Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition.
The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days.
Her itinerary took her through major Europe an cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualifica tion for next year’s race.
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Jump in with Jacob
Last weekend proved inspiring, albeit in three quite disparate ways.
Anzac Day never fails to resonate. As a kid, I relished it as a few hours away from doing schoolwork. It’s not until you “grow up” and gain a sense of perspective that the heroics of those young men and women truly sink in. Even then, I will never truly understand what it means to put your life on the line for a nation. Lest we forget.
Then there was the Breaking Barriers event at Burdekin Memorial Hall, which served as a catalyst for honest, overdue conversations around mental health stigmas. I attended as a journalist, but ended up more of a spectator after becoming so invested in the passion and insight on show.
Then I had the opportunity to chat with Karin Thorburn—
59-year-old runner from little old Home Hill, who conquered 15 marathons across four countries in merely 30 days, including the world-renowned Boston Marathon. My legs hurt just writing that sentence.
I guess the common thread through these experiences, beyond the motivation, is a sense of admiration.
Admiration for the people who sacrificed their lives; and in those who turned out in droves to honour them.
Admiration for the courage it takes to step up and bring personal mental health struggles to the forefront.
And admiration for individuals who refuse to let geography or age dictate their ambitions.
Jacob
BURDEKIN YOUTH CALLED TO HONOUR FIRST RESPONDERS THROUGH ART
Children and young people across the Burdekin Shire are being invited to channel their creativity into a meaningful cause as part of this year’s Thank a First Responder Day.
The Young Voices Art Showcase is calling on local youth to create artworks that celebrate and thank the first responders who work tirelessly to keep communities safe.
Whether it’s through a colourful painting, a striking photograph or a digital design, participants are encouraged to capture what first responders mean to them and their community.
The competition highlights the important role emergency services play across regional areas
like the Burdekin, where strong community ties and local support networks are essential, particularly during challenging times.
Themes include acts of kindness, appreciation and community connection, giving young people the opportunity to reflect on the impact of those who respond when it matters most.
Two winners will each receive a $200 book voucher, but organisers say the real value lies in giving young people a voice and a way to show their appreciation.
Entries close on 24th May, ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10th June. Visit fortemaustralia.org.au for more information.
Burdekin young people are invited to get creative and show their appreciation for first responders ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10th June. Photo supplied
Servicing Burdekin
Burdekin Pauses For ANZAC Day
Hundreds across the Burdekin region stood still on 25th April to honour ANZAC Day, uniting in solidarity to remember those who served.
Dawn Services were held in Ayr, Home Hill, Giru and Groper Creek at around 5:30am, each marked by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute’s silence as the sun rose over the region.
An intimate ceremony at Ayr Cemetery followed, where Flight Lieutenant B.B. Newman, Pilot
Jones, and Sergeant F.G. Bower were honoured for their service.
The morning of commemorations continued with an 8am service at Spiller Street in Brandon, before marches in Ayr, Giru and Home Hill at 9am, 9:30am and 10:45am respectively.
Each march moved through closed-off streets lined by local crowds, with community groups, emergency services and schools taking part. In Ayr, the march concluded at the ANZAC Memorial, where a commemorative service was held. In
to Arch Dunn Memorial Park, where a similar service followed.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP addressed crowds at both ceremonies. Mayor Dalle Cort also attended the Giru dawn service and Ayr Cemetery service, while Mr Last attended a dawn service in Bowen.
The morning’s events brought together residents from all walks of life in a shared act of remembrance for those who have served and continue to serve in the Australian and New Zealand
Spiller Street
Brandon, before marches in Ayr, Giru
An intimate ceremony at Ayr Cemetery honoured Flight Lieutenant B.B. Newman, Pilot Officers K.M. MacDonald and J.R. Newman, Flying Officer T.E. Jones, and Sergeant F.G. Bower for their service. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
All-Tide Access Can Not Be Lost At Sea
Years after shovels and people power saw a community hold the former state Labor Government to account over all-tide access at Molongle Creek, Member for Burdekin Dale Last has taken the concerns of local boaties to the Federal level in a bid to ensure a decade-long commitment is not lost at sea.
Despite millions of dollars spent by the former Labor state government, Mr Last said what had been delivered four years ago had seen the advice of locals fall on deaf ears and the taxpayer footing the bill to bring about a long-term solution.
“The tidal dependant access of Molongle Creek is and always has been a matter of safety for those property owners at Cape Upstart, especially in times of emergency. It’s why the project garnered support from both major parties in 2017 and following their state election win, it was Labor’s responsibility to deliver on their promise,” Mr Last said.
“Poor planning and implementation by the previous Labor state government means we now need to seek permits from GBRMPA in order to maintain all-tide ac-
cess and neither the current state government nor the Molongle Creek Boat Club have any control over how long it takes for those permits to be granted or the conditions that apply to the permit.”
“This project has always been first and foremost borne from a need to address community safety and it’s why I have stood shoulder to shoulder with the community right up to this week where I have written directly to the Federal Minister for Environment for his assistance in the matter.”
Mr Last said he had committed his support to bringing about a solution for Molongle Creek with the state government now having to undertake long-term strategy and channel management options.
“The frustrations and importance of this project have not been lost on me as the Member for Burdekin and once again I will be continuing to work with all agencies and local community representatives to ensure all options are on the table for the long-term future of reliable access to Cape Upstart.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP’s office
Net Zero = Zero Manufacturing
BY FEDERAL MEMBER FOR DAWSON, ANDREW WILLCOX
Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything.
Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace.
China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming.
We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students.
At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.”
The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply.
Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system
dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains.
I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix.
The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight.
Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security.
We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
Poor planning by the previous state government means new permits are required for maintenance of the Molongle Creek channel. Photo supplied.
Home Hill’s 59-YearOld Marathon Record-Breaker
Continued from cover
Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries.
Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip.
At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547.
Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.”
“It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age,” Thorburn said.
“I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.”
The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston.
The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn.
“The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said.
“Sometimes it plays tricks and says, ‘You’ve done enough. Why don’t you just stay in bed?’ But I knew I could do it.”
She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers “the pinnacle.”
“I love a challenge,” Thorburn said.
“Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.”
Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September.
“I can’t even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said.
“Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.”
Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.”
Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill.
As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers.
Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades.
“My events are only small events, but they’re a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said.
“I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’”
The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston.
Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
METRO
EXPERTISE,
REGIONAL CARE
TAX AND ADVISORY EXPERTISE ARRIVES IN THE BURDEKIN
In a region where relationships matter as much as results, HV Tax is carving out a reputation for delivering both.
The brainchild of Harry Vo, an experienced tax and advisory professional with both metropolitan and regional expertise across Australia, HV Tax was born out of a gap he identified while working in regional areas.
“I saw a great opportunity in proactive advisory and high-quality services,” Harry excitedly shared.
“I wanted to build a firm that goes beyond excellent compliance; one that supports clients year-round, helps them make informed decisions, and adds real value to their business.”
Under that philosophy, Harry relocated HV Tax—a chartered accounting practice—to the Burdekin in late 2025, offering
locals accounting and taxation services that fuse technical compliance with future-oriented business strategy.
At the helm, Harry brings more than seven years’ experience across financial reporting, tax compliance and business advisory.
He has worked with SMEs and high-networth clients across agriculture, construction, retail and professional services, experience that now shapes the firm’s local approach.
“It starts with understanding the local industries, particularly primary production and agribusiness,” Harry emphasised.
“My background, combined with my experience in a mid-tier firm specialising in agriculture, allows me to relate closely to these challenges.”
HV Tax delivers end-to-end support across Income tax, GST, CGT, FBT, and
Payroll Tax, alongside proactive tax planning, structuring, and business advisory. The firm also supports financial modelling, performance analysis and growth forecasting to help business owners make informed decisions.
“What sets HV Tax apart is the combination of strong technical expertise and a forward-thinking approach,” he said, adding that while many accountants focus on historical reporting, his approach balances compliance with strategic planning.
For clients, that approach is designed to simplify what can often feel overwhelming.
“I want clients to feel clear, confident, and in control of their financial reporting and tax obligations” Harry noted.
“Tax and accounting can feel overwhelming, so I want clients to feel understood,
MEET THE MAN AT THE HELM HARRY VO, FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL OF HV TAX
From major city firms to launching his own business in the Burdekin, Harry Vo has been supporting clients across a wide range of industries and business sizes during his accomplished accounting career. His path to this success, however, began in a much humbler setting. Growing up in the Mekong Delta, a region synonymous with Vietnam’s agricultural heartbeat, Harry’s childhood was shaped by veggie and fish farm work. Known as the nation’s “Rice Bowl,” the landscape and lifestyle demanded long days under a relentless, sweltering sun.
When he looked around, he realised he craved more.
“My dream was to go to a big university,” he shared.
“In my entire family, nobody had any qualifications or a degree. Everyone would transfer their farms onto the next generation and it would just go on and on. I told myself, ‘I need to do something different. I need to live a different life. I don’t want to do this.’”
That determination would propel him to Australia after a decade splitting his time
between hospitality work and studying, where he eventually turned to accounting to build a more sustainable and long-term career path.
From there, he never looked back.
He earned his masters in professional accounting in Sydney in 2018, before strengthening a number of years of accounting experience across Big Four, mid-tier and SME advisory roles in regional Victoria, Brisbane and Townsville.
It was along this journey that he felt the tug of the regional lifestyle, which prompted his eventual move to the Burdekin in 2025.
“I was drawn to the lifestyle: the space, the pace, and the stronger sense of community,” Harry said.
“The Burdekin stood out because of its strong agricultural base and close-knit business environment. People value relationships here, and there is a genuine opportunity to make a meaningful impact.”
When Harry arrived in the Burdekin, he realised he wasn’t all that different from many of the locals—active, community-minded, and focused on contribution,
reflected in a local volunteer award he received in Sydney in 2019.
“It’s about giving back and supporting the community,” Vo said.
“That mindset fits naturally in a regional community like the Burdekin, where relationships and trust matter. I want to make a positive impact in the community where I live and do business—a place I now proudly call home.”
Despite swapping rice paddies for Australia’s cane country along his journey, Vo said it’s those early lessons from his upbringing in Vietnam that still guides him in his work at HV Tax.
“All those challenges helped build my resilience. I always say, ‘I can’t choose where I’m born or start out, but I can choose my destination. I can choose my future,’” Harry said.
“Those experiences don’t just shape my unwavering professional ethics, but how I approach
supported, and assured that they are in capable hands from the very first meeting.” That same emphasis on guidance and longterm support extends beyond clients, with Harry also mentoring future professionals and helping bridge the gap between study and practice.
“I understand how challenging it can be to start a career without guidance. I experienced that myself early on. Supporting students helps build confidence and bridges the gap between study and real-world experience.”
With his roots firmly planted in the Burdekin, the focus for Harry is on steady growth, with ambitions to build HV Tax into a trusted advisory firm recognised both within the region and beyond.
That direction hinges on his simple, “Your success is our success” philosophy.
my work today. That’s what I’m bringing to this region; not just my technical qualities and capabilities, but empathy, perspective
Harry Vo Founder & Principal Chartered Accountant
Location: Burdekin, Queensland
Scan to book a non-obligatory discovery session or request a second opinion with HV Tax
Star-Studded Panel Fronts Breaking Barriers Event
Former NRL star Sam Thaiday, media personality Jessica Rowe, and community safety advocate David Kramer appeared at the Burdekin Memorial Hall on Sunday 26th April, fronting an afternoon that brought mental health taboos to the forefront.
The first-of-its-kind ‘Breaking Barriers’ event attracted more than 100 attendees, with Jessica Rowe, former Network Ten presenter and MC of the afternoon, leading discussion among a panel of Sam Thaiday and David Kramer, as well as local guest speakers Natalie Saroglia of the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Rebec-
ca Grogan of the Burdekin Community Association, and North Queensland-based men’s mental health advocacy group Three Blokes Running.
Jessica Rowe opened the afternoon by speaking on her own mental health journey—namely her battle with post-natal depression—before handing over to behavioural scientist David Kramer, who spoke about the impact of domestic and family violence and the importance of prevention and early intervention.
An ambassador for the Small Steps 4 Hannah foundation, David said his involvement was driven by the loss of a close
friend to domestic violence, and a desire to encourage men to recognise and challenge harmful behaviours within their social circles.
Sam Thaiday then spoke about his journey to the NRL and the challenges he faced along the way, including his experience with suicidal thoughts, as well as the support networks that helped him through his darkest moments.
Jessica Rowe, who was widely praised for her role as MC, said the afternoon “filled her heart.”
“To hear the remarkable things that peo-
ple are doing in the Burdekin, and to meet these beautiful people who are passionate about not only sharing their story, but using their experience to help others, I find it incredibly moving,” Jessica said.
“With the way the world is at the moment, it’s easy to feel powerless, but days like today make me feel powerful.”
She said she hoped the audience left inspired.
“My wish is that everyone left today with something in their hearts,”
“I think it’s a lesson for all of us that we can make a difference.”
Burdekin Shire Councillor John Furnell, former NRL star Sam Thaiday, media personality Jessica Rowe, community safety advocate David Kramer, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Burdekin Shire Councillor Fina Vasta at the first-of-its-kind “Breaking Barriers” event.
Jessica Rowe opened the afternoon by speaking on her own mental health journey, namely her battle with post-natal depression.
David Kramer spoke about the impact of domestic and family violence and the importance of prevention and early intervention.
Sam Thaiday took to the stage to share his experiences with suicidal thoughts and the support networks that helped him through his darkest days.
North Queensland-based men’s mental health advocacy group Three Blokes Running addressed the crowd on the afternoon.
Local guest speakers Natalie Saroglia of the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre and Rebecca Grogan of the Burdekin Community Association) pose with MC of the night Jessica Rowe. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr, on Sunday
Minute With The Mayor
Pierina Dalle Cort
Iwould like to begin by thanking our community for the wonderful show of support over the weekend at Anzac Day events held across the Burdekin. It was heartening to see such strong attendance and respect shown at services throughout the Shire.
A special thank you must also go to Council staff who volunteered their time to assist with flying fox dispersal at Arch Dunn Park in preparation for the Anzac Day Memorial Services. Starting work as early as 3:30am is no small feat, and I am sure those who attended the Dawn Service were appreciative of the effort that helped ensure the service could proceed smoothly and respectfully.
This week, Council had the pleasure of hosting the Mayor, CEO and Councillors from the Whitsunday Regional Council. The visit included a tour of our Macroalgae Bioremediation Facility, followed by meaningful discussions on how our councils can work together on shared challenges and opportunities. Advocacy and partnership are critical to progress, particularly on issues that affect both regions, including the Bruce Highway, infrastructure priorities, support for our agricultural sector, water
planning, and opportunities for greater regional collaboration. These connections are invaluable as we continue to learn from one another and deliver better outcomes for our communities.
I would also like to inform residents that the Ayr Pool has closed early for the winter season to allow preparations to begin for the construction of a new amenities block. Having grown up with these amenities, I know this upgrade is long overdue and will bring the facility into a modern era for current and future generations.
Finally, I want to acknowledge the incredible generosity I continue to see across the Burdekin. At every event, local businesses and service clubs step up to support those in need, often without recognition. I encourage everyone to remember this when making purchasing decisions. Supporting local businesses helps sustain local jobs, services and our broader community. When we support each other, the benefits come full circle.
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
WHY BUSINESS GRADE INTERNET MATTERS
Reliable, high speed internet is critical for modern businesses. It helps drive efficiency, productivity, customer service, and employee satisfaction. But business needs can be very different from those of a typical household.
While home internet is often used for streaming, gaming, and browsing, businesses rely on fast, stable connections for cloud based tools, online marketing, data backups, video conferencing, and website services. These activities often demand higher upload speeds and more robust support than what some residential plans can provide.
Despite this, many businesses using nbn are still on residential plans that may not meet their performance needs. They are potentially missing out on faster upload speeds, improved reliability, and business grade support.
nbn encourages businesses to review their internet plans as they would with other utilities.
THREE SIMPLE STEPS TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR NBN CONNECTION:
CHECK YOUR ADDRESS through the QR code to see the technology and speeds available at your location.
TALK TO YOUR PREFERRED SERVICE
PROVIDER and ask about nbn plans tailored for business needs.
OPTIMISE YOUR INTERNAL SETUP. Your nbn service provider delivers your connection to the internet, but your internal set up helps shape your online experience. See how you can get the most from your service by visiting https://www.nbnco.com.au/business/ in-office-optimisation 1 2 3
CHECK YOUR ADDRESS
Councillor Column
With Councillor Callan Oar
Council continues to work through budget discussions for the 2026/27 financial year. This is a critical process, as we balance competing priorities and ensure we are making responsible decisions for the long term.
Over the weekend, we marked Anzac Day. It was pleasing to see strong attendance across the Shire, with well attended services that recognised the sacrifices made by those who served.
Yesterday, we welcomed representatives from Whitsunday Regional Council. It was a productive meeting and a great opportunity to strengthen relationships with a neighbouring council. While we may differ on some matters, we share many of the same challenges. Open discussions like these are valuable in identifying practical solutions
and learning from each other’s experiences.
It was also great to see strong community participation in local events, including Sugar Rush over the weekend. Events like this bring people together and are a positive reflection of our community.
Finally, I want to acknowledge growing concerns around antisocial behaviour, particularly impacting some of our local businesses. This is not acceptable, and it is something that needs to be taken seriously. Everyone should feel safe in our public spaces, especially the elderly, families and business owners. I will continue to support efforts to address these issues and encourage anyone affected to report incidents so they can be properly dealt with.
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Supporting The Burdekin’s Agricultural Sector
The Burdekin region plays a vital role in Australia’s agricultural landscape, particularly within the sugar industry and broader primary production sector. While the foundations of farming remain the same, the environment in which producers operate has become increasingly complex.
From evolving regulations and environmental obligations to land use pressures, succession planning and business structuring, agricultural operators are navigating more change than ever before. Having trusted legal advisers who understand both the law and regional realities is essential.
Connolly Suthers Lawyers has a long-standing connection with primary industries across North Queensland, with a strong presence in the Burdekin. With offices in Townsville and Ayr, the firm brings over a century of experience supporting rural clients.
The team advises on a wide range of matters, including rural property transactions, leasehold land tenure, water entitlements, sugar industry issues, mining and energy agreements, land resumptions, succession planning, environmental regulation and native title.
Recent work includes advising on rural acquisitions for carbon farming, support-
ing family succession and asset restructuring, and acting in large-scale agricultural transactions such as banana plantations and aquaculture developments. The firm has also represented clients in compensation claims relating to land resumptions and the sale of significant pastoral holdings.
The team regularly visits surrounding areas and is available for consultations in Ayr and the wider region.
For advice or support, please contact the Ayr office on (07) 4790 4790 or the Townsville office on (07) 4771 5664, or visit Connolly Suthers Lawyers at www.connollysuthers.com.au.
Contributed with thanks to Connolly Suthers Lawyers
A Century Of Cricket, Community And Connection In Home Hill
For more than 100 years, the Home Hill Cricket Association has been at the heart of sport in the Burdekin, bringing generations together through a shared love of the game.
As the region’s only junior and senior cricket club, the association plays a vital role in keeping grassroots sport alive. But for Tiffany Olditch and the many volunteers behind the scenes, it’s about far more than cricket.
“Ensuring grassroots sports remain active in the community contributes to a sense of belonging and promotes a healthy lifestyle,” Tiffany explains.
That sense of belonging is evident across all levels of the club. From young rookies learning the basics to senior players competing in the CNQ Townsville Second and Third Grade competitions, the Home Hill Cricket Association creates opportunities for people of all ages to connect, compete and grow.
A highlight on the local sporting calendar is the Canefield Ashes cricket carnival, hosted annually by the club. Now in its 22nd year, the event honours the memory of past member Eugene Pagotto and brings together 40 teams from across North Queensland for a two-day T20 competition. Beyond the action on the field, the carnival also gives back, with a portion of proceeds donated each year to a local cancer-related charity. It’s events like these that showcase the power of community sport—and the importance of local support.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has played a key role in helping the association continue to thrive, providing both sponsorship and grant funding for important projects. That support has delivered real outcomes, including the purchase of a new zero-turn mower to maintain the playing fields and the installation of roller shutters to improve the clubhouse’s security and weather protection.
“These improvements make a big difference to our players and volunteers,” Tiffany says. “They help us provide a better environment for everyone involved.”
Equally important is the club’s focus on developing the next generation. Young cricketers are introduced to the game through weekly skills sessions at East Ayr State School, while older juniors take to the field on Friday afternoons. With support from Queensland Cricket, school-based programs and holiday clinics ensure kids across the Burdekin have the chance to get involved.
Whether it’s a child picking up a bat for the first time or a team representing Home Hill across the region, the associ ation continues to strengthen commu nity ties both on and off the field.
Community Grant Program
When you partner with us, good things happen.
And with the ongoing backing of Com munity Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the fu ture of cricket in the Burdekin looks as strong as ever.
Your organisation gets sponsorship, and your banking helps support the community.
Contributed with thanks to Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
Applications close 12th April 2024.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has played a key role in helping the Home Hill Cricket Association continue to thrive, providing both sponsorship and grant funding for important projects. Photo supplied
Brad Skinner - Partner
Queensland’s Biofuels Future Begins To Take Shape
Queensland’s move to kick-start a biofuels industry is a major step towards unlocking the full potential of the state’s sugarcane industry, CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan says.
Mr Galligan welcomed today’s decision by the Crisafulli Government to invest $25 million into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, calling it a chance to build a stronger, more resilient economy.
“While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said.
The development of a domestic biofuels industry is something Queensland’s sugarcane growers have been advocating for decades.
The sector is already well placed to help power the next phase – from significantly expanding ethanol production to increasing green electricity generation at sugar mills, and ultimately producing advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel.
With Queensland’s deep connection to the sugarcane industry, there is a clear opportunity to ensure growers are at the centre of this emerging sector, Mr Galligan said.
“This is about more than cleaner energy—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment.
“It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.
“This announcement is an early step towards greater fuel independence for Queenslanders, using the resources and expertise we already have here at home.
Ensuring sugarcane is part of that future will be critical to delivering it at scale.”
CANEGROWERS will continue working with government and industry partners to ensure this momentum delivers practical outcomes for growers and regional communities.
Federal Government Secures Additional Diesel And Fertiliser Supplies
The Federal Government has moved to safeguard Australia’s agricultural and transport sectors against global supply chain volatility, securing an additional 300 million litres of diesel and launching a new initiative to shore up domestic fertiliser supplies.
The intervention, enacted through the government’s new Strategic Reserve powers, comes as the Middle East conflict continues to disrupt international markets. The package aims to insulate regional producers—including those in the Burdekin—from extreme price volatility and potential supply shortages during the critical growing season.
The government successfully partnered with BP Australia and expanded its existing agreement with Viva Energy to secure the diesel boost, equivalent to over 1.8 million barrels. Further negotiations are currently underway with suppliers including Ampol, Park Fuels, and IOR to procure additional shipments in the coming weeks.
Simultaneously, federal authorities have commenced work with major industry players Incitec Pivot and CSBP to accelerate the delivery of essential fertiliser. The government is providing price risk support to importers to ensure that supply remains stable and affordable for local growers.
Prime Minister Anthony Al-
banese emphasised the necessity of the measures amid ongoing global instability.
“As conflict in the Middle East and global volatility continues, we are working to shield Australians from the worst of the impacts,” the Prime Minister said.
“We want to keep our people, our economy and our nation moving, which is why we’re working with industry to quickly secure additional shipments of fuel and fertiliser.”
For the agricultural sector, the security of fertiliser supply is paramount for continued food production. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, highlighted the importance of the partnership with industry.
“We understand how critical fertiliser is for Australian farmers, for our food production system and the food security of our region—that’s why I have been working with industry to support getting fertiliser to Australian farmers,” Minister Collins stated.
“This is a significant outcome for our farmers and will support industry to secure and deliver the fertiliser we need sooner.”
Federal authorities have pledged to continue working with industry partners to ensure these critical resources are directed to the regions and industries that require them most.
DROUGHT, FIRE RISK AND RISING COSTS Pressure Mounts on Rural Queensland
Rural communities across the state are facing mounting pressure as intensifying drought conditions compound the challenges of ongoing flood recovery and test local resilience.
With El Niño bringing hotter, drier weather, farmers are grappling with worsening soil moisture deficits and water scarcity, placing livelihoods at risk and raising concerns about long-term sustainability.
With conditions expected to deteriorate in the coming weeks, the 2026 El Niño is forecast to be one of the strongest on record, bringing an increased risk of drought, extreme heat and bushfires. Rural Fire Service Queensland Deputy Chief Officer Clint Tunnie said residents could expect fire conditions to return to more typical levels through autumn as the state heads into winter, with growing fuel loads emerging as a key concern.
“Northern parts of the state have experienced significant rainfall and severe weather events throughout summer, leading to increased fuel loads in some areas,”
Mr Tunnie said.
“Now is the time for landholders to start preparing for the heightened bushfire period later this year. It is important to remember that managing Queensland’s bushfire risk is a shared responsibility and landowners are legally responsible for managing bushfire hazards on their properties.”
Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin, said the primary concern for the region lies in the uncertainty surrounding growers’ access to fuel, fertiliser and the rising costs of freight.
“The Burdekin district’s reputation as an agricultural powerhouse is built on our access to water so we are rarely impacted
by the droughts that El Nino can bring,” he said.
“The main threat to our local producers lays in the increase in costs for supplies like fuel and fertiliser that can be caused by El Nino.”
Mr Last said farmers value rainfall during the growing season, but in the lead-up to and throughout the cane harvest, dry conditions are generally preferred. He noted that while drought remains a risk in the Burdekin, growers in the Isaac Regional Council area are particularly vulnerable, with many crops relying solely on rainfall.
“Drought conditions are a definite risk in the western areas of the Burdekin electorate,” he said.
“When you look at cattle grazing for example, the effect of drought means a dramatic increase in workload at best and, at
worst, an absolute disaster for livestock, primary producers and the communities that rely on them.”
Mr Last said that despite the challenges, he remains confident the Burdekin Shire is well placed to respond, pointing to the strength of its close-knit community and its willingness to support one another.
“Challenges are nothing new to the people of the Burdekin. We are fortunate, in the agricultural sector, to have the resources like water and the knowledge that has been built up over several generations, including during challenging times,” said Mr Last.
“We keep an eye out for each other and pitch in to help when times get tough. That can honestly be the difference between making it through and the worst possible outcome.”
Dry paddocks and rising costs signal a tough season ahead for rural Queensland, as El Niño heightens the risk of drought, fire and economic strain across regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock
Photo supplied by Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin’s office
Photo credit: Jacob Casha
St Colman’s student Hunter Parrabicini wears the medals of his two great-grandfathers
Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Photo credit: Jacob Casha
THURSDAY 30 APRIL
101 Burke Street, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting
6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
FRIDAY 1 MAY
Burdekin Neighbourhood
Centre’s Bridge Group
9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
SATURDAY 2 MAY
Home Hill Sugar Bowl
Saturday All Day
Celebrating 45 years, the iconic Sugar Bowl returns with 44 teams competing across Ayr, Giru and Home Hill in a team-based pickleball tournament, combining competition, sportsmanship and camaraderie across A and B grades over three days!
Ayr, Giru & Home Hill Tennis Associations, Burdekin Shire
SUNDAY 3 MAY
Home Hill Sugar Bowl
All Day, Ayr, Giru & Home Hill Tennis Associations, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Plantation Park Markets, 8am-12pm, Plantation Park, Ayr
Mother’s Day Art Sale
8am-1pm, Burdekin Art Society Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street, Ayr
Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting
All Day, Ayr, Giru & Home Hill Tennis Associations, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Neighbourhood
Centre’s Crochet Group
1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
TUESDAY 5 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Wednesday All Day
The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod will run over 13 days from Tuesday 5 May to Sunday 17 May, with performances from dance, speech and drama, music, visual arts, Highland and Irish competitors staged at the Burdekin Theatre starting Wednesday at 8am.
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
FREE Business Mentoring Sessions for Burdekin Businesses
All Day, Burdekin Shire Council Chambers, Ayr
RSL Bingo Morning
9am-11am, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club,
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Bridge Group
9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
WEDNESDAY 6 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Dance Performance Category All Day, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
THURSDAY 7 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Dance Performance Category All Day, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Tech Together Workshop
10am-12pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Rotary Club of Ayr Weekly Meeting
6:15pm-8pm, Ayr Anzac Memorial Club, 101 Burke Street, Ayr
FRIDAY 8 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Dance Performance Category
All Day, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce
Canva Made Simple Morning Workshop
9am-11am, Ayr Library, Ayr
Burdekin Neighbourhood
Centre’s Bridge Group
9am-1pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce
Canva Made Simple Afternoon Workshop
1pm-3pm, Ayr Library, Ayr
SATURDAY 9 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Dance Performance Category All Day, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Machinery
Preservationists Open Day 9am, Brandon Heritage Precinct, Brandon
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod Highland Dancing Performance Category
All Day, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
Burdekin Growers Race Day Saturday 11am-9pm Don’t miss the Burdekin Growers Race Day; an unforgettable 18+ celebration of racing, fashion, prizes, local produce giveaways, and live entertainment that brings the Burdekin
to life from 11am to late! Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill
SUNDAY 17 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod Irish Dancing Performance Category
All Day, Burdekin Theatre, Ayr
MONDAY 18 MAY
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre’s Crochet Group 1pm-5pm, Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr
Come along to Home Hill State High School P&C Fishing Competition’s Sunday Family Funday! The day will include weigh ins, great music, a casting competition, and much more!
Home Hill State High School, Home Hill
Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Expand Collection With Historic 16V71 Detroit Diesel Acquisition
Burdekin Machinery Preservationists has added a new exhibit to its collection: a 16V71 Detroit Diesel. So why is this engine special?
A Growing Display of Powerplant History
BMP proudly showcases a range of engines representing the evolution of power generation over the centuries—live steam plant, hot-air engines, hot-bulb internal combustion engines, semi-diesels, and finally, modern diesel engines.
Among the diesel exhibits is the historic Walkers No.1 air-fuel-injected diesel engine, built around 1930 by Walkers Ltd. Maryborough under licence to Mirrlees Watson and based on Rudolf Diesel’s original design. At 25 tonnes, this rare engine powered a 150 kW standby alternator at Kalamia Mill. Only two air-injected diesels are known to still operate in Australia.
From Inkerman Mill, we also display a Ruston 7VEB, a four-stroke diesel weighing about 18 tonnes and manufactured around 1950 to the highest British engineering standards. It powered a 350 kW standby alternator set.
Introducing the 16V71 Detroit Diesel
Now, thanks to 4QN, BMP is proud to present a 16V71 Detroit Diesel. This 3-tonne unit powered a 184 kW standby alternator at the local 4QN transmitter.
An iconic two-stroke diesel, the 71-series was manufactured from 1938 to 1995. Developed just before WWII, these engines powered landing craft and many other military applications. Their robust design made them popular across transport industries worldwide.
Locally, many sugar mill locomotives ran 6-71 Detroit Diesels, often clocking up around 2,000 hours per season. Our newly acquired 16V71 has only 1,800 hours on the meter—barely run in. Fuel consumption is notable at around 70 litres per hour under load, though our diesel mechanics, President Bruce and Secretary Al, are confident they can “turn the wick down a bit.”
Retrieval and Installation
Retrieving the engine proved straightforward. The contractor upgrading the transmitter power supply needed the unit removed and kindly provided cranage and assistance. Transport was arranged by our club’s go-to man, Graham Seib.
At the Brandon site, the only available space was across one end of the powerhouse—an arrangement originally proposed by our late treasurer Alf Shand for an earlier project that never eventuated. It turned out to be the perfect solution.
Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Machinery Preservationists
Lloyd & Sabina Would like to introduce Joel Ellsley as the new face of this new venture…
TRIPLE B CRANE HIRE Is now servicing the Burdekin!
16V71 in place at Burdekin Machinery Preservationists. Photo supplied
“A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION”
Tourism Support Hub Welcomed as Relief for Struggling Regional Businesses
Just months after its launch, the Government’s Tourism Support Hub has surpassed 100 enquiries, marking an early milestone in its broader plan to reshape the state’s tourism future.
Developed under Queensland’s Destination 2045 initiative, the Tourism Support Hub has already drawn strong interest from Regional Tourism Organisations across the state, fielding enquiries spanning business development, agritourism, cultural tourism, national park permits and disaster recovery.
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Secretary, Kari Ravizza, and Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Secretary Rob Antoniazzi have both welcomed the initiative, saying the Tourism Support Hub will make a meaningful difference to how small and regional businesses operate.
“To have a dedicated support officer offering step-by-step guidance sounds fantastic and would be welcome in all small business industries,” she said.
Mrs Ravizza said she hopes businesses
take full advantage of the Tourism Support Hub, noting that any government support specifically targeting regional areas is a positive step forward.
“Regional businesses often operate with limited resources and wear multiple hats. Support navigating government processes would be beneficial,” she said.
It is no secret the business community is struggling through a period of ongoing uncertainty, with both Mrs Ravizza and Mr Antoniazzi pointing to mounting economic pressures. Cost-of-living impacts are reducing discretionary spending and affecting visitor numbers, while rising fuel and transport costs are making travel less affordable for tourists and increasing operating expenses for businesses. At the same time, operators are working to rebuild resilience after recent weather events, all against a backdrop of continued economic uncertainty and a noticeable decline in travellers stopping in the region.
Stage Set for 42nd
The Burdekin is poised for its annual fixing of youthful artistry early next month, with the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, its hallmark youth arts showcase, set to welcome more than 2,000 young performers to the Burdekin Theatre.
Now in its 42nd year, the Eisteddfod has grown into one of North Queensland’s most significant platforms for emerging talent, attracting competitors from across the region in a friendly but highly competitive environment.
Due to increased entries, the 2026 program will begin earlier than usual, running from Tuesday 5 May across multiple disciplines. Dance will open proceedings from 5–10 May, followed by music from 11–13 May, and speech and drama from 14–15 May.
Art, literature and photography entries will be displayed in the theatre foyer from the opening day, with adjudication handled by Chiara Oar for photography, the Burdekin Art Society for visual art, and Christopher Trikilis overseeing music and speech. Dance will be adjudicated by Kate Histon.
The programme will continue with Highland on Saturday 16 May under
and
dance on Sunday 17 May under
rounding out a week-long celebration of performance and tradition.
“Smaller and family-run operators can easily be overlooked or may not have the capacity to actively seek out support. There can also be barriers around awareness, time, and confidence in engaging with government programs,” said Mrs Ravizza.
“The Tourism Support Hub is a step in the right direction, particularly with its personalised approach, but continued promotion and outreach are essential to ensure these businesses know the support exists and feel encouraged to use it.”
In 2025, a record 2.4 million international visitors injected $7.5 billion into Queensland’s economy, with total visitor expenditure soaring to $44.3 billion, equivalent to $121.5 million every day.
Chief Executive Officer of Queensland
Tourism Industry Council, Natassia Wheeler, said the Tourism Support Hub was helping to build a stronger, more resilient tourism industry.
“Access to clear, practical support is critical for tourism operators, particularly in the current operating environment,” Ms Wheeler said.
“The Tourism Support Hub is playing an important role in helping businesses navigate processes and connect with the right information when they need it.”
Tourism operators can find more information on the Tourism Support Hub at www. qld.gov.au/tourismsupporthub, or contact the team directly on 07 3101 2002 or via email at tourismsupporthub@detsi.qld. gov.au.
Winners across categories will be recognised at the presentation of trophies in the theatre auditorium on Friday 15 May at 5.30pm, with a gold coin donation welcomed at entry.
Programmes are now available from Worklocker Burdekin for $16.
Lynette
McAtee,
Irish
Gerard Carroll,
Regional tourism operators have welcomed the Tourism Support Hub, describing it as a positive step toward easing pressure on small businesses navigating rising costs and complex government processes. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Layla Pavone, Winner of last year’s “Music Award.” Photo supplied
If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade.
At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift.
For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355.
Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
Mother’s Day doesn’t have to mean complicated cooking or a big kitchen mess! Sometimes the most special moments come from the simplest gestures, and what better way for kids to show a little love than by making something delicious with their own hands?
Here are a few easy, low-stress recipes that are perfect for little helpers (with minimal supervision!) and guaranteed to make Mum smile.
This one is as pretty as it is tasty and almost too easy. Toast a slice of bread, sprinkle with cinnamon (and a little sugar if you like), then top with creamy ricotta and fresh sliced strawberries.
Kids can assemble it themselves, and you can serve it either styled up or DIY with everything on the side.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
A classic for a reason. Melt some chocolate, dip fresh strawberries, and let them set on baking paper. Kids love the dipping part (obviously), and you can even add sprinkles or coconut for a bit of flair. Cute,
If you’re planning something a little more special than flowers this Mother’s Day, the Burdekin Shire has you covered! Think sweeping views, quiet beaches, and peaceful little pockets of nature where you can slow down and actually soak up the day together.
Here are some of the most beautiful spots to roll out a picnic rug and spoil Mum properly!
Horseshoe Lagoon Conservation Park
If your mum loves a bit of calm (and maybe a cheeky bird-spotting moment), this is such a dreamy choice. Just north of Ayr, the lagoon is peaceful, scenic, and full of life; you might spot everything from jabi-
rus to spoonbills. There’s even a bird hide, so you can sit quietly together and just observe the wildlife. Pack a thermos, some snacks, and let nature do the rest.
Mount Inkerman
Sweeping views over cane fields, the Burdekin River, and out to Cape Upstart… Mount Inkerman’s a classic for a reason. From BBQs to gentle walks, to just sitting and watching the horizon glow during sunset; if you want a picnic with a view, then look no further!
Alva Beach
A beach picnic is always an instant win. Alva is relaxed, breezy, and perfect for a slow Mother’s Day afternoon. Wander along the sand, watch the kite surfers, or
simple, and very “I made this for you, Mum.”
Mini Pancake Stack
Use a simple pancake mix (no shame in shortcuts here), and let kids help pour and flip (with supervision). Stack them up, drizzle with honey or maple syrup, and top with berries. Bonus points if they attempt a heart-shaped pancake… even if it comes out a little wonky.
At the end of the day, it’s not about perfection, it’s about the effort, the giggles, and maybe a slightly messy kitchen. Because let’s be honest… Mum’s favourite ingredient is always the love that goes into it!
set up near the lookout for a lunch with a sea breeze. Bonus points if you bring something bubbly and time it for golden hour.
Cornford’s Lookout
If your mum loves a view with a little bit of wow-factor, Cornford’s Lookout is well worth the drive. Around 50 minutes from Ayr, it overlooks the winding Burdekin River and from up top, you can even spot the tracks used to transport sugar cane to the mills, adding a unique local touch to the view.
Mount Kelly Lookout
For something a little quieter, Mount Kelly delivers stunning panoramic views without the crowds. It’s simple, peaceful, and
secluded; ideal if you’re searching for a relaxed space to enjoy one another’s company and watch the sunset.
Wunjunga Beach
If you’re looking for something different, take your picnic basket somewhere a little off the beaten path. Wunjunga is wild, beautiful, and wonderfully quiet; perfect for a more private picnic, long beach walks, and quiet sunsets.
At the end of the day, it’s never really about where you go; it’s about slowing down and spending time together. And if you’re after a relaxed, meaningful way to celebrate Mum this Mother’s Day, you don’t need to look any further than your own Burdekin backyard.
Watch the wildlife at Horseshoe Lagoon Conservation Park. Photo source: Visit Burdekin
Enjoy the peace and quiet of Cornford’s Lookout. Photo source: Visit Burdekin
The turnoff to Wunjunga is about 6km south of Inkerman. Photo source: Visit Burdekin
Cinnamon Toast with Ricotta and Strawberries
My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin.
Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin.
At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision.
Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin.
The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability.
Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience.
Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
Carefully curated, stylish products to create a space that’s unique. Be inspired, find your vibe
Spoil your mum this Mother’s Day with a unique gift from My Vibe Homewares Gift her a special treat
FIND YOUR PERFECT GIFT FOR MOTHER’S DAY
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3
word search
Can
C T S H I V E R Y P O L A R C
H N U M B I N G F R O Z E N O
I A B A F R E S H W A T E R O
L L F R O S T E D S H A R P L
L
5
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 nouns ending in “s”.
Aim: No. 327
9 words: Good
words:
WEEKLY TV GUIDE
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. 12.00 News. 12.55 The Assembly. 1.40 Bad Company. 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.00 Grand Designs Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.35 Gardening Aust. 8.35 Patience. 9.25 Gruen. 10.00 Urzila. 10.25 News. 10.45 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 11.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.20 Love Me. 1.05 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. 12.00 News. 12.30 Blue Murder Motel. 1.15 Patience. 2.05 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. 2.55 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. 4.10 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. 5.00 Aust Story. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Kath & Kim. 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. (M)
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 Compass. 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. 2.30 The Assembly. 3.20 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. 4.10 Grand Designs. 5.00 Back Roads. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 News. 7.30 The Assembly. 8.15 Bad Company. 8.40 Bergerac. 9.25 Death In Paradise. 10.25 Silent Witness. 12.10 Rage. 3.00 Gardening Aust. 4.00 Dream Gardens. 4.30 A Bite To Eat. 5.00 Insiders.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Landline. 2.00 Spicks And Specks. 2.30 Back Roads. 3.00 Grand Designs Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Aust Story. 8.35 Four Corners. 9.20 Media Watch. 9.40 Planet America. 10.10 Foreign Correspondent. 10.40 News. 10.55 The Business. 11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.00 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 12.50 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Death In Paradise. 2.00 Spicks And Specks. 2.30 Brush With Fame. 2.55 Grand Designs Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. 9.20 You Can’t Ask That. 9.50 Compass. 10.20 News. 10.35 The Business. 10.50 Four Corners. 11.35 Media Watch. 11.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.35 Media Watch. 1.55 Spicks And Specks. 2.25 Brush With Fame. 2.55 Grand Designs Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Gruen. 8.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 9.25 Urzila. 9.50 Bad Company. 10.15 News. 10.30 The Business. 10.50 Planet America. 11.20 You Can’t Ask That. 11.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 1.30 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 11.20 Urzila. 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. 1.45 Spicks And Specks. 2.25 Brush With Fame. 2.55 Grand Designs Aust. 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. 4.40 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads. 8.30 Grand Designs. 9.15 The Assembly. 10.00 News. 10.15 The Business. 10.35 Sister Boniface Mysteries. 11.20 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. 12.10 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 The Cotswolds With Pam Ayres. 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 A New ANZAC. 9.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 The King. 11.50 Babylon Berlin. 1.35 Mountain Vets. 3.45 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. 4.20 Bamay. 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Wild Vienna. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. 5.00 Stories From The Cities. 5.30 Plat Du Tour. 5.35 Cold War Spies. 6.30 News. 7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. 8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. 9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. 10.20 Finding Your Roots. 11.20 Snowpiercer. 2.00 Matched. 2.50 Mountain Vets. 3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. 4.25 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Aust Superbike C’ship. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Women’s race. H’lights. 5.00 Gymnastics. FIG Rhythmic World Cup. Part One. H’lights. 5.35 Cold War Spies. 6.30 News. 7.30 Anne Boleyn And Elizabeth I: Prisoner Queens. 8.25 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. 9.25 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.15 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. 11.10 Frogmore House: Royal Retreat. 12.25 My Rembetika Blues. 2.00 Matched. 2.50 Mountain Vets. 3.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 For Her, With Her. 2.50 A Murmuration. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.15 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 8.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 9.35 Buzzcocks. 10.30 SBS News. 11.00 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. 12.15 Gomorrah. 3.00 Mountain Vets. 4.05 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. 4.40 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.55 What Does Australia Really Think About… 2.55 Seeds: Planting Hope Through Education. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 Hunting Egypt’s Lost Treasures. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 Living Black. 11.05 Exit. 12.00 Breaking Point. 2.35 Giving Back: Students Who Returned. 4.00 Finding Your Roots. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Chernobyl: Chronology Of A Disaster. 8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. 9.25 The Audacity. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 Rise Of The Raven. 12.05 Blue Lights. 2.05 Classified. 3.45 Finding Your Roots. 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 The Cotswolds With Pam Ayres. 3.00 Living Black. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. 8.35 American Prince: JFK Jr. 9.25 Riot Women. 10.40 SBS News. 11.10 Under The Bridge. 11.55 The Unusual Suspects. 1.50 Beyond Signs. 2.50 Finding Your Roots. 3.50 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. 4.25 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Morning Show Mysteries: Death By Design. (2019) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Weekender Special. 9.00 MOVIE: Shotgun Wedding. (2022) (M) 11.05 To Be Advised. 12.40 Quacks. 1.25 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Horse Racing. Hawkesbury Cup Day, Golden Mile Race Day, Qld Guineas Day and Derby Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Oops I Bought A Pub! (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: Hidden Figures. (2016) (PG) 11.05 To Be Advised. 12.05 Devils. (MA15+) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 House Of Wellness.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 House Of Wellness. 3.30 Border Security. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PG) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 Betrayal. (MA15+) 11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody. (MA15+) 12.30 A Friend Of The Family. 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. 8.40 9-1-1. (M) 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. 12.10 New Amsterdam. 1.10 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PG) 9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) 10.15 The Agenda Setters. 11.15 Ambulance: Code Red. (M) 12.15 New Amsterdam. 1.15 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (M) 8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Unfiltered. (M) 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 Why Trains Crash. 12.15 Business Builders. 12.45 New Amsterdam. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Beat The Chasers UK. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG) 8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PG) 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) 10.30 To Be Advised. 11.30 Code Blue: One Punch Killers. 12.30 New Amsterdam. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: How To Win A Prince. (2023) 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 Rugby League. NRL. Round 9. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy PostMatch. 10.45 MOVIE: The Many Saints Of Newark. (2021) 1.00 Open For Inspection. 1.30 TV Shop. 4.00 Skippy. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Postcards.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Open For Inspection. 12.30 Great Australian Detour. 1.00 Explore TV Viking. 1.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. 2.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 3.30 Tasman Trails. 4.30 Garden Gurus. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. (1977) 11.00 MOVIE: Justice League. (2017) 1.10 Law & Order: Organized Crime. 2.00 The Incredible Journey. 2.30 TV Shop. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Helping Hands. 6.00 Tough Tested. 7.00 Reel Action. 7.30 Escape Fishing. 8.00 I Fish. 8.30 On The Fly. 9.00 All 4 Adventure. 10.00 Roads Less Travelled. 10.30 Farm To Fork. 10.45 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. 11.45 Dog House. 12.45 Buy To Build. 1.15 Frugal Foodie. 1.45 MasterChef Aust. 3.30 Deal Or No Deal. 4.00 Lingo. 5.00 News.
6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1.00 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. 1.30 Reel Destinations. 2.00 Oz Off Road TV. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Floor. 1.15 Getaway. 1.45 My Way. 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 The Floor. (PG) 8.45 100% Footy. (M) 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 Outback Opal Hunters. 11.15 Footy Classified. 12.15 Tipping Point. 1.05 Hello SA. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Floor. 1.15 Destination WA. 1.45 My Way. 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
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 1.00 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Events That Changed Australia. 8.30 Outback Murder Highway. 9.30 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Freddy And The Eighth. 11.50 Tipping Point. 12.40 Pointless. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Skippy. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? (PG, R)
8.30 My Adventures With Superman. (PG)
8.50 BattleBots. (PG)
9.40 Gladiators UK. (PG, R)
10.40 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.20 Good Game Spawn Point. (PG, R)
7.30pm Kids Baking Championship.
8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. (R)
8.55 Caper Crew. (R)
9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series.
9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
10.20 Abbott Elementary. (PG, R)
10.40 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.25 Operation Ouch! (PG, R)
7.30pm The Inbestigators. (R)
7.45 Caper Crew.
8.05 Secrets At Red Rocks.
8.30 Animal Park. (PG)
10.00 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG, R)
10.45 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.30 Ultimate Vets. (R)
12.00am Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. (R)
10.20 Bull. (PG, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.20 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.45 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.10 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 Bull. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.30 NCIS. (M, R)
10.30 The Weekly KickOff. 11.00 Bull. (PG, R)
11.55 JAG. (PG, R)
12.50 Home Shopping. (R)
1.20 Home Shopping. (R) 1.50 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R)
12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.10pm PBS News Compass Points.
6.40 Abandoned Engineering. (PG, R)
8.30 Icons Unearthed: Star Wars. 10.20 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. (M, R) 11.25 House Of Blak: Miss First Nation. (M, R) 11.55 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. (M, R)
5.50pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG) 6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Star Wars. 10.20 Rock Legends: Tina Turner. (PG, R) 11.15 The Verdict. 12.10 Dark Side Of The Ring. (M, R) 2.00 NHK World English News.
4.40pm Movie: The Fifth Element. (1997) (PG, R) 7.00 Movie: The Fifth Element. (1997) (PG, R) Bruce Willis. 9.20 Movie: The Fifth Element. (1997) (PG, R) Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman. 11.40 Movie: The Fifth Element. (1997) (PG, R)
5.50pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG)
6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Movie: Edge Of Tomorrow. (2014) (R) Tom Cruise. 10.40 Brassic. (MA15+)
12.15 Count Abdulla. (M, R) 1.15 Dark Side Of The Ring. (M, R)
1.30 Australia’s Deadliest. (PG, R)
12.20am We Bare Bears. (PG, R)
2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 9. Fremantle v Hawthorn. 11.00 AFL Post-Game Show. 11.30 Kick Ons. 12.00 American Pickers. (PG, R)
5.50pm The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG) 6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 American Godfathers: The Five Families. (M) 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. (M, R) 11.00 Brassic. (MA15+) 12.00 The Nine Lives Of. (M, R)
INVITING ALL SPORTING GROUPS, SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS
Would you like to see your sports team in the paper?
Matches and Tournaments
Team
Matches and Tournaments
WHAT’S THE CATCH?
Simply submit a 250 word report (or bullet points/highlights)
We need a photo too (image quality needs to be nice and clear)
All reports need to be received by 11am Monday
If you are a first time contributor please let us know the week before
Do you have a star player or a recent achiever?
Contact us to include a sportsperson profile in the paper
Send all enquiries or submissions to rachael@lifepublishinggroup.com
COMMUNITY DONATIONS
THE BURDEKIN MEN’S SHED
The Burdekin Men’s Shed major fundraising comes from the members of the Community donating saleable items. The Management Committee reserves the right to use the donated item within the resources of the Men’s Shed or to clean, repair and resell the donated item through face book posts or at regular garage sales at the Men’s Shed.
We also handle household and garage donated items from death estates.
We will arrange an inspection of the donated items before pick up and if the items can be resold, we will arrange transportation to the Men’s Shed at 155-157 Young Street Ayr.
If you wish to support the Men’s Shed, please contact Mobile 0426355053
DEATH NOTICES
VIOLET AILEEN BOSEL LATE OF AYR.
Passed away on 19th April, 2026 aged 95 years.
Beloved wife of Frank (deceased), Much loved mother and mother-in-law of David and Lyn, Des and Sandra, Michael and Gail, and Peter, Loving grandmother of Kai (deceased), Travis, Erin, Rebecca and Jake.
A service to celebrate the life of VIOLET was held on WEDNESDAY, 29TH APRIL at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr for interment in the Ayr Cemetery.
K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270
ANTONIETTA TOTORICA
LATE OF AYR FORMERLY OF GUMLU.
Passed away on 19th April, 2026 aged 72 years.
Beloved wife of John, Much loved mother and mother-in-law of David (deceased), Paul and Rina, Tina, Jessica and Dean (deceased), Loving nonna of Ryan, Miley, Skyla, Evie, Nate, Xavier and Amity. Loved sister, sister-in-law, aunt and friend.
A service to celebrate the life of ANTONIETTA will commence at 10.30am THURSDAY, 7th MAY at St. Colmans Catholic Church, Home Hill for interment in the Home Hill Cemetery.
K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270
Massive Field Powers Sugar Rush To New Record In Ayr
RUNNING
The event attracted competitors from as far north as Cairns and south as Mackay, alongside families and first-time runners in shorter distance fun runs.
Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08, while Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15.
Matt Hutchinson led the men’s 10km field in 35:51, with Brittany Hutchinson winning the women’s race in 40:26.
Miles Kerr claimed the men’s 5km title in 20:18, while Mia Brunker of the PACE
Project won the women’s event in 20:46. Each runner received a complimentary barbecue breakfast courtesy of the Ayr Rotary Club, while MC John Furnell entertained supporters at the finish line at the Ayr War Memorial.
Mr Shannon said the memorial backdrop capped off the morning, the culmination of months of preparation.
“There was a lot of work put in over the last three to five months… But to see the community coming out, the amazing weather, and the day after Anzac Day, having the monument behind us, was a really good feeling.”
BOWLS
The Brandon Burdekin
Skip 4s has wrapped up for another year, with a full green of 16 teams competing in a successful weekend of bowls.
Clubs travelled from across North Queensland to take part, including Emerald, Bowen, Wangaratta, Ayr, Brandon, Alligator Creek, Jubilee, Collinsville, South Townsville, Thuringowa, Macknade, Ingham and Noorla, highlighting the event’s strong reach and reputation.
Thuringowa Bowls Club emerged as overall winners, with Brandon Bowls Club finishing second. Third place went to the rink of Jacob Chivers, David Cahill, Ben Cribben and Gary Hocking, while South Townsville placed fourth. Another Brandon Bowls Club side rounded out the top five.
Organisers extended thanks to major naming sponsor Burdekin Skips, along with supporting sponsors Ayr Electrical Services, Bennetts 4x4 and Mechanical, Blinds 2 U, Brown and Hurley,
Burdekin Tyres, Cignall, Ferguson Plumbing, Nutrients, Trackpower and Wilmar.
The event’s success was also credited to the efforts of club volunteers. Brandon members who attended working bees in the lead-up ensured the venue and greens were in top condition, while kitchen staff, contributors to afternoon teas and the barbecue crew were all praised for their work across the weekend. Bar staff were also acknowledged for keeping patrons refreshed.
Jason Wright (Bowen Bowls Club) handled scoring duties, assisted by Gary Pearce, both earning commendation for their efforts.
Special recognition was given to club president and major sponsor Burdekin Skips for the significant time and work invested in securing sponsorship and coordinating the event, helping cement the tournament as one of the district’s premier competitions.
Contributed with thanks to the Brandon Bowls Club
FULL RESULTS
Half Marathon—Men
1. Jeff Rubach (Townsville Road Runners) — 1:15:08
2. Grant Breadsell
3. Aaron Bathis Half Marathon—Women
1. Vanessa Kennedy (Hungry Runners) — 1:27:15
2. Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club)
3. Elizabeth Maguire (Hungry Runners) 10km—Men
1. Matt Hutchinson — 35:51
2. Sonny O’Rourke
3. Brendan Maltby 10km—Women
1. Brittany Hutchinson — 40:26
2. Anwen Mackay
3. Isla Chapman
5km—Men
1. Miles Kerr — 20:18
2. Nathan Barrett
3. Brad Patti 5km—Women
1. Mia Brunker (PACE Project) — 20:46
2. Bec Stedman
3. Skye Claussen
Brandon Skip 4s Draws Full Field For Successful Weekend
Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08.
Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Winners, Thuringowa Bowls Club: Allan Hay, Kerry Martin, Sponsor Jamie Woods, Peter Martin, Jimmy Seymour. 2nd, Brandon Bowls Club: Jayson Farry, Presenter Gary Pearce, Jamie Woods, Ben Mills, Peter Lejarraga.
3rd: Jacob Chivers, David Cahill, Ben Cribben, GarybHocking. 4th, South Townsville: Steve Nellestein, Bruce Maggs, Tod Sutherland, Sponsor Jamie Woods, Greg Delaney.
Roosters Stumble at Bushland Beach as Norths Claim Two Wins
The Burdekin Roosters endured a tough outing at Peggy Banfield Park, Bushland Beach, on Sunday, losing two of three matches against Norths Thuringowa.
The lone success came in the under-19s, who edged out Norths 28–26 in a tight contest. However, the reserve grade side, coming off a win over Souths in Ayr, fell heavily 46–18, while A grade were beaten 32–24.
After three rounds, Burdekin remain winless alongside Western Lions and Charters Towers. Brothers, Souths and Centrals are undefeated, Herbert River have two wins and Norths one.
As in previous seasons, Cowboys under-21 players were not allocated evenly across clubs, with Norths receiving three and Burdekin one. Those players later
RUGBY LEAGUE
dropped back to reserve grade, strengthening Norths.
In A grade, Burdekin paid for a poor first half riddled with handling errors, allowing Norths to build scoreboard pressure. The Roosters improved after the break, winning the second half 18–10, but the early deficit proved decisive.
Coach Steve Lansley said the side’s slow start cost them despite a strong finish.
Cooper Fletcher and Lachlan Buchbach were standouts, while tries came from Adam Camer, Jones Munro, Mitch Brown and Dudley Dotoi, with Jye Olsen kicking four goals.
Other A grade results: Brothers def Charters Towers 34–14; Souths def Western Lions 30–22; Centrals def Herbert River 44–16.
Reserve grade coach Peter Horam criticised his side’s attitude after the 46–18 loss, with Norths leading 24–12 at halftime. A sin-bin and send-off further hurt Burdekin’s second-half effort.
Hooker Ron Geia scored two tries, with support from Bokeem Reid and goal-kicker Dylan Doak (three). Harvey Horan and Joey Southwell also impressed.
Other reserve results: Centrals def Herbert River 28–10; Brothers def Charters Towers 26–18; Souths def Western Lions 22–12.
In the under-19s, coach Alf Cantarella said his side showed resilience despite limited bench depth. Chad Fraser led the way, supported by Joey Southwell and Romeo Kaem. Tries came from Titus (2), Tyce Cursio, KJ Zaro, Leylan Lampton and Shakayne Taiters, with Fraser kicking two goals.
Other under-19 results: Centrals def Herbert River 32–6; Brothers def Western Lions 98–4.
In women’s matches: Brothers def Charters Towers 24–16; Western Lions def Souths 26–16; Centrals def Norths 56–0. Former Burdekin Hens Martina and Stephanie Monday (Western Lions) and Taleisha Bukgarelli (Souths) featured, with Martina and Bukgarelli scoring tries.
There is no club football this weekend due to the Foley Shield in Cairns between Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. No Burdekin or Norths players were selected in the 24-man squad, which includes one player each from Charters Towers, Herbert River and Western Lions, four from Centrals, seven from Brothers and 10 from Souths.
Seebohm Puts Burdekin Juniors Through Their Paces
BASKETBALL
The Burdekin’s next generation of ‘ballers had a taste of elite-level coaching earlier this month, with Townsville Fire coach Shannon Seebohm running a one-day S3 Basketball Academy camp in the region.
Led by Seebohm—a multiple-time WNBL Coach of the Year and championship-winning coach with the Fire—S3 Basketball Academy is a Townsville-based development program focused on building strong fundamentals, decision-making and game habits in junior players through high-per-
formance training environments.
The visit to The Den in Ayr formed part of the academy’s broader push to provide regional athletes with access to structured, high-level coaching that mirrors the standards of elite pathways.
Seebohm said the Burdekin camp was designed to bridge skills work with real-game application.
“We tried to put the kids into a lot of skill development work, but also linking that into direct gameplay so they start to see where they can use those skills in-game,”
he said.
“I thought they did a really good job. The work rate was really high, the intensity was really good, and they got a tonne of reps of different skills that they can now go home and work on and, hopefully, use to keep building their games.”
He praised the standard of local talent, noting a “high level of enthusiasm” for Basketball in the region.
“I think there’s a great level of talent in the Burdekin. You can tell that the kids have been really well coached at a young age,
and they’ve got really good fundamentals. There’s a true love for the game which is really nice to see,” Seebohm said.
Seebohm said S3 was established to broaden access to high-level coaching in regional areas and support the growing appetite for basketball across North Queensland. “We started this to give families in this area affordable access to professional-level coaching… and anything we can do to help build that base and promote the game is a real positive,” he said.
The Burdekin’s next generation of ‘ballers had a taste of elite-level coaching earlier this month, with Townsville Fire coach Shannon Seebohm running a one-day S3 Basketball Academy camp in the region. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
The visit to The Den in Ayr formed part of S3 Academy’s broader push to provide regional athletes with access to structured, high-level coaching that mirrors the standards of elite pathways.
Young Artist’s Design Brings New Look and Meaning to Burdekin Junior Roosters Jerseys
The Burdekin
Roosters Junior Rugby League
Club has unveiled its 2026 training shirts and carnival jerseys, featuring a unique design created by one of its youngest players, seven-year-old Tahj Nash.
Each season the club looks to refresh its playing gear, but this year’s edition carries a deeper connection to its community through Tahj’s artwork. A proud local Indigenous junior with a passion for drawing, Tahj was invited to design a jersey that would represent the club both on and off the field.
The finished design features a series of flowing lines and carefully structured patterns, all handdrawn by Tahj. The lines are said to represent the mighty Burdekin Riv-
45th Annual Sugar Bowl Tennis Tournament
We warmly invite our sponsors, life members, past & present players and supporters to join us for this special occasion. Where: Home Hill, Ayr and Giru Tennis Courts (Giru Sat am only)
When: 2nd–4th May from 8:00 am
Come and see the action all day and cheer on our players and teams as they battle it out on the courts!
Sunday 3rd May | from 5:00 PM
Live Music by KIMMI from Townsville
Live tennis action
Food and bar available
Presentation Ceremony
Home Hill Tennis Courts
Monday 4th May | Approx. 2:00 PM
A big thank you to all of our annual sponsors for your continued support!
er, while the surrounding shapes and sections symbolise the townships, families and broader community that make up the Roosters club.
Club officials say the jerseys go beyond a simple uniform, instead telling a story of connection, culture and belonging. The design reflects the values of junior rugby league in the Burdekin—bringing people together through sport while celebrating local identity.
The Roosters have praised Tahj’s contribution, saying it is a proud moment for the club to showcase the creativity of one of its own juniors. His artwork will now be worn by Roosters teams throughout the 2026 season, forming a lasting part of the club’s identity for the year ahead.
ALVA BEACH PATROL ROSTER –LONG WEEKEND A
s this is the final patrol weekend for the season, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club would would like to thank all our patrolling members for the countless volunteer hours that were undertaken on the beach for our community, your time is appreciated and we thank you for keeping Alva Beach safe. Beach patrols will resume again in the September School Holidays.
Beach patrols will resume again in the September school holidays.
Saturday, 2/5/26 (1pm–5pm)
Group I – Sage Hisatake (PC), Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Austin Dewar
Sunday, 3/5/26 (9am–1pm)
Group G – Carl List (PC), James Kennedy (PC), Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey, Jedd Giddy, Nate Giddy
Sunday, 3/5/26 (1pm–5pm)
Group E – John Moloney (PC), Anne Moloney (PC), Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan, Jarrod Rossato Monday, 4/5/26 (9am–5pm)
Group A – Chris Wicks (PC), Richard Dale (PC), Jane Olsen, Zackary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt
Round 7 Delivers Tight Battles Across Burdekin Touch Competitions
Round 7 of the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Burdekin Touch open competition produced a string of competitive results across all divisions.
In the men’s draw, Way To Go defeated BAYWatch 8–4, while His Haas and Slush Puppies played out a 5–all draw. Alliance Pharmacy proved too strong for Wires Down 9–3, and Petrol Heads accounted for Touch n Go 8–5. Blue Murder continued their good form with an 8–4 win over Ball Grabbers, while Burdekin PCYC and Feelers finished locked at 4–all. Renegades edged a tight contest against Royal Touch 7–6, and Teamo Supremo claimed a narrow 3–2 victory over Creampuffs.
In the women’s competition, Eathorne’s Princesses defeated Lasers 5–2, while First in Physio delivered the most dominant performance of the round, overpowering Salty Sirens 12–1. Chick Flicks also secured a solid 6–4 win over Can’t Catch.
Junior action in the under-14 division saw Chicken Burgers and Cowboys share the points in a 6–all draw. Rockies defeated Broncos 8–3, BAYWatch A accounted for Red Dogs A 8–2, and Silly Soft Serves rounded out the round with a 10–5 win over Red Dogs B.
Meanwhile, junior touch football sign-on
will be held on Friday, May 1 at 5.30pm at the Burdekin Touch Football clubhouse. The program is open to boys and girls aged 4 to 12, with six weeks of skills, drills and games to follow. Returning Term 1 players can register for free, while new sign-ons cost $20. For more information, contact Rebecca on 0400 705 205 or Peter on 0437 710 500.
Colten Lyne, Kashdyn Nash, Tahj Nash, Jax Lammon & Mason Pavone sporting the new jerseys. Photo supplied
Mazlyn Smith in action. Photo supplied
Football Matters with Cyclops
Seniors
A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only four senior games winning three and losing one. The Premiers and Reserve, away to Riverway JCU, won 2-1 and the Reserves, also away to JCU also won 2-1, The Division 1, at home to rebels lost 3-6 but the Division 2, also at home to Rebels won 3-0. The Colts and Ladies both had byes.
This week only four teams are in action as both Ladies and Colts have byes. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 are away to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.00 and 3.00. The Colts and Ladies do not have games this week.
Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club
An away trip to JCU is never easy, and after dropping points the previous week, there was added motivation to respond. JCU started strongly, limiting the Panthers time on the ball and making it difficult to find any rhythm early. The first half produced few clear chances, with JCU capitalising late to take a 1–0 lead into the break. The second half saw a renewed energy from the Panthers, while JCU looked to sit deeper and protect their advantage. This shift allowed Burdekin to dominate possession and build pressure in dangerous areas. The Panthers came close on many occasions, including a strike off the crossbar, before Elliott Dal Santo found the breakthrough with a well-taken finish following strong defensive work in the lead-up. Pushing for a winner, Kyle Taylor earned a penalty in the 87th minute, and Jake Siandri stepped up to calmly convert and give the Panthers a 2–1 lead which they held onto in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought result. That’s three wins from their opening four rounds.
Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service
Another week and another changed side saw the Reserves debut opportunity for young players Charlie Predebon & Nyasha Gwarada. It was a very warm afternoon game and developed into a good contest with both teams working hard but neither finding any dominance in possession or field position. It took until the last
five minutes of the first half for a goal to come from a longer range freekick and JCU went into the break one up. The second half for the Panthers was much better with senior players able to influence the game and keep better possession of the ball. With improved possession and control Burdekin were able to score two goals from Jonte Grazioli and Dom Arrate. It was a gritty game that in previous seasons the Panthers may have let slip, so very pleasing to turn it around and notch up another win.
Division 1 – Austral Masonry
Against Rebel, both teams and goals started fast, with two goals from Julen Arrate being answered by two from Rebels in the first eighteen minutes. At half time it was 2-2. After that Burdekin got stuck into the grind with tackles flying everywhere. Then a penalty to Rebels and second yellow card for Brad Wright tipped the balance, with Rebels side scoring two goals in quick succession. Cody Scalia headed in a beautiful Charlie Shears corner to give the Burdekin a chance, but with only ten men, it was too much of a struggle The game ended 6-3 to Rebels.
Division 2 – RG Customs
RG Customs 2nd division defeated Rebels 3-0 in a match they dominated from start to finish. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead early in the first half, but despite lots of possession and repeatedly attacking Rebels goal, the Funkies were unable to extend their lead in the first half. Burdekin added further goals through Simon Scuderi after 68 minutes and Fengil after 84 minutes in the second half to see the Funkies rewarded for their efforts and deserving winners in a match they controlled very much from start to finish. Next up is MA Olympic this Friday night away in Townsville.
Masters
The Masters had another good turnout and, augmented by the Ladies Squad had a replay of the World Cup Qualifier, Italy
FOOTBALL
v Bosnia Herzegovina. A tight match ended in a 2-2 draw with a replay next Monday. Best players on the night were Charley Ruskin and Riley Granshaw. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.
Juniors
Junior soccer returned in great spirit over the Anzac Day weekend, marking the first round of games following the school holiday break. Our youngest players in the U5–U7 age groups took to the field on Saturday afternoon, enjoying local matches filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and plenty of smiles. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces back and eager to play.
Sunday saw an exciting milestone for the U8–U12 teams, who travelled to Townsville for their first games of the season. The step up in competition didn’t deter our players, with all teams showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to kick off the return to soccer, with strong participation across all age groups and a positive start to the term ahead.
The U15’s had their first game at the weekend against Wulguru. A new coach, a few new players and whole lot of enthusiasm. A bit of nervous energy to start with the first goal being scored by the opposition, but the team went in at half time with a 2-1
lead. Goals for the Panthers scored by Annan Power and Nathan Casella. The team lost Linc Innes due to a nasty clash with their keeper which depleted the bench with only one sub. The second half saw the team digging deep to secure three more goals. One of the new Panthers, Cecil Badza Gwarda scoring two and Emmanuel Mio banging in the final goal for the Panthers to secure a convincing win 5-2. Unfortunately, there is a bit of a break before their next round on the 16 May.
An ecited U13 Burdekin Panthers team took the field for the first time this season again MA Olympic. The Panthers came away with a very good 3-0 win with two goals from. 2 Caelan Farrell and one from Jazz Chung. All players played outstanding football!!
National
The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. Newcastle have won the Premiership; five points clear of Adelaide with Auckland third and Melbourne Victory fourth. The Elimination Finals start on Saturday with Auckland playing Melbourne City and Victory playing Sydney FC. The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage. At the end of regular fixtures Melbourne City were Premiers six points clear of Wellington, with Canberra third and Brisbane fourth. In the semi-finals this Saturday, Melbourne City face Victory and Brisbane play Wellington.
SUGAR RUSH HITS NEW HEIGHTS RUNNING
The Burdekin’s premier running event saw a record-breaking turnout on Sunday, 26 April, as nearly 400 athletes laced up in Ayr for what was a Sugar Rush for the books.
The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part.
Club president Patrick Shan-
non hailed the event as a success for both the organisation and the wider North Queensland running community.
“We’re chuffed with the turnout,” Mr Shannon said.
“It was a bit unfortunate—we actually had to cut off entries a little bit early simply because we ran out of bibs. It just means we have to plan bigger and better next year.”
Continued on page 28
The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part.
