Special Olympics Queensland is inviting children and adults with an intellectual disability and/or Autism to a fun Come N Try Ten Pin Bowling event at Burdekin Bowl on Saturday, 30 August, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Everyone in the Burdekin area is welcome to join, including participants who use wheelchairs.

Special Olympics is the world’s largest inclusive sporting organisation, offering pathways for athletes and volunteers to develop leadership skills while being fully supported. Children and adults from 8 years and older are welcome to join Special Olympics at any time.

This event is a fantastic opportunity for the community to experience the joy of sport in an inclusive environment and to discover opportunities to participate, compete, or volunteer.

For more information, contact Beverley Knowles, Liaison Special Olympics Queensland: qld.liaison@specialolympics.com.au or 0477 935 274.

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The Burdekin Roosters A Grade suffered another injury setback last Sunday, going down 32-22 to Western Lions in Townsville. After dominating Charters Towers in the second half last week, the forwards were expected to perform similarly against the Lions.

That didn’t happen. Last week’s player of the match, big forward Braedyn Cotter, went down injured in the first ten minutes and didn’t return. Soon after, recent signing and Fijian first-grader Kalevi Raluli injured a hamstring and was forced off. Coach Steve Lansley was left with just 15 men to rotate.

Lansley described it as a “heartbreaking loss” in a game marked by contentious officiating that seemed to go against the Roosters. Despite the effort, 50/50 calls consistently favoured the Lions.

Standouts were Lachie Sheppard, Colby Thompson, and Terrence Mosby. Sheppard excelled in attack and defence, Thompson’s creativity at nine kept Burdekin in contention, and Mosby constantly broke tackles, providing crucial go-forward.

Tries came from Terry Connors, Kali Nauque, Nemia Nawave, and Dylan Doak, with Doak kicking three goals. Disputed penalties and a tight no-try ruling shifted momentum at key moments, allowing the Lions to edge ahead in a tight second half.

The reserves went down 52-16 to a powerful Western Lions side. The Lions’ speed and mobility proved too much for the Roosters, who have had a mixed season. The loss eliminates finals hopes, though the season unearthed talent for the future. Tries were scored by Llama Ghee, Bokeem Reid (2), and Sakuisi Dreunimolea.

Other Results
A Grade: Brothers 22 d. Charters Towers 18, Norths 26 d. Herbert River 24, Souths 32 d. Centrals 18
Reserve Grade: Charters Towers 32 d. Brothers 28, Herbert River 44 d. Norths 16, Souths 40 d. Centrals 22, Bowen bye
Women: Brothers 22 d. Charters Towers 4

This Weekend
The final regular-round games see the Roosters host Herbert River on Saturday (reserves 3pm, A Grade 4.30pm). Centrals host Western Lions, Charters Towers and Souths have byes in A Grade. Towers visit Bowen in reserves and women’s matches.
Coach Lansley will welcome Tate Brombal back in the forwards and may blood some reserves. Herbert River, third on the ladder in both grades, will bring strong teams despite losing their last two A Grade games. The Roosters plan a big post-game celebration with a live band.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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Ayr Bowling Club Report

This week at the Ayr Bowling Club had a busy week with competition games played all week. Tuesday 12th August saw Ladies Social Bowls giving us 2 triples game. Winners were Isabel Cislowski, Ron Soper and Betty Schultz defeating Jeanette McDonald, Donna Soper and Irene Wilson. Karen Shepherd Merle Nixon and Rayleen Hervey defeated Linda Giumelli, Katharina Stuckler and Dot Cutting.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were three games of Triples and one game of pairs. Winners were Joe Papale and Chris Berkery defeating Bruce and Barry Shepherd.

Saturday Social Bowls was sponsored by Ray Wall for his Patrons Day a lively afternoon of competition and camaraderie with 28 bowlers turning out. Featuring four fantastic games of triples and one pairs game. Emerging victorious on the day were Deslie Olsen, and Pam Power defeating Karen Shepherd and Barry Shepherd. Second place saw Arthur Gauvin, Lorraine Wolffe and Dot Cutting defeating Isabell Cilwoski, John McDonald and Lew Stidston. Third place went to Ray Wall / Val Edwards, John Pirrone and Sam Caltabiano defeating Donna Soper, Wayne Coonan and Sandra Stidston.

Competition Mixed singles featured four games this week. Cisco defeating Ron Smythe 25 -18. Ron Soper defeating Sam Caltabiano 25 – 15. Anthony Bull defeating Shane Stanford 25 – 10. Gary Pearce defeating John Macdonald. Winners now proceed to the next round. Country Pennants are on September 6th played at Bowen Bowls club. Players names on the clubhouse games board please 12 players are required.

The club also extended a warm welcome to several travelling visitors, whose presence added to the vibrant atmosphere and spirit of friendly play.

Saturday afternoons at the club continue to be a fantastic opportunity for locals and newcomers alike to meet new people, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the joys of bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a bowl for the first time, you're invited to come down, give it a go, and join the fun!

If you are interested in giving Bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a good place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30pm. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

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In just a week’s time, nine members of the Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) will rock the chop as part of a wonderful fundraising initiative in support of both the Cancer Council Australia and the Ponytail Project!

Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Brittany Bohl, Cailin Gosling, Dominique Gorey, Ella Zabel, Jade Bolam, Tayah Gibson and Tayla McKaig have all committed to cut their hair at the Burdekin Netball Association’s Wigs and Wine fundraising event in aid of Home Hill Harvest Festival Entrant, Aaliyah Gibson next Friday the 29th of August.

The event will see both members of the BNA and the wider community come together for one final “shindig” at the Home Hill courts before the BNA’s clubhouse undergoes an extensive renovation process over the end of season break and tickets to the evening are already on sale!

Priced at just $45, attendees can enjoy a glass of bubbles and a delicious high supper, and all tickets can be purchased from the BNA clubhouse or from NQIB located in Ayr’s Young Street.

With still plenty of time and the event itself to go, the girls have completely smashed their fundraising goals and have raised an outstanding total just shy of $10,000!

The Ponytail Project raises vital funds and awareness to directly support the important work of the Cancer Council Australia whilst developing wigs for those diagnosed with cancer. The BNA understands how a wig can make all the difference in a person’s journey through cancer, and asks anyone who can to donate to the girls’ fundraising links listed on the Burdekin Netball Association’s Facebook page.

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Twenty-four players turned out on another perfect Burdekin winter afternoon, with plenty of exciting action across multiple games.

In the club singles played earlier, Norm Bethell claimed victory over Yogi Bunn on rink 3. One of the closest games of the day took place on rink 3, where Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig edged out Judy Elton, Yogi Bunn, and Mick McClosky on countback after scores and ends were tied—a thrilling finish for all involved.

Rink 4 saw Bob Pickard, Ron Smythe, and Trevor Elton secure a solid win against Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Glen “Bones” Berryman. Meanwhile, rink 5 featured a tight contest with Michael Young, Dino Poli, and Gary Nosworthy prevailing over Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin, and Terry Feakes.

In a pairs match on rink 6, Bruce McCallum and Joe Linton were convincing winners against Maureen and Phil Marsden.

The club is currently seeking players for upcoming mixed 4s at Alligator Creek Bowls Club—entry is $100 per player—and the Bowen Club triples competition, both scheduled for the same weekend in August around the 24th. Interested players are encouraged to check the notice board for more details.

Members are also reminded to keep Saturday, 29th November free for the club’s Christmas party and presentation night, to be held after bowls.

Regular activities continue strong, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, Thursday morning Bingo, and well-attended social bowls on Thursday afternoons and Saturdays (only $5 entry).

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and story by Steve Doig.

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Winners Gary Nosworthy,  Michael Young and Dino Poli. Photo supplied by Steve Doig

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This week at the Ayr Bowling Club was filled with friendship and healthy competition. Tuesday 8th August saw Ladies Social Bowls with 6 Ladies giving us 1 triples game.

Ladies’ competition on Thursday 10th crooked kitty was played in a great match Heather Jorgensen defeated Beryl Cornford. In consistency singles Katharina Stuckler defeated Karen Shepherd.

On Wednesday, we saw a great afternoon’s social bowling competition. There were three games of Triples and one game of pairs. Winners were Paul Workman, Ray Wall, and Chris Berkery. On Wednesday evening, social bowls, in the triples game, the winners were Lyn Cecil, John Cesconetto and Heather Jorgensen. Evelyn Wiltshere Jorgensen and Martin Ireland won the second triples game.

Fun Friday Night sponsored by Chiropractic Care Ayr saw 48 bowlers take to the green lots of fun and laughter were had and the weather was fantastic. Winners on the night were Mosayeb, Ali and John. Second place went to Charmaine, Leighann and Nathan. Sportsman’s Prize winners were, Andrew, Rebekah and John. Lucky number board winner was Charmaine and Beryl Cornford won the meat tray raffle. Thanks to our sponsors Chiropractic Care Ayr for their support on our Friday Fun Nights. Our next Friday Fun Night is on Friday 5th September contact the club for information.

Saturday Social Bowls a lively afternoon of competition and camaraderie with 18 bowlers, featuring three engaging games of triples. Emerging victorious on the day were the talented trio of Donna Soper, Mark Pearse, and Sam Caltibiano, who played with skill and sportsmanship.

Competition Mixed singles were played this week with two close games. Irene Wilson defeated Pam Power 25 – 24 in a nail-biting finish. Lew Stidston defeated Joe Grabbi 25 – 23 in a close fought game. Winners now proceed to the next round.

The club also extended a warm welcome to several travelling visitors, whose presence added to the vibrant atmosphere and spirit of friendly play.

Saturday afternoons at the club continue to be a fantastic opportunity for locals and newcomers alike to meet new people, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the joys of bowls. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a bowl for the first time, you're invited to come down, give it a go, and join the fun!

If you are interested in giving Bowls a try, Friday Roll Ups are a good place to start. They are held every Friday afternoon from 3:00 - 5:30pm. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, enjoy some friendly training tips, or simply unwind with a drink, these casual roll-ups are the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Come down for some training, enjoy a few drinks, and join in the fun with fellow club members.

Contributed with thanks to Anthony Bull

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Twenty-four players turned out on another perfect Burdekin winter afternoon, with plenty of exciting action across multiple games.

In the club singles played earlier, Norm Bethell claimed victory over Yogi Bunn on rink 3. One of the closest games of the day took place on rink 3, where Bob Young, Elaine Young, and Steve Doig edged out Judy Elton, Yogi Bunn, and Mick McClosky on countback after scores and ends were tied—a thrilling finish for all involved.

Rink 4 saw Bob Pickard, Ron Smythe, and Trevor Elton secure a solid win against Paul Vass, Des Chapman, and Glen “Bones” Berryman. Meanwhile, rink 5 featured a tight contest with Michael Young, Dino Poli, and Gary Nosworthy prevailing over Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin, and Terry Feakes.

In a pairs match on rink 6, Bruce McCallum and Joe Linton were convincing winners against Maureen and Phil Marsden.

The club is currently seeking players for upcoming mixed 4s at Alligator Creek Bowls Club—entry is $100 per player—and the Bowen Club triples competition, both scheduled for the same weekend in August around the 24th. Interested players are encouraged to check the notice board for more details.

Members are also reminded to keep Saturday, 29th November free for the club’s Christmas party and presentation night, to be held after bowls.

Regular activities continue strong, with Monday morning fitness, Tuesday Trimmers, Wednesday morning Kraft group, Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzle, Thursday morning Bingo, and well-attended social bowls on Thursday afternoons and Saturdays (only $5 entry).

Until next week, good bowling!

Photo and story by Steve Doig.

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Winners Gary Nosworthy,  Michael Young and Dino Poli. Photo supplied by Steve Doig

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A good weekend for the Panthers, winning three and losing two of the five matches played. On Saturday, at home to Estates the Premiers won 3-1 but the Reserves lost 0-1. On Friday, in Townsville the Ladies beat Saints Eagles Souths 8-0, the Division 1 Men lost 1-3 to Olympic but the Division 2 Men beat Warriors 3-1.

This week the Premiers and Reserves are at away to Brothers, the Premiers at 7.30 and the Reserves at 5.30. On Wednesday night the Ladies, are at home to Wulguru at 7.00 and on Friday are away to Brothers at 6.30. Also, on Friday the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Men are in Townsville. The Division 1 take on Brothers at 8.30 and the Division 2 are up against Saints Eagles Souths at 6.30.

Night Soccer kicks off its 46th year on Tuesday 9th September.

Premiers

The Ayr Anzac Club Premiers had a must-win clash against competition leaders Estates to keep their top-four hopes alive. The Panthers delivered when it mattered most, overcoming Estates 3-1 in a determined display. Burdekin started brightly, creating a couple of early half chances, but as the half wore on, Estates began to make life more difficult. The best chance of the opening period fell to Matthew Kolb, who found himself one-on-one with the keeper but couldn’t convert. Moments later, Jack Gimson broke in behind the defence and whipped in a perfect cross, for Kolb to rocket home his header to give Burdekin a 1-0 lead at the break.

Burdekin came out firing in the second half, and in the 55th minute, Jay Leckenby doubled the advantage with a composed finish after latching onto another well-weighted ball over the top. The pressure continued, but despite several good efforts, the elusive third goal didn’t come. Estates pulled a goal back with just two minutes to play, setting up a tense finish. But after relentless pressure from Oscar Licciardello, Elliott Dal Santo pounced to fire home and seal a vital 3-1 win for the Panthers, keeping their finals dream well and truly alive.

Reserves

Burdekin Tyre Service Reserves were out to avenge a heavy defeat from the last time they played Estates. Also on the line was the chance to stay in the race for a finals berth. A very committed effort from the start showed that Burdekin were a force to be reckoned with and created some good opportunities that did not yield a goal. The standard of play was very much improved from the home team and confidence was high going into halftime even though the match was still scoreless.

The second half was the same as the first, the Panthers dominated possession and played good football but could not convert one of several good chances into goals. As the clock wound down the pressure to score and get a win meant playing with more attack and in the last few minutes Estates scored a cheap goal on the counterattack. The Panthers played well with plenty of heart but the inability to put the ball in the net was the difference. The win that was desperately needed, and would have been deserved, did not result.

Division 1 Men

The Austral Masonry Division 1 men lost 1-3 to MA Olympic in Townsville on Friday night.

Division 2 Men

The C.A. Contracting Funkies had a 3-1 win against Warriors on Friday night. Missing over two hundred years of experience with a few players missing, a very young Funkies team suited up knowing a win would move them into 4th place. Burdekin started very well, Nicholas Cathcart opening the scoring after only a few minutes. Warriors replied soon after to show they were up for the fight. However, the Funkies were the better team on the night and two goals to Fengil either side of half time gave Burdekin a very good win.

Missing several key players, it was an opportunity for others to step up and have an impact on this game. In a strong team performance Heath Swindley and Jarrod Dal Santo in the middle along with the finishing ability of Fengil ensured the Funkies got the three points on the night. Burdekin are now 4th and have their finals hopes in their own hands with only three games remaining.

Ladies

The Ayr Anzac Club Ladies scrambled together before their annual ladies day event, sacrificing wet tan, fresh hair and fake nails to secure another victory. The ladies come up against tough opposition in Saints who were very quick to press and defend, However, speed and experience worked to the advantage of the Burdekin who won 8-0. There was some very impressive shooting and runs made by many players in a well-deserved win. Goal scorers were Sienna Lago, Zandi Bonanno, Brielle Astorquia, Charley Ruskin, Karina Guglielmi and Ellyana Mugica. This was a strong effort from the ladies going into a tough must win game this Friday!!

Juniors

Another perfect day for Saturday juniors, with Townsville teams travelling down for some good matches against our local teams. Not too many weeks to go now, enjoy the rest of the season!

Masters

Another good turnout on a winter’s evening, perfect for Soccer. Italy hung on to beat England 5-3 after leading 4-0 at half time. Helped somewhat by the England goalkeeper caught on the phone. Monday Nights at 6.30. Be There!

National and International

The Matildas are playing in the ASEAN Women’s Championship in Vietnam. In their first Group game, last Thursday against Myanmar they lost 1-2 but last Sunday they beat the Philippines 1-0. They next play Timor-Leste on Wednesday. The Socceroos next games are not until September when they play New Zealand in two friendlies home and away, on 5th and 9th of September.

The Quote of the Week is from Jose Mourinho, ex Chelsea, ManU and Real Madrid manager, “Pressure? What pressure? Pressure is poor people in the world trying to feed their families. There is no pressure in football.”

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Last Saturday, the Burdekin Roosters pulled off a stunning turnaround, avenging their 40-point thrashing by Charters Towers with a spirited 28–24 win. Down 18–4 at halftime, they showed remarkable fortitude to storm home, even with tough utility Kali Nauque spending 10 minutes in the bin.

Standout performances from Nevia Nawave, Isaia Vuda, and Kelevi Ralulu proved decisive. Nawave’s powerful running and tackle-breaking set the attacking platform, while Vuda and Ralulu’s explosive carries repeatedly split the Towers’ defensive line. Their relentless work laid the foundation, with the forwards dominating the middle third.

Halfback Dylan Doak came off the bench to steer the side with smart kicking and composure, landing four goals to seal the win. Tries came from Nawave, Terry Connors, Isiah Kuda, and Hayde Munro. The victory keeps Burdekin fifth, equal on points with fourth-placed Western Lions—whom they face away this Sunday—before hosting third-placed Herbert River next week. Captain Joel Mason is sidelined with a knee injury.

The reserves edged Bowen 14–4 in a scrappy match shortened by 18 minutes due to a serious Bowen injury. Down 4–0 at halftime, Burdekin hit back with tries to Sakilisa Dreunimolea, Keon Noah, and Morgan Noah. Llama Ghee was again dangerous, with strong forward efforts from Jack Rushton and Riley Easton.

The Burdekin River Ladies dominated Bowen 80–8, running in 14 tries and 12 goals. 2024 Queensland Country back Toni Daisy scored three, while Tanley Rowe crossed four times. Tiana Krutzfeldt added two tries and a goal, giving her 22 points in two weeks. Forwards Lily Chappell, Taleisha Bulgarelli, Rebecca Pace (12 goals), and Sarah Castles impressed.

Elsewhere, A grade: Souths beat Brothers 34–10, Centrals beat Norths 30–20, Western Lions beat Herbert River 44–14. Reserve grade: Brothers beat Souths 28–12, Centrals beat Norths 32–22, Herbert River beat Western Lions 26–12, Charters Towers bye. Ladies: Centrals beat Norths 38–6.

This week, Burdekin must beat Western Lions in both A and Reserves to stay in finals contention. Tate Brombal and Joel Mason are out; Ethan Hagarty returns, and Doak will play five-eighth. Caleb Noah’s return lifts the reserves.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes

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On the 19th of July the Ayr Surf Club hosted the Annual North Barrier Branch Presentation Night to wrap up the 2024-25 Season.  The night is a celebration to recognise members from the seven clubs across the Branch - Forrest Beach, Arcadian, Townsville-Picnic Bay, Ayr, Eimeo, Mackay and Sarina - for their dedication, commitment and love of lifesaving in a variety of facets.  Surf sports athletes, teams, coaches and officials were recognised as well as volunteers in their respective areas.  Four of our local lifesavers were acknowledged for their involvement in surf lifesaving for the season and all progress onto the Surf Life Saving Queensland Awards of Excellence as nominees later this month.  A massive congratulations to Stephanie Dale - Official of the Year, Kristy Wassmuth - Master Athlete of the Year, Briella Wassmuth - U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year and Kellie Lawry - Surf Lifesaver of the Year.

2025-26 Season Commences

The 2025-26 Season of lifesaving has also commenced. The Ayr Surf Club held a Come and Try Day and their nipper program has commenced, however if you are keen to join the club for a fantastic family friendly activity, please reach out to ayrslsc@gmail.com or Junior Activities Co-ordinator Kellie Lawry for further details. The patrolling season at Alva Beach will commence on Saturday 20th September, and the club is always looking for more dedicated volunteers to join our patrolling ranks, so please contact club admin for further information.

Over the weekend, the club had 17 keen competitors head to the first carnival of the season at Townsville-Picnic Bay on the Strand to go head-to-head in a water carnival for the day on Saturday 9th. The kids braved the chilly water a little earlier in the season than normal and all had a fantastic day bringing home some great individual and team results. The nipper program will continue over the coming months, with competitors also looking forward to a regular schedule of carnivals leading up to Christmas.

Contributed with thanks to Kellie Lawry

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North Barrier Branch Award winners - Stephanie Dale (Official of the Year), Kristy Wassmuth (Masters Athlete of the Year), Briella Wassmuth (U14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year) & Kellie Lawry (Surf Lifesaver of the Year)
Ayr Team representing at Townsville-Picnic Bay Carnival
Zachary Dale winning U15 Male Ironperson

Quinn Pontifex and Mackenzie Sartori before their U9 Surf Race

Hoyt Pontifex starting U11 Ironperson

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Three young Burdekin bowlers will put their skills to the test at the 2025 ANC Sunshine Coast Ultimate Tenpin Cup and Ultimate Teams Clash Junior Competitions over the week extending from Thursday the 14th of August until Wednesday the 20th of August.

14-year-old Aidan Butler, 14-year-old Chase Nucifora, and 16-year-old Xavier Jepsen will travel to the Sunshine Coast to compete in the CLS Townsville Jigsaw Team, and the trio could not be more excited to catch up with old friends and make new ones across the six-day tournament.

Having attended the competition in the Gold Coast in 2024, Aiden developed a strong love for the sport six years ago and has played in a few local tournaments where he’s continued to reach new levels of success, breaking free from the bumper league and scoring a personal best game count of 257.

Xavier was first introduced to the bumper league by a family friend seven years ago and has since scored a personal best game count of 279.

With nine years of bowling experience and a personal best game count of 244, Chase jumped into the sport to follow in his family’s footsteps and never looked back.

Annually organised by Corner Pin Standings, the competition attracts players from across Australia and New Zealand to have a bowl with 10 male and 10 female teams set to impress judges for another year.

Weekly, the boys play in a number of bowling leagues, competing alongside both junior and adult players to improve their skills within the supportive Burdekin Bowl community. Although the boys continually look forward to the socialising aspect of tournaments such as the 2025 ANC Sunshine Coast Competition, the opportunity to beat their own top scores and grow their skillsets proves to be the most exciting challenge each year!

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Touch footy fans across the region are gearing up for an exciting day of action as the third annual Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival returns to the Ayr touch fields on Saturday, the 23rd of August.

A growing highlight on the local sporting calendar, the carnival will welcome teams from Townsville, Bowen, Airlie Beach, and the Burdekin, with three divisions on offer: Mixed Under 16, Mixed Open, and Mixed Seniors (over 39 years).

The event promises friendly competition, community spirit, and a fun-filled atmosphere for players and spectators alike with cash prizes set to be awarded to the winners of each division.

Beyond the main competition, the carnival will also feature a range of entertaining sideline events including division sprints and the ever-popular Touch Shoot-Out competition. Spectators and players can also enjoy plenty of food and drinks available throughout the day.

To get involved, teams can nominate by emailing peter.knapton@bigpond.com or calling 0437 710 500.

Teams are able to nominate for just $20 per player, and players can pay on the day of the carnival.

Team nominations and fee payments close on the 15th of August, so don’t miss out on your chance to take the field!

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The Burdekin Mixed Touch Football Carnival will return for the third year this August (Photos Supplied)

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The Wilmar Club Challenge is set to unite all four Burdekin bowls clubs for a special community event this September. Marking the first time in decades that the clubs will compete side-by-side, the Challenge celebrates the spirit of bowls and the strong sense of community in the Burdekin region. Each club will field three teams of four players in a round-robin format, with points awarded for wins, losses, and draws. Supported by club leaders, this promises to be a memorable occasion for players and spectators alike.

Sport plays a vital role with families in the Burdekin community and providing the appropriate facilities and resources is a constant challenge for local clubs.

For generations, rugby league has been the beating heart of the Burdekin sporting community. At the centre of this proud tradition stands the Burdekin Roosters – a club forged in 1994, but whose roots go back over a century in local league.

Over the years, the Roosters have grown from strength to strength, evolving into a vital part of community life. Today, with a new generation of players stepping up across both the men's and women's teams, the club continues to uphold its strong values on and off the field.

That sense of pride has been amplified with the recent naming of Bendigo Bank Park – a testament to the enduring support from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. “The sponsorship has had a great impact on the Roosters community,” says club spokesperson Alex Lennox. “It’s brought a sense of professionalism and awareness to just how much the bank gives back to the region each year.”

This five-year partnership isn’t just about naming rights – it’s helping secure the club’s future. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Roosters rely heavily on local sponsorship to survive and thrive. Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s backing provides critical stability, funding maintenance and operational costs for new amenities and lighting infrastructure – investments that benefit both senior and junior leagues.

“This partnership reflects a shared vision for the future,” says Alex. “It’s helping us modernise outdated infrastructure and ensure we can offer a strong development pathway for players of all ages.”

And there’s room for everyone to get involved. Whether you're interested in playing, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply cheering from the sidelines, the Roosters welcome all.
Senior Branch Manager for Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, Chantel Michielin, says their board felt that sporting fields and clubrooms become a second home for many families and the sponsorship of Bendigo Bank Park is a reinforcement of their commitment to recognise the value of sport.

“Sport plays a pivotal role in our community. A place where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and a love for the game is fostered”, says Chantel. “Our Community Bank values this connection and will continue to invest part of our profits back into sport in our region”

Catch the action at the final two home games of Burdekin Roosters this year at Bendigo Bank Park on August 9 and August 23. Come for the footy, stay for the community spirit.

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Looking for a fun way to keep your mind sharp and enjoy good company? The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre hosts a friendly Mahjong group every Monday from 1pm–5pm, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels.

Mahjong, a traditional Chinese game believed to have originated in the Qing Dynasty, has been enjoyed for centuries for its perfect mix of strategy, memory, and a little bit of luck. Played with 144 beautifully decorated tiles, the game is often compared to rummy, as players draw and discard tiles to build winning hands. Beyond the rules, Mahjong has long been valued as a social pastime, bringing people together for conversation and connection.

Whether you’re an experienced player or completely new to the game, the group offers a relaxed and supportive environment to learn, play, and have fun.

So, if you’re free on Monday afternoons, why not give it a go? For more information or to express your interest, contact Dawn through the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on (07) 4783 4243.

What: Mahjong
When: Mondays, 1-5pm
Where: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

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