Sit Down With Sam

Hi readers

I can’t believe footy is back.

It doesn’t feel like that long ago that I was taking to page two to lament over the Broncos’ heartbreaking loss in last year’s NRL grand final – and while I’ve learnt to deal with it, that wound is one that will never heal – but I’m excited to see what 2024 has instore for my mighty Broncos.

While I acknowledge that the Pre-Season Challenge means little in the scheme of the competition, a win is a win and I’ve been impressed with the early signs from the team.

Footy coming back to our screens is exciting enough, but I must admit that I’ve been utterly swept up by the hype surrounding the season openers in Las Vegas.

I’ve been keeping a close eye on social media to see what the boys have been getting up to over there and which American athletes and celebrities they’ve found themselves in company with.

I can’t wait to see the spectacle of the Brisbane Broncos taking to the field of Allegiant Stadium on Sunday and hope to see a solid performance against the Roosters to kick their season off the right way.

This edition of Burdekin Life sees the first instalment of our footy tipping competition, so flick to pages 34-35 to check out how the locals see round one panning out.

I’m also looking forward to my first opportunity to catch the Burdekin Roosters in action as their season kicks off soon.

Their A Grade side has been dealt an early blow with the unexpected departure of coach Daniel Beazley ahead of his first season at the helm – flick to page 37 to catch all the details.

And in personal news, my beautiful girlfriend Jakita will be visiting from Brisbane this week, and I’m excited to give her some more insight into my day-to-day up here.

From social lawn bowls in Home Hill to climbing Mount Inkerman and a camping trip over the weekend, I’m keen to give her a quintessential week in the Burdekin.

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