Supporting Local Sport, Strengthening Local Community

One organisation that continues to benefit from Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s support is the Burdekin Netball Association, a club with a proud history spanning more than 50 years. Photo supplied

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For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, supporting local sporting organisations is about far more than sponsorship—it is about investing back into the people, families and future of the Burdekin community.

Up to 80% of the community bank profits generated locally are returned to local initiatives, helping sporting groups, schools and community organisations continue to grow and provide opportunities close to home. Supporting grassroots sport remains a strong focus for the community bank, recognising the important role clubs play in bringing people together, encouraging healthy lifestyles and creating lifelong connections.

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One organisation that continues to benefit from this support is the Burdekin Netball Association, a club with a proud history spanning more than 50 years.

What began in 1970 as Home Hill Netball, formed by a group of local women who recognised the need for a dedicated sport for women in the community, has grown into one of the Burdekin’s most important grassroots sporting organisations. As participation expanded beyond Home Hill, the association officially became the Burdekin Netball Association in 1992, reflecting the strong regional support that continues today.

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A spokesperson for the Burdekin Netball Association said netball plays an important role in connecting people throughout the region.

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“Netball allows children from different schools to interact and meet other children, while also creating a social environment for locals and people who are new to the region to connect through team sport,” the spokesperson said.

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The association caters for all ages and abilities, with members starting from as young as five years old through to players over 50. Alongside local junior and ladies competitions, the association also runs a mixed competition later in the year and supports representative pathways for athletes aiming to compete at State carnival level.

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“Our local pathway allows members to trial for our Silverlinks squad that participates in the Townsville competitions, giving players the opportunity to further develop their skills and compete at a higher level,” the spokesperson said.

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Importantly, the Burdekin Netball Association says strong community support is what keeps the organisation thriving. Volunteers, families and local supporters all play a vital role in ensuring competitions, carnivals and events continue to run successfully each year.

“Without assistance from our volunteers and facilities, our association would not be able to operate as efficiently as it does,” the spokesperson said. “Many hands make light work and when our families are called to help, they assist willingly and happily.”

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The association says the long-standing partnership with Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has helped strengthen the club both on and off the court. Recent contributions from the bank have included funding towards a future training wall and storage shed, helping the association work toward creating a dedicated practice and spectator space for local families.

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“Associations like ours could not survive without support from local businesses,” the spokesperson said.

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“Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has been a major supporter for many years and their staff have also assisted at functions held by us. Their presence is always welcomed.”

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Looking ahead, the Burdekin Netball Association is planning a major redevelopment of its courts, grounds and clubhouse facilities, ensuring the sport can continue to grow for generations to come.

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Contributed with thanks to Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr

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