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Jump in with Jacob
In every town, whether here, across the country or in a completely foreign land, there are a few elements it just couldn’t prosper without. Some of those are more apparent to the naked eye than others: essential resources, a stable economy, safety—sure. But it’s the unsung heroes operating behind the curtains that are just as crucial in holding the place together.
One of those around this neck of the woods is the Burdekin Community Association. It was as they marked their 50 year anniversary with a celebratory dinner just last weekend that the Honourable Dale Last MP said something that hit home—something along the lines of, ‘if every town
had an organisation like the BCA, there would be a lot less problems’.
It wasn’t until learning more about the organisation, how it works, the hands behind it, and the lives they collectively touch, that Mr. Last’s words truly started to resonate. Because thanks to the BCA, someone has food to eat, a place to call home, people to lean on, and a life to live— and that’s something absolutely worth celebrating. So, cheers to the team at BCA for 50 years of just being there—both literally and spiritually. You can read more about their story and current services on pages 16-21.
Jacob
ust in the past couple of weeks, a string of random acts of kindness have captured the attention of the entire community, with locals taking to social media to share their thanks and gratitude.
Without exchanging names or even interacting with one another, several members of the shire have helped others in need, from lifting wheely walkers into cars to paying it forward in the drive through.
Earlier this month, the community came together after a concerned local shared the news she had found a very badly injured wallaby who had unfortunately suffered extensive
burns after being caught in a cane fire. Unable to assist the wallaby herself, she called upon the shire to help, and in true Burdekin fashion, many came to the wallaby’s aid, taking the trip to Brandon to search for the animal and contact wildlife carers. The efforts of some, impacted and warmed the hearts of many, with the community praising those who helped the animal online via the Burdekin Community Hub Facebook page.
Everyday within the community, many random acts of kindness occur, and although small, they each have the potential to make a huge difference.
LONG-AWAITED FIRE TRUCK ARRIVES IN AYR
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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, said the new truck would make a tangible difference to frontline response efforts.
“The delivery of this new appliance has been a long time coming for our local firefighters,” Mr Last said. “The former government made promises time after time but failed to keep them when it came to the new appliance.
“Our local crews respond to a broad range of incidents, from fires to road crashes and even technical rescues. Given the distances they cover, it is essential they have the equipment to perform those duties as effectively and safely as possible. This new appliance makes a huge contribution to
achieving that.”
Mr Last said the upgrade addressed long-standing safety concerns about outdated gear and signaled the government’s commitment to further improving facilities.
“In less than 12 months, the Crisafulli Government has delivered this new appliance and we are well on the way with plans for a new station, as promised in the leadup to the October election,” he said. “Just like the community, I am extremely grateful to, and proud of, our local firefighters.”
Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said the government was determined to reverse what she described as a decade of neglect.
“After 10 years of decline, firies are finally getting the support and resources they deserve,” Ms Leahy said. “This is part of more than $134 million we’ve invested into modernised facilities, vehicles, and equipment, delivering the fresh start our hardworking firies deserve.
“Under Labor, our local firies were being forced to work in outdated stations with ageing equipment and no confidence things would improve. Within weeks of the election, we finalised the plan for this new appliance and a new station in the Burdekin.”
Acting Chief Superintendent Corrie Benson, who oversees the Townsville division, said the truck would deliver direct benefits
for both the community and crews.
“For our community, this vehicle represents faster response times, improved capability and greater reliability. Put simply, it means safer homes and safer families,” Superintendent Benson said.
“For our firefighters, this truck provides a safer and more efficient work environment that allows our crews to focus on what matters most: protecting lives and protecting property.”
The new Scania joins the fleet at Ayr Fire & Rescue Station immediately and is expected to enhance response capacity across the Burdekin and surrounding regions.
It May Pay To Know Under The Tiaras Of The 2025
OPINION PIECE - ANDREW WILLCOX
Right now, any Australian can submit a simple request to access non sensitive information from any Australian government agency. We can ask who a minister or government officials has met, what was discussed, and the reasoning behind government decisions. This is a vital lever for holding the government accountable and right now it doesn’t cost a cent to ask the question.
But the Labor government wants to water down these protections, restricting what information the public can request and charging fees to access it. It’s not just a bad look. It raises serious questions about what they’re trying to hide.
Australia’s Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI Act) guarantees public access to government held documents, promoting transparency, accountability, and democratic participation. With the exception of truly sensitive material like national security, personal privacy, or commercial confidentiality, Australia’s Freedom of Information Act allows the public to know what the government is up to. It is how a healthy democracy operates, allowing citizens to scrutinize their leaders without barriers.
So why change a system that already protects sensitive information?
In campaigning during the 2022 election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged to lead a more transparent government. Yet now his government is pushing for legislation that would dramatically limit public access to information. I ask why. What secrets does Labor want to keep? What does the government fear the public might discover? Or is the government planning to do
proposal would allow government agencies to outright reject requests they claim are too resource intensive. This is a thinly veiled excuse to dodge scrutiny, and it will disproportionately impact journalists, advocacy groups, and concerned citizens seeking the truth on matters of public interest.
Adding insult to injury, the government wants to slap upfront fees on such requests. This creates a paywall for transparency, effectively barring those without resources from accessing vital information. Transparency should not come with a price tag. The government defends these changes by citing misuse of the system and national security risks, including concerns about anonymous foreign actors submitting requests. But these arguments don’t stack up. Sensitive information is already exempt, and requests of a government agency requires identifying details, preventing anonymous fishing expeditions.
As a Federal Member, I have zero concerned about people knowing who I had coffee with last Tuesday at 11am, let alone a meeting that has public interest. I believe the public has every right to know who ministers meet with and why, especially if those meetings involve parties that stand to benefit from government decisions. The public deserves to know how taxpayer money is being spent and what influences shape political choices.
We should be strengthening transparency, not dismantling it. Our country has always believed in government actions being open to public scrutiny, not hidden behind fees and bureaucratic barriers.
I stand firmly against Labor’s pro
Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Winner Molly Julyan
It started as a childhood dream, and now it’s become a crowed reality for 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Winner, Molly Julyan, proudly representing Liessmann and Sons.
Right from the moment she walked on stage, Molly fell in love with the magic of the annual event, and on Saturday, the 30th of August, Molly was prestigiously crowed as the 2025 Senior Ambassador Winner at the beautiful QMN Manufacturing Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch.
“To say I was truly shocked and speechless is a big understatement, I had literally no words and could only say “wow”,” Molly reminisced.
“I feel really proud to have won and to me, being the Winning Ambassador means representing my community with pride, celebrating the traditions of the Burdekin Water Festival, and sharing in the spirit of unity and celebration that the festival brings each year.”
Across the entire course of her journey, Molly represented her organisation with honour and carried herself with grace as she hosted and attended the fundraising and community events of her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors, where her attendance was always felt, and warmly welcomed.
ter Festival, Molly recalls how excited she felt when the opportunity to become a Senior Ambassador arose.
“My journey started when Seb and Kari came into my work on a busy afternoon and asked me if I was interested in being an Ambassador and I thought it was a perfect opportunity to show everyone the Home Hill side of the Burdekin,” said Molly.
“My dad had been part of the Liessmann and Sons family for over 20 years and all the staff are like family. I asked him if Liessmann and Sons would Sponsor me and they said yes.”
“Being able to bring home the winning title personally means a lot to me because I represented Liessmann and Sons with pride, gratitude, and the chance to represent something bigger than myself is an achievement I’ll always carry with me.”
Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Runner Up Eliza Worlein
On the afternoon of Saturday, the 30th of August, Eliza Worlein, representing the Rotary Club of Ayr, was crowned as the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador Runner Up at the beautiful QMN Manufacturing Burdekin Water Festival Long Lunch.
Reflecting on how far she has come from the commencement of this year’s Burdekin Wa-
Eliza has been a long-time lover of all that’s involved in the annual celebration, and she always hoped she would have the opportunity to grace the stage as a Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador.
Senior Ambassador Runner Up Eliza Worlein (Rotary Club of Ayr) & Junior Ambassador Runner Up Jorja Vasta (Burdekin Junior Rugby League) with Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri (Burdekin Christian College) & Senior Ambassador Winner Molly Julyan (Liessmann and Sons) (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
2025 Burdekin Water Festival Winners & Runner Ups
“A big factor in motivating me to participate as an Ambassador this year came from being a Junior Ambassador when I was a kid, and I always knew that given the opportunity, I would say yes to being a Senior Ambassador as I know what the experience can be,” explained Eliza.
“While a lot has changed since when I first did it, the morals of friendship and community have remained the same.”
Over the course of her journey as a Senior Ambassador, Eliza felt extremely grateful and honoured to have had the opportunity to represent a treasured organisation within the Burdekin Shire.
“The Rotary Club of Ayr are organisation that is well known in the Burdekin community for their generosity and tireless efforts to carry out humanitarian work throughout the globe,” Eliza said.
“I feel very fortunate to be their ambassador for 2025 and do what I can to give back to an organisation that does so much for everyone else.”
Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri
Giulia Sarri's journey to becoming the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Winner stands as nothing short of inspirational, and she feels beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to represent the Burdekin Christian College.
In the beginning of the Ambassador Program, Giulia recalls feeling extremely nervous for what the next few months had in store, however, once the crown was placed on her head on the evening of Saturday, the 7th of September, those feelings completely slipped away.
“I was shocked and excited! I didn’t think that I would win as all the Ambassadors were worthy of winning. I’m very grateful to be crowned the Winner and feel honoured to have been part of an event that I believe is very important to our community,” Giulia shared.
“Just being chosen to represent Burdekin Christian College (BCC) as a Junior Ambassador was an honour and a privilege in
itself, so being crowned the Winner was an extra special bonus and a very special moment for me.”
Right from the second she was asked by her school principal, Ms Creed, Giulia represented BCC with pride.
“If it wasn't for Ms Creed and the school believing in me to represent BCC I wouldn’t have had the amazing experience that I did as a Junior Ambassador,” said Giulia.
“In my time at BCC I have been encouraged to find my strengths and supported to challenge myself, so, to have the winning title representing BCC is very special.”
With her crown, sash and robe handy, Giulia cannot wait to spend more time with her fellow Winning Ambassadors over the next year, and she hopes anyone considering the experience puts their hand up ahead of the 2026 Burdekin Water Festival.
“The whole program is the best thing you could possibly do, and the entire experience exceeded my expectations. It was
fun, challenging and very rewarding! I made new friends with both Junior and Senior Ambassadors, and the program has helped me with my confidence overall and especially in public speaking,” added Giulia.
“It is an experience of a lifetime.”
Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up Jorja Vasta
2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up, Jorja Vasta, representing Burdekin Junior Rugby League, was celebratorily crowned on the evening of Saturday the 7th of September – a heart stopping moment she’ll never forget.
“I was so shocked when Kari (BWF Ambassador Coordinator) announced my club, and my name – I just couldn’t believe it – I felt excited and proud,” Jorja enthused.
“Being named Runner Up means so much to me, and it boosts my faith that dreams really do come true as it doesn’t matter where you come from, determination and being true to yourself is success.”
Jorja has been an active member of Burdekin Junior Rugby League for almost three years, and she could not feel more
honoured to have represented her club over the course of the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival season.
“I was so honoured and proud to represent my club, and I have built confidence, experienced new things and made community connections,” added Jorja.
“This ambassador experience has been filled with a lot of memorable moments like going to events with things I have never done before - playing night golf was definitely an exciting experience and talking to the other Ambassadors both past and present to help calm my nerves has helped me a lot.”
Right from the moment she was asked to become a BWF Junior Ambassador, Jorja knew she wanted to make the most of every moment, and with all the festivities now concluded, she feels nothing but gratitude for the entire experience, and she hopes others will leap at the opportunity to become an Ambassador in the new year.
“I would encourage others to give it a go, and if you have a business or organisation, I encourage you to nominate an ambassador!”
Up Eliza Worlein (Rotary Club of Ayr) (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
Junior Ambassador Runner Up Jorja Vasta (Burdekin Junior Rugby League) with Junior Ambassador Winner Giulia Sarri (Burdekin Christian College) (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
MAJOR ROAD UPGRADES SET FOR AYR INDUSTRIAL
ESTATE
The Burdekin Shire Council has secured funding under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) to deliver significant upgrades to the Ayr Industrial Estate road network.
The project aims to improve safety and accessibility, provide more efficient access for heavy vehicles, and enhance parking while strengthening long-term infrastructure capacity.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the investment reflects Council’s commitment to supporting local industry and improving the region’s transport network.
“This upgrade will ensure Ayr’s industrial area can better accommodate heavy vehicles, while also improving safety, accessibility, and infrastructure resilience,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“It’s a significant investment in our region’s future growth and productivity.”
Key features of the project include widening approximately 900 metres of road to 14 metres, installing new kerb and channel, pavement and asphalt surfacing, and upgrading underground drainage systems.
Four intersections will be renewed to improve traffic flow and vehicle safety, while 369 metres of drainage culverts, 12 inlet pits, and six manholes will also be installed.
The Council has thanked the Australian Government for supporting the works through SLRIP, helping to deliver safer and more resilient infrastructure for the community.
Construction will begin once detailed design and procurement processes are complete, with timelines yet to be confirmed.
After building a career across India, the United Kingdom, and the United States, physiotherapist Phelps Kota has arrived in the Burdekin— and he’s here to make a difference.
Earlier this month, Kota helped inaugurate Kota’s Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinic, aiming to reduce long wait times for physiotherapy in the region and provide care that restores mobility, independence, and hope. The clinic offers services across paediatric , orthopaedic, neurology, related conditions and pre and post operative rehabilitation, ensuring patients of all ages can access high-quality care close to home.
regain their lives.”
For Kota, working in regional communities is deeply personal. “I feel at home here. Coming to remote areas reminds me of my hometown in India,” he said. “I’m excited to make a difference.”
He moves to the region with his wife, a dentist, who also made the leap from India, leaving career opportunities behind to support his mission to keep the Burdekin healthy.
Kota’s approach is rooted in patient independence and care that extends beyond treating injuries. “Physiotherapy is about helping people to not have to depend on others for daily living, even if their condition isn’t fully curable,” he explained. “Even a small candle is enough in a dark room. We want to be that ray of hope for the Burdekin community.”
Kota’s journey to the Burdekin has been anything but linear. After completing a bachelor’s degree in India and gaining local work experience, he moved to the UK, earning his physiotherapy license at just 24 years old. He worked in NHS clinics, gaining experience across multiple specialties, before pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare and physiotherapy in the United States at Trine University in Detroit, Michigan , United States of America. Along the way, he trained in more than 15+ countries, attending workshops and developing the advanced clinical skills that he now brings to the Burdekin.
“The Burdekin had a clear need,” Kota said. “People here were waiting two to three weeks for physiotherapy. We wanted to give them access sooner and help them
Since opening, Kota has welcomed patients from across the region, offering faster appointments and personalised treatment plans. His clinic is designed to ensure accessibility and comfort, with a focus on long-term recovery and improved quality of life.
With his clinic now established in the Burdekin, Kota is focused on bringing worldclass physiotherapy to the community. Through expertise, dedication, and a commitment to patient care, he aims to offer support, independence, and hope for every patient who walks through his doors.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort at an intersection in the Ayr Industrial Estate. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council
“I feel at home here... I’m excited to make a difference," said Kota. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Help close to home: Lives Lived Well backs the Burdekin community
Lives Lived Well is here for the Burdekin, offering practical, non-judgemental therapeutic intervention for people affected by alcohol and other drugs. Our team works across the region, providing free, confidential counselling for adults and young people to help support people to gain the skills to Live Their Lives Well.
If you’re worried about your substance use, our clinicians can help you make sense of what’s happening and create a plan that fits your life. We offer one-on-one counselling in person or by phone. Our therapeutic approach is couched in evidence-based practice, and each session is tailored to the individual and their support needs and can further create connections with additional services such as Mental Health services, Domestic
and Family Violence support and general practitioners.
We also offer Drug and Alcohol First Aid training (fee for service) to build community knowledge and basic skills around responding to AOD specific risky situations.
Our clinician travels from Townsville weekly and is based at Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr making it easier for people across the Burdekin to get help close to home.
If you’d like to know more, please contact Lives Lived Well on 1300 727 957 or visit our website www. liveslivedwell.org.au.
We’re part of your community, and we are passionate about the possibilities.
Festive Spirit Takes Centre Stage at Burdekin Chamber Meeting
Last week’s Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meeting drew one of its largest crowds in recent memory, as local business owners kick-started their Thursday morning with coffee, conversation and community planning.
Proceedings were led by Seb Aguirre of ELA Solutions, who steered discussions towards one of the year’s most anticipated highlights—the Burdekin Christmas Street Party.
The agenda sparked plenty of lively debate, particularly around logistics such as preferred dates, potential road closures and whether Queen Street shopfronts should remain open during the festivities. While some members were keen to showcase local businesses, others raised concerns following last year’s disappointing turnout, which was hampered by heavy rain.
Despite differing views, the overall mood was upbeat, with
members eager to breathe fresh life into an event that has long been a hallmark of the region’s festive season. Organisers are hopeful that with a strong lineup of stalls, live entertainment and food vendors, this year’s celebration will draw crowds back in true Burdekin fashion.
With planning now well underway, the Burdekin Christmas Street Party promises to deliver plenty of festive cheer—and, hopefully, a dry evening.
Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Kari Ravizza, Executive Member Jenny Papale, Executive Member Rose Papadimitriou, and President Eusebio Aguirre at last week’s Chamber meeting. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Last week’s Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meeting drew one of its largest crowds in recent memory. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
September 28th 2023
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr, on Sunday
Minute With The Mayor
Mayor
Pierina Dalle Cort
What a wonderful couple of weeks it has been celebrating our community.
At the Giru Show, I was reminded of the incredible dedication that small communities put into their events. The Giru Progress Association continues to achieve great things, and this year’s show was extra special as we paid tribute to Mrs Betty Corradi. For 35 years Betty worked tirelessly for the community she loved, and it was moving to see her family honour her memory with a balloon release.
We also marked a significant milestone - the 50th anniversary of the Burdekin Community Association (BCA). For half a century, BCA has stood as a beacon of compassion, supporting those in need, addressing hardship and distress, and building a safer, more connected community. Their ongoing work in the areas of domestic and family violence, homelessness, health, and social support has truly
changed lives.
Council has also secured further funding through the Community and Recreational Assets Recovery Program, which means works will soon commence at three muchloved locations, I look forward to sharing this with you all soon.
Finally, I want to highlight the incredible talent we continue to see at our own Burdekin Theatre. Many of us love travelling to the big cities for headline acts, but the recent performance from Paul Ettore Tabone reminded us that world-class talent can be found right here at home. Paul, who grew up in Ingham, captivated audiences with his extraordinary voice and stage presence. Keep an eye out for his next performance - you won’t want to miss it.
If you’d like to reach out, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me on 0447 150 582 or by email at mayor@burdekin.qld. gov.au.
Councillor Column
Councillor Amanda Hall
Council officers have been very busy of late, securing major funding for our Shire. The continued development of the new Industrial Estate is one inherited project that I will personally be glad to see move forward. Whether you agree with it or not, its completion is essential to the growth of the Burdekin economy.
Council’s approved Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) stands at $24m – six times larger than any program delivered in recent years. Given the scale of works, the two-year period required to deliver it and Councils capital works program which still needs to be completed, specialist contractors have been engaged to manage this program. This is fully funded by DRFA funding with NO cost to council. It will be great to see roads fixed but please be patient. It’s frustrating because we all want things done yesterday, however they do take time.
Well done to the staff and officers involved in securing this funding for our Shire.
Last Friday afternoon Councillors and Council officers travelled to Millaroo for the first of our Community Consultations
which have been a long time coming. The last time this was done was to deliver the message of the Millaroo pool closure. This was my motivation for running for Council and whilst I still don’t agree with it, it was heartening to see people come together and voice their ideas for their community and how Council could help.
I’m going to take a moment to reflect on recent disturbing events. The incomprehensible violence toward people whose views are incompatible with your own, or for no reason at all and the hateful vitriol that has ensued across social media is evil.
I have been on the receiving end of such hate on social media given my stance on certain issues or for simply benign reasons. I have opinions and I will voice them, inside of chambers and out, with respect and dignity. I will speak to what I believe is morally and ethically right. Think about how you would feel if you or your family were on the receiving end of such hate fueled words and violence before engaging on social media. We need to do better. God Bless all those whose lives have been taken through violence. God Bless Charlie Kirk and his family.
Burdekin Communications Opens Doors of New Location New Location, New Era
After more than 60 years serving the Burdekin, Burdekin Communications has relocated once again in Ayr, turning a new page for the family-run business while returning focus to the core services that have long made it a community mainstay.
Now trading from a newly refurbished storefront at 123 Edwards Street, Burdekin Communications had the space ready and completed most of the move in less than a week.
“We moved the bulk of everything in just four days—it was a massive weekend,” owner Paul Benvenuti said. The new site offers strong advantages, with prime highway frontage, high visibility, and steady passing traffic. With development underway across the road, the location is expected to become even busier in the future.
Along with the move, Paul has stepped away from the Jaycar retail operation to refocus on the company’s foundations.
“We want to bring the business back to its core, which was two-way radio communications and marine electronics. We want to try and get back to the roots that helped
the company to take off,” he explained.
For Paul, the change carries personal as well as professional significance. Burdekin Communications was founded in 1965 by his father, Kevin, and mother, Janette, and Paul has steered the business through decades of growth and change.
“It’s a big deal to me. I often sit back and think about [the legacy], but I’m happy to keep it going. I’ll keep it going as long as I can… there’s no doubt about that,” he said.
Under Paul’s guidance, the business has evolved to supply, install, and service products from Garmin, GME, Icom, Uniden, Autobacs, RFI, Zetifi, Cel-Fi, and more, working with local councils, government departments, and marine operators. Burdekin Communications continues to prioritise professional, reliable service while supporting the Burdekin community.
Paul and his wife Christine also actively back local initiatives, including the Justin Scott Fishing Classic, held in memory of a young family friend.
“We try our best to give back. The support from the community has been awesome
over the years, and that’s why we’re so committed to giving back to the community whenever we can,” Paul said.
With the move complete and a renewed focus on its core services, Burdekin Com-
munications invites locals to visit its Edwards Street location and experience the expertise and service that have kept the family business thriving
Burdekin Communications has relocated once again in Ayr, now trading from a newly refurbished storefront at 123 Edwards Street. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Last Chance For Global Traders Roadshow
Afinal reminder to growers regarding the Global Traders Roadshow featuring Wilmar’s Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham. Peter is currently in India attending the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) convention, which means he will bring the very latest insights into Indian crop developments and ethanol policy for the year ahead. With India’s production forecast rising sharply this season, the country’s decisions around exports and ethanol could play a crucial role in shaping sugar prices for the tail end of the 2025 season pricing period. With the weather cooperating and the mills running well, the end of season could be upon us before we know it. We’re already fielding enquiry from growers about their pricing status with the GEI Sugar they have delivered so far to determine whether they can confidently start pricing their GMPRS orders. To support this process, we have developed a new exposure monitoring tool to give growers clearer visibility of their position and help manage final pricing decisions as the season winds down.
As always, if growers are concerned
about their final estimated delivery against pricing commitments please talk to your local Relationship Manager as soon as possible. We have options to deal with production shortfalls and the sooner we identify a potential issue the more flexibility we have in managing it.
On the global stage, #11 sugar prices continue to languish while the Brazilian crush powers ahead. A record 55 per cent sugar mix in the latest UNICA report has analysts revising their final Brazilian sugar production number higher. However, ethanol parity continues to ratchet higher with current estimates above 16 USc/lb.
The next couple of UNICA reports will be interesting to see if there is a switch back from sugar with ethanol stocks low in Brazil. A stronger AUD driven by a weak USD is adding to the uphill battle the AUD sugar swap price is facing.
I look forward to seeing you at our Global Traders Roadshow next week and introducing you to our expanding team. RSVP’s close this week so if you would like to attend, please contact your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager to secure your spot.
Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
Our Grower Marketing Relationship managers are on hand to help growers check their final estimated delivery against pricing commitments. Pictured are Misty Bland, Owen Richards, grower Russell Laidlow, Jonathan Reichard, Fiona Villis, grower Greg Laidlow and Trent Johnson. Photo supplied
Webinar To Explore AI-Guided Future Of Crop Breeding
Artificial intelligence is set to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of agriculture, and an upcoming Sugar Research Australia (SRA) webinar will explore just how transformative that potential could be.
The free online event, AI-guided breeding to develop future crops, will be held on Friday, 10 October at 2pm (AEST), bringing together leading voices in the field to discuss the opportunities of applying AI to plant breeding.
Guest presenter Professor Lee Hickey from the University of Queensland will outline how artificial intelligence can harness large and complex datasets across four key stages of the breeding pipeline, accelerating the development of more resilient and productive crops.
The session will also highlight the importance of capacity building and train-
ing, ensuring the next generation of plant breeders are equipped with predictive breeding skills that will shape Australia’s agricultural future.
Webinar chair Dr Nathalie Piperidis of SRA said the event would offer practical insights into how digital tools can enhance traditional breeding methods.
“The pace of technological change in agriculture is rapid, and this webinar is a chance to hear from experts at the forefront of using AI to solve real-world breeding challenges,” she said.
The presentation will conclude with an overview of the Australian Research Council Training Centre in Predictive Breeding, a national initiative focused on advancing skills and innovation in this space.
For details and to register, visit sugarresearch.com.au/webinars
Smarter Irrigation Boosts Nitrogen Efficiency In Burdekin Cane
Water and fertiliser are two of the biggest costs – and opportunities – for cane growers in the Burdekin, and new insights are highlighting how the two are closely linked.
According to Farmacist agronomists, irrigation scheduling can play a decisive role in whether nitrogen fertiliser is effectively used by the crop or lost through run-off, leaching or denitrification.
With sugarcane heavily reliant on nitrogen for growth, ensuring the nutrient remains in the root zone is vital. Poorly timed irrigations risk washing valuable fertiliser away before the cane has a chance to use it.
Tools such as the GDot soil moisture sensor are proving to be a simple yet effective way for growers to fine-tune irrigation timing. By monitoring soil moisture, farmers can better match water applications to crop needs, reducing stress on cane while improving fertiliser efficiency.
Farmacist says the benefits extend beyond productivity. Smarter irrigation not only
helps keep nitrogen where it belongs but also reduces environmental losses, supporting both economic and sustainability outcomes for the industry.
“By aligning irrigation with crop demand, growers can make every drop of water –and every kilogram of nitrogen – work harder for them,” the article notes.
With the Burdekin region so dependent on irrigation, adopting these strategies offers significant potential to lift yields while lowering costs and protecting waterways.
For more information, visit: farmacist.com.au/blog/nitrogen-management-and-irrigation-scheduling.
Photo source: Farmacist
Queensland Cane Growers Recognised As World Leaders
Sugarcane has always been part of Queensland’s story. From the sunlit paddocks along our coastline the sweet scent of a mill in full crush, it’s hard to imagine our state without it.
But there’s a side to the industry that many people don’t see – how far our growers have come in making cane a world leader in sustainability.
This month we reached a milestone worth celebrating. Farms accredited through our Smartcane BMP program have now earned a rare triple tick from the three most respected international sustainability umpires – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.
In layman’s terms, this means independent global auditors have confirmed that Queensland cane is grown to the highest environmental and sustainability standards.
That recognition didn’t arrive by chance. It’s the result of years of effort by growers keeping detailed records, improving soil health, managing water carefully and refining how they farm.
Today almost half of Queensland’s cane area is managed under Smartcane BMP, and that number keeps climbing.
Why does this matter? Because major buyers – from soft drink companies to overseas refiners –are demanding proof their sugar comes from responsible sources.
Thanks to the dedication of our growers, Queensland cane can meet that test. In fact, we’re now one of the very few cane-growing regions on the planet able to offer this level of verified sustainability.
And it’s not just about the environment. Smartcane BMP helps farmers build stronger, more profitable businesses, which means healthier regional communities and a stronger state economy.
By Owen Menkens, Chairman, CANEGROWERS
small businesses in our towns.
When Queensland sugarcane is recognised internationally, the benefits flow to everyone – from the workers in the mills to the
So next time you stir a spoonful of sugar into your tea or coffee, think of the people behind it – the Queensland growers prov-
ing that you can farm sustainably and stay competitive on the global stage. They deserve every bit of the pride we feel today.
CANEGROWERS CALLS FOR HISTORIC PHOTOS TO MARK 100 YEARS
SCAN TO BOOK A SERVICE
As CANEGROWERS prepares to celebrate its centenary in 2026, the organisation is inviting the community to help build a unique photo collection that captures 100 years of cane country history.
Locals are encouraged to dig out their treasured sug-
arcane snapshots — from family moments on the farm to milestones in the industry — and share them on Facebook or by emailing info@canegrowers. com.au.
The collection will form part of a centenary showcase honouring the people and stories behind the
sugarcane industry. Selected photographs may even feature in a special-edition 2026 Centenary Calendar, ensuring the region’s history is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
Your photos could help tell the story of a century of cane country!
Smartcane BMP farms have earned international recognition (Photo Supplied)
A Half-Century of Heart
BCA’s 50 Years Supporting the Burdekin Community
When the Burdekin Community Association was founded five decades ago, it wasn’t born from a grand plan. It stemmed from concern—concern from everyday people who saw a gap in care for those leaving the hospital with nowhere to turn and the need for a community information centre.
Following a year of community consultation, Father John Payne and a committee of local citizens, with the support of the Ayr Shire Chairman and Shire Clerk, laid the foundations for BCA in 1975, setting out to respond to the Burdekin’s unmet needs and support those experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability or helplessness.
“At the start, it was all volunteers,” says CEO Debra Cochran. “We began with opening a Community Information Centre so people could find out what help was available. In 1978, we started the Home Help Service and helped people with cleaning, shopping and mowing lawns.
For the first seven years, BCA operated without formal funding. It wasn’t until
the federal government provided Home and Community Care funding —and the association later became incorporated in 1984—that the organisation began to grow in scale and reach. The rest is history.
From a handful of volunteers, BCA now has 52 staff, 13 subcontractors and 61 volunteers, offering 36 distinct programs. Yet, despite this growth, the purpose remains to provide direct services to people experiencing hardship and distress, from children to seniors.
The organisation has experienced exponential growth over its five decades of servicing the community. Securing Home Care funding proved BCA could deliver government-supported services effectively. Later came the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre, providing specialist care to those who need it most. Over the past 15 years, BCA has expanded further, offering specialist domestic and family violence and homelessness services, psychological therapies, suicide prevention and exercise physiology - all staffed by qualified professionals along with home care
packages, national disability insurance scheme, Qld Community Support Service, Transport Service, Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, and Older People’s Action Program to name a few.
“We help people with whatever they’re facing,” says Cochran. “Sometimes it’s just providing information, sometimes it’s connecting them with a financial counsellor, a mental health clinician, or emergency relief. We work holistically, one small thing often leads to another.”
That human connection is at the heart of BCA, and it’s having local people helping locals that makes the difference, Cochran says. “It’s community members helping each other. Our staff live here. They know the people, the issues. It’s about being part of the solution together.”
Due to increasing local demand, BCA is now exploring ways to expand domestic and family violence and homelessness services and increase aged care support. “The demand is rising, and it’s a challenge—but we’re also making progress,” she says.
As it celebrates 50 years of keeping the Burdekin ticking, the BCA remains committed to standing alongside every member of the community, offering care, comfort, and hope when it’s needed most. “Even the smallest conversation can make a huge difference,” says Cochran. “We can help in small ways, or big ways, people don’t have to face challenges alone.”
Fifty years on, BCA remains a pillar of the Burdekin, not because of buildings or funding, but because of people helping people, day in, day out.
From little things, big things grow!
Community Information Centre circa 1976 The Support Centre Burdekin Centre for Rural Health Community Information Centre
The Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) invites the community to join the Association to celebrate our 50th Anniversary this month.
We thank the Management Committee (past and present), BCA members, Burdekin Shire Council, funding bodies, donors, other service providers and groups and our wonderful Team for all of their hard work, support and assistance in helping the Association to thrive and support the community throughout the years!
President’s Message Majella Meehan
Imagine, the BCA has been assisting our community for 50 years! What a milestone.
Of course, we could not have been with you for this long if it had not been for all of those supporters who have gone before us.
A special thanks to the Life Members and the Honorary Member, some of whom are no longer with us…
Bill Hodson – Life member;
Joan Heatley OAM – Life member;
Joan Kennedy – Life member;
Roy Dickinson OAM – Life member; and
Brenda-Anne Parfitt (formerly Norman) – Honorary member
Joan was President for 26 years and I pay tribute to her (and to all of the other Life Members and the Honorary Member) without whose dedication the BCA would not be the organisation that it is today.
A special thanks also goes to the staff and volunteers, who, over
the last 50 years have all contributed to the success of the BCA.
The past and present Management Committee Members are also deserving of special mention. There have been many members and many of those have served for a number of years. providing a consistency and continuity for the BCA.
There is that saying (from a song I think) which goes…”From little things, big things grow”.
That is certainly the story of the BCA. From very humble beginnings down at the Information Centre at Plantation Park to now working from the Support Centre, Burdekin Centre for Rural Health and the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre and Community Information Centre, with various other locations along the way.
A special acknowledgement and thanks must also go to the Burdekin Shire Council, who has supported the BCA in so many ways. Your assistance has been very important in allowing us to provide such valuable services for
the last 50 years.
Also, a special thanks to our various collaborators from both Federal and State Government. Over the years, the BCA has delivered a number of programs funded by government. We currently deliver programs funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety and the Department of Housing and Public Works.
Thank you to all those who have donated to the BCA. Your donations have allowed us to be proactive in providing services to our community which would not otherwise have been available.
Lastly, thank you to each of you for helping to celebrate this wonderful milestone. I sometimes wonder if our predecessors ever thought the BCA would still be going 50 years on. Thanks to them, we are and I am confident that the BCA will continue to serve this community for many years to come.
Majella Meehan President
BCA Chief Executive Officer Debra Cochran
My name is Debra Cochran and I’ve been with the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) for almost 25 years. I’ve been the CEO for 15 years and managed the Home Care Service prior to this.
Before moving to Ayr with my husband and commencing with BCA, I worked in senior management in various industries including coal mining, human resources, recruitment and banking. I’m rewarded by helping others and improving the Burdekin community which is why I jumped at the chance to work for BCA and continue to do so.
The BCA is a not-for-profit, incorporated association and registered charity, which strives to fulfil the unmet social, welfare and health needs of the Burdekin community. A diverse range of community services are delivered by the BCA to the Burdekin Shire. Since establishment in 1975, BCA has evolved to become one of the largest community organisations in the region. BCA’s Purpose is “To provide direct relief to the aged, families, children and individuals who are experiencing poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune,
disability or helplessness”.
BCA is managed by a volunteer Management Committee made up of a number of individuals who as a group represent the community and are responsible for the management of the association.
BCA’s structure consists of myself as CEO and four Service Managers. I’m responsible for implementing the association’s policies, procedures and decisions. On a dayto-day basis my role includes managing the BCA’s affairs.
Our team of 125 personnel continue to raise standards of support through personal and professional improvement and partnership with clients, families, providers, government and the community.
I’m very proud of the wide range of community and health services BCA provides in the Burdekin – 36 programs in total. During my time as CEO, we’ve significantly increased the quality of our services along with government funding and programs and the financial strength of the organisation.
We’re offering services to community members at the highest possible level (e.g.
Specialist Homelessness Service, Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Service, Home Care Packages Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Psychological Therapies Program, Accredited Exercise Physiology Program etc). Our Team works closely with various network members, government High Risk and Critical Response Teams, to increase the level of assistance being provided to community members.
With the increase of domestic and family violence, homelessness, cost of living pressures and our ageing population, important priorities for BCA include continuing to find ways to increase services in these and other areas.
If I had one message for the community about BCA it would be that the organisation and our team are here to help and support you as much as we possibly can. Please reach out for support and information regarding community and health services.
Burdekin Centre For Rural Health Housing and Community Support Service with Donna Wood with Rebecca Grogan
or more than two decades, the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health (BCRH) has been a hub of health and wellbeing in the Burdekin region, offering programs designed to support physical, mental, and social health.
Established in 2001, and with the Burdekin Community Rehabilitation Centre joining in 2004, BCRH provides accessible services ranging from Accredited Exercise Physiology and MyndKind programs to the Older People’s Action Program, support groups, telehealth services, visiting health professionals, office and meeting room hire, and a Community Recovery Centre.
Service Manager Donna Wood, who brings more than ten years of experience in local community services, highlights the Centre’s focus on empowering individuals. “It is rewarding to see that, with knowledge of available programs and services and the support to access these services, many individuals can begin their journey to health and wellbeing,” she says.
In 2024, the introduction of a local Journey Coordinator strengthened the Centre’s mental health services, helping clients access personalised support plans, practical tools, and referrals to external agencies. Through partnerships such as the one with North Queensland Primary Health Network, BCRH provides the MyndKind Program to those facing barriers to mental health care, including financial or transport challenges.
BCRH also emphasises social connection. The Active and Social Seniors Group, partially funded by OPAP, combines group
exercise with individual rehabilitation and opportunities for social interaction, welcoming adults 60+, or 55+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.
Looking ahead, Donna and the BCRH team remain committed to adapting services to the community’s evolving needs. “We encourage anyone in need to reach out—support is available, and there’s no need to hesitate when seeking help,” she says. The Centre continues to offer a welcoming environment where health, recovery, and community engagement intersect, ensuring residents can access practical support and meaningful social connection.
Since 1987, the Housing and Community Support Service at the BCA has been providing vital assistance to individuals and families facing vulnerability across the region. Managed by Rebecca Grogan, the service combines practical support with opportunities for connection, learning, and empowerment, addressing both immediate needs and longterm wellbeing.
The service provides a Specialist Homelessness Program, which includes five Crisis Accommodation Program (CAP) properties. Complementing this are initiatives through the Burdekin Community Support Neighbourhood Centre Program, encompassing support groups, community development projects, awareness and education programs, and food relief through the State Emergency Relief Program and SecondBite Program to ensure families and individuals have access to essential resources. Specialist Domestic and Family Violence support, including court assistance and counselling for women and children, forms a critical part of the service, helping some of the community’s most vulnerable members navigate challenging circumstances.
Rebecca explains, “We’re here because we care. We want everyone to feel supported, connected, and included.” Programs like the annual Christmas Appeal exemplify this mission, linking local generosity to those in need and creating tangible impact within the community.
Over the years, the service has evolved
to meet changing needs. Funded programs now replace previously unfunded initiatives, and services are increasingly client-centred, responding directly to feedback while collaborating with partner organisations to ensure people receive the right support. The approach focuses on “doing with—not doing for,” encouraging connection and self-determination alongside practical assistance.
Looking ahead, the service aims to strengthen community resilience, provide early intervention, and expand opportunities for information, support, and connection. Through its combined focus on immediate relief, ongoing support, and community empowerment, the Housing and Community Support Service continues to be a lifeline for the Burdekin region, ensuring individuals and families are supported, included, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
Volunteer Service Home Care Service with Rita Quagliata with Diana Churches
For nearly 50 years, the BCA’s Volunteer Service has been connecting people with opportunities to make a difference across the region. Managed by Rita Quagliata, the service recruits, trains, and supports volunteers from diverse backgrounds—including retirees, jobseekers, new arrivals, and students— helping them find meaningful roles that strengthen both the community and their own wellbeing.
Volunteers contribute across a wide spectrum of programs, with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) standing out as a long-standing initiative. Funded by the federal government, the scheme provides companionship and support for older Australians, extending beyond residential care to those receiving Home Care Packages. Since 2023, the ACVVS has emphasised Person-Centered Care, aligning with Aged Care Quality Standards to support resident autonomy and emotional wellbeing.
Rita says that volunteering with the BCA offers more than just a way to give back. “It gives people a sense of pride, fosters feelings of joy and contentment, provides a sense of meaning, boosts self-worth, reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and cultivates a strong sense of belonging,” she says.
Stories from volunteers underscore this. One migrant volunteer found purpose and belonging through the program, ultimately leaving a legacy to the BCA; another volunteer’s simple joy at receiving a BCA shirt highlighted the personal significance
of recognition and support.
The service continues to evolve, engaging diverse communities, including First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse groups, while fostering connections that reduce isolation. Rita’s vision for the future is clear: expand volunteer roles, strengthen long-term participation, and raise awareness of the transformative power of volunteering.
Through its dedication to service and community engagement, the Volunteer Service enriches lives, strengthens social bonds, and ensures that individuals and the wider Burdekin community thrive together.
For older and vulnerable adults in the Burdekin region, the BCA Home Care Service has provided practical support that helps people remain in their own homes for longer since 1977. Managed by Diana Churches, the service offers in-home care, community participation, and transport both locally and to Townsville for eligible clients. Services are available through the Home Care Packages Program, Commonwealth Home Support Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Queensland Community Support Scheme, Burdekin Community Transport Program and Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Carer Gateway Services etc via brokerage agreements.
The service supports a broad range of adults, from seniors needing help with daily tasks to younger clients accessing disability services. By assisting with household management, community engagement, and transport, the Home Care Service allows clients without local family support to maintain independence and avoid residential care. Diana reflects, “I believe that we make a difference every day for our clients… some without ever having the need to enter residential care.”
with Diana encouraging locals to consider joining as Support Workers. “You do not need experience or training to start your journey in Aged Care and Disability Care,” she says, emphasising the importance of expanding the service’s reach to assist more clients.
With a focus on person-centred care, the Home Care Service adapts to meet the evolving needs of the community, listening to clients and tailoring services accordingly. This flexibility ensures the service continues to uphold the Burdekin Community Association’s 50-year tradition of support.
The program also highlights career opportunities in aged care and disability care,
For those in need of support or considering a role in aged care or disability care, the Home Care Service provides guidance, practical assistance, and a pathway to independence. Residents can contact BCA on (07) 4783 3744 to access services or explore career opportunities, ensuring the community continues to receive compassionate, professional care where it matters most.
BCA Celebrates 50 Years
The celebration culminated with the cutting of the anniversary cake, signifying five decades of dedication, community spirit, and the enduring contributions of the BCA to the Burdekin region.
The evening brought together community members, BCA affiliates, and special guests including Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin, the Hon. Dale Last MP
Guests enjoyed a buffet dinner while being entertained by live performances from Riley Nosworthy and the Home Hill Choral Society
Special guests including Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Member for Burdekin, the Hon. Dale Last MP joined in celebrating the momentous milestone
Brian Sorohan (BCA Secretary) and his wife Margaret
Cr. John Furnell, Cr. Max Musumeci, and Shannon Musumeci of RuralQuip
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort addresses the crowd
Years In Style
The Home Hill Choral Society took the stage, delivering a program of Italian-themed songs and lighthearted skits that captivated the audience Natalie Saroglia of the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, Majella Meehan, President of the BCA, and Debra Cochran, CEO of the BCA
Hon. Dale Last MP addresses the crowd
Majella Meehan presenting Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with a certificate of appreciation for the Burdekin Shire Council
Majella Meehan addresses the crowd
Cr. John Furnell led proceedings
ASHS STUDENTS STEP UP FOR CHARITY
Ayr State High School students, staff and supporters turned out in force on Friday night for the school’s annual 5-Hour Charity Walk, raising an impressive $8,446.75.
A total of 104 walkers took part, with each year level nominating a cause to support. The Year 7 team raised $1,795.90 for the Brighter Lives Foundation, while Year 8 collected $2,498.40 for the Mark Hughes Foundation.
Year 9 walkers brought in $838.30 for the Burdekin Community Association, Year 10 raised $240 for the Cerebral Palsy League, and Year 11 raised $809.70 for Endometriosis Australia.
One of the standout efforts came from Year 8 student Claire G, who raised an incredible $2,035.20 on her own, making her the highest individual fundraiser of the night. The evening combined fitness, fun and community spirit, with every step taken going towards charities that make a difference both locally and nationally. ASHS praised the generosity of students and families, saying the results showed the strength of community support when people come together for a good cause.
The Year 12 team contributed $2,004.45 to the Leukaemia Foundation, while school staff members raised $260 for Ronald McDonald House.
Burdekin Christian College Makes Mark At Water Festival
Burdekin Christian College stole the show at this year’s Burdekin Water Festival, celebrating not one, but two remarkable achievements, with Giulia Sarri being named Junior Water Festival Ambassador and the school’s stunning Japanese-themed float taking home both Best Junior Ambassador Float and Grand Champion Float.
Giulia, a Year 7 student, described her ambassador win as a “surprise and really exciting” moment. Initially hesitant when encouraged to participate, Giulia soon embraced the opportunity. “I realised this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and didn’t want to miss out,” she said.
As she settled into the role, Giulia embraced every moment, proudly representing her school with aplomb. “It was such an honour to be chosen as an ambassador. I felt confident on stage and grateful to BCC for trusting me,” she added.
Despite her success, she recalled that one of her festival highlights was visiting the Regis Aged Care centre, where she shared her hobby with residents. “It made me so happy to see everyone giving it a try and enjoying it as much as I do,” she said. At the same time, BCC was bringing its Japanese Cherry Blossom-themed float to
life under the guidance of Mrs Jill Sutcliffe and her team of helpers—Mrs Downs, Mr Griffin, Mr Shaul, and Mrs Lando—with support from a truck generously lent by RuralQuip.
Inspired by a cherry blossom-themed Mother’s Day High Tea and the popularity of Japan as a travel destination, the float featured Japanese cultural icons like Mount Fuji, a torii gate, cherry blossom trees, a koi pond, and even a Hello Kitty bullet train that bobbed in the wind. Students on the float also contributed fans, umbrellas, and samurai swords to round off the display.
“Seeing BCC represented through both Giulia’s win and the float was a very proud moment,” Mrs Sutcliffe said.
Drawing from her own experience, Giulia encouraged future ambassador candidates to embrace the opportunity with enthusiasm. “Don’t be nervous. Being an ambassador is amazing, and you’ll make great friends along the way,” she said.
Following the double success of their ambassador and float, Burdekin Christian College is already looking forward to next year’s parade, excited to continue building on this unforgettable celebration of student talent and community spirit.
AYR STATE SCHOOL WELCOMES COMMUNITY AT OPEN DAY
Ayr State School threw open its doors to the public on Thursday, September 11, for its annual Open Day, welcoming families, friends and community members to experience firsthand what the school has to offer.
From 4pm, parents and visitors were given a chance to tour classrooms, chat with staff, and observe student work on display. Teachers said it was a valuable chance to show the learning environment in action and to share the achievements of their students.
The event was also a hit amongst younger visitors, with messy play, face painting, science experiments and even
pony walks proving popular. Food stalls kept the crowd satiated, serving spaghetti cups, a sausage sizzle and sweet honey puffs.
The school announced on Facebook how proud they were to showcase a school community that they describe as welcoming, supportive and inspiring. “It was wonderful to see so many families come along and be part of the afternoon,” one staff member said.
With enrolments for 2026 now open, the Open Day also served as an opportunity for new families to meet teachers, explore facilities, and get a sense of the close-knit environment the school provides.
St. Francis Catholic School Under 8’s Day
Burdekin Catholic High School Showcases Strong Vocational Learning Pathways
Burdekin Catholic High School continues to lead the way in providing senior students with diverse opportunities through its Vocational Learning Program for Years 10–12. With a strong focus on practical skills, industry experience, and employability, the program is helping prepare students for successful careers across a wide range of fields.
The school offers a suite of dedicated vocational subjects including Industrial Graphics, Industrial Technologies, Sport and Recreation, and Business, which complement essential English and Mathematics. These subjects provide a strong foundation in both academic and practical learning, ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed beyond the classroom.
A key highlight of the program is the delivery of nationally recognised qualifications. Students can undertake a CPC20220 Certificate II in Construction Pathways through the school’s specialised Trade Training Centre, gaining hands-on experience in a purpose-built facility. In addition, the SIT20322 Certificate II in Hospitality is delivered in the school’s industry-standard Hospitality Centre, preparing students for real-world careers in food service and hospitality.
Burdekin Catholic High School also strongly supports students pursuing School-Based
Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs).
This year alone, more than seven students are engaged in apprenticeships with local employers, combining their classroom learning with valuable workplace experience.
Beyond the school grounds, students also benefit from access to TAFE Queensland’s Home Hill campus, attending one day per week to study specialised fields such as Automotive and Electrotechnology. One student has been supported studying Aquaculture through TAFE in the Whitsundays. This partnership allows students to gain skills in industries that are both locally significant and nationally in demand.
Lorraine Wolffe, Principal, said the Vocational Learning Program reflects the school’s commitment to catering for a broad range of student pathways to post schooling options.
“Our goal is to ensure every student leaves Burdekin Catholic High School confident in their abilities and equipped with skills that will open doors for their future—whether that be university, further training, or employment,” she said.
With a strong blend of classroom learning, industry-standard training, and workplace experience, Burdekin Catholic High School is proud to provide pathways that prepare students not only for jobs, but for meaningful careers.
Teaching and Learning Excellence
BURDEKIN
Photo supplied
Photo supplied
CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
A Seaside Spectacle Awaits At Cardwell Seafest
ONLY 3 WEEKS TO GO!
Cardwell is set to come alive this King’s Birthday long weekend as the community rolls out the welcome mat for the much-loved Cardwell Seafest. Running from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 October, this free, family-friendly festival promises three days of music, markets, food and fun along the beautiful Cardwell foreshore.
Fishing Competition on Sunday morning, with over 80 eager fishers expected and a prize for every participant.
Adding to the excitement is the annual Monster Raffle, boasting a whopping $5800 worth of prizes thanks to the generosity of local businesses and supporters. Tickets are available from the Cardwell Op Shop and Ob La Di, with
Your Festival Holiday Just Got an Itinerary
Announcing Daily Main Stage Lineups!
The countdown is officially on, and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is ready to make your 2025 Festival unforgettable. We’re thrilled to unveil our full daily lineups, giving you a taste of the incredible music on offer. To make your festival experience even more flexible, we’ve also introduced brand-new 2-day ticket options, catering to every kind of festival-goer. Whether you’re here for the full three-day extravaganza (including the welcome and after party) or just a slice of the action, your ultimate music holiday starts now.
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend packed with Australian rock royalty, blues legends, and the finest emerging talent. The party kicks off early on Thursday night with a Welcome Party at Magnums. On Friday, prepare to be blown away by the iconic Pete Murray and legendary rockers The Screaming Jets. The crescendo continues into Saturday, where you’ll catch Australian powerhouses Diesel, Choirboys, and Bachelor Girl, with the unique sound of Tex Perkins & Matt Walker. There’s no wind-down on Sunday, with the queen herself, Jessica Mauboy, electrifying the stage alongside The Black Sorrows. The good times roll on with the Monday Afterparty at Northerlies, starring blues virtuoso Lloyd Spiegel and more.
Now you have the amazing lineup, you’ll need accommodation that suits your festival vibe. For
the budget-conscious music lover, the Camping and Festival Tickets Package is a game-changer. Starting from just $395pp, this deal includes a campsite at the Whitsunday Sports Park and a 3-day general admission festival ticket, putting you in the heart of the action.
If you prefer a little more comfort with your rock and roll, the Sleep, Stay & Play Package at Kipara Rainforest Retreat is the perfect solution. As a major accommodation partner, Kipara offers private, self-contained cabins for up to four guests, complete with a 3-day general admission ticket. These limited packages, starting from $1,050, offer a truly unique festival village experience where you can mingle with some of the artists.
INTRODUCING the two-day ticket for those who need flexibility with their festival. The Friday & Saturday 2-day ticket for $240 includes access to the Welcome Party, while the Saturday & Sunday 2-day ticket for $260 includes the Monday Afterparty. Of course, you can still secure the ultimate music holiday with a full 3-day ticket for $325, guaranteeing you don’t miss a beat.
Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a stress-free zone; all 3-day and 2-day tickets include free buses (on existing networks) so getting around won’t ever be a problem.
Get your tickets and accommodation at airliebeachfestivalofmusic. com.au
THURSDAY 6TH NOV
WELCOME PARTY - 7:30PM
TRILLA • LUCY GALLANT
KATIE RICHARDS BAND PIPER BUTCHER • VIVA BAND
MAIN TENT
FRI 7 NOV FROM 4PM
PETE MURRAY
THE SCREAMING JETS
TOM NEILSON (2024 PASSPORT TO AIRLIE WINNER) + 2025 PASSPORT TO AIRLIE FINALS
SAT 8 NOV FROM 5PM
DIESEL CHOIRBOYS
TEX PERKINS & MATT WALKER
BACHELOR GIRL THE NATURAL CULTURE
SUN 9 NOV FROM 2PM
JESSICA MAUBOY THE BLACK SORROWS
JAYNE DENHAM
LLOYD SPIEGEL DAVID FLOWER BAND
MONDAY 10TH NOV
AFTER PARTY - FROM 1PM
LLOYD SPIEGEL • JAMES BENNETT BEAR BREWER • OFF TAP TIFFANY GRACE • SAM MCCANN
CAMPING AND CABIN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE AND SECURE YOUR TICKET TO THE BIGGEST PARTY IN PARADISE
EVENTGUIDE
SATURDAY 20
SEPTEMBER
Ayr Bowling Club – Mario Milan’s 91st Birthday & Jackpot
Saturday
Celebrate Mario Milan’s 91st birthday alongside the club’s Jackpot Saturday. Mario is proudly sponsoring the day, making it a special occasion for members and visitors alike. Don’t miss the fun, excitement, and chance to win big when the Jackpot goes off.
Ayr Bowling Club, Ayr
SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park
SATURDAY 27
SEPTEMBER
Ayr Motorcycle Club – Founders’ Day
Racing from 2pm
Celebrate the club’s history and watch thrilling racing action at Ayr Motorcycle Club. The day features special night races under lights, including the Bill Smith Memorial Race, Hyne/Taylor Shield for juniors, May Steel Memorial Race, and the Shirley Chard Trophy for the top female rider. Licensed bar and canteen available.
Ayr Motorcycle Club, Ayr
SUNDAY 5 OCTOBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park
THURSDAY 9 OCTOBER
Zonta Club Burdekin Inc – Movie Night
Thursday 6pm for 7pm start
Step back in time at Stardust Cinema for the Grand Finale of the Downton Abbey series. Prizes for best dressed Downton Abbey character, raffles, 100 boards, photo opportunities, and a light supper menu styled on the 1920s–30s. Tickets available from 22 September via Zonta’s Facebook page or TryBooking.
Stardust Cinema, Ayr
SATURDAY 11 OCTOBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station’s front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SUNDAY 12 OCTOBER
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $15 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon
WEDNESDAY 15
OCTOBER
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club
FRIDAY 17TH OCTOBER
Home Hill Tennis Harvest Fest
Trivia Night Event 3
Come along to Home Hill Tennis Association from 6 – 9 pm for a fun evening of trivia. Teams of 6 – 8 players, cost $60 per team when prepaid. BYO platter, Bar open. For more information contact Kate 0447384441 or email homehilltennis@gmail.com.
SUNDAY 19 OCTOBER
Burdekin Fights Back
Sunday 2pm
Join the community for a powerful afternoon of fundraising at Memorial Hall, supporting North Queensland Cancer. This gala event features a cent sale, mega raffle, licensed bar, and a special address by guest speaker Dr Paula Heggarty.
For more information, call Raelene on 0407 118 671.
Memorial Hall
SUNDAY 19 OCTOBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park
SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park
SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station’s front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SUNDAY 9 NOVEMBER
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon
SUNDAY 16 NOVEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627. Plantation Park
WEDNESDAY 19 NOVEMBER
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club
SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a picture-perfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park
SUNDAY 14 DECEMBER
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $10 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon
WEDNESDAY 17 DECEMBER
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club
SUNDAY 21 DECEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats for the final Plantation Park Markets for 2025! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park
Get Ready for the 2025 Maraka Festival: Music Thru the Ages!
We are thrilled to announce that this year's festival will embrace the vibrant theme, Music Thru the Ages!
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Hinchinbrook Shire, the festival promises to be a spectacular celebration of community spirit, history, and creativity. With a packed event schedule for everyone with our Run Swim Run, Wine and Cheese Night, and Maraka Afternoon Tea. We're celebrating our youngsters with a Fence Painting event, Pet Parade and Laser Tag. Join us for a dazzling Street Parade bursting with colour, energy, and sound! Expect floats that will be bigger, brighter, and louder than ever, along with participants dressed as their favourite musicians and iconic bands from every era. This year’s parade is shaping up to be a true showstopper—so let’s bring the music to life together!
We also invite all interested candidates to participate in our Queen and Princess competition or to apply for a spot in the parade or Mardi Gras. If you’re eager to get involved, please reach out via email at inghammarakafestival@gmail.com for nomination forms and more information.
Let’s make this year’s festival unforgettable, honouring our heritage through the universal language of music!
A family favourite featuring the Pet Parade, Fence Painting, Face Painting, Balloon Twisting and plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. New this year, Laser Tag will add even more excitement to the day.
Contributed with thanks by Pat Lynch, President of the Ingham Maraka Festival
Maraka Festival 2025 Itinerary Afternoon Tea
Sunday 29 September
Herbert River RSL, Hawkins Street, Ingham
From 2:00pm, enjoy sweet and savoury treats as this year’s Maraka Queen and Princess entrants are officially presented.
Fun Family Run Swim Run
Saturday 5 October
Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre, 31 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
From 9:00am, a brand-new fitness event encouraging families to get active with a fun and challenging Run Swim Run course. Ages 9+.
Wine And Cheese Night
Friday 11 October
Station Hotel, Cartwright Street, Ingham
6:00pm – 11:00pm, an elegant evening of wine, cocktails and finger food, hosted by Nick Dametto and former Maraka Queen Maddyn White.
Kids Big Day Out
Saturday 12 October
Ingham Showgrounds, Cooper Street, Ingham
From 9:00am, a family favourite with pet parade, face painting, balloon twisting and the exciting new addition of Laser Tag.
Street Parade And Mardi Gras
Saturday 12 October
Lannercost Street and Rotary Park, Ingham
From 4:00pm, a vibrant parade themed Music Thru The Ages, followed by live music, rides, food stalls, fireworks and the crowning of Maraka royalty.
Community Comes Alive at Giru Show 2025
The 2025 Giru Show lit up the region last weekend, bringing together families, friends, and visitors from across North Queensland for a day of fun, creativity, and community spirit. With a mix of returning favourites and exciting new attractions, the show had something for everyone.
Stalls ranged from an animal farm and games to a variety of market stalls, while the Pavillion was bursting with incredible exhibits—from cooking and flowers to an outstanding Lego display—showcasing the talent of local residents. This year also saw the debut of a Colouring-in competition, which was warmly received by children and families alike. The Pavillion’s success was made possible thanks to the dedication of exhibitors, stewards, and judges volunteering their time.
Special guests at the show included NQ
Entertainment was in full swing throughout the day, with the Burdekin Brass Band opening the show and performing into the afternoon, and local Hwa Rang Do members showcasing their martial arts skills. Children enjoyed the lolly drop and games, while local groups helped run food stalls, the front gate, and the bar.
Organisers were quick to acknowledge that the success of the show relied heavily on the tireless work of volunteers, the generosity of sponsors, and the dedication of committee members who brought the event to life.
Rural Ambassador Georgia Doull, MP Andrew Willcox, Hon Dale Last, and Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, who officially opened the event. A touching memorial balloon release, kindly provided by Dazzling Blue, honoured the late Betty Corradi, a Life Member of the Show Committee.
Across 1 Mailing charge (7)
5 Fish tank (8)
9 Native American tribe (8)
13 Wrong (9)
14 Deep valley (6)
16 Plane engine casings (8)
17 Chorizo or bratwurst (7)
18 Clear out of (8)
19 Positions in a hierarchy or scale (8)
20 Watches; attends (9)
25 Farmer (15)
26 Hawaiian capital (8)
27 Family get-together (7)
29 Destructive insects (7)
32 Opportunities (13)
36 Part of the university year (8)
40 Effigy (5)
41 English era ranging from 1558–1603 (11)
42 Revise (5)
43 Vegetation (8)
46 Substance for healthy growth (13)
49 Halves (7)
52 Defend (7)
55 Christmas animal (8)
56 Biochemical emission of light (15)
58 Yellow Brick Road traveller (9)
63 Data about data (8)
64 Confederation (8)
65 Opposing (7)
66 Cypriot cheese (8)
67 As a result of this (6)
70 Tasmanian tiger (9)
71 Revolt (8)
72 Protagonist of Homer’s Iliad (8)
73 Highest mountain (7)
Down
1 Clerics (7)
2 Screen (7)
3 Side by side (7)
4 Component (7)
5 Female stage performer (7)
6 Exclamation of realisation (3)
7 Aloof (3)
8 Clothes dummy (9)
9 Praising someone (14)
10 Unconventional (9)
11 Places where you’d find liquid gold (9)
12 Surfaces (7)
14 Pretence (7)
15 Elementary particle (7)
21 Needy (4)
22 Option (6)
23 Talisman (6)
24 Needlecase (4)
28 Arrogant social climber (7)
30 Positive aspect (6)
31 Vocalist (6)
33 Greek hunter constellation (5)
34 Honey-making hub (7)
35 Lindsay –, actress (5)
37 Bury (6)
38 Filibuster (6)
39 Spokesperson (14)
44 Less difficult (6)
45 North European (6)
47 Australian actor, – Bana (4)
48 Roman emperor (4)
50 Parts which make up a word (9)
51 Bellflower (9)
52 Variety of nut (9)
53 Can be stretched (7)
54 Neatly (7)
57 Japanese art of flower arrangement (7)
58 Detectives (7)
59 Dissect (7)
60 Japanese soybean dish (7)
61 Length of a film (3,4)
62 Most saturated (7)
68 Sunbeam (3)
69 Public transport (3)
Positions in a hierarchy or scale (8)
Watches; attends (9)
Farmer (15)
Hawaiian capital (8)
Family get-together (7)
Destructive insects (7)
32 Opportunities (13)
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
36 Part of the university year (8)
40 Effigy (5)
41 English era ranging from 1558–1603 (11)
42 Revise (5)
43 Vegetation (8)
46 Substance for healthy growth (13)
49 Halves (7)
52 Defend (7)
55 Christmas animal (8)
56 Biochemical emission of light (15)
58 Yellow Brick Road traveller (9)
63 Data about data (8)
64 Confederation (8)
65 Opposing (7)
66 Cypriot cheese (8)
67 As a result of this (6)
70 Tasmanian tiger (9)
71 Revolt (8)
72 Protagonist of Homer’s Iliad (8)
73 Highest mountain (7)
Down
1 Clerics (7)
2 Screen (7)
3 Side by side (7)
4 Component (7)
5 Female stage performer (7)
6 Exclamation of realisation (3)
7 Aloof (3)
8 Clothes dummy (9)
9 Praising someone (14)
10 Unconventional (9)
11 Places where you’d find liquid gold (9)
12 Surfaces (7)
14 Pretence (7)
15 Elementary particle (7)
21 Needy (4)
22 Option (6)
23 Talisman (6)
24 Needlecase (4)
28 Arrogant social climber (7)
30 Positive aspect (6)
31 Vocalist (6)
33 Greek hunter constellation (5)
34 Honey-making hub (7)
35 Lindsay –, actress (5)
37 Bury (6)
38 Filibuster (6)
39 Spokesperson (14)
44 Less difficult (6)
45 North European (6)
47 Australian actor, – Bana (4)
48 Roman emperor (4)
50 Parts which make up a word (9)
51 Bellflower (9)
52 Variety of nut (9)
53 Can be stretched (7)
54 Neatly (7)
57 Japanese art of flower arrangement (7)
58 Detectives (7)
59 Dissect (7)
60 Japanese soybean dish (7)
61 Length of a film (3,4)
62 Most saturated (7)
68 Sunbeam (3)
69 Public transport (3)
TODAY'S SOLUTIONS
codeword
Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?
wordfill
word search
Theme: Dogs
Can you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
ALSATIAN
BASENJI
BASSET HOUND
BEAGLE
BICHON
CATTLE DOG
COCKER SPANIEL
DALMATIAN
DINGO
FRENCH
BULLDOG
FRENCH POODLE
GREAT DANE
GREYHOUND
HAVANESE
KELPIE
LABRADOR
LHASA APSO PAPILLON PHAROAH HOUND PUG ROTTWEILER SAINT BERNARD
IMPEL KNEEL KNOTS LARGE LEAVE LEPER LEVEE MALES NAPPY NEEDS PAGAN RINSE SOBER SPECK SPIKE SPITE STALE SYRUP TEETH TESTS TIRES TREAT VALID VILLA WASPS WISER
5. 10.30 The Pacific. 11.00 PNG: The Road To Independence. 12.00 News. 1.00 The Family Next Door. 1.55 Grand Designs Aust. 2.50 Brush With Fame. 3.20 Grand Designs. 4.10 Long Lost Family. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Spicks And Specks. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Professor T. (M)
9.20 Hard Quiz. (PG)
9.50 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. 10.30 News. 10.45 Austin. 11.15 Silent Witness. 12.15 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.25 Professor T. 2.15 I, Jack Wright. 3.00 The Larkins. 3.45 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. 4.30 Would I Lie To You? 5.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 5.30 Landline.
6.00 Australian Story.
6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PG)
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (M) 10.00 The Family Next Door. (M) 10.55 I, Jack Wright. (MA15+) 11.45 Rage. (MA15+)
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 David Attenborough’s Kingdom Of Plants. 3.35 Grand Designs NZ. 4.25 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 5.10 Antiques Roadshow. 6.10 Britain’s Great Cathedrals. 7.00 News. 7.30 The Assembly. 8.15 Mystery Road: Origin. 9.10 I, Jack Wright. 9.55 Whiteley. 11.25 Brush With Fame. 11.55 Rage. 3.00 Ask The Doctor. 3.30 The Art Of... 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Insiders.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Midsomer Murders. 12.00 News. 1.00 Landline. 2.00 Grand Designs Aust. 2.55 Brush With Fame. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.
6.00 Spicks And Specks. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Aust Story. 8.30 Four Corners. 9.15 Media Watch. 9.35 Planet America. 10.05 News. 10.20 The Business. 10.40 A Life In Ten Pictures. 11.30 Grand Designs. 12.20 Long Lost Family. 1.05 Rage. 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 I, Jack Wright. 1.55 Grand Designs Aust. 2.55 Brush With Fame. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.10 Long Lost Family. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Spicks And Specks. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Take 5. 9.00 Freddie Mercury: The Final Act. 10.30 News. 10.45 The Business. 11.00 Four Corners. 11.45 Media Watch. 12.05 Whitlam: The Power And The Passion. 1.05 Grand Designs. 1.55 Long Lost Family. 2.40 Rage. 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. 1.55 Restoration Aust. 2.55 Brush With Fame. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Spicks And Specks. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 Mother And Son. 9.00 The Assembly. 9.45 Would I Lie To You? 10.15 News. 10.30 The Business. 10.45 Planet America. 11.20 You Can’t Ask That. 11.50 Grand Designs. 12.35 Long Lost Family. 1.20 Rage. 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Back Roads. 11.10 Mother And Son. 11.40 If You’re Listening. 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. 2.00 Restoration Aust. 2.55 Brush With Fame. 3.25 Grand Designs. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Spicks And Specks. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads. 8.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. 9.15 Mystery Road: Origin. 10.10 News. 10.25 The Business. 10.40 Grand Designs. 11.30 Long Lost Family. 12.20 Rage. 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 My Grandparents’ War. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures. 8.25 Dictator: The Hitler Interviews. 9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Athletics. World C’ships. Evening session. 11.20 Catch Me A Killer. 12.15 Pray For Blood. 2.05 Hugh’s Wild West. 3.10 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. 4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 4.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Sailing. SailGP. H’lights. 3.00 1998 FIFA World Cup: La Coupe De La Gloire. 4.35 Dylan Alcott: Peter Bol And Joseph Deng. 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. 5.35 WW2 End Game. 6.30 News. 7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys. 8.30 A Royal Residence. 9.25 Searching For Italy. 10.15 Great Australian Walks. 11.10 Homicide. 2.30 Secret Nazi Bases. 4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 4.40 Bamay. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 APAC Weekly. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup. H’lights. 4.00 Seven 7 Seven. 4.30 Going Places. 5.30 WW2 End Game. 6.30 News. 7.30 Princes In The Tower: A Damning Discovery. 8.50 Queens Of Combat. 9.55 Black Gold. 11.30 Stolen: Catching The Art Thieves. 2.50 Secret Nazi Bases. 4.30 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Australia Come Fly With Me. 3.00 Garage Dreams. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 My Grandparents’ War. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 8.35 Portillo In The Pyrenees. 9.30 Into South America With Nick Knowles. 10.20 SBS News. 10.50 Classified. 11.40 Enemy Of The People. 3.05 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. 4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Australia Come Fly With Me. 3.00 Going Places. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.15 Walking Wartime England. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Railway Journeys UK. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 The Point. 11.30 Screw. 1.20 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. 3.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 3.50 Music Of The Brain. 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.15 Walking Wartime England. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 The People Vs Robodebt. 8.30 Secrets Of Flying Scotsman. 9.30 Code Of Silence. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 COBRA. 11.40 Freezing Embrace. 1.25 The U.S. And The Holocaust. 3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 4.05 Curious Traveller. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Dream Of Italy. 11.00 Overbooked. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The People Vs Robodebt. 3.00 Going Places. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.15 Walking Wartime England. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 9/11: One Day In America. 9.35 Snowpiercer. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 Dopesick. 12.05 Blue Lights. 2.20 The U.S. And The Holocaust. 4.40 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. 1.30 Border Security: Int. 2.00 Better Homes. 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. 7.30 Football. AFL. First preliminary final. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. 11.15 GetOn Extra. 11.45 To Be Advised. 1.15 Riviera. 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Sydney Everest Carnival and Caulfield Underwood Stakes. 4.00 AFL Pre-Game Show. 4.30 Football. AFL. Second preliminary final. 8.00 Seven News.
9.00 MOVIE: Free Guy. (2021) (M) Ryan Reynolds. 11.20 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990) (PG)
2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Behind Behani. 12.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 1.00 Border Security: Int. 1.30 TBA. 3.30 Better Homes. 4.30 Creek To Coast. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00 The Voice. 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.40 24 Hours In Police Custody. 10.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. 12.00 Miniseries: The Victim. 1.15 Travel Oz. 2.00 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 TBA. 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 The 1% Club UK. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018) (MA15+)
11.00 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop. (M) 12.00 Hooten & The Lady. 1.00 Travel Oz. 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 TBA. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PG) 9.05 The Rookie. (M) 10.05 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (M) 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 Pretty Hard Cases. (M) 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 TBA. 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 Kitchen Rules. (PG) 9.15 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu. (PG) 10.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) 11.15 Chicago Fire. (M) 12.15 Imposters. 1.15 Travel Oz. 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 TBA. 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) 8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 10.00 Unfiltered. (PG) 10.30 Kick Ons. 11.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PG) 12.00 Life. 1.00
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.15 Our State On A Plate. 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 To Be Advised. 10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. 11.30 Transplant. 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. 4.30 Global Shop.
6.00 Getaway. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 12.40 Space Invaders. 1.40 The Block. 4.30 Garden Gurus. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First semi-final. 9.45 NRL Finals Post-Match. 10.30 Athletics. World C’ships. 11.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. 12.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. 1.30 Garden Gurus. 2 .00 The Incredible Journey. 2.30 TV Shop. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Helping Hands. 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.30 Intrepid Adventures. 10.00 My Market Kitchen. 10.30 Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. 12.00 The Brighter
6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 Find My Country House Aust. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1.00 TBA. 2.30 Rugby League. NRL.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.30 Young Sheldon. 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 Block. (PG) 8.40 100% Footy. (M) 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 To Be Advised. 12.00 Tipping Point. 1.00 Hello SA. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 Bold.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 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 Block. (PG)
8.40 Paramedics. (M) 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 The Grand Tour. 11.30 La Brea. 12.20 Footy Classified. 1.20 Garden Gurus Moments. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Skippy. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Morning Programs. 7.30 Everyday Gourmet. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 10.00
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.00 Find My Country House Aust. 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 Block. 8.40 Clarkson’s Farm. (M)
7.00 M*A*S*H. (PG, R) 7.30 M*A*S*H. (PG, R) 8.00 M*A*S*H. (PG, R) 8.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 9. 9.30 To Be Advised. 12.00 Major Crimes. (M, R) 1.00 Movie: Steptoe And Son. (1972) (M, R)
5.30pm Yorkshire Auction House. (R)
6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R) 8.40 Shakespeare And Hathaway. (PG, R) 10.40 Whitstable Pearl. (M, R) 11.40 French And Saunders. (M) 12.20 My Favorite Martian. (R)
5.30pm The Travelling Auctioneers.
6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.30 New Tricks. (M, R)
8.40 Agatha Raisin. (M, R)
10.40 Major Crimes. (M, R)
11.40 French And Saunders. (M) 12.20 My Favorite Martian. (R) 1.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG, R)
5.30pm The Travelling Auctioneers.
6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.30 As Time Goes By. (R)
8.40 Midsomer Murders. (M, R)
10.50 Major Crimes. (M, R)
11.50 French And Saunders Go To The Movies. (M) 12.45 Explore. (R)
5.30pm The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 7.30 Footy Show Grand Final: My Room Telethon. (PG)
10.30 Blackadder The Third. (PG, R) 11.50 French And Saunders Go To The Movies. (M)
11.00 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 11.30 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Friends. (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) 10.00 Frasier. (PG, R) 10.30 South Park. (R) 11.00 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 12.00 South Park. (M, R)
Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R) 6.00pm Friends. (PG, R) 6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.45 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 9.35 Frasier. (PG, R) 10.30 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 11.30 South Park. (MA15+, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (M, R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.25 NCIS. (M, R)
10.20 A Million Little Things. (PG, R) 11.15 CSI: Vegas. (M, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R) 6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R) 7.00 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 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.00 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)
7.00 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 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.00 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. Evening session. 11.35 Homeland. (MA15+, R) 12.35 Homeland. (MA15+, R) 1.40 Homeland. (MA15+, R)
5.50pm Alone Sweden. (PG, R)
6.40 Athletics. World Championships. Day 9. Evening session. 11.50 Forbidden History. (PG, R)
12.45 Normal People. (M, R) 1.40 Movie: The Big Squeeze. (2021) (M, R)
5.45pm The Food That Built The World. (R)
6.35 Jeopardy! (R)
7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Joe Lycett’s United States Of Birmingham. (M)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M, R) 10.10 Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas. (M, R)
5.45pm The Food That Built The World. (R) 6.35 Jeopardy! (R) 7.00 Jeopardy! (R) 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Alone. (M) 9.40 Hoarders. 10.30 Hoarders. 11.20 Calipari: Razor’s Edge. (PG) 12.10 Bloodlands. (M, R) 1.15 Dark Side Of The 2000s. (M, R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.25 NCIS. (M, R)
10.20 A Million Little Things. (PG, R)
11.15 CSI: Vegas. (M, R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
12.30 My Favorite Martian. (R) 5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 JAG. (PG, R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 A Million Little Things. (PG, R) 11.15 CSI: Vegas. (M, R) 12.15 Home
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R)
7.00 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 The King Of Queens. (PG, R)
Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
5.50pm The Food That Built The World. (R) 6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 The Patient. (MA15+) 9.00 The Patient. (MA15+) 9.30 Movie: The Departed. (2006) (MA15+, R)
12.15 The Bloody Decade. (MA15+, R) 1.15 Bloodlands. (MA15+, R)
Carmela BONANNO (Nee QUATTROCCHI)
Late of Brisbane, formerly of Home Hill. Passed away on 4th September, 2025 aged 101 years.
Dearly loved wife of the late Giuseppe and much loved mother of Alfio and Salvatore (Sam).
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service for Carmela, which will be held at St. Colman’s Catholic Church, Home Hill on Thursday, 25th September, commencing at 10.30am followed by interment in the Home Hill Cemetery. No flowers by request please; donations to Dementia Australia would be appreciated.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Due to continued growth and expanding operations, the Parkside Group is seeking two motivated and adaptable Clerical Support Officers to join our team in the Ayr office, where we provide Administrative Support to all our Divisions across three States.
The positions available are -
A PERMANENT FULL-TIME CLERICAL SUPPORT OFFICER and A PART-TIME CLERICAL SUPPORT OFFICER (working 5 days per week). Previous clerical experience is essential and you must be extremely reliable, highly motivated and have exceptional organisational and communication skills.
Award Rates apply
Applications for either of the above positions should be emailed with covering letter and resume, including your past experience to ddanziger@parkside.biz or you can drop your application to us at 34 Margaret Street, Ayr. Applications close Friday, 26th September, 2025
ADAMANDIA TSARDANIS
LATE OF REGIS KIRWAN FORMERLY OF HOME HILL. Passed away peacefully on Friday, 12th September, 2025 aged 95 years
Beloved wife of Constantine (deceased), Loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother to Dimitra, Chrissie & Sam, Anthea & John, Patricia & Michael, Nicholas & Sharon, George & Asimina, Maria & John and their families.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which will commence at10am FRIDAY, 19TH SEPTEMBER at St. Stephanos Greek Orthodox Church, Home Hill followed by interment in the Home Hill Cemetery. Family request donations to the church and, or, Dementia Australia in lieu of flowers.
K & S WRIGHT
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 4782 1270
7.00pm Tuesday - 23rd September 2025
Home Hill Sports Club Inc 87 Ninth Ave Home Hill
Guest Speaker – Margaret Thorne Burdekin Uniting Church
RSVP by Fri 19th September to 4783 3744 or Email: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au Everyone is welcome
Tradition and Celebration Take Centre Stage at Burdekin Deb Ball of the Year
The Burdekin Deb Ball of the Year returned in 2025, bringing together debutantes, their families, and the wider community for an evening of celebration, tradition, and achievement. Hosted this year for the first time by the Burdekin Netball Association, the event saw a full hall with over 450 guests in attendance, all gathered to mark the accomplishments of 21 young debutantes. The Deb Ball provides a special opportunity for young women to showcase the work and personal growth they have achieved throughout the year. “It combines the work the debutantes have put in throughout the year to come together with friends and families again to show how far they have come,” said Cailan Gosling, secretary of Burdekin Netball. The evening is as much about family and community as it is about the debutantes themselves, highlighting the pride and support that surrounds each participant.
This year’s awards celebrated the debutantes’ dedication and achievements, with Sally Laidlow taking out the winner and girls’ choice award, Erin Palmer named runner-up, and Ava Swindley receiving a special mention. Three judges made the selections, while the girls’ choice award was voted on by the debutantes themselves.
For the Burdekin Netball Association, hosting the event for the first time was an honour.
“We were honoured to keep this tradition alive for the community and the young la dies’ families. This event marks just how much each debutante has grown and how much they aspire to achieve,” Gosling said.
The Deb Ball remains an important tradition for the Burdekin communi ty, celebrating not only individual growth but also the connections and shared experiences that bind families and neigh bours together. From the excitement of the evening to the meaningful recognition of the debutantes’ efforts, the event continues to high light the value of maintain ing long-standing local tradi tions for generations to come.
With its mix of elegance, com munity spirit, and heartfelt celebration, the 2025 Deb Ball of the Year reinforced why the event is a highlight on the Burdekin social calendar, and why keeping this tradition alive matters so deeply.
Runner up Erin Palmer, special mention
Ava Swindley, and winner/girls choice, Sally Laidlow
Top Marks at Burdekin Clay Target Club’s September Shoot
SHOOTING
2-20 Target
Club
15m
Burdekin Clay Target Club had another fantastic monthly shoot with 26 Shooters attending. The weather was beautiful with a consistent breeze all day. Thank you to our sponsors Suds Automotive & Ray Collinson, also Lui Populin for donating the meat trays for the raffle. Our next shoot will be on Sunday October 12th 9:00am.
Event 1-20 Target Double Barrel Continental 15m
AA Grade 1st Ron Clive & Michael Zabala 20/20
A Grade 1st Tony Robinson 20/20, 2nd Joe Sebastiani (jnr) & John Cerqui 19/20
B Grade 1st Pedro Le Blowitz 18/20, 2nd Ross Pryde 17/20
C grade 1st Rob Ness & Tim Ewens 17/20
Event 2-20 Target Single Barrel Club Voucher 15m
AA Grade 1st Phillip Scalia 20/22
A Grade 1st Tony Robinson 20/23
B Grade 1st Peter Wade 18/20
C Grade 1st Zane Hicks 16/21
Event 3 20 Target Point Score Club Trophy 15m Sponsored by Suds Automotive
AA Grade 1st Michael Zabala 60/60
A Grade 1st John Cerqui 59/60
B Grade 1st Pedro Le Blowitz 52/60
C Grade 1st Keiren Scott 59/63
Event 4- 30 Target Medley 18m
AA Grade 1st Glen Rea 45/50, 2nd Phillip Scaia 44/50, 3rd Wayne Cislowski 43/50
A Grade 1st Ian Kriesel 47/50, 2nd Tony Robinson 46/50, 3rd Alan Lord 43/50
B Grade 1st Jeff Dunstone, Ross Pryde 38/50, 3rd Pedro Le Blowitz 37/50
C Grade 1st Rob Ness 46/50, 2nd Blake Heffernan 37/50, 3rd Zane Hicks 36/50
Ayr Motorcycle Club to Celebrate Founders’ Day – 27 September 2025
MOTORCYCLING
Ayr Motorcycle Club is proud to announce that it will host Founders’ Day on Saturday, 27th September 2025; a special event dedicated to honouring the club’s founding members as well as recognising past and present members who have helped shape the club’s legacy.
Alongside the club’s regular classes, Founders’ Day will feature four thrilling special night races:
· Bill Smith Memorial Race: The top 12 senior riders after three afternoon rounds will battle it out under lights.
· Hyne/Taylor Shield (Junior 125cc/250cc 13–16 years): The 12 highest-placed juniors will compete in an exciting 8-lap final.
· May Steel Memorial Race: Another senior showdown featuring the top 12 riders.
· Shirley Chard Trophy: Awarded to the top female competitor, decided by total point scores across the day.
Racing action will kick off at 2:00pm, leading into the special night races under the floodlights. Spectators can look forward to an electric atmosphere, with both a licensed bar and canteen open throughout the event.
“Founders’ Day is about celebrating where we’ve come from, honouring the people who built this club, and showcasing the incredible talent we have today,” said Karl Vass, President of the Ayr Motorcycle Club. “It promises to be a day of great racing and community spirit.”
Ayr Motorcycle Club invites all members, supporters, and the wider community to come along and be part of this special day in the club’s history.
Event Details: Ayr Motorcycle Club Saturday, 27th September 2025 Racing from 2:00pm – with special night races to follow Licensed bar and canteen available. Contributed with thanks to Lyn McLaughlin
Cricket Report
CRICKET
Continued from Back Cover.
Round 2 of the CNQ Townsville Second Grade cricket competition saw Home Hill record a convincing seven-wicket victory over Wests Absolutely Dental at Mick Downey Oval on Sunday. Wests, who won the toss and elected to bat, started steadily before Salvatore Cardillo made the first breakthrough, dismissing Beau McCarron for 23. Another wicket fell quickly, but Wests regrouped to reach 3/76 by the 17th over. From there the momentum shifted—five wickets fell for just 23 runs, with the tail adding only a small contribution. Wests were bowled out for 133 in the 32nd over. Thomas Cardillo and TJ Richards each finished with two wickets, while JD Wilkins impressed in the field with three catches.
Chasing 134, Home Hill’s opening pair of Zakk Myles and Adam Camer set a strong platform with a 61-run stand. Camer departed for 25, while Myles top-scored with 45 from 60 balls before being bowled with the score at 97. Lee Watts added 12, before Ayden Marano (21 not out) and Brad Parravicini (4 not out) guided Home Hill home. The side finished at 3/134 after 28 overs to claim a comfortable win.
Attention now turns to next Sunday, 21 September, when Home Hill will host their first games of the season at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. The Third Grade side faces Brothers from 8am, followed by the Second Grade clash against Saints at 12:30pm.
Event
Single Barrel
Voucher
Phillip Scalia, Zane Hicks Tony Robinson, Peter Wade
Overall High Gun Winners Sponsor Ray Collinson, Phillip Scalia Rob Ness Pedro Le Blowitz, Tony Robinson
Football Matters with Cyclops
Just the two Finals series games last weekend. On !ursday night the Division 2 Funkies lost 1-3 to Saints Eagles Souths and their season is now over. However, the Ladies beat Rebels 2-0 and will now meet Brothers in the Grand Final.
Night Soccer
Kicked o its 46th year on Tuesday. In the rst of two Trial Weeks, there were nineteen games with sixty-one goals scored. Clare Cutters, Rocky Pond Warriors, and Mountain View Fresh all scored ve goals. So far there are twenty-seven Men’s and een Women’s teams. Teams must be nalised by next Tuesday.
Division 2 Men
!e C.A. Contracting Funkies played their preliminary nal against Saints for a place in the Grand Final. Saints started the better of the two teams taking the lead a er ten minutes. !e Funkies worked their way into the game and started to look dangerous up front through Fengil and Nick Cathcart. However, it was Jake Lacey who scored the equaliser for Burdekin with an incredible strike from 30 yards out. Burdekin su ered injuries to Jarrod Dal Santo and Luke Cathcart just before half time with scores locked at 1-1.
Second half saw Saints start well and could have regained the lead numerous times, but some great saves from keeper Dave Bryen kept denying them. !e Funkies were nishing strongly as full time approached through Brad Wright and Jack Castrejana, until Castrejana dislocated his kneecap just before full time. An ambulance was called and a er a short delay the game was moved to another eld.
Extra time again for the Funkies, was not something the team was looking forward to. Unfortunately, Saints took an early lead in extra time before getting another goal late in the game to win 3-1.!e end of the season for the Funkies with a game that could have had a quite di erent result on another night. Player of match was Jake Lacey with Brad Wright and Heath Swindley both having strong games also. A season de nitely to be proud of and already looking forward to next year.
Ladies
!e Ayr Anzac Club Ladies came in to this match determined to secure their spot in the grand nal, but Rebels did not make it easy, holding them out of their half early on. Burdekin knew they were in for a tough battle. But a er several unsuccessful through balls, the breakthrough nally came in the 30th minute when Zandi Bonanno drew the defence out before slotting home a brilliant nish.
In the second half, Burdekin piled on the pressure and despite Rebels’ strong defensive e ort, the ladies managed to extend their lead in the 66th minute thanks to a superb goal from outside the box from Karina Guglielmi. !e game ended in a 2-0 win to the Burdekin in a hard-fought performance. !e Ladies now look to carry this momentum into the grand nal showdown against Brothers! Juniors
On Saturday, the Juniors had their nal games for the season, along with the club’s breakup. !e kids had a lot of fun a er their games, continuing to kick the ball around, along with a jumping castle, sausage sizzle and lolly drop. !ank you to everyone involved for such a successful sea-
FOOTBALL
son, and we will see you all in 2026!
Masters
!at’s it for Masters Soccer in 2025. Night Soccer kicked o last week and Masters Soccer will return in February 2026.
National and International
!e major European Leagues were back in action this week. And a er three or four weeks, the old order hardly changeth. In the EPL, Liverpool with maximum points from four games, lead Arsenal, Spurs and Bournemouth and at the foot of the table, Wolverhampton has lost all four games.
In Germany, a er three games, Bayern with three wins lead Dortmund and Cologne whilst in Italy’s Serie A, Napoli and Juventus have maximum points from three games with Udinese in third place. In Spain, Real Madrid and Barcelona, both with four wins, lead Atletico and Getafe and in France, PSG is the only team with maximum points leading Lille by two points, Monaco and Lyon.
!e Matildas next match is against Wales, in Cardi on 25 October. Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr is back! She scored a goal in Chelsea’s 3-1 win at Aston Villa.
!e Socceroos played New Zealand last Friday in Canberra and were a bit lucky to win 1-0 with a goal in the 86th minute. In the return match in Auckland, the Socceroos won 3-1. !ey now have friendlies away to Canada and the USA in October.
Quote of the Week is from then Charlton manager Lenny Lawrence. “ !e last time we got a penalty at home, Christ was a carpenter.”
Triples and Pairs Stand Out In Busy Week At Ayr Bowling Club
It’s been another big week at the Ayr Bowling Club. Let’s start with getting ready for next Saturday with Mario Milan’s 91st birthday celebration on Saturday 20th September joining with our Jackpot Saturday. Mario is sponsoring the day which is much appreciated. So, save the date in your calendar as the Jackpot will go off.
Let’s now look back on the week past. On Wednesday Men’s Social Bowls two games of triples were played. Out on the green competition was close and taking out the honours on the day were Dino Poli, George Nixon and Maurie Power defeating John Pirrone, Barry Hewson and Col Essex. It was a great afternoon of camaraderie and quality bowls enjoyed by all.
Wednesday night social bowls the winners were Bertilla Piazetta, John Cesconetto and Sam Caltabiano. In the second game the winners were John Fletcher, John Pirrone, David Burt and Joe Grabbi
Saturday Social bowls two games of triples and a two pairs game was played, winners were, Karen Shepherd, Joe Papale and John McDonald defeating Cisco, Al Hardcastle and Dot Cutting. In the second triples
BOWLS
game Arthur Gauvin, J McDonald and Betty Schultz defeated
Merle Nixon, Donna Soper and Beryl Cornford. In the two pairs games George Nixon and Barry Shepherd defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Ron Soper. Ron Smythe and Anthony Bull defeated Barry Hewson and Lachlan Grantz.
In Championship action this week, Ladies Competition Two Bowl Pairs was played on Sunday. Karen Shepherd and Irene Wilson defeated Lorraine Wolffe and Sandra Stidston. Men’s triples saw one game played this week winners were, Shane Stanford, Macca and Anthony Bull defeating Al Hardcastle, Col Essex and Lew Stidston 24 – 15. The winners now progress to the next round.
If you are interested in giving Bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a good place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30pm. Whether you’re looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.
Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull
Local Bowls Action and Visitors Highlight a Busy Day at the Club BOWLS
HOME HILL BOWLS
Atotal of 29 players took to the greens today, joined by a few special visitors: Peter and Sue Dingle from Mooloolabah, in town to celebrate Iris Dingle’s 100th birthday, as well as Alan Gairoch from Brandon, and Steve Muto and Jeff Taylor from Giru.
On Rink 2, Margaret Chapman and Gary Nosworthy defeated Judy Elton and Alan Gairoch. Rink 3 saw Bob Pickard and Trevor Elton overcome Margaret Linton and Joe Linton. On Rink 4, Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Glen Bones Berryman triumphed over Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Wayne Newton.
Today’s standout performers on Rink 5 were Sue Dingle, Dino Poli, and Steve Doig, who accounted for Norm Bethell, Ron Smith, and Jeff Taylor (pictured). Rink 6 produced a close contest, with Steve Muto, Bruce Mc-
Callum, and Hugh Montgomery edging out Michael Young, Peter Dingle, and Mick McClosky 10 ends to 8 on a countback. Raffle winners included Steve Muto, who took home a 2 kg fillet of mackerel, while Margaret Linton claimed the bottle of wine. Looking ahead, don’t miss next Sunday’s Wilmar Challenge—come along, support your club, and enjoy the food and bar facilities. Regular weekly activities continue: Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, Wednesday morning Kraft group with barefoot bowls and a sausage sizzle in the evening, Thursday morning BINGO and social bowls in the afternoon, and the popular $5 Saturday afternoon social bowls.
Till next week, good bowling! Report and photo by Steve Doig.
Saturdays winners; Macca, Joe and Karen. Photo supplied
The day’s winners: Steve Doig, Dino Poli and Sue Dingle.
Home Hill Claim Strong Win Over Wests
Home Hill’s cricket season heats up this weekend with the club hosting its first home fixtures at the Nutrien AgSolutions Cricket Complex. The Third Grade side takes the field against Brothers from 8am, before the Second Grade outfit squares off with Saints at 12:30pm. Both teams will be looking to build momentum after strong early-season performances, highlighted by the Second Grade side’s seven-wicket victory over Wests on Sunday. With solid batting form from Zakk Myles and a sharp fielding display led by JD Wilkins, Home Hill is shaping up as a serious contender in this year’s competition.
