Six decades ago, as Lyndy McCathie was seated in an East Ayr State School classroom, she was assigned an international pen friend to reach out to as part of the school’s curriculum at the time. Lyndy’s letter was mailed all the way to Japan where it was received and replied to by Yoshiko Okada on the 28th of April, 1965, marking the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

“This was just the start of something very special,” shared Lyndy.

“I could never have imagined that writing a letter requesting a pen friend from another country in Year 6 would begin a lifelong friendship.”

In late April of this year, Lyndy and Yoshiko will celebrate 60 years of friendship and the pair have exchanged over 350 handwritten letters and cards over the years, sharing everything from weddings to welcoming grandchildren.

“Our letters have shared our lives, and our families have become extended families,” added Lyndy.

In 1981, Lyndy and her oldest daughter, Leisa travelled to Japan to meet with Yoshiko in person for the very first time. Both Lyndy and Leisa were warmly welcomed into Yoshiko’s home and family where they were showered with gifts and wonderful experiences in Osaka and beyond.

The pair have been fortunate enough to visit each other’s countries many times, including a couple of years ago when Yoshiko and her husband, Teruaki, stayed with Lyndy and her husband John in Ayr.

Although the times have changed, the way in which the pair choose to keep connected has remained the same.

“Today we still prefer to write a letter as the feeling of getting a letter in your letter box is the same as it was 60 years ago, but emails are shared only here and there for quick exchanges of information.”

Lyndy, John, Yoshiko and Teruaki will meet together in Japan later this year to mark the magnificent milestone and celebrate sharing 60 magical years of friendship with one another.

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Lyndy McCathie and Yoshiko Okada have been pen friends for 60 wonderful years (Photo Supplied)

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The Burdekin is among dozens of Queensland communities benefiting from a statewide housing construction boom, with 10 new social and affordable homes currently under construction or under contract in the region as of the 28th of February, 2025.

The milestone comes as the newly elected Crisafulli Government fast-tracks housing delivery under its Securing Our Housing Foundation Plan, with nearly 5,000 homes now either in contract or being built across the state.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the government is focused on easing Labor’s housing crisis and delivering on its long-term commitment to provide more homes for Queenslanders.

“We’re getting on with the job of building more social and affordable homes right across the state to ease Labor’s Housing Crisis,” Minister O’Connor said.

The statewide pipeline includes more than 3,100 homes already under construction and an additional 1,800 homes contracted to start, marking a 6 per cent boost to Queensland’s social and affordable housing supply.

Projects stretch from the Gold Coast to Goondiwindi, and from Cooktown to Cloncurry and Palm Island - showing that housing needs are being addressed in every corner of the state.

For Burdekin residents, the 10 new homes mark a positive step in ensuring more locals have access to secure, affordable housing, especially as pressure mounts on rental availability and cost of living.

“This is just the start of our housing delivery - we’re rebuilding our housing system from the ground up and backing our builders to get more homes for Queenslanders faster."

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The Burdekin has been contracted 10 new homes as part of the Government's Securing Our Housing Foundation Plan

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You can help to prevent domestic and family violence (DFV) or support those who are affected by it.

Domestic and Family Violence is a pervasive issue that often remains hidden behind closed doors. Recognising the signs is crucial to providing support and potentially saving lives. If you suspect someone is experiencing domestic violence, speaking up is essential. Dialling emergency services like 000 when you hear or see Domestic Violence occurring. DFV is not a private issue, the next step is reaching out to organisations like BCA who can offer assistance, information and counselling.

Signs of domestic violence can vary and may include physical injuries, frequent absences from work or social activities, noticeable changes in behaviour or mood, isolation from friends and family, controlling or possessive behaviour from a partner, and fearfulness or anxiety around their partner.

When you notice these signs, it's vital to approach the situation with sensitivity and empathy. Express concern for their wellbeing and offering support without judgment. Encourage them to seek help from professionals who are trained to handle such situations safely and confidentially.

Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) is a local service provider that can offer support services such as counselling, safety planning, and referrals to shelters and legal services, or DV Connect (1800 811 811) who are also available for crisis support 24-7. Both BCA and DV Connect can guide people through the process of seeking help and will provide ongoing support as they navigate their situation.

Remember, domestic and family violence thrives in silence. By speaking up and offering support, you can help break the cycle of abuse and empower survivors to seek the assistance they need to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

For support or information please visit the BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen Street, Ayr. Ph 4783 3744 or Email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au

Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month
Each May, Queensland marks Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month. This annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control, highlight the support services available, and send a clear message that violence in our communities will not be tolerated.

WHAT: Burdekin Domestic & Family Violence Awareness Walk
When: Saturday 24th May 2025 - 8.30am for a 9.00am start
Where: Ayr Anzac Park, near the Rotunda, 122-136 MacMillan Street, Ayr

Free – Sausage sizzle and activities for children after the walk
Please bring a hat and water bottle

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Since even its earliest form, football—soccer, calcio… whatever you call our beautiful game—has held an unparalleled power to connect: to connect people, to connect communities, and to bring together worlds that otherwise might never have met. It’s a universal language—and Hugh Montgomery’s story serves as a testament to that truth.

In 1970, Hugh, a then 26-year-old Northern Irish lad, arrived in the Burdekin, knowing no one in the region except his Northern Irish wife and soulmate, the late Hilda McCrea, who had followed him to Australia.

But as well as his wife and a couple of suitcases, Hugh brought with him an intense love for football—he lived and breathed it.

From representing the Northern Ireland Schoolboys to sharing the pitch with all-time great George Best, Hugh had an already decorated career, which continued in Australia. Here, he represented the Hollandia Lions (Brisbane), Irish Club (Mt. Isa) and Olympic FC (Townsville), before moving to the Burdekin to represent what is now Burdekin FC in 1972.

After a rough Townsville Premier League season in 1973, the team would win their first premiership under the guidance of Hugh just two years later. A player-manager at the time, Hugh began to establish a winning culture at Burdekin FC, which quickly endeared him to the local community.

“When I first came to the Burdekin, probably one third of the population was Italian, and Italians love their soccer, so they began to love me quite quickly,” he said.

“I remember I scored a goal once to win us the premiership, and (My Italian friend’s) dad ran out, picked me up and put me on his shoulders!”

After hanging up the boots in 1978, Hugh would continue to sporadically coach the first-team until 1992, winning two more premiership titles as well as a further four trophies in other competitions.

Beyond his illustrious career as a player and manager, Hugh would long stay involved in the club, eventually becoming its first ever life member—a reflection not just of his contribution and deep roots in the club’s story, but of his connection within the Burdekin.

And that connection is yet to fade.

“My wife, my family and I made the Burdekin our home… and they made sure we felt at home, too,” he said.

“For two-and-a-half years (before Hilda’s passing) in 2020, I couldn’t go anywhere—I had to stay home and look after her. But, a lot of my ex-teammates still came over every Friday afternoon, and all we’d do was take the p*** out of each other! That’s the camaraderie we had.”

And that’s the essence of it all.

Because it isn't the kind of language you learn on Duolingo. It’s not even necessarily one you learn at all. It’s this inexplicable binding mechanism that transcends words; that nod to the random bloke in the mall that’s wearing the same jersey as you; that bond felt amongst the chaos of a packed stadium; that effortless connection with a group of strangers who invite you into their game of soccer-tennis on the beach. Or, that force that leads a small North Queensland community to embrace a Northern Irish immigrant as one of their own.

Whether that even qualifies it as a language, I don’t know. Maybe it isn’t one. But it is beautiful. And Hugh Montgomery’s story serves as a prime example of just how the “Beautiful Game” earned that moniker.

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“I‘m forever grateful that I always had the full support of my wife and family”—Hugh Montgomery

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Montgomery established a winning culture at Burdekin FC, which quickly endeared him to the local community. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The RLTD season kicked off after the Easter break with some exciting matches across the board. Centrals hosted Charters Towers, Western Lions travelled to Brothers, Burdekin faced the reigning premiers Souths at Junior League grounds, and Norths took on the Crushers in Ingham.

In A-grade, the Roosters were without key players Terence Mosby, Braedyn Cotter, and Josh Hunt. Coach Steve Lindley called up three reserve players, leaving the reggies short-handed. Despite this, the Roosters fielded a youthful side, including four from last year's under-18 grand final team. They performed admirably against Souths, losing 32-16, with two tries scored in the final 10 minutes by the Redmen. A knee injury to former Warrington player Alfie Mather further complicated matters. Forward Lachlan Shepherd was a standout, supported by Aiden Arisa, who scored two tries. Coach Lindley was pleased with the effort, noting that with more experience, the young team could have taken the win. Aiden Arisa and Joel Mason scored tries, while Jye Olsen kicked two goals.

In other A-grade results, Charters Towers defeated Centrals 18-16, Brothers beat Western Lions 42-12, and Herbert River triumphed over Norths 30-22.

In reserve grade, Roosters coach Peter Horan acknowledged that facing a strong side like Souths without a full lineup proved difficult, with the team falling 60-12. Despite this, young players like Jack Rushton and Tate Bombal showed promise. In other reserve matches, Charters Towers defeated Centrals 18-4, Brothers beat Western Lions 32-10, and Herbert River defeated Norths 30-22.

The women’s teams saw Western Lions defeat Brothers 16-14, while Centrals triumphed over Charters Towers 44-0.

This weekend, the Foley Shield will be held in Townsville, with Roosters' Abbey King and Martina Monday representing the women’s team.

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With Domestic Violence Awareness Month just around the corner, the "Feminine Fire" workshop is inviting all women who are seeking to reclaim their strength, reconnect with their bodies, and ignite their inner power through dance, movement, and spiritual connection.

The workshop, hosted by the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, will offer two dates for attendees: Thursday, 15th May, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, and Sunday 25th May, from 10am to 12pm.

Workshop creator and presenter Foxie Eleoyze says it’s a place where women can feel recognised and acknowledged.

“What they get out of the workshop is a place to connect with other women—a place where they can have a voice, be heard and be seen, and a place where they can express themselves through their bodies,” she says.

She says the workshop is catered toward helping women to discover themselves.

“Quite often, as women, we get caught up in the day-to-day life of being a mother, being a wife, being a career woman, and we haven’t given ourselves the space to just be us, and to find what really makes our hearts sing,” she says.

The workshop draws on techniques Eleoyze has refined over years of leading similar retreats, programs, and sessions.

“We start in a circle and we move our bodies, put some music on, and then I show them how to move their body, essentially,” she says. “It’s about unlocking your body to its wisdom and to how it wants to move and how it wants to release.”

“Our body locks up a lot of our emotions, and so moving our bodies, especially in a sensual way, is just very empowering.”

This will be the first “Feminine Fire” workshop presented in the Burdekin by Eleoyze, who also holds experience as an Intuitive Facilitator, Results Coach, NLP Trainer, and Energy Healer.

No dance experience is needed, and participants are urged to bring a drink bottle and to wear something comfortable to move in. Bookings are necessary, and can be made by contacting the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 07 4783 4243.

What: "Feminine Fire" workshop
When: Thursday, 15th May, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, and Sunday 25th May, from 10am to 12pm.
Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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The much-loved BCC Cubs Playgroup has returned to Burdekin Christian College, bringing with it the laughter, colour, and energy that have made it a favourite for local families.

Starting from the 2nd of May, the campus will come alive every Friday morning from 9:00am to 10:30am, as children from birth to five years old gather for sessions of themed activities, creative play, and community connection. From superhero dress-up days to craft mornings celebrating special events, each session is designed to spark curiosity and joy in young minds.

“Our goal is to create a fun, safe, and welcoming environment where kids can learn through play while parents and carers connect,” said Mrs Alicia Henning, one of the program’s coordinators. “Each week is different, so there’s always something new to look forward to.”

The playgroup offers a mix of storytelling, imaginative play stations, craft corners, and outdoor games, all tailored to suit the various stages of early childhood development. Morning tea is provided, making the experience as enjoyable for parents and carers as it is for the children.

Mrs Ashlee Butler, a long-time organiser, said the excitement the group generates is well worth the effort. “Seeing the children smile and having a great time makes it all worthwhile,” she said.

Joining the team this year is Mrs Nashur Adams, who brings fresh energy to the program. “I can’t wait to be a part of our growing community,” she said. “It will be such a joy to see families coming together each week.”

Open to new and returning families alike, the BCC Cubs Playgroup offers not just a morning of fun, but a chance to form lasting friendships and connections.

Children are encouraged to bring a hat, a water bottle, and a big smile.

What: BCC Cubs Playgroup
When: Every Friday morning from 9:00am to 10:30am
Where: Burdekin Christian College

The much-loved BCC Cubs Playgroup has returned, bringing with it the energy that once made it a favourite for local families. Left to right: Alicia Henning, Nashur Adams & Ashlee Butler. Photo supplied

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With so many long weekends lately, you could be forgiven for forgetting what day of the week it is!It has certainly been a busy time across the Burdekin. On Anzac Day, I had the privilege of attending ceremonies right across the Shire, including Giru, Brandon, Ayr, and Home Hill, as well as commemorations with our local high schools. It was wonderful to see so many young people involved, demonstrating such strong respect and understanding of the significance of this important day. Their participation gives me great confidence in the future custodians of our community spirit and national pride.Adding to the vibrancy of our region, our sporting clubs have also been in full swing, hosting a number of fantastic events across the district. These events not only offered opportunities for local athletes to shine but also brought an influx of visitors to our towns — filling our accommodation, cafes, and businesses, and creating a real buzz throughout the Shire. The dedication of our volunteers, coaches, committee members, and players has been outstanding.As we head into another long weekend to celebrate Labour Day, I encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the importance of this public holiday and to enjoy some well-earned rest, community time, and local events.Thank you to everyone who continues to make the Burdekin a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Last weekend’s Canefield Ashes cricket tournament was certainly a memorable one, bringing together a variety of teams for an action-packed weekend of cricket, food, drinks and celebration.

Both Saturday and Sunday saw teams battle it out for ultimate glory, with each team playing at least 3 matches.

Attendees not only enjoyed the excitement of competitive cricket, but also a vibrant social atmosphere throughout the weekend. They were treated to a variety of food options, including burgers, spaghetti, and roast rolls, with drinks available at the clubhouse.

Saturday night featured a “Captains Shout,” pig on the spit, and footy on the big screen, while a DJ kept the music flowing. With camping available and good times stretching well into the evening, the Canfield Ashes provided a perfect blend of sport and socialising for all involved.

Canefield Ashes 2025: Results and Winners

A GRADE
Batting Aggregate - Heath O’Brien (Victorious Secret)
Batting Average - Steven Zabala (MVM)
Bowling Aggregate - JD Wilkins (BenDovers)
Bowling Average - Jay Leckenby (BenDovers)
A Grade Player of the Carnival - Grant Dilger (Bumbos XI)
Runners up - Sugar Daddies
Winners - Victorious Secret

B GRADE
Batting Aggregate - Leon Franklin (Clout n Out)
Batting Average - Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro (Malpass Mongrels)
Bowling Aggregate - Ryan Smith (Norths Fathers and Sons)
Bowling Average - Terry Oakes (Horny Bulls)
B Grade Player of the Carnival - Bryce Stockdale (Buldgers)
Runners up - Worm Burners
Winners - Malpass Mongrels

C GRADE
Most runs - Dylan Smith ((Shaggers XI)
Most wickets - Ethan Mendiola (WWW)
C Grade Player of the carnival - Alex Stillhard (Sledgers XI)
Runners up - WWW
Winners - Sledgers XI

SOCIAL GRADE
Most runs - Zander Musumeci (Dirty Diggers)
Most wickets - Josh Dalton (On the Pull)
Social Player of the carnival - Jarrod Camer (Home Hill Bandits)
Runners up - Shouldawornabox
Winners - Moores Marauders

ALL GRADES PRIZES
Most catches - Lucas Morrish (Norths Fathers and Sons)
Most ducks - Lilly Scutt (Blood Sweat and Beers)
Most 6’s - Chris Mann (Nomads)
Highest score - Zac Cannon (WWW)

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One of the major attractions at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day on Saturday, 10 May, will be the Walkers Engine No.1 Diesel Engine and Alternator Set.

Built around 1930 by Walkers Ltd in Maryborough, this impressive engine is based on a Mirrlees design. Rated at 220 horsepower at 300 rpm, it weighs 25 tonnes and drove a 150kW alternator. It features an air-blast start system and air-blast fuel injection — a method based on Rudolf Diesel’s original 1897 engine design. Several European companies, including Mirrlees, acquired rights to Diesel’s early designs.

By 1910, liquid fuel solid injection had been successfully developed, rendering air-blast fuel injection largely obsolete. As a result, the Walkers No.1 was already about 20 years out of date when it was built.

The Burdekin Machinery Preservationists believe only two operational air-blast injection diesel engines remain in Australia today.

During its working life at the Kalamia Sugar Mill, the Walkers No.1 Engine provided critical backup power when the mill’s steam alternators were offline or when the Townsville Regional Electricity Board (TREB) system was down. Its last operational use came during Cyclone Althea in 1971, when it helped power the mill during the emergency.

In 2015, Wilmar Sugar Mills generously donated the engine and alternator set to the Club. Work to remove the engine from the Kalamia Mill began soon after, and in March 2019, the engine was successfully fired up again at Brandon. The Club extends its thanks to Wilmar Sugar Mills for their ongoing support of this important community project.

In further good news, preparations for the Open Day are on track. "Main Man" Peter reports that the Austral will be up and running in time. Plumbing work was completed last Wednesday, engine testing began on Monday, and if the temperamental governor behaves, the Austral will be operating smoothly and on display in its full working glory.

Visitors are invited to experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of historic steam and diesel engines in action at the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists Open Day, held from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday, 10 May, at the Brandon Heritage Precinct.

For more information, or to join the Burdekin Machinery Preservationists, contact Lex on 0488 366 443 or email burdekinmp@outlook.com.

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The mornings are getting cooler as we approach winter which also means the Cane harvesting season is not far away.One of the Burdekins signature events to kick off the season is the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival which is over the last weekend in May. First on Friday the 30th is the First Fire as well as the Cultural Fair. The cane fire is something that still makes you sit back and watch in awe even when you have seen them your whole life. Accompanied by the Cultural Fair which is a great showcase of the many diverse cultures who call the Burdekin home. This is all backed up on Saturday the 31st with the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. This Bi-Annual competition is something to see as competitors race the clock to cut cane by hand in the fastest time as well as producing a good cut. When you see how tired and dirty the competitors are at the end of the competition it really gives you some perspective on the generation who had to do that day in and out for months on end before the invention of the cane harvester. With many other fun activities for the whole family throughout the day, The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival is one not to be missed so I look forward to seeing you all at the Home Hill showgrounds in the last weekend of May.

Another week, another chance to meet more of you lovely people!

This week was definitely a real “welcome to the industry” kinda week—full-on, non-stop. This followed right through the weekend, with three huge events to cover. But it was great to see the community out in force, embracing each other and making the most of the Burdekin experience.

From a full morning of Anzac Day services on Friday to the Burdekin Sugar Rush on Sunday, each event was busy, spirited, and enjoyable to cover. The Canefield Ashes were definitely a highlight—the vibes were immaculate on Saturday arvo, with entertainment going well beyond the cricket. Drinks flowed, the footy played on the big screen, and a DJ kept the place bouncing 'til late.

I managed to fit in some time this week to watch the boys over at Burdekin FC scrape a 3-2 victory in the rematch of last seasons grand-final, a true showcase of that Burdekin grit as they came back from behind with just nine men. How’s that for free entertainment on a Saturday?

Earlier in the week, I had the chance to chat with Hugh Montgomery—a key figure of Burdekin FC’s history. Hugh's story is quite remarkable, and it was an absolute privilege to be able to pick the brain of an individual so enshrined in not only the club's history, but also within the Burdekin community as a whole. I tried my best to do his story justice in this week's edition of "Golden Oldies."

Looking ahead, I myself am looking to try some new sports this week. I have my sights set on Tuesday night pickleball and Wednesday night bowls (I feel sorry for whoever ends up on my team in either).

Anyways, here’s to another big week!

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The Burdekin community united on Friday, April 25, gathering in droves to honour Australia’s past and present Service People, with Dawn Services, marches, and commemorative ceremonies held across the region.

From the first light of dawn, residents gathered at local memorials to reflect on the sacrifices of the ANZACs. Services were held in Home Hill, Ayr, Giru, and Brandon, each marked by the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute’s silence.

This included an intimate ceremony at Ayr Cemetery, where Flight Lieutenant B.B. Newman, Pilot Officers K.M. MacDonald and J.R. Newman, Flying Officer T.E. Jones, and Sergeant F.G. Bower were specifically honoured for their service.

Large crowds turned out across the Burdekin, lining streets and gathering in parks to pay their respects. The spirit of ANZAC was felt strongly, as generations young and old came together in remembrance.

School students, RSL members, Cadets, and community groups played a proud role in the day’s events, joining marches through town centres and participating in ceremonies that honoured tradition and remembered those who served.

Schools such as Burdekin Catholic, Ayr State Primary and Secondary, Burdekin Christian, and many others laid wreaths at services across the region.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended most ceremonies, laying wreaths and addressing the crowds, while Member for Burdekin Dale Last spoke at the Home Hill service that closed the day.

The ceremonies reflected the community’s ongoing recognition of the contributions and sacrifices made by Australia’s service men and women, highlighting the significance of ANZAC Day in the Burdekin region.

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The Whitsunday community was rocked by the news that much-loved business owner, Tim Perkins, had suffered a severe injury after falling 10 metres from a palm tree on the 3rd December.

Tim, who co-owns Whitpro Pty Ltd with his wife Norina, was performing a task he had completed thousands of times before, as an arborist— climbing and cleaning numerous palms on a local property, when the catastrophic accident occurred.

From the rehabilitation centre at the Townsville University Hospital, Tim recalls every moment of the fall, looking up at the head of the palm while plummeting to the earth,
thinking “this is going to hurt”.  Tim landed with such impact, that the force bounced him from his back onto his chest. The impact breaking 26 bones and crushing Tims spinal cord.

Tim instantly realised that he could not feel his legs.

When Norina arrived onsite, she recalls his first words to her “will I walk again?” and she replied, “I don’t know, it’s not looking good”, as Tim’s back had a large visible bulge which she correctly deduced was a broken back.

“What we did not realise at that point was the extent of Tim’s other internal injuries which were worsening by the second,” she explained.

Norina recalls with gratitude, the Whitsunday ambulance and fire brigade crews acting swiftly to get Tim as stable as possible and transporting him to the PCYC where the BMA CQ Rescue helicopter flew in from Seaforth.

On arrival the paramedic reviewed Tim and told Norina that he would not survive the flight and that they would need to operate immediately on location.

“She said I could say goodbye before they got started,” shared Norina, painfully reliving the tragedy.

Tim was placed in an induced coma, and emergency surgery was performed on the grass of the PCYC field, blood that had been flooding his lungs was drained out, saving his life.

Tim was then airlifted to Townsville Hospital and Norina, with the support of their sons, made the long 3.5 hour drive north, not knowing if Tim would survive the flight.

“The paramedic called me when they arrived at Townsville University Hospital to tell me that Tim had made it, that there was a team of doctors waiting as they landed and that Tim was in the best possible hands, he would make it.”

Nearly five months later, Norina has not left Tim’s side since that day.

Tim was fortunate in that there was no brain damage and his cognitive abilities remained intact. After a seven-hour surgery, which took place a few days after the accident, Tim was told he would likely never walk again. The grief of this news still sits heavily with both Tim and Norina, who now spend long days rehabilitating at the Townsville Rehabilitation Unit.  Every day is dedicated to Tim’s recovery, so he can become as mobile and active as possible while Norina supports him through his daily tasks.

The NQSIS (North Queensland Spinal Injury Service) is a team of 10 spinal injury specialists that have given support and knowledge to the rehab team and Tim in his recovery, giving him the best possible outcome and strong foundation for the rest of his life.

Without this team, spinal patients like Tim are not able to stay close to home but rather are sent to Brisbane for rehabilitation.

“Nobody could understand what he’s going through on a daily basis if they have not been on this journey,” Norina explained.

“It’s like being reborn; you’ve got to learn to do so much all over again, even sitting up unassisted has been a challenging exercise.”

The hospital’s rehabilitation department had received a Federal government grant to trial a specialist spinal cord consulting team, who has been integral to Tim’s rehabilitation.

Unfortunately, that funding will end in June.

Tim is one of the last few spinal injury patients fortunate enough to remain in Townsville Hospital Rehabilitation Unit with the NQSIS to be dispersed as of the 30th June due to state funding not being allocated in 2025 - 26 to this specialty service in our region.

Tim and Norina now hope to use their story to help push for this important funding for government support and recognition, that regional Australia in North Queensland need this service.

“North Queenslanders are being sent to Brisbane, over 1,300 Kms away from family, friends, local community and personal resources, at a time when individuals are coming to terms with a life altering injury,” expressed Norina.

“It is demoralising, lonely, depressing and demotivating, not only for patients but for family too and that is going to affect not only health outcomes but also relationships.”

“You can’t change what has already happened to you in life, but you can choose how you deal with it,” she added.

“If what we are going through can help others and can change a system in regional Australia, that lets down spinal and brain injury patients, then at least our heart breaking journey is given a silver lining.”

Tim and Norina are now appealing to you, to lobby the government to fund the specialist spinal consulting team to continue and create a 10 bed dedicated spinal ward at Townsville University Hospital, with specialist spinal medical staff for regional Queenslanders. This would mean families can stay close to their loved ones during recovery knowing they are in safe hands, with strong outcomes, setting the foundation for the best possible life moving forward.

“I resisted going to Brisbane for rehabilitation because I did not want to be separated from my family while I was learning to accept, navigate and re-learn to use my body, for nine months or longer,” shared Tim.

As the Federal Election approaches, Tim and Norina are asking for federal funding promises from candidates including MP Phillip Thompson, they are also reaching out to MP Amanda Camm, Minister for Families, Seniors, and Disability Services, to lobby for urgent funding relief at the state level.

Those who know Tim will fondly recall his big smile, quick wit, and kind personality, always stopping to chat with anyone. As Tim and Norina embark on the long road to recovery, they want everyone to know that Tim still embodies these traits, along with a stubbornness to prevail, a dogged determination to fight, and an unshakeable will to not only survive but to embrace life as a paraplegic, a husband, a father and an active community member.

Together they asked:

“Help make a difference to not only Tim’s recovery but to the next spinal injury in your town, the next mate, friend, family member who never thought a spinal injury would happen to them.”

“We are asking that you, our community be a voice and to get online or use the QR code and sign the petition to lobby for funds to ensure the North Queensland is not neglected when it comes to regional spinal injury health requirements. It is not just the capital cities that should receive the bulk of health funding.

“Join us and have a voice regional Australia, before North Queensland’s Spinal Specialist team are dispersed for good.”

Sign the petition giving your support via the QR code and help Transform lives of people with spinal cord injury.

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Tim Perkins with his wife Norina at the rehabilitation centre in Townsville Hospital
Tim in a coma shortly after the accident
Tim with the friendly medical team at Townsville Hospital

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SIGN THE PETITION HERE: https://chng.it/nQSWGb6XSs

In a major boost for Rugby League in the Burdekin region, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has officially signed on as the naming rights sponsor of the local playing fields, which will now proudly be known as Bendigo Bank Park.

This landmark partnership comes as the Burdekin Rugby League precinct undergoes significant upgrades to its facilities, setting the stage for a new era of growth, participation, and community pride in the sport. The improvements include enhanced amenities for players, referees and fans alike — a sign of the exciting times ahead for Rugby League in the region.

The five-year agreement reflects a shared commitment to building strong community ties and supporting grassroots sport. The support of the Community Bank Home & Ayr will help ensure that both junior and senior rugby league continues to thrive in the Burdekin for years to come.

Quote from Darren West, Chairman of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
“Bendigo Bank is proud to support local sport and the families that make it all possible. This partnership with Burdekin Rugby League is about investing in the future of our community.”

Both the Junior and Senior club are enthusiastic about this long-term partnership which will assist in growing the games from grassroots up.  With the upgrades nearing completion and now with the support of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr they are entering into a whole new chapter.  Both clubs are confident it will provide valuable opportunities for players, volunteers, and the wider sporting community.

The official unveiling of Bendigo Bank Park and the new facilities built with the assistance of funding from the Queensland Government will be announced soon, with celebrations planned to bring together players, supporters, and community leaders.

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