
Burdekin Rugby Union Canetoads are recruiting new players for the North Queensland season (April–August). Men’s squad seeking key positions (prop, halfback/fly-half, centre), with all roles welcome; women’s team open to all levels. Club promotes strong country rugby pathway with competitive regional competition in Townsville. Emphasis on lifestyle appeal for locals and travelling/working holiday players (community, fishing, outdoor living).
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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 looking a 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
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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 1st 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.”
Read the full storyNetball 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: 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 Burdekin Netball Association’s U16s team; (front) Tahlia Lammon, Shilah Horan, Emma Wilkie, Lisa Keryk, (back), Chloe Steel (Coach), Ruby Prescott, Amaya Caspanello, Mya Mitchell, Maya Mahoney, Gemma Keihne, and Clodagh Liessman. Photo supplied Burdekin Netball Association’s U15s team; (front) Ebony Moul, Zara Scovazzi, Emma Jones, Milla Chapman, Eden Godfrey, (back) Sarah Butterworth (Coach), Emily MacDonald, Maggie and Addy Chandler, Lily Ahern, Paityn Coleman-Blakoe and Alicia Butterworth (Manager). Photo supplied
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20 people took to Plantation Park for 253rd parkrun on Saturday, November 4.
Three were first timers and two parkrun tourists were among those who ran, jogged and walked the course while four runners achieved new personal bests.
The event was made possible by volunteers Vicky Brennan, Terry Brennan, Steve Crouther, Gwenda Crichton and Donna Howard.
The full results and a complete event history can be found on the Plantation parkrun Results Page.
Plantation parkrun started on 17th February 2018.
Since then, 886 participants have completed 4,592 parkruns covering a total distance of 22,960 km, including 796 new personal bests.
A total of 166 individuals have volunteered 1,404 times.
Plantation parkrun takes place every Saturday from 7:00am at Plantation Park, Bruce Highway, Ayr.
Photos supplied: Plantation parkrun

Over two decades ago, a hesitant eight-year-old boy stood at the gates of Rugby Park in Ayr, feeling queasy about playing his first Rugby League game. Little did anyone know that this young boy, Ryan Davenport, affectionately known as Davo, would grow up to become one of the most tenacious and revered figures in the Burdekin's rugby league history.
Davo's unwavering dedication to the game and his fearless approach on the field made him a true warrior of the sport. He was never one to ask his teammates to do something he wasn't willing to do himself.
His journey in rugby league saw him rise to captain many teams and culminated in a crowning achievement – leading his A-Grade team to a premiership in the TDR (Thuringowa & District Rugby League) in 2015, a pinnacle in the career of any local footballer.
Despite his quiet demeanour, when Davo spoke, players listened. He wasn't known for saying much, but when he did, his words were inspiring. This was nowhere more evident than in the Grand Final.
Under coach Glen Brock, the Roosters defeated Brothers in the major semi-final and advanced to face Herbert River in the Grand Final. The Roosters held a commanding 16-6 lead well into the second half and seemed poised for victory. However, they underestimated Ingham's veteran playmaker, Mitchell Seri.
Seri, a crafty halfback, had orchestrated numerous Crushers victories, and he set out to stage another remarkable comeback, putting the Roosters' hopes in jeopardy. With just two minutes to go, the River surged ahead 18-16 after scoring and converting.
It was in this critical moment, behind the goal line, that Davo called a meeting and addressed his teammates. When Davo spoke, you listened. His plan worked, and as the final siren sounded, hooker Zac Heron scored a sensational try, clinching the trophy for the Burdekin.
He proudly represented Townsville in the Foley Shield competition and played for the Country team in the City vs. Country clashes.
His dedication extended beyond club rugby league. He also played for the Home Hill Devils in the annual Ayr-Home Hill matches and in end-of-season local club games. Additionally, he co-founded and played every year for the Buffalo Riders in the Bowen Tens, often emerging as champions.
As Ryan bids farewell to his beloved Roosters, he now looks forward to spending more time with his family – Holly, Ally, and Jordi. Though he may receive enticing calls to return to the game, his legacy in Burdekin rugby league is cemented, and he can savour his well-deserved retirement.
Contributed by Brian Carnes.
Ryan Davenport won the Norm Dee Perpetual Shield at this year’s Burdekin Roosters prizegiving

Three Burdekin athletes were recently announced as finalists for the NQ Sport star Awards held in Mackay over the weekend, with 18-year-old Kiera Wiseman being recognised as runner-up in the NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sport star Of The Year category.
Kiera and Ky Mitchell were both finalists in NQ Junior Sport star Of The Year and NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sport star Of The Year categories while Lisa Furnell was a finalist in the NQ Sport Volunteer Of The Year category.
Kiera and Ky, their families and other members of the Burdekin community travelled to Mackay for the awards which have played a major role in sporting communities for 32 years, recognising the incredible achievements of regional North Queensland athletes.
An unforgettable evening recognising sporting excellence in north Queensland took place at the highly anticipated 2023 MM Electrical NQ Sportstar Awards last Saturday, November 4 in Mackay.
Hosted by, and marking the 40th anniversary of the North Queensland Sports Foundation, the event was a celebration of sporting achievements across north Queensland with three Burdekin superstars, Kiera Wiseman, Ky Mitchell and Lisa Furnell, all nominated across a variety of categories.
Read on to learn more about the Burdekin’s star nominees.
A finalist in both NQ Junior Sportstar Of The Year and NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year, Kiera Wiseman feels proud to be recognised for her hard work in the sport of waterskiing.
Kiera first started social skiing at 3 years old with her dad, turning to tournament skiing at the age of 10.
Now 18 years old, she’s been tournament skiing ever since.
“I love being able to travel so much for the sport, as well as the amount of really good friends I’ve made,” Kiera said. “I also love the adrenaline rush I get when skiing.”
2023 has been a massive year for Kiera, a highlight coming when she travelled to Chile to represent Australia at the Junior World Championships.
She also competed in her first junior Moomba Master on the Yarra River in Melbourne and represented Australia for the 3rd time in the Aussie/Kiwi challenge in Albury.
While preparing for the World Championships, Kiera would train up to four times a week and often travel to receive expert coaching.
She recognises elite water-skier and two-time world champion of water ski jumping, Jacinta Carroll, as her role model; Jacinta’s world record breaking jumps inspiring Kiera to strive in the sport.
Kiera was announced as runner-up NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year and was in Mackay to accept her award.
“It was a really lovely night,” she said.
“I’d just like to thank the sponsors of the event as it’s always such a great night to attend.”
As she finishes high school this year, Kiera is looking forward to enjoying this time of her life and, as for next year she says “Anything is possible”.
Ky Mitchell was also a finalist in both NQ Junior Sportstar Of The Year and NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year categories.
The 11-year-old started riding motorbikes at age 3 and racing at age 5, now competing in two disciplines: Flat Track; 85cc 9-13yrs and Speedway; 125cc solo under 16yrs.
“I love everything about bikes from riding for fun to racing speedway and dirt bikes and anything with wheels,” he said.
“I ride every day and compete most weekends.”
Ky said he was extremely happy to be nominated and picked as a finalist in the NQ Sportstar Awards.
Attending on the night, he and his family found great inspiration from fellow nominees and guest speaker Brook Hansen OAM.
Ky has won multiple titles in recent years and is proving himself as a star of the future in motorcycle racing.
Having been selected in the Under 16yrs Australian Speedway Championship, Ky and his family will travel to Tamworth next weekend to take on the next chapter of his racing journey.
Lisa Furnell was unable to attend the NQ Sportstar Awards over the weekend as she had to cover an eight-hour patrol for Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club the following day.
While on patrol on Sunday, Lisa and the team completed a rescue, highlighting the importance of her role in the Burdekin community and the justification behind her nomination for NQ Sport Volunteer Of The Year.
“We don’t have a lot of rescues, but it’s nice to know that we’re out there covering the beach, especially in the stinger season,” Lisa said.
Lisa was the first member of the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club, and has come to achieve 1,000 patrolling hours and she’s also heavily involved in training younger members and fundraising.
She first became involved in the club when her children started Nippers before competing and volunteering herself.
“I just loved the idea of being down there on the beach and patrolling the beach,” she said.
Following on from a Lifesaver of the Year award in 2022, Lisa was disappointed to be unable to attend the awards but thankful for the recognition and support.
“It was a privilege to be nominated considering there are so many volunteers involved in local clubs,” she said.
“It’s just a great club and we have a really supportive community.”
Kiera Wiseman was announced as runner-up NQ Junior Rural And Remote Sportstar Of The Year. Photo supplied
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, Kiera Wiseman, Ky Mitchell and Burdekin Shire Council Manager Community Services Tony Blackwell at the NQ Sportstar Awards in Mackay

The Home Hill Harvest Festival Golf Ambrose saw a massive resurgence in 2023 and returned to be an integral part of the festival program. Home Hill member Doug McCubben had a vision to revive the Ambrose to the legendary event of years past. He approached QSL who were enthusiastic major sponsors of the day, and with the support of Mark Vass and the queens, the teams started to book in to levels not seen in decades.
Fortunately, on the day, Sunday November 5, the weather was very kind, with a nice breeze, and missing the usual oppressive humidity common for this time of year. 37 teams belted, swung (sometimes missed) and putted around the 9 hole course, and from all reports, everyone had a fabulous day.
The Tradies ended the day as the individual team winner, QSL won for the corporate teams and the Lions Queen Allie-Jo Farry won the queens challenge.
Many thanks to our Sponsors and donors, the Harvest Festival Committee, and the many people who played. Thanks to all our members who helped out in any way, you all helped to put on a fantastic event that showcased our wonderful little club, and a special thanks to Doug for reviving the event.
Contributed by Megan Barbagallo
Photo credit: Stephen Doig

Forty-three players turned up to play in the Burdekin Motors sponsored bowls day last Thursday, October 26.
Seven rinks were used with 14 randomly selected teams of three contesting for the prizes of $180 for first, $90 for second and $30 for third.
The winning team over 18 ends was decided by four points the win and one point for every end won.
Rink 1: Karl and Mick only played nine ends each, Neville and Mick M, 25, and 13 ends def Norm, Sandra and Peter 7, fine ends.
Rink 2: Lyn, Margaret and Kevin 23, 12 ends def Con, Graham and Len 11, six ends.
Rink 3: Gary, Vince B and David D 17, 11 ends def Helen, Ross and Glen 12, 7 ends.
Rink 4: Ron, Alex and Hugh 15, 10 ends def Paul, Joe and Trevor 14, 8 ends on the last end.
Rink 5: Joe L, Des and Wayne 21, 12 ends def Happy, Jocelyn and Bob 8, 6 ends.
Rink 6: Jim, Dino and Ron 24, 11 ends def John, Dave G, Stephen 18, seven ends.
Rink 7: Judy, Peter and Henry 21, nine ends def Ken, Bob and Rick 17, nine ends.
The winners of the day on Rink 1 was Karl/Mick, Nev & Mick M with 17 points winning $180. 2nd and 3rd with Lyn, Margaret and Kevin on Rink 2 and Joe L, Des and Wayne on Rink 5 with both teams finishing with 16 points while Ross McLaughlin won the raffle.
Contributed by Stephen Doig
Burdekin Motors sponsored bowls day winners Mick M, Karl, Nev and Mick with sponsor Hugh
Equal 2nd were Lyn, Margaret and Kevin and Wayne, Des and Joe with sponsor Hugh. Photo credit: Stephen Doig

The Burdekin’s keenest athletes met at Mount Inkerman last Saturday morning on what turned out to be a spectacular day for the Home Hill Harvest Festival’s King and Queen of the Hill event.
Teams, families, and even four-legged friends joined for the ultimate challenge, the determination to conquer the hill felt throughout the crowd.
Prizes were awarded by Mark Watson from Alliance Pharmacy in Home Hill who also sponsored the event.
Congratulations to all runners who conquered Mount Inkerman in such impressive times.
Home Hill Harvest Festival is hosting Derby Day at the Burdekin Race Club this coming Saturday, November 4 and Golf Ambrose at the Home Hill Golf Club this Sunday, November 5.
Kings and Queens of the Hill
Under 12 Girls - Taylor Chapman - 25.14
Under 12 Boys - Angus Watson - 20.21
13-18yrs Girls - Elle Mitchell - 23.34
13-18yrs Boys - Mac Olsen - 27.38
19-35yrs Ladies - Louise Groth - 23.02
19-35yrs Men - Andrew Parison - 18.49
35+ Ladies - Kerri Christo - 25.07
35+ Men Bryce Davis - 23.33
Taylor Chapman
Angus Watson
Elle Mitchell
Mac Olsen
Louise Groth
Andrew Parison
Kerri Christo
Bryce Davis
Photos supplied: Home Hill Harvest Festival

A couple of special milestones happened in the Under 13s this week with Marshall Parker getting a hattrick and Jacques Gardner hitting his first ever four in a hardball cricket game, finishing on 11 not out at the end of his innings.
Both were deserving of the ‘Player of the Week Awards’ they received after the game.
Other notable mentions with bat and ball were Logan Pickup who scored an unbeaten 13 runs which included 2 fours and Nate Elphinstone who took 2 wickets for only 5 runs.
In the Challenger Blaster’s games Kyle Wilkie and Tate Parker scored the highest partnership with 33 runs, followed by Billie Muilwyk and Jamie Goldsworthy on 25 runs.
Morgan Burrell, Kye Quinlan and Kip Nicholas all bowled really well and each took wickets in their overs.
Queensland Cricket’s Antony Stewart who came down from Townsville to help out was having so much fun with the other Challenger group that he didn’t record any stats for their game.
It didn’t really matter at the end of the game because the players and Antony all had a great time playing cricket.
Contributed by Scott Heidke

Saturday’s senior cricket took to the astro pitch as Home Hill Cricket Association was hosting the North Queensland Cricket Association’s U13 boys representative trials this weekend, with the two unbeaten teams, Crowned Mongrels and Guardian Pharmacy, facing off for an early season lead on the ladder.
Crowned Mongrels won the toss and elected to bat, with opener Lucas Sunderland and number three Adam Camer getting things back on track after an early wicket, scoring 27 off 32 and 21 off 18 respectively.
Guardian Pharmacy then tore through the middle order, taking the next six wickets for only 13 runs, before Alex Stillhard, Joel Hanson and Brad Patti finished the innings strong scoring 29 off 20, 40 off 37 and 12 off 23 respectively.
Bowlers Jd Wilkins, Kane Batchelor and Andrew Cardillo all took two wickets each and Isaac Cardillo, Ross Parker, Daniel Olditch and Doug Mccubbin all took one to have Crowned Mongrels all out for 153 off 24.2 overs.
Guardian Pharmacy also appeared to struggle with the change of conditions, losing their first four wickets for 19 runs.
Joey Southwell batting at six and Daniel Olditch batting at eight were the only two batsmen to score double figures, with 11 from 11 and 39 from 29 not out respectively.
It was too little too late, however, with Crowned Mongrels bowling them out for 80 runs from 15.4 overs to take the victory.
Jack Oborne and David Vass both took two wickets for the bowling team while Leo Olditch, Alex Stillhard, Nicholas Pengelly and Adam Camer all took one.
Some nimble fielding from Leo Olditch and Joel Hanson also saw two run outs with the aid of wicketkeeper Ayden Marano.
With all three teams having played two games each, Crowned Mongrels take a clear lead on ladder winning both their games while Guardian Pharmacy have won one and Peto’s Marine remain on the bottom without a win.
Peto’s Marine will get their chance at redemption when they take on Guardian Pharmacy on Saturday.
Joel Hanson high scored with 40 runs from 37 balls for Peto’s Marine. Photo supplied

Two Burdekin Rugby League teams, known as the Burdekin Delta Dolphins, made a strong showing at the Bindall Sharks All Blacks Carnival in Townsville, reaching the finals of the competition but narrowly missing out on top honours.
Despite facing teams bolstered by current and former NRL players, such as Ben Barba, Josh Dugan, James Roberts, and Gehamat Shibasaki, the Burdekin squads held their own with local pride.
In the women's division, coach Tamara White praised her team's performance, emphasising their commitment to fast, open football. Although the Dolphins were one of the smaller teams at the carnival, their spirited play left a lasting impression. Tamara noted that the presence of physically imposing opponents may have contributed to their final result. Unfortunately, a few key players, including Martina Monday, Teah Lee Monday, and Tamara herself, had to withdraw due to injuries sustained at a prior Mackay carnival.
Local talents like Kazzia Lammon, Kaitlin Daley, Tamika Murdock, Jessica Capper, Logan Roncato, and Jo Morgan, along with Townsville players Chloe and Shaniah Watson and Madison Hegart, delivered standout performances. The women's title ultimately went to the Eastern Warriors, who secured victory with a score of 24-10.
In the men's division, coach Emene Monday encouraged his players to keep it simple and enjoy the game. The Dolphins followed his advice and displayed exceptional teamwork and skill, coming tantalizingly close to securing the Grand Final win. However, they fell just short, losing 20-19 in one of the most memorable games the carnival has seen in years.
Dylan Doak, the five-eight from Roosters A-Grade, received the prestigious title of the overall player of the carnival. Yet, it wasn't only Doak who earned recognition. Leonard Heron was named the player of the series, with hooker Jayden McMinn earning the player of the finals award. Raymond Campbell Jnr was recognized as the most improved player of the carnival, and winger Nemia Nawave stood out as the best-performing back.
Coach Emene Monday expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to the team's success, including Martina Monday, Annie Nauque, Vanessa Monday, Peter Heron, Keon Noah, Gavina, and Michaela. Despite the tough loss in the finals, the Burdekin Delta Dolphins left a lasting mark on the Bindall Sharks All Blacks Carnival, showcasing the region's rugby league talent and spirit.
Contributed by Brian Carnes
The Burdekin Delta Dolphins women’s team at the All Blacks rugby league carnival in Townsville

It’s been a big month for Burdekin FC, capping off a successful season with their senior presentation night at Populins Hall last Saturday, October 28.
The presentation night came after the club marked 50 years of football in the Burdekin with a Gala Dinner earlier in October.
The night was an opportunity to reflect on the 2023 football season, inviting life members, past and present players, committee members, coaches, managers, sponsors and supporters to join the celebrations.
Premier League Men's Awards Winners Kyle Taylor (Coach), Ryan Scodellaro, Jay Leckenby, Oliver Gabiola, Joshua Valle (Coach), Jarrod Camer, Matthew Kolb and Leighton Gallagher (Coach)
Ladies Award Winners Mia Galbraith, Gina Dal Santo (Manager), Kayla Steiner, Amelia Pivotto, Eliza Licciardello, Kya Quagliata, Charlotte Dal Santo and Jay Leckenby (Coach)
Women’s Player of the Year Maddison Dal Santo
Men’s Player of the Year Matthew Walker
Taylah Pearson Memorial Trophy Winner Sian Reardon with parents Bruna and Greg
Club Person of the Year Wayne Kolb
President’s Medal Winner Alan Chatfield. Photos supplied

Over the weekend, eleven of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club members attended the North Australian Championships in Mackay for three gruelling days of competition.
They battled it out in the pool at The Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Centre on Friday for the Pool Rescue Championships, then competing over two days at Mackay Harbour for beach and surf events.
The conditions at the beach were extremely tough with strong winds and large waves, making the weekend a true test of their surf skills and abilities.
Several events were cancelled due to conditions and carnage occurred from broken boards and injuries, but the Ayr crew prevailed and produced some amazing individual and team performances.
Results:
● 2nd – Under 13s Male 100m Patient Tow - Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale
● 3rd – Under 13s/14s Male Medley Relay – Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale
● 1st – Under 12s Female Board Race – Milla Chapman
● 3rd – Under 12s Female Beach Flags – Emma Jones
● 2nd – Under 13s Male 2km Beach Run – Zachary Dale
● 2nd – Under 14s Female 2km Beach Run – Isla Chapman
● 2nd – Under 12s Female Beach Sprint – Milla Chapman
The club returns to normal training this weekend, as well as turning their focus to additional training of lifesaving skills with the North Barrier Branch Surf Rescue Championships carnival held in Ayr on 11th November.
This carnival will allow members to test their knowledge of lifesaving skills including resuscitation, surf awareness, rescue skills and first aid.
Contributed by Kellie Lawry
Parker Bonato and Zachary Dale for Under 13s Male 100m Patient Tow at Pool Rescue Championships
Charlotte Lawry in Under 12s Board Race Final
Emma Jones 3rd in Under 12s Female Beach Flags
Bella Lawry (far left) Start of Under 14s 50m Patient Carry
Isla Chapman - 2nd Under 14s Female 2km Beach Run
Zachary Dale - 2nd Under 13s Male 2km Beach Run
Milla Chapman - 2nd Under 12s Beach Sprint
Under 14 Beach Relay Team - Parker Bonato, Zachary Dale, Isla Chapman and Bella Lawry
Ryley Sartori (second from left) in the start of Under 15 Ironperson Final
Milla Chapman - 1st in Under 12s Female Board Race
Emma Jones with her board for Under 12s
Emma Jones competing in Under 12 Beach Flags
Photos supplied

Tuesday 26th October
Winners, M Nixon, I Cislowski and R Soper Defeated K Stuckler, L Guimelli and B Schultz.
R Moore and H Jorgensen Defeated B Cornford and I Wilson
Thursday 26th October. 3 Bowl Pairs.
I Cislowski and I Wilson Def D Soper and D Lindridge.
M Nixon and P Power Def M Poli and H Jorgensen.
Final play Thursday 2nd November 8.30. M Nixon, P Power against I Cislowski, I Wilson.
Wednesday Social Afternoon
Winners J.Hall, T. Battagia, C.Berkerly
Friday Night Sponsored Event: Crazy Skates
Winners C.Power, B.Hewson, T.Power, M.Power.
Well done, it looks like new champions are emerging.
Friday 24th November will be the last event for this year sponsored by Crazy Skates. Don't miss out, get your team in.
Saturday Social Afternoon
Winners P.Vass, S.Darwin, D.Cutting
Sunday Competition
Mixed Singles winner W.Coonan Defeated J.Hall
Finals of the Club Mixed Triples Championship winners congratulations to M.Chapman, H. Hazel, G.Pearce Runners- up B. Cornford, D.Burt, D.Lindridge
Every Tuesday Ladies Social names in by 12.30.
Contributed by Michael Parravicini.

On Sunday, the annual Sheahan’s Shootout was held. Thanks went to Scott and Judi Sheahan for sponsoring the popular event once again. A stableford was played and then 6-hole numbers were drawn. The stableford points for these 6 holes were totalled. Five players went straight through and a putt off was had to determine the 6th player through.
The six players that went through to the shootout were Mac Jones, Val Smith, Ross Wilkie, Craig O’Keefe, David Falco, and John Power. Val Smith and Mac Jones dropped out after the first hole followed by Craig O’Keefe and Ross Wilkie after the second hole. That left Dave Falco and John Power to fight it out. They both had a par on the final hole to be played so another putt off was had to determine the winner.
David Falco took first prize home and John Power second prize. The daily winner was Ross Wilkie with 44 points from runner-up John Power. Pin shots on 4/13 went to Greg Macelroy, Megan Barbagallo and Bev Macdonald. On 9/18 they were won by Craig O’Keefe, John Power, and Ruth Cooper.
This Sunday is the Harvest Festival Ambrose.
Contributed by Bev MacDonald.

Club nights have officially kicked off for the Burdekin Swimming Club, and their recent ‘come and try’ night made quite a splash with approximately 80 swimmers taking to the water, marking an excellent start to the season.
In addition to the club's dedicated members, swimmers from various swim schools enthusiastically joined the event to have some enjoyable races in a friendly setting. Although club nights emphasise participation rather than competition, each child's performance was timed and recorded. These times serve as personal benchmarks, motivating swimmers to return to the next club night and strive to beat their own personal bests. Those who achieve new personal best times are rewarded with the coveted Freddo's!
The club will be hosting another ‘come and try’ event on the 8th November.
The swim season extends through April next year, and the Burdekin Swimming Club welcomes swimmers of all skill levels and ages. The club currently has swimming ranging in age from five to 50 years old. Participants can engage in all swim strokes or focus on the ones they are most comfortable with. Beyond the fun and fitness aspects, the swim club also offers opportunities for those aspiring to improve their times. Swimmers have the chance to attend competitions where they can challenge themselves against peers from around the region.
Club nights are held every Wednesday night, with a 6pm start time. Further information can often be found on the club's Facebook page, or inquiries can be directed to the club via email at info@basc.net.au. Newcomers are welcomed to attend three free club nights before making a commitment.
The club will be hosting another ‘come and try’ night on 8th November.
Mark your calendars, as the Burdekin Swimming Club will host another exciting "Come and Try" night on November 8th. It's a fantastic opportunity to dive into the world of swimming and experience the camaraderie and thrill of the sport.
Burdekin Swimming Club kicked off its season with a successful ‘come and try’ night, welcoming swimmers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the water. Photo supplied: Burdekin Swimming Club
Burdekin Swimming Club launched its season with a bustling participation night, emphasising personal progress, and promoting the joy of swimming. Photos supplied: Burdekin Swimming Club

A beautiful morning unfolded at Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club's Points Day event at Alva Beach last weekend. Under the warm sun, club members and supporters gathered for a day of beachside enjoyment.
While Ayr Beach set the scene for Points Day, some devoted club members are preparing for one of the biggest competitions on the Queensland lifesaving calendar. This weekend, they will travel to Mackay, where over 1000 participants and spectators from the Gold Coast to Cairns will converge. Their goal is to compete for the prestigious title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2023. It's an exciting opportunity for our club to showcase their skills and spirit on a grand stage.
For those not participating in the North Aussies, the Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club continues to nurture the next generation of lifesavers through their Nippers program. Every Sunday morning, children have the chance to learn the ins and outs of surf lifesaving. This family-friendly sport encourages young ones to build their confidence, acquire vital safety skills for the ocean, and have a fantastic time by the seaside.
Ayr Surf Lifesaving Club is committed to promoting safety, confidence, and a profound appreciation for the beach, ensuring that our future generations have the skills and knowledge to enjoy the ocean while staying safe.
Last weekend’s Points Day event at Alva Beach. Photos supplied