As the hazard reduction burn season ramps up across Queensland, local firefighters and energy providers are reminding landowners to take extra precautions when burning near power infrastructure.

Both Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire Department are urging property owners to be mindful of power poles and electrical equipment when conducting hazard reduction burns, which play a vital role in reducing vegetation and fire risk across rural areas.

Ergon Energy’s Corrine Young, who also serves as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, emphasised the potential dangers of uncontrolled burns near community electrical infrastructure.

“Power poles are a critical part of keeping our communities connected and any damage to these structures can lead to lengthy power outages and significant repair costs,” Ms Young said.

“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines pose a severe threat - they can cause serious injury or even be fatal to anyone or any animals that come into contact with them. Furthermore, out of control hazard reduction burns have been known to partially burn through poles, leaving them standing, only to fall over at a later date during high winds and other severe weather.

“To help protect these vital assets, we strongly recommend that before starting any hazard reduction burn, property owners clear at least five metres around all power poles and electrical equipment.”

Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones echoed the importance of preparation and caution when conducting planned burns.

“Before commencing a burn it’s important for landowners to be prepared by ensuring they have a permit and also have equipment such as hoses, water tanks, or fire extinguishers on hand should these be needed during an emergency,” Chief Officer Jones said.

“Landowners should clear their property and electricity infrastructure of any long grass, foliage and rubbish and never leave a planned burn unattended.”

“Always check the weather forecast before commencing any planned burn and postpone on windy days as conditions can change rapidly.”

“In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero and for more information about bushfire preparedness head to www.fire.qld.gov.au.”

Ergon and Energex also reminded property owners to take just as much care with privately owned property poles, which can also pose hazards and incur repair costs if damaged. For more information, visit www.energex.com.au/propertypoles.

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As the hazard reduction burn season ramps up across Queensland, local firefighters and energy providers are reminding landowners to take extra precautions when burning near power infrastructure.

Both Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire Department are urging property owners to be mindful of power poles and electrical equipment when conducting hazard reduction burns, which play a vital role in reducing vegetation and fire risk across rural areas.

Ergon Energy’s Corrine Young, who also serves as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, emphasised the potential dangers of uncontrolled burns near community electrical infrastructure.

“Power poles are a critical part of keeping our communities connected and any damage to these structures can lead to lengthy power outages and significant repair costs,” Ms Young said.

“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines pose a severe threat - they can cause serious injury or even be fatal to anyone or any animals that come into contact with them. Furthermore, out of control hazard reduction burns have been known to partially burn through poles, leaving them standing, only to fall over at a later date during high winds and other severe weather.

“To help protect these vital assets, we strongly recommend that before starting any hazard reduction burn, property owners clear at least five metres around all power poles and electrical equipment.”

Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones echoed the importance of preparation and caution when conducting planned burns.

“Before commencing a burn it’s important for landowners to be prepared by ensuring they have a permit and also have equipment such as hoses, water tanks, or fire extinguishers on hand should these be needed during an emergency,” Chief Officer Jones said.

“Landowners should clear their property and electricity infrastructure of any long grass, foliage and rubbish and never leave a planned burn unattended.”

“Always check the weather forecast before commencing any planned burn and postpone on windy days as conditions can change rapidly.”

“In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero and for more information about bushfire preparedness head to www.fire.qld.gov.au.”

Ergon and Energex also reminded property owners to take just as much care with privately owned property poles, which can also pose hazards and incur repair costs if damaged. For more information, visit www.energex.com.au/propertypoles.

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North Queensland’s ongoing flood recovery efforts have been boosted with the announcement of three new funding packages worth more than $77 million, with Burdekin residents now eligible for legal support under the expanded assistance.

The packages, jointly delivered by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), are designed to support recovery and boost resilience across flood-affected areas, including the Burdekin.

In particular, Burdekin residents and businesses severely impacted by the 2025 monsoonal flooding event are now eligible to access free legal assistance to help them navigate issues such as insurance claims, tenancy disputes, and property damage.

The three key recovery packages include:

$73 million Environmental Recovery Program – to restore catchments, coastlines, and national parks, and protect key natural and cultural sites;

$3.12 million Water and Sewerage Infrastructure Recovery Program – focused on repairs and disaster mitigation in Charters Towers;

$1.42 million Legal Assistance Relief – available to flood-affected residents and businesses in Burdekin and other impacted LGAs.

With these new packages, more than $507 million in DRFA support is now being delivered across North and Far North Queensland in response to the devastating North and Far North Tropical Low disaster earlier this year.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain said the scale of the disaster demanded a recovery effort just as significant.

“From the get-go we have stressed our unwavering support to all north Queenslanders impacted by this disaster,” Minister McBain said.

“We are committed to ongoing recovery efforts in the region and determined to see this work through - actions such as stabilising erosion, revegetating waterways, controlling weeds and pests, and biodiversity conservation will ensure we not only recover but are ready for the future.”

While the environmental package will be delivered across 40 LGAs including Burdekin, legal support is specifically being extended to residents in Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Townsville, Tablelands and Yarrabah.

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy also highlighted the importance of infrastructure restoration and the broader regional benefits of the new programs.

“Having safe and reliable water supply improves health and economic outcomes. It gives residents peace of mind, and businesses confidence,” Minister Leahy said.

“Charters Towers Regional Council will soon be able to manage their water and sewerage assets with certainty, and avoid any flood risks to the infrastructure.”

Local residents or businesses in the Burdekin seeking legal assistance as part of the new funding can find more details, along with further information on all current disaster recovery programs, at www.qra.qld.gov.au.

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On Friday, 25 July, the Salvation Army Family Store in Ayr officially shut its doors to the public, putting an end to its thirty-year spell of servicing the Burdekin.

The closure, ordered by the organisation’s head office in Brisbane, came as a shock to regular visitors—and especially to employees, who were notified of the decision just a few days prior.

“It’s a shame, because they don’t see the impact it has on the community,” said store manager Kieran MacElroy. “There’ve been a lot of people coming in and showing their support.”

But the dire news didn’t deter the store from showing out for the community one last time, hosting a massive sale and giving away most items for free as locals poured in.

For the store, it was one last opportunity to give back to the community that had supported them for the last three decades.

“We are very grateful for our customers,” said MacElroy. “We’ve made some great relationships. For a lot of locals, visiting was their weekly or daily thing.”

And although the Salvation Army’s doors are closing, MacElroy hopes that locals continue to support other charities in the region.

“We appreciate every donation—that’s what has kept us going. We encourage people to keep doing that with Lifeline and Vinnies,” said MacElroy.

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The Salvation Army Family Store in Ayr officially shut its doors to the public, putting an end to its thirty-year spell of servicing the Burdekin. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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After five years of steady growth, Explore Property Burdekin has opened the doors to its fully renovated new office in Ayr, moving just across Queen Street into a space that reflects its modern, service‑driven approach to real estate.

The new space—formerly Country Connection dress shop—has been rebuilt from the ground up with new flooring, upgraded air-conditioning, and a fresh, contemporary design. All work was completed by local tradespeople.

Director and Principal Kylie Lawson, a real estate professional since 2005 and the recent recipient of Explore Property’s prestigious ‘Person in the Arena’ award, says the new office is a testament to the strong support of the local community.

“We started with three staff, and now we’re a team of eight. We appreciate the support we have received over the last five years which has allowed our business to grow and expand.”

Kylie attributes the agency’s momentum to strong, customer-centric service and deep local knowledge.

“Being locals, we really understand the area, which helps us match people with the right homes," she says. "Even when people come from out of town, it’s exciting to show them just how much our community has to offer—often more than they expect.”

Explore Property Burdekin prides itself on its marketing resources, attention to detail, and close-knit team culture. As the business continues to expand, Kylie remains grateful to those who have helped make it possible.

“We appreciate your trust in our team—it’s our privilege to help turn your property goals into reality.”

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Explore Property Burdekin prides itself on its marketing resources, attention to detail, and close-knit team culture. Photo supplied

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One of the Burdekin Water Festival’s most beloved events of the past has been revived, and nominations are now open for the community to enter in the official 2025 Residential Garden Competition as sponsored by Nuttall’s Garden Centre.

Like numerous other festival favorites, the Residential Garden Competition was once a key part of the annual celebration, and the Burdekin Water Festival Commitee have already received plenty of positive feedback from locals.

The competition will see the community showcase their green thumbs across three categories including open garden / tropical garden, unit garden and new garden (under two years old). All home gardens within the Burdekin Shire where no professional gardeners are employed are eligible for the competition and all nomination forms can be found at Nuttall’s Garden Centre, McCathies Furniture Plus, ELA Solutions, Delta Cleaners or online at burdekinwaterfestival.com.au.

Judging will take place on Saturday the 23rd and Sunday the 24th of August, and the winners will be announced at a wonderful Morning Tea event at Nuttall’s Garden Centre on Saturday the 31st of August from 10am onwards.

“We can’t wait to see what beautiful Burdekin gardens will be on show” shared Burdekin Water Festival’s Kari Ravizza.

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Representing The Burdekin Netball Association

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Charlotte Sgroi has always loved being part of a team, and supporting those around her, so when she was asked to represent the Burdekin Netball Association as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador, the decision was easy!

“I was honestly overwhelmed - in the best way - when I was invited to be the Junior Ambassador for the Burdekin Netball Association and I'm so thankful to Burdekin Netball for trusting in me and giving me this amazing opportunity,” shared Charlotte.

“I accepted the invitation to become a Junior Ambassador as I thought it would be a great opportunity to give back to the Burdekin Netball Association for everything netball has given to me by encouraging everyone to play netball; and to promote our friendly, inclusive and well organised association!”

Having loved the action of the sport for over four years now, 11-year-old Charlotte has represented her club across numerous competitions and trials, including in the most recent Burdekin Under 12 Representative Team. Actively involved in her school community, Charlotte also enjoys the spotlight, and has performed in the Burdekin Eisteddfod, sung at community events and loves sharing the stage with her Simply Dance, FC Caledonia and Perform Music peers.

Charlotte hopes to take advantage of each and every opportunity that comes her way over the next couple of months, and with so much to look forward to, she’s most excited to meet the residents Regis Aged Care Home at the festival’s upcoming event.

“I am also looking forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone and trying new things, making new friends and connections in our community; and to help out wherever I can - or as we say in netball, to be “here if you need!””

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Charlotte Sgroi will represent the Burdekin Netball Association as a 2025 Burdekin Water Festival Junior Ambassador (Photo Credit: Sharon Bozzetto)

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Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc (BCA) has the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health?  The Centre was built with the help of government funding and a lot of community support in 2004.  It’s been going strong ever since and has helped thousands of community members to improve their health and wellbeing.

Services currently available at the Centre include:
BCA Psychological Therapies Program (Free for eligible people and includes suicide prevention) Ph: 4783 2711
Private Psychological Counselling (Deepwaters Healing, Lutkin Psychology, Philip Murray) Ph: 4783 2711
Bloom Hearing Ph: 1800 027 779
Burdekin Hearing Ph: 1800 008 308
Centacare NQ (Counselling) Ph: 1300 672 273
Clarity Hearing Solutions Ph: 4779 1566
NQ Foot & Ankle Centre Ph: 4723 5500
Synergy Health Centre (Exercise Physiology, Diabetic Education, Dietician) Ph: 4724 3250
Telehealth Hub Services (Free online service to assist with appointments with a health professional) Ph: 4783 2711
Consult Room Hire (health & wellbeing services) Ph: 4783 2711
Meeting Room Hire (meetings, groups or workshops – capacity 30 people) Ph: 4783 2711

We would love to see you at the Centre, so please call in to 12A Chippendale St, Ayr, Ph: 4783 2711 or E: bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

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The Burdekin Regional Water Assessment (RWA) is now open for public feedback, offering landowners a critical window to shape the future of water security in the region. Led by the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers with federal funding, the assessment evaluates both infrastructure and non‑infrastructure options to meet future water needs and sustain economic growth.

Burdekin producers, particularly in agriculture—which consumes nearly 874,000 ML annually—stand to benefit from recommendations that aim to modernise infrastructure and explore new water sources, including potential off‑stream storage and upgrades to existing supply schemes.

Released in July 2025, the draft RWA Summary Report outlines priorities: upgrading the Burdekin‑Haughton scheme, evaluating a new Upper Burdekin off‑stream storage, and modernising Lower Burdekin bulk water systems. These proposals could open new opportunities for farm expansion or diversification by ensuring reliable supply for irrigation, forestry, and processing industries.

Public consultation is running until 5 pm on Friday 22 August 2025, with drop‑in sessions scheduled in Townsville, Ayr, Bowen, and Charters Towers in July and August. There are also live online forums for those unable to attend in person.

Landowners are strongly encouraged to review the draft report and share local insights—your input is essential to tailor solutions that balance environmental, cultural and economic needs in the region.

Visit the consultation portal to view the draft report and submit feedback via email, online form, or in person. Your voice today will shape Burdekin’s resilience—and the future value of your land.

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The Burdekin Art Society was formed 54 years ago by Cecilia Spottiswood, and a group of artists and members of the public. It has evolved over the years with different meeting places and different sites for artists to paint and enjoy friendships.

The current site is an excellent building at 154 Macmillan Street Ayr, which is covered in murals painted by the members. It is an art gallery with many works of art from the members hanging inside. Members get together every Tuesday from 9.30am – 12.00 to paint, chat and share ideas. We are always encouraging new members to join us regardless of level of ability. Weekend seminars are held at this site at various times of the year, with accredited trainers to enable artists to learn and upgrade their skills in different mediums.

The Annual Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition is held at the beginning of September every year and is very competitive attracting entries from all over the State. Attractive Prize money is awarded in a variety of mediums and categories, including a section dedicated to Burdekin Locals. Sections include Acrylic, Oil, Mixed Media, Pastels, Watercolour and Pencil or Pen drawings. Support in terms of sponsorships come from local businesses from the Burdekin and Townsville enabling us to offer monetary prizes. We are encouraged by our very generous sponsors who have supported us for many years.

The Annual Art Exhibition increases awareness of our Art society and the Burdekin region by encouraging artists from all over Queensland to enter the Exhibition and visit our region. The Local Burdekin community enjoy the chance to see a high standard Art Exhibition with the opportunity of purchasing those artworks. There is no entry fee to the Exhibition.

Joanne Barbagallo as the Exhibition Coordinator with the support of the Burdekin Art Society Committee meet from April, to start preparation for the Exhibition. From there Sponsors are approached, prize money is allocated, and entry forms are sent out and then received. The Art Exhibition receives over 200 entries, including a very well participated children’s section. An external accredited artist is invited to judge and award prizes. This year’s judge is Donna Beningfield from Townsville. The prizes are presented on Opening Night 30th August, which is a catered event. Many of the Art Society members help set up and pull down the exhibition.

The 2025 Annual Burdekin Art Society Art Exhibition opens Saturday 30th August at 7pm in the Burdekin Theatre Foyer and runs all week until the culmination on Saturday 6th September which is the Burdekin Water Festival Mardi Gras and Parade night.

Artists are encouraged to enter, with entries closing 13th August. Entry forms and schedule is available by emailing The Burdekin Art Society burdekinartsocietyinc@gmail.com or phoning the Exhibition Coordinator Joanne Barbagallo on 0417676567

Contributed with thanks to Joanne Barbagallo

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An average weekend for the Panthers, winning two, drawing one and losing two of the five matches played. On Saturday, at home against JCU Riverway, the Premiers won 4-2 and the Reserves drew 2-2. On Friday, at home the Ladies defeated Rebels 5-0, and in Townsville, the Division 1 Men lost 1-3 to Wulguru and the Division 2 Men lost 0-4 to Estates.

This Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are way to Saints Eagles Souths, the Premiers at 7.00 and the Reserves at 5.00. On Friday night the Ladies, are away to Wulguru, in Townsville at 6.30 and the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are also away in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Warriors at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against JCU at 6.30.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a crucial clash against fellow top four contenders JCU and delivered a commanding 4-2 win in front of a vocal home crowd on Old Boys and Sponsors Day. The atmosphere was electric, and the Panthers responded early, controlling possession from the outset. Elliot Dal Santo marked his return in style, heading home a pinpoint Ryan Scodellaro cross in the 12th minute to open the scoring. Ten minutes later, Jay Leckenby added a second, latching onto a perfectly placed free kick from Matthew Walker to make it 2-0.

JCU struck back narrowing the gap to 2-1,but on the stroke of halftime, Matthew Kolb restored the two-goal cushion at 3-1.The second half mirrored the first, with Burdekin enjoying the bulk of possession while keeping an eye on JCU’s counter threat. Kyle Taylor made it 4-1 with a well-earned goal that took a cruel deflection past the keeper. JCU managed a late consolationvgoal, but the result was never in doubt. A trip to Saints awaits this weekend as Burdekin look to keep momentum rolling.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves fielded a good squad, but this weekend’s home game started with a lack-lustre opening twenty minutes. JCU had more energy and took advantage of the Panthers mediocre quality passing to snatch an early lead. As the first half progressed the Panthers started to settle, asserted some territorial dominance, and began to threaten. Tarryn Smith finished off a good spell before halftime to level the score at1-1.

After the break, the game became more open with both sides finding opportunities but could not break the deadlock. Midway through the second half Riverway had a player sent off for striking but this only served to spur them on and they scored to lead 2-1. Burdekin attacked time and again and scored through Brayden Card in the 75th minute but could not find the net for a winner. The draw is a frustrating result, but the Reserves still have a chance to make finals if they can rally to have more consistent form.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Panthers played well under difficult circumstances, playing a man down for the first fifteen minutes. It was much appreciated that Travis Butler, Casey Calligaro and George Karagkiozis all helped out after playing their Division 2 game. In the first half there was some controversy with the Panthers scoring off a drop ball. In a show of good sportsmanship Burdekin allowed Wulguru an uncontested goal to

level the score and it was 1-1 at half time. Wulguru scored twice in the second half to win 3-1. Charlie Shears, Max Kelly and Casey Calligaro all played well.

Division 2 Men

The C.A Contracting Funkies lost 4-0 to ladder leaders Estates on Friday night. A horrible start saw the Funkies down 3-0 after about Twenty minutes after Estates continued to exploit their pace out wide and get crosses into the box. The Funkies improved after conceding these goals and a much grittier and resilient effort saw an even contest for the remainder of the game. A very late goal made it 4-0 but the Funkies can keep their heads up after the way the team rebounded after a bad start. Jarrod Dal Santo and Eugene Burelli worked hard in the middle for the Funkies.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies faced off against Rebels on Friday night and delivered a confident performance to secure a 3–0 win. Tahlia Lawson opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, giving Burdekin a 1–0 lead going into halftime. Just four minutes into the second half, Sienna Lago extended the lead with a brilliant finish. Tahlia Lawson then struck again in the 55th minute, sealing the result with her second goal of the night. A strong all-round effort from the team, well done, ladies!

Juniors

It was a massive weekend at Juniors. On Saturday, the regular fixtures were played with Townsville clubs travelling down. On Sunday the club conducted their annual carnival, with all age groups at maximum nominations! The weather was overcast but held off in the morning and the sun shone through around lunch time. Teams from Townsville, Ingham, Charters Towers, Bowen, and Airlie all made their way to Honeycombes Park for a great day of football and all the players had so much fun! A big thanks go out to the Junior Carnival Committee who made this day possible with all their hard work, and to all the volunteers on the day.

Masters

Another good turnout on a cool winter’s evening. In a replay of Saturday’s Mooney Cup, Rainbows beat Blue Balls 3-0, again. Man of the Match Tobin Stubbs scored twice with Adam Jarvis scoring the other goal. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

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 ex Liverpool Manager Bill Shankly. “For a player to be good enough to play for Liverpool, he must be prepared to run through a brick wall for me then come out fighting on the other side."

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Heavy rain in Ingham last Friday night made the going tough for the A-grade match between the Roosters and the Herbert River Crushers last Saturday.

The ground was very heavy and muddy in places, especially after a reserve-grade match between Herbert River and Bowen was played beforehand.

Despite the adverse conditions, the smaller Burdekin team handled the situation well, going down in the dying stages 18 to 14.

The locals actually led the River 10 to 6 at the break after Kali Nauque and Nemia Nawave had scored tries, with Dylan Doak converting one.

Burdekin had also been denied two tries in this period, with the referee ruling “held up” over the line.

A devastating blow for the Roosters came when flying centre Jesse Yallop was forced to leave the field with a hamstring injury.

Yallop was judged the player of the match at Ladies Day in Ayr the week before and is regarded as one of the best and fastest centres in the competition.

He had taken an intercept and was on his way to the try line when the incident happened.

With Yallop taking no further part in the match, coach Steve Lansley was left with only 15 players when one had trouble and failed to play.

That made the Burdekin side’s effort all the better, with fewer replacements on the heavy ground.
The River used their size and extra replacements in the second half to come back and take the match, even though the last try looked as though it came from a blocking move.

In the second half, fullback Adam Camer topped off a good match by scoring a try off Jye Olsen.
The Crushers had bombed Camer right through, but he held firm and was one of the best on ground.

The game was mainly played in the forwards, and here Terrence Mosby and Colby Thompson stood out with hard runs and great defence, backed up by Lachlan Shepherd, Ethan Hagarty and Hayde Munro.

Munro was again a hard worker and was unlucky not to get a try from a loose ball.

One of the best forwards on ground was big front rower Tate Brombal.

Being the biggest Roosters forward, Brombal was targeted but never faltered.

Coach Steve said he was happy with the way his team performed but would have liked a different result.
He said his team played their hearts out, but the conditions didn’t suit their speed, and the luck didn’t go their way.

Burdekin: tries by Kali Nauque, Nemia Nawave, Adam Camer; goal by Dylan Doak.

Both the Roosters reserves and the Burdekin River ladies teams had byes.

In other results:
A Grade: Norths beat Charters Towers 30–24; Souths beat Western Lions 44–4; Brothers beat Centrals 32–6.
Reserve Grade: Charters Towers beat Norths 40–22; Herbert River beat Bowen 38–16; Souths beat Western Lions 36–16; Brothers beat Centrals 52–6.
Women: Norths beat Charters Towers 16–12; Brothers beat Centrals 20–6. Burdekin River, Western Lions and Bowen had byes.

This weekend, Charters Towers will host the Burdekin in three grades. Souths will play Norths. Herbert River and Centrals have byes in A Grade, but Herbert River plays Bowen in Bowen in Reserve Grade.

The Roosters travel to Charters Towers on Saturday, with the women to play at 1.30, the reserves at 3.00 and the A-grade at 4.30.
Should the full squad of women go west, they should record a good win over the Lady Miners, with players like Martina Monday, Toni Daisy, Paige Horvat, Abby King and Rebecca Pace in good form.
The reserves should get a win, but that could depend on who is wanted for the A-grade team.

In A-grade, Braedyn Cotter is expected back this week, with Aiden Arisa and Cailosi Baroka also set to strengthen the pack.
The coach will have to find a five-eighth, with Joel Mason suspended and Dylan Doak away.
This game is very important and is virtually a must-win.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Sporting and recreation clubs across North and Far North Queensland impacted by early 2025’s severe flooding can now apply for a share in a $30 million funding package to help repair and rebuild their facilities.

The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) — a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) — offers up to $1 million per facility for eligible not-for-profit sport and racing clubs, as well as local councils.

Funding can be used to restore damaged facilities, equipment and infrastructure including canteens, amenities, playing courts, fences, lighting, racetracks, electrical systems, synthetic pitches, shade structures and carparks. In some cases, facilities may also be rebuilt to more resilient standards to help mitigate the impacts of future disasters.

The program aims to minimise disruption to community life and help resume local sporting competitions and recreational activities as soon as possible.

Earlier this year, North Queensland endured more than 12 consecutive days of monsoonal rain during January and February, with some regions recording over two metres of rainfall. Widespread flooding caused significant damage across the Hinchinbrook, Cassowary Coast, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Townsville local government areas.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain emphasised the importance of supporting community hubs.

“When disaster hits, it’s not just homes and roads that are impacted, it’s the places where people come together, and that includes local sporting grounds and community facilities," Minister McBain said.

“This program is about making sure recovery reaches every corner of the community, including the clubs and spaces that bring people together after tough times.

“We’ll keep working alongside the Queensland Government and local councils to make sure communities have the support they need to rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.”

Queensland Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the funding would assist with the next stage of the recovery.

“With the initial cleanups completed, this funding package is about making the more expansive repairs needed to ensure clubs can fully recuperate," Minister Mander said.

“Assessments are ongoing, and we will continue to extend the eligibility as more clubs continue to seek support.

“I encourage clubs and councils to contact their local Sport and Recreation officer to see if they may be eligible. We want our clubs to get back on their feet so Queenslanders can not only experience the physical and mental health benefits of sport but also the togetherness that these clubs bring to the community.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the support was critical in restoring the heartbeat of affected regions.

“It is a well-known fact that sport and recreation plays a vital role in the community by providing much needed extracurricular activity through sport and social activities," Minister Leahy said.

“Restoring the operations of impacted facilities contributes significantly to community recovery.”

Clubs and councils can find eligibility guidelines and application details online at www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/sport-and-recreation-recovery-grant, and more general disaster help information is available at www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.

Home Hill State High School's 2025 Fishing Competition marked a lively weekend for the Burdekin from 25–27 July, luring anglers from across the state to take part in one of the region’s biggest fishing events. Thousands in prizes were on offer across casting, raffles and the Longest and Mystery Length barramundi categories, with each catch photographed on custom brag mats to promote catch‑and‑release.

Sunday’s Family Funday wrapped it all up with music, food stalls, a licensed bar, kids’ activities and the big weigh‑in. Organised by the Home Hill State High School P&C with help from students, staff, parents and sponsors, plus weigh‑masters from the Burdekin District Sportfishing Club, the event successfully raised valuable funds for the school.

Results
Lucky Angler Draw (Open): Jessie Shreeve took home a Blue Steel rod, three Berkley lures, a Machin & Sons Custom Coolers NQ voucher, and a Pensini Alloys crab measurer valued at $239.

U12 Junior Lucky Angler 1: Henry Sutcliffe won an Ugly Stik combo, bag and lure pack, fishing shirt, lip grips and torch, plus a PCYC water bottle, worth $190.

U12 Junior Lucky Angler 2: Scott Walters Jnr received the same prize package as Henry, valued at $190.

Longest Barramundi: Saxon Petersen earned a Shimano SLX combo (8ft), Wilson cast net, two Berkley Pro-Tech Lure FT, and two squid jigs, totaling $505.

Mystery Length Barramundi: Rowen Petersen was awarded a Shimano Sahara combo, Berkley Pro-Tech lure, and Shimano Colt Sniper lure worth $309.

Heaviest Bream: Jackson Walters took home a Daiwa RX Spin combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley lure pack valued at $364.

Heaviest Cod: Matteo Covolo received a Shimano Hyperloop combo, Berkley lure pack, Berkley Pro-Tech lure, and Shimano Colt Sniper lure worth $280.

Heaviest Finger Mark: Harvey Mauro earned an Abu Max Pro combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure valued at $398.

Heaviest Flathead: Keatan Jarvis won a Rovex Endurance rod combo and Wilson Blue Steel rod worth $269.

Heaviest Grunter: Tait Levitt took home a Daiwa PR100 Bait Caster combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure valued at $358.

Heaviest Mangrove Jack: Declyn Carr received a Shimano OC Bait Runner combo, Shimano Sienna reel, Colt Sniper 140 lure, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure worth $384.

Heaviest Mud Crab (live & tied): Declyn Carr won the top prize, while Oliver Amerena took second place with a Crab’n Gear 900ml pop up pot, float rope, crab measurer, and Pensini Alloys crab measurer valued at $130.

Heaviest Whiting: Mia Reece earned a Rovex Endurance rod combo, Wilson Blue Steel rod, and Berkley lure pack valued at $359.

Mystery Weight Bream: Austin Davenport took home a Daiwa RX Spin combo and Berkley lure pack worth $215.

Mystery Weight Cod: Amber Betteridge won a Shimano Sienna combo and Berkley lure pack valued at $225.

Mystery Weight Finger Mark: The winner received an Abu Max combo and two Berkley Pro-Tech lures worth $239.

Mystery Weight Flathead: Mitchell Hamilton earned a Rovex Endurance rod combo and Berkley lure pack valued at $216.

Mystery Weight Grunter: Ellie Sutcliffe took home a Daiwa PR100 combo and Berkley lure pack worth $275.

Mystery Weight Mangrove Jack: Adam Jarvis won a Shimano Ciaus combo, Shimano Colt Sniper lure 140, and Berkley Pro-Tech lure valued at $254.

Mystery Weight Mud Crab (live & tied): Riley Betteridge received a Crab’n Gear 900ml pop-up pot, float rope, and crab measurer worth $115.

Mystery Weight Whiting: Mia Reece earned a Rovex Endurance rod combo and Berkley lure pack valued at $216.

Interschool Fishing Competition (Champion School): Home Hill State High School was awarded a 20L Esky, About Town Bait & Tackle cap, two Berkley lures, and PCYC water bottles valued at $200.

Casting Competition U12 Winner: Riley Betteridge took home a Bite Science lure pack, PCYC water bottle, soccer ball, and ANNZACK trading voucher worth $90.

Casting Competition Open Winner: Dekoda Clubb received a Bite Science lure pack, PCYC water bottle, soccer ball, and ANNZACK trading voucher valued at $90.

Raffle Winners: First prize went to Melissa Jarvis and second to Joyce Bianco. The $650 prize pool included a 20L Esky, About Town Bait & Tackle cap, Berkley lures, Machin & Sons Custom Coolers NQ voucher, gas swap voucher, crab measurer, merchandise packs, vouchers, and wine.

Colour-in Competition Winners: Ramsey Corradi and Gray John Perry took first place, with Ellie Sutcliffe and Everly Nicholas as runners-up. Prizes included Cowboys merchandise packs, Machin & Sons Custom Coolers NQ vouchers, PCYC water bottles, crab measurer, and a PCYC soccer ball, valued at $265.

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Some weeks in this job are all about chasing headlines, while others are about stepping back and touching what really keeps the community ticking.

It’s Home Hill in the spotlight this week—a place that punches well above its weight when it comes to the businesses that keep people fed, fixed, and fuelled. This week, I had the pleasure of meeting the faces behind The Prawn Shop, where one little crustacean-filled roll managed to make the leap from Bruce Highway pit stop to national TV fame.

And there’s Liessmann & Son’s, who’ve spent 55 years plumbing the depths (literally) of the region’s gas and water needs—without ever losing that easygoing, “we’ll sort it” attitude.

While both are vastly different in what they offer, both have a common, foundational bond as pillars of community spirit and resilience, subtly powering the Burdekin through day-to-day life. You can learn more about their stories later in this issue.

As for me? Well, still plugging away. I'm in the process of lining up some intriguing interviews, so stay tuned for those.

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