Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Home Hill resident Karin Thorburn returned home last week after a month spent travelling the world, though it was not exactly your typical sightseeing expedition. The 59-year-old local runner, recognised last year as the first Australian to complete 500 marathons, set off for Cyprus in March for the XM Limassol Marathon—the first of 15 she would run over the following 30 days. Her itinerary took her through major European cities, including Paris, before culminating in the world-famous Boston Marathon, where her strong performance all but guarantees qualification for next year’s race.Home Hill’s 59-Year-Old Marathon Record-Breaker Continued from cover Home Hill runner Karin Thorburn has returned to the Burdekin after successfully completing 15 marathons in 30 days across four countries. Thorburn, a veteran runner who was this year named Burdekin Senior Sportsperson of the Year for her marathoning exploits, ran 14 marathons across Europe in preparation for the Boston Marathon, which rounded out the trip. At 59 years old, Thorburn is currently the Australian record holder for the highest number of marathons completed, with her tally now reaching 547. Despite having just competed in the Sugar Rush half-marathon only six days after returning from the United States, she shows no signs of slowing down, describing her intense schedule as a “lifestyle choice.” “It’s for my mental health, it’s for my physical health, it’s for keeping me in the best shape I can be, for a lady that’s my age," Thorburn said. “I’m not a spring chicken, and there are so many people out there saying I’m too old. I just tell them, I’m just getting started.” The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. The feat was as much a mental battle as a physical one, says Thorburn. “The mind is stronger than the legs,” she said. “Sometimes it plays tricks and says, 'You’ve done enough. Why don't you just stay in bed?' But I knew I could do it.” She explained that the massive volume of racing was a strategic training block designed specifically to conquer the Boston Marathon, an event she considers "the pinnacle.” “I love a challenge," Thorburn said. “Running the other 14 marathons, they were all fantastic, but it all led me to one thing, and that’s the Boston Marathon. That’s the greatest race in the world.” Her run in Boston was the third time she had competed in the event, finishing with a 15-minute buffer which she says effectively “guarantees” her entry into the 2027 race once applications open in September. “I can't even describe how you feel,” Thorburn said. “Getting to the start is one thing, but doing it, finishing it, conquering it again—especially at my age—you feel things you never felt before.” Thorburn has lived and breathed distance running since she started taking it seriously 26 years ago. Her passion has since taken her across the globe, completing all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Her achievements have garnered much local support, but perhaps none greater than from her residents at Ozcare Home Hill. As well as her work with Ozcare, Thorburn helps organise the Magnetic Marathon Series in Townsville, an event that attracts international competitors while also providing a space for athletes looking to kickstart their running careers. Thorburn sees her local events as a platform for others to “have a go”—a mantra that has fuelled her own career for over two decades. “My events are only small events, but they're a stepping stone and people get to run with me and go, ‘Okay, so this is what you do,’” Thorburn said. “I hope I can inspire other women, including those younger than me, to look at what I do and think: ‘If she can do it, I can have a go.’” CAPTIONS: 1— The gruelling 30-day itinerary began in Limassol, Cyprus, followed by the “12 in 12” event—12 marathons in 12 days—in the UK, and the Paris Marathon, before finally tackling Boston. 2—Thorburn successfully completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—earning her the prestigious official title of “Six Star Finisher.” Photos supplied
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My Vibe Homewares has a growing reputation as your go-to store when searching for that unique, contemporary piece. Since opening its doors in Ayr ten months ago, the store has attracted customers from across North Queensland, building a strong local following in the Burdekin. Boasting a wide range of earthy, textural and timeless homewares, My Vibe offers quality linen, luxury towels and exquisite rugs, all selected to deliver quality at affordable prices right here in the Burdekin. At the heart of the store is a carefully curated range that is hand-picked to provide both functionality and practicality. Every piece is selected with durability and classic design in mind, with owner Sue ensuring that long-lasting quality remains a priority in every decision. Sue’s strong eye for design is supported by her regular attendance at the Sydney and Melbourne gift fairs, where she gains access to the latest seasonal designs and colour updates. This, coupled with her innate ability to coordinate the range to suit most design tastes—from subtle, natural tones through to more textured and statement pieces—ensures the store is continually refreshed with new ideas and inspiration brought back to the Burdekin. The result is a thoughtfully balanced collection that caters to a wide variety of interiors and personal styles, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and affordability. Supporting the store is a friendly and welcoming team who are always ready to assist and offer advice when required, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Located on Queen Street, Ayr, My Vibe Homewares is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm daily, offering a local destination for stylish, practical and contemporary homewares in the heart of the Burdekin.
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If you’re still scratching your head for something meaningful this Mother’s Day, two local arts groups are offering simple, thoughtful options that keep it close to home—and handmade. At the Burdekin Art Society, a special Mother’s Day art sale will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at the Art Shed, 154 MacMillan Street (across from the pool), from 8am to 1pm. A wide selection of paintings will be available, with prices starting from just $20, making it easy to find an affordable, locally made gift. For something a little more tactile, the Burdekin Potters Inc in Plantation Park will be open for anyone looking for a unique, handmade gift. The pottery studio regularly opens on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, but visitors are also welcome whenever the doors are open or the “OPEN” flag is flying. Gift vouchers are available, and private visits can be arranged by contacting Debbie on 0428 832 355. Both options offer a chance to support local artists while picking up something with a personal touch—far more memorable than a last-minute petrol station bouquet.
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Australia has everything we need right here at home. We have the resources, the technologies, and the people with the talent. Yet our manufacturing sector and sovereign capability have fallen off a cliff; farmers are being left out in the cold; and Australians across the country, particularly in the regions, are being left behind, while we all pay more for everything. Labor’s Net Zero nonsense is crippling our country, while others not hamstrung by arbitrary targets advance at pace. China, India and the United States are not taking their foot off the pedal, while we send our resources overseas on a dime and buy back the finished product at top dollar. Australian manufacturing has been in decline for decades, but in the last four years under Labor the rate at which manufacturers, smelters, refineries and food processors have closed is truly alarming. We are making far less today and relying more and more on others. We need to turn that trend around before the only thing we are producing is a piece of paper handed out to overseas students. At the heart of this rapid decline in manufacturing? Our weaker and more expensive energy grid. To be blunt, rising electricity costs are forcing manufacturers to close and deterring others from starting up. When I speak to manufacturers, the message is the same: “I don’t know how much longer we can keep going like this.” The simple reality is that weather-dependent power cannot sustain a modern industrial economy on its own. Manufacturers cannot operate on intermittent electricity. Farmers cannot rely on an unstable energy system. And renters and lower-income households, who cannot afford rooftop solar or battery storage, are increasingly left paying the hidden costs of maintaining a complex grid built around intermittent supply. Australia once prided itself on energy independence. Now we are replacing dependable Australian energy with a system dependent on imported wind turbines, solar panels and batteries, many manufactured in China. In doing so, we are hollowing out our own industrial base while increasing our reliance on foreign supply chains. I’ll keep saying it. We need a balanced approach, and all technologies must be part of the energy mix. The other part of the energy story is, of course, fuel. No fuel, no transport, no movement of goods. When faced with the recent fuel supply constraints, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the solution is to buy an electric car. That may suit city commuters, but for many regional Australians travelling long distances and those needing to tow heavy loads, an EV is nothing but an expensive paperweight. Right now, a very bad government is deploying a very bad energy policy that puts international recognition for fairytale emission targets ahead of affordable electricity and fuel security. We need an urgent course correction on our nation’s energy policy. We need an energy mix that supports manufacturers and farmers. We need to be able to better use the resources we have so that we can stand on our two feet. And, we need a government that believes in putting Australians first.
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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
In a volatile global sugar market, having the right marketing partner can make all the difference. Wilmar Grower Marketing is helping local cane growers take charge of their sugar price exposure with tailored support, flexible options, and proven results.
As one of world’s largest sugar traders, Wilmar offers growers the confidence to navigate changing market conditions. Whether you're someone who wants hands-on involvement or would rather leave pricing decisions to the experts, our flexible approach puts the power in your hands.
Some growers want to be closely involved in their pricing decisions. Others prefer to hand it over to an experienced team. We cater to both. Our service and products are designed to give growers genuine choice - whether that’s through managed pools, target pricing, or a mix of both.
One of our biggest strengths is our people. Our regional team members live and work in cane communities, so we’re always close by when support is needed. At the same time, we’re backed by a global trading desk, giving us access to detailed market insights that we share with our growers to inform their pricing decisions.
Over the past few seasons, we’ve been proud of the results we’ve delivered. Strong pool performance, competitive premiums and well-timed decisions have helped growers capture more value for every tonne of cane.
We also place a big emphasis on keeping things clear and simple. We know growers are busy running their farms — so we aim to make marketing something that supports your business, not complicates it.
The 2026 season is shaping up to be another important one for growers, and with the 31 October nomination deadline approaching, now’s the time to start thinking about who you want in your corner.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your sugar pricing strategy or simply want peace of mind knowing your pricing is in good hands, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.
To find out more about how we can support your marketing in 2026 and beyond, get in touch with our team.
Here when you need us - support that fits in with your day
Producers across Queensland’s Reef catchments are being invited to have their say on how farming regulations are written and understood.
Queensland Agriculture is reviewing the regulated standards that apply to commercial sugarcane and banana cultivation and beef cattle grazing within the Great Barrier Reef catchment, as part of a statutory review. The aim is to ensure the rules are practical, evidence-based, and easy to follow—so they work better for both farmers and the environment.
These standards are designed to reduce sediment and nutrient runoff, helping to keep valuable soil on farm and safeguard waterways that flow to the Reef. But the state government wants to know whether some requirements are unclear or difficult to implement—and they’re looking for real-world input from the people who work the land every day.
Growers, graziers, advisors, industry reps and anyone with an interest in sustainable farming practices are encouraged to provide feedback. You can contribute via online surveys, written submissions, phone chats with the review team, or by attending upcoming workshops focused on bananas (July 31) and beef grazing (August 5).
The review does not consider changes to the legislative framework or penalty provisions—it’s focused squarely on the regulated standards and supporting materials like methodologies and guides.
Public consultation is open until Friday 8 August 2025.
This is your chance to shape how the Reef protection regulations are applied—so they reflect both current science and on-the-ground realities.
Learn more and provide feedback online: https://brnw.ch/21wUpkT
Or visit: www.qld.gov.au/ReefRegulations
Because when it comes to protecting the Reef and your livelihood, your voice matters.
A major milestone has been reached by Rural Aid this month, with the organisation proudly supporting its 200th farm through its nationally recognised Farm Recovery Events (FRE) program.
The milestone was marked in Coraki, in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, where volunteers are currently participating in the latest recovery event, running through until the 2nd of August.
Since the FRE program began in 2018, Rural Aid has delivered hands-on support to more than 200 farms across the country, alongside completing 293 wider community and recovery projects. Their efforts have stretched across 45 towns and regions, from drought-stricken Queensland to fire-affected areas of Victoria.
Communities across Queensland (16), New South Wales (19), Victoria (9) and South Australia (2) have benefited from the support of Rural Aid’s volunteers, who have collectively contributed more than 56,000 hours of skilled labour over the past seven years.
This year alone, volunteers have travelled more than 86,000 kilometres to support the charity’s on-the-ground work.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the milestone reflects a long-standing commitment to rural recovery and wellbeing.
“Our Farm Recovery Events are about more than fixing fences or building cattle yards,” Mr Warlters said.
“They restore hope. Every kilometre travelled, every hour volunteered, is a reminder to our farmers that they are not alone.”
“Reaching our 200th farm is a significant achievement. It speaks to the strength of the rural spirit and the generosity of everyday Australians who put up their hands to help.”
Beyond property repairs, the FRE program also supports mental wellbeing through simple, meaningful acts of connection.
“Time and again, farmers tell us that just having someone show up to help, even just to share a cuppa and talk, makes all the difference,” Mr Warlters said.
“It reduces isolation, lifts spirits and strengthens resilience.”
Rural Aid’s recovery efforts have extended into the heart of many communities, with over 100 projects completed in shared spaces such as halls, schools, showgrounds and sporting facilities.
The program also presents a valuable opportunity for corporate teams to experience rural life and contribute directly to community wellbeing. Through team-building activities on farms, businesses have helped strengthen both people and places.
Long-time Rural Aid volunteer Raelee Keegan said the experience is just as impactful for those giving their time.
“We go in to help, but we get so much back,” she said.
“You feel the gratitude and the connection straight away. I’ve volunteered in towns I’d never even heard of before, and now they feel like part of my extended family.”
Rural Aid’s Farm Recovery Events are made possible thanks to community donations, corporate partners, and a dedicated base of volunteers.
“While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, there’s so much more to do,” Mr Warlters said.
“We’ll keep showing up, because rural Australia matters.”
To learn more or to support Rural Aid’s recovery work, visit www.ruralaid.org.au.
By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman
As we approach the midpoint of the 2025 crush, it’s clear this season is shaping up very differently to the one we endured last year.
In 2024, widespread delays, mill breakdowns, and wet weather left many growers stuck in the paddock and well behind schedule. This year, thankfully, we’re in a better place.
Dry conditions have helped keep the wheels turning. Some districts are even ahead of schedule, a rare but welcome sight. Mills are running more reliably in many areas, thanks to stronger off-season planning and maintenance.
It’s not perfect, and we’ve still seen disruptions, but cane is being harvested and crushed more efficiently than this time last year.
While this is relieving for a grower’s state of mind, we continue to navigate ongoing challenges, the global sugar price has dropped substantially from last year and input costs continue to pressure margins. Fuel, fertiliser, labour all remain elevated compared to last season and water availability remains critical.
Still, one thing hasn’t changed: the resilience of our growers. Time and time again, they rise to the challenge. It’s not just about farming cane — it’s about keeping the heartbeat of regional Queensland strong. Growers support local jobs, schools, businesses, and services. Their success underpins entire communities.
In my conversations across the state, the sentiment is cautiously optimistic. There’s relief that the season is progressing better than last year, and a quiet determination to keep pushing forward. Growers are realists, they know how quickly things can turn, whether it’s from global markets, extreme weather, or shifting policy. But they also know how to adapt and keep going.
Compared to last year, there’s a stronger sense of stability in the air. That’s thanks to the people on the ground, the growers, families, and workers who make this industry what it is.
Let’s stay on track and finish the season strong.
August photo in the CANEGROWERS 2025 calendar. Photo credit: Robyn Bacon
To mark the beginning of celebrations for 2025 National Skills Week, on Saturday, August 23, North Queensland Senior School and training organisation, Tec-NQ, will throw open its doors for an all-ages Open Day with a difference. With 69 trades currently identified as experiencing a national skills shortage, there is no better time to try out a trade.
Tec-NQ Chief Executive Officer Ross Jorgensen said this year’s Open Day will be an all-ages celebration of everything trade, offering something of interest for the whole family.
“Again in 2025, we’ll have a selection of industry partners displaying unique and emerging technical tools of trade. Teachers, trainers, industry partners and students will also be on hand to talk about undertaking a work-based education at Tec-NQ” he added.
There will be hands-on try-a-trade activities for all ages. Kids can rev up a big diesel motor, teens can wire a circuit board, and everyone can test their welding skills on the augmented reality simulator. Plus, engage in interactive activities and small take-home projects.
Tec-NQ is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), an independent senior secondary school and an accredited boarding school with extensive industry networks to deliver trade-based career opportunities for North Queensland students. Tec-NQ House, located in Rosslea, accommodates up to 40 male boarding students from remote and rural communities completing their schooling at Tec-NQ.
The Open Day runs from 9am – 12.30pm on Saturday 23rd August at their campus at 54 Discovery Drive in Douglas. Register for a campus tour and information session at tecnq.com.au
The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre invites all members of our community to come together with us in a supportive environment, regardless of their background or life experiences.
We deeply value the sharing of stories, the exchange of knowledge, and the cultivation of strong, positive relationships among our members.
Our aim is to create a true sense of belonging by uplifting one another through life’s various challenges. It is important to recognise that loneliness often arises from the perception of disconnection rather than physical solitude.
Loneliness isn’t just about being alone — it’s often the feeling or perception of being disconnected. It’s a state of mind, and one we aim to ease by creating meaningful connections within our community.
This month, we are delighted to announce another Morning Tea, an enjoyable occasion designed to diminish feelings of loneliness through the simple joy of gathering over a cup of tea and freshly baked scones in our welcoming space.
Our focus this time will be on how we can use our experiences and knowledge to support one another — whether it’s through sharing a recipe that could help a family save a few dollars or offering some advice and wisdom for those going through life’s obstacles.
Everyone is welcome, and we’d love to see you at the Centre to be part of the positive change, helping end the sense of loneliness and disconnection in our community.
What: Ending Loneliness Morning Tea
When: 10:00 AM, Wednesday, 20th August 2025
Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, AYR
Until next time,
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
It was shovels at the ready on Sunday, 27 July, as members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group joined local volunteers for National Tree Planting Day at the Landcare Centre in Ayr.
With perfect weather, the Scouts rolled up their sleeves and got to work—digging, planting, watering, and mulching native trees. By the end of the morning, they’d lost count of how many they’d helped into the ground.
“As Scouts, we’re always looking for ways to support our community and care for the environment,” said coordinator Chris Berkery.
The event was capped off with a well-earned barbecue lunch, courtesy of the local Landcare team. The Scouts thanked organisers for a great day and the opportunity to make a hands-on contribution to the local environment.
The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets Thursday evenings on 12th Avenue, Home Hill. People are welcome to try Scouting free for four weeks.
To find out more or register your interest, contact Rikki on 0419 104 035.
Feeling a little isolated, or just keen to meet new people? Loneliness Awareness Week is the perfect time to step out, get involved, and make meaningful connections—right here in the Burdekin.
Friendship Bracelet Fun & Sausage Sizzle (Free)
Get creative and share a few laughs at this feel-good event celebrating connection and community.
Friday, 8 August
9:00am – 11:00am
BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr
Make a friendship bracelet, enjoy a free sausage sizzle, and leave with more than just a full stomach—this is your chance to spread kindness, spark new conversations, and brighten someone’s day (including your own!).
Community Connections Group (Free)
Looking for something more regular? The Community Connections Group meets weekly and is open to anyone wanting a friendly space to socialise, learn, and connect.
Every Wednesday
9:30am – 11:30am
Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr
Drop in for a cuppa, a chat, and maybe even a few new friendships.
To register or find out more, contact the BCA Support Centre on (07) 4783 3744.
The Burdekin community is invited to experience the future of farming, education, and innovation at Home Hill State High School’s Agricultural Precinct Open Day on Thursday, 21 August.
Open Day will officially unveil the school’s purpose-built Agricultural Precinct and learning spaces – a significant investment in the region’s agricultural education and workforce development. This new facility integrates cutting-edge horticulture, aquaponics, protected cropping, and traditional farming practices to prepare students for careers in agriculture, food production, and sustainability.
Agriculture Lead, Louise Nicholas, said the precinct is more than a classroom.
“We’ve created a space that links education directly with industry. Our aim is to grow the next generation of agricultural innovators right here in the Burdekin. The support of the local member, Dale Last MP, council, industry, businesses, families, and organisations has been critical, and this event is an opportunity to thank them and invite new connections.”
The morning will feature an official welcome and acknowledgments, guided tours of the precinct, including the greenhouse, the ‘Dig Inn’ market garden, the Aqua Lab, and the kitchen. Students will lead tours and share their learning, alongside industry stalls from Canegrowers, Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network, Sunwater, and Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA), who will also have interactive Virtual Reality experiences on offer.
Visitors can enjoy a range of interactive displays, seedling giveaways, and plant identification games. A tasting table featuring local produce, pickles, and tuckshop treats will keep tastebuds happy, while a feedback wall and survey will collect community ideas and future involvement opportunities.
“We are proud of what we’ve built here and hope the broader community will join us to celebrate and shape the next steps,” Ms Nicholas said.
For more information, follow the Home Hill SHS Facebook page or contact the school directly.
RSVP to the school by Monday, 28th July to assist with planning.
All are welcome to attend and see first-hand how Home Hill SHS is cultivating skills, curiosity, and careers for our region’s future.
What: Home Hill State High School's Agricultural Precinct Open Day
When: Thursday, 21 August, 9:00am–11:00am
Where: Home Hill State High School Agricultural Precinct
A very good weekend for the Panthers, winning four and losing just one of the five matches played. On Saturday, away to Saints Eagles Souths the Premiers won 2-0 but the Reserves 0-1. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies defeated Wulguru 6-0, the Division 1 Men beat Warriors 5-2, and the Division 2 Men thumped JCU 7-0.
This Saturday is Ladies Day with the Auction kicking off after the Premiers match. The Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. On Friday night the Ladies, are away to Saints, in Townsville at 6.30 and the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are also away in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Olympic at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Warriors at 6.30.
Premiers
The Ayr Anzac Club Premier League side was changed slightly which saw the starting debut for Cooper Kross. The game started well for the Panthers with good possession and healthy field position. A goal fell for Oliver Gabiola after about 20 minutes and spirits were high. Saints managed to create several opportunities during the first half but a combination of good goalkeeping and poor finishing kept them scoreless. Jay Leckenby latched onto a goal from very close in, after thirty minutes, give the Panthers a two goal lead and the Panthers played out the match without much further trouble. A good win that keeps Burdekin in fifth place and their finals hopes alive.
Reserves
Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves had another game with a different squad and with a record number of players out, lost 0-1 to Saints. Another game where effort couldn't overcome poor execution of passing and missing good opportunities to score. Saints took an early lead and were determined in defence. The Reserves couldn't get a goal despite several good scoring chances, including a disputable disallowed goal for offside. It is still possible for the Panthers to make the finals, but it will take better performances to make it happen.
Division 1 Men
The Austral Masonry Panthers were away to Warriors in Townsville and came away with a 5-2 victory. After being 0-2 down at half time the Panthers recovered in the second half to win 5-2 with two goals from Braydon Card and a goal each from Seaton Ivory, Seb Mio and Henry Fallon. This was a great win for First Division. Team worked well and made a comeback after being down 2-0 at halftime.
Division 2 Men
The C.A Contracting Funkies had a solid 7-0 win on Friday night vs JCU Riverway. The match was a very one-sided contest with Burdekin dominating the entire game and although scoring seven goals, missed many more through a lack of composure and wayward shooting in front of goal.
Riverway looked to counterattack a few times, but keeper Dave Bryen made a couple of great saves to keep a clean sheet. Well done to Jacob Rossato for scoring his first goal in what feels like decades. Chris Achille 2, Simon Scuderi 2, Nicholas Cathcart and Fengil Kanjoothara got the other goals for Burdekin. Burdekin moves to 5th and continues their push for finals against Warriors this Friday night, again in Townsville.
Ladies
The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies delivered a brilliant performance against Wulguru. Zandi Bonanno opened the scoring just five minutes in, setting the tone early. Tahlia Lawson followed up with a well-placed finish in the 16th minute. Sienna Lago then took control, netting two goals before halftime to send Burdekin into the break with a 4–0 lead. The momentum carried into the second half, with Zandi Bonanno scoring her second goal in the 80th minute. Charley Ruskin finished the match, from the penalty spot, bringing the final score to a dominant 6-0 win. Outstanding effort. well done, ladies!
Juniors
A windy and chilly trip Saturday to Townsville for the Under 8s and up. Those with early games felt it! One more Townsville trip now for our Juniors in a few weeks’ time to round out the season up there. The Under 5s to 7s played in Ayr in similar conditions and of course had a ball! All junior teams are back in Ayr this Saturday with Townsville teams traveling down the highway.
Masters
Another good turnout on a cool winter’s evening. Spain beat England 4-1 with Jonty Davis, Man of the Match, after scoring a goal in the first half and making some good saves in goal in the second half. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!
National and International
The Matildas will be playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam in August. Their first Group game is against Myanmar on 7th August; they then play Philippines and Timo-Leste.
The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.
The Quote of the Week is from former Nottingham Forest Manager Brian Clough, on looking after Roy Keane: "I only ever hit Roy the once. He got up so I couldn't have hit him very hard".
Twenty-six players fronted on another perfect winter’s afternoon. A game of club singles and a game of club triples were held alongside three social triples matches.
On Rink 5, Paul Vass edged out Des Chapman in a tight singles clash, 25–21.
In the triples, Gary Nosworthy, Dino Poli and Hugh Montgomery proved too strong for Maude, Bob Pickard and Phil Marsden on Rink 3, winning 25–13. Rink 4 saw Michael Young, Elaine Young and Trevor Elton account for Bob Young, Ron Smith and Terry Feakes, 24–16.
On Rink 6, Margaret Chapman, Bruce McCallum and Michael McClosky dominated Judy Elton, Mick Olsen and Wayne Newton, finishing 20–7.
Rink 7 featured the daily winners—Tony Caruso, Yogi Bunn and Alex Bojack (pictured)—who defeated Henry Hazel, Sandra Darwin and Steve Doig 22–10.
Tony Caruso also claimed the breakfast tray raffle, with Alex Bojack taking out second draw and a nice bottle of wine.
The Monday morning fitness group, Tuesday Trimmers and Wednesday morning Kraft group are still going strong. Wednesday night barefoot bowls continues to attract keen bowlers—whether it’s the competition or the pre-game sausage sizzle.
Thursday morning BINGO remains very popular, and Thursday afternoon social bowls is both competitive and well attended. Saturday afternoon social bowls is just $5 for a game.
Until next week—good bowling!
Photo and report by Stephen Doig
After more than four decades in the Queensland Police Service, Steve Barton, Officer‑in‑Charge at Ayr Police Station, is hanging up his badge with much pride and little fanfare—exactly how he prefers it.
“I’ve just really enjoyed doing what I’ve done,” he said.
“Every job has its challenges and things you wish you’d done better, but [I'm proud of] my commitment to the work and the community.”
Barton began his career in the early 1980s, serving across Queensland in towns including Toowoomba, Blackwater, Capella, Hervey Bay and, for the past 15 years, Ayr. Much of that time was spent in small one‑ and two‑officer stations, a vastly different experience, he says, to larger postings.
“You had no one to rely on—sometimes you just hoped bad things didn’t happen. You certainly learned how to talk to people quickly and communicate well,” he recalled.
Over the years, Barton has also watched the job change dramatically, particularly with the rise of technology. “When I started, we were still using cardboard cards to keep records. Now you’ve got almost everything at your fingertips,” he said.
Through all the changes, Barton says what’s stayed consistent is the personal connection that come with policing small rural towns.
“You get to know people, even those you deal with regularly, and it becomes more personable. Sometimes you go that extra bit, like helping an elderly couple get home after a crash. It’s just what you do.”
As for retirement, Steve and his wife plan to stay in the region. “We like the slower pace of life here. Townsville’s close enough for what we need, the community’s good, and the weather’s fine—apart from summer, which is a bit of a prick,” he said with a laugh.
Looking back, he hopes to be remembered simply as “an effective officer in charge, devoted to duty.”
“I’ve had my time. I’m comfortable with what I’ve done and ready for the next chapter,” he said.
After my mates last month, it was my parents’ turn to pay me a visit in this beloved region I now call home—and it’s only when you’re showing guests around that you realise just how much you’ve come to know about a place.
Don’t get me wrong—I’m not claiming “local” status yet. But I’ve come a long way from the guy who first arrived here wondering why everything was closed on Sundays.
Mum and Dad liked what they saw. I took them up the mountain, down to Groper Creek for a bit of fishing, and then up to Townsville for the weekend. They were fascinated by the landscape and had nothing but kind words for everyone they met along the way. Let’s just say, they’re glad I’m in safe hands.
Their visit was a good reminder of what makes this place special—the people, the stories and the sense of belonging. And that’s what we try to capture in these pages each week.
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Time is running out to shine a spotlight on Queenslanders making an extraordinary impact in their communities, with nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards closing at 11.59pm on Thursday, the 31st of July.
The government is calling on locals across the State to nominate inspiring individuals for the prestigious national awards, which recognise everyday Australians doing remarkable work across four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over), Young Australian of the Year (16 to 30 years), and Australia’s Local Hero.
“This is about recognising those heroes who quietly go about making Queensland a better place to live, today and into the future,” Premier David Crisafulli said.
“The strength of our communities is the local champions who give back for the benefit of others, let’s celebrate their tireless contributions this Australia Day.”
In 2025, Queensland’s Senior Australian of the Year title went to Dr Bronwyn Herbert, who was honoured for her exceptional work in social services and homelessness research. Dr Herbert began her academic journey later in life, earning her Bachelor’s degree at 40, her Master’s at 61, and her PhD at the age of 90.
The annual Australian of the Year Awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge leadership, dedication, and acts of selflessness that shape a better future for all Australians.
To nominate a Queenslander who inspires you, visit www.australianoftheyear.org.au before midnight on the 31st of July.
A 27‑year‑old Ayr woman is among three people charged after an armed robbery at a Bruce Highway rest stop in Cardwell on Saturday, 26 July.
Police allege that around 6.35pm, the trio–including a 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man and a 17‑year‑old Rasmussen boy–approached a white Hyundai Accent and demanded the 18‑year‑old German tourist driver hand over his keys, wallet and phone.
One of the group allegedly threatened the man with a firearm before ordering him out of the vehicle. The tourist complied and later alerted police.
The car was intercepted entering Townsville a short time later after a coordinated response involving the Tactical Crime Squad, Dog Squad and Polair.
The Ayr woman and the 26‑year‑old Rasmussen man have each been charged with two counts of armed robbery in company and are due appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 July. The 17‑year‑old boy faces the same charges and will appear in Townsville Children’s Court.
Investigations are ongoing.
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