The Burdekin District Sportfishing Club celebrated a big year of big catches at their presentation night last Friday.

Many awards were presented across a variety of divisions and kids enjoyed a surprise visit from Santa while plans for 2024 were discussed amongst the club.

Join Burdekin District Sportfishing Club on Facebook for more information.

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Results

Awards

Division Winner

Champion Angler Light Division (Senior Male) George McLees

Champion Angler Light Division (Senior Female) Simone Sutcliffe

Champion Angler Light Division (Junior Male) Rian Berryman

Champion Angler Light Division (Sub Jnr. Male) Kerby Brett

Champion Angler Heavy Division (Senior Male) Russell Sutcliffe

Champion Angler Heavy Division (Senior Female) Simone Sutcliffe

Champion Angler Heavy Division (Junior Male) Rian Berryman

Champion Angler Heavy Division (Sub Jnr. Male) Henry Sutcliffe

Champion Angler Heavy Division (Sub Jnr. Female) Ellie Sutcliffe

Champion Angler Open Division Patrick Brett

Champion Angler Junior Male Rian Berryman

Champion Angler Sub Jnr Male Kerby Brett

Champion Angler Sub Jnr Female Ellie Sutcliffe

Champion Angler – Runner Up Russell Sutcliffe

Weighmasters Encouragement Award Joshua Brett

Weighmasters Encouragement Award Isabelle Sutcliffe

Champion Female Angler Simone Sutcliffe

Champion Angler Overall George McLees

Wally Hicks Memorial (Threadfin Salmon) Laurie Brett (1.58kg on 3kg)

Bill Betteridge Memorial (Biggest Javelin) George McLees (2.26kg)

George Brett Memorial (Highest Points Fish – Heavy Division) Russell Sutcliffe (Mackerel Tuna - 2.28kg on 6kg)

Highest Points Scoring Fish

Line Class Winner

2kg Line Michael Berryman (0.9kg Mangrove Jack)

3kg Line Laurie Brett (1.58kg Threadfin Salmon)

4kg Line Patrick Brett (2.82kg Barramundi)

6kg Line Russell Sutcliffe (4.76kg Mack Tuna)

8kg Line Rian Berryman (2.6kg Batfish)

10kg Line Patrick Brett (2.96kg Threadfin Salmon)

15kg Line Russell Sutcliffe (4kg Gold Spot Cod)

Open Division Patrick Brett (2.18kg Coral Trout)

Most Meritorious Catch George McLees (Javelin – 2.26kg on 1kg)

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L-R Kerby, Stephen, Laurie, Josh and Patrick Brett, Ryan Berryman, Russell, Ellie, Simone, Isabelle and Henry Sutcliffe, Michael Berryman and George McLees

Richard Berryman (Secretary) and Joshua Brett

Simone and Russell Sutcliffe (President)

Ron Berryman (Weighmaster), Richard Berryman, George McLees and Russell Sutcliffe

The Burdekin Potters have been very busy the last couple of months, preparing for their Annual Christmas Sale.

A great range of locally crafted unique pottery gifts will be on offer for that “hard to buy for” or “someone special” for Christmas.

The local potters have certainly gone from strength to strength in the last few years, presently boasting a membership of almost 60.

Being very inclusive, their membership of both males and females range in age from 16 to mid-70’s.

The successful application of several grants has also seen the club expand its footprint recently, with more storage facilities in the works to cater for the growing membership.

Local potters from beginners to advanced will be showcasing a great and varied range of locally crafted pottery, all on sale for that last Christmas rush.  

The Pottery Club will be open this Sunday December 3 from 8:00am to 2:00pm to coincide with the Plantation Markets, as well as throughout the following week between 10:00am and 3:00pm, finishing on Saturday December 9.  

Drop in anytime you see the “Open” flag flying.  

Burdekin Potters are located behind the cafe in Plantation Park.

Contributed by Debbie Ferraris

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Saraha, Judith and Matilda

Matilda and Debbie

Matilda and Judith

Fast Facts:

Rehoming Fee: $185

DOB: 19/06/2021

Sex: Male

Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Kid Friendly: Over 10 Years

Dog Friendly: Untested

Other Cats: Slow Introduction

Indoor/Outdoor: Indoors

While this boy is initially a little shy, he is very quick to warm up to his new home and humans. Charlie absolutely loves playing with anyone and anything, particular fetch with his very own ping pong ball, and as well running his claws down a scratching post and running through a tunnel.

No need for an alarm clock anymore, Charlie will be sure to wake you up demand head rubs and good belly scratches.

While he doesn’t love being picked up, he is quick to run through your legs, and even lay on you when watching a movie, and purring up a storm.

Charlie is desexed, microchipped, up to date on his vaccinations, and is flea, tick and worm treated.

To organise a meet and greet, complete and submit an animal enquiry form, https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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Sweet FM has improved its outside broadcast capabilities with the acquisition of new satellite technology.

Previously, the station would rely on mobile phone networks to broadcast from locations outside of the Home Hill studio.

“Typically, we’ve always used mobile phone coverage,” said Station Manager Charlie Scuderi.

“In this one particular location, the mobile phone system let us down.

“We were all set up to connect back to the studio and all of a sudden, we didn’t have enough bandwidth.

“Other people at this location said, ‘Why aren’t you using Starlink?’”

Starlink is a network of low earth orbit satellites launched by American spacecraft manufacturer and satellite communications company SpaceX intended to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband connectivity across the globe.

Starlink’s low earth orbit satellites orbit the planet at around 550km above Earth, while traditional satellites generally orbit at over 30,000km.

“Traditional satellites, while they’re fast, they have what’s called latency or response time, so by the time the signal gets out there and comes back to Earth, it makes it almost unusable for communications,” Mr Scuderi said.

“These low earth orbit satellites are brilliant because they’ve only got a relatively short distance to travel.

“It’s affordable and the speed is terrific.”

The new technology will allow Sweet FM to continue their dedicated history of broadcasting from locations and events throughout the region.

“Sweet FM has always been doing outside broadcasts and the gear keeps getting better making it easier to do,” Mr Scuderi said.

“This will give us the opportunity to do more outside broadcasts in more remote places.”

Sweet FM’s next outside broadcast will be on December 1 from the Christmas Lights party on the corner of Edwards and Darwin Streets, Ayr.

Email admin@sweetfm.com.au if you’re interested in Sweet FM broadcasting from your next event.

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Sweet FM Station Manager Charlie Scuderi. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

As part of the show’s Tiny Towns Tour, Triple M’s The Rush Hour paid a visit to Brandon last week, broadcasting from the Iron Works Brewery on Thursday, November 23.

Brandon was the first stop on the tour which saw Townsville-based presenters AB and Elliot learn about local history and hear from local guests.

“We’re travelling around Queensland visiting the unsung hero towns, the ones that aren’t on the tourist maps, the ones with really small populations and short Wikipedia pages,” said AB.

“We spend a lot of time on air in the Burdekin, being close to Townsville, and Brandon was a town that we don’t think gets talked about enough.”

“The one thing we’ve noticed since doing our radio show, which broadcasts from Townsville all throughout the regions, is the callers from the regions are loose in the best possible way,” added Elliot.

“They’re fun, they’ve got the best stories and I think you’ll find that the smaller the towns are, the bigger the stories are.”

Elliot has been going on Tiny Towns Tours for the last year visiting towns across Queensland including Woodford, Biloela, Calliope and Weipa, and this was the first time AB came along for the ride.

Throughout the show, AB and Elliot invited local guests and heard local stories, including Mayor Lym McLaughlin who was put to the test on her knowledge of sugar products.

“We’re putting all the mayors to the test to see how well they know their towns,” said AB.

Meanwhile, Elliot was particularly intrigued by the story of the town’s namesake, Henry Brandon.

“I read about him for ages, he came over from the UK,” he said.

“The fact that he literally just subdivided a spot, wanted to put in a sugar mill and name the place after himself, I thought that was awesome.”

“We’re also going into the feuds between Brandon and Ayr in regards to which was going to be the main town outside of Townsville,” added AB.

“They were originally going to build the train track to here, but they decided to go to Ayr, so I think there’s always been a bit of animosity between the towns because of it.”

The Tiny Towns tour continued to Sarina, Clermont, Alpha and Longreach before wrapping up today in Muttaburra.

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Triple M’s The Rush Hour producer Luke and presenters AB and Elliot

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, Elliot, Mick the Canecutter and AB

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Rhythm Edge Dance Studios took over Burdekin Theatre last weekend for two sold out Rhythm Nation dance concerts.

The shows saw the region’s dancing talent take to the stage, wowing crowds with a dazzling and professional production.

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Photo credit: Keeara and Reece Photography

Rhythm Edge Dance Studios sold out two shows over the weekend

Acro students

Senior students

Junior and Inter students

Minis students

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After months of dedicated writing and rehearsal, the Home Hill Choral Society is preparing to take audiences ‘Around the World in 20 Songs’ with their new show ‘All Things Folk’ debuting next month.

The show is written and directed by Erin Brennan who felt inspired on a drive home from Townsville one day.

“I heard a folk music radio station and it was really great and really stirring,” she said.

“We’ve got folk songs from Australia, Italy, Ireland, and Scotland, a bit of everything.

“We weave songs into the show and try and do them traditionally and interweave little skits and fun puns in between.”

The cast have been rehearsing for almost two months and Erin said it usually takes her three to four weeks to write a show before coming together with Musical Director Cheryl Platt.

“I’m constantly reading books and getting ideas,” she said.

“I then share it with Cheryl, and we come together for the music.”

The Choral Society will be performing four shows with two already sold out.

Tickets are still available for shows on Saturday, December 2 and Friday, December 8.

“Everyone likes to come and sit back, relax and forget about their troubles for a couple of hours,” Erin said.

“If we make a mistake, they laugh with us, not at us.

“Don’t miss out, this is the last show of the year.”

To book tickets, contact Erin on 0428 822 091.

The Home Hill Choral Society has been active since 1931.

Following the four shows, the Choral Society will join the Burdekin Uniting Church and Burdekin Brass Band for Christmas Carols in the Park on Sunday, December 17.

WHAT: The Home Hill Choral Society Presents Around the World in 20 Songs: All Things Folk

WHEN: December 2, 3, 8 and 9

WHERE: The Vault, 93 Eighth Avenue, Home Hill

TICKETS: $35, contact Erin on 0428 822 091

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The cast of Around the World in 20 Songs: All Things Folk

Writer and Director Erin Brennan and Musical Director Cheryl Platt

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The Burdekin turned on its charitable spirit last weekend with people donning their Silly Socks and Helping Hands for McHappy Day, the largest annual fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

McHappy Day helps seriously ill and injured children and their families stay together while receiving medical care in a nearby hospital.

“Every year, we are blown away by the generosity of our customers who dig deep for McHappy Day and help us raise much needed funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities,” said Licensee for McDonald’s Ayr Paul Rissman

“The funds raised will go directly towards helping Ronald McDonald House Charities continue to make a real difference to the lives of seriously ill or injured children and their families across Australia.”

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin and Councillors Kaylee Boccalatte and John Furnell

Mayor Lyn McLaughlin and Councillor John Furnell

East Ayr State School held a fundraising pyjama day last week before school captains proudly took donations on the day

Local emergency services also got in on the fundraising fun

Photos supplied

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Fast Facts:

Rehoming fee: $545

DOB: 25/08/2020

Sex: Male

Breed: Border Collie Cross

Kid Friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Untested

Other Dogs: Yes

Fences: 5ft

If you’re looking for a ball of energy to join your home, look no further than Zeus. Intelligent and energetic, Zeus is a boy who loves a day of fun, from daily walks to playing with his toys.

A quick leaner, Zeus is always eager for a play, however he does occasionally forget his manners. When playing fetch, he often forgets to return the ball to his human, and the game of catch is on!

Still learning, Zeus is in training to not jump up on people and he loves playing tug-of-war, so he would be best suited to a family with older kids.

Zeus is also a great alarm, being able to give early warning when the family home is about to receive a guest and give pre-emptive barks.

Zeus is desexed and microchipped, up to date on his vaccinations, and is flea, tick, intestinal worm treated, and on heartworm preventative.

To organise a meet and greet, complete the animal enquiry here: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

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Burdekin Catholic High School hosted annual Academic Awards on the night of Monday November 13.  Students, staff, parents and special guests gathered to celebrate the academic achievements of Year 12 students.  This significant ceremony acknowledges the hard work and dedication of their students throughout the year, not only academically but also as leaders withing the school and wider community. It also marked a significant milestone – 13 years of schooling. The evening was a proud and well-deserved acknowledgment for both the students and their families.

Major award recipients include:

Leo Previtera Award for Vocational Excellence – Charlotte Dal Santo

Ayr Rotary Club – Norm Perry Community Spirit Bursary – Sharlie Archibald

Ayr Rotary Club – Tertiary Education Bursary – Logan Flanagan

JCU Rising Star Scholarship – Tia Sorohan

The James Cook University Shield – Lily Thomason

The Year 12 Award for Outstanding Cultural Contribution – Faith Taylor

Ampol Best All Rounder – Kiel Keryk

CQU Award – Lachlan Cambruzzi

Br Lawrie McCane Fellowship Award – Benjamin Smail

RACI Qld Excellence in Chemistry – Logan Flanagan and Brigitte Davies

Townsville Catholic Education Deus Caritas Est Award – Brayden Rennie

ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award – Brigitte Davies

ADF Future Innovators Award – Cameron Keys

Dawson Medal for Leadership – Isabella Moloney

Hansen Shield for Outstanding Leadership and Character – Brigitte Davies

Contributed by Burdekin Catholic High School

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Charlotte Dal Santo

Sharlie Archibald

Logan Flanagan

Tia Sorohan

Lily Thomasson

Faith Taylor

Thomas Davies, Kiel Keryk and Benjamin Smail

Lachlan Cambruzzi

Brigitte Davies and Logan Flanagan

Brayden Rennie

Cameron Keys

Isabella Moloney

Shae Munro

Caitlin McDonnell

Photos supplied: Burdekin Catholic High School

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The Burdekin Race Club pulled all the stops at their most recent race day, with an exciting Fashions on the Field culminating the event.

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Lady of the Turf, Trendsetter and Man of the Turf fashion winners for the 2023 Burdekin Race Club Just Scott Memorial Derby Day. Photo credit: Saskia Photography

Making Waves On Centre Stage

Two East Ayr State School students have participated in the coveted Australia Wearable Art Creative 2023 PSOE event, which is also part of the Festival of the Arts.

Year 6 students Savannah and Zenniece, with their teacher Mrs Nash, travelled to the event in Townsville in August to showcase two wearable art costumes, designed and constructed by East Ayr State School students.

Perfectly rehearsing their walk on Friday and Saturday, the girls modelled in the event on Saturday night.

During a 20-minute intermission, members of the public were welcome to meet with the girls, view the costumes up close and personal and ask questions.

Both girls were confident showcasing their costumes, took photos with community members and explained the significance of their costumes and how they were made.

Savannah and Zenniece were excited and thankful for the opportunity to showcase the costumes that were made by students from their school, as well as step out of the comfort zone, build their confidence and represent East Ayr State School.

Wearable Art Creatives is an organisation which aims to grow and promote wearable art as innovation and a creative form of expression.

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East Ayr State School students Savannah and Zenniece showcasing wearable art in August. Photos supplied

Close to 10 years ago, an opportunity arose for Tasha Smith, something that she could not pass up, and she has been reaping the benefits ever since.

12 years ago, Tasha accepted a job in a Burdekin boutique, a shop she fell in love with and two years later when the offer came up for her to purchase the business, she couldn’t turn it down.

A thriving boutique, Tasha’s Top Shop has continued to serve the women of the Burdekin, with every style, every size, and for every event.

“My mantra is that absolutely everything is $85 or under,” Tasha explained.

“There are not very many boutiques that you can just walk into and be able to pay under $85 for a great dress or a pair of shoes.”

A bargain for an extensive range, from coastal chic, rustic rural, lovely linen, and your next race dress or favourite pair of sandals, there is something everyone will love and cherish in their wardrobe.

“We have great pieces that will elevate your looks, great everyday pieces that are comfortable and fashionable,” Tasha said.

And coming into February 2024, Tasha and Tasha’s Top Shop are celebrating a massive 10 years in business, and everyone is welcome to the party.

Watch this space to hear more about the celebration!

Tasha’s Top Shop is open is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and Saturday 9am to 12.30pm, and with a comprehensive online shopfront, Tasha is keeping her customers dressed best, no matter the hour. Visit now at 93 Queen Street or online at tashastopshop.com.au.

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The beautiful shopfloor of Tasha’s Top Shop. Photo supplied

Grand Parade And Street Party

Over 3,000 people lined Eighth Avenue last Saturday, November 11 for the Harvest Festival Grand Parade where businesses and organisations paraded down the street in floats of all shapes and sizes.

Celebrations continued at Watson’s Green for the Street Party where rides, food and live music kept guests partying on into the night.

Harvest Festival President Mark Vass said the committee was extremely happy with the event.

“The Harvest Festival committee was overwhelmed by the support the community gave in coming out in their droves to the Grand Parade and Street Party,” he said.

“We had a bumper crowd, and everything went off without a hitch.

“I found that the crowd stayed a lot later than usual listening to Luke Geiger and his band.

“We had the largest bar takings since I’ve been involved in the festival.”

Mark went on to thank his committee of volunteers, including Vice President John Woods, Treasurer Desley Musumeci, Secretaries Peta Anne Broadhead and Carlene Muilwyk, Sponsorship and Promotions Peta-Anne Broadhead and Debbie Simpson, Minutes Secretaries and Social Media officers Faith Swindley and Carlene Muilwyk and Setup Volunteers Greg Dwyer and Stephen Simpson.

“Without them and our fantastic sponsors, these events wouldn’t go ahead,” Mark said.

“We also welcome any community feedback on how to improve and if anyone is keen to get involved, please contact me.”

Ephemera winners were also announced on the night, with Uli Liessmann’s ‘Peace’ winning Judge’s Choice and “It’s a Colourful World” by Maree McKeough and Lorraine Lynch winning People’s Choice.

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Harvest Festival Rotary Ball

It was a weekend of glamour, dancing and celebration for the four Home Hill Harvest Festival Queen Entrants.

Friday night saw Dayna Linton crowned Charity Queen and Allie-Jo Farry crowned Personality Queen, although all four entrants were celebrated for the occasion.

Dayna raised $29,653.62 for Burdekin Netball Association, whom she was representing as an entrant.

The total raised by all four entrants was $48,911.15 with the money raised by Allie-Jo Farry and Zoe Oakes to go towards the organisations they represented, Home Hill – Ayr Lions Club and Home Hill Rotary Club respectively, and money raised by Kaitlyn Warren, who represented Home Hill Prawn Stop, to be donated to Burdekin Chaplains.

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2023 Home Hill Harvest Festival Queen Entrants Zoe Oakes, Allie-Jo Farry, Dayna Linton and Kaitlyn Warren

Dayna Linton was crowned Charity Queen after raising $29,653.62 for Burdekin Netball Association

Allie-Jo was crowned Personality Queen