In September the Home Hill Choral Society presented Going Troppo, a comedy musical about being stranded on a tropical island. The performance captivated audiences with its light-hearted humour. Over four shows, nearly 200 people attended, making it a resounding success. The musical cleverly combined tropical themes, vibrant costumes, and witty dialogue to create an entertaining escape for theatre-goers. The cast brought island misadventures to life with energetic singing and comedic timing, le
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Brian Giddy, a familiar voice on Sweet FM, has been a radio host for four years. His journey into broadcasting began with a suggestion from his friend Cheryl, leading him to a post-retirement passion that perfectly blended his love for music with community service. “I always wanted to do something when I retired, and I love music,” Brian reflects. His involvement in the choral society and a fondness for classic tunes from his youth laid the groundwork for his on-air presence. “I enjoy playing
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Local The Final games of the 2024 North Queensland season were played last weekend in the Crad Evans Shield. At the end of every season the Champion teams from North Queensland play their counterparts in Far North Queensland. This year the eight senior games were played in Townsville. No Burdekin teams were minor Premiers and so were not involved. In the Main Men’s games, in the Premier Division MA Olympic lost 3-5 to Marlin Coast Rangers and in the Under 23s (Reserves) Estates were beaten 2-3
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The Burdekin Hockey Association is gearing up for their Hacker’s Cup 5-A-Side Mixed Hockey Carnival set for Saturday 19 October, and is calling for the community to register their teams for what will be an action-packed competition. The Association hopes to see players of all skill levels take to the Ayr Junior Rugby League Fields, and has extended an invitation for all old, new, and retired players to register. Each team must hold a maximum of eight players and must field two female / junior p
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Saturday 5th of October 1.00pm to 5.00pm (Patrol Group D) Ben Lawry, Kellie Lawry, Zac Dale, Parker Bonato, Richard Dale, Bella Lawry, William Holt, Sharli Archibald, Danica Archibald, Lisa Vivian, Kristy Wassmuth, Briella Wassmuth. Sunday 6th of October 9.00am to 1.00pm (Patrol Group B) Terry Lund, Tramayne Horan, Dylan Carew, Heather Scott, Anita Giddy, Jan Hatherell, Gabriel Hatherell, Toby Wilson, Danny Wilson. Sunday 6th Of October 1.00pm to 5,00pm (Patrol Group G) Carl List, Jimmy Hayil
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On Wednesday 25 September, the Brandon Bowls Club hosted an impressive turn out on the green for a great afternoon of bowling. In the A-grade women's category, two exciting games took place. Lyn Storrie claimed victory over Sandra Darwen, while Darelle Pearce defeated Joy Woods. In the mixed game, the team of Kevin Collins, Vanda Ballao, Colleen Olsen, and Alan Garioch triumphed over Kaye Garner, Ann Newton, Lyn Farr, and Helen Collins. The Club extends a friendly invitation to the community to
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The Home Hill Golf Club hosted a wonderful day on the green on Sunday 29 September for Round 7 of their Pennants competition. With a few gaps, the Club thanked those players who stepped up to have a swing and celebrated many awesome achievements as a result. Craig O'Keeffe had an impressive round shooting 2 under and finishing with 38 points, and John Power was runner up with 36 points in a countback from Amy Smail. Pin shots went to (4/13) Simon Power, Peter Dale & John-Ross Dale. (9/18) Owen
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Looking for a sport that's social, exciting, and perfect for all ages and fitness levels? Pickleball is the game for you! Whether you’re new to racquet sports or a seasoned player, Pickleball offers both social and competitive play in a fun and welcoming environment. Join the fun at the Home Hill Tennis Association, in the middle of the Home Hill Race Track where you can enjoy the energy, laughter, and action that comes with every game. No need to be a super athlete - just show up, grab a paddle
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Several perpetual awards were presented at the Burdekin Roosters Awards Night last week with the Prestigious Norm Dee Award for the player showing all aspects of club sprit on and off the field went to A grade player, Tate Brombal. Tate devotes his spare time coaching the Clubs under 7 team which means Tuesday and Thursday afternoon and Saturday morning whilst also attending working bees and Goose Clubs. Jye Olsen was the most outstanding Junior with Frenchman Paul the Rookie of the year. Full
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With the conclusion of the school holidays registrations have now opened for the Burdekin Touch Football Association’s Junior League. The Junior season runs over the next ten weeks as part of the school term with games played each Friday evening. Young players of all skill levels are invited to attend the Junior Touch Sign On this Friday, 4 October, at the Burdekin Touch Association Clubhouse from 5pm to 5:30pm.
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Sunday 29 September Home Hill Harvest Festival Canefields Ephemera Exhibition & LaunchSaturday from 3pmOn September 29th at 3pm join the highly anticipated Ephemera and Harvest Festival Launch. This exciting event marks the beginning of our festival celebrations, where attendees have the chance to meet the 2024 Harvest Festival Queens in person. Immerse yourself in creativity as you explore captivating art installations on display and cast your vote for your favourite piece. Don’t miss this oppo
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At just 16 years old, Beau Easton of the Burdekin has made waves in the international bull riding community by securing third place at the World Bull Riding Championship in the United States. However, despite his impressive accomplishment, the young cowboy remains as humble as ever, according to his mother, Jolene Easton. “Beau doesn’t like the attention,” Jolene shared. “He’s a man of few words, so if you asked him how it feels, he’d probably just say it was alright.” While Beau may be mode
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Hi Everyone, I thought I’d jump on here this issue to say a big thank you to all of you for supporting this newspaper for a full year! Yep, this issue officially clocks-up our first trip around the sun and we wouldn’t be here without all of you. What started with a phone call from local resident Neil Williams asking us to bring back a local community to the Burdekin has resulted in such a meaningful connection with all of you. The support of both loyal readers and local businesses mean we ca
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I would like to share my good news experience that happened to me. My name is Valarie Edwards, and I am 96. In November I will be 97. I have asked Rita Quagliata from BCA to help me to share my story for me. I wanted to share this because it is worth mentioning and for people in our community to know, that help is out there when or if you need it. I had just come out of hospital, and was home only a few days, when I started feeling sick again. But I ignored it. I thought nothing of it. My sup
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Grassroots netball in the Burdekin has received a massive boost with the announcement of $3.5 million in funding from the LNP, a lifeline for the Burdekin Netball Association as it continues to grow the sport and support its local players. The funding will enable the association to install new courts, upgrade the lighting, and construct a new clubhouse and seating, addressing safety issues that have plagued the facility in recent years. The improvements are critical to ensuring the sport’s futur
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National Police Remembrance Day, held every September, is a heartfelt occasion to honour the courageous Police Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This year, ceremonies will be held throughout Queensland and across the nation, reflecting our deep respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our communities safe. On Friday, 27th September 2024, the National Police Remembrance Day Service will take place at 10:00 am at the Burdekin Community Church in Ayr. Duri
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Burdekin Shire Council invites all community members to come and celebrate a whopping 30 Years of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council on Saturday 12 October from 3:00 pm. Reflecting on the last three decades, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council has played a pivotal role in providing a voice for young people from all high schools and townships in the Burdekin, and often guide Council’s decision making around matters related to youth. The Burdekin Shire Youth Council was founded in 1994 under the leader
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Selectability has officially opened a dedicated mental health facility, a space that aims to provide essential services for mental health and suicide prevention. The inspiration behind this much-needed facility stemmed directly from the community. “Before Selectability moves into an area, we conduct a survey. In this case, 93% of respondents said they needed a dedicated facility to support mental health and suicide prevention,” said Bryn Hicks, Regional Coordinator. The facility offers a vari
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The anticipation and excitement surrounding the 2024 Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival has reached new heights with the recent announcement of the celebration’s seven impressive 2024 Queens. Being a Harvest festival Queen stands as a prestigious role and an incredible opportunity for each of the young women to engage with the heart of their community in a deeply meaningful way. The 2024 Queens will make their official debut on Sunday 29 September at the Harvest Festival Launch
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Well done to all our sporting clubs who have recently represented the Burdekin. The Roosters (Rugby League), the Toads (Union), The Panthers (Football) have all had senior teams in grand finals recently. Although they all fell just short of avoiding a sad Sunday, they should all feel proud that they have reminded our neighbouring towns that we a rich with talent and heart. Not to be left out, our junior clubs are also representing in proud fashion. Tennis, Basketball, Rugby League, and Golf are
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Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Burdekin Chamber meeting, where one of our main focuses was on the Burdekin gift cards which is a great initiative to keep money circulating within our community. Also discussed was the future of our community and the need for strong leadership. A crisis meeting is being held this week to address the formation of a new committee, ensuring we continue driving positive change for the Burdekin. In other news, I'm thrilled to share a win for road safet
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Direct flights from Adelaide to the Whitsunday’s started earlier this month, and the flight path has been an instant success. In just two hours and 20 minutes people from Adelaide can get to the region, whereas previously visitors would have to catch a connecting flight, equalling approximately an eight-hour journey. CEO of Whitsunday Coast Airport Craig Turner said the new route is making it much easier for people from Adelaide to get here to the Whitsundays and beyond. “For a long time, it
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Get Ready Queensland Week launches on 8 October 2024 and encourages Queenslanders to prepare ahead of the severe weather season. Getting ready is easy and it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Small actions can ensure you stay safe and comfortable when severe weather hits. We know that older Australians can be particularly vulnerable to extreme weather. Taking some time to think about what you will do if this happens can go a long way to making you feel safer. Here are some things you ca
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Home Hill Police Station counter will be closed for administration related inquiries from 3:00pm 1 October 2024 until 1 November 2024 due to Josie being on leave. For any inquiries relating driver licencing or firearms, please attend – Queensland Transport functions: • Online at - www.tmr.qld.gov.au • Ayr QGap (Ayr Courthouse). 163 Queen Street, Ayr - 8:30am – 4:30pm Firearms: • Online at - www.police.qld.gov.au • New Applications – Australia Post. 155 Queen Street, Ayr – 9
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Technology plays a vital role in today's ever-changing world. However, the rapid pace of technological advancements can pose challenges for many. Eventually, we all need to use online services and apps, monitor emails and text messages, and adapt to more sophisticated appliances and equipment. Where do you turn when seeking assistance? While turning to friends and family for help is often a good option, it may not always be feasible. However, learning to find information and solve problems inde
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