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The 2026 campaign began with a convincing 42–7 victory over Bowen in Burdekin Rugby Union’s first trial match of the season last weekend. The match provided an early opportunity for the playing group to begin adjusting to the team’s new attacking structure. Players are working hard to implement several tactical changes this year, and early signs are encouraging. Many of Burdekin’s points came through strong support play, highlighting the squad’s willingness to work hard off the ball. Coaching staff have been clear about expectations from the outset of preseason. Training sessions have been designed to create an enjoyable environment while still maintaining strong intent and focus. So far, the playing group has responded extremely well, with positive energy and commitment evident at each session. This season is all about innovation for the club. Changes are being introduced both on and off the field, and players are adapting well to the new approach. While performance remains important, there is also a strong focus on building a culture where players, supporters and families feel connected to the club. Local community members have plenty of reasons to be excited about Burdekin Rugby in 2026, with the team showing promising signs heading into the season. Burdekin’s women’s team also took the field against Bowen in their trial match. With a new and developing squad, the game provided valuable experience for the group. Despite going down to a well-drilled Bowen side, there were plenty of positives to take away as the team continues to grow and develop. With three weeks remaining until round one, there is still plenty of time for new players to get involved. The club welcomes recent school leavers, people new to town, anyone looking to make new friends, or those keen to dust off the boots and return to the game. Training takes place every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30pm at Calenago Fields. Everyone is encouraged to come along and be part of the growing Burdekin rugby community. Contributed with thanks to Brent Mitchell 1 – Burdekin Rugby Union’s 2026 season started strong, with tactical changes planned to bring further success. 2 – Burdekin’s women’s team is growing and developing with new players invited to get involved.
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The Burdekin Touch association celebrated the contribution of senior players to Touch football in the Burdekin last week. With over 30 male and female players over the age of 50 taking the field each week, Touch is proving to be a great sport for fitness and social connection. Among the players over 50, there are quite a few in their 60s with eight players and referees over 70. “These players have been the backbone of Burdekin Touch for many years and their efforts are an inspiration to the younger members,” commented Vice-President Brendan Ford. Results for Round 5 Coutt’s Commercial Hotel Open Men’s and Women’s competition Men Nrgize 7 (B Lampton 3, H Munro 2) def Alliance Pharmacy 2, Way To Go 6 (J Malayta 2, J Palmer 2) def Slush Puppies 4 (L Marshall 2), Renegades 9 (D Rigano 3, R Dobe 2, D McKeough 2) def Burdekin PCYC 7 (G Dau 3, T Heron 2), Touch n Go 7 (C Arboit 5) def Ball Grabbers 6 (L Towler 2, D Post 2), Feelers 4 def Creampuffs 2, Royal Touch 11 (D Lyons 3, A Miller 2, M Kelly 2, N Gwarda 2) def Petrol Heads 3 (J Plate 2), Teamo Supremo 12 (R Heuir 4, H Horan 2, B Horan 2, D Horan 2) def Blue Murder 4 (C McGrath 2), Crocs, One Touch IT and BAYWatch won on forfeit. Women Lasers 6 (T Horan 4) def Salty Sirens 4 (S Le Blowitz 2), Eathorne’s Princesses and First in Physio Knapton, Leigh Chapple, won on forfeit. Under 14 Cowboys 9 def Red Dogs (C Linton 2, L Pickup 2), Silly Soft Serves 5 (Bethena 2, Mazlyn 2) def Broncos 3, BAYWatch A 6 def Rockies 1 Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton 1 - Back row: Ryan McGrath, Gavin Neal, Paul Scott, Raul Guglielmana, Bruce Johnson. Front Row: John Parison, Tony Goddard, Peter Le Feuvre, Peter Knapton, Leigh Chapple, Jody Horan
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On the green this week has been exciting for members with the continuation of the club competition fours progressing very well keeping Games Director Mick OIlsen a happy man with all games expected to be completed within the scheduled time frame. Games played saw Trevor Elton, Mick McLoskey, Margaret Chapmen, Judy Elton took the win over Gary Nosworthy, Norm Bethell, A Davenport, Paul Vass. In game Two Tony Edie, Wayne Newton, Jeff Phillips, Scott Taylor had a win over Mick Olsen, Michael Young, Joslen Defranciscis, Bob Young. This game from all reports was won on the last end with Wayne Newton being the standout of the team. In game Three Bruce McCallum, Katarina Stuckler, Les Hoey, Janet Arthur, had a convincing win over Phil Marsden, Bob Pickard, Maureen Marsden, Amy Bailey Newton. All games were played in good competitive spirit. The club extends congratulations to all the winners and commiserations to the losing teams. There’s always next year. Thursday club bowls saw 21 players take to the green to compete in Two games of pairs, and two games of triples. On rink three Joe Linton, Paul Vass won with a reasonable margin over Jeff Phillips, Judy Elton. Rink Four saw Mick McCloskey, Bruce McCallum, Des Chapman win with a comfortable margin over Wayne Newton, Maureen Marsden, Steve Mutu. On Rink Five, Trevor Elton, Margaret Chapmen, won by a close margin over Gary Nosworthy, Scott Taylor. Rink Six saw Phil Marsden, Les Hoey, Cisco compete in another close encounter taking the win over Glenn Berriman, Ron Smith, Janet Arthur. Overall winners on the day were Joe Linton and Paul Vass. Wednesday night social bowls prior to sausage sizzle remain popular within the club. Names in by 5.30pm with a 6.00pm start. Members of the community who are considering having a try are more than welcome. Come and experience a night under the stars, the sound of music in the background and friendly social atmosphere. You won’t go away, disappointed. Saturday social bowls numbers were down this week due to some members playing away in Townsville. However, a game of competition fours was played and a game of triples between Wayne Newton, Warren Bunn, Paul Vass who took out the win over Ron Smith, Rob Darr, Meryl Smith. Community members are welcome to come and have a try. Names in by 1:30pm with a 2pm start. Phone 0478642515 Three Home Hill Teams who competed in the Wilmar Challenge played at Brandon Bowls Club on Saturday 21 March made the club proud by demonstrating the competitive friendly attitude that is embellished in the ethos of our club. President of the Brandon Jamie Woods commented that it was great to see all the Burdekin colors across the green. Our congratulations go to the Ayr teams who took the shield for 2026. Club weekly activities Monday morning at 9.00am Gentle Exercise class Tuesday morning at 9.00am Trimmers Wednesday morning at 9.00am Craft group Thursday morning at 9.30am Bingo Contributed by Bob Pickard.
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Good Friday 3/4 (9am-5pm) - Group B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Anita Giddy, Heather Scott, Briella Wassmuth and Emilee Wassmuth Saturday AM 4/4 (9am-1pm) Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Chapman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie Saturday PM 4/4 (1-5pm) Group I - Sage Hisatake PC, Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake and Austin Dewar Sunday AM (9am-1pm) Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John Furnell, Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan Hatherell and Gabriel Hatherell Sunday PM (1-5pm) Group G - Carl List PC, James Kennedy PC, Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards and Ross Blakey Easter Monday (9am-5pm) Group D - Ben Lewry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivian
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The Brandon Bowls Club will host an afternoon of mixed triples in celebration of Australia Day on Sunday the 26th of January, with bowling to commence from 1:30pm.
Prizes will be on offer throughout the event with the club kindly asking attendees to bring a plate to share with fellow bowlers and arrive dressed in bowls attire.
Nominations can be made by calling the Brandon Bowls Club on 0476-302-889, Gary Pearce on 0488-214-222, or Neville Dickinson on 0414-519-210, with all names needing to be in by 12:30pm on the day.
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
Get ready to roll into a fun-filled Australia Day celebration at the Ayr Bowling Club! On Sunday, the 26th January 26 the Ayr Blowing Club invites the community to come together for a social bowls event that’s all about enjoying the Aussie spirit. Dress in your best Aussie outfits and get ready for a day of friendly competition and plenty of Aussie prizes.
What: Australia Day Social Bowls
When: Sunday 26 January from 12:30pm
Where: Ayr Bowling Club
More Information: Call (07) 4783 1336
Burdekin FC Inc. is on the lookout for female players eager to join their teams for the 2024 season! The club is recruiting for both the FQPL Northern Women and the U23 Northern Women teams with preseason training to kick off in early January.
The club invites interested players to contact them for more information via email at burdekinfc@hotmail.com or send a message through the club’s Facebook page.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a passionate team! Stay tuned for further details.
Are you searching for a new, energy-filled sport for the whole family to enjoy? Pickleball has been making waves in the US, earning the title as the fastest growing sport in the country!
The Home Hill Tennis Association provides the community with the chance to have a swing at the fantastic tennis, cross badminton, cross ping pong sport at their courts located at 43 – 75 First Street, Home Hill.
The Association hosts Pickleball Saturdays each week from 8am to 9am as well as free come and try sessions throughout the year. Whether you’re a beginner or have played before, this is a fantastic opportunity to start a new year hobby, improve your skills, or just enjoy a friendly game!
Call the Association on 0487 890 201 for more information!
Give Pickleball a swing this January!
With the festivities and new year holidays wrapping up, the Burdekin Roosters are looking forward to getting back on the field, announcing seniors will commence preseason training from Tuesday the 14th January.
The Club is eyeing big things in the new year, debuting a new motto, “Roosters Thrive in ‘25” across their socials last December, following on from an action packed 2024 season.
A call out for nominations of club roles will also be announced in early January, with the community encouraged to keep an eye on the Burdekin Roosters page for updates.
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