

“We get veterans engaged and valued,” added Ian.

“For a lot of them, the issue is the lack of self-value or self-recognition.

“Once you get out, you don’t know where you fit and you can’t find your tribe.

“By having all of these little avenues of engagement and letting them show what they can do, nine times out of ten, they display how valuable they are within an area that they never would have been exposed to unless they came out.

“I don’t care how broken you are, you can do this.”

The program is sponsored by RSL Queensland and is currently being researched by the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation, which could lead to the program being grown and adapted further afield.

The team are preparing for their first north Queensland program day at the Burdekin Offroaders track in May.

Ian and Justine are seeking interest from local veterans to get involved in weekly drop-in sessions at their Burdekin workshop.

To find out more, message RSL Raemus Rover Off-Road Racing.

The Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology

Library in Ayr. Beginners and experienced writers alike, they dreamed of novels, family histories, memoirs, anthologies and children’s stories. They sought a group of like-minded individuals who would inspire and encourage their creativity. From that meeting, Scratchy Scribblers was formed. Over the next six years, the group changed names and meeting locations multiple times. Members and partnerships came and went, but, throughout it all, the goal of the group stayed the same.

Burdekin Creative Writers is a welcoming space for writers to share their words, find encouragement and advice, enhance their

Because of this group, members have entered short story competitions and been published in anthologies. They have created newsletters, judged writing competitions, and learned to interview notable people in the community. They have written dozens of stories and poems and challenged themselves to write things they never would’ve created on their own.

In 2023, the group published their own anthology, an assortment of stories and poems from the members of Burdekin Creative Writers and Burdekin Night Writers. Burdekin Life is proud to share some of the work from this anthology.

he Burdekin’s a river and it’s known throughout the State ‘The Mighty Burdekin’ they say (in flood, at any rate);

If it is in a placid mood, the fishing’s rather good, But as in everything I guess, not all goes as it should:There’s awesome power and wonder when you hear the

In flood time as its torrent with its banks would seem at

The water frothy, yellow, and with debris riding fast Tears madly to the ocean till its level drops at last.

From two farms off you hear it at its height in times of

And if it leaves the riverbed, it spreads abroad its mud. When times are dry the river drops, sometimes below its

Or lies in weedy, murky pools one can’t describe as grand, Yet water from the Burdekin brings life to sugar cane And other crops depend on it through irrigation drain. The riverbed has miles of sand – it’s coarse but there’s a

A paradise for children at each favoured picnic spot.

The Burdekin’s a river with its water, sand and mud.

It’s useful yet there’s damage that it causes when in flood.

The lifeblood of our delta as its waters irrigate

The crops the farmers plant each year, the early and the late.

I’ve always known our river for I’ve lived here all my life, Saw cane trucks pulled by horses and the cane cut by a knife.

I’ve picnicked in our riverbed, gone swimming to get cool, Seen boats cross flooding waters and caught fish where there’s a pool.

I saw the cattle wagons lying strewn along its bed –They’d left the bridge as water rose, became a thing of dread

The truck with bricks though, didn’t roll, just dropped off straight and sank.

The engine of that railway train was safe upon the bank

I’ve sat above its waters flowing underneath my house.

Seen croc’s slide in the water when out boating with my spouse,

Camped on its banks near Sellheim and run races on the sand,

Walked over on the rail-bridge once, before the new bridge spanned

And almost tamed our river – well, enabling us to go

From one side to the other with the water high below.

The Burdekin’s my river and I like to tell my friends

That I am from the Burdekin – I like her curves and bends,

The shadetrees on the riverbanks or in the riverbed,

The water clear or full of silt and almost thick instead.

The Burdekin’s my river though she goes through many moods,

Yet has so many uses as her waters grow our foods.

The Burdekin’s a river sometimes full yet often dry

Her tributaries help her flood or also empty lie.

Belyando water’s very slow in flowing on its way, The Bowen’s faster, Bogie too, can fill it in a day.

Campaspe, Suttor, Clark and Cape, the Fanning and the Star,

The Broken River waters too – they come from near and far.

They join the mighty Burdekin, when they’ve been filled by rain

It is a giant watershed that all these rivers drain.

Between twin towns Home Hill and Ayr, the river makes its way,

On through the delta to the sea to end in Upstart Bay. The Burdekin’s a river, that’s deceptive when there’s drought

But there’s might and roaring power when a cyclone’s been about

To find out more about the Burdekin Creative Writers, contact George Venables 0407 105 950.

Writers From the Burdekin Creative Writers and Night Writers Groups will read a selection of their pieces from the Anthology at the Ayr branch of the Burdekin Library on Wednesday, April 10 from 9:30am and the Home Hill branch of the Burdekin Library on Wednesday, June 12 from 10:30am.

Coral Bleaching Confirmed On Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is amidst its fifth widespread coral bleaching event in just eight years, aerial surveys have revealed.

The surveys, conducted by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), observed over 300 reefs between Cape Melville north of Cooktown to just north of Bundaberg and confirmed the event.

Reef Authority Chief Scientist Dr Roger Beeden said the results of these surveys are consistent with the patterns of heat stress that have built up over summer.

“The results are consistent with what we have seen with above average sea surface temperatures across the Marine Park for an extended period of time,” Dr Beeden said.

“Aerial surveys of the Reef have revealed prevalent shallow water coral bleaching on most surveyed reefs.

“It is important to note, that the heat stress has not been even across the Reef, and the coral bleaching observed is variable.

“Monitoring the health of the Reef is a year-round effort for the Reef Authority, and it’s critical for us to understand what is happening on the Reef so we can target

our management actions to protect the Reef and strengthen its resilience.

“Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef, and coral reefs globally.”

AIMS Senior Research Scientist Dr Neal Cantin said that the aerial surveys provide a visual indication of the extent of bleaching.

However, assessing the severity to coral colonies requires in-water surveys.

“Aerial surveys are a crucial tool for a reef ecosystem as large as the Great Barrier Reef and show that this coral bleaching event is widespread, or what is commonly called a mass coral bleaching event,” Dr Cantin said.

“We now need to combine the spatial coverage captured from the air with in-water surveys to assess the severity of coral bleaching in deeper reef habitats across the different regions of the Marine Park.

“We will continue to conduct in-water observations with our research teams and management partners.”

The Reef Authority will continue to work closely with research and other science partners, Traditional Owners, and the tourism industry to monitor conditions on the Reef.

Celebrate Easter and School Holidays in THE Burdekin

THE

WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT, DARWIN STREET, AYR

Only a Few Days Left the Burdekin’s Bingo

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

As Easter and the school holidays approach, the Burdekin gears up for a festive and fun-filled break with something to do for all ages.

Embark on a journey of learning and exploration with the Burdekin Library School Holiday Program. Packed with workshops, gaming sessions and creative activities, it’s the perfect opportunity for kids to unleash their imagination with plenty to keep young minds entertained.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said if are looking for action-packed adventure to finish school holidays, residents and visitors invited to join in the Think Outside Bingo Competition.

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.

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.

With the weather starting to cool down, it’s also the ideal time to ex plore the picturesque nature trails scattered throughout the Burdekin.

“The Think Outside Bingo Competition is a fantastic way to explore the wonders the Burdekin, think outside and play for a chance to win one of $50 Burdekin Cards,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“The Bingo Adventure offers a fantastic opportunity dive into the

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

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

Barratta Road

Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and abundant wildlife.

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

With our pristine beaches and waterways, the Burdekin offers endless opportunities for water-based fun. Whether you’re into swimming, fishing, or kayaking, you’ll find plenty of ways to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Escape the heat by visiting our local pools and water park, you can find the Easter opening hours below.

Here’s how to play:

• 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.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said if you are looking for action-packed adventure to finish the school holidays, residents and visitors are invited to join in the Think Outside Bingo Competition.

• Upload your line of photos and completed bingo

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

Burdekin has to offer, there’s no shortage of excitement this Easter break.

Burdekin Shire Council would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter filled with joy and blessings. Stay safe and take care during this festive season.

For more information on what you can see and do in the Burdekin visit, visitburdekin.com.au or find the Burdekin Libraries School Holiday Program on the Burdekin Library

Replacement of the existing water main servicing Darwin Street is the first of three projects that will see the replacement of the existing water infrastructure. Water mains in Little Crescent and Victoria Street in Parkside will also be replaced by June 2024. The water main replacement program aligns with commitments enshrined in Council’s Customer Service Standards which are available to be viewed on Council’s Website.

22/32 - Technical Officer

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.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

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.

of $880,000 the complete a 740-metre Road from junction. The is currently onsite and will and levelling weeks before the 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 Council.

Home Hill Furniture Upgrades

Asset condition inspections have identified two drainage culverts on Comiskey Road for replacement under the annual culvert replacement program. Works commenced onsite on Tuesday 12 March under a full road closure. Weather permitting these works will take approximately three weeks to complete.

UPGRADES

The CBD fountain at the Queen Street roundabout will undergo a refurbishment to refresh the area and incorporate some new finishes. The surrounding pavers and kerbs will be removed and replaced with coloured concrete to rejuvenate the local landmark.

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

ANNUAL RESEAL PROGRAM

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

Ayr Industrial Estate Expansion

Here’s how to play:

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

“The Think Outside Bingo Competition is a fantastic way to explore the wonders 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.

Kickoff the Conversation COMMUNITY WELLBEING EVENT

Kickoff the Conversation, a Community Wellbeing Event dedicated to empowering mental health and resilience will be held on Saturday 28 October 2023 at the Burdekin Memorial Hall, from 6:30pm.

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.

BURDEKIN BE-ACTIVE TRAIL, ALVA

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

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.

INVITATION FOR TENDERS

“The Bingo Adventure offers a fantastic opportunity 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.

Expansion Estate expansion completed its phase. Sand Macro Algae commenced In the 2023/24 budget, the Council million to cover construction, infrastructure, and water installations.

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

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

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

“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 card to or using the #visitburdekin tag @visitburdekin.

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

BURDEKIN SHIRE COUNCIL

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

22/32 – Technical Officer – Civil Design

Council is seeking applications

involved in meeting the design

23/54 Executive Assistant - Temporary

Council is seeking applications to fill the

Image: Mick Cane Cutter Burdekin Adventure.

You Matter

This week, we wanted to share with you something that comes up a lot at the Neighbourhood Centre. We often hear people say – “not that my opinion matters”, “I don’t have anything to offer”, “I am just… xyz”.

One of our core values at the Centre is that EVERYONE has something to offer, EVERYONE has had life experiences that can help others, NO ONE is JUST anything…. You are You – and YOU MATTER.

People often get caught up in the expectations and opinions of others, leaving little space for self-discovery and self-acceptance.

If you are struggling to recognise your selfworth here are some things to think about:

• Appreciate your unique talents, skills, and experiences. Don’t compare yourself to others. Celebrate your achievements,

no matter how small.

• Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself like you would treat a good friend. Accept your flaws and be gentle with yourself. Try not to be too hard on yourself. You deserve kindness and respect, especially from yourself.

• Set boundaries in your relationships with others. This means knowing when to say “no” and making your own well-being a priority. It’s okay to communicate clearly and assertively with others about your boundaries, even if it might feel uncomfortable at first. By doing this, you’ll be taking an important step towards building healthy relationships with yourself and others.

• Take care of yourself. It helps you to feel good and value yourself. You can do this in different ways, like getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising,

DDid you know that the Burdekin Shire Council has an Arts and Cultural Strategy 2021-2030 to support the vitality and diversity of arts and culture in the region?

The Arts and Cultural Strategy 20212030 strategy is based on contemporary cultural planning principles and is informed by evidence and community values. It aims to promote a cultural vitality that will enrich the liveability and appeal of the Burdekin Shire and is designed to integrate with other Council planning mechanisms and be consistent with overarching community values.  The strategy consists of five strategic themes: Creative Communities, Cultural Vitality, Animated Places and Spac-

PINGI

es, Connectivity and Sustainability and Heritage, Identity and Sense of Place. It outlines a series of actions, outcomes and indicators for each theme, as well as a monitoring and evaluation framework. This plan is for the whole community. It embraces the diversity of the region irrespective of geography, age, ability, gender and cultural or social-economic background. It respects the past, acknowledges the present and looks to the future.

The strategy is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund, a Queensland Government and Burdekin Shire Council partnership to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland. You can view the strategy online by visiting Burdekin Shire Council’s website burdekin. qld.gov.au.

PINGI

practising mindfulness or meditation, or seeking professional help when needed. By taking care of yourself, you are telling yourself that you are important and you’re worth the effort.

• Positive people around us can greatly impact our self-esteem. It’s so important to surround ourselves with supportive individuals who uplift us. This means letting go of toxic relationships and finding like-minded people who share similar values. Creating a positive environment

promotes personal growth and well-being.

It inspires us every day to see Burdekin community members recognise their selfworth and then go on to help others do the same. Working together and creating opportunities that we all can benefit from helps our community grow.

Wishing you all a great week!

The Team

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

EVENTGUIDE

FRIDAY 5 APRIL

Shane Muspratt Cup

Friday, from 9am

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

Junior Rugby League Club, Wickham Street Ayr

WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL

Anthology Showcase

Wednesday, 9:30am

Writers from the “Burdekin Creative Writers” and “Night Writers” groups will read a selection of their pieces from the Anthology.

Ayr Branch of Burdekin Library

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

SATURDAY 27 APRIL

Burdekin Rags to Runway

Saturday, from 7pm

The Burdekin Rags to Runway, hosted annually by the Burdekin Artisans Community Association, showcases recycled clothing and accessories. The competition calls for entrants to exhibit their creativity by transforming used clothing into fashionable runway pieces in five categories: junior, racewear budget challenge, budget challenge, open section, and accessory section.

Greek Hall, Home Hill

SUNDAY 28 APRIL

Burdekin Sugar Rush

• Sunday, from 6:30am 21km

• 7:15am 10km

• 7:30am 5km, Seniors and Juniors

U16

The Burdekin Sugar Rush is the signature running event for the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club. The event not only showcases the spectacular

features of the Burdekin Shire, but also celebrates the role that fun and fitness has in the community. The event attracts running enthusiasts from around the region (including Townsville, Cairns, Charters Towers, Whitsundays and Mackay) and also has a key focus of attracting first time competitors through the provision of a half marathon (21 kilometres), five and ten kilometre fun run, team challenge and kids fun run.

Ayr

SATURDAY 4 MAY

Foyer Sessions with Emma Donovan

Saturday, from 7.30pm

Join us for our first ever Foyer Session at Burdekin Theatre to showcase the talent and the new work of celebrated, ARIAnominated, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan. This concert with Emma and her band will include her trademark soul/country songs and new music recorded in Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages. Emma proudly is one of the First Nations artists, spearheading efforts to put traditional languages on the music map. She will also share stories, providing her audiences with an understanding of Country and community.

Burdekin Theatre

Burdekin School Celebrated Harmony Day with social games, allowing students to explore different cultures and create pieces

a group mural. Photos supplied: Burdekin School

Burdekin Community Association Inc. Community Services Officer Aimee Cursio and local resident Allan Lee celebrated Harmony Day 2024 with a market stall on Queen Street. Photo supplied: Burdekin Community Association Inc.

Burdekin Christian College marked Harmony Week, the celebration that

WHAT’S ON at the field days!

WHAT’S ON at the field days!

ROTARY NQ FIELD DAYS OFFICIAL OPENING TravEarth

ATTRACTIONS

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors. You could Win a BBQ!

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

WHAT’S ON at the field days!

THURSDAY 4 TH APRIL

FRIDAY, 5 TH APRIL

THURSDAY 4 TH APRIL

ROTARY NQ FIELD DAYS OFFICIAL OPENING

ROTARY NQ FIELD DAYS OFFICIAL OPENING

DEMONSTRATIONS

10.00am | Located at upstairs Café

10.00am | Located at upstairs Café

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

DEMONSTRATIONS

DEMONSTRATIONS

10.30am | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

10.30am | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

10.30am

SPRAYING & SPREADING 10.30am | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 3

BOBCAT

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 1

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 1

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

1.15pm | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING

1.15pm | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

1.15pm

SPRAYING & SPREADING 1.15pm | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Final

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 2

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 2

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

ATTRACTIONS

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTIONS

View a display of beautifully preserved historical machines, they are located in Zone B.

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

View a display of beautifully preserved historical machines, they are located in Zone B.

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

BOBCAT BURDEKIN

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS View

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors. You could Win a BBQ!

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

View with

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors.

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors.

You could Win a BBQ!

You could Win a BBQ!

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

A community project of the Combined Clubs of Townsville and the Burdekin

Reid Park, Townsville

FRIDAY, 5 TH APRIL

FRIDAY, 5 TH APRIL

DEMONSTRATIONS

DEMONSTRATIONS

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

SPRAYING & SPREADING

10.30am | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 11.15am

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 3

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Heat 3

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 11.45am

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

DRONE DEMONSTRATION

SPRAYING & SPREADING | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

SPRAYING & SPREADING

1.15pm | TravEarth Drone Services | travearth.com.au

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

BOBCAT SKILLS SHOW BY REX PETERSEN 2.00pm

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

NQ MOWER RACING CLUB INC.

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Final Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

Dirt Devils (Juniors) - Final Competing for the NQ Field Days Cup 2.30pm

ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTIONS

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

BURDEKIN MACHINERY PRESERVATIONISTS

display of beautifully preserved historical machines, they are located in Zone B.

View a display of beautifully preserved historical machines, they are located in Zone B.

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE BULL

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel

Proudly supported by Metalcorp Steel

Gold coin donation to have a Guess proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors.

PRESERVATIONISTS machines, Doctors.

Gold coin donation to have a Guess with all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctors.

You could Win a BBQ!

You could Win a BBQ!

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

BBQ donated by Metalcorp Steel Bull supplied by Tallangalook Stud

FOUR DECADES OF NURTURING YOUNG MINDS

At C&K Home Hill Community Kindergarten

In 2024, C&K Home Hill Community Kindergarten proudly commemorates 40 years of childcare excellence. Since inception, the kindy has been committed to providing a dynamic and enriching educational experience for children aged three to five, prioritising play-based learning where every moment is an opportunity for exploration and discovery. Supported by passionate educators, the program instils a love for lifelong learning in each child. With purpose-built facilities and expansive outdoor spaces, the kindy fosters holistic development within a caring community environment.

But the journey isn't just about education—it's about community. C&K Home Hill Community Kindergarten embraces strong ties with the Home Hill community, welcoming parental involvement and participating in various events and initiatives.

As C&K Home Hill Community Kindergarten celebrates 40 years, those involved in its inception reflect on past achievements and look forward to a future filled with boundless opportunities for growth and learning.

Read on to discover the story.

To us!

Thank you to all the wonderful families, community & businesses who have supported us these past 40 years. We could not have achieved this milestone without you

In mid-1983, Marie Finn was sitting in the waiting room of Dr Joyce’s surgery for the six-week check of her fifth child, flicking through the latest edition of the Home Hill Observer when she read of the closure of a local kindergarten operated by Mrs Williamson.

“Coming from Cairns and driving there regularly, I had often seen beautiful buildings that provided kindergarten facilities and hoped that Home Hill could one day have the same,” Marie said. “Perhaps this was the opportunity, so I sprang into action.”

Marie met with then councillor Seb Vecchio over a cup of tea at her kitchen table to discuss the possibility of a C&K Kindergarten in Home Hill, and she said the idea had this support. A week later, almost 30 people attended a public meeting, some in opposition to the proposal, favouring another backyard kindy to replace Mrs Williamson’s. A week after that, a steering committee was appointed to investigate the possibilities and the work involved. Council was contacted about a suitable building, while the com-

mittee planned for its first Christmas Carnival with the support of the community, families and organisations.

“Forty local businesses supported the carnival either with goods or ads in the paper,” Marie said.

“It was thrilling, and we knew that our idea would be a resounding success!”

Ann Winter discovered that the CWA flats, originally Iyah State School, were up for sale, that purchase setting in motion the establishment of the Home Hill Community Preschool and Kindergarten Association as it was then known.

Furniture was sourced from Mrs Williamson and the Home Hill State School, but challenges ensued when obtaining a phone, electricity, pest control, fire extinguishers, vinyl and carpet flooring, mirrors, toilets and other items and services for the kindy. Parents assisted in painting the building and equipment, pulling out bindis, building a fence and sandpit, all to be ready by the end of January 1984.

“Where would the money come from?”

Marie posed.

FOUNDATION STAFF

Director: Sandra Slater

Assistant: Lorelie Bapty

Foundation Committee

President: Marie Finn

Vice President: Damien Joyce

Secretary: Mary Hurney

Treasurer: Peter Hogden

Committee Members: Cheryl Goodman, Norelle Weight, Isabel Stubbs, Annette Michelin and Delphine Baker

FOUNDATION STUDENTS

Group A: Katrina Piva, Andrew Finn, Carly Bradley, Rowan McDowell, Travis Davenport, Nicole Watson, Ross Elton, Christopher

“Our estimates were that it would cost $5,000 to bring the building and equipment up to meet the high standards required to have affiliation with C&K Queensland.

“The proposal at Council was led by then Chairman, Dr John Trace, and supported by three Home Hill councillors.

“However, the whole only just passed at 5-4.

“Nevertheless, they agreed to allocate $5,000 to be repaid over ten years and dedicated to our expenditure.”

The kindy commenced operation in January 1984 with Miss Sandra Slater as Director and Miss Lorelie Bapty as Assistant. Dr John Trace later performed the official opening of the centre on March 15, 1984, where Sandra and Lorelie were presented with engraved goblets by the committee of management as foundation staff and students were presented with foundation certificates. The centre was given the slogan:

“This centre runs on parent power.”

In its infancy, three people contribut-

Field, Andrea Mann, Cherie Durso, Jason Torrisi, Peter Bartlett, Danien Michelin, Justin Elton, Rachel Woods and Stacey Harding

Group B: Stewart Baker, David Vass, Daniel Vass, Calum Boland, Janay Lewis, Josh Santacatarina, Isabel Stubbs, Joanne Woods, Alison Woods, Christopher Williams, Michael Hogden, Michael Weeks, Claire Joyce, Roderick Taylor, Ann Grimshaw, Magella Hurney, Danielle Goodman, Scott Heatley, Phil Garner and Nev Norris

Group C: Shea Baker, Justin Young, Andrew Piva, Trudy Eckstein, Amanda Bonanno, Lillian Simeoni, Adrian Chapman, Frank Barbagallo, Peter Rossato and David Todman

ed generously to the kindy’s upkeep: Ray Kluver, who mowed and whipper snipped weekly; Jo Weeks, who voluntarily cleaned the kindy all year; and Alan Weight, who assisted with the gardening and kept the bindies at bay. Within a short space of time, it became apparent that the life of the building as a C&K centre was, unfortunately, limited.

“By the middle of the year, thought was given to a new building much sooner than we at first anticipated, and negotiations were entered into with the Burdekin Shire Council,” Marie said.

Three blocks of land were considered, including the block where the kindy stands today. Plans were drawn up by Barrett and Associates and had approval by the C&K Building Committee in Brisbane. The float in the Harvest Festival later that year evoked high interest from the parents with a good turnout to put it together. And, with another Christmas Carnival, the highly successful and tumultuous first year came to an end and the Home Hill Community Kindy was here to stay.

Group A

Group C

Group B

In the 40 years since its inception, Home Hill Community Kindy has grown to become an integral part of our small community.

The Centre has educated thousands of local children, providing them with wonderful preparation for the commencement of their formal education. The Centre is a vibrant, welcoming space which allows children to grow and develop into curious, capable and collaborative learners.

Director, Sue Amore, together with Educator Jodie MacDonald and the other staff implement the C&K early child-

hood curriculum Listening and Learning

Together at the Centre. They are passionate about nurturing healthy minds and bodies and celebrating each child’s individual strengths to support their participation in the program and realise their full potential.

The play-based learning is reflective of our Home Hill community, so learning happens in ways that is meaningful to the children. The Kindy recognizes and respect the traditional custodians of Australia and embraces and celebrates the diversity of the children and families in our community.

Congratulations and thank you to the Home Hill Community Kindergarten - teachers, staff, and committees past & present, on 40 years of providing quality Kindergarten education to the Burdekin community.

We look forward to supporting you into your future milestones.

In 2015, the Kindy made the decision to move away from traditional Kindy days and hours to offer an extended service. Currently, 44 children attend the Centre over four days, group A on a Monday and Tuesday and Group B on a Wednesday and Thursday. The hours of 8:15am to 5:15pm are more practical for working families and have ensured the longevity of the Centre.

In 2024, kindergarten has been offered free across Queensland to all families. This initiative will ensure that hopefully no child throughout the state misses out on experiencing the truly wonderful year that kindy is for children.

The current staff and committee of Home Hill Community Kindy are proud to be continuing the legacy of the original founders of the facility in providing a quality education to the children of Home Hill. With the ongoing support of the Community this will continue for many years to come.

MEET THE TEACHERS

SUE AMORE

After coming across the Burdekin on a gap year in the 1980s and loving the warmer weather, director and teacher Sue Amore relocated her family from Victoria to the Burdekin in 1993. It was while in the Burdekin that Sue began studying early

childhood, working in local schools throughout 2005 before taking on the role of director and teacher at Home Hill Community Kindy in 2006.

Over the years, Sue has liaised with committee and community members, mentored students, and navigated a shift in working hours but said her and her team were “determined to do whatever we needed to do to keep this community-based kindy up and running.”

“Here we still are in 2024 with full numbers and still being supported by our families and our community,” Sue said.

JODIE MACDONALD

Assistant educator Jodie MacDonald has lived in the Burdekin most of her life, growing up in Ayr and Gumlu before moving to Home Hill where she has lived for 24 years. She said she had never considered working with children before having her own, working in administration before having children.

“I became interested in relief work during the years my own children were attending the kindy and after being on the committee for a few years, began studying my certificate III and then Diploma,” Jodie said. “I have worked at the kindy for almost 9 years.”

Jodie and Sue

FERTILISER

BAGASSE

BOOSTS CANE SUPPLY + JOB CREATION

Co2

REDUCES ENERGY COSTS + HOUSEHOLD BILLS EMPOWERS ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP + SUSTAINABILITY

STRENGTHENS REGIONAL ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

Cultivating Growth In Agriculture And Beyond Ayr Hosts Influential Women Community Leadership Forum

Acohort of women in agriculture attended a three-day leadership forum in Ayr last week 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, held from March 19 – 21 in the Burdekin Theatre Music Loft, was supported by Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub as part of their commitment to enhancing the skills and capacity of agricultural communities in North Queensland, which invited ten women from a variety of backgrounds and careers to take part.

Forum facilitator Heather Ellis of Blue Wren Connections guided the participants through three 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.

“The first few days are looking at self and personal mastery, what are our goals and

where do we want to go, and then the last day we come together to look at different roles in teams and the benefits of getting the most out of your team,” Ms Ellis said.

“What’s important in terms of self-leadership is continually honing our skills and being open to learning and growing.

“When you invest in people, amazing things can happen in businesses, so it has economic benefit down the track.

“When people have self-confidence, amazing things can happen for the region.”

The ten participants varied in age, background and careers, ranging from agriculture, business, education and nutrition.

“What’s been lovely to see is the cross pollination of knowledge and wisdom sharing,” Ms Ellis said.

“It’s pretty exciting in terms of creating spaces for people, particularly with an agricultural lens, thinking about grower industries, because that’s the heart of the economic development in this region.

“I think we’ll see the women who have participated, grow into the future and do

amazing things.”

Shantelle Arratta is an Agronomist at Nutrien Ag Solutions and took part in the forum to develop her leadership skills and networking opportunities.

“Through my career, I’ve had a lot of great mentors, and they’ve donated a lot of their time and skills, and hopefully in doing this and honing in on my own skillsets, I’ll be able to return that favour to the next lot of people coming through agriculture,” Ms Arratta said.

“There are a lot of incredible women and the diversity in the room is incredible.

“I’m already wanting to take what I’ve learnt in the last few days and get out there and use it.”

Ms Arratta said having an opportunity like this hosted in Ayr is “thrilling”.

“We’re often having to travel away to get this kind of expertise,” she said.

“To have them actually come to us, in this small group setting where people have the confidence to speak up, being surrounded by likeminded people, having this here in

our own backyard is just wonderful. “I’m already thinking about who I’m going to be telling about it and recommending it to and, to be honest, I’d probably come back again to let some of the stuff sink in.”

Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub Program Lead and forum organiser, Dr Jane Oorschot, said the event was the second of its kind to be supported by the Drought Hub.

“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,” she said.

“This forum is firmly rooted in rural Queensland, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural women.

“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.”

From Steel Fabrication To Retail Powerhouse

FFor over four decades, Rural Quip has supported the industrial and agricultural sectors of the Burdekin with passion, knowledge and experience.

Established in 1982 initially as a steel fabrication business, the company has since undergone a remarkable evolution, transitioning into a comprehensive retail hub catering to the diverse needs of local industries.

Under the leadership of Managing Director Robert Oar, whose extensive experience spans 45 years in agricultural and engineering sectors, Rural Quip has adeptly navigated shifts in market demands. Recognising the necessity to adapt, the company has expanded its offerings beyond fabrication to encompass retail, steel sales, and industrial supplies.

A key aspect of Rural Quip’s success lies in its commitment to customisation and customer satisfaction. Equipped with state-of-the-art machinery including steel presses, guillotines, and hole punches, the company ensures that each product meets the unique requirements of its clientele. Furthermore, its affiliation with the national buying group, Australian Industrial Supplies, for over 25 years underscores its dedication to providing competitive pricing without compromising quality.

With a team of approximately 18 experi-

enced staff members, Rural Quip offers expertise across various product areas from cutting and pressing steel in the steel department to the diverse range of goods in the retail section. Moreover, its local delivery service facilitates the transportation of steel to site, enhancing convenience for customers.

Visitors to Rural Quip’s premises are often astonished by the extensive stock available, reflective of the company’s unwavering commitment to serving the Burdekin community since its inception. As the agricultural heartland of North Queensland, the region’s reliance on reliable suppliers like Rural Quip remains paramount, ensuring continued growth and prosperity for years to come.

Rural Quip Managing Director Robert Oar

BURDEKIN GRAZIERS ATTEND WORKSHOP

Local graziers attended an informative workshop at Warrawee Station to learn how to achieve optimum reproductive performance for their breeder herds.

This two-day workshop focused on the theory and practical skills of pregnancy testing and foetal ageing in cattle, and how to integrate skills and information to make decisions about livestock efficiency and performance.

Eiren Smith, Dreghorn Station, said pregnancy testing was a valuable management tool to monitor reproductive efficiency and detect problems early in the breeding season.

He said discussions about pregnancy rates, patterns of conception during a mating period, and what that data meant for future planning and management, was helpful. Eiren also said the course focused on how to optimise pasture use to maximise the kilograms turned off per hectare while maintaining the resource base.

“The productivity of our business is reliant on the number of weaners we can turn off per year and not the number of cows we

run,” he explained.

“Running less cows for the same amount of weaners means less input costs, better land condition and better profitability.”

North Queensland Dry Tropics Senior Grazing Field Officer, Chris Poole, said a challenge for the northern beef industry was to find ways to expand output and improve the quality of livestock despite the constraints imposed by a highly variable climate.

“While graziers can’t change rainfall or land type, they can manage coverage of P3 (perennial, palatable, productive) pastures in their country and increase water use efficiency and pasture production,” Chris said.

The workshop was supported by The Herding Change Through Grassroots Recovery project, funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. The project aims to strengthen graziers’ capacity to increase perennial groundcover at the end of the dry season, and reduce run-off of fine sediment to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

CELEBRATING 30YRS

Ian Braithwaite uses a cow’s pelvic bone to explain the physiology

Presenter Ian Braithwaite is flanked by Dreghorn graziers Eiren and Tegan Smith

Photos supplied

POSITIONS VACANT DEATH NOTICES

McDONNELL, Norris Michael “Norrie”

Passed away on 24th March, 2024 aged 97 years.

Beloved husband of Joy (deceased), Much loved father and father-in-law of Mike and Anna, Steve and Linda, Paul (deceased), Cathy and Ian, Loved brother of Bernice, Loving Anan of 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A service to celebrate the life of Norrie was held yesterday, Wednesday, 27th March, 2024.

K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

PH 0429 035 046

Licensed electrician required

Electrical company based in Ayr. The role will include exposure to multiple aspects of the electrical trade including: Agriculture and Aquaculture industry, commercial construction projects, maintenance work and switchboard building.

The successful applicant will have:

- QLD Electrical License

- Drivers license

- White card

- Work vehicle provided.

- At least 1 year’s post-trade industry experience

- Organisation and time management skills

Please apply to: accounts@burdekinairelec.com.au

DOG GROOMING SERVICES

Tailored Grooming, Happy Tails!

Motivated And Enthusiastic Journalist Wanted

Are you a budding storyteller with a passion for writing, an eye for detail, and a flair for capturing the essence of local news and events? Core Publishing is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Journalist. The right candidate will be extremely community-orientated and keen to integrate socially with sporting clubs, committees and events. They will have a friendly, approachable and can-do attitude representing the newspaper in a positive manner at all times.

Communicating through the written word, regular radio interviews and physically at press events, the candidate will have the ability to make everyone feel special, whether it be a pensioner, a small child, a business owner or a political leader. They will also need a flexibility to work outside regular hours a keen eye for news and an understanding of what the community wants to read/will find interesting. This full-time position offers an excellent opportunity to progress your journalism career and contribute to a range of exciting publications, including Burdekin Life Newspaper, Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Core Life Magazine and Tripping Magazine.

Responsibilities:

As a Journalist at Core Publishing, you will be responsible for:

1. Writing engaging articles and features for multiple publications, focusing on local news, events, and human-interest stories.

2. Conducting interviews and building relationships with diverse individuals, businesses, and community members to gather compelling stories.

3. Staying updated on current events, trends, and developments in the Burdekin region and beyond.

4. Attending and reporting on events, exhibitions, and community gatherings.

5. Collaborating with editors, photographers, and other team members to ensure high-quality content production.

6. Meeting tight deadlines and maintaining a consistent writing schedule.

7. Taking engaging photos, filming short videos and leveraging your keen eye for visual storytelling.

Requirements:

• Energetic and charismatic personality with excellent interpersonal skills for meeting and engaging with new people.

• Passion for writing and a strong command of the English language.

• Enthusiasm for local news and events, with a focus on showcasing the vibrant Burdekin community.

• Must have a reliable vehicle, computer, and phone to efficiently cover stories and communicate with the team.

• While education or experience in journalism is advantageous, it is not a strict requirement. We welcome individuals who are eager to learn and grow in the field of journalism.

• A keen eye for photography is a plus but not mandatory.

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadlinedriven environment is essential.

Location:

This is a home-office position based in the beautiful Burdekin. The head office is located in the Whitsundays, and you will work remotely, supported by the central publishing house. If you are a journalist ready to make your mark in the world of media and storytelling, this is your chance to embark on an exciting journey with Core Publishing. Join us in delivering captivating and compelling content to our readers and be a part of a dynamic team shaping the future of journalism.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter highlighting your writing passion, and any relevant writing samples to rachael@corelife.com.au Applications will be accepted until Tuesday 30th April.

1 in 10 Aussies Test Smoke Alarms

Just as leaving your doors unlocked poses a risk, neglecting to install and maintain smoke alarms in your home can jeopardise the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

With more Australians dying in residential fires on average than by all natural hazards combined, it’s sparking a renewed call from experts for Australians to protect themselves with a working smoke alarm. Smoke alarms provide a critical early warning to give you and your loved ones time to escape, so testing and maintaining them plays a crucial role in the device’s purpose, saving lives.

While Queensland has the most stringent fire safety laws in the country, the latest data shows just 73% of households tested their smoke alarms last year. While nearly two in three (62%) of those who do not have interconnected smoke alarms installed say they are likely to install them in the next 12 months.

Research from Brooks Australia reveals that the majority of Aussies (90%) don’t test their smoke alarm to the recommended standard – which is once a month.

Furthermore, a stunning one in five (22%) Aussies that have disabled their smoke alarms admit to never having replaced the battery when it ran out.

Cathy Brand, CEO of Brooks Australia, says testing your smoke alarm isn’t a task, it’s a responsibility.

“Smoke alarms are the most effective early warning sign when there is a fire, but if they aren’t tested and maintained properly it can put you, your family and your home at risk.

Unfortunately, our research has found that households across Australia don’t regularly test their smoke alarms, placing Aussie families at significant risk,” Brand says.

“We’ve seen in recent months just how important smoke alarms are in saving lives including the escape of a family on the Gold Coast earlier this year.”

The absence of working smoke alarms can increase the possibility of a fatal fire by 60%.

Brand says testing your smoke alarms should be a regular maintenance routine of Australian households.

“While the recommendation is to test

your smoke alarms once a month, cleaning the device to remove any dust, insects or cobwebs every six months can minimise false alarms and help smoke reach the internal sensors easily,” Brand says.

“Testing smoke alarms is a lot simpler than people might expect, just remember 10 - smoke alarms need to be less than 10 years old, take less than 10 seconds to clean and less than 10 seconds to test. That’s why we are encouraging Aussies to set a reminder every month to test your smoke alarm.”

Smoke alarms are a crucial safety feature in every household, but they can only protect you if they are working properly. To ensure that your smoke alarms are always functioning correctly, Brooks Australia recommends performing regular maintenance checks.

Brooks Australia is urging all Australians to check their smoke alarms once a month by joining #TestitTuesday where on a Tuesday during the month, households set a reminder to test their smoke alarms. To find out more about it, head to https://www. brooks.com.au/homesmoke-alarms

OPEN TO OFFERS

TOTAL

PARCEL 1: Approx. 77.09ha (190.5 Acres) 2 Title

an approval for a third title in place with council for the brick home, WIWO.

PARCEL 2: Cane farm on 48.16ha (119 acres) with a 3-bedroom home & machinery shed.

PARCEL 3: Brick home on 3,612M2 (Title been approved at council) shed.

45

AREA:

FENCING

CARRYING

PUMPS:

PARCEL 4: Cane farm on 28.94ha (71.5 acres) with a 3-bedroom home & machinery shed.

CULTIVATION TOTAL AREA: Approx. 71.72ha.

MACHINERY SHEDS: The property has 2 large machinery sheds.

MACHINERY INCLUDED: On Request

43

The property has 3 homes:

House 1 - 3 Beds, 2 Bath, 2 Car (Parcel 3) - his home has an application approval from council to be put onto its own title on 3,612M2 a great addition to the farm.

House 2 - 3 Beds, Sleepout, 2 Baths, 2 Cars (Parcel 2)

House 3 - 3 Beds, 1 Bath, 1 Car (Parcel 4)

Mottin Real Estate Specialist m 0428 668 846 | e johnm@nhmre.com.au

•

•

•

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Expression of Interest - closing 12 pm Friday 19th April 2024 Offers will be considered prior to closing

Area: 335.10 Ha (828 acres) 1 title freehold.

Living Quarters: 2 x Donga living quarters airconditioned via generator and outdoor shower & toilet.

Water: The property has 3 dams, 2 solar pumps and 2 bores that have never run dry in 10 years.

Cattle Yards: The cattle yards include a vet crush with wireless Gallagher weigh bars, branding cradle, loading ramp and capable of holding approx. 180 head.

LOT

Carrying Capacity: Operating as a cattle breeding and trading property, easily carries 150 AE cattle, currently carrying 80 PTIC cows, 22 cows with calves and 70 weaners.

Fencing: The property is fully fenced mostly 3-strand, some 5-strand, 9 paddocks plus lane and dam squares, set up for rotational grazing.

Real Estate Specialist m 0428 668 846 | e johnm@nhmre.com.au

Machinery Shed: Large 5 bay machinery shed with one bay fully enclosed, the property has a 20,000L rainwater tank with bore water also piped to living quarters.

John

John Mottin

6.00 Gardening Aust. 6.30 Cook And The Chef. 7.00 News. 9.35 Easter In Australia. 10.30 That Pacific Sports Show. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. 12.00 News. 12.30 QI.

1.00 Silent Witness. 2.00 House Of

Gods. 3.00 Cook And The Chef. 3.25

To Be Advised. 5.10 Grand Designs.

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Universe With Brian Cox. 5.00 Better

Date Than Never. 5.30 Landline.

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Roads.

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Flavour China Bitesize. 3.45 The

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Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30

Mystery Of The Ark Of Covenant.

8.20 Japan: World’s Most Punctual

Train. 10.10 Naples: Under The Volcanic Threat. 11.10 A French Case. 12.10 Max Anger: With One Eye Open. 1.00 Late Programs.

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Those Who Stayed. 11.10 Between

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NHK World English News Morning.

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3.40 Singfest: The Literacy Of Music. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.

6.00 WorldWatch. 12.10

WorldWatch. 2.00 Ireland In Music. 3.00 Mastermind Aust. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum

History Bites. 3.35 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 5.05 Jeopardy!

And

10.20 You Can’t

Ask That. (M) 10.50 News. 11.05 The Weekly. 11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (MA15+) 12.10 MOVIE: The Secret Garden. (1993) (G) 1.55 Long Lost Family. 2.40 Rage. 4.30 The Truth

About Fasting: A Catalyst Special. 5.30 7.30.

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8.30 MOVIE: The Butler. (2013) (M) Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack. 11.15 Kitchen Nightmares USA. (M) 12.15 Armchair Experts. (M) 1.00 Get On Extra. 1.30 The Arrangement. (M) 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Horse Racing. Stakes Day and Australian Cup. 5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News.

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10.30 MOVIE: The Book Of Eli. (2010) (MA15+)

12.50 The Arrangement. (M) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Mystic. 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG)

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show.

12.00 Surveillance Oz. 12.30 Border Security USA. 1.00 Border Security: Int. 1.30 MOVIE: Suddenly 30. (2004) 3.30 Border Security. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender.

6.00 News. 7.00 Border Security. (PG) 7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (M) 9.30 What The Killer Did Next. (M) 10.30 Quantum Leap. (M)

11.30 Autopsy USA. (MA15+) 12.30

MOVIE: Jesse Stone: Thin Ice. (2009)

6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. 10.30 Athletics. Stawell Gift. Easter Monday session. 1.30 Border

Security: America’s Front Line. 2.00

The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG)

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S.W.A.T. (M) 12.00 MOVIE: Secrets In The Woods. (2020) (MA15+) 2.00

Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30

9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: For The Love Of Chocolate. (2021) 2.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 4. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Canterbury Bulldogs. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 4. Brisbane Broncos v North Queensland Cowboys. 8.55 Golden Point. 9.45 MOVIE: Snitch. (2013) (M) 12.00 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. 1.00 Tipping Point. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Postcards. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Skippy. 6.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Ageless. 1.30 Living On The Coast.

2.00 The Pet Rescuers. 2.30 Drive

TV: EV3 Building The Future. 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. 8.30 MOVIE: Charlie And The

Factory. (2005) 10.50

Chocolat: Inside The Chocolate Factory. 11.45 Renovate Or Rebuild.

World’s Greatest Natural Icons. 1.35 Garden Gurus. 2.00 The Incredible Journey. 2.30 Getaway. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.30 Late Programs.

5.00

News. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30

The Project. 7.30 Ready Steady

Cook. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. 9.30 Dogs Behaving (Very)

Badly Australia. 10.30 Fire Country.

11.30 The Project. 12.30 Stephen Colbert. 1.30 Shopping.

6.00

Fork. 9.00

Programs. 8.30 Farm

Homes. 9.30

Trail: South Africa. 10.00 Ready Steady Cook. 11.00 I’m A Celebrity…

Get Me Out Of Here! 12.30 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.00 All 4 Adventure. 2.00 Roads Less Travelled. 2.30 Everyday Gourmet. 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 Ready Steady Cook. 7.00 The Dog House. 9.00 Ambulance UK. 11.30 So Help Me Todd. 12.30 FBI: International. 1.30 Shopping. 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30

9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 To Be Advised. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00

9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (M)

9.00 My Wife, My Abuser. (MA15+)

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Tipping Point. (PG) 1.00 Pointless. (PG) 2.00 Hello SA. (PG) 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s

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8.30 Movie: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2. (2012) (M, R) Kristen Stewart.

10.15 Movie: Amy. (2015) (MA15+, R)

12.20am Would I Lie To You? (R)

12.50 QI. (PG, R)

1.30 Close To Me. (M, R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 QI. (PG, R)

8.30 Melbourne Comedy Festival: The Gala. (R)

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

11.05 MythBusters. (PG, R)

11.55 Double Parked. (M, R)

12.20am Portlandia. (M, R)

7.30pm Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

8.00 QI. (M, R)

8.30 Louis Theroux Interviews... (M, R)

9.15 You Can’t Ask That. (R)

9.45 Ragdoll. (MA15+, R)

10.35 Death In Paradise. (PG, R)

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

7.30pm Would I Lie To You? (R)

8.30 MythBusters. (PG)

9.15 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces: House In 24 Hrs Special. (R)

10.00 Louis Theroux: The Night In Question. (M, R)

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

11.35 QI. (PG, R)

12.05am Movie: Amy. (2015) (MA15+, R)

7.30pm

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt.

7.30 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country.

12.30 Room For Improvement. (R)

1.00 This Rugged Coast. (R)

2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

6.00pm Heathrow. (PG, R)

6.30 Bondi Vet. (PG, R)

7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG)

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)

6.00pm Imagine Holidays Iconic Rail Journeys. (PG)

6.30 Kath & Kim. (PG, R)

7.05 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)

8.35 Endeavour. (M, R)

10.35 Hornby: A Model Empire: Churchill Funeral. (PG, R)

11.35 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)

1.05 I Escaped To The Country. (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)

10.35 Railroad Australia. (PG, R)

11.35 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

12.35 RSPCA Animal Rescue. (R)

1.00 Foyle’s War. (M, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. (M, R) 8.40 A Touch Of Frost. (M, R)

11.25 Everything’s Gonna Be Okay. (M, R)

10.55 Chris Tarrant’s Extreme Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

11.55 Bargain Hunt. (R)

6.00pm American Restoration. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Movie: Elysium. (2013) (M, R) Matt Damon, Jodie Foster.

9.45 Movie: Godzilla: King Of The Monsters. (2019) (M, R) Vera Farmiga, Millie Bobby Brown.

12.25 Movie: The Curse Of La Llorona. (2019) (M, R)

6.00pm Football. AFL. Round 3. Port Adelaide v Melbourne. 9.30 AFL Post-Game Show.

10.00 Movie: Cliffhanger. (1993) (M, R) Sylvester Stallone, Michael Rooker.

12.20 Pawn Stars. (PG, R) 1.20 Storage Wars. (PG)

6.00pm Border Security USA. (PG, R)

6.30 Border Security USA. (PG, R)

7.00 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R)

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

8.30 Movie: Air Force One. (1997) (M, R)

11.05 Movie: Anaconda. (1997) (M, R)

1.00 Blokesworld. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PG, R)

8.30 Adventure Gold Diggers. (PG, R)

9.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. (M, R)

10.30 Deep Water Salvage. (PG)

11.30 Ax Men. (M)

12.30 American Restoration. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R) 6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R) 7.30 Outback Truckers. (PG, R)

9.30 Ice Road Truckers. (M, R)

11.30 Barrett-Jackson: Revved Up. (PG, R)

5.30pm Yorkshire Auction House. (R)

6.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 4. Brisbane Broncos v North Queensland Cowboys.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. (PG)

8.40 Movie: Noah. (2014) (M, R)

11.20 Memory Lane. (M)

6.00pm Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 6. Queensland Reds v ACT Brumbies.

8.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match.

8.45 Movie: Rocky V. (1990) (M, R) Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young.

10.50 Movie: Cadillac Man. (1990) (M, R)

12.50 Movie: Don’t Look Now. (1973) (M, R)

4.00pm Movie: The Vikings. (1958) (PG, R)

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

8.30 Movie: The Expendables. (2010) (MA15+, R) Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li.

10.30 Chicago Med. (MA15+, R)

11.30 Ordinary Joe. (M, R)

12.30 Movie: Mutiny On The Buses. (1972) (PG, R)

5.30pm Yorkshire Auction House. (R)

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R)

8.40 The Chelsea Detective. (M)

10.40 Dalgliesh. (M, R)

11.40 Footy Classified. (M)

12.40 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.30pm Yorkshire Auction House. (R)

6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.30 New Tricks. (M, R)

8.40 Agatha Christie’s Marple. (PG, R)

10.40 The Killer Nanny: Did She Do It? (M, R)

March29-April4

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 Bull. (M, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

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

11.00 Frasier. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

5.50pm The UnXplained With William Shatner. (PG, R)

6.40 Jeopardy!

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats

Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 Hoarders. (M, R)

9.20 Sex Tape Finland. (MA15+)

11.05 Venus: Let’s Talk About Sex. (MA15+, R)

12.40 Future Man. (MA15+, R)

6.00pm Soccer. A-League Men. Round 22. Sydney FC v Central Coast Mariners.

9.15 Blue Bloods. (M, R)

10.15 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

11.10 NCIS. (M, R)

12.05 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

2.00 48 Hours. (M, R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

11.15 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

12.15 Bull. (M, R)

1.10 FBI: International. (M, R)

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

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

10.30 Friends. (PG, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

5.55pm The Food That Built The World. (PG)

6.45 The Food That Built The World: Chip Dynasties. (PG)

7.35 Impossible Engineering: Airlander

10 Airship – UK. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: Constantine. (2005) (MA15+, R) Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz.

10.40 Better Things. (M)

11.15 We Are Who We Are. (R)

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

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

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

10.00 South Park. (M, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 Bull. (M, R)

8.30 NCIS. (M, R)

10.20 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)

11.15 Evil. (MA15+, R)

12.15 Home Shopping. (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 Just For Laughs: Montreal. (MA15+, R)

Bull. (M, R)

6.00pm Abandoned Engineering: A Nation Torn Apart. (PG, R)

6.55 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour of Flanders. Men’s race.

1.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour of Flanders. Women’s race.

5.50pm The UnXplained With William Shatner. (PG, R)

6.40 Jeopardy!

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

8.30 Taskmaster. (M, R)

9.25 Ten Year Old Tom. (M)

10.25 Alone Australia. (M, R)

11.25 Over The Black Dot. (R)

12.15 Scrubs. (M, R)

12.05am All My Friends Are Racist. (MA15+, R)

7.30pm

1.00 My Impossible House. (PG, R) 2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

5.30pm

1.30 American Restoration. (PG, R) 2.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

11.40 Madam Secretary. (M, R)

12.40 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

FBI. (MA15+, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (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)

5.35pm Secret World Of Autistic Women And Girls. (PG)

6.40 Jeopardy!

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats

Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 Vikings: The Rise And Fall. (M)

9.25 Dark Side Of Comedy. (M)

11.15 Count Abdulla. (M)

11.45 The Investigation. (M, R)

12.20am

1.05

7.30pm Would I Lie To You? (R)

8.35 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

9.05 Gruen. (PG, R)

9.40 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

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

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

11.20 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R)

12.00am Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)

To The

10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R) 11.30 Father Brown. (M, R) 12.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.30 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R) 6.00pm Football. AFL. Round 4. Adelaide v Melbourne. 9.30 AFL Post-Game Show. 10.00

11.25 Movie: A Scanner Darkly. (2006) (M, R)

1.10 Fear The Walking Dead. (MA15+, R)

codeword

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

word search

Theme: Birthday

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

ANNUAL BANNER BLESSING CAKE

3 LETTERS

ALE APT ARE DOE EGO ERA EWE FUR GIN GOT MEN MET MOP OHM ORE OWE REV RUM RYE SUE

TWO USE UTE

VIE

4 LETTERS BEND CAST COSY ELSE HARD

HEEL MASS MESS OPAL

ROMP STAR TILL USED WALL

5 LETTERS

ADAGE ALIVE AMBLE ARISE AROMA AURAL BANKS BAWDY CASTS CRAMS DEEDS DOONA EDGES EERIE ERRED GATED GENUS HEART MAKES METRE MODEL OPERA OWNED OWNER PEELS ROADS ROAST RURAL SALON SANER SAWED SERVE SKEWS SLOTS SLUGS SMOKO SORES STORE STRAW THINK TORSO TRAIN TREAD TREND UNITE UNSET USAGE USURP WINDY YELLS

6 LETTERS ENEMAS PREFAB SENSOR WEEDED

7 LETTERS ANTHILL ERASURE OBEYING PEELING RIBBONS TERSEST

No. 129

8 LETTERS ENLARGES SERENEST SPARKLER TOTTERED

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”.

Today’s Aim: No. 219

20 words: Good

30 words: Very good

40 words: Excellent

54 Fibrous, like a leek (7)

56 2005 sci-fi film, V for – (8)

57 Cue (6)

58 Capital of Australia (8)

59 Containers for letters (9)

63 Allspice pepper (8)

65 Outlook (8)

68 Flammable gas (7)

69 Pasta type (8)

70 Motor fuel (6)

71 Rolled tortilla (9)

72 Conservatively dressed (8)

73 Restore; re-enact (8)

74 Open-hearted (7)

DOWN

1 Redwood (7)

2 Long-suffering (7)

3 Teacake (5)

4 Marriage partner (7)

5 Centre to circumference measurements (5)

6 Long-plumed wader (5)

7 Filtering (9)

8 Wishing the best (14)

9 British TV legend, Michael – (9)

10 Eighth letter of the Greek alphabet (5)

12 Red dye (5)

15 Qantas or Virgin, for example (7)

18 Fish flake (5)

21 Oasis member, – Gallagher (4)

No. 190

22 Great Ocean Road site, – Bay (6)

23 Requiring little effort (4)

26 Bland (8)

28 Herb for spiritual cleansing (4)

30 Card game (7)

32 Tightened (6)

34 Cover story (5)

35 Style (7)

36 Linked metal rings (5)

38 Wooer, crooner (8)

39 Rotated (6)

40 Has – fulfilled my expectations (14)

46 Sofa (6)

47 Impostor (4)

49 Roaster (4)

50 Inflamed eyelid (4)

52 Barging into (7)

53 Aim (9)

54 Tool for smoothing and polishing (9)

55 Sugar coating (5)

59 Ultra (7)

60 From the Baltic region (7)

61 Open market square (5)

62 That which leaks out (7)

64 Spanish party island (5)

crossword

66 Related to the eye (5)

67 Call up (5)

68 Mimics (5)

24

25

27

29

31

33

42

51

54

56

57 Cue (6)

film, V for – (8)

58 Capital of Australia (8)

59 Containers for letters (9)

63

65

68

69

72 Conservatively dressed (8)

73

DOWN

2 Long-suffering (7)

18 Fish

21

22

23

26

28

30

32 Tightened (6)

34 Cover story (5)

35 Style (7)

36 Linked metal rings (5)

38 Wooer, crooner (8)

39 Rotated (6)

40 Has – fulfilled my expectations (14)

46 Sofa (6)

47 Impostor (4)

49 Roaster (4)

50

52

53

54

55

59

60

62

SCORE 14

2024 Prize Sponsor

TENNIS

SUPER JDS SERIES Showcases Regional Talent in Home Hill

The best of the region’s talent came together at the first ever Super JDS Series event to be hald at Home Hill Tennis Association. Rallying 48 players and 8 coaches together, the event featured interactive workshops, a full-day player camp and a thrilling team competition.

The Super JDS series aims to bring key stakeholders within each region together, whilst hosting a fun event that focuses on positive values and future collaboration opportunities.

By supporting the aspiring players through a combination of coaching, competition, physical testing, and player camaraderie,

it provides a pathway for talent identification as well as an opportunity to develop their skills in a fun and supporting environment.

Player Training Camp and fitness testing commenced on day one, Saturday, March 16, which was held by the Tennis Australia National Coach Development Team.

Players had the opportunity to sharpen their skills on their serve and return through a variety of activities throughout the day.

As the daylight faded, everyone gathered for Pop Tennis and a BBQ, where play-

Brandon Bowls

Wednesday March 20

11 Ladies ventured out onto the green with winners of the day Bernice Kugatoff, Lyn Storrie and Joy Woods.

Next contact Joy Woods with names in by 1:00pm for 1:30 start.

Sunday March 24

Club Championship events – A Grade single was played between Doug Robins and Brett Wilshere and early on in the game Brett was giving Doug a run for his money however the veteran from Giru was the eventual winner.

Thanks to Lenny Feeney for marking yet again.

B Grade Pairs Semi Final - the in-form Tony Battaglia had to carry his partner Glen Woodford to take the chocolates against Con Sexton and Ross McLaughlin. In the other semi-final it was Peter Lejar-

ers, parents, and coaches mingled as they shared their passion for the game.

Day two was the highlight of the event, featuring a level-based team competition.

The day was fun-filled with timed singles and doubles matches, keeping players and spectators on the edge of their seats.

Parents and coaches also had the chance to participate in workshops and play alongside their children in a friendly match of Pop Tennis.

What set this event apart is the Fast 4 format, coupled with bonus points awarded for team spirit, sportsmanship and tactical

expertise execution.

This unique scoring system heightened the competition and encouraged players to give their all on the court.

Head of Coach and Players Pathways, Sheridan Adams said, “It’s fantastic to see so many players, coaches, and parents here over the weekend in Home Hill. Working together and having fun to improve their game and tennis in the region.

“Thank you to Home Hill Tennis Association for their amazing hospitality and home cooked meals.”

Ayr Bowls News BOWLS BOWLS

raga and Lloyd Shepherd playing against Doug Kiehne and Trevor Elton. The game was in the balance for most of the way but in the end the combination of Shepherd and Lejarraga were too strong in a close contest.

Social Bowls Men’s Sunday March 24

Two games of Triples and one pairs with the following winners: Garry Nosworthy, Norm Storrie, Peter Jorgenson defeated Kenneth Ferguson, Hugh Montgomery and Leo Penny.

Norm Higgy, Vince Beitia and Peter Henderson defeated Mick Murison, Ray Panecassio and Gary Pearce.

And the final game was Pairs played between Helen Collins and Jamie Woods drew with Neville Dickinson and Richi Mau.

Coming up next month will be event held on Anzac Day so more information will be out shortly.

Social Ladies Bowls on Tuesday

March 19 winners were Deslie Olsen, Betty Schultz and Heather Jorgensen defeating Ruth Moore, Isabel Cislowski and Dot Cutting. Merle Nixon, Joy Comollatti and Pam Power defeated Katharina Stuckler, Karen Page and Irene Wilson.

Competition Results Thursday March 21 rinks Deslie Olsen, Trish Achille, Beryl Cornford and Pam Power defeated Katharina Stuckler, Elaine Young, Heather Jorgensen and Mary Poli. Singles Irene Wilson defeated Sandra Stidston.

Wednesday night March 20: Evelyn Wiltshere, David Burt and Joe Grabbi won their triples game. In the other triples game, it was an 8 all draw between Katharina Stuckler, Margaret McLaughlin, Ross McLaughlin, and Bertilla Piazetta, Rob Jorgensen and Heather Jorgensen Come on down for a game of lawn bowls

on Wednesday nights. Phone the bowls club on 47831336 between 6:00pm and 6:30pm to put your name down. We have bowls you can borrow and you will be shown the basics of the game.

Results of competition games - Championship Singles - M. Milan def A. Bull. Championship Four’s - J. Pirrone/V. Beitia/C. Pearce/G. Pearce def. J. Grabbi/G. Papale/S. Caltabiano/L. Stidston.

Competition games Sunday 31/3 @ 8.30am - Championship Singles - G. Pearce vs J. Hall (m) V. Beitia. L. Stidston vs M. Power (m) A. Bull. W. Coonan vs M. Milan (m) TBA. C. Pearce vs R. Soper (m) P. Power.

Competition games Sunday 7/4 @ 8.30am - Championship Singles - (w) G. Pearce/J. Hall vs (w) C. Pearce/R. Soper. V. Beitia vs S. Caltabiano. Championship Pairs - R. Young/C. Essex vs R. Garner/W. Coonan.

Contributed by Michael Parravicini

Caption: Home Hills first ever Super JDS Series deemed to be a success! Photos supplied: Tennis Queensland

Ayr Surf Club At Youth State Championships

SURF LIFE SAVING

Afew juniors from the Ayr Surf Club brought home some bling winning medals in some Team events after competing at the Queensland Youth State

Championships on the Gold Coast on the weekend.

Congratulations to Zachary Dale who won Bronze in the 2x1km Beach Relay with Nathaniel from Eimeo, Milla Chapman who won a silver medal in both U12 Mixed Beach Relay & U12 Female Beach

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

Contributed by Kellie Lawry

Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club

Weekend Beach Patrol at Alva Beach

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

Home Hill Bowls Report BOWLS

8 players rolled up for barefoot bowls on Wednesday March 20.

Three games of triples were played. Mark, Margaret and Torrie proved too strong for Kate, Greg and Lloyd winning 23 to 10.

Carol, Meryl and Mick prevailed against Phoebe, Yogi and Sam 12 to 6.

The final game saw Conner, John and Alex put the cleaners through Brenda, Laurence and Joe 16 to 4.

Thursday March 21’s winners by mystery draw were Bones, Bob and Dino.

Rink 4 saw triples match Dino, Bob and Bones out lasted Karl/Terry, Alex and Henry 12 to 10 and 9 ends each.

Rink 5: Jimmy, John and Wayne cleaned up against Tony, Clinton and Mick McClosky with a big win 30 to 13 and 14 ends to 6.

Rink 6: Mick Olsen and Joe held on to defeat Rino, Mick Murison and Hugh 18 to 15 and 10 ends each.

Rink 7: Ray Menkens and Trevor Elton scrapped home against Warren Bunn and Stephen Doig 20 to 18 and 11 ends to 10.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

Patrol Group F – Lisa Furnell, Tramayne Horan, Jo Morgan, Jenny Morgan, John Furnell, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryley Satori, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson

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

Home Hill Golf Club Report

GOLF

2

7 players turned up on Friday, March 15 to do battle on a course that looked amazing after all the rain.

The day’s winner was Pat Toohey who also drew his own ticket out of the bucket.

Least amount of putts went to Gary Pappalardo with 12.

Pin shots on 9.

The ladies winner was Beth Prescott.

Gary Pappalardo won the C grade.

Sadly no one from A/B hit the green.

The fifth hole was the most difficult putting hole with scores of 5, 4, 3 and multi-

ples of them there were only two one putts. Friday club starts a 3pm $12 comp fees and also a $2 putting competition weekly. There was a good roll up on Sunday, March 24 with 38 players for the Drummond Day 4BBB.

The pin shots were won by Stringy, Kieran and Mary (in the hole) on 4/13 with Sibo, Kieran and Mac for 9/18.

The winners were Stacey and Amy Smail on 44 on a countback from Jason Farry and Tim Branch.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

Relay, and Emma Jones also won a silver medal in the U12 Female Beach Relay.

Milla Chapman competes in the U12 Flags. Photo supplied

Isla Chapman (far right) with her U14 Female team mates

Ivy Ryan (Arcadian) & Ayr girls Emma Jones & Milla Chapman (with board)

Mia Wicks (far right) with U11 Female team mates

Zachary Dale & Nathenial (Eimeo) 3rd in U13 Male 2x1km Beach Relay

Photos supplied

Football Matters with Cyclops Jnr FOOTBALL

The first grade game against Estates started positively when Matthew Kolb found Jack Gimson’s welltimed run with an even better through ball. After being taken down in the box, we were awarded a penalty, which Matthew Kolb calmly slotted to make it 1-0. This kicked Estates into gear, and they started to dominate the proceedings. Estates had a free kick that they crossed in nicely and it dropped to an unmarked player who put it in the back of the net to make it 1-1. This continued and after a looping high ball was not cleared properly, with the ball falling to an Estate’s player, they made it 2-1. Soon after, they made it 3-1 after another miscue on defense. Oliver Gabiola forced a great save from the keeper and hit the post right before half time. We were the dominant team early on, with Elliott Dal Santo hitting the post with the rebound going straight to a prone goalkeeper. Straight away, down the other end an Estates player put his foot through a ball that careened off the post and into the goal to make it 4-1. We continued to push until the very end with Jay Leckenby getting a late consolation goal to finish the game 4-2. We have a 2 week break to help us get back to winning ways.

Burdekin FC Reserves travelled to Estates with a changed lineup due to new injuries and some returning from injury. Expectations were for a good result, but the match became one to regret and forget. It was a poor start by conceding an opening goal inside the first 5 minutes. The entire team put in full effort, but ball control and pass execution let us down. Without sustained possession the team was always under pressure, and this led to another goal just before half time. After the break, the Burdekin boys came out with better energy and Tarryn Smith scored the goal they deserved for their effort. From the 60-minute mark it all unraveled. Individual mistakes were being made

right across the pitch and in a 12-minute period, Estates pounced on these errors and scored 4 goals to put the result out of doubt. The pleasing aspect of the team’s performance was the continued effort and support of each other. If that effort is maintained and we improve our execution of control and passing, we will reverse the result as the season progresses.

The Austral Masonry Funkies travelled to Townsville on Friday night to play Riverway JCU in 1st Division. The Burdekin team was made up of a number of 1st and 2nd Division players from last year. Burdekin started with several people in new positions, and it showed early on with Riverway taking the lead after only 6 minutes. Further goals followed in the 9th and 18th minute. After the early goals Burdekin started to get into the game more but couldn’t hold the ball long enough to threaten the Riverway goal. Two further late goals took the half-time score to 5-0 to Riverway. A change in defensive structure from Burdekin in the second half allowed them to stem the flow of goals somewhat. Riverway added another two goals in the second half, but Burdekin managed to control the ball better towards the end of the game and this resulted in Mick Taylor getting two late consolation goals to bring the final score to 7-2. A tough night for the Burdekin team who for sure will now enjoy a week off due to the Easter holidays.

Juniors

The last round before the Easter and School Holiday’s break was played on Saturday. The vibe at the grounds is amazing with so many kids playing and people watching. For the under 8’s and up who play two games, it is great seeing them interact with their teammates and also others in between games. Hope you all have a great Easter break and are excited for when things recommence after the school holidays!

Roosters Go Down In Inaugural Trophy Match

RUGBY LEAGUE

“Ill-discipline cost us that game, a game we should have won,” Roosters reserve coach Chris Perry said after his team were defeated by the Bowen Seagulls at Rugby Park last Friday night 18-16.

The teams were playing for the inaugural Lona Kaifoto Challenge Shield.

Lona Kaifoto from Bowen was an integral member of the Burdekin Roosters ten years ago, helping the club to win the TDRL A grade premiership in 2015 defeating Herbert River in the final.

He then spent a couple of years with the HostPlus Blackhawks before preparing to play again for the Roosters.

A serious car accident that left Lona fighting for his life in the Townsville Hospital was followed by months of rehabilitation and although he has made a great recovery, he was told his rugby league playing days were over.

Since then, he has maintained a keen interest in the resurgence of rugby league in Bowen by first being their coach and now their manager for the team coached by his brother-in-law Tyson Stocker.

Lona has always kept a keen interest in the Roosters and if he could, he would have the tri colours on again.

A side stepping try by centre Riley Horan opened the account for the Roosters before Horan again had a hand in the second try putting the flying Dom Arrate over in the corner.

It was converted by five eight and captain John Zaro and the Roosters were looking good leading 10 nil.

That is when the ill-discipline started with Bowen receiving too many penalties for

bad play.

With the glut of possession, the Seagulls attacked with a converted try coming right on the half time bell for the locals to go in leading 10-6.

A stern talking to at the break by Perry had the desired effect for a while with the Roosters showing more in attack and defending well.

They were rewarded when Caleb Noah scored a good try which Zaro again converted, and they lead 16-6.

Instead of playing on as they started the half, individual play set in with again poor discipline in defence.

Bowen took advantage and narrowed the score to 16-10 with a converted try.

The Roosters were disallowed a try after an infringement with Bowen working up field resulting in a try near the posts.

Former Roosters half Flynn O’Brien added the extras, he kicked three from three, to lead the match 18-16.

In the closing stages, the locals tried desperately to close the gap but failed with the Lona Kaifoto Trophy going south.

Perry said that the game was there to win but his team had thrown it away.

“Hopefully it will be a good lesson,” the coach said.

The coach named Riley Horan as his standout player backed up by Zac Campbell in the forwards.

The club will have no games this weekend but will start the season proper on Sunday April 7 in Townsville against Western Lions.

Contributed

by

Brian Carnes

From Cane Fields To Clay Targets Home Hill Farmer Takes Aim For Australia

SHOOTING

AHome Hill cane farmer has achieved his lifelong dream of qualifying to represent Australia in clay target shooting.

Joseph Rossato, a member of Bowen’s Port Denison Gun Club, returned from Wagga Wagga earlier this month where he represented Queensland in the 2024 National Trap Championships.

Joseph has qualified for the state team six times and competed for Queensland twice, finishing his most recent outing on equal first in the top 25 in Australia, known as the Mackintosh team.

Shooters then shot another 100 targets point score, where he made the top five to qualify to represent Australia at the World DTL Championship in Bywell, England in July.

“Ever since I knew I could shoot competitively, I wanted to shoot for Australia and wear the green and gold,” Joseph said.

“My dream’s come true, and it feels amazing.”

Growing up on a cane farm, guns have always been a part of Joseph’s life.

He started clay target shooting in 1992 aged 16 and competed at a local gun club where he won an under 18 young fellows shooting event.

“Ever since then, I was hooked,” he said.

Early in his shooting career, Joseph would shoot every weekend, working his way around the Charters Towers, Burdekin, Townsville and Bowen circuits.

He gradually developed his skillset and climbed the ranks, advancing to participate in state shoots.

“You just have to be seasoned, competitive and match fit,” he said.

“You have to shoot consistently and shoot well and not let any internal demons get into your head, which is easier said than done.

“This sport is 90% mental and 10% ability.

“It’s a mental game and if you’ve got that under control, you will do well.”

Joseph will represent Australia in the Open Men’s team in July.

He is one of three Queenslanders travelling to England to represent the country alongside Jessica Rob shooting in the women’s and Jack Brandt shooting in the juniors.

“I couldn’t have done it without my family’s support,” he said.

“Friends and family are my inspiration, they keep me going, and the love of the sport drives me.

“When I zip up the green and gold, I think that’s when it’s going to hit me, that will be a huge moment.”

Junior Cricket Recap

CRICKET

TOur Tuesday Rookie Blaster Group joined the Challengers and Junior Hardball Cricket players at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday for the final games of the 23/24 Junior Cricket season. Although no stats were recorded for these games there is one thing that should be mentioned: everyone was very excited when Michael Finn hit his first ever six when the ball sailed over the boundary at ‘Cow Corner’ late in the Junior Hardball game.

After the games were completed, everyone enjoyed a free slushie and sausage sizzle, kindly donated by Woolworths. With full bellies and the sugar from the slushies kicking in, the Presentations of Awards and Trophies for the 23/24 season commenced. All Rookies and Challengers received a Certificate, Blaster Ball and an Easter Egg. The Junior players didn’t miss out either with all getting a Certificate, Medal and Easter Egg (or two). Some special award winners for this group were then presented with trophies. William Chandler received an ‘Encouragement Award’ and Xavier Cross was the ‘Most Improved’ for the season. Marshall

Parker took out the ‘Allrounder Player of the Season’ trophy.

Some of our ‘TCI Under 17 Andrew Symonds Cup’ players were there to celebrate the end of the season as well. The trophies for most runs scored in the season was awarded to Salvatore Cardillo and best bowling to Corey Heidke. The recipient of the ‘Andrew Loizou Memorial Trophy’ for the ‘Junior Cricket Player of the Year’ was Thomas Cardillo.

A huge thank you must go to Woolworths, Antony Stewart (Queensland Cricket) and everyone that helped out during the season to give the kids of the Burdekin the opportunity to play cricket.

Contributed by Scott Heidke

Ayr Junior Golf GOLF

Following on from a successful Home Hill Junior Open on Saturday, Ayr Juniors saw another great field of juniors playing the wonderful Ayr course. 3, 6, 9 and 18 hole competitions were run for both boys and girls, with some great scores and fun had by all. Players and their families travelled from as far as Mackay, Charters Towers, Bowen, Proserpine and Townsville, along with a great local turn our of Ayr juniors, a field of 52 players took to the course.

A huge thank you to Oar and Horan Den-

tist for sponsoring our Ayr Junior Open. We now look forward to four days of junior golf hosted in Townsville over the Easter holidays.

Contributed by Laura Mahoney

Joseph Rossato medalled at the 2024 National Trap Championships to qualify to represent Australia in England in July

Home Hill Cricket Association’s Under 13s

A total of 52 players took to the course for the Ayr Junior Open. Photo supplied

Six Juniors from the Ayr Surf Club spent four days on the Gold Coast battling it out with the best of the best for the Queensland Youth State Championships. With over 1,500 competitors from across the state converging on North Kirra, a relocation from its original location at Burleigh due to conditions, it was a sight to see.

It was a weekend with big surf, tough conditions and inclement weather where all

competitors gave it their all for the entire weekend. The Ayr kids travelled down as part of the North Barrier Branch Youth State Team allowing them to take part in team events, and the NBB Team ended up coming in 7th overall for the State.

All members had a fantastic weekend away and found the challenging experience great for honing their skills and making new friends.

See the photos and the results on page 37