The recent floods from the Burdekin River have caused significant disruptions at the Ayr Golf Course, with water lapping up to the edges of the men’s tee on holes 3 and 16. From the 16th green, golfers are witnessing the rising waters flooding over the fairways of 3, 4, and 16. Additionally, the 13th tee has been impacted by the water flowing down 14, while it stretches across the 9th fairway as well.

This is a familiar sight for the locals, as when the Burdekin River floods over Plantation Creek on the main highway between Ayr and Home Hill, the lower-lying fairways of the course inevitably take the brunt of the floodwaters. While the water is gradually receding, the course’s greenkeeper, along with the tireless volunteers who dedicate their time each week, are facing a mammoth task ahead of them to restore the course.

Despite these setbacks, the unwavering community spirit of Ayr’s golf club members shines through. Their ongoing support and hard work—both inside and outside the clubhouse—are essential in maintaining the course’s high standards. The members’ dedication plays a crucial role in ensuring that Ayr Golf Course remains one of Queensland’s finest country courses.

A special thanks is owed to all the volunteers whose continued efforts make the course shine, even in the face of adversity. Their commitment to keeping the course in top condition is a true testament to the resilience of the community.

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Local

The 2025 season kicked off last Saturday night when Burdekin Panthers met Estates in the Kappa Cup. Unfortunately, the Panthers lost 1-2 but are back in action this Saturday with the start of the 2025 fixtures.

After enjoying a few Cup runs in the last few seasons the Panthers were keen to do the same this year. In front of them was an Estates team that we have enjoyed many tough battles with over the last few years. That it was the first competitive match of the season was obvious as both teams struggled to get into a groove. Both teams enjoyed a couple of forays into the box but to no avail. Estates finally broke the deadlock at the 25 minute mark and that is how it stayed in the first half.

In the Second half, the Panthers came out firing enjoying the lion’s share of possession as well as the majority of the chances but couldn’t find the back of the net. Then, against the run of play, after fifty seven minutes Estates scored again to make it 2-0. This kicked things up a notch for Burdekin as they started to take more risks, creating plenty of chances but a packed Estates defence got their bodies behind every ball in the box. Eventually at the 80th minute a beautiful Jhett Jones cross found Jay Leckenby who scored, setting up a tense final ten minutes. The Panthers pushed forward at every opportunity but unfortunately could not find a leveller.

Despite the loss, the quality of football on display from the Panthers was higher than what you would expect at this point of the season, providing a great springboard to compete for trophies again this year.

Fixtures for 2025 begin this Friday night with the Ladies away to Brothers at Paradise Park. Then on Saturday the Panthers have two home games against MA Olympic. The Under 23s kick off at 5.00 and then the Premiers play at 7.00.

Training nights for the Men’s teams are Tuesday and Thursday from 6.30 and Monday and Wednesday for the Women from 6.00.

Juniors

The season is close, and registrations have closed. Teams are being organised for the upcoming season. Can’t wait for kick off! On Saturday, Brett Butler held a fitness session for Juniors aged 9 and over to get them ready and firing for the season ahead. He will be holding another session this Saturday 1st March at 5pm to 6pm down at junior fields. Kids to wear closed in shoes. No need to register your child’s interest, just come on down!

Masters

Monday Night Masters hoped to kick off on Monday 24th February. International Park, 7.00 pm and all are welcome. Age and infirmity are irrelevant. Be there!

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The Ayr Bowling Club ladies made their return to the green on Tuesday, with an impressive turnout of 14 players. The event was proudly sponsored by Amcal Pharmacy, a longstanding supporter of the club. To mark the beginning of 2025, Amcal Pharmacy generously donated cosmetic products for the ladies.

The winners on the day were Katharina Stuckler, Merle Nixon, Sandra Stidston, and Mary Poli, who triumphed over Linda Guimelli, Rhonda Smythe, Heather Jorgensen, and Irene Wilson. In another match, Isabel Cislowski, Rayleen Harvey, and Pam Power secured victory over Karen Shepherd, Karen Page, and Dot Cutting.

Nominations are now open for the upcoming Club Open Championship events, including A Singles, B Singles, and Rinks. The club also extends congratulations to Pam Power on her selection for the North Queensland representative team as a skip—a remarkable achievement reflecting the high calibre of players emerging from Ayr Bowling Club.

Men’s Club Championships and Weekly Bowls

Nominations are also open for the Men’s Club Championships in A Pairs, B Pairs, and Mixed Pairs.

Wednesday men’s social bowls attracted 18 players, with two games of triples and a rinks game played. The winners were Bob Pickard, Joe Papale, and Ron Soper, who defeated Bob Young, George Nixon, and Anthony Bull. Wednesday night social bowls featured two games of pairs, with Margaret McLaughlin and Sam Caltabiano winning the first, while Tegan Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen claimed victory in the second. The club continues to encourage newcomers to try their hand at bowls during these enjoyable social nights.

Saturday’s Mahjong Ladies Sponsorship

Saturday’s event was generously sponsored by the Mahjong Ladies, who have been valuable supporters of the club for many years. The club expressed its gratitude, acknowledging that such sponsorships make these event days possible.

A total of 24 players took to the greens, playing four games of triples. The winners on the day were:

1st Place: Margaret Chapman, Lorraine Wolffe, and Joe Grabbi, who triumphed over Deslie Olsen, Merle Nixon, and Pam Power.

2nd Place: Cisco, George Nixon, and Sam Caltabiano, who defeated Linda Guimelli, Ron Smythe, and Dot Cutting.

Friday Roll-Ups Return

Friday Roll-Ups continue this week, running from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. These casual sessions provide an opportunity for members to sharpen their skills, receive training tips, and unwind with fellow players. Whether looking to practice or simply socialise over a drink, Friday Roll-Ups are the perfect way to start the weekend.

Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club.

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After the Christmas break and a spell of wet weather, senior cricketers finally returned to the Nutrien AgSolutions fields for the first matches of 2025 on Saturday. Despite playing on astro turf wickets and enduring intermittent showers, the matches remained highly competitive.

Rookies v Peto Marine

The Rookies won the toss and elected to bat first. A shaky start saw the team at 2/8 after the first over. However, Dan Olditch steadied the innings with a crucial 52 runs off 39 balls. The highlight of the innings came from Alex Stillhard, who delivered a dominant performance, blasting 116 runs off just 49 balls, including 14 sixes, before being bowled. The Rookies set a formidable total of 8/215 from 25 overs.

Peto Marine responded strongly, with notable contributions from Kris Wright (62 runs from 29 balls), Brad Parravicini (42 from 20), and Greg Flanagan (27 from 15). Despite their efforts, Peto Marine fell just short, being bowled out for 200, handing the Rookies their first victory of the season.

Alliance Pharmacy v Crowned Mongrels

The Crowned Mongrels won the toss and chose to bat. The Alliance Pharmacy bowlers were in fine form, with Farhan Sarwar taking 3/17 and Damien Ricketts securing 3/7, including two caught-and-bowled dismissals. Batting contributions from Andrew Wallwork (62 runs from 46 balls) and Alexander Romeo (36 runs) helped the Mongrels reach a total of 165 before being bowled out.

The Alliance Pharmacy batters wasted no time in the chase. JD Wilkins anchored the innings with an unbeaten 60 from 33 balls, while Lee Watts provided stability with 29 runs from 67 balls. Despite a brief rain delay, Alliance secured the victory, finishing at 7/178.

With a hopeful spell of sunshine in the coming week, the fields are expected to dry out in time for the next round of matches. Fixtures for Saturday, 1 March, will see Alliance Pharmacy face Peto Marine, while the Crowned Mongrels take on the Rookies.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Cricket Association.

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Dan Olditch - 52 runs from 39 balls for the Rookies
Alex Stillhard - 116 runs from 49 balls (including 14 sixes) for the Rookies 
Damien Ricketts - bowled 3/7 (3 overs)
Farhan Sarwar - 3/17 (overs)
Bowling for Alliance Pharmacy
JD Wilkins - 60 runs not out for Alliance Pharmacy

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The wet season once again threatened to disrupt cricket fixtures last week, as a heavy shower fell at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday just before matches were set to commence. Fortunately, the rain ceased by 4:30 pm, allowing games to get underway, albeit slightly delayed.

The Challengers played on a newly mowed pitch in the outfield of the Barry Richards Field, which made the bounce of the soft ball more predictable and runs easier to score. Aria and Lincoln capitalised on these conditions to top-score with 11 runs unbeaten. The partnership of Hadley and Mekena contributed nine runs, while Jai and Noah followed closely with eight. Kyeem, Levi, Corey, Jack, Jai, and Olivia each secured a wicket, while Henry, Harvey, Corbett, and Nicholas finished the game with multiple dismissals. Olivia and Jack were awarded the McDonald's Sports Awards for their exceptional bowling and batting performances.

On the astro pitch at Field 4, the "Hardball" Blue Group cricketers were eager to return to the game following the delayed start of the second half of the season after the Christmas break. Kye Quinlan top-scored with 15 runs unbeaten, followed by Tait Parker with 12. Jake Cullen struck a four on his way to 11 runs unbeaten. Jake also claimed a wicket, while Corey Pensini, Tyler Smith, Jacob Adcock, Tait Parker, Kye Quinlan, and Kip Nicholas each took one as well. Kip played a crucial role in three runouts, earning him the McDonald's Sports Award for this group alongside Mason Harvey, who also received recognition.

The Gold Group, playing on the other astro pitch, was equally enthusiastic to return to action after the long break. Marshall Parker maintained his impressive form from last year, leading the scoring with 20 runs unbeaten. Mark Wilkie and Oscar Mahoney contributed 11 runs each, both remaining not out. Jacques Gardener stood out among the bowlers, recording figures of 1 for 5, followed by Ben Watkins, who secured 1 for 14. Marshall claimed the prestigious McDonald's Sports Award for the Gold Group after executing two runouts and taking a catch.

With the season now in full swing, players and supporters eagerly anticipate another competitive week of cricket.

Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Junior Cricket.

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Jack and Olivia with their Mcdonalds Sports Award
The Challengers

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club once again delivered a fantastic Novice/Come & Try Day, with 15 enthusiastic teams competing and enjoying a day of clay target shooting. The weather was ideal, with a consistent breeze making for a great atmosphere. The event saw the club welcome eight new members, bringing the total membership to an impressive 94.

The club extends a big thank you to the event sponsors, QCTA - Queensland Clay Target Association, as well as Joe & Sylvia from Joe Caruso Construction. Special appreciation also to Cameron Cislowski and Regan Southwood for donating prizes for the Best Dressed Team competition.

In the individual competitions, Jarred Ferguson took first place in the Novice category with a strong 45/50, while Ron Gough shot a perfect 50/50 to claim victory in the Members division. Texas Delle Baite and Regan Southwood emerged as champions in the Novice Junior and Novice Ladies categories, respectively.

The team event was hotly contested, with Revolver Doors taking first place with a score of 244. Sore & Broke followed in second place with 229, and Kirknie Klowns rounded out the top three with 226.

With the success of this event, all eyes now turn to the club’s upcoming Annual 2-Day Shoot, scheduled for Saturday, March 8th, and Sunday, March 9th. It promises to be another thrilling competition!

Contributed with thanks to The Burdekin Clay Target Club.

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Best Dressed team
1st Team

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Saturday 1st Of March: (1 to 5pm) – Patrol Group A: Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma rickets, Jane Wicks.

Sunday 2nd Of March: (9am to 1pm) – Patrol Group G: Carl List, Jimmy Hayllor, James kennedy, Shane Morgan, Ross Blakey, Ross Rickards, Jedd Giddy.
(1 to 5pm) – Patrol Group F: Lisa Furnell, Jenny Morgan, John Furnell, Jo Morgan, Lauren Chapman, Isla Chapman, Ryler Sartory, Jake Sartory, Kat Sartory, Dave Sartory.

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The popularity of Wednesday Night Bowls continues to soar, attracting players of all ages and skill levels to the greens. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the irresistible aroma of the barbecue, keeps both participants and spectators engaged throughout the evening. With lively music playing in the background, the event has become a highlight of the week, offering fun and enjoyment for everyone.

Lawn bowls may appear simple, but mastering the game requires skill and precision. One rising star, Amy Newton, has discovered just how rewarding Wednesday Night Bowls can be. She is among a growing number of young players embracing the challenge and camaraderie of the sport.

What’s On at the Club?

Monday: 9am Low Impact Exercise

Tuesday: 9am Trimmers

Wednesday: 9-11am Arts and Crafts

Thursday: 9am-12pm Bingo

Thursday: 1pm Afternoon Bowls (Open to all)

Saturday: 1pm Afternoon Bowls

Sunday: Club Championships

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Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Bowls Club.

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What began as a simple question at the Neighbourhood Centre about a month ago, has blossomed into a wonderful opportunity for community members to socialise and keep their minds active.

Sylvia Van Rossum, who is new to the Burdekin area, reached out to the Neighbourhood Centre looking for a local Bridge group to join. As an enthusiastic Bridge player, Sylvia likens Bridge players to golfers, saying, “When you move to a new place, you call around to see if there’s a game you can join.”

Although we didn’t find an existing group right away, the Centre is dedicated to helping community members start new activities. So, alongside Sylvia, we organised a “Come and Try Day” last month. To our surprise, the event attracted a lot of interest, making it very exciting for everyone.

Burdekin Bridge (pun intended) is in its fifth week and continues to welcome new members each week. They meet every Tuesday morning from 9:30am to 1:00 pm at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre.

During their meetings, the group takes a break for tea and snacks, and the staff checks in to see how everyone is doing. Participants have joked about experiencing “brain strain,” but they always have smiles on their faces!

When we asked what people love about playing, they shared comments such as, “I’ve wanted to learn to play Bridge for 19 years; I’m so excited a group has started here,” “My brain hurts, but in a good way!” “It’s wonderful to be social and keep my mind active,” and “Sylvia is such a patient teacher!”

If you’re interested in joining this friendly group, feel free to drop by on Tuesday mornings or give the Centre a call to learn more!

Until Next Time
The Team at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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Sylvia Van Rossum (standing) with some of the enthusiastic new community Bridge players.

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Andy Pethybridge, the Queensland Police Services Emergency Management Coordinator, found himself in the Burdekin to help take care of the situation, explaining why the recent floods here in Ayr, is a high priority.

“This region is a priority due to its high population and isolation, with 16 out of 21 emergency management coordinators rotated through this area. It was considered higher risk with the high population being isolated for long periods of time, and also having a high risk with the Plantation Creek crossing, where medical supplies, supply lines, and all those things, we need to make sure they keep functioning and working,” Andy explains.

“I'm allocated to the Burdekin at present, and Charters Towers, Flinders, and Richmond. My role is to mentor, advise, and support disaster management groups that are chaired at the local level by the respective mayor.”

Recent events such as these floods, led to logistical challenges, including 40 trucks being turned back to the Northern Territory, as Andy continues.

“In Richmond, they recently went up to their activation status of stand up. Every one of the four I mentioned earlier are all currently at stand up due to the activation of the event. But up there, they had approximately 40 trucks that couldn't get through the flood waters in the outback, and they had to be turned around and go back to the Northern Territory,” he states.

“We try and keep an awareness because we want to keep our logistic roads open and making sure that our supplies are up there for people to tap into,” Andy adds.

“A good example is the current rail system with the bus that we've worked in with Queensland Rail, and we've got that up and running as quick as we could. It's operating and working well and helping communities get back up and running again.”

“In the Burdekin, I’m seeing a community that does a really good job here, but also a disaster management group doing good things behind the scenes. We just fill in the gaps at a time of need to make sure we can do everything we can,” Andy concludes.

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Despite heavy rain and flooding earlier in the week, the local community rallied together on Friday evening for the much-awaited Trophy Bowls Night, sponsored by Peter Marine Home Hill. With a late-afternoon storm followed by stifling heat and humidity, 46 players gathered for an exciting night of competition.
Special thanks to Raymond Peterson for his generous support and to the dedicated ladies in the kitchen who once again delivered exceptional catering. The BBQ team kept spirits high with sizzling dishes, and Gary Pearce’s smooth organization ensured everything ran effortlessly.
The big winners of the night were the team from Rink 7, sponsored by Mio Farming, consisting of Glen, Phil, Alf, Anthony, and John. Runners-up were the players from Rink 6—Ken Ferguson, Vince DeBella, D Brown, and Ro Jorgenson. The Bradman Trophy was awarded to Rink 5, which featured John Grabbi, Margaret McLaughlan, Joe Grabbi, and Ross McLaughlin.
Looking ahead, the next Trophy Bowls event will take place on March 14th, sponsored by Mio Farming.
In Sunday’s Championship Rinks competition, Kevin Collins’ team—Ken Ferguson, Len Feeney, and Doug Robins—dominated Hugh Montgomery’s team in gruelling, almost unbearable conditions.
In B Grade Singles, Ben Mills secured a hard-fought victory over veteran Neville Dickinson, with Mills’ consistent draw bowling proving the difference in an entertaining contest.
The Jackpot was claimed by Ben Mills and Vince Beitia, who shared the spoils in a thrilling finale.

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Runners up from Rink 6 Ken Ferguson, Vince DeBella, D Brown and Ro Jorgenson
The Bradman trophy went to rink 5 John Grabbi, Margaret McLaughlan, Joe Grabbi and Ross McLaughlin.
Sunday Competition Bowls
Kev Collins, Ken Ferguson, Doug Robins, Len Feeney and Ben Mills

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Two Burdekin Roosters made significant contributions to the Townsville Blackhawks’ impressive performance in their match against the Central Queensland Capras in Yeppoon on Saturday. Originally scheduled to be played in Townsville, the games were relocated due to poor field conditions at Jack Manski Oval, with matches across both the under-19 boys and girls and under-17 boys and girls age groups.
Despite not having proper field training for nearly three weeks, the Blackhawks delivered a commendable performance, winning three out of four matches. In the Under 19 Meninga Cup, the Blackhawks clinched a narrow 14-12 victory, with Burdekin's Jye Olsen kicking the decisive goal. Olsen, who travels to Townsville for training, was recently named team captain.
The Blackhawks' Under 19 girls also made a strong comeback, winning 12-10 after being 10 points down against the Capras. Meanwhile, the Under 17 boys' match in the Cyril Connell Cup was a hard-fought contest, with the Blackhawks edging out their opponents 8-6.
The Capras managed one victory in the Under 17 Harvey Norman girls’ match, winning 16-10, the largest margin of the day.
The Blackhawks' coach praised halves Alanieta Nauque and Diaz Bowen for their strong performances. Nauque, daughter of Burdekin Roosters and former Fijian international Kali Nauque, moved to Townsville this year to join Kirwan High, while Bowen’s father is former Cowboys great Matty Bowen. Nauque will continue playing for the Roosters in the Rl T D juniors.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

Jye Olsen who kicked the decisive goal.

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The recent floods from the Burdekin River have caused significant disruptions at the Ayr Golf Course, with water lapping up to the edges of the men’s tee on holes 3 and 16. From the 16th green, golfers are witnessing the rising waters flooding over the fairways of 3, 4, and 16. Additionally, the 13th tee has been impacted by the water flowing down 14, while it stretches across the 9th fairway as well.
This is a familiar sight for the locals, as when the Burdekin River floods over Plantation Creek on the main highway between Ayr and Home Hill, the lower-lying fairways of the course inevitably take the brunt of the floodwaters. While the water is gradually receding, the course’s greenkeeper, along with the tireless volunteers who dedicate their time each week, are facing a mammoth task ahead of them to restore the course.
Despite these setbacks, the unwavering community spirit of Ayr’s golf club members shines through. Their ongoing support and hard work—both inside and outside the clubhouse—are essential in maintaining the course’s high standards. The members’ dedication plays a crucial role in ensuring that Ayr Golf Course remains one of Queensland’s finest country courses.
A special thanks is owed to all the volunteers whose continued efforts make the course shine, even in the face of adversity. Their commitment to keeping the course in top condition is a true testament to the resilience of the community.

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Water lapping up the sides of 3 men’s tee. Photo: Supplied
From green on 16 looking over 3/4/16 fairways. Photo: Supplied
Water coming down 14 in front of 13 tee. Photo: Supplied

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Night tennis fixtures are back in action, and it was great to finally hit the courts after the recent rain. A warm welcome to all our new and returning players!
In match results, Wilmar secured a 37-28 victory over Pacific Blue. With no three-set winners, the competition was tight across the board. Top scorers were Josh and Ian with 11 games each, closely followed by Tim and Aidan G with 10 games. Meanwhile, in a nail-biter, Burdekin Shire Council edged out Bendigo 38-35. Andrew was the only three-set winner, while Scott led the scoring with 14 games, followed by Aaron with 12, and Lisa and Sophie with 11 each.
Remembering Pat Anderson
The Home Hill Tennis and Sugar Bowl communities mourn the loss of Life Member, Pat Anderson. Alongside her late husband Lex, Pat dedicated countless hours to the club and was instrumental in the success of the beloved Sugar Bowl. Known for her kindness, generosity, and incredible baking—especially her perfect sponge cakes—Pat left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family during this difficult time. Funeral details will be published in this week’s paper.
Flood Update Goes Viral
Following the recent floods, a Facebook post showing the river’s impact on our community reached an incredible 332,000 views and was shared over 400 times! On the bright side, our page followers jumped from 1.2K to over 2.2K—an unexpected but positive outcome from the tough conditions.

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Home Hill Night Tennis, a big hit and a lot of fun. L-R: Jake, Lisa, Scott and Sam. Photo: Supplied.
L-R: Abigail Hayley Sophie and Sarah enjoying the cooler night play. Photo: Supplied.

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Despite a week of rain and a Friday afternoon storm, Home Hill Cricket Club's next generation kept playing thanks to East Ayr State School's help. The Cricket Blast Challengers (ages 7-11) moved indoors, where they played a lively game in the school hall. The Heat, led by Tait Parker and Oliver Wicks, scored 71 runs, with Nate Ryder and Corbett Cross taking key wickets. The Stars, with strong batting from Everly Nicholas and Nicholas Marrinan, came close but fell short by just 7 runs. Home Hill Cricket thanked East Ayr SS for allowing the session to continue despite the weather.

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The junior cricket club excited to play despite the weather!

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