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Jump in with Jacob
After my mates last month, it was my parents’ turn to pay me a visit in this beloved region I now call home—and it’s only when you’re showing guests around that you realise just how much you’ve come to know about a place.
Don’t get me wrong—I’m not claiming “local” status yet. But I’ve come a long way from the guy who first arrived here wondering why everything was closed on Sundays.
Mum and Dad liked what they saw. I took them up the mountain, down to Groper
Creek for a bit of fishing, and then up to Townsville for the weekend. They were fascinated by the landscape and had nothing but kind words for everyone they met along the way. Let’s just say, they’re glad I’m in safe hands.
Their visit was a good reminder of what makes this place special—the people, the stories and the sense of belonging. And that’s what we try to capture in these pages each week.
Jacob
COUNTDOWN ON FOR 2026 AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Time is running out to shine a spotlight on Queenslanders making an extraordinary impact in their communities, with nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards closing at 11.59pm on Thursday, the 31st of July.
who give back for the benefit of others, let’s celebrate their tireless contributions this Australia Day.”
The government is calling on locals across the State to nominate inspiring individuals for the prestigious national awards, which recognise everyday Australians doing remarkable work across four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over), Young Australian of the Year (16 to 30 years), and Australia’s Local Hero.
“This is about recognising those heroes who quietly go about making Queensland a better place to live, today and into the future,” Premier David Crisafulli said.
“The strength of our communities is the local champions
In 2025, Queensland’s Senior Australian of the Year title went to Dr Bronwyn Herbert, who was honoured for her exceptional work in social services and homelessness research. Dr Herbert began her academic journey later in life, earning her Bachelor’s degree at 40, her Master’s at 61, and her PhD at the age of 90.
The annual Australian of the Year Awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge leadership, dedication, and acts of selflessness that shape a better future for all Australians.
To nominate a Queenslander who inspires you, visit www. australianoftheyear.org.au before midnight on the 31st of July.
A Career Built On Commitment And Connection
Barton began his career in the early 1980s, serving across Queensland in towns including Toowoomba, Blackwater, Capella, Hervey Bay and, for the past 15 years, Ayr. Much of that time was spent in small one‑ and two‑of ficer stations, a vastly different experience, he says, to larger postings.
“You had no one to rely on— sometimes you just hoped bad things didn’t happen. You cer tainly learned how to talk to people quickly and communi cate well,” he recalled.
Over the years, Barton has also watched the job change dramatically, particularly with the rise of technology. “When I started, we were still using cardboard cards to keep re cords. Now you’ve got almost everything at your fingertips,” he said.
Through all the changes, Barton says what’s stayed consistent is the person al connection that come with policing small rural towns.
“You get to know people, even those you deal with regularly, and it becomes more
personable. Sometimes you go that ex tra bit, like helping an elderly couple get home after a crash. It’s just what you do.”
As for retirement, Steve and his wife plan to stay in the region. “We like the slow er pace of life here. Townsville’s close enough for what we need, the commu nity’s good, and the weather’s fine—apart
from summer, which is a bit of a prick,” he said with a laugh.
Looking back, he hopes to be remem bered simply as “an effective officer in charge, devoted to duty.”
“I’ve had my time. I’m comfortable with what I’ve done and ready for the next chapter,” he said.
Ayr Woman Charged Over Cardwell Armed Robbery
A27‑year‑old Ayr woman is among three people charged after an armed robbery at a Bruce Highway rest stop in Cardwell on Saturday, 26 July. Police allege that around 6.35pm, the trio–including a 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man and a 17‑year‑old Rasmussen boy–approached a white Hyundai Accent and demanded the 18‑year‑old German tour ist driver hand over his keys, wallet and phone.
One of the group allegedly threatened the man with a firearm before ordering him out of the vehicle. The tourist complied and later alerted police.
The car was intercepted entering Towns ville a short time later after a coordinat ed response involving the Tactical Crime Squad, Dog Squad and Polair.
The Ayr woman and the 26‑year‑old Ras mussen man have each been charged with two counts of armed robbery in company and are due appeared in Townsville Mag istrates Court on Monday, 28 July. The 17‑year‑old boy faces the same charges and will appear in Townsville Children’s Court. Investigations are ongoing.
Labor Blocks Crucial Senate Inquiry Into Australia’s Metals Manufacturing Industry
OPINION PIECE
The Albanese Labor Government has used its numbers in Parliament to block a proposed Senate Inquiry into the health and future of Australia’s metals manufacturing industry, without providing any explanation for the decision.
The Inquiry, moved by Nationals Senators Susan McDonald and Matt Canavan, was designed to investigate the looming crisis facing the sector, including key processing facilities Glencore’s Mount Isa and Townsville operations.
“These facilities underpin our local economies and are a vital part of Australia’s sovereign capability. Shutting them down would mean significant job losses and a massive blow to our national resilience,” Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.
The rejection of the Inquiry comes despite Labor’s own Industry and Innovation Minister, Senator Tim Ayres, recently admitting the Mount Isa closure represents a “very significant economic problem”.
With billions of taxpayers’ funds committed to Labor-designed programs such as the Future Made in Australia plan, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the Critical Minerals Facility, and the National Reconstruction Fund, time will tell if these programs are tapped into to support these facilities and their workers.
“This government talks up a big game with its commitment to manufacturing, but when it’s time to act, they are nowhere to be seen,” said Mr Willcox.
“Workers, their families and our communities deserve answers and some certainty about their future. Blocking this inquiry
sends the exact opposite message. When our metals manufacturing industry shuts down, countries like China and Indonesia fill the void.
“Labor’s decision to block this inquiry is deeply disappointing, but sadly it’s not surprising. For all their talk about building a ‘Future Made in Australia’, this is just more fluff and no substance,” Mr Willcox said.
Andrew Willcox
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability
HOME HILL POLICE REPORT
Crime
Unfortunately, July saw in increase in property crime throughout the month in the Home Hill division. Several houses were broken into along Ninth Avenue and Twelfth Street on the evening of 21 July. Ayr Criminal Investigation Breach were quick to apprehend a number of offenders (juveniles and adults) who have been charged with numerous property offences relating to this spate of breaks. All will face court dates in the Ayr Magistrates Court in the near future.
Over the past few months, Home Hill has been relatively spared when it comes to property crime in the division. It is a timely reminder to everyone – please secure your homes and be security aware. The majority of break and enters we attend are opportunistic. This means offenders pick easy targets - doors left unlocked, windows open. If you see something or someone that is suspicious, please report it to the Police. There is a lot of information that goes up on Facebook community groups that is never shared with the Police. There is often criticism about Police inaction attached to these posts regarding incidents we are completely unaware of. We do not monitor these groups for various reasons. If we don’t know about it, we can’t do anything.
Please phone Policelink on 131 444 –This number is 24/7 – 365 days a year. This will ensure local police are aware and can attend to check a situation out.
Community
Home Hill Police conducted patrols of Wunjunga Beach on a beautiful Sunday morning in July. We conducted some RBT’s along the beach and in Wunjunga township.
Senior Constable Jason ROBERTSON on patrol at Wunjunga.
Home Hill Police were also outside the Home Hill Newsagency on 26 July from 9am – 1pm providing crime prevention advise and engaging with community members.
Staff
Senior Constable Dean WELLINGTON (Wello) finished up with the Queensland Police Service on 23 July 2025. Wello has made a move to the private sector after two stints at Home Hill Station over the years. Wello was a familiar face to community and muchloved member of Home Hill Station. Dean has contributed a great deal to the Home Hill and it is a real shame to lose a fantastic police officer. I wish Dean all the best in his future endeavors, and I am happy to see him spend more time with his family.
To replace Dean, I have managed to snap up some talent from Ayr Station. Senior Constable Dan MEADS will transfer over to the premier side of the bridge in late September and is a welcome addition to the team. Interview and picture with the editor to come.
Drivers Licensing/ Police Counter Home Hill Police Station counter hours are below:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday- 8:30am -2:45pm. Closed Wednesday.
Closed for lunch 12:30pm - 1:00pm QLD Transport hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday –8:30am -12noon
Contributed with thanks to Sergeant Sam Pyke, Home Hill Police
Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox speaks in Canberra about the urgent need to support Australia’s metals manufacturing industry and the impact of Labor’s decision to block a Senate Inquiry. Photos supplied
Upgrading the Townsville University Hospital
Artist Impression
As well as upgrading the Townsville University Hospital, here are some of the ways the new Queensland Government is delivering for North Queensland:
➡ Building a new police station in Kirwan and a crime prevention school in Townsville
➡ Installing air-conditioning at the Thuringowa State High School hall
➡ Fixing the Bruce Highway and Angus Smith Drive roundabout in Douglas
➡ Upgrading netball facilities in the Burdekin and tennis facilities in Ingham
➡ Creating local jobs with CopperString
➡ Delivering more hospital beds and a new multi-storey car park.
Find out what else we’re delivering for you.
Astute Ayr Helping You Achieve Financial Goals
When Ross Rickards opened Astute Ayr in January 2020, he brought with him over a decade of experi ence in banking and a stint manag ing insurance clients—background that gave him a clear vision of what a customer‑first financial service should look like.
Now, five years on, that vision has flourished into a bustling office that handles everything from home loans, equipment finance and com mercial lending to Business, domes tic and private health insurance ser vices, all under the award‑winning Astute North Queensland banner.
Starting out solo, Rickards had to shoulder every task himself. Then, to pile on the pressure, COVID‑19 hit.
“It was a big scare, but in hindsight it actually helped us,” he said, pointing to the rapid adoption of remote ap pointments and the property market surge that brought southern inves tors flocking to North Queensland.
Today, Astute Ayr boasts six full‑time staff, split evenly between home loans and insurance specialists. “I’m so lucky to have such an awesome team—they’re the backbone of my business and a big reason I love com ing to work every day.”
The team prides itself on a custom
er centric approach, driven by around the clock availabili ty. “Our approach has always been customer‑first. If a client texts me on a weekend, I’ll call them back. Five minutes out of my day can stop someone stressing all weekend,” says Rickards.
A significant milestone came in August 2023, when Astute Ayr moved into its current home—the old TAB build ing off Queen Street. Rickards found humour in the contrast:
“Instead of people walking in here to blow their money, they’re coming in and we’re helping them save money, put themselves in a better financial position, and achieve their dreams.”
Astute Ayr remains proudly Bur dekin‑based, but its reach extends nationwide, working with people Ross went to school with or played sport with and against from all across the country.
“We do loans for clients in WA, Bris bane, Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Melbourne. It’s something I abso lutely love about what we do,” says Rickards.
“If they ever have an insurance claim, we directly help them out with the process instead of dealing with call
centres.”
For Rickards, the heart of the busi ness lies in building these lasting re lationships.
“We love helping people who’ve nev er been taught how to manage mon ey. Seeing them come back a year or two later in a much better position— that’s the best part of what we do.”
With a focus on making finance & insurance simple and accessible, Rickards and his team continue to build strong relationships and sup port clients every step of the way as they work toward achieving their fi nancial goals.
You can get in contact with the team on 07 4783 5229 or ayr@astutefinan cial.com.au
Joan Mutton Celebrates Birthday In The
On 20 July 2025, surrounded by friends at the Alva Beach Tourist Caravan Park, Joan Mutton marked her 100th birthday the same way she has spent the past two decades of winters: in the Burdekin, fishing, quad‑biking and swapping stories at happy hour.
“We’ve been coming up here for the last 20 years,” Joan said. “A lot of these people that come up here, and also friends we have made in Home Hill and so forth, were all here to celebrate, and it was love ly.”
Born in Adelaide in 1925, Joan grew up in a time when electricity was just reaching the Adelaide Hills and cars were a new sight on the roads. At 16, during World War II, she joined the Australian Defence campaigns, kicking off a professional ca reer of hard work and service.
She went on to study accountancy, run her own real estate business, manage a citrus orchard for more than a decade and help establish the West Beach SA Bendigo Community Bank, where she served as Administrative Secretary and a Board Member—“all voluntary, too,” she proudly added.
Adventurous by nature, Joan has made 21 overseas trips, from Scandinavia to Canada, but still calls her “gypsy life in the caravan” one of her happiest chapters. She credits staying active for her longevity: “I still do all the cook ing—I’m pretty well self‑sufficient. Once you stop doing
For Rickards, the heart of the business lies in building these lasting relationships. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Celebrates 100th Burdekin
things, you can’t get it back.”
She even keeps up with technology, though she laughs at the pace of change: “You’re never too old to learn, but they do keep moving the goalposts!”
Family remains central: two daughters, four grandchildren and five great‑grand children, all waiting for another celebra tion when she returns to Adelaide. Her secret to a century well‑lived? “Nev er give up, and you’re never too old to learn. You just keep on going—and be kind.”
September 28th 2023
Burdekin Theatre, Ayr, on Sunday
Minute With The Mayor
Pierina Dalle Cort
The Burdekin continues to shine with celebrations of significance across our community. From Rotary marking 70 years of service, Burdekin Pottery celebrating 50 years of creativity, to the 100-year milestone of the Catholic Church in our region. We also applaud long-standing local businesses like Liesmann Plumbing, celebrating 55 years, and Nutrien Harcourts McCathies Real Estate, marking 60 years of operation. And next year, we’ll honour 100 years of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club.
Donations from the generosity of our community have collectively shaped the Burdekin into what it is today. It’s a community I believe we are all proud to be part of. We are truly fortunate to have had pioneers who worked tirelessly, volunteering their time and resources to bring their visions to
Councillor Column
Councillor
John Furnell
Once again Burdekin didn’t disappoint last weekend.
The bagpipes were playing and competitors of various ages were enjoying the local highland dancing competition called ‘Sugarcane and Sword Dances’ at Burdekin Catholic High School’s Marcellan Centre. Competitors from Burdekin, Mossman, Mackay, Townsville and Brisbane took part. Fantastic to see the ‘Burdekin Youth Council’ members assisting with the canteen.
Burdekin Potters celebrated 50 years of ‘Creativity and Community’ at Plantation Park pottery. With hands on activities, demonstrations, giant birthday cake and the grandkids treasuring the pottery ‘Lucky Dip’. There was pottery activity going on all over the weekend. It was a tribute to the current and former members.
The talents of the Burdekin youth came to the fore Saturday afternoon/evening with Burdekin Catholic High School’s performance of Moana JR at the Burdekin Theatre. Engendering the youthful Burdekin talent is always tremendous to see. The Burdekin Theatre is a true treasure of forethought from previous council administration and the local community.
Hudsons Circus came to town at end of
life. Without their dedication and selflessness, we would not have treasured facilities like the Burdekin Theatre, our aged care centres, churches, and many other vital community spaces.
After attending the recent Voices of the Future event at Ayr State High School, I can confidently say: the future is in good hands. It was inspiring to see our youth speak with passion, purpose, and confidence qualities many of us never had the chance to develop so young.
From little things, big things truly do grow and the Burdekin is growing into something extraordinary.
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.
week/weekend at the Ayr Showgrounds and what tremendous entertainment it was. Small and Big kids alike enjoyed the variety and skill on display. It was a fine example of their team working together from one moment performing trapeze, to selling popcorn to performing heart-stopping balance acts and precision motor bike riding in the Globe of Steel.
Gospel Sunday afternoon/evening at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt was a great way to end the weekend with soulful singing, inspirational music and contemplative words of inspiration and challenge.
Some upcoming reminders about ‘Stand Up Sleep Out’ – youth against homelessness event at Burdekin Catholic High School Friday August 8. Burdekin Brass Band hit the Burdekin Theatre stage again at ‘Burdekin Brass Live’ Sunday August 10. Makes me proud as a councillor to see community facilities being utilised throughout the shire. Non-toxic smoke testing of the sewer network and Flying Fox monitoring continues and animal registration renewals are due by end of today.
Great to see the ‘Cowboys’ men & women have wins
Bendigo Bank Park - How Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is Powering Local Sport
Sport plays a vital role with families in the Burdekin community and providing the appropriate facilities and resources is a constant challenge for local clubs.
For generations, rugby league has been the beating heart of the Burdekin sporting community. At the centre of this proud tradition stands the Burdekin Roosters – a club forged in 1994, but whose roots go back over a century in local league.
Over the years, the Roosters have grown from strength to strength, evolving into a vital part of community life. Today, with a new generation of players stepping up across both the men’s and women’s teams, the club continues to uphold its strong values on and off the field.
That sense of pride has been amplified with the recent naming of Bendigo Bank Park – a testament to the enduring support from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. “The sponsorship has had a great impact on the Roosters community,” says club spokesperson Alex Lennox. “It’s brought a sense of professionalism and awareness to just how much the bank gives back to the region each year.”
funding maintenance and operational costs for new amenities and lighting infrastructure – investments that benefit both senior and junior leagues.
“This partnership reflects a shared vision for the future,” says Alex. “It’s helping us modernise outdated infrastructure and ensure we can offer a strong development pathway for players of all ages.”
And there’s room for everyone to get involved. Whether you’re interested in playing, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply cheering from the sidelines, the Roosters welcome all.
Senior Branch Manager for Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chantel Michielin, says their board felt that sporting fields and clubrooms become a second home for many families and the sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park is a reinforcement of their commitment to recognise the value of sport.
Community Grant Program
This five-year partnership isn’t just about naming rights – it’s helping secure the club’s future. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Roosters rely heavily on local sponsorship to survive and thrive. Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s backing provides critical stability,
“Sport plays a pivotal role in our com munity. A place where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and a love for the game is fostered”, says Chantel. “Our Community Bank values this con nection and will continue to invest part of our profits back into sport in our re gion”
When you partner with us, good things happen.
Applications close 12th April 2024.
Catch the action at the final two home games of Burdekin Roosters this year at Bendigo Bank Park on August 9 and August 23. Come for the footy, stay for the community spirit.
Your organisation gets sponsorship, and your banking helps support the community.
Farm Safety Week Urges Action After Close Calls
Although National Farm Safety Week has come and gone, the messages it delivered remains just as relevant today as they were last week. Australia’s peak workplace safety body used the annual awareness week to urge agricultural workers to treat near misses as vital opportunities to improve safety on farms.
Statistics from Safe Work Australia continue to paint a sobering picture; Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing remains one of the most dangerous industries in the country, with an average of 38 workplace deaths reported each year.
The Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) used this year’s theme, ‘Second Chances’, to encourage farmers and agricultural workers to reflect on close calls as moments to learn and act before it’s too late.
“Farming is fast-paced and unpredictable. Every day, ag workers are operating heavy machinery, managing unpredictable animals, working at heights, mixing chemicals, or simply navigating long hours in tough conditions,” said AIHS CEO Julia Whitford.
“Near misses aren’t just lucky escapes –they’re important warnings. If we pause to reflect and act after a close call, we can
mitigate that risk and prevent future incidents.”
Farm fatalities are often caused by vehicle rollovers, falls, equipment accidents, and being struck by moving objects, but Ms Whitford noted that safety concerns on farms go far beyond physical hazards.
“Long hours, financial pressures, and the mental strain of working in isolation or in extreme conditions also takes a toll,” she said.
“Many ag workers operate in remote areas without easy access to healthcare or support. Add to that the stress of unpredictable seasons, burn out, and market conditions, and you’ve got a perfect storm for both physical and psychological injury.”
National Farm Safety Week served as an important reminder to check in—not just with equipment and safety procedures, but with the wellbeing of oneself and others.
“We want farm workers to start asking: What went wrong? What nearly went wrong? And what can I do differently?” Ms Whitford said.
“Second chances don’t always come around – and that’s why safety has to start with the lessons we choose to learn now.”
More resources and safety tools are available at the AIHS website, www.aihs.org.au.
Firies & Ergon Issue Burn Season Safety Reminder
As the hazard reduction burn season ramps up across Queensland, local firefighters and energy providers are reminding landowners to take extra precautions when burning near power infrastructure.
Both Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire Department are urging property owners to be mindful of power poles and electrical equipment when conducting hazard reduction burns, which play a vital role in reducing vegetation and fire risk across rural areas.
Ergon Energy’s Corrine Young, who also serves as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, emphasised the potential dangers of uncontrolled burns near community electrical infrastructure.
“Power poles are a critical part of keeping our communities connected and any damage to these structures can lead to lengthy power outages and significant repair costs,” Ms Young said.
“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines pose a severe threat - they can cause serious injury or even be fatal to anyone or any animals that come into contact with them. Furthermore, out of control hazard reduction burns have been known to partially burn through poles, leaving them standing, only to fall over at a later date during high winds and other severe weather.
“To help protect these vital assets, we strongly recommend that before starting any hazard reduction burn, property owners clear at least five metres around all power poles and electrical equipment.”
Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones echoed the importance of preparation and caution when conducting planned burns.
“Before commencing a burn it’s important for landowners to be prepared by ensuring they have a permit and also have
equipment such as hoses, water tanks, or fire extinguishers on hand should these be needed during an emergency,” Chief Officer Jones said.
“Landowners should clear their property and electricity infrastructure of any long grass, foliage and rubbish and never leave a planned burn unattended.”
“Always check the weather forecast before commencing any planned burn and postpone on windy days as conditions can change rapidly.”
“In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero and for more information about bushfire preparedness head to www.fire. qld.gov.au.”
Ergon and Energex also reminded property owners to take just as much care with privately owned property poles, which can also pose hazards and incur repair costs if damaged. For more information, visit www.energex.com.au/propertypoles.
RAPIGEL RELIEVES MUSCLE SORENESS DUE TO OVER EXERTION AND
Weekly Production Figures
Burdekin Among Regions To Benefit From $77 Million Flood Recovery Funding
North Queensland’s ongoing flood recovery efforts have been boosted with the announcement of three new funding packages worth more than $77 million, with Burdekin residents now eligible for legal support under the expanded assistance.
Comments:
Throughput for the week was just over 273,000 tonnes bringing the
total to just over 2.5M tonnes
A rain event on Wednesday night delivered up to 40mm across the district, impacting supply to all factories.
Kalamia was the least impacted, losing only 12 hours to wet weather A scheduled clean and repairs to boiler tubes also contributed to downtime for the week
Inkerman and Pioneer both shut down early Thursday morning due to wet paddocks. Invicta lost around 45 hours through wet weather and a further seven hours due to a faulty electricity supply cable
Despite the rain impact and unplanned stops, the Burdekin is still ahead of budget overall
CCS was slightly ahead of budget this week. The highest CCS recorded for the week was 17.1 from a rake of Q240 1R in the Leichhardt productivity district.
Parents and carers are asked to remind children to stay away from the cane railway system. Members of the public are urged to report any suspicious activity around our cane rail line to the police
John Tait
Cane
Supply Manager
Burdekin Region
The packages, jointly delivered by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), are designed to support recovery and boost resilience across flood-affected areas, including the Burdekin.
In particular, Burdekin residents and businesses severely impacted by the 2025 monsoonal flooding event are now eligible to access free legal assistance to help them navigate issues such as insurance claims, tenancy disputes, and property damage.
the region and determined to see this work through - actions such as stabilising erosion, revegetating waterways, controlling weeds and pests, and biodiversity conservation will ensure we not only recover but are ready for the future.”
The three key recovery packages include:
$73 million Environmental Recovery Program – to restore catchments, coastlines, and national parks, and protect key natural and cultural sites;
$3.12 million Water and Sewerage Infrastructure Recovery Program – focused on repairs and disaster mitigation in Charters Towers;
$1.42 million Legal Assistance Relief – available to flood-affected residents and businesses in Burdekin and other impacted LGAs.
With these new packages, more than $507 million in DRFA support is now being delivered across North and Far North Queensland in response to the devastating North and Far North Tropical Low disaster earlier this year.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain said the scale of the disaster demanded a recovery effort just as significant.
“From the get-go we have stressed our unwavering support to all north Queenslanders impacted by this disaster,” Minister McBain said.
“We are committed to ongoing recovery efforts in
While the environmental package will be delivered across 40 LGAs including Burdekin, legal support is specifically being extended to residents in Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Townsville, Tablelands and Yarrabah.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy also highlighted the importance of infrastructure restoration and the broader regional benefits of the new programs.
“Having safe and reliable water supply improves health and economic outcomes. It gives residents peace of mind, and businesses confidence,” Minister Leahy said.
“Charters Towers Regional Council will soon be able to manage their water and sewerage assets with certainty, and avoid any flood risks to the infrastructure.”
Local residents or businesses in the Burdekin seeking legal assistance as part of the new funding can find more details, along with further information on all current disaster recovery programs, at www.qra. qld.gov.au.
Home, Property & Garden
Salvation Army in Ayr Shuts Its Doors
On Friday, 25 July, the Salvation Army Family Store in Ayr officially shut its doors to the public, putting an end to its thirty-year spell of servicing the Burdekin.
The closure, ordered by the organisation’s head office in Brisbane, came as a shock to regular visitors—and especially to employees, who were notified of the decision just a few days prior.
“It’s a shame, because they don’t see the impact it has on the community,” said store manager Kieran MacElroy. “There’ve been a lot of people coming in and showing their support.”
But the dire news didn’t deter the store from showing out for the community one last time, hosting a massive sale and giving
away most items for free as locals poured in.
For the store, it was one last opportunity to give back to the community that had supported them for the last three decades.
“We are very grateful for our customers,” said MacElroy. “We’ve made some great relationships. For a lot of locals, visiting was their weekly or daily thing.”
And although the Salvation Army’s doors are closing, MacElroy hopes that locals continue to support other charities in the region.
“We appreciate every donation—that’s what has kept us going. We encourage people to keep doing that with Lifeline and Vinnies,” said MacElroy.
Top 5 Water‑Saving Habits for Burdekin Homes
Water might feel plentiful in the Burdekin, with the mighty Burdekin River running through the district, but smart water use still pays off. Every litre saved helps keep bills down and leaves more for farming, industry, and the natural environment we all rely on.
Fix leaks early. A slow-dripping tap can waste thousands of litres each year. Regularly check outdoor taps, hoses, and irrigation lines—especially before the dry season kicks in.
Shower smart. Cutting showers to four minutes and using water-efficient showerheads can save hundreds of litres a week. A kitchen timer or even your favourite short song can help keep you on track.
Choose water-wise plants. Many hardy tropical and native species thrive in Bur-
dekin gardens with minimal watering. Pair them with a layer of mulch to lock in moisture and keep roots cool.
Make watering count. Water early in the morning or in the evening when evaporation is lowest. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses deliver water straight to the roots, saving time and water.
Re-use when you can. Collecting rainwater or using the “waiting-for-hot” water from your shower on the garden adds up over time.
These easy habits don’t take much effort but can make a big difference. With a few small changes, Burdekin households can keep their gardens green, their water bills low, and ensure that our region’s most precious resource is there for the future.
The Salvation Army Family Store in Ayr officially shut its doors to the public, putting an end to its thirty-year spell of servicing the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
New Chapter for Explore Property Burdekin
After five years of steady growth, Explore Property Burdekin has opened the doors to its fully reno vated new office in Ayr, moving just across Queen Street into a space that reflects its modern, service‑driven approach to real estate.
The new space—formerly Country Con nection dress shop—has been rebuilt from the ground up with new flooring, upgrad ed air conditioning, and a fresh, contem porary design. All work was completed by local tradespeople.
Director and Principal Kylie Lawson, a real estate professional since 2005 and the recent recipient of Explore Property’s pres tigious ‘Person in the Arena’ award, says the new office is a testament to the strong support of the local community.
“We started with three staff, and now we’re a team of eight. We appreciate the support we have received over the last five years which has allowed our business to grow and expand.”
Kylie attributes the agency’s momentum to strong, customer centric service and deep local knowledge.
“Being locals, we really understand the area, which helps us match people with the right homes,” she says. “Even when people come from out of town, it’s exciting to show them just how much our community
has to offer—often more than they expect.” Explore Property Burdekin prides itself on its marketing resources, attention to detail,
and
“We appreciate your trust in our team—it’s our privilege to help turn your property goals into reality.”
close knit team culture. As the busi ness continues to expand, Kylie remains grateful to those who have helped make it possible.
Explore Property Burdekin prides itself on its marketing resources, attention to detail, and close-knit team culture. Photo supplied
Afantastic weekend was celebrated by the Burdekin Potters to mark half a century of fostering the arts and clay creativity within the Burdekin community. The celebrations were kicked off with an official opening by Mayor Perina Dalle Cort at 10am on Saturday, followed by a presentation of “Lifetime Certificates”to long-time members Carolyn Starkey and Meredith Modra, and Patron Isobell Cislowski, who then had the honour of cutting the cake.
A great crowd of locals and visitors turned up for the event! After morning tea was served, the pottery markets, clay making activities, wheel throwing demonstrations and pottery exhibition were open for the public to enjoy. It was a really enjoyable day for the attendees and a lot of interest was generated in our beginners classes!
On Sunday, the Burdekin Potters welcomed the public to witness their spectacular, once-a-year, Raku firing! This firing technique involves a lot of heat, fire and smoke to transform pottery into stunning raku-glazed pieces featuring metallic, black and white crackled highlights.
Whenever the doors are open at the Burdekin Potters clubhouse (situated at Plantation Park), the public are welcome to drop in and have a look around. Beginner classes are run every couple of months, so if pottery is something you may like to try, put your name down to be informed when the next course date is set.
This event was proudly supported by the Burdekin Shire Council.
Contributed with thanks to Debra Ferraris and Billie White
Garden Competition Returns For 2025 Burdekin Water Festival
One of the Burdekin Water Festival’s most beloved events of the past has been revived, and nominations are now open for the community to enter in the official 2025 Residential Garden Competition as sponsored by Nuttall’s Garden Centre.
Like numerous other festival favorites, the Residential Garden Competition was once a key part of the annual celebration, and the Burdekin Water Festival Commitee have already received plenty of positive feedback from locals.
The competition will see the community showcase their green thumbs across three categories including open garden / tropical garden, unit garden and new garden (under two years old). All home gardens with-
in the Burdekin Shire where no professional gardeners are employed are eligible for the competition and all nomination forms can be found at Nuttall’s Garden Centre, McCathies Furniture Plus, ELA Solutions, Delta Cleaners or online at burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.
Judging will take place on Saturday the 23rd and Sunday the 24th of August, and the winners will be announced at a wonderful Morning Tea event at Nuttall’s Garden Centre on Saturday the 31st of August from 10am onwards.
“We can’t wait to see what beautiful Burdekin gardens will be on show” shared Burdekin Water Festival’s
Ravizza.
Meet 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Charlotte Sgroi
Representing The Burdekin Netball Association
Charlotte Sgroi has always loved being part of a team, and supporting those around her, so when she was asked to represent the Burdekin Netball Association as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador, the decision was easy!
“I was honestly overwhelmed - in the best way - when I was invited to be the Junior Ambassador for the Burdekin Netball Association and I’m so thankful to Burdekin Netball for trusting in me and giving me this amazing opportunity,” shared Charlotte.
“I accepted the invitation to become a Junior Ambassador as I thought it would be a great opportunity to give back to the Burdekin Netball Association for everything netball has given to me by encouraging everyone to play netball; and to promote our friendly, inclusive and well organised association!”
Having loved the action of the sport for over four years now, 11-year-old Charlotte has represented her club across numerous competitions and trials, including in the most recent Burdekin Under 12 Representative Team. Actively involved in her school community, Charlotte also enjoys the spotlight, and has performed in the Burdekin Eisteddfod, sung at
community events and loves sharing the stage with her Simply Dance, FC Caledonia and Perform Music peers.
Charlotte hopes to take advantage of each and every opportunity that comes her way over the next couple of months, and with so much to look forward to, she’s most excited to meet the residents Regis Aged Care Home at the festival’s upcoming event.
“I am also looking forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone and trying new things, making new friends and connections in our community; and to help out wherever I can - or as we say in netball, to be “here if you need!””
Your Ultimate Guide To 2025’s Burdekin Water Festival Fundraisers!
Acollection of fabulous fundraising events have begun filling calendars across the community as part of the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival, and with so much to do, see and be part of, here’s our guide for everything you need to know!
Jorja’s DISCO
Party like you’ve never partied before at a rockin’ Outdoor DISCO on Saturday, the 2nd of August in celebration of Burdekin Junior Rugby League’s Junior Ambassador, Jorja Vasta! Kicking off at Bendigo Bank Park (Rugby Park), the night promises nothing but great tunes, and even greater dance moves!
Asha’s Pet Show
Do you have a precious pouch that deserves the spotlight? Purrfect! Bring along your four-legged besties to East Ayr State School’s Junior Ambassador, Asha Grasso’s Pet Show on Saturday the 3rd of August from 9am to just after midday for a morning overflowing with adorableness at the East Ayr State School grounds at 41 Ross Street, Ayr.
“We have seven categories’ people can nominate their pets into like cutest pet, ugliest pet, best dressed pet, owner and pet lookalike, most unusual or unique pet, best in show, best trick and judges choice,” shared Asha.
“I look forward to seeing everyone there and appreciate the community’s support!”
Ayve’s DISCO
Start practicing your dance moves because Burdekin Basketball Association’s Junior Ambassador, Ayve Cursio, will host an energetic Community DISCO at the Den event next month! Bright lights and brilliant boogie moves will ignite 14-16 Little Drysdale Street, Ayr from 6pm on Friday the 8th of August, with attendees invited to dance their heart out whilst enjoying plenty of games, prizes, and a fully stocked canteen!
Giulia’s Movie Night
Who doesn’t love a movie night?! Burdekin Christian College’s Junior Ambassador, Giulia Sarri will host her second fundraising event in support of Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue on the evening of Friday the 15th of August at the school’s Melbourne Street grounds in Ayr.
Charlotte’s Colour Run
A day chock-a-block with vibrant hues, good vibes, and awesome tones will illuminate the Burdekin Netball Association’s Home Hill grounds on Saturday the 16th of August in celebration of Burdekin Netball Association’s Junior Ambassador, Charlotte Sgroi’s Colour Run event. With more details still to come, the community can expect to have the most colour-filled time of their lives!
Molly’s Lawn Bowls Afternoon
On Sunday, the 17th of August, Liessmann & Sons’ Senior Ambassador Molly Julyan will lead a Lawn Bowls Afternoon to ignite the Home Hill Bowls Club from midday onwards for a few hours of fun overflowing with social lawn bowls, raffles, prizes, sausage sizzles, bars, great laughs and even better company! Teams for four are encouraged to come along and register for $10 per person by emailing thejulyans1@gmail.com with all funds raised set to be donated to the Cancer Council.
Hunter’s Golf Night
Drive for show, and putt for dough as the pros say at an exhilarating Golf Night hosted by Ayr Golf Club Junior Ambassador, Hunter Oar on Friday the 22nd of August! Golfers of all abilities (including absolute beginners) are invited to tee up at the Ayr Golf Club’s Edwards Street course for an evening of fabulous fun, terrific swings, and friendly competition.
Mia’s Self-Love Night
On Saturday the 23rd of August, CORES Queensland’s Senior Ambassador, Mia Gailbraith will host a heartwarming Self-Love Night at The Vault in Home Hill! The family-friendly evening hopes to encourage family connection and self-love with doors set to open from 4:30pm for a 5pm start! The event will also feature live entertainment, guest speakers, a licensed bar, food, activities and raffles all in support of raising funds and awareness of suicid prevention and the amazing work of CORES Queensland! Tickets to the night can be purchased online at https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1435594.
Save the dates, and get ready to support this year’s Junior and Senior Burdekin Water Festival Ambassadors across each of these upcoming events and stay up to date with more news and updates by following the Burdekin Water Festival on social media!
Kari
Charlotte Sgroi will represent the Burdekin Netball Association as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
Meet 2025 Burdekin Water Festival
Senior Ambassador Georgia Tomasetig
Representing SunWater Limited
Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Speech Pathology with Honours at James Cook University, an active volunteer across various community events and a former Ayr State High School Vice-Captain, Georgia Tomasetig has forever leaped at every opportunity to give back to those around her.
In the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival, Georgia will proudly represent SunWater Limited as a Senior Ambassador, and she’s more than excited to explore everything this chapter will bring.
“Being a Senior Water Festival Ambassador is an opportunity I hadn’t originally considered, but after SunWater reached out to me, inviting me to take part in this wonderful program, I’m truly grateful I said yes,” shared Georgia. “I’ve always enjoyed challenging myself and trying new things, and this experience is unlike anything I’ve done before and I’m excited to be involved and proud to give back to the community that has given me so much!”
Georgia’s love for her local community runs deep and she hopes to share this love among her fellow Junior and Senior Ambassadors over the next couple of months and beyond.
“I am looking forward to strengthening my interpersonal skills and giving back to the community that has given me so much and helped shape the person I am today,” she explained.
“After our Maria Populin BWF Launch, it was incredible to watch each and every one of the Ambassadors support and hype each other up, so it’s safe to say, I’m genuinely
Burdekin Centre For Rural Health
Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) has the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health? The Centre was built with the help of government funding and a lot of community support in 2004. It’s been going strong ever since and has helped thousands of community members to improve their health and wellbeing.
Services currently available at the Centre include:
BCA Psychological Therapies Program (Free for eligible people and includes suicide prevention) Ph: 4783 2711
Synergy Health Centre (Exercise Physiology, Diabetic Education, Dietician) Ph: 4724 3250
Telehealth Hub Services (Free online service to assist with appointments with a health professional) Ph: 4783 2711
Consult Room Hire (health & wellbeing services) Ph: 4783 2711
Meeting Room Hire (meetings, groups or workshops – capacity 30 people) Ph: 4783 2711
We would love to see you at the Centre, so please call in to 12A Chippendale St, Ayr, Ph: 4783 2711 or E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au
excited to begin this journey with such an amazing team and it is going to be an unforgettable year creating memories both big and small and I honestly cannot wait!”
Georgia Tomasetig will represent SunWater Limited as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Senior Ambassador (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)
Irish singer (4)
Stairs (5)
Neutered (6)
Authentic (coll) (5)
Reverb (4) 21 Kitchenware (4) 22 Small glass ball (6)
1.00 Bay Of Fires. 2.00 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 2.55 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.45 Fake Or Fortune?
4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia.
8.35 Patience. (M)
9.25 Hard Quiz. (PG)
9.55 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 10.45 ABC Late News. 11.00 Austin. 11.30 Silent Witness. 12.30 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Grantchester. 1.15 Patience. 2.05 All Creatures Great And Small. 2.55 Great Southern Landscapes. 3.20 Earth. 4.20 Would I Lie To You? 4.55 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 5.30 Landline.
9.50 Bay Of Fires. (M) 10.40 Miss Austen. 11.35 Rage. (MA15+)
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 Compass. 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. 2.30 Griff’s Great American South. 3.15 Nigella Bites. 3.40 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia. 4.30 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 News. 7.30 Austin. 8.00 Bay Of Fires. 8.55 Miss Austen. 9.45 MOVIE: Mrs Carey’s Concert. (2011) 11.25 Take 5. 11.55 Rage. 1.40 Under The Vines. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Insiders.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 News. 10.00 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 10.30 Midsomer Murders. 12.00 News. 1.00 Landline. 2.00 Brush With Fame. 2.30 Back Roads. 2.55 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Aust Story. 8.30 Four Corners. 9.15 Media Watch. 9.35 Planet America. 10.05 News. 10.20 The Business. 10.35 A Life In Ten Pictures. 11.30 Long Lost Family. 12.15 Rage. 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Call The Midwife. 2.00 Brush With Fame. 2.30 Back Roads. 3.00 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 9.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 9.30 Earth. 10.30 News. 10.45 The Business. 11.00 Four Corners. 11.50 Media Watch. 12.05 The Howard Years. 1.05 Long Lost Family. 1.55 Rage. 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.40 Media Watch. 1.55 Brush With Fame. 2.25 Back Roads. 2.55 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.40 Fake Or Fortune? 4.40 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.25 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 9.20 Would I Lie To You? 9.50 Austin. 10.20 News. 10.35 The Business. 10.55 Planet America. 11.25 You Can’t Ask That. 11.55 Long Lost Family. 12.45 Rage. 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Back Roads. 11.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. 2.00 Brush With Fame. 2.30 Back Roads. 2.55 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads. 8.30 Griff’s Great American South. 9.15 Culture By Design. 9.50 Grand Designs Transformations. 10.35 News. 10.50 The Business. 11.20 Long Lost Family. 11.55 Rage. 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. 4.30 Gardening Aust. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Great Australian Road Trips. 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. 4.00 Garma Festival 2025 Opening Ceremony. 5.30 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 6.30 News. 7.30 The Good Ship Murder. 8.25 The Royals: A History Of Scandals. 9.20 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Who Do You Think You Are? 11.35 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. 2.05 Romulus. 3.55 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. 4.50 Destination Flavour Bitesize. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 1.30 Garma Festival 2025. 3.30 2022 FIFA World Cup: Written In The Stars. 4.30 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 5.30 Oppenheimer After Trinity. 6.30 News. 7.30 Great British Cities With Susan Calman. 8.20 The Princes In The Tower: New Evidence. 9.55 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. 2.05 MOVIE: Merkel. (2022) 3.50 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Motor Racing. ProMX C’ships. 4.00 Going Places. 4.30 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 5.30 Such Was Life. 5.40 Atomic People. 6.30 News. 7.30 Pompeii: The New Dig. 8.40 Venice From Above. 9.45 Cleopatra: Mystery Of The Mummified Hand. 10.50 Etruscans: Mysterious Civilisation. 11.50 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. 3.50 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.10 Curse Of The Ancients. 3.05 The Cook Up. 3.35 Jeopardy! 4.00 Letters And Numbers. 4.30 Mastermind Aust. 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 6.00 Garma Festival 2025. 6.30 News. 7.35 Portugal With Michael Portillo. 8.25 Abandoned Railways From Above. 9.20 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Classified. 11.35 A Criminal Affair. 1.15 Blackport. 2.15 Weeks Of War. 3.10 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. 4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 4.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 Curse Of The Ancients. 3.10 The Cook Up. 3.40 From Paris To Rome With Bettany Hughes. 4.35 Jeopardy! 5.00 Letters And Numbers. 5.30 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 Secret World Of Snacks. 11.25 The Shift. 1.05 Everything You Love. 1.35 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. 3.05 Weeks Of War. 4.00 Curious Traveller. 4.30 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 Such Was Life. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 From Paris To Rome With Bettany Hughes. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 How Disney Built America. 8.20 Aerial Australia. 9.15 Smilla’s Sense Of Snow. 10.20 SBS News. 10.50 Estonia. 12.30 Das Boot. 1.30 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. 3.05 Weeks Of War. 4.00 Curious Traveller. 4.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 Curse Of The Ancients. 3.05 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. 3.40 The Cook Up. 4.10 From Paris To Rome With Bettany Hughes. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Great Australian Road Trips. 8.30 Into The Amazon With Robson Green. 9.20 Snowpiercer. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Dopesick. 11.55 The Real Mo Farah. 1.00 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. 2.35 Weeks Of War. 3.30 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. 4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. 4.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. 1.30 Border Security: International. 2.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.30 MOVIE: The Help. (2011) (M) 11.30 Dancing With The Stars. (PG) 12.50 The Disappearance. (MA15+) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Horse Racing. VRC Season Premiere Race Day, Jockey Celebration Day and Teddy Bears Picnic At The Races. 5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 21. Collingwood v Brisbane Lions. 10.30 Mysteries Of The Pyramids. (PG) 11.30 MOVIE: Gunpowder Milkshake. (2021) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 TBA. 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Logies Red Carpet. (PG) 7.30 The 65th TV WEEK Logie Awards 2025. (M) 11.15 An Evening With Dua Lipa. (PG) 12.45 Jamestown. (MA15+) 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: My Husband, The Narcissist. (2023) 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 Dancing With The Stars. (PG) 9.30 9-1-1. (M) 10.30 The Agenda Setters. 11.30 Police Custody USA. (M) 12.30 Gone. (MA15+) 1.30 Travel Oz. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 TBA. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Boyzone: Life, Death And Boybands. (M) 8.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (M) 10.30 The Agenda Setters. 11.30 Police Custody USA. 12.30 Fairly Legal. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: A Glass Of Revenge. (2022) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) 8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) 10.00 Ashley Cain: Into The Danger Zone. 11.20 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. 12.20 Imposters. 1.20 Travel Oz. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Secrets On Campus. (2022) 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. 8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (PG) 9.30 Air Crash Investigations. (PG) 10.30 Soham: Catching A Killer. 11.30 Code Blue: The Killing Of June Fox-Roberts. 12.30 Life. 1.30 Travel Oz. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Heats. 2.30 Pointless. 3.30 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 22.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Tigers v Roosters. 4.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Broncos v Cronulla Sharks. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Rugby Union. British & Irish Lions Tour. Aust v British & Irish Lions. 10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match. 10.15 MOVIE: Dunkirk. (2017) 12.15 My Life As A Rolling Stone. 1.30 Find My Country House 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. 9.30 Everyday Gourmet.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. North Qld Cowboys v NZ Warriors. 1.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Knights v Canberra Raiders. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Cronulla Sharks v North Qld Cowboys. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Finals. 11.20 The First 48. 12.20 Embarrassing Bodies. 1.15 Innovation Nation. 1.30 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice. 4.30 Fishing Aust. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.30 Young Sheldon. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. 8.45 100% Footy. (M) 9.45 Opal Hunters: Red Dirt Road Trip. 10.45 9News Late. 11.15 A Killer Makes A Call. 12.10 Footy Classified. 1.05 Hello SA. 1.30 TV Shop.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.15 Getaway. 1.45 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (PG) 8.45 Paramedics. (M) 9.45 Ski Rescue Down Under. (PG) 10.45 9News Late. 11.15 La Brea. 12.05 Footy Classified. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Skippy. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Believer’s Voice. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 Drew Barrymore. 7.00 Neighbours. 7.30 Everyday Gourmet. 8.00 Bold. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. 1.15 Great Australian Detour. 1.45 Innovation Nation. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 The Block. 8.45 Clarkson’s Farm. (M) 9.45 Freddy And The Eighth. 10.45 9News Late. 11.15 Damian Lewis: Spy Wars. 12.05 Tipping Point. 1.00 Great Australian Detour. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 The Block. 1.15 Find My Country House Aust. 1.45 Garden Gurus Moments. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Melbourne Storm v Broncos. 9.45
7.30 Good Game Spawn Point.
7.50 Movie: Yogi Bear. (2010) (PG, R)
9.15 Robot Wars. (R)
10.15 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.00 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
11.25 Deadly 60. (R)
11.55 Good Game Spawn Point. (R)
12.40am Rage. (PG, R)
1.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
7.30pm Teenage Boss: Next Level. (PG)
8.00 Kids Baking Championship.
8.40 Chopped Junior. (PG)
9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
10.05 Speechless. (PG, R)
10.45 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. (PG, R)
11.10 Secret Life Of Boys. (R)
7.35pm The Mysterious Benedict Society. (PG)
8.25 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
9.05 Abbott Elementary. (PG, R)
9.50 Speechless. (PG, R)
10.10 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.55 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG, R)
12.00am A Kind Of Spark. (R)
12.45 Malory Towers. (R)
7.40pm The Inbestigators. (R)
7.55 Junior Vets. (R)
8.25 Hard Quiz Kids. (PG, R)
8.55 The Crystal Maze. (PG, R)
9.45 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.30 Good Game Spawn Point. (R)
10.50 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
7.40pm The Inbestigators. (R)
7.55 Junior Vets. (R)
8.25 Deadly 60. (R)
8.55 Expedition With Steve Backshall. (PG, R)
9.45 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.30 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
10.55 Built To Survive. (R)
11.20 Officially Amazing. (PG, R)
11.50 Operation Ouch! (R)
7.40pm The Inbestigators. (R)
7.55 Junior Vets. (R)
8.25 Abbott Elementary. (PG)
9.10 The Mysterious Benedict Society. (PG, R)
9.55 Merlin. (PG, R)
10.40 Fresh Off The Boat. (R)
11.20 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
7.40pm The Inbestigators. (R) 7.55 Junior Vets. (R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
11.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.30 Room For Improvement. (R)
1.00 Last Chance Learners. (PG, R)
1.30 Australia’s Deadliest. (PG, R)
6.00pm Every Bite Takes You Home. (PG)
6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
9.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)
1.30 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
5.15pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.15 Escape To The Country. (R)
7.15 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)
8.30 Vera. (M, R)
10.30 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)
11.45 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard. (PG, R)
11.15 A Million Little Things. (PG, R) 12.15 FBI: International. (M, R) 1.15 JAG. (M, R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.25 NCIS. (M, R)
10.20 FBI: International. (M, R)
11.15 FBI: International. (M, R)
12.15 Home Shopping. (R)
12.45 Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)
6.30 JAG. (PG, R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (MA15+, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 FBI: International. (M, R) 11.15 Nancy Drew. (M, 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. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Fire Country. (M, R) 11.15 A Million Little Things. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
12.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R)
6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.20 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.45 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
10.00 Frasier. (PG, R)
10.30 South Park. (R)
11.00 Ridiculousness. (PG, R)
12.00 South Park. (M, R) 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 Love And Sex In South Korea.
9.35 Sex With Sunny Megatron. (MA15+, R) 10.45 Homeland. (MA15+, R)
1.35 Somewhere Boy. (MA15+, R)
Park. (M, R) 6.05pm Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.35 The Frontier. (PG, R) 7.30 Impossible Engineering. (R) 8.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (M, R) 9.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (PG, R) 10.30 Cracking The Code. (PG, R) 12.35 Movie: Subject. (2022) (M, R)
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R)
6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.20 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.45 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R) 9.35 Frasier. (PG, R) 10.30 The Graham Norton Show. (M, R) 11.30 South Park. (M, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (M, R)
6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R)
6.30 Neighbours. (PG, R) 7.00 Friends. (PG, R)
8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
10.00 Becker. (PG, R)
10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
11.30 The Graham Norton Show. (M, 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)
8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
10.00 Becker. (PG, R)
10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
11.30 The Graham Norton Show. (M, 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)
8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)
10.00 Becker. (PG, R)
10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
11.30 The Graham Norton Show. (M, R) 12.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
5.45pm Alone Sweden. (PG, R)
6.40 Engineering Reborn. (PG, R)
7.35 Abandoned Engineering. (M, R)
8.30 Petrol Vs Electric Cars: Which Is Better. 9.25 Great Australian Road Trips. (PG, R) 10.25 Forbidden History. (PG, R)
11.20 WWE Legends. (M) 12.15 Letterkenny. (M, R)
6.10pm The Ride Life With Sung Kang. 7.05 Jeopardy! (R)
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R)
8.30 Russell Howard Live At The London Palladium. 9.45 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M, R)
10.25 Big Backyard Quiz. (M, R) 11.25 Forged In Fire.
6.10pm The Ride Life With Sung Kang. 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Alone. (M) 9.40 Hoarders. (M)
10.30 Hoarders. (M)
11.20 Pitino: Red Storm Rising. (M)
12.15 Rob & Romesh Vs. (M, R)
1.55 It’s Fine, I’m Fine. (M, R)
6.10pm The Ride Life With Sung Kang. 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Movie: Absolute Power. (1997) (R) Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman.
10.45 Movie: Johnny Mnemonic. (1995) (M, R)
12.30 Then You Run. (M, R)
JAG. (PG, R)
NCIS. (M, R)
Fire Country. (M, R)
9.30 A+E After Dark. (M)
9.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)
10.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R) 11.50 Father Brown. (M, R)
12.30 My Favorite Martian. (R) 1.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG, R)
A Million Little Things. (PG, R)
FBI: International. (M, R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Home Shopping. (R) 6.00pm Frasier. (PG, R) 6.30 Neighbours. (PG,
22 Social Life
EVENTGUIDE
SATURDAY 2 AUGUST
Jorja’s DISCO
Party like you’ve never partied before at an outdoor DISCO in celebration of Burdekin Junior Rugby League’s Junior Ambassador, Jorja Vasta! The night kicks off at Bendigo Bank Park (Rugby Park) with great tunes and dance moves.
Bendigo Bank Park (Rugby Park)
SUNDAY 3 AUGUST
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a pictureperfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer!
To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park
SATURDAY 3 AUGUST
Asha’s Pet Show
9am – just after midday
Bring along your four-legged besties to East Ayr State School’s Junior Ambassador, Asha Grasso’s Pet Show! Held at East Ayr State School grounds, the event features seven pet categories including cutest, ugliest, best dressed, owner-pet lookalike, most unusual, best in show, best trick, and judges’ choice. East Ayr State School grounds, 41 Ross Street, Ayr
FRIDAY 8 AUGUST
Ayve’s DISCO
6pm onwards
Start practicing your dance moves for Burdekin Basketball Association’s Junior Ambassador, Ayve Cursio’s Community DISCO at the Den. Expect bright lights, great music, games, prizes, and a fully stocked canteen!
The Den, 14-16 Little Drysdale Street, Ayr
SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST
Harvest Festival Mega Markets
Saturday 8am to 2pm
Home Hill Rotary club present their Harvest Festival Mega Markets. Many local and Travelling market holders offering a wide variety of goods featuring local hand made goods , baking, and many varied products. To become a stall holder yourself contact 0408822029.
Plantation Park
SUNDAY 10 AUGUST
BBQ Breakfast
Sunday 8am
The community is invited to attend the Burdekin Aero Club Inc. Monthly BBQ Breakfast at the Ayr Aerodrome from 8am to 11am. Meet the pilots, inspect the aircrafts, and enjoy a morning of socialisation for $15 per person. Call 0429 144 921 for more information.
Ayr Aerodrome, Brandon
FRIDAY 15 AUGUST
Giulia’s Movie Night
Evening
Burdekin Christian College’s Junior Ambassador, Giulia Sarri, will host her second fundraising event supporting Bowen and Collinsville Pet Rescue at the school’s Melbourne Street grounds in Ayr.
Burdekin Christian College grounds
SATURDAY 16 AUGUST
Charlotte’s Colour Run
A vibrant day full of colour, good vibes, and fun tones will light up the Burdekin Netball Association’s Home Hill grounds in celebration of Junior Ambassador Charlotte Sgroi’s Colour Run event. More details to come, but expect the most colour-filled time of your life!
Burdekin Netball Association Home Hill grounds
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station’s front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SUNDAY 17 AUGUST
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park
SUNDAY 17 AUGUST
Molly’s Lawn Bowls Afternoon
From 12pm onwards
Liessmann & Sons’ Senior Ambassador Molly Julyan leads a Lawn Bowls Afternoon at Home Hill Bowls Club. Enjoy social lawn bowls, raffles, prizes, sausage sizzles, bars, laughs, and great company. Teams of four are encouraged to register for $10 per person by emailing thejulyans1@gmail.com. All funds raised will be donated to the Cancer Council.
Home Hill Bowls Club
WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club
FRIDAY 22 AUGUST
Hunter’s Golf Night Drive for show, putt for dough at Ayr Golf Club’s Edwards Street course! Junior Ambassador Hunter Oar invites golfers of all abilities to an exciting night of swings, fun, and friendly competition.
Ayr Golf Club–Edwards Street
SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am–1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, fresh fruit & veg, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station’s front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (where you can request a song as a browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SATURDAY 30
AUGUST – SATURDAY 6
SEPTEMBER
Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition
Daily from 8am–5pm
A staple on the regional arts calendar, the Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition draws entries from across Queensland and beyond. Held over a full week at the Burdekin Theatre, the exhibition showcases a diverse mix of fine art, offering something for seasoned collectors and curious browsers alike. Its longevity is a testament to its quality and reputation—and a must-see for lovers of creativity in all forms.
For more details, visit Burdekin Art Society Inc. on Facebook.
Burdekin Theatre, 161 Queen Street, Ayr
SATURDAY 6
SEPTEMBER
Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade & Mardi Gras
Saturday
The Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade & Mardi Gras will ignite the community once again for an extraordinary celebration in Ayr’s Queen Street, with plenty of entertainment, food, activities, and festivities set to continue well into the evening.
Queen Street, Ayr
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am–1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, fresh fruit & veg, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station’s front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (where you can request a song as a browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join Ayr State Primary School for a pictureperfect morning showcasing the talents and hobbies of both local and travelling stallholders with everything from home baked treats to handmade creations on offer! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4790 3333.
Plantation Park
SATURDAY 13TH
SEPTEMBER
Annual Giru Show
12pm-10pm
The annual Giru Show will roll into town for one action packed day and will have a cane train load of activities on offer, this year’s extravaganza certainly isn’t one to miss! With such a rich history in the Giru community and Burdekin Shire as a whole, the event stands as a celebration of local talent and attracts a high number of former residents who return each year to catch up with one another and remise on past times with old friends. If you would like to become a stallholder, sponsor, or have any enquiries, email Secretary Katlyn Radunz on girushow. secretary@outlook.com
SATURDAY 13 SEPTEMBER
97.1 Sweet FM Markets
Saturday 8am-1pm
Join Sweet FM for an entertaining morning jammed full of wonderful market stalls from handmade crafts, sausage sizzle, hot coffee & tea, and sweet treats, on the station’s front lawns, all to the background of a live outside radio broadcast (request a song as you browse). To become a stallholder contact 0405 151 864.
97.1 Sweet FM front lawn (old Courthouse), Home Hill
SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER
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
Paul Tabone in Viva Pavarotti
Sunday 3pm
Experience the power and passion of one of the greatest opera singers of all time with a special performance honouring the late Luciano Pavarotti. Burdekin Theatre
WEDNESDAY 17
SEPTEMBER
Social and Networking Event
Wednesday 5:30pm
The community is invited to attend the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce Social and Networking Event for an enriching evening of socialisation.
Home Hill Community Sports Club
SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER
Plantation Park Markets
Sunday 8am
Join the VVAA for an enjoyable morning overflowing with wonderful market stalls from handmade creations to delicious treats! To become a stallholder yourself contact 4783 6627.
Plantation Park
Have Your Say On The Future Of Water In The Burdekin
The Burdekin Regional Water Assessment (RWA) is now open for public feedback, offering landowners a critical window to shape the future of water security in the region. Led by the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers with federal funding, the assessment evaluates both infrastructure and non-infrastructure options to meet future water needs and sustain economic g Burdekin producers, particularly in
agriculture—which consumes nearly 874,000 ML annually—stand to benefit from recommendations that aim to modernise infrastructure and explore new water sources, including potential off-stream storage and upgrades to existing supply schemes.
Released in July 2025, the draft RWA Summary Report outlines priorities: upgrading the Burdekin-Haughton scheme, evaluating a new Upper Burdekin off-stream
Mahjong Mondays at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
Looking for a fun way to keep your mind sharp and enjoy good company? The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre hosts a friendly Mahjong group every Monday from 1pm–5pm, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels.
Mahjong, a traditional Chinese game believed to have originated in the Qing Dynasty, has been enjoyed for centuries for its perfect mix of strategy, memory, and a little bit of luck. Played with 144 beautifully decorated tiles, the game is often compared to rummy, as players draw and discard tiles to build winning hands. Beyond the rules, Mahjong has long been valued as a social pastime, bringing people together for conversation and connection. Whether you’re an experienced player or completely new to the game, the group of-
fers a relaxed and supportive environment to learn, play, and have fun.
So, if you’re free on Monday afternoons, why not give it a go? For more information or to express your interest, contact Dawn through the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on (07) 4783 4243.
WHAT: Mahjong
WHEN: Mondays, 1-5pm
WHERE: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
storage, and modernising Lower Burdekin bulk water systems. These proposals could open new opportunities for farm expansion or diversification by ensuring reliable supply for irrigation, forestry, and processing industries.
Public consultation is running until 5 pm on Friday 22 August 2025, with drop-in sessions scheduled in Townsville, Ayr, Bowen, and Charters Towers in July and August. There are also live online forums
for those unable to attend in person.
Landowners are strongly encouraged to review the draft report and share local insights—your input is essential to tailor solutions that balance environmental, cultural and economic needs in the region.
Visit the consultation portal to view the draft report and submit feedback via email, online form, or in person. Your voice today will shape Burdekin’s resilience—and the future value of your land.
24 Social Life & Trades
The Burdekin Art Society was formed 54 years ago by Cecilia Spottiswood, and a group of artists and members of the public. It has evolved over the years with different meeting places and different sites for artists to paint and enjoy friendships.
The current site is an excellent building at 154 Macmillan Street Ayr, which is covered in murals painted by the members. It is an art gallery with many works of art from the members hanging inside. Members get together every Tuesday from 9.30am – 12.00 to paint, chat and share ideas. We are always encouraging new members to join us regardless of level of ability. Weekend seminars are held at this site at various times of the year, with accredited trainers to enable artists to learn and upgrade their skills in different mediums.
The Annual Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition is held at the beginning of September every year and is very competitive attracting entries from all over the State. Attractive Prize money is awarded in a variety of mediums
and categories, including a section dedicated to Burdekin Locals. Sections include Acrylic, Oil, Mixed Media, Pastels, Watercolour and Pencil or Pen drawings. Support in terms of sponsorships come from local businesses from the Burdekin and Townsville enabling us to offer monetary prizes. We are encouraged by our very generous sponsors who have supported us for many years.
The Annual Art Exhibition increases awareness of our Art society and the Burdekin region by encouraging artists from all over Queensland to enter the Exhibition and visit our region. The Local Burdekin community enjoy the chance to see a high standard Art Exhibition with the opportunity of purchasing those artworks. There is no entry fee to the Exhibition.
Joanne Barbagallo as the Exhibition Coordinator with the support of the Burdekin Art Society Committee meet from April, to start preparation for the Exhibition. From there Sponsors are approached, prize money is allocated, and entry forms are sent out and then received. The Art
Exhibition receives over 200 entries, including a very well participated children’s section. An external accredited artist is invited to judge and award prizes. This year’s judge is Donna Beningfield from Townsville. The prizes are presented on Opening Night 30th August, which is a catered event. Many of the Art Society members help set up and pull down the exhibition. The 2025 Annual Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition opens Saturday 30th August at 7pm in the Burdekin Theatre Foyer and runs all week until the culmination on Saturday 6th September which is the Burdekin Water Festival Mardi Gras and Parade night.
Artists are encouraged to enter, with entries closing 13th August. Entry forms and schedule is available by emailing The Burdekin Art Society burdekinartsocietyinc@gmail.com or phoning the Exhibition Coordinator Joanne Barbagallo on 0417676567
Contributed with thanks to Joanne Barbagallo
Beryl May LEET
Late of Ozcare, Villa Vincent formerly of Home Hill.
Passed away on 23rd July, 2025 aged 93 years.
Beloved wife of 72 years to Phil (deceased).
Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Christine and Kevin Oats, Deborah and Terry Healy and Sharon Leet. Loving grammar and great-grammar of their families.
A service to celebrate the life of Beryl will commence at 10.30am Thursday, 31st July at the Uniting Church, Home Hill followed by interment in the Home Hill Cemetery.
K & S WRIGHT
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 4782 1270
Anna MARANO
Late of Ayr.
Passed away on 27th July, 2025 aged 91 years.
Beloved wife of Joe (deceased),
Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Angela and John Torrisi, Bernadette and David McInnes, Pauline and Lenny Sorbello (both deceased), Therese Moran and Robert Sutherland, Gerard and Kristin. Loving nunna and bis nunna of their families. Loved sister and aunt of Carmela and family, and Sarina, Sam and Nelda (all deceased), and their families.
A service to celebrate the life of Anna will commence at 2pm tomorrow Friday 1st August, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr followed by interment in the Home Hill Cemetery.
K & S WRIGHT
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 4782 1270
Annual General Meeting
The Board and Management of BPS cordially invite all Financial Members and Industry Representatives to join them at the AGM on Friday 15th August 2025 at the Ayr Showgrounds Hall (9 Edwards Street) commencing at 8.00am for a complimentary breakfast followed by the formal AGM proceedings commencing at 9.00am.
Please come along and meet the all the BPS staff, board and growers from across the district
Morning tea will be provided at the conclusion of the AGM
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Proposed Development
Proposed Development
Make a submission from 01 August to 22 August 2025
Redevelopment of and extension to an existing Service Station (483m2 GFA and additional fuel bowsers)
Where: 29285 Bruce Highway, McDesme On: Lots 6-7 on RP903580
Approval sought: Development Permit for Material Change of Use Application ref: MCU24/0002
You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Burdekin Shire Council PO Box 974, Ayr Qld 4807 planning@burdekin.qld.gov.au (07) 4783 9800 www.burdekin.qld.gov.au
Written submissions may be made electronically and electronic submissions are to be sent to planning@burdekin.qld.gov.au and all submissions, including individual submitter’s particulars, will be published on Council’s website and therefore will be accessible to internet search engines.
POSITIONS VACANT
POSITION VACANT
SALES REPRESENTATIVE / AGRONOMIST
Location: Burdekin / Brandon
Are you passionate about agriculture and ready to make a real impact? We are seeking a motivated Sales Representative / Agronomist to join our team at our Burdekin / Brandon Rural Store.
In this dynamic, on-the-road role, you will build strong, long-term partnerships with our customers by anticipating their needs and delivering practical, win/win solutions. You’ll work closely with local growers and farmers, offering expert advice and support across a range of agricultural products and services.
Key Responsibilities:
• Drive sales of cartons, seed, fertilizer, and ag chemicals across various crops
• Provide agronomic advice and seasonal forecasting support
• Develop and maintain strong customer relationships within the Burdekin / Brandon region
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities to grow market share
To succeed in this role, you will have:
• A background in agronomy or rural merchandise sales (preferred)
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• A proactive, customer-first approach and a strong understanding of local agricultural needs
• A current driver's licence and willingness to travel within the region
We offer a supportive team environment, ongoing training, and the opportunity to work with one of the region’s leading rural suppliers.
Apply now and grow your career with us!
We welcome applicants from qualified Agronomists and/or established rural Sales Rep's to apply. all details and how to apply here
Funded by Burdekin Cane Growers & Wilmar
AGM NOTICE
Football Matters with Cyclops
An average weekend for the Panthers, winning two, drawing one and losing two of the five matches played. On Saturday, at home against JCU Riverway, the Premiers won 4-2 and the Reserves drew 2-2. On Friday, at home the Ladies defeated Rebels 5-0, and in Townsville, the Division 1 Men lost 1-3 to Wulguru and the Division 2 Men lost 0-4 to Estates.
This Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are way to Saints Eagles Souths, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. On Friday night the Ladies, are away to Wulguru, in Townsville at 6.30 and the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are also away in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Warriors at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against JCU at 6.30.
Premiers
The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a crucial clash against fellow top four contenders JCU and delivered a commanding 4-2 win in front of a vocal home crowd on Old Boys and Sponsors Day. The atmosphere was electric, and the Panthers responded early, controlling possession from the outset. Elliot Dal Santo marked his return in style, heading home a pinpoint Ryan Scodellaro cross in the 12th minute to open the scoring. Ten minutes later, Jay Leckenby added a second, latching onto a perfectly placed free kick from Matthew Walker to make it 2-0.
JCU struck back narrowing the gap to
2-1,but on the stroke of halftime, Matthew Kolb restored the two-goal cushion at 3-1. The second half mirrored the first, with Burdekin enjoying the bulk of possession while keeping an eye on JCU’s counter threat. Kyle Taylor made it 4-1 with a well-earned goal that took a cruel deflection past the keeper. JCU managed a late consolationvgoal, but the result was never in doubt. A trip to Saints awaits this weekend as Burdekin look to keep momentum rolling.
Reserves
Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves fielded a good squad, but this weekend’s home game started with a lack-lustre opening twenty minutes. JCU had more energy and took advantage of the Panthers mediocre quality passing to snatch an early lead. As the first half progressed the Panthers started to settle, asserted some territorial dominance, and began to threaten. Tarryn Smith finished off a good spell before halftime to level the score at1-1.
After the break, the game became more open with both sides finding opportunities but could not break the deadlock. Midway through the second half Riverway had a player sent off for striking but this only served to spur them on and they scored to lead 2-1. Burdekin attacked time and again and scored through Brayden Card in the 75th minute but could not find the net for a winner. The draw is a frustrating result, but the Reserves still have a chance to make finals if they can rally to have more
consistent form.
Division 1 Men
The Austral Masonry Panthers played well under difficult circumstances, playing a man down for the first fifteen minutes. It was much appreciated that Travis Butler, Casey Calligaro and George Karagkiozis all helped out after playing their Division 2 game. In the first half there was some controversy with the Panthers scoring off a drop ball. In a show of good sportsmanship Burdekin allowed Wulguru an uncontested goal to
level the score and it was 1-1 at half time. Wulguru scored twice in the second half to win 3-1. Charlie Shears, Max Kelly and Casey Calligaro all played well.
Division 2 Men
The C.A Contracting Funkies lost 4-0 to ladder leaders Estates on Friday night. A horrible start saw the Funkies down 3-0 after about Twenty minutes after Estates continued to exploit their pace out wide and get crosses into the box. The Funkies improved after conceding these goals and a much grittier and resilient effort saw an even contest for the remainder of the game. A very late goal made it 4-0 but the Funkies can keep their heads up after the way the team rebounded after a bad start. Jarrod Dal Santo and Eugene Burelli worked hard in the middle for the Funkies.
Ladies
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies faced off
against Rebels on Friday night and delivered a confident performance to secure a 3–0 win. Tahlia Lawson opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, giving Burdekin a 1–0 lead going into halftime. Just four minutes into the second half, Sienna Lago extended the lead with a brilliant finish. Tahlia Lawson then struck again in the 55th minute, sealing the result with her second goal of the night. A strong all-round effort from the team, well done, ladies!
Juniors
It was a massive weekend at Juniors. On Saturday, the regular fixtures were played with Townsville clubs travelling down. On Sunday the club conducted their annual carnival, with all age groups at maximum nominations! The weather was overcast but held off in the morning and the sun shone through around lunch time. Teams from Townsville, Ingham, Charters Towers, Bowen, and Airlie all made their way to Honeycombes Park for a great day of football and all the players had so much fun! A big thanks go out to the Junior Carnival Committee who made this day possible with all their hard work, and to all the volunteers on the day.
Masters
Another good turnout on a cool winter’s evening. In a replay of Saturday’s Mooney Cup, Rainbows beat Blue Balls 3-0, again. Man of the Match Tobin Stubbs scored twice with Adam Jarvis scoring the other goal. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!
Roosters Fight Hard in Tough Conditions
Heavy rain in Ingham last Friday night made the going tough for the A-grade match between the Roosters and the Herbert River Crushers last Saturday.
The ground was very heavy and muddy in places, especially after a reserve-grade match between Herbert River and Bowen was played beforehand.
Despite the adverse conditions, the smaller Burdekin team handled the situation well, going down in the dying stages 18 to 14.
The locals actually led the River 10 to 6 at the break after Kali Nauque and Nemia Nawave had scored tries, with Dylan Doak converting one.
Burdekin had also been denied two tries in this period, with the referee ruling “held up” over the line.
A devastating blow for the Roosters came when flying centre Jesse Yallop was forced to leave the field with a hamstring injury.
Yallop was judged the player of the match at Ladies Day in Ayr the week before and is regarded as one of the best and fastest centres in the competition.
He had taken an intercept and was on his
way to the try line when the incident happened.
With Yallop taking no further part in the match, coach Steve Lansley was left with only 15 players when one had trouble and failed to play.
That made the Burdekin side’s effort all the better, with fewer replacements on the heavy ground.
The River used their size and extra replacements in the second half to come back and take the match, even though the last try looked as though it came from a blocking move.
In the second half, fullback Adam Camer topped off a good match by scoring a try off Jye Olsen.
The Crushers had bombed Camer right through, but he held firm and was one of the best on ground.
The game was mainly played in the forwards, and here Terrence Mosby and Colby Thompson stood out with hard runs and great defence, backed up by Lachlan Shepherd, Ethan Hagarty and Hayde Munro.
Munro was again a hard worker and was
Flood-Affected Sporting
unlucky not to get a try from a loose ball.
RUGBY LEAGUE
One of the best forwards on ground was big front rower Tate Brombal.
Being the biggest Roosters forward, Brombal was targeted but never faltered.
Coach Steve said he was happy with the way his team performed but would have liked a different result.
He said his team played their hearts out, but the conditions didn’t suit their speed, and the luck didn’t go their way.
Burdekin: tries by Kali Nauque, Nemia Nawave, Adam Camer; goal by Dylan Doak. Both the Roosters reserves and the Burdekin River ladies teams had byes.
In other results:
A Grade: Norths beat Charters Towers 30–24; Souths beat Western Lions 44–4; Brothers beat Centrals 32–6.
Reserve Grade: Charters Towers beat Norths 40–22; Herbert River beat Bowen 38–16; Souths beat Western Lions 36–16; Brothers beat Centrals 52–6.
Women: Norths beat Charters Towers 16–12; Brothers beat Centrals 20–6. Burdekin River, Western Lions and Bowen had byes.
Clubs Eligible For $30 Million Recovery Funding
cludes local sporting grounds and community facilities,”
Minister McBain said.
Sporting and recreation clubs across North and Far North Queensland impacted by early 2025’s severe flooding can now apply for a share in a $30 million funding package to help repair and rebuild their facilities.
The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) — a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) — offers up to $1 million per facility for eligible not-for-profit sport and racing clubs, as well as local councils.
Funding can be used to restore damaged facilities, equipment and infrastructure including canteens, amenities, playing courts, fences, lighting, racetracks, electrical systems, synthetic pitches, shade structures and carparks. In some cases, facilities may also be rebuilt to more resilient
standards to help mitigate the impacts of future disasters.
The program aims to minimise disruption to community life and help resume local sporting competitions and recreational activities as soon as possible.
Earlier this year, North Queensland endured more than 12 consecutive days of monsoonal rain during January and February, with some regions recording over two metres of rainfall. Widespread flooding caused significant damage across the Hinchinbrook, Cassowary Coast, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Townsville local government areas.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain emphasised the importance of supporting community hubs.
“When disaster hits, it’s not just homes and roads that are impacted, it’s the places where people come together, and that in-
“This program is about making sure recovery reaches every corner of the community, including the clubs and spaces that bring people together after tough times.
“We’ll keep working alongside the Queensland Government and local councils to make sure communities have the support they need to rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.”
Queensland Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the funding would assist with the next stage of the recovery.
“With the initial cleanups completed, this funding package is about making the more expansive repairs needed to ensure clubs can fully recuperate,” Minister Mander said.
“Assessments are ongoing, and we will continue to extend the eligibility as more clubs continue to seek support.
“I encourage clubs and councils to con-
This weekend, Charters Towers will host the Burdekin in three grades. Souths will play Norths. Herbert River and Centrals have byes in A Grade, but Herbert River plays Bowen in Bowen in Reserve Grade. The Roosters travel to Charters Towers on Saturday, with the women to play at 1.30, the reserves at 3.00 and the A-grade at 4.30.
Should the full squad of women go west, they should record a good win over the Lady Miners, with players like Martina Monday, Toni Daisy, Paige Horvat, Abby King and Rebecca Pace in good form.
The reserves should get a win, but that could depend on who is wanted for the A-grade team.
In A-grade, Braedyn Cotter is expected back this week, with Aiden Arisa and Cailosi Baroka also set to strengthen the pack.
The coach will have to find a five-eighth, with Joel Mason suspended and Dylan Doak away.
This game is very important and is virtually a must-win.
Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes
tact their local Sport and Recreation officer to see if they may be eligible. We want our clubs to get back on their feet so Queenslanders can not only experience the physical and mental health benefits of sport but also the togetherness that these clubs bring to the community.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the support was critical in restoring the heartbeat of affected regions.
“It is a well-known fact that sport and recreation plays a vital role in the community by providing much needed extracurricular activity through sport and social activities,” Minister Leahy said.
“Restoring the operations of impacted facilities contributes significantly to community recovery.”
Clubs and councils can find eligibility guidelines and application details online at www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/ funding/sport-and-recreation-recovery-grant, and more general disaster help information is available at www.qld.gov. au/disasterhelp.
Home Hill High’s Fishing Competition Draws Strong Support
FISHING
Results
Lucky Angler Draw (Open): Jessie Shreeve took home a Blue Steel rod, three Berkley lures, a Machin & Sons Custom Coolers NQ voucher, and a Pensini Alloys crab measurer valued at $239.
U12 Junior Lucky Angler 1: Henry Sutcliffe won an Ugly Stik combo, bag and lure pack, fishing shirt, lip grips and torch, plus a PCYC water bottle, worth $190.
U12 Junior Lucky Angler 2: Scott Walters Jnr received the same prize package as Henry, valued at $190.
Longest Barramundi: Saxon Petersen earned a Shimano SLX combo (8ft), Wilson cast net, two Berkley Pro-Tech Lure FT, and two squid jigs, totaling $505.
Mystery Length Barramundi: Rowen Petersen was awarded a Shimano Sahara combo, Berkley Pro-Tech lure, and Shimano Colt Sniper lure worth $309.
Heaviest Bream: Jackson Walters took home a Daiwa RX Spin combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley lure pack valued at $364.
Heaviest Cod: Matteo Covolo received a Shimano Hyperloop combo, Berkley lure
Heaviest Finger Mark: Harvey Mauro earned an Abu Max Pro combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure valued at $398.
Heaviest Flathead: Keatan Jarvis won a Rovex Endurance rod combo and Wilson Blue Steel rod worth $269.
Heaviest Grunter: Tait Levitt took home a Daiwa PR100 Bait Caster combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure valued at $358.
Heaviest Mangrove Jack: Declyn Carr received a Shimano OC Bait Runner combo, Shimano Sienna reel, Colt Sniper 140 lure, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure worth $384.
Heaviest Mud Crab (live & tied): Declyn Carr won the top prize, while Oliver Amerena took second place with a Crab’n Gear 900ml pop up pot, float rope, crab measurer, and Pensini Alloys crab measurer valued at $130.
Heaviest Whiting: Mia Reece earned a Rovex Endurance rod combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley lure pack valued at $359.
Mystery Weight Bream: Austin Davenport took home a Daiwa RX Spin combo and Berkley lure pack worth $215.
Mystery Weight Cod: Amber Betteridge won a Shimano Sienna combo and Berkley lure pack valued at $225.
Mystery Weight Finger Mark: The winner received an Abu Max combo and two Berkley Pro-Tech lures worth $239.
Mystery Weight Flathead: Mitchell Hamilton earned a Rovex Endurance rod combo and Berkley lure pack valued at $216.
Mystery Weight Grunter: Ellie Sutcliffe took home a Daiwa PR100 combo and Berkley lure pack worth $275.
Mystery Weight Mangrove Jack: Adam Jarvis won a Shimano Ciaus combo, Shimano Colt Sniper lure 140, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure valued at $254.
Mystery Weight Mud Crab (live & tied): Riley Betteridge received a Crab’n Gear 900ml pop-up pot, float rope, and crab measurer worth $115.
Mystery Weight Whiting: Mia Reece earned a Rovex Endurance rod combo and Berkley lure pack valued at $216.
Interschool Fishing Competition (Cham-
pion School): Home Hill State High School was awarded a 20L Esky, About Town Bait & Tackle cap, two Berkley lures, and PCYC water bottles valued at $200.
Casting Competition U12 Winner: Riley Betteridge took home a Bite Science lure pack, PCYC water bottle, soccer ball, and ANNZACK trading voucher worth $90.
Casting Competition Open Winner: Dekoda Clubb received a Bite Science lure pack, PCYC water bottle, soccer ball, and ANNZACK trading voucher valued at $90.
Raffle Winners: First prize went to Melissa Jarvis and second to Joyce Bianco. The $650 prize pool included a 20L Esky, About Town Bait & Tackle cap, Berkley lures, Machin & Sons Custom Coolers NQ voucher, gas swap voucher, crab measurer, merchandise packs, vouchers, and wine.
Colour-in Competition Winners: Ramsey Corradi and Gray John Perry took first place, with Ellie Sutcliffe and Everly Nicholas as runners-up. Prizes included Cowboys merchandise packs, Machin & Sons Custom Coolers NQ vouchers, PCYC water bottles, crab measurer, and a PCYC soccer ball, valued at $265.
Home Hill High’s Fishing Competition Draws Strong Support
Home Hill State High School’s 2025 Fish ing Competition marked a lively week end for the Burdekin from 25–27 July, luring anglers from across the state to take part in one of the region’s biggest fishing events. Thou sands in prizes were on offer across casting, raffles and the Longest and Mystery Length barramundi categories, with each catch photographed on cus tom brag mats to promote catch‑and‑release. Sunday’s Family Funday wrapped it all up with music, food stalls, a licensed bar, kids’ activities and the big weigh‑in. Organised by the Home Hill State High School P&C with help from students, staff, parents and sponsors, plus weigh‑masters from the Burdekin District Sportfishing Club, the event successfully raised valuable funds for the school.
