Prepare to lace up your football boots because the Burdekin Touch Football open men’s and women’s season is almost here, and it’s time to get your team ready to play!

The fun began with the pre-season competition on Wednesday, the 29th of January, and will run for three weeks. Teams will play two 20-minute games each Wednesday, with Week 4 ending in an exciting Grand Final! The top teams from the men’s and women’s divisions will compete for some sweet prizes - $150 off the winning team's season fees and $50 off for the runners-up!

But that’s not all! There will also be sprints for both men and women, with $50 up for grabs for the fastest players.

Round 1 of the open competition starts on Wednesday the 26th of February, and after 15 rounds of action-packed games, the comp will wrap up with the Grand Finals on Friday the 27th of June.

Ready to get in the game? Head to burdekintouch.com.au to register your team today and for more information, contact Peter Knapton at 0437 710 500.

Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.

What: Burdekin Touch Football 2025 Open Season
When: kicks off on Wednesday the 26th of February
Where: Ayr Touch Fields
More Information: visit burdekintouch.com.au or call 0437 710 500

Burdekin Touch Association 2024 Referee of the Year Michael Littlefield

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Jye Olsen has entered the spotlight, made headlines and wowed spectators over the past few years, leading an impressive rugby league career with the Burdekin Roosters. With a lifetime of experience, Jye first played on the field when he was just seven years old and reminisces fondly on his successful introduction to the sport.

“I was lucky enough to play in a very good junior team which went undefeated for many years,” explained Jye.

“It was with this team that we won the Paul Bowman Carnival in Under 9's which had over 50 teams and the Burdekin's very own Shane Muspratt Cup in Under 12's.”

Jye’s unwavering dedication to the sport shone bright through several years of tough team losses, and he credits his perseverance to the values demonstrated to him by his parents, Yolanda and Ross Olsen.

“My dad was the coach and mum helped manage for most of my junior years and they taught me resilience and what playing for the Burdekin means,” added Jye.

2024 marked exactly a decade since Jye first laced up his boots and coinciding with this milestone, the year also staged a monumental achievement for his rugby league career.

“My most memorable achievement to date is making my A Grade debut with the Roosters last year at the age of 17,” Jye shared.

“This was very special to me as I grew up watching my dad, uncle and other family members play for the Roosters and it was always a dream of mine.”

With sights set on making the Townsville & District Blackhawks semi-professional team, 2025 will see Jye work closer to achieving his aspirations.

“I have been given the opportunity this year to train in the Mal Meninga Cup Squad with the Townsville Blackhawks alongside another local, Hayde Munro - who I actually played in the halves with when we were just 7!”

“My goals are to hopefully cement a spot with the Blackhawks and then return back to the Burdekin Roosters and play a consistent year of footy in the hope to keep improving as a player.”

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Jye Olsen has climbed the rugby league ladder from Grassroots to A-Grade

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At the Neighbourhood Centre, we love bringing people together to share interests and build community connections. Recently, we received a question about whether there are any Bridge Clubs in the Burdekin area. As far as we know, there aren't any local groups, but we thought it would be a great idea to see if there's interest in starting one!

The question was posed by Sylvia, who has been visiting the Burdekin for 17 years. She recently moved here from Northern NSW to be closer to her family. In her previous hometown, she started a successful Bridge Group that is still thriving today.  

When we asked Sylvia why she enjoys Bridge, she said, “It's a game with numbers – it keeps my brain active. You either can’t do it, or you are totally addicted. Bridge Players are a bit like Golf Players, you arrive in town and ring up to see if you can get a ‘game in’,” she added.

Sylvia is eager to teach anyone interested in learning how to play Bridge or connect with any Burdekin Bridge Players, and we’re excited to help make that happen.

Is your interest piqued? Grab a mate and come on down to the Centre:

What: Bridge
When: Tuesday, 28th January 2025  
Time:  9:30am–11:30am  
Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, AYR

Come meet Sylvia, learn about Bridge, and chat about getting a group up and running.

We know that social connections are important for our well-being. Learning new things keeps us sharp and engaged, and being active in the community helps us feel connected to one another. Who knows, you might just make a new friend across the Bridge table.

We invite individuals of all experience levels; your participation, whether as a novice or an experienced player, would be warmly welcomed. Thank you for considering this opportunity, and we look forward to your participation.

Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Bridge, a game of mental skill and fun. Photo: Supplied

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The Ayr Bowling Club continues to thrive as a hub of activity even during our hot summer days, with members enjoying social bowls throughout the week to keep their skills honed.

Wednesday’s games saw some tightly contested matches, with bowlers showcasing their skills on the green. While the competition was fierce, Cisco, Lloyd Shepherd and Wayne Coonan were the winners on the day.

On Saturday, 18 members came together for a lively afternoon of social bowls under the cover. It was a warm afternoon but there was a great breeze to keep the members cooler.  Congratulations to the day’s winners, Barry Hewson, Linda Guimelli, and Ron Soper, whose teamwork and consistency led them to victory. A big thank-you to everyone who participated, making the afternoon a wonderful success.

The club is looking forward to a special Australia Day Celebration on Sunday, the 26th of January, starting at 1pm. Names should be down by 12:30pm, and it’s just $10 per game, which includes a classic Aussie sausage sizzle after the bowls.

This promises to be a fantastic afternoon filled with great company, delicious food, and the chance to enjoy some friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a complete beginner, this is an event not to be missed!

Wear your best Aussie gear, bring your sense of fun, and don’t forget your flat-soled shoes. The Ayr Bowling Club is looking forward to celebrating with members and the broader community!

The Men’s Club Championships Fours, A Grade Singles and B Grade Singles are now open for nomination.  Nominations will close on Sunday the 2nd of February, so get your names down quick at the Clubhouse.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club President, Anthony Bull.

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What: Australia Day Bowls at the Ayr Bowling Club
When: Sunday the 26th of January from 12:30pm
Where: Ayr Bowling Club
More Information: email Anthony Bull, anthonypkbull@outlook.com or visit the club

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The Burdekin Basketball U18 Boys team recently concluded their 2024/2025 representative season with an impressive performance at the State Championships on the Gold Coast. The team gave the southern clubs a tough challenge, showcasing exceptional skills and determination against bigger, more experienced opponents.

As the season wraps up, the team bids farewell to six top-age players who are ending their representative careers. These athletes have been vital members of the team, with some having been part of the program from the start and others joining this year. The club congratulates Jack Power, Nathanael Minuzzo, Charlie Shears, Perry Horan, Blaize Palmer, and Blake Gerrard for their dedication and hard work throughout their basketball journey.

A special thank you was expressed to the team’s coaches, Leigh Dunn and Belinda Tinus, for their guidance and support, as well as to team manager Sherrie Power for her organisational efforts. The club also extended its gratitude to the parents, families, and local sponsors - Oar and Horan Dental, Rinella Plan Management, and Tinus Engineering - for their continued support.

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The U18 boys performed exceptionally well at Gold Coast’s State Championships

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The Burdekin Basketball Club is incredibly proud of its referee team, who have once again demonstrated excellence on the court. Kyle Vitty and Caitlin Kross were both selected to officiate in prestigious medal games at the recent competition. Kyle refereed the Division 1 Boys Bronze Medal match, while Caitlin took charge of the Division 3 Girls Gold Medal match - an outstanding achievement for both!

The club also wants to give a huge shout out to Emily Plaza, who was awarded the Division 1 Boys Gold Medal match, and Beau Rowley, who officiated the Division 2 play-off game. These achievements highlight the skill and dedication of our referees, and it’s a testament to the strength of our small but mighty club.

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Kyle Vitty - Div 1 Boys Bronze Medal Match, with Caitlin Kross - Div 2 Girls Gold Medal Match.

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Burdekin Football Club has been busy upgrading its facilities during the offseason to create a more accessible and inclusive environment for players, supporters, and the wider community.

The latest improvement project is the painting of the changerooms and bathroom facilities at the senior complex. These upgrades build on the recent addition of ladies' showers and renovated bathroom spaces, funded through the 2024 Ergon-Energex Community Fund grant.

These much-needed works are set to provide the club with improved facilities that will benefit all users for years to come. The club has expressed gratitude to the local team at Inspirations Paint Ayr, for their continued guidance and support throughout the project. Special thanks were also extended to the club members who worked hard to help bring the project to fruition.

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The Brandon Bowls Club will host an afternoon of mixed triples in celebration of Australia Day on Sunday the 26th of January, with bowling to commence from 1:30pm.

Prizes will be on offer throughout the event with the club kindly asking attendees to bring a plate to share with fellow bowlers and arrive dressed in bowls attire.

Nominations can be made by calling the Brandon Bowls Club on 0476-302-889, Gary Pearce on 0488-214-222, or Neville Dickinson on 0414-519-210, with all names needing to be in by 12:30pm on the day.

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What: Australia Day Mixed Triples
When: Sunday the 26th of January
Where: Brandon Bowls Club
More Information: Call 0476 302 889

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Neville’s Nomads travelled to Charters Towers last weekend to take part in the 2025 Goldfield Ashes, marking their 27th appearance in the prestigious tournament. This year’s squad included six players who were part of the original team back in 1999, showcasing the team’s long-standing tradition and commitment to the game.

The Nomads played three matches during the competition, winning two and losing one. They finished in 35th place in the B2 Grade, which featured 126 teams this year. Throughout the matches, the team scored an impressive 720 runs and took 20 wickets, demonstrating their skill and determination.

The 2025 Goldfield Ashes was yet another successful chapter for Neville’s Nomads, with the team’s strong performance further cementing their place as a prominent force in the tournament.

Contributed with thanks to Cyclops.

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Neville’s Nomads at the 2025 Goldfield Ashes

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The Queensland Kids Fishing Classic (QKFC) is back this January, running from the 11th to the 27th, and it’s the perfect opportunity for young anglers to get outdoors, enjoy some fishing, and compete for over $6,000 in prizes! The competition is open to kids across Queensland, with three age groups: 3-7 years, 8-12 years, and 13-17 years.

This is a kids-only competition where participants can fish anywhere that is legal (excluding offshore areas). With 12 species categories, there’s something for everyone - whether you're fishing in rivers, lakes, or the coast. Plus, even if you don’t catch a fish, you can still win as the major prize, a kayak, is awarded through a random draw, so everyone has a chance to win!

In addition to the fishing categories, there’s also a special prize for collecting rubbish while fishing, encouraging kids to keep our waterways clean. Over the holidays, young anglers helped remove more than 240 invasive species like carp and tilapia, showing the positive impact they can have on the environment.

The competition is easy to enter through the 2 Bent Rods app, where kids and parents can upload their catches, track progress, and view leaderboards. Stay up to date by joining the Qld Kids Fishing Classic Facebook group.

Don’t miss out - download the app today and join the fun this January!

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Jayden Brown from Bundaberg reeled in a Flathead!

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Burdekin’s very own homegrown professional golfer, Karrie Webb, will return to the local green on Saturday the 1st of February for a wonderfully FREE Golf Clinic at the Ayr Golf Club!

Set to run from 8:30am to 9:30am, the clinic invites golfers of all abilities, including beginners, to have a swing with Webb herself and learn plenty of helpful hints around the green. Attendees can bring their own clubs or borrow from the club on the day to enjoy a morning of education, fun and enrichment.

What: FREE Golf Clinic with Karrie Webb
When: Saturday the 1st of February, 8:30am to 9:30am
Where: Ayr Golf Club
More Information: email info@ayrgc.com.au

Karrie Webb will host a FREE Golf Clinic this February

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The Ayr Surf Club has received a much-needed boost to their patrolling ranks at the end of 2024, thanks to the efforts of trainer John Moloney and Assessors James Kennedy and Matt Stone.

The Club has recently welcomed six new Bronze Medallion members; Dave & Kathryn Sartori, Richard Dale, Emma Parker, Jane Olsen and Will Holt, and six new Surf Rescue Certificate members; Gabriel and Jan Hatherell, Zachary Dale, Parker Bonato, Shaize Christie and Emma Jones into the red and yellow family. These members have joined the current serving members to help keep community members safe at Alva Beach.

Patrolling season runs from September school holidays through to May Day weekend, including Saturday afternoons, all day Sunday and public holidays. The Club wishes to remind the Burdekin community that it is currently Marine Stinger Season (November to May) and it is highly recommended to always wear protective clothing and seek advice from lifesavers.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.

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Assessors: Matt Stone and James Kennedy, SRCs: Gabriel and Jan Hatherell, Bronze Medallion: Dave and Kathryn Sartori and Trainer: John Moloney.

Traiber: James Kennedy, Richard and Zachary Dale, Parker Bonato, Emma Parker, Jane Olsen, Shaize Christie and Trainer: John Moloney. Absent: Will Holt and Emma Jones. 

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In February, the Queensland Firebirds will be hitting the road once again as part of a spectacular Regional Tour to deliver comprehensive netball clinics across five locations in the Burdekin, Laidley, Murwillumbah, Townsville and the Whitsundays!

On Sunday the 2nd of February, the Queensland Firebirds will host a clinic at Home Hill’s Burdekin Netball Association from 11am to 12:30pm. Children aged 6 to 17 are invited to participate in the clinic with the hour-long session set to focus on improving passing, defence, agility and shooting skills. After the clinic concludes, attendees will have the opportunity to meet the players for photos and autographs.

As well as the clinic, little ones aged 3 to 4 are also allowed to come along for a free Little Nettys come and try session on the same day!

Registrations are essential and clinics are priced at $45 per person. Visit https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours for registrations and more information.

What: Queensland Firebirds Regional Tour
When: Sunday the 2nd of February 11am to 12:30pm
Where: Burdekin Netball Club
More Information: https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours

The Queensland Firebirds will fly into the Burdekin this February

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One of the most beloved events on the Alva Beach calendar will soon grace the community’s shoreline, as teams begin to finalise ahead of 2025’s Alva Beach Golf Day set for Saturday the 8th of February.

A major fundraiser for the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, the annual event will tee off from 1pm at the clubhouse with the celebrations to continue well into the late afternoon. Plenty of food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the day as well as a selection of awesome prizes on offer as sponsored by fantastic local businesses for best dressed teams and more! Players are kindly asked to bring their own golf clubs and reach out to members of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club for team registrations and more details.

What: Ayr Surf Life Saving Club’s Alva Beach Golf Day
When: Saturday the 8th of February from 1pm
Where: Ayr Surf Club, Alva Beach
More Information: contact Ayr Surf Life Saving Club members

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2024’s Alva Beach Golf Day was a smashing success

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The Ayr Bowling Club is rolling into 2025 with plenty of enthusiasm and a packed calendar of events. We’re kicking off the new year by inviting all members and the broader community, to come join us in celebrating Australia Day on Sunday 26 January at 1:00pm. Names down by 12:30pm. $10 a game.
The event promises to be a fantastic afternoon, with a classic Aussie sausage sizzle after the game, great company, and the perfect opportunity to enjoy some friendly lawn bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or have never set foot on the green, there’s something for everyone. Wear your best Aussie gear but remember your flat soled shoes.
We’ve already had a fantastic start to the year, with 20 members enjoying a social bowls game under the cover on Saturday, 11th of January. It was a great afternoon filled with laughter, camaraderie, and some impressive bowling action. Winners on the day were: Donna Soper, John Pirrone, and Ray Wall.
If you've ever thought about giving lawn bowls a try, now’s your chance! We're encouraging locals of all ages to visit the club on Saturdays or Wednesday nights to get a taste of the sport, in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Our friendly members are always on hand to show you the ropes and share their love for the game.
Lawn bowls is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and be part of a fun and inclusive community. Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby, reconnect with friends, or simply enjoy some outdoor time, the Ayr Bowling Club has something to offer.
So, mark your calendar for January 26 and come join the celebration. And remember, Saturday afternoon sessions are the perfect time to roll up and give bowls a go.
For more information, visit Ayr Bowling Club or find us on Facebook. Here’s to a fantastic 2025 on and off the green!

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