Home is Best is expanding into the Burdekin Region due to an identified need for additional care and support services. Following much community research and in line with the Aged Care Quality Standards, the Home is Best team identified an increase in choice of providers and supports available to community members was sought and a demand for change in how these services were delivered to clients in their homes. The Aged Care space is heavily monitored by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to ensure providers meet the requirements of these Quality Standards. Home is Best’s expansion will enhance and support the current providers operating in the Burdekin region by increasing capacity to meet the demand for Home Care services in the region.
 
In addition to the provision of Govt Funded Aged Care Services, Home is Best has a focus on supporting Residential Aged Care residents to continue to live their best life. Moving to residential care brings with it a range of emotions for the resident and family members. One of these, is grief and loss. Grief for the loss of family connectedness, their home, pets, and social interactions with their friends. This grief and loss can impact the individual’s ability to settle into residential aged care as quickly as they would if they had the additional support of Home is Best. Residents should not feel they can’t continue to maintain the family and community connection following moving into residential care. Home is Best provides a range of services like transport and support for residents to attend family gatherings like weddings, birthdays and funerals, medical appointments, social support and outings, shopping, bill paying etc. Supporting residents to continue live their best life.
 
   • Home is Best - Community Home Care Provider
We are a very flexible, responsive, innovative 24/7 service provider meeting the needs of a very wide range of community members.
   • Home is Best  has a range of specialised staff to meet individual care needs from basic domestic support to companionship, nursing and support services through to end of life care.
   • Home is Best  provides Post Discharge Support, Hospital in Your Home, Dementia Care and Palliative Care.
   • Home is Best  supports elderly residents to maintain their independence at home, provides support while recuperating, or in need of respite care.
 
   • Home is Best - Private Care Services
 
   • Home is Best  - Respite Care
Giving family carers a break to refresh, rejuvenate, take care of themselves or to simply attend an appointment, do some shopping or have a coffee with a friend. Taking respite from the caring role is essential for maintaining wellbeing and the carer relationship.
We support Carers of people who are aged, have a disability, mental illness and young carers who are caring for their elders.

Home is Best, giving peace of mind that your loved one/client is safe and being cared for.
 
   • Home is Best  NDIS Services include: Transport, community access, medication and meal support, domestic, social support services and nursing for Plan Managed and Privately Managed recipients.
 
   • Home is Best Brokerage - we are currently providing a range of services brokered to us from other providers. We have many service agreements and contracts with other Aged and Health Care providers, Govt Funded Organisations and Health Insurers. Brokered Services include assessments, nursing, personal care, respite support, post operative support, Hospital in Your Home, medication assistance, and palliative care.
 
   • Home is Best Team - operated by a team of professionals with over 70 years combined experience caring for our community members. We take great pride in our ongoing passion and commitment to provide respectful, individualised services with accountability and integrity.
 
If you have a client, family member or friend, who will benefit from Home is Best services and would like one of our team to come and visit you or simply want more information, please call us on 4771 2078.
 
Every person deserves to have the choice of where they receive appropriate care, Home is Best.

Every person deserves to receive quality care, be treated with respect and dignity and where appropriate, in the comfort of their own home, Home is Best.

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For Patrick and Kristy Shannon, the decision to start First In Physio was rooted in their desire to raise a family in a smaller town while creating something meaningful in their community. After graduating as physiotherapists in Brisbane, the couple decided to return to their roots and establish a clinic in Ayr.

"We wanted to come home after living in Brisbane," they shared.

"We both saw an opportunity to raise our kids in a close-knit town, but starting our own business came with risks."

Now celebrating 15 years in business the couple have pushed through any challenges and grown from a small business into a thriving clinic.

First In Physio now employs four professional physiotherapists and three administrative staff members.

"Some of our staff have been with us for over a decade," they proudly mention.

This longevity is a testament to the clinic's welcoming environment and family-oriented culture.

Two years ago, Patrick and Kristy built a new clinic and are thrilled to own their own premises after renting for 13 years.

“We poured a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into creating a space we could truly call our own,” they expressed.

The new facility includes a spacious gym and classroom, enhancing the clinic's ability to offer comprehensive care.

Over the last 15 years, the field of physiotherapy has evolved significantly and First In Physio has embraced these changes.

"We’re working towards a preventative health model," they explained.

"It’s not just about treating people when they’re sick, but about helping healthy people stay healthier."

This shift in philosophy reflects a broader trend in healthcare, where the focus is on promoting wellness and preventing injuries before they happen.

From getting kids involved in sports and teaching them how to prevent injury, to holding regular exercise classes for clients, First in Physio is at the forefront of positive health maintenance.

As they reflect on the past 15 years, the couple express immense pride in what they’ve achieved.

"We’re proud that we’ve been able to serve this community for so long, and that we’ve built lasting relationships with our clients. We’re treating some families across three generations now."

Looking to the future, they are eager to continue growing and evolving. "We hope to expand our team and continue working with young people in the community, encouraging them to stay active and healthy. Starting early leads to healthier generations”.

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The team at First In Physio (not pictured: Kathy Aguirre)
Kristy, Patrick and their little one. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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As the warmer months approach, Burdekin residents can once again enjoy their local pools, which reopened on Sunday, September 1. Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort shared the excitement around the reopening.

“The reopening of our local pools is always a highlight as the weather starts to warm up,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

In addition to the re-opening, the Home Hill Pool has received upgrades to its amenities, enhancing the experience for swimmers this season.

Residents are encouraged to visit the Burdekin Shire Council website to check the updated hours for their local pool before heading out.

Home Hill Pool
Monday to Friday: 5:30am – 10:00am and 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Public Holidays: 9:00am – 5:00pm (Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day)
Burdekin Aquatic Centre
Monday to Tuesday: 5:30am – 7:00pm
Wednesday: 5:30am – 6:00pm
Thursday to Friday: 5:30am – 7:00pm
Saturday: 5:30am – 6:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Water Park: Monday to Sunday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Pool Fees: Adult: $3.50 | Child (up to 15 years): $2.50 | Senior (65+): $2.50
Clare Pool
Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Sunday: 3:30pm – 6:00pm

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Tosh’s Convenience Store, located in the heart of the Burdekin, has grown from a humble shop into a bustling mini supermarket that’s become a vital part of the community. The store's owner, Peta Wassmuth, was motivated by a desire to work independently, leading to the decision to take over and revitalise the store.

One of the key changes implemented under the new ownership has been the introduction of in-store promotions, which have not only enhanced the shopping experience but also fostered a strong sense of community engagement. From giveaways like mini bar fridges to Father’s Day hampers, these promotions have added excitement for customers, encouraging them to return and participate. The latest promotion offers a chance to win a V duffel bag and outfit with the purchase of two V products, keeping the momentum going.

What truly sets Tosh’s Convenience Store apart from others in the area is the extensive range of products it offers. Unlike many convenience stores, Tosh’s functions as a mini supermarket, stocking everything you would expect to find in a larger grocery store. Customers can find a wide variety of items, including groceries, Lotto tickets, drinks, and hot food, making it a convenient one-stop shop for the local community.

The product selection at Tosh’s Convenience Store is driven by customer feedback. Peta listens closely to what customers want and makes sure those items are available. This customer-centric approach has helped the store remain relevant and responsive to the needs of the local community.

Tosh’s Convenience Store is also deeply committed to giving back to the community. One of the ways it does this is by offering free coffees to emergency service personnel, a gesture of gratitude for their hard work. The store is also planning to extend special deals to hospital staff and continues to offer in-store hampers, ensuring that the community feels supported and valued.

One of the most memorable moments for Peta is the joy of informing customers that they’ve won a prize, highlighting the positive impact the store has on its customers. Looking ahead, Tosh’s Convenience Store has plans to expand its offerings, including the introduction of a fish and chips service. This addition will further strengthen the store’s role as a key provider in the community, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of its customers.

Tosh’s Convenience Store is more than just a place to buy goods—it’s a cornerstone of the Burdekin community, providing essential services with a personal touch and a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction.

Owner Peta Wassmuth and partner Glen Gudge

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Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has expanded its growers’ services footprint in the Burdekin and Herbert River regions with the engagement of three new employees last week.
Burdekin local Angelo Licciardello and Herbert Rivers’ Lawrence Di Bella were both appointed this week as the new Burdekin and Herbert River District Managers respectively. Anna Di Bella, wife to Lawrence, also was appointed as Administration Officer in the Herbert River cane supply area.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said the new arrangements ensured the level of services provided by the organisation would be maintained, but also accommodate predicted future growth.
“These new appointments follow the appointment of our first QCAR District Manager in the Central Region four months ago, so this is a very exciting period of growth for us as an organisation,” he said.
Sonia Ball was engaged on 1 May to cover the Central District which comprises the sugarcane supply areas across Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek. Mr Ryan said all engagements were a bonus to QCAR with each person bringing wide-ranging knowledge of the sugarcane industry and decades of experience with cane farming and sugarcane growers.
Angelo brings extensive experience from decades working in the rural environment with his most recent role being an on-farm consultant and account manager. Prior to this, Angelo established and managed his own rural supplies business in the Burdekin for 16 years.
QCAR is excited to have access to Angelo’s business acumen and local knowledge and familiarity with Burdekin growers and their businesses. The Di Bella duo is also well-known in the Herbert River districts managing their own farming enterprise along with their business Tropical Agricultural Services. Together they bring generational expertise and knowledge to the table.
“We feel very fortunate to now have three District Managers on board, and we know this is going to be very advantageous for our growers across Queensland.
“We are now turning our eyes to the northern regions and hope we can secure the same experience and advantage to service our growers in these areas,” Mr Ryan said.
Growers can welcome the new QCAR team members on the following numbers:
Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello 0437 401 837
Herbert River District Manager Lawrence Di Bella 0448 084 252
Herbert River District Administration Officer Anna Di Bella 0419 673 000
Central District Manager Sonia Ball 0467 573 321

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New QCAR Burdekin District Manager Angelo Licciardello joins the QCAR Team in the QCAR head office at Ayr. Photos supplied
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QCAR Lawrence Di Bella: Well-known Herbert River sugarcane grower and ag businessman Lawrence Di Bella has been appointed the new QCAR Herbert River District Manager

Joining the QCAR team in the Herbert River region is Anna Di Bella who was formerly engaged as Administration Officer

Cane crushed
This week
Season to date
Invicta
153,616
1,241,474
Pioneer
74,664
560,253
Kalamia
80,792
694,564
Inkerman
82,255
782,996
Burdekin
391,327
3,279,287
CCS
Invicta
14.25
14.04
Pioneer
14.28
14.14
Kalamia
13.65
13.75
Inkerman
14.01
13.86
Burdekin
14.08
13.95
Weekly variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q240
54%
14.29
WSRA17
6%
13.32
KQ228
18%
13.92
SRA23
5%
13.83
Q183
11%
14.03
Q208
4%
14.01
Comments:
The Burdekin mills processed just over 390,000 tonnes of cane for the week, which is the highest throughput for the season to date. Operations were again disrupted by industrial action.
The season-to-date total of 3.28M tonnes represents 40% of the Burdekin region’s revised estimate of 8.20M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 14.08, which is still below budget as a result of the wet weather event but improving quickly.
The highest CCS of 16.8 was shared this week between rakes of Q240-1R in the Barratta (Pioneer) and KQ228-1R in the Millaroo (Invicta) productivity districts.
With school holidays beginning this coming Friday (13 September), parents and carers are urged to warn children of the dangers of playing near cane railway lines.
Families and visitors who are doing road trips over the school holidays are reminded to use their train brain and always give way to cane trains.
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John Tait
Cane Supply Manager
Burdekin Region

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Opinion piece
 
The Nationals will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of farmers from across the country on September 10, in an unprecedented rally against Labor’s anti-farming ideology.
 
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said Labor is destroying agriculture and making life impossible for the nation’s producers of food and fibre, due to endless cuts to the regions, anti-farming legislation and unnecessary red tape.
 
“The Nationals 100 per cent support our farmers attending the National Farmer Rally outside Canberra Parliament House,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“This Labor Government has decimated our farming and agriculture industry in Dawson. It has been over 40 years since farmers last felt so aggrieved to protest against a government.

“As a farmer by trade, I know the challenges these farmers face every day, and the blood, sweat, and tears that they put into running their business.

“Witnessing what Labor is doing to wreak havoc on this industry is appalling.
 
“It’s easy to understand why our farmers are fed up, after being constantly attacked by Labor and its anti-farming policies, from axing the Agriculture Visa, to the introduction of the family car and ute tax.”
 
The Nationals are demanding 10 key changes by Labor;
   1. Reinstate the live sheep export trade.
   2. Bring back the Agriculture Visa and fix Labor’s PALM scheme mess.
   3. Stop Labor’s water buybacks in the Murray-Darling Basin.
   4. Introduce a container levy (so our own farmers don’t pay for the biosecurity risk created by international competitors).
   5. Reverse Labor’s cuts to regional infrastructure. 
   6. Stop Labor’s truckie tax and vehicle efficiency standard.
   7. Create a mix of energy, rather than Labor’s all-renewables approach, which is destroying agricultural land.
   8. Scrap harmful emissions profiles, or Scope 3.
   9. Stop Labor’s proposed taxes on superannuation, which will impact family farms.
   10. Ensure the 88-day backpacker work visa remains in place for the agriculture sector.
 
“These 10 key areas are crucial to farming, agriculture and regional Australia. The Nationals will not stop fighting until common sense prevails and our farmers get a fair go.”

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Gumlu students travelling on the bus to school will soon be a little safer after Member for Burdekin Dale Last joined community members to call for safety improvements to school buses. 

Mr Last said while it beggared belief that a bus carrying students as young as five years old along some of the deadliest sections of the Bruce Highway had been able to operate without seatbelts, the announcement of a replacement bus for the school run was a win for the safety of some of Gumlu’s youngest residents. 

“When concerns raised by community members that students so young were travelling on a bus from Gumlu to Home Hill without seatbelts I was more than happy to work with residents to lobby the Minister for action,” Mr Last said.

“The replacement bus with seatbelts is scheduled for delivery in the coming months and as the Member for Burdekin, I’ll be looking to ensure there are no delays in the delivery of the bus and that students are able to enjoy a safer trip to school as soon as possible.”

“We know in the north here that when we want to see improved services or safer roads that we have to fight tooth and nail, so to have common sense prevail when it comes to the safety of our students is positive news for everyone.”

Mr Last said the recent tragedy on the Bruce Highway at Gumlu had brought community concerns around the safety of bus travel and the Bruce Highway to the fore.

“Recently we have seen a number of reports highlighting serious safety concerns with the Bruce Highway and particularly that section south of the Burdekin which this community deserves to know haven’t been swept under the rug by Minister’s in the south-east,” Mr Last said.

“Under Labor, the Bruce Highway south of the Burdekin hasn’t become any safer and the fact that the Prime Minister failed to make any commitment when he was in the North last week sends a clear message to this region.” 

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The Brazil crush continues to power along and is currently around 60% complete.

UNICA’s second half of July report indicated that while year to date the crush was ahead, the fortnightly cane crush is now below last year’s comparative volume.

As each month passes, the focus on the UNICA reports intensify as analysts dissect the results to see if their projected sugar volume is still valid – or not.

Cane crushed is a key variable and accumulated volumes remain over 5% ahead of last year. What UNICA does not publish is the tonnes of cane per hectare (TCH) yield in Brazilian reporting.

A separate reporting body, CTC, released the July accumulated TCH numbers which indicated a 10% decline in the yield compared to last year. While low, it was not as bad as some had been expecting, resulting in analysts revising up their forecasts.

Overall, the range of forecasts for Brazil has tightened up to broadly 40-42M tonnes of sugar, with Wilmar remaining at the upper end of that band. By the time you read this, we may have seen the UNICA first half of August results which will again send the analysts to their spreadsheets for further revisions.

The other production country to keep in mind is India. Projection for their 24/25 crop is being revised up on a solid monsoon so far and forecasts for further rejuvenation of reservoir levels in the second half of the monsoon season.

We maintain the projection that India will not be an importer or exporter of sugar this season as increased cane production will be directed to ethanol. Next year may be a different story as relatively high domestic prices and good storages may result in a bumper crop for 25/26 season.

As the #11 sugar contract plumbs new lows, let’s hope that the old adage ‘low prices cure low prices’ holds up. Ethanol parity is still a bit away at US15c but China appears to be in the market on the buy side. The specs have got themselves into a reasonably large short position so the market could be ripe for a bounce.

Remember that the Marketing Nomination Date for 2025 Season is 31 October 2024. Even if you have nominated you can still change – if you haven’t priced, you are not locked in!

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Burdekin Community Association Inc invites you to our Get Online Week ‘Be Tech and Scam Savvy Open Day’.
 
Tuesday the 15th of October from 9.00am to 4.00pm at the Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr.
 
Get Free and friendly help from our Volunteer Tutors to improve your digital skills and learn how to be more connected on your electronic devices.
 
Learn how to:
   • Connect with family, either via messenger or facetime
   • Avoid scams
   • Send messages and emails
   • Take photos and save photos in your device gallery
   • Pay bills, use BPAY and shop online
   • Research family history
   • Surf the internet and enjoy music, stories, movies etc
   • Book medical appointments
   • Use Facebook
 
Come along to our Open Day, with your mobile phone, laptop etc and talk to our friendly and knowledgeable tutors who are always happy to help.
 
Morning and afternoon tea will be provided.
 
Book your FREE appointment at BCA now with Rita Quagliata on Ph 4783 3744.

Debra Cochran
Chief Executive Officer
Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA)

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Some of the most amazing and impactful movements have started from tiny sparks. The power of a simple idea, a small act of kindness, or a question asked with genuine care can grow into something truly remarkable, creating ripples that spread far and wide.

One great example is the R U OK? Day held today. It all started with a simple question; “Are you OK?” This incredible movement encourages conversations about mental health and checking in on others. It was inspired by the personal story of Gavin Larkin, who tragically lost his father to suicide. Gavin championed asking a seemingly small but impactful question to honour his father's memory and prevent others from going through similar pain.

What began as a heartfelt response to personal loss evolved into a national campaign, sparking conversations and raising awareness about mental health across Australia. The story of “R U OK?”  underscores the idea that the power of even the smallest gestures of kindness and empathy, touches people's lives profoundly and transcends boundaries.

This endeavour has sparked meaningful connections, supported those in need, and promoted open and honest conversations about mental well-being. This principle goes beyond individual experiences and community projects, penetrating various aspects of our lives. Whether it's personal accomplishments or societal transformation, this idea illustrates the profound influence of gradual progress and collective action.

R U OK? was born from lived experience. The valuable insights, storytelling, and expertise of those with lived experience continue to influence everything we do. Across our team, Board, Advisory Groups and Ambassadors, we remain respectful and proud of those who share their journeys to help continually improve our work.

Do you have a spark of an idea? Are you looking for a sounding board, or do you just need someone to listen? The Team at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre would love to hear your idea, story or whatever you feel like sharing. Come on in and have a cuppa with us and make new friends.

Until next time,
The Team
Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Since 1962, the Molongle Creek Boat Club (MCBC) has been a cornerstone for boating enthusiasts at the mouth of Molongle Creek. It’s a place run by volunteers who are passionate about keeping this community hub thriving.

Right now, the club is buzzing with activity as the Department of Transport tackles some much-needed dredging and excavation to improve boat access. After years of pushing for support, the state government took over maintenance duties in 2021, but the work hasn’t been straightforward. Flooding and sediment build-up have posed challenges, so heavy machinery is now at work clearing the channel. The project is set to continue for the next month, and the MCBC wants to make sure everyone stays safe around the construction site.

The MCBC is a major access point for boaters, especially during peak times like Christmas and Easter, when they see up to 400 trailers a day. They’re also working on expanding their community impact with federal funding for a new café, which will be a great addition for locals and visitors.

The club is currently on the lookout for new volunteers and fresh ideas. If you’re interested in getting involved, they’re holding their annual general meeting on Thursday, September 12, at 7:30 PM at the Volunteer Marine Rescue building north of the Burdekin Bridge. Everyone is welcome to come along, share their thoughts, and help shape the future of the club. Joe Linton, a life member, will be there with his wife, ready to welcome new faces and ideas.

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Rehoming fee: $195
DOB: 6/12/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Other cats: Yes
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

Chippy is a lively, playful cat and always on the move. He loves exploring every corner of his home. Whether chasing toys or pouncing on imaginary prey, his energy is a joy to watch.

He loves food and is always ready for more treats, kibble, or wet food, making snack time a highlight of his day. Chippy also loves climbing cat trees and shelves, watching the world from above.

For anyone seeking a fun, active, and food-loving companion, Chippy is ready to fill your life with excitement, joy, and plenty of purrs.

Chippy is available for adoption desexed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations and is flea/tick/worm treated.

To meet Chippy please fill out an animal inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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The weekend kicked off with a thrilling Friday night social bowls clash on September 6th. Newcomer Ben Mills and club President Jamie Wood faced off against veterans Ray Paneccasio and Gary Pearce. It was a tightly contested game, with Mills dominating early on, but Paneccasio’s powerful performance turned the tide, leading his team to victory. Despite their loss, Mills and Wood claimed the evening's jackpot.

On Sunday, September 8th, 30 bowlers gathered for a mix of pairs, triples, and Championship 4s. The windy conditions made for a challenging day of bowls. In the Championship 4s, Damian Morello, Ross McLaughlin, Danny O’Shea, and Tony Bayliss defeated Gary Nosworthy, Trevor Elton, Hugh Montgomery, and Allan Garioch. In another match, Mick McCloskey, Joe Yipnazar, Peter Henderson, and Richie Mau overcame Neville Dickinson, Doug Kiehne, Ray Paneccasio, and Peter Jorgenson.

In social bowls, the triples team of Jim Murray, Vince Beitia, and Jamie Woods secured a win over Terry Feakes, Henry Hazel, and Jeff Taylor. Meanwhile, in the pairs, Helen Collins and Lloyd Shepherd defeated Ben Mills and Kevin Collins, while Ken Ferguson and Doug Robbins bested Glenn Woodford and Leo Kenny.

Looking ahead, the club is gearing up for the Country Pennants at Wangaratta Bowls Club on Saturday, September 14th. Teams from Brandon, Ayr, Bowen, and Wangaratta will face off in a round-robin event, with Bowen currently holding bragging rights. Best of luck to all players in this final event of the year!

Contributed with thanks to Lloyd Shepherd

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Damian Morello Ross McLaughlin Tony Bayliss and Danny O’Shea
Peter Henderson Richie Mau Mick McCloskey and Joe Yipnazar

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Local

Burdekin Panthers had just the Premiers playing at the weekend. They were playing in the Preliminary Final, against Olympic, the Old Enemy, and won 1-0. They now play in the Grand Final against Brothers this Saturday night at Paradise Park in Townsville.

Masters

Monday Night Masters has finished for the year and will recommence in January 2025.

Night Soccer

Delta Cleaners Night Soccer’s 46th Season started last week with the first of the two Trial Weeks. The competition proper starts in Week 3, 17 September. Presently, there are twenty nine Men’s teams and fifteen Women’s Teams.   To avoid a Bye situation, Late entries will be considered.

Juniors

Juniors wrapped up a successful season on Saturday with final games and also a breakup which included a sausage sizzle and jumping castle. The Juniors have had an amazing year with Townsville teams travelling down, given our kids different players to play against each week. Thank you to the commitment from the committee, coaches, and volunteers for making the year the success it was.  Thank you to all the mums, dad, grandparents, and carers for getting your kids to training and games and being a part of the great atmosphere that was for all the see at the grounds each Saturday.  Have a good break from Saturday's now and we will see those of you doing Junior social soccer on Tuesday's next term!

National and International

Only five weeks now before the A League kicks off its 2024-25 season. The first round will be played over the weekend of 18 - 20 October. The Premiers, Central Coast Mariners are at home to Melbourne Victory and new team Auckland meet Brisbane Roar.

The Socceroos were back in action on Wednesday night when they played Indonesia in Jakarta. After their shock 0-1 loss to Bahrein last Thursday, they need to win and win well in the second of their AFC World Cup Qualification matches. There are six teams in the Socceroo’s Group, and they have to play all of them on a home and away basis. The group’s top two teams qualify automatically.

There were no games last week in the EPL and all other European Leagues as all countries are taking part in the Nations League. Notable results so far include Spain beating Switzerland 4-1 and Germany thumping Hungary 5-0. Scotland lost 2-3 at home to Poland and England squeezed past Northern Ireland 2-0.

More importantly San Marino, population 35000, and ranked number 210 in the world, (out of 210) won their first ever game beating Lichtenstein, ranked 199, 1-0.

Quote of the Week is from ex West Ham player and Northern Ireland Manager Steve Lomas "Germany are a very difficult team to play...they had 11internationals out there today."

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