Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:
- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;
- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;
- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;
- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;
- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.
Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided.
All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
Jump in with Jacob
If last week’s theme was action, this week’s is community.
Sounds obvious, given it’s a community paper and all. But this one stands out, and in a truly Burdekin way.
I don’t want to spoil anything this time, though… so go ahead. Flick through and see for yourself.
In other news… It’s that time of year for rugby league heads.
That time where friendships are tested. Loyalties are questioned. And Queensland suddenly becomes relevant beyond its borders. (It’s a joke, guys)
That’s right. It’s Origin baby.
And although on enemy territory, I managed to find some folks with common grounding at the last ordinary council meeting (pictured).
To be frank, I’m not even that much into Rugby League these days. But I’ll never pass up an opportunity for a bit of banter.
Anyhoo, I’m writing this on Tuesday the 9th, meaning by the time you read this, one of two things would’ve happened:
a) The Blues brought it home, or
b) The refs had a shocker.
SNAGS WITH A SIDE OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT MEN’S SHED COOKS UP SUPPORT FOR LOCAL SCOUTS IN QUEEN STREET FUNDRAISER
Members of the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association (BMSA) whipped out the barbie last Friday to raise funds for the Lower Burdekin Scout Group.
The fundraiser, sponsored by Bendigo Bank, brought the aroma of a freshly cooked barbecue breakfast to Ayr’s Queen Street from 9am until around noon.
BMSA President Rob Ritchie called it a “great opportunity to get out and face the community” while raising money for an important local group.
“We’ve donated to national charities before, but the Lower Burdekin Scout Group is a great community group, and we’d rather see money raised stay in the community,” he said.
“They’ve got to do every bit of
fundraising themselves, so if we can help a little bit, all well and good.”
BMSA member Chris Fox said the barbecue was the latest example of a mutual relationship between the two organisations that has spanned years.
“They’ve done lots for us, so we do our best to reciprocate in kind,” he said.
On top of the occasional fundraising barbecue, the BMSA meets every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00–11:30am for recreational activities, skills development and community projects.
Anyone interested in joining the BMSA is encouraged to call 0467 083 502, email burdekinmensshed@outlook.com or visit the shed at 155-157 Young St, Ayr.
The BMSA barbecue was delivered in conjunction with sponsor Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied.
FUNDRAISING BREAKFAST RAISES $35,000 FOR LOCAL CHAPLAINS
BY JACOB CASHA
Afundraising breakfast held last week raised $35,000 for Burdekin Chaplains, headlined by a $30,000 donation that surprised even organisers.
The Burdekin Chaplaincy Fundraising Breakfast, hosted annually by the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team, welcomed a crowd of around 70 to Ayr State High School grounds on Thursday 4th June to support local chaplaincy over a free breakfast.
Several guest speakers addressed the audience, including Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Chairman Darren West, who was met with a roar of applause as he presented a cheque for $30,000 to the host organisation.
“We know the chaplains have done it tough for funds at times over the years, so we’re pleased to be here today to present this cheque,” Mr West said.
Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team
Co-Chair Kylie Webley said the organisation was “not expecting to receive such a generous donation.”
A number of other contributions made up the $35,000 total, includ-
ing one from Margaret Thorne of Bluey’s Thrift Shop in Home Hill which was also presented on the morning.
Ayr State School Principal Nikki Schell addressed the breakfast, delivering a gripping speech that used the Burdekin River as a metaphor for the role chaplaincy plays in local schools and communities.
“Just as the river breathes life into our region, chaplaincy breathes life into our schools and into our communities,” Ms Schell said.
“Not life in the physical sense, but life in the things that matter most: hope, belonging, connection, joy.
The confidence to keep going when things feel hard, the courage to ask for help, the comfort of knowing that someone cares.”
Scripture Union manager for North Queensland Brooke Sorbello also delivered a speech at the event, while former Burdekin Chaplaincy Committee Chair Ronda Williams was acknowledged for her years of service to the organisation.
Ms Webley said the morning was an important opportunity to bring local chaplaincy to the forefront,
calling the community support “invaluable.”
“Without the support, Burdekin Chaplains would not have the same reach across our schools, and our community may not understand the needs and challenges facing our young people today,” she said.
“It’s also important for chaplains to feel supported in their work.”
The Burdekin’s seven school chaplains provide social, emotional and pastoral support across 10 local schools, working with students, staff and families.
Their role includes mentoring, wellbeing programs and helping young people navigate challenges ranging from bullying and anxiety to family breakdown.
Funds raised from this year’s breakfast will help keep chaplains at local schools and assist with the needs of students.
Community members seeking more information or ways to become involved are encouraged to contact Kylie or Joanne Ballin of the Burdekin Chaplaincy Support Team at: burdekinlcc@gmail.com.
AYR POLICE OFFICER RECOGNISED FOR HISTORIC MILITARY ACHIEVEMENT
Alocal Ayr police officer has received formal military recognition for becoming the first Australian soldier to pass one of the toughest jungle warfare courses in the world.
Former Army Sergeant Matthew Reid was formally awarded the prestigious jaguar brevet at a ceremony held at Jezzine House, Jezzine Barracks in Townsville last week.
The event marked the official endorsement for recipients to wear the brevet on their formal Army ceremonial dress.
The recognition comes after Mr Reid made history in 2024, becoming the first Australian to successfully complete the gruelling eight-week Jaguar Course in French Guiana, run by the French Foreign Legion.
The elite course, notorious for its extreme physical rigours, put participants through endurance, combat, and survival tests in a dense jungle environment.
The experience proved a true test of resilience for NSW-born Reid, compounded by a severe foot infection that caused swelling and intense pain throughout the training.
“It was probably one of the hardest things I’ve done throughout my military career. But I enjoyed it a lot,” Mr Reid said.
After two months of intense field training, which saw him struggle through a casualty
transport emulation in armpit-deep mud, Mr Reid would pass the course ranking 18th out of 35 students.
He recalled feeling a mix of nervousness, relief and pride as he awaited his results at the ceremony.
“The staff and instructors over there don’t really give you too much feedback, so you don’t really know where you sit. But it was definitely a massive weight off the shoulders (when I passed),” he said.
“It felt good to represent Australia, the Army, and the unit that I came from.”
Following a ten-year military career, which included eight years in Townsville and two years in Tully, Mr Reid would eventually transition into civilian law enforcement.
He graduated from the police academy and was stationed at the Ayr Police Station last November, where he’s been learning the ropes ever since.
Mr Reid said that, despite few similarities between the Jaguar jungle course and the Ayr climate, his military background has facilitated a smooth transition into policing.
“Not so much from (the Jaguar Course) applies, but from the army in general, there’s definitely a lot of discipline and resilience
Support at home & NDIS clients
PROVIDER THAT TRULY CARES
Not getting the care or hours you deserve?
CareMore Support Services helps you get the most from your home care package — with clarity, dignity, and genuine support. We understand your health, manage your care with attention to detail, and make sure every hour works for you.
Because home care should feel simple, supportive, and truly caring. CALL US!
that carries over to this job,” he said.
Now six months into his policing career, he says he has embraced the slower pace of the Burdekin, drawing parallels with his coastal hometown of Jervis Bay.
“It’s a nice place to start policing. It’s a bit slower in pace compared to the big-
ger cities … so you get to understand the processes and policies (a bit easier). The community has also been quite friendly,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mr Reid is eager to focus on mastering his new role in Ayr.
Former Army Sergeant Matthew Reid was formally awarded the prestigious jaguar brevet at a ceremony held at Jezzine House, Jezzine Barracks in Townsville last week. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Tax, Tax, Tax
OPINION PIECE BY FEDERAL MEMBER FOR DAWSON ANDREW WILLCOX
Tax, the three letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three letter word Labor does best - lie.
It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time.
Then on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence.
And the people who will pay the biggest price are young Australians with aspiration.
Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current
rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities.
A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Labor claims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you.
Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian.
The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters.
With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental
market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment.
The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter.
These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective home owners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation.
The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government.
Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future.
Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax.
Final Week Nears for Code Submissions
As the final week approaches for public submissions into the Sugar Code of Conduct, Member for Burdekin
Dale Last has renewed his calls for growers to unite and make their voices heard.
Mr Last said the public submissions for the sunsetting review of the Sugar Code of Conduct should be an opportunity for sugarcane growers from across the Burdekin to outline the benefits of the code for both farmers and the wider community.
“Over recent weeks I have taken the liberty of providing a submission on behalf of the community, because ultimately the flow-on impact from changes in our sugar industry stretch beyond the paddock and the mills,” Mr Last said.
“I recently met with several grower representatives which provided the opportunity to bring key stakeholders together, reaffirm my support as the Member for Burdekin and emphasise the need to work collaboratively as the review period unfolds.”
Mr Last said while it was important stakeholders took the time to make their voices heard during the public submissions there was no better way to understand the impact of the Sugar Code of Conduct than to visit the area and speak directly to representatives.
“A decade ago this district played a central role in bringing this code of conduct to fruition so I would expect our stakeholders receive a seat at the table they deserve,” Mr Last said.
“If the Federal Labor Government was serious about consulting with the industry, the responsible Assistant Minister would be looking for every opportunity to listen to those who are most impacted by the Sugar Code.”
Anyone wishing to have their say in the review can visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugarcode-review
Burdekin toddler honoured in Convoy for the Cure tribute
The spirit of late Burdekin toddler Elenna Savorgnan was felt in Townsville last month as a truck bearing her image made its way through lined streets during a brain cancer fundraiser.
The truck, owned and operated by Burdekin-based DF & DL Drain Transport, formed part of the Convoy for the Cure, an annual childhood brain cancer fundraiser that this year saw its largest ever fleet.
Elenna’s mother, Maria Savorgnan, said seeing her daughter’s banner in the middle of it all was a proud moment that brought a whirlwind of emotions.
“(It) was both beautiful and heartbreaking,” she said.
“When I saw the truck, I felt incredibly proud of my girl. Seeing her beautiful face displayed on the front of the truck meant more than I can put into words. I wanted
people to see her, to know she mattered, and to see how loved she is.
“(But) at the same time, the weight of her being gone was there too. There is an ache and a longing for her that I will carry forever.”
Elenna passed away from medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood brain cancer, in August 2025 at just three years old after a year-long fight.
Ms Savorgnan has since made it her mission to ensure Elenna’s cheeky and affectionate memory lives on.
“I miss everything about her—her sweet voice, her cuddles, her kisses, her cheeky personality and the affectionate little girl she was,” she said.
“Having (her) represented in the convoy was a way to honour her life, celebrate who she was, and continue raising awareness of childhood brain cancer.”
The idea for the banner came after DF & DL Drain Transport owner Tayla Quagliata reached out to Maria in the weeks leading up to the convoy.
“Tayla told me that Elenna had been on her mind and asked if she could place a banner on one of their trucks in her memory,” Ms Savorgnan said.
“I was incredibly touched by the offer. The care, kindness and thought that went into creating the banner and honouring Elenna meant so much to our family.”
The design was produced by Ms Quagliata and printed by NQ Customs Sign Writing, who donated the banner.
Ms Quagliata said the decision to carry the banner was made both in honour of Elenna and in support of the convoy’s cause.
“It just hit so close to home. I wanted to find a way to honour Elenna’s memory and what Maria was trying to do in creating
BY JACOB CASHA
awareness,” she said.
“It felt like it went hand in hand with what we were already doing by participating in convoy every year.”
The company raised the most funds of any large fleet at the convoy, raising about $14,000 this year and more than $50,000 across seven years of participation.
This year was the first time their truck displayed a banner.
Ms Savorgnan said she was “so grateful” for the tribute, and hoped it would help people understand the impact of childhood brain cancer.
“I hope Elenna touched the hearts of everyone who saw her banner … and reminded people that childhood brain cancer is not as rare as many think.
“More research, more treatment options and more funding are desperately needed.”
Maria Savorgnan and son, Reuben, next to Elenna’s banner. Photo supplied
“I hope her banner reminded people that childhood brain cancer is not as rare as many think”—Maria Savorgnan. PHOTO CREDIT: Black Thunder Photography
BURDEKIN COMMUNITY WRAPS ARMS AROUND FAMILY AFTER SHOCK DIAGNOSIS
BY JACOB CASHA
The Burdekin has rallied behind a local family after a sudden medical diagnosis turned their life upside-down.
Ryan and Holly Davenport dropped everything when their two-year-old son, Rowen, was diagnosed with a brain tumour last month, temporarily relocating to Brisbane for his ongoing treatment.
In response, a GoFundMe fundraiser has since raised over $55,000 in support of the family.
Created in late May by Shannon Malone, a close friend of the Davenports, the fundraiser has been shared all over Facebook and Instagram by local organisations, garnering comments of support on top of 271 individual donations.
“Words can’t describe how much it means to us to have everyone’s support behind Rowen as he begins his journey,” Ryan said.
“They have given us precious time to spend with Rowen without the everyday worries.”
The money will help fund hospital stays, travel, time away from work, and ongoing treatment expenses as the Home Hill family navigates a medical journey that began in April.
Already on edge after daughter, Ally, underwent brain surgery to have a cavernoma removed just before Easter, Ryan and Holly acted promptly when they
noticed a twitch in Rowen’s eye.
Following weeks of consultations with Townsville doctors and specialists—which included MRI scans and a Royal Flying Doctors flight—Rowen was eventually diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma, a slow-growing brain tumour.
He has since been transferred to Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane for chemotherapy, with the couple leaving their two young daughters with their grandparents in the Burdekin to be by his side.
In their absence, locals have offered meals, helped on the family’s sugar cane farm, assisted around their home and helped look after their daughters, along with the generous donations.
Ryan said the funds raised would not just help relieve the financial burden of Rowen’s treatment, but allow the flexibility to fly their daughters down and spend some time as a family.
“(The toughest part has been) the unknown, not having our family together … and watching Rowen go through these traumatic times and … not being able to do anything,” Ryan said.
“It has been a very emotional journey so far, and it is hard to believe we are only at the start.”
Anyone wanting to support the Davenports is urged to donate using the following link.
A New Fresh Face for Community Bank Home Hill
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is proud to welcome Tracey Young to the team as a new Customer Service Officer, bringing with her a strong passion for people, community and helping customers with their everyday banking needs.
Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Together they are raising their three children – Charlie, Mitchell and Henry – while embracing the close-knit lifestyle that makes the region so special.
For Tracey, joining Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr is more than simply starting a new role – it is an opportunity to work closely with local people and contribute to a bank that actively supports the wider community.
“What I enjoy most is interacting directly with our customers every day,” Tracey said.
“It is incredibly rewarding to solve their problems, help them with their day-today financial needs, and build real trust within our local community.”
Having spent more than a decade living in the Burdekin, Tracey says the welcoming spirit of the community is what stands out most.
“Definitely the people and the smalltown community spirit,” she said.
“Everyone is willing to help each other out, whether it’s at a local sporting group, a not-for-profit organisation, the local school, a fellow Burdekin neighbour or even a traveller passing through. You will always be welcomed with a warm smile.”
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
Acting Branch Manager Sally Smith said the team was excited to welcome Tracey and the local knowledge and customer focus she brings to the branch.
“Tracey’s warm personality and passion for helping people make her a wonder ful addition to our team,” Sally said.
Community Grant Program
“At Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, we pride ourselves on delivering per sonal service and supporting the com munities we live and work in, and Trac ey reflects those values perfectly.”
When you partner with us, good things happen.
Outside of work, Tracey enjoys an active family life centred around horses, camping adventures, travelling to new places and spending quality time with her family whenever possible.
Customers visiting the branch are en couraged to stop by, say hello and wel come Tracey to the Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr family.
Supplied by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr.
Your organisation gets sponsorship, and your banking helps support the community.
Originally from Mareeba in the Tablelands, Tracey has called the Burdekin home for the past 12 years after marrying local cane farmer Damian. Photo supplied
Funding will allow the family to fly their daughters down and spend more time together during Rowen’s treatment. Photo supplied
Industrial Land Opportunities and New Incentives Supporting Local Growth
Burdekin Shire Council is continuing to support local economic growth, with the Ayr Industrial Precinct nearing completion and new development incentives now in place to encourage investment across the region.
The Ayr Industrial Precinct rep-
resents a major milestone in the region’s economic development, offering fully serviced, competitively priced industrial land in a strategic location ideal for manufacturing, logistics, trade services and emerging industries.
Pierina Dalle Cort said the time has never been better for businesses to consider establishing or expanding their operations in the Burdekin.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor
PUBLIC NOTICES
“The Ayr Industrial Precinct provides the kind of well-connected, serviced industrial land that businesses are actively looking for,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
Stage 1 lots are now available from $50 per square metre plus GST, with a range of lot sizes to suit different business needs.
Council has also introduced a new Economic Stimulus Policy for Development Incentives to help reduce
barriers to development and support business growth.
“Council understands that development costs can be a challenge, particularly for businesses looking to grow or relocate,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“This policy provides a clear and streamlined pathway for developers and business owners to seek reductions in fees and infrastructure charges.
Free Mulch Days to Continue Following Strong Community Response
Following the success of Council’s recent Free Mulch Day at the Ayr Transfer Station, the initiative will now become a regular monthly offering for residents.
The inaugural event saw strong community participation, with many residents taking advantage of the opportunity to collect quality mulch for their gardens and landscaping projects. In response to this positive uptake, Council will now host a Free Mulch Day each month at the Ayr Transfer Station.
The next Free Mulch Day will be held on Sunday 28 June from 8:00am-12:00pm, with future dates to be promoted regularly.
To further support the community, Council staff will be on site during each event, with machinery to assist with loading mulch into trailers and utes.
This initiative not only provides a practical benefit to residents but also promotes the reuse of green waste, supporting more sustainable practices across the Burdekin Shire.
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on Council’s website and social media channels for upcoming dates and additional information.
“We want businesses to know we’re here to work with them.”
The Economic Stimulus Policy reinforces Council’s strategy to foster innovation, attract investment, and support long-term economic sustainability in line with the Burdekin Shire Council Corporate Plan 2025–2030.
Businesses interested in securing land or learning more about the development incentives available are encouraged to download the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort at the entry to the expanded Ayr Industrial Precinct.
Minute With The Mayor
Pierina Dalle Cort
It has been another busy week across the Burdekin, with a number of great events highlighting the talent and opportunities within our community.
I recently attended the Burdekin Interschool Drama Festival, which was held on Friday night. It was wonderful to see the performances from all our local high schools and the level of talent on display.
There are also some important dates ahead, including Men’s Health Week from 15 to 21 June. I encourage everyone to take the time to look after their health and wellbeing — it’s important not just for yourself, but for those around you.
We also had a visit from Bob Katter, Member of the Australian House of Representatives, who dropped into Council. It’s always valuable to have open doors and
conversations across all levels of government as we continue to advocate for our region.
Another highlight was the Pathways & Possibilities event, which was a rewarding experience for those who attended. Education and career opportunities are so important, and it was encouraging to see the range of pathways available to support people in making decisions about their future.
These events are a strong reminder of the opportunities that exist within our community and the importance of continuing to support one another.
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.
BURDEKIN INNOVATION CELEBRATED AT STATE AWARDS
The Burdekin Shire Council has been formally lauded as one of Queensland’s leading innovators at the 2026 LGMA Awards for its world-first macroalgal facility.
The LGMA Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding achievement across statewide local government, with the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility, officially opened last year, acknowledged for its approach to sustainable infrastructure.
For many of us, the start of the crushing season is one of the clearest signs that another year is moving forward in the Burdekin. The locos are running again, harvesters are in the paddocks, and the familiar “black snow” has started to drift across the district.
While growers continue to face challenges from low sugar prices and rising input costs, the start of the season always seems to bring a sense of optimism. The sugar industry remains the backbone of our local economy and supports countless businesses, jobs and families throughout the region.
It has also been pleasing to see local success recognised recently, with Burdekin Shire Council receiving recognition at the
2026 LGMA Awards for Excellence for the Burdekin Macroalgal Facility. Congratulations to the staff involved in delivering a project that has attracted attention across local government.
Community creativity is also being encouraged through the Regional Recycled Art Competition, which is open to schools, community groups, and individual artists. Entries close on 6 July, with details available on Council’s website. As one of the judges, I look forward to seeing the innovative ways local residents transform recycled materials into artwork.
As harvest ramps up across the district, I wish everyone a safe and productive season.
Mayor Dalle Cort said the award reinforced the Burdekin as a regional trailblazer.
“This recognition… demonstrates what can be achieved when we are willing to think differently,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“By taking a different approach, we’ve been able to improve environmental performance while also delivering long-term value for our ratepayers.”
Delivered in partnership with RegenAqua and Pacific Biotechnologies, the facility uses naturally occurring macroalgae to remove nutrients from wastewater, significantly reducing nitrogen and phosphorus entering waterways connected to the Great Barrier Reef catchment.
The system also produces macroalgal biomass that can be reused in agriculture and industry.
The LGMA recognition follows success at last year’s Queensland Water Awards, where the project took out the regional Infrastructure Project Innovation Award in October.
Investing $41
billion
in road
and
transport projects right across Queensland
Work is already underway delivering better roads and transport for Queenslanders. Upgrades are happening right across the state, plus more rail and bus services and new permanent 50 cent fares. With hundreds of projects right across Queensland, find out what’s happening near you.
Better Roads and Transport
Burdekin
Photo source: Facebook
Major Burdekin Delta Restoration Project To Boost Reef Water Quality
Restoration work is underway across three Burdekin Delta creeks as part of a major wetlands project aimed at reducing pollutants entering the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far cleared invasive weeds from wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks as part of broader efforts to reduce fine sediment, dissolved inorganic nitrogen and pesticides reaching the Reef.
According to the Australian Government’s 2024 Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report, the Burdekin River catchment is the largest individual contributor of fine sediment, delivering about 3.7 million tonnes. It also contributes significant particulate nitrogen and phosphorus loads.
NQ Dry Tropics Wetlands Team Leader Scott Fry said combining on-ground works with monitoring, modelling and training would help the WWBD project deliver measurable reductions in pollution and improve wetland health.
“Waterways in the Burdekin Delta are both productive agricultural systems and vital ecological assets,” Mr Fry said.
“Healthy, well-functioning wetlands are naturally able to capture and process pollutants before they
reach the Reef.
“We aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of scalable, long-term management practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental outcomes.”
Work will employ a multi-step “treatment train” approach which focuses on improving wetland health, increasing water use efficiency to reduce excess flows into creeks, and trialing new water treatment methods.
It will also involve harvesting aquatic weeds to remove stored nutrients and improve fish and bird habitat, revegetating creek banks with native plants and improving fire management practices.
Weeds harvested will be turned into compost for use on local farms.
The WWBD project will be delivered in conjunction with Lower Burdekin Water, Burdekin Shire Council and Bindal Traditional Owners, with funding from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program.
It will complement work with Burdekin Delta cane growers to improve irrigation efficiency under NQ Dry Tropics’ Burdekin Tailored Automation project, a broader endeavour which aims to reduce agricultural runoff to waterways while improving farm efficiency.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Meals on Wheels is calling on anyone that wants to get connected by joining the volunteer ranks at Ayr Meals on Wheels.
If yourself or a organisation has a volunteer participation or employee incentive package to volunteer a few hours to contribute to the community, Meals on Wheels would love to hear from you.
It might be a few hours a week, a fortnight or a month whatever time you have to spare will be greatly appreciated.
If you would like to come and join our wonderful volunteers in the kitchen or on delivery or if you have a family member, friend, colleague or someone who has a few hours to spare please give us a call.
The NQ Dry Tropics-led Working Wetlands in the Burdekin Delta (WWBD) project has so far seen wetlands at Sheepstation, Plantation and Kalamia creeks cleared of invasive weeds. Photo credit: NQ Dry Tropics
Rob treated this evolution as a marathon rather than a sprint, dedicating the business’s first decade cementing its reputation as a local leader. After striking up deals with major companies, including Queensland Rail and Wilmar Sugar in the mid-2000s, he decided to take the leap into the mining industry in the early 2010s as a safety net for the unpredictable sugar industry.
With that growth, Hayward Hydraulics’ shed would undergo its third structural expansion to accommodate its continuously increasing popularity and modernised technology.
He built a habit of gleaning ideas from various online hydraulic magazines, and then building on them to not only keep up with the industry, but to will it into the future himself.
“I eventually built a reputation for thinking outside of the square. If somebody’s been doing something for 20 years, I’ll look at a better way of doing it,” he said.
Albeit, he admits he and the business are still evolving today.
“I’ve seen harvesters and planters go from chain and sprocket to hydraulic motors, to hydraulic motors being linked to satellite GPS,” he said.
“The industry has changed in leaps and bounds, and you have to keep finding ways to move with it.”
Doing it the right way
Hayward Hydraulics’ evolution was founded on something Rob didn’t need to be taught.
Care.
And he makes sure his staff do, too.
“I didn’t come from a real wealthy family, so we were brought up to work; you work, you do the job right, you get paid,” he said.
“So if I’m not happy with something, I’ll ask my workers: ‘would you pay for that?’”
When the mining industry began to boom in Queensland, Rob admits he had a difficult time retaining workers. To compete, he was forced into paying top-dollar for what he called “good quality workers,” causing financial tension.
When asked if compromising staff quality for cost was ever an option, with the conviction of a true-blue purist, he said:
“No.”
“I’ve always maintained that a business is only as good as your employees. You can be the best boss in the world, but if you’ve got workers that people don’t like, they don’t come through the door,” he said.
“My current staff are up there with the best that I’ve had. I just try to make sure they’re happy to come to work every day.”
With quality and care as its engine, Hayward Hydraulics became known not just for technical know-how, but for doing things the right way.
As its stature in the industry continued to grow, so did the scope of its customer base. Calls started coming in from as far north as Tully, all the way to Mackay and Western Queensland, all saying the same thing: “We heard you were the guy to talk to about this problem.”
Family and community at its heart
For the last 10 years especially, the business has made a point of supporting local organisations and sports clubs, most notably the Burdekin Roosters Rugby League Club.
Rob described it as a duty to a community that has given so much to him and the company.
“The community has been so important to it all. I’ve got some customers that have been with me from day one, and with some, I’m onto the third generation of the same family,” he said.
“The’ve given a lot to me. They’ve helped me grow and supported me, so it’s about time I supported them back.”
Beneath it all, though, he points to his family as the driving force.
“I remember those early days when we were setting up the new workshop, building benches and all that, my two brothersin-law and my father came out and gave me a hand,” he said.
“But my biggest support is my wife. Especially in the early days when I wasn’t home, and she solely looked after the kids and everything.
“It got to the stage where I was working seven days a week, 12 hour days, and my wife would bring the kids on a Saturday and Sunday, and we’d sit on the shop floor
BY JACOB CASHA
and have lunch.
“She’s been with me through the lows and the highs, and that I thank her for.”
Now, thirty years later, it’s his family pulling him out of the industry. Driven by the desire to make up for lost time with his wife and kids, Rob has loosened his grip on business operations, working four days a week with plans to eventually let his brainchild find its own footing.
As for right now, he’s not yet ready to call time on a chapter that was, perhaps, never
meant to last this many pages.
“I still love what I do,” he said.
“The early days come with sacrifices, but when I look back now, it was all worth it.
“I remember when it all first started, looking on the ATO website and coming across that statistic that most businesses fail within five years.
“When I read it, I said to myself, ‘well, I’m gonna make sure I’m not that statistic.’” And that, he did.
SEALING SOLUTIONS THAT KEEP MINING MOVING
- Custom Seal Machining
- Extensive range of OEM & aftermarket seals
- Fast Turnaround - Industry Expertise
HSA supplies dependable sealing solutions for mining and heavy industry across Queensland.
Rob and his current team. Back L-R: Chase Pearce, Stephan Du Plessis. Front L-R: Kade Pearce, Renee Viero, Robert Hayward, Tina Dennis, Bryan Parison. Absent: Sam Tomasetig Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Bowen Pipeline Push Enters Final Phase As Water Sales Program Extended
The proposed $750 million Bowen Pipeline Project has entered a critical phase, with project leaders extending their water sales program as they work towards securing federal funding and delivering what they describe as a “generational” piece of infrastructure for North Queensland.
The privately funded project would see a 182-kilometre underground pipeline constructed from the Burdekin River to Bowen, delivering up to 100,000 megalitres of water annually to one of Australia’s most productive horticultural regions.
Project proponents say the pipeline would provide a secure and reliable water source for the Bowen-Gumlu region, which produces around one-fifth of Australia’s annual vegetable crop and generates approximately $750 million in fresh produce each year, despite relying largely on seasonal rainfall.
Bowen Pipeline Company Director Sean Brown said community interest in the project’s water sales program continued to grow, prompting the extension of its Locals First water investment policy until 14th July.
“Our water sales program is tracking nicely with interest steadily increasing from
the local communities,” Mr Brown said.
“Having said that, it is most interesting to see that demand is intense from those regions that have experience in water trading and water markets generally.
“They understand that water is an asset, like land, and is a strong enhancement for any investment portfolio, particularly on the driest continent on earth.
“Our desire is for the local community to benefit from the ownership of water and as such we will keep the Locals First water investment policy open for another four weeks. After that the water will be allocated to all parties.”
Mr Brown said community information sessions had generated strong interest from local residents keen to better understand water markets and the long-term value of water ownership.
“Attendees at our presentations have been delighted with the knowledge they acquire about how water trading is done, the water asset value increases over time, pressures for delivery and the pricing of the water,” he said.
The company has also expanded its local employment and procurement commitments, linking water ownership opportu-
nities with potential construction jobs.
“Our Locals First employment and supply policy is resonating strongly in the community,” Mr Brown said.
“In fact, we have expanded the policy whereby local water purchasers will be given priority consideration for employment opportunities during the construction phase, where suitable.”
To strengthen its case for federal funding, the project must demonstrate both significant water demand and a substantial number of users. The minimum purchase volume has been set at 20 megalitres,
SECURING THE FUTURE OF THE BURDEKIN & BOWEN REGION
which can be shared between neighbouring properties.
Project leaders are aiming to achieve shovel-ready status by September 2026 before lodging an application seeking federal funding for half of the construction costs.
“After nine years of community effort to get this far, we seek your support for this final push to make this $750 million generational Project a reality,” Mr Brown said. If successful, the company hopes to secure funding through the May 2027 Federal Budget and begin construction in September 2027.
The Bowen Pipeline Project is set to deliver a reliable long-term water supply to one of Australia’s most important food-growing regions.
• 1,200 ongoing jobs
• Locals First employment & supply policy Water buyers will be given priority for engagement during construction*
Residents Inspired By Home Hill Carer’s Global Marathon Success
Residents of Ozcare Home Hill discovered there’s a little more to one of their regular carers than meets the eye.
The Burdekin’s own marathon sensation, Karin Thorburn, brought her trove of running experience back to Ozcare Home Hill last Tuesday, presenting to a crowd of her own clients who were left as shocked as they were inspired.
Fresh off a month-long trip across the globe, during which she ran 15 marathons across four continents, Thorburn gave the audience a surprise when she walked through the doors as a guest speaker rather than their regular carer.
“Some of our clients didn’t realise it was me out of uniform,” Thorburn quipped.
The esteemed runner delivered a presentation on her ‘Marathon Journey Around the World’ to an audience over 20 strong, detailing her early running days, right through to her qualification for three consecutive Boston Marathons.
An array of medals recognising her long-distance running exploits were also
displayed throughout the event.
She said she relished the opportunity to share her story with her clients and peers.
“It was a lovely experience,” she said.
“(I value) presenting a topic like marathon running and giving people a better understanding of what women in running can do and achieve.”
Candice Green, diversional therapist at Ozcare Home Hill, called the presentation “inspiring.”
“Karin truly is an incredible woman. Hearing her marathon journey and the dedication she has to her sport and supporting others is inspiring,” she said.
“We truly appreciate Karin coming into our home today to share that part of her. It was wonderful to see our clients get to know a part of your world outside caring for them.”
One client added: “Karin is bloody amazing and deserves every medal she has received. She is brilliant.”
Thorburn now plans to take her story to local schools and community groups.
Helene Holmes Optique Eyes Celebrates 29th Birthday
Helene Holmes Optique Eyes is celebrating 29 years of dedicated eye care service to the Burdekin community during the month of June.
To mark the occasion they are offering 20% off all sunglasses throughout the entire month, providing the perfect opportunity to update your eyewear while celebrating a long-standing local business success story.
Since opening their doors, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has built a reputation of delivering quality eye care and personalised service as well as providing exquisite eyewear individually tailored to each patient’s needs.
Known for their commitment to customer service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes has become a trusted name in the region, offering a full suite of eye care services along with a wide selection of stylish eyewear, prescription sunglasses, safety glasses and contact lenses.
Owner and Optometrist Helene Holmes expressed her gratitude as the business reaches this milestone.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal patients from the Burdekin and beyond. It has been a pleasure to care for your eye health over the past 29 years,” she said.
With nearly three decades of service, Helene Holmes Optique Eyes remains committed to delivering trusted, high-quality eye care while embracing the latest in optical technology and fashion eyewear.
Included in their Sunglass Sale are leading brands such as Oroton, Mako, Stuart Weitzman and Bill Bass, a range to suit every lifestyle and budget.
So pop in to their Practice at 150 Queen Street, Ayr, try on a new pair of sunglasses and join the celebrations.
The Burdekin’s own marathon sensation, Karin Thorburn, brought her trove of running experience to Ozcare Home Hill last Tuesday, presenting to a crowd of her own clients who were left as shocked as they were inspired.
The esteemed runner delivered a presentation on her ‘Marathon Journey Around the World’ to an audience over 20 strong. Carers assisted with showing Karin’s silverware to clients.Photo supplied
Water Festival Experience Leaves Lasting Impact On Young Ambassador
As Runner-Up in the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Program, Jorja Vasta is encouraging other young people to get involved as preparations begin for the 68th Burdekin Water Festival, themed River Country, Burdekin Style.
Jorja said she was thrilled to receive her title and looks back on her time in the program fondly.
“I was stoked to be crowned the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner Up. I couldn’t believe it,” she said.
“I enjoyed the different experiences that came with being involved in the Water Festival, and my confidence definitely got a boost. I met a lot of new people, and I became socially more confident, which helped me a bit when I began my journey at high school.”
Jorja proudly represented the Burdekin Junior Rug-
by League Club, an organisation with strong ties to her family.
“I have loved the Burdekin Water Festival and its vibe of community connection, and it was great to represent the club I play for, and my family has been a part of,” she said.
Reflecting on Jorja’s time in the Water Festival Ambassador Program, she and her mother, Samantha Vasta, said the experience helped build confidence, create new friendships and leave lasting memories, and they are excited to see this year’s entrants begin their own festival journey.
“It was heartwarming to watch new friendships develop and Jorja’s confidence grow, and everyone around her [fellow ambassadors and mentors] were so supportive and encouraging,” Samantha said.
“Just know you won’t be the only one feeling nervous and just give it a go,” Jorja enthused.
Community To Gather Under The Stars To Kick Off The 68th Burdekin Water Festival
Excitement is building across the Burdekin as preparations ramp up for the official launch of the 68th Burdekin Water Festival! The Burdekin Water Festival Committee is inviting the community to gather at the Burdekin Theatre Forecourt from 6pm on Friday, 19th June, for the BWF Community Launch, celebrating the start of another festival season.
Burdekin Water Festival Ambassador Coordinator Kari Ravizza said the event remains one of the most significant dates on the festival calendar.
“The Launch is where the community gets its first chance to meet this year’s Ambassadors and celebrate the beginning of their journey,” she said.
“It sets the tone for the months ahead and reminds us what the Water Festival is all about – community, connection and local pride.”
Held under the 2026 theme, River Country, Burdekin Style, the evening will celebrate the people, lifestyle and spirit that make the Burdekin unique. Guests will be among the first to meet this year’s Ambassadors as they take to the stage to deliver their introductory speeches.
“People can look forward to a fantastic
evening of local talent, community spirit and festival excitement,” Mrs Ravizza said.
Adding a touch of nostalgia, the muchloved Festival Fashion Parade will return, showcasing garments from local businesses, while local performers Gabriel Hatheral and Mason Lando will provide live entertainment throughout the night.
Mrs Ravizza encouraged both long-time supporters and first-time attendees to come along.
“Even if you’ve never attended a Water Festival event before, the Launch is the perfect place to start! The Water Festival belongs to the whole Burdekin, and the Launch is a great way to be part of it.”
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic rug or chair and either pack a picnic or pre-order meals from Feed Me Food. Drinks will be available from the bar. Tickets for the BWF Community Launch are available now via burdekinwaterfestival.com.au/events.
WHAT: Burdekin Water Festival Community Launch
WHEN: 6pm, Friday 19th June
WHERE: Burdekin Theatre Forecourt
Jorja transformed her float into a Las Vegas-inspired wonderland for the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Street Parade and Mardi Gras, embracing the festival’s Bon Voyage: Roam the Globe theme. Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto
Jorja Vasta says her time as the 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador Runner-Up helped boost her confidence and create lasting friendships.
Photo credit: Sharon Bozzetto
“YOU ARE NOT ALONE”
Burdekin marches against domestic violence
Over 150 Burdekinites marched through Plantation Park on May 31st in solidarity with victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.
The DV Prevention Walk brought local families, community groups, councillors, and service providers to Ayr’s Plantation Park before a purple-and-orange convoy set off along the Bruce Highway, up to Kirlie Road, and back to the park.
Marchers held high signs calling for an end to violence, before signing a banner pledging their commitment to safer families and communities.
Burdekin Community Association CEO Debra Cochran, emcee of the event, told the crowd before the march that preventing domestic and family violence was a responsibility shared by the entire community.
“Violence and abuse in any relationship
is unacceptable. Preventing it requires all of us to step up, call out disrespect and at times, have tough conversations with our friends and loved ones,” Ms Cochran said.
“Every step you take today is a step toward a culture where everyone feels safe, equal and respected. Let’s walk with purpose and carry the energy of today forward into what we say and do every day.
“We say NO to violence.”
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Officer in Charge of the Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields also addressed attendees on the morning.
Police and DFV Service providers manned information stalls, with a free barbecue breakfast provided by the Network and free sweets courtesy of Sweetsville.
SweetFM also brought music, rock paint-
ing, and badge making activities to the park.
Ms Cochran described the event as “very successful and impactful.”
“We fulfilled the main purpose of the event, which was to raise awareness about domestic and family violence within the community while creating a visible message of support for victim-survivors,” she said.
“It was an opportunity for community members to come together in solidarity and demonstrate a shared commitment to promoting safety, respect, and healthy relationships within the Burdekin community.
“We hope the event encourages ongoing conversation.”
Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue across Australia and
Queensland.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in four Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner since the age of 15.
In Queensland, there were 27,857 domestic and family violence protection orders initiated in 2023–24, according to latest Queensland Courts data.
Ms Cochran said the walk reinforced the importance of community support for victim-survivors of one of the State’s most pressing social issues.
“We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them,” she said.
PHOTO CREDIT: Natalie Saroglia
Across
1 Danger, pitfall (6)
4 Supply (7)
7 Isolation period (10)
11 Restriction on night-time movement (6)
12 Aristocratic titles (7)
13 Structural steel support (1-4)
14 Inland body of water (4)
15 Chemical base (6)
18 Lighthearted musical theatre (5,5)
19 Arrange (4)
20 Number of months in a year (6)
21 Angler’s worm (4)
22 Immeasurable chasm (5)
24 Long footrace (8)
27 Suit material in Bennie and the Jets (6)
28 Watcher (6)
31 Eccentric or peculiar (5)
34 Lasso (6)
35 Take place (5)
37 Liquid dispensing tool (7)
38 Italian city (7)
Down 2 Entertained (6)
3 Sudden burst of inspiration (8)
4 Student (5)
5 Word-for-word (8)
6 Striking sight (6)
7 Fragrant yellow fruit (6)
8 Easily (7)
9 Able to read minds (10)
10 Lift (8)
16 Separately (5)
17 Entirely or completely (2,4)
23 Catch unprepared (9)
25 Improvising dialogue (2-7)
26 Paid workers or mercenaries (9)
29 Spiral pattern (5)
30 Response to a message (5)
31 Cosmic cause and effect (5)
32 Informal agreement (4-5)
33 Sailor (9)
36 Without limits (9)
39 Small tropical lizard (5)
Across
41 Fleshy ear part (4)
1 Danger, pitfall (6)
42 Aquatic respiratory organ (4)
4 Supply (7)
7 Isolation period (10)
43 A very long time ago (4,3)
11 Restriction on night-time movement (6)
Down
2 Entertained (6)
40 Major blood vessel (5)
3 Sudden burst of inspiration (8)
41 Written defamation (5)
4 Student (5)
46 Person who teaches (10)
5 Word-for-word (8)
49 Iron, copper and gold (6)
44 Reindeer species (7)
12 Aristocratic titles (7)
13 Structural steel support (1-4)
45 Brownish-grey photo tint (5)
14 Inland body of water (4)
6 Striking sight (6)
51 Pace (5)
7 Fragrant yellow fruit (6)
8 Easily (7)
52 Canine assistant (5,3)
9 Able to read minds (10)
54 Threatening or evil (8)
15 Chemical base (6)
47 Genuine, fair – (coll) (6)
10 Lift (8)
56 Team sport (8)
sudoku
18 Lighthearted musical theatre (5,5)
16 Separately (5)
48 Gadget, device (5)
50 Hint (6)
19 Arrange (4)
17 Entirely or completely (2,4)
52 Opposite of matte (6)
20 Number of months in a year (6)
53 Blade attachments for rifles (8)
21 Angler’s worm (4)
22 Immeasurable chasm (5)
23 Catch unprepared (9)
57 Cheerful exclamation from fairytale dwarfs (5-2)
59 Middle (6)
25 Improvising dialogue (2-7)
60 University grounds (6)
24 Long footrace (8)
55 Omit sound in speech (5)
58 Weapons (4)
27 Suit material in Bennie and the Jets (6)
59 Caterpillar’s retreat (6)
28 Watcher (6)
26 Paid workers or mercenaries (9)
62 Adjust (6)
29 Spiral pattern (5)
65 Fuzzy fungal growth (5)
30 Response to a message (5)
61 Condensed carbon (4)
31 Eccentric or peculiar (5)
34 Lasso (6)
63 Insurance subtraction (10)
35 Take place (5)
37 Liquid dispensing tool (7)
31 Cosmic cause and effect (5)
TODAY'S SOLUTIONS
32 Informal agreement (4-5)
33 Sailor (9)
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
36 Without limits (9)
38 Italian city (7)
64 Marlboro buyer (6)
66 Money owed (4)
41 Fleshy ear part (4)
39 Small tropical lizard (5)
40 Major blood vessel (5)
67 Loud verbal exclamation (5)
42 Aquatic respiratory organ (4)
41 Written defamation (5)
46 Person who teaches (10)
68 High plains (7)
43 A very long time ago (4,3)
44 Reindeer species (7)
69 Nocturnal marsupial (6)
45 Brownish-grey photo tint (5)
70 Military security building (10)
47 Genuine, fair – (coll) (6)
48 Gadget, device (5)
50 Hint (6)
52 Opposite of matte (6)
71 Having a celebrated history (7)
53 Blade attachments for rifles (8)
72 Become more intense (6)
55 Omit sound in speech (5)
58 Weapons (4)
59 Caterpillar’s retreat (6)
61 Condensed carbon (4)
63 Insurance subtraction (10)
64 Marlboro buyer (6)
66 Money owed (4)
67 Loud verbal exclamation (5)
68 High plains (7)
69 Nocturnal marsupial (6)
70 Military security building (10)
71 Having a celebrated history (7)
72 Become more intense (6)
49 Iron, copper and gold (6)
51 Pace (5)
52 Canine assistant (5,3)
54 Threatening or evil (8)
56 Team sport (8)
57 Cheerful exclamation from fairytale dwarfs (5-2)
59 Middle (6)
60 University grounds (6)
62 Adjust (6)
65 Fuzzy fungal growth (5)
word search
Theme: Norse Mythology
Can you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. 10.25 Stuff The British Stole. 10.55 Race Around The World. 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. 1.45 Ground Up. 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 3.00 Restoration Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Shetland. (M) 9.30 Race Around The World. (PG) 10.30 Gruen. 11.10 ABC Late News. 11.25 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 12.10 Love Me. 1.05 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.
6.00 Rage Charts. 6.55 Rage Closer. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. 11.55 Rage Closer. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Shetland. 2.30 QSO: Verdi Requiem. 4.00 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. 4.30 Stuff The British Stole. 5.00 Australian Story. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Kath & Kim. (PG) 6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) 8.30 The Hardacres. (PG) 10.00 The Capture. (MA15+) 11.00 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 Race Around The World. 3.30 Creative Types. 4.00 Restoration Aust. 5.00 Back Roads. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 News. 7.30 Race Around The World. 8.30 Ground Up. 9.05 The Capture. 10.05 Death In Paradise. 11.05 The Hardacres. 12.35 Rage. 3.00 Gardening Aust. 4.00 Movin’ To The Country. 4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. 5.00 Insiders.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 You Can’t Ask That. 12.00 News. 1.00 Landline. 2.00 Spicks And Specks. 2.30 Brush With Fame. 2.55 Restoration Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 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. 9.20 Media Watch. 9.35 Planet America. 10.10 Stuff The British Stole. 10.40 News. 10.55 The Business. 11.10 Rolf Harris: Primetime Predator. 12.05 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.50 Long Lost Family. 1.40 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Death In Paradise. 2.00 Spicks And Specks. 2.30 Brush With Fame. 3.00 Restoration Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Stuff The British Stole. 8.30 Rolf Harris: Primetime Predator. 9.25 I Was Actually There. 9.55 Compass. 10.25 News. 10.40 The Business. 11.00 Four Corners. 11.45 Media Watch. 12.05 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.55 Long Lost Family. 1.40 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Four Corners. 11.00 Restoration Aust. 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. 2.00 Spicks And Specks. 2.30 Brush With Fame. 2.55 Restoration Aust. 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. 4.40 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Gruen. 8.35 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 9.25 Twenty Twenty Six. 10.25 Planet America. 10.55 News. 11.10 The Business. 11.30 TBA. 1.00 Murdoch Mysteries. 1.45 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. 5.30 7.30.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Mexico v South Africa. Replay. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. 8.30 Record-Breaking Highways. 9.35 Michael Palin In North Korea. 10.30 SBS News. 11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. 1.20 The Typist. 2.25 Rainbow Warrior: Murder In The Pacific. 3.20 Railway Journeys UK. 3.55 Going Places. 4.25 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. 4.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina. Replay. 4.30 WorldWatch. 5.35 Underground Army. 6.30 News. 7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. 8.25 The Hunt For The Last Nazis. 9.55 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 10.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. 12.20 Snowpiercer. 2.10 The Lost Scrolls Of Vesuvius With Alice Roberts. 3.05 Going Places. 4.05 Bamay. 4.25 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. Qatar v Switzerland.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Aust v Turkiye. 4.40 Hitler: A Life In Pictures. 5.35 Underground Army. 6.30 News. 7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Aust v Turkiye. Replay. 9.30 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits: Dream Teams. 10.25 Rock Legends. 10.55 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. 1.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 1.50 Going Places. 2.20 Mei Mei, Speak More Chinese. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group E. Germany v Curacao. 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group C. Brazil v Morocco. Replay. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 8.40 24 Hours In Emergency. 9.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 10.30 SBS News. 11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 12.40 Railway Journeys UK. 1.15 Jia. 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group H. Spain v Cabo Verde. 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group G. Belgium v Egypt.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group G. IR Iran v NZ. 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group F. Netherlands v Japan. Replay. 4.30 WorldWatch. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS News. 10.30 Living Black. 11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.30 The Negotiator. 12.20 Divided We Stand. 2.15 Railway Journeys UK. 4.00 Going Places. 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. France v Senegal.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group J. Austria v Jordan. 4.40 Patagonia. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Eurostar: Minding The Gap. 8.30 Mysteries Of Sink Holes. 9.25 Coldwater. 10.20 SBS News. 10.50 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.20 Why Sharks Attack. 12.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 1.40 Railway Journeys UK. 2.15 Ran. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group K. Portugal v Congo DR. 5.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group L. England v Croatia.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 11.20 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 12.00 News. 1.00 The Capture. 2.00 Spicks And Specks. 2.30 Brush With Fame. 3.00 Restoration Aust. 4.00 Frankie Drake. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Restoration Aust. 9.00 Ground Up. 9.30 Twenty Twenty Six. 10.00 Rolf Harris: Primetime Predator. 10.55 News. 11.10 The Business. 11.25 Frankie Drake. 12.10 Long Lost Family. 1.00 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. 5.30 7.30. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. France v Senegal. Replay. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Fortress Britain With Alice Roberts. 8.30 Saving Yellowstone. 9.25 A Gentleman In Moscow. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.15 The Boys Who Said No. 12.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. 12.50 Going Places. 1.20 Edward Van Gils: Street Football. 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Czechia v South Africa. 4.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. 1.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. 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. 8.00 To Be Advised. 12.00 MOVIE: Deadly Rideshare. (2020) (M) 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. Winter Cup Day, Sandown Saturday and Stradbroke Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018) (MA15+) 11.00 To Be Advised. 12.00 Devils. (MA15+) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 House Of Wellness.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 1.00 Football. AFL. Richmond v Brisbane. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.40 24 Hours In Police Custody. (M) 12.00 MOVIE: Sea Of Suspicion. (2021) 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) 9.10 The Rookie. (M) 10.10 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. 11.10 The Agenda Setters. 12.10 New Amsterdam. 1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) 9.10 Doc. (M) 10.10 House Of Wellness. (PG) 11.10 The Agenda Setters. 12.10 Happy’s Place. 12.40 New Amsterdam. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (M) 8.30 The Front Bar. (M) 9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 Australia: Now And Then. 12.00 New Amsterdam. 1.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Swimming. Aust Trials. Heats. 1.00 Find My Beach House Australia. 1.30 Find My Country House Aust. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round
6.00 Getaway. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 11.00 Swimming. Aust Trials. Heats. 1.00 Drive TV Presents. 1.30 Explore TV Viking. 2.00 My Way. 2.15 Shark! 3.30 Inside KOOZA By Cirque Du Soleil. 4.00 Journey To The Northern Territory. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Swimming. Aust Trials. Finals. 10.30 TBA. 12.40 Law & Order: Organized Crime. 1.35 Drive TV Presents.
6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 ACA. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1.00 GolfBarons. 1.30 Fish Forever. 2.00 David Attenborough’s Asia. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Tigers v Titans. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Shark! 8.15 60 Minutes. 9.15 9News Late. 9.45 The First 48. (M) 10.45 American Ripper.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Shark! 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 Shark! (PG) 9.00 100% Footy. (M) 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 11.30 Footy Classified. 12.30 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop. 2.30 Global Shop. 3.00 TV Shop. 4.00 Skippy. 4.30 ACA. 5.00 Today Early
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Shark! 1.30 Find My Beach House Australia. 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 Hundred With Andy Lee. 8.30 Clarkson’s Farm. (MA15+) 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 Freddy And The Eighth. 11.05 A Killer Makes A Call. 12.05 Footy
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 1.00 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Beat The Chasers UK. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Highway Patrol Special. 8.30 Air Crash Investigations. (PG) 9.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles. 10.30 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. 11.30 Autopsy USA. 12.30 Brave New World. 1.30 ICU. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Finding Love In Saint Lucia.
7.35pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)
8.00 Be Cool, ScoobyDoo! (PG, R)
8.55 BattleBots.
9.40 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
10.30 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.15 Deadly 60. (R)
11.40 Good Game Spawn Point. (R)
7.30pm Kids Baking Championship.
8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. (PG, R)
8.55 Caper Crew. (R)
9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)
10.25 Abbott Elementary. (PG, R)
10.45 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.30 Operation Ouch! (R)
12.00am Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. (PG, R)
7.30pm The Inbestigators. (R)
7.45 Caper Crew.
8.10 Animal Park.
9.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG, R)
10.25 Merlin. (PG, R)
11.10 Ultimate Vets. (PG, R)
11.30 Operation Ouch! (R)
12.05am Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. (PG, R) 12.25 We Bare Bears. (R)
7.35pm Ninjago: Dragons Rising. (PG, R)
8.00 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
8.25 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. (PG, R)
9.35 Chopped Junior. (R)
10.15 Kids Baking Championship. (R)
11.00 Merlin. (PG, R)
7.35pm Ninjago: Dragons Rising. (PG, R)
8.00 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
8.25 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
8.45 Savage Builds. (PG)
9.25 MythBusters
“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)
9.50 BattleBots. (PG, R)
10.35 Monsters Of The Deep. (PG, R)
11.25 Merlin. (PG, R)
7.35pm Ninjago: Dragons Rising. (PG, R)
8.00 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
8.25 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
9.05 Adventure Time. (R)
9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. (R)
11.20 Super Happy Magic Forest. (R)
11.45 Operation Ouch! (R)
7.35pm Ninjago: Dragons Rising. (PG, R)
8.00 Young Sheldon. (R)
8.25 Young Sheldon. (PG, R)
8.40 Ultimate Vets. (PG)
9.05 Animal Park. (PG, R)
9.50 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG, R)
10.35 Amazing Animal Friends. (R)
11.25 Merlin. (PG, R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)
11.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
12.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. (PG, R) 1.00 Fresh TV. (R)
5.30pm The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6.10pm Over The Black Dot. (R) 6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 The UnXplained With William Shatner. (M) 9.50 The Americans. (M, R) 10.45 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. (R)
7.30 Movie: Next. (2007) (M, R) Nicolas Cage, Julianne Moore. 9.30 Blue Bloods. (M, R) 10.25 JAG. (PG, R) 11.20 JAG. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm Bull. (PG, R)
6.30 Building The Dream. (R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (PG, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG, R) 12.15 JAG. (PG, R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.45 The Mega-Brands That Built The World. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. (M) 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 The Death Coast. (PG)
9.50 The Americans. (M, R)
10.40 The Swiping Game. (M, R)
6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Ridiculousness. (PG, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
5.45pm The Frontier. (PG, R)
6.40 Abandoned Engineering. (PG, R)
8.30 Cup Fever! (M)
9.00 The Death Coast. (PG) 9.50 The Americans. (M, R) 10.40 The Swiping Game. (MA15+, R) 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Australia v Turkiye. Replay.
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R)
10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)
11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
11.15 Sports Tonight: The Weekly Kick Off. (R) 11.45 JAG. (PG, R) 12.45 JAG. (PG, R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
5.30pm Bull. (PG, R)
6.30 Building The Dream. (R)
7.30 NCIS. (M, R)
8.30 NCIS. (M, R)
9.25 Bull. (M, R)
10.20 Bull. (PG, R)
11.15 JAG. (PG, R)
12.15 JAG. (PG, R)
1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00pm Friends. (PG, R)
6.30 Friends. (PG, R)
5.50pm Alone Finland. (M)
6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Cup Fever! (M) 9.00 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. (PG) 9.50 The Americans. (M, R) 10.45 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. (R)
5.50pm Alone Finland. (M)
6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Cup Fever! (M) 9.00 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. (M) 9.50 The Americans. (M, R) 10.40 The Swiping Game. (M, R)
8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.30pm The Secret Genius Of Modern Life. (PG, R) 6.40 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Cup Fever! (M) 9.00 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. (M) 9.50 The Americans. (M, R) 10.45 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. (R)
5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)
7.30 Father Brown. (M, R)
8.30 Grace. (M) 10.30 Horse Racing. Royal Ascot. Day 3.
5.30pm Rugby League. Women’s Under-19s State Of Origin. New South Wales v Queensland.
7.30 RBT. (M, R)
8.30 Emergency. (M, R)
9.30 A+E After Dark. (M, R) 10.30 Chicago Med. (MA15+) 11.30 Sight Unseen. (M, R) 12.30 Customs. (PG, R) 1.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG, R) 5.30pm Bull. (PG, R) 6.30 Building The Dream. (R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. (M) 9.25 Blue Bloods. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (PG, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG,
Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Cup Fever! (M) 9.00 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. (M) 9.50 The Americans. (MA15+, R) 10.45 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. (R)
John Parison
The Parison family sincerely thanks everyone for the overwhelming love, support and kindness shown to us following the sudden passing of our dearly loved husband, father, nonno and bisnonno, John Parison.
Thank you to all who attended John’s service, sent flowers, cards, messages, food, and shared special memories with us. Your thoughtfulness and support during this sad time has brought our family great comfort.
A heartfelt thank you to the former members of the Hornets Rugby League Club for the beautiful guard of honour at John’s funeral, and to our friends and community for helping us honour and celebrate his life with so much warmth, care and compassion.
John will remain forever in our hearts and lovingly remembered always. With sincere thanks,
Marlene Parison, Yvonne, John, Michael, Bryan, Terry and families
CALL FOR TENDERS
Preparation and Publication of a Local Phone Book
Rotary Club of Ayr invites qualified and experienced businesses to submit tenders for the preparation, compilation, advertising coordination, and publication of a Local Phone Book for the Burdekin Community
Scope of Work
The successful tenderer will be responsible for:
• Collecting and verifying local business and community contact details
• Designing and formatting the phone book
• Managing advertising enquiries and placements
• Printing and distributing the phone book within the local area
• Ensuring accuracy, accessibility, and professional presentation
Eligibility
Tenderers should demonstrate:
• Proven experience in directory or publication production
• Capacity to manage community and business engagement
• Strong design, publishing, and distribution capabilities
• Compliance with relevant legal and privacy requirements
Tender Documents
Tender documentation is available from: Email: ayr@rotary9560.org or ayrbird@bigpond.com Phone: 0412582839
Closing Date
Tenders must be received no later than 30 June 2026, Late submissions will not be considered.
Submission Details
Tenders should be submitted by email to ayrbird@bigpond.com or via sealed envelope marked 'Tender – Local Phone Book' and mailed to: PO Box 931, AYR QLD 4807
Additional Information
Rotary Club of Ayr Inc is not bound to accept the lowest or any tender.
PATTINSON,
John 26 Feb 1955 - 26 May2026
Partner of Lee Kierle (dec).
Son of Doug (dec) & May (dec) Pattinson. Brother and brother-in-law to Margaret (dec) & Dick, Carmel, Raymond (dec), Mary, Michael (dec) & Kerry (dec), Peter & Janette, Cath & Stephen and Trish & Glen.
John was privately cremated in Perth. Family and friends are invited to " raise a glass" and remember John on Saturday 13 June at Ayr RSL.
If attending please contact Cathie via SMS 0429147592 for details.
GRAHAM PETER GILMORE AGED 81 YEARS LATE OF AYR.
Loving Husband of Cheryl. Dearly loved Father and Father-in-law of David (dec), Leah and Angus Stirton. Grandfather ( GG) to Gretchen and Cora.
Brother, Brother-in-law and Uncle to the Gilmore and Mcinnes extended families.
All family and Friends are respectfully invited to attend Graham’s Funeral Service on MONDAY, 15th JUNE at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church commencing at 10.30am for interment in the Ayr Cemetery.
K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270
MYRTLE JUNE EDWARDS LATE OF HOME HILL.
Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, 5th May. 2026. As per family's wishes a private cremation has been held.
Family and friends are invited to join MYRTLE'S family at a gathering to honour her memory which will be held on Saturday, 13th June, 2026 at the Home Hill Community Sports Club from 9.30am onwards. Light refreshments will be provided.
Please come together with the family to share stories, reflect and celebrate a life lived with love, kindness and strength.
All who knew and loved Myrtle are welcome.
K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS
40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270
SCORE
SCORE
Michael Felix Reitano Real Estate
Carla Raine & Horne Ayr
Meats
Black Snow and Big Smashes at 2026 Cane Country Cup
PICKLEBALL
In the Advanced Competitive section, Hannah Casswell’s team was pipped at the post by Darren Hutchenson’s team from Townsville picking up second place.
In Tier one Intermediate Kate Casswell’s Home Hill team with a bit of help from Michelle Jones of Townsville and Joyce Morris from Bowen played some tough and close rounds to come up with the win. In the Social section, Merv Mohr and Tracey Groom’s teams picked up first and second place respectively.
It was refreshing to see and hear the enthusiasm for the sport, with lots of laughs coming from the competitors. Home Hill members put on a fantastic spread of
food which will no doubt be remembered long after all the bad shots are forgotten.
Thanks go to all the sponsors, donors and especially the volunteers who helped make this event happen. Organiser Kate Casswell said that Pickleball was the real winner with everyone agreeing that it was a great day.
Results
Advanced Competitive
1st 297 points Pickle me dink Darren Hutchenson Townsville
2nd 253 points Pickle d’Lulu Hannah
Casswell Townsville
3rd 231 points Leyton’s Larrikans Towns-
Continued from cover
ville
Tier 1 Intermediate
1st 235 points In a pickle Kate Casswell
Home Hill
2nd 208 points Let’s Get Pickled Rob Dunn Bowen
3rd Tie 207 points Michael Northwood
Dink and Dive Home Hill and Faramade
Fours dinks and a point Townsville
Tier 2 Intermediate
1st 239 points Trish Harley Holey
Dinkballs Townsville
2nd 228 points Fantastic Forehand Trish
Harley Townsville
3rd 223 points Extra Pickles Susan Kalemba Townsville
Social
1st 292 points Green and Pickled Merv Mohr Home Hill
2nd 283 points Sandy Slammers Tracey Groom Home Hill
3rd 275 points Social Dinkers Lori Morris Bowen
Fair Play Trophy
Social Dinkers Bowen
Gloucester Gherkins Cape Gloucester
Contributed with thanks to Kate Casswell
Roosters Wins, Losses And Family Fundraiser
Four points was the difference in the Burdekin Roosters’ chance of a clean sweep over the Herbert River Crushers in Ingham last Saturday.
The under 19s opened the day strongly, finishing with a dominant second half to record a 44–16 win. The reserves, however, led 22–4 at halftime before falling away in a dramatic 32–28 loss. A Grade closed the day with a composed 26–18 victory, leading from start to finish.
Coach Steve Lansley praised the A Grade side for continuing their strong away form, claiming a third straight win built on disciplined attack and solid defence.
The Roosters raced to an early lead, built a 16-point buffer, and held firm under second-half pressure as the Crushers mounted a comeback.
Standouts included Cooper Fletcher (front row), Jake O’Brien (centre) and Nemia Nawave (second row), who led through work
rate and impact. Terry Connors crossed twice, with further tries to Tamu Rupena, Adam Cameron and O’Brien. Jye Olsen added two goals.
Attention now turns to Old Boys Day this weekend, where the Roosters host Brothers in a major clash. A Grade face second-placed Brothers at 6pm after earlier under 19 and reserve grade matches.
Reserve grade produced a game of two halves. The Roosters led 22–4 at the break after strong attacking football, but conceded early in the second half as momentum swung to the Crushers.
Herbert River eventually took the lead late, before hooker Ron Geia scored to put the Roosters back in front, with Dylan Doak converting. However, the Crushers struck in the final minute to snatch a 32–28 win.
Coach Peter Horan was disappointed, saying the side “forgot about defence” after
halftime. Best players included Ron Geia, Harvey Horan, Kane Dyne, Kurtis Cox and Calem Saxby. Cox scored two tries, Doak two, with one each to Geia and Llama Ghee. Doak kicked two goals.
The under 19s overcame a slow, physical first half to trail 16–10 at the break before completely dominating the second half, running in 34 unanswered points to win 44–16.
Coach Alf Cantarella urged his side to use width and speed, with centre Kirk Viero exploiting space to score three tries. Hooker Jack Power controlled the ruck and also crossed, while Chad Fraser guided the attack and kicked five goals.
Other try scorers included Tyreece Trindle (2), Riley Smith, Jack Power and Brody Scrivener, with K.J. Zaro also adding a goal-kicking contribution.
Recently, the Davenport family—Ryan and
Holly and their three children—received devastating news regarding the health of their two-year-old son, Rowen.
Ryan has been a Rooster for some 25 years, rising to A Grade captain, while his parents John and Jean have held positions at the club for several seasons, with John a life member. Holly’s family, Rick and Leanne Gudge, have also been part of the Roosters community for many years.
This Saturday, at the conclusion of the A Grade game, a giant auction will be held featuring a number of jerseys, including every Queensland NRL team jersey and Maroons jerseys, all signed, as well as others such as South Sydney and Parramatta.
The club hopes to raise a significant amount of money to support the Davenport family, as expenses are expected to be substantial.
Contributed by Brian Carnes.
North Queensland Touch Carnival Returns After Seven-Year Break
The NQ Touch Association will host a North Queensland Touch Football Carnival in Townsville on September 12–13, marking the return of the event after a seven-year break.
Divisions will include Men’s and Women’s Open, Mixed Open, Men’s Over 30 and Over 45, Women’s Over 27 and Over 40, and Mixed Over 30.
Players wishing to nominate should place their names on the registration sheets located on the Touch canteen noticeboard. Teams will be formed and coaches appointed once sufficient numbers are confirmed.
Coutts Commercial Tavern Round 13 results
Seniors – Men
Alliance Pharmacy 11 (C Power 3, S Power 3, J Power 2, J Olsen 2) def Baywatch 5 (T Marshall 2, E Henaway 2).
Nrgize 2 def His Haas 0.
Way To Go 8 (B Palmer 5, L Williams 2) def Wires Down 2.
Burdekin PCYC 8 (G Dau 3) def Touch N
Go 3.
Slush Puppies 8 (D LeBlowitz 4, A Shield 2) def Royal Touch 5 (A Miller 2).
Renegades 7 (R Petersen 4) def Petrol Heads 2.
Creampuffs 6 (O Cavanagh 2, L Lampton 2) def Ball Grabbers 3 (B DiBella 2).
Feelers 6 (D Butler 3) def Blue Murder 4 (R Smith 3).
Women
Lasers 8 (B Lennox 3) def Silly Soft Serves 1.
First in Physio 10 (S Monday 5, L Trindle 3, M Nauqe 2) def Chick Flicks 4 (A Brown 2).
Eathorne’s Princesses 3 def Salty Sirens 0.
Under 14s
Rockies 5 (L Leavitt 2) def Broncos 1.
Baywatch 9 (Julie 3) def Red Dogs 2 2.
Red Dogs 1 4 (A Sgroi 2) drew Silly Soft Serves 4 (T Chapman 2).
Chicken Burgers 10 def Cowboys 1.
Contributed by Peter Knapton.
Next Gen Teed Up for Success at Ayr Junior Closed
Afield of 21 eager young golfers braved a chilly morning on Sunday, June 7, to contest the highly anticipated Ayr Juniors Closed Championships for 2026.
Despite the cool start, the local talent turned up the heat on the pristine Ayr golf course, delivering exceptional performances across all divisions.
Taking out the major honors for the year, Harvey Mauro was crowned the 2026 3-Hole Champion, while Nash Christie secured the 6-Hole Championship title. In the 9-hole division, Oscar Mahoney proved too strong for the competition, claiming the 2026 9-Hole Championship.
In the sub-categories, the 3-hole division saw Royce Cohen take home the Nett winner title, with Micah Kemp sinking the longest putt and Zach Marchesini recording the least putts.
The 6-hole division was dominated by Nash Fuller, who claimed both the Nett winner title and the least putts accolade. Tyler Smith also found form, winning the nearest the pin prize.
In the 9-hole field, Dayne Weston was
named the Nett winner. Weston shared the least putts honor with 9-hole champion Oscar Mahoney, who also picked up the nearest the pin award.
Organizers deemed the day a massive success, extending their congratulations to all competitors for their sportsmanship and fun-first attitude.
The event was proudly supported by local businesses, with the club extending its sincere thanks to Oar and Horan Dentists, alongside Sushi Rocks, for their generous sponsorship of the championship day.
HOME HILL DUO RECEIVE VOLUNTEERING RECOGNITION
On Thursday May 30, 2026, club members and visiting players gathered to witness Home Hill Community Sports Club President Trevor Elton and wife Judy being honoured with a Certificate of Service to Volunteering, presented by John Clark, representative from the North Queensland volunteer group.
Over the past five years, both Trevor and Judy have tirelessly dedicated their time and service to building and developing the club into what is now a successful and prosperous community hub that offers a diversity of activities for the community to enjoy.
In return for this recognition, both Trevor and Judy fully acknowledge the support, work, and role that fellow men and women members contribute to all aspects of running a successful community club. Members extend their congratulations to Trevor and Judy for a job well done.
Wednesday night bowls and Hot Shot darts continue to be popular. On the green, three games of triples were played, including club juniors Lincoln McDowell, Karen Linton, and Connor Linton. It is great to see these youngsters continuing to enjoy the game. For families in the community, it would be great to see more juniors come and join them, with the opportunity also there for mum and dad to enjoy a game as well.
This week the green has been busy with
Club Championship games played on Sunday, Saturday, Wednesday night, and Thursday. The first competition game on Sunday saw Michael Young and Bob Young take a win over Gary Nosworthy and Austin Davenport. Reports indicate the game was close throughout, with the last end proving decisive.
Saturday saw Hugh Montgomery and Des Chapman compete against Sandra Darwin and Joslyn Defranciscis, with Sandra and Joslyn taking the win. The ladies were too strong on the day.
Thursday club bowls saw the Triples final between Glenn Berriman, Les Hoey, and Paul against Trevor Elton, Mick McCluskey, and Judy Elton, with Berriman’s team taking the win. It was another close encounter, decided by just one point on the final end. Congratulations to all winners.
General club play saw two games of pairs and three games of triples. On Rink Two, Hugh Montgomery and Bob Pickard played Geoff Taylor and Maureen Marsden in what turned out to be a lucky win for the Montgomery team, having held a healthy lead for most of the game before eventually winning by one point.
On Rink Four, Gordon Braid, Michael Young, and Margaret Chapman came home against Joe Linton, Joslyn Defranciscis, and Betty Young. On Rink Five, John Hobson, Jo Roser, and Miriam Black were successful against Gary Nosworthy,
Gary Schuler, and Bob Young. Hobson’s driving talent proved the turning point.
On Rink Six, Bruce McCallum, Des Chapman, and Rob Piva had a strong win over Alex Bojac, Dino Poli, and Dave Harbison. On Rink Seven, Phil Marsden and Rodney Black had a close win within two points over Keith Roser and Janet Arthur.
Congratulations to all winning teams, and to the losing teams, there is always next week.
To our visitors Rodney Black, Miriam Black, and Harbison, we extend a warm welcome and trust you have enjoyed your Home Hill experience.
Supplied by Bob Pickard.
Home Hill Community Sports Club President Trevor Elton (right) and wife Judy (middle) being honoured with a Certificate of Service to Volunteering, presented by North Queensland volunteer group representative John Clark (left). Photo supplied
GOLF
Football Matters with Cyclops
Seniors
Not a good weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had all five senior teams in action winning just two matches. The Premiers and Reserves were at home to League Leaders Brothers with the Premiers losing 0-2 and the Reserves losing 1-2. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were away to Wulguru with the Division 1 losing 0-6 however, the Division 2 won 5-0. The Colts away to Saints Eagles South also won 5-0.
This week just four teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are away to Estates at 8.30 and 6.30. On Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Riverway JCU at 7.00 and 5.00 with the Mooney Cup kicking off at 4.00. The Colts have the Bye this week. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club
After their previous meeting with Brothers, there was a strong desire within the team to make amends and produce a better performance. The Panthers started the game brightly, controlling possession and dictating much of the play. Despite their dominance, it was Brothers who struck first, scoring against the run of play to take a 1–0 lead. While the Panthers continued to move the ball well and spend long periods in possession, they were unable to convert their control into clear-cut opportunities.
The second half followed a similar pattern. The Panthers continued to dominate possession and created a handful of promising chances but couldn’t find the finishing touch. Brothers then doubled their lead
from a set piece, making it 2–0 and giving themselves a significant advantage. To the Panthers’ credit, they continued to press, work hard, and try to force their way back into the contest. However, despite their efforts and control of the ball for large portions of the game, they were unable to find a breakthrough, with the match finishing 2–0 in Brothers’ favour.
Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service
Against Brothers it was a case of what should have been for this match. Burdekin was dominant in possession and position for most of the match but could not manage the win. Brothers had three shots on goal for the match and scored twice. Burdekin had sixteen shots and only found the net once. The fact that the Panthers outplayed the top of the table team is pleasing, but they let themselves down by not finishing off our chances and scoring goals.
Division 1 – Austral Masonry
Two goals down at half time to Wulguru, the Panthers were arguably still in with a chance. However, a third goal shortly after the restart put the Panthers out of the game and Wulguru scored three goals in fifteen minutes towards the end of the half and at the final whistle the Panthers had lost 0-6.
Division 2 – RG Customs
The Funkies won 5-0 against bottom placed Wulguru in a game Burdekin dominated from start to finish. Jared Giardina and Simon Scuderi scored early goals before Burdekin’s weekly struggles in front of goal continued. After the break Chris Achille netted a double, before Riley Gran-
FOOTBALL
shaw finished off the rout with a goal of the year contender. Granshaw looks primed for a big season ahead. The Funkies move up into 4th position at the halfway mark of the season.
Colts – Astute
Against Saints Eagles Souths the Colts started slowly and went into half time just 1-0 up with a late goal from Cooper Kross. After half time the Colts woke up and took control of the game, with goals coming from Jhett Jones, Brayden Card and another two goals from Cooper Kross. The game finished with a 5-0 win, and they have a bye this weekend.
Masters
The Masters were down on numbers but in good conditions featured a re-play of the recent Australia v Mexico friendly. Mexico won again, 4-3 after being 0-3 down! Best players on the night were Gary Roser and Nataniel Ek. The Magic Moment was Riley Granshaw’s header straight at the Red goalkeeper from one meter, saved. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick Off.
Juniors
Junior soccer was greeted by a chilly start on Saturday morning, but that didn’t stop the action on the field. Burdekin FC hosted home games across all age groups, with teams from Townsville travelling down to take part in a fantastic day of football for our U8–U12 players. Despite the cool conditions, players showed great enthusiasm, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout
the day. It was wonderful to see so many families supporting from the sidelines and helping create a great atmosphere. We look forward to another exciting week of training and games ahead.
The Under 15s were at home to MA Olympic. It was a scoreless match during the first half but the second half saw the Panthers take the lead with a goal by one of their newest players, Levi Cremona with an assist from Cecil Badza Gwarada. Cecil also scored later in the half. MAO got one goal past Connor Griggs, but he had been fantastic throughout the match saving many. The Under 15s won the match 2-1 taking them now to outright leaders on the ladder.
National
The Matildas had two friendlies against Mexico lined up. In the first on 6th June in Newcastle, they lost 0-1 and they play the second 9th June in Sydney.
International
In the World Cup department, the Socceroos played another friendly match, against Switzerland, drawing 1-1 in a final warm up game before the World Cup begins. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14th of June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26th June.
Quote of the Week is from film star Raquel Welch after a visit to a Chelsea match. “What they say about footballers being ignorant is rubbish. I spoke to a couple yesterday and they were quite intelligent.”
