Saturday PM 20/12 (1-5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Kathryn Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex, Alyssia Gibson, Billy Gibson and Halle Gibson Sunday AM 21/12 (9am-1pm) Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, Zachry Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and William Holt Sunday PM 21/12 (1-5pm) - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Chapman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie
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Home Hill Tennis celebrated the conclusion of the tennis and pickleball year with the AO One Point Slam, with die-hard players turning out to enjoy the event despite a storm threatening and a few drops of rain falling. In the official tennis competition, Bernie Claussen proved too strong for all her opponents and has been invited to play in the Brisbane event, with the club hopeful for a lucky draw and a chance to win $50,000. President Joel Hanson’s serve was on fire, helping him secure a first-round win against mate and fellow Vice President Mark Barbagallo. Joel went on to win the sign-on event after a lengthy final rally, while Toni Pivotto claimed victory in the pickleball event after several long points. The celebrations highlighted the ongoing growth of pickleball at the club, which continues to attract strong numbers each week, with sessions on Tuesday nights from 6.30 pm and most Saturday mornings at 7.30 am. The group wrapped up the year with a social gathering at the Kalamia Hotel. For more information about the club, contact Kate Casswell on 0447 384 441.
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Junior Touch Football players from across the region gathered in Ayr recently for the Fast Four Touch carnival, showcasing their skills in a day of fast-paced action. Twenty-two teams competed across age divisions from under 10 to under 16, with four players per side taking to half a field. Local Burdekin teams were joined by several squads from Townsville, creating a highly competitive atmosphere. The round-robin games saw over 250 touchdowns scored, with players backing up game after game in challenging hot conditions, impressing the large crowd of spectators. Before the finals, sprints and team relays were also held, adding extra excitement to the day. In the finals, The Snippers defeated Six Seven Superstars 5-0 in the under-10 boys, while Shooting Stars beat Lollypops 5-0 in the under-10 girls. The Brotherhood edged out Walking Warriors 1-0 in the under-12 boys, with SSS A narrowly defeating SSS B 3-2 in the under-12 girls. Angus’s Team claimed a 3-1 win over Legacy 22 in the under-14 boys, and Baywatch triumphed 4-1 against Young Girls in the under-14 girls. In the under-16 divisions, 2 Deadly won 1-0 over Too Fresh in the boys, with Red Madness victorious in the girls. After the action-packed day, club officials praised the players and volunteers for their efforts. “All players displayed great sportsmanship throughout the day,” said President Peter Knapton. “Many thanks go to the referees, cooks, canteen workers, helpers and parents but more importantly to the players for the terrific skills and the competitive spirit of the games which made for an enjoyable carnival.”
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Local Burdekin FC’s AGM will be held on Sunday 18th January at Honeycombes Hall on Beach Road. The Panthers would like all those interested, to be there. Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season has started. Thursday nights at 6.15. Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There! Night Soccer Friday was a big night at International Park. It was Grand Final night of the 47th season of Delta Cleaners Night Soccer and a very big crowd turned up to watch the twelve games. The Men’s A Grade Final was won by Mottin Earthmoving who beat UDS 3-1 and in the Ladies A Grade Final, Scoregasms defeated Body Tune 1-0. In the other Men’s competitions, the A Grade Plate was won by Rocky Pond Warriors who beat FJV 1-0 and the A Grade Bowl went to RG Customs who beat 7 Stooges 7-0. In A Social Oary’s Levellers beat DL Lager 1-0 and in the A Social Plate Delta Physio defeated Willy Wackers 3-2. B Social was won by His Haas who beat Bennetts Old Grumpies and in the B Social Plate, Free Ballers beat Hardly Normal. In the other Ladies competition, the A Grade Plate was won by 6 TO UR 7 who beat Lets Get Messi. In the B Grade, Kicken Goals beat Chicks & Chooks and in the B Grade Plate, Short Staffed won against Haven’t a Kahlua. One of the highlights of the night was the annual Drinkers Trophy, won this year by Fair Call who beat Delta Physio 2-1. Winner of the SLoBs Raffle was ticket Grey H66. Juniors The final Burdekin Juniors report for 2025! The 2026 season will be upon us before we know it! Our AGM is scheduled for Sunday the 18th of January - all positions will be open and all new members to our committee much welcomed so come along. Keep an eye out for details on Junior Social Soccer in Term 1 before the season proper commences! Merry Xmas to you all! International and National In the A League Men, after eight rounds Sydney FC is still top after winning 2-1 away to Perth. Auckland is back in second place following their win at central Coast. Brisbane could only manage a goalless draw at Western Sydney and has dropped to third place. In the A League Women, Canberra now top the table after winning away to Sydney FC. Adelaide is in second place after beating Adelaide and Newcastle beat Brisbane to move up to third place with Brisbane dropping to fourth. However, Newcastle and Brisbane both have two games in hand. The Socceroos first World Cup group game is on 13 June. Presumably, there will be some friendly games announced before then. The Matildas play in the AFC Asian Cup in March. In their group games their first match is against Philippines, they then play Iran and then Korea. In England, in the EPL, the three top teams all won, and Arsenal is two points clear of Manchester City with Aston Villa in third place. At the foot of the table Wolves, Burnley and West Ham all lost and are in deep trouble. In Germany’s Bundesliga, none of the top three teams won but the still unbeaten Bayern has a nine point lead over Leipzig and Dortmund. At the foot of the table St Pauli won but along with Heidenheim and Mainz are still in the relegation zone. In Italy’s Serie A, only Inter of the top four teams won. Inter now leads AC Milan by one point with Napoli in third place. Juventus won and moves up to fifth place. At the foot of the table Verona won again but along with Pisa and Fiorentina look doomed. In Spain the top five teams all won, and Barcelona leads Real Madrid by four points with Villarreal in third place and Atletico fourth. At the bottom of the league, Girona won but along with Oviedo and Levante are still in trouble. In France’s Ligue 1, the top six teams all won, and Lens leads PSG by one point with Marseilles in third place a further four points adrift. At the foot of the table, none of the six bottom teams won and Auxerre, Metz, and Nantes are not looking good. Quote of the Week Is from Journalist David Lacey on Boby Robson. “His natural expression if that of a man who fears he might have left the gas on.”
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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.
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
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.
The U18 boys performed exceptionally well at Gold Coast’s State Championships
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.
Kyle Vitty - Div 1 Boys Bronze Medal Match, with Caitlin Kross - Div 2 Girls Gold Medal Match.
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.
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.
What: Australia Day Mixed Triples
When: Sunday the 26th of January
Where: Brandon Bowls Club
More Information: Call 0476 302 889
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.
Neville’s Nomads at the 2025 Goldfield Ashes
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!
Jayden Brown from Bundaberg reeled in a Flathead!
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
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.
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.
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
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
2024’s Alva Beach Golf Day was a smashing success
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!
Saturday 18th 0f January: 1.00pm to 5.00pm ( Patrol Group A ) Chris Wicks, Damien Rickets, Emma Rickets, Jane Wicks.
Sunday 19th 0f January: 9,00am to 1,00pm ( Patrol Group B ) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson.
Sunday 19th 0f January: 1.00pm to 5.00pm (Patrol Group D ) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale. Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth.
Burdekin Clay Target Club held their monthly shoot on Sunday 12th January. Forty-one shooters braved the extreme heat, and the scores were exceptional in all grades. Congratulations to all the winners on the day, with a big thank you to Max and Julie Nicolaides, of Storage Sheds Ayr, for sponsoring event four.
Our next shoot will be on Sunday 9th February, followed by our ‘Come and Try Day’ on Saturday 22nd February.
Event 1-15 Target Medley 15m
AA Grade 1st Ron Clive, Joe Caruso, Ray Collinson 25/25
A Grade 1st David Stitt, Sylvia Rossato 24/25
B Grade 1st Peter Wade 25/25, 2nd Mick Populin 23/25
C Grade 1st Tim Ewens 23/25, 2nd Rob Ness, Laurie Luke 20/25
Event 2-20 Target Double Barrell 15m
AA Grade 1st Joe Caruso 20/20, 2nd Glen Rea, Ron Clive, Ray Collinson Aaron Lemphers and Wayne Cislowski 19/20
A Grade 1st Joe Sebastiani 20/20, 2nd Colin Ferguson, Brontie Rea, Sylvia Rossato, Greg Maltby 19/20
B Grade 1st Sean Russell 20/20, 2nd John Kinnimonth and Mick Populin 19/20
C Grade 1st Rob Ness 19/20, 2nd Peter Delle Baite, Tim Ewens, Laurie Luke & Lynda Potter 18/20
Event 3-25 Target Pointscore 15m
AA Grade 1st Aaron Lemphers 75/75
A Grade 1st Joe Sebastiani 87/87
B Grade 1st Alf Gangemi 70/75
C Grade 1st Brian Bonanno 64/75
Event 4-25 Target Burdekin Single Barrel Championship
Sponsored by Max & Julie Nicolaides-Storage Sheds Ayr
OPEN 1st Ray Collinson 25/25
AA Grade 1st Ray Collinson 25/25
A Grade 1st Joe Sebastiani 24/25
B Grade 1st Mick Populin 23/25
C Grade 1st Tim Ewens 21/25
Event 5-25 Target Double Barrel Handicap
OPEN 1st Glen Rea 34/35
2nd Rob Mikkelsen 33/35
3rd John Kinnimonth 32/35
Event 3-25 Target Pointscore 15m – Brian Bonanno, Joe Sebastiani, Aaron Lemphers and Alf Gangemi. Photos supplied.
Event 4-25 Target Burdekin Single Barrel Championship (sponsored by Max & Julie Nicolaides Storage & Sheds Ayr) – Raymond Collinson, Joe Sebastiani, Mick Populin and Tim Ewens.
Event 5-25 Target Handicap – Glen Rea, Rob Mikkelsen and John Kinnimonth.
In 1970, Margaret Gudge became one of the founding members of the Home Hill Netball Club, later known as Burdekin Netball. Little did she know that five decades later, her great-granddaughter, Lillea Levitt, would join the club, continuing a remarkable family legacy. Lillea became the first-ever great-grandchild of a former player to sign up with Burdekin Netball in 2020.
Back in the 70’s, Margaret and a group of friends formed a team in the newly established, Home Hill Netball Association. They named their team the ‘Bandits’ and set about creating their uniforms. With no professional designers, they bought fabric and used sewing machines to craft their dark green and black tunics.
Margaret played in various teams and represented Home Hill’s Green and Gold at numerous tournaments across Queensland, even travelling to Tasmania for games. Her commitment to the sport set the foundation for the club's long history.
Fast forward to 2020, Lillea, at just six years old, joined Burdekin Netball, proudly wearing the same green and gold colours as her great-grandmother. As the club continues to thrive, this beautiful connection between generations is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the love for netball.
The Burdekin Netball Association is eagerly preparing for the 2025 season and is excited about the upcoming upgrades to their clubhouse and courts. These improvements will ensure that their facilities continue to support both current players and future generations for many years to come.
To start your own legacy, the Silverlinks squad are hosting team trials at the Burdekin Netball Courts beginning on Monday, 27th of January. All positions are open for the Premier League, Division One and 18’s League teams for this year's upcoming Townsville competitions.
The Burdekin Netball Association's Annual General Meeting, will be held at 10am, Friday 9 February, at the Burdekin Netball Association courts. All positions are vacant. Members and interested parties are encouraged to attend. For further information, please contact burdekinnetball@gmail.com
Contributed with thanks by Kelli Loizou.
Margaret Gudge and her granddaughter, Lillea Levitt. Photo: Supplied
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