The Get Set for Work program, run by Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) Burdekin, targets 15-19-year-olds who have disengaged from school or are looking at additional skills to assist with attaining a job.

The program includes a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational pathways, resume development and cover letter assistance, and access to first aid, RSA, and white cards.

To give real life experiences, we source guest speakers to talk on topics like budgeting, mental health, workers' rights, road safety, indigenous culture, and drug and alcohol awareness.

“Our Get Set for Work program is for youth aged 15 to 19 and is part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. The program aims to guide youths who have dropped out of school or need assistance to help towards gaining employment,” explains Rowan Scott, PCYC Burdekin Program Coordinator.

The Get Set for Work program is free, runs five days a week, and starts up again on January 27th, 2026. Success stories include participants landing jobs in travel agencies, engineering, and hospitality as well as a hardware supplier.

The program aims to build confidence and employability skills of participants.

PCYC Burdekin’s 2025 program saw participants gain statements of attainment in the Certificate II as well as opportunity to complete First Aid, RSA and White cards.

Past graduates often return to share their employment successes with the participants.

“Seeing the participants come in at the start, they’re a little nervous, a bit immature and unsure. By the end of the 10-week program, however, we start to see big changes in them when they complete their Certificate II or find work for example. It's a small reward for us but a big deal for them,” Rowan says with pride.

“Here at PCYC Burdekin, we also run a ‘Break the Cycle’ program, which helps participants obtain their 100 hours towards their learner's license. Like Get Set for Work, it’s free! We also provide a pick-up and drop-off service, which runs five days a week, from 9am to 3pm,” he says.

Both programs are designed to give participants more freedom and flexibility, while giving them a greater sense of self-worth and purpose. PCYC continues to support their participants even after the courses have concluded, providing ongoing assistance.

Businesses are encouraged to participate in the programs, with many seeing great success as a result of hiring entry-level workers.

Interested participants and businesses can contact Rowan Scott or Tamara Kemp for more information on: 0448 686 648.

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New Repair Laws Back Farmers When Machines Break Down

Australian farmers have welcomed a major reform that will give them greater control over the repair of agricultural machinery, with the Federal Government extending Right to Repair laws to the farming sector.

The reform will require manufacturers to share critical repair information with farmers and independent mechanics, ending long-standing frustrations caused by costly delays when machinery breaks down during peak periods such as harvest.

For many producers, downtime can mean significant financial losses. By allowing farmers to choose who repairs their equipment, the changes are expected to improve productivity, reduce costs and strengthen competition across the sector.

According to the Productivity Commission, extending Right to Repair to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through improved grain output alone, largely by reducing harvest delays. The announcement also comes as new figures show Australia’s agriculture industry is on track to reach a record value of almost $100 billion this financial year.

Farm groups have strongly backed the reform, with leaders describing it as landmark and game-changing for the industry. The changes are also expected to benefit regional communities by supporting local repair businesses and keeping money circulating in rural towns.

Treasury will work alongside the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to consult farmers, manufacturers and repairers as the framework is expanded, building on the success of existing Right to Repair laws in the motor vehicle sector.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reform was about fairness and practical support for farmers.

“The Albanese Labor Government has listened to our farmers and worked with them to deliver these reforms, they’re a matter of fairness for farmers and will make a big difference,” Ms Collins said.

“Farmers are backing this change because they know it will save time and money.

“The Albanese Labor Government will keep backing our farmers to succeed.”

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said the reform would strengthen both competition and regional economies.

“Farmers have been clear, they want the freedom to choose who repairs their machinery. This reform delivers that choice, strengthens regional economies and ensures technology works for the people who rely on it most,” Dr Leigh said.

“This is a win for farmers and a win for competition. When markets are open, businesses thrive, and consumers benefit. Right to Repair is about giving farmers control and creating a level playing field for independent repairers.

“Every independent workshop is a small business that employs apprentices, sponsors local clubs and keeps money circulating locally. By unlocking repair information, we’re supporting those businesses and the communities they serve.”

The Right to Repair reform is expected to improve resilience, reduce waste and ensure valuable farming equipment stays in use for longer, delivering long-term benefits for Australia’s agricultural sector and regional communities.

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Right to repair reforms will give farmers more choice over machinery repairs, cutting harvest downtime and supporting local repairers. Photo source: Unsplash

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The Burdekin region is set to bolster its flood resiliency and water supply thanks to two recently announced upgrade projects, courtesy of the Queensland Government's $15 million pledge to support North Queensland councils.

The grant, just shy of $2 million, will see both an upgrade of the Ayr Town Drain near Mackersie Street, as well as the construction of a Duplicate Water Main for the Home Hill Water Supply.

Delivered as part of the 2024–28 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP), Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the upgrades would deliver real improvements to communities across the Burdekin.

“The $720,000 duplicate water main for Home Hill will boost the reliability and resilience of the local water network, while the $1.2 million upgrade to the Ayr town drain will improve flood management and protect homes and businesses,” Mr Last said.

“These are practical upgrades that strengthen essential services for the long term.”

With the Burdekin no stranger to flooding or pressure on its water infrastructure, the projects aim to shore up essential services before the next big test arrives.

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Helping Kids Step Confidently Into 2026

As the 2025 school year comes to a close, many families are celebrating another year ticked off, while others are quietly realising a big milestone is just around the corner. For parents of Year 6 students, the end of the year marks the beginning of an exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) transition to high school in 2026.

Moving from primary to high school brings new opportunities, friendships and independence, but it can also come with nerves for both students and parents. New classrooms, different teachers, heavier workloads and unfamiliar routines are all part of the change — and that’s before adding in the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence.

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way.

Attending school orientation days, information sessions and open days can help ease uncertainty, while involving children in decisions — from choosing school bags to planning transport — helps build confidence and independence. Encouraging simple skills like reading a timetable, organising homework and looking after belongings can also make the transition smoother.

Once high school begins, keeping communication open is key. Checking in regularly, celebrating milestones like the first week or first term, and maintaining consistent routines around sleep, meals and homework can help students feel settled. Parents are also encouraged to stay connected with teachers and support staff, and to attend school events where possible.

It’s normal for some students to take longer to adjust. Changes in behaviour, confidence or enthusiasm for school can be signs they’re struggling — and early conversations with both your child and the school can make a big difference.

As families enjoy a well-earned break over the holidays, this transition can be seen not just as a challenge, but as an exciting next chapter. With support, reassurance and a positive outlook, students heading into high school in 2026 can start the year feeling prepared, confident and ready for what’s ahead.

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The end of the 2025 school year marks an exciting new chapter for Year 6 students preparing to transition into high school in 2026. Photo source: Unsplash

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Burdekin Library is inviting kids and teens aged 0–18 to take part in its Summer Reading Club this holiday season. The program runs from 1 December 2025 to 22 January 2026 and promises a mix of reading, challenges, and prizes to keep young minds engaged over the summer break.

Participants are encouraged to read books, complete fun activities, and collect rewards along the way. The library’s staff are on hand to guide children and teens through the program and explain how to join the adventure.

The Summer Reading Club is designed to encourage a love of reading, build confidence in literacy, and give children a productive, entertaining way to spend their school holidays. With prizes to win and challenges to complete, the program adds a sense of excitement to everyday reading.

The Summer Reading Club is a free and fun way for kids to stay engaged, explore new stories, and make the most of their summer holidays.

Visit your local library branch today to collect your challenge booklet and get reading!

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Burdekin Library is inviting kids and teens aged 0–18 to take part in its Summer Reading Club this holiday season. Photo source: Reading.com

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Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has been named a 2026 Girls STEM POWER ambassador, joining an elite group of just 60 students across Queensland to receive the honour.

The STEM Girls POWER initiative is a year-long program that encourages girls to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It provides hands-on activities, workshops, and mentoring with female role models, helping students develop leadership skills and consider future STEM pathways.

Jorja follows in the footsteps of 2025 ambassador Bella Lawry, continuing a proud tradition of Ayr High girls excelling in STEM. As part of the handover, Bella passed along a book that records memories, tips, and advice from each ambassador, ensuring knowledge and experience are shared with future participants. She described the program as a lasting tradition, saying, “It is a legacy, and we hope someone else finishes it next year.”

Teacher Rob Scalia congratulated Jorja on the achievement, noting she had been selected from students across the state and praising the leadership opportunities the program provides. “It's a wonderful achievement for Ayr State High School. Congratulations, girls,” added Scalia.

The STEM Girls POWER program encourages young women to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For students like Jorja and Bella, it provides a platform to develop leadership skills while inspiring the next generation of female STEM leaders.

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Jorja Jerkic follows in the footsteps of 2025 ambassador Bella Lawry, continuing a proud tradition of Ayr High girls excelling in STEM. Photo source: Ayr State High School

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Burdekin Catholic High School is celebrating a standout year in 2025, marked by academic growth, student leadership and remarkable sporting achievements that have strengthened pride across the school community.

One of the most significant highlights of the year was the school’s excellent performance in NAPLAN, with a particular focus on student growth between Year 7 and Year 9. BCHS recorded impressive progress in its Year 9 cohort, with percentage growth data demonstrating a commitment to learning. This improvement reflects the dedication of students and staff alike, and stands as a strong indicator of the high-quality teaching and learning taking place in classrooms every day. Principal Lorraine Wolffe said the results demonstrate the school’s commitment to helping every student achieve their personal best.

Another standout moment this year was the Stand Up Sleep Out initiative, a powerful community event conceptualised and led by the Year 12 School Leaders. The students researched local needs, partnered with community organisations and rallied both peers and local businesses to support those experiencing homelessness in the Burdekin region. Their event not only raised significant funds for the Burdekin Community Association, but also heightened awareness and empathy among participants, showcasing leadership, compassion and a vision for positive change.

The school’s sporting program also expanded and thrived throughout 2025, achieving some of its strongest results to date. BCHS representative teams in Basketball, Netball and Rugby League enjoyed outstanding seasons, competing with determination and pride. Increased participation, strengthened training pathways and the dedication of coaching staff all contributed to a year of remarkable success. The sporting achievements underscored the school’s holistic approach to education, supporting students to grow in confidence, teamwork and resilience.

Creativity and the arts were also celebrated in spectacular fashion with the 2025 School Musical, Moana Jr. Students from across year levels came together to deliver a vibrant and heartfelt performance that captivated audiences across multiple shows. The production showcased extraordinary talent both on stage and behind the scenes, highlighting the collaborative spirit and artistic energy within the BCHS community.

With excellence demonstrated in academics, leadership, sport and the arts, Burdekin Catholic High School concludes 2025 with immense pride, celebrating a year that truly reflects the strength, spirit and heart of the school community.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Catholic High School Principal Lorraine Wolffe

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Home Hill Community Kindergarten director Sue Amore has stepped down after 20 years of guiding and inspiring young minds across the Burdekin, drawing to a close a remarkable stint at the helm.

“It’s hard to believe 20 years have gone by,” said Amore. “I have many very precious moments I will remember forever. I just think it’s time to take a step back and let somebody else take the reins.”

Assistant Jodie MacDonald, who worked alongside Amore for the past 10 years, said her departure marked the end of a decades-long era of care and kindness.

“She’s brought a very calming influence. All the kids seemed to flock to her because she’s so gentle and kind,” MacDonald said. “The kids love her, and I think everyone’s going to miss her a lot. They’re very big shoes for the next person to fill.”

Amore’s journey into early childhood education in the Burdekin took shape over time. Originally from Melbourne, she and her husband first visited the region in 1987 while travelling around Australia. After falling in love with the area, they returned in 1993, settled permanently and raised four daughters.

“We just found that this was a beautiful community to raise a family,” she said.

Amore said it was motherhood that ultimately inspired her to pursue teaching.

“Growing up, I never thought I would go into teaching,” she said. “But after having children myself and seeing them growing and learning, I thought, ‘this is what I want to do.’”

After completing her teaching degree, she began her career with relief teaching at Home Hill Community Kindergarten and, when the previous director retired, was encouraged to apply for the role. By the beginning of 2006, it was hers.

“I did think I would be teaching in a school, but the opportunity [at Home Hill Community kindergarten] came up and I just loved it so much,” Amore said. “It suited my style of teaching, and this is where I wanted to stay.”

Seeing children grow, and being part of that journey, remained a highlight throughout her career.

“It’s nice to see the children starting their lifelong journey of learning,” she said. “You can see such an impact from the start of the year to the end as they move on and venture into school.”

Now stepping away from the kindergarten herself, Amore is looking forward to the next chapter, which includes spending more time with her grandchildren in Townsville. She also plans to remain connected to teaching by mentoring the incoming Home Hill Community Kindergarten director and undertaking relief teaching across the Burdekin where needed.

Amore hopes to be remembered as "a teacher who inspired kindness and a passion for learning."

“I hope that I’ve been caring to every child and family, and I'm thankful to have made so many special connections,” she said.

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Home Hill Community Kindergarten director Sue Amore has stepped down after 20 years of guiding and inspiring young minds across the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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Hi everyone. How’s it going? I just wanted to share some thoughts with you about connection. As humans we are wired to be connected. It doesn’t matter what we look like or who we are, we all need connection. There are so many parts of our lives that offer connection. Connection helps keep us safe.

Obviously our loved ones are right at the top of the list when it comes to connection but we can be connected to many different things. You can be connected to a song, a prayer a place in nature, a sports team, your community etc. These connections are part of our identity, they also help us develop our values & morals, teach us respect, understanding, gratitude amongst other things. Connection is key to all our relationships.

Relationships are one of the foundations of every human’s life. Again, all different areas where we have relationships. Without a doubt there are certain people right throughout your life where you put huge effort into those relationships because they mean the world to you. At different times, all relationships are hard work and that’s okay, they are supposed to be hard at times. That’s part of how we learn and grow just the same as when the good times come along within our relationships, we will learn and grow.

The relationship we have with ourselves is the toughest but it can also be the most rewarding. It’s tough because we can’t tell it to leave us alone for a while but it is also the most rewarding because when we are taking better care of ourselves, it can help you deal with things that create stress. But, the bit we tend to forget is that when the good stuff comes along and you deserve it, you can live in that moment and really take it in.

A big part of that is how we talk to ourselves. The last time someone gave you a compliment, was the first thing that came out of your mouth 'thank you', or did you deflect it? Saying thank you first is not just showing respect for the person who gave you the compliment, but more importantly, you are offering that same respect to yourself. People don’t give compliments for nothing, there is always a reason. We are always trying to find a balance with all of this, sometimes we get that right and sometimes wrong, again that’s okay.

This time of the year is always a chance for us to reflect on the year that’s coming to a close as well as looking to the year ahead. Connection will be a big part of our reflections as well as our planning.

Last time we connected through this paper, I highlighted the fact that you are one in over 8 billion. That hasn’t changed & never will. YOU ARE SO WORTH IT.

Have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Stay safe, connect & Take Care.

Contributed with thanks to Ross Romeo of CORES Queensland

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Burdekin Shire Council are continuing to urge residents to take pride in their region and help tackle a rise in illegal dumping across the Shire.

Recent investigations have uncovered household rubbish, white goods, building materials, and green waste dumped on private properties, in bushland, along roadsides, at the Burdekin River entrance, and even directly into the river.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said illegal dumping is costly, harmful to the environment, and will not be tolerated.

“Illegal dumping is environmental vandalism. It damages our landscape, risks public safety, and leaves ratepayers to cover the clean-up costs,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“We have a beautiful region and we need everyone to take pride in keeping it that way. Council has surveillance cameras in operation and we investigate every report. We will find you, and we will fine you.”

Council employs a dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DETSI), who leads targeted investigations and monitors dumping hotspots.

In September, a man was fined $2,670 for dumping a trailer load of household waste in Beerburrum State Forest after DETSI officers investigated the incident. Maximum fines for illegal dumping can reach $66,760 for individuals and $333,800 for corporations for waste under 2,500 litres – with higher penalties for larger volumes.

“Council provides multiple waste facilities across the region, with many domestic waste items accepted free of charge. There is simply no excuse for illegal dumping – it’s cheaper to drive to the dump than risk a fine,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

Residents are urged to report illegal dumping to Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800 or visit burdekin.qld.gov.au. DETSI also offers an online reporting system for illegal dumping and littering across Queensland.

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Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with some of the illegally dumped items found within the region earlier this year (Photo Source: Burdekin Shire Council)

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Join the Christmas Beetle Count

If you’ve wondered when you last spotted a Christmas beetle, you’re not alone. Many Australians have noticed fewer of these iconic, shiny insects in recent years. But there’s hope: researchers are calling on the community to help track their return through the annual Christmas Beetle Count.

Since the 1st of October, iNaturalist reports there have already been 226 sightings this season. The project, run by Invertebrates Australia, aims to understand the population trends of Christmas beetles and investigate why numbers may be declining.

Participants are encouraged to count and photograph any beetles they see, contributing to a national database that helps researchers solve the mystery of the Christmas beetle’s changing numbers. The sightings collected also help track species diversity, seasonal patterns, and distribution.

The project covers beetles from the genera Anoplognathus, Calloodes, and Repsimus, and sightings are recorded across Australia. So far, over 20,000 observations have been logged, with popular species including the Washerwoman (Anoplognathus porosus), Duck Billed Beetle (Anoplognathus montanus), and Emerald Tip Beetle (Anoplognathus brunnipennis).

To take part, locals can visit www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count to submit observations. For those unsure how to identify the beetles, the Australian Museum’s Xmas Beetle ID Guide app is available on both iOS and Android.

By joining the Christmas Beetle Count, residents not only get a chance to enjoy a festive outdoor activity but also contribute valuable data to help protect these native insects for generations to come!

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Spot a Christmas beetle in your backyard? Join the festive count and help track these iconic Aussie insects this season (Photo Supplied)

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By Chelsea Ravizza

The community flocked to the Ayr Golf Course on Friday, the 12th of December, to be part of one of the shire’s most anticipated and well-supported charity sporting events.

The 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic was a resounding success, attracting nearly 300 golfers and raising $37,150 for Burdekin based CORES Queensland programs and initiatives.

The event aims each year to bring the community together to celebrate mateship while highlighting the vital work CORES Queensland does across the state. The organisation delivers suicide prevention and early intervention training, helping communities recognise risk, have safe conversations, and connect people with appropriate support, while strengthening mental health awareness.

Over the past several years, the End of Harvest Golf Classic has raised more than $100,000 for local charities, including CORES Queensland, a milestone organisers Kelsey Shand and Ben Smith are immensely proud of.

“We were thrilled to welcome 290 golfers to the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic,” Kelsey and Ben said.

“The turnout speaks volumes about the strength of our community and the generosity of everyone who continues to support this event year after year.”

In an emotional final year of organising the event after almost a decade, Kelsey and Ben have decided to step down from their roles in the new year, thanking everyone who has supported them and the End of Harvest Golf Classic.

“Events like this give us an opportunity to come together, enjoy the game, and reflect on the importance of checking in on friends, family, and neighbours. Through CORES, the End of Harvest Golf Classic helps turn that care into meaningful action,” they said.

“It’s not all about the money raised, it’s about connecting and having a good time with each other, and making sure that when your mates are down, you go grab them,” added Ben.

The event also featured a heartfelt address from Ross Romeo, CORES Queensland Coordinator for the region, who praised the community for coming together.

“We can measure the donations, but one thing we can’t measure is community connection,” Ross said.

“We hope that today you’ve run into people that you haven’t seen in a while, made some new mates, had some chats, and connected with one another.”

With the community’s generosity and spirit on full display, the 2025 End of Harvest Golf Classic not only raised vital funds for CORES Queensland but also reinforced the importance of connection, mateship, and looking out for one another.

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Find the social pics here:

Rodney Williams & Bob Clarke

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Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team.

The pair have travelled to Tolga on the Atherton Tablelands to compete in the U12A Northern Hub Championships, taking on the top under-12 cricketers from Central Queensland, Mackay/Whitsunday, and Far North Queensland. Their team will face each region in a 40-over round-robin competition, testing their skills against the best in the north.

The experience, from the trials and North Queensland training through to this week’s carnival of high-quality competition, is expected to not only improve Ben and Marshall’s cricket skills but also help them build friendships with young players from across Northern Queensland.

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Home Hill Cricket Association juniors Ben Watkins and Marshall Parker are representing the region this week after being selected in the North Queensland Under 12A team. Photo credit: Scott Heidke

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Home Hill Cricket enjoyed a weekend to remember with both their Second and Third Grade sides securing impressive victories.

At the Nutrien Ag Solutions fields, Home Hill’s Second Grade side clinched a thrilling win with overs to spare. Bowling first, the Home Hill bowlers were in fine form. Jack Gimson starred with 3/12 off 4.3 overs, including the key wicket of Michael Morris (54), who had threatened to take the game away. Josiah Ballin was clinical, taking 2/16 in his 6-over spell, while Alex Stillhard and Al Wilkins each bagged two wickets to maintain pressure and bowl Northern Beaches all out for 117.

In reply, Home Hill posted 4/118 in just 33 overs, opting for patience over power to take the win. Zakk Myles (31 off 59) and Lee Watts (21 off 79) anchored the innings before Mark Coventry injected momentum with a brisk 32 off 21, including a six and four fours. Greg Flanagan and Darcy Walters closed the innings unbeaten to secure the victory.

Meanwhile, the Third Grade side secured a hard-fought 21-run win over Wests at Mick Downey Oval, defending a modest total of 116 with a composed bowling display and sharp fielding. Home Hill posted 8/116 from the allotted 30 overs, with contributions across the top and middle order. Luke Mottin anchored the innings with a patient 24 off 63 balls, while Dan Olditch injected momentum with a brisk 22 off 24 balls, striking three boundaries before being dismissed. Ryan Rickards (18* from 16), Darren O’Keeffe (14 off 13) and Steven Zabala (16 from 37) ensured Home Hill reached a defendable total.

Home Hill’s bowlers responded with discipline and variety, restricting Wests to 8/95. Dan Olditch led the attack with 2-7 from 4 overs, matched by Leo Olditch who claimed 2-15 from 6 overs. Brad Parravicini (1-12 from 5) and Ryan Rickards (1-11 from 3) were also in the mix, while run outs from Steven Zabala and Darren O’Keeffe demonstrated strong fielding work.

It was a weekend of strong performances and team effort for Home Hill cricket, with both grades showing skill and composure to take home wins.

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A potentially life-threatening situation unfolded at the mouth of the Burdekin River on the afternoon of Tuesday, 2 December when a woman and five very young children were stranded on a sandbar during a rapidly rising high tide. Water Police, who initially responded to the call, described the situation as extremely dangerous, with the tide swiftly reaching 3.3 metres.

The task was passed to the Rita Island SES, who were on scene within minutes to help complete the rescue after self recovery efforts were already underway.

The woman involved, a Burdekin local, broke down in tears when recalling the terrifying experience and expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue, says Local Controller for the Burdekin SES Warren Francis.

Francis gave a special congratulations go to Deb Calligaro, who used her local knowledge to organise resources quickly and efficiently, as well as SES members Glenn Searle, Ben Barb, Chris Hodder and Russell Young, who worked alongside general duties police to bring the family to safety.

"I was very proud of our team's efforts," said Francis. "It should instil a lot of confidence in our community that we have such an organised group of volunteers who commit their time and effort into making their community safer."

Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals.

Local authorities praised the professionalism and speed of the SES response, which ensured the safety of all six individuals. Photo supplied

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