Burdekin Life

Agroup of senior researchers has raised alarm that the Lower Burdekin River could undergo a major channel shift far sooner than previously projected, directly challenging a government-commissioned assessment by Australian environmental consultancy Alluvium that found a “low short-term risk.”

Known as an avulsion—when a river abruptly abandons its existing channel to carve a new course—the process can have serious consequences for communities, farmland and infrastructure.

Researchers Eric Wolanski, Chris Hopper and Chris Cannavan warn such a shift could occur in

the Burdekin within the next 50 years.

“It’s not just a scientific question. It involves lives,” said James Cook University adjunct professor and oceanographer Wolanski.

“It’s like playing Russian roulette with the lives of the people in the Burdekin.”

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

Rachael Smith – 0417 267 373 rachael@lifepublishinggroup.com

JOURNALISTS

Jacob Casha – 0484 501 662 jacob@lifepublishinggroup.com

Chelsea Ravizza Chelsea@lifepublishinggroup.com

SALES

Jack Bridgett – 0418 346 694 jack@lifepublishinggroup.com

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Jump in with Jacob

One of the first things I noticed when I moved here about 10 months ago was this town’s sense of togetherness, shown in the abundance of community and volunteer groups across the region.

After learning more about what they do, how they operate, and the ways they support the community, it became clear to me that without these groups, towns like our beloved one simply wouldn’t function.

While volunteering in the Burdekin remains relatively strong, I’ve come to learn that a trend has emerged—or rather, one has dissipated.

Many of the groups I visit share stories from their younger volunteering years. Of how fun, social and rewarding they were. At the

same time, they all raise a common, current concern in the lack of youth involvement in community and volunteer groups.

Why has it become a dying art?

Is it “those bloody phones?” Who are we gonna pass the torch to? What would this town look like without these cogs helping it to function?

Who knows?

I’ve decided to find out. I’ve got an article in the works with several sources, aiming to get to the bottom of it. After all, would I even be doing my job if I wasn’t bringing these issues to light?

Stay tuned.

Jacob

NQ WILDLIFE CARE CALLING FOR COMPASSIONATE POSSUM CARERS

North Queensland Wildlife Care (NQ Wildlife Care) is calling on animal lovers to lend a helping hand — and a little space at home — to support possums on their journey back to the wild.

The organisation is currently seeking new pre-release possum carers, with a dedicated training session set to take place on Sunday, 8 February, offering locals the chance to play a vital role in wildlife rehabilitation.

Pre-release care is the final and most important stage before a possum is returned to its natural habitat. During this time, young possums build strength, confidence and essential survival skills, all under the watchful eye of volunteer carers.

Those interested will need space for a 3m x 2m x 2m aviary — which can be supplied if required — along with the time

to collect native food, provide one to two daily feeds, and observe the possums as they learn to thrive independently.

NQ Wildlife Care says carers are fully supported throughout the process, with guidance, training and ongoing assistance provided, ensuring volunteers are never tackling the role alone.

The organisation encourages anyone with the space, time and heart to consider getting involved, describing the experience as both incredibly rewarding and undeniably adorable. Veterinarians, vet staff and veterinary students are also encouraged to participate, with free training available upon registration.

Those interested can find further details and register online at nqwildlife.org.au/training, or contact training@nqwildlife.org. au for more information.

Six Decades of Service, One Man

BY JACOB CASHA

When long-time Burdekin local Frank Nucifora heard his name called as the 2026 Burdekin Citizen of the Year at this year’s Australia Day awards, his first reaction was disbelief.

“I didn’t expect it at all,” Frank said.

That sense of surprise is perhaps the clearest reflection of the humility that has underpinned more than six decades of service to the region.

But as he stood on stage clutching the plaque, visibly emotional, the moment marked a rare pause in a life spent far more focused on giving than receiving recognition.

It represented a proud moment for both him and his family, said son Frank Jr.

“He went there thinking he was getting nothing,” said Frank Jr.

“That just shows the kind of person is. He’s just a good-natured person, and we were all proud of him.”

Ironically, Frank’s journey to the Australia Day awards victory began half a world away.

Born in Sicily, Frank arrived in Australia in the early 1950s at just 12 years of age, settling with his family in the Burdekin at a time when language barriers and cultural differences were more prominent than ever.

He says it was his love for soccer, nurtured in his home country, that helped bridge that gap, serving as a natural segue into community work in the Burdekin.

“We used to kick the ball around in Sicily, but not in a team,” said Frank.

“Then the kids here invited me to play soccer for the club, in the team, and I enjoyed the company. That’s when I started getting involved and helping out, even off the field.”

From there, Frank’s impact in the community grew from strength to strength.

In 1966, Frank joined the Rotary Club of Ayr, where he has served 60 years in roles including President, Treasurer and Foundation Chair, twice earning the Paul Harris Fellow. He’s been instrumental in Meals on Wheels, Plantation Park, the Living Lagoon, youth programs, humanitarian initiatives, and countless community events, while also serving as a parishioner at his local church for over 70 years.

“I always enjoyed the company of these committees,” he said.

“Doing all these things together with the other members brought me a lot of joy.”

Simultaneously, he helped build one of the Burdekin’s longest-standing family enterprises. By 1959, he and his brothers had bought Delta Cleaners & Laundry—still operational to this day—later expanding

into a mango farm, ten-pin bowling centre, and manufacturing and engineering operations.

Currently 86 years of age, Frank remains heavily committed to his volunteering endeavours, as well as at Delta, where Frank Jr. says he’s far from ready to loosen the reigns.

“Last year, his brother ran him over with a cherry picker while they were cutting down a tree. He broke a heap of bones in his foot, but he never showed it. He was in a cast for months, even came to work in a wheelchair. He just couldn’t stay away,” said Frank Jr.

Still going strong, Frank continues to raise the bar for what it means to serve.

Chance For Youth To Have Their Say

Young people eager to shape the future of the Burdekin Electorate are being encouraged to be a part of the state’s most sought-after leadership program.

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the Queensland Youth Parliament program had provided a platform for 93 young adults to raise issues they were passionate about and contribute to real policy discussion.

“In the past we have seen some fantastic youth parliament members from this electorate who have had the chance to advocate for meaningful change on issues that affect those who live and work in the Burdekin Electorate,” Mr Last said.

“We know the Burdekin electorate is unique from its coal mining sector in the Bowen Basin to its tourism and agriculture industries along the coastline. I have no doubt the 2026 program will once again see a young adult with a passion for our industries, challenges and strengths take part in this great opportunity.”

Nominations for the program have opened now for young adults aged 16-25 with 93 applicants able to be selected for the program from across the state.

Mr Last encouraged any young person with a passion for resolving an important issue in the Burdekin Electorate to apply for the program.

“This is a chance for our next generation, no matter where you live, to gain leadership skills, experience Queensland Parliament firsthand and engage directly with key decision makers.”

“The youth parliament program received 471 nominations last year, which goes to show the level of interest that our next generation has on issues that matter to them.”

Applications are available online for both desktop and mobile devices, and as a printable form. QYP offers direct support to young people who may need assistance in completing their applications.

Applications can be submitted at www. ymcaqyp.org.au.

It’s Time to Protect the Australian Flag

Following the recent recall of Parliament and the passage of the Government’s hate speech laws in January 2026, Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Dawson, is calling for urgent action to criminalise the burning and desecration of the Australian flag.

Despite repeated attempts, including an amendment during the January 2026 sitting, the Albanese Labor Government voted against making flag burning a criminal offence. This leaves the national flag, the enduring symbol of our history, freedoms and shared values, vulnerable to public desecration.

ing our national flag is not.

“The Australian flag is not just a piece of fabric,” Mr Willcox said.

“It represents our shared history, our sacrifices, and the freedoms earned through generations of courage and service. Sadly, most recently on Australia Day, we’ve seen the flag set alight in public protests, actions that are celebrated by some, but which show contempt for everything the flag stands for.”

Mr Willcox referenced recent protests in Brisbane and other cities where the flag has been burned in front of crowds, while Australians wearing the flag with pride have been threatened or attacked.

“It is deeply disturbing that someone proudly displaying the Australian flag can be targeted, while those who burn it face no consequence under federal law. This is not a race or religion matter, it is about respect for our nation, its symbols, and the values we all share,” he said.

“No words can describe the feelings I believe the majority of Australians hold when seeing this disgraceful act,” Mr Willcox added.

“Burning our Australian flag, or any flag, isn’t ‘brave’ or ‘activism’, it’s disrespectful and wrong.

“Protest is a democratic right but desecrat-

“Our flag represents our shared history, the sacrifices of Australians before us, and the freedoms that allow peaceful protests to occur in the first place.

“This has been raised in Parliament twice now and I have spoken in support of making this illegal. Yet the Albanese Government refused to support this, voting it down.

“Burning our flag doesn’t advance justice or unity, it deepens division and erodes respect.

“Twice in the space of six months, the Albanese Government has shelved this important protection.

“The question is simple: why is the government so determined to leave our national flag unprotected?”

Mr Willcox emphasised that protecting the Australian flag is about unity.

“We do our best as a nation when we stand together under one flag. I will continue to fight for legislation that ensures our national symbol is respected and safeguarded for generations to come.”

After strong public support, Mr Willcox has launched an online petition on his website to criminalise the desecration of the Australian flag. People can find the petition at andrewwillcox.com.au.

Researchers Challenge ‘Low Risk’ Claim, Warn of Looming Avulsion

BY JACOB CASHA

Although rare on human timescales, both the researchers and Alluvium Consulting agree an avulsion is inevitable in the Lower Burdekin; their assessments of its imminence, however, diverge dramatically.

Geological evidence suggests major avulsions in the Burdekin delta have historically occurred roughly every 800 to 1300 years, according to the researchers.

Alluvium Consulting, commissioned under the Queensland Government’s Burdekin Water Plan, reported in 2025 that an avulsion posed no immediate risk to the region.

The assessment drew on aerial LiDAR mapping from 2009 and 2018, hydraulic modelling and geomorphic analysis, concluding the lower Burdekin River was rarely engaging its floodplain and shortterm risk was low.

However, Wolanski and his team have challenged both the methods and conclusions of the assessment, citing recent on-ground survey data that indicates sig-

nificant riverbed aggradation, which they argue could drastically accelerate avulsion risk and bring serious consequences sooner than suggested in the report.

The group argues that major flooding events since the 2018 data used in Alluvium’s assessment—including those in 2019 and 2025—have facilitated approximately 0.7 metres of riverbed aggradation.

The accumulated sediment raises the riverbed—partly due to reduced sand transport from the Burdekin Falls Dam—reducing channel capacity and increasing floodplain connectivity during high flows, which together accelerate the likelihood of the river abandoning its current course.

Wolanski’s team based their conclusions on RTK-GPS surveys along multiple river transects, a technique that can measure elevation changes to within centimetres. Hopper, a volunteer researcher from Townsville, says this method is far better suited than LiDAR for detecting changes to submerged riverbeds in turbid systems like the Burdekin due to its ability to di-

rectly measure the actual riverbed under water, rather than relying on surface reflections.

Based on observed rates of aggradation, the group estimates an avulsion could occur within decades rather than centuries, potentially within the lifetime of current residents, in the event of another major flood.

“It could severely impact farmland, houses, roads, and the railway if the river carves a new channel through the area,” said Wolanski.

Cannavan, a Home Hill cane farmer with family roots in the region dating back almost a century, says the town could be “right in the firing line.”

Despite Wolanski and Cannavan’s concerns, Alluvium Consulting has rejected the group’s suggestion that an avulsion is imminent.

In a written response, the firm said avulsions on the Burdekin are rare events that typically require frequent, high-energy floodplain engagement—conditions it argues do not currently exist.

Alluvium acknowledged claims that LiDAR cannot directly measure submerged riverbeds but said it was used to assess broader reachscale trends using exposed bars, banks and water-surface elevations during low-flow conditions rather than the riverbed itself.

The consultancy also noted its 2025 assessment predated the major 2025 flood and did not include post-2018 impacts, but said preliminary aerial imagery showed only modest changes and no clear evidence of floodplain scour that would materially alter conclusions.

University of Adelaide professor Kathryn Amos, whose work with the Burdekin River spans decades, said the disparate findings reflect the river’s notorious difficulty to

Continued from page 1.

study.

“The challenge with the Burdekin is that it’s extremely difficult to measure,” Amos said.

“It’s dry most of the year, and when the big floods come through, it’s often too dangerous to collect data.

“There have only been a handful of studies that have actually measured how sediment moves through the Burdekin river, which means there’s a lot of uncertainty when we try to predict future behaviour. That uncertainty is why different teams of scientists can look at the same system and come to different conclusions.”

Despite conflicting conclusions, both groups agreed that further research on the Lower Burdekin River was essential.

“In previous work for the Queensland Government, we recommended repeat, ideally annual, channel topographic surveys to detect trends in erosion and deposition,” said an Alluvium Consulting spokesperson.

“Such monitoring would provide the evidence needed to distinguish short-term variability from long-term change. If sustained bed aggradation relative to the floodplain were identified, this would indicate increasing avulsion risk over time and warrant reassessment.”

A spokesperson for the Queensland Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers said the Burdekin Basin Water Plan is developed using the “best available science and up-to-date hydrological modelling.”

“Alluvium Consulting assessed sediment transport and avulsion risk in the lower Burdekin River and found the likelihood of a shift in any given year or decade is low. The assessment remains appropriate to guide current water planning and regulatory approaches,” they said.

The plan is under review, with ongoing monitoring intended to protect river flows and support sustainable management of the catchment.

Local Fishers Urged to Know the Rules as Crab Crackdowns Continue

Recreational fishers across Ayr and the wider Burdekin region are being reminded to brush up on size and possession limits after a string of fisheries prosecutions across Queensland, including one that resulted in a $20,000 fine for a Bundaberg man.

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officers uncovered 26 offences under the Fisheries Act 1994, including the unlawful sale and trafficking of mud crabs. The man was found with 14 female mud crabs and multiple undersized crabs hidden beneath the floorboards of a tinny, with surveillance footage and a seized mobile phone revealing ongoing illegal sales.

His fishing equipment was also forfeited. Since May 2025, QBFP has recorded more than $61,100 in major penalties and prosecutions and issued $85,699 in on-the-spot fines for mud crab offences statewide.

Closer to home, a fisher in Ayr was fined $1,500 in September for obstructing officers and failing to correctly mark crab pots, reinforcing that local waterways are firmly on the compliance radar.

Under Queensland rules, mud crabs must meet strict size limits, female crabs must not be taken, and possession limits apply per person or per boat. Crabs must be kept whole, with shells and claws attached, and

Don’t leave yourself exposed. Use a unique and strong passphrase on every account.

Locals are being advised to listen to warnings to avoid being caught out.

possession limits include any crabs on board, on land, in vehicles or stored at home.

Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General Fisheries and Forestry Pauline Jacob said recent recruitment had boosted enforcement efforts.

“Whether it’s interfering with crab pots, taking undersized or female crabs or engaging in unlawful trade, no offence goes unnoticed and our staff are ready to take action,” Ms Jacob said.

“The message is simple, and the consequences are real—if you lift someone else’s pots or take crabs outside the rules, you will be caught and face serious penalties.”

Local fishers are encouraged to check the latest rules using the Qld Fishing 2.0 app before heading out on the water.

CORES Queensland to Host Free Grief and Loss Workshop in Ayr

Afree community workshop aimed at helping people better understand loss and grief will be held in Ayr next month, offering practical support for those navigating one of life’s most difficult experiences.

CORES Queensland will present Your Heart Will Heal: Understanding Loss and Grief on Thursday, 5 March, at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre. The four hour workshop is designed to help participants recognise how grief can affect individuals in different ways, while providing tools to support both themselves and others.

The session will explore the many forms loss and grief can take, from the loss of a loved one to other significant life changes. Participants will be guided through strategies to identify grief responses, understand their personal experiences, and develop self-care practices to support emotional wellbeing during the grieving process.

Importantly, the workshop will also focus on how to support someone else who is grieving, offering practical guidance for family members, friends, carers and community members who want to help but may not know where to start.

The workshop will run from 9am to 1pm at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre, 40 Chippendale Street, Ayr. The session is free to attend, but bookings are essential.

For enquiries, contact admin@thebnc.org.au or phone 07 4783 4243. Bookings can be made online at https://bit.ly/4oj4h07

A Rising Star of the Burdekin

BY CHELSEA RAVIZZA

Cecilia Cason Honoured with Junior Cultural Award

Cecillia Cason’s lifelong dedication to music and the performing arts was proudly recognised at the Burdekin Shire Council’s 2025 Australia Day Awards Ceremony, where she was presented with the Junior Cultural Award.

Cecillia first discovered her passion for the arts when she was in Year 2, and ever since, she has continued to flourish in each cultural endeavour she chooses to peruse, shaping a remarkable journey filled with discipline, talent and community support.

Over the years, Cecillia has developed an extraordinary breadth of musical skill,

learning to play an impressive range of instruments including the recorder, violin, tambourine, tenor horn, French horn, trumpet, cornet, flugel horn, baritone, flute, clarinet and alto saxophone, along with some violin. However, it has been through her long-standing involvement with the Burdekin Brass Band that her talents have truly flourished.

“In a band, there are so many different types of players from all different backgrounds and playing abilities,” Cecillia said.

“Hearing everyone’s sounds and styles allowed me to copy different aspects of their playing and apply it to my own.”

Cecillia joined the Burdekin Brass Band in Year 4 and credits the guidance

of her fellow band members and teachers for helping her discover a deep love for music.

“Learning in the Burdekin Brass Band’s learner classes was really fun,” she explained. “We split our time between playing and theory work, and we’d have small pieces and exercises to practise each week. Those little challenges and the satisfaction of learning a new piece really sucked me in - that’s when I found my passion for music.”

Now a proud member of the Burdekin Brass Band for around nine years, Cecillia has also expanded her experience by joining the Thuringowa Brass Band in 2022 and the Townsville Brass Band in 2024.

Throughout her musical journey, Cecillia has competed in numerous eisteddfods across the Burdekin, Charters Towers and Townsville, collecting a vibrant list of accolades along the way. Among her most notable achievements was being awarded First Place in the Junior Tenor Horn Division at the Australian National Band Championships, earning her a national title.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who supported me for this award,” Cecillia said.

“I’m truly happy that my dedication to what I love has been recognised.”

In addition to competitions, Cecillia has performed extensively across the region, including live performances with the Burdekin Brass Band, school events as both an instrumentalist and vocalist, and productions with the Burdekin Singers, including Shrek, The Little Mermaid and the Burdekin Singers’ 100th anniversary performance.

Her talent has also seen her selected for numerous prestigious programs, including the State Honour Ensemble Programme in Cairns and Townsville, the Queensland Honour Ensemble Programme in Brisbane, and in 2025, the Australian Honour Ensemble Programme, where she performed on French horn. In 2024, Cecillia was also selected to represent Queensland internationally through the Pacific Honours Ensemble Programme, performing with an orchestra in Seattle.

Looking ahead, Cecillia is preparing to move to Brisbane to pursue a Bachelor of Music at the Griffith Conservatorium, with hopes of further refining her musicianship and taking the next step in her chosen career. She will also compete at the upcoming Australian National Band Championships in multiple solo divisions, as well as in the band section with Thuringowa Brass Band.

Congratulations Cecillia!

September 28th 2023

Burdekin Theatre, Ayr, on Sunday

Minute With The Mayor

Pierina Dalle Cort

The Burdekin Singers’ performance of We Will Rock You was absolutely sensational. If you haven’t had the opportunity to attend yet, there are still shows on this weekend and I can assure you, you will not be disappointed.

We have visitors travelling from surrounding areas, and they consistently tell me how fortunate we are to have such a beautiful venue and such dedicated people who work together to deliver productions of this calibre. Many of us spend considerable money attending large shows in capital cities, yet here in the Burdekin we are experiencing performances that stand proudly among them.

With the school year now underway, parents are settling back into routine. For some, the first day of pre-school brings a few tears, or perhaps tears of joy, as their little ones take their first big step. They

grow up so quickly, and life certainly changes in the blink of an eye.

This week I heard a concerning statistic on the news: approximately 100 cars are stolen each month in Townsville. It was a surprising figure, and one that makes us reflect when we see abandoned vehicles on our own roads. Unfortunately, we have our own challenges with crime, and it is important that we do not become complacent.

Our community has always been built on small acts of care - looking out for one another, being vigilant with our property, and taking pride in the safety and wellbeing of our neighbours. It is this collective effort that sets the Burdekin apart.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

Councillor Column

With Councillor Callan Oar

There has been plenty happening across the Shire recently, and I want to highlight a few key items.

Firstly, congratulations to the recipients of this year’s Australia Day Awards. These awards recognise locals who quietly give their time and effort to support others and strengthen our community. Well done to all those acknowledged.

Council has also recently installed new audio-visual and video conferencing equipment in the council chambers. This upgrade will allow council meetings to be livestreamed in the future, making it easier for residents to see how decisions are made. Until livestreaming is underway, I encourage anyone with an interest to attend meetings in person. Council meetings are held every second Tuesday and are open to the public. If you can’t attend, I encourage you to ask councillors when livestreaming will commence. Greater visibility and understanding of council processes benefits everyone.

Community input is also being sought for the proposed Pump Track in Ayr. A Have Your Say – Pump Track Community Drop-In Session will be held on Thursday 5 February from 4:30pm to 5:30pm at Anzac Park (old Soccer Grounds, Wickham Street). Concept plans will be on display, with council staff and consultants available to answer questions and collect feedback. If you have an interest in this project, I encourage you to drop in.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the challenges council is facing with capital works and building maintenance. In many cases, the limited quotes we receive are coming in well above budget, sometimes close to double. This leaves council with difficult choices between delaying works or paying far more than expected. It’s an ongoing issue councillors are actively working through.

Staying informed and involved helps ensure better outcomes for the whole community.

Burdekin Catholic High School 2025 Valedictorian Cleo Delle Baite

BY CHELSEA RAVIZZA

Cleo Delle Baite has been congratulated as Burdekin Catholic High School’s (BCHS) 2025 Valedictorian and will soon commence studies at James Cook University to pursue a future career in medicine and surgery.

With an unadjusted Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 95.7 and an adjusted ATAR of 99.95, Cleo was beyond excited to learn she had earned the title of BCHS’ 2025 Valedictorian, noting her initial feelings of shock and immense pride.

“Graduating as Valedictorian was an amazing achievement for me,” Cleo enthused.

“It kind of caught me by surprise because my grade was filled with really high achievers, but to see all my hard work paying off really gave me a sense of accomplishment.”

Achieving such a feat is no small task, and Cleo credits her academic success to dedication and perseverance, emphasising the importance of discovering study techniques that work best for each individual.

“My study routine might seem a

little crazy to some, but it worked for me during high school,” said Cleo.

Cleo’s day would begin at around 5am when she would head to the gym to fit in about an hour of exercise, followed by another hour of light studying before getting ready for the school day ahead. With a commute on her hands, Cleo used her time on the bus to her advantage, squeezing in an additional hour of study to complete any outstanding homework or assignment tasks, freeing up her afternoons for extracurricular activities.

Above all else, Cleo believes there’s one particular study technique that each and every student should endeavour to employ.

“Read. Always be reading,” advised Cleo.

“Whether it be specific to what you’re studying, or some fiction just for enjoyment, reading is something that really helped keep me regulated and allowed me to expand my vocabulary daily.”

Cleo has always had a passion for chemistry and thoroughly enjoyed studying the subject throughout high school, adding that she found particular interest in how neatly

each of her subjects intertwined with one another.

“I really loved chemistry through high school; it was my absolute favourite subject, with mathematics pulling a close second as I really enjoyed the applications of chemistry and problem solving,” she recalled.

“Specialist mathematics was a challenging subject, as it was much more difficult than expected due to its overlap with physics. However, over time, I learnt to separate the formulas and techniques so that I could achieve the best marks possible in each subject.”

When asked what wise words of advice she would impart to current and future senior students, Cleo encouraged balance and urged every Year 12 student to find an enjoyable outlet to unwind.

“Whilst I do recommend reading, any hobby that you enjoy and cultivate will help with stress relief and improve other skills that you use in class daily,” explained Cleo.

“Depending on what subjects you are doing, Year 12 can be very difficult at times, so making sure you leave some time for the things you enjoy is absolutely important.”

Why a Small Change to Burdekin Gift Cards Matters for Our Local Economy

The Burdekin Gift Card program has proven itself as one of the region’s quiet success stories, and despite a recent operational change, its value to local businesses remains as strong as ever.

In 2025 alone, $55,904 worth of Burdekin Gift Cards were purchased, with $37,922.82 already spent in local stores, and as the cards are valid for three years, there’s even more local spending is still to come. Monthly reporting shows the benefits are widely shared, with funds flowing

to more than 50 participating businesses, from butchers and jewellers to furniture stores, sporting outlets and even ten-pin bowling.

“It is pleasing to see that the money is shared amongst a variety of participating gift card businesses,” explained Burdekin Chamber Secretary, Kari Ravizza.

“Really everybody on the list has benefitted from participating in the program.”

From 29 January, 2026, changes intro-

duced by the Reserve Bank of Australia, known as the Eftpos ‘same card rule’, have altered how cards can be loaded in-store. While this means Burdekin Gift Cards can temporarily only be purchased from McCathies Furniture Plus, there is no change to how or where cards can be spent.

Importantly, work is underway to restore wider retail loading options, with updates shared via the Burdekin Chamber’s Facebook page.

Looking ahead, organisers hope the pro-

gram continues to grow.

“I hope that when people are thinking about what to purchase for somebody, they think first of Burdekin Gift Cards,” Kari said.

“It’s such a great gift idea.”

Every Burdekin Gift Card keeps money circulating locally; supporting wages, families and long-term economic resilience. Choosing local isn’t just convenient; it’s an investment in the Burdekin’s future.

Meet Kelton from Angel Paws Dog & Cat Rescue

Kelton is an irresistibly charming ginger-andwhite gentleman with a personality as refined as his looks. Immaculately groomed and wonderfully tidy, Kelton takes great pride in keeping himself—and his space—clean and orderly. Kelton loves other cat for company not keen on the others canines.

While he’s not a fan of being picked up, Kelton is a devoted companion who loves to be nearby. He’ll happily keep you company during a quiet evening, as you relax on the couch. Treats are the way to his heart, and he’ll gently take snacks from your hand, making bonding with him both easy and rewarding. Kelton may not be a lap cat, but his calm presence and sweet nature bring a comforting, best-friend energy to any home. If you’re looking for an elegant, low-drama cat who shows love in subtle, meaningful ways, Kelton could be your perfect match.

Does it sound too good to be true? Come see for yourself! To meet Kelton, fill in an inquiry form at https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in adoption fee of $210 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

DOB: 15/07/2023

Sex: Male

Breed: DSH

Kid friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: No

Indoors/Outdoors:Indoor

Bendigo Bank Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company - Lighting the Stage for the Future

For more than 75 years, the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company has been a cornerstone of arts and culture in the Burdekin region, nurturing creativity, talent and community connection through live performance. Today, that legacy continues to grow stronger, thanks in part to the ongoing support of Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr.

Over the past two years, Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr has proudly supported the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company, helping the organisation take important steps into its next chapter. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to community, opportunity and investing in local people — values that sit at the heart of both organisations.

President of the Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company, Lawrence Polga, says the support has been transformative. “The backing we’ve received has allowed us to improve the appearance and frontage of our hall, which is such an important part of how we present ourselves to the community,” he said. “It’s about creating a space people feel proud to walk into.”

better productions today,” Lawrence explained. “It’s about training the next generation. Young people can now learn technical theatre skills that support our productions and open pathways into creative industries.”

That forward-thinking approach is evident in the company’s recent productions. With bold and contemporary performances such as Back to the 80’s and the current production We Will Rock You, the Bendigo Bank Burdekin Singers and Theatre Company has embraced a new generation of storytelling while staying true to its roots. These productions have attracted new audiences, energized performers and reinforced the theatre’s place as a vibrant cultural hub.

Lawrence believes the partnership with Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr goes deeper than financial support.

Community Grant Program

“There’s a common thread between us,” he said. “We both exist to serve and strengthen the local community. Their support has helped us build stronger connections with our audiences, volun teers and performers.”

When you partner with us, good things happen.

Beyond the visual upgrades, the funding has enabled the purchase of a new lighting and sound deck — a significant investment in the future of the organisation. “This equipment isn’t just about

Community Invited to Help Shape Final Pump Track Design at Anzac Park

Plans for the Anzac Park Pump Track are moving into their next stage, with Burdekin Shire Council inviting residents to review the proposed designs and help shape the final layout before construction begins.

The Pump Track, which was approved last year, is now at the design refinement stage. To mark that step, Council will hold a community drop-in session on Thursday 5 February, from 4:30pm to 5:30pm, at the former junior soccer grounds at Anzac Park on Wickham Street.

The session will be informal, allowing residents to come and go during the hour. Concept plans will be displayed on site, with feedback forms available for those wishing to share ideas or raise concerns. Council staff and project consultants will be present to explain the designs and answer questions about how the track will operate and integrate with the surround-

ing park space.

The Pump Track will be built within the former junior soccer field, adjacent to the existing skate park, and is intended to cater to a wide range of users. The design accommodates scooters, BMX bikes, skateboards and mountain bikes, with features aimed at both beginners and more experienced riders.

The project is supported by $760,000 from the 2024–27 Works for Queensland Funding Program and forms part of Council’s broader $2.8 million investment in parks and recreational facilities across the shire.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the focus is now on ensuring the facility works for the community.

“Families and individuals can come together to relax, have fun, and stay active,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“The new Pump Track at Anzac Park will be a fantastic addition to our community’s recreational offerings, providing a safe and exciting environment for people of all ages.”

Feedback collected during the dropin session will be used to finalise the design ahead of construction, with residents encouraged to attend and contribute to the next phase of the project.

Tickets are still available for this week ends performance of We Will Rock You – 7:30pm for Friday 6th February and Saturday 7th February, with an after noon time of Noon Sunday 8th Febru ary.

Applications close 12th April 2024.

Your organisation gets sponsorship, and your banking helps support the community.

over 20 years experience

Celebrating Sporting, Cultural and Community Excellence

Luke

Potter-Geitz

2026 Junior Sportsperson of the Year

Luke Potter-Geitz delivered an exceptional sporting year in 2025, excelling across multiple disciplines at school, regional and national levels. He was recognised as the Lloyd Mann Memorial Open Age Champion, Male Senior Sportsperson of the Year, and Home Hill Sportsperson of the Year.

At Home Hill State High School, Luke was named Age Champion in Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics, before representing the school at the Burdekin Secondary School Carnivals in all three disciplines. He also earned the Burdekin Secondary Schools Age Champion title for Athletics.

Luke was selected in the Burdekin Secondary Schools Athletics Team, which led to his selection in the North Queensland Athletics Team for High Jump, competing in Townsville. He went on to represent North Queensland in both High Jump and Triple Jump at the 2025 Australian All Schools Championships in Melbourne.

Across the year, Luke demonstrated versatility, consistency and leadership, earning recognition as both an elite young athlete and a positive role model within his school and community.

Year

Karin Thorburn is an extraordinary endurance athlete whose achievements place her among Australia’s most accomplished marathon runners. In 2025, she received the Sporting Excellence Award at the North Queensland Sportstar Awards.

Karin became the first Australian to complete 500 official marathons and successfully completed the Magnetic 30 in 30 Challenge, running 30 marathons in 30 consecutive days. She also holds Six Star Major Marathon status, having completed major international marathons in Boston, Tokyo, London, New York, Chicago and Berlin.

Beyond competition, Karin contributes extensively to the running community. She serves as an event coordinator for marathon events across Far North Queensland and is a dedicated volunteer and participant at Plantation Parkrun.

Her achievements, consistency and service reflect unmatched determination and have inspired runners across North Queensland and beyond.

2026 Junior Cultural Award

Cecilia Cason is a highly accomplished multi-instrumentalist and a long-standing member of the Burdekin Brass Band. She performs on Flugel Horn and Tenor Horn with the Thuringowa Brass Band and Townsville Brass, and regularly appears as a soloist and ensemble performer at school and community events.

She is an integral member of local school bands and ensembles, earning multiple musicianship awards at Ayr State High School and Burdekin Christian College. Cecilia has represented the Burdekin at regional, state, national and international levels through competitions, honours programs, music camps and workshops.

In April 2025, Cecilia was named Australian Junior Tenor Horn Champion after competing in Melbourne. She also holds Australian Music Examinations Board

qualifications on Tenor Horn, Trumpet and Cornet.

Cecilia has accepted an offer to study at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in 2026.

Cheryl Platt

2026 Senior Cultural Achievement Award

Cheryl Platt has dedicated decades of service to performing arts organisations across the Burdekin, contributing leadership, expertise and ongoing commitment to local music and theatre.

She has been a member of the Friends of the Burdekin Theatre for more than 15 years and currently serves as Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator. Cheryl is also a long-standing member of the Home Hill Choral Society, volunteering as Musical Director for over 15 years while continuing to perform with the group.

In addition, she serves the Eisteddfod Association of North Queensland as a Delegate, Registrar and Vice President. Cheryl has also been Secretary of the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod Committee since 2017.

Her sustained leadership and passion have strengthened multiple cultural organisations and expanded opportunities for performers of all ages across the region.

Larry Hudson 2026 Senior Cultural Award

20 years, contributing exceptional service, leadership and commitment to the local music community.

He has maintained an almost perfect attendance record over two decades and is also an active member of the Thuringowa Brass Band in Townsville. As long-standing President, Larry has strengthened the band’s financial position through fundraising, sponsorships and successful grant applications, while overseeing major hall upgrades.

Larry championed the annual Burdekin Brass Live concerts and consistently supports performances through equipment transport, coordination and working bees. His leadership has also created valuable development opportunities for young musicians.

Widely respected for his humility and dedication, Larry’s influence has been so significant that the band is affectionately known as “Larry’s Band.”

Day Environment Award

Anthony Drage is a dedicated volunteer and long-serving Nursery Manager with Lower Burdekin Landcare. His leadership has driven significant improvements to the organisation’s nursery operations.

Under Anthony’s care, the nursery has expanded with new greenhouses, upgraded watering systems and improved plant displays with accessible walkways. He works seven days a week to ensure plant stock remains healthy and pest-free, while generously assisting visitors with gardening advice.

Anthony’s expertise is widely respected, with local government, commercial organisations and schools regularly seeking his guidance. He has supported community nursery projects and shared his knowledge to encourage learning and environmental stewardship.

Through his tireless service, Anthony has helped create thriving plant ecosystems and earned deep respect across the Burdekin community.

Brass Band for more than

Larry Hudson has been a cornerstone of the

Home Hill State High School –Ag Precinct Community Open Day

2026 Community Event of the Year

The Home Hill State High School Ag Precinct Community Open Day was recognised for its strong community impact and focus on sustainable, future-focused education.

The event attracted more than 100 visitors and showcased the school’s new agricultural precinct, including its greenhouse and learning facilities. Guests learned how students are being taught to balance environmental responsibility with efficient agricultural production.

The open day highlighted the importance of preparing young people with the skills needed to support the future of farming and sustainability in the Burdekin region. By opening its facilities to the public, the school strengthened connections between education, industry and the wider community, making the event a deserving recipient of the Community Event of the Year Award.

Robyn Hewson

Silver Lifetime Service Award

Robyn Hewson has contributed more than three decades of volunteer service across numerous Burdekin community organisations.

She has volunteered with the Burdekin Show for over 34 years, Burdekin Relay for Life for more than 20 years, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival for the past decade. Robyn has also supported Burdekin Tourism for 11 years and assisted with the Burdekin Fashion Bash in 2014.

In addition, she continues to volunteer at the Lower Burdekin Home for the Aged –Home Hill Hostel, providing support and

companionship to residents. Her long-term commitment reflects genuine care for community events, tourism and the wellbeing of others.

Maryann Petersen

Silver Lifetime Service Award

Maryann Petersen has been a Board Member of Flexi Queensland since its founding more than 30 years ago, contributing significantly to its growth and development.

Her service has supported the delivery of transport buses, supported living homes and a dedicated client hub, recently renamed “The Petersen Hangout” in recognition of her contribution.

Maryann has also served as a Board Member of the Burdekin Brass Band for over 10 years, volunteered as a First Aid Officer with the Burdekin BMX Club, assisted in establishing a Girl Guides clubhouse, and supported numerous Eisteddfods and fundraising events.

Her service reflects a long-standing commitment to inclusion, community support and opportunity.

Dolores Droguet

Gold Lifetime Service Award

Dolores Droguet has dedicated nearly 50 years to volunteer service in the Burdekin. At 93, she continues to volunteer three days a week at the St Vincent de Paul Op Shop in Ayr, where she has served for 47 years.

She has also volunteered for 23 years with both the Burdekin Uniting Church Cuppa Club and Ethnic Community Care Link, and is a long-term volunteer with the Lower Burdekin Home for the Aged Society.

Dolores received the Premier’s Award for Queensland Seniors in 2007 and 2008

and the International Year of Volunteers Award in 2001. She also contributed more than 200 hours to a commemorative mural marking the Olympic Flame’s passage through the Burdekin in 2000.

John Power

Gold Lifetime Service Award & Volunteer of the Year Achievement Award

John Power has provided more than 40 years of volunteer service to the Home Hill Golf Club as its unpaid greenkeeper and machinery maintainer.

He personally oversees course maintenance, mowing greens multiple times weekly, managing turf health and organising pest treatments to professional standards.

John has also volunteered with Rotary and Meals on Wheels in the Burdekin for more than 15 years each, serving in leadership roles within Rotary.

Known for his reliability and work ethic, John’s service has been instrumental to the sustainability of multiple community organisations.

Frank Nucifora

Gold Lifetime Service Award

Frank Nucifora has been a member of the Rotary Club of Ayr for 60 years, serving as President, Treasurer and long-standing Foundation Chair.

He has received Rotary’s highest honour, the Paul Harris Fellow Award, on two occasions. At 86, Frank remains one of the organisation’s most active volunteers and continues to attend work daily.

His decades of leadership and service reflect an enduring commitment to community development and generosity.

Grayson Potter-Geitz

Young Citizen of the Year Achievement Award

Grayson Potter-Geitz served as School Captain and House Captain in 2025, demonstrating leadership, reliability and integrity. He earned Level 2 Academic and Sport Awards, the Crusher Spirit Award and the Rotary Award.

He represented his school in volleyball and netball, volunteered at sporting events, and participated in numerous community initiatives including ANZAC Day services, Clean Up Australia Day and Stand Up Sleep Out.

Grayson is a Cadet Under Officer with the Australian Air Force Cadets and was selected as one of four representatives from North Queensland for the AAFC Wing Annual Competition in New South Wales.

Grace Ogomeni

2026 Young Citizen of the Year

Grace Ogomeni demonstrated exceptional achievement across academics, sport and community service in 2025. She served as School Captain and House Captain and received a Level One Academic Award, along with Dux awards in Accounting, Biology, Chemistry and Business Studies. She earned multiple sporting honours, represented Burdekin Netball at State Age level, and was selected for North Queensland State Netball trials.

Grace has contributed extensively to community initiatives, including NAIDOC Day, ANZAC Day ceremonies, Clean Up Australia Day and youth leadership programs. She was recognised as Lions Youth of the Year Runner-Up, an Olympic Change Maker Award recipient and the ADF Leadership Award winner.

She has received an offer to study Medicine at James Cook University.

BY CHELSEA RAVIZZA

Residents across North Queensland took the opportunity this week to solemnly reflect on one of the worst weather events ever recorded in the state, as communities marked the 15th anniversary of Cyclone Yasi.

On 29 January 2011, Cyclone Yasi developed from a tropical low north-west of Fiji before rapidly intensifying as it tracked west across the Coral Sea. The system was officially named by the Fiji Meteorological Service on 30 January and was upgraded to a Category 5 tropical cyclone on 2 February. Yasi crossed the coast near Mission Beach in the early hours of Thursday, 3 February 2011 before weakening to a tropical low near Mount Isa later that evening.

As the Burdekin Shire braced for impact, local authorities stepped up efforts to support the community. Reports published at the time of the disaster detailed Burdekin SES volunteers responding to countless calls, delivering 400 sandbags filled with 30 tonnes of sand to residents ahead of

community.

Authorities in the region, including fire and ambulance crews, experienced a dramatic increase in calls, reporting that on 1 February alone, officials received 500 calls from concerned residents, with several needing to be redirected to the Burdekin Shire Council call centre.

Schools across North Queensland remained closed as the weather continued to intensify, while businesses across the district also closed shop, preparing for what was to come as the system edged closer.

Several Groper Creek residents recall casting a line despite deteriorating conditions in the lead-up to Cyclone Yasi’s landfall, with some locals prioritising the opening of the barra season over seeking shelter.

After making landfall on 3 February, the cyclone’s eye passed over Dunk Island and Mission Beach, delivering destructive winds across a wide section of the North Queensland coast between Cairns and

Burdekin, Cassowary Coast, and Hinchinbrook.

In the midst of the system, strong winds, currents and waves caused significant erosion along the eastern region of the Burdekin Delta, comparable to the impacts of 1971’s Cyclone Althea, prompting officials to conduct studies focusing on the Paluma Shoals – a section heavily influenced by Burdekin River flood plumes – well into 2014. A Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) report detailed the Burdekin River catchment experienced major flooding, with new river height records set at Macrossan Bridge and on the Haughton River, as the Burdekin River peaked at 18.47 metres on 4 February 2011.

Cyclone Yasi caused widespread devastation across the region, with Ergon Energy reporting 28,000 customers within the Burdekin Shire were left without power. Across North Queensland, more than 170,000 customers were affected, with some communities waiting up to a month for electricity to be fully restored.

Rosemary Menkens, 2011 Member for Burdekin applauded the Burdekin Shire Council’s response

to Cyclone Yasi, commending the community on their resilience and preparedness. “Cyclone preparation is a necessity in North Queensland, but the local disaster management groups really come into their own when cyclones threaten,” Menkens said.

“In the lead-up to Cyclone Yasi, the Burdekin Shire Council set in motion the local disaster management group to bring key agencies together to plan for eventualities and to minimise exposure of residents to any harm or loss of infrastructure.”

An estimated $300 million loss to agricultural production, particularly affecting banana and sugarcane growers across the state was recorded, with insured losses reaching approximately $1.4 billion, eclipsing the damage bill left behind by Cyclone Larry in 2006. In total, the Federal Government processed more than $250 million in recovery payments, with concessional loans made available to cyclone-affected farmers. In the weeks and months that followed, the state government continued to deliver waves of support, including grants totalling up to $25,000 per delivery to primary producers and business owners within the region. 15 years later, the legacy of Cyclone Yasi continues to shape disaster preparedness both locally and statewide, while standing as a testament to the strength and resilience of North Queensland communities.

Holiday Road Safety Blitz Sees Strong Results in Burdekin

Queensland Police continue to focus on reducing road trauma as Operations X-Ray Surety and X-Ray Mistletoe conclude, with local police reporting strong enforcement outcomes across the Burdekin district.

Operation X-Ray Surety launched on 3 November 2025 in response to the increased use of e-mobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters, while Operation X-Ray Mistletoe, launched on 13 December 2025, targeted behaviours most commonly linked to fatal crashes, including

speeding and drink and drug driving.

During Operation X-Ray Mistletoe, Queensland Police detected more than 32,100 traffic offences statewide, including 16,000 speeding offences, 300 seatbelt offences, and 200 distracted driving offences.

Police also conducted more than 177,500 roadside breath tests and 7,200 roadside drug tests, detecting more than 1,800 drink drivers and 1,500 drug drivers.

Closer to home, Ayr Police Station reported encouraging results, with just two drink driving charges laid despite 2,851 roadside breath tests being conducted during the period.

The station also issued 32 Traffic Infringement Notices for offences including speeding and mobile phone use, while 11 people were charged with drug driving after testing positive to methylamphetamine.

Operation X-Ray Surety resulted in more than 2,700 infringements issued to e-mobility users statewide, while locally, Ayr police issued warnings to three youths for

riding e-bikes during the same period.

While the operations have concluded, Road Policing and Regional Support Command Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said road safety enforcement continues year-round.

“As students return to school, Queenslanders can expect to see police on our roads and in school zones,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.

“Dangerous behaviours such as speeding and drink driving will not be tolerated.”

Ayr Police Station Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields said local police will be paying particular attention to reports of youths riding dirt bikes on public roads.

“Police will be taking enforcement action, with youths receiving official cautions alongside their parents or guardians at the station,” Senior Sergeant Shields said.

“If the offending continues, parents may receive traffic infringement notices for permitting unlicensed riding, and bikes may be seized.”

Ayr Fire & Rescue Station Urges Burdekin Locals to Check Smoke Alarms Amid Recent House Fires

In the wake of several deadly house fires across North Queensland over the past six months, Queensland Fire and Rescue is calling on residents to ensure their homes are fitted with regulation smoke alarms.

“In Gladstone, Emerald, and now Townsville, people are either critically injured or have lost their life in a house fire,” said Ayr Station Officer Ash Ryder.

“I don’t want to see that in our own community.”

Queensland sees over 1,600 house fires each year—about one every five hours— and averages around 10 fire-related deaths annually over the past 25 years.

Research shows more than a third of fatal home fires occur in houses without smoke alarms, and 44 percent of fire deaths involve people who were asleep or resting.

Station Officer Ryder stressed the importance of early warning systems beyond legislation—in not only saving lives, but mitigating damage.

“We’ve had multiple local house fires where you can see the effectiveness of the smoke alarm warning versus houses without smoke alarms, where damage can be much more expensive and life threatening,” he said.

“By installing and having a smoke alarm, you’ll have enough time to wake up and either deal with the situation or evacuate your family safely and in time.”

New smoke alarm laws will come into effect for all Queensland private homes, townhouses, and units by 1 January 2027. These laws require interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in all bedrooms and living areas so that when one alarm sounds, all alarms in the dwelling activate. Registered caravans and motorhomes must also be fitted with at least one photoelectric smoke alarm.

Smoke alarms require regular maintenance, including dusting, vacuuming, and testing, to ensure they function properly. Residents are cautioned against removing batteries or disabling interconnected

alarms, even to stop false activations, as this can put families at serious risk. Smoke Alarms now come with a 10-year battery which makes maintaining a smoke alarm easier than ever.

Burdekin locals are urged to check their

smoke alarms today, record replacement dates, and make sure all devices comply with legislation. Properly maintained smoke alarms save lives and can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.

Queensland Sugar Growers Embrace Low-Emissions Technology

Queensland’s sugar industry has launched a new on-farm greenhouse gas emissions calculator to help growers meet growing market, financial and regulatory demands for verified sustainability data.

Released by CANEGROWERS through the Smartcane BMP platform, the tool allows farmers to measure total emissions and emissions intensity per tonne of sugar using internationally recognised standards. The calculator captures Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions, with all data securely stored under the grower’s control.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the initiative responds to shifting market expectations.

“Emissions data is now part of the conversation with buyers, mills, refiners, marketers and finance institutions,” he said.

“This gives growers a practical way to generate credible information and remain competitive.”

The tool is voluntary and available to all growers, whether or not they are Smartcane BMP-accredited, forming part of Module 4 of the program, which links on-

farm practices to downstream sustainability and reporting requirements.

“This is about providing useful information, not imposing new requirements, and ensuring farm data stays on the farm where it can be used for decision making,” Mr Galligan said.

He noted the calculator builds on decades of efficiency improvements by growers, making productivity gains and input reductions visible to markets when growers choose to share them.

Smartcane BMP, funded by the Queensland Government and industry investment—including proceeds from the first shipment of Smartcane BMP-accredited sugar to UK refiner Tate & Lyle—aims to strengthen Queensland sugar’s position in sustainable global markets.

“That shipment showed there is genuine market demand for sustainably produced Queensland sugar,” Mr Galligan said.

“This tool strengthens the industry’s ability to meet that demand.”

The emissions calculator is now available to all Queensland sugarcane growers via the Smartcane BMP platform.

Pioneer Cogeneration Turbine Returns to Service After Challenging Year

After a challenging year marked by a localised fire and severe cyclone conditions, the Pioneer Cogeneration Steam Turbine Generator is officially back in operation, marking a significant milestone for Wilmar and the Burdekin region.

The successful return of the critical asset is a testament to the dedication, resilience and expertise of Wilmar’s engineering team, who worked tirelessly through the Christmas period, tight deadlines and unpredictable weather to complete the restoration safely and efficiently.

The complex recovery effort involved close collaboration between Wilmar’s engineering and maintenance teams, contractors and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) partners. Key milestones achieved during the project included turbine re-lagging, actuator repairs, new electrical and hydraulic installations, and comprehensive testing and commissioning, all delivered with a strong focus on safety and quality.

Wilmar said the achievement highlights the importance of disciplined pre-season maintenance and teamwork, placing the operation in a strong position heading into the crushing season.

Located near Brandon, Pioneer Mill is a long-standing landmark in the Burdekin, with its distinctive chimney visible from the Bruce Highway. Established in 1884 by sugar industry pioneers George Drysdale and Edmund Young, the mill crushes an average of 1.7 million tonnes of sugarcane each year, producing approximately 260,000 tonnes of raw sugar.

The site is also home to Australia’s largest biomass generator, making the successful return of the cogeneration turbine a critical win for both energy production and regional industry.

A spokesperson thanked everyone involved for their commitment and teamwork, describing the project as a strong example of the Wilmar spirit in action.

New State-of-the-Art Water Treatment Plant Nears Completion in Clare

Astate-of-the-art potable water treatment plant is nearing completion for the township of Clare, delivering a major upgrade to the region’s essential water infrastructure.

Located around 80 kilometres south-east of Townsville, Clare relies on water drawn from the Burdekin River. With the township’s ageing treatment plant reaching the end of its service life, a full replacement was commissioned to ensure a reliable, safe and modern drinking water supply for the community.

As part of the Clare Water Treatment Plant Renewal Project, Sunwater engaged contractors to supply, install and commission

a new 400-kilolitre-per-day (kLD) drinking water treatment plant, incorporating advanced technology and increased capacity to meet current and future demand.

The new facility is currently undergoing installation and commissioning and uses a multi-stage treatment process to deliver water that meets potable standards. Raw water from the Burdekin River is first treated through Lamella Clarifiers before passing through AFM and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) filtration. The water is then disinfected using ultraviolet treatment and chlorine dosing, before being stored and distributed to the township.

A fully integrated SCADA system allows

the plant to be remotely monitored and controlled, improving operational efficiency and reliability while reducing the need for on-site intervention.

One of the plant’s standout features is its innovative electro-chlorination system, which produces low-strength sodium hypochlorite on demand. This eliminates the need to transport and bulk store liquid chemicals on site, improving safety while ensuring operators have a constant and reliable supply for disinfection.

Horticulture Code Review Could Affect Burdekin Growers

AFederal Government review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct could have implications for growers across the Burdekin, one of Queensland’s most productive horticultural regions.

The Albanese Labor Government announced this week that Mr Chris Leptos AO will lead an independent review of the Code, which regulates trade between growers and traders of wholesale unprocessed fruit, vegetables, nuts and herbs, with the aim of ensuring transparency and clarity in transactions.

The Burdekin is home to a thriving horticulture industry, with around 3,400 hectares dedicated to horticultural production. A wide range of crops are grown locally, including avocados, capsicums, chillies, cucumbers, eggplant, lychees, mangoes, melons, pumpkins, squash and zucchini.

Supported by extensive water resources, large areas of irrigable land and high levels of sunshine, the region has long been recognised for its ability to support diverse and intensive cropping.

Nationally, horticulture is Australia’s third largest agricultural industry, with production value forecast to reach a record $18.9 billion this financial year. Exports are also expected to hit a new high of $4.4 billion.

governing relationships between growers and traders, particularly those supplying central wholesale markets. Around 10,000 growers supply produce to these markets, which are serviced by more than 400 fruit and vegetable wholesalers. Each year, about 4 million tonnes of horticultural produce, valued at more than $8 billion, is traded through central wholesale markets across Australia.

The review will examine whether the Code remains fit for purpose, given changes in the horticulture sector since it was last reviewed in 2015, and will consider potential improvements to competition and regulatory settings.

Mr Leptos will consult with stakeholders across the horticulture supply chain over the coming months. Growers, traders, industry bodies and government agencies are being encouraged to review the consultation paper and provide feedback on how the Code operates and how it could be improved.

“The horticulture sector has changed since the Code was last reviewed in 2015, and we want to understand if the Code is still fit-for-purpose,” she said.

Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said fair competition was essential to a strong horticulture industry.

“The Horticulture Code exists to stop un-

fair dealing and keep the playing field level,” he said.

A final report from the review is expected to be provided to the Federal Government by the end of April. Stakeholders can find more information and make submissions via the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Have Your Say’ website.

The Code of Conduct plays a key role in

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the review was an opportunity to ensure the Code continued to protect growers and traders.

Time for a Reset as Queensland’s Rental Market Remains Under Pressure

Queensland’s rental market remains under intense pressure, with vacancy rates continuing to sit well below healthy levels across most of the state, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s (REIQ) December Quarter 2025 Residential Vacancy Rate Report.

The statewide vacancy rate is holding at just 1.0 per cent, far short of the 2.6 to 3.5 per cent range the REIQ considers balanced. Alarmingly, 33 of the 50 local government areas and sub-regions tracked recorded vacancy rates of 1.0 per cent or lower, underscoring the ongoing shortage of available rental housing.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the results reflected another year of “slim pickings” for renters, particularly as Queensland’s rental population sits above the national average at 36 per cent.

“We all need a roof over our heads whether we rent it or own it,” Ms Mercorella said.

“These persistently low vacancy rates being experienced in many parts of the state show there is significant strain on our rental housing stock. It’s like a game of ‘musical chairs’ - when rental supply falls short, it’s the most vulnerable people in

our community who are left standing.”

Ms Mercorella said easing rental pressure required a two-pronged approach: increasing housing supply and supporting renters who are ready to transition into home ownership.

“The REIQ welcomes Government initiatives such as shared-equity schemes to help close the deposit gap and first home buyer stamp duty relief,” she said.

“It’s time for a reset to help ease Queensland’s rental market pressures.”

While some regions recorded slight easing over the quarter, most of Queensland remains firmly in tight territory. Regional centres including Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton and Bundaberg all recorded vacancy rates of around 1.0 per cent or less, while Cook and Charters Towers remained the tightest markets in the state.

With population growth, major infrastructure projects and ongoing workforce shortages expected to continue driving demand, the REIQ says accelerating new housing construction will be critical to restoring balance to Queensland’s rental market.

Making a Home in the Burdekin

When Chantelle Tompkins moved from Townsville to the Burdekin, she didn’t arrive with a clear roadmap, but with an openness to opportunity and the confidence to back herself.

Relocating to the region with her partner in 2018, Chantelle was quickly enveloped by the customary warmth of the community.

“It’s a warm little community,” she said. “Everyone knows each other, everyone’s happy to say hello… it really feels like home.”

She had worked in various customer service roles before joining Raine & Horne Ayr in 2020—her first full-time role, and her first step into an industry she never expected to enter.

“I had no background in real estate… it was never even a thought,” Chantelle laughed.

“But when I was approached, I just thought, why not give it a go?”

Starting at the front counter, she became a familiar face to clients, known for her welcoming smile and calm approach. Over time, curiosity turned into capability, and capability into confidence.

After gradually earning her stripes, an opportunity arose to assist in the sales de-

partment. Chantelle put her hand up, despite feeling well outside her comfort zone, and has never looked back since.

Today, she works behind the scenes as a key member of the sales administration team, handling listings, contracts, Form 6s and the logistical backbone that keeps transactions moving smoothly.

“I’m the second-hand man. I do a bit of everything, really,” she said.

“At first it was daunting, but it’s sink or swim. Over time, it just became second nature.”

Chantelle credits Principal Carla with creating a supportive, family-first workplace culture that allowed her to grow.

“She’s not just a boss, she’s one of us. I call her my second mum,” Chantelle said.

“She looks after everyone.”

Outside the office, Chantelle balances the intense nature of her role with creative pursuits like painting and reading, with regular trips back to Townsville to visit her parents and her very unconventional pet: a 300-kilogram pig named Otis.

Now firmly rooted in the Burdekin and going from strength to strength in her role, Chantelle serves as proof that sometimes the best careers begin with a simple, “Why not?”

Backstage Improvements Set to Begin at the Burdekin Theatre

Burdekin Shire Council is set to commence a landmark program of backstage improvements at the Bur dekin Theatre, with works scheduled to begin in February 2026.

This upgrade represents a major milestone for our community, delivering the first re newal of the backstage areas since the the atre opened in 1982.

These original spaces have served count less school productions, dance festivals, local performance groups and visit ing shows, and are now ready for their long‑awaited modernisation.

The project will deliver a full refurbish ment of the theatre stage and a complete upgrade of the dressing rooms, transfor mations that will enhance comfort, func tionality and accessibility for performers

and production crews, while supporting the continued use of the venue by the community.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the works mark an exciting moment for the Bur dekin and will ensure the Burdekin The atre continues to support local performers and visiting productions into the future.

“The Burdekin Theatre plays a vital role in our community, particularly for young people who regularly take to the stage through school productions, dance festi vals and local performance groups,” May or Dalle Cort said.

“These improvements are long overdue and will provide safer, more functional backstage facilities that better support the high level of talent we see in the Burdekin each year.”

Council is proud to support the region’s strong performing arts culture, includ ing events such as the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod, Verve Dance Festival, Fast Track Talent Showcase, local dance school concerts, and school musicals and perfor mances.

Upgrade works will be carried out from February through to May 2026. During this period, the Burdekin Theatre will re main open; however, no performances will be held on the Auditorium stage while the works are underway.

The Burdekin Theatre Box Office will con tinue to operate as usual, opening Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm to as sist patrons with ticket sales, enquiries and general information.

During the upgrade period, the following

performances will be presented at Bur dekin Memorial Hall:

• Morning Melodies: Bloom Sings Eva Cassidy – 18 February 2026

• Where is the Green Sheep? – 27 February 2026

• Morning Melodies: A Night in Vegas –15 April 2026

• Remember the Days of Cat Stevens star ring Darren Coggan – 24 April 2026

• Beatlemania on Tour – 29 April 2026

Council appreciates the community’s un derstanding while these important im provements are carried out and looks for ward to welcoming audiences back to an enhanced Burdekin Theatre later in 2026.

Contributed with thanks to the Burdekin Shire Council

Barra Season Reels Back in Across the Burdekin

Anglers across the Burdekin spent the past weekend dusting off the rods, checking the tides and chasing one of North Queensland’s most iconic sportfish as the barramundi season officially kicks off for another year!

The highly anticipated barra season opener fired up across the state’s east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria the moment the clock ticked over to 12:01am on Sunday, 1 February.

Running through to 31 October, the 2026 season follows another strong year for barramundi stocks statewide, supported by more than a decade of conservation efforts and the annual closed season that protects breeding fish during their most vulnerable spawning period. While destinations like Cairns and Rockhampton are reporting “phenomenal” numbers, locals know the Burdekin’s creeks, rivers and coastline more than hold their own when it comes to barra action.

The Burdekin delivers some of north Queensland’s most diverse and accessible barra fishing, whether you’re flicking lures from the Groper Creek jetty, launching into the Haughton or Burdekin rivers, weaving through sheltered estuaries, or casting along the shoreline at Alva and Wunjunga beaches. With eight public boat ramps spread across the shire, including wellknown spots at Groper Creek, Cromarty, Barratta and Ocean Creek, anglers are never far from a prime fishing location. However, it’s not just barra on offer, with

local waterways also producing grunter, mangrove jack, bream, flathead and mud crabs, making every trip a true mixed-bag chance.

Before heading out, fishers are reminded to brush up on the rules to help protect the fishery for future generations. Current regulations include a minimum size limit of 58 centimetres and a maximum size of 120 centimetres, with a bag limit of five barramundi per person, or 10 per boat when two or more people are onboard.

The closed barra season, which runs from November to January each year, plays a vital role in maintaining healthy stocks by allowing barramundi to spawn undisturbed in tidal waters. Anglers should also note that some stocked impoundments, such as Lake Dalrymple, may still allow barra fishing during the closed season, provided a valid Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) is held.

With warm wet season flows, rising water temperatures and productive tides, February through to May is widely regarded as prime barra time, with another strong window returning in September and October. Fishers are encouraged to prepare their gear, check tide times, fish safely and respect local waterways and wildlife.

To stay up to date with size limits, possession rules and seasonal closures, anglers can download the Queensland Fishing 2.0 app, which provides localised updates and reminders.

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For the 2026/2027 financial year the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club would like any local club, sporting body, charitable organisation or individuals who may require money in any way, shape or form for sponsorship to make submissions to the club outlining their requirements. Their requests need to be in letter form and received at the club no later than close of business 31st March 2026. All requests will then be considered at the Quarterly Committee meeting in April 2026 at which time they will be notified of the outcome.

For the 2026/2027 financial year the Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club would like any local club, sporting body, charitable organisation or individuals who may require money in any way, s hape or form sponsorship to make submissions to the club outlining their requirements. Their requests need be in letter form and received at the club no later than close of business 31st March 2026. All requests will then be considered at the Quarterly Committee meeting in April 2026 at which they will be notified of the outcome.

This is a once and only opportunity to obtain sponsorship for the coming year.

This is a once and only opportunity to obtain sponsorship for the coming year.

All mail is to be addressed to John Robinson, Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club, PO Box 92, AYR 4807

All mail is to be addressed to John Robinson, Ayr ANZAC Memorial Club, PO Box 92, AYR 4807

PLEASE NOTE NO EMAILS OR HAND DELIVERED REQUESTS WILL BE ACCEPTED, NO EXCEPTIONS.

PLEASE NOTE NO EMAILS OR HAND DELIVERED REQUESTS WILL BE ACCEPTED, NO EXCEPTIONS.

Fresh Faces Join Ayr State High School for 2026

With the 2026 school year now underway across the Burdekin Shire, Ayr State High School (ASHS) has welcomed several new educators to its growing team, each bringing a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the school community.

Among the new arrivals is Anita Julyan, a well-known Burdekin educator with more than 28 years of teaching experience. Ms

Julyan joins Ayr State High as a music teacher and will also be involved in the school’s wider performing arts programs. Her extensive background in education and passion for the arts are expected to be valuable assets to both students and staff.

ASHS has also welcomed Stephanie O’Dolan to the school community. An experienced English teacher, Ms O’Dolan is looking forward to becoming involved

in the Burdekin community and contributing to the school’s academic and extracurricular programs. She brings a strong commitment to student learning and a genuine enthusiasm for teaching.

In addition, Ayr State High School is pleased to announce the appointment of Aniko Simon as an art teacher for 2026. Ms Simon has extensive teaching experience across Queensland as well as inter-

nationally. She has expressed excitement about joining the Burdekin community and is eager to support students in developing and realising their creative potential.

Ayr State High School looks forward to the expertise, creativity, and fresh perspectives these new educators will bring to the school, as they work alongside existing staff to support student learning and engagement throughout the year.

Burdekin Families Feel Early Effects Of Social Media Minimum Age

Families in Burdekin are among those impacted by Australia’s new social media minimum age, with about 4.7 million accounts identified as belonging to children under 16 removed in the first half of December, according to initial figures from eSafety.

The rules, which took effect on 10 December, aim to prevent children from holding social media accounts. eSafety has shifted from preparation to monitoring, focusing on platforms with high under-16 usage.

“I am very pleased with these preliminary results,” eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said.

“It is clear that eSafety’s regulatory guidance and engagement with platforms is already delivering significant outcomes.”

While some accounts remain active, Ms Inman Grant said it is too early to judge full compliance.

In December, 4.7 million accounts belonging to children under 16 were removed.

“While some kids may find creative ways to stay on social media, it’s important to remember that just like other safety laws, success is measured by reduction in harm and in re-setting cultural norms,” she said.

She added, “Speed limits, for instance, are not a failure because some people speed. Most would agree that roads are safer because of them. Over time, compliance increases, norms settle, and the safety benefits grow.”

Ms Inman Grant said early feedback from age assurance providers has been positive, highlighting public education and preparation ahead of 10 December.

Platforms such as BlueSky and Lemon8 are cooperating with eSafety, which continues to monitor compliance and any migration to other platforms. Families can access guidance and resources via eSafety’s Social Media Minimum Age Hub.

Across 1 Brought about (6)

3 Finnish capital (8)

5 Commanded (7)

9 Large water bird (7)

11 Animals (6)

13 Troubadour (8)

15 Picture (7)

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48 Country of Mounties (6)

1 Brought about (6)

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Sudoku

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55 Lattice (7)

11 Mexican wrap (7)

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3 Finnish

51 Washing vessel (7)

5 Commanded (7)

54 Postscript (3,4)

9

56 Star-shaped symbol (8)

11 Animals (6)

13 Troubadour (8)

57 Historical exhibition building (6)

15 Picture (7)

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58 Optional course (8)

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60 Superstars (5)

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61 European horseback soldier (7)

28 Explosive (coll) (5)

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WEEKLYTVGUIDE

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Solar System. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. 12.00 News. 1.00 Muster Dogs. 2.00 Dog Park. 2.30 In Limbo.

3.00 Would I Lie To You? 3.30 Brush With Fame. 4.00 Love Your Garden.

4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.35 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. 8.35 Art Detectives. (PG) 9.20 Hard Quiz. (PG) 9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. 10.20 Dog Park. 10.50 News. 11.10 Smother. 12.55 Rage New Music. 5.00 Rage.

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Call The Midwife. 1.30 Art Detectives. 2.15 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. 4.00 Human. 5.00 Australian Story. 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 6.00 Kath & Kim. (PG) 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Call The Midwife. (PG)

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (M) 10.00 This England. (M) 11.05 Rage. (MA15+)

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. 11.00 Compass. 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. 2.30 Muster Dogs. 3.40 The Piano UK. 4.30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Grand Designs Transformations. 7.00 News. 7.30 Muster Dogs. 8.30 Dog Park. 9.00 This England. 9.50 Call The Midwife. 10.55 Midsomer Murders. 12.25 Rage. 3.00 Gardening Aust. 4.00 Dream Gardens. 4.30 A Bite To Eat. 5.00 Insiders.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Back Roads. 12.00 News. 1.00 The Great Australian Bee Challenge. 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Would I Lie To You?

3.30 Brush With Fame. 4.00 Love Your Garden. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Aust Story. 8.30 Four Corners. 9.15 Media Watch. 9.35 Planet America. 10.05 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 10.35 News. 10.50 The Business. 11.10 The Weekly. 11.40 Love Your Garden. 12.25 Long Lost Family. 1.15 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Call The Midwife. 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. 3.30 Brush With Fame. 4.00 Love Your Garden. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 8.30 Mission To Space With Francis Bourgeois. 9.20 Grand Designs Transformations. 10.35 News. 10.50 The Business. 11.05 Four Corners. 11.50 Media Watch. 12.10 Love Your Garden. 1.00 Long Lost Family. 1.45 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. 3.30 Brush With Fame. 3.55 Love Your Garden. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. 9.00 Dog Park. 9.30 QI. 10.00 Planet America. 10.35 News. 10.50 The Business. 11.05 Live At The Wireless. 11.55 Love Your Garden. 12.40 Long Lost Family. 1.30 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 12.55 PBS News. 1.55 South America With Simon Reeve. 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. 4.05 Secrets Of The Terror Whale. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Southern Cyprus: Aphrodite’s Paradise. 9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. 10.25 SBS News. 10.55 Sisi. 11.50 Babylon Berlin. 1.40 Silent Road. 4.25 Bamay. 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.10 Laos: Echoes Of Serenity. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Figure Skating. ISU Four Continents C’ships. H’lights. 4.00 Going Places. 4.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Women’s. 5.30 Imperial Crown: The Myth, Mystery And Majesty. 6.30 News. 7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. 8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys. 9.35 The Secret DNA Of Us. 10.40 Lord Lucan. 11.45 Outlander. 2.30 Beyond Signs. 4.25 Bamay. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Cycling. AlUla Tour. H’lights. 4.00 Going Places. 4.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. H’lights. 5.30 The Anti-Soviet Fighters. 6.30 News. 7.30 Extreme Silk Road. 8.25 Grand Canal: China And Its Wondrous Waterway. 10.15 Dunhuang: Ancient Frontier Fortress. 11.15 George Michael: Portrait Of An Artist. 1.00 Unlocking The Secrets Of The Nazca Lines. 1.50 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. 2.55 The Great House Revival. 3.55 Rediscover Victoria. 4.25 Bamay. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 Karnak: The Largest Temple In The World. 3.05 Going Places. 3.35 The Cook Up. 4.05 Secrets Of The Killer Mega Shark. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 9.25 Buzzcocks. 10.05 SBS News. 10.35 Other People’s Money. 11.30 Vigil. 2.30 The Great House Revival. 3.30 Rediscover Victoria. 4.00 Bamay. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. 3.00 Going Places. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. 3.35 The Cook Up. 4.05 Secrets Of The Tasmanian Tiger. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? 8.35 MOVIE: I Am Raquel Welch. (2025) 10.10 Rock Legends. 10.40 SBS News. 11.10 Exit. 12.05 DNA. 1.50 We Hear You. 2.40 The Great House Revival. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. 3.00 Going Places. 3.30 The Cook Up. 4.05 Race For The Sky. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Saving Yellowstone. 8.30 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. 9.25 Trespasses. 10.20 SBS News. 10.50 Face To Face. 11.40 Darkness: Those Who Kill. 1.30 Golden Boy. 2.20 The Great House Revival. 4.15 Bamay. 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 The Weekly. 11.00 Creative Types. 11.25 QI. 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. 1.45 Camel Capers. 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. 3.30 Brush With Fame. 3.55 Love Your Garden. 4.45 Long Lost Family. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Grand Designs Transformations. 9.00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. 9.30 The Piano UK. 10.35 News. 10.50 The Business. 11.05 Love Your Garden. 11.55 Long Lost Family. 12.40 Rage. 4.00 Gardening Aust. 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 7.30. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. 3.00 Going Places. 3.30 The Cook Up. 4.05 Race For The Sky. 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. 6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 News. 7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. 8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. 9.20 In Flight. 10.15 SBS News. 10.45 Before We Die. 11.40 Forest Of The Missing. 1.40 Silent Road. 3.35 Celebrity Mastermind. 4.35 Bamay. 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: One Of A Kind Love. (2021) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 8.30 MOVIE: Pretty Woman. (1990) (M) 11.05 To Be Advised. 12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. 5.00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters.

6.00 Better Homes. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 11.30 Horse Racing. Inglis Millennium Day And Caulfield Charity Family Day. 5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Mummy. (1999) (M)

10.00 MOVIE: American Made. (2017) (MA15+)

12.20 MOVIE: Daughter In Disguise. (2021) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 It’s Academic. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute.

6.00 Better Homes. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. 12.00 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. H’lights. 1.30 Unfiltered: Cricket. 2.00 MOVIE: Close Encounters Of The Third Kind. (1977) 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 News. 7.00 Australian Idol. 8.40 The Fall Of The House Of Beckham. 9.40 The Royal Rich List. 11.10 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. 12.20 Temple. 1.20 Travel Oz. 2.00 Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 NFL. NFL. Super Bowl LX. Seattle Seahawks v New England Patriots. 2.00 Border Security. 2.30 Border Security: Int. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Australian Idol. 9.15 9-1-1. (M) 10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. 11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. 12.35 Conviction. 1.35 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (PG) 9.30 Doc. (M) 10.30 St. Denis Medical. 11.30 Autopsy USA. 12.30 Childhood’s End. 2.30 Shopping. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. H’lights of the Milano Cortina 2026 games. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight. 2.00 Late Programs. 2.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. 3.30 Late Programs. 5.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony. The Opening Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. H’lights of the Milano Cortina 2026 games. 1.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony. The Opening Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026. Replay. 5.00 News. 5.30 Find My Country House Aust. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Overnight. 6.00 Tough Tested.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Golf. Jack Newton Celebrity Classic. H’lights. 11.00 Fishing Aust. 11.30 Take Me Home. 12.30 Forging Champions. 2.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – H’lights. Replay. 5.00 News. 5.30 My Way. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.35 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30

9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – H’lights. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Married At First Sight. 9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 –Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Overnight. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – H’lights. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (M) 9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 12.00 News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 News. 5.00 The Chase Aust. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 The 1% Club UK. 8.30 Highway Patrol. (PG) 9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. 10.00 Air Crash Inv. 11.00 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. 12.15 The Last Weekend. 1.15 Travel Oz. 2.00 Shopping. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – H’lights. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Married At First Sight. 9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. 11.00 Golf. LIV Golf Adelaide. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Seven Local News. 6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002) (PG) 10.50 To Be Advised. 12.30 Dare Me. (MA15+) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. 1.30 Olympic

7.40pm Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. (R)

8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? (R)

8.35 My Adventures With Superman. (PG)

8.55 Robot Wars. (R)

9.55 TKO: Total Knock Out. (PG, R)

10.35 Merlin. (PG, R)

11.20 Good Game Spawn Point. (PG, R)

11.45 Operation Ouch! (R)

7.30pm Hard Quiz Kids. (PG, R)

8.00 Chopped Junior. (R)

8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. (R)

9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)

10.10 Abbott Elementary. (PG, R)

10.30 Merlin. (PG, R)

11.15 Crongton. (PG, R)

11.40 Operation Ouch! (R)

7.30 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia.

7.50 Movie: Space Jam: A New Legacy. (2021) (PG, R)

9.45 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R) 10.25 Merlin. (PG, R) 11.10 Abbott Elementary. (PG, R) 12.50am Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. (R) 1.45 Malory Towers. (R)

7.35pm Ninjago. (PG)

8.00 Deadly 60. (R)

8.35 TKO: Total Knock Out. (PG)

9.15 Kids BBQ Championship. (PG, R)

9.55 Merlin. (PG, R)

10.40 MythBusters

“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)

11.30 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. (PG, R)

7.35pm Ninjago. (PG)

8.00 Deadly 60. (R)

8.35 Whale With Steve Backshall. (R)

9.25 Planet Weird. (PG, R)

10.15 Merlin. (PG, R)

11.00 MythBusters

“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)

11.25 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. (PG, R)

12.50am Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. (R)

7.35pm Ninjago. (PG)

8.00 Deadly 60. (R)

8.55 Adventure Time. (R)

9.40 We Bare Bears. (R)

9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. (R)

10.15 My Adventures With Superman. (PG, R)

11.15 Fresh Off The Boat. (PG, R)

11.35 MythBusters

“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt.

7.30 Wildlife ER. (PG, R)

8.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

9.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

11.30 Secrets Of Beautiful Gardens. (R)

12.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

1.30 Home In WA. (R)

2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

6.00pm Luxury Escapes: World’s Best Holidays. (PG)

6.30 Bondi Vet. (PG)

7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)

8.30 Lewis. (M, R)

10.30 Escape To The Country. (R)

11.30 The Amazing Homemakers. (PG, R)

12.30 The Yorkshire Vet. (PG, R)

5.55pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.55 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)

8.30 Vera. (M, R) 10.30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke. (M, R) 11.30 The Vicar Of Dibley. (PG, R)

12.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

1.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 2.00 Vera. (M, R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt.

7.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

8.30 Endeavour. (R)

10.30 Air Crash Investigations: The Accident Files. (PG, R)

11.30 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

12.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.30 Home In WA. (R)

2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt.

7.30 Call The Midwife. (M, R)

8.45 Judge John Deed. (M, R)

10.45 Northern Lights. (M)

11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R)

12.45 Room For Improvement. (R)

1.30 Home In WA. (R) 2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. (PG, R) 8.45 Inspector George Gently. (M, R)

10.45 The Queen Unseen. (PG, R)

11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R)

12.45 Room For Improvement. (R)

1.30 Home In WA. (R)

2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

5.30pm Escape To The Country. (R)

6.30 Bargain Hunt.

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Road Wars. (M)

8.00 Road Wars. (M)

8.30 Movie: The Longest Yard. (2005) (M, R)

10.50 NFL Tailgate. (PG) 11.20 Storage Wars. (PG, R)

11.50 American Pickers. (PG, R)

1.00 Golf. LIV Golf League Riyadh. Day 3.

6.00pm Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.00 Storage Wars. (PG) 7.30 Movie: Ghostbusters: Afterlife. (2021) (PG, R) Mckenna Grace, Paul Rudd.

10.00 Movie: In The Line Of Fire. (1993) (M, R) Clint Eastwood, John Malkovich.

1.00 Golf. LIV Golf League Riyadh. Day 4.

6.00pm Border Security: International. (PG, R)

6.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

8.30 Movie: Jason Bourne. (2016) (M, R) 11.00 Movie: Skyscraper. (2018) (M, R)

1.05 Blokesworld. (PG, R)

1.35 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R) 6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R) 7.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PG, R) 9.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. (PG, R) 10.30 Mighty Planes. (PG, R)

11.30 When Big Things Go Wrong. (PG, R) 12.30 Storage Wars. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R) 7.30 Outback Truckers. (M, R) 9.30 Railroad Australia. (PG, R)

10.30 Deadliest Roads. (PG, R)

12.30 Storage Wars. (PG, R) 1.00 American Pickers. (PG, R) 2.00 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.30 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. (PG) 10.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. (M, R) 11.30 Live PD Presents: PD Cam. (MA15+)

5.30pm American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Pawn Stars. (PG, R)

5.30pm Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026.

7.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Night.

7.30 New Tricks. (M, R)

8.40 Movie: Lethal Weapon. (1987) (M, R) 10.55 The Equalizer. (MA15+, R)

4.20pm Movie: Piccadilly Incident. (1946) (G, R)

6.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R)

8.40 Movie: Rambo: First Blood. (1982) (M, R) Sylvester Stallone. 10.35 Movie: The Driver. (1978) (M, R)

12.25 Movie: Hell Is A City. (1960) (PG, R)

6.00pm Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Night. 8.35 David Attenborough’s Frozen Planet II. (PG, R)

10.35 Major Crimes. (M, R) 11.35 M*A*S*H. (PG, R) 12.05 Movie: That’ll Be The Day. (1973) (M, R) 1.50 Movie: Victoria The Great. (1937) (G, R)

6.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Night. 9.05 The Brokenwood Mysteries. (M) 11.05 London Kills. (M)

12.05 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)

12.35 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)

1.05 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG) 1.35 Movie: The Tales Of Hoffmann. (1951) (G, R)

6.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Night. 9.15 Agatha Christie’s Marple. (PG, R) 11.15 Miniseries: Agatha Christie’s The Pale Horse. (M, R)

12.15 M*A*S*H. (PG, R) 12.45 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)

1.15 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG) 1.45 Movie: Operation Bullshine. (1959) (G, R)

6.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Night. 9.05 Midsomer Murders. (M, R) 11.05 The Madame Blanc Mysteries. (M, R) 12.05 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)

12.35 M*A*S*H. (PG, R)

1.05 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG) 1.35 Movie: Jules Verne’s Rocket To The Moon. (1967) (G, R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 JAG. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 FBI: International. (M, R)

11.15 A Million Little Things. (PG, R)

Home Shopping. (R)

Home Shopping. (R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm Football Tonight. 6.35 Soccer. A-League Men. Round 16. Western Sydney Wanderers v Melbourne City. 9.00 NCIS. (M, R)

9.55 NCIS. (M, R) 10.50 NCIS. (M, R) 11.45 NCIS: Origins. (M, R) 12.45 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+, R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R)

The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

Becker. (PG, R)

Frasier. (PG, R)

Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.50pm If You Are The One. (PG) 6.50 Jeopardy! (R) 7.15 Jeopardy! (R) 7.45 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Movie: Risky Business. (1983) (M, R) Tom Cruise.

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.45 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 The Neighborhood. (PG, R)

12.00 South Park. (MA15+, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (M, R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 JAG. (PG, R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 Matlock. (PG, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 NCIS. (M, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG, R) 12.15 JAG. (PG, R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R) 6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.20 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R) 8.45 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 South Park. (MA15+, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 1.30 South Park. (M, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 Bull. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R)

8.30 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

9.25 FBI: Most Wanted. (M, R)

10.20 Bull. (M, R) 11.15 Bull. (PG, R) 12.15 JAG. (PG, R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

6.30 Bull. (PG, R)

7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 FBI: International. (M, R) 9.25 FBI: International. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (M, R) 11.15 Bull. (PG, R)

12.15 JAG. (PG, R) 1.15 Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R) 6.30 Bull. (PG, R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 8.30 NCIS. (M, R) 9.25 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (PG, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG, R) 12.15 Home Shopping. (R) 12.45 Home Shopping. (R)

Home Shopping. (R) 1.45 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

10.00 Becker. (PG, R)

10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)

11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (M, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R)

6.30 Friends. (PG, R)

8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R)

Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R) 11.10 Homeland. (M, R) 1.15 Sex Before The Internet. (MA15+, R)

5.45pm Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.45 The Food That Built The World. 7.35 Engineering From Above.

8.30 Icons Unearthed: The Simpsons. (PG)

10.20 Marcella. (MA15+, R)

12.10 WWE Legends. (M, R)

5.45pm Icons Unearthed: The Lord Of The Rings. (PG, R)

6.40 The Architecture The Railways Built. 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. 10.10 The Grudge. (M) 11.40 Secrets Of Miss America. (M, R) 12.35 Django. (M, R)

5.50pm The Fast History Of. (PG, R)

6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG)

7.05 Jeopardy! (R)

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R)

8.30 Triumph: Jesse Owens & The Berlin Games. (PG, R)

10.05 The Secret DNA Of Us. (PG, R)

11.15 James Brown: Say It Loud. (M, R)

5.50pm The Fast History Of. (PG, R)

6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG)

7.05 Jeopardy! (R)

7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Shark. 10.20 Casketeers Life & Death Across The Globe. (M, R) 11.15 Out Of Bounds. 12.45 Then You Run. (MA15+, R)

Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (M) 9.20 Movie: Dangerous Liaisons. (1988) (M, R) Glenn Close. 11.35 Movie: The Flowers Of War. (2011) (MA15+, R) 7.35pm Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. (R) 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. (PG, R)

The Wonderful World Of Puppies. (R)

Merlin. (PG, R)

11.35 MythBusters

“There’s Your Problem!”. (PG, R)

7.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

8.30 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. (PG, R)

10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)

11.30 Father Brown. (M, R)

12.30 Bargain Hunt. (R)

1.30 Home In WA. (R)

2.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

7.30 More Power. (PG) 8.30 AFL Origin Countdown. 10.00 Movie: Resident Evil: Welcome To Raccoon City. (2021) (MA15+, R)

12.15 Storage Wars. (PG, R)

12.45 American Pickers. (PG, R)

6.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Night. 7.30 To Be Advised. 8.30 Movie: Mermaids. (1990) (PG, R)

10.45 Major Crimes. (M, R)

11.45 Recipes For Love And Murder. (M, R) 12.45 Innovation Nation. (R) 1.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. (PG)

5.30pm JAG. (PG, R)

Bull. (PG, R)

NCIS. (M, R)

NCIS. (M, R)

NCIS. (M, R)

Bull. (PG, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG, R)

JAG. (PG, R)

Home Shopping. (R)

Home Shopping. (R) 6.00pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 6.30 Friends. (PG, R) 8.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.00 Becker. (PG, R) 10.30 Frasier. (PG, R) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.50pm The Fast History Of. (PG, R)

6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. (PG) 7.05 Jeopardy! (R) 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M, R) 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (PG) 10.05 Brassic. 12.05 Movie: Homicide: The Movie. (2000) (M, R)

26 Social Life

FRIDAY 6 FEBRUARY

Boars & Barra Fishing & Hunting

FRIDAY 27 FEBRUARY

Where is the Green Sheep?

SUNDAY 8 MARCH

FRIDAY 24 APRIL

Competition

Friday 5pm

The Boars and Barra will return to Clare for a high-energy weekend from the 6th to the 8th of February of fishing, hunting and family fun, offering over $7,000 in cash and prizes, live weigh-ins, kids’ activities and a big Sunday presentation at the Clare Sports & Recreation Club.

Clare Sports & Recreation Club

TUESDAY (MONTHLY –SECOND TUESDAY)

Community Gardening Morning Tea

Tuesday 9am

A relaxed, hands-on community morning covering growing from seed, cuttings and repotting, with tea and coffee provided. A great opportunity to learn, ask questions and connect with fellow gardeners. Held on the second Tuesday of each month

WEDNESDAY 18

FEBRUARY

Morning Melodies Bloom Sings

Eva Cassidy

Wednesday 11amExperience an intimate acoustic tribute as Bloom brings Eva Cassidy’s timeless songs to life at Morning Melodies, with tickets $15 including morning tea.

Burdekin Memorial Hall

THURSDAY 26 FEBRUARY

Movie Magic Paint, Sip & Sing

Thursday 6pm

Sing, sip and paint your heart out at this epic movie-inspired Paint & Sip in Ayr, where iconic film soundtracks, big laughs and guided creativity collide for a glitter-filled night of nostalgia, fun and feel-good chaos at the Coutts Commercial Hotel. Coutts Commercial Hotel, Ayr

Friday 12pm

Families can enjoy an enchanting visual theatre adventure as puppetry and animation bring Mem Fox’s beloved story to life in the playful search for the elusive Green Sheep.

Burdekin Theatre

SATURDAY 28 FEBRUARY

Monthly Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle

Saturday 10am

Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue and Pets

Domain Ayr will host a heartwarming Adoption Day & Sausage Sizzle event to support plenty of adorable rescue pets looking for their forever homes.

Pets Domain Ayr

SUNDAY 1 MARCH

Burdekin Plantation Park Markets

Sunday 8am

Sunday, the 1st of March will excitingly mark the first Burdekin Plantation Park Markets for 2026! Market stallholders are encouraged to reach out to Ayr State Primary School on 07 4790 3333 during school hours for all enquiries.

Plantation Park

SUNDAY (MONTHLY –FIRST SUNDAY)

Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society Monthly Meeting

Sunday 2pm

The Ayr & District Orchid and Allied Plant Society holds its monthly meeting on the first Sunday of each month. Members display plants from 1:45pm, with meetings commencing at 2pm. Visitors and new members are welcome.

Howie’s Masonic Hall, 118 McMillian Street, Ayr

Further information: Conway – 0425 325 040

International Women’s Day Afternoon Tea

Sunday 1:30pm

Zonta Club Burdekin are excited to announce their annual International Women’s Day Afternoon Tea will be held on Sunday, the 8th of March. The theme for this year's celebration is "Cruise with Zonta" and the festivities will include a delightful afternoon tea, guest speaker and some engaging activities.

Masonic Heritage Centre

FRIDAY 27 MARCH

Ayr Family Carnival

Friday 5pm

Hibble's Amusements' Ayr Family Carnival will roll into town this March providing plenty of rides, side show alley games, carnival food and fun for the whole family from Friday through to Saturday!

Ayr Showgrounds

SATURDAY 28 MARCH

Masquerade Gala

Saturday 6pm

An evening of mystery, fun and entertainment featuring a fashion parade and dazzling diamond display will ignite Populins Hall this March as presented by Demure or Dare and Campbell's Jewellery! Populins Hall

SATURDAY 28 MARCH & SUNDAY 29 MARCH

Canefield ASHES Weekend

Saturday & Sunday All Day

The infamous Home Hill Cricket Association Canefield ASHES Weekend will return to the region this March! Nomination forms are due in by 1st March!

Home Hill Cricket Association

SUNDAY 5 APRIL

Burdekin Plantation Park Markets

Sunday 8am

The community are invited to pop down to enjoy Ayr State Primary School's Burdekin Plantation Park Markets on the first Sunday of every month (weather permitting) in support of local creators and entrepreneurs from 8am to midday! Market stallholders are encouraged to reach out to ASPS on 07 4790 3333 during school hours for all enquiries.

Plantation Park

WEDNESDAY 15 APRIL

Morning Melodies A Night in Vegas

Wednesday 11am

Audiences can expect a glitzy, high-energy morning of Vegas-style hits, big band classics, dazzling dance performances, and charismatic vocals that bring the glamour and fun of Sin City to life.

Burdekin Theatre

Remember the Days of Cat Stevens

Friday 7:30pm

Audiences can relive the timeless hits of Cat Stevens in a heartfelt tribute by Darren Coggan, celebrating classics like Moonshadow, Wild World, and Father & Son with remarkable authenticity and nostalgic charm. Burdekin Theatre

WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL

Beatlemania on Tour

Wednesday 7:30pm

The sound of a generation, and the music that has influenced every generation since – that’s The Beatles. And now you can relive the heyday of The Beatles with Beatlemania On Tour! Burdekin Theatre

SATURDAY 2 MAY –MONDAY 4 MAY

The Sugar Bowl Pickleball Team Event

Saturday–Monday

Celebrating 45 years, the iconic Sugar Bowl returns with 44 teams competing across Ayr, Giru and Home Hill in a team-based pickleball tournament. The event features A and B grades, with every match contributing to overall team standings in a weekend focused on competition, sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Ayr, Giru & Home Hill Tennis Associations Hosted by Home Hill Tennis Association

SUNDAY 3 MAY

Burdekin Plantation Park Markets Sunday 8am

The community are invited to pop down to enjoy Ayr State Primary School's Burdekin Plantation Park Markets on the first Sunday of every month (weather permitting) in support of local creators and entrepreneurs from 8am to midday! Market stallholders are encouraged to reach out to ASPS on 07 4790 3333 during school hours for all enquiries. Plantation Park

SUNDAY 10 MAY

Monthly BBQ Breakfast | Sunday 8am

Come one, come all to the Burdekin Aero Club's BBQ Breakfast for a morning of socialisation and aircraft fun! Call 0429 144 921 for more information.

Aerodrome Road

SUNDAY 24 MAY

The Australian Medium Tour Sunday 2pm

Charmaine Wilson returns to Ayr on this May for a moving afternoon of spirit connection, offering audience members messages of love, validation and healing from the spirit world, followed by a Q&A and reflections on grief and life beyond, from 2pm to 4.15pm (ages 16+).

Burdekin Theatre

BRENDA BERDING

LATE OF AYR.

Passed away on 30th January, 2026 aged 66 years.

Beloved wife of Arne and loving mother of Kade.

In keeping with Brenda’s wishes a private cremation was held.

K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

DEATH NOTICES

BARRIE THOMAS HODDER

LATE OF REGIS CARE, AYR FORMERLY OF HODDER ROAD, RITA ISLAND. Passed away on 30th January, 2026 aged 93 years.

Beloved husband of Doreen (deceased), much loved father and father-in-law of Christopher and Vanda, Vanessa and Bob Carless, Sandra and Lex Cox, Robin and Mark Peach, Rachael and Jim Southern and Rebecca (deceased), loving grandfather of 16 and great-grandfather of 27.

‘FOREVER LOVED, IN GOD’S CARE’

A service to celebrate the life of BARRIE will commence at 2.30pm TOMORROW, FRIDAY, 6th JANUARY at All Saints Anglican Church, Ayr followed by interment in the Ayr Lawn Cemetery, weather permitting.

K & S WRIGHT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

LAWRENCE EDWARD DELLIT (LAURIE) LATE OF AYR.

Passed away on 1st February, 2026 aged 97 years.

Beloved husband of Mary (deceased), Much loved father and father-in-law of Margaret and Joe Linton, Cathy (deceased), Michael and Joanne (deceased), Tricia and Lawrence Brotto, Loving grandfather and great grandfather of their families.

A service to honor LAURIE will commence with Celebration of Requiem Mass at 10am TUESDAY, 10th FEBRUARY at The Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr followed by interment in the Ayr Lawn Cemetery.

K & S WRIGHT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

SOUTHERN, JIM ALLEN LATE OF AIRDMILLAN ROAD, AYR. 07/09/1995 – 02/02/2026

Loving husband of Rachael, Devoted father and father-in-law of Ryan and Lara, Clinton and Kate, and Beau. Loving grandad of Charlotte, Mila, Ralph, Hugh and Vera.

Family and friends are invited to attend JIM’S funeral on MONDAY, 9th FEBRUARY, 2026 COMMENCING AT 3pm at All Saints Anglican Church, Ayr.

K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

BEVERLY MAY GELLING (BEV)

LATE OF REGIS CARE, HOME HILL FORMERLY OF HEATHER STREET, AYR AND KIRKNIE ROAD, HOME HILL.

Passed away on 27th January, 2026 aged 82 years.

Beloved wife of Roy (Tiger) (deceased), Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Sharon and Peter Lace, Barry and Lee-Anne, Helen, Bev, Ross, Bruce, Megan and Jamie Young and Karen, loving nanny and great-nanny of their families.

A service to celebrate the life of BEV will commence at 10.30am

WEDNESDAY, 11th FEBRUARY at The Uniting Church, Home Hill followed by interment in the Home Hill Lawn Cemetery.

K & S WRIGHT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

RAYMOND JOHN LENNOX (RAY) LATE OF VILLA VINCENT FORMERLY OF AYR. Passed away on 25th January, 2026 aged 95 years.

Beloved husband of Helen(deceased), Much loved father and father-in-law of Christine Parker, Kevin and Susan, Marlene and Gary Thomson, Leanne Burton, Stephen and Deb, Phil and Giselle, Maria and Barry Bosworth, Greg and Majella, Helen and Stephen Mottin. Loving grandfather of 24 and great-grandfather of 22.

A service to celebrate the life of RAY will commence at 10am SATURDAY,7th FEBRUARY at The Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ayr. There will be no cortege.

K & S WRIGHT FUNERAL DIRECTORS

40 FOURTEENTH STREET, HOME HILL PHONE 47821270

Burdekin Roosters Hit the Training Track Ahead of 2026 Season

The Burdekin Roosters have officially kicked off training as preparations ramp up for the 2026 Rugby League Townsville District (RLTD) season.

The club is aiming to field four teams this year, with the under 20s competition disbanded and replaced by a new under 19 grade. Alf Cantarella will again lead the under 18s, assisted by John Nash and Thomas Lammon. After guiding the side to a preliminary final last season before injuries took their toll, Cantarella said he was proud to have coached many of the players from their junior years through to the senior ranks.

Peter Horan returns as reserve grade coach, while Steve Lansley will once again mentor the A grade side.

Under a new two-year agreement, the women’s program will combine with Herbert River to form the Burdekin River team. Last season’s coach Anita Hagarty was appointed to continue in the role, although work commitments may impact

her availability. The Burdekin side of the team will welcome back speedster Stephanie Monday, who reunites with her twin sister after a year away, along with forward Ali Nauque, returning from an ACL injury. Both bring representative experience to the squad.

Training is being held at Bendigo Bank Park in Ayr on Tuesday and Thursday nights for Burdekin-based players, with Townsville-based players training at Bindal on Tuesdays and Ayr on Thursdays.

A tentative RLTD draw has been released, with officials hoping for changes after the Roosters were scheduled to play seven away games in the first nine rounds.

Off the field, the club has a new executive committee, led by chairman Alex Lennox, alongside deputy John Nash, secretary and registrar Melissa Lammon, and treasurer Connie Elton.

Further details on returning and new players will be revealed in next week’s edition.

Contributed with thanks to Brian Carnes.

Burdekin Touch Football Season Kicks Off in Style

The Coutt’s Commercial Tavern Open Men’s and Women’s Touch pre-season competition got off to a flying start last week, with an impressive 120 touchdowns recorded.

After two games, Baywatch and Renegades remain unbeaten in the men’s competition, while Eathorne’s Princesses are the only undefeated team in the women’s draw. Even with shortened matches, the humid conditions proved challenging for many players.

So far, 12 men’s teams and six women’s teams have nominated, with further nominations expected in the coming weeks.

The four-week pre-season competition will conclude with finals on 11 February, before Round 1 of the Open competition begins the following week. Team nominations remain open until 28 February and can be completed via the burdekintouch. com.au website.

Sign-ons for the Under 14 and Under 12 Junior Touch competitions were held on Wednesday, 4 February, with those divisions set to begin next Wednesday.

Pre-season Round 1 results:

Football Matters with Cyclops

Local

The season was supposed to kick off last Saturday with the 1st Round of the Australia Cup where the Premiers are away to Saints Eagles Souths in Townsville. However, the match was postponed and will now take place this Saturday Seniors

Training has been well underway now for a few weeks. Men train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15 and the Ladies are in action on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30 to 7.00. The Fixtures start on the weekend of 20- 22 M arch. The Division 1 and Funkies teams play Estates at home on the Friday, and the Ladies are away to MA Olympic. On the Sunday the Premiers and Reserves are away to Rebels.

Juniors

Registrations are open and teams will be hopefully getting sorted in the next few weeks. Please head to Facebook for registration information. If you have any questions, please email the club at burdekinfc@ hotmail.com.

Masters

The Masters will resume its Monday Night Magic (or Mayhem) on 23 February. All are welcome, male, and female, useful and hopeless. Be there, International Park for 6.30 Kick off.

National and International

The Matildas are only a month away from their first match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The Matildas are in Group A with Iran, South Korea, and the Philippines and their first match is against the Philippines in Perth on 1st March. They then meet Iran on 5th March and South Korea on 8th March. The Asian Cup is being hosted by Australia. Twelve countries have qualified for the event which is also a qualifying event for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Socceroos fans planning to travel to the United States and Canada for next year’s World Cup have been hit with hefty ticket prices. The cheapest ticket on offer for an Australian fan wanting to see the Socceroos in action in a group game is $210 (US$140). That price is for a category three ticket to Australia’s opening game against a yet to be determined European qualifier in Vancouver or the Socceroos’ final group against Paraguay in the San Francisco Bay Area.

For those matches, a category two ticket will set fans back $570 (US$380), while a category one ticket to be as close to the action as possible is listed at $675 (US$450). The prices get even worse for Australia’s clash with host nation, the USA, in Seattle. The cheapest ticket going for that match is $398 (US$265). The craziest tickets have been saved for the final at New York/ New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on July 19, The cheapest ticket on offer is $6,280 (US$4,185), Category two will set you

back $8,366 (US$5,575).

In the A League, after fifteen rounds Newcastle are now the League leaders after beating Brisbane 4-1 and after Auckland lost 0-2 to Perth Glory. Sydney FC demolished

Western Sydney 4-1 to move into second place two points behind Newcastle, with Auckland dropping to third spot. Brisbane has dropped to seventh place, winning just one of their last five games. Western Sydney continue to hold up the league.

In the A League Women, after twelve rounds Melbourne City are still top despite losing 1-2 to Adelaide. Canberra beat Melbourne Victory 2-1 to move up to second place a point clear of Adelaide. Brisbane drew 2-2 at home to Central Coast and is now fifth. Sydney is bottom of the league after losing 3-2 to Western Sydney.

Europe

In the EPL, Arsenal thumped Leeds 4-0 and is now six points clear of Manchester City who could only draw 2-2 at Spurs. Aston Villa lost but is still third a further one point behind and ManU continue their good run under new Manager Michael Carrick beating Fulham to stay in fourth place. At the foot of the table West Ham, Burnley and Wolverhampton are in look relegation bound.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, Bayern could only manage a daw away to lowly Hamburg and is now only six points clear of

Men:

Baywatch 5 def Ball Grabbers 0

Baywatch 5 def His Haas 1

Renegades 7 def Touch n Go 0

Renegades 4 def Creampuffs 1 Creampuffs 4 def Touch n Go 2 His Haas 3 def Ball Grabbers 0 Teamo Supremo 3 def Feelers 2

One Touch IT 3 def Teamo Supremo 1

One Touch IT 0 drew Feelers 0

Women:

Eathorne’s Princesses 6 def Chick Flicks 0

Eathorne’s Princesses 2 def First in Physio 0

Salty Sirens 3 def Can’t Catch 0

First in Physio 1 def Salty Sirens 0

Can’t Catch 2 drew Chick Flicks 2

With strong numbers, competitive matches and junior divisions returning, the Burdekin Touch Football season is shaping up to be a big one.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Knapton.

FOOTBALL

Dortmund with Hoffenheim a further three points behind. Stuttgart is still in fourth place. Heidenheim and St Pauli both lost and are holding up the table and Mainz, who won again, are almost out of the relegation zone.

In Italy’s Serie A, only three one of the top eight teams won. Inter was one of them and they are now top the table eight points ahead of AC Milan. Napoli is a further point behind and Juventus who won 4-1 at Parma stays in fourth place one point behind. The bottom seven teams all lost, and Pisa and Verona look Serie B bound.

In Spain’s, La Liga Barcelona and Real Madrid both won and Barca still leads Real by one point. Third placed Atletico could only draw and is another nine points off the pace. Fourth placed Villarreal is another three points behind. At the bottom of the league, Oviedo was the only team to win but along with Levante is still in deep trouble.

Finally, in France, after twenty rounds, three of the top four teams won and PSG still leads Lens by two points with Marseille, who could only draw, now a further seven points away. Lyon is in fourth place on goal difference. None of the bottom seven teams won and Metz, Auxerre and Nantes are in deep trouble.

The Quote of the Week is from ex- Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger -“If you do not believe you can do it then you have no chance at all”.

Record Field Tees Off at Ayr Golf Club Mini Masters

The Ayr Golf Club was buzzing with energy as a record field of 121 players teed off for the Mini Masters, proudly sponsored by Drummond Golf. With the course presented in immaculate condition, blue skies overhead and a light breeze keeping conditions comfortable, it was a near-perfect day for golf. The strong turnout saw competitors travel from across the Burdekin region, as well as Proserpine, Rowes Bay and even North Lakes in Brisbane, highlighting the growing appeal of the event.

Congratulations go to all the winners and to every player who took part and helped make the day such a success. A special

thank you also goes to James from Drummond Golf, who made the trip to Ayr to set up a pop-up pro shop and ensure golfers had everything they needed on the day.

The club also extends its sincere thanks to the volunteers who prepared the course, staffed the clubhouse and worked behind the scenes to set up and run the competition. Their time and dedication continue to make events like this possible and ensure the Ayr Golf Club remains a welcoming place to enjoy great golf and even better company.

Photos and article curtsey of the Ayr Golf Club.

Heartbreak at Home as Home Hill Fall Just Short in Third Grade Thriller

CRICKET

The Home Hill Third Grade side went down narrowly in a close contest at home on Sunday morning, falling eight runs short against Brothers. Batting first, Brothers posted 8/130, with Leo Olditch leading the charge for Home Hill with an outstanding spell of 4/14 from six overs. He was well supported by Jaiden Rice (2/24) and Travis Butler (2/6).

In reply, Home Hill fought hard but finished on 9/122 from their 30 overs. Andrew Wallwork anchored the innings with a composed 37 not out from 44 balls, including two sixes, while Luke Mottin added a steady 23 not out from 52 deliveries. However, the run chase was ultimately undone by five costly run-outs.

In the afternoon match, the Home Hill Second Grade side posted a modest total of 96. Al Wilkins top-scored with a quickfire 33 off 23 balls, striking three fours and two sixes, while Kris Wright contributed 21 from 17. Consistent pressure from the Wests bowling attack kept the scoring rate in check throughout the innings.

Ayr

Despite disciplined bowling efforts, Home Hill was unable to contain Beau McCarron, whose unbeaten 69 steered Wests to 1/99 and a convincing nine-wicket victory. Alex Stillhard claimed the only wicket with a sharp caught-and-bowled effort, but the visitors proved too strong in the chase.

Contributed with thanks to Tiffany Olditch.

Surf Lifesaving Club

Weekend Beach Patrol at Alva Beach

SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY (1-5PM) GROUP G - Carl List PC, James Kennedy PC, Shane Morgan, Ross Rickards and Ross Blakey.

SUNDAY, 8 FEBRUARY (9AM-1PM)

GROUP B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Anita Giddy, Heather Scott, Briella and Emilee Wassmuth.

SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY (1PM-5PM)

GROUP A - Chris Wicks PC, Richard Dale PC, Jane Olsen, Zachary Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and Wil Holt.

Contributed with thanks to Kristy Wassmuth.

Torpedoes Make Waves at Townsville Tourist Meet

Local swimmers have made a splash at the 2026 Townsville Tourist Long Course Transition Meet, with the Torpedoes Swim Club delivering a standout performance across a big weekend of racing.

The team walked away with an impressive haul of place medals, upgrade medals, personal best times, state qualifying times and ribbons, but coaches and parents alike say the results went far beyond what appeared on the podium. For many swimmers, the meet provided valuable race experience, the chance to overcome competition nerves and the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones by taking on new events.

A special mention goes to Mahli, Gabriella and Warne, who all qualified for the highly competitive Eliminator event. The trio capped off their strong performances by securing wins and taking home cash prizes, adding an exciting highlight to the weekend.

The club also took time to acknowledge the strong support network behind the swimmers’ success. Parents were thanked for volunteering their time as timekeepers, while the Dale family received special recognition for transporting the team tent and helping keep the group organised across the meet.

Coaches Kim and Mick were praised for their guidance and encouragement throughout the competition, helping swimmers stay focused and confident across both days of racing. The Torpedoes also extended their thanks to the Townsville Tourist Amateur Swimming Club for hosting what was described as a well-run and enjoyable event.

With day one “done and dusted” and plenty of momentum heading into day two, the Torpedoes team showed strong spirit, determination and teamwork — proving once again that hard work in the pool pays off.

Go Team Torpedoes!

Big Turnouts Power Through Summer Heat

Twenty-two players took to the greens on Thursday afternoon, with three games of triples and one pairs match played.

On Rink 4, Les Hoey and Joe Linton edged out Bob Young and Hugh Montgomery in a very close contest. Rink 5 saw Margaret Chapman, Sandra Darwin and Alex Bojack record a strong win over Norm Bethell, Cisco and Tony Eadie. On Rink 6, Paul Vass, Ron Smith and Steve Doig led from start to finish for a comfortable victory against Scott Taylor, Michael Young and Mick McClosky. Rink 7 featured a dominant performance from Robert ?, Elaine Young and Wayne Newton, who defeated Trevor Elton, Bruce McCallum and Glen “Bones” Berryman.

The overall winners for Thursday were Paul Vass, Ron Smith and Steve Doig.

Saturday afternoon again attracted 22 players, despite very hot conditions.

Sweet FM, the sound of the Burdekin, kept players and spectators entertained throughout the afternoon. A welcome is extended to Glenis Johns, who played her first game at the club.

Three triples and one pairs match were played. On Rink 4, Austin, Elaine and Ron defeated Yogi, Michael Young and Alex. Rink 5 saw Judy, Margaret Chapman and Mick McClosky finish strongly to overcome Paul, Bob Pickard and Trevor. A close contest on Rink 6 ended with Bernice, Katrina and Glen edging out Janet Arthur, Mick Olsen and Bob Young. Rink 7 produced a last-end thriller, with Glenis Johns and Hugh Montgomery narrowly defeating Laura Webber and Harold Rummeny.

Thursday’s raffle winners were Bob Young, who claimed a breakfast meat tray with ticket No. 11, and Ron Smith, who won a bottle of wine with ticket No. 41.

Monday morning fitness sessions continue, along with Tuesday Trimmers and Tuesday Funday, which is open to anyone wanting to learn the game of bowls and starts at 10am. Wednesday morning Kraft group maintains its usual strong attendance, while Wednesday night barefoot bowls and sausage sizzles remain popular. Thursday morning bingo is well patronised, and with summer drawing to a close, afternoon social bowls are expected to continue growing through the cooler autumn and winter months. Saturday afternoon social bowls also continue to attract strong numbers.

Until next week, good bowling.

Photo and report by Stephen Doig.

Junior Cricket Returns in Style at Home Hill

Junior cricket returned to the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex in Home Hill last week, with strong numbers of new and returning players taking to the field after the Christmas break.

Blast Cricket Challengers showcased plenty of young talent, with two exciting games played by the 8–10 year olds. In game one, Nate Ryder and Noah Tanner combined for a match-winning 12 runs, while Reuben Armstrong starred with the ball, taking three wickets to earn Player of the Match. Emily Patti also impressed with her early bowling.

In the second game, Jai Baxter delivered a standout all-round performance and was named Player of the Match after teaming up with Jaxon Watkins to score 29 runs from two overs. Aria Bryant claimed an

impressive four wickets, while Olivia Patti showed excellent line and length.

In the Blue Group hardball match, bowlers dominated. Henry Cohen top-scored with eight runs, while Mazlyn Smith took 2 for 7. Jardi Russell and Flynn Levitt received the McDonald’s Sports Awards for an outstanding first week in hardball cricket.

The Gold Group saw Logan Pickup take 3 for 7 to earn the McDonald’s Sports Award, while Alex Cullen (19*) and Oliver Calligaro (18*) led the batting.

It was a strong and encouraging start to the junior cricket season, with plenty of promise on display.

Contributed with thanks to Scott and Joanne Heidke.