Three of Burdekin Swimming Club’s brightest young stars returned home from Brisbane last month with personal bests, top-10 finishes, and a national qualifying time after competing at the 2025 Queensland Championships at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler.

Cadence and Warne McShane, alongside Gabriella Mottin, were selected to represent the club, a testament to their dedication and hard work throughout the season. Under the guidance of coaches Kim and Mick, the trio took on the State’s best across a combined 14 events.

Torps Make a Splash

Gabriella Mottin had an outstanding meet, recording personal bests in all four of her events. Her highlight was finishing 19th in Queensland, a remarkable result for the Burdekin competitor. Warne McShane competed in seven events, reaching three finals, claiming six personal bests, and finishing a stunning 4th in the State in his strongest race. Cadence McShane also made her mark, achieving a personal best, a national qualifying time, and finishing 5th in Queensland.

The week offered the young swimmers a chance to manage nerves, form friendships, and learn valuable lessons on and off the pool deck. Club officials highlighted the tremendous efforts of all involved.

Burdekin Swimming Club congratulates Cadence, Warne, and Gabriella on a week full of achievements, representing the Burdekin region with pride and showcasing the potential of country swimmers on the state stage.

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Three of Burdekin Swimming Club’s brightest young stars returned home from Brisbane last month with personal bests, top-10 finishes, and a national qualifying time after competing at the 2025 Queensland Championships at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler. Photo source: Burdekin Swimming Club

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Run Army Returns to Support First Responders

Burdekin locals are being called on to get active for a cause that hits close to home, with the nationwide Run Army event returning in March and April next year. The annual fitness initiative unites communities across Queensland while raising vital funds for charities supporting first responders, including the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Australian Defence Force.

For the QPS, the event provides an opportunity to support Queensland Police Legacy (QPL), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to assisting families of officers who have lost their lives or are suffering a terminal illness. Since its inception in 1971, QPL has provided crucial financial and social support to hundreds of families in times of need.

Townsville will host the Run Army on Sunday, the 19th of April, offering participants the choice of 2.4km, 5km, or 10km walking, running, or virtual events. The initiative is designed not only to fundraise but also to promote resilience, mental health, and community engagement through physical activity.

Among those gearing up for the Townsville 5km track is Railway Squad member and avid runner, Senior Constable Julie Ryan, who will take part for the first time.

“The idea of taking part in a running event with other frontline service members, while promoting mental health and fundraising for a good cause such as Police Legacy, makes Run Army something I am excited to be involved with,” Senior Constable Ryan said.

A former two-time Australian amateur boxing champion, Senior Constable Ryan turned to running after retiring from the sport in 2012. She has since amassed 20 medals at the Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, competing in cross country, track, trail, and road running events, and has participated in international events including the London and Berlin marathons.

“Physical exercise like running is great for our mental health. Being in frontline operations, you see a lot of traumatic events, so I use running to clear my head and to run off any stress,” she said.

Senior Constable Ryan also highlights the camaraderie that makes Run Army special.

“Events like Run Army provide a unique opportunity for us as officers to not only connect with fellow community members in a completely different setting, but also with our fellow frontline service workers,” she said.

Registrations for the Run Army are now open. Burdekin residents can support QPL while taking part in a meaningful community event. For more information, visit https://runarmy.org.au/.

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Among those gearing up for the Townsville 5km track is Railway Squad member and avid runner, Senior Constable Julie Ryan, who has amassed 20 medals at the Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, competing in cross country, track, trail, and road running events. Photo credit: QPS

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The Burdekin Clay Target Club celebrated the festive season with their annual Christmas Shoot on Sunday, 14th December, drawing a strong field of 62 shooters. The day was a great success, with keen competition across six events.

A special thanks to our sponsors, Peto Marine for Events 1 and 6, and Johnson Landscaping for sponsoring Shooter of the Year. Appreciation also goes to Lui Populin for donating meat trays, Andrew Bergin for the lucky door prizes, and Leanne Cislowski for providing chocolates for the quicky board. Heartfelt thanks to all club members who helped set up and run the day’s events.
The club wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year – stay safe!

Results on page 30

Clay Target Champions Crowned at Burdekin Xmas Shoot

Continued from cover

Event Results
Event 1 – 15 Target Medley 15m (Sponsored by Peto Marine)
AA Grade: 1st Aaron Lemphers 75/75, 2nd Glen Rea 72/75, 3rd Bruce Murphy 49/50
A Grade: 1st John Cerqui 25/25, 2nd Wayne Cislowski 73/75, 3rd Matthew Baldwin 72/75
B Grade: 1st Bruce McBow 24/25, 2nd Doug Killick 45/50, 3rd Peter Wade 44/50
C Grade: 1st Zane Hicks 50/50, 2nd Ted Baldwin 49/50, 3rd Keiren Scott 43/50

Event 2 – 10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Matthew Charles, Doug Killick 30/30; Rob Mikkelsen, Brian Bonanno, Alan Lord, Peter Wade 29/30; Leslie Reeves, Aaron Lemphers 28/30; Keiren Scott, John Kinnimonth 42/45

Event 3 – 10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Zane Hicks, Ted Baldwin, Bill Gall 10/10; Blake Heffernan, Sylvia Rossato, Wayne Cislowski, Glen Rea, Bruce Murphy, Joe Caruso 9/10; Benji Micallef 13/15

Event 4 – 10 Target Double Barrel Handicap
Alexander Parker, Toni Scott, Tim Ewens, David Russell, Peter Scott, Glen McHenry, Cameron Cislowski, Ben Beazley, Col Edgerton 10/10; Mark Simpson 32/33

Event 5 – 10 Target Double Barrel Consolation
Garry Bowen, Alexis Calder, John Calligaro, Peter Delle Baite, Colin Ferguson, Matthew Baldwin, Pedro Le Blowitz, Tony Robinson 10/10; Richard Stanhope, Meagan Baldwin 9/10

Event 6 – 20 Pair Deaville Doubles (Sponsored by Peto Marine)
Open: 1st Blake Heffernan & Ted Baldwin 26/26; 2nd Tony Robinson & Gregory Calder 26/26

Contributed with thanks to Sylvia Rossato

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Event 1-15 Target Medley 15m Sponsored by Peto Marine
Back Row Glen Rea, Bruce Murphy, Wayne Cislowski, Matthew Baldwin, Peter Wade, Keiren Scott.
Front Row John Cerqui, Jack McBow, Doug Killick, Ted Baldwin, Zane Hicks, Aaron Lemphers

Event 2-10 Target Pointscore Handicap
Back Row Matthew Charles, Aaron Lemphers, Peter Wade, Leslie Reeves, John Kinnimonth
Front Row Keiren Scott, Alan Lord, Doug Killick, Rob Mikkelsen, Brian Bonanno

Event 3-10 Target Single Barrel Handicap
Back Row Wayne Cislowski, Zane Hicks, Ted Baldwin, Benji Micallef, Joe Caruso, Blake Heffernan
Front Row Bruce Murphy, Glen Rea, Bill Gall, Sylvia Rossato

Event 4-10 Target Double Barrel Handicap
Back Row Mark Simpson, Glen McHenry,  Ben Beazley, Alexander Parker, Tim Ewens, Toni Scott
Front Row Peter Scott, Col Edgerton, David Russell, Cameron Cislowski  

Event 4-10 Target Double Barrel Consolation
Back Row Richard Stanhope, Matthew Baldwin, Peter Delle Baiye, John Calligaro, Garry Bowen, Alexis Calder
Front Row Meagan Baldwin, Col Ferguson, Pedro Le Blowitz, Tony Robinson

Event 6-20 Pair Deauville Doubles- Sponsored by Peto Marine
Gregory Calder, Tony Robinson, Ted Baldwin, Blake Heffernan

Shooter of Year Winners
Glen Rea, Presented By Wayne Cislowski, Joe Caruso

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Christmas Day 25/12 AM (9am-1pm)- Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivan
                         PM - (1pm-5pm) Kristy Wassmuth PC, Briella Wassmuth, Emilee Wassmuth, Lisa Furnell PC and John Furnell

Boxing Day 26/12       AM (9am-1pm)- Group B - Terry Lund PC, Kristy Wassmuth PC, Anita Giddy, Heather Scott, Briella Wassmuth and Emilee Wassmuth
                       PM - (1pm-5pm) Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivan

Saturday PM 27/12 (1-5pm) Group C - Jane Jones PC, Laurne Champman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Champman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

Sunday AM 28/12 (9am-1pm) - Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, Stephanie Dale, Zackary Dale, Warne McShane and Nico Ortner

Sunday PM 28/12 (1-5pm) Group F - Lisa Furnell PC, Jen Morgan PC, John Furnell, Josh Furnell, Jo Morgan, Jan Hatherell and Gabriel Hatherell

New Year Day 1/1/26 (9am-5pm) - Group E - John Moloney PC, Anne Moloney PC, Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina and Tramayne Horna PC

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The Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) has officially announced its representative teams set to compete at the 2026 Senior State Age (SSA) Competition, with a strong line-up of local talent ready to take on the state’s best in Townsville next year.

The prestigious four-day tournament will be held from the 11th to the 14th of April 2026 at the Townsville City Netball Association courts and will see players aged 15 to 18 represent their Netball Queensland member associations in one of the sport’s major community-based events.

Leading the charge for the Burdekin will be three representative teams across the 15s, 16s and 17/18s age groups.

The 15s representative team includes Emma Jones, Maggie Chandler, Ebony Moul, Paityn Coleman-Blakoe, Addy Chandler, Milla Chapman, Emily MacDonald, Zara Scovazzi, Eden Godfrey and Lily Ahern. The team will be coached by Sarah Butterworth, with Alicia Butterworth named as manager.

The 16s representative side features Shila Horan, Amaya Mahoney, Emma Wilkie, Amaya Caspanello, Clodagh Liessmann, Taliyah Lammon, Mya Mitchell, Jemma Kiehne, Ruby Prescott and Lisa Keryk. Chloe Steel will coach the team, supported by manager Lyn McLaughlin.

Rounding out the selections is the 17/18s representative team, comprising Lola Carmichael, Lacey Catanzaro, Jorja Bapty, Isla Chapman, Pascale Crooks, Jayel Gibson, Indiana MacDonald, Georgia Thygesen, Aja Olsen and Ryley Sartori. Christy Pensini has been appointed coach, with Alix Ballin as manager.

Senior State Age is renowned for bringing together players, coaches, officials, umpires and supporters in a large-scale celebration of netball, showcasing emerging talent, teamwork and strong community spirit.

The Burdekin Netball Association is also calling for umpires to support the representative teams. Interested umpires must hold, or be working towards, a National C Badge Accreditation and must have, or obtain, a current Blue Card. Expression of Interest forms and further information can be obtained by emailing burdekinnetball@gmail.com, with nominations closing on the 3rd of August.

With teams locked in and preparations underway, the Burdekin netball community will be watching closely as these young athletes train towards representing their region on the state stage.

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The 15's, 16's and 17/18's BNA rep teams are ready to take on the 2026 SSA. Photo source: BNA
BNA's coaches, managers and players are gearing up to top 2025's SSA performance. Photo source: BNA

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Saturday PM 20/12 (1-5pm) Group H - Dave Satori PC, Kathryn Satori PC, Riley Satori, Jake Satori, Cole Pontifex, Alyssia Gibson, Billy Gibson and Halle Gibson

Sunday AM 21/12 (9am-1pm) Group A - Richard Dale PC, Chris Wicks PC, Jane Olsen, Zachry Dale, Stephanie Dale, Warne McShane, Nico Ortner and William Holt

Sunday PM 21/12 (1-5pm) - Group C - Jane Jones PC, Lauren Chapman PC, Gavin Jones, Emma Jones, Evan Chapman, Isla Chapman, Milla Chapman and Shaize Christie

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Home Hill Tennis celebrated the conclusion of the tennis and pickleball year with the AO One Point Slam, with die-hard players turning out to enjoy the event despite a storm threatening and a few drops of rain falling.

In the official tennis competition, Bernie Claussen proved too strong for all her opponents and has been invited to play in the Brisbane event, with the club hopeful for a lucky draw and a chance to win $50,000. President Joel Hanson’s serve was on fire, helping him secure a first-round win against mate and fellow Vice President Mark Barbagallo. Joel went on to win the sign-on event after a lengthy final rally, while Toni Pivotto claimed victory in the pickleball event after several long points.

The celebrations highlighted the ongoing growth of pickleball at the club, which continues to attract strong numbers each week, with sessions on Tuesday nights from 6.30 pm and most Saturday mornings at 7.30 am. The group wrapped up the year with a social gathering at the Kalamia Hotel.

For more information about the club, contact Kate Casswell on 0447 384 441.

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Junior Touch Football players from across the region gathered in Ayr recently for the Fast Four Touch carnival, showcasing their skills in a day of fast-paced action.

Twenty-two teams competed across age divisions from under 10 to under 16, with four players per side taking to half a field. Local Burdekin teams were joined by several squads from Townsville, creating a highly competitive atmosphere.

The round-robin games saw over 250 touchdowns scored, with players backing up game after game in challenging hot conditions, impressing the large crowd of spectators. Before the finals, sprints and team relays were also held, adding extra excitement to the day.

In the finals, The Snippers defeated Six Seven Superstars 5-0 in the under-10 boys, while Shooting Stars beat Lollypops 5-0 in the under-10 girls. The Brotherhood edged out Walking Warriors 1-0 in the under-12 boys, with SSS A narrowly defeating SSS B 3-2 in the under-12 girls. Angus’s Team claimed a 3-1 win over Legacy 22 in the under-14 boys, and Baywatch triumphed 4-1 against Young Girls in the under-14 girls. In the under-16 divisions, 2 Deadly won 1-0 over Too Fresh in the boys, with Red Madness victorious in the girls.

After the action-packed day, club officials praised the players and volunteers for their efforts.

“All players displayed great sportsmanship throughout the day,” said President Peter Knapton. “Many thanks go to the referees, cooks, canteen workers, helpers and parents but more importantly to the players for the terrific skills and the competitive spirit of the games which made for an enjoyable carnival.”

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Junior Touch Football players from across the region gathered in Ayr recently for the Fast Four Touch carnival. Photo credit: Brendan Ford

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Local

Burdekin FC’s AGM will be held on Sunday 18th January at Honeycombes Hall on Beach Road. The Panthers would like all those interested, to be there.

Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season has started. Thursday nights at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

Friday was a big night at International Park. It was Grand Final night of the 47th season of Delta Cleaners Night Soccer and a very big crowd turned up to watch the twelve games. The Men’s A Grade Final was won by Mottin Earthmoving who beat UDS 3-1 and in the Ladies A Grade Final, Scoregasms defeated Body Tune 1-0.

In the other Men’s competitions, the A Grade Plate was won by Rocky Pond Warriors who beat FJV 1-0 and the A Grade Bowl went to RG Customs who beat 7 Stooges 7-0. In A Social Oary’s Levellers beat DL Lager 1-0 and in the A Social Plate Delta Physio defeated Willy Wackers 3-2. B Social was won by His Haas who beat Bennetts Old Grumpies and in the B Social Plate, Free Ballers beat Hardly Normal.

In the other Ladies competition, the A Grade Plate was won by 6 TO UR 7 who beat Lets Get Messi. In the B Grade, Kicken Goals beat Chicks & Chooks and in the B Grade Plate, Short Staffed won against Haven’t a Kahlua.

One of the highlights of the night was the annual Drinkers Trophy, won this year by Fair Call who beat Delta Physio 2-1. Winner of the SLoBs Raffle was ticket Grey H66.

Juniors

The final Burdekin Juniors report for 2025! The 2026 season will be upon us before we know it! Our AGM is scheduled for Sunday the 18th of January - all positions will be open and all new members to our committee much welcomed so come along. Keep an eye out for details on Junior Social Soccer in Term 1 before the season proper commences! Merry Xmas to you all!

International and National

In the A League Men, after eight rounds Sydney FC is still top after winning 2-1 away to Perth. Auckland is back in second place following their win at central Coast. Brisbane could only manage a goalless draw at Western Sydney and has dropped to third place.

In the A League Women, Canberra now top the table after winning away to Sydney FC. Adelaide is in second place after beating Adelaide and Newcastle beat Brisbane to move up to third place with Brisbane dropping to fourth. However, Newcastle and Brisbane both have two games in hand.

The Socceroos first World Cup group game is on 13 June. Presumably, there will be some friendly games announced before then.

The Matildas play in the AFC Asian Cup in March. In their group games their first match is against Philippines, they then play Iran and then Korea.

In England, in the EPL, the three top teams all won, and Arsenal is two points clear of Manchester City with Aston Villa in third place. At the foot of the table Wolves, Burnley and West Ham all lost and are in deep trouble.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, none of the top three teams won but the still unbeaten Bayern has a nine point lead over Leipzig and Dortmund. At the foot of the table St Pauli won but along with Heidenheim and Mainz are still in the relegation zone.

In Italy’s Serie A, only Inter of the top four teams won. Inter now leads AC Milan by one point with Napoli in third place. Juventus won and moves up to fifth place. At the foot of the table Verona won again but along with Pisa and Fiorentina look doomed.

In Spain the top five teams all won, and Barcelona leads Real Madrid by four points with Villarreal in third place and Atletico fourth. At the bottom of the league, Girona won but along with Oviedo and Levante are still in trouble.

In France’s Ligue 1, the top six teams all won, and Lens leads PSG by one point with Marseilles in third place a further four points adrift. At the foot of the table, none of the six bottom teams won and Auxerre, Metz, and Nantes are not looking good.

Quote of the Week

Is from Journalist David Lacey on Boby Robson. “His natural expression if that of a man who fears he might have left the gas on.”

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Brandon Bowls Club rounded out its official events for the year on Sunday, December 7, hosting its Sunday Social Bowls President, Treasurer and Secretary Day Triples in ideal playing conditions.

A total of 42 bowlers took part in the event, with players travelling from Home Hill, Giru and South Townsville to join Brandon members for the end-of-year fixture. The strong turnout capped off a successful season for the club.

After an afternoon of competitive but friendly bowling, refreshments were enjoyed before players were treated to afternoon smoko, prepared by Sharon Kenny, Patrice Ferguson and Lorraine Henderson.

The triples title was claimed by Meryl Smith, Joe Linton and Jamie Woods, with Neville Dickinson, Sandra Darwen and Gary Pearce finishing second. Third place went to Mick McCloskey, Glenn Woodford and Ross McLaughlin.

The raffle prize was won by Jeff Taylor, while the club also acknowledged the efforts of Dave “Dodgy” Shehan for his work behind the bar.

Club officials thanked all visiting players for their support as Brandon Bowls Club brought its competitive calendar for the year to a close.

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Next year marks a major milestone for the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club, as it proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary. To honour a century of surf, service, and community, the club has planned a weekend of commemorative events in May 2026, bringing together past and present members, friends, family, and supporters.

The celebrations kick off on Friday, the 29th of May, with a relaxed Meet and Greet and Book Launch. Attendees will have the chance to reconnect with old friends, meet current members, and celebrate the launch of the club’s commemorative book, 100 Years of Ayr Surf Life Saving, authored by Martin Grandelis. The evening promises an opportunity to share stories, reflect on the club’s history, and raise a glass to the countless volunteers who have shaped its legacy.

The main event, the Gala Dinner, will take place on Saturday, the 30th of May, at the Memorial Hall, 77-79 Ninth Avenue, Home Hill, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This elegant evening will bring everyone together to celebrate the club’s remarkable 100-year journey, honouring the people, stories, and dedication that have built the legacy of Ayr Surf Life Saving. Tickets will go on sale in early 2026, and the club has been offering glimpses into its history on social media with 100 Years of Ayr Surf Life Saving – A Look Back Through the Decades.

The centenary celebrations conclude on Sunday, the 31st May, with a family-friendly gathering at the Ayr Clubhouse. This final event promises a relaxed day of good company, memories, and community spirit, providing an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the club’s enduring presence and contribution to the region.

From its early days at Alva Beach to a century of service, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club invites all to join in recognising 100 years of dedication, volunteering, and connection. More details about the weekend events will be released closer to the date.

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What: 100 Years of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club Gala
When: Saturday, the 30th of May
Where: Memorial Hall, Home Hill

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The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club has been sharing photos from the decades gone by online in celebration of a century of surf, service and community. Photo source: Ayr Surf Life Saving Club

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Six local under-9 footballers have claimed tournament honours after forming a team to compete in the Jeremy Brockie World Cup in Townsville.

The end-of-season tournament, organised by former New Zealand international Jeremy Brockie, assigns teams a nation to represent, with the local side drawing Spain.

The team progressed through the pool stages undefeated, recording wins against New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Norway, Portugal and Finland to book a place in the World Cup final.

Spain faced Brazil in the final and claimed a convincing 7–2 victory to secure the tournament title.

The squad was made up of Hunter Ferguson, Daley Rasmussen, Thomas LeFeuvre, Reni Brock, and brothers Arlo and Jobe Oar. Oar delivered a standout performance across the tournament, finishing as the leading goal scorer to claim the Golden Boot. He was also named in the World Cup All-Star Five and awarded Player of the Tournament.

The result capped off a strong year for the players, with local junior coaches Chris Wicks and Angelo Licciardello acknowledged for their work in developing the group and continuing to strengthen grassroots football in the Burdekin.

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Six local under-9 footballers have claimed tournament honours after forming a team to compete in the Jeremy Brockie World Cup in Townsville. Photo supplied

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The final games before the Christmas break were played at the Nutrien Ag. Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday. After a couple of weeks away Mazlyn Smith smashed 3 fours in her innings of 15 runs not out and bowled very tight with figures of 0 for 2 runs, this earning her one of the "McDonalds Sports Award for the "Blue Group". Kip Nicholas was also unbeaten and next highest on 13 runs with 2 fours. The other award winner was Jake Cullen who scored 7 runs, took 2 for 9 when bowling and got a runout and a catch in the field.

An earlier finish for the breakup BBQ meant less balls faced before retirement in the "Gold Group" this week. Lower batting totals were scored but some fine shots were played in this game. Rylan Nicholaides and Alex Cullen were both unbeaten and top scored on 12 runs each. Oliver Calligaro and Tyler Schultz were next on 10 runs apiece, Tyler also took the only wicket in this game when he was bowling. Rylan and Tyler were given the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their efforts with bat and ball.

The youngest group, the "Rookies" were invited over to Home Hill to join in with the "Challengers" for this final week of games and breakup. No stats were recorded in these games as it was just a fun session for all to finish off the first half of the season. When the games were finished the players and their siblings all enjoyed a free sausage sizzle to end the day. Thank you to Woolworths Ayr for kindly donating the sausages and bread for the sausage sizzle.

Contributed with thanks to Junior Co-Ordinator of the Home Hill Cricket Club, Scott Heidke

Rylan and Tyler were given the "McDonalds Sports Awards" for their efforts with bat and ball. Photo supplied

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The Burdekin was strongly represented at the Townsville Fire School Gala Day this week, with St Francis and East Ayr showcasing standout performances in the Year 5/6 basketball tournament.

St Francis fielded one boys’ team in Division 1, while East Ayr competed with both a girls’ and boys’ side, also in Division 1. The East Ayr girls impressed throughout the morning, advancing all the way to the finals before narrowly falling short of the title.

The day, however, ultimately belonged to St Francis. The boys claimed the trophy in emphatic fashion, winning by 30 points in the grand final to become back-to-back and the only ever winners of the championship. The dominant run continued their remarkable record of going undefeated two years in a row.

Across the day, St Francis played four games, securing victories in each by comfortable margins of 10–20 points. The team’s winning lineup consisted of seven Grade 6 students and two Grade 5 players, adding to the achievement’s significance and building confidence heading into their final weeks of primary school.

The competition featured strong Townsville and regional representation in Division 1.

Adding to the experience, players were treated to a special visit from Townsville Fire squad members, who spent time courtside signing autographs, posing for photos and sharing advice with young athletes.

Both schools returned home proud, representing the Burdekin with skill and sportsmanship on the regional stage.

The day ultimately belonged to St Francis, with the boys claiming the trophy in emphatic fashion, winning by 30 points in the grand final to become back-to-back and the only ever winners of the championship. Photo supplied

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Local

Training for Men and Colts for the 2026 season has started. Thursday nights at 6.15.

Small sided games for the next three weeks. Be There!

Night Soccer

The tenth week of competition and another low scoring night. There were four forfeits, and the sixteen games produced fifty nine goals. And there were two Sin Bins. Top scorers were Jaime’s Boys, UDS, Short Staffed and Body Tune all with five goals. There were just three dawn games and four games won by the odd goal.

In Men’s Competitive Group, UDS beat Plum Dingers 5-0 to finish top of the table. Clare Cutters defeated RG Customs 3-0 to finish second, Mottin Earthmoving won 4-0 against iComply to secure third place and fourth place went to Nutrien Ag who won 1-0 against Mountain view Fresh.

Men’s Social and Ladies matches were all friendlies and next Tuesday 9 December, all teams will be involved in semi-finals. Grand Final Night is next Friday 12th December.

Juniors

The 2025 Junior Social Soccer season concluded last Tuesday. What an amazing eight weeks it has been for the 43 teams! The biggest season yet since it was reintroduced in 2023, and no rain interruptions! A big thank you to all organisers, volunteers, refs, parents and carers, and most importantly the kids! There were so many happy and excited faces each week!

Here are some season highlights! Goal of the season - Ava Guistelli (Zoomies 5-7) - a solo run from near halfway after just coming straight after being a goalkeeper, she sprinted up to halfway, received the ball and with fast dribbling and a strong finish put it in the back of the net!

Goalkeeper - save of the season - Seth McIntyre (Raging Rhinos 8-9) - full length dive to his left to save a shot that looked certain for the top corner of net. Team of the season -The Underdogs (U10-12). School mates having fun together displaying great sportsmanship towards all teams. Age group of the season - U13-16’s. Was great to watch these teams of mates who currently play in youth teams, ex-players, new players, school mates and an U12 superteam go against each other.

Look out for upcoming social soccer news for term 1 of 2026 before the season proper commences!

International and National

The World Cup 2026 Draw has now been made and the Socceroos know who they are up against. On Saturday 13th June, in Vancouver, they will play the winner of a European play off. That could be Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo. Their second game will be against the USA in Seattle on 20th June and their final group match will be against Paraguay, in Santa Clara, against Paraguay on 26th June.

The current FIFA World Rankings are Australia 26, USA 14, Paraguay 39 and Türkiye 25.

In the A League Men, after seven rounds Sydney FC is still top after winning 2-1 away to Central Coast. Brisbane has moved up to second place, one point behind, with a 1-0 win away to Adelaide. Auckland is third on goal difference and Melbourne City is a further point behind in fourth place. Melbourne Victory is holding up the League.

In the A League Women, only three of the top teams won. Melbourne Victory, Brisbane and Sydney FC are locked together at the top with nine points each. Victory beat Perth 3-0, Brisbane won 3-1 away to Adelaide and Sydney FC could only manage a 0-0 draw away to Western Sydney. Perth is presently at the foot of the table.

The Matildas play in the AFC Asian Cup in March. In their group games their first match is against Philippines, they then play Iran and then Korea.

In England, in the EPL, Arsenal was the only one of the top six teams to lose. They went down 1-2 against Aston Villa and are now just two points clear of Manchester City with Aston Villa in third place one point behind. Chelsea is now fifth, Liverpool ninth and ManU 12th. At the foot of the table none of the bottom five teams’ won and Wolves and Burnley are in deep trouble.

In Germany’s Bundesliga, after thirteen rounds the top three teams all won and the still unbeaten Bayern has an eight point lead over Leipzig with Dortmund another point behind. Leverkusen in fourth place lost again and is now a further five points adrift. At the foot of the table Heidenheim won again and Mainz and St Pauli are in big trouble.

In Italy’s Serie A, the three top teams all won, and Napoli leads Inter by a point. AC Milan is third, with a game in hand and Roma who lost again is fourth. Juventus who lost 1-2 to Napoli is now seventh. At the bottom of the table Verona was the only of the bottom four teams to win. Fiorentina with just six points look doomed.

In Spain’s La Liga, Real Madrid, who have only won one of their last five matches, somehow lost 0-2 at home to Celta Vigo. Barcelona won again and is now four points clear of Real with Villarreal in third place and Atletico fourth. At the bottom of the league, none of the bottom nine teams won.

In France’s Ligue 1, after fifteen rounds. Lens leads PSG by one point with Marseilles, who lost but is still in third place a further four points adrift. Fourth placed Lille is now on the same points. At the foot of the table, although Auxerre won it is not looking good for them, Metz, and Nantes.

Quote of the Week Is from Aston Villa Manager Unai Emery "Our demands are very high, very great, but I want to ask every player every day to give us more”

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