Junior players in action at Bendigo Bank Park as the Shane Muspratt Cup returns for a weekend of competition, community spirit and emerging rugby league talent. Photo supplied

‍

‍

The Shane Muspratt Cup returns to Bendigo Bank Park this weekend, with two big days of junior rugby league ahead.

Gates open from 8am both days, with a full schedule of games, a stocked canteen, and a great atmosphere expected as teams travel from Cairns to the Gold Coast to compete in the annual carnival.

‍

The carnival is a highlight on the Queensland junior rugby league calendar, showcasing the next generation of talent in a fun and encouraging environment. The U12 Burdekin Roosters, sponsored by BQC, will take the main field at Bendigo Bank Park for all their games.

The event honours the legacy of Shane Muspratt, who made a lasting impact on junior rugby league in the Burdekin. Known for his passion for the game, he was a strong supporter of grassroots football and creating opportunities for young players. Today, the carnival continues to reflect those values, bringing the community together and celebrating the future of rugby league.

‍

Jarrod Smith, President of Burdekin Junior Rugby League, encourages locals to head down and support the carnival, highlighting the positive impact it brings to the community, with more than 250 players and their families travelling to the region and providing a great boost for local businesses and the town as a whole.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Roosters.

‍

Roosters show early promise despite a tough opening-round loss, with strong individual performances and a dominant first half offering plenty to build on for the 2026 season. Photo source: Burdekin Roosters

‍

‍

The 2026 season of the TLTD officially started last weekend with the beginning of fixtures in A Grade, Reserves, Under 19 and Women.

The Burdekin Roosters played Brothers at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville on Sunday in three grades. Unfortunately, the club is not fielding a ladies team this season, with early injuries causing havoc amongst would-be players.

The A Grade started the season in fine fashion and, although they lost 30–16, it was only for a short period of the second session when Brothers looked the better side. A Grade coach Steve Lansley said his team produced a spirited first-half performance but ultimately fell 30–16 to Townsville Brothers in a hard-fought rugby league clash. Burdekin came out with intensity and purpose, matching Townsville across the park in the opening 40 minutes.

Their defensive resolve and structured attack allowed them to stay firmly in the contest, with the Roosters showing glimpses of their best form. At half-time, they looked well within reach of pulling off a strong result. However, the second half told a different story.

‍

The Roosters struggled to replicate their early momentum, with fatigue and disruption playing a role in the shift. A couple of key injuries to the outside backs proved particularly costly, limiting their attacking options and reshaping their defensive edges at crucial moments. Despite the result, several Burdekin players stood out with strong individual performances.

Core contributors Hayde Munro, Nash Beck and Tate Brombal led the way with consistent effort and impact across the field. Young front rower Cooper Fletcher also impressed, showing maturity and physicality beyond his years in the middle. At the back, Jake O’Brien was a consistent threat, creating opportunities and keeping the opposition on edge whenever he had the ball in hand.

While the final scoreline didn’t favour the Roosters, their first-half performance and the emergence of key contributors provide positives to build on as they look ahead to the season. For the Roosters, Dudley Dotoi scored two tries, with one by Hayde Munro, while Jye Olsen kicked two goals.

In other A Grade matches, premiers Souths defeated Charters Towers 32–28, Herbert River beat Norths 14–6, and Centrals defeated Western Lions 42–0.

Reserves coach Peter Horan would have liked to start the game again, noting the difference in defence from the first to second half. Brothers led 34–6 at the break, but the Roosters took it to them in the second session, only losing that period 12–6 before going down 46–12.

Horan said Dylan Doak had a top game, with John Zaro dangerous, along with Harvey Horan, who worked all day. Jesse Ballin was welcomed back with open arms, having a strong game in the centres.

‍

In other Reserves games, Souths beat Charters Towers 46–6, Herbert River beat Norths 18–4, and Western Lions defeated Centrals 48–6. Under 19 coach Alfie Cantarella said his team suffered from handling errors at times, which stopped their momentum in attack.

The extreme heat made it difficult for both teams.

The boys defended well and, had their handling been a little better, a win was possible.

Both teams scored three tries, with only the goal-kicking the difference. Brothers kicked three goals to two by the Roosters, winning 18–16.

‍

It was a team effort, but Leylan Lampton was outstanding, scoring three tries in a commanding performance.

The coach said the signs are there for a good season and, even though a big number were part of the club’s successful Under 18 team last season, there were some new players and time will take for blending.

Unfortunately, the boys do not play this week, with Souths not fielding a team, but training will be intense as they prepare for their next outing against Norths again in Townsville in a fortnight.

‍

In other Under 19 matches, Herbert River defeated Norths 22–16 and Centrals beat Western Lions 32–12.

This Sunday at Bendigo Bank Park, the Roosters host last year’s premiers Souths in both A and Reserve Grade, with the first match at 2pm. Coach Lansley will likely run his A Grade side without changes and, if they play the way they did in the first half on Sunday, they will make Souths work for all their points.

In other matches, Charters Towers will host Herbert River on Saturday, with Western Lions at home to Brothers and Norths travelling to Centrals.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

‍

Riders are gearing up for the Ravenswood to Burdekin Dam Gran Fondo! Photo source: Ravenswood to Burdekin Dam Gran Fondo

‍

‍

Cyclists from across the region are gearing up for the return of the Ravenswood to Burdekin Dam Gran Fondo, set for this Saturday, 18 April 2026. The celebrated event offers three distances to suit riders of all abilities: the Medio Fondo (50km), Gran Fondo (100km) and the elite endurance Century Ride (163km).

The ride will kick off at 8am from the Imperial Hotel in Ravenswood, beginning with a 5km neutral section along the Burdekin Dam Road. Riders will then follow clearly marked routes tailored to each course. The 100-mile (163km) Century Ride turnaround is adjacent to the Burdekin Dam Caravan Park, while the 50km and 100km turnarounds are marked at 25km and 50km, respectively.

Participants will navigate gently undulating terrain and safely negotiate 34 cattle grids along the way. Roads remain open to traffic, with QPS patrolling to ensure safety. Century riders must finish by 4pm, while shorter distance riders are expected to finish by 1pm. A compulsory briefing will begin at 7.30am.

Entry fees are $195 for the 163km ride, $165 for 100km, and $85 for 50km, with corporate teams available for $500 per four-person team. Fees include a polo shirt, stubby cooler, BBQ dinner at the Imperial Hotel, and bacon and egg breakfast for overnight stays.

Rider support includes water stations along the course, toilets at key points, and medical coverage from an Emergency Medical Doctor and Ambulance Paramedic. Accommodation options range from the Imperial Hotel and Top Camp Caravan Park to camping and upcoming “glam camping.”

The day will wrap up with live music from local band Shots Fired at the Imperial Hotel beer garden, alongside random prize draws. Registration and more information can be found at www.teamjefferson.com.au/gran-fondo.

What: Ravenswood to Burdekin Dam Gran Fondo

When: Saturday 18 April

Where: Commencing from Imperial Hotel in Ravenswood

‍

The Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads are putting out the call for new players, inviting locals and travellers alike to join their ranks for the upcoming North Queensland season.

Competing in the Townsville regional competition, the club is seeking passionate and committed players to strengthen both its men’s and women’s squads ahead of the April to August season.

‍

For the men’s team, the Canetoads are particularly looking to recruit players in key positions including prop, halfback/fly-half and centre, though interest from players across all positions is encouraged. The women’s side is also open to players of all levels and positions, with a focus on building a fun, inclusive and competitive team environment.

Club representatives say the competition offers a strong country rugby pathway, providing valuable experience for players looking to develop their skills in a competitive regional setting.

‍

Beyond the game, the Canetoads are promoting the lifestyle on offer in North Queensland as a major drawcard. With a relaxed pace of life, access to world-class fishing spots, and proximity to scenic countryside, waterfalls and swimming holes, the region provides a unique backdrop for a rugby season.

The club is also positioning itself as an appealing stop for travellers already in Australia, particularly those on working holidays. Players have the opportunity to settle in for the season, gain consistent game time, and experience the community spirit that country rugby clubs are known for.

‍

To support new recruits, the Canetoads offer a range of practical benefits, including access to an on-site gym, assistance in finding employment, and help securing accommodation. In some cases, support with fees and flights may also be available depending on individual circumstances.

With a strong emphasis on community, camaraderie and opportunity, the Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads are hoping to attract a new wave of players ready to be part of the club’s rugby family this season.

‍

CAPTION: Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads are calling for new players to join their ranks this season, offering a mix of competitive rugby and North Queensland lifestyle. Photo source: Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads

‍

Easter Saturday, 4 April 2026 saw the Home Hill Community Sports Club host its annual Easter Fours bowls tournament, with 64 players in attendance.

On arrival at the club, visitors were greeted by our mascot, a ’35 Grey and Gold Belly Ferguson tractor—a machine built between 1956 and 1958 and widely used to help build the sugar industry in the Burdekin. Not to mention, the grounds were lookinga picture.

The tournament comprised three games of sixteen ends over the course of the day. Teams from Wangaratta, Bowen, Collinsville, St Townsville, Jubilee, Suburban, Alligator Creek, Ayr, Brandon, and Home Hill were represented. Looking over the green, spectators were delighted to witness the array of club and team colours. Jamie Woods’ Chicken Bin shirts were a standout—good job, boys. Like any tournament, competitiveness and camaraderie were clearly evident.

‍

Winning teams on the day were:
First – Will Johnson (St Townsville)
Second – Sandie (St Townsville)
Third – Jamie Woods (Brandon)
Congratulations to you all.

‍

The club wishes to extend its sincere thanks to our event sponsors: Coral Coast Electrical, Home Hill Prawn Shop, Home Hill Tyrepower, Inspiration Paints, Burdekin Printers, and K & S Wright. Your generosity ensured the event’s success.

To our visiting clubs, we also extend our sincere gratitude for the commitment shown by all, especially considering the distance travelled under difficult financial times. Within the club, these sorts of days don’t just happen without the support of members such as kitchen provider Judy Elton and her team of ladies, Ron Smith and Bruce McCallum on the barbecue, Mick Olsen and Michael Young on the scoreboard, and Belinda, Shantel, and Precilla on the outdoor esky bar—not forgetting our President working the bar. Good job to all.

In summary, the entire day turned out to be a huge success—bring on 2027!

‍

Wednesday night numbers remain steady, with 20 players taking to the green, enjoying the stars above and the friendly atmosphere prior to a sausage sizzle. Names in by 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start. Visitors welcome. Ph: 0478 642 515.

Home Hill Hot Shots continue to attract good numbers for Wednesday night darts and Friday night snooker games, both starting at 6.00pm. Ph Scott: 0480 208 335.

Thursday club bowls saw 22 players take to the green to compete in three games of triples and one game of pairs. The overall random winning team went to Paul Vass and Hugh Montgomery, who had a very close win over Katarina and Gary Nosworthy, with one shot the difference. Congratulations to you both.

‍

Raffle winners were again the Giru boys, Steve Mutu and Geoff Taylor. Well done and well deserved, gents—your support for the club goes without saying.

‍

Club Weekly Activities
Monday – 9.00am: Gentle Exercise Class
Tuesday – 9.00am: Trimmers
Wednesday – 9.00am: Craft group
Thursday – 9.30am: Bingo

‍

Contributed with thanks to Bob Pickard.

CAPTION: Players and spectators enjoy a vibrant day on the green at Home Hill Community Sports Club’s annual Easter Fours tournament. Photo supplied

‍

Local

Seniors

What with Easter and School holidays, there are no fixtures now until 17th April.

Junior

Junior soccer has now paused for the school holiday break, giving players and families a well-earned rest after a great start to the season.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the fields after the holidays, refreshed and ready to go again. Here’s hoping for some beautiful weather when we return so the kids can enjoy their games and training to the full!

‍

Masters

The Masters had another good turnout, and in perfect conditions, Leeds and West Ham fought out a relation battle. West Ham won 9-3 after going 0-2 down. Man of the Match was Fengil with a hattrick. The Masters will be happening on Easter Monday. All players are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless, halt and lame. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.  

‍

National and International

In the World Cup department, the Socceroos, under Coach Tony Popovic, have just one more match, a friendly against Mexico, before the squad of twenty-six players is announced by 1^st June. The Socceroos travel to the USA to play Mexico on 31 May at the Rosebowl in Pasadena.  

The final World Cup playoffs have now been decided, and Turkey beat Kosovo to make it to Group D. Australia’s group games are now versus Turkey on 13 June in Vancouver, USA on 19 June in Seattle and Paraguay on 25 June in Santa Clara.

In England, the EPL has seven rounds to go, and Arsenal is nine points ahead of Manchester City, who have a game in hand. ManU is in third place a further six points adrift and Aston Villa is another point behind. In the FA Cup quarter-finals Southampton beat Arsenal 2-1, Manchester City beat Liverpool 4-0, Chelsea thumped Port vale 7-0 and Leeds defeated West Ham on penalties.

In Germany, the Bundesliga has six rounds to go. The top three teams all won, and Bayern continues to lead Dortmund by nine points. Leipzig and Stuttgart are a further eleven points behind. At the foot of the table Heidenheim and Wolfsburg look doomed and St Pauli could well join then in relegation.

In Spain there are still eight rounds to go. Only three of the top six teams won and with Real Madrid losing against relegation threatened Mallorca, Barcelona is now seven points clear of Real and eighteen points ahead of third placed Villarreal. In the relegation zone, Oviedo and Levante are struggling and Elche could be joining them.

In Italy’s Serie A with seven rounds left, Inter thumped Roma 5-2 to stay nine points clear of AC Milan with Napoli a further point behind. Como is in fourth place. Juventus drew and stays in fifth place. At the foot of the table, for Pisa and Verona it looks like Goodnight Luigi, and Cremorne or Lecce could be joining them.

Finally, in France, PSG beat Toulouse 3-1 and with Lens losing, has a four point lead with a game in hand. Lille are third a further nine points away with Marseille fourth. At the foot of the league, it looks like Au Revoir for Metz and Nantes and Auxerre could be joining them in Ligue Deux.

In the A League, with just three rounds left, Newcastle lost 2-3 to Macarthur but is still three points ahead of Auckland who drew 1-1 away to Adelaide, who stay in third place. Melbourne Victory missed their chance of moving up into third place after losing at home to Wellington. The Roar drew 0-0 at home to Sydney FC and remains in tenth place. Western Sydney and Perth Glory continue to hold up the table.

In the A League Women, with three rounds left, three of the top four teams won. Melbourne City won 2-1 at Newcastle to stay six points clear of Wellington who beat Adelaide 2-0. Canberra lost 1-2 away to Brisbane but hangs onto third place on goal difference from the Roar. Sydney FC and Western Sydney are still holding up the table.

The Soccer Quote of the Week  

is from ex- Manchester Utd and Ireland Star Roy Keane. “People say 'go with the flow' but do you know what goes with the flow? Dead fish.”

‍

Netball excitement is growing as teams from across Queensland get ready to compete in the 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships, which will be held in Townsville this year.  

The annual championship is one of the biggest events on the Queensland netball calendar. It brings together associations from all over the state for four days of intense competition. In 2025, the tournament saw an impressive 210 teams participate, showing how large and popular the event has become.

‍

Burdekin’s teams have been preparing for months, with many players starting their training late last year. Through weekly sessions, trial matches and fitness work, athletes and coaches have been working hard to build connections and improve their skills before the major competition.  

The tournament offers a great chance for players to challenge themselves against some of the best talent in Queensland while also showcasing the strength of regional netball. Players, coaches, and supporters are excited to travel north and represent the Burdekin community. With plenty of determination, teamwork, and the unmistakable Burdekin spirit, the teams look forward to taking the court in Townsville and giving their best effort.  

‍

The championships promise four days of high-quality netball, good sportsmanship, and community pride as Queensland’s top young athletes come together for one of the state’s key netball events.

Contributed with thanks to Burdekin Netball Association Publicity Officer, Kelli Loizou.

CAPTIONS:

1. Burdekin Netball Association’s U17/18s team; (front) Lola Carmicheal, Isla Chapman, Riley Sartori, Lacey Catanzaro, Aja Olsen, (back) Ali Balin (Manager), Jayel Gibson, Georgia Thygesen, Indy Macdonald, Pascal Crooks, Jorja Bapty, and Kristy Penisi. Photo supplied

‍

The Burdekin Roosters are set to start the season this Sunday, meeting Brothers in what promises to be a strong test for the squad.

After two years of steady development, the Roosters enter the new season with a sense of confidence built on continuity and local talent.

A big portion of this year’s A Grade side has come through the club’s junior development, highlighting the strength of the Burdekin Junior Rugby League. The long-term priority is now paying dividends, with those juniors developing into A Grade football.

‍

Much of the core squad has been together for the past two seasons, allowing combinations to develop.

The Roosters are expecting a tough contest with Brothers, who are always the benchmark of the RLTD.

There are signs the blend of new players with the younger brigade will be strong. New players Jake O’Brien, Nash Beck, Cooper Fletcher, Wilson Selei and Mitch Brown will blend in with talented local youngsters headed by Jonea and Hayde Munro, Jye Olsen, Adam Camer and Jai Starr, alongside experienced players Tate Brombal, Nemia Nawave, Lachlan Shepherd and Ethan Hagarty.

‍

The team is: Jake O’Brien, Nemia Nawave, Jones Munro, Jai Starr, Adam Camer, Mitch Brown, Jye Olsen, Tate Brombal, Nash Beck, Cooper Fletcher, Ethan Hagarty, Lachlan Shepherd, Hayde Munro, Kurtis Cox, Wilson Selei, Jack McQueen and Dylan Doak.

The match will be at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville on Sunday afternoon.

The Burdekin reserves will also play and should be a side with plenty of experience, led by Dylan Doak, John Zaro, Terry Connors, Harvey Horan and Caleb Noah. They will meet a team who were reserve grade premiers last season and well drilled.

‍

High hopes are held for the Roosters Under 19 team, a squad of players who reached the preliminary final in Under 18 last year, only to go out mainly due to injuries.

The team is spearheaded by KJ Zaro and Cherharne Taiters, who are exciting to say the least. The talent doesn’t finish there though, as they are strong right across the paddock, with Harrison Lammon, Leylan Lampton, Mason Kiehne, Jack Power, Chad Fraser and Riley Smith capable of scoring tries.

Joey Southwell is expected back after missing the 48 to 6 trial win over Norths, while Jett Castello is still recovering from a knee injury.

‍

Brothers are always strong in this grade, but the local boys are expected to give them a good one.

Unfortunately, the Ladies team will not be playing, as it appears the numbers are not there, with injuries the main problem.

‍

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

‍

CAPTION: Local juniors and fresh talent combine as Burdekin Roosters teams prepare for a tough opening clash against Brothers. Photo source: Burdekin Roosters

‍

A fierce rivalry took place on the oval at Clare State School recently — the Adults vs Students Hockey Match. All term, the students have been learning hockey skills through their Physical Education unit. The adults team, consisting of staff, parents and community members, claimed to have had secret practice sessions after school and at night throughout the term too (although these cannot be confirmed).

The students started strongly, applying the skills they had acquired throughout the term to take control of possession early. They defended well against their much bigger opponents, many of whom showed no mercy for their younger opposition. The referee's whistle blew loud and often as some ferocious encounters took place.

After sustained pressure on the Students' goal, the nil-all deadlock was finally broken with a goal to Mr Nash. Mr Allen landed another lusty blow shortly after, sending the ball whistling into the back of the net to give the Adults a 2-nil lead at the half-time break.

‍

The carnage continued after the break, with the Adults' force and teamwork resulting in further goals to Ms Maxwell and Mr Nash to blow the game wide open at 4-nil. The students adopted a group approach, crowding around the ball (at times taking it off their own team-mates… but we won’t go into that!), but the tactics paid off. The Students opened their account with some dogged determination, working the ball up the field to Coen Booth, who made no mistake slotting it into the goal.

The subsequent jubilation lifted their spirits, and a second goal soon followed when Evie Humphreys passed to Audrey Booth, who smashed the ball into the back of the net.

It was all too little, too late, however, as the full-time whistle sounded with the Adults winning the annual clash 4 goals to 2.

‍

Thanks to all of the adults for coming along and participating, and well done to everyone on a game played in great spirits, without injury, and with plenty of laughs along the way.

Til next time… the Adults have the bragging rights!

‍

Contributed with thanks to Troy Patti.

CAPTION: Students put up a spirited fight, but experience prevails in a fun-filled Adults vs Students clash. Photo supplied

‍

Burdekin community groups and sporting clubs are being urged to get their applications in, with a fresh round of council grants now open offering up to $3,000 to support local projects.

The funding, available as cash or in-kind support, is aimed at grassroots initiatives that benefit the wider community, from events and festivals to new or expanded programs.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the grants play a key role in keeping local organisations running.

‍

“Our community and sporting groups make an enormous contribution to the social fabric of the Burdekin, often with limited resources,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“In previous rounds, Council has supported a wide range of community and sporting organisations across the Burdekin, including local events, festivals and grassroots programs.”

The latest round, covering part of the 2025–26 financial year, opened on 1 April and closes 14 April, with applications assessed by Council’s Community Grant Assessment Panel.

‍

Funding is open to eligible not-for-profit organisations for projects that enhance liveability, encourage participation or build community pride across the shire.

Applicants are being advised to clearly outline the community benefit of their proposal and review the guidelines before applying.

Full details and application forms are available via the Burdekin Shire Council website: www.burdekin.qld.gov.au/Community-grants-program

‍

CAPTION: Local community groups and sporting clubs are encouraged to apply for Burdekin Shire Council grants of up to $3,000. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

‍

Burdekin residents looking to get active, or ease back into it, will have a new eight-week program to tap into from May, with a range of local providers offering everything from yoga to pickleball.

The “Get Out Get Active Burdekin” initiative is targeting people aged 16 and over, particularly those new to exercise or returning after time off, with a focus on building confidence in a supportive environment.

Seven local activity providers have signed on, giving participants the choice of a single program across the eight weeks. Options include Chair Yoga, over-55s fitness classes, reformer pilates, small group personal training, pickleball, highland dancing and full gym access with a tailored plan.

Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci said the program was about lowering the barrier to getting started.

“Council is proud to deliver this engaging eight week program, giving participants the opportunity to begin their health journey or try something completely new,” Cr Musumeci said.

“Get Out Get Active Burdekin has been designed to be supportive, inclusive and accessible, making it easier for people to take that first step toward improving their wellbeing.”

Funded by the State Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, the program aims to boost both physical and social wellbeing.

Places are limited, with strong interest expected. Applications are now open online or through Council’s Community Development team, with residents encouraged to apply early to secure their preferred activity.

‍

Register here today: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JBSFYGP

‍

Attendees of the 2026 Canefield Ashes are being encouraged to have their say, with Burdekin Shire Council launching a community survey to capture feedback from one of the region’s most iconic events.

The short online survey invites both locals and visitors to share their experiences, with participants going into the draw to win a $200 Burdekin Gift Card. Available online via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RBHQRDH, the survey will remain open until Monday 27 April 2026, with the winner to be drawn one month after the event.

Beyond the prize incentive, the feedback collected will play an important role in shaping the future of major events across the Burdekin. Insights gathered will assist the Home Hill Cricket Association and Council in refining event delivery; while also contributing to a broader understanding of the economic impact these events have on the region.

‍

The initiative forms part of a new Council-led program aimed at measuring how key events support the local economy. Surveys will be rolled out across events featured in the region’s annual Destination Events Calendar, including the Burdekin Water Festival, Giru Show, Home Hill Harvest Festival and the NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase.

Data collected will focus on visitor spending, travel patterns and overall community benefit, providing valuable insights for both Council and event organisers. Findings will help guide future planning, investment and development of local events.

Residents and visitors who attended the Canefield Ashes are encouraged to take part and share their feedback, helping ensure the continued success and growth of events across the Burdekin.

‍

CAPTION: If you attended the 2026 Canefield Ashes, Burdekin Shire Council wants to hear your feedback! Photo source: Shay Kratzmann

‍

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.  

‍

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

‍

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.

‍