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Jump In With Jacob
Hi Guys!
I’m both proud and excited to introduce myself as the new local journalist for the Burdekin Life newspaper!
I was born and raised in the Greater-Sydney region. I’ve had an ardent passion for writing ever since I was young, and began studying journalism in 2019 at Western Sydney University.
I made the leap to the USA to continue my studies in 2021, earning a full academic and athletic scholarship at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, where I was also on the Men’s Soccer team.
After graduating with a double degree in Journalism and Communications in 2024, I interned at Rojo Consulting, a PR/consulting firm based
in Sydney, and played soccer semi-professionally.
Having played soccer all my life, I’m an avid sports fan, and can’t wait to sign up for some of the local sports clubs and teams—especially soccer ;)
I love to have a laugh and am always down for a chat, so feel free to say hi if you see me around town or flick me a message if there’s a story you think deserves to be told.
I’m thrilled to be embarking on this new adventure, and can’t wait to tell the rich and unique story of the Burdekin region.
I’m looking forward to meeting you all!
JacobBurdekin Community Praised For Their Kindness
Just last week, a local couple kindly expressed their gratitude towards many members of the Burdekin community for their support in a time of need. Diane Arroita shared a handwritten letter with Ayr’s Family Practice’s Dr Bosko Susic and Leann Essery, thanking them both for their help after her husband, Warren, unfortunately suffered a stroke.
“Dr Bosko Susic and Leann go beyond their job with all their kindness and help,” Diane wrote.
In her letter, Diane shared how grateful she was to both Dr Bosko Susic and Leann for calling paramedics to help her husband, adding how thankful she was to the first responders for their quick actions. Diane then went on to thank John Alford
and the staff at Delta Physio Clinic for supporting Warren throughout his recovery, noting their kindness did not go unnoticed.
“We would also like to thank all the people who visited Warren and all the phone calls and a special thank you to Maria and Paul Frasson who visited Warren and did his laundry for us and thank you also to the people who have helped me over the past five months,” added Diane.
Diane’s letter was a glowing expression of gratitude towards a long list of locals who went above and beyond to do their job and more to make a terrible situation a little less stressful, highlighting the outstanding individuals who are part of the Burdekin Shire.
Flying Fox Dispersal Due To Commence
Council will commence flying fox dispersal activities in Arch Dunn Memorial Park with the aim to reduce flying fox numbers in preparation for Anzac Day. The activities will take place over three days from April 22nd to 24th 2025 between 5.30am and 6.30am each day as required.
These non-harmful dispersal activities will include audible deterrents (pyrotechnics, shotgun simulator, pool noodles, LED torches and flashing lights) and therefore residents are advised to take measures to secure their pets during the operation times. All private landowners are reminded and encouraged that if flying-foxes land in their trees, they are entitled to discourage them from staying by using
non-destructive disturbance techniques such as smoke, water sprinklers, visual deterrents such as imitation predators, bright lights, and noise from various commercial or improvised products. Please do not attempt to touch a flying-fox with bare hands.
For further information on what you can and cannot do with flying-foxes, please visit the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation website at www.detsi.qld. gov.au.
For further information about the dispersal activities taking place or to report roosting flying foxes during daylight hours, in numbers greater than 100, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 47839800.
Registrations Now Open For Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships!
Registrations are now open for one of the Burdekin’s most iconic events and with excitement and anticipation building, the countdown is well and truly on! The infamous Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships will impress and entertain the community on the 31st of May as part of the region’s Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival which continues to attract waves of visitors from across the state and beyond.
The legendary, slashing showdown celebrates the Burdekin’s rich cane farming heritage whilst showcasing the grit, determination and skills of some of the Shire’s toughest competitors. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran with years of swinging under your belt or a curious first-timer ready to take on the challenge, the Championships are calling!
Held in Home Hill at a historic cane paddock-turned-battlefield, this is more than just a competi tion, it’s a celebration of the Bur dekin community’s, culture, and good old-fashioned hard work.
Multiple competition categories are now accepting registrations such as the Under 35 Years Competition, 35 – 55 Years Competition, Over 55 Years Competition, Ladies Cup, Ladies Novice, Corporate Challenge (3x teams of 4), Cut, Top and Load Relay (4x teams of 4) and the Australian Hand Cand Cutting Champion-
come a memorable Sweet Days, Hot Nights highlight. Gates will be open from 10:30am and plenty of entertainment, food stalls, and loads of fun for the whole family will also be on offer well into the afternoon.
To register, visit www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au, follow the links to the Hand Cane Cutting
Think you’ve got what it takes? Register now for the infamous Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships (Photo Source: Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival)
Community Urged To Stay Alert As Scammers Target Financially Vulnerable
In light of ongoing global financial uncertainty, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Financial and Cyber Crime Group (FCCG) are urging residents to remain vigilant and protect themselves from a rising tide of financial scams.
Recent market instability has impacted many Australians’ superannuation accounts, prompting some to seek alternative ways to recover their losses. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of this uncertainty by luring unsuspecting victims with fake investment opportunities and fraudulent schemes.
FCCG Commander, Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath, said fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often impersonating legitimate financial institutions and offering seemingly lucrative investment deals.
“Scammers thrive during times of economic instability,” Superintendent McGrath said.
“They use pressure tactics and profession al-looking material to convince individuals to part with their hard-earned money and the con sequences can be devastating –both financially and emotionally.”
Queenslanders are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect them selves:
• Be sceptical of guaranteed high re turns – if it sounds too good to be true,
it probably is.
• Only seek financial advice face-to-face from someone who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence. You can check licences on the ASIC website at asic.gov. au.
• Report scams immediately – if you’ve fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank, then report it at www.cyber.gov.au/report.
• Secure your accounts – if you suspect you’ve lost money or been scammed, notify your financial institution and update your online banking passwords.
• Know where to get help and visit www. scamwatch.gov.au for more information. If you believe your identity has been compromised, contact IDCARE at www.idcare.org.
If you’ve been contacted by a scammer via social media, be sure to report the account to the platform and for additional toolsdence, visit the eSafety Commissioner’s website at www.esafety.gov.au or www.beconnected.esafety.
Helping Australians With The Cost Of Living Is Our Number One Priority
OPINION PIECE
It is the number one issue I hear from people in the Burdekin and across Dawson which is why we need a government that will grow our economy and deliver real cost of living relief for Australians.
Our Labor government is focused on bringing down inflation, increasing wages, and delivering this relief.
Labor has provided tax cuts, energy bill relief, cheaper medicines, student debt relief and more, to help Australians with the cost of living.
But we know we have more to do. So here is what we will deliver:
• More free GP appointments. Labor will make the single largest investment in Medicare ever. This will deliver an additional 18 million bulk billed GP visits every year so Australians can see a bulk billing GP.
wives to extend their skills and qualifications.
• A tax cut for all 14 million Australian taxpayers, on top of our tax relief that is already rolling out.
• By delivering the biggest ever reduction in the cost of PBS prescriptions and freezing the cost of PBS medicines, Labor is making hundreds of medicines cheaper. The most you will pay for a PBS medicine is just $25 a script.
I also know how important it is that we get funding for our Bruce Highway.
It is an essential road in our region and it is unacceptable that it’s been neglected for over nine years when the Coalition was in government.
Labor has announced $7.2 billion to upgrade and fix the Bruce Highway, with the priority areas including Bowen to Townsville and Ingham to Innisfail.
This historic funding is the single largest investment ever into the Bruce Highway and it’s fantastic news for our region.
• An additional $150 in Energy Bill Relief for every Australian household and around one million small businesses.
We are also focused on strengthening Medicare and upgrading our key roads.
Labor is boosting hospital funding by $1.7 billion – delivering more money for public hospitals in every state and territory.
We are delivering more doctors and nurses in regions like ours where we need it most.
Labor will grow the health workforce to deliver more doctors and nurses than ever before, including the largest GP training program in Australian history, and hundreds of scholarships for nurses and mid-
Through all this, we are making sure our careful economic management helps Australians with the cost of living today, at the same time as we set our country up for the future.
Inflation is now less than half of what it was when Labor was elected and interest rates are coming down.
Unemployment is low and debt is down. Our plan will ensure we are delivering a better future for all Australians, focussed on creating a strong economy and delivering cost of living relief.
The QPS Financial and Cyber Crime Group are warning Queenslanders to be vigilant online (Photo Source: UnSplash)
Not Just A Promise, A Perpetual Plan
OPINION PIECE
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has announced a ground-breaking Regional Australia Future Fund, to deliver a guaranteed annual funding stream in perpetuity for regional, rural and remote Australia.
Mr Willcox said the Fund is in recognition of the contribution regional Australians make in growing our national economy and the unique challenges faced now and into the future.
A Coalition Government will preserve a portion of commodity windfall receipts towards the establishment of Regional Australia Future Fund to grow this Fund to $20 billion.
“This is about putting regional people in Dawson first and leaving a legacy for future generations,” Mr Willcox said.
“Once established the Fund will invest a fair share of the profits created through the hard work of regional Australians back into Dawson. It means we don’t have to fight for funding shortfalls to provide infrastructure in regional areas.
“The Fund will deliver secure and sustainable long-term funding to tackle challenges that hold back regional communities and invest in building the long-term economic foundations of regional Australia to address future challenges.”
The Fund will be legislated in perpetuity, to establish a fiscally responsible way to invest in the future generations of regional Australians.
“It will have clear investment principles and will sit under the Future Fund structure and grow through their proven investment strategy.
“The Fund will be transparent and benchmarked with a legislated State of the Regions review by an independent committee, which will inform each four-year investment plan.”
Following extensive consultations with local communities, the Coalition have identified initial key priorities of the Regional Australia Future Fund, which include:
• Fixing local road and transport networks to save country lives and drive economic productivity.
• Growing the regional health workforce so families can access health and aged care – local and affordable.
• Developing regional industries to drive economic growth and create secure jobs.
• Delivering flexible childcare solutions for families in regional, rural and remote areas.
• Growing tourism industry opportunities
WALLACE NEIL
for regional communi ties and economies.
• Supporting regional businesses to market and export their product to new and expanded markets.
• Improving regional mobile and internet services for country communities.
• Building and up grading economic and community infrastruc ture, facilities and services.
The funding stream will sup plement – not replace – normal government funding across these crit ical areas where regional Australia faces unique challenges.
“This is an historic moment for the one third of Australians who live outside the big capital cities – a perpetual fund to future-proof regional Australia against short-termism and governments who leave regions behind.
“This will give confidence to regional communities, by investing in their economic
future over coming decades, not just each electoral cycle.
“Geography should not be a determinant of success. Families and businesses in Dawson contribute significantly to our national story and economy. This Fund will ensure Dawson can take advantage of opportunities and overcome the challenges that the coming decades bring.”
Authorised by
Burdekin Chamber Networking Night
The Ayr Chamber gathered last Tuesday evening for a catch-up focused on all things advertising, and how the Chamber can best support its members in reaching their target markets.
Rachael Smith, Chief Editor of Life Publishing Group—publisher of Burdekin Life Newspaper, Core Life, and Tripping Magazine—shared insights into the vision behind launching the two magazines in the region.
The magazine, which has had a soft launch in the Burdekin in recent months, aims to showcase business profiles and travel stories, with a growing distribution footprint extending along much of the Queensland coast.
The publication has been operating for almost 14 years and prints 15,000 copies every two months.
It is available from Mackay to Ingham, including Moranbah, the Whitsundays, the
Burdekin, and Townsville.
Completely free, Core Life and Tripping Magazine is distributed at more than 1,000 locations, including 60 dedicated distribution stands.
During the meeting, Rachael introduced a special advertising package exclusively for Chamber members.
The offer includes exposure in the Burdekin Life Newspaper and a dedicated annual feature in Core Life Magazine that
highlights Burdekin businesses.
Kari Ravizza, Treasurer of the Burdekin Chamber, also presented attendees with a range of additional advertising opportunities.
She spoke about the potential launch of a quarterly catalogue, designed to allow local retailers and businesses to promote special offers to the wider community. Further details regarding pricing and distribution are expected to be available soon.
Eusebio Aguirre and Kari Ravizza from Burdekin Chamber of Commerce with Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci
Trish Jandt and Ruth Puddefoot from Burdekin Life Newspaper with Lameez Yunus from NQ Employment Burdekin
Uli Liessmann and Robert Antoniazzi from Home Hill Chamber of Commerce
Councillor Callan Oar with his wife Kristy Oar
Rachael Smith Chief Editor Life Publishing Group, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Linda Butler from Kdee Designs
Councillor Michael Detenon, CEO of Council Michael Magin and Rose Papadimitriou
Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot
5000 New Homes An End To Housing Hold-Ups
Fixing a decade-long reduction in housing supply across Queensland, including in the Burdekin, is the aim of a funding program that guarantees support for regional areas.
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has welcomed the program’s commitment to regional Queensland due to details that have been shared with him by Burdekin locals.
“The facts are that, over the last 10 years, housing approvals in Queensland have fallen by nearly 30% and the waiting list for social housing has ballooned,” he said.
“I’ve spoken to families who have no option but to live in sheds and young people who cannot get a rental property due to what is basically a bidding war due to a supply shortage.”
“Our Residential Activation Fund provides funding to Councils and developers to address trunk and essential infrastructure like water supply, sewerage, power and roads. The priority during the first round is shovel-ready projects because our focus is on helping Queenslanders move into a
home faster.”
“Applications for the Fund have now opened and I know that Council is well-advanced on their application. A lot of people think that the housing crisis is only in the cities, but there has been a definite impact here in the Burdekin.”
“In recognition of the broad impact, the government has guaranteed that at least $1Billion of the fund is for projects in regional Queensland. Not only will this provide an opportunity to fast-track construction, but it also provides a boost for the building and construction industry which means supporting local jobs.”
Mr Last said that, in addition to the Residential Activation Fund, the Crisafulli government had also committed to fast-tracking the delivery of additional social and affordable homes.
“Despite all the promises that were made, we’ve seen a reduction in social and affordable housing stocks across Queensland,” he said.
“That reduction means there was more pressure placed on the rental market, reducing availability and increasing prices.”
“Five thousand additional homes are under construction or contracted right across the state.
We have been able to fast track those homes by working cooperatively with both the community housing sector and private developers to unlock land and to provide Queenslanders with a roof over their head.”
Intervention Youth Program Promised By Willcox
A$70,000 early intervention youth program was announced as an election promise by Federal Member for Dawson last week, the the Blue Edge Program in Ayr is set to be a game-changer in the region.
The program, which is run in High Schools across Queensland, supports the Queensland Police Service’s mission to unite policy, community, and the youth in early intervention.
“I am proud to announce that if elected, the LNP will commit $70,000 to funding the Blue Edge Program in Ayr, run by a non-for-profit organisation Queensland Blue Light Association,” stated Mr Willcox.
“This vital early intervention program has been very successful in creating respect education and ensuring young people in the community have the opportunity to get back on track and live a life free of crime.”
“Early intervention programs like this one are so important in equipping young peo-
help empower them to head down a path that doesn’t involve anti-social behaviours.
“It’s important that communities in Ayr and the Burdekin see programs that are creating a positive impact, and the Blue Edge program is one of those.
“This project will be delivered under the Safer Communities Fund, ensuring the Burdekin region has the best early intervention program for our youth and security infrastructure in place.”
“Getting Australia Back on Track means keeping Australia safe – safe for families, safe for businesses, and safe for communities.”
Grant Gamlen, Blue Edge State Coordinator, said the eight-week program is designed to teach kids discipline, goal setting, teamwork, physical and mental health tips, decision making, positive peer pressure, and healthy relationships with family, friends, and community.
“We appreciate this generosity and look forward to the program being run in Ayr and the Burdekin.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has made a Federal election announcement for the Blue Edge Youth Program in the Burdekin region. Photo supplied
September 28th 2023
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr, on Sunday
Friday night, the Burdekin had the opportunity to have Sam Childers share his incredible story at the Ayr Community Church. Sams journey has taken him from a life of violent crime to war torn eastern Africa where he has rescued over 1500 children from rebel armies in some of Africa’s most dangerous areas. He also runs schools, trade-training centres orphanages and farms in Africa all for the children. His life is also the basis of a 2011 movie starring Jerard Butler aptly named Machine Gun Preacher. What a great night which was very well attended. It was very interesting to hear the difference one man can make. Thank you to Councillor Amanda Hall who made this happen.
I want to mention the Planning and Development open days which is held on a Friday in Council Chambers this week it will be on Thursday due to the public holiday. The Planning and Development and Technical Services team make themselves available for face-to-face consultations for Developers, Property Owner and Community Members with Relevant enquiries offering expert and advice on property development in the Burdekin. They will assist with any enquiries with you may have before you lodge any applications with those depart-
ments assisting with streamlining the process.
The Council will also be conducting the Bi-annual Water Supply Meter Reading commencing 14th April 2025. The early commencement of the meter reading is due to the Council changing of the Rates to bi-annually. Can we please ask that residents clear meters of all obstructions and restrain your dogs to avoid injury to our Staff and unlock your gates. This would be greatly appreciated.
The 2025 Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships will be held at the Burdekin Showgrounds on the 30th of May. It will be the headline event for the Sweet Days, Hot nights Festival which will be held on that weekend.
The weekend will be fun for the whole family with free kids’ activities, including a Petting Zoo, Timmy the Train, Market stalls, also the Burdekin Rum Bar Gudjuda Rangers Turtle viewing. Mechanical Bull and lots more. It will be a great family event. You can witness skill and stamina of our cane cutters which will compete for some great prize money and the National Title so Save the Date.
Hope you all have a safe and Happy Easter.
Minute With The Mayor
With Easter just around the corner, excitement is building - especially for our little ones who are eagerly awaiting a visit from the Easter Bunny and, of course, plenty of chocolate! It’s a wonderful time of joy and indulgence, but beyond the treats, Easter carries a deeper significance for many in our community. For those who celebrate, it is a time of renewal, reflection, and hope - a reminder of new beginnings and the importance of faith, love, and kindness.
The Easter long weekend also provides a valuable opportunity to slow down and spend quality time with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a backyard egg hunt, heading away on a short getaway, or simply taking time to relax at home, I encourage everyone to cherish these moments.
For those who are traveling over the holiday period, please take extra care on the roads. With increased
traffic, we all need to drive responsibly and ensure a safe and happy return home. Let’s also spare a thought for those in our community who may be facing difficulties at this time of year. A small act of kindness - whether checking in on a neighbour, offering support to someone in need, or volunteering - can make a real difference.
I wish you all a joyful and safe Easter, filled with happiness, rest, and, of course, a few sweet treats!
Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin. qld.gov.au.
Junior Tennis Coaching Returns to Home Hill Tennis!
Open Day!
Home Hill Tennis is thrilled to announce the return of Junior Tennis Coaching in Term 2, kicking off with a FREE Come and Try Day on Tuesday, April 22! The program will run throughout the cooler months, across Term 2 and Term 3.
We’re excited to welcome back Kayla Accornero as our Club Coach — now operating under her own business, Next Point Coaching. Kayla, originally from Ingham, has a strong understanding of coaching in regional areas and brings great energy and experience to our club.
Why choose tennis? Beyond the physical, social, and emotional benefits, our coaching program includes:
· Public liability insurance
· Free daytime court hire for kids · A FREE Hot Shots shirt
· Access to our newly upgraded, modern club facilities
Tennis is a sport for life! Whether your child is just 3 years old or you’re looking to pick up a racquet yourself, there’s something for everyone. Kayla will also be running Cardio Tennis — a fun fitness-based tennis class suitable for all skill levels. It’s a great way to smash your step goals without even noticing!
We also accept Sport and Recreation Fair Play vouchers.
Spots are limited — so don’t miss out! To sign up or find out more, contact Kayla at kayla.jodie03@gmail.com or call 0408 014066.
Limited places for all classes. Please contact Kayla kayla.jodie03@gmail.com or phone 0408014066
Preparations Underway For Burdekin Machinery Preservationists
It’s all hands to the pumps as the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists prepare for their Open Day celebrations on Saturday 10th May at the Brandon Heritage Centre.
President Bruce Munro and fellow Burdekin Machinery Preservationist Peter Smith are reportedly sweating away on the final preparations of the historic Austral Hot Bulb Engine—a quaint old engine made in Australia by Ronaldson and Tippet. The burning question is: Can they get the hundred year old engine ready for Open Day?
This particular engine was donated to the Club by the McMahon Brothers of Bowen. It was then stripped down to the main chassis and meticulously renovated, part by part, by expert artisan Smith, whose motto is “measure twice, cut once.”
There was a palpable sense of excitement a few weeks ago when the engine finally roared to life with a bang and a great cloud of smoke. Following some adjustments to the governor and careful fine-tuning, it’s
now operating much more smoothly.
The hot-bulb engine, also known as a semi-diesel or Akroyd engine, is an early type of internal combustion engine that was widely used in agriculture, marine, and stationary applications, and was the link between the steam era and diesel engines. They were simple, versatile and would run on a variety liquid fuel, crude oil, kerosene, old engine oil and even vegetable oil.
The hot-bulb engine is one of a host of different machinery, tractors and other items that will be on show at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day.
For more information about the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists please call Lex on 0488 366 443 or email us at burdekinmp@outlook.com
WHAT: Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day
WHERE: Brandon Heritage Centre WHEN: Saturday 10th of May
Woodturning Tools and Machinery Sale
The first start of the Austral Hot Bulb Engine. Photo supplied Peter Smith measuring up for the Austral renovation. Photo supplied
Coach Kayla Accornero. Photo supplied.
Cutting Global Farm Subsidies Can Improve Environmental Outcomes
Reform of global agricultural subsidies and tariffs at the World Trade Organization would support better environmental and food security outcomes, according to the latest ABARES Insights paper.
Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville, said taxpayers and consumers bear the brunt of hundreds of billions of dollars spent every year on agricultural support policies that inadvertently create adverse environmental impacts.
“Some forms of agricultural support distort production decisions in a way that encourages excess production and the use of inputs above and beyond what the market demands,” Dr Jared Greenville said.
“This excess can lead to environmental harm in the form of more emissions and more chemical use.”
The most environmentally harmful agricultural support policies, such as tariffs, price floors and payments linked to agricultural inputs and production, cost taxpayers and consumers around the world US$472 billion a year, between 2019 to 2023. This figure climbs to US$671 billion a year when export restrictions and other market price-deflating policies are included.
Europe and Asia provided the most environmentally harmful support as a share of farm income between 2019 and 2023. Australia and New Zealand recorded some of the lowest levels.
The report, Addressing Environmental Harm: Reforming Agricultural Support, details how removing and redirecting environmentally harmful support has the capacity to improve environmental outcomes.
Dr Greenville said the report details that “what is good for efficient global agricultural production is also good for the environment”.
“It is possible to minimise the environmental impacts of agriculture without compromising food security,” he said.
AI To Help Scientists Forecast Devastating Locust Plagues
Australian plague locusts are an endemic pest that threatens our agricultural industry, devastating crops, and causing losses of up to $30 million.
By harnessing cutting edge science, experts can forecast locust outbreaks with greater accuracy, helping mitigate economic impacts.
The Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) uses advanced analytics to improve early detection and rapid response. However, forecasting locust populations is challenging.
The APLC has been developing a simulation model to predict locust population dynamics across their entire range. This model predicts the development, survival, and behaviour of locusts across all life stages: eggs, nymphs, and adults.
However, locusts inhabit a vast range of more than 2 million square kilometres, so deploying the model is challenging. Field surveys alone cannot provide enough coverage to initialise the model.
But artificial intelligence is changing the game. The APLC has partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA) to develop a new AI-driven model. The machine learning
algorithms developed have incorporated 37 years of locust data with high-resolution weather, vegetation, and soil records to generate more accurate short-term forecasts (up to 90%).
These AI models will not only initialise the population dynamics model but also enhance field survey targeting, leading to more reliable on-the-ground surveillance. Additionally, they will support better planning and resource allocation.
Thanks to a growing ecosystem of models, the APLC is now better equipped to predict locust populations, making it easier to forecast their changes in response to Australia’s highly variable climate. This will enable governments and industry to prepare and respond more effectively.
The APLC plans to integrate this AI-driven forecasting system into a new online data dashboard. This will further support enhanced locust predictions, enable real-time monitoring, and improve response strategies.
Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville. Photo credit: Lisa McKelvie
Australian plague locust (Chortoicetes terminifera).
Photo credit: P.D. Amara / Flickr
Reviews, Rigs And Registrations
From flood recovery in the Burdekin to biosecurity updates and machinery innovation, QCAR continues to support growers where it counts – in the paddock, in the shed, and at the big-picture level.
Following recent heavy rainfall, the QCAR Burdekin team has been busy assisting growers with flood and erosion issues.
“You are not alone, and we might surprise you with how we can help,” said QCAR Central District Manager Angelo Licciardello. “We have the strength, the resilience, the knowledge and commitment to provide the highest level of service.”
With the 2025 crushing season on the horizon, Angelo encouraged growers to reach out early for assistance and practical on-farm support. Meanwhile, growers are being kept informed of national regulatory developments. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has revised its expected timeframes for proposed decisions on several chemical reviews. Proposed decisions on fipronil agricultural products are now expected in April 2026, with veterinary products to follow in March 2026.
QCAR continues to monitor these updates and provide support as the industry awaits further detail.
Out in the paddock, innovation is always a
talking point – and the two-row sugarcane harvester continues to catch the eye of farmers and machinery watchers alike.
“We all have our favourites, but no matter what colour you bleed it’s indisputable to say that over the past couple of years there’s been significant interest in the two row sugarcane harvesters,” Angelo said.
“Pictured here is our intrepid on-farm machinery spotter and ag chemical expert with one of the John Deere CH960 two row sugarcane harvesters in the Burdekin. We know there’s a few getting around in the Central District as well.
“Is the verdict still out or does this machine do twice the work of its counterparts almost doubling productivity with significantly less labour, fuel consumption, compaction and cane loss? What do you think?”
Growers are invited to send photos of their favourite harvesting rig to media@qcar.org.au with a few details.
And for those heading to the 46th annual ASSCT Conference in Brisbane from 28 April to 2 May, QCAR will be in attendance.
This year’s theme is From Field to Future: Advancing Sugarcane Through Innovation and Research. Drop in to Booth 10 to say g’day.
For assistance, call the Ayr office on (07) 4783 2111 or Angelo directly on 0437 401 837.
QCAR District Manager Angelo Licciardello checks out one of the John Deere CH960 two-row harvesters in the Burdekin – a machine turning heads across the cane-growing regions. Photos supplied: QCAR
The QCAR Burdekin team have been working closely with growers to support flood recovery efforts and address erosion issues following the recent extreme rainfall events
Fuelling Change
Don’t Let Queensland Lag Behind!
CANEGROWERS has welcomed Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki’s comments supporting the development of a domestic biofuels industry, during his speech to the Queensland Energy Club in Brisbane today.
“The sugarcane sector is ready to see a biofuels industry take off in Queensland, with cane as a key feedstock,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
“It’s great to see the Treasurer not just showing support, but taking on an important leadership role in driving the development of this emerging industry.”
However, Mr Galligan, who sits on the State Government’s recently formed expert panel on biofuels, said that it’s time to move from talk to action.
“The airline industry is on board, the bioenergy sector is keen, and the emerging SAF industry is pushing forward with pilot projects – like the one recently launched by biofuels company Licella at the Isis Central Sugar Mill in Childers.
“The government clearly wants this too, so let’s make it happen.”
Mr Galligan noted that developing a biofuels industry in Queensland, with sugarcane as a central feedstock, is a key focus of the industry’s 2030 strategic roadmap – Sugar Plus: Fuelling the Future of Food, Energy and Fabrication.
“Queensland’s sugarcane industry already produces ethanol and green electricity, so we are well positioned to supply a sustainable aviation fuel industry that could help power the future of Australian air travel,” Mr
Galligan said.
“But to give the industry the confidence to make the switch to biofuels production, a national feedstock strategy, supported by offtake agreements, is essential.”
As members of Bioenergy Australia, CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Manufacturers have been advocating for the development of a national biofuels feedstock strategy for over a year.
“Our global competitors are way ahead on biofuels. We can’t afford to fall further behind. We need decisive action and meaningful government investment now,” Mr Galligan said.
“The development of a biofuels industry in Queensland won’t just help Australia meet its emissions targets – it will also boost energy security, boost the economy, and stimulate regional agricultural and industrial growth.
“We appreciate the Treasurer’s support, but what we really need now is a strong commitment from both State and Federal governments. That starts with a national feedstock strategy,” Mr Galligan said.
At a glance
Treasurer’s backing: David Janetzki throws support behind Queensland’s emerging biofuels industry.
Sugarcane front and centre: CANEGROWERS says cane is ready to fuel the sector as a key feedstock.
Call for action: Industry urges government to move from talk to tangible investment and strategy.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan
A sweet takeoff: Queensland’s sugarcane industry is ready to fuel the future of aviation through a homegrown biofuels industry.
Photo supplied
Information Sessions Deliver For Growers
Simon Hood - Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
Tyear made it quite apparent that growers who market with Wilmar believe that the market information we provide is one of the most important services of our Grower Marketing team.
Thanks for choosing Wilmar
Simon Hood
Wilmar
One way we keep growers up to date is via shed meetings and information sessions which we recently held in Proserpine, Ingham and the Burdekin.
As Brazil accounts for nearly three quarters of global seaborne trade, any slip in production could see a surplus turn into a deficit, and higher prices.
Manager Grower Marketing
Firstly, thank you to all who have entrusted us with your GEI marketing nomination for
It’s always thoroughly enjoyable for the team to get out and about, meeting with growers, learning more about their businesses and hearing what works for them.
For many, this decision was made a long time ago when the 2021.
With the current turmoil in global markets, it was a timely update given the uncertainty within the world. It was also a great opportunity to have our Risk Manager Bevan Patterson up from Brisbane to review the current Wilmar forecasts on global demand and supply, and try to make some sense of the chaos.
The global market turmoil triggered by the tariff tit for tat has caused the AUD to be extremely volatile as traders analyse the impact on a trading nation like Australia. It is not often that we see the AUD below 60 cents and it has masked some of the drop in the #11 sugar price fall.
At that time, target prices where trading sub $400/t and the thought of $800/t for sugar was a dream. At the time of writing, we have seen a high of more to come.
Currently we forecast a small net surplus in sugar for the upcoming season which is highly dependent on Brazil delivering another record crop of 42 million tonnes of sugar. Harvest is about to get under way in Brazil and the dry start to the year may result in yields underperforming current
The reasons for the dramatic rise over the last years are well documented in the persistent deficit of supply against demand and the consequent
Our current average hedge rate for Target price growers in the ’24 season is just under $600 with approximately 40 per cent of committed tonnes priced. This provides a significant underwriting of next year’s production and a big buffer for growers if prices were to collapse unexpectedly.
In better news, our 2024 season pools and allocation account continue to outperform, and we will soon release our quarterly performance and comparative analysis for January to March. Keep an eye on your inbox for that later this month. The analysis continues to show that growers are significantly better off by marketing with Wilmar, irrespective of the mechanisms used for GEI
sugar pricing.
After a few days out of the office and in the regions catching up with our growers, it is
great to see the sun shining and the fields drying out. We hope the rainy days are behind us, and we will soon see a hive of activity out on the farms as planting begins.
Nevertheless, it is hard to avoid sellers regret when the market moves up so dramatically. We have lots of conversations with growers who feel like they have lost money by selling too early. In simple terms there is a loss, as in an opportunity loss.
With perfect knowledge we would all be unhedged and waiting for someone to ring the bell, notifying the top of the market was here! However, we operate in the space of imperfect knowledge.
Cane growers need to think in risk management terms and not trading terms whereby margin management is the ultimate goal. It is not about picking the high of the market ; it is about taking control of your income and making decisions that are right for your business. All of us have a different appetite for risk and therefor there is not a one size fits all when it comes to pricing sugar.
For us in Wilmar Marketing, our goal is to give you the best information we can to help you make the best decision on pricing given your circumstances. We provide simple yet flexible pricing tools and payment terms to assist with cash flow.
For those of you who entrust us to price your GEI Sugar through the Production Risk Pool we dedicate significant resources aiming to maximise returns. Our Production Risk Pool has outperformed QSL’s Harvest Pool for five years running (see graph)
If you would like more information, please contact our Grower Marketing consultants, Meghan Wilson on 0437 669 118 or Fiona Villis on 0437 297 978.
Wilmar Grower Marketing Business Development Manager Owen Richards addresses Burdekin growers at a recent information session. Photo supplied
Enrolments Now Open For 2026 At Burdekin Catholic High School
Burdekin Catholic High School has excitedly announced that enrolments are now open for Year 7, 2026. Families looking for a high-quality secondary education in a supportive, values-based environment are encouraged to consider what BCHS has to offer. With a proud tradition of academic success, vocational achievement, and holistic development of young people, Burdekin Catholic High School continues to set the standard for secondary education in the Burdekin region. Whether students are aiming for university, TAFE, apprenticeships or the workforce, BCHS provides strong pathways to help every learner reach their goals.
BCHS Principal, Lorraine Wolffe welcomes new students with open arms, highlighting the plethora of opportunities the school provides for both academic and personal development.
“At Burdekin Catholic High School, we educate the whole person,” shared Lorraine.
“We are proud of our strong results, but we’re even more proud of the kind, capable young people who leave our school ready to make a difference in the world.”
Academic and Vocational Success At BCHS, students are supported to
achieve their personal best, with proven outcomes in both academic and vocational areas. The school offers a wide range of ATAR and VET subjects, ensuring every student has a meaningful and purposeful pathway. Teachers work closely with students to develop strong study habits, a growth mindset, and a love of learning that lasts well beyond school.
Excellence in Sport and the Arts Burdekin Catholic High School is home to an outstanding Sports Program, giving students the chance to develop their skills across a wide variety of sports, from team games to individual competition. With strong representation at local and state levels, BCHS encourages participation, teamwork, and healthy living.
The Arts are also a vibrant part of school life, with dedicated programs in Music, Visual Arts and Drama. Students have the opportunity to explore their creativity, perform, exhibit and celebrate their talents in a supportive and dynamic environment.
A Marist Heart
As a Marist school, BCHS is grounded in the values of presence, simplicity, family spirit, love of work, and following in the way of Mary. These values guide everything the school does – from relationships to leadership, and from learning to service. Students are nurtured to grow in character, compassion and confidence, becoming young people who are not only successful, but grounded and generous in spirit.
Join the BCHS Family
Enrolments for Year 7, 2026 are now open. Families are encouraged to contact the school early, as places fill quickly, and interviews commence in Term 3. To learn more about Burdekin Catholic High School or to read more about their Taster Days or Twilight Open Evening, visit www.bchs.qld.edu.au.
Come and discover what makes BCHS a great place to learn, grow, and belong.
Enrolments for Year 7, 2026 are now open at BCHS (Photo Source: BCHS)
Burdekin Christian College Swimmers Make Waves At Interschool Carnival
Burdekin Christian College may have sent a small team to this year’s Burdekin Interschool Swim Carnival, but their impact in the pool was anything but small.
With just eight determined students, Team BCC showed up with courage, heart, and incredible sportsmanship—proving once again that it’s not the size of the team, but the strength of the spirit that counts.
From strong finishes to cheerful sideline support, students gave it their all and proudly represented the College in every event.
A huge congratulations to Zachary Dale, who was crowned 14 Years Age Champion, and to Talea Leilua-Kava and Lachlan Shand, both awarded Runner Up Age Champions in their respective age groups.
The full list of results is a testament to the dedication and effort shown by the entire team:
Local schoolgirl, Grace Ogomeni, inspired the crowd at her local ANZAC Day ceremony with a heartfelt speech highlighting the importance of the day for both sides of her family.
Grace is a School Captain at Home Hill State High School. A small school of just 200 students, despite its small numbers, it has a proud 60-year history of punching above its weight in terms of its achievements and the outcomes of its students.
With a Papuan father and an Australian mother, Grace spoke passionately about her heritage and the roles both sides of her family played in the conflict in Papua New Guinea during World War II. Her father was born in the village of Kokoda –famed for the historic Kokoda Track – where the stories of the war are passed down through generations. On her mother’s side, her great-grandfather, a Charters Towers man, served in Papua New Guinea with the 39th Australian Infantry Battalion.
“The Australians and Papuans managed to stem the
– 4th: 50m Breaststroke
Talea Leilua-Kava
– 13Y Runner Up Age Champion
– 1st: 50m Backstroke
– 2nd: 100m Freestyle, 50m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly, 50m Breaststroke
– 5th: 100m Freestyle, 50m Freestyle, 50m Breaststroke
Cole Pontifex
– 3rd: 50m Butterfly, 50m Backstroke, 50m
Breaststroke
Well done Team BCC!
tide of the Japanese advance and, fighting side by side, sealed a bond of friendship that has endured between our two nations ever since,” Grace said.
“When I think about the ANZAC spirit, I think of this very bond - two worlds brought together, forming mateship and unity that stays strong in tough times.”
“We each have stories within our families - stories that define who we are and how our pasts are connected. Whilst we may not face the same challenges in today’s society compared to those who fought for us, we still have the opportunity to show courage, compassion and unity in our lives.”
“We must uphold these values and keep the ANZAC spirit alive,” she added.
Grace’s message of coming together, forming bonds and showing courage and compassion, is one that could serve us well in these tumultuous times, and it certainly resonated with those present on the day.
Burdekin Christian College Swimmers impressed onlookers at the BSS Carnival (Photo Source: BCC)
Home Hill State High School Captain Grace Ogomeni delivered a powerful ANZAC Day speech. Photo supplied
A Sweet End To Term 1 At Ayr State Primary School
Ayr State Primary School finished up Term 1 with plenty of treats, and loads of fun, and preparations are already underway, and the excitement is well and truly building ahead of Term 2!
The Easter Bunny made a quick trip over to visit Ayr State Primary School’s staff and students, treating plenty of lucky children and teachers to an adorably decorated bunny biscuit to enjoy at lunch time. The school extended a warm thank you to their
awesome Tuckshop, P&C Committee and Miss Jazzy for making fun little surprises like this one possible.
Earlier this month, Ayr State Primary School’s Year 5 students were given the awesome opportunity to taste test high school at their very first Transition Day to Ayr State High School. Each of the students participated in an Art Class, designed and played battle ships in Digital Technology, and played lots of fun games in HPE.
“They had an amazing day exploring and learning about how Secondary school works, and interacting with other small schools,” shared Ayr State Primary School staff.
“They all went home tired and happy.”
Ayr State Primary School’s April school calendar will see students of all ages lace up and get active on the 24th with the Annual Fun Run event! Kicking off from
11:35am, students aged from 5 through to 12 years of age will run different courses of varying difficulty whilst their peers, parents and carers cheer them along from the sidelines!
With plenty of action going on in and outside of the school gates, Ayr State Primary School certainly is a hive of activity, engagement and enrichment.
Adorable bunny biscuits were enjoyed by all to close out Term 1 at Ayr State Primary School
(Photo Source: Ayr State Primary School)
Ayr State Primary School’s Year 5 students participated in plenty of fun high school activities at Transition Day (Photo Source: Ayr State Primary School)
A class of HPE at ASHS was a Transition Day highlight for many! (Photo Source: Ayr State Primary School)
Young Entrepreneurs Stir Up Fun & Friendly Competition
Acolourful crew of young entrepreneurs brought smiles to the faces of almost 300 locals last week when Mark Vass shared their little business venture online.
Xanthe and Eden Godfrey, and Maya, Myles, Olivia and Harley Vass established a humble lemonade stand serving freshly squeezed beverages at just $2 a cup to plenty of happy customers on the corner of Menkens and Bapty Road.
As the day went on and foot traffic began to build, a turf war ignited, Harley switched sides, and an avocado stall was
set up by Ryder, River, Harley and Ruben Vass for a spot of cousin competitiveness across the road! The lemonade stall dried up by 2pm, however the boys kept customers happy and sold plenty of avocados into the afternoon.
The community were beyond delighted
to support the work and efforts of both group’s enterprises, with many commending the parents on teaching the kids values such as hard work and simple business operations at such a young age.
Become an Ayr State High Leaner and embrace the future as a confident caring citizen, who values personal excellence.
AYR STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Preparing the leaders of tomorrow since 1937 SUCCESS: EVERY
Xanthe Godfrey, Maya Vass, Eden Godfrey, and Myles, Olivia and Harley Vass manning the lemonade stall (Photo Supplied)
Ryder, River, Harley and Ruben Vass opened up an avocado stall later on in the day (Photo Supplied)
Easter Eggstras
The Easter Bunny has lost his basket of goodies. Help him navigate his burrow and find the treats.
JNR CROSSWORD
Solve all the clues and an eight-letter phrase will be spelled out.
1 The number of eggs in a carton
2 Cadbury egg with white and yellow centre
3 Baby hen 4 Greeting word 5 Sunday dinner meal 6 Caramello –
1 Brioche, ciabatta and focaccia are all types of what?
2 What type of creature is SpongeBob SquarePants’ best friend Patrick?
3 Madrid is the capital city of which country?
4 Sci-fi is an abbreviaion for what?
5 Where in the body would you find a cornea?
6 In which city is the Disney Pixar film Ratatouille set?
7 True or false: a professional ballerina can go through an average of two pairs of pointe shoes (pictured) per week?
8 Marie Antoinette was the queen of which country?
9 How many bones are in a giraffe’s neck?
10 Who was the first woman to become Australia’s prime minister?
Q. How can you make Easter shopping go faster?
A. Use the eggs-press lane!
Brioche, ciabatta of what?
What type of creature friend Patrick?
Madrid is the capital
Sci-fi is an abbreviaion
Where in the body
Can you copy the image below to the larger grid?
In which city is
True or false: a through an average (pictured) per
Marie Antoinette which country?
How many bones
Who was the first prime minister?
Q. Why did the baby chick cross the road? A. To meet up with her peeps.
Q. How do dinosaurs usually celebrate Easter? A. They don’t – they’re eggs-tinct.
1. Cadbury Creme Eggs were invented in 1923.
2. The tradition of decorating eggs at Easter time was started in Ukraine.
3. Instead of the Easter Bunny, eggs in Switzerland are delivered by the Easter Cuckoo.
Easter Eggstras
Easter
codeword
Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?
3
4
5
6 LETTERS CHESTS REDDER STOREY THWART
7 LETTERS ARCHING BENEATH ENGLISH EYELASH PERHAPS READIER
8 LETTERS PARAKEET PERISHES SALEABLE TOBACCOS
11 LETTERS GRAPEFRUITS INCRIMINATE
Across
1 Coveting (7)
5 Obliquely (8)
9 Part of the university year (8)
13 Flower (9)
14 Beauty treatment (6)
16 Plane carriers (8)
17 Boat race (7)
18 Choke (8)
19 Offerings (8)
20 Party decorations (9)
25 Rowdier (8)
26 Pictures (6)
27 Indictable offences (8)
28 Brood mares (7)
30 Steering aids (7)
33 Animal doctors (13)
36 Harrier (8)
40 Oyster gem (5)
41 Misinterpret (11)
43 Aquatic mammal (5)
44 Treacherous (8)
47 Without relying on others (13)
50 Surgical instrument (7)
53 Offender (7)
56 Given the right (8)
57 Picturesque cavern (6)
59 Trivial things (8)
60 Magicians (9)
65 Lunar ray (8)
66 Bazaar (8)
67 School (7)
68 Not a soldier (8)
69 Famous dog (6)
72 Most tired (9)
73 Estimates (8)
74 Imbibers (8)
75 Fused metals (7)
Down
1 Bears (7)
2 Sour liquid (7)
3 Torpor (7)
4 Distorted facial expression (7)
5 Instrumental compositions (7)
6 Historical period (3)
7 Kimono sash (3)
8 Exhibition rooms (9)
9 Flighty (14)
10 Humiliated (9)
11 Specify (9)
12 Expert in the interpretation of religious texts (7)
14 Recipe (7)
15 Someone who provides food (as for a party) (7)
21 Swarm (4)
22 Elicits (6)
23 Over from which no runs are scored (6)
24 Go up (4)
29 Climbing support spot (7)
31 Dismiss (6)
32 Himalayan mountaineer (6)
34 Follow in order (5)
35 Fourth month (5)
37 Speaks aloud (6)
38 Antenna (6)
39 Ornamentations (14)
42 More lucid (5)
45 Resting (6)
46 Marine delicacy (6)
48 Latin American currency (4)
49 Carry (4)
51 Conscientious (9)
52 The study of speech sounds (9)
53 Hidden (9)
54 Jails (7)
55 Influence (7)
58 Newbies (7)
60 Indian pastries (7)
61 Spaceships (7)
62 Lunar phenomenon (7)
63 Component (7)
64 Fragrant (7)
70 Slalom (3)
71 Kind; class (3)
SOLUTIONS
Pictures (6)
Indictable offences (8)
Brood mares (7)
Steering aids (7)
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.
Animal doctors (13)
Harrier (8) 40 Oyster gem (5)
41 Misinterpret (11)
43 Aquatic mammal (5)
44 Treacherous (8)
47 Without relying on others (13)
50 Surgical instrument (7)
53 Offender (7)
56 Given the right (8)
57 Picturesque cavern (6)
59 Trivial things (8)
60 Magicians (9)
65 Lunar ray (8)
66 Bazaar (8)
67 School (7)
68 Not a soldier (8)
69 Famous dog (6)
72 Most tired (9)
73 Estimates (8)
74 Imbibers (8)
75 Fused metals (7)
Down
1 Bears (7)
2 Sour liquid (7)
3 Torpor (7)
4 Distorted facial expression (7)
5 Instrumental compositions (7)
6 Historical period (3)
7 Kimono sash (3)
8 Exhibition rooms (9)
9 Flighty (14)
10 Humiliated (9)
11 Specify (9)
12 Expert in the interpretation of religious texts (7)
14 Recipe (7)
15 Someone who provides food (as for a party) (7)
21 Swarm (4)
22 Elicits (6)
23 Over from which no runs are scored (6)
24 Go up (4)
29 Climbing support spot (7)
31 Dismiss (6)
32 Himalayan mountaineer (6)
34 Follow in order (5)
35 Fourth month (5)
37 Speaks aloud (6)
38 Antenna (6)
39 Ornamentations (14)
42 More lucid (5)
45 Resting (6)
46 Marine delicacy (6)
48 Latin American currency (4)
49 Carry (4)
51 Conscientious (9)
52 The study of speech sounds (9)
53 Hidden (9)
54 Jails (7)
55 Influence (7)
58 Newbies (7)
60 Indian pastries (7)
61 Spaceships (7)
62 Lunar phenomenon (7)
63 Component (7)
64 Fragrant (7)
70 Slalom (3)
71 Kind; class (3)
CLARE STATE SCHOOL
Bruno Fabbro, Ronin Marchioni, Kay Dal Santo and Angelo Dal Santo
Gina Roncato, Kayce Dal Santo and Hollie Hann
Senior Constable Stephen Booy and Constable Kate
1960’s students
1950’s students
1970’s students
Unveiling the Three Generation monument – Antionette Lewis, Anna Booth, Julie Scott, Kay Dal Santo and Russell McNee
Longest serving staff member, Maureen McMullen, rings the school bell
Julie Scott and Maureen McMullen
Adam McLaughlin and David Booth
CELEBRATES 75 YEARS
1980’s students
2010 onwards
Pippa and Georgia Tomaestig
John Aylmer, Clare Aylmer and Albert Bukbardis
Chad Brown, Peter Shadforth, John Shadforth and Coen Booth cut the cake
Current and Past Staff at the Diamond Jubilee Dinner
The Hall siblings – Ray, Maxine, Florence and Barry
Judy Kierle presenting Principal Troy Patti with a painting of the original school painted for the Golden Jubilee in 2000 by Neta Alcorn
2000’s students
1990’s students
EVENTGUIDE
SUNDAY 20 APRIL
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 26 APRIL
Home Hill Cricket, Canefield Ashes cricket carnival
An invitational T20 cricket carnival that sees 40 teams playing over 2 days in A, B, C and Social grades.
SUNDAY 27 APRIL
Home Hill Cricket, Canefield Ashes cricket carnival
An invitational T20 cricket carnival that sees 40 teams playing over 2 days in A, B, C and Social grades.
SATURDAY-MONDAY 3-5 MAY
The Sugar Bowl Team Event & Official Amenities Opening
Saturday 7:45am
Official opening of new HH Tennis Association amenities, while celebrating 44 years with 44 teams, in iconic event that brings players from across Queensland to compete in a thrilling team-based tennis event. Matches will take place at Ayr, Giru, and Home Hill. Home Hill Tennis Association
SUNDAY 4 MAY
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
WEDNESDAY 7 MAY
Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod
Wednesday A 12-day event, the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod will run from Wednesday 7 May to Sunday 18 May to host over 2000 competitors, staging local talent alongside performers from across North Queensland. Burdekin Theatre
CHARGE UP!
S
truggling with high energy bills? You’re not alone. With the cost of living soaring, many households are feeling the strain...but a new initiative could help. The Charge Up! Project, funded by the Department of Energy and Climate through the Enable Grants Program, is making energy management simpler and more accessible. And now, you can take advantage of it right at here your Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.
Access to energy is a fundamental necessity, yet many families find themselves overwhelmed by rising costs, confusing bills, and a complex energy system. These challenges hit low-income and vulnerable households the hardest, leaving many without the knowledge or resources to reduce their energy expenses.
Community service organisations play a crucial role in supporting struggling households, from helping them access energy concessions to guiding them through hard-
ship programs. However, with the energy market often difficult to navigate, clear and practical information isn’t always easy to find. The Charge Up! Project is changing that, providing households with the tools to understand their energy use, read their electricity meters, improve efficiency, and access vital financial support such as concessions, rebates, and tariffs.
Maddy Darley, an Energy Educator for the program, has seen first-hand the impact of this knowledge. By applying what she learned, she managed to cut her own electricity bill from $900 in January to $700 in February. She emphasised that having the right information is key to making smarter energy choices and saving money.
By empowering people with the knowledge to take control of their energy use, the Charge Up! Project is helping Queenslanders ease the burden of rising costs—one bill at a time.
EVENTGUIDE
SATURDAY 10 MAY
Ayr SLSC Junior & Senior Presentations
Saturday 5pm
The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club’s Junior and Senior Presentations will be held on Saturday the 10th of May.
Location TBA
St Colman’s Debutante Ball
Saturday
The 2025 St Colman’s Debutante Ball will light the night on Saturday the 10th of May to debut girls in year 11 or older.
Home Hill Memorial Hall
SUNDAY 11 MAY
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 18 MAY
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 21 MAY
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
SATURDAY-SUNDAY 2425 MAY
Burdekin Netball Junior Carnival 8am - 6pm
The 2025 junior carnival promises to bigger and better with two days of quality netball.
Burdekin Netball Association Courts
FRIDAY 30 MAY
Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival
– Burdekin Cultural Fair & First Fire
Friday 6pm (gates open at 5pm)
Celebrate the diversity of the region with an amazing line-up of cultural performances, free activities for the kids and authentic street food from around the world. Don’t miss the highlight of the night, the lighting of the first fire of the 2025 sugarcane crushing season. Adult tickets are just $10 per event and kids get in free all weekend!
Home Hill Showgrounds (Purchase tickets online)
SATURDAY 31 MAY
Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival – Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships
Saturday 11am (gates open at 10:30am)
Experience a test of skill and endurance from a bygone era as hand cane cutters compete for the winning title. Bring the whole family to enjoy live music, free children’s rides and activities and a variety of food vans. Adult tickets are just $10 per event and kids get in free all weekend!
Home Hill Showgrounds (Purchase tickets online)
SUNDAY 1 JUNE
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 8 JUNE
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 8 JUNE
The Cane Country Cup Pickleball Team Event
Sunday 8:30am
Annual pickleball team event returns to the calendar. Teams from Mackay, Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Charters Towers, Ingham, Tully, and Cardwell have been invited to compete.
Home Hill Tennis Association
THURSDAY 12 JUNE
Echoes of Pink Floyd – 60 Years of Pink Floyd
Thursday 8pm
Join Echoes of Pink Floyd as they pay tribute to one of the greatest bands of all time and celebrate 60 years of Pink Floyd’s enduring legacy.
Burdekin Theatre
SUNDAY 15 JUNE
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 18 JUNE
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
WEDNESDAY 25 JUNE
Burdekin Show
Wednesday
A wave of exhilarating rides, delicious treats, outstanding entertainment and impressive exhibitions will wow the community on Wednesday the 25th of June for the one and only, Burdekin Show!
Ayr Showgrounds
SUNDAY 6 JULY
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 13 JULY
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 16 JULY
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 20 JULY
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
morning opens 8.30pm for a 9.30pm start Sunday night opens 5pm for a 6pm start
Saturday 10th May
Doors open 9am for a 10am start
WEEKLYTVGUIDE
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.30 Cook And The Chef. 10.00 Planet America. 10.30 The Pacific. 11.00 ANZAC Battlefields. 12.00 News. 12.30 Cook And The Chef. 1.00 Unforgotten. 2.00 Restoration Australia. 3.00 Back Roads. 3.30 Grand Designs NZ.
4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite
To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 Gardening Aust. 8.30 Sherwood. 9.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. 10.00 Fresh Blood: Westerners. 10.30 Father Brown. 11.20 Mayfair Witches. 12.10 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Darby And Joan. 2.15 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.00 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. 4.45 Creative Types. 5.10 Landline. 5.40 Aust Story. 6.10 Father Brown. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 MOVIE: Made In Dagenham. (2010) (M) 9.20 Midsomer Murders. (M) 10.50 Unforgotten. 11.40 Boat Story. 12.40 Rage.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Insiders. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 Compass. 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. 2.30 Easter Vigil. 5.00 Restoration Australia. 6.00 Back Roads. 6.25 Federal Election Announcement. 6.30 Compass. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement. 7.00 News. 7.30 Darby And Joan. 8.15 Unforgotten. 9.05 Boat Story. 10.05 MOVIE: Ten Canoes. (2006) 11.35 You Can’t Ask That. 12.05 Rage. 3.05 Ask The Doctor. 3.35 Outback Ringer. 4.05 Gardening Aust. 5.05 Easter In Australia.
2.55 Back Roads. 3.25 Grand Designs NZ. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement. 7.00 News.
7.30 7.30. 8.00 Aust Story. 8.30 Four Corners. 9.15 Media Watch. 9.35 The Truth About Menopause With Myf Warhurst. 10.30 News. 10.45 Planet America. 11.15 The Weekly. 11.45 Grand Designs NZ. 12.30 Long Lost Family. 1.20 Rage. 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Call The Midwife. 2.00 Restoration Australia. 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 3.30 Grand Designs NZ. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Creative Types. 9.00 Swingers: How To Win An Election. 9.30 The Assembly. 10.15 The ABC Of... 10.45 News. 11.00 The Business. 11.15 Four Corners. 12.00 Media Watch. 12.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.35 Media Watch. 2.00 Restoration Australia. 2.55 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 3.30 Grand Designs NZ. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.25 Federal Election Announcement. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 The Weekly. 9.00 Planet America. 9.30 Big Boys. 10.00 Mayfair Witches. 10.40 News. 10.55 The Business. 11.15 In Limbo. 12.10 Grand Designs NZ. 12.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Sherwood. 2.00 Restoration Australia. 2.55 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 3.25 Grand Designs NZ. 4.10 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement. 7.00 News. 7.30
7.30. 8.00 Restoration Australia. 9.00 Grand Designs Aust. 9.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 10.45 News. 11.00 The Business. 11.15 Darby And Joan. 12.00 Grand Designs NZ. 12.45 Long Lost Family. 1.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 The Holy Grail Mystery. 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Destination Flavour. 3.40 Plat Du Tour. 3.45 The Cook Up. 4.15 Mystery Of The Loch Ness Monster. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 William And Harry: The Unseen Photos. 9.15 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. 10.10 SBS News. 10.40 A Body That Works. 11.40 Romulus. 1.40 Agent Hamilton. 3.20 Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? 4.15 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 PBS News. 1.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Qualifying. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Women’s Race. H’lights. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Men’s Race. H’lights. 5.00 Going Places. 5.30 Venice: Building Beauty From A Swamp. 6.30 News. 7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. 9.30 Searching For Italy. 10.20 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. 11.20 Homicide. 3.50 Bamay. 4.50 Destination Flavour. 4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. 10.30 PBS Washington Week. 10.55 Ascot Kayaking. 11.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Race. 5.30 Rediscovering Venice. 6.30 News. 7.30 Ancient Empires. 9.05 Secret Lebanon: The Treasures Of Byblos. 10.10 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. 11.05 Rebel With A Cause: Oodgeroo Noonuccal. 12.05 48 Hours To Victory. 2.55 Britain’s Great Outdoors. 3.50 Bamay. 4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 The Body On Somerton Beach. 2.45 Travel Shooters. 3.20 Going Places. 3.50 The Cook Up. 4.20 Mystery Of The Puzzling Pyramids Egypt. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Milan With Michael Portillo. 8.25 Big Fat Quiz Of Everything. 10.05 Rock Legends. 10.30 SBS News. 11.00 Classified. 11.50 Infiniti. 1.55 Son Of. 3.35 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Egypt Code Breakers. 3.00 Pita With Vegemite. 3.35 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 Living Black. 11.00 The Point. 12.00 Guillaume’s Paris. 12.30 Unbroken. 2.10 Faking Hitler. 4.00 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.40 Weight Of The World. 9.45 The Handmaid’s Tale. 10.50 SBS News. 11.20 My Brilliant Friend. 12.25 Lost Luggage. 3.20 Invisible. 4.50 Poh & Co. Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.55 PBS News. 1.55 Alone Australia. 3.00 Living Black. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 The Secret DNA Of Us. 8.35 Sydney’s Super Tunnel. 9.40 Virdee. 10.50 SBS News. 11.20 Breaking Point. 12.15 The Hollow. 1.15 Departure. 2.50 Hitler’s Teen Killers. 3.50 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. 4.50 Poh & Co. Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Murder, She Baked: A Peach Cobbler Mystery. (2016) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002) (PG) 10.45 GetOn Extra. 11.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (M) 12.15 The Black Donnellys. 1.15 Travel Oz. 2.00 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. All Aged Stakes Day, Mornington Cup and WATC Derby Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Americas. (PG) 8.00 MOVIE: Twister. (1996) (PG) Helen Hunt. 10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019) (MA15+) 12.50 The Black Donnellys. (M) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG)
8.00 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (M) 9.30 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PG) 11.30 MOVIE: Midnight Run. (1988) 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. 11.30 Athletics. Stawell Gift. Easter Monday session. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) 9.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (M) 10.15 Suits L.A. (M) 11.15 The Agenda Setters. 12.15 Treadstone. (MA15+) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG) 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 Beat The Chasers UK. 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 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) 9.05 Doc. (M) 10.05 The Irrational. (M) 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 The Act. (MA15+) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG) 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. 2.35 Surveillance Oz: Dashcam. 3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. 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 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) 10.00 Akmal: Open For Renovations. (MA15+) 11.15 Autopsy USA. 12.15 Midnight Texas. 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Learning To Love. (2023) 2.00 Tipping Point Australia. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Canterbury Bulldogs v South Sydney Rabbitohs. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: John Wick. (2014) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 TV Shop. 5.30 Postcards. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Frugal
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Surfing Aust. 12.30 Destination WA. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 MOVIE: Getting Even With Dad. (1994) 3.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 4.30 Garden Gurus. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance. 8.30 MOVIE: Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. (1971) 10.35 MOVIE: Yes Man. (2008) 12.30 How We Celebrate. 1.30 Surfing Aust. 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. 10.00 The Weekly Kick-Off. 10.30 Australian Survivor. 11.40 Farm To Fork. 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Australia By
6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1.00 Fish Forever. 1.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. 2.00
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Paris Can Wait. (2016) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Travel Guides. 9.00 100% Footy. (M) 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard. 11.20 Police After Dark. 12.10 Tipping Point. 1.05 Hello SA. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Neighbours. 7.30 GCBC. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 10.00 Ent. Tonight. 10.30 Airborne: Nature In Our Skies. 11.30 Judge Judy. 12.00 GCBC. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 News. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 News. 4.00 Neighbours. 4.30 Bold. 5.00 News. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. 8.40 Sam Pang Tonight. 9.40 Taskmaster Australia. 10.40 News. 11.05 The Project. 12.05 Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Shopping. 4.30 CBS Morning.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Love In Zion National: A National Park Romance. (2023) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Tipping Point: Travel Guides. 9.00 Australian Crime Stories. (M) 10.10 9News Late. 10.40 Wild Cards. 11.40 The Equalizer. 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.20 9Honey Hacks. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Building Ideas. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Neighbours. 7.30 GCBC. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 10.00 Ent. Tonight. 10.30 Jamie’s Air-Fryer Meals. 11.30 Judge Judy. 12.00 GCBC. 12.30 Family Feud. 1.00 News. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. 3.30 News. 4.00 Neighbours.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Love’s Fast Lane. (2023) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 8.30 The Grand Tour. (MA15+) 9.50 Freddy And The Eighth. 10.50 9News Late. 11.20 The Equalizer. 12.10 Next Stop. 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Neighbours. 7.30 GCBC. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 10.00 Ent. Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Hailey Dean Mysteries: Deadly Estate. (2017) 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 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) 10.00 The Amazing Race. (PG) 11.30 Born To Kill? 12.30 Spitfire Guardians. 1.30 Travel Oz. 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 4.50 Anzac Day Dawn Service. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Love Hunt. (2023) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Broncos v Canterbury Bulldogs. 9.45 Thursday Night Knock Off. 10.30
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
8.00 Be Cool, ScoobyDoo! (PG, R)
8.25 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
8.50 Robot Wars. (R)
9.50 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. (PG, R)
10.35 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.20 Dragon Ball Super. (PG, R)
7.30pm Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking.
8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. (PG)
8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
9.35 Speechless. (PG, R)
10.00 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
10.25 Dragon Ball Super. (PG, R)
10.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. (R)
7.30pm Bluey’s Big Play.
8.20 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. (R)
9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
10.25 Abbott Elementary. (PG, R)
11.05 Speechless. (PG, R)
11.30 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
11.55 The PM’s Daughter. (R)
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.50 The Inbestigators. (R)
8.05 Operation Ouch! (R)
8.35 The Crystal Maze. (PG, R)
9.20 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
9.45 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.30 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.50 The Inbestigators. (R)
8.05 Operation Ouch! (PG, R)
8.40 Deadly 60.
9.10 Ice Age. (PG, R)
9.55 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.40 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
11.05 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.50 The Inbestigators. (R)
8.05 Operation Ouch! (R)
8.40 Abbott Elementary. (PG)
9.25 Doctor Who. (PG, R)
11.05 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.50 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
12.15am Good Game Spawn Point. (R)
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.50 The Inbestigators. (R)
8.05 Operation Ouch! (PG, R)
8.45 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG)
9.25 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. (R)
10.05 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.50 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt.
7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country.
9.30 Escape To The Country.
11.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. (R)
1.00 Our Town. (R)
2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
6.00pm Dog Patrol. (PG)
6.30 Bondi Vet. (PG)
7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country.
11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
12.30 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. (PG, R) 2.00 Australia’s Best Backyards. (R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. (PG, R)
8.30 Vera. (M, R)
10.30 Great Rail Restorations. (PG, R)
11.30 The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt.
7.35 Doc Martin. (PG, R)
8.30 Shetland. (M, R)
9.45 Shetland. (M, R)
11.15 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.15 Doc Martin. (PG, R)
1.15 This Rugged Coast. (R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt.
7.30 Ludwig. (M, R)
8.45 Foyle’s War. (M, R)
10.55 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
11.55 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.55 One Road: Great Australian Road Trips. (R)
2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt.
7.30 Heartbeat. (PG, R)
8.45 Lewis. (M, R)
10.45 Law & Order: UK. (M, R)
11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.45 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
6.00pm American Pickers. (PG, R)
7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)
7.30 Pawn Stars Do America. (PG)
8.30 Movie: The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen. (2003) (M, R)
1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (MA15+, R)
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R)
6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.00 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 12.00 South Park. (MA15+, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (MA15+, R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (PG, R) 10.20 FBI. (M, R) 11.15 Jake And The Fatman. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)
9.25 NCIS: Los Angeles. (M, R)
10.20 FBI. (M, R) 11.15 Jake And The Fatman. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R)
10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)
12.00 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.30 Entertainment Tonight. (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) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R)
10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
11.30 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)
12.00 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.30 Entertainment Tonight. (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) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R) 12.00 The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.05pm If You Are The One. 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Woodstock. (M, R) 10.20 Adam Looking For Eve. (MA15+, R) 11.15 Pose. (MA15+) 12.15
5.30pm Yorkshire Auction House. (R) 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 7.30 RBT. (PG, R) 8.30 Emergency. (M, R) 9.30 A+E Crash Scene Emergency. (M) 10.30 My Feet Are Killing Me. (M) 11.30 Only Fools And Horses. (PG, R) 12.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
JAG. (PG, R)
JAG. (PG, R)
NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
FBI. (M, R)
Jake And The Fatman. (PG, R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Frasier. (PG, R)
The King Of Queens. (PG, R) 12.00 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 6.05pm Over The Black Dot. (R) 6.35 Travel Man. (PG, R) 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (M) 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. (M, R) 11.00 Homicide: Life On The Street. (M, R)
The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
Becker. (PG, R)
Frasier. (PG, R)
Rules Of Engagement. (PG, R)
Harry & Jennifer Celebrate 60 Years of Love
Heartwarming, long term love stories are certainly not in short supply when it comes to the Burdekin Shire, and recently one epic tale in particular caught the attention of local support worker, Vanessa Parison.
Harry and Jennifer will soon celebrate 60 wonderful years of marriage and after hearing of the pair’s amazing life journey together, Vanessa was brought to tears as she shared in Harry and Jennifer’s lifetime of happiness and heartache.
The pair’s story began in Newcastle, NSW, when they met one another at a Church Fellowship Group in 1962. A few short years later, when Harry was 22 and Jennifer was 19, the two celebrated their wedding on the 29th of May 1965.
The years to follow provided plenty of professional development opportunities for Harry including a position with the Australian Antarctic Division where he spent 15 months as a carpenter sailing on the Nella Dan Ship to Macquarie Island. The only way the pair could communicate with one another was through coded telegram, however, shortly after, Jennifer found out she was pregnant, and their daughter, Alison was born on the 18th of June 1968. With hopes of travelling Australia, Harry accepted a position with the Northern
Territory Police Force in May of 1971, and on the 3rd of July, 1973, the pair happily welcomed their son Neil into the world. Together, Harry, Jennifer, Alison and Neil lived in many townships over the coming years where Harry served as a policeman including Pine Creek, Maranboy, Papunya, Darwin and Timber Creek.
The constant change of scenery left the family of four feeling both excited for what’s to come, yet isolated in the areas of education and professional development, leaving both Alison and Neil to attend Boarding School elsewhere.
Harry served many long years as a policeman and accumulated a lifetime of wonderful and sad memories before he was appointed the Officer in Charge of the Northern Territory Housing Commission in Tennant Creek after needing to resign from the force due to injury.
In 1988, Harry’s health got the better of him and he was forced to retire which led Harry and Jennifer to embark on a trip around Australia in 1992, however, eight short days into the pair’s travels, Harry was admitted to the Adelaide Hospital. Once he was cleared, Harry and Jennifer set off again only to have Harry needing to be rushed to Bendigo Hospital after his bowel had burst. After a week of fighting for
his life in intensive care, Jennifer was determined to have him recover and shared hard words with Harry that night to turn his health around, and the very next day, there was an improvement.
To this day, Jennifer believes her love for Harry helped save his life, and that was the only medicine he needed.
After many more years of travel, the pair settled in Townsville with Neil and his children, however almost four years later, Neil tragically passed away with brain and lung cancer.
It wasn’t until 2019 when the pair made the decision to call Ayr home, and despite a few more health hiccups, both Harry and Jennifer enjoy their life in the Burdekin immensely.
In January of 2024, Harry unfortunately had a stroke which caused him to lose the sight of his right eye, and in February, the pair made the decision to switch support service providers which is when they met Vanessa.
Both Harry and Jennifer agree that they have been blessed to have such a wonder-
ful life together and could easily share stories of their youth until their next anniversary and beyond.
Congratulations on 60 beautiful years of marriage Harry and Jennifer.
A CELEBRATION OF BURDEKIN STORIES & LOCAL VOICES
The written word took centre stage at the Burdekin Library last week as the Burdekin Creative Writers and Burdekin Night Writers once again brought local storytelling to life.
The community was treated to an afternoon of spoken word and literary celebration, as members of both groups shared original works spanning poetry, fiction,
and creative nonfiction. From nostalgic reflections on the past to sharp insights into the present, the readings offered a rich tapestry of family stories, local myths, historic tales, heartfelt tributes, and even a love letter to North Queensland.
The event captured the power of storytelling to transport audiences beyond the everyday, and then gently return them home
to the heart of the Burdekin.
Attendees were reminded that the Burdekin Creative Writers Anthology, a collection of stories featured at the event, is available to read at the Ayr branch of the Burdekin Library or can be ordered through Burdekin Printers.
Both writers’ groups extended their sin-
cere thanks to the Burdekin Library for once again hosting the showcase, and to the many guests who attended and supported local creatives. A special thanks was also given to George Venables, the driving force behind the anthology, whose passion and persistence made the publication possible.
Harry and Jennifer will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on the 29th of May 2025. Photo Credit: Narissa De Villiers
ALL ABOARD FOR ADVENTURE! Burdekin Water Festival Launches 2025 Plans
2024 staged the celebrated and triumphant return of the beloved Burdekin Water Festival and following on from such an overwhelmingly positive response from the local and wider community, the Committee cannot wait to host another fantastic event!
Almost a year ago to date, seven junior ambassadors and seven senior ambassadors representing various community groups, schools and businesses with outstanding enthusiasm, leadership and pride touched the hearts of the entire community from the Festival Launch until the Winners and Runners Up were crowned.
Over 40 entries paraded through Queen Street to a crowd of over 7,000 people, and the Burdekin Water Festival’s social media pages attracted over 15,000 public engagements, which was an achievement in itself
considering the work the Committee put in behind the scenes to resurrect the treasured celebration from the ground up.
Ahead of this year’s festival, the Committee has hit the ground running, and following last week’s theme announcement, the excitement has continued to build!
“The Community put forward theme ideas on the Festival Facebook page and we also looked back at themes from past festivals to make sure we didn’t replicate,” shared Burdekin Water Festival Secretary, Kari Ravizza.
“The theme “Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe” is a fun, travel-inspired theme that invites people to embrace global exploration, whether through costumes, performances, decorations or cultural displays and we hope to encourage imagination,
discovery and appreciation for the diversity of the world!”
With planning well underway, the Committee warmly welcomed a few friendly faces back to the round table this year, with 2024 Senior Ambassadors Charlotte Horsfall, Sasha Previtera and Demi O’Shea putting their hands up to help ensure the festival continues to succeed.
“Our committee are deep into the planning of the events as well as the Ambassador Program as our aim is to build on the success of last year and include more ways for the community to come together to celebrate our unique identity in the Burdekin,” added Kari.
Similarly to 2024’s extravaganza, 2025 will stage a plethora of nostalgic fan favourite events including the Community Lauch
and Festival Fashion Parade, Long Lunch and Senior Ambassador Crowning, Window Display Competition, Tug Of War Competition, and Grand Parade and Mardi Gras.
“This year we will also be including the Garden Competition of years gone by so keen green thumbs can get a head start now on preparing their gardens to be looking their best by September,” Kari highlighted.
“Our Ambassadors will also be holding their own public events so watch this space!”
The Burdekin Water Festival’s Community Launch will take place on the 28th of June and the Committee promises there will be plenty of opportunities for locals to get involved right up until the Grand Parade and Mardi Gras on the 6th of September.
The Burdekin Water Festival’s 2025 theme is “Bon Voyage – Roam the Globe”! (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
Home Hill Bowls Club A Look Back at its Growth and Dedication
BOWLS
In September 1960, the Home Hill Bowls Club began a major upgrade of its green. A sub-committee made up of club members Mr Davies, Mr Adams, Mr Hanson and Mr King was formed to oversee the project, while Mr Adsma and Mr Davies were given the task of organising logistics with Mr Doug Haigh from the Ayr Shire Council.
It was decided that the green would close after games finished on Sunday, 18th September. The very next day, work got underway. It was a huge job – graders, end loaders, trucks, and hardworking volunteers with picks and shovels transformed the green in a flurry of activity.
Once the old surface was removed and the ground was prepared, the levelling of the green began. Artie Adams led the levelling with the help of Stan Asmus. The green was then replanted with South African Couch
grass, sourced from the Ayr Bowling Green.
After months of hard work, the green officially reopened on Saturday, 11th February 1961, with a social mixed bowls event held in the afternoon. The success of the upgrade – and the high standard of the green even today – is a lasting tribute to everyone who helped make it happen.
A few years later, at the club’s General Meeting in 1963, members agreed it was time to replace the old clubhouse. The committee at the time –
Mr Vaughan Heard (President), Mr Wilburn Figg (Secretary), Mr Gordon Ryan (Treasurer), along with Mr Jim Oats, Mr Frank Boccalatte, Mr Tom Callow, Mr Ral King, Mr Mere Swindley and Mr Peter Ferguson –began making plans.
By February 1963, after reviewing reports, the committee decided to go ahead with building the new club-
house. They accepted a tender from W. & M. Woodward for £6,987. To help pay for the building, the club issued 300 debentures of £10 each, interest-free for ten years.
The new clubhouse was officially opened on 21st September 1963 by Mr Ian Roberts, who was President of the North Queensland District Bowls Association at the time.
Further improvements continued over the years. In 1979, under the presidency of Mr Bob Young, the bar area was carpeted, tiled and refurnished, giving it a fresh and modern feel.
Today, the Home Hill Bowls Club’s green, clubhouse and surroundings stand as a proud tribute to all those members who have contributed their time, effort and dedication over the decades – building a community space for all to enjoy.
Two of the original Home Hill Bowls members, Pop Stockdale (left) and Ham McLeod.
Brandon Bowls Results
Friday 11th April
Brandon Bowls Club was the epicentre of bowls thanks to North Queensland Green Solutions Ayr for sponsoring trophy bowls night.
The Bowls club saw 64 bowlers on the green with everyone in attendance enjoying themselves regardless of the level of bowls.
Second place went to the boys from Mio farming.
Bradman trophy went to Aiden Kratzman , Braydon Dibella , Logan Towner , Clinton White , Charlie Conway sponsor, Rachel sponsor
Saturday 12th April
Championship Pairs
BOWLS
Peter Jorgensen and Joe Yipnazar defeated Gary Pearce and Chris Pearce A Singles
Kevin Collins defeated Mick McCloskey
Sunday 13th April
Championship A singles
David Harding defeated Jamie Woods
Peter Lejarraga defeated Lloyd Shepherd 4s
David DeFranciscis, David Harding, Danny O’Shea, and Ross McLaughlin won against Peter Jorgensen, Ray Paneccasio, Doug Kiehne, and Neville Dickinson.
Coming events
Ladies bowls on Wednesday 16th April names in by 1.00pm for 1.30pm start.
Friday 18th no bowls this week bowls due to Good Friday.
Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd
Weekly Report From Ayr Bowling Club
BOWLS
The Ayr Bowling Club has been a hive of activity once again, with a dynamic week of championship matches, social bowls, and special events drawing large numbers to the greens.
With the championship season in full swing, the club has come alive with spirited but good-natured competition, showcasing the impressive talents and sportsmanship of its bowlers. Social games have also remained a major highlight, contributing to the club’s warm and energetic atmosphere.
Monday saw the resumption of the Ladies Competition A Singles, which had been suspended due to wet weather. Irene Wilson secured victory over Heather Jorgenson, earning her place in the next round.
On Tuesday, the club hosted the Ladies President’s Day, led by Ladies Senior Vice President Beryl Cornford. Sponsored by Queensland Country Bank, Ayr, the day was a celebration of friendship and bowls, welcoming clubs from Brandon, Alligator Creek, South Townsville, Jubilee, Wangaratta, Suburban, Thuringowa, and Home Hill. Special guests included NQDLBA President Lynette and Patron Wilma, whose presence was warmly appreciated. Ayr’s own Ladies Committee worked tirelessly behind the scenes to organise prizes, prepare lunch, and decorate the hall, while
club members Lew, John P, and Anthony lent their support throughout the day, ensuring a memorable event for all.
Wednesday’s Men’s Social Bowls featured three games of triples, with John Pirrone, Joe Pappale, and Lew Stidston taking out the win. The club was also pleased to welcome Rob, a visiting bowler passing through Ayr, highlighting the club’s reputation for warm hospitality.
Later that evening, two games of triples lit up the greens. Harry Dewing, Margaret McLaughlin, and Sam Caltabiano were victorious in one match, while Kate Stringer, Dr Ali, Katharina Stuckler, and Ross McLaughlin claimed the win in the other, delivering an exciting night of bowls.
Thursday brought the Ladies Championship Fours Final, with Donna, Betty, Beryl, and Pam delivering an outstanding performance to claim the title after a thrilling display of skill and teamwork.
Saturday’s Mixed Social Bowls saw a great turnout, with social players sharing the af-
ternoon with the women’s and men’s pennants teams for some practice matches. In a closely fought contest, the men narrowly defeated the women by just four shots. Wixi, Anthony, Barry, and John were named winners of the day, with Cisco, Linda, and Lew finishing runners-up.
To round out the week, Ron Soper and Joe Grabbi completed their suspended Championship A Singles match, with Ron coming out on top to move through to the next round.
Looking ahead, the club is gearing up for a special ANZAC Day gathering. An afternoon of Social Bowls will be held from
1:30 to 4:00 pm, followed by a delightful afternoon tea. Everyone is welcome to come along, pay tribute, and enjoy a wonderful afternoon with friends.
Please note there will be no Social Bowls on Saturday, April 26, as the club will be hosting the Division 1 Ladies Pennants competition. This exciting event will run over four days and will feature Ayr’s own Ladies team competing against the best in the division.
To book your spot for Social Bowls, contact or text Anthony Bull on 0409 480 490. Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull
Ramon Tortorica , Peter Lejarraga, Jayson Farry , Rachel sponsor , Lloyd Shepherd , Charlie Conway sponsor
Simon, Paola, Frank, Peter Charlie Conway sponsor, and Rachel sponsor
Aiden Kratzman, Braydon Dibella, Logan Towner, Clinton White, Charlie Conway sponsor, Rachel sponsor
Ross McLaughlin, David Harding, Danny O’Shea, David DeFranciscis, and Peter Lejarraga
Photos supplied
President Beryl's Day. Photo supplied
Friendly Rivalry Shines
BOWLS
It was a fantastic day of bowls and camaraderie as QRI hosted Home Hill for their recent inter-club match. Club President Trevor Elton praised the strong turnout, with both clubs filling a full eight rinks — a brilliant show of support and spirit from all involved.
The match itself was a close tussle, with Home Hill securing five rink wins in a competitive yet friendly atmosphere.
Adding a special touch to the day, QRI life member Vic Clough — who has proudly represented the club for over 30 years — spoke about the true heart of QRI. "It's not about the competition," Vic said, "it's about the friendships." He also shared how QRI enjoys travelling throughout
North Queensland, supporting the clubs they visit, and that members often have opportunities to play at state and interstate carnivals.
A big shoutout must go to the hardworking team behind the scenes who put on a sensational afternoon tea — refreshing players and visitors alike with a spread that was as warm and welcoming as the bowls.
In other club news, Home Hill's Fours Final was played recently with fantastic attendance and lively support from the community. Congratulations to the winning team — Michael, Norm, Alex, and Margaret — on a well-deserved victory!
Contributed with thanks to Michael Parravicini
Burdekin Clay Target Club held it's 100 Target Double Barrel competition on Sunday 13th April. It was a complete turn around to last months extreme heat, the weather was very pleasant with a constant breeze all day. Thank you to our sponsor Honeycombes Sales & Service and lui Populin for donating the meat trays for the raffle. Our next shoot will be on Saturday 10th May.
Event 1 – 15 Target Pointscore 15m
In AA Grade, Simon Steele, Joe Caruso, and Wayne Cislowski all shot a perfect 45/45 to share the honours.
A Grade saw Ron Clive take first place, with Bill Gall close behind on 43/45 and Bruce McBow finishing third with 42/45.
B Grade resulted in a four-way tie for first, with Dwayne Bartlett, Leisa Hopkins, Kevin Zarb, and David Stitt all scoring 42/45.
In C Grade, Tim Ewens and Alf Gangemi
shared first place with 41/45, while Lynda Potter secured third on 40/45.
Event 2 – 100 Target Double Barrel 15m
Sponsored by Honeycombes Sales & Service, the main event saw Phillip Scalia claim the Open win with a perfect 100/100. Joe Caruso took out AA Grade with an impressive 150/151, ahead of Riley Mikkelsen on 149/151.
In A Grade, Greg Maltby finished first with 96/100, followed by Mark Simpson who scored 122/128.
B Grade honours went to Dwayne Bartlett with 96/100, while Kevin Zarb was second on 93/100.
C Grade saw Brodie Elephinstone shoot 89/100 to win the category, with Rob Ness finishing runner-up on 88/100.
Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato
Back Row: Representative for Honeycombes Sales & Service Steven Caltabiano, Brodie Elphinstone, Dwayne Bartlett, Greg Maltby, Joe Caruso, Front Row: Rob Ness, Mark Simpson, Phillip Scalia, Riley Mickelsen, absent Kevin Zarb
Photo supplied
Ayr Surf Club
The Ayr Surf Club is gearing up for a big finish to the season, with several key events on the horizon, starting with the annual Senior Club Championships.
Set to take place on Friday, 25th April, the championships will commence following the local ANZAC Day march and parades. All competitors in the Under 15 through to Masters categories are asked to arrive at the Ayr Surf Clubhouse by 1pm.
Participants are reminded that full competition attire is required, including a stingersuit, pink competition vest, and Club noddy cap. Competitors must also have completed their required patrol hours for the season to be eligible.
With only three weekends of patrols remaining, the 2024–25 season is drawing to
a close. To celebrate, the Club will host its end-of-season presentation night on Saturday, 10th May at the Ayr Surf Clubhouse at Alva Beach.
Festivities will begin at 5pm, starting with the presentation of Junior Awards, followed by an awards dinner and Senior Presentations.
All current junior and senior members, their families and friends, life members, and sponsors are warmly invited to attend. Further details regarding ticketing will be made available in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the Club’s popular Annual Beach Golf Day has been postponed once again due to recent weather. A new date for the event is currently being finalised and will be announced shortly.
Football Matters With Cyclops
Local
Once again, there was no football in the Burdekin last weekend and unless there is a possible re-arrangement of postponed matches, there are now no more games until the end of April. The Panthers have four home games over the weekend of 25 -26 April.
Juniors
The school holidays and nothing now happens until the 3rd of May. We hope the kids and families enjoy the holidays.
Masters
Monday Night Masters resumed last Monday after a very long break.
National and International
The Socceroos now have just two games left in the 2026 World Cup Qualifying Group C. On 5 June they are at home to Japan and then on 10 June they travel to Saudi Arabia. Australia must win one of
these games to be sure of direct qualification. Japan leads the group and Saudi Arabia is in third place.
After their two games against South Korea the Matildas do not play again until the end of May. They then have two friendlies against Argentina, the first on 30 May in Melbourne and the second on 2 June in Canberra.
In the A League Men, Auckland drew 2-2 away to Sydney FC to claim the minor premiership with one round left to play. They lead Melbourne City by four points who beat Brisbane 3-2. Western Utd stay in third place despite losing 0-2 to Western Sydney who move up to fourth spot. Perth won their third game of the season leaving Brisbane alone at the foot of the table.
In the A League Women Melbourne City cemented first place with a 4-1 win over Newcastle Jets. Victory stays in second place with a 1-0 win at Central Coast and
Adelaide is still third after defeating fourth placed Western Utd 3-1. Brisbane stays in seventh place.
England and the EPL with six games to go, Liverpool is almost home and hosed after beating West Ham 2-1. They are now thirteen points ahead of Arsenal with third placed Notts Forest another six points away. Newcastle thumped Man Utd 4-1 and move up to fourth place. At the foot of the table, Ipswich and Leicester look set to accompany Southampton into the Championship.
In the Bundesliga, with five games to go, Bayern still leads Leverkusen by six points after both clubs drew. Third placed Frankfurt won but is a further eight points away and Leipzig has moved up to fourth place. At the bottom of the league, Holstein, Bochum and Heidenheim, all look doomed.
In Italy, Serie A also has six rounds left. Inter beat Cagliari and with Napoli draw-
ing now has a six point lead. Atalanta is a further four points adrift in third place and Juventus won and moves up to fourth place. For Monza it looks like Goodnight Luigi and Empoli, Venezia and Lecce are all struggling.
In Spain there are still seven rounds to go. The top five teams all won and Barcelona stays four points clear of Real Madrid with Atletico a further four points away and Bilbao another three points away. Valladolid are certain to be relegated and Leganes, Las Palmas and Alaves are not looking good.
And in France, with five rounds left PSG has twenty one point lead over Monaco and has a game in hand! Marseille is one point behind in third place and Lyon is fourth a further point behind. In the danger zone, Montpelier looks doomed and St Etienne, le Havre and Reims all look to be in danger.
Young Guns To Chase Glory RLTD SEASON FINALLY UNDERWAY AFTER DELAYED START
continued from Back Cover Four talented young riders from the Burdekin – Ryke Haller, Ky Mitchell, Ryder Vass, and Noah Ready – are set to compete at the Australian Dirt Track Titles this weekend in Kurri Kurri, New South Wales.
After a series of impressive results in local and regional events, the young Burdekin riders have earned their place among the nation's best. Representing the Ayr Motorcycle Club, they’ll take to the track this weekend to showcase
their talent and determination against top junior competitors from across Australia.
Each rider will compete in their respective classes: Ryke in the Junior 250cc, Ky in the Junior 125cc, Ryder in both the 85cc and 65cc classes, and Noah in the 50cc class.
The Australian Dirt Track Titles are a major highlight on the motorsport calendar, drawing competitors from across the nation, all aiming for the prestigious title of national champion.
RUGBY LEAGUE
The opening round of the Rugby League Townsville and District (RLTD) season was played last weekend after being postponed due to wet weather. Those games will now be played in July.
In A-grade, Western Lions started strong, defeating last year’s grand final opponents 52–0. Herbert River also impressed, beating Centrals 18–10 on Sunday.
At Jack Manski Oval, Brothers overpowered the Burdekin Roosters 40–10, although the match was closer than the score suggests. Norths and Charters Towers had byes.
Brothers dominated early, taking full advantage of penalties and Roosters' mistakes to race to a 30–0 halftime lead. However, the Roosters regrouped and matched Brothers in the second half, with both teams scoring 10 points each.
Roosters coach Steve Lansley said the limited preparation due to rain made it a tough start but expected improvement as conditions dry out. He praised Jesse Yallop’s strong allround game and Logan Dickson’s standout performance, including a brilliant try.
Halves Jye Olsen and Hayde Munro impressed, steering the team well, while hookers Colby Thompson and Josh Hunt added spark around the ruck. PNG international Aiden Arisa showed promise and will be a danger once fully fit.
Caleb Noah made plenty of metres with his powerful running, supported by Lachlan Shepherd and Alfie Mather. Colby Thompson and Logan Dickson scored tries, with Jye
Olsen adding a goal.
Injuries Hurt Roosters Reserves
The Roosters reserve grade team went down 46–16 to Brothers after leading 16–14 at halftime.
After trailing 10–0 early, the Roosters hit back with three tries to take the lead. But injuries crippled the side, with six players lost early in the second half. Forced to finish the game with only 13 players, the Roosters couldn’t hold out a fast-finishing Brothers.
Coach Peter Horan praised his young side, many playing their first senior match. Bryce Gesah was a standout, with strong performances from Jye Starr, Aiden Camer, Jack Rushton and Dylan Doak, who scored a classy try and kicked two goals. John Zaro also featured well.
Other try scorers were Bokeen Reid and Kane Bachelor.
In other reserve grade games, Norths beat Bowen 22–10, Souths defeated Western Lions 34–12, and Centrals beat Herbert River 46–6.
Ladies and Juniors
In the women’s match, Norths thrashed Bowen 68–0. The Burdekin Hens were unable to field a team but are expected to return next week.
In under-18s, Centrals beat the Roosters 34–12 in a trial game. Cheanne Taiters, Johben Tabo and Mason Kiehne scored tries for the Roosters.
Ryder Vass
Photo credit: Peter Campbell Ky Mitchell
Burdekin Riders Gear Up for Australian Dirt Track Titles
