The Ayr Bowling Club has celebrated another excellent week on the greens, with members coming together for a mix of club Championship games and engaging social matches. The atmosphere and enthusiasm around the club remains high, as members were gearing up for The Open Country Pennant.  With Brandon Bowling Club hosting the event on Saturday 16^th May 2026.

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Tuesday Open Social bowls were played in perfect conditions for the afternoon, with 24 bowlers on the green. Winners on the day were A Gauvin, Cisco and A Bull defeating R McLaughlin, B Schultz and H Jorgfensen. H Horan, Al Hardcastle and C Berkery defeating R Moore, R Hervey and B Cornford. R Aplin, S Hardcastle and Stidston defeating K Page, Bruce Mcallum and D Cutting. M Nixon, J Defranciscis and R Soper defeating D Soper, J Pirrone and C Essex.

The winners on Wednesday night were, in the first game Bill Whitman, John Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen. Lyn Cecil, Bill Walker and Sam Caltabiano had a win in the second game.  In the third game, the winners were Joe Cremona, Margaret McLaughlin and Joe Grabbi. Wednesday night is the perfect opportunity for new bowlers to play and learn the game.  

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Fun Friday Night Bowls Sponsored by Harvey Norman Ayr. Had a good turnout of bowlers of all levels with lots of laughter and fun on the green.  Winners on the night were 1^st place Nathan, Leighann and Lyndall defeating Andrew and Ross.   2^nd place was B Piazetta, E Wiltshere, Cisco and R Smythe defeating N West, B Whitman, J Pirrone and S Caltabiano.  Sportsperson prize went to J Blanchard, K Grabbi, John Grabbi and Joe Grabbi.

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Saturday’s Open Social bowls 20 bowlers turned out.  The club was buzzing with activity as 2 pairs and 2 triples of open social bowls were played, displaying both skill and friendship. Winners on the day were Betty Schultz and Joe Grabbi defeated Karen Shepherd and Barry Shepherd.  Joy Comalatti, and Allen Bartlett defeated John Pirrone and Anthony Bull.  Triples games Wayne Mietzel, Shelia Hardcastle and Beryl Cornford defeated Wayne Meitzel, Al Hardcastle and Dot Cutting.  Arthur Gauvin, Lloyd Shepherd and Kaz defeated Donna Soper, Ron Smythe and Ron Soper.  

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On Sunday 10^th May A Grade Championship Singles Final was played. Allen Bartlett defeating Anthony Bull 25 – 20.  In a close fought match that could have gone either way with some fantastic bowls played.  Congratulations Allen you now are into the Champion of Champions held later this year.  In the mixed pairs Al Hardcastle and S Hardcastle defeated R Hervey and R Smythe in a close and entertaining game.  Al Hardcastle and Shelia Hardcastle are now through to the next round.  

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The Ayr Bowling Club invites everyone to its Fun Friday Night Bowls Sponsored by Ferguson Plumbing on Friday 12^h June, starting at 6 PM. This evening promises fun for bowlers of all levels, encouraging participants to bring friends or join solo to meet new people. The entry fee is $10 per game, which includes a sausage sizzle at 6 PM and a light supper after bowling begins at 7 PM.  

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Giru para shot putter Ainsley Hooker has secured her spot at July’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, six years after an amputation she feared would end her competitive sporting career for good. Photo credit: Invictus Australia

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Giru para shot putter Ainsley Hooker has secured her spot at July’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, six years after an amputation she feared would end her competitive sporting career for good.

Hooker was officially named to the 24-strong Australian Para Athletics squad last week, joining 16 other debutants at the 2026 edition of the quadrennial sporting event.

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She said the announcement brought a whirlwind of emotions, with sheer disbelief the most prominent.

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“You wait and you wait for that email to come through, or the phone call, and you're checking and checking. It finally comes through, and you sort of go, ‘Really? Did I read that right?’” she said.

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Hooker’s selection follows a successful qualification process, which saw her named among 30 athletes eligible for international classification before climbing the world rankings with strong performances in Canberra, Brisbane, Townsville and Bowen.

Her qualification means she will represent Australia for the third time in her career after donning the green and gold at the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany and the 2024 Warrior Games in the USA.

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She said Commonwealth Games selection had eclipsed every previous achievement in her para sporting career.

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“This is going to be a completely different experience to anything I’ve ever done,” she said.

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“When I see and get hold of that green and gold uniform, I probably will be in tears.”

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Brisbane-born Hooker spent much of her childhood in sport before joining the Australian Army as a reservist in 2007 and later transitioning to full-time service with the Royal Australian Corps of Transport.

An ankle injury suffered during an Army obstacle course later that year derailed her military career and eventually led to her medical discharge in 2013.

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Years of failed surgeries and chronic pain followed before Hooker elected to undergo a below-knee amputation in 2020—a decision she now calls “the best she’s ever made."

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“13 years of walking around with a bunged leg was slowly wrecking the rest of the body and killing it off. I thought, amputating it can’t be any worse than this,” she said.

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“The first time putting a prosthetic leg on and taking my first steps pain free was incredible. It was the best decision that I ever made.”

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She said that while the amputation was successful, it brought doubts about her future in sport.

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“When I lost my leg, that was it. I spent years with this injury where I couldn't do anything. I was pretty much a hermit; stuck in the house, didn't leave, couldn't do anything,” she said.

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"I thought my life in sport was completely over. Nobody really knows about adaptive sports. That’s where Invictus Australia came in, they showed me all of it.

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“There’s wheelchair basketball, seated volleyball, archery. There are some incredible archers who use their mouth or their feet, and that’s all adaptive sport. It was sort of a ‘wow’ moment. Life’s not over. There’s more I can do.”

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Hooker’s renewed confidence prompted her to apply for the Invictus Games 2023 selection camp, where she would claim gold in athletics and bronze in wheelchair rugby for Team Australia.

She later backed up those performances at the Warrior Games in Florida, where she competed in shot put and discus against some of the world’s leading adaptive athletes.

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Hooker now heads to Glasgow confident of putting up a fight against the world’s elite, training daily in her Giru backyard ahead of the Games.

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“I've been keeping a track of the world rankings and how they're throwing, and some of those girls—holy hell, they can launch that ball,” she said.

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“I'm aiming to at least throw eight metres. I’m feeling that'll get me comfortably in that middle pack, maybe third, given what I've been seeing in the world ranking.

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“But overall, I'm planning on just going, having fun and doing my damn best.”

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With preparations for Glasgow now underway, Ainsley and her family have launched a fundraising campaign to help cover travel and competition expenses. If you’d like to help support Ainsley as she waves the Burdekin flag in Glasgow, please follow the link below:

https://gofund.me/e5a738d52

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One organisation that continues to benefit from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s support is the Burdekin Netball Association, a club with a proud history spanning more than 50 years. Photo supplied

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For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, supporting local sporting organisations is about far more than sponsorship—it is about investing back into the people, families and future of the Burdekin community.

Up to 80% of the community bank profits generated locally are returned to local initiatives, helping sporting groups, schools and community organisations continue to grow and provide opportunities close to home. Supporting grassroots sport remains a strong focus for the community bank, recognising the important role clubs play in bringing people together, encouraging healthy lifestyles and creating lifelong connections.

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One organisation that continues to benefit from this support is the Burdekin Netball Association, a club with a proud history spanning more than 50 years.

What began in 1970 as Home Hill Netball, formed by a group of local women who recognised the need for a dedicated sport for women in the community, has grown into one of the Burdekin’s most important grassroots sporting organisations. As participation expanded beyond Home Hill, the association officially became the Burdekin Netball Association in 1992, reflecting the strong regional support that continues today.

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A spokesperson for the Burdekin Netball Association said netball plays an important role in connecting people throughout the region.

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“Netball allows children from different schools to interact and meet other children, while also creating a social environment for locals and people who are new to the region to connect through team sport,” the spokesperson said.

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The association caters for all ages and abilities, with members starting from as young as five years old through to players over 50. Alongside local junior and ladies competitions, the association also runs a mixed competition later in the year and supports representative pathways for athletes aiming to compete at State carnival level.

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“Our local pathway allows members to trial for our Silverlinks squad that participates in the Townsville competitions, giving players the opportunity to further develop their skills and compete at a higher level,” the spokesperson said.

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Importantly, the Burdekin Netball Association says strong community support is what keeps the organisation thriving. Volunteers, families and local supporters all play a vital role in ensuring competitions, carnivals and events continue to run successfully each year.

“Without assistance from our volunteers and facilities, our association would not be able to operate as efficiently as it does,” the spokesperson said. “Many hands make light work and when our families are called to help, they assist willingly and happily.”

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The association says the long-standing partnership with Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has helped strengthen the club both on and off the court. Recent contributions from the bank have included funding towards a future training wall and storage shed, helping the association work toward creating a dedicated practice and spectator space for local families.

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“Associations like ours could not survive without support from local businesses,” the spokesperson said.

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“Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has been a major supporter for many years and their staff have also assisted at functions held by us. Their presence is always welcomed.”

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Looking ahead, the Burdekin Netball Association is planning a major redevelopment of its courts, grounds and clubhouse facilities, ensuring the sport can continue to grow for generations to come.

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Contributed with thanks to Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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45 teams from across Queensland met in Home Hill last weekend, duelling for glory in what was the 45th edition of the region’s esteemed Sugar Bowl tennis tournament. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin’s locally famous Sugar Bowl tennis tournament made its return to the region last week, welcoming 45 teams from across the state for a weekend of rallies and rivalries.

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Sugar Bowl Returns For 45th Year

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45 teams from across Queensland met in Home Hill last weekend, duelling for glory in what was the 45th edition of the region’s esteemed Sugar Bowl tennis tournament.

Men’s and women’s teams travelled from as far as Brisbane, competing in a traditional round-robin format across A Grade, A2 Grade and B Grade divisions from Saturday, 2 May to Monday, 4 May.

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Emerald Tennis Club’s Keg Slayers took out the A Grade men’s competition, with M&M’s claiming the women’s A Grade title for a fourth time.

A2 Grade men’s champions TTT dominated the division, while the Lady Bugs pipped their A2 women’s rivals to glory.

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The Shoeys edged the Wackers to claim men’s B Grade glory, and the Hot Shots proved too strong for the women’s B division after a comfortable victory.

Both Col’s Crew and the Sugar Hits were recognised with Team Spirit awards to tie off the eventful three days.

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Home Hill Tennis Association secretary Kate Casswell said the event was another feather in the cap of the club, continuing the tournament’s 45-year history with another successful edition.

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“It was such a successful year with a really strong field. The quality we saw from the A men’s in particular this year was next level,” Ms Casswell said.

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She said the event garnered significant interest from the tennis community.

“Tennis really picks up locally—even in Townsville—because this is a big thing on the calendar for them. They want to come to play, compete and have fun,” she said.

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Ms Casswell said the influx of visitors also boosted local business, with around 1,000 players and spectators filling local accommodation and supporting businesses throughout the long weekend.

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She thanked the committee, team captains and the Ayr-Home Hill Lions Club for their efforts in facilitating the event that was just as much social as it was competitive.

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“The highlight for me is just seeing all the teams come and have a great time together—the positivity and the energy that comes from it,” she said.

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Battling "character-building" coastal winds across Yeppoon and Rockhampton, the eight-strong squad proved their mettle on the greens. Photo source: Ayr Golf Club/Facebook

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Ayr’s finest golfers have returned triumphant from the 2026 Queensland Women’s Country Week. Battling "character-building" coastal winds across Yeppoon and Rockhampton, the eight-strong squad proved their mettle on the greens.

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The highlight belonged to Kerry Heuir and Sandra Wight, who secured the Division 2 Foursomes title with a gritty 95. Former local Amanda Gees also tasted glory in Division 1. Between rainbows and gala dinners, the week celebrated the unbreakable spirit and camaraderie of regional golf.

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Seniors

A disappointing weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only three senior games drawing two and losing one. The Premiers and Reserves were away to Warriors with the Premiers drawing 1-1 and the Reserves losing 0-1. The Division 1 team forfeited but the Division 2, drew 1-1 away to MA Olympic. The Colts also had a bye, and the Ladies have withdrawn from the competition.  

This week four teams are in action as the Colts have a bye. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to MA Olympic at 7.00 and 5.00.  

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Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club

With several players unavailable, the Panthers were forced into their fifth different backline combination in as many games, heading into a tough away trip to Warriors at Melrose Park, a venue where points are always hard to come by. The first half was a stalemate, with neither side able to gain control despite the Panthers enjoying a large share of possession. Clear chances were limited, and both teams remained disciplined defensively.

The second half followed a similar pattern, although Warriors began to create more threatening opportunities. Jarrod Camer stood tall in goal, producing key saves to keep the scores level. With ten minutes remaining, the breakthrough finally came, with Jay Leckenby finishing off a well-worked move to give the Panthers a 1–0 lead. However, the advantage was short-lived, with Warriors equalising five minutes later. The match finished 1–1, a result that reflected a hard-fought contest in difficult conditions.

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Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service

The Panthers started the game well with plenty of effort and pressure creating multiple chances which the Burdekin were guilty of not taking. On the back of the Panthers failing to score, Warriors took one of their very few chances and scored right before half time. The Panthers applied a lot of pressure after the break but were again guilty of not taking their opportunities. Luke Torkington received a red card, for letting his frustration at some questionable tactics get to him. Even with ten men, Burdekin still had Warriors camped in their half so despite the 1-0 loss there is potential for a better result next round.

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Division 1 – Austral Masonry

Faced with a shortage of players, weddings etcetera, the Division 1 had to forfeit their match against Olympic.

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Division 2 – RG Customs

The RG Customs Funkies drew 1-1 with MA Olympic on Friday night. It was a very competitive contest and free flowing game. Burdekin created numerous attacking chances but continued to be denied by Olympic keeper who was very good all night. It took until the 77th minutefor Jared Giardina to give Burdekin the lead with a neat finish. The game was quite frantic until the end and Olympic managed to equalise in the 89th minute to share the points. An unfortunate goal after an incorrect decision to award Olympic a corner that resulted with the goal. Despite the draw the Funkies can be proud of the effort and intensity on the night, for the entire game. A focus, however, must be on finishing off attacking chances and dominating the scoreboard as well as the game. Great performances by Jared Giardina, Jesse Thomasson and also Chris Achille running out the full 90 minutes of play. 

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Ladies

Female Football is taking over Monday nights! A strictly social hour of football. All are welcome to attend. Small-sided game, no skills, or experience required! Grab your friends and come down and have good time. 6:30pm, Senior Fields!

Welcome to Female Football Week! An exciting two weeks to celebrate the outstanding contribution and the growth of the female game! We are proudly hosting events across the two weeks! Keep an eye out on Facebook for more details. Thank you to all the amazing females and girls that shape the face of what Female Football means in the Burdekin! 

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Masters

The Masters had another good turnout and a replay of last week’s World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. In a close game Bosnia won 3-2 and for Italy it’s Goodnight Luigi! Fengil scored twice for Bosnia. Best players on the night were George Karagkiozis and Jonty Davis. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.  

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Juniors

After a quiet week with no games over the long weekend, our junior soccer teams are eager to get back into the swing of things. Training resumes this week, giving players a great chance to sharpen their skills, reconnect with teammates, and prepare for the return to matches this Saturday. We are looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field, refreshed and ready for another exciting round of junior soccer.

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National

The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. In the Elimination Finals Auckland defeated Melbourne City on penalties after a 1-1 tie and Sydney beat Melbourne Victory 1-0. On Saturday, Sydney now plays Newcastle and Auckland plays Adelaide in the 1^st Leg of the semi-finals.

The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage, and in the 1st Leg, Melbourne City beat Victory 1-0 and Brisbane defeated Wellington 2-1. The second leg will be played this weekend.

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International

In the World Cup department, the Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena and now have another ‘friendly’ organised. They play Switzerland in San Diego on 6^th June. Australia’s first Group D match is against Turkey in Vancouver on the 14^th June. They then play the USA in Seattle on 20^th June and Paraguay in San Francisco on 26^th June.

In Europe, the various leagues are very close to the end of season. In England with three rounds left, Arsenal leads Manchester City by six points, but City has two games in hand. ManU will probably finish in third place with Liverpool or Aston Villa finishing fourth. Wolves and Burnley are already relegated with either Spurs or West Ham joining them. Oh yes, Coventry City won the Championship by eleven points. What a team!

In Germany with two rounds to go Bayern are already champions and Dortmund need one more point to finish second. Leipzig should finish in third spot with either Leverkusen, Stuttgart or Hoffenheim finishing fourth. Relegation faces Heidenheim, St Pauli and Wolfsburg. InSpain, with four rounds to go, Barcelona are champions with Real Madrid second and, probably Villarreal third and Atletico fourth. It is very tight at the foot of the table with Oviedo in deep trouble with Levante, Seville and Alaves struggling.  

In Italy, with three rounds left, Inter are already champions with Napol likely to finish in second place. AC Milan, Juventus, Como or Roma could fill the third and fourth places. Pisa and Verona are already relegated and either Cremonese or Lecce could join them. In France with two rounds to play PSG are already champions and Lens and Lyon are likely to finish in second and third spots. Lille or Rennes will finish fourth. Metz and Nantes are already relegated, and Auxerre will probably accompany them.

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Torah Brock in action. Photo supplied

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Touch Juniors Last Friday’s Junior Touch saw 45 boys and girls aged 4 to 12 nominate.

Skills, drills and games will begin this Friday from 5.30pm to 6.15pm for six weeks. Further nominations will still be accepted.

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Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting of the Burdekin Touch Association will be held next Tuesday, 12 May, in the Touch Clubhouse at 6pm. Everyone is welcome.

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Results – Coutt’s Commercial Hotel Open Men’s and Women’s (Round 8)

Men Way To Go 5 (B Palmer 2) def Nrgize 4 (L Torkington 2)[Text Wrapping Break]Wires Down 6 (K Parravicini 2, G Flannagan 2) drew One Touch IT 6 (J Ballin 2, J Leckenby 2, R Taylor 2) Alliance Pharmacy 13 (J Furnell 4, K Hesp 3, A Watson 2) def Baywatch 1 Burdekin PCYC 12 (G Dau 6, S Doolah 2, T Heron 2) def Blue Murder 7 (N Spina 2, R Smith 2) Royal Touch 7 (A Miller 3, C Formilan 2) def Touch n Go 5 (R Piva 2, K Vitty 2) Creampuffs 9 (P Le Feuvre 3, L Chatfield 2, L Lampton 2) def Petrol Heads 4 Teamo Supremo 9 (J Moustakas 3, H Horan 2, R Heuir 2) def Feelers 5 Renegades 12 (B Frau 4, D McKeough 2, B Johnson 2, S Andreatta 2) def Ball Grabbers 2 Crocs won on forfeit

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Women Lasers 12 (B Robertson 6, T Horan 3, M Robertson 2) def Can’t Catch 1 Eathorne’s Princesses 6 (A Cornford 4) def Salty Sirens 1 First in Physio 11 (L Trindle 5, M Nauqe 3, T Monday 2) def Chick Flicks 1

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Under 14 Red Dogs 2 3 (Logan, Jamie, Emmet) def Broncos 2 (Jake, Kasey) Red Dogs 1 6 (Connor Linton 3, Luca Lawry, Archie) def Rockies 2

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Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton

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No club rugby league was played in the Townsville area last weekend, with the Foley Shield staged in Cairns across both men’s and women’s grades.

At time of writing, only two days had been played in the men’s competition. Mackay beat Cairns 24–16, and Mt Isa defeated Southern Cape 46–14. In the women’s match, Mackay defeated Cairns 24–4.

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Former Burdekin ladies player Kaitlin Daley was in the Mackay side.

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On Sunday, defending Foley Shield holders Townsville played their first game, going down to a strong Mackay outfit 32–16 after leading at half-time.

No Burdekin player was in the Townsville squad.

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The Townsville women recorded a strong 20–10 win over Mackay.

With Burdekin not fielding a women’s team this season, locals Martina and Stephanie are now playing for Western Lions, and are also part of the Townsville Foley Shield squad, with Martina scoring a try.

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Townsville were due to play Cairns on Monday in both men’s and women’s fixtures, with Mackay already the men’s Shield winner after two wins.

Club football returns this weekend in Townsville, with the Roosters playing Western Lions at Western Lions Park on Saturday, and Centrals meeting Souths at the Sports Reserve.

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On Sunday, Herbert River visit Jack Manski Oval to play Brothers, while Charters Towers host Norths.

The Roosters face Western Lions across under 19s, reserves and A grade.

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Coach Steve Lansley faces selection challenges in A grade, with forwards Hayde Munro and Tate Brombal likely sidelined long-term with knee injuries.

Blackhawks back Dudley Dotoi was recalled to Hostplus Cup duty last week after featuring in recent Roosters games, scoring a try in a win.

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With the Cowboys under 21 side not playing, forward Lachlan Brubach could again line up for the Roosters.

Western Lions could also benefit from up to five Cowboys under 21 players.

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Utility Nemia Nawave returns after Fijian duties in Mt Isa, and Kali Nauque is also back.

“When we held the ball we were all over Norths, even though they were bigger. If we respect possession this time we can come home with a win, even though it will be tough,” Lansley said.

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Reserves coach Peter Horan is looking for a stronger attitude against the top-placed Lions after an inconsistent performance against Norths.

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“We were short of a couple of key players last time and they should be back. Even though we’ve lost Caleb Noah, we should give a good account,” Horan said.

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The under 19s were also undermanned against Norths but battled through, after a narrow loss to Brothers.

Captain Harrison Lammon is a big loss, but the side still has attacking talent in Chad Fraser, KJ Zaro and Callen Taitners, supported by forwards Leylan Lampton, Romeo Waem, Jack Power, Mason Kiehne and Ken Southwell.

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No official kick-off times were confirmed at time of writing, but matches are expected at 1.30, 3.00 and 4.30.

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Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Eight Ayr Golf Club women have returned from Yeppoon after competing in the 2026 Queensland Women’s Country Week Championships, describing the event as a mix of challenging golf, strong camaraderie, and memorable coastal conditions.

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The group took on both the Yeppoon and Rockhampton courses over several days of play, contesting practice rounds, foursomes and singles formats in what players described as “character-building” conditions.

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Despite difficult scoring conditions, Ayr’s Kerry Heuir and Sandra Wight claimed victory in the Division 2 Foursomes, posting a winning gross score of 95. The result marked a standout performance for the pair against a strong field from across Queensland.

There was also success for former Ayr member Amanda Gees, who partnered with Kate Law to win the Division 1 Foursomes with a gross score of 89.

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Beyond the competition, players highlighted the social and community side of the tournament, which brought together women golfers from across the state. The group enjoyed shared meals, a gala dinner, and time together off the course, alongside coastal views, sunsets and changing weather conditions including rainbows during the week.

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Ayr participants also acknowledged the support of Kerry, Heather and Sonya, who provided transport throughout the event, as well as organisers Aaron and Ryan from Golf Australia for managing the competition across both venues.

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“As always, Country Week is about more than just the golf. It’s a wonderful opportunity to catch up with women from all over the state, swap stories, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes these events so special,” a club spokesperson said.

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The Ayr team has since returned to local competition following the conclusion of the championships.

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1st place:  Sponsor, representative Hugh Montgomery,  Jamie Woods,  Mick McCloskey and Sandra Darwen.

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Brandon Bowls Club hosted a well-supported RLA Triples event on Sunday, April 26, with 50 bowlers taking part in a competitive afternoon sponsored by Ralf Lawson & Associates.

The day opened with a minute’s silence before the formal call of cards, setting a respectful tone ahead of play in ideal sunny conditions. Bowlers from Ayr, Giru and Home Hill joined the Brandon contingent, contributing to a strong regional field.

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Club organisers said the event continues to be a popular fixture on the calendar, drawing consistent support from across the district.

“Thanks to everyone who supported the day,” a club spokesperson said.

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Organisers also acknowledged Hugh Montgomery for his role in arranging sponsorship and player participation.

On the green, competition was tight across the afternoon. First place was awarded to the team of Hugh Montgomery (sponsor representative), Jamie Woods, Mick McCloskey and Sandra Darwen.

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Second place went to Richie Mau, Con Sexton, Les Hoey, Hugh Montgomery (sponsor representative) and Jamie Woods.

Third place was secured by Hugh Montgomery (sponsor representative), Jamie Woods, Lyn Storrie, Judy Elton and Kevin Collins.

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The club also thanked the kitchen volunteers for providing smoko and acknowledged “Dodgy” for running the bar throughout the event.

Brandon Bowls Club said the successful turnout reflected strong community support and appreciation for local sponsorship and volunteer effort.

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The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin’s premier running event saw a record-breaking turnout on Sunday, 26 April, as nearly 400 athletes laced up in Ayr for what was a Sugar Rush for the books.

The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part.

Club president Patrick Shannon hailed the event as a success for both the organisation and the wider North Queensland running community.

“We’re chuffed with the turnout,” Mr Shannon said.

“It was a bit unfortunate—we actually had to cut off entries a little bit early simply because we ran out of bibs. It just means we have to plan bigger and better next year.”

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Massive Field Powers Sugar Rush To New Record In Ayr

The event attracted competitors from as far north as Cairns and south as Mackay, alongside families and first-time runners in shorter distance fun runs.

Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08, while Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15.

Matt Hutchinson led the men’s 10km field in 35:51, with Brittany Hutchinson winning the women’s race in 40:26.

Miles Kerr claimed the men’s 5km title in 20:18, while Mia Brunker of the PACE Project won the women’s event in 20:46.

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Each runner received a complimentary barbecue breakfast courtesy of the Ayr Rotary Club, while MC John Furnell entertained supporters at the finish line at the Ayr War Memorial.

Mr Shannon said the memorial backdrop capped off the morning, the culmination of months of preparation.

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“There was a lot of work put in over the last three to five months… But to see the community coming out, the amazing weather, and the day after Anzac Day, having the monument behind us, was a really good feeling.”

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FULL RESULTS

Half Marathon—Men

1. Jeff Rubach (Townsville Road Runners) — 1:15:08

2. Grant Breadsell

3. Aaron Bathis

Half Marathon—Women

1. Vanessa Kennedy (Hungry Runners) — 1:27:15

2. Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club)

3. Elizabeth Maguire (Hungry Runners)

10km—Men

1. Matt Hutchinson — 35:51

2. Sonny O’Rourke

3. Brendan Maltby

10km—Women

1. Brittany Hutchinson — 40:26

2. Anwen Mackay

3. Isla Chapman

5km—Men

1. Miles Kerr — 20:18

2. Nathan Barrett

3. Brad Patti

5km—Women

1. Mia Brunker (PACE Project) — 20:46

2. Bec Stedman

3. Skye Claussen

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Seniors

A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only four senior games winning three and losing one. The Premiers and Reserve, away to Riverway JCU, won 2-1 and the Reserves, also away to JCU also won 2-1, The Division 1, at home to rebels lost 3-6 but the Division 2, also at home to Rebels won 3-0. The Colts and Ladies both had byes.  

This week only four teams are in action as both Ladies and Colts have byes. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 are away to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.00 and 3.00. The Colts and Ladies do not have games this week.

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Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club

An away trip to JCU is never easy, and after dropping points the previous week, there was added motivation to respond. JCU started strongly, limiting the Panthers time on the ball and making it difficult to find any rhythm early. The first half produced few clear chances, with JCU capitalising late to take a 1–0 lead into the break. The second half saw a renewed energy from the Panthers, while JCU looked to sit deeper and protect their advantage. This shift allowed Burdekin to dominate possession and build pressure in dangerous areas. The Panthers came close on many occasions, including a strike off the crossbar, before Elliott Dal Santo found the breakthrough with a well-taken finish following strong defensive work in the lead-up. Pushing for a winner, Kyle Taylor earned a penalty in the 87th minute, and Jake Siandri stepped up to calmly convert and give the Panthers a 2–1 lead which they held onto in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought result. That’s three wins from their opening four rounds.

Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service

Another week and another changed side saw the Reserves debut opportunity for young players Charlie Predebon & Nyasha Gwarada. It was a very warm afternoon game and developed into a good contest with both teams working hard but neither finding any dominance in possession or field position. It took until the last five minutes of the first half for a goal to come from a longer range freekick and JCU went into the break one up. The second half for the Panthers was much better with senior players able to influence the game and keep better possession of the ball. With improved possession and control Burdekin were able to score two goals from Jonte Grazioli and Dom Arrate. It was a gritty game that in previous seasons the Panthers may have let slip, so very pleasing to turn it around and notch up another win.

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Division 1 – Austral Masonry

Against Rebel, both teams and goals started fast, with two goals from Julen Arrate being answered by two from Rebels in the first eighteen minutes. At half time it was 2-2. After that Burdekin got stuck into the grind with tackles flying everywhere. Then a penalty to Rebels and second yellow card for Brad Wright tipped the balance, with Rebels side scoring two goals in quick succession. Cody Scalia headed in a beautiful Charlie Shears corner to give the Burdekin a chance, but with only ten men, it was too much of a struggle The game ended 6-3 to Rebels.

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Division 2 – RG Customs

RG Customs 2nd division defeated Rebels 3-0 in a match they dominated from start to finish. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead early in the first half, but despite lots of possession and repeatedly attacking Rebels goal, the Funkies were unable to extend their lead in the first half. Burdekin added further goals through Simon Scuderi after 68 minutes and Fengil after 84 minutes in the second half to see the Funkies rewarded for their efforts and deserving winners in a match they controlled very much from start to finish. Next up is MA Olympic this Friday night away in Townsville. 

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Masters

The Masters had another good turnout and, augmented by the Ladies Squad had a replay of the World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. A tight match ended in a 2-2 draw with a replay next Monday. Best players on the night were Charley Ruskin and Riley Granshaw. The Masters play every Monday night. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.  

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Juniors

Junior soccer returned in great spirit over the Anzac Day weekend, marking the first round of games following the school holiday break. Our youngest players in the U5–U7 age groups took to the field on Saturday afternoon, enjoying local matches filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and plenty of smiles. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces back and eager to play.

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Sunday saw an exciting milestone for the U8–U12 teams, who travelled to Townsville for their first games of the season. The step up in competition didn’t deter our players, with all teams showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to kick off the return to soccer, with strong participation across all age groups and a positive start to the term ahead.

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The U15's had their first game at the weekend against Wulguru. A new coach, a few new players and whole lot of enthusiasm. A bit of nervous energy to start with the first goal being scored by the opposition, but the team went in at half time with a 2-1 lead. Goals for the Panthers scored by Annan Power and Nathan Casella. The team lost Linc Innes due to a nasty clash with their keeper which depleted the bench with only one sub. The second half saw the team digging deep to secure three more goals. One of the new Panthers, Cecil Badza Gwarda scoring two and Emmanuel Mio banging in the final goal for the Panthers to secure a convincing win 5-2. Unfortunately, there is a bit of a break before their next round on the 16 May.

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An excited U13 Burdekin Panthers team took the field for the first time this season again MA Olympic.  The Panthers came away with a very good 3-0 win with two goals from. 2 Caelan Farrell and one from Jazz Chung. All players played outstanding football!! 

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National

The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. Newcastle have won the Premiership; five points clear of Adelaide with Auckland third and Melbourne Victory fourth. The Elimination Finals start on Saturday with Auckland playing Melbourne City and Victory playing Sydney FC.  The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage. At the end of regular fixtures Melbourne City were Premiers six points clear of Wellington, with Canberra third and Brisbane fourth. In the semi-finals this Saturday, Melbourne City face Victory and Brisbane play Wellington.

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Mazlyn Smith in action. Photo supplied

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Round 7 of the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Burdekin Touch open competition produced a string of competitive results across all divisions.

In the men’s draw, Way To Go defeated BAYWatch 8–4, while His Haas and Slush Puppies played out a 5–all draw. Alliance Pharmacy proved too strong for Wires Down 9–3, and Petrol Heads accounted for Touch n Go 8–5. Blue Murder continued their good form with an 8–4 win over Ball Grabbers, while Burdekin PCYC and Feelers finished locked at 4–all. Renegades edged a tight contest against Royal Touch 7–6, and Teamo Supremo claimed a narrow 3–2 victory over Creampuffs.

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In the women’s competition, Eathorne’s Princesses defeated Lasers 5–2, while First in Physio delivered the most dominant performance of the round, overpowering Salty Sirens 12–1. Chick Flicks also secured a solid 6–4 win over Can’t Catch.

Junior action in the under-14 division saw Chicken Burgers and Cowboys share the points in a 6–all draw. Rockies defeated Broncos 8–3, BAYWatch A accounted for Red Dogs A 8–2, and Silly Soft Serves rounded out the round with a 10–5 win over Red Dogs B.

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Meanwhile, junior touch football sign-on will be held on Friday, May 1 at 5.30pm at the Burdekin Touch Football clubhouse. The program is open to boys and girls aged 4 to 12, with six weeks of skills, drills and games to follow. Returning Term 1 players can register for free, while new sign-ons cost $20. For more information, contact Rebecca on 0400 705 205 or Peter on 0437 710 500.

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As this is the final patrol weekend for the season, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club would would like to thank all our patrolling members for the countless volunteer hours that were undertaken on the beach for our community, your time is appreciated and we thank you for keeping Alva Beach safe. Beach patrols will resume again in the September School Holidays.

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Beach patrols will resume again in the September school holidays.

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Saturday, 2/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group I – Sage Hisatake (PC), Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Austin Dewar

Sunday, 3/5/26 (9am–1pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group G – Carl List (PC), James Kennedy (PC), Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey, Jedd Giddy, Nate Giddy

Sunday, 3/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group E – John Moloney (PC), Anne Moloney (PC), Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan, Jarrod Rossato

Monday, 4/5/26 (9am–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group A – Chris Wicks (PC), Richard Dale (PC), Jane Olsen, Zackary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt

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Colten Lyne, Kashdyn Nash, Tahj Nash, Jax Lammon & Mason Pavone sporting the new jerseys. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin Roosters Junior Rugby League Club has unveiled its 2026 training shirts and carnival jerseys, featuring a unique design created by one of its youngest players, seven-year-old Tahj Nash.

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Each season the club looks to refresh its playing gear, but this year’s edition carries a deeper connection to its community through Tahj’s artwork. A proud local Indigenous junior with a passion for drawing, Tahj was invited to design a jersey that would represent the club both on and off the field.

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The finished design features a series of flowing lines and carefully structured patterns, all hand-drawn by Tahj. The lines are said to represent the mighty Burdekin River, while the surrounding shapes and sections symbolise the townships, families and broader community that make up the Roosters club.

Club officials say the jerseys go beyond a simple uniform, instead telling a story of connection, culture and belonging. The design reflects the values of junior rugby league in the Burdekin—bringing people together through sport while celebrating local identity.

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The Roosters have praised Tahj’s contribution, saying it is a proud moment for the club to showcase the creativity of one of its own juniors. His artwork will now be worn by Roosters teams throughout the 2026 season, forming a lasting part of the club’s identity for the year ahead.

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