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The Burdekin’s premier running event saw a record-breaking turnout on Sunday, 26 April, as nearly 400 athletes laced up in Ayr for what was a Sugar Rush for the books. The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. Club president Patrick Shannon hailed the event as a success for both the organisation and the wider North Queensland running community. “We’re chuffed with the turnout,” Mr Shannon said. “It was a bit unfortunate—we actually had to cut off entries a little bit early simply because we ran out of bibs. It just means we have to plan bigger and better next year.” Continued on page 28 Massive Field Powers Sugar Rush To New Record In Ayr Continued from cover The event attracted competitors from as far north as Cairns and south as Mackay, alongside families and first-time runners in shorter distance fun runs. Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08, while Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Matt Hutchinson led the men’s 10km field in 35:51, with Brittany Hutchinson winning the women’s race in 40:26. Miles Kerr claimed the men’s 5km title in 20:18, while Mia Brunker of the PACE Project won the women’s event in 20:46. Each runner received a complimentary barbecue breakfast courtesy of the Ayr Rotary Club, while MC John Furnell entertained supporters at the finish line at the Ayr War Memorial. Mr Shannon said the memorial backdrop capped off the morning, the culmination of months of preparation. “There was a lot of work put in over the last three to five months… But to see the community coming out, the amazing weather, and the day after Anzac Day, having the monument behind us, was a really good feeling.” FULL RESULTS Half Marathon—Men Jeff Rubach (Townsville Road Runners) — 1:15:08 Grant Breadsell Aaron Bathis Half Marathon—Women Vanessa Kennedy (Hungry Runners) — 1:27:15 Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club) Elizabeth Maguire (Hungry Runners) 10km—Men Matt Hutchinson — 35:51 Sonny O’Rourke Brendan Maltby 10km—Women Brittany Hutchinson — 40:26 Anwen Mackay Isla Chapman 5km—Men Miles Kerr — 20:18 Nathan Barrett Brad Patti 5km—Women Mia Brunker (PACE Project) — 20:46 Bec Stedman Skye Claussen CAPTIONS: Back—The 24th edition of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club’s signature running event saw its previous participation record of 320 smashed, with around 392 runners taking part. 2—Jeff Rubach of the Townsville Road Runners won the men’s half marathon in 1:15:08. 3—Vanessa Kennedy of Hungry Runners took out the women’s title in 1:27:15. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Seniors A better weekend for the Burdekin Panthers. The Club had only four senior games winning three and losing one. The Premiers and Reserve, away to Riverway JCU, won 2-1 and the Reserves, also away to JCU also won 2-1, The Division 1, at home to rebels lost 3-6 but the Division 2, also at home to Rebels won 3-0. The Colts and Ladies both had byes. This week only four teams are in action as both Ladies and Colts have byes. On Friday, the Division 1 and Division 2 are away to Olympic, at 8.30 and 6.30 and on Saturday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Warriors at 7.00 and 3.00. The Colts and Ladies do not have games this week. Premiers – Ayr Anzac Club An away trip to JCU is never easy, and after dropping points the previous week, there was added motivation to respond. JCU started strongly, limiting the Panthers time on the ball and making it difficult to find any rhythm early. The first half produced few clear chances, with JCU capitalising late to take a 1–0 lead into the break. The second half saw a renewed energy from the Panthers, while JCU looked to sit deeper and protect their advantage. This shift allowed Burdekin to dominate possession and build pressure in dangerous areas. The Panthers came close on many occasions, including a strike off the crossbar, before Elliott Dal Santo found the breakthrough with a well-taken finish following strong defensive work in the lead-up. Pushing for a winner, Kyle Taylor earned a penalty in the 87th minute, and Jake Siandri stepped up to calmly convert and give the Panthers a 2–1 lead which they held onto in the closing stages to secure a hard-fought result. That’s three wins from their opening four rounds. Reserves – Burdekin Tyre Service Another week and another changed side saw the Reserves debut opportunity for young players Charlie Predebon & Nyasha Gwarada. It was a very warm afternoon game and developed into a good contest with both teams working hard but neither finding any dominance in possession or field position. It took until the last five minutes of the first half for a goal to come from a longer range freekick and JCU went into the break one up. The second half for the Panthers was much better with senior players able to influence the game and keep better possession of the ball. With improved possession and control Burdekin were able to score two goals from Jonte Grazioli and Dom Arrate. It was a gritty game that in previous seasons the Panthers may have let slip, so very pleasing to turn it around and notch up another win. Division 1 – Austral Masonry Against Rebel, both teams and goals started fast, with two goals from Julen Arrate being answered by two from Rebels in the first eighteen minutes. At half time it was 2-2. After that Burdekin got stuck into the grind with tackles flying everywhere. Then a penalty to Rebels and second yellow card for Brad Wright tipped the balance, with Rebels side scoring two goals in quick succession. Cody Scalia headed in a beautiful Charlie Shears corner to give the Burdekin a chance, but with only ten men, it was too much of a struggle The game ended 6-3 to Rebels. Division 2 – RG Customs RG Customs 2nd division defeated Rebels 3-0 in a match they dominated from start to finish. Chris Achille gave Burdekin the lead early in the first half, but despite lots of possession and repeatedly attacking Rebels goal, the Funkies were unable to extend their lead in the first half. Burdekin added further goals through Simon Scuderi after 68 minutes and Fengil after 84 minutes in the second half to see the Funkies rewarded for their efforts and deserving winners in a match they controlled very much from start to finish. Next up is MA Olympic this Friday night away in Townsville. Masters The Masters had another good turnout and, augmented by the Ladies Squad had a replay of the World Cup Qualifier, Italy v Bosnia Herzegovina. A tight match ended in a 2-2 draw with a replay next Monday. Best players on the night were Charley Ruskin and Riley Granshaw. The 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 soccer returned in great spirit over the Anzac Day weekend, marking the first round of games following the school holiday break. Our youngest players in the U5–U7 age groups took to the field on Saturday afternoon, enjoying local matches filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and plenty of smiles. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces back and eager to play. Sunday saw an exciting milestone for the U8–U12 teams, who travelled to Townsville for their first games of the season. The step up in competition didn’t deter our players, with all teams showing determination and great sportsmanship throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to kick off the return to soccer, with strong participation across all age groups and a positive start to the term ahead. The U15's had their first game at the weekend against Wulguru. A new coach, a few new players and whole lot of enthusiasm. A bit of nervous energy to start with the first goal being scored by the opposition, but the team went in at half time with a 2-1 lead. Goals for the Panthers scored by Annan Power and Nathan Casella. The team lost Linc Innes due to a nasty clash with their keeper which depleted the bench with only one sub. The second half saw the team digging deep to secure three more goals. One of the new Panthers, Cecil Badza Gwarda scoring two and Emmanuel Mio banging in the final goal for the Panthers to secure a convincing win 5-2. Unfortunately, there is a bit of a break before their next round on the 16 May. An excited U13 Burdekin Panthers team took the field for the first time this season again MA Olympic. The Panthers came away with a very good 3-0 win with two goals from. 2 Caelan Farrell and one from Jazz Chung. All players played outstanding football!! National The A League Men’s season has reached the final stages. Newcastle have won the Premiership; five points clear of Adelaide with Auckland third and Melbourne Victory fourth. The Elimination Finals start on Saturday with Auckland playing Melbourne City and Victory playing Sydney FC. The A League Women are at the Semi-finals stage. At the end of regular fixtures Melbourne City were Premiers six points clear of Wellington, with Canberra third and Brisbane fourth. In the semi-finals this Saturday, Melbourne City face Victory and Brisbane play Wellington.
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Round 7 of the Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Burdekin Touch open competition produced a string of competitive results across all divisions. In the men’s draw, Way To Go defeated BAYWatch 8–4, while His Haas and Slush Puppies played out a 5–all draw. Alliance Pharmacy proved too strong for Wires Down 9–3, and Petrol Heads accounted for Touch n Go 8–5. Blue Murder continued their good form with an 8–4 win over Ball Grabbers, while Burdekin PCYC and Feelers finished locked at 4–all. Renegades edged a tight contest against Royal Touch 7–6, and Teamo Supremo claimed a narrow 3–2 victory over Creampuffs. In the women’s competition, Eathorne’s Princesses defeated Lasers 5–2, while First in Physio delivered the most dominant performance of the round, overpowering Salty Sirens 12–1. Chick Flicks also secured a solid 6–4 win over Can’t Catch. Junior action in the under-14 division saw Chicken Burgers and Cowboys share the points in a 6–all draw. Rockies defeated Broncos 8–3, BAYWatch A accounted for Red Dogs A 8–2, and Silly Soft Serves rounded out the round with a 10–5 win over Red Dogs B. Meanwhile, junior touch football sign-on will be held on Friday, May 1 at 5.30pm at the Burdekin Touch Football clubhouse. The program is open to boys and girls aged 4 to 12, with six weeks of skills, drills and games to follow. Returning Term 1 players can register for free, while new sign-ons cost $20. For more information, contact Rebecca on 0400 705 205 or Peter on 0437 710 500.
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As this is the final patrol weekend for the season, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club would would like to thank all our patrolling members for the countless volunteer hours that were undertaken on the beach for our community, your time is appreciated and we thank you for keeping Alva Beach safe. Beach patrols will resume again in the September School Holidays. Beach patrols will resume again in the September school holidays. Saturday, 2/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group I – Sage Hisatake (PC), Ben Hisatake, Luke Hisatake, Austin Dewar Sunday, 3/5/26 (9am–1pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group G – Carl List (PC), James Kennedy (PC), Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards, Ross Blakey, Jedd Giddy, Nate Giddy Sunday, 3/5/26 (1pm–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group E – John Moloney (PC), Anne Moloney (PC), Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan, Jarrod Rossato Monday, 4/5/26 (9am–5pm)[Text Wrapping Break]Group A – Chris Wicks (PC), Richard Dale (PC), Jane Olsen, Zackary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner, Wil Holt
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It was all looking good for Friday Junior Cricket to kick off after it was called off the previous week due to wet fields. That was until around 2:30pm when the rain came down at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex which dashed our hopes for play. It also put in jeopardy our home game against Wanderers in the Under 17 Townsville competition the next morning. The start time for this game was put back to 12 noon in the hope that pitch would dry out enough. Thanks to our groundsmen for their hard work in getting the job done preparing the pitch and mowing the field. The later start meant that we were going to be without one player for half the game and another would have to leave later in the second innings due to both having work commitments.
We won the toss and chose to bowl first, hoping that more players in the field would outweigh the loss of a batter in our lineup. The first ball of the innings was sent down by Leo Olditch which resulted in their opener top edging a catch to Salvatore Cardillo at cover, they were 1 for 0. Their batters then dug in and slowly added runs, only losing five more wickets to end their innings on 177. In the hot and humid conditions our bowlers and fielders performed well with Thomas Cardillo getting two wickets, Leo Olditch, Salvatore Cardillo, Rian Berryman and John Southwell getting one each. Joey Southwell took two catches, Jacob Machin and Salvatore one each, Corey Heidke contributed with a stumping.
The decision at the toss put us out in the field in the hottest part of the day which really sapped the energy of our players, and it showed in our batting. Our opener was also caught on the first ball of the innings but the similarities with Wanderers’ batting ended there. Most of our batters didn’t bat with any patience, not waiting for the bad balls to put away. Two runouts of batters that were looking comfortable and a bottom edge from a short ball onto the stumps didn’t help our situation at all. We were all out in the 14th over with Corey Heidke our top scorer this game.
Time now to regroup and train for our next game which is against Brothers who we beat last time we met.
Contributed by Scott Heidke
Wanderers defeated Home Hill in the first home game of the year on Saturday. Photo supplied
Ayr Junior Golf held its first game for the year last Saturday, February 10.
The weather was hot, but a nice group of players came ready to get back into it. Many regular members returned along with two new players, Celine and Heath.
A mini 3 hole, 6 hole and 9 hole competition was played. Heath was the gross winner for 3 holes, Opie was the Nett winner. For 6 holes, some close scores, with Logan the gross winner, and Kyle the Nett winner. In 9 holes, Amaya was the gross winner, and Oscar the Nett winner. Well done to all for coming along, and also to Dave for helping the juniors for the morning.
This weekend on Saturday the club will host coaching for the morning. New members always welcome, times will be confirmed. Please follow Junior Golf Ayr for more information.
Contributed by Laura Mahoney
Players new and old attended Ayr Junior Golf’s first game of the year last weekend. Photo supplied
Coming off a defeat in round 10 last week, Peto’s Marine have bounced back in a big way with a trouncing of Crowned Mongrels in their first fixture of the year.
Peto's Marine won the toss and elected to bat, with opener Simon Vickers getting to work immediately with 33 runs from 17 balls.
First drop Josiah Ballin top scored agonisingly short of his half century with 48 from 53, while Daniel Olditch also contributed with 37 from 36.
Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro shone with the ball for Crowned Mongrels, taking 3/26 from three overs while Nicholas Pengelly, Andrew Wallwork, Alex Stillhard and Casper Licciardello all took one wicket each.
Alexander Romeo also took a run out for the fielding side, seeing Peto's Marine finish their 25 overs on 8/191.
With a handy total to defend, Peto's Marine made short work of Crowned Mongrels’ batting lineup, starting with a caught and bowled on the second ball of the innings from Leon Franklin.
Crowned Mongrels struggled to establish their presence in the middle, with not one batsman making double figures and top scores going to Alexander Romeo with eight runs and Jay Leckenby with six.
Franklin went on to take two more wickets, finishing the innings with 3/7 from three overs, while Josiah Ballin, Darren O’Keeffe, Ben Walters, Darren Fabbro and Mark Nosworthy took one wicket each and Josiah Ballin took a run out.
Down one player, Crowned Mongrels lost all nine wickets for 42 runs after 10.5 overs.
Crowned Mongrels will take on ladder leaders Guardian Pharmacy this Saturday.
Leon Franklin took 3/7 for Peto's Marine
Jaidyn Lambie-Fabbro took 3/26 for Crowned Mongrels
Photos supplied
Wednesday January 31: winners were Richard Aplin, Vince Beitia & Lew Stidston who defeated John Hall, Happy Horan & Kaos.
Saturday February 3: Despite very hot conditions, we had a good turnout for our belated Australia Day Celebration sponsored by Phelan’s Pies.
1st Prize went to Barry Hewson, Sam Caltabiano and Thelma Klopper who defeated Jim Murray/Mick Olsen, George Nixon and Henry Hazle.
2nd Prize went to Happy Horan, Joe Grabbi and Lew Stidston who defeated Katharina Stuckler, Rob Garner and Pam Power.
3rd Prize went to Paul Vass, Chris Berkery and Wayne Coonan who defeated Lorraine Wolffe, Anthony Bull and Chris Olditch.
A big thank you to Phelan’s Pies for their continued support.
Mens Club Championship rinks and singles open Wednesday February 14 and close on Sunday February 25. Competition commences Sunday March 10 at 8:30am for Championship rinks.
Come along for a game of bowls on Wednesday nights at the Ayr Bowls Club. If you have never played bowls, no worries, we have bowls you can use, and you will be shown how to play bowls. Phone the bowls club on 47831336 between 6.00pm and 6.30pm to put your name in. Play begins at 7.00pm.
Winners last Wednesday night were Robyn McAllister, Ross McLaughlin, Evelyn Wiltshere and Heather Jorgensen.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
12 Bowlers attended for social bowls on Friday with eventual winners Marg McLaughlin, Lloyd Shepherd and Norm Storrie winning on countback.
Championship B grade pairs started with Lloyd Shepherd and Peter Lejarraga defeating Gary Norsworthy and Kevin Ferguson 24 /18.
Chris Pearce and Simon Griggs were selected for NQ District side trials at Northern Beaches Bowls Club, Mackay over the weekend. More trial matches still to come.
Thanks to all those who turned up for the working bee on the weekend. All went well for those in attendance with lots of jobs completed.
Corporate bowls starts up February 16 sponsored by Peto’s Marine Home Hill.
Bookings via Gary Pearce on 0488 214 222.
A club meeting will be held on Sunday, February 18 at 12:15pm at the clubhouse followed by social bowls.
Contributed by Lloyd Shepherd
A Giru cowboy has returned from Tamworth an open bull riding champion after the Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association National Finals Rodeo was held in the ‘country music capital’ from January 25-27.
Braydon Wellby went into the event placed third in the standings in the YETI Open Bull Ride, qualifying as one of 15 finalists after stellar results throughout 2023.
With three opportunities to accumulate points, there were no qualified rides in the first go-round and the second was looking much the same until Braydon was one of only two riders to get to the buzzer in round two.
“I bumped off my first bull, rode my second bull for 84.5 points on Back Handed Panda and then my third bull was Cliff Hanger and rode it for 81 points to seal the deal,” Braydon said.
Giru cowboy Braydon Wellby is an open bull riding champion after competing in Tamworth. Photo credit: Stephen Mowbray
Giru bull rider Braydon Wellby said it felt “pretty good” to be crowned an open bull ride champion at the recent Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association National Finals Rodeo in Tamworth.
“It’s been on my bucket list for a while, to become an Australian champion,” Braydon said.
“It took a little bit to sink in, but it was good.”
Growing up between Townsville and Georgetown, Braydon was raised surrounded by rodeo.
“Both of my parents rodeoed so I’ve always been around it and always done it,” he said.
“I love doing it, I love versing the animal.
“I do other events in rodeo, too, but bull riding’s probably my favourite event.”
Braydon now lives in Giru where his work also involves cattle, working in contract mustering and fencing.
“It’s good being around the cattle all the time, it’s what I enjoy doing,” he said.
While he’s travelled all over Australia and the world to compete, including to America and Canada, Braydon said nothing beats a local rodeo.
“These days, I’d much rather go to these local Queensland events, go to rodeos and compete around here,” he said.
“They’re a bit more relaxed and cruisy.”
Braydon hasn’t yet finalised his calendar for the rest of 2024, but looks forward to these local rodeos the most.
“I’ll do all the shows up in north Queensland here, but I haven’t picked which events I want to travel away for yet around Australia,” he said.
Braydon Wellby won the championship with two big rides in Tamworth. Photo supplied: Lorraine Wellby
Burdekin FC is now getting ready for the 2024 season. Pre-season training has already started, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30 pm for men and Wednesdays at 6.00 pm for women. The Panthers first match of the season will be away to Estates in the Kappa Qld Cup this Saturday night in Townsville. Leighton Gallagher will be coaching the Premiers again this season.
The Juniors have an exciting year of football coming up, with regular matches plus games against out of town opponents. Registrations for Under 5 to Under 12 are now open! Go onto the Burdekin FC Facebook page for more information or email the club at burdekinfc@hotmail.com. Registrations are due on Saturday the 10th of February, and players will be organised into teams.
A great new addition this year is a training shirt for every fully registered and paid up player! Compulsory pre-season games will be Saturday the 17th and 24th of February, with the season kicking off on the 2nd of March. We can't wait for the 2024 season to begin.
The Masters kicked off the 2024 season on Monday night. Usual time, usual place, 6.30 at International Park. New and old players all welcome. In fact, it doesn’t really matter if you can’t play. Treat it as an escape.
The Socceroos are out of the Asian Cup after losing 1-2 to South Korea in extra time. They had reached the quarter finals by beating Indonesia 4-0 in the Round of 16. In the Group matches Oz beat India 2-0, Syria 1-0 and drew 1-1 with Uzbekistan. The Asian Cup is now at the semi-final stage with Jordan playing South Korea and Qatar up against Iran. It looks like a South Korea v Iran final.
The Matildas have not played since losing twice to Canada in early December. Their next matches are Olympic qualifiers against Uzbekistan, home and away, in late February. In the FIFA World Rankings, Australia are currently ranked12th place with Uzbekistan at 47th.
In the A League, leaders Wellington could only draw away to Brisbane but stay two points clear of Central Coast and Melbourne Victory, who both won. Macarthur stay in fourth spot and Brisbane stays in ninth place.
In the A League Women competition, after 15 rounds Melbourne City is three points clear of Western Utd with Sydney FC in third place and Melbourne Victory fourth. Brisbane, who won at the weekend stay in tenth place.
The African Cup of Nations is now at the semi-final stage with Nigeria playing South Africa and Ivory Coast playing DR Congo. Both matches are on Thursday with the final to be played next Monday.
Read Football Matters with Cyclops on the Burdekin FC Facebook page.
Contributed by Richard Samwell
Winners for the day on Thursday, February 1 on countback was the team of Ray, Gary and Glen pictured with sponsor Des Chapman from Rocky Ponds Produce.
18 players turned up to play so three rinks of triples were contested.
Rink 5: Ray, Gary and Glen outlasted Paul, John and Stephen 16 to 11.
Rink 6: Bob, Alec and Wayne proved too strong for Phil, Joe and Mike 21 to 15.
Rink 7: Warren, Des and Trevor narrowly defeated Judy, Jocelyn and Henry 21 to 18.
Thanks again to sponsor Rocky Ponds Produce.
Wednesday night barefoot bowls is on again at 6:00pm, come along for a snag sanger.
Thursday morning bingo is still all the go.
Wednesday mornings have craft group.
Come along and support your club.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Winners for the day Ray, Gary and Glen pictured with sponsor Des Chapman from Rocky Ponds Produce. Photo supplied
Pre-season training has started for the three men’s team for the Roosters with the Hens to start this week under new coach Anita Hagarty.
Newly appointed A Grade coach Daniel Beazley has been in charge of the pre-season work assisted by Reserve Grade Coach Chris Perry and under 20 leaders Paul and Peter Horan.
Former Junior Roosters star Terry Connors has returned home after six years away playing in Townsville.
Whilst in Townsville, Connors attended Kirwan High where he reached a position in that school's top team.
In club football, the half five eight played five years for Brothers in Townsville representing that city in all grades.
He also represented Queensland in both under 12 and under 13 teams.
Last season Connors decided to switch clubs with a number of his mates and played with Souths in under 19.
2023 was also a big year for the talented utility inside back with him being selected as half for the Murri Queensland under 18 team who played a Samoan representative team in Brisbane.
“That was an experience,” Connors said.
“Some of them are big boys.”
Connors said he has moved back home to be with family and catch up with old mates.
“Since I was a youngster growing up, I have always wanted to be a Rooster,” Connors added.
Coach Daniel Beazley said the half would be a welcome addition to his squad which is coming together nicely.
Contributed by Brian Carnes
Former Junior Roosters star Terry Connors. Photo supplied
Senior cricket returned to Barry Richards Field for the first time in 2024 last weekend, with Peto’s Marine taking on Guardian Pharmacy on Saturday, February 3.
Guardian Pharmacy won the toss and elected to bat, with contributions from Hugh Smith (41 runs from 39 balls), Thomas Cardillo (23 from 27) and Jay Leckenby (21 from 13) setting a total of 7/183 runs from 25 overs.
The bowling effort for Peto’s Marine was evenly spread, with Leo Olditch, Jack Oborne, Simon Vickers, Ben Walters, and Shaun Goldsworthy each taking a wicket while Brad Parravicini finished the innings with a wicket and a runout.
Peto's Marine were unable to convert a few starts into big scores, with Leon Franklin (13 from 18 not out), Darcy Walters (12 from 22) and Simon Vickers (11 from 8) top scoring in the run chase.
The batting side was ultimately bowled out for 79 runs in 16.4 overs with three of those wickets coming from Jay Leckenby, two from both Damien Ricketts and Matthew Gardner and one each from Thomas Cardillo, Salvatore Cardillo and Jd Wilkins.
Peto’s Marine will look to rebuild when they take on Crowned Mongrels this weekend.
Jay Leckenby took 3 wickets for 2 runs off 2 overs
Dan Olditch took four catches. Photo credit: Tiffany Olditch
Wednesday January 24 Afternoon Social Bowls – On a very hot and humid day those who braved the conditions struggled, but managed to get a game in. Winners were Sandra Darwen and Maurice Power who defeated Anthony Bull and Chris Berkery.
Saturday January 27 Social Afternoon – Winners were Jim Murray/Mick Olsen, Paul Vass and Pam Power who defeated Lorraine Wolffe, Anthony Bull and Chris Berkery.
New date for our postponed Australia Day Bowls sponsored by Phelan’s Pies will be Saturday February 3. All welcome and wear your best Aussie gear. 1:00pm start, names in by 12:30pm.
Amcal Pharmacy is sponsoring the first day back for Ayr Ladies Bowls playing on Tuesday February 6.
Ladies’ names in by 12.30 to 1:00pm, please call 4783 1336.
Green fees paid by 1:00, for a 1:30pm start.
Here's to a great year of bowls and friendship.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini
Get your racquet out, the Ayr Tennis Association is hitting up your calendar with some of the best tennis action in the region.
On the cards is the beginning of the Ayr Tennis Social and Competitive Competitions, from this evening, Thursday February 1, at 7pm.
Described as ‘extremely social’, Ayr Tennis’ social competition is a great opportunity to get to the court, smash around the ball, enjoy some laughs and share some post-drinks. Taking place every Thursday, everyone is welcome to bat the ball and practice their tennis swing.
Next on the cards, the rescheduled Open Day, postponed due to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily, has been announced for Saturday February 3, perfect for those interested in joining the club to get a taste for the sport and meet with key club officials.
And finally, the Junior Development Series kicks off March 2 and 3, which is set to aid in the technical growth and development of skills in youth tennis players.
To learn more about the Ayr Tennis Association, and to inquire, contact us the Club President, Robert Slatcher, on president.ayrtennis@gmail.com or ayrtennisasssociation@outlook.com
The Burdekin Shire Council and Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre have partnered to bring residents over the age of 55 into a free initiative to encourage movement and exercise.
Beginning last week, the ‘Move It Burdekin’ initiative is a 15-week program that offers low impact training, exercises, yoga and chair activities, to suit a range of different fitness levels and improve the physical and mental wellbeing on Burdekin’s residents.
The first post-cyclone session was held at Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on Monday, January 29, wherethe vibe was “pumping”.
“Huge shout out to facilitator, Andrea Piotto, for bringing her expertise and energy to the program!” Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre posted on social media.
“Going by the laughter, smiles and energy in the room - everyone enjoyed 'moving it'”
The social aspect is also highly encouraged, with participants welcome to share some refreshment, a coffee, and a chat after each session.
Also supported by Move It NQ and North Queensland PHN, Burdekin residents are encouraged to get involved, and get moving!
For more information and to download a registration form, visit https://bit.ly/MoveItBurdekin or phone Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on (07) 4783 3744.
Participants enjoying the first ‘Move It Burdekin’ session last week. Photos supplied: Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre
An excellent turn up for Wednesday night bowls on January 24 with 18 players turning up and the nights winners were Sheila and Lloyd. Four games of pairs and Lynn and Judy played a game of singles – it may have been just for bragging rights.
Rinks 4: to 7 East/West were used.
RINK 4: Amie and Stephen were a bit too strong for Paul and Mick winning 14 to 8.
RINK 5: Sheila and Lloyd outlasted Tony and Margaret 13 to 8. Sheila and Lloyd also drew the lucky rink so they got the drinks.
RINK 6: An extremely good game this one it came down to the last end. Lol and Merle came out on top vs Yogi and Ron 10 to 9.
RINK 7: saw young Conner pair with Mark to defeat Carol and Joe to the tune of 16 to 10.
Sadly, there was no bowls on Thursday as it was getting a bit windy. Back to normality this week. Wednesday night is barefoot bowls again, possibly a sausage sizzle for starters. Thursday afternoon social bowls as per normal. Thursday morning BINGO seems to be a big hit. So come along and support your club. See you all there.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
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More Queensland families will have access to swimming lessons for their young children with a $5 million boost to the Queensland Government’s SwimStart program.
SwimStart is designed to improve water safety for children up to the age of four, while helping to ease cost-of-living pressures for eligible families by delivering vouchers valued up to $150 per child for swimming lessons.
Continued from the back cover.
Here in the Burdekin, SwimStart vouchers can be redeemed with Burdekin Swim School.
“SwimStart is a great opportunity for families luckily enough to qualify,” said Burdekin Swim School Instructor Lisa Furnell.
“For successful applicants, it's an opportunity for some families to do lessons that may have otherwise not been able to afford it.
“It's one of the most essential and important life skills that a child will ever learn.”
Families need to apply with Burdekin Swim School and must hold a healthcare card or a concession card.
There is a limit of 1 voucher per child per financial year.
The additional $5 million more than doubles funding to the SwimStart program up to June 2025.
“Every parent in Queensland knows just how important it is for our kids to know what to do around water from an early age,” said Queensland Premier Steven Miles.
“My kids have grown up around pools and Queensland beaches and it was so important to Kim and I that they felt confident in the water.
“We know households are feeling cost-of-living pressures, which is why we’re doubling the amount of SwimStart vouchers available to families with young children.”
“Every child should have the chance to learn this important skill to improve safety in, on and around water,” added Olympic Gold Medallist Brooke Hanson.
“As a mum, it was incredible to see my kids learning when they were six months old, being able to get to the side of the pool.
“They weren’t able to crawl at that stage, but they were learning to swim, which is such a valuable skill they will take through life.
“The SwimStart program provides many families with that same opportunity and it’s fantastic to see even more funding allocated to help Queensland kids in the water.”
For more information on SwimStart visit www.qld.gov.au/swimstart
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