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REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE Continued from cover Burdekin Netball Association’s junior representative teams have returned from the Queensland Junior State Age Championships with plenty to celebrate, producing strong performances against some of the state’s leading clubs. The Under 13 team finished an impressive 11th out of 21 teams, while the Under 14 side also secured 11th place from a field of 18 teams. These highly respectable results reflect not only the dedication of the players but also the depth of talent continuing to emerge through the Burdekin Netball Association pathways. The Association was also proud to see club player Luca Lawry selected to compete with QC Netball's boys team at the championships. Luca earned his invitation following a standout performance at the North Queensland School Sports netball championships in May. Luca's journey is a testament to the strength of grassroots sporting organisations and the important role community clubs play in developing young athletes. Netball runs deep in the Lawry family, with Luca's grandparents, uncle, aunties and siblings all having represented the Burdekin Netball Association over the years. Despite being one of the youngest members of the QC Netball team, Luca performed exceptionally well throughout the tournament and demonstrated enormous potential for the future. With his sights now firmly set on representing Australia at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, his future in the sport looks incredibly promising. The Burdekin Netball Association is proud to provide opportunities for aspiring netballers to represent the Burdekin region, challenge themselves against the state's best players and create lifelong memories and experiences through sport. Supplied by Burdekin Netball Association Under 14 Team Photo Back row (left to right) Indy Broadhead, Ivy Martin, Chloe Bowen, Eden Godfrey, Charlotte Lawry Front row (left to right) Charmaine Reid (coach), Lily Ahern, Miley Gesah, Makenna Trail, Popi Loizou, Kasey Dobe, Jacki Samwell (manager). Photos supplied
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Burdekin’s next generation of touch footballers will soon have their chance to hit the field, with the Under 14 competition kicking off next Wednesday, July 22. Sign-on will take place from 5pm, with both full teams and individual players encouraged to get involved. Those who nominate individually will be placed into teams to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part. Games will run each Wednesday from 5pm to 5.45pm, with the season continuing through until November 18. The cost is $60 per player. For more information, contact Bruce on 0408 060 476. CAPTION: Mazlin Smith in action. Supplied.
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Seniors A good weekend for the Panthers. They played four games against Rebels, winning three, losing one and scoring twenty three goals! The Premiers and Reserves were away on Saturday with the Premiers winning 10-0 and the Reserves winning 7-0. The Division 1 and Division 2 teams were away on Friday night with the Division 1 losing 2-5 and the Division 2 winning 4-2. This week, all five teams are in action. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 teams are at home to MA Olympic kicking off at 8.30 and 6.30. The Colts are away to Brothers with a 6.30 kick off. On Sunday, the Premiers and Reserves are at home to Estates kicking off at 5.00 and 3.00. Ladies Day tickets went on sale last Friday and sold out within ours. Did not get a ticket? You can still join in on all the fun at International Park on Saturday 22nd August!’ Calling all Life Members, Sponsors & Old Boys. It’s time to celebrate you! On Sunday August 9th, join us for an afternoon of football, free drinks, and food! Let’s reminisce on all the good, bad, and ugly! Please confirm attendance with Sian Reardon. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club The Panthers produced a ruthless attacking display against Rebels, running out convincing 10–0 winners after dominating from the opening whistle. Jake Siandri made an immediate impact on his return from injury, opening the scoring inside the first three minutes. Elliott Dal Santo doubled the advantage after ten minutes before Jay Leckenby added a third in the 22nd minute. The goals continued to flow, with Matthew Kolb finding the net three minutes later, followed by Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro in the thirtieth minute. Dal Santo then grabbed his second of the afternoon in the 34th minute to send the Panthers into the break with a commanding 6–0 lead. The second half began in much the same fashion, with Cooper Kross scoring just two minutes after the restart. Burdekin continued to create chances throughout the half and were rewarded late in the match. Ryan Scodellaro added the eighth goal in the 79th minute before Matthew Kolb claimed his second three minutes later. Jonte Grazioli completed the scoring in the 85th minute, capping off an impressive team performance. It was a clinical display across the park, with the Panthers showing their attacking quality while also keeping a clean sheet to round out a dominant 10–0 victory. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service The Panthers Reserves also produced an outstanding attacking performance against Rebels, recording a comprehensive 7–0 victory with goals spread across both halves. Cooper Kross got the scoring underway in just the fourth minute before Jhett Jones struck twice in quick succession, finding the net in the 12th and 13th minutes to put the Panthers firmly in control. Kross added his second of the afternoon just two minutes later, giving Burdekin a commanding 4–0 lead heading into half time. The Panthers picked up where they left off after the break. Jonte Grazioli extended the advantage in the 48th minute before Cooper Kross completed a well-deserved hat-trick with his third goal in the 53rd minute. Grazioli then rounded out the scoring in the 59th minute, grabbing his second of the match to seal an emphatic 7–0 victory. It was a dominant team performance from start to finish, with the Panthers controlling the contest throughout and showing plenty of quality in front of goal while keeping another clean sheet. Division 1 – Austral Masonry The Division 1 Panthers took on Rebels also but unfortunately suffered a 2-5 loss. Burdekin started well but could not convert their chances in front of goal, hitting the crossbar and hitting shots wide. Rebels made the most of their chances and jumped out to a 3-0 lead after just twenty minutes which remained the score at half time. The Panthers were much better in the second half with goals to Krishneel Singh and Jack Shears but a penalty and a late goal to Rebels gave them the 5-2 win. A score that did not reflect the amount of possession or chances on goal that Burdekin had. Despite the loss a good performance from a relatively young Burdekin Division 1 side. Jack Shears and Jack Gimson had strong games. Division 2 – RG Customs The Funkies got their season back on track after a couple of tough games recently with a 4-2 win against Rebels. Jared Giardina opened the scoring before Chris Achille made it 2-0 after only five minutes of play. Rebels pulled a goal back soon afterwards and the score remained 2-1 to Burdekin at half time. The Funkies were quite dominant and in control of the game in the second half. Goals to Krishneel Singh and then James Dwyer from the penalty spot gave the Funkies a 4-1 lead approaching full time. Rebels scored a late goal, but the Funkies won 4-2 quite comfortably and move into 4th place on the table. Masters The Masters numbers were higher despite the cool conditions and featured a pre-play of the England v Norway World Cup Quarter Final. The game ended with Norway winning 4-2. after drawing 2-2 at half time. Best players on the night were Felipe Brazil and Shane Feeney. The Magic Moments were very rare! 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. Juniors Junior Saturday games are still on a break for the school holidays, but we’re looking forward to seeing everyone back on the field next weekend! While regular games were on pause, four Burdekin teams travelled to Townsville to compete in the Filippo Mele Memorial Competition from 7–9 July. It was a busy three days of soccer, with plenty of great games and valuable experience for our players. Well done to all players, coaches and families involved for representing the club throughout the competition. International The World Cup Is now at the semi-final stage. France plays Spain on Wednesday in Dallas and England meet Argentina in Atlanta on Thursday. The Final will be played on Monday in New York Quote the of the Week is from ex-Manchester Utd and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty “I’ve always said there’s a place for the press, but they haven’t dug it yet.”
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Burdekin Roosters utility Nemia Nawave had a standout game against Western Lions at Bendigo Bank Park on Saturday night, but it wasn’t enough to get the locals over the line, going down 30-24. Both sides played open, fast football in the first half to have the scores 30-18 to the visiting Lions at the break. While the first half was fast and exciting, with eight tries scored, the second half was a dour affair with a lot of dropped ball as both teams tried to get the ascendancy. The Roosters looked the better team in attack in the second session, but dropped ball robbed them of tries at vital stages. Nothing could be taken away from the defence from both teams in the second session, as both fought valiantly to get on top. The loss by the locals sees them now in fifth place on the ladder, and with Centrals giving the premiers from the last two years, Souths, a hiding on Sunday, Western Lions are now equal third with Brothers behind Souths and Centrals. Coach Steve Lansley said the Roosters produced a spirited second-half fightback but were left to rue a costly opening 40 minutes as they went down to the Western Lions in an entertaining rugby league contest. The first half was an attacking spectacle, with an incredible scoreline as the Lions raced to 30 points while the Roosters kept themselves in the contest with three tries of their own. Defensive improvements after the break saw just one try scored in the entire second half, highlighting the commitment and resilience shown by the Roosters. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done, with the 30 points conceded before half-time proving too much to overcome. Despite the defeat, Burdekin never stopped competing and pushed the Lions all the way to the final siren. Mitch Brown was outstanding throughout, while Nemia once again provided plenty of spark in attack and Jake O’Brien impressed with his tireless work across the park. On to Ladies Day and the return of the Home Hill Devils reunion. For Burdekin, tries came from Lachlan Shepherd, Jake O’Brien, Nemia Nawave and Lach Bachbach. Jake O’Brien kicked four goals. In other A Grade games, Centrals caused the upset of the season so far, beating two-time premiers and undefeated this year Souths 50-10, while Brothers and Herbert River played out a 30-all draw and Norths beat Charters Towers 26-14. It was not a good day for the Roosters, with Western Lions easily winning the reserve grade 40-6 over a disappointing Burdekin team. The Lions led 24-0 at the break, and it wasn’t until near the end that the locals showed any glimpse of what they are capable of. Then Pryce Gesah finished off his match with a good try. Coach Peter Horan said he was thoroughly disappointed with the efforts of a number of players. Braiden Di Bella was the players’ player for a good effort, with Lincoln Boccolatte, Luca Lago, Bryce Caltiabano and Calem Saxby giving of their best. Pryce Gesah scored the try, converted by Dylan Doak. In other reserve grade matches, Norths beat Charters Towers 46-8, Brothers beat Herbert River 40-6 and Souths beat Centrals 34-6. The Roosters Under 19s had a bye for the weekend. Only one Ladies game was played, with Charters Towers beating Norths 24-12. Supplied by Brian Carnes CAPTIONS: 1—A grade Player of the match - joint winners are Nemia Nawave (left) & Jake O'Brien (right) presented by old boy Thomas Lammon (middle) 2—Reserve grade Player of the match - Braedyn Di Bella (accepted by Jahi Starr (right)) presented by old boy Sam Russo (left) Photos supplied
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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.
The Ayr Surf Club held it's final Junior Club Championships on Saturday 14th December, bringing their general nipper season to a close for 2024. The event showcased the junior surf sports skills where all members including the Green Caps (U6s and U7s), are able to compete in a variety of events, from wades, surf races, boards, and iron person in the water and flags, sprints and 1km beach run on the sand. The nippers compete in both their individual age group and a junior or senior category to determine age champions, Open Iron person Champions and Junior and Senior Champions. The nippers will be presented with their awards in the New Year at presentations with the Senior members. Members were also treated to a special visit from the big man in red later on in the afternoon with Santa delivering the nippers a water themed gift which culminated in a massive water fight to cool off after a big afternoon of competition.
Although the normal nipper season has come to an end, there is still plenty happening at the Ayr Surf Club. The junior members who were selected in the North Barrier Branch 2025 Youth State Team are still training in the lead up to State Titles in March on the Gold Coast. Junior members, under 12s and under 13s, from across the entire branch will head to Alva during the January School holidays to attend Camp Alva, a development and leadership camp, and the Annual Beach Golf Day has been booked in for Saturday 8th of February, so get your teams together and prepare for another fun filled day!
Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry.
U11-U14 Senior Flags event
Eva Rickards, Alexandra Moloney and Isabella Flower
Penelope Donald, Quinn Pontifex, Mackenzie Sartori and Eliza Hayllor
Ryan Irvine, Angus Wicks and Hoyt Pontifex
Ross, Eva and Audrey Rickards with Santa
John, Alexandra and Anne Moloney with Santa
Saturday the 11th of January, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group B - Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan and Gabriel Hatherell, and Toby and Danny Wilson.
Sunday the 12th of January, 9am to 5pm: All Day Patrol Group F - Lisa and John Furnell, Jen and Jo Morgan, Lauren and Isla Chapman, and Ryley, Jake, Kat and Dave Sartori.
Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.
The 2024 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Swimming Championships took place in Brisbane at the Chandler Aquatic Centre, and the Burdekin Swimming Club had a representative attend the Championships in December.
Bringing together Queensland's best, including Olympian’s, Shayna Jack and Mollie O'Callaghan, as well as top competitors in Queensland, and also, from around the world, The Burdekin Torpedoes had Millie Lyne, and coaches, Kim and Mick McConnachie, represent them and the Burdekin region for the week-long event.
Millie had a jam-packed week kicking off with the regional relays on the Saturday, where she represented North QLD Swimming in both Freestyle and Medley relays. Then came her individual races, where she did a personal best time in each race she competed in, which included 50m Freestyle, Backstroke, Butterfly, Breaststroke, and 100m Breaststroke.
Millie was able to make the final in 100m Breaststroke in the 14yo girls where she came 6th in the state. The week ended on a high when Millie made the 50m Breaststroke final, placing 3rd in the state and bringing home a bronze medal for the Burdekin Torpedoes.
The Burdekin Torpedoes and Millie were extremely grateful to have such dedicated coaches in Kim and Mick McConnachie, who take the time to travel to these events and give their all to the swimmers to achieve these great results.
The Burdekin Torpedoes will now be looking forward to their annual Swimming meet on January 18th – the 2025 NQIB Burdekin sprint held at the Burdekin Aquatic Centre – where Clubs from around the North QLD region converge for a fun filled afternoon of fast swimming.
Burdekin Torpedo swimmer, Millie Lyne, with her bronze medal. Photo: Supplied
Coaches, Kim and Mick McConnachie, embracing Burdekin Torpedo swimmer, Millie Lyne, with her bronze medal and finalist awards. Photo: Supplied
Millie Lyne, in full flight on her way to bronze. Photo: Supplied
The Ayr Surf Club Junior Championships on December 14th marked the end of an action-packed 2024 season, with Nippers competing in surf races, board events, and beach sprints. Looking ahead, the club’s juniors are gearing up for an exciting 2025.
Selected members are training for the North Barrier Branch 2025 Youth State Team, with State Titles set for March on the Gold Coast. Additionally, under 12s and 13s will attend Camp Alva in January, focusing on leadership and development.
The club is also preparing for the Annual Beach Golf Day on February 8th, promising a fun-filled day to kick off the new year. The Ayr Surf Club is ready for another year of growth, competition, and community!
Penelope Donald, Quinn Pontifex, Mackenzie Sartori and Eliza Hayllor. Photo supplied
The Burdekin Touch Association hosted the Grand Finals for the 2024 Mixed Season on the evening of Friday 13 December, showcasing top-quality games across all five grades.
In a thrilling conclusion to the season, the A Grade Final delivered one of the most exciting matches in recent years. Can’t Touch This, seeking their first-ever A Grade title, faced off against the experienced Nrgize team.
The game was a fast-paced spectacle, with play surging end-to-end. Nrgize displayed their well-rehearsed moves, while Can’t Touch This countered with an organised yet free-flowing style. At full time, the score was locked at 5-all, sending the match into a nerve-wracking drop-off.
In the decisive moments, it was the speed and agility of Jye Olsen, named Player of the Final, that sealed the victory for Can’t Touch This, securing their maiden A Grade Championship.
The match capped off a remarkable season, reflecting the hard work and dedication of both players and officials of the Burdekin Touch Association.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Open Touch Season is set to kick off in January, promising more exciting action for players and fans alike.
Contributed with thanks to Amity Cornford.
Marshall Parker is an active and commendable member of the Home Hill Cricket Association, and recently represented his club with pride in North Queensland’s Under 12 B Team in Townsville.
At just 10 years old, Marshall plays and trains at both his home club, and the Townsville West Cricket Club with the Parker family travelling to Townsville twice a week to continue building upon Marshall’s techniques and skillset.
In following in the footsteps of his dad, Ross Parker, Marshall enjoys a match of father-son cricket here and there and loves the socialisation aspect of the sport above all else.
“Cricket is fun, and you can play with your friends,” shared Marshall.
With just over three years of experience in the sport, Marshall’s training routine sees him spend plenty of time both in the nets and out in the field. Marshall’s selection to be part of the North Queensland’s Under 12 B Team was an exciting milestone in his cricket career, with becoming the team’s Vice Captain a celebrated cherry on top achievement!
Playing alongside his friends, Marshall felt nothing but excitement for the weeklong competition held in December, with the Home Hill Cricket Association cheering him on from across the river!
Two celebrated members of the Ayr Rifle Club, David Huckett and Jason Kupke, have etched their names in history as part of the North Queensland team, claiming the title of Australian Champions at the National F-Class Long Range Rifle Teams Competition. Held in Canberra during November of 2024, the event brought together elite shooters from across the nation.
The North Queensland team, comprising six shooters, a reserve, Coach Jordan Drew, and Manager and Captain Betta Gianassi, spent the past year training at ranges in Mackay, Townsville, and the Atherton Tablelands. These sessions helped the team refine their skills and adapt to varying conditions in preparation for the intense competition.
The championship, held over two days, tested competitors with distances of 700, 800, and 900 metres. The bullseye at these ranges measured just 25.5cm in diameter, demanding exceptional precision.
Challenging weather conditions at the Canberra range, including shifting wind directions and speeds, added to the difficulty. Despite this, the North Queensland team excelled, finishing the first day of competition in the lead and maintaining their dominance on day two. Their combined scores secured a decisive victory, marking the first time an FTR rifle team from North Queensland has won a national title.
A historic achievement, both Dave and Jason’s highly skilled talents and attention to precision combined with the dedication of their fellow teammates were essential to North Queensland’s success.
Back: Michael Keelan, Karl Voderwinkler, Jim Roughan, Jason Kupke, Paul Little, and David Huckett. Front: Betta Gianassi, Jordan Drew, and Robert Engwirda. Photo supplied.
Back: Paul Little, Karl Voderwinkler, Jason Kupke, Robert Engwirda, David Huckett, and Michael Keelan. Front: Jordan Drew, Jim Roughan, and Betta Gianassi. Photo supplied.
David Huckett and Jason Kupke. Photo supplied.
As the Christmas and New Year period nears its conclusion at Alva Beach, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club reminds everyone to enjoy the school holidays and festivities safely. With increased traffic from bikes and 4-wheelers, the Club urges beachgoers to be mindful and considerate of others.
The dedicated patrols have been on duty throughout the holiday season to ensure everyone enjoys a safe time by the water, with members asking the community to work together to keep Alva Beach a fun and safe environment for all. Stay aware, be sensible, and have a wonderful holiday season!
With almost seven years of experience under her belt, Caitlin Holmes continues to reach new levels of success within her rugby union career, with 2024 hosting a world of opportunities for both personal and professional growth with the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads.
“The 2024 season has definitely been a very social one for myself, and I’m sure a few of the ladies from our rugby team as the friendships gained through not only this year, but my past years of playing rugby, will always be part of my highlights when I recap on a season,” shared Caitlin.
“Throughout the year I have been fortunate to be a part of the representative pathway, playing for the Townsville Brolgas as well as for North Queensland, it is always an honour to be a part of these teams, not only to be playing for a serious competition but also to be representing my team.”
Caitlin’s passion for the sport extends beyond the field and she holds her father, Rowland Holmes to a high regard, noting his significant contributions to her overall success.
“There are many coaches, however I’d have to pay the most dedication to my current coach, and dad, Rowland Holmes,” Caitlin said.
“He is and has always been a key driver in my interest in rugby and it has always been a part of my life since I can remember and a lot of that is owed to him.”
Following her father’s selection to coach the U14 girls’ representative teams for Townsville, North Queensland and Queensland Country, Caitlin began to explore the other side of the coin and assumed a mentoring role over the course of the 2024 season.
“My dad invited me to be part of trainings, and this opportunity has allowed me to see and learn about the outstanding talent that is coming through in young female athletes, and I truly believe it is a demographic worth investing time and effort into.”
Motivation certainly underpins Caitlin’s success, and in holding the position of Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads’ Women’s Captain, she has great plans in store for the new year ahead to further both her personal career and the abilities of her teammates.
“Each year I’m always looking to achieve more with representative selections and improving my own skills however my hope is to get more ladies from the Burdekin team into these roles as well as we have a lot of potential here that I hope will be seen playing for Townsville and beyond,” Caitlin added.
“I’m also hoping to expand our player numbers not only for the women’s team but also to include some teenage girls’ teams in the junior competition and I’m eager to pass on the knowledge and love of the game that has kept me playing for the past years and will keep me playing into the future.”
Caitlin Holmes’ impressive rugby union career continues to reach new levels of success!
As the Christmas season draws near, activity at the Ayr Bowling Club has eased, with many members heading off for holiday festivities. However, the spirit of social bowls remains alive, ensuring skills stay sharp and friendships flourish.
Men’s social bowls on Wednesday saw two engaging games of triples. The winning team of Ron Smythe, Happy Horan/Ray Wall, and Col Essex triumphed over their opponents John Pirrone, Margaret Chapman, and Lew Stidston.
Wednesday night social bowls brought a lively evening of play, with Tricia Achille, Rob Jorgensen, and Ross McLaughlin winning the first game, while Evelyn Wiltshire and David Burt claimed victory in the second. Congratulations to all the winners!
On Saturday afternoon, the warm weather didn’t deter members from enjoying a great session of mixed social bowls. Three games of triples were played, with the team of Paul Vass, Lorraine Wolffe, and Joe Grabbi securing the Christmas goodies as the afternoon’s top performers. Additional festive prizes added to the cheerful atmosphere.
Looking ahead, the club has announced its social bowls schedule over the holiday period: Mixed social bowls will take place on Saturday, 21st December and there will be no bowls on 25th, 28th December, or 1st January. Instead, mixed social bowls will be held on Tuesday, 31st December, with names to be submitted by 12:30pm for a 1pm start.
The Ayr Bowling Club extends warm Christmas wishes to all residents of the Burdekin region. May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and joy. The club looks forward to sharing more updates and highlights in the new year.
Contributed with thanks to Ayr Bowling Club President, Anthony Bull.
Saturday 21st of December, 1pm to 5pm: Patrol Group F - Lisa and John Furnell, Jen and Jo Morgan, Lauren and Isla Chapman, and Ryley, Jake, Kat and Dave Satori.
Sunday 22nd of December, 9am to 5pm: Patrol Group D – Ben, Bella, and Kellie Lawry, Parker Bonato, Richard and Zac Dale, William Holt, Sharli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth.
Wednesday 25th of December, 9am to 1pm: Christmas Day Patrol Members - Jimmy Hayllor, and John, Anne, Sophia and Isabella Moloney.
Wednesday 25th of December, 1pm to 5pm: Christmas Day Patrol Members – Lisa, John and Joshua Furnell.
Thursday 26th of December, 9am to 5pm: Boxing Day All Day Patrol Group D – Ben, Bella and Kellie Lawry, Zac and Richard Dale, Parker Bonato, William Holt, Sharlli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth.
Saturday 28th of December, 1am to 5pm: Patrol Group E – John, Isabella, Sophia and Anne Moloney, Tony Felesina, Jane and Gavin Jones, Alissia and Billy Gibson, and Danni Coughlin.
Sunday 29th of December, 9am to 5pm: All Day Patrol Group B - Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan and Gabriel Hatherell, and Toby and Danny Wilson.
Wednesday 1st of January, 9am to 5pm: New Year Day All Day Patrol Group D – Ben, Kellie, and Bella Lawry, Zac and Richard Dale, Parker Bonato, William Holt, Sharli and Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, and Kristy and Briella Wassmuth.
Contributed with thanks to Hockey Vernon.
The countdown is on for the 2025 NQIB Burdekin Sprint, which is being held 18 January 2025, at the Ayr Pool. The event draws some 250–300 competitors annually, with families visiting the Burdekin from Ingham to Mackay, out through to Collinsville, Richmond and Charters Towers.
Beyond the club, the benefits extend to the local businesses and community, with visitors often staying over the weekend during the carnival.
With the Burdekin Swimming Club being such a small club, this type of important swim meet is only made possible with the support of local businesses, who offer sponsorship towards the event.
“Without the generosity of those local businesses, a club like ours simply would not exist. The clubs aim is to get more kids (and adults) in the water to reap the benefits swimming has to offer,” says Ned Bonato, Club President.
“This is the number one main fundraising source for our club, which literally keeps us going each year,” she added.
The sprint is a key event in the Swimming North Queensland calendar, as it’s the last meet before the Queensland State Championships, offering swimmers a final attempt to record entry times.
“The main income for the event is through our sponsorship support. As a club we are trying to keep the interest alive for local business to bolster our event, and are hoping the business and local community can assist us to ensure the Burdekin Swimming Club stays afloat,” Ned says.
Get along and show your support at the sprint come 18 January, to help them achieve their aim.
Swimmers diving into the pool for last year’s Burdekin Swim Sprint. Photo: Supplied.
Swimmers in action during last year’s Burdekin Swim Sprint. Photo: Supplied.
As the cricket season wraps up for most of the Home Hill Cricket Association juniors, two talented players, Marshall Parker and Thomas Cardillo, are set to continue their cricketing journeys on the representative stage this December.
Marshall Parker has been selected for the North Queensland Under-12B team and will head to Townsville from 16 to 20 December for a week-long Northern Hub Championship. His team will compete in 40-over matches against squads from Central Queensland, Mackay, and Far North Queensland. Adding to the achievement, Marshall has earned the honour of being named Vice-Captain of his team - a testament to his leadership and skill.
Meanwhile, Thomas Cardillo will travel to Cairns to take part in the prestigious "Bulls Masters" championship during the same week. This statewide competition features the best Under-16 players from across Queensland, including regions such as Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay, and the Sunshine Coast. Representing the "NQ Monsoons," Thomas will compete in 50-over games, with the ultimate goal of securing the championship title.
The Home Hill Cricket Association wishes both boys the best of luck in their respective tournaments. Their selection is a remarkable opportunity to showcase their talent and represents a proud moment for the local cricketing community.
Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke.
Marshall Parker will soon travel to Townsville to play in NQ’s Under-12B team.
Thomas Cardillo has been selected to play in Cairns’ Bulls Maters championship!
The Lower Burdekin Ski Club was buzzing with talented athletes on the weekend, with families travelling from across the northern end of the state to participate in the Club’s annual Christmas Classic Competition!
33 competitors showcased their skills on the water across three events, trick, jump and slalom with Lower Burdekin Ski Club President, Jay Wiseman thankful the sunshine pulled through for the competition.
“We’ve really turned the weather on today,” said Jay.
The Lower Burdekin Ski Club stands as the only three event side Club in North Queensland, with many talented athletes travelling to enjoy the Club’s facilities located at Hutchings Lagoon. 2024 has seen the Club hold both regular come and try sessions as well as a ladies’ and girls’ day to welcome newcomers to the sport, with both Kristy and Jay noticing more beginners on the water.
“We’ve got the largest Division 6 we’ve seen which means there’s more newcomers than experienced skiers competing this year - we’re the only club in North Queensland who offers this type of competition,” added Jay.
At just six years old, Addison Hurley was the weekend’s youngest competitor, with the oldest skier on the water aged over 70, proving water skiing stands as a sport accessible for all ages to enjoy. Kristy and Jay invite those interested in the sport to reach out to the Club via their website www.lowerburdekinski.com.au.
Maddie Knox, and Addison and Claire Hurley
Reese Fusco, Kristy Wiseman, Emma and Hannah Pollick, Julie Neilberding, and Karly Chaillon
Garry Pollock (Townsville Water Ski Club President), Craig Rankin (Barron River President), Jay Wiseman (Lower Burdekin Ski Club President), Ryan Alloway (Lower Burdekin Ski Club Treasurer, and BBQ Grill King), and Brett Barsby (Townsville Water Ski Club Committee Member)
Division 1 water skier, Sam Neilberding
Photo Credit: Chelsea Ravizza
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