The friendly yet passionate rivalry between Home Hill and Ayr was on show on Sunday, October 8 as Town of Origin pitted the two towns against each other in games of cricket, netball, and rugby league.

Home Hill Harvest Festival President Mark Vass said the event drew a bigger crowd than previous years, saying the committee was pleased with the day.

“As long as people keep turning up like that, we’ll keep putting it on,” he said.

“I’d like to really thank the community for supporting it and the players for keeping it going because without them, we’ve got nothing to go and watch.”

Sponsored by North Queensland Hardfacing and Burdekin Tyres, Town of Origin is one of many events held as part of the Home Hill Harvest Festival.

The next event, the Ironman Challenge, will be on Friday, October 20 at Watson’s Green, Home Hill.
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Ayr barged over for the first try of the game in their grudge match against Home Hill on Sunday. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

A team filled with newcomers to the sport of basketball, the Burdekin Wildcat under 12 girls have done their region proud in the 2023 season.

With four representative players returning, six of the girls had not experienced representative basketball before with five being brand new to sport.

“Both as a team and as individuals we improved out of sight,” said Coach Kate Gaze.

“From our very first session as a group to where we ended the season, it really is a credit to the girls for all the hard work and extra sessions they put in during the year.”

Entering the North Queensland Junior Basketball Competition’s second division, the team only lost one game throughout the whole season.

“Throughout the season, we started off extremely strong and straight away we were the team to beat,” Ms Gaze said.

“The other teams all improved but so did we.

“During the season we were challenged, but the girls always kept their cool and never gave up.”

The team’s most recent challenge came when they travelled to Ipswich for State Championships, held from September 21 to 24.

The team placed fourth overall in Division 2, winning four of their five pool matches and going down by a narrow five points in the bronze medal decider.

“Our defence during the week is what I am proudest of,” Ms Gaze said.

“It was clear each player was concentrating and thinking about what they have been taught during the season, and they should be very proud of the growth and improvement they demonstrated in each game.”

Ms Gaze congratulated the team for their 2023 success and said she is proud to be their coach.

“This team stuck together all season, trained hard, supported each other and were great teammates and friends,” she said.

“I wish each player all the best and hope they continue to play this wonderful game and continue to represent the Burdekin Wildcats with pride.”

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Teresa Kennedy (assistant coach), Kate Gaze (Coach), Scarlett Sinclair, Ivy Martin, Bella Galbraith, Kelsey Laidlow, Emily Lyne, Rachel Martin (Manager), Ashlee Colls (assistant Coach), with Chloe Bowen, Allie Boland, Kiera Bozzetto, Flynn Nurzenski, and Darci Colls. Photo supplied

Seniors Juniors

Barra Austin Cannavan – 4.3

Bream Michelle Parrant – 0.56 Leon Lawrence – 0.57

Cod Jamie Hervey – 0.77 Darcy Sutcliffe – 0.66

Flathead Kerry O’Connor – 0.63

Grunter Jack Campbell – 1.76 Jazmin Sutcliffe – 0.47

Mangrove Jack Brett Harding – 0.93 Parker Widderick – 1.23

Mudcrab Mark Bishop – 1.25 Parker Widderick – 1.10

Salmon Ben Lawrence – 0.95

Whiting Lauren Hervey – 0.26 Darcy and Jazmine Sutcliffe – 0.25 x 2

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Photos supplied: Giru International Hotel

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Mark your calendars for a thrilling weekend of dirt track racing as the 2023 Club Championships Round 3 revs up on Saturday, October 7th. The excitement is building, and you won't want to miss out on the high-speed action set to unfold on the Brandon track.

Due to overwhelming enthusiasm from participants, the club had to limit entries for Club Day Two. The last club day was a roaring success, featuring a whopping 14 classes and two distinct track styles. Six rounds of intense racing left riders and spectators alike thoroughly satisfied.

Racing kicks off at 3 pm, and the club invites all spectators to come and witness the incredible talent of riders as they navigate the challenging dirt track with precision and skill.

Here's a glimpse of the featured classes:

50cc Demo (Non-Competitive)

50cc Demo (4-U9 years)

50cc Auto

50cc Auto Div. 2 (7-U9 years)

65cc 2-stroke

65cc (7-U9 years)

65cc 2-stroke

65cc (9-U13 years)

85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke

85cc (9-U13 years)

85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke

85cc (12-U16 years)

100cc to 150cc 2-stroke

125cc (13-U16 years)

200cc to 250cc 4-stroke

Junior 250cc (13-U16 years)

Flat Track - Pro 250

Senior 250cc

Flat Track - Pro 450

Senior 450cc

Flat Track - Women's

Senior Women Unlimited

Open Unlimited

Unlimited A

Open Unlimited

Unlimited B

Open Unlimited

Veterans - 35+ years

Prepare for a weekend of adrenaline-pumping thrills and incredible racing talent. Be there at 3 pm to cheer on these talented riders as they take on the dirt track in pursuit of victory. It's an event you won't want to miss!

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Action from AMCC Club Day 2. Photo credit: Taylor Photographics

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BMXers Ride Mackay’s Sugar City Classic

Last weekend, the Burdekin BMX Club set off for the highly anticipated Sugar City Classic, a thrilling BMX extravaganza that unfolded over three action-packed days across tracks in Walkerston, Mackay, and Sarina! With adrenaline-pumping races and fierce competition, it was a weekend to remember for BMX enthusiasts and spectators alike.

The Burdekin club showed up in full force, boasting an impressive contingent of 15 riders who travelled to the event, marking the largest representation the club has ever had at the Sugar City Classic. We'll have the complete Sugar City Classic results for you in our next edition.

Building on their strong performances at the State Championships the previous weekend, the McIntosh family once again proved their mettle on the BMX track by quickly finding podium placings.

Here's a recap of their outstanding achievements at the State Championships:

State Championships Results

Saturday racing

Deon Mcintosh 13 boys 20" semi finals

Holly Mcintosh 11 girls 20" semi finals

Sunday

Holly Mcintosh 11-12 cruiser - motos

Deon Mcintosh 13-14 cruiser 5Q

Brad Mcintosh 40-44 cruiser men 5Q

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Burdekin BMX Club sent 15 riders to Mackay’s Sugar City Classic, the biggest team to represent the Burdekin at this event

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As we approach the climax of the monthly medal competition at the Ayr Ladies Golf Club, the competition among the talented ladies is reaching fever pitch, all vying for the opportunity to secure a place in the coveted end-of-year monthly medal final. On a day blessed with relatively calm weather conditions, the golf course witnessed some truly remarkable performances, setting the stage for an exciting weekend ahead as 80 women golfers geared up for the Ayr Ladies Open.

In the A grade category, it was Pat Lawson who emerged as the undisputed champion, demonstrating her prowess with a stellar net score of 73. She was closely followed by Janet Trezise, who displayed impressive form with a net score of 74, while Shirley Jones rounded out the top three with a commendable net score of 76.

Over in the B grade division, Sandra Wight delivered a standout performance to claim the top honours, carding an exceptional net score of 66. The rising star, Gabby Cahill, showed her promise by securing the second position with a net score of 69, while Betty Durrant wrapped up the top three spots with a net score of 73.

In the C grade category, Ingrid Vaes continued her remarkable run, producing yet another stellar round and accumulating an impressive 43 points to secure the top spot. Angie Baxter put up a valiant effort and secured the second position with a score of 42 points, while Lorraine Henderson exhibited her skill and determination to finish in third place with 34 points.

Ayr Ladies Open results will be covered in next week’s edition.

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The Burdekin Swimming Club, affectionately known as the Burdekin Torpedoes, is gearing up for an exciting start to its club nights, which commence tomorrow evening (Friday).

With a total of 18 events planned (9 this year and 9 in the upcoming year), the club will be hosting 14 of these events in Ayr and 4 in Home Hill. As members, individuals also have the opportunity to represent the Burdekin Swim Club at swim meets. Club Nights provide swimmers with the ideal platform to demonstrate their skills in a carnival-like atmosphere, racing against the clock.

It's time to dive in and make a splash! Contact the Torpedoes and enjoy a sport that allows you to stay cool in the pool.

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10-year-old Mark Wilkie has been playing cricket for over a year and loves batting, saying his favourite player is David Warner.

“I play out on the fields here with a hard ball,” Mark said.

“I like that we can see our friends and have fun.”

Mark attended the Brisbane Heat Holiday Clinic at the Home Hill Cricket Association last week before travelling to Charters Towers for the NQ Country Cup where he high scored with 9 runs.

The biggest tip he learnt at the holiday clinic was to “always get ready and no hands in the pockets while you’re fielding.”

The holiday session was facilitated and run by Antony Stewart, Cricket Manager North for Queensland Cricket.

“It’s just six hours of a lot of fun, doing a lot of cricket skills and then we end it with a big game of cricket at the end of the day,” Mr Stewart said.

“You want to make the cricket experience as fun as it can possibly be, you want to make it a memorable experience.

“It’s nonstop cricket action and a lot of it is just playing games, the kids don’t even realise they’re learning but we’re trying to enhance the hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and we do that through the games.”

Home Hill Cricket Association holds junior cricket on Friday nights for kids aged 7-17.

“While they’re competitive and kids always want to win, it’s a bit more relaxed, they’ve got the music playing, the canteen will be open, they’ve got awesome volunteers down here, there’s just a really good family vibe,” Mr Stewart said.

“Burdekin would certainly like to have a few more young players playing and they’re working really hard, they’ve got some really good coaches here and they’ve upgraded their facilities since last year.

“Once kids start playing, they love it and they want to keep playing so we have to get them here in the first place.”

The 2023/24 cricket season is about to begin and Home Hill Cricket Association would like to welcome all new and returning players.

Junior cricket for kids aged 7 - 17 starts on Friday October 6 at the Nutrien Ag Solutions cricket fields in Home Hill, with Blast Cricket for 5–7-year-olds starting on Tuesday October 10 at East Ayr State School.  The Senior cricket competition starts Saturday October 14 with social but competitive 25 over games each Saturday afternoon.

If you’re interested in playing cricket this summer or would like some more information, please contact Home Hill Cricket Association at homehillca@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.

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Two Home Hill teams travelled to Charters Towers last weekend for the NQ Country Cup. Photo credit: Antony Stewart

12 kids enjoyed a day of cricket in Home Hill last week thanks to Queensland Cricket. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Fishing is one of the Burdekin’s most popular pastimes, and the Burdekin District Sportsfishing Club is one organisation bringing people together over their mutual love of wetting a line.

The fishing club meets once a month where fishing will open on a Friday evening and close on a Sunday afternoon.

The club will then meet at a member’s residence for a barbecue and to weigh in their catches on the Sunday night.

Being a sportsfishing club, the lighter the line used, the more points are scored.

The fishing club is Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA) affiliated and fishes under ANSA rules.

Join Burdekin District Sportsfishing Club on Facebook for more information.

Catches Of The Month

Rian Berryman and George Mclees both had good catches at the club’s last meet.

Rian caught a barra on prawn lures, while George’s grunter was caught on bait, believed to be a prawn.

George had a good laugh as he reeled in the grunter because he knew it was a little bigger than Rian's from their last trip.

Rian and George weighed the barra and grunter in at the last fishing club weigh in.

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Rian Berryman and George Mclees

Five-year-old Isabelle Sutcliffe with bream

Ellie Sutcliffe with a jack that took slab bait

Russell Sutcliffe with Grunter

Three-year-old Henry Sutcliffe and Isabelle Sutcliffe weighing their catch in at a BBQ

Photos supplied: Simone Sutcliffe

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The Home Hill Tennis Association wrapped up the 2023 Burdekin Open and Age Tournament with two days of strong windy conditions making tennis challenging for all.

Despite this, the event was a great success with the 70 competitors displaying great sportsmanship and respect for their opponents throughout the event.

Players came from across the state with a large contingent from the southeast corner, up to Cairns and all places in between including a large group from Pioneer Tennis in Mackay, Charters Towers and Western Suburbs in Townsville.

Two new champions held up the Davies and McLaughlin Trophies in the Open events with Rudy Thorogood and Lily Shepherd.

Local Dallan Garvey teamed up with Townsville player Mikayla Zahirovic to take out the Open Mixed Doubles.  

Dallan played tactically using the wind to his advantage, finishing a solid fourth in the Men’s singles.

Club players showed great support for their events with strong competition in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

Everyone agreed it was good fun whether they won or lost.

The club would like to thank their loyal sponsors, players and volunteers who made this tournament possible.

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2023 Burdekin Open and Age Tournament Results

Open Ladies Singles: Lily Shepherd (Mackay)

Open Mens Singles: Rudy Thorogood (Brisbane)

Open Mixed Doubles: Dallan Garvey (Home Hill) and Mikayla Zahirovic (Townsville)

Club Mens Singles: Allan Kemp (Townsville) and Finalist Aidan Slatcher (Home Hill), 4th Daniel Caddies (Home Hill)

Club Ladies Singles Div 1: Paula Simpson (Townsville)

Club Ladies Singles Div 2: Brooke Davies (Townsville formerly Home Hill) and Home Hill’s Tennis Coach Kayla Accornero

Club Mens Doubles: Daniel Caddies and Aidan Slatcher (Home Hill)

Club Ladies Doubles Div 1: Donna Sunderland (Home Hill) & Keren Richardson (Townsville)

Club Ladies Doubles Div 2: Brooke Davies & Kylie Newman (Townsville formerly Home Hill) and Finalists Sahra Prescott and Donna Sgroi (Home Hill)

Club Mixed Doubles: Scott Kittle and Paula Simpson (Townsville)

10 & U Singles: Cooper Edwards (Cairns)

10 & U Doubles: Tasha & Vanesse Fitzgerald (Cairns)

12/14 Boys Singles: Raice Gibbons (Mackay)

16 & U Boys Singles: Riley Carr (Ingham) and Julian Bates (Charters Towers)

Boys Doubles: Reyne and Raice Gibbons (Mackay)

14 & U Girls Singles: Ruby Owen (Brisbane)

14 & U Girls Doubles: Ellie Argent and Saebra Brayshaw (Brisbane)

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Club Doubles Mens Winners L-R Aidan Slatcher, Daniel Caddies, Bruce Wootten and Ben Wootten

Club Doubles Ladies Div 1 L-R Keren Richardson, Donna Sunderland, life member Steve Sunderland, Paula Simpson and Monica Milesi

Club Doubles Ladies Div 2 L-R Brooke Davies, Kylie Newman, Life member Steve Sunderland, Sahra Prescott and Donna Sgroi

Open Mens Winners L-R Rudy Thorogood, Mitchell Wescott, life member Steve Sunderland and Lucas Chansoosen

Open Ladies Winners Zedneiyar Meafua-Ur and Lily Shepherd

Brooke Davies and family

Home Hill Supporters Torrie Davies, Mick Zabala, Tony Carrett and Dallan Garvey

Photo credit: Kate Casswell

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In an unforgettable 2023 rugby union season, the Burdekin Rugby Union Club left an indelible mark, triumphing in a dramatic Reserve Grade Grand Final showdown. Building on the previous year's independence from A-grade, the team's journey was marked by talent, resilience, and unyielding determination.

By the time mid-season arrived, the Reserve Grade boasted an impressive record of six wins and two losses. The team had started to take shape, with a backline that bore a striking resemblance to the renowned Fiji Bati, a youthful forward pack, and the experience of players like Hugh Leeson-Smith and Chris Baker added further depth to the squad, making them a formidable competitor.

In the elimination final, Burdekin faced a formidable Teachers West team known for their physicality and confidence. As rugby aficionados know, the forward pack often determines the outcome, while the backline determines the margin of victory. The young Burdekin pack rose to the occasion, outmatching and outlasting Teachers in every aspect of the game. Notable performances by Robbie Cantarella, who scored two crucial tries, and workhorse Aaron Peters were instrumental in securing the victory.

The grand final match against Brothers was a heart-pounding roller coaster of emotions. Despite the adversity of losing live-wire halfback Zac Nolan, the team rallied behind the selfless Hugh Leeson-Smith, who delivered an outstanding all-around performance. The game had it all, from charge-down tries to long-distance efforts and even extra time, pushing both teams to their limits.

In front of an electrifying Burdekin crowd, the team got off to a flying start, leading 14-0. The forward pack dominated Brothers, with Robbie Canterella and Wainui Matainavora giving their all. However, Brothers mounted a comeback, tying the game at 14-all at halftime. The tension continued for 70 intense minutes, with no clear winner emerging as the final whistle blew, leaving the score at 28-all.

Extra time seemed to bring out the best in Burdekin's playing group, especially Joeli Lutumailagi and Isireli Nasawalu, who launched a two-try onslaught that sealed the victory with a final score of 38-28. The win was a testament to the team's incredible performance and their ability to shine in critical moments, marked by brilliant individual displays.

Special congratulations were in order for Nemia Nawave, who was named Player of the Final, recognising his exceptional contribution to the team's success.

Head Coach, Jeff Sullivan, said he was extremely proud of the way the Burdekin boys bonded throughout the season, forever learning, and progressively improving to keep cool heads under pressure in the final. He made special mention of Captains, Chris Baker, CJ Nolan and Xander Barnard for their leadership and encouragement of the team.

The 2023 season will forever be etched in the annals of Burdekin Rugby Union Club's history as they showcased their talent, tenacity, and teamwork on their path to grand final glory.

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Reserve Grade 2023 champions

Nemia Nawave was named Player of the Final

On Friday, September 15, the last bowl was sent down the rink at Home Hill Community Sports Club by Joe Linton.

The next morning, 14 players and club members turned up to begin the dusty and dirty task of ripping up the carpet and clearing out the drainage ditches surrounding the green.

Monday, September 18 saw the arrival of the contractor from Brisbane to begin laying the new green.

Upon completion, the new green will be named Rummeny Green after club patron Karl Rummeny, who turns 100 years young in December.

The Home Hill Bowling Club first opened in 1930.

In 1961, the cement surrounds were completed, the date engraved in concrete and only discovered after removing the carpet beside the clubhouse.

The green was last upgraded in 2009 when it was opened by the then Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens.

The committee currently consists of President Trevor Elton, Vice President Lloyd Shepard, Treasurer Wayne Newton, Secretary John Clark and Public Relations and Games Coordinator Stephen Doig.

Social bowls is played on Thursday afternoons commencing at 1:30pm, Friday nights from 6:00pm with weekend bowls hoping to commence in the near future.

The club has a function room and a licensed bar area, hosting regular community events including bingo on Friday mornings, craft on Wednesday mornings and fitness.

The club will host a reopening event upon the completion of the new green with a date and time to be confirmed.

Contributed by Stephen Doig

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Home Hill Community Sports Club President Trevor Elton and Public Relations and Games Coordinator Stephen Doig overseeing the laying down of a new green. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Following a short hiatus during the school holidays, Ayr Junior Golf is gearing up for an exciting return on Saturday, October 7. The break saw some of its members showcase their skills at the Cairns Junior Open and the Townsville Junior Open. To kick things off, the young golfers will benefit from coaching sessions led by Darryl, setting the stage for the customary 3, 6, or 9-hole competitions.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 14, as Ayr Junior Golf will host the October Monthly Medal event, building anticipation for the eagerly awaited two-day Karrie Webb Junior Masters scheduled for October 21 and 22.

As always, Ayr Junior Golf extends a warm welcome to new members interested in joining the ranks. For additional information, please reach out to juniorcaptain@ayrgc.com. It's time to tee off and embrace the world of junior golfing!

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Junior golfers are being kept busy in the school holidays with the Cairns and Townsville Junior Opens, followed by the Karrie Webb Junior Masters October 21 and 22

In a showcase of community support and sporting camaraderie, the Burdekin Tyre Service Day 2023 witnessed a vibrant gathering at the Ayr Golf Club. Pam and Jason Guy, renowned for their unwavering backing of sports across the Burdekin region, once again displayed their generosity by sponsoring this year's captivating partner day.

The event, which featured a 4-ball best ball (4bbb) format, attracted the participation of 25 enthusiastic ladies, all eager to showcase their golfing prowess. The competition was fierce, with impressive scores punctuating the day's play, and the distribution of prizes extended down to the fifth spot.

However, it was Donna Reid and Ingrid Vaes who emerged as the day's shining stars, displaying a remarkable synergy that propelled them to the top with 45 points. Their outstanding performance is sure to turn heads as they gear up for the upcoming Ayr Open.

The competition remained intense as four teams finished closely behind with 43 points each. In a nail-biting countback, Janet Trezise and Loretta Mauro secured the second spot, edging past the formidable duo of Betty Durrant and Sandra Wight. Meanwhile, Angie Baxter and Kim Manty held their own to secure the fourth position, followed closely by Tuk Williams and Lorraine Henderson in fifth place.

The Ayr Golf Club community now eagerly anticipates the upcoming Peagham Honour Board 4bbb event on Saturday, followed by the thrilling 9-hole Burnt Sugar afternoon challenge on Sunday.

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In a display of family camaraderie, the McIntosh Family made their mark at the BMX State Championships held at Coolooa BMX Club in Gympie. Bradley McIntosh competed in the masters in the 40-44 Cruiser Men category, Deon raced in the 13 Boys and 13-14 Cruiser Boys categories, while sister, Holly, rode in the 11 Girls and 11-12 Cruiser Girls divisions.

The McIntosh Family's journey to the championships was a testament to their love for the fast-paced sport of BMX. Riding fearlessly through every fast corner, they showcased their skills and determination on the track.

BMXers in the Burdekin race every Wednesday night and enjoy Sunday Fundays filled with thrilling rides and friendly competition. Their training sessions are organised into skill groups, ensuring that everyone, from rookies to seasoned riders, can improve their abilities.

Lisa Purssell, President of Burdekin BMX, expressed the club's enthusiasm for the upcoming season. "We are having the most amazing time at Burdekin BMX and look forward to the season ahead," she said. "Our biggest and most talked-about carnival of the year is on the horizon, taking place on the 18th and 19th of November. We anticipate hosting 150-200 riders and their families from across the region for an unforgettable weekend of BMX action."

To make this event even more remarkable, Burdekin BMX is actively seeking sponsors. Their commitment to promoting BMX and community engagement is evident, and they welcome any support to make the carnival a resounding success.

Recently, Burdekin BMX held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), welcoming a new committee that is eager to steer the club towards a promising future. With fresh ideas and a passion for the sport, the club looks forward to a year filled with exciting events and opportunities for riders of all ages.

For those interested in joining the BMX fun or supporting Burdekin BMX, whether as a rider, sponsor, or enthusiast, they can visit the club's Facebook page for more information.

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The McIntosh Family travelled to Coolooa BMX club in Gympie for The Cycling Queensland BMX State Championships

Deon launching off the start line at the State Championships. Credit: Tahlia Jayne Photography