Making it the number one priority of his visit to the Burdekin last week, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, presented Vietnam veteran, Greg Walters, with a Certificate of Appreciation, recognising his service given in the Defence Force.

Mr Willcox also presented the Home Hill RSL with an Australian Flag, which was greatly appreciated and warmly received by the RSL. The members were also witness to Mr Walter receiving his honorary award, making it a notable occasion.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, was delighted to be able to express his gratitude to Greg Walters, and to do so in person after sacrificing so much for his country, was an honour as he handed over the certificate.

“I was pleased to present Greg with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service during the Vietnam War,” Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

“Greg’s willingness to put his life on the line for the sake of our country is greatly appreciated.”

Greg, who is now retired and no longer in the Australian armed forces, was both surprised and honoured to receive the award, as it was something he wasn’t expecting.

“It was a great day, and I have already found a spot at home to hang up the Certificate of Appreciation,” Greg said on the special day.

The recent visit, marks yet another occasion that Mr. Andrew Willcox has truly admired and been in awe of the local Burdekin community, many of which seem to always surprise him every time he stops to meet them.

“When I am not down in Canberra for Parliament, I get in the 4WD and hit the Bruce Highway and stop into Regional Queensland towns from Mackay to Townsville,”

“The thing I really love about being the Federal Member for Dawson is meeting incredible people each day and hearing their stories.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox with Greg Walters (left) holding his certificate of appreciation, in front of the donated Australian flag along with fellow RSL members in attendance. Photo: Supplied

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The Burdekin Panthers teams had a successful weekend. The Ladies’ and Men’s Division One teams played in Townsville on Friday, with the Ladies winning 7-0 against Wulguru and the Men drawing 1-1 with Saints Eagles Souths. On Saturday, the Under 23s won 4-2 against Rebels, and the Premiers triumphed 2-1. The Premiers' win marked their first of the season, with Damien Casella and Ryan Scodellaro scoring to secure a 2-1 victory. The Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves also fought hard for a 4-2 win, while the Austral Masonry First Division drew 1-1 against Saints Eagles Souths.

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies bounced back from a tough match against Brothers, defeating Wulguru 7-0. Ellyana Mugica, Tegan Johnson, Charley Ruskin, Sienna Lago, and Zandi Bonanno scored in the dominant performance. The Ladies will aim for more wins, facing Saints Eagles Souths next Friday.

In juniors, Round 1 kicked off with high spirits despite the heat. Registrations were higher than last year, and the club is working to reconfigure age groups. Masters also had a successful Monday match, with Fulham beating Manchester Utd 4-1.

Nationally, the Socceroos prepare for World Cup qualifiers against Indonesia and China in March. In the A-League, Auckland leads with a six-point advantage over Western Utd, while Melbourne City moved up to third. In the A-League Women, Melbourne City is top, followed by Melbourne Victory in second.

The Quote of the Week comes from Gordon Strachan, humorously commenting on Eric Cantona’s bizarre press conference: "If a Frenchman goes on about seagulls, trawlers, and sardines, he’s called a philosopher. I’d just be called a short Scottish bum talking crap."

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My journey here at Burdekin Life has come to an end. Don’t cry. Don’t get angry. Don’t wonder why? Just laugh. That’s what keeps the rocking world going round. If I’ve learned anything in this life, it’s that we all need to laugh more. Life is already hard enough as it is to be taken so seriously all the time. Have a laugh, even at me. I don’t mind. Really, I don’t.

However, I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to each and every one of you who helped my time within, and outside these pages, so memorable.

I’ve met some truly remarkable people doing truly remarkable things. You’ve each shared your personal stories, struggles, triumphs and more, and put your absolute trust and belief in me. It has been my honour to retell those stories to the best of my abilities. I truly hope I did them proud.

My family and I have been incredibly grateful to be welcomed here into this wonderful community at a time when everything was in flux for us after returning home from 10+ years overseas. There’s a reason the Burdekin, and in particular, Home Hill, found us. And there’s more than enough reasons to want to stay. But it won’t be in the capacity of your local journo.

What’s next? The great unknown! That’s where the real magic is (and always has been). I’ve certainly ventured there many times before to always be surprised. Outside of having our second baby (and my third), the possibilities are infinite.

All I can say now is Thank You to each and every one you who made an impact in my world. I am forever grateful. For now, keep on truckin’.

Sincerely,
Mark T. Rasmussen

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International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated on 8 March, is a global occasion that honours and commemorates the ongoing fight for women's equality and liberation, as well as the broader women's rights movement. The day highlights issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against violence and abuse towards women.

This year’s celebration was described as an inspiring event, filled with meaningful conversations, delicious food, and a shared commitment to ‘Accelerate Action’ for gender equality. Over 150 women gathered at a sold-out event, united in their support and solidarity for the cause.

Isabel Stubbs, President of the Zonta Club of Burdekin, was thrilled to be part of a special International Women’s Day event on 9 March at the Masonic Hall. The event, which featured a brunch and various prizes, sold out within a single day.

Caterina Larsen Burdekin Zonta's Secretary reflected on the success of the event, saying, "It was a very wonderful event, so we're extremely happy."

"Our committee did a debrief last night and we realised that there are some areas for improvement, but on the whole, we were very, very happy with how the day turned out."

The Zonta Club, which consists of 20 members, raises funds for vital projects such as birthing kits, priced at just $5 each, and Breast Care cushions, which are distributed both locally and internationally. The club also supports local STEM students and provides essential items to victims of domestic violence.

The club’s commitment to empowering women and girls has had a profound impact on the progress of women's rights, education, and leadership opportunities. The Zontians’ unwavering dedication continues to inspire and drive positive change in society, ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive and reach her full potential.

Membership to the Zonta Club involves international, district, and local fees, totalling approximately £240. Through their collective efforts, the Zontians are helping to build a brighter future for women and girls across the globe.

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Find the social pics here! https://tinyurl.com/247ezhxw

13 promising young lifesavers from the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club are heading south for the 2025 Queensland Youth Surf Life Saving Championships on the Gold Coast.

The Championships, which includes clubs from all across Queensland, are scheduled to take place at Tugun from Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th of March, with four action packed days of water, beach and lifesaving events.

This cohort of 13 nippers is one of the biggest groups to head to State Titles as part of the North Barrier Branch Youth Team, and includes: Isla Chapman, Bella Lawry, Zachary Dale, Briella Wassmuth, Cole Pontifex, Milla Chapman, Emma Jones, Emilee Wassmuth, Charlotte Lawry, Mia Wicks, Luca Lawry, Charlotte Dale and Taylor Chapman.

To be selected in the NBB Youth Team members have to compete at regular Branch Carnivals including Branch Championships and the North Australian Championships, which were all held at the end of 2024, and qualify against other members from all clubs across the Branch.

This year the Branch team consists of 77 youth members from across the North Barrier (clubs from Forrest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville-Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina).

All members have continued a vigorous training program since being selected at Branch Championships in December and are ready and raring to give it their absolute all over the upcoming Championships.

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Photo credit: Kellie Lawry
U14s and U15s: Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman, Briella Wassmuth and Bella Lawry
on their way to State Champs!
U11s: Charlotte Dale, Luca Lawry and Taylor Chapman

U12: Mia Wicks

U13: Milla Chapman, Emma Jones and Cole Pontifex

U13: Charlotte Lawry and Emilee Wassmuth

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Thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of their parent & community committee (P&C), Osborne State School are pleased to announce that they will be completely fee-free for 2025!

Just a short 5-6 minute drive from Home Hill, this small but vibrant school not only creates a leaning environment where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive, but they can now attend for free thanks to their Fee-Free incentive.

“This year we wanted to do something that focused more on encouraging new students to enrol in our school, as well as supporting those already here. Coming out of Christmas and all the financial burdens that come at the end of the year, to then jump into January to pay school fees, well, we didn't want our parents to have to do that this year,” Carlene Muilwyk, President of P&C at Osborne State School says.

Everyone knows that school fees can be an added strain, and this initiative is Osborne's way of supporting both students and their families, especially those with multiple kids attending.

“We wanted to be able to give families that relief if they're sending more than one student to school. We also provide all stationery, books, a shirt and hat. We’re just trying to take that pressure off of parents so that schooling becomes something that is not a burden, because it shouldn’t be.”

Getting to Osborne State School has never been easier either, with a reliable bus service running from Ham Kelly Drive all the way to Home Hill High, ensuring students have a safe, convenient way to get to and from school each day.

With small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong sense of community, the school offers an education that goes beyond the classroom – fostering hands-on learning, exciting events, and opportunities for every child to shine.

“We have nine students to two teachers. We also have three teachers aides. This helps us to really engage one on one with students, while ensuring individual care to make sure that no one gets lost in the system,” Carlene says.

Described as a family school, to best illustrate that point, last year one of their students lost their home to a fire. Rather than be forced to face the devastation alone, the school gathered around them and got clothes and other items together.

If you're looking for a caring, high-quality education for your child, now is the perfect time to join. Come see why Osborne State School isn’t just a school, it’s a family.

“We're here to learn, but we're here to support each other in every way. When you enrol with us, you join our family,” Carlene concludes with a smile.

Enrolments for 2025 are open. For more information or to arrange a visit, contact Osborne State School on: (07) 4782 6254.

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Billy Muilwyk, Alex Cullen and Mason Harvey, in front of the painted float for their Home Hill Harvest Festival parade. Photo supplied.
Osborne State School student Jake Cullen is all smiles. Photo supplied.
Anna Muilwyk and Isabella McGrath sitting in front of a Wilmar Cane train and can bins full of harvested cane. Photo supplied.

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Did you know that BCA is running a number of groups? The details of a few of them are below.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS GROUP (Free)

Come along to the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health, 12A Chippendale Street, Ayr.

Wednesdays, 9.30am to 11.30am

• Have a chat
• Meet new people
• Learn something new
• Have a cuppa
  
  Contact the BCA Support Centre to register today on 4783 3744.
  
  MAKE IT HAPPEN LIFE SKILLS GROUP (Free)

• Now taking expressions of interest*
  
  Build independence – Maybe you’d like to learn to cook or manage everyday household duties.
  
  Develop social skills – Meeting new people and developing friendships are important parts of creating an enjoyable and fulfilling life. As you practice your communication skills, your confidence will grow, enabling you to explore your community and make new social connections.
  
  Take care of your health and wellbeing – When you feel good, you can get the most out of life. Learning to plan and cook healthy meals, while developing valuable skills along the way.
  
  When you build your life skills you build your independence too.  We can assist you in mapping out and reaching your health and wellbeing goals.
  
  Contact the BCA Support Centre to register your interest today on 4783 3744.
  
  TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS GROUP (a small fee may apply)
• Now taking expressions of interest*
  
  Our Tai Chi for Arthritis program is a group designed to help people living with arthritis learn safe and suitable ways to exercise.
  
  BCA has Certified Tai Chi for Arthritis Instructors ready to commence classes.
  
  Contact the BCA Support Centre to register your interest today on 4783 3744.
  
  HEALING WAVES MENTAL HEALTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP  (Free)
• Now taking expressions of interest *
  
  A friendly, warm and safe space to share experiences and support one another through the journey of mental health.
  
  HEALING WAVES provides a safe space where group members can provide support and insight to one another through the sharing of their lived experience.
  
  Group members will also learn about and discuss topics such as self-care, mindfulness, stress management and more.
  
  Contact the Burdekin Centre for Rural Health to register your interest on 4783 2711.
  
  F: www.facebook.com/bca1975
  W: www.burdekincommunityassociation.org.au

Operating hours: 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

After going through a rigorous assessment process and a long wait time of over 12 months since getting a job offer, Dr. Masoud Torbatian, a GP with over 30 years of experience, has now joined the Home Hill Surgery.

“I have been working as a GP for more than 30 years. I’m a general practitioner with expertise in various fields of medicine like chronic disease management, older person’s health, child and women’s health. I have worked in clinics, but also in very busy hospitals, too,” Dr. Torbatian shares.

Dr. Tata, who had been advertising for a male doctor since February last year, is delighted to have another male physician join the clinic and share the load, knowing it’s something his male patients in particular have been eager for, as he explains.

“I advertised online in February last year. I was desperate after three of my male doctors suddenly resigned to pursue careers for themselves down south. From there, I left no stone unturned. I looked everywhere, so when Masoud applied online, it all moved forward from there” Dr Tata says.

“I wanted somebody with a lot of experience. He has a wealth of experience with over 30 years in general practice. While he is here to fill in some big shoes, I’m sure there's a lot of people that want to come and see him. I hope the community welcomes him with a big heart,” he adds.

With a liking for warm weather, and an enjoyment of running in wide open space, the Burdekin feels like a great fit for Dr. Torbatian.

“I like Australia, I’m familiar with this country, and so now I get to work as a GP here, which has been my ultimate goal,” Dr. Torbatian concludes.

Dr. Torbatian, who will officially start March 17 as they wait for his provider number, will now make the sixth doctor working out of Home Hill Surgery.

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Meet Dr. Torbatian, Home Hill Surgery's new male doctor. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The State Recovery Coordinator’s visit to the Burdekin early this week is a significant step in both the recovery from the recent severe weather event and an indicator of the State Government’s commitment to build back stronger according to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP.

Mr Last said that meeting with stakeholders throughout the district would provide a comprehensive view of what still needed to be done to ensure the best recovery possible.

“The Crisafulli LNP government pulled out all the stops to support the community both during and after the weather event,” Mr Last said. “We had financial support, for example, available for families and businesses before the flooding had even subsided but we recognise recovery is not just about money.”

“Part of the State Recovery Coordinator’s role is to identify specific recovery needs in communities so ‘on the ground consultation’ is vitally important. A family in Giru, for example, may need assistance with repairs to their home while a family at Groper Creek may be more focussed on being better prepared for the next event.”

“It’s virtually impossible to undo all of the effects of weather events like this but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways that we can support our key industries and therefore, reduce the damage to the community’s and the state’s economy.”

“For the first time, farmers have been given financial support to replant crops because recovery needs to be about the medium term as well as immediate issues. There will always be room for improvement and that is another good reason for the State Recovery Coordinator to engage with residents, industry and business representatives.”

Mr Last said the appointment of a north Queenslander to the role would ensure a clear understanding of the challenges faced in the region and also ensure the government’s commitment was honoured.

“Andrew Cripps is a born and bred north Queenslander,” he said. “Hailing from Tully, the importance of the sugar industry and the role that industry plays in the community is second nature to him and that is vitally important for the Burdekin.”

“While centres throughout the north have their traditional rivalries, it’s great that we have someone who understands the importance of infrastructure. Roads for example, are a vital link to work, to family, and to health care because public transport simply isn’t an option.”

“The Premier has given his personal assurance that our recovery will remain a priority despite recent weather events in the South-East corner. By having a local in charge of our recovery, it ensures that we aren’t forgotten just because the TV cameras have moved on.”

“My commitment is the same as the Premier’s when it comes to the Burdekin and wider north Queensland. The recovery process will be thorough and will continue for as long as it takes because that is, quite simply, what we deserve.”

Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

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Biosecurity Queensland is advising of the preliminary identification of varroa mite (Varroa destructor) for the first time in Queensland.

Initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley have returned a positive diagnostic result for Varroa destructor.

Further samples from recreational and commercial apiaries have been collected and are currently undergoing testing to confirm the presence of Varroa destructor and also check for other exotic pests and diseases.

Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General and Chief Biosecurity Officer Dr Rachel Chay said increased detections into Queensland’s border regions were expected in the coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.

“Biosecurity Queensland has been preparing for this event and is working closely with the affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices,” Dr Chay said.

“We’ve joined all other states and territories in shifting our focus from eradication to management to safeguard Queensland’s valuable honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping.

“Queensland's Varroa Mite Biosecurity Zone remains in place, which restricts the movement of bees, beehives and beekeeping equipment from states and territories with varroa mite.

“We remain committed to supporting the beekeeping industry by working alongside individual beekeepers, peak industry bodies and a dedicated biosecurity champion network.”

Queensland Beekeepers’ Association President Jacob Stevens said the first detection of Varroa destructor in Queensland had been expected “for some time now”.

“Thank you to the Queensland beekeepers who have reported varroa mite. Unfortunately, these reports come as no surprise,” Mr Stevens said.

All beekeepers are urged to remain vigilant and undertake monthly hive health checks to determine varroa mite presence.

All results should be reported to the Bee 123 online form, even if no mites are found.
Immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Varroa development officers (VDOs) are available to provide advice to all Queensland beekeepers in early detection and integrated pest management principles. VDOs can be contacted at varroa@daf.qld.gov.au.

All beekeepers should:
• monitor for mites monthly using the alcohol wash method
• report all hive checks using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if no mites are found
• immediately report any suspect mites, unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
• stay up to date with the latest information by subscribing to the bee e-alert
• attend a training workshop to learn how to best manage varroa mite in your hives
• register as a biosecurity entity, whether you have one hive or 100
• use decontamination practices between apiaries and always come clean and leave clean
• keep up to date on movement restrictions for your intended destination before moving bees or equipment.

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The Queensland Government is inspiring young minds with science programs to promote agricultural science as a rewarding, long-term career choice.

Thousands of students will explore the role of ‘insects in agriculture’ as they take part in a national school plant science competition.

Registrations are now open for the Department of Primary Industries’ 29th annual Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition.

This year, students will focus on the world of insects, gaining insights into biology, ecology and the environment while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Interest is soaring so far this year with almost 3,000 students from 93 schools across the country already registered to take part.

Students can enter all three award categories: Plant Science Project Awards, Art in AgRiculTure Awards, or the Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.

Registrations for school students to enter this year’s competition are open until 30 May 2025, with entries closing on Friday 27 June 2025. All entrants will be in the running for a selection of fantastic awards and prizes.

Winners will be announced on 21 August 2025 at the Hermitage Research Facility's annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.

Client Services Officer, Kerrie Rubie said this year's competition will give students the opportunity to learn all about insects and the role they play in Australian agriculture and global food security.

“It is incredibly important that our younger generation are educated about the different types of insects, animals, and fungi, as well as the weeds and diseases that pose a threat to our environment and agricultural industries,” she said.

Students can get their creativity flowing in the Art in AgRiculTure Awards competition and get outdoors into nature with Guardians of Earth April Global BioQuest.

“Exciting competitions like this one are critical for sparking passion for our industry. I encourage students to get involved and have some fun while also learning about the importance of insects and their impact on agriculture and food security,” Ms Rubie said.

For more information and to enter, visit Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition online or call 13 25 23.

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Last Wednesday I chaired the Road Safety meeting. This is where Police, Fire, Ambulance, Wilmar, Main Roads, and Council, get together to discuss local traffic and road issues that have been raised by residents and businesses. The solutions are not always easy, but the discussions are always productive. You can find the minutes of these meetings on the council website.

Unfortunately, a lot of our traffic issues stem back to driver error and impatience. One example that has been raised from Queensland Ambulance is indicating on roundabouts. Often the Ambulance are on a lifesaving mission and get to a roundabout to meet cars that aren’t indicating their intentions. Please be mindful of this going forward. It could save a life.

I’d like to take this opportunity to give a personal thanks to all the Burdekin residents for their efforts, patience and resilience through the recent weather events. It was pleasing to see when I attended the Home Hill SES sand bag site to help fill sand bags, that people were pitching in to help one another and also terrific to hear a bit of banter and general chit chat to show spirits were good. I’d like to give a special thanks and sincere gratitude to Jess and the team at iComply, who with one phone call, came to the town’s aid to provide a bus and driver to help ferry people back and forth to the rail motor. We learned a lot through this process and whilst I hope we never need it again, we will be better prepared with systems in place in the future.

Finally, it is planting weather. Farmers are working up the dirt and banging in all the fresh produce they can, and I’ll bet we see the cane starting to go in this week. Hard to believe only a couple of weeks ago we were in monsoon conditions. Let’s hope for the best weather going forward so everyone can have a productive and profitable year.

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Last week, I had the privilege of attending the World Day of Prayer, a wonderful event that brings people together, regardless of their church or denomination, to share in faith and community. It was heartwarming to see such unity and support across our local churches.

Over the weekend, I also attended the Zonta International Women’s Day Brunch, celebrating the exceptional women in our community. It was a fantastic event, highlighting the incredible achievements and contributions of local women who continue to inspire and lead.

Thank you to everyone involved in organising these meaningful events—your efforts help strengthen our community spirit!

Meanwhile, our region is now in recovery mode following recent weather events. Road assessments and repairs are underway, and we appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as crews work through the damage. Ensuring our roads are safe and accessible is a priority, and we ask residents to take care when travelling through affected areas.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone on 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

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The Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) program, co-run by the Rotary Clubs of Ayr and Home Hill, aims to reduce road crashes among young drivers through road safety education. Conducted annually, the program involves six sessions over a day, covering topics like Drive SOS, Mind Matters, Speed & Stopping, and Road Choices.

It targets Year 11 students, who are either on a learner's permit or about to obtain one, to educate them on responsible driving and passenger behaviour. Over the past decade, the program has significantly reduced road fatalities among young people in the Burdekin area.

Tony Goddard, Rotary Coordinator for RYDA in the Burdekin spoke about the program, highlighting its importance and success.

“Rotary Club conduct the RYDR program every year. It's run by Road Safety Education, however, in these smaller communities we deliver the program on behalf of them. We engage six to eight facilitators, while the program revolves over one day with six sessions, each lasting 30 minutes,” Tony says.

“RYDA concentrates on year 11 students, and the reason for that is that they're the ones that are either on a learner's permit or about to obtain a learner's permit and or a provisional license. What we're trying to do is make them aware of the various choices they can make when driving a vehicle or being a passenger in one, in an effort to reduce serious road crashes, including fatalities,” Tony states.

Getting into the car as a novice driver or as a passenger of a novice driver, is said to be among the most dangerous things a person will do in their lives. Young Australians continue to be over-represented in road trauma statistics with 17-25-year-olds making up 10% of the population but representing a much greater percentage of all driver and passenger fatalities.

“While this statistic is better than it was 10 years ago, this still means that 230 young people died on Australia roads last year and approximately 10 times that number were seriously injured,” Tony laments.

“Thankfully, with this program that has been running in the Burdekin for about 10 years now, we’ve seen that there's been a massive decrease in the number of fatalities involving young people in road crashes compared to what there used to be.”

Thanks to the success of RYDA, countless lives have been saved as a result. Here’s to its continued success.

The dummy used to highlight speed and stopping distance. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Students watch on as they witness the RYDA program speeding vs stopping test. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen

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The Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex was abuzz with excited juniors last Friday for our weekly games of cricket. The parents watching the Challenger's game were in the box seat to see an amazing partnership between Corbett and Noah of 52 runs, which included two sixes and three eights. A straight shot over the boundary gives the batter eight runs, which encourages straight hitting in the Challenger game. Bowlers to get wickets were Harvey, Nate, Olivia, Nicholas, Lincoln, Corbett, Noah and Claire. The MacDonalds Sports Awards were given to Noah for his excellent batting, and Claire for her bowling and great enthusiasm in the field.

It was a tight game in the ‘Blue Group’ with Mazlyn getting 10 runs, followed by Tait on 9 and Kip and Tyler scoring 8 each. The fielding in this group has improved greatly as there were seven run-outs in this game with Steve, Kip and Tyler throwing accurately. The bowlers to take wickets were Tait, Henry, Stirling and Royce. For his batting and fielding efforts, Kip received the MacDonalds Sports Award for this game.

The bowling was very tight in the ‘Gold Group’ which led to four ducks and some economical figures for the bowlers. Mark and Marshall remained unbeaten on 12 and 11 runs respectively.  Kaisen had the best figures of 1 for 4 runs, followed by Marshall and Ben on 1 for 6, which included a maiden over. Marshall and Tyler also got run0outs and according to Oscar, took a screamer of a catch. Marshall and Ben took home the MacDonalds Sports Awards.

On Sunday morning Home Hill hosted Bowen for the return games from earlier this season. In the Blue game Bowen won the toss and chose to have a bowl. Our highest scorers were Kyle Wilkie and Jude Shannon with 17 runs each. Tyler Smith and Corey Pensini also batted well scoring 12 runs apiece. The pick of our bowlers was Kip Nicholas with an unbelievable spell of bowling taking 6 wickets for only 8 runs, next best was Tait Parker with 2 for 10, which helped Home Hill win the game easily by 36 runs.

The ‘Gold’ game was on the turf wicket of the "Barry Richards Field" and Bowen also won this toss and sent us into bat. Home Hill batted steadily and patiently to post a score of 95 after 30 overs.  Our openers Mark Wilkie and Xavier Cross combined for a 25 run partnership before Mark was bowled for 12. Kaisen Petersen top scored not out with 18 valuable runs batting at six. Bowen also got off to a steady start, losing their first wicket when the score was 13. Four quick wickets soon after had them 5 for only 20 and in real trouble. After the great start in the field by Home Hill the heat and humidity took its toll on our bowlers and too many wides and no balls let Bowen back into the game to only need 9 runs to win in the last over with no wickets in hand. It went down to the last ball where they needed 2 runs.   legside full toss saw the Bowen batter smash it to the boundary for a four and win the game. Home Hill's best bowler was Ben Watkins with 2 for 8 and Marshall Parker took 2 catches.

Home Hill junior cricketeers vs Bowen.
Blue group aports award winner, Kip.
Challengers sports award winners, Claire & Noah.
Gold group and dual sports award winners, Ben & Marshall.
Home Hill versus Bowen junior cricketeers in action.

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